Maryland residents have been buying guns in record numbers before a law takes effect Tuesday, with provisions aimed at helping keep guns away from criminals and the mentally ill, strengthening safety training and banning 45 types of assault weapons.
Opponents decry what they call an ineffective law that will only make it harder for law-abiding citizens to exercise Second Amendment rights. They say the state also failed to prepare properly for implementation after Gov. Martin O'Malley, who is considering a run for the White House in 2016, pushed the complicated measure through the General Assembly to build his credentials for a potential Democratic primary race.
On Thursday, opponents of the restrictions sued in federal court in Baltimore, seeking to block the legislation from taking effect. The court scheduled a hearing for Tuesday on their motion for an order that would temporarily block implementation while the court considers whether to permanently bar Maryland from enforcing the law.
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DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Saturday, September 28, 2013
SENATOR CLASHES WITH NSA CHIEF DURING TESTY EXCHANGE OVER QUESTIONS ON CELLPHONE LOCATION TRACKING
WASHINGTON (AP) — The nation’s top intelligence official has sidestepped questions from a senator about whether the National Security Agency has tracked the whereabouts of millions of Americans using their cellphone signals.
The testy exchange Thursday between NSA chief Keith Alexander and Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon intimated that such tracking had taken place.
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The testy exchange Thursday between NSA chief Keith Alexander and Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon intimated that such tracking had taken place.
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White House: Obama Will Veto House Shutdown Bill
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The White House says President Barack Obama would veto House Republican legislation that would delay much of the president's health care overhaul for a year and cancel a tax on medical devices.
The White House statement comes as the GOP-run House prepares to debate a bill averting a government shutdown Tuesday morning, but delaying the health care law and repealing the tax as the price for doing so. The medical device tax helps finance the health care law.
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The White House statement comes as the GOP-run House prepares to debate a bill averting a government shutdown Tuesday morning, but delaying the health care law and repealing the tax as the price for doing so. The medical device tax helps finance the health care law.
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When Jails Become The Mental Asylums
"In every city and state I have visited, the jails have become the de facto mental institutions," warns the president of the American Jail Association as the WSJ notes [5], America's lockups have become its new asylums. After scores of state mental institutions were closed beginning in the 1970s, few alternatives materialized. Many of the afflicted wound up on the streets, where, untreated, they became more vulnerable to joblessness, drug abuse and crime. Stunningly, the number of mentally ill prisoners the country's three biggest jail systems - Cook County, IL; Los Angeles County; and New York City - handle daily is equal to 28% of all beds in the nation's 213 state psychiatric hospitals. "We're finding sicker and sicker people all the time" who have to be treated for their mental illnesses. Prisons "can't say no to the mentally ill. They have to solve the problem."
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PARALYZED COLLEGE STUDENT AND HIS GIRLFRIEND, BOTH OF SALISBURY, MD, RAISE SUPPORT FOR KENNEDY KRIEGER INSTITUTE TEAM AT THE 2013 BALTIMORE RUNNING FESTIVAL
James, who in October of 2010 at the age of 19 was paralyzed in a car accident while on duty being transported as an active member of the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets and Navy ROTC, will be competing in the marathon with the use of a hand cycle. This will be James' first marathon since being in a wheelchair, though he has continued his passion for sports these past three years by participating in both wheelchair basketball and wheelchair lacrosse. Lindsay and James, who have been an inseparable couple since meeting their freshman year of high school, trained for the 5k marathon in Salisbury this past summer and are looking forward to the event. Because of the pace differences between James using a hand cycle and Lindsay on foot, Lindsay's running partner over the summer was often James' 2 year old German Shepherd, Tally, who did a great job in helping her maintain a strong and consistent running speed. Lindsay and James are currently seniors at Virginia Tech and both are considering graduate school for the upcoming year, she in psychology and he in engineering.
James visits the Kennedy Krieger Institute for physical therapy several times a year and has seen firsthand the excellent work being done at the institute. "As someone who has spent a great deal of time at Kennedy Krieger since about 2011, I can tell you it's been emotionally uplifting for my family and me to see their compassion and drive as they work with children (and adults.) It gives you a completely different perspective on life and makes you realize anything is possible," says James. As part of the 2013 Kennedy Krieger charity team, he, Lindsay, and the other participants aim to increase the number of Kennedy Krieger patients who are able to participate in the races each year, open the door to improved physical fitness for those with disabilities, and fund research towards a cure for paralysis.
If you would like to sponsor either Lindsay or James, visit Kennedy Krieger Institute's Team Page and click on Sponsor a Participant. Here you will be able to search for both Lindsay and James' pledge pages by first and last name. http://supportus.kennedykrieger.org/site/TR?fr_id=1120&pg=entry
SEIU Unionists Strike Over Obamacare-Related Cuts
Members of the Chicago-based Service Employees International Union Local 1 have gone on strike over recent job cuts by a janitorial company called Professional Maintenance.
The reason for the cuts? The employer says it is because of the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. This is ironic since SEIU is a major supporter of the law.
Tyler French, Local 1's organizing director, told Mediatrackers Ohio the company claimed it had to cut its employees' hours due to Obamacare mandates.
French did not believe the explanation, though, calling it the “latest excuse in a long line of many that we’ve seen from corporate America.”
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The reason for the cuts? The employer says it is because of the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. This is ironic since SEIU is a major supporter of the law.
Tyler French, Local 1's organizing director, told Mediatrackers Ohio the company claimed it had to cut its employees' hours due to Obamacare mandates.
French did not believe the explanation, though, calling it the “latest excuse in a long line of many that we’ve seen from corporate America.”
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IRAN CASHES IN ON CAPTURED DRONE
The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps, or IRGC, intends to unveil it soon.
In December 2011, IRGC forces electronically tricked a highly classified U.S. RQ-170 drone into Iran after it had taken off from Afghanistan.
The U.S. drone was under the command of the Central Intelligence Agency.
Read more
THE CRICKET CENTER TO HOST "CRICKETS ON THE BAY" AT SEACRETS
The CRICKET Center stands for the Children's Resource Intervention Center - Kids Empowerment Team. The CRICKET Center's mission is to reduce the trauma of abuse for the children of Worcester County and to educate our communite regarding child abuse.
Tickets for the event are $65. For more information, contact The CRICKET Center at 410-641-0097.
Democrats Against Obamacare
Moderate and conservative Democrats are splitting with the Left on health care.
Texas senator Ted Cruz’s 21-hour 19-minute soliloquy this week apotheosized Republican dissatisfaction with Obamacare. Likewise, the GOP House recently voted to finance everything in Washington, minus the so-called Affordable Care Act.
A real surprise lies behind these headlines: Democratsare falling out of love with Obamacare.
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Texas senator Ted Cruz’s 21-hour 19-minute soliloquy this week apotheosized Republican dissatisfaction with Obamacare. Likewise, the GOP House recently voted to finance everything in Washington, minus the so-called Affordable Care Act.
A real surprise lies behind these headlines: Democratsare falling out of love with Obamacare.
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Sunfest Attendance Hits 186K
OCEAN CITY – The 39th Annual Sunfest brought in the largest attendance since 2008, marking the end of the summer season but serving as a reminder to the locals and visitors alike there is still much more to look forward to in the coming months.
Sunfest took place last weekend drawing a crowd of approximately 186,779 people to the Inlet Lot, beginning on Thursday and appropriately ended on Sunday as it was the first day of the fall season.
As always, Sunfest was four fun-filled days of music, food, arts and crafts. The event was recently ranked the best Arts & Crafts show in the nation by Sunshine Artist magazine and the 2012 Finest Festival for Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore by Maryland Life Magazine.
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Sunfest took place last weekend drawing a crowd of approximately 186,779 people to the Inlet Lot, beginning on Thursday and appropriately ended on Sunday as it was the first day of the fall season.
As always, Sunfest was four fun-filled days of music, food, arts and crafts. The event was recently ranked the best Arts & Crafts show in the nation by Sunshine Artist magazine and the 2012 Finest Festival for Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore by Maryland Life Magazine.
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GOVERNOR O’MALLEY, NEW JERSEY GOVERNOR CHRISTIE, VIRGINIA GOVERNOR MCDONNELL SIGN LETTER OF SUPPORT FOR UNIVERSITIES’ COLLABORATION ON UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM TESTING
MOU strengthens Mid-Atlantic region’s potential to be selected as FAA test site
Annapolis, MD – Governor Martin O’Malley joined New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and Virginia Governor Robert McDonnell in submitting a letter supporting a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in which the University System of Maryland, Rutgers University and Virginia Tech University agreed to collaborate and partner on a Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) test site. The letter, sent to U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx and FAA Administrator Michael Huerta, highlighted the cooperative UAS research conducted by the three universities.
“With the potential to create more than 2,500 well-paying jobs in Maryland over the next 12 years, the Unmanned Aircraft Systems sector has the potential to have a significant positive economic impact on our state,” said Governor O’Malley. “This is an exciting agreement between three world-class educational institutions that takes advantage of the unparalleled capabilities in Maryland, New Jersey and Virginia for research, development and testing, and positions the Mid-Atlantic region as the ideal location for an Unmanned Aircraft Systems test site.”
In Maryland, the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) at Naval Air Station Patuxent River is recognized as the world’s leading center of UAS activity. At both the university level and among federal facilities, Maryland has been testing and developing UAS technology for more than two decades. Maryland’s UAS proposal, submitted to the FAA in May, includes the University System of Maryland campuses in College Park, Baltimore County and Eastern Shore, general aviation airports in Crisfield and St. Mary’s County, federal and industry partners and community organizations such as the Southern Maryland Navy Alliance, the Patuxent Partnership, and the Joint Atlantic and Chesapeake Range Collaborative.
“We are thankful to our entire Congressional delegation, especially Congressman Steny Hoyer, who worked diligently to grow this coalition, the universities for their spirit of cooperation, and to partner companies in each state whose support is testament to the potential of this initiative,” said Governor O’Malley.
“This memorandum of understanding between the University System of Maryland, Rutgers University, and Virginia Tech significantly strengthens our bid for one of six UAS test site designations chosen by the Federal Aviation Administration,” statedCongressman Hoyer. “With the presence of three outstanding higher education institutions; federal facilities, such as Pax River Naval Air Station and Webster Field; and strong industry partners, I’m optimistic that we are strongly positioned in the bidding process. I thank Governor O’Malley, Governor Christie, and Governor McDonnell, as well as our three universities, for partnering on this effort, which has the potential to spur private sector development through the commercialization of autonomous systems and boost job creation in our region.”
Under the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Congress authorized the FAA to develop a comprehensive plan to integrate UAS into the National Airspace System. In February 2013, the FAA opened the selection process for the six UAS Test Sites that will conduct research and testing of technologies to support the UAS integration.
“The partnership between the University System of Maryland and leading institutions in Virginia and New Jersey will help increase the safety, efficiency, reliability and security of our nation’s airspace,” Senator Barbara Mikulski said. “Because of Maryland’s incredible federal assets, dynamic private sector and academic institutions, Maryland is well-suited to work together with the FAA on the Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Through this Mid-Atlantic collaboration, we will enhance the safety of our nation’s airspace, while supporting Maryland’s economic security through jobs today and jobs tomorrow.”
With the University of Maryland, College Park, taking the lead, Maryland applied to be selected by the FAA as one of six test sites for Unmanned Aircraft Systems. New Jersey and Virginia submitted a joint application as the Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership, under Virginia Tech. The three universities subsequently determined that the region’s competitive position is significantly enhanced as a multi-state entity which leverages the competitive strengths of each state. The universities have agreed to work as a united Joint Test Team in the event either or both teams are selected by the FAA as a Test Site for UAS.
Fifty applications across 37 states were submitted to the FAA through May 6, 2013, and 25 applicants remain. A decision is due December 31, 2013.
Annapolis, MD – Governor Martin O’Malley joined New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and Virginia Governor Robert McDonnell in submitting a letter supporting a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in which the University System of Maryland, Rutgers University and Virginia Tech University agreed to collaborate and partner on a Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) test site. The letter, sent to U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx and FAA Administrator Michael Huerta, highlighted the cooperative UAS research conducted by the three universities.
“With the potential to create more than 2,500 well-paying jobs in Maryland over the next 12 years, the Unmanned Aircraft Systems sector has the potential to have a significant positive economic impact on our state,” said Governor O’Malley. “This is an exciting agreement between three world-class educational institutions that takes advantage of the unparalleled capabilities in Maryland, New Jersey and Virginia for research, development and testing, and positions the Mid-Atlantic region as the ideal location for an Unmanned Aircraft Systems test site.”
In Maryland, the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) at Naval Air Station Patuxent River is recognized as the world’s leading center of UAS activity. At both the university level and among federal facilities, Maryland has been testing and developing UAS technology for more than two decades. Maryland’s UAS proposal, submitted to the FAA in May, includes the University System of Maryland campuses in College Park, Baltimore County and Eastern Shore, general aviation airports in Crisfield and St. Mary’s County, federal and industry partners and community organizations such as the Southern Maryland Navy Alliance, the Patuxent Partnership, and the Joint Atlantic and Chesapeake Range Collaborative.
“We are thankful to our entire Congressional delegation, especially Congressman Steny Hoyer, who worked diligently to grow this coalition, the universities for their spirit of cooperation, and to partner companies in each state whose support is testament to the potential of this initiative,” said Governor O’Malley.
“This memorandum of understanding between the University System of Maryland, Rutgers University, and Virginia Tech significantly strengthens our bid for one of six UAS test site designations chosen by the Federal Aviation Administration,” statedCongressman Hoyer. “With the presence of three outstanding higher education institutions; federal facilities, such as Pax River Naval Air Station and Webster Field; and strong industry partners, I’m optimistic that we are strongly positioned in the bidding process. I thank Governor O’Malley, Governor Christie, and Governor McDonnell, as well as our three universities, for partnering on this effort, which has the potential to spur private sector development through the commercialization of autonomous systems and boost job creation in our region.”
Under the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Congress authorized the FAA to develop a comprehensive plan to integrate UAS into the National Airspace System. In February 2013, the FAA opened the selection process for the six UAS Test Sites that will conduct research and testing of technologies to support the UAS integration.
“The partnership between the University System of Maryland and leading institutions in Virginia and New Jersey will help increase the safety, efficiency, reliability and security of our nation’s airspace,” Senator Barbara Mikulski said. “Because of Maryland’s incredible federal assets, dynamic private sector and academic institutions, Maryland is well-suited to work together with the FAA on the Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Through this Mid-Atlantic collaboration, we will enhance the safety of our nation’s airspace, while supporting Maryland’s economic security through jobs today and jobs tomorrow.”
With the University of Maryland, College Park, taking the lead, Maryland applied to be selected by the FAA as one of six test sites for Unmanned Aircraft Systems. New Jersey and Virginia submitted a joint application as the Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership, under Virginia Tech. The three universities subsequently determined that the region’s competitive position is significantly enhanced as a multi-state entity which leverages the competitive strengths of each state. The universities have agreed to work as a united Joint Test Team in the event either or both teams are selected by the FAA as a Test Site for UAS.
Fifty applications across 37 states were submitted to the FAA through May 6, 2013, and 25 applicants remain. A decision is due December 31, 2013.
Briefings Held On Proposed Chicken Manure Limit Regs
Farmers and other interested persons are invited to public briefings being held by the Maryland Department of Agriculture on its proposed regulations limiting the use of chicken manure as fertilizer.
During the briefings, the MDA will explain the latest revised regulations and the process that led to their development. MDA personnel will also discuss resources available to farmers to help them manage the impact of the regulations and will answer questions.
The briefings are being held to inform farmers and others of the new proposal before the 30-day public comment period, which begins with publication in the Maryland Register, which is anticipated for Oct. 18.
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During the briefings, the MDA will explain the latest revised regulations and the process that led to their development. MDA personnel will also discuss resources available to farmers to help them manage the impact of the regulations and will answer questions.
The briefings are being held to inform farmers and others of the new proposal before the 30-day public comment period, which begins with publication in the Maryland Register, which is anticipated for Oct. 18.
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Five Years Later: FHA Demands $1.7 Billion Treasury Bail Out
One would think that five years after the bail out of the GSEs, that the Federal Housing Agency, the government agency created to insure loans made by banks and other private lenders for home building and home buying, would be stable and growing. After all, the "housing recovery" and those $3 trillion (and rising exponentially) in liquid injections by the Fed should have assured it. Right? Wrong. Moments ago, the FHA, just as we predicted [4], officially announced it needs a government bailout - the first in its 79 year history - in the form of a $1.7 billion in funding from the Treasury to "cover projected losses in a mortgage program for seniors" and specifically losses due to reverse mortgages: those Fonzy-advertized fake piggy bank programs that end up anyone who uses them through the nose, and now taxpayers too. But... but... but... if the FHA just failed.... does that mean they lied about the housing recovery too? Unpossible!
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As Obama Falters, The More Hypocritical, Ugly And Divisive He Gets
Just days ago Barack Obama was calling for Washington to act with "decency and common purpose."
Yet, today, his senior adviser Dan Pfeiffer had the following to say to Jake Tapper on CNN.
White House senior adviser Dan Pfeiffer likened House Republicans to suicide bombers, kidnappers and arsonists in a single interview on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Obama himself is accusing the GOP of "blackmail."
President Barack Obama accused Republicans of trying to “blackmail a president” by threatening to shut down the government or default on the nation’s debt if he doesn’t agree to block implementation of Obamacare.
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Yet, today, his senior adviser Dan Pfeiffer had the following to say to Jake Tapper on CNN.
White House senior adviser Dan Pfeiffer likened House Republicans to suicide bombers, kidnappers and arsonists in a single interview on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Obama himself is accusing the GOP of "blackmail."
President Barack Obama accused Republicans of trying to “blackmail a president” by threatening to shut down the government or default on the nation’s debt if he doesn’t agree to block implementation of Obamacare.
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Salisbury Considers ‘Habitual Offender’ Changes
SALISBURY — Because current legislation has been deemed ineffective by Neighborhood Services and Code Compliance (NSCC), the Salisbury City Council has started to review a revised “Habitual Offender” ordinance that the city hopes will significantly cut down on repeat visits to troubled properties.
Susan Phillips, interim director of NSCC, sent a memo dated Aug. 30 to Tom Stevenson, interim city administrator, suggesting a change to Salisbury’s habitual offender code. The current requirements are unrealistic, according to Phillips.
“Because the conditions to become a habitual offender are so uncommon, to date no property owner has received the designation,” she wrote. “In actuality, the lofty requirements have rendered the statute ineffective.”
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Susan Phillips, interim director of NSCC, sent a memo dated Aug. 30 to Tom Stevenson, interim city administrator, suggesting a change to Salisbury’s habitual offender code. The current requirements are unrealistic, according to Phillips.
“Because the conditions to become a habitual offender are so uncommon, to date no property owner has received the designation,” she wrote. “In actuality, the lofty requirements have rendered the statute ineffective.”
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Seymour Hersh On Obama, NSA And The 'Pathetic' American Media
Pulitzer Prize winner explains how to fix journalism, saying press should 'fire 90% of editors and promote ones you can't control'
Seymour Hersh has got some extreme ideas on how to fix journalism – close down the news bureaus of NBC and ABC, sack 90% of editors in publishing and get back to the fundamental job of journalists which, he says, is to be an outsider.
It doesn't take much to fire up Hersh, the investigative journalist who has been the nemesis of US presidents since the 1960s and who was once described by the Republican party as "the closest thing American journalism has to a terrorist".
He is angry about the timidity of journalists in America, their failure to challenge the White House and be an unpopular messenger of truth.
Don't even get him started on the New York Times which, he says, spends "so much more time carrying water for Obama than I ever thought they would" – or the death of Osama bin Laden. "Nothing's been done about that story, it's one big lie, not one word of it is true," he says of the dramatic US Navy Seals raid in 2011.
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Seymour Hersh has got some extreme ideas on how to fix journalism – close down the news bureaus of NBC and ABC, sack 90% of editors in publishing and get back to the fundamental job of journalists which, he says, is to be an outsider.
It doesn't take much to fire up Hersh, the investigative journalist who has been the nemesis of US presidents since the 1960s and who was once described by the Republican party as "the closest thing American journalism has to a terrorist".
He is angry about the timidity of journalists in America, their failure to challenge the White House and be an unpopular messenger of truth.
Don't even get him started on the New York Times which, he says, spends "so much more time carrying water for Obama than I ever thought they would" – or the death of Osama bin Laden. "Nothing's been done about that story, it's one big lie, not one word of it is true," he says of the dramatic US Navy Seals raid in 2011.
More
EVENT TO BENEFIT PLAY IT SAFE TAKING PLACE ON OCTOBER 14
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| Click the image to view the event flyer. |
Approaching its 25th anniversary, the Play It Safe program holds free events for the thousands of high school graduates that visit Ocean City during the month of June. Events include activities such as karaoke, beach volleyball, dance parties and mini golf. Each Play It Safe participant also receives a free bus pass good for the week of their stay in Ocean City.
Tickets for the event will be $12 for adults and $5 for children ages 4 through 9. Children under 4 are free. Tickets will be available at the door. For more information, please contact Donna Greenwood at 410-289-7060 or Al “Hondo” Handy at 410-250-0125.
The Late, Great Middle Class
It’s never been harder to find a decent job making something real.
The American middle class, like the American economy in general, is ailing. Labor-force participation has hit a 35-year low.
Median household income is lower than it was five years ago. Only the top 5 percent of households have seen their incomes rise under President Obama.
Commuters are paying more than twice as much for gas as they were in 2008. Federal payouts for food stamps, unemployment insurance, and disability insurance have reached unprecedented levels.
Meanwhile, the country is still running near-record budget deficits and is burdened by $17 trillion in aggregate debt. Yet the stock market is soaring.
How can we make sense of all this contradictory nonsense? Irony.
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The American middle class, like the American economy in general, is ailing. Labor-force participation has hit a 35-year low.
Median household income is lower than it was five years ago. Only the top 5 percent of households have seen their incomes rise under President Obama.
Commuters are paying more than twice as much for gas as they were in 2008. Federal payouts for food stamps, unemployment insurance, and disability insurance have reached unprecedented levels.
Meanwhile, the country is still running near-record budget deficits and is burdened by $17 trillion in aggregate debt. Yet the stock market is soaring.
How can we make sense of all this contradictory nonsense? Irony.
More
BREAKING NEWS
City Passes Downtown Development Incentives
SALISBURY – An incentive to tempt developers to the downtown Salisbury area by reducing or eliminating capacity fees received its final approval this week after making multiple rounds through the City Council’s dais.
Following many discussions during work and legislative sessions, an ordinance in second reading to eliminate or reduce water or sewer charges for equivalent dwelling units (EDUs) in accordance with Chapter 13.02 of the City Code to encourage development in the Downtown area and the Enterprise Zone reached the City Council on Monday evening.
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Following many discussions during work and legislative sessions, an ordinance in second reading to eliminate or reduce water or sewer charges for equivalent dwelling units (EDUs) in accordance with Chapter 13.02 of the City Code to encourage development in the Downtown area and the Enterprise Zone reached the City Council on Monday evening.
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Minimum Wage, Maximum Nonsense
In his 2013 State of the Union message, President Obama suggested that Congress increase the federal hourly minimum wage from its current rate of $7.25 to at least $9.00. Several states are also debating an increase; indeed, the California legislature recently approved and Governor Jerry Brown just signed a bill that would boost their hourly state minimum from $8 to $10 in three years. In Florida where I reside, the legal minimum (with some important exceptions) is $7.79 and is inflation-adjusted annually.
Is the current national hoopla to “do something” about minimum wages another governmental mistake? Absolutely. Minimum wage laws lessen employment opportunities for workers (especially teens and low-skilled workers) and hurt some of the very individuals that they are allegedly designed to help…the working poor. Boosting the minimum wage substantially at the state or federal level would be a public policy mistake.
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Is the current national hoopla to “do something” about minimum wages another governmental mistake? Absolutely. Minimum wage laws lessen employment opportunities for workers (especially teens and low-skilled workers) and hurt some of the very individuals that they are allegedly designed to help…the working poor. Boosting the minimum wage substantially at the state or federal level would be a public policy mistake.
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Promoting Selfishness, Irresponsibility, And Immediate Gratification
Our fanatically Keynesian President Barack Obama believes that governments should spend money they don’t have and put the country into debt. So he is whining to Republicans to continue raising the debt ceiling so the federal government can continue on its wild spending spree.
And Obama has the nerve to say that the opposing Party’s not wanting to do the President’s bidding by irresponsibly raising the debt ceiling is “extorting” the President. He claims that it is extortion when some of the people’s representatives tell the Dear Leader to stop stealing from our grandchildren!
This Obama person is just as bad as the Bush that preceded him. And the power-grabbers of the Federal Reserve and the banksters are just as dishonest and irresponsible.
But they are merely reflecting the general population now, the selfish, impatient and id-oriented population of America.
And some people are speculating that Janet Yellen, Vice Chairman of the Fed’s Board of Governors, will be picked to be the next Chairman of the Federal Reserve System, replacing Ben Bernanke.
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And Obama has the nerve to say that the opposing Party’s not wanting to do the President’s bidding by irresponsibly raising the debt ceiling is “extorting” the President. He claims that it is extortion when some of the people’s representatives tell the Dear Leader to stop stealing from our grandchildren!
This Obama person is just as bad as the Bush that preceded him. And the power-grabbers of the Federal Reserve and the banksters are just as dishonest and irresponsible.
But they are merely reflecting the general population now, the selfish, impatient and id-oriented population of America.
And some people are speculating that Janet Yellen, Vice Chairman of the Fed’s Board of Governors, will be picked to be the next Chairman of the Federal Reserve System, replacing Ben Bernanke.
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Hearing Set For Next Week To Block Gun Control Law
The U.S. District Court hearing was ordered Friday, one day after opponents filed a lawsuit claiming the law was passed in "flagrant disregard" of Second Amendment rights.
U.S. District Court Judge Catherine Blake will hear arguments in a hearing scheduled for 11 a.m. on Tuesday.
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Obama Care Explained To The Simple Person
The following are 15 reasons why the Obamacare decision is a mind blowing disaster for America….
#1 According to the U.S. Supreme Court, the federal government has the power to force you to buy private goods and services. Now that this door has been opened, what else will we be forced to buy in the future?
#2 Obamacare is another step away from individual liberty and another step toward a “nanny state” where the government dominates our lives from the cradle to the grave.
#3 The IRS is now going to be given the task of hunting down and penalizing millions of Americans that do not have any health insurance. In fact, the Obama administration has given the IRS 500 million extra dollars “outside the normal appropriations process” to help them enforce the provisions of Obamacare that they are in charge of overseeing.
#4 Obamacare imposes more than 20 new taxes on the American people. You can find a comprehensive list of Obamacare taxes right here. If you love paying higher taxes, then you are going to absolutely love Obamacare once it is fully implemented.
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#1 According to the U.S. Supreme Court, the federal government has the power to force you to buy private goods and services. Now that this door has been opened, what else will we be forced to buy in the future?
#2 Obamacare is another step away from individual liberty and another step toward a “nanny state” where the government dominates our lives from the cradle to the grave.
#3 The IRS is now going to be given the task of hunting down and penalizing millions of Americans that do not have any health insurance. In fact, the Obama administration has given the IRS 500 million extra dollars “outside the normal appropriations process” to help them enforce the provisions of Obamacare that they are in charge of overseeing.
#4 Obamacare imposes more than 20 new taxes on the American people. You can find a comprehensive list of Obamacare taxes right here. If you love paying higher taxes, then you are going to absolutely love Obamacare once it is fully implemented.
More
Washington DC Navy Yard Shooting Linked To CID Investigation And Attempted Arrest Of Obama For Treason
Publishers Notes: Where do they come up with this stuff?
“In politics, nothing happens by accident. If it happens, you can bet it was planned that way.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt. U.S. civilian contractors and military police were targeted and killed by Obama in the Washington DC Navy Yard shooting. Why? Agents from the U.S. military’s Criminal Investigation Command (CID) had uncovered a plot to detonate a nuclear device in the heart of the nation’s capitol as part of an Obama government false flag. Officials from NCIS (United States Naval Criminal Investigative Service) and the U.S. Office of the Provost (both with field offices inside the Washington DC Navy Yard) had threatened to arrest Obama for planning to attacked Syria without Congressional approval following a planned nuclear detonation false flag in Washington DC. The Office of the Provost is on the second floor of Building 34, One First Avenue, Charlestown Navy Yard and NCIS is located at 716 SICARD STREET SE, SUITE 2000, WASHINGTON NAVY YARD, DC.
The United States Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) is the primary law enforcement agency of the United States Department of the Navy. It investigates activities concerning crimes against or by United States Navy and United States Marine Corps personnel, along with national security, counter-intelligence, and counter-terrorism cases. A false flag is the crime of treason – levying war against the United States. If United States Navy or United States Marine Corps personnel are involved in planning for and preparing a false flag event in Washington DC or anywhere else in the United States, NCIS and its agents (CIDAgents assigned to NCIS are normally dressed in appropriate civilian attire) are duty bound to investigate and take action to counter those terrorist acts against the United States.
Prior to the Washington DC Navy Yard shooting the Joint Chief of Staff and Provost Marshals were reportedly planning and preparing to arrest Obama for treason. For levying war against the United States after a planned false flag in Washington DC on the anniversary of 9/11 – a nuclear detonation.
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“In politics, nothing happens by accident. If it happens, you can bet it was planned that way.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt. U.S. civilian contractors and military police were targeted and killed by Obama in the Washington DC Navy Yard shooting. Why? Agents from the U.S. military’s Criminal Investigation Command (CID) had uncovered a plot to detonate a nuclear device in the heart of the nation’s capitol as part of an Obama government false flag. Officials from NCIS (United States Naval Criminal Investigative Service) and the U.S. Office of the Provost (both with field offices inside the Washington DC Navy Yard) had threatened to arrest Obama for planning to attacked Syria without Congressional approval following a planned nuclear detonation false flag in Washington DC. The Office of the Provost is on the second floor of Building 34, One First Avenue, Charlestown Navy Yard and NCIS is located at 716 SICARD STREET SE, SUITE 2000, WASHINGTON NAVY YARD, DC.
The United States Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) is the primary law enforcement agency of the United States Department of the Navy. It investigates activities concerning crimes against or by United States Navy and United States Marine Corps personnel, along with national security, counter-intelligence, and counter-terrorism cases. A false flag is the crime of treason – levying war against the United States. If United States Navy or United States Marine Corps personnel are involved in planning for and preparing a false flag event in Washington DC or anywhere else in the United States, NCIS and its agents (CIDAgents assigned to NCIS are normally dressed in appropriate civilian attire) are duty bound to investigate and take action to counter those terrorist acts against the United States.
Prior to the Washington DC Navy Yard shooting the Joint Chief of Staff and Provost Marshals were reportedly planning and preparing to arrest Obama for treason. For levying war against the United States after a planned false flag in Washington DC on the anniversary of 9/11 – a nuclear detonation.
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A Call For Photos Of Vietnam Veterans Lost In The War
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund has coordinated with local organizations and volunteers nationwide in a call for photographs and back stories of the servicemen and women who gave their lives in the Vietnam War. The photos and stories will be displayed at The Education Center at The Wall in Washington, D.C. VVMF is also calling on the generous support of Americans to help raise the funds to build this facility.
In 2003, legislation passed that authorized the construction of the Educational Center at The Wall by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund. Plans for the exhibitions at the center include the display of pictures and stories of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam, some of the 400,000 items left at The Wall and a celebration of American service from Bunker Hill to Baghdad.
Out of the 58,286 men and women who did not return from the Vietnam War there are still over 26,000 Vietnam veterans listed on The Wall who need corresponding photographs and stories. We are losing Vietnam veterans at an alarmingly fast rate. Each day we lose about 390 to illness and age. Their stories are in danger of being lost forever if we don't take action now to ensure they become a part of our collective national memory. Tens of thousands gave their lives during the many years of conflict and their names are etched into the black granite. But as they are on the memorial, they are more than names and so we must do our part to remember them.
The call for photos is part of the Faces Never Forgotten campaign, encouraging friends and families of veterans, as well as every citizen, to ensure that the memories and stories of those inscribed on The Wall are never forgotten. VVMF hopes to give every service member the honor of being fully remembered as a person and not just a name.
"To complete the mission and begin construction of the Education Center, we will continue to depend on the dedication and generosity of those individuals, organizations and communities that make it their goal to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice and contribute in their honor," says Jan C. Scruggs, President and Founder of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund. The cost of construction for the Education Center is $115 million, of which $26.9 million has been raised to date. Like the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Education Center at The Wall will be completely funded through private donations.
Contact: Bianca Bahary
Media line: 240-395-0225 x 107
Media Line Cell: 202-207-5931
email: biancab@zpr.com
Seymour Hersh: Bin Laden Raid “One Big Lie”
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Seymour Hersh says that the raid which killed Osama Bin Laden in 2011 is “one big lie” and that “not one word” of the Obama administration’s narrative on what happened is true.
In a wide-ranging interview published today by the Guardian, Hersh savages the US media for failing to challenge the White House on a whole host of issues, from NSA spying, to drone attacks, to aggression against Syria.
On the subject of the Navy Seal raid that supposedly resulted in the death of the Al-Qaeda terror leader, Hersh remarked, “Nothing’s been done about that story, it’s one big lie, not one word of it is true.”
Hersh added that the Obama administration habitually lies but they continue to do so because the press allows them to get away with it.
“It’s pathetic, they are more than obsequious, they are afraid to pick on this guy [Obama],” Hersh told the Guardian.
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In a wide-ranging interview published today by the Guardian, Hersh savages the US media for failing to challenge the White House on a whole host of issues, from NSA spying, to drone attacks, to aggression against Syria.
On the subject of the Navy Seal raid that supposedly resulted in the death of the Al-Qaeda terror leader, Hersh remarked, “Nothing’s been done about that story, it’s one big lie, not one word of it is true.”
Hersh added that the Obama administration habitually lies but they continue to do so because the press allows them to get away with it.
“It’s pathetic, they are more than obsequious, they are afraid to pick on this guy [Obama],” Hersh told the Guardian.
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Wicomico To Hold Hearing On Morris Mill Public Water Issue
SALISBURY – The Wicomico County Council voted this month to move the possibility of installing a public water supply in the Morris Mill area to address polluted water supply to a public hearing.
In 2012, Trichloroethylene (TCE) was detected in polluting well water of Morris Mill area residents. According to the Maryland Department of Environment (MDE), Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a clear liquid with a sweet odor. TCE is used as a solvent to remove grease from metals and in the production of other chemicals. It is also used in paints, varnishes, lacquers, paint removers, adhesives and other commercial and consumer products.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has concluded that long-term TCE exposure could pose risks to the nervous system, kidneys, liver, immune system, and male reproductive system. The EPA has also concluded that TCE exposure might pose risks to unborn babies, including birth defects.
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In 2012, Trichloroethylene (TCE) was detected in polluting well water of Morris Mill area residents. According to the Maryland Department of Environment (MDE), Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a clear liquid with a sweet odor. TCE is used as a solvent to remove grease from metals and in the production of other chemicals. It is also used in paints, varnishes, lacquers, paint removers, adhesives and other commercial and consumer products.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has concluded that long-term TCE exposure could pose risks to the nervous system, kidneys, liver, immune system, and male reproductive system. The EPA has also concluded that TCE exposure might pose risks to unborn babies, including birth defects.
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GOVERNOR O’MALLEY, NEW JERSEY GOVERNOR CHRISTIE, VIRGINIA GOVERNOR MCDONNELL SIGN LETTER OF SUPPORT FOR UNIVERSITIES’ COLLABORATION ON UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM TESTING
MOU strengthens Mid-Atlantic region’s potential to be selected as FAA test site
Annapolis, MD (September 27, 2013) – Governor Martin O’Malley today joined New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and Virginia Governor Robert McDonnell in submitting a letter supporting a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in which the University System of Maryland, Rutgers University and Virginia Tech University agreed to collaborate and partner on a Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) test site. The letter, sent to U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx and FAA Administrator Michael Huerta, highlighted the cooperative UAS research conducted by the three universities.
“With the potential to create more than 2,500 well-paying jobs in Maryland over the next 12 years, the Unmanned Aircraft Systems sector has the potential to have a significant positive economic impact on our state,” said Governor O’Malley. “This is an exciting agreement between three world-class educational institutions that takes advantage of the unparalleled capabilities in Maryland, New Jersey and Virginia for research, development and testing, and positions the Mid-Atlantic region as the ideal location for an Unmanned Aircraft Systems test site.”
In Maryland, the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) at Naval Air Station Patuxent River is recognized as the world’s leading center of UAS activity. At both the university level and among federal facilities, Maryland has been testing and developing UAS technology for more than two decades. Maryland’s UAS proposal, submitted to the FAA in May, includes the University System of Maryland campuses in College Park, Baltimore County and Eastern Shore, general aviation airports in Crisfield and St. Mary’s County, federal and industry partners and community organizations such as the Southern Maryland Navy Alliance, the Patuxent Partnership, and the Joint Atlantic and Chesapeake Range Collaborative.
“We are thankful to our entire Congressional delegation, especially Congressman Steny Hoyer, who worked diligently to grow this coalition, the universities for their spirit of cooperation, and to partner companies in each state whose support is testament to the potential of this initiative,” said Governor O’Malley.
“This memorandum of understanding between the University System of Maryland, Rutgers University, and Virginia Tech significantly strengthens our bid for one of six UAS test site designations chosen by the Federal Aviation Administration,” statedCongressman Hoyer. “With the presence of three outstanding higher education institutions; federal facilities, such as Pax River Naval Air Station and Webster Field; and strong industry partners, I’m optimistic that we are strongly positioned in the bidding process. I thank Governor O’Malley, Governor Christie, and Governor McDonnell, as well as our three universities, for partnering on this effort, which has the potential to spur private sector development through the commercialization of autonomous systems and boost job creation in our region.”
Under the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Congress authorized the FAA to develop a comprehensive plan to integrate UAS into the National Airspace System. In February 2013, the FAA opened the selection process for the six UAS Test Sites that will conduct research and testing of technologies to support the UAS integration.
“The partnership between the University System of Maryland and leading institutions in Virginia and New Jersey will help increase the safety, efficiency, reliability and security of our nation’s airspace,” Senator Barbara Mikulski said. “Because of Maryland’s incredible federal assets, dynamic private sector and academic institutions, Maryland is well-suited to work together with the FAA on the Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Through this Mid-Atlantic collaboration, we will enhance the safety of our nation’s airspace, while supporting Maryland’s economic security through jobs today and jobs tomorrow.”
“Maryland has the world-class facilities, supporting systems, and controlled airspace necessary to satisfy the stringent requirements needed to become an FAA test site for unmanned aircraft systems. I applaud the collaboration between the University System of Maryland, Rutgers University and Virginia Tech that will enable this cutting-edge project to move forward, improving the safety and efficiency of our national airspace network, and helping to create more than 2,500 jobs in Maryland,” said Senator Ben Cardin. “I am proud that Team Maryland has been able to facilitate this project at the federal level, bringing together diverse and innovative research teams who will balance new technology, national security and infrastructure needs, along with public policy and legal concerns.”
With the University of Maryland, College Park, taking the lead, Maryland applied to be selected by the FAA as one of six test sites for Unmanned Aircraft Systems. New Jersey and Virginia submitted a joint application as the Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership, under Virginia Tech. The three universities subsequently determined that the region’s competitive position is significantly enhanced as a multi-state entity which leverages the competitive strengths of each state. The universities have agreed to work as a united Joint Test Team in the event either or both teams are selected by the FAA as a Test Site for UAS.
Fifty applications across 37 states were submitted to the FAA through May 6, 2013, and 25 applicants remain. A decision is due December 31, 2013.
Annapolis, MD (September 27, 2013) – Governor Martin O’Malley today joined New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and Virginia Governor Robert McDonnell in submitting a letter supporting a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in which the University System of Maryland, Rutgers University and Virginia Tech University agreed to collaborate and partner on a Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) test site. The letter, sent to U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx and FAA Administrator Michael Huerta, highlighted the cooperative UAS research conducted by the three universities.
“With the potential to create more than 2,500 well-paying jobs in Maryland over the next 12 years, the Unmanned Aircraft Systems sector has the potential to have a significant positive economic impact on our state,” said Governor O’Malley. “This is an exciting agreement between three world-class educational institutions that takes advantage of the unparalleled capabilities in Maryland, New Jersey and Virginia for research, development and testing, and positions the Mid-Atlantic region as the ideal location for an Unmanned Aircraft Systems test site.”
In Maryland, the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) at Naval Air Station Patuxent River is recognized as the world’s leading center of UAS activity. At both the university level and among federal facilities, Maryland has been testing and developing UAS technology for more than two decades. Maryland’s UAS proposal, submitted to the FAA in May, includes the University System of Maryland campuses in College Park, Baltimore County and Eastern Shore, general aviation airports in Crisfield and St. Mary’s County, federal and industry partners and community organizations such as the Southern Maryland Navy Alliance, the Patuxent Partnership, and the Joint Atlantic and Chesapeake Range Collaborative.
“We are thankful to our entire Congressional delegation, especially Congressman Steny Hoyer, who worked diligently to grow this coalition, the universities for their spirit of cooperation, and to partner companies in each state whose support is testament to the potential of this initiative,” said Governor O’Malley.
“This memorandum of understanding between the University System of Maryland, Rutgers University, and Virginia Tech significantly strengthens our bid for one of six UAS test site designations chosen by the Federal Aviation Administration,” statedCongressman Hoyer. “With the presence of three outstanding higher education institutions; federal facilities, such as Pax River Naval Air Station and Webster Field; and strong industry partners, I’m optimistic that we are strongly positioned in the bidding process. I thank Governor O’Malley, Governor Christie, and Governor McDonnell, as well as our three universities, for partnering on this effort, which has the potential to spur private sector development through the commercialization of autonomous systems and boost job creation in our region.”
Under the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, Congress authorized the FAA to develop a comprehensive plan to integrate UAS into the National Airspace System. In February 2013, the FAA opened the selection process for the six UAS Test Sites that will conduct research and testing of technologies to support the UAS integration.
“The partnership between the University System of Maryland and leading institutions in Virginia and New Jersey will help increase the safety, efficiency, reliability and security of our nation’s airspace,” Senator Barbara Mikulski said. “Because of Maryland’s incredible federal assets, dynamic private sector and academic institutions, Maryland is well-suited to work together with the FAA on the Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Through this Mid-Atlantic collaboration, we will enhance the safety of our nation’s airspace, while supporting Maryland’s economic security through jobs today and jobs tomorrow.”
“Maryland has the world-class facilities, supporting systems, and controlled airspace necessary to satisfy the stringent requirements needed to become an FAA test site for unmanned aircraft systems. I applaud the collaboration between the University System of Maryland, Rutgers University and Virginia Tech that will enable this cutting-edge project to move forward, improving the safety and efficiency of our national airspace network, and helping to create more than 2,500 jobs in Maryland,” said Senator Ben Cardin. “I am proud that Team Maryland has been able to facilitate this project at the federal level, bringing together diverse and innovative research teams who will balance new technology, national security and infrastructure needs, along with public policy and legal concerns.”
With the University of Maryland, College Park, taking the lead, Maryland applied to be selected by the FAA as one of six test sites for Unmanned Aircraft Systems. New Jersey and Virginia submitted a joint application as the Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership, under Virginia Tech. The three universities subsequently determined that the region’s competitive position is significantly enhanced as a multi-state entity which leverages the competitive strengths of each state. The universities have agreed to work as a united Joint Test Team in the event either or both teams are selected by the FAA as a Test Site for UAS.
Fifty applications across 37 states were submitted to the FAA through May 6, 2013, and 25 applicants remain. A decision is due December 31, 2013.
Motion for Temporary Restraining Order Filed in SB 281
A motion TRO was filed in filed in federal court this morning in Federal Court. See below for the details
Please share with your friends and watch here for further developments.
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Please share with your friends and watch here for further developments.
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Allen Elected New Chair Of Greater Salisbury Committee
John Allen, vice president of Delmarva Power, was elected earlier this month as chair of the 46-year-old Greater Salisbury Committee (GSC) for a two-year term.
GSC is a not-for-profit civic improvement association covering parts of three states.
In addition, to holding several positions in GSC over several years, Allen has been very active on both the regional level and the local area, including service on the board of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, a graduate of Leadership Maryland, and active in Junior Achievement of the Eastern Shore, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and many other community groups.
Other new officers elected for two-year terms were Mat Tilghman, former president of Hanna Kremer, Tilghman Insurance Agency, as first vice chair; Ron Boltz, president of Alarm Engineering as second vice chair; and Walter Moore, president of APPI Energy, as secretary-treasurer.
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Elected to two-year terms on GSC’s Executive Committee were Mike Delano, president of The Country House; Brent Miller, owner of Sperry Van Ness Miller Commercial Real Estate; and Susan Wilgus-Murphy, president of Wilgus Nationwide Insurance, all of Salisbury. They will be joining the following persons who will be completing their second year on the Executive Committee: Katarina Ennerfeldt, president of the Toroid Corporation; Bill McCain, president of W. R. McCain & Associates; and John Stern, managing member of PKS Investment Services.
Completing their two-year terms as at-large members of the Executive Committee were Hunter Calloway of BB&T Banks; Jack Heath, now retired CEO of Lower Shore Enterprises; and Michael James, general manager of the Carousel Hotel and Resort Condominiums in Ocean City.
Greater Salisbury Committee is an organization of about 115 business CEOs or senior executives who devote their efforts to making the region a better place to live and work. GSC counts the establishment of Wor-Wic Community College, Salisbury Neighborhood Housing, and the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore as well as saving from closure both Salisbury University and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore among its historical triumphs. Recent and/or currently on-going projects include stopping the “brain drain” of our talented young people from the Shore by leadership in the development of the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport (MARS) at Wallops Island as a source of high-quality jobs for our talented youth.
GSC is a not-for-profit civic improvement association covering parts of three states.
In addition, to holding several positions in GSC over several years, Allen has been very active on both the regional level and the local area, including service on the board of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, a graduate of Leadership Maryland, and active in Junior Achievement of the Eastern Shore, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and many other community groups.
Other new officers elected for two-year terms were Mat Tilghman, former president of Hanna Kremer, Tilghman Insurance Agency, as first vice chair; Ron Boltz, president of Alarm Engineering as second vice chair; and Walter Moore, president of APPI Energy, as secretary-treasurer.
--more--
Elected to two-year terms on GSC’s Executive Committee were Mike Delano, president of The Country House; Brent Miller, owner of Sperry Van Ness Miller Commercial Real Estate; and Susan Wilgus-Murphy, president of Wilgus Nationwide Insurance, all of Salisbury. They will be joining the following persons who will be completing their second year on the Executive Committee: Katarina Ennerfeldt, president of the Toroid Corporation; Bill McCain, president of W. R. McCain & Associates; and John Stern, managing member of PKS Investment Services.
Completing their two-year terms as at-large members of the Executive Committee were Hunter Calloway of BB&T Banks; Jack Heath, now retired CEO of Lower Shore Enterprises; and Michael James, general manager of the Carousel Hotel and Resort Condominiums in Ocean City.
Greater Salisbury Committee is an organization of about 115 business CEOs or senior executives who devote their efforts to making the region a better place to live and work. GSC counts the establishment of Wor-Wic Community College, Salisbury Neighborhood Housing, and the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore as well as saving from closure both Salisbury University and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore among its historical triumphs. Recent and/or currently on-going projects include stopping the “brain drain” of our talented young people from the Shore by leadership in the development of the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport (MARS) at Wallops Island as a source of high-quality jobs for our talented youth.
Part 2. Viva Zapata
Skull and Bones
In 1945, with the end of the war, George H. W. “Poppy” Bush entered Yale University. The CIA recruited heavily at all of the Ivy League schools in those days, with the New Haven campus the standout. “Yale has always been the agency’s biggest feeder,” recalled CIA officer Osborne Day (class of’43), “In my Yale class alone there were thirty-five guys in the agency.” Bush’s father, Prescott, was on the university’s board, and the school was crawling with faculty serving as recruiters for the intelligence services . . . Yale’s society’s boys were the cream of the crop, and could keep secrets to boot. And no secret society was more suited to the spy establishment than Skull and Bones, for which Poppy Bush, like his father, was tapped in his junior year. Established in 1832, Skull and Bones is the oldest secret society at Yale, and thus at least theoretically entrusted its membership with a more comprehensive body of secrets than any other campus group. Bones alumni would appear throughout the public and private history of both wartime and peacetime intelligence . . .
When Bush entered Yale, the university was welcoming back countless veterans of the OSS to its faculty. Bush, with naval intelligence work already under his belt by the time he arrived at Yale, would have been seen as a particularly prime candidate for recruitment.
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In 1945, with the end of the war, George H. W. “Poppy” Bush entered Yale University. The CIA recruited heavily at all of the Ivy League schools in those days, with the New Haven campus the standout. “Yale has always been the agency’s biggest feeder,” recalled CIA officer Osborne Day (class of’43), “In my Yale class alone there were thirty-five guys in the agency.” Bush’s father, Prescott, was on the university’s board, and the school was crawling with faculty serving as recruiters for the intelligence services . . . Yale’s society’s boys were the cream of the crop, and could keep secrets to boot. And no secret society was more suited to the spy establishment than Skull and Bones, for which Poppy Bush, like his father, was tapped in his junior year. Established in 1832, Skull and Bones is the oldest secret society at Yale, and thus at least theoretically entrusted its membership with a more comprehensive body of secrets than any other campus group. Bones alumni would appear throughout the public and private history of both wartime and peacetime intelligence . . .
When Bush entered Yale, the university was welcoming back countless veterans of the OSS to its faculty. Bush, with naval intelligence work already under his belt by the time he arrived at Yale, would have been seen as a particularly prime candidate for recruitment.
More