ALBERO RELEASES PLAN TO GROW SALISBURY’S ECONOMY
Salisbury Cannot Tax Its Way Out of Current Fiscal Problems
SALISBURY, MD – Salisbury mayoral candidate Joe Albero has released his plan to revitalize Salisbury’s stagnant economy. By attracting new businesses, and encouraging existing businesses to expand, Salisbury’s local economy can become a job creation engine which positively impacts the city’s overall quality of life by increasing home ownership, reducing crime, and providing needed revenue to improve the city’s infrastructure and to improve the level of service delivery.
Albero stated, “Today I have release a detailed outline for improving Salisbury’s local economy. Some may view this plan as broad; and it is. Unlike our current mayor, and his predecessor, I refuse to take a ‘my way or the highway’ approach to policy. While I have outlined the direction I believe Salisbury needs to move, I will ask for input from all relevant stakeholders. This includes the business community and the members of the next city council.
“From the day I declared my candidacy for mayor, I have talked about the need to improve the city’s attitude toward and our reputation with the business community. Successive administrations have had a schizophrenic attitude towards business. Some businesses receive direct taxpayer subsidies while others are viewed as entities to be taxed, fined, and charged fees.
“This view ends on the first day of an Albero administration. Successful businesses deliver superior customer service. The city of Salisbury, and its employees, need to view the city’s businesses and residents as valued customers. Our motto needs to be, ‘How can we help you?’, NOT ‘Write us a check and we’ll get around to it when we can.’ Permitting and requests to public works must be carried out in a timely fashion. Doing business in the city needs to be predictable. Bureaucratic red tape can be hallmarks of communities we compete with but cannot be tolerated here if we are serious about growing Salisbury’s economy.”
Albero is challenging incumbent mayor Jim Ireton. Salisbury voters will choose which direction they wish the city to move towards on April 2nd.
VIEW THE COMPLETE PLAN HERE
By authority of Luke Rommel Treasurer
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Senate, House Considering Different Pit Bull Bills
In Annapolis, a deal over a bill regarding liability for pit bull attacks has apparently hit a snag.
Both the House and Senate are considering bills that are designed to reverse the impact of last year’s Court of Appeals decision calling pit bulls "inherently dangerous," and automatically holding their owners responsible if the dog attacks someone.
The House of Delegates and the Maryland Senate have bills that hold the pet owner responsible, if they knew their dog would attack someone.
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Both the House and Senate are considering bills that are designed to reverse the impact of last year’s Court of Appeals decision calling pit bulls "inherently dangerous," and automatically holding their owners responsible if the dog attacks someone.
The House of Delegates and the Maryland Senate have bills that hold the pet owner responsible, if they knew their dog would attack someone.
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DHSS' Summer Feeding Program To Expand This Year To Serve 16,000 Students And Their Families Across The State
NEW CASTLE - Delaware's Summer Feeding Program for Children will expand this year to serve 16,000 students across the state in order to help families feed children who don't always have dependable access to food during the summer months.
As part of a two-year $3.07 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services' Division of Social Services will expand the program this year to cover the entire state. The grant allows Delaware to test the summer delivery of food benefits to children and their families via electronic benefit cards. The Summer Feeding Program helps families buy healthy food during the summer for children who currently receive free or reduced-price meals at school.
Collaborating with the Delaware Department of Education, this initiative will involve students in school districts from across the state in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. About 4,000 students in the Red Clay, Colonial, Christina and Appoquinimink school districts who were served last year - and have not aged out of the program - will be served again this summer. From all of the other school districts, the program will conduct a lottery to randomly select 12,000 new children from those families who sign consent forms provided to them. Letters to parents, which include the consent forms, were mailed starting last week.
To be eligible to participate in the program, children already must receive free or reduced-price meals through their school districts. "We are so grateful to be able to expand the Summer Feeding Program this year to children from every school district," Gov. Jack Markell said. "Through this program, we can reach more students who otherwise might not get enough to eat during the summer months. This is a great way to ensure that students have continued access to healthy food throughout the year, and are focused and ready to learn in the fall."
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As part of a two-year $3.07 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services' Division of Social Services will expand the program this year to cover the entire state. The grant allows Delaware to test the summer delivery of food benefits to children and their families via electronic benefit cards. The Summer Feeding Program helps families buy healthy food during the summer for children who currently receive free or reduced-price meals at school.
Collaborating with the Delaware Department of Education, this initiative will involve students in school districts from across the state in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. About 4,000 students in the Red Clay, Colonial, Christina and Appoquinimink school districts who were served last year - and have not aged out of the program - will be served again this summer. From all of the other school districts, the program will conduct a lottery to randomly select 12,000 new children from those families who sign consent forms provided to them. Letters to parents, which include the consent forms, were mailed starting last week.
To be eligible to participate in the program, children already must receive free or reduced-price meals through their school districts. "We are so grateful to be able to expand the Summer Feeding Program this year to children from every school district," Gov. Jack Markell said. "Through this program, we can reach more students who otherwise might not get enough to eat during the summer months. This is a great way to ensure that students have continued access to healthy food throughout the year, and are focused and ready to learn in the fall."
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Updates: Septic Bill Killed In Committee
Two bills that drew crowds to Annapolis have been killed in committee. The two bills, the Septic Bill and the Liberty Preservation Act of 2013, would have had wide implications in planning and law enforcement policy, respectively.
The Septic Bill
Republican Del. Michael McDermott’s initiative to repeal the septic bill was struck down in committee last month, even though rural communities supported it.
HB 106 drew dozens of farmers into the state capitol to testify in favor of McDermott’s initiative — not to mention a “tractor-cade” that rolled through the streets surrounding the state house just a week before the Senate vote on Feb. 19.
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The Septic Bill
Republican Del. Michael McDermott’s initiative to repeal the septic bill was struck down in committee last month, even though rural communities supported it.
HB 106 drew dozens of farmers into the state capitol to testify in favor of McDermott’s initiative — not to mention a “tractor-cade” that rolled through the streets surrounding the state house just a week before the Senate vote on Feb. 19.
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Closing Cages: People Power Helps Stop Youth Incarceration
While Illinois is closing two youth prisons as a cost-cutting measure, other states are not. Washington State's King County recently passed a $210 million renovation and expansion of its youth jail. Undeterred, activists work to halt the jail. In Baltimore, organizing against a youth jail proves that popular disapproval can derail supposedly done deals.
With the number of youth behind bars at an all-time low - dropping 41 percent from 107,000 in 1995 to under 71,000 in 2010 - are more youth jails really necessary?Research has shown that community-based programs that keep youth connected to their families are more likely to succeed than jails or prisons. So when Dede Adhanom learned that King County was proposing to renovate and expand its current youth jail in Seattle's Central District, she was outraged.
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With the number of youth behind bars at an all-time low - dropping 41 percent from 107,000 in 1995 to under 71,000 in 2010 - are more youth jails really necessary?Research has shown that community-based programs that keep youth connected to their families are more likely to succeed than jails or prisons. So when Dede Adhanom learned that King County was proposing to renovate and expand its current youth jail in Seattle's Central District, she was outraged.
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Controlling What You Eat
Controlling what Americans put in their mouths is proving a difficult challenge for government. FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg said her agency is stymied in writing food labeling regulations for restaurants and vending machines. The FDA issued a proposal in 2011, as required by the Affordable Care Act. But the rule has languished in the face of opposition from various groups. Hamburg told the Associated Press, FDA staff is working hard to sort out all of the objections from restaurants, convenience stores, supermarkets and other types of food outlets. Hamburg's admission comes just as a court threw out a New York City law banning large servings of sugar sweetened beverages.
MEET THE ‘GUN GIRL’ WHOSE QUESTION FREAKED OUT A U.S. CONGRESSMAN
“Why aren’t you pro-choice when it comes to self-defense for women?” she said.
Despite the positive reaction from the crowd, Mr. Moran decided to completely avoid the question and looked past the young lady who asked it. And despite the subtitle of the event (“A conversation on gun violence in America.”), there was no conversation between the Congressman and the young woman. Rep. Moran chose to look past the woman and ask for the next question.
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Food Stamp Recipients Reach Record Numbers
The number of Americans on food stamps climbed to an all-time peak last year, according to data released by the Department of Agriculture.
An average of 46.6 million people received the benefits each month last year, with the average number of households that received them totaling 22.3 million. In 2007, just 26.3 million people received food stamps.
Among states, Texas topped the chart with an average of 4.04 million food stamp recipients per month. California came in second with 3.96 million, and Florida was third with 3.35 million.
Editor's Note: 'It’s Curtains for the US' — Hear Unapologetic Warning from Prophetic Economist.
An average of 46.6 million people received the benefits each month last year, with the average number of households that received them totaling 22.3 million. In 2007, just 26.3 million people received food stamps.
Among states, Texas topped the chart with an average of 4.04 million food stamp recipients per month. California came in second with 3.96 million, and Florida was third with 3.35 million.
Editor's Note: 'It’s Curtains for the US' — Hear Unapologetic Warning from Prophetic Economist.
New Walk Smart Program Planned For Ocean City
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On Tuesday afternoon, Karen Waggoner of the Maryland Highway Safety Office came before the Mayor and City Council to request permission for projects sent forward by the Ocean City Pedestrian Safety Committee (OCPSC).
Waggoner has been working with the committee that is made up of representatives of the State Highway Administration (SHA), Ocean City Public Works Department, the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, the Worcester County Health Department, area business owners and more.
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New Jersey Woman Arrested For Reciting Constitution At Tax Meeting
Police in Clayton, New Jersey, confiscated two guns from a woman after she complained about county government moving to raise her property taxes and inspect her property without a search warrant.
Eileen Hart of Franklin Township was arrested and charged with making terroristic threats, disorderly conduct and harassing officials from the Gloucester County Office of Assessment and Appraisal Systems, Inc.
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Eileen Hart of Franklin Township was arrested and charged with making terroristic threats, disorderly conduct and harassing officials from the Gloucester County Office of Assessment and Appraisal Systems, Inc.
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Md. Woman Cited For Driving Too Slow
A Maryland woman was shocked after she received a traffic ticket on Interstate 95 — because it wasn't for speeding.
In fact, she was driving two mph under the speed limit.
The driver, who didn't want her name used, told News4 she was driving in the left lane of I-95 on Laurel last Friday when she was pulled over and cited for failing to move right.
According to the citation, she had been driving 63 mph in the left hand lane in a 65 mph zone. The citation read, "Failure of driver, driving below speed limit, 63 in a 65, to keep right."
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In fact, she was driving two mph under the speed limit.
The driver, who didn't want her name used, told News4 she was driving in the left lane of I-95 on Laurel last Friday when she was pulled over and cited for failing to move right.
According to the citation, she had been driving 63 mph in the left hand lane in a 65 mph zone. The citation read, "Failure of driver, driving below speed limit, 63 in a 65, to keep right."
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Sheriff: Law That Keeps Fugitives From Collecting Tax Returns Nets 100 Arrests
Anne Arundel County Sheriff Ron Bateman says a new law, which allows Maryland to withhold state tax refunds of those with outstanding warrants, has resulted in some 100 arrests in recent weeks.
The legislation was signed into law last May by Gov. Martin O'Malley after it was passed by the General Assembly, at Bateman's urging.
"I'm extremely elated with the success of this program," Bateman said. "I knew it was going to be good, but it's proven to be very successful, which makes me very happy."
Anne Arundel is the only municipality in the state, if not the country, to have such a program, Bateman said. The sheriff said he has been contacted by a law enforcement agency in Nebraska interested in instituting a similar program.
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The legislation was signed into law last May by Gov. Martin O'Malley after it was passed by the General Assembly, at Bateman's urging.
"I'm extremely elated with the success of this program," Bateman said. "I knew it was going to be good, but it's proven to be very successful, which makes me very happy."
Anne Arundel is the only municipality in the state, if not the country, to have such a program, Bateman said. The sheriff said he has been contacted by a law enforcement agency in Nebraska interested in instituting a similar program.
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**UPDATE** Rehoboth Man Charged In Connection With February Trooper Involved Shooting In Lewes
Keith M. Schueller-42 of Rehoboth Beach, DE (photo attached)
Aggravated Menacing
Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony
Disregarding a Police Officer Signal
Leaving the Scene of Property Collision Accident
Reckless Driving
Malicious Mischief by Motor Vehicle
Additional traffic charges related to the vehicle pursuit
February 18, 2013 at 12:00 p.m.
Auto Equity Loans, 19266 Coastal Highway, Rehoboth Beach, DE
Theft $1500
Entered business to obtain loan and removed bank bag containing undisclosed amount of cash and fled.
February 18, 2013 at 5:17 p.m.
Famous Footwear, 36454 Seaside Outlet Drive, Rehoboth Beach, DE
Shoplifting $1500
Entered business and removed two boxes of Nike shoes and fled.
February 18, 2013 at 6:12 p.m.
Uncle Willies Texaco, 1105 Coastal Highway, Lewes, DE
Shoplifting 1500
Entered business and removed lottery tickets and fled.
February 18, 2013 at 7:56 p.m.
Safeway Gas Station, 19266 Coastal Highway, Rehoboth Beach, DE
Burglary Third Degree
Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony
Possession of Burglar Tools
Theft $1500
Criminal Mischief
Entered closed store by forcing entry, breaking glass of front door of the business. Once inside removed lottery tickets and fled in Jeep Cherokee as indicated on surveillance video. Troopers located Schueller’s unoccupied Jeep Cherokee matching the description of the suspect vehicle belonging to Schueller, parked in Rehoboth Beach. Troopers searched for Schueller and but could not locate him. The Jeep was towed and stored at Blue Hen Towing.
February 19, 2013 at 9:18 a.m.
Rehoboth Cigarette Outlet, 19287 Miller Road, Rehoboth Beach, DE
Shoplifting $1500
Entered business and removed lottery tickets and fled.
February 19, 2013 at 12:45 p.m.
Blue Hen Towing, 16867 New Road, Lewes, DE
Theft of Services
Criminal Mischief
Criminal Trespass Second Degree
Entered impound yard, forcibly removed fencing, and fled in the Jeep.
Resume:
Smyrna-The Delaware State Police have formally charged Keith M. Schueller-42 of Rehoboth, DE in connection with the Trooper involved shooting where he was wounded, and additional charges in connection with six separate incidents that occurred between February 18-19, 2013.
On Wednesday, March 13, 2013 Keith M. Schueller was formally charged in connection with the above crimes. He had been previously released from the Christiana Hospital Trauma Center and remains held at James T. Vaughn Correctional Center on $53,003.00 Secured Bond.
Breaking News New Pope Elected
Live Video HERE
UPDATE: The new Pope is Jorge Mario Bergoglio from Argentina
White House Attacks Legislative Push To Shore Up Welfare Work Requirement
President Obama policy aides attacked a Republican bill that would block the Department of Health and Human Services from waiving the work requirements associated with the 1996 welfare reform bill, even as the White House continued to deny that it had authorized such waivers.
“With respect to the provision in H.R. 890 to limit State flexibility to strengthen the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program, the Administration notes that this flexibility was requested by Governors on both sides of the aisle to allow States to test new, more effective ways to place more people on a path to self-sufficiency,” the White House Office of Management and Budget said in a policy statement today. “The Administration is disappointed that the bill includes this unnecessary bar to innovative welfare-to-work strategies.”
Rep. Dave Camp, R-Mich., introduced the bill. “Nothing in current law prohibits a State from strengthening its work requirements and moving more individuals from welfare to work,” Camp said during a hearing last week. “Instead, a waiver would only be needed to weaken the work requirements, as the Administration wishes to do, pure and simple.”
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“With respect to the provision in H.R. 890 to limit State flexibility to strengthen the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program, the Administration notes that this flexibility was requested by Governors on both sides of the aisle to allow States to test new, more effective ways to place more people on a path to self-sufficiency,” the White House Office of Management and Budget said in a policy statement today. “The Administration is disappointed that the bill includes this unnecessary bar to innovative welfare-to-work strategies.”
Rep. Dave Camp, R-Mich., introduced the bill. “Nothing in current law prohibits a State from strengthening its work requirements and moving more individuals from welfare to work,” Camp said during a hearing last week. “Instead, a waiver would only be needed to weaken the work requirements, as the Administration wishes to do, pure and simple.”
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$5.00 1/2 Pound Burger & Fries TONIGHT
CAC CASE: SALISBURY MAN CONVICTED OF 1st DEGREE RAPE BY WICOMICO COUNTY JUR
On March 12, 2013, Montire Brown, age 35, of Salisbury, Maryland was convicted of Rape in the First Degree, two counts of Rape in the Second Degree, and two counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor by a Wicomico County jury. The charges against Brown date back to offenses that he committed in 2007 in Salisbury, Maryland. Brown faces a maximum sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. Sentencing is expected to occur in sixty to ninety days.
Wicomico County State’s Attorney Matthew A. Maciarello commended the Wicomico County Child Advocacy Center, the Department of Social Services, the Life Crisis Center and Detective Mark Merritt of the Salisbury Police Department for their work in the investigation and prosecution of this case. Mr. Maciarello also thanked CAC Prosecutor Pamela M. Correa who prosecuted this case. Mr. Maciarello added, “This was truly a team effort on the part of the Child Advocacy Center that brought this offender to justice. I am very thankful for the CAC’s commitment to our victims and their families.”
Wicomico County State’s Attorney Matthew A. Maciarello commended the Wicomico County Child Advocacy Center, the Department of Social Services, the Life Crisis Center and Detective Mark Merritt of the Salisbury Police Department for their work in the investigation and prosecution of this case. Mr. Maciarello also thanked CAC Prosecutor Pamela M. Correa who prosecuted this case. Mr. Maciarello added, “This was truly a team effort on the part of the Child Advocacy Center that brought this offender to justice. I am very thankful for the CAC’s commitment to our victims and their families.”
Death Penalty’s Supporters Plan To Put Up A Fight In House
One week after the Maryland Senate passed a bill to repeal the state’s death penalty, the House of Delegates is poised to do the same.
But in spite of the expected success of Gov. Martin O’Malley’s bill to abolish capital punishment, there are Republicans and Democrats in the House still arguing that Maryland should be able to sentence to death the worst of the worst, such as people who enter schools and murder children and teachers.
A number of them intend to offer amendments to that effect starting Wednesday.
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But in spite of the expected success of Gov. Martin O’Malley’s bill to abolish capital punishment, there are Republicans and Democrats in the House still arguing that Maryland should be able to sentence to death the worst of the worst, such as people who enter schools and murder children and teachers.
A number of them intend to offer amendments to that effect starting Wednesday.
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The View From Abroad By Fred Reed
TSA I bet this won't surprise you.
The United States is the most hated country in the world, followed closely by Israel, and then by nobody. Why? Why not Ecuador? China? Russia? East Timor? The hostility puzzles many Americans, who genuinely believe their country to be a force for good, a pillar of democracy, a defender of human rights.
To the rest of the world, none of this is even close.
If you have lived abroad, as so very few Americans have, the explanation for the hatred is obvious: Meddling. Relentless, prideful, uncomprehending meddling, frequently military, often with horrendous death tolls. Americans, adroitly managed by a controlled press, historically illiterate, incurious, decreasingly educated, either have never heard of the American behavior that angers others, or believe it to have been inspired by virtuous motives. Nobody else thinks so. Add to unfamiliarity with the wider world the constantly inculcated assertion that America is the greatest, most wonderful nation ever to exist, a light to the world, a shining city on a hill, and you get a dangerously delusional state. Especially now. In the past, American economic and military supremacy were such that the US didn’t have to care what others thought. The times, they are a-changing.
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The United States is the most hated country in the world, followed closely by Israel, and then by nobody. Why? Why not Ecuador? China? Russia? East Timor? The hostility puzzles many Americans, who genuinely believe their country to be a force for good, a pillar of democracy, a defender of human rights.
To the rest of the world, none of this is even close.
If you have lived abroad, as so very few Americans have, the explanation for the hatred is obvious: Meddling. Relentless, prideful, uncomprehending meddling, frequently military, often with horrendous death tolls. Americans, adroitly managed by a controlled press, historically illiterate, incurious, decreasingly educated, either have never heard of the American behavior that angers others, or believe it to have been inspired by virtuous motives. Nobody else thinks so. Add to unfamiliarity with the wider world the constantly inculcated assertion that America is the greatest, most wonderful nation ever to exist, a light to the world, a shining city on a hill, and you get a dangerously delusional state. Especially now. In the past, American economic and military supremacy were such that the US didn’t have to care what others thought. The times, they are a-changing.
More
Undocumented Immigrants May Soon Get Md. Driver’s Licenses
Andrea Gonzales is the only licensed driver in her family of three, so for her, a weekday morning means waking up at 5:30 to shuttle her husband to work with their 5-year-old daughter in tow.
The new Maryland Highway Safety Act may change her family’s routine by allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses.
Gonzales’s husband, Jaime, an undocumented immigrant from Nicaragua, can’t legally drive to pick up their daughter, Ana, from school at 3 p.m. Instead, the couple hired a babysitter to transport and care for Ana on most afternoons.
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The new Maryland Highway Safety Act may change her family’s routine by allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses.
Gonzales’s husband, Jaime, an undocumented immigrant from Nicaragua, can’t legally drive to pick up their daughter, Ana, from school at 3 p.m. Instead, the couple hired a babysitter to transport and care for Ana on most afternoons.
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QUOTE OF THE DAY 3-13-13
“I hope we shall take warning from the example and crush in its birth the aristocracy of our monied corporations which dare already to challenge our government to a trial of strength, and to bid defiance to the laws of their country.”
Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson
Senate Debates Decriminalizing Small Amounts Of Marijuana
Under the bill, people caught with less than 10 grams of marijuana, the amount in two marijuana cigarettes, would face a $100 fine in civil court. They would not receive any jail time, or any other criminal penalty.
Baltimore County State Senator Bobby Zirkin, a Democrat, sponsored dthe bill.
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FEDS BUYING 100 YEARS WORTH OF AMMO
Government's argument 'could only fool a career civil servant'
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When the numbers are put in perspective, the federal government’s extraordinary buildup of ammunition looks even more ominous than critics already have portrayed it.
An analysis by Forbes contributor Ralph Benko shows the 1.6 billion rounds of ammo that the government is acquiring would be enough for more than 100 years of training.
An analysis by Forbes contributor Ralph Benko shows the 1.6 billion rounds of ammo that the government is acquiring would be enough for more than 100 years of training.
Illinois Pension System Charged For Not Disclosing "Structural Underfunding"
The topic of Illinois' various insolvent pension systems is not news to regular Zero Hedge readers. One needs but to recall our articles from mid/late 2010: "61% Underfunded Illinois Teachers Pension Fund Goes For Broke, Becomes Next AIG-In-Waiting By Selling Billions In CDS [11]", "Illinois' Pension Fund Death Spiral Revisited: "10 Years Of Money Left [12]" or "Illinois Teachers' Retirement System Enters The Death Spiral: AIG Wannabe's Go-For-Broke Strategy Fails As Pension Fund Begins Liquidations [13]" in which we clearly explained how the state's teachers pension fund was systematically doing everything in its power to mask its massive underfunding, and the fact that it was rapidly running out of money.
The retiremnet fund, in turn, took things very personally, prompting Dave Urbanek, Public Information Officer at the Teachers’ Retirement System of the State of Illinois (TRS), to write this response:
Please remove your post of Tyler Durden’s inaccurate analysis of the Illinois Teachers’ Retirement System. It is not excellent. It is wrong.
TRS is not in a death spiral. We’ll still be operating and paying pensions for years to come.
We could potentially sell $3 billion in assets if the Illinois General Assembly does not come up with its annual contribution to TRS. The state owes us $2.35 billion. Two other state pension systems are also selling assets until the state makes its payments to them. That is the only reason we are selling assets.
We are not selling assets because we are on the risky side of any investments, as Mr. Durden claims. Here are the facts: We could potentially sell $3 billion in assets. Last year our investment income totaled $4.6 billion – a 13 percent return. We did not lose money. We have $33 billion in total assets. We will pay $4.1 billion in pensions and benefits during the current fiscal year. Do the math. We are not in a death spiral.
What Mr. Durden doesn’t say – and won’t because it ruins his story – is that TRS sold $1.3 billion in assets last year for the same reason: The General Assembly hadn’t yet come up with its annual contribution. The state ultimately sold bonds and made the payment, and we not only got our money back from the assets we sold but did not have to sell any further assets.
The retiremnet fund, in turn, took things very personally, prompting Dave Urbanek, Public Information Officer at the Teachers’ Retirement System of the State of Illinois (TRS), to write this response:
Please remove your post of Tyler Durden’s inaccurate analysis of the Illinois Teachers’ Retirement System. It is not excellent. It is wrong.
TRS is not in a death spiral. We’ll still be operating and paying pensions for years to come.
We could potentially sell $3 billion in assets if the Illinois General Assembly does not come up with its annual contribution to TRS. The state owes us $2.35 billion. Two other state pension systems are also selling assets until the state makes its payments to them. That is the only reason we are selling assets.
We are not selling assets because we are on the risky side of any investments, as Mr. Durden claims. Here are the facts: We could potentially sell $3 billion in assets. Last year our investment income totaled $4.6 billion – a 13 percent return. We did not lose money. We have $33 billion in total assets. We will pay $4.1 billion in pensions and benefits during the current fiscal year. Do the math. We are not in a death spiral.
What Mr. Durden doesn’t say – and won’t because it ruins his story – is that TRS sold $1.3 billion in assets last year for the same reason: The General Assembly hadn’t yet come up with its annual contribution. The state ultimately sold bonds and made the payment, and we not only got our money back from the assets we sold but did not have to sell any further assets.
Maryland To Receive $130,000 From Google Settlement
Maryland will receive $130,388 of the settlement announced Tuesday.
Attorney generals from across the U.S., including Maryland’s Douglas F. Gansler, claimed that when Google (NASDAQ: GOOG) used antenna and open source software to take the photos for its Street View service between 2008 and 2010, it also collected data from nearby unsecured wireless networks without consumers’ permission. That includes items like email, text messages, computer passwords and Web-browsing histories.
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Camden Neighborhood Association Forum
SALISBURY, MD:
Camden Neighborhood Association will host MAYORAL AND CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES FORUM
DATE: Thursday - March 21, 2013
TIME: 7:00 P.M.
LOCATION: Bethany Lutheran Church, 817 Camden Avenue, Salisbury, MD
(corner of Camden Avenue and South Blvd).
All candidates running for the office have been invited to participate.
This event is open to the public.
Camden Neighborhood Association will host MAYORAL AND CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES FORUM
DATE: Thursday - March 21, 2013
TIME: 7:00 P.M.
LOCATION: Bethany Lutheran Church, 817 Camden Avenue, Salisbury, MD
(corner of Camden Avenue and South Blvd).
All candidates running for the office have been invited to participate.
This event is open to the public.
Mark Kelly's Purchase Of Rifle Draws Criticism
The husband of former U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords went to a Tucson gun store a week ago to buy a .45-caliber handgun and a military-style rifle the day before he appeared with his wife at the supermarket where she was wounded in a rampage two years ago. It didn't take long for the purchase to draw criticism from gun-rights supporters.
Mark Kelly said he bought the AR-15-style weapon to draw attention to the relative ease with which people can get the type of gun that the shooter used in the Newtown school and Colorado movie theater killings. Gun-rights advocates attacked him for being a hypocrite for buying the same gun that he has been lobbying Congress to ban.
Kelly on Friday posted a photo on Facebook of him filling out paperwork at the gun shop. He also posted a statement on the gun debate in Washington that included his reasons for buying the rifle.
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Mark Kelly said he bought the AR-15-style weapon to draw attention to the relative ease with which people can get the type of gun that the shooter used in the Newtown school and Colorado movie theater killings. Gun-rights advocates attacked him for being a hypocrite for buying the same gun that he has been lobbying Congress to ban.
Kelly on Friday posted a photo on Facebook of him filling out paperwork at the gun shop. He also posted a statement on the gun debate in Washington that included his reasons for buying the rifle.
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America's Best Small Town Comebacks
(CNN) -- Everyone loves a good get-back-up, Rocky-style story.
But inspirational tales don't always have to star a guy in shiny shorts -- or a big city like Philadelphia.
Sometimes the best against all odds tales are real ones, taking place in unsung towns, led by regular citizens energized to resuscitate once thriving destinations just as they appeared flat on the mat.
Even big, star-studded cities face struggles and off decades, but what's kept Main Street, USA alive amid interstates, mega-malls, national chains and closed stagecoach routes? The heart and hard work of historic rebound towns like these.
But inspirational tales don't always have to star a guy in shiny shorts -- or a big city like Philadelphia.
Sometimes the best against all odds tales are real ones, taking place in unsung towns, led by regular citizens energized to resuscitate once thriving destinations just as they appeared flat on the mat.
Even big, star-studded cities face struggles and off decades, but what's kept Main Street, USA alive amid interstates, mega-malls, national chains and closed stagecoach routes? The heart and hard work of historic rebound towns like these.
Frederick, Maryland: After the flood... cute shopping!
Then: Once a hospice for Civil War casualties, this proud Colonial-era city endured late 20th-century battle fatigue after getting sidestepped by a new interstate, losing its retail core to outlying shopping malls and being hit by a massive flood in the mid-1970s that turned nearly 100 acres of its historic downtown into a temporary swamp.
Now: Frederick is revived, with a nearly chain-proof red brick commercial district lined with indie shops, destination restaurants and weekenders from D.C. and Baltimore (both about an hour away) escaping here instead of the other way around.
Wow: Stroll along Carroll Creek Park's pedestrian bridges and brick pathways lined with public art and it's hard to believe this green space was originally a flood control project.
Then: Once a hospice for Civil War casualties, this proud Colonial-era city endured late 20th-century battle fatigue after getting sidestepped by a new interstate, losing its retail core to outlying shopping malls and being hit by a massive flood in the mid-1970s that turned nearly 100 acres of its historic downtown into a temporary swamp.
Now: Frederick is revived, with a nearly chain-proof red brick commercial district lined with indie shops, destination restaurants and weekenders from D.C. and Baltimore (both about an hour away) escaping here instead of the other way around.
Wow: Stroll along Carroll Creek Park's pedestrian bridges and brick pathways lined with public art and it's hard to believe this green space was originally a flood control project.
Salisbury University Makes Commitment To Renewable Energy
Salisbury, MD---Turning trash into electricity is not new. In fact, Ingenco, a renewable energy company operating throughout the mid-Atlantic, has been doing it for more than 20 years.
Recently Ingenco partnered with Collegiate Clean Energy to provide 100 percent renewable energy to colleges and universities in Maryland and Virginia. In support of this partnership, Wicomico County has an agreement with Ingenco to use methane gas from the Newland Park Landfill in Salisbury to produce renewable energy. One of the users of this facility is Salisbury University, which disposes of its non-recyclable at the Newland Park Landfill. In an effort to offset the carbon emission from the decomposition of this trash, the University has committed to purchase 8,000 renewable energy credits (RECs) produced at the landfill in 2013. The estimated landfill gas being destroyed to produce 8,000 RECs is the environmental equivalent of the annual greenhouse gas emissions from 7,552 passenger vehicles, the carbon dioxide emissions from burning 210 railcars of coal or the energy benefit of powering 539 homes.
As highlighted by Wayne Shelton, director of sustainability and environmental safety at Salisbury University, “Using landfill gas to make renewable electricity is a great sustainability process. Landfills naturally produce greenhouse gases which, if not destroyed, migrate into the atmosphere and are 21 times as destructive as carbon dioxide. Instead, by producing renewable electricity, we are greatly lessening the negative effects on the environment and reducing our dependence on fossil fuels.” Salisbury University also has used the generation facilities at the landfill as an educational tool for students studying environmental science.
Wicomico County Executive Rick Pollitt confirmed the county’s commitment to good environmental stewardship. “Wicomico County is pleased to work with Salisbury University, Ingenco and Collegiate Clean Energy to support a project that produces renewable electricity while eliminating greenhouse gases. Wicomico County is an established leader in promoting sustainable communities and we applaud Salisbury University for their foresight and commitment to building a healthier environment.”
Recently Ingenco partnered with Collegiate Clean Energy to provide 100 percent renewable energy to colleges and universities in Maryland and Virginia. In support of this partnership, Wicomico County has an agreement with Ingenco to use methane gas from the Newland Park Landfill in Salisbury to produce renewable energy. One of the users of this facility is Salisbury University, which disposes of its non-recyclable at the Newland Park Landfill. In an effort to offset the carbon emission from the decomposition of this trash, the University has committed to purchase 8,000 renewable energy credits (RECs) produced at the landfill in 2013. The estimated landfill gas being destroyed to produce 8,000 RECs is the environmental equivalent of the annual greenhouse gas emissions from 7,552 passenger vehicles, the carbon dioxide emissions from burning 210 railcars of coal or the energy benefit of powering 539 homes.
As highlighted by Wayne Shelton, director of sustainability and environmental safety at Salisbury University, “Using landfill gas to make renewable electricity is a great sustainability process. Landfills naturally produce greenhouse gases which, if not destroyed, migrate into the atmosphere and are 21 times as destructive as carbon dioxide. Instead, by producing renewable electricity, we are greatly lessening the negative effects on the environment and reducing our dependence on fossil fuels.” Salisbury University also has used the generation facilities at the landfill as an educational tool for students studying environmental science.
Wicomico County Executive Rick Pollitt confirmed the county’s commitment to good environmental stewardship. “Wicomico County is pleased to work with Salisbury University, Ingenco and Collegiate Clean Energy to support a project that produces renewable electricity while eliminating greenhouse gases. Wicomico County is an established leader in promoting sustainable communities and we applaud Salisbury University for their foresight and commitment to building a healthier environment.”
Accomac Motel Destroyed By Fire
ACCOMACK COUNTY - An old but well-known motel on the Eastern Shore went up in flames Tuesday night.
Crews spent hours at the Whispering Pines motel on Tasley Road after arriving around 9:30 p.m.
Va. State Police say the preliminary investigation indicates the fire was intentionally set.
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Crews spent hours at the Whispering Pines motel on Tasley Road after arriving around 9:30 p.m.
Va. State Police say the preliminary investigation indicates the fire was intentionally set.
More
UPDATE: Ocean City St. Patrick’s Day Parade Traffic Information
The Ocean City Police Department is reminding citizens to expect traffic delays this St. Patrick’s Day, as the Delmarva Irish-American Club host their 32nd Annual Parade and Festival. The tradition, which has become one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day Parades in the state, will take place on Saturday, March 16, 2013, and begins at 12 noon at 58th Street and marches south on Coastal Highway to the 45th Street Shopping Center.
In order to offer an ample amount of space for the parade’s participating floats, bands and motorized units, southbound traffic will be reduced to one lane from 62nd Street to 43rdStreet. Northbound traffic will remain open, however, no left turns or U-turns will be allowed along the parade route from the northbound lane including 62nd Street.
Residents and visitors will see traffic delays on southbound Coastal Highway as early as 9 a.m. and should expect congestion until after 2 p.m. To avoid traffic delays, viewers and visitors are urged to arrive before 10:30 a.m. and to view the parade from 58th Street south to 45th Street. Ocean City Police are highly recommending motorists entering the Town of Ocean City to use Maryland Route 50, as traffic is not expected to be as heavy.
In addition, heavy pedestrian traffic is also expected along the parade route and in surrounding areas. Pedestrians are encouraged to use the crosswalk and cross with caution.
In order to offer an ample amount of space for the parade’s participating floats, bands and motorized units, southbound traffic will be reduced to one lane from 62nd Street to 43rdStreet. Northbound traffic will remain open, however, no left turns or U-turns will be allowed along the parade route from the northbound lane including 62nd Street.
Residents and visitors will see traffic delays on southbound Coastal Highway as early as 9 a.m. and should expect congestion until after 2 p.m. To avoid traffic delays, viewers and visitors are urged to arrive before 10:30 a.m. and to view the parade from 58th Street south to 45th Street. Ocean City Police are highly recommending motorists entering the Town of Ocean City to use Maryland Route 50, as traffic is not expected to be as heavy.
In addition, heavy pedestrian traffic is also expected along the parade route and in surrounding areas. Pedestrians are encouraged to use the crosswalk and cross with caution.
Maryland House Passes Jobs Training Bill
ANNAPOLIS -- The Maryland House of Delegates on Tuesday passed Gov. Martin O'Malley's $2.5 million jobs training bill.
The so-called "Employment Advancement Right Now (EARN)" program would distribute grants to community colleges, workforce centers, employers and certain industries to be used to provide training in high-demand jobs. A state website would be created to connect job seekers and training programs.
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The so-called "Employment Advancement Right Now (EARN)" program would distribute grants to community colleges, workforce centers, employers and certain industries to be used to provide training in high-demand jobs. A state website would be created to connect job seekers and training programs.
More
Field Notes By Delegate Mike McDermott
Observations and Reflections on Legislative Activities
Tuesday Judiciary Hearings:
Hearing on School Safety Bills-“The only thing proven to stop a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun on the other side of the doorway”-Delegate Mike McDermott
HB-776 would require records be kept on the sale of ammunition by businesses and would allow a review of sales records by law enforcement personnel. The bill provides for access by local police whenever they desire to review ammunition purchases. This would place Maryland on the same posture as they were in 1986 before congress voted to resend many aspects of the 1968 Civil Rights Act passed by congress. The tracking of ammunition could not be justified as helping solve crimes by law enforcement and was scrapped under the new bill.
HB-375 would require record keeping of significant records which are already required by federal regulations.
HB-1092 would require reporting a lost or stolen firearm within 48 hours of knowledge that the firearm was lost or stolen. It is thought that this bill would assist in establishing straw purchases.
HB-490 would prohibit Teflon coated bullets (referred to as “Cop Killer” bullets). This bill is supported by the NRA with amendments.
HB-861 would tighten up access and availability requirements within a home.
HB-1275 would tax regulated firearms to fund mental health screenings and programs to insure firearms are not accessed by said individuals.
HB-1077 would require the owner of a regulated firearm when it is lost or stolen within 72 hours of such an occurrence. It is very similar to HB-1092.
HB-655 would tighten regulations on access and availability requirements of firearms within a home by children.
Wednesday Judiciary Hearings:
HB-885 seeks to address the sale of counterfeit airbags in Maryland. I see this as legislation that should be addressed federally, but the representatives who testified from the automobile industry believe is should also be implemented at the state level.
HB-838 seeks to repeal the Sunset date for collecting of the surcharge collected by the courts through civil cases to pay for legal aid for those who qualify. This bill would allow for that funding mechanism to continue unabated.
HB-1304 would insure that any communications during Critical Incident Stress Management would be considered Confidential Communications. One would think that these types of communications would already be protected, but we were advised otherwise.
HB-1114 would allow for the use of an annuity account to compensate and provide for persons who are the recipients of judgments awarded under a malpractice claim. It would create an arbitration board who could structure settlements for individuals through annuities over a long period of time to insure that a person’s needs were able to be met in the future.
HB-1156 seeks to create a Maryland Contributory Negligence Act by establishing that contributory negligence should be established based upon the Common Law standard in place as of January 1, 2011. There was much discussion on this issue as it has been before the committee for several sessions as the sponsors seek to reach consensus with the committee members.
Wednesday Voting Session in Judiciary:
The following bills were passed as “Favorable” by the Committee:
HB-60, HB-245, HB-247, HB-277, HB-292, HB-588, HB-626, HB-742, HB-821, HB-858, HB-859, HB-921, HB-950.
Thursday Judiciary Hearings:
HB-396 would create a law addressing the electronic harassment of a minor. This is an attempt to deal with cyber bullying through various social media sources currently in use.
HB-679 would require that notices be issued to residents in an impacted neighborhood that a Juvenile Group Home is being located in that neighborhood.
HB-1320 would increase funding for a pilot program to address Children in Need of Supervision in Baltimore City and Baltimore County. This bill will allow for continued funding support for the next 3 years.
HB-848 would require that juveniles who have been waived to adult status in the courts would be required to be housed in a juvenile facility if it was shown that the juvenile was not violent or a threat to others in the institution.jA
HB-1010 would restrict the ability of government employees to conduct searches of juveniles. It is aimed at actions taken by TSA agents at our airports.
HB-786 would be similar to HB-848 by keeping juvenile offenders under the control of the Dept. of Juvenile Justice and continue to treat them as juveniles even if they have been adjudicated as adults through the courts.
Thursday Third Readers(Click)
Friday Judiciary Hearing:
Friday Third Readers(Click)
The Judiciary Committee conducted a Voting Session on SB-276, the Repeal of the Death Penalty. The Republicans offered several amendments to restore the Death Penalty for certain qualified offenses including for the murder of police and correctional officers, Acts of Terrorism, and First Degree Murder on School Grounds, along with several other heinous acts of crime worthy of Death Penalty consideration. The amendments were all defeated along party lines and the bill was voted out of committee by the same party line vote with all Republicans and one Democrat voting against the repeal. It was clear that there would be no changes allowed on this bill. (Update Analysis)
A Joint Hearing was conducted by the Judiciary and the Health and Government Operations Committees to hear the presentation from the Senate on SB-281, the O’Malley-Brown Gun Bill. The administration highlighted the amended sections of the bill as changed by the Senate. I was told by the Judiciary Chairman that we will be working on the Senate version of the bill going forward. Some changes made in the Senate have weakened the effect of the bill but the proposed legislation continues to do nothing to impact criminals while creating stumbling blocks and challenges to law abiding citizens. It is impossible to amend this bill in a way that would make it something that one could vote for in good conscience. Also heard during this hearing were several marijuana bills addressing medicinal usage and decriminalization. In my opinion, this is a moot point as the federal government continues to maintain marijuana as a Scheduled drug.
Tuesday Judiciary Hearings:
Hearing on School Safety Bills-“The only thing proven to stop a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun on the other side of the doorway”-Delegate Mike McDermott
HB-776 would require records be kept on the sale of ammunition by businesses and would allow a review of sales records by law enforcement personnel. The bill provides for access by local police whenever they desire to review ammunition purchases. This would place Maryland on the same posture as they were in 1986 before congress voted to resend many aspects of the 1968 Civil Rights Act passed by congress. The tracking of ammunition could not be justified as helping solve crimes by law enforcement and was scrapped under the new bill.
HB-375 would require record keeping of significant records which are already required by federal regulations.
HB-1092 would require reporting a lost or stolen firearm within 48 hours of knowledge that the firearm was lost or stolen. It is thought that this bill would assist in establishing straw purchases.
HB-490 would prohibit Teflon coated bullets (referred to as “Cop Killer” bullets). This bill is supported by the NRA with amendments.
HB-861 would tighten up access and availability requirements within a home.
HB-1275 would tax regulated firearms to fund mental health screenings and programs to insure firearms are not accessed by said individuals.
HB-1077 would require the owner of a regulated firearm when it is lost or stolen within 72 hours of such an occurrence. It is very similar to HB-1092.
HB-655 would tighten regulations on access and availability requirements of firearms within a home by children.
Wednesday Judiciary Hearings:
HB-885 seeks to address the sale of counterfeit airbags in Maryland. I see this as legislation that should be addressed federally, but the representatives who testified from the automobile industry believe is should also be implemented at the state level.
HB-838 seeks to repeal the Sunset date for collecting of the surcharge collected by the courts through civil cases to pay for legal aid for those who qualify. This bill would allow for that funding mechanism to continue unabated.
HB-1304 would insure that any communications during Critical Incident Stress Management would be considered Confidential Communications. One would think that these types of communications would already be protected, but we were advised otherwise.
HB-1114 would allow for the use of an annuity account to compensate and provide for persons who are the recipients of judgments awarded under a malpractice claim. It would create an arbitration board who could structure settlements for individuals through annuities over a long period of time to insure that a person’s needs were able to be met in the future.
HB-1156 seeks to create a Maryland Contributory Negligence Act by establishing that contributory negligence should be established based upon the Common Law standard in place as of January 1, 2011. There was much discussion on this issue as it has been before the committee for several sessions as the sponsors seek to reach consensus with the committee members.
Wednesday Voting Session in Judiciary:
The following bills were passed as “Favorable” by the Committee:
HB-60, HB-245, HB-247, HB-277, HB-292, HB-588, HB-626, HB-742, HB-821, HB-858, HB-859, HB-921, HB-950.
Thursday Judiciary Hearings:
HB-396 would create a law addressing the electronic harassment of a minor. This is an attempt to deal with cyber bullying through various social media sources currently in use.
HB-679 would require that notices be issued to residents in an impacted neighborhood that a Juvenile Group Home is being located in that neighborhood.
HB-1320 would increase funding for a pilot program to address Children in Need of Supervision in Baltimore City and Baltimore County. This bill will allow for continued funding support for the next 3 years.
HB-848 would require that juveniles who have been waived to adult status in the courts would be required to be housed in a juvenile facility if it was shown that the juvenile was not violent or a threat to others in the institution.jA
HB-1010 would restrict the ability of government employees to conduct searches of juveniles. It is aimed at actions taken by TSA agents at our airports.
HB-786 would be similar to HB-848 by keeping juvenile offenders under the control of the Dept. of Juvenile Justice and continue to treat them as juveniles even if they have been adjudicated as adults through the courts.
Thursday Third Readers(Click)
Friday Judiciary Hearing:
Friday Third Readers(Click)
The Judiciary Committee conducted a Voting Session on SB-276, the Repeal of the Death Penalty. The Republicans offered several amendments to restore the Death Penalty for certain qualified offenses including for the murder of police and correctional officers, Acts of Terrorism, and First Degree Murder on School Grounds, along with several other heinous acts of crime worthy of Death Penalty consideration. The amendments were all defeated along party lines and the bill was voted out of committee by the same party line vote with all Republicans and one Democrat voting against the repeal. It was clear that there would be no changes allowed on this bill. (Update Analysis)
A Joint Hearing was conducted by the Judiciary and the Health and Government Operations Committees to hear the presentation from the Senate on SB-281, the O’Malley-Brown Gun Bill. The administration highlighted the amended sections of the bill as changed by the Senate. I was told by the Judiciary Chairman that we will be working on the Senate version of the bill going forward. Some changes made in the Senate have weakened the effect of the bill but the proposed legislation continues to do nothing to impact criminals while creating stumbling blocks and challenges to law abiding citizens. It is impossible to amend this bill in a way that would make it something that one could vote for in good conscience. Also heard during this hearing were several marijuana bills addressing medicinal usage and decriminalization. In my opinion, this is a moot point as the federal government continues to maintain marijuana as a Scheduled drug.
Citizens Observations Leads To Arrest Of A Wanted Fugitive
On March 10, 2013, at approximately 12:28 a.m. Ocean City Police received a call
Matthew Jacob Bullen
in reference to a suspicious person being spotted in the area of Teal Drive. The caller, who was identified as Maryland State Senator James Mathias, advised that he observed a male subject acting suspiciously and remained on the phone observing the location of the suspicious person until police arrived.
Responding officers quickly located the suspect in an alleyway off Teal Drive. The suspect was identified as Matthew Jacob Bullen, 21, of Pasadena, Maryland. While speaking to Bullen, officers noticed a woman’s bracelet with sales tag still attached fall from Bullen’s pocket. Officers also determined that Bullen had an active arrest warrant in Anne Arundel County, MD, for prescription drug fraud and other charges.
Further investigation revealed that three vehicles in the area had been broken into and that Bullen was in possession of items taken from those vehicles. Bullen was arrested and charged by the Ocean City Police with theft under $100, theft under $1,000 and willful motor vehicle tampering without owner’s consent.
Bullen was seen by an Ocean City District Court Commissioner and held on $5000 bond regarding the Ocean City charges, and $10,000 bond for the outstanding Ann Arundel County warrant. He was then transferred to the Worcester County Jail.
“This is a classic example of how police and the community can work together to solve and deter crime in our neighborhoods,” said Acting Police Chief Michael Colbert. “The Ocean City Police Department continues to encourage citizens to practice pro-active crime prevention by calling police when they see suspicious persons, or circumstances.”
Citizens are reminded to lock their vehicles when parked and to secure any valuables out of plain view. The Ocean City Police Department supports citizens being active in Neighborhood Watch and other crime prevention programs. For more information on how you can become involved, contact the Ocean City Police Departments Public Affairs Office at 410-723-6665 or 410-520-5395 or visit us at:www.oceancitymd.gov/police.
Maryland Bills Take Shots At Dream Act
ANNAPOLIS - Bills heard before a House panel on Wednesday would require colleges in the University System of Maryland to report how many illegal immigrants attended each year and to cap the number of out-of-state students allowed at state schools.
Sponsor Del. Neil Parrott, R-Washington County, said the bills were intended to bring some accountability to the Maryland Dream Act, which was approved by voters in November and grants in-state tuition to some illegal immigrants living in Maryland.
His first bill would require colleges in the university system to report annually how many students enrolled were in the country illegally, and how many of them paid in-state or out-of-state tuition.
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Sponsor Del. Neil Parrott, R-Washington County, said the bills were intended to bring some accountability to the Maryland Dream Act, which was approved by voters in November and grants in-state tuition to some illegal immigrants living in Maryland.
His first bill would require colleges in the university system to report annually how many students enrolled were in the country illegally, and how many of them paid in-state or out-of-state tuition.
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3rd Friday MARCH 15th D'TOWN SBY EVENT
The Powell Building, on the Plaza, will again serve as 3rd Friday’s headquarters, with local artists and crafters set-up showcasing their artwork, handmade items and crafts. This month The Powell Building is also home to a very special Fine Art Exhibition, featuring two outstanding local artists, Tim Thompson, and Jordan Koehler.
Many know Tim Thompson, a huge 3F Fan and devoted attendee, but few know, that behind the curtain, he is an incredibly high caliber fine artist. His work often includes dozens of equally sized panels, each representing a solitary idea or feeling. Then Tim masterfully combines the panels with such precision, to form a larger composition. The panels meld with each other to create a single snapshot of the countless simultaneous and often paradoxical states of our inner consciousness. The panels are so tightly composed, the artist’s trademark, of leaving one panel blank, is rarely noticed.
Jordan Koehler’s work is a perfect juxtaposition to the work of Mr. Thompson. Her work takes a more ephemeral snapshot the world. “When I am painting I ask myself: how can I make this world understood with color, form, matter and lines? I try to take what I see in the world and translate into a feeling; it’s not about reason or analysis or storytelling”, says Jordan. Jordan’s mastery of bold shapes and color, give her paintings’ subjects the ability to transcend the commonplace, capturing something greater.
In the Gallery Building, The Art Institute and Gallery will be holding the Opening Reception of the 2013 Photography and Digital Art Exhibition from 5-7pm and Patsy’s Bridal will be having a huge Prom Open House, with select gowns on sale, flowers from Kitty’s Flowers, and reps from Men’s Warehouse! Sushi de Kanpai, Plaza Deli and Main Roots Coffee will all be open with amazing 3rd Friday specials, so stop in for a bite or a drink before you venture on. Also on the Plaza, the 3F crew is pleased to welcome Roadie Joe’s American Bar and Grill, Downtown’s newest 21 and over Sports Bar, for their very first 3rd Friday!
On the West End of East Main Street, Seasons Best will be celebrating the Ides of March with a Toga party, Greek Food, and of course, fantastic sales. Be sure to leave some time to browse their huge inventory, and after that, 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.
Md. Adult Dies From Rabies, State's First Case In 37 Years
According to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, a Maryland adult died of rabies. This is the state's first case of human rabies since 1976.
The victim's name is not being released to protect the privacy of the family, and there is no further information on how the individual was exposed to the rabies virus, as of yet.
DHMH says that human exposure to rabies usually comes from a bite of an infected animal, and not from contact with another person. However, DHMH, clinicians and public health partners are accessing the risk of those who had direct contact with the individual who died from the virus.
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The victim's name is not being released to protect the privacy of the family, and there is no further information on how the individual was exposed to the rabies virus, as of yet.
DHMH says that human exposure to rabies usually comes from a bite of an infected animal, and not from contact with another person. However, DHMH, clinicians and public health partners are accessing the risk of those who had direct contact with the individual who died from the virus.
More
BREAKING NEWS: Black Smoke Signals No New Pope Yet
Black smoke over the Vatican indicates the cardinals have not yet selected a new pope on the second day of the conclave.
Md. Court Of Appeals Rules Man Convicted Of Sex Offense No Longer Has To Register
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ)– A Maryland law requiring sex offenders to register for monitoring is now being called into question. A state court already ordered one offender’s name off the list.
Monique Griego has more on the effects of the decision.
This week, Maryland’s highest court ruled in favor of a convicted sex offender who wanted his name taken off the state registry, which monitors people convicted of sex crimes.
Now victims’ advocates like Adam Rosenberg fear more names could be removed.
“I think a lot of people in the victim’s community–members, parents–rely on the sex offender registry to know who’s in their neighborhood,” Rosenberg said.
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Monique Griego has more on the effects of the decision.
This week, Maryland’s highest court ruled in favor of a convicted sex offender who wanted his name taken off the state registry, which monitors people convicted of sex crimes.
Now victims’ advocates like Adam Rosenberg fear more names could be removed.
“I think a lot of people in the victim’s community–members, parents–rely on the sex offender registry to know who’s in their neighborhood,” Rosenberg said.
More