The family of a Colorado man say he survived the hostage crisis in Algeria by hiding from the terrorist for 2 1/2 days.
The statement released Monday said Steven Wysocki was able to escape to the nearby Algerian military base Friday morning. Wysocki worked as a production supervisor at the natural gas field.
He and his wife, Kristi, live in Elbert, a small town on the eastern Colorado plains.
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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
Monday, January 21, 2013
Three Month Extension
House Republican leaders say they plan to vote on a three-month extension of the federal debt ceiling. It doesn't call for budget cuts in return. That demand would come later. But the proposed bill contains a provision cutting off salaries for members of Congress if the Senate fails to pass a budget resolution. The idea is to force Senate Democrats to debate budget issues. The Senate has not passed a budget in four years. Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) told a Sunday talk show, the Senate will pass a budget this time, but it will also call for still-higher taxes.
McDonald’s Settles Lawsuit Over Islamic Diet Rules
DEARBORN, Mich. — McDonald’s Corp. and a franchise owner have reached a tentative settlement in a lawsuit alleging that food at a Detroit-area restaurant wasn’t prepared according to Islamic dietary laws as advertised.
McDonald’s and Finley’s Management Co. have agreed to pay $700,000. The money will be shared by Dearborn Heights resident Ahmed Ahmed, a Detroit health clinic, the Arab American National Museum in Dearborn and lawyers.
More
McDonald’s and Finley’s Management Co. have agreed to pay $700,000. The money will be shared by Dearborn Heights resident Ahmed Ahmed, a Detroit health clinic, the Arab American National Museum in Dearborn and lawyers.
More
787 Battery Fire Investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board's latest update on its 787 battery fire investigation shows just how detailed things get. The battery from a Japan Airlines 787 went to the NTSB's materials laboratory. Investigators X-rayed it, CAT scanned it, then disassembled it and examined each cell. Cells will be cut open to see what happened inside. The board said the flight recorder data shows the battery was not overcharged. The Wall Street Journal reports, another smoking battery on All Nippon Airlines was overcharged, meaning the two events might have different causes.
Suspicious Fires Continue On Va.'s Eastern Shore
ACCOMAC, Va. (AP) - Two more suspicious fires have been reported on Virginia's Eastern Shore.
Virginia State Police tell media outlets that a fire damaged a storage shed Sunday in Accomack County. A brush and fire tire occurred about 11 miles away.
Arson is suspected in both fires.
More
Virginia State Police tell media outlets that a fire damaged a storage shed Sunday in Accomack County. A brush and fire tire occurred about 11 miles away.
Arson is suspected in both fires.
More
State Drilling Wells in Salisbury To Probe Contamination
State environmental officials are drilling monitoring wells on the outskirts of Salisbury to get a better handle on ground-water contamination there that has fouled dozens of household wells with a potentially cancer-causing chemical, according to a spokesman.
The Maryland Department of the Environment has contracted to install a total of 10 wells in the residential area south of the city to gather more information on the movement and severity of contaminated ground water, said Jay Apperson, the agency's deputy communications director.
Officials are still trying to determine the source or sources of the contamination, he said.
Of 227 private wells sampled on and around Morris Mill Road since the problem was first reported last summer, 68 have been found to have levels of trichloroethylene, or TCE, that exceed the federal safe drinking-water standard, Apperson said. Another 25 residential wells showed lower levels of the chemical.
More
The Maryland Department of the Environment has contracted to install a total of 10 wells in the residential area south of the city to gather more information on the movement and severity of contaminated ground water, said Jay Apperson, the agency's deputy communications director.
Officials are still trying to determine the source or sources of the contamination, he said.
Of 227 private wells sampled on and around Morris Mill Road since the problem was first reported last summer, 68 have been found to have levels of trichloroethylene, or TCE, that exceed the federal safe drinking-water standard, Apperson said. Another 25 residential wells showed lower levels of the chemical.
More
Gannett Publications -(The Daily Times Parent Company)- Selling Brick & Mortar Buildings All Across Country
Gannett has been “actively engaged in finding ways to use our real estate assets more efficiently,” Chief Executive Officer Gracia Martore said during the company’s third-quarter earnings call in October. The company is considering “all options” for its real estate, including its 650,000-square-foot headquarters building in Tysons Corner, Va., she said.
Gannett already has put the headquarters of The Des Moines Register, The Indianapolis Star and the Asbury Park Press up for sale.
More
Gannett already has put the headquarters of The Des Moines Register, The Indianapolis Star and the Asbury Park Press up for sale.
More
EGYPTIAN CLERIC: THE MORE YOU COPULATE WITH YOUR PREGNANT WIFE, THE MORE INTELLIGENT YOUR CHILD WILL BE
Egyptian Cleric Rasmi ‘Ajlan gave some peculiar marital advice on Al-Omma TV recently.
After discussing when it is appropriate to “copulate” with the “slavegirl” and warning against “‘[irrigating] the seed of another man,” he stunned the interviewer with his simple advice for creating more intelligent children.
“If a man is married and his wife is pregnant with his child – the more he copulates with her, the more his semen enhances the future child’s intelligence,” he stated, according to the Middle East Media Research Institute.
“You must repeat this,” the interviewer responded in amazement. “This is very new to me.”
More
After discussing when it is appropriate to “copulate” with the “slavegirl” and warning against “‘[irrigating] the seed of another man,” he stunned the interviewer with his simple advice for creating more intelligent children.
“If a man is married and his wife is pregnant with his child – the more he copulates with her, the more his semen enhances the future child’s intelligence,” he stated, according to the Middle East Media Research Institute.
“You must repeat this,” the interviewer responded in amazement. “This is very new to me.”
More
AWNAA (Americans With No Abilities Act)
President Barack Obama and Congress are considering sweeping legislation that will provide new benefits for many Americans. The Americans With No Abilities Act. AWNAA is being hailed as a major legislative goal by advocates of the millions of Americans who lack any real skills or ambition.Roughly 50 percent of Americans do not possess the competence and drive necessary to carve out a meaningful role for themselves in society,' said California Senator Barbara Boxer. 'We can no longer stand by and allow People of Inability to be ridiculed and passed over. With this legislation, employers will no longer be able to grant special favors to a small group of workers, simply because they have some idea of what they are doing.'
In a Capitol Hill press conference, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid pointed to the success of the U.S. Postal Service, which has a long-standing policy of providing opportunity without regard to performance. Approximately 74 percent of postal employees lack any job skills, making this agency the single largest U.S. employer of Persons of Inability.
Private-sector industries with good records of non-discrimination against the Inept include retail sales (72%), the airline industry (68%), and home improvement 'warehouse' stores (65%).
At the state government level, the Department of Motor Vehicles also has an excellent record of hiring Persons of Inability (63%).
Under The Americans With No Abilities Act, more than 25 million 'middle man' positions will be created, with important-sounding titles but little real responsibility, thus providing an illusory sense of purpose and performance. Mandatory non-performance-based raises and promotions will be given so as to guarantee upward mobility for even the most unremarkable employees. The legislation provides substantial tax breaks to corporations that promote a significant number of Persons of Inability into middle-management positions, and gives a tax credit to small and medium-sized businesses that agree to hire one clueless worker for every two talented hires.
Finally, the AWNAA contains tough new measures to make it more difficult to discriminate against the non-abled, banning, for example, discriminatory interview questions such as, 'Do you have any skills or experience that relate to this job?'
'As a Non-abled person, I can't be expected to keep up with people who have something going for them,' said Mary Lou Gertz, who lost her position as a lug-nut twister at the GM plant in Flint, Michigan, due to her inability to remember 'righty tightey, lefty loosey.' 'This new law should be real good for people like me,' Gertz added. With the passage of this bill, Gertz and millions of other untalented citizens will finally see a light at the end of the tunnel.
Said Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL): 'As a Senator with no abilities, I believe the same privileges that elected officials enjoy ought to be extended to every American with no abilities. It is our duty as lawmakers to provide each and every American citizen, regardless of his or her inadequacy, with some sort of space to take up in this great nation and a good salary for doing so.
In a Capitol Hill press conference, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid pointed to the success of the U.S. Postal Service, which has a long-standing policy of providing opportunity without regard to performance. Approximately 74 percent of postal employees lack any job skills, making this agency the single largest U.S. employer of Persons of Inability.
Private-sector industries with good records of non-discrimination against the Inept include retail sales (72%), the airline industry (68%), and home improvement 'warehouse' stores (65%).
At the state government level, the Department of Motor Vehicles also has an excellent record of hiring Persons of Inability (63%).
Under The Americans With No Abilities Act, more than 25 million 'middle man' positions will be created, with important-sounding titles but little real responsibility, thus providing an illusory sense of purpose and performance. Mandatory non-performance-based raises and promotions will be given so as to guarantee upward mobility for even the most unremarkable employees. The legislation provides substantial tax breaks to corporations that promote a significant number of Persons of Inability into middle-management positions, and gives a tax credit to small and medium-sized businesses that agree to hire one clueless worker for every two talented hires.
Finally, the AWNAA contains tough new measures to make it more difficult to discriminate against the non-abled, banning, for example, discriminatory interview questions such as, 'Do you have any skills or experience that relate to this job?'
'As a Non-abled person, I can't be expected to keep up with people who have something going for them,' said Mary Lou Gertz, who lost her position as a lug-nut twister at the GM plant in Flint, Michigan, due to her inability to remember 'righty tightey, lefty loosey.' 'This new law should be real good for people like me,' Gertz added. With the passage of this bill, Gertz and millions of other untalented citizens will finally see a light at the end of the tunnel.
Said Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL): 'As a Senator with no abilities, I believe the same privileges that elected officials enjoy ought to be extended to every American with no abilities. It is our duty as lawmakers to provide each and every American citizen, regardless of his or her inadequacy, with some sort of space to take up in this great nation and a good salary for doing so.
SAN ANTONIO MAYOR PREDICTS: TEXAS IS GOING ‘PURPLE’ SOON
“In a couple of presidential cycles, you’ll be on election night, you’ll be announcing we’re calling the 38 electoral votes of Texas for the Democratic nominee for president,” Castro told CBS News’ Bob Schieffer on “Face the Nation.”
Castro continued,”It’s changing. It’s going to become a purple state and then a blue state, because of the demographics, because of the population growth of folks from outside of Texas, and because, unfortunately, the Republican Party has gone so far to the right that they’re losing the business community. They’re losing the middle.”
More
The Democracy Initiative: A Coup In Plain Sight
Matthew Continetti, one of my favorite writers, wrote an eye opener last week, "'A Conspiracy so Immense': ideological commitment and the timidity of pragmatic politics", too late for me to discuss in my column. It is one of the most important stories you'll ever read anywhere and shows how far behind conservatives are in the fight against "progressive " ideologues.
He picks up on a report by Andy Kroll in Mother Jones about a coordinated effort by about 36 different interest groups with reported revenues of no less than $1.69 billion, pledging millions of dollars to work together to attack conservative supporters and organizations, to intervene directly in Democratic politics, to push for filibuster reform to better enable a push through their agenda without any input from the opposition, and expanding "voting rights" and fighting voter registration laws to further grease the skids for their legislative agenda.
The group's organizers are Michael Brune, formerly director of the radical Rainforest Action Network, and presently director of the Sierra Club , Phil Radford, head of Greenpeace, Larry Cohen, president of the Communications Workers of America and Ben Jealous, president of the NAACP.
He picks up on a report by Andy Kroll in Mother Jones about a coordinated effort by about 36 different interest groups with reported revenues of no less than $1.69 billion, pledging millions of dollars to work together to attack conservative supporters and organizations, to intervene directly in Democratic politics, to push for filibuster reform to better enable a push through their agenda without any input from the opposition, and expanding "voting rights" and fighting voter registration laws to further grease the skids for their legislative agenda.
The group's organizers are Michael Brune, formerly director of the radical Rainforest Action Network, and presently director of the Sierra Club , Phil Radford, head of Greenpeace, Larry Cohen, president of the Communications Workers of America and Ben Jealous, president of the NAACP.
"Open Minded"? Liberals Prefer to Ignore Arguments They Disagree With
As Zeke Miller finds in ORI's presentation, "liberals were significantly more likely to have blocked someone than conservatives," and specifically, they block people "because of their political views."
An old adage is that while conservatives think liberals are wrong, liberals think conservatives are evil. This has been proven true time and time again - liberals prefer to pretend like there's some inherent defect in conservatives rather than acknowledge that there's such a thing as reasonable, honest disagreement.
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China Poised To Play Debt Card – For U.S. Land
That’s part of an evolving proposal Beijing has been developing quietly since 2009 to convert more than $1 trillion of U.S debt it owns into equity.
Under the plan, China would own U.S. businesses, U.S. infrastructure and U.S. high-value land, all with a U.S. government guarantee against loss.
Read More
Hmmmmmmmm
It turns out the problem is so Simple...... Don't let Democrats have guns!
Ft Hood Shooter - Registered Democrat.
Columbine - both families were progressive liberal Democrats.
Virginia Tech Shooter - Registered Democrat - Wrote hate mail to Bush.
Connecticut School Shooter - Registered Democrat; hated Christians.
Colorado Theater Shooter - progressive liberal Democrat; staff worker for the Obama campaign; Occupy Wall Street!
Remind me again, who thinks the Tea Party is Evil???
Ft Hood Shooter - Registered Democrat.
Columbine - both families were progressive liberal Democrats.
Virginia Tech Shooter - Registered Democrat - Wrote hate mail to Bush.
Connecticut School Shooter - Registered Democrat; hated Christians.
Colorado Theater Shooter - progressive liberal Democrat; staff worker for the Obama campaign; Occupy Wall Street!
Remind me again, who thinks the Tea Party is Evil???
Analysis: Facing Drought, U.S. Farmers Return To Crop Rotation
Farmers in top U.S. grain states are planning to rotate to other crops after repeated plantings of corn on the same fields, combined with a devastating drought in 2012, badly hurt yields.
Farmers in Iowa and Illinois, which accounted for almost 30 percent of U.S. corn production in 2012, are expected to shift some acreage that was seeded exclusively with corn over the past several years to soybeans this spring. They want to avoid another year of potentially significant losses as dry conditions persist, said agricultural market analysts and economists.
A move away from corn in those states may further drive up world food prices, which are already historically high, because corn stockpiles in the United States, the world's top exporter, are forecast to hit a 17-year low by the end of the summer.
Soaring corn prices, due in part to surging demand for ethanol, in recent years have encouraged a greater amount of corn being planted on the same land year-after-year despite the fact the practice depletes soil of nutrients and reduces yields.
More
Farmers in Iowa and Illinois, which accounted for almost 30 percent of U.S. corn production in 2012, are expected to shift some acreage that was seeded exclusively with corn over the past several years to soybeans this spring. They want to avoid another year of potentially significant losses as dry conditions persist, said agricultural market analysts and economists.
A move away from corn in those states may further drive up world food prices, which are already historically high, because corn stockpiles in the United States, the world's top exporter, are forecast to hit a 17-year low by the end of the summer.
Soaring corn prices, due in part to surging demand for ethanol, in recent years have encouraged a greater amount of corn being planted on the same land year-after-year despite the fact the practice depletes soil of nutrients and reduces yields.
More
Scientists Turn To 'Brain Pacemakers' In Fight Against Alzheimer's
And it's not easy. Holes are drilled into the patient's skull so tiny wires can be implanted into just the right spot.
A dramatic shift is beginning in the disappointing struggle to find something to slow the damage of this epidemic: The first U.S. experiments with "brain pacemakers" for Alzheimer's are getting under way. Scientists are looking beyond drugs to implants in the hunt for much-needed new treatments.
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President Obama Should Tackle Global Warming In Second Term
Baltimore—As President Obama prepares to deliver his inaugural address on Monday, the director of Environment Maryland, Tommy Landers, issued the following statement:
“We hope the President will pledge to build on the steps his administration has already taken to tackle global warming, for the sake of our environment, our health and our families’ future.
“From Hurricane Sandy to the worst drought since the Dust Bowl, far too many Marylanders and Americans have been devastated by recent extreme weather events fueled by global warming.
“President Obama’s second term offers tremendous opportunity. In the next four years, it is critical that the White House set tough limits on carbon pollution from power plants, continue investing in the development of clean, renewable energy sources, including wind and solar power, and implement dramatic energy efficiency improvements that will cut dangerous pollution and protect our environment.
“We look forward to working with President Obama and his administration on taking these critical actions, and we encourage him to continue to use his platform to speak out and to help mobilize Americans to support solutions to global warming.”
Women Demand Female '16 Presidential Nominee
Several prominent Democratic women lawmakers and the nation's leading group responsible for helping elect the largest group of women ever to Washington are demanding that the party nominate a female in the 2016 presidential election.
"We are ready," said Emily's List President Stephanie Schriock, "to put a Democratic woman in the Oval Office, and that starts with putting a woman on the Democratic ticket in 2016."
Her call at a huge Sunday Inaugural brunch held to herald women who received Emily's List support and money was echoed by several lawmakers including House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and several female Democratic senators.
More
"We are ready," said Emily's List President Stephanie Schriock, "to put a Democratic woman in the Oval Office, and that starts with putting a woman on the Democratic ticket in 2016."
Her call at a huge Sunday Inaugural brunch held to herald women who received Emily's List support and money was echoed by several lawmakers including House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and several female Democratic senators.
More
Utah Man Protests Obama's Gun Control Plan By Carrying An Assault Rifle At J.C. Penney
Joseph Kelley carried an unloaded AR-15 and a Glock 19c into a J.C. Penney store in Utah. Cindy Yorgason snapped photos of what she called an "inappropriate" protest.
THE FENCE TEST
If you ever wondered which side of the fence you sit on, this is a great test!
If a Republican doesn't like guns, he doesn't buy one.
If a Democrat doesn't like guns, he wants all guns outlawed.
If a Republican is a vegetarian, he doesn't eat meat.
If a Democrat is a vegetarian, he wants all meat products banned for everyone.
If a Republican is homosexual, he quietly leads his life.
If a Democrat is homosexual, he demands legislated respect.
If a Republican is down-and-out, he thinks about how to better his situation.
A Democrat wonders who is going to take care of him.
If a Republican doesn't like a talk show host, he switches channels.
Democrats demand that those they don't like be shut down.
If a Republican is a non-believer, he doesn't go to church.
A Democrat non-believer wants any mention of God and religion silenced.
If a Republican decides he needs health care, he goes about shopping for it, or may choose a job that provides it.
A Democrat demands that the rest of us pay for his.
Bills Would Establish Statewide Spay-Neuter Program
Some Maryland lawmakers want to create a statewide spay-neuter program designed to save taxpayer money by lowering the number of pets euthanized.
Legislation is expected to be introduced within weeks by member of both chambers of the General Assembly.
After studying other states’ programs for nearly two years, a task force issued a report last week recommending the state pay for the program by putting a surcharge on pet food manufacturers.
The task force, commissioned by Gov. Martin O’Malley in 2011, said $8 million to $9 million in taxpayer money is spent euthanizing 45,000 pets a year at state shelters.
More
Legislation is expected to be introduced within weeks by member of both chambers of the General Assembly.
After studying other states’ programs for nearly two years, a task force issued a report last week recommending the state pay for the program by putting a surcharge on pet food manufacturers.
The task force, commissioned by Gov. Martin O’Malley in 2011, said $8 million to $9 million in taxpayer money is spent euthanizing 45,000 pets a year at state shelters.
More
Ammo Availability & Price
Joe,
When you get a chance, Google “ammo” and try shopping for 500 and 1000 rounds of ammo. AR15 & ak47 rounds are sold out on most sites. Some have a few 20 round boxes left. 9mm pistol ammo is gone as well. There are a few boxes of buckshot and rifled slugs left, but even 30-06 and other hunting rifle ammo is in short supply.
In addition, prices have gone up 1 ½ to 2 times what they were in November. If anyone is short on any ammo these days, get in line fast!
When you get a chance, Google “ammo” and try shopping for 500 and 1000 rounds of ammo. AR15 & ak47 rounds are sold out on most sites. Some have a few 20 round boxes left. 9mm pistol ammo is gone as well. There are a few boxes of buckshot and rifled slugs left, but even 30-06 and other hunting rifle ammo is in short supply.
In addition, prices have gone up 1 ½ to 2 times what they were in November. If anyone is short on any ammo these days, get in line fast!
A Comment From Allen West
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There are 2.1 million more Americans NOT in the workforce.
A gallon of gas is up 79%
The Federal debt is up 55%
Food stamp recipients are up 46%
Americans in poverty are up 23%
Insurance premiums are up 17%
Share these facts with someone you know who voted for him!
America must no longer accept the rhetoric of blame and whining. Time to man up and offer solutions. “Taxing the rich,” gun control, and amnesty are campaign rally points, not governing principles. I for one shall be the eagle's eye watching, commenting, and guarding the future for our next generation, ensuring they inherit a greater America, not a diminished liberal progressive nanny-state.
Homeless People In Park Along Inaugural Parade Route Forced To Move
A dozen or so people, many homeless, regularly camp out in and around a small D.C. park between the Canadian Embassy and the federal courthouse just a short walk from where President Obama will take the oath of office Monday.
On a cold Friday night with final inaugural preparations under way, they curled atop steam grates while others unable to get a warm spot huddled under blankets on benches. But it was no typical Friday night around John Marshall Park.
Hundreds of thousands of tourists had begun to flood into the city to celebrate Mr. Obama’s inauguration, which meant one thing for the people who usually call this place home — warnings to clear out their stuff.
More
On a cold Friday night with final inaugural preparations under way, they curled atop steam grates while others unable to get a warm spot huddled under blankets on benches. But it was no typical Friday night around John Marshall Park.
Hundreds of thousands of tourists had begun to flood into the city to celebrate Mr. Obama’s inauguration, which meant one thing for the people who usually call this place home — warnings to clear out their stuff.
More
Rapper Lupe Fiasco Thrown Offstage During Pre-Inauguration Event After Anti-Obama Rant
Josh Rogin, a reporter with Foreign Policy magazine, tweeted late Sunday, “Lupe Fiasco just got thrown off stage here at the Hamilton Live after he went on an anti-Obama diatribe mid set.”
“So Lupe played one anti-war song for 30 min and said he didn’t vote for Obama,” he continued, ”and eventually was told to move on to the next song…Lupe refused to move to the next song so a team of security guards came on stage and told him to go.”
More
Field Notes
Observations and Reflections on Legislative Activities
By Delegate Michael A. McDermott
Week 2 Jan. 14-18, 2013
Monday Evening Meeting of the Commercial Waterman’s Caucus: I joined Delegate Jay Jacobs (R-Kent) and several other members (primarily from the Eastern Shore) for the first meeting of the Commercial Waterman’s Caucus. Approximately 45 Watermen attended representing all areas of the state. We heard a presentation from representatives for the watermen, including Gibby Dean addressing the “Fair Share” plan published by the Dept. of Natural Resources. While the watermen number around 5800, they are dwarfed in number by recreational fishing interests. The Fair Share is designed to distribute the costs associated with enforcement and administration by the DNR evenly between those two groups based on the catch ratios, etc. I was encouraged to see the turnout and I hope the bi-weekly meetings will be productive insuring that the commercial watermen have a voice in Annapolis.
Tuesday Judiciary Committee Hearing: We heard a presentation from the Maryland Access to Justice Commission regarding compensation for plaintiffs in civil litigation who are indigent. They particularly addressed issues surrounding the Maryland Constitution’s Declaration of Rights and their desire to see fee shifting for plaintiffs who are successful in bringing action. Link to Hearing
Wednesday Morning Session: My bill, HB-106 which would repeal last year’s SB-236 Septic Bill, was on First Reader today. A hearing is pending before the House Environmental Matters Committee. Another one of my bills, HB-104, which would provide a grace period to Maryland businesses for minor violations of regulatory codes, was also on First Reader and assigned to Economic Matters for a hearing. HB-104 insures that on a first offense, there is no fine assessed if the corrections are made in a timely manner. The bill has good bi-partisan support .
Wednesday Judiciary Committee Hearing:
Briefing on Maryland’s False Health Care Claims Act-We heard from the office of the Attorney General concerning the use and application of the False Claims Act passed in 2010. Under the act, the Attorney General has expanded his staff to address these false claims to a total of 31 with 7of those positions being attorneys (current budget requests another 9 personnel). To date, the unit has settled the following in claims/recovery: 2011-$3.7 million; 2012-$1.2 million; 2013-$12 million to date. The unit is not cheap to operate and costs millions in tax dollars. The presenters pointed out that up to 75% of the funding is paid by federal grant funds. No one could say how long the grant may last. The damage to our system is substantial, but the cost to operate and facilitate fraud collection is not cheap. It seems clear the act passed by the General Assembly is not really increasing our collection of fraud cases (most are settled with the federal government which we would receive regardless of the act), however the potential is real to make a dent in fraudulent cases filed in Maryland. We need to do a lot more to make it worth our expenses even though we should always pursue fraud when it comes to our attention.) Link to Hearing
Wednesday Afternoon-My office launched “A Minute with Mike” video clips. They are a one-minute presentation on a contemporary issue facing the Maryland. My first topic was the 2nd Ammendment. See “A Minute with Mike”.
Thursday Judiciary Committee Bill Hearings:
HB-10 Would prohibit a convicted Sex Offender from being awarded custody of a child by a court without good cause and clear and convincing evidence as determined by the court. This is one of those bills that tends to codify what the courts in Maryland are already practicing, but it may be necessary to insure that the approach is uniform.
HB-22 Deals with access and confidentiality to Birth and Adoptive Records as they relate to search, contact, and reunion services. The bill would open up the records of adoptees and it would eliminate the right of a biological parent or an adoptee to file a Veto Disclosure. We heard some emotional testimony, primarily from adoptees. There were several reasons provided for maintaining the current law and keeping the Veto Disclosures option in place. Link to Hearings
Thursday Afternoon: I met with the Coastal Association of Realtors representatives along with Delegate Charles Otto. They reviewed several legislative initiatives which give them great pause. We all agreed that much of the legislation passed in recent years has been a real detriment to development across Maryland and particularly on the shore.
Friday Eastern Shore Delegation Meeting: The delegation met Secretary Summers of the Maryland Department of the Environment and also heard from Thomas W. Beauduy, Susquehanna River Basin Commission and the Marine Trades Association of Maryland. You can click here for Minutes for the Eastern Shore Delegation Meeting.
Friday Morning Governor’s Press Conference: Gov. O’Malley spelled out his Gun Control agenda this morning in the Signing Room around 10 AM. Clearly, we will be having strong discussions about the 2nd Amendment in Maryland. I hope we can cut through the rhetoric, identify any shortcomings, and move forward with intellectual honesty. I must tell you that I am not hopeful in this regard. The Progressives want a gun grab from law abiding folks that will not solve any problems or prevent future tragedy. and they are willing to play on emotions so they can declare, “problem solved”.
Friday Morning Session: I had two distinct pleasures this morning. First, my son, 1st LT Nate McDermott (Army, 82nd Airborne Division) came up through a snow storm to be on the floor of the House. It was his first trip to Annapolis since my election. Speaker Busch was very kind and after introducing my son, he invited him up to the Speaker’s Dias for a photo opportunity. I went up as well and the members were very generous with their appreciation for Nate’s service to our country. My second pleasure this morning was offering this morning’s prayer. I utilized General George Washington’s “Earnest Prayer” which he offered to the First Continental Congress as he disbanded the successful Continental Army following the Revolution. This was a very proud moment for me as a father and a member of the House.
By Delegate Michael A. McDermott
Week 2 Jan. 14-18, 2013
Monday Evening Meeting of the Commercial Waterman’s Caucus: I joined Delegate Jay Jacobs (R-Kent) and several other members (primarily from the Eastern Shore) for the first meeting of the Commercial Waterman’s Caucus. Approximately 45 Watermen attended representing all areas of the state. We heard a presentation from representatives for the watermen, including Gibby Dean addressing the “Fair Share” plan published by the Dept. of Natural Resources. While the watermen number around 5800, they are dwarfed in number by recreational fishing interests. The Fair Share is designed to distribute the costs associated with enforcement and administration by the DNR evenly between those two groups based on the catch ratios, etc. I was encouraged to see the turnout and I hope the bi-weekly meetings will be productive insuring that the commercial watermen have a voice in Annapolis.
Tuesday Judiciary Committee Hearing: We heard a presentation from the Maryland Access to Justice Commission regarding compensation for plaintiffs in civil litigation who are indigent. They particularly addressed issues surrounding the Maryland Constitution’s Declaration of Rights and their desire to see fee shifting for plaintiffs who are successful in bringing action. Link to Hearing
Wednesday Morning Session: My bill, HB-106 which would repeal last year’s SB-236 Septic Bill, was on First Reader today. A hearing is pending before the House Environmental Matters Committee. Another one of my bills, HB-104, which would provide a grace period to Maryland businesses for minor violations of regulatory codes, was also on First Reader and assigned to Economic Matters for a hearing. HB-104 insures that on a first offense, there is no fine assessed if the corrections are made in a timely manner. The bill has good bi-partisan support .
Wednesday Judiciary Committee Hearing:
Briefing on Maryland’s False Health Care Claims Act-We heard from the office of the Attorney General concerning the use and application of the False Claims Act passed in 2010. Under the act, the Attorney General has expanded his staff to address these false claims to a total of 31 with 7of those positions being attorneys (current budget requests another 9 personnel). To date, the unit has settled the following in claims/recovery: 2011-$3.7 million; 2012-$1.2 million; 2013-$12 million to date. The unit is not cheap to operate and costs millions in tax dollars. The presenters pointed out that up to 75% of the funding is paid by federal grant funds. No one could say how long the grant may last. The damage to our system is substantial, but the cost to operate and facilitate fraud collection is not cheap. It seems clear the act passed by the General Assembly is not really increasing our collection of fraud cases (most are settled with the federal government which we would receive regardless of the act), however the potential is real to make a dent in fraudulent cases filed in Maryland. We need to do a lot more to make it worth our expenses even though we should always pursue fraud when it comes to our attention.) Link to Hearing
Wednesday Afternoon-My office launched “A Minute with Mike” video clips. They are a one-minute presentation on a contemporary issue facing the Maryland. My first topic was the 2nd Ammendment. See “A Minute with Mike”.
Thursday Judiciary Committee Bill Hearings:
HB-10 Would prohibit a convicted Sex Offender from being awarded custody of a child by a court without good cause and clear and convincing evidence as determined by the court. This is one of those bills that tends to codify what the courts in Maryland are already practicing, but it may be necessary to insure that the approach is uniform.
HB-22 Deals with access and confidentiality to Birth and Adoptive Records as they relate to search, contact, and reunion services. The bill would open up the records of adoptees and it would eliminate the right of a biological parent or an adoptee to file a Veto Disclosure. We heard some emotional testimony, primarily from adoptees. There were several reasons provided for maintaining the current law and keeping the Veto Disclosures option in place. Link to Hearings
Thursday Afternoon: I met with the Coastal Association of Realtors representatives along with Delegate Charles Otto. They reviewed several legislative initiatives which give them great pause. We all agreed that much of the legislation passed in recent years has been a real detriment to development across Maryland and particularly on the shore.
Friday Eastern Shore Delegation Meeting: The delegation met Secretary Summers of the Maryland Department of the Environment and also heard from Thomas W. Beauduy, Susquehanna River Basin Commission and the Marine Trades Association of Maryland. You can click here for Minutes for the Eastern Shore Delegation Meeting.
Friday Morning Governor’s Press Conference: Gov. O’Malley spelled out his Gun Control agenda this morning in the Signing Room around 10 AM. Clearly, we will be having strong discussions about the 2nd Amendment in Maryland. I hope we can cut through the rhetoric, identify any shortcomings, and move forward with intellectual honesty. I must tell you that I am not hopeful in this regard. The Progressives want a gun grab from law abiding folks that will not solve any problems or prevent future tragedy. and they are willing to play on emotions so they can declare, “problem solved”.
Friday Morning Session: I had two distinct pleasures this morning. First, my son, 1st LT Nate McDermott (Army, 82nd Airborne Division) came up through a snow storm to be on the floor of the House. It was his first trip to Annapolis since my election. Speaker Busch was very kind and after introducing my son, he invited him up to the Speaker’s Dias for a photo opportunity. I went up as well and the members were very generous with their appreciation for Nate’s service to our country. My second pleasure this morning was offering this morning’s prayer. I utilized General George Washington’s “Earnest Prayer” which he offered to the First Continental Congress as he disbanded the successful Continental Army following the Revolution. This was a very proud moment for me as a father and a member of the House.
Speaker Michael Busch with 1st LT Nate McDermott & Delegate Mike McDermott
BREAKING NEWS: Two More Americans Discovered Among Victims Of Algerian Hostage Standoff
U.S. officials say the bodies of two Americans were recovered from gas plant, bringing total to three Americans killed in standoff.
From Fox News
From Fox News
Skier Killed In Accident At Wisp Resort In Md.
McHENRY, Md. (AP) - The Garrett County sheriff's office says a skier has been killed in an accident at the Wisp ski resort.
The sheriff's office says 40-year-old James Jung-Jin Park of Rockville lost control and ran into trees while skiing Saturday morning with two friends. Authorities say the Rockville man was pronounced dead at Garrett County Memorial Hospital.
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The sheriff's office says 40-year-old James Jung-Jin Park of Rockville lost control and ran into trees while skiing Saturday morning with two friends. Authorities say the Rockville man was pronounced dead at Garrett County Memorial Hospital.
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SALISBURY: THE MAYOR WANTS MUCH MORE OF YOUR MONEY!
In his latest proposed capital improvement plan, Mr. Ireton wants an entirely new tax – called a stormwater utility fee – to generate more revenue for the lofty goal of improving water quality. By calling it a “fee” for a “utility” it can be imposed (like Maryland’s infamous “flush tax”) without raising the tax rate. The plan suggests that he is looking to raise about $19 Million per year with this scam – so that the hit would be substantial. But (surprise) it won’t be in the City’s budget until after the upcoming election.
Ireton’s plan also includes humongous new debt and spending – including $35 Million, to be raised by bonds, just for fixing the waste water treatment plant (the net amount, after attorney’s fees, from the lawsuits is not nearly enough).
And, even with all that new debt, which will require higher taxes and sewer and water bills, and the new “fee”, Mr. Ireton is proposing to further postpone major infrastructure projects that are very important, such as replacing the sewer main in North Division Street, due to lack of funds.
If this plan is followed, Salisbury residents will pay much higher taxes, water and sewer bills and new “stormwater utility fees,” while the City’s infrastructure continues to crumble and fail.
What do you think? What about that $16 Million surplus that Mr. Ireton crows about in his campaign propaganda? Is that another of his political scams since the City needs to raise many times that amount just to do the basic repair and replacement of its infrastructure?
Ireton’s plan also includes humongous new debt and spending – including $35 Million, to be raised by bonds, just for fixing the waste water treatment plant (the net amount, after attorney’s fees, from the lawsuits is not nearly enough).
And, even with all that new debt, which will require higher taxes and sewer and water bills, and the new “fee”, Mr. Ireton is proposing to further postpone major infrastructure projects that are very important, such as replacing the sewer main in North Division Street, due to lack of funds.
If this plan is followed, Salisbury residents will pay much higher taxes, water and sewer bills and new “stormwater utility fees,” while the City’s infrastructure continues to crumble and fail.
What do you think? What about that $16 Million surplus that Mr. Ireton crows about in his campaign propaganda? Is that another of his political scams since the City needs to raise many times that amount just to do the basic repair and replacement of its infrastructure?
STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY ON PASSING OF FORMER BALTIMORE ORIOLES MANAGER EARL WEAVER
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Martin O’Malley released the following statement on the passing of former Baltimore Orioles manager Earl Weaver:
“I am saddened to learn of the passing of Earl Weaver, a beloved Baltimore legend, a pioneer, and one of the greatest baseball managers of our time.
“As manager, many will remember Earl for ushering in a new era of success for the Baltimore Orioles. In 17 seasons as manager, he led the O's to four World Series - including the memorable World Championship victory of 1970. Though we will miss him dearly, he will always be remembered for his passion for baseball and his spirited dedication to the Orioles and the City of Baltimore.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.”
“I am saddened to learn of the passing of Earl Weaver, a beloved Baltimore legend, a pioneer, and one of the greatest baseball managers of our time.
“As manager, many will remember Earl for ushering in a new era of success for the Baltimore Orioles. In 17 seasons as manager, he led the O's to four World Series - including the memorable World Championship victory of 1970. Though we will miss him dearly, he will always be remembered for his passion for baseball and his spirited dedication to the Orioles and the City of Baltimore.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.”
Laser Pointers, Wind Energy & Sex Offender Legislation On Week Three Agenda
A number of Democratic lawmakers are not expected to attend the session as they are expected at inaugural balls in Washington.
On Tuesday, Governor Martin O'Malley will hold a rally for his offshore wind energy bill. The plan would build wind turbines ten miles off the coast of Ocean City. The goal is to produce a cleaner and less expensive source of electricity. The proposal would likely add a $2 monthly surcharge to electric bills. The governor has introduced this bill in the last two years, and it has never emerged from committee.
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GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY TO ATTEND MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR RICHARD BEN CRAMER
Orders State House flag to be flown at half mast ANNAPOLIS, MD - Governor and Judge O’Malley will attend a memorial service for Richard Ben Cramer. In his honor, the Governor has ordered the State House flag to be flown at half mast. Cramer passed away on January 7th, and the Governor issued the following statement:
“I am deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Richard Ben Cramer of Chestertown, Maryland -- a great American, great Marylander, and a dear friend.
“Richard's work as a gifted writer and deeply principled journalist made our Republic a better place; made us a stronger, more compassionate, and more understanding people.
“We have lost one of the best political journalists of our times. We have also lost a great patriot, and one of the kindest souls God ever created.”
“I am deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Richard Ben Cramer of Chestertown, Maryland -- a great American, great Marylander, and a dear friend.
“Richard's work as a gifted writer and deeply principled journalist made our Republic a better place; made us a stronger, more compassionate, and more understanding people.
“We have lost one of the best political journalists of our times. We have also lost a great patriot, and one of the kindest souls God ever created.”
Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Arrest, Laurel
Date of Occurrence: Sunday January 20, 2013 at approximately 10:50 a.m.
Defendant, Charges, and Bond Information:
Xavier A. Johnson, 39, Seaford, DE (No Photo Available)
Possession with Intent to Deliver Cocaine
Possession with Intent to Deliver Heroin
Possession with Intent to Deliver Marijuana
Tampering with Physical Evidence
Possession of a Controlled Substance
Resisting Arrest
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (2 counts)
Arraigned at JP3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $130,000.00 cash bond.
Resume:
Laurel, DE- The Delaware State Police have arrested a Seaford man after a traffic stop leads to possession of drugs.
The incident began Sunday morning around 10:50 a.m. as a trooper was on patrol in the area of the First Stop convenience store on West Street in Laurel when he observed what appeared to be a drug transaction taking place. As a male subject, who was standing outside a Kia Soul, observed the trooper drive by, he quickly went inside the store. The subject didn’t emerge for several minutes, and when he finally exited the store, he got into the passenger’s side of the Kia. The vehicle departed the parking lot and turned onto Townsend Street and then west onto West 6th Street where the operator drove up on a curb. The trooper activated his emergency equipment in order conduct a traffic stop and the Kia pulled into the New Zion United Methodist Church parking lot. As the car came to a stop, the passenger exited the vehicle and began fleeing on foot carrying a blue nylon bag. The suspect began running to the east and began attempting to remove his shirt once behind a shed, but was taken into custody without incident by the trooper as he reappeared. A search of the area behind the shed was conducted and a blue nylon bag was recovered. The bag contained over 40 grams of cocaine, 50 bags of heroin totaling approximately 3 grams, 41 grams of marijuana, 22 Oxycodone pills, and assorted drug paraphernalia.
Xavier A. Johnson, 39 of Seaford was transported back to Troop 5 in Bridgeville where he was charged with the above listed offenses. He was arraigned at JP3 and committed to SCI on $130,000.00 cash bond.
When You Don't Have a Record ...
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| An Albero Supporter BEFORE Vandalism |
While Albero has taken the high road to date, stealing yard signs appears to be a minor distraction compared to what else can be expected from Ireton's campaign and some of his supporters. According to a Salisbury businessman (who asked not to be identified), Ireton said to him last week, "You know Joe Albero hates blacks, Mexicans, Jews, and women." Compare that to Ireton's claim that he would "run on his record". I guess when you don't have much of a record to run on ...
Ireton's claimed record is more one of taking credit for the accomplishments of others:
- NOT Raising Taxes - Salisbury taxpayers can thanks the same "council majority" that Ireton has spent almost four years disparaging. Ireton tried to raise taxes. The council wouldn't let him.
- A 40% Reduction in Crime - While some are questioning the number, Ireton can rightly claim credit for hiring SPD Chief Barbara Duncan. It's also a fact that he happened to be mayor when Salisbury began participation in the state's "Safe Streets" program. He just doesn't want to admit that the idea came from council president Terry Cohen. He also doesn't want to admit that the vital work done by the city's crime task force was led by councilwoman Debbie Campbell. As for finally increasing police pay, Ireton only signed off after the council tired of waiting for action and seized the issue themselves.
- A $16 Million Surplus - Thank the city council AGAIN. Jim Ireton and taxpayer dollars go together like Drunken Sailor and Whorehouse. Quarter Million Dollar Apartments in "the Bricks"?
- Business Friendly - Talk to any businessperson who has waited months or years for permits.
- "I've Kept Every Promise I Made" - I'll save this one until after I control my laughter.
Guide to the 57th Presidential Inauguration
-- The public swearing-in ceremony Monday will be held on the west front of the U.S. Capitol and is scheduled to run from 9 a.m. when VIPs start to arrive until shortly before 1 p.m. when President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama, along with Vice President Biden and wife Jill Biden, leave for the congressional luncheon, and later the parade.
-- Local officials estimate 500,000 to 700,000 people will be on the National Mall to witness the ceremony, compared to 2009 when an estimate 1.8 million saw the country’s first black president take the presidential oath.
-- Obama will be sworn in by Chief Justice John G. Roberts on two Bibles: one from President Lincoln and the other from the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.
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Salisbury Campaign Vandalism Starts Early
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| Home Before Yard Signs Stolen |
According to Albero, "We had just put five signs up at the corner of Camden Avenue and South Blvd. on Tuesday. When I was out visiting voters on Saturday morning, I noticed that they were missing. I also received calls from some supporters Saturday that their signs were missing. I guess some of my opponent's friends didn't have anything better to do on a Friday night."
 | |
| Home After Yard Signs Stolen |
"Yard signs are one component in getting my name out in the city's neighborhoods. The reception I've received so far while knocking on doors and introducing myself to voters has been both encouraging and humbling. It's a shame that my opponent's supporters have to resort to these types of tactics. Unfortunately for Jim, when you don't have much of a record to run on, actions like this shouldn't be surprising.
Albero faces incumbent mayor Jim Ireton in the General Election on April 2nd.
Zia's Closed?
Publisher's Notes: I did hear over the weekend their plans were to close the doors for good on the 30th of this month. However, it is quite possible they chose to close sooner.
MANY of the local restaurants are struggling with exception of the chain restaurants who have a national advertising budget.
The History of Aprons
The History of 'APRONS'
I don't think our kids know what an apron is.
The principal use of Grandma's apron was to protect the dress underneath because she only had a few and because it was easier to wash aprons than dresses and aprons required less material. But along with that, it served as a potholder for removing hot pans from the oven.
It was wonderful for drying children's tears, and on occasion was even used for cleaning out dirty ears.
From the chicken coop, the apron was used for carrying eggs, fussy chicks, and sometimes half-hatched eggs to be finished in the warming oven.
When company came, those aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids.
And when the weather was cold, Grandma wrapped it around her arms.
Those big old aprons wiped many a perspiring brow, bent over the hot wood stove.
Chips and kindling wood were brought into the kitchen in that apron.
From the garden, it carried all sorts of vegetables.
After the peas had been shelled, it carried out the hulls.
In the autumn, the apron was used to bring in apples that had fallen from the trees.
When unexpected company drove up the road, it was surprising how much furniture that old apron could dust in a matter of seconds.
When dinner was ready, Grandma walked out onto the porch, waved her apron, and the men folk knew it was time to come in from the fields to dinner.
It will be a long time before someone invents something that will replace that 'old-time apron' that served so many purposes.
Send this to those who would know (and love) the story about Grandma's aprons.
REMEMBER:
Grandma used to set her hot baked apple pies on the window sill to cool. Her granddaughters set theirs on the window sill to thaw. Ù©(͡๏̯͡๏)Û¶
The Government would go crazy now trying to figure out how many germs were on that apron.
I don't think I ever caught anything from an apron - but love...
I don't think our kids know what an apron is.
The principal use of Grandma's apron was to protect the dress underneath because she only had a few and because it was easier to wash aprons than dresses and aprons required less material. But along with that, it served as a potholder for removing hot pans from the oven.
It was wonderful for drying children's tears, and on occasion was even used for cleaning out dirty ears.
From the chicken coop, the apron was used for carrying eggs, fussy chicks, and sometimes half-hatched eggs to be finished in the warming oven.
When company came, those aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids.
And when the weather was cold, Grandma wrapped it around her arms.
Those big old aprons wiped many a perspiring brow, bent over the hot wood stove.
Chips and kindling wood were brought into the kitchen in that apron.
From the garden, it carried all sorts of vegetables.
After the peas had been shelled, it carried out the hulls.
In the autumn, the apron was used to bring in apples that had fallen from the trees.
When unexpected company drove up the road, it was surprising how much furniture that old apron could dust in a matter of seconds.
When dinner was ready, Grandma walked out onto the porch, waved her apron, and the men folk knew it was time to come in from the fields to dinner.
It will be a long time before someone invents something that will replace that 'old-time apron' that served so many purposes.
Send this to those who would know (and love) the story about Grandma's aprons.
REMEMBER:
Grandma used to set her hot baked apple pies on the window sill to cool. Her granddaughters set theirs on the window sill to thaw. Ù©(͡๏̯͡๏)Û¶
The Government would go crazy now trying to figure out how many germs were on that apron.
I don't think I ever caught anything from an apron - but love...
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