Once the planned expansions are done, the mall will also have 300 more shops, an ice rink, a water park (not to be confused with the amusement park it already has) office space, medical office space, and more underground parking.
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Wednesday, July 03, 2013
The Mall Of America Is About To Double In Size
Does the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota need to get bigger? It’s only the biggest mall in the country, so of course it does! The mall just broke ground on a $250 million addition that adds 50 stores, an atrium, an office tower, a luxury hotel, and a massive and fancy “food hall” to replace the current food court. The owners ultimately plan $2.5 billion in additions in the coming decade, adding one new thing per year.
Once the planned expansions are done, the mall will also have 300 more shops, an ice rink, a water park (not to be confused with the amusement park it already has) office space, medical office space, and more underground parking.
Once the planned expansions are done, the mall will also have 300 more shops, an ice rink, a water park (not to be confused with the amusement park it already has) office space, medical office space, and more underground parking.
The Press and Paula Deen
If Hollywood plans a movie featuring black waiters in a plantation scene or portrays women as prostitutes or cast minorities in caricature roles does the media get upset and start calling the movie moguls racists?
Is there any grown person who could truthfully declare under oath that they have never uttered something that someone might find personally offensive?
"Let he who is without sin cast the first stone."
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Can I Legally Light Off Fireworks In My State? What About Sparklers?
Though some of you will mark the July 4th holiday by illegally tossing cherry bombs off your roof, we know that most of you want to do things the safe and legal way. Of course, the particulars of what you’re allowed to set off depends a lot on where you live.
According to the American Pyrotechnics Association [PDF], there are 42 states (and Washington, D.C.) that allow some sort of consumer fireworks. The remaining 8 states are divided equally between the “Sparkler States” — Illinois, Iowa, Ohio, Vermont — that only permit sparklers and other novelty items, and what I’ve personally labeled the “No Fun On the Fourth States” — Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts — that don’t allow any consumer fireworks.
According to the American Pyrotechnics Association [PDF], there are 42 states (and Washington, D.C.) that allow some sort of consumer fireworks. The remaining 8 states are divided equally between the “Sparkler States” — Illinois, Iowa, Ohio, Vermont — that only permit sparklers and other novelty items, and what I’ve personally labeled the “No Fun On the Fourth States” — Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts — that don’t allow any consumer fireworks.
Fourth of July Fireworks Scrapped At Some Military Bases Due To Budget Cuts
Independence Day celebrations have been canceled at the Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base and at the Army's Fort Bragg, both in North Carolina. The annual July Fourth celebration also has been scrapped at the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany, Ga.
The reason is money -- namely the lack of it.
The failure in Washington to follow up a 2011 budget pact with additional spending cuts meant $85 billion across-the-board cuts that began in March. Budgets tightened, the military took a major hit and many federal workers absorbed pay cuts through forced furloughs.
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Pamela Geller on the British Ban on Freedom
Tommy Robinson and the EDL need to learn a very important lesson from this video. Those that march peaceably are nothing, but a nuisance to the powers that be. they know they can handle peaceful protesters easily, without fear of any repercussions. On the other hand, they give in to any demands of the Muslim population, because they DO NOT, march..protest peacefully. They show their anger and make demands, which brings fear and unrest to the police and the politicians, and the politicians will cave in to their demands, just to keep them happy...forsaking the natural born British citizens.
The EDL and the natural born British citizens need to follow the Muslims example. March..Protest ,showing your anger on a grander scale, and put the same fear in the minds of the police and the politicians, make them cave in to your demands, instead of the Muslim immigrants. Try to imagine 10,000 pissed off British citizens...marching..protesting the government in a really pissed off, fed up, damn near violent protest march! When this takes place...YOU HAVE TAKEN YOUR COUNTRY BACK!
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The EDL and the natural born British citizens need to follow the Muslims example. March..Protest ,showing your anger on a grander scale, and put the same fear in the minds of the police and the politicians, make them cave in to your demands, instead of the Muslim immigrants. Try to imagine 10,000 pissed off British citizens...marching..protesting the government in a really pissed off, fed up, damn near violent protest march! When this takes place...YOU HAVE TAKEN YOUR COUNTRY BACK!
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ABORTION SUPPORTERS CHANT ‘HAIL SATAN!’ WHILE PRO-LIFE ACTIVISTS SING ‘AMAZING GRACE’ OUTSIDE TEXAS CAPITOL
One of the more bizarre tactics used by pro-abortion activists involved chanting “Hail Satan!” to harass a pro-life crowd as they sang “Amazing Grace.”
Texas blogger Adam Cahm was able to capture the “Hail Satan” chant on video. Watch it here:
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EGYPT’S MILITARY OUSTS MORSI
Egypt’s military chief says President Morsi has been replaced by the chief justice and the constitution has been temporarily suspended.
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QUOTES OF THE DAY 7-3-13
“Taxes are not levied for the benefit of the taxed.”
― Robert A. Heinlein
“Do this. Don’t do that. Stay back in line. Where’s tax receipt? Fill out form. Let’s see license. Submit six copies. Exit only. No left turn. No right turn. Queue up and pay fine. Take back and get stamped. Drop dead— but first get permit.”
― Robert A. Heinlein
“Stupidity cannot be cured. Stupidity is the only universal capital crime; the sentence is death. There is no appeal, and execution is carried out automatically and without pity.”
― Robert A. Heinlein
“The first principle of freedom is the right to go to hell in your own handbasket.”
― Robert A. Heinlein
“Does history record any case in which the majority was right?”
― Robert A. Heinlein
“Liberty is never unalienable; it must be redeemed regularly with the blood of patriots or it always vanishes. Of all the so-called natural human rights that have ever been invented, liberty is least likely to be cheap and is never free of cost.”
― Robert A. Heinlein, Starship Troopers
“Take sides! Always take sides! You will sometimes be wrong – but the man who refuses to take sides must always be wrong.”
― Robert A. Heinlein, Double Star
“There is no safety this side of the grave”
― Robert A. Heinlein, Stranger in a Strange Land
“Some people insist that ‘mediocre’ is better than ‘best.’ They delight in clipping wings because they themselves can’t fly. They despise brains because they have none.”
― Robert A. Heinlein, Have Space Suit—Will Travel
“Certainly the game is rigged. Don’t let that stop you; if you don’t bet you can’t win.”
― Robert A. Heinlein, Time Enough for Love
“Remember though, your best weapon is between your ears and under your scalp -provided it’s loaded.”
― Robert A. Heinlein
― Robert A. Heinlein
“Do this. Don’t do that. Stay back in line. Where’s tax receipt? Fill out form. Let’s see license. Submit six copies. Exit only. No left turn. No right turn. Queue up and pay fine. Take back and get stamped. Drop dead— but first get permit.”
― Robert A. Heinlein
“Stupidity cannot be cured. Stupidity is the only universal capital crime; the sentence is death. There is no appeal, and execution is carried out automatically and without pity.”
― Robert A. Heinlein
“The first principle of freedom is the right to go to hell in your own handbasket.”
― Robert A. Heinlein
“Does history record any case in which the majority was right?”
― Robert A. Heinlein
“Liberty is never unalienable; it must be redeemed regularly with the blood of patriots or it always vanishes. Of all the so-called natural human rights that have ever been invented, liberty is least likely to be cheap and is never free of cost.”
― Robert A. Heinlein, Starship Troopers
“Take sides! Always take sides! You will sometimes be wrong – but the man who refuses to take sides must always be wrong.”
― Robert A. Heinlein, Double Star
“There is no safety this side of the grave”
― Robert A. Heinlein, Stranger in a Strange Land
“Some people insist that ‘mediocre’ is better than ‘best.’ They delight in clipping wings because they themselves can’t fly. They despise brains because they have none.”
― Robert A. Heinlein, Have Space Suit—Will Travel
“Certainly the game is rigged. Don’t let that stop you; if you don’t bet you can’t win.”
― Robert A. Heinlein, Time Enough for Love
“Remember though, your best weapon is between your ears and under your scalp -provided it’s loaded.”
― Robert A. Heinlein
University Tells Student to Remove Cross Necklace
“It’s amazing in this day of diversity and tolerance on university campuses that a university official would engage in this type of obvious religious discrimination,” said Liberty Institute attorney Hiram Sasser.
Liberty Institute is representing Audrey Jarvis, 19, a liberal arts major at the northern California university.
On June 27, Jarvis was working for the university’s Associated Students Productions at a student orientation fair for incoming freshmen. During the event, her supervisor directed her to remove the cross necklace.
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When Less Is More: The Power Of Limited Government
by Delegate Mike McDermott
I have seen few applications in life where the phrase, “Less is more” could be applied accurately; but when it comes to government, I can make the connection. When the American people experience “less government” in their lives, the result is always “more” liberty; and what Americans have done with their freedom is the envy of the world.
Our Constitution was purposely crafted to “limit” the powers of government rather than limit the freedom of the people. Big government remains expensive to operate, and every dollar sent to Uncle Sam is a dollar not utilized by the one who earned it in the first place. Government is a taker, not a producer. Some believe that government spending stimulates the economy despite all evidence to the contrary. Any short term gains are soon replaced with greater deficits, while there is convincing evidence that the private sector and consumer confidence are what move our country forward.
When he became President, Ronald Reagan restored our sense of liberty in America. His policies worked to limit the size and scope of government. Through tax cuts and streamlining, our country pulled itself out of the muck and mire. Conservatism was put on display and what followed was the greatest economic expansion in our nation’s history.
Our economy and American way of life has always been based upon risk versus reward. It holds us in check and makes us weigh our choices carefully. It makes us responsible for our own actions or lack thereof. Liberty allows us to choose wisely, it does not protect us from failure. You want to stretch a double into a triple? You better be sure you can make it! When consumers pick the winners, we all win. We all know what it is like when an umpire (government) becomes part of the game instead of a neutral arbiter.
Time is money in business. Consider a chicken house up and running in 6-months versus 2-years (MD’s current rate). During the 18-month difference, a broiler operation could produce 9-10 flocks as opposed to zero. That constitutes a family providing for itself while feeding the world. It means discretionary spending boosting our local economy and increased government revenues from Property and Income Taxes paid. Over regulation costs time, and we begin to see that time is money for taxpayers as well.
The best stimulus for our economy is limited government. Less money in taxes and fees results in more money in the pockets of taxpayers. Historically, what do Americans do with more money in their pockets? They invest, and they spend which fuels an economy like nothing else can. Again, this results in increased government revenue through an increasing tax base.
Our government is to protect us from all enemies, both foreign and domestic. It has been established to serve at our pleasure that we may,”… secure the blessings of liberty, to ourselves and our posterity.” When we focus government on protecting and defending liberty, we narrow the scope and make it more effective.
I have seen few applications in life where the phrase, “Less is more” could be applied accurately; but when it comes to government, I can make the connection. When the American people experience “less government” in their lives, the result is always “more” liberty; and what Americans have done with their freedom is the envy of the world.
Our Constitution was purposely crafted to “limit” the powers of government rather than limit the freedom of the people. Big government remains expensive to operate, and every dollar sent to Uncle Sam is a dollar not utilized by the one who earned it in the first place. Government is a taker, not a producer. Some believe that government spending stimulates the economy despite all evidence to the contrary. Any short term gains are soon replaced with greater deficits, while there is convincing evidence that the private sector and consumer confidence are what move our country forward.
When he became President, Ronald Reagan restored our sense of liberty in America. His policies worked to limit the size and scope of government. Through tax cuts and streamlining, our country pulled itself out of the muck and mire. Conservatism was put on display and what followed was the greatest economic expansion in our nation’s history.
Our economy and American way of life has always been based upon risk versus reward. It holds us in check and makes us weigh our choices carefully. It makes us responsible for our own actions or lack thereof. Liberty allows us to choose wisely, it does not protect us from failure. You want to stretch a double into a triple? You better be sure you can make it! When consumers pick the winners, we all win. We all know what it is like when an umpire (government) becomes part of the game instead of a neutral arbiter.
Time is money in business. Consider a chicken house up and running in 6-months versus 2-years (MD’s current rate). During the 18-month difference, a broiler operation could produce 9-10 flocks as opposed to zero. That constitutes a family providing for itself while feeding the world. It means discretionary spending boosting our local economy and increased government revenues from Property and Income Taxes paid. Over regulation costs time, and we begin to see that time is money for taxpayers as well.
The best stimulus for our economy is limited government. Less money in taxes and fees results in more money in the pockets of taxpayers. Historically, what do Americans do with more money in their pockets? They invest, and they spend which fuels an economy like nothing else can. Again, this results in increased government revenue through an increasing tax base.
Our government is to protect us from all enemies, both foreign and domestic. It has been established to serve at our pleasure that we may,”… secure the blessings of liberty, to ourselves and our posterity.” When we focus government on protecting and defending liberty, we narrow the scope and make it more effective.
Business Group Gives Low Marks To Many Md. Lawmakers, Mostly Democrats
A Maryland business group rating state lawmakers in its annual scorecard released Tuesday gave low marks to the two Democrats leading the Maryland General Assembly, typifying how business organizations view the legislature as a whole.
In the Roll Call report its being doing since 1987, Maryland Business for Responsive Government gave House Speaker Michael Busch a 29% in 2013, and Senate President Mike Miller fared slightly better at 40%. Busch has a 47% cumulative score, and Miller has 56%.
“Technology companies, cybersecurity companies and other select special commercial interests declared 2013 to be a victorious legislative session for business,” said the report. “For them, it meant more government investment in their industries, which breeds more innovation and more jobs, as the argument goes.
“But to other businesses in Maryland, 2013 meant higher taxes, more overburdensome regulations, fewer employees and a bigger bottom-line struggle to remain a going concern. It’s a deep divide in the underpinning of Maryland’s economic development climate.”
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In the Roll Call report its being doing since 1987, Maryland Business for Responsive Government gave House Speaker Michael Busch a 29% in 2013, and Senate President Mike Miller fared slightly better at 40%. Busch has a 47% cumulative score, and Miller has 56%.
“Technology companies, cybersecurity companies and other select special commercial interests declared 2013 to be a victorious legislative session for business,” said the report. “For them, it meant more government investment in their industries, which breeds more innovation and more jobs, as the argument goes.
“But to other businesses in Maryland, 2013 meant higher taxes, more overburdensome regulations, fewer employees and a bigger bottom-line struggle to remain a going concern. It’s a deep divide in the underpinning of Maryland’s economic development climate.”
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Meet The Big Banks’ Latest Slave Product: “Payroll Debit Cards”
I firmly believe that the biggest domestic policy error over the past generation has been the no-strings-attached bail out of the mega banks in these United States, and their subsequent designation as “too big to fail” and “too big to jail.” This has given the sociopaths that run these crony organizations a license to steal, and they are doing a great job of it.
So in the latest bank theft product, employers of low income workers are being persuaded to pay their employees via “prepaid payroll cards.” Not only are these cards typically associated with high fees, but they also discourage employees from using credit unions for their banking needs.
While companies try to defend themselves by saying they are providing a cheaper method for employees that do not have bank accounts to gain access to their funds, in many cases using these “prepaid cards” isn’t simply an option, but a requirement. Oh, and take a guess why the mega banks are pushing into this line of business? Prepaid cards are essentially exempt from financial regulation. Serfs up boy and girls. From the New York Times:
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So in the latest bank theft product, employers of low income workers are being persuaded to pay their employees via “prepaid payroll cards.” Not only are these cards typically associated with high fees, but they also discourage employees from using credit unions for their banking needs.
While companies try to defend themselves by saying they are providing a cheaper method for employees that do not have bank accounts to gain access to their funds, in many cases using these “prepaid cards” isn’t simply an option, but a requirement. Oh, and take a guess why the mega banks are pushing into this line of business? Prepaid cards are essentially exempt from financial regulation. Serfs up boy and girls. From the New York Times:
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Maryland’s New Taxes: Why Now?
TAXES ON GASOLINE in Maryland went up 3.5 cents on Monday; crossing toll bridges and tunnels got a lot more expensive, especially for truckers. Fees to combat stormwater pollution kicked in as well in the greater Baltimore-Washington area.It’s a big pill to swallow, even in a state whose leaders have felt no compunction about raising over 40 taxes, especially on businesses and the well-too-do, during the O’Malley-Brown reign in Annapolis.
Yes, the fees and taxes that commenced July 1 are necessary over the long run. We may not like it, but progress comes with a price.
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Edited: Transfer Station Permit Extension Wicomico County
The charge is $60 per household for up to two vehicles.
Obama's 2013 Air Force One bill $24 million --- $6.5 million for Africa alone
President Obama, already the most traveled chief executive in the modern era after internationalist former President George H.W. Bush, is expected to run up an Air Force One tab of at least $24 million this year alone, according to the National Taxpayers Union.Already Obama, just back from a trip with his family and a huge entourage of staff to several African nations, has run up a $15.2 million bill just for Air Force One in the first six months of 2013. Security and hotel costs can dwarf the jet's cost. Some estimates of the president's Africa trip alone top $100 million.
NTU's Douglas Kellogg told Secrets that Obama's Africa Air Force One bill to taxpayers was $6,654,345.
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2013 ROLL CALL: How Did YOUR Legislators Score??
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Distrusting Government
Recent opinion polls demonstrate a deepening distrust of the federal government. That's not an altogether bad thing. Our nation's founders recognized that most human abuses are the result of government. As Thomas Paine said, "government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil." Because of their fear of abuse, the Constitution's framers sought to keep the federal government limited in its power. Their distrust of Congress is seen in the governing rules and language used throughout our Constitution. The Bill of Rights is explicit in that distrust, using language such as Congress shall not abridge, shall not infringe and shall not deny and other shall-nots, such as disparage, violate and deny. If the framers did not believe that Congress would abuse our God-given, or natural, rights, they would not have provided those protections. I've always suggested that if we see anything like the Bill of Rights at our next destination after we die, we'll know that we're in hell. A perceived need for such protection in heaven would be an affront to God. It would be the same as saying we can't trust him.
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Maryland Firefighters Trained To Deal With Wildfires
Wildfires in Maryland are rare, and much smaller than those in the desert southwest, where 19 members of the elite firefighting crew were killed.
Monte Mitchell is the state fire supervisor with the Maryland DNR forest service. He says while Maryland doesn’t have state-level hotshot crews, firefighters are trained with the same skills and to the same level.
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31 Stunning Pictures Of American National Parks
With everything from vast deserts and gorgeous beaches to sprawling mountain ranges, America is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful countries in the world—and nowhere is that more evident than in the national parks.
The National Park Service oversees 401 areas throughout the U.S. and U.S. territories and has nearly 300 million visitors each year.
You don't have to be a hiking fanatic to enjoy these places. You can swim, kayak, bird watch, walk, bike, drive, camp, or just relax in the country's national parks.
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The National Park Service oversees 401 areas throughout the U.S. and U.S. territories and has nearly 300 million visitors each year.
You don't have to be a hiking fanatic to enjoy these places. You can swim, kayak, bird watch, walk, bike, drive, camp, or just relax in the country's national parks.
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Supreme Court Gets Involved In Family's Custody Battle
Three-year-old Veronica lives in Oklahoma with her biological father Dusten Brown and his wife.
"She's full of energy," Brown said. "Always ready to do anything. Loves animals, loves mommy and daddy dearly."
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See The Record-Setting Fish That Could Pre-Date The Civil War And Alaska’s Own Statehood
The Sentinel reported that the 39.08-pound shortraker was caught on June 21, not only beating the previous record for the fish weight by a few ounces but perhaps also clocking in as the oldest.
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Deaths Of Children In Hot Cars Soar
The summer is just warming up, but so far this year 15 children have already died from heatstroke after being left alone in a hot car. That's more than double the number of deaths compared to the same time last year. The ages of the children range from two months to four years old and as the season progresses, there is concern that more of these accidental deaths will occur.
Since 1998, 574 children have died from hyperthermia after being left in a hot car. More than half of the deaths were young children under the age of two.
These hot-car tragedies often occur when there is a change in driver's routine, stress, or a sleeping baby in the back and a parent or caregiver forgets that a child is in the car. Some knowingly leave children "just for a minute" not realizing how quickly the temperature in a car can rise to dangerous levels. Even on a 70-degree day, the inside temperature of a car can exceed 120 degrees even with windows partially open.
Here are some tips to help avert a heartbreaking catastrophe and make sure no child is left behind in a vehicle.
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Since 1998, 574 children have died from hyperthermia after being left in a hot car. More than half of the deaths were young children under the age of two.
These hot-car tragedies often occur when there is a change in driver's routine, stress, or a sleeping baby in the back and a parent or caregiver forgets that a child is in the car. Some knowingly leave children "just for a minute" not realizing how quickly the temperature in a car can rise to dangerous levels. Even on a 70-degree day, the inside temperature of a car can exceed 120 degrees even with windows partially open.
Here are some tips to help avert a heartbreaking catastrophe and make sure no child is left behind in a vehicle.
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The Latest Addition To The Obamacare Army: Libraries
Public libraries will soon be partnering with the Department of Health and Human Services to help educate and enroll Americans in the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), The American Library Association announced on Sunday.
“About 7 million people are expected to sign up for coverage in the new marketplaces, but the heavy emphasis on web-based portals will put anyone without access to a computer at a disadvantage,” American Library magazinesexplains.
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“About 7 million people are expected to sign up for coverage in the new marketplaces, but the heavy emphasis on web-based portals will put anyone without access to a computer at a disadvantage,” American Library magazinesexplains.
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Save The Horses
When you slap burgers on the grill for your 4th of July cookout tomorrow, think about this. Animal protection groups are suing the Agriculture Department. They hope to block the revival of domestic horse slaughter in the United States. Congress banned it in 2007 but allowed it to resume in 2011. Yesterday, the USDA approved of horse slaughter at a plant in Iowa. Approval of horse processing in Missouri, Tennessee and Oklahoma is pending. The Humane Society was joined by several other groups in the lawsuit. The issue could become moot if Congress pulls funding for plant inspections.
Obamacare's Employer Mandate Delayed A Year
After months of complaints and backlash, the administration is delaying what's called the "employer mandate" under the Affordable Care Act.
The mandate requires companies with more than 50 full-time employees to offer health insurance or pay a $2,000 penalty - but that rule is being suspended for a year until January of 2015. Most U.S. businesses with more than 50 employees already offer insurance, but the smaller, often startup, companies that do not complained loudly about the 21-page application required.
In an announcement from the Treasury Department on Tuesday, the administration said its decision was "designed to meet two goals," including reducing the amount of paperwork and working with small-company employers who were threatening layoffs or reduced hours in order to report a workforce of fewer than 50 people.
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The mandate requires companies with more than 50 full-time employees to offer health insurance or pay a $2,000 penalty - but that rule is being suspended for a year until January of 2015. Most U.S. businesses with more than 50 employees already offer insurance, but the smaller, often startup, companies that do not complained loudly about the 21-page application required.
In an announcement from the Treasury Department on Tuesday, the administration said its decision was "designed to meet two goals," including reducing the amount of paperwork and working with small-company employers who were threatening layoffs or reduced hours in order to report a workforce of fewer than 50 people.
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Obama's 'Power Africa' Is Solyndra For Africa
The new $7 billion "Power Africa" initiative that President Barack Obama announced on June 30 during a speech in Cape Town, South Africa is billed as a genuine attempt to increase electricity production and distribution throughout sub-Saharan Africa. In reality, it is likely a "green energy" boondoggle that will reward favored companies, cronies and contributors--a "Solyndra for Africa," out of sight of the U.S. media.
The evidence is clear. In unveiling the project, Obama told the audience in Cape Town that Power Africa would "support clean energy to protect our planet and combat climate change." The day before, speaking to youth leaders in the former black township of Soweto, Obama said that Africa should not be allowed to develop in the same way the U.S. and other developed nations had--a familiar environmentalist refrain (video at CNS News):
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The evidence is clear. In unveiling the project, Obama told the audience in Cape Town that Power Africa would "support clean energy to protect our planet and combat climate change." The day before, speaking to youth leaders in the former black township of Soweto, Obama said that Africa should not be allowed to develop in the same way the U.S. and other developed nations had--a familiar environmentalist refrain (video at CNS News):
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More Travelers Are Packing
Not just their clothes. The Transportation Security Administration isn't sure why more passengers are entering airport security lines with guns this year. But screeners found 894 firearms in the first six months of 2013. That's a 30 percent increase in the number of guns found this year than during the same time period in 2012. The TSA says it's a trend that's been steadily on the rise during the past few years.
Poll: Obama Approval Craters To Record Low
According to the latest IBD/TIPP Presdential Leadership Index, Obama's approval rating is at a record low. The Presidential Leadership Index dropped to 43% from 49% a month ago. "The 11.7% slide was the worst since Obama took office. For the fourth straight month, the reading stood below 50, signaling disapproval." The survey was conducted by TechnoMetrica and took place June 24-29 among 857 adults.
"Each day that passes there's a new mention of these things," TechnoMetrica Market Intelligence President Raghavan Mayur said of the NSA, IRS and other scandals. "They seem to kind of fester. They don't seem to go away."
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"Each day that passes there's a new mention of these things," TechnoMetrica Market Intelligence President Raghavan Mayur said of the NSA, IRS and other scandals. "They seem to kind of fester. They don't seem to go away."
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The Fed Is Paying Banks Not To Lend
Did you know that U.S. banks have more than 1.8 trillion dollars parked at the Federal Reserve and that the Fed is actually paying them not to lend that money to us? We were always told that the goal of quantitative easing was to "help the economy", but the truth is that the vast majority of the money that the Fed has created through quantitative easing has not even gotten into the system. Instead, most of it is sitting at the Fed slowly earning interest for the bankers.
Back in October 2008, just as the last financial crisis was starting, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke announced that the Federal Reserve would start paying interest on the reserves that banks keep at the Fed. This caused an absolute explosion in the size of these reserves. Back in 2008, U.S. banks had less than 2 billion dollars of excess reserves parked at the Fed. Today, they have more than 1.8 trillion. In less than five years, the pile of excess reserves has gotten nearly 1,000 times larger. This is utter insanity, and it will have very serious consequences down the road.
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Back in October 2008, just as the last financial crisis was starting, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke announced that the Federal Reserve would start paying interest on the reserves that banks keep at the Fed. This caused an absolute explosion in the size of these reserves. Back in 2008, U.S. banks had less than 2 billion dollars of excess reserves parked at the Fed. Today, they have more than 1.8 trillion. In less than five years, the pile of excess reserves has gotten nearly 1,000 times larger. This is utter insanity, and it will have very serious consequences down the road.
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The Newest Additions To Maryland's Zoo... Four Piglets
According to zookeepers, the warthog pair, Kumari and Kijani, welcomed the four common warthog piglets Saturday morning. The newborns were found later by the Zoo’s animal department staff who had been keeping a close eye on Kumari during her pregnancy.
This is the third litter for 8-year-old female warthog, Kumari, Zoo general curator Mike McClure says.
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Fireworks TONIGHT In Willards
Salisbury News will be present and we encourage you to join us in a very Family Friendly environment.
We're told the Daily Times, (once again) has refused to promote this event.
Talking Cigarette Packs?
First they tried warning labels, then they tried graphic pictures, but these efforts didn't do much to keep people from smoking. Well, now researchers in the U.K. are trying a new tactic – talking cigarette packs. No, really... Researchers at Stirling University are taking the technology used in "talking" greeting cards, and using it to record warning messages that play each time a smoker opens the pack. one has to wonder how long it will take before New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg tries using the recordings on 16-ounce beverages in his city.
Curfew Considered After Massive Brawl In Downtown Greensboro
GREENSBORO, N.C. — A massive fight in downtown Greensboro Saturday night has some city leaders taking a hard look at bringing back the teen curfew.
Nearly 400 people were involved in the several fights that happened along Elm Street.
Greensboro police arrested 11 people ranging in age from 16 to 20-years-old. Officers had to use pepper spray and a stun gun to try to get the crowd under control. Greensboro Police Department had to call UNCG Police and Guilford County for extra help.
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Nearly 400 people were involved in the several fights that happened along Elm Street.
Greensboro police arrested 11 people ranging in age from 16 to 20-years-old. Officers had to use pepper spray and a stun gun to try to get the crowd under control. Greensboro Police Department had to call UNCG Police and Guilford County for extra help.
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If Your Illegal, Just Marry A Gay Person And Get Your Green Card
It's official – same-sex married couples will be treated just like opposite-sex married couples for the purposes of immigration. After last week's historic DOMA ruling, the Department of Homeland Security has announced that gay and lesbian spouses of American citizens are eligible for green cards. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano released a statement, saying, "Effective immediately, I have directed U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to review immigration visa petitions filed on behalf of a same-sex spouses in the same manner as those filed on behalf of an opposite-sex spouse." Already, at least one legally-married gay couple in Florida was pleasantly surprised by a notification from immigration officials. More notifications are going out around our nation. Apparently, "effective immediately" is the new favorite phrase of the equality movement.
O'Malley Picking First Woman Chief Justice
Judge Robert Bell said Tuesday night in an interview with The Associated Press that the governor had informed him of the selection earlier in the day.
O'Malley declined to comment while leaving an event at the Maryland State House recognizing attorneys who do pro bono legal work, an event Bell also attended. O'Malley said he would have more to say on Wednesday, when a news conference was scheduled to make an announcement on judicial appointments.
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Wal-Mart Is Getting Dumped
Dutch pension administrator PGGM announced yesterday that it would no longer invest any of its $180 billion dollars in the low-price retailer because of poor labor conditions – and PGGM's concerns included the working conditions stores in the US. According to Reuters, PGGM repeatedly asked Wal-Mart about labor practices, bribery, and other scandals but "these questions were left unanswered." So, PGGM, which is focused on employee pensions, national healthcare, and social work, will be taking their money elsewhere. As of March, the pension fund held 2.76 million shares of Wal-Mart stock, worth over $200 million dollars. It appears PGGM will now be trading in those shares for more stock in companies like Costco, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Target, whose practices don't raise concerns. Despite protests, strikes, and public-relations nightmares, few things have pushed Wal-Mart to improve their labor practices. But, perhaps $200 million dollars will get their attention, and finally get Wal-Mart to clean up their act.
400 Black People Riot In Downtown Greensboro
These are just some of the hundreds of examples of racial violence and lawlessness in more than 80 cities around the country as documented in my book: White Girl Bleed a Lot: The return of racial violence to America.
Thomas Sowell said : ”Reading Colin Flaherty’s book made painfully clear to me that the magnitude of this problem is greater than I had discovered from my own research. He documents both the race riots and the media and political evasions in dozens of cities.” – National Review.
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Thomas Sowell said : ”Reading Colin Flaherty’s book made painfully clear to me that the magnitude of this problem is greater than I had discovered from my own research. He documents both the race riots and the media and political evasions in dozens of cities.” – National Review.
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Predator Drone Update
U.S. predator drones could soon get a few upgrades. Customs and Border Protection says it has plans to add what it calls "non-lethal weapons designed to immobilize targets of interest." That's according to a 2010 agency document obtained by the Electronic Frontier Foundation. A fact sheet detailing the capabilities of U.S. drones shows they aren't currently equipped with non-lethal weapons.
ABC Arrest Of Water-Toting U.Va. Student Prompts Flood Of Calls
CHARLOTTESVILLE — The arrest of a University of Virginia student by state alcohol agents who mistook her bottled water for beer has sparked a public outcry.
The Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control's headquarters in Richmond was besieged on Monday with phone calls and emails from the public questioning the way the incident was handled, agency spokeswoman Maureen Haney told The Daily Progress.
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The Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control's headquarters in Richmond was besieged on Monday with phone calls and emails from the public questioning the way the incident was handled, agency spokeswoman Maureen Haney told The Daily Progress.
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Preston Man Sentenced For Thefts From Goddard Space Flight Center
GREENBELT, Md. (AP) -- A Caroline County man has been sentenced to a year in prison for stealing tools and aluminum scaffolding from the Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt.
Twenty-eight-year-old Brandon Scott Gauss of Preston was also ordered to pay restitution to the U.S. government and a pawn shop at sentencing Tuesday in federal court in Greenbelt.
According to his plea agreement, Gauss, a contract employee at NASA, was an engineering technician at Goddard. Prosecutors say he stole tools and aluminum and sold them to pawn shops.
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Twenty-eight-year-old Brandon Scott Gauss of Preston was also ordered to pay restitution to the U.S. government and a pawn shop at sentencing Tuesday in federal court in Greenbelt.
According to his plea agreement, Gauss, a contract employee at NASA, was an engineering technician at Goddard. Prosecutors say he stole tools and aluminum and sold them to pawn shops.
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New Rules To Require Financial Aid Recipients To Do Community Work
Able-bodied people who have not found employment after three months on financial assistance would be required to do up to 15 hours of community service weekly under new rules approved by MPs last night.
The change is part of a planned overhaul of the financial assistance system, weighed down by soaring costs as numbers of people applying for aid had increased every quarter over the last two years on an “unsustainable trajectory”, Community Development Minister Wayne Scott told MPs.
Amendments to financial assistance rules approved in the House of Assembly also include requiring recipients to attend specified life skills programmes, such as money management courses or parenting skills courses.
And case workers will also be empowered to refer clients to the Bermuda Assessment and Referral Centre for drug abuse assessment if deemed necessary.
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The change is part of a planned overhaul of the financial assistance system, weighed down by soaring costs as numbers of people applying for aid had increased every quarter over the last two years on an “unsustainable trajectory”, Community Development Minister Wayne Scott told MPs.
Amendments to financial assistance rules approved in the House of Assembly also include requiring recipients to attend specified life skills programmes, such as money management courses or parenting skills courses.
And case workers will also be empowered to refer clients to the Bermuda Assessment and Referral Centre for drug abuse assessment if deemed necessary.
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Top 5 Reasons I Stopped Caring About Politics
When I was young, I felt a need to understand politics, and I spent time studying. But as time progressed, I received diminishing returns on that investment. And in the past few years, I have given it up altogether.
These days, my concern with politics is limited to things like these:
Who is making war, and where?
Where is the crime occurring in my area?
Are there laws that will force me to move my businesses offshore?
Beyond that, I’m really not interested. I see the headlines, but I seldom read the stories. And I’m very happy saying, “I haven’t looked into it,” when people ask my opinion on the day’s ‘news.’
Here’s why:
#5: It eats up a horrifying amount of time and energy
Seriously, start counting the number of hours you spend on this stuff. How many hours listening to political radio, watching political TV, and reading political newspapers?
Then start thinking about the intense energy you spend on it. We all have limited reserves of energy; do you really believe that politics is the highest and best use for yours? What about using your energy to build your business? Or to nurture your children? Or to help a neighbor? There must be a
dozen things that are more important than obsessing over the votes of congressmen or Supreme Court judges.
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These days, my concern with politics is limited to things like these:
Who is making war, and where?
Where is the crime occurring in my area?
Are there laws that will force me to move my businesses offshore?
Beyond that, I’m really not interested. I see the headlines, but I seldom read the stories. And I’m very happy saying, “I haven’t looked into it,” when people ask my opinion on the day’s ‘news.’
Here’s why:
#5: It eats up a horrifying amount of time and energy
Seriously, start counting the number of hours you spend on this stuff. How many hours listening to political radio, watching political TV, and reading political newspapers?
Then start thinking about the intense energy you spend on it. We all have limited reserves of energy; do you really believe that politics is the highest and best use for yours? What about using your energy to build your business? Or to nurture your children? Or to help a neighbor? There must be a
dozen things that are more important than obsessing over the votes of congressmen or Supreme Court judges.
More
Defendant Sentenced In Capitol Hill Beating, Robbery
Tommy Branch, 22, of Fort Washington was sentenced to 24 years and six months for the brutal beating of T.C. Maslin and a second robbery that occurred in Adams Morgan later the same night.
A brief video presentation shown in court depicted scenes of Maslin's recovery and the Maslins' home life, including images of their 2-year-old son, Jack, with his injured dad.
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LOCAL VIEWING EVENTS ALLOW KOREAN WAR VETS TO EXPERIENCE NATIONAL COMMEMORATION CEREMONY
WASHINGTON, D.C. - On July 27th, 2013 there will be a national ceremony at the Korean War Memorial in Washington D.C. to honor all those who served in the Korean War, and to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Armistice which ended hostilities. The Department of Defense 60th Anniversary of the Korean War Armistice Committee is taking extra steps to ensure veterans who cannot make it to the national ceremony will be able to watch the televised event at their local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Posts, surrounded by their families, fellow veterans and members of their community.
"While age and distance, unfortunately, will prevent many Korean War veterans and their families from attending the event in Washington, they can take part in, 'Pancakes for Patriots' viewing events at their local VFW Posts," said Joe Davis, Director of Public Affairs for the national Veterans of Foreign Wars. "This is a great opportunity to educate local communities about the service and sacrifices made by so many of our Korean War veterans and their families."
The national ceremony titled, "Heroes Remembered," will be broadcast live at all of the, "Pancakes for Patriots," events. The broadcast will feature a special salute to Korean War Veterans, recognition of UN Allies, a ceremonial wreath laying and a symbolic silencing of the guns both in D.C. and Seoul, South Korea.
For decades, the Korean War was known as the "Forgotten War" and the men and women who served on the Korean Peninsula may have believed their sacrifices were unnoticed. To the contrary, the Department of Defense recognizes that the Korean War was a significant event during the Cold War. This has become even more apparent over time with the emergence of the Republic of Korea as a great power and US ally.
"Korean War veterans are now in their 80's and fought in a war deemed Forgotten," said Colonel David J. Clark Director, Foreign Intelligence, Army DCS G-2 and Director of the 60th Anniversary of the Korean War Armistice Commemoration Committee. "This could be one of the last chances we have to recognize these veterans and show them that their sacrifice is important."
Those interested in attending, "Pancakes for Patriots," do not have to be VFW members. Please contact your local participating VFW Post or visit www.koreanwar60.com.
"While age and distance, unfortunately, will prevent many Korean War veterans and their families from attending the event in Washington, they can take part in, 'Pancakes for Patriots' viewing events at their local VFW Posts," said Joe Davis, Director of Public Affairs for the national Veterans of Foreign Wars. "This is a great opportunity to educate local communities about the service and sacrifices made by so many of our Korean War veterans and their families."
The national ceremony titled, "Heroes Remembered," will be broadcast live at all of the, "Pancakes for Patriots," events. The broadcast will feature a special salute to Korean War Veterans, recognition of UN Allies, a ceremonial wreath laying and a symbolic silencing of the guns both in D.C. and Seoul, South Korea.
For decades, the Korean War was known as the "Forgotten War" and the men and women who served on the Korean Peninsula may have believed their sacrifices were unnoticed. To the contrary, the Department of Defense recognizes that the Korean War was a significant event during the Cold War. This has become even more apparent over time with the emergence of the Republic of Korea as a great power and US ally.
"Korean War veterans are now in their 80's and fought in a war deemed Forgotten," said Colonel David J. Clark Director, Foreign Intelligence, Army DCS G-2 and Director of the 60th Anniversary of the Korean War Armistice Commemoration Committee. "This could be one of the last chances we have to recognize these veterans and show them that their sacrifice is important."
Those interested in attending, "Pancakes for Patriots," do not have to be VFW members. Please contact your local participating VFW Post or visit www.koreanwar60.com.
Worcester County Bureau Of Investigation Press Release 7-2-13
Vilkas
DATE: July 2, 2013CBI Case #: 13-0092
LOCATION: 9800 Block Harbor Master Blvd.
CRIME: Burglary 1st Degree
Theft $1,000 to $10,000
SUSPECT: Nicholas Richard Vilkas
W/M, 23 yoa
Hebron, Maryland
NARRATIVE: On March 28, 2013, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office took a report of a burglary to a residence on the 9800 Block Harbor Master Blvd, Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland. The suspect entered the residence and removed jewelry belonging to the victim. On April 4, 2013, the victim again contacted the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office to report additional jewelry missing. The case was forwarded to the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation.
During the investigation, investigators were able to identify Nicholas Richard Vilkas as a person of interest. A check of local pawn records found that Vilkas had sold all of the jewelry that was reported stolen by the victim, as well as additional jewelry that the victim had not realized had been stolen during the initial reports.
An arrest warrant for Vilkas was obtained, and investigators, with the assistance of the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office, later located Vilkas at a residence in Salisbury, Maryland, where he was taken into custody. Vilkas was later interviewed and confessed to have committed the burglary and theft.
Vilkas was taken before a District Court Commissioner and was released on $15,000 unsecured bond pending trail.
LOCATION: 9800 Block Harbor Master Blvd.
CRIME: Burglary 1st Degree
Theft $1,000 to $10,000
SUSPECT: Nicholas Richard Vilkas
W/M, 23 yoa
Hebron, Maryland
NARRATIVE: On March 28, 2013, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office took a report of a burglary to a residence on the 9800 Block Harbor Master Blvd, Ocean City, Worcester County, Maryland. The suspect entered the residence and removed jewelry belonging to the victim. On April 4, 2013, the victim again contacted the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office to report additional jewelry missing. The case was forwarded to the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation.
During the investigation, investigators were able to identify Nicholas Richard Vilkas as a person of interest. A check of local pawn records found that Vilkas had sold all of the jewelry that was reported stolen by the victim, as well as additional jewelry that the victim had not realized had been stolen during the initial reports.
An arrest warrant for Vilkas was obtained, and investigators, with the assistance of the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office, later located Vilkas at a residence in Salisbury, Maryland, where he was taken into custody. Vilkas was later interviewed and confessed to have committed the burglary and theft.
Vilkas was taken before a District Court Commissioner and was released on $15,000 unsecured bond pending trail.
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