Found Puppy 1-19-14

Found this puppy in the in Oakdale Rd in Newtown, around 11:00 am. She is clean and well cared for. We will hold her for a while. Can be reached at timwiski@gmail.com or cell 443-359-0953.

Be Here Bright And Early Tomorrow Morning

On Monday we will provide several early morning local articles. Be prepared to make comments, (perhaps even for the first time) because some will really shake things up in Salisbury. 

Fernando Guerrero Shared An Instagram Photo With You

Thank you Joe for supporting the toy and shoes giveaway at Brew River in Salisbury. I want to thank everybody for welcoming me home with such love. I'm not going to stop until I deliver my championship belt. Education and kids always comes first.

Publishers Notes: As we have traditionally done in the past, I will publish many more images of this event on Monday, (like we usually do after Fernando fights on a weekend). I will lead off however by telling you Fernando absolutely packed Brew River and it was standing room only that filled three rooms. More to come tomorrow...

STOP BULLYING RIGHT HERE ON THE SHORE

Tell Us What YOU Think About This BURY Stuff

LATE BREAKING NEWS - JC Penny To Close Salisbury Store - Centre of Salisbury Mall

JC Penny's announced today that it was closing 33 stores.  Among those that are slated to close is the Salisbury Maryland - Centre of Salisbury Mall location.

All 33 store locations are listed on the following link:
http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2014/01/15/jc-penney/4495963/

This does not bode well for Salisbury's employment picture as it is already experiencing an alarming rate of layoffs.  Last month - November - the US BLS reported that Wicomico County had 1,228 less in the workforce than it had the previous year.  Also, the unemployment rated spiked up for the second month in a row from 7.4% in September to 8.1% in October and 8.2% in November. 

Andy's Place Busted For Underage Drinking

There seems to be a curse on this business location, (the old Waterman's). Someone recently said they now have a Hispanic Night, usually a sign that a business is on their last leg.

Nevertheless, we're told an undercover, underage person was sent in to Andy's and was able to purchase alcohol. The waitress allegedly never asked for an ID, BUSTED. 

There were four other businesses that were BUSTED for serving underage patrons as well. 

On another note, Paul's Pizza, (next door) closed their doors recently as they are relocating across the street in the strip center. They are NOT closing for good. 

Obama Announces Plan To Rule By Executive Order

Local Protest Against Your Doc's In And Temco Builders Today

Mayor Ireton And Council President Jake Day Pull Another Fast One

To many, Jake Day and Jim Ireton have told many of the powers to be in Salisbury that the RFP for the Downtown Parking Lots is just exploratory. They say they're just trying to see IF there's any real interest.

Today, Salisbury News learned that there hasn't been one RFP proposal. In other words, there's allegedly no interest in someone buying any one of the several lots up for sale. That's what we have been told by a very reliable source.

HOWEVER, IF this is just exploratory, why has the Mayor and Council President already closed down two lots. That's right, they have already started to REFUSE any new parking permits. It gets better. They are also refusing EIGHT permits in another Lot where MOST of the Downtown Residents now park and purchase permits.

Why eight? Because they want to RESERVE eight spots for WMDT's vehicles while they're closing down other parking. Business owners are being told they MUST park in the Parking Garage. Some of these businesses are already screaming because many of their employees don't get off until late at night and they do NOT want them to go to that garage at that time of night. 

So now we're seeing the beginning of what WILL become a very serious issue. If the business owners are afraid of parking in the Garage, WHAT WILL THE PEOPLE VISITING DOWNTOWN DO? More than likely, they won't come Downtown, that's what will they'll do.

Now here's what I personally see out of the parking lot fiasco. Similar to Governor O'Malley wanting $12.00 to cross the Bay Bridge and then accepting a lower figure, this is the way Democrats roll and I think we're going to see the same thing in the end with the Parking Lots. I think they'll do some special interest favors with two or three lots and then come back and say we've heard your plea and we're going to reduce it down to just a few lots instead. 

Have you had enough yet? IF the RFP's are just exploratory, WHY have your leaders already started to refuse renewal permits for these parking lots. You do realize that even IF they had a contract TODAY on one of the lots, it would take more than a year just to get approval and permits to start building. It begs the question, what's up your sleeves Jim Ireton and Jake Day?

You'll want to look at the names on the Downtown Parking Commission as well. I believe one of them works at WMDT. 

Perdue Vs. Pennsylvania: BOYCOTT PERDUE!

LAWMAKERS INTRODUCE MEASURE TO LEGALIZE, TAX MARIJUANA IN MARYLAND

ANNAPOLIS – Some Democratic lawmakers want to make it legal for Maryland residents to possess, use and grow marijuana, which would be regulated and taxed like alcohol, they announced Thursday.

Sen. Jamie Raskin, D-Montgomery, and Del. Curt Anderson, D-Baltimore, said their proposed Marijuana Control Act of 2014 would take power out of the hands of drug dealers and channel revenue into public causes like school construction projects and drug and alcohol treatment programs.

“The vast majority of Marylanders have come to the realization that the current war on drugs is failing with respect to marijuana,” Raskin said.

The senator criticized the current laws banning the drug, saying that it drives up the cost of marijuana and enriches drug dealers and international organized crime in a way that could be avoided through government regulation.
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National Harbor is getting a 175-foot Ferris wheel

Prince George's County's National Harbor will soon add another attraction to its growing cadre of offerings: the Capital Wheel, a 175-foot Ferris wheel on a dock overlooking the Potomac River.

The wheel will have 42 climate-controlled gondolas which each seat eight people. Peterson Cos., the developer of National Harbor, will spend $15 million to build the wheel and expects between 600,000 and 800,000 people to ride the wheel per year. It's expected to open in May.

“The Capital Wheel will be a new icon for the National Capital region, a family-friendly yet sophisticated magnet for area residents, U.S. and global tourists alike,” Peterson Cos. Chairman Milt Peterson said in a statement. "The Capital Wheel will be a tremendous complement to the existing shopping, dining and lodging options at National Harbor and further drive visitation to Prince George’s County and the state of Maryland.”
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Delegate Rudy Cane Donates $6,000.00 To Hughes Campaign

This politician is so full of crap it isn't funny. I was tipped off about a headline story in the Daily Times this morning about how Rudy Cane actually donated $6,000.00 to Sharee Sample Hughes campaign.

He claimed that when he made the donation he was ill and didn't have plans to run again. Now he claims that a different Doctor informed him he would be healthy enough to POSSIBLY finish the race. In fact he said, “I hope I’ll be able to finish the primary and the general.”

Get this, Sheriff Mike Lewis, Matt Holloway, Norm Conway and NAACP President Mary Ashanti have ALL donated to her campaign as well. 

Like I said in the past, I'd bet just about anything that Rudy Cane will back out on the last day with the hope of discouraging ANYONE else filing for that Delegate seat. Will the trick work? 

What A Disgrace……….

The problem with public housing is that the residents are not the owners.
The people who live in the house did not earn the house, but were merely loaned the property by the actual owners, the taxpayers.  

Because of this, the residents do not have the "pride of ownership" that
comes with the hard work necessary to become owners.
In fact, quite the opposite happens. The residents resent their benefactors,
because the very house is a constant reminder that they themselves have not earned the right to live in the house.
They neither appreciate the value of the property nor understand the need to maintain or respect it in any way.
The result is the same, whether one is talking about either a studio apartment or a magnificent mansion full of priceless antiques.
If the people who live there do not feel they've earned the privilege of occupancy, they will make this obvious through their actions.
For example, see the following series of photographs:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The desk was built from the timbers of the H.M.S. Resolute and was a gift from Queen Victoria to President Rutherford B. Hayes; it is considered to be a national treasure and anicon of the presidency.

The White House belongs to the people of America.
Its treasures should NOT be used by ANYONE for a foot rest !!!

These photos, ongoing proof that this man has no class whatsoever, all show an innate disrespect not only for our White House, but also for the people with whom he associates.

Only an oaf remains seated, with his feet up on the desk, while another shakes his hand?

FROM THE PEOPLE OF AMERICA:
Mr. Obama, you're not in Chicago public housing.
You're in the White House , property of the people of the United States.
With all due respect, get your @#%*+#% feet off our furniture !!!  

Any Information On Repeated Delmarva Power Outages Today

Dear Joe,

Have you heard anything about the power outages from Delmarva Power today ranging from Beaver Run School in Wicomico County all down Old Ocean City Road through Pittsville?

Outages 10:01 this morning and then again at 12:58? All we are getting is a recording.

Any feedback would be welcome.

Harvey Weinstein And Meryl Streep New Movie To Make NRA ‘Wish They Weren’t Alive’

Movie producer Harvey Weinstein announced for the first time on Howard Stern’s radio show that he is making a full feature drama to try to destroy the National Rifle Association.

Mr. Stern asked Mr. Weinstein on Wednesday whether he owned a gun. The Hollywood heavyweight replied that he did not and never would. “I don’t think we need guns in this country. And I hate it,” the producer said. “I think the NRA is a disaster area.”

Mr. Weinstein then revealed his secret project about the gun rights group. “I shouldn’t say this, but I’ll tell it to you, Howard,” he said. “I’m going to make a movie with Meryl Streep, and we’re going to take this head-on. And they’re going to wish they weren’t alive after I’m done with them.”
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O'Malley, Brown Push For $10.10 An Hour Minimum Wage

Governor Martin O'Malley has said boosting the minimum wage is the top priority of this year's legislative session.

Tuesday night, O'Malley and Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown appeared at a rally with members of Raise Maryland, a group of union leaders, clergy and immigrant advocates that is pushing for the minimum wage.

Matthew Hanson, campaign director of Raise Maryland wants the minimum wage raised to $10.10 an hour, by 2016. It also wants the minimum wage tied to the federal inflation rate. It would also require that workers who earn tips be paid 70% of the minimum wage. Current law requires those workers be paid 50%.
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Ocean City Considering Adding ‘No Profanity’ Signs To Boardwalk

OCEAN CITY – City officials are currently exploring options, including looking to a neighboring resort for research, about new signage suggesting no profanity on the Boardwalk.

The idea of posting “no profanity signs” on the Boardwalk was brought before the Police Commission this week. Commission members thought it was a creative concept, but the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) would have no right in lawfully enforcing the signage, it was pointed out.

The signage was brought forward by a constituent of Council Secretary Mary Knight, who in turn passed the concept forward to the Police Commission.

The signs have been spotted on Virginia Beach’s Boardwalk and nearby locations, and Knight has been in contact with the Virginia Beach City Manager’s Office to gather feedback.
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The Daily Time Surprises Customers With A 25% Increase Today

Joe. 

I received my daily times bill and found they have gone up to $21.73 for home delivery.. This is almost a 25% increase. No notice to customers.. Have cancelled it as of this AM.

Is Mayor Jim In Over His Head And Drowning On Campaign Promises?

Perhaps jumping the gun and not realizing the severity of the health of the Wicomico River, Jim Ireton promised citizens he would make the Wicomico River swim able in 10 years. Perhaps he never thought he'd see a second term, I don't know.

What I do know is that the health of the Wicomico River is nowhere near clean enough after 5 of those years to actually start believing another Liberal Lie. 

While the Salisbury Waste Water Treatment Plant continues to pollute the Wicomico River and we provide FACTUAL information proving Salisbury is at the very top polluter in the entire State of Maryland, I highly doubt Mayor Ireton will be able to put those swimming trunks back on, (with exception to Rehoboth) in Salisbury. 

Jackson: Gun Owner Unarmed, Unwelcome In Maryland

HUDSON – John Filippidis, silver-haired family man, business owner, employer and taxpayer, is also licensed to carry a concealed firearm.

He’d rather he didn’t feel the need, “but things aren’t like they used to be. The break-ins, the burglaries, all the crime. And I carry cash a lot of the time. I’m constantly going to the bank.

“I wanted to be able to defend my family, my household and the ground I’m standing on. But I’m not looking for any trouble.”

Filippidis keeps his gun — a palm-sized Kel-Tec .38 semiautomatic, barely larger than a smartphone in a protective case — in one of two places, always: in the right-hand pocket of his jeans, or in the safe at home.

“There are kids in the house,” Filippidis says, “and I don’t think they’d ever bother with it, but I don’t want to take any chances.”

He’s not looking for any trouble, after all.

Trouble, in fact, was the last thing on his mind a few weeks back as the Filippidises packed for Christmas and a family wedding in Woodridge, N.J., so he left the pistol locked in the safe. The state of Florida might have codified his Second Amendment rights, but he knew he’d be passing through states where recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions affirming the rights of individuals to keep and bear arms have been met by hostile legislatures and local officials.

“I know the laws and I know the rules,” Filippidis says. There are, after all, ways gun owners can travel legally with firearms through hostile states. “But I just think it’s a better idea to leave it home.”

So there the Filippidises were on New Year’s Eve eve, southbound on Interstate 95 — John; wife Kally (his Gulf High sweetheart); the 17-year-old twins Nasia and Yianni; and 13-year-old Gina in their 2012 Ford Expedition — just barely out of the Fort McHenry Tunnel into Maryland, blissfully unarmed and minding their own business when they noticed they were being bird-dogged by an unmarked patrol car. It flanked them a while, then pulled ahead of them, then fell in behind them.

“Ten minutes he’s behind us,” John says. “We weren’t speeding. In fact, lots of other cars were whizzing past.”

“You know you have a police car behind you, you don’t speed, right?” Kally adds.

Says John, “We keep wondering, is he going to do something?”

Finally the patrol car’s emergency lights come on, and it’s almost a relief. Whatever was going on, they’d be able to get it over with now. The officer — from the Transportation Authority Police, as it turns out, Maryland’s version of the New York-New Jersey Port Authority — strolls up, does the license and registration bit, and returns to his car.

According to Kally and John (but not MTAP, which, pending investigation, could not comment), what happened next went like this:

Ten minutes later he’s back, and he wants John out of the Expedition. Retreating to the space between the SUV and the unmarked car, the officer orders John to hook his thumbs behind his back and spread his feet. “You own a gun,” the officer says. “Where is it?”

“At home in my safe,” John answers.

“Don’t move,” says the officer.

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Sometimes You Just Have To Give The Competition Props

Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Mayor Ireton And Council President Jake Day Pull A...":

Just watched Wboc. They interviewed a resident of the Fitzwater community. She doesn't think something like that goes well there because of break ins. LOL Then Mayor Ireton went on to say the the property across from brew river is finally under contract. I wish someone could tell me where all these people are coming from that will open the businesses & rent the housing? Wouldnt that be 4 or 5 of the same style mixed use buildings? Also, I had heard that the Gillis bought that property across from Brew. You think they are buying the parking lots too?? There is something going on, but if it is the Gillis family who buys all of this up I cant blame them one bit. I think we all wish to have the inside information. Good for them. Should be interesting.

Publishers Notes: WBOC deserves a LOT of credit for this interview with Ireton. They talked about crime and challenged the Mayor. They even said, there's plenty of affordable housing in this area, why do we need more. I'm paraphrasing but you get the just of it. Even the local media is tired of Ireton's rainbow pipe dreams. They're seeing evidence of the failing condition from overflows at the WWTP and the poor health of the river. They're seeing crime being UP, not down. More importantly, (I think) the local media is seeing the reality of all the traffic we get on SBYNews and IF they don't get on the ball they're going to fail.

That being said, my hat is tipped to WBOC tonight for delivering PROFESSIONAL journalism. It's very refreshing.

JUST IN: Accomack Arson Suspect Tonya Bundick Changes Plea To Guilty

The woman charged with arson on the Eastern Shore pleaded guilty Tuesday to two charges.

She entered an Alford plea, in which a defendant acknowledges there was sufficient evidence for conviction but does not admit the underlying allegations.

The plea came on the second day of Tonya S. Bundick's jury trial of arson and conspiracy to commit arson in connection with a fire in April in Melfa, after all the evidence was presented but before jury deliberations began.

She faces a maximum of 20 years in prison and $5,000 in fines. No sentencing date was set.
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JUST IN: Deputies Search Justin Bieber's House In Egg-Throwing Probe

Los Angeles (CNN) -- The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department carried out a felony search warrant Tuesday at Justin Bieber's California mansion in a vandalism probe.

The search warrant stems from allegations of an egg attack on a neighbor of Bieber's last week, a sheriff's department spokesman said.

Spokesman Steve Whitmore would not disclose how many cars were sent to the Calabasas, California, house or what they were hoping to find at the residence.

Investigators called a news conference Tuesday to discuss the search.
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SFD Calls For Service 1-13-14

• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 17:21:49Nature: Difficulty BreathingCity: Salisbury
• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 16:54:15Nature: InjuryCity: Salisbury
• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 15:48:05Nature: Smoke InvestigationAddress: N Schumaker Dr and hinman Ln Salisbury, MD 21802
• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 15:15:04Nature: Pi AccidentCity: Salisbury
• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 13:07:31Nature: Heart PatientCity: Salisbury
• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 13:00:46Nature: Assault EmsCity: Salisbury
• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 12:24:13Nature: Stand ByAddress: 1100 Beaglin Park Dr Salisbury, MD 21801
• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 12:02:44Nature: Structure FireAddress: 521 Alabama Ave Salisbury, MD 21801
• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 12:02:43Nature: Structure FireCity: Salisbury
• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 12:02:41Nature: Structure FireAddress: 521 Alabama Ave Salisbury, MD 21801
• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 10:13:01Nature: Difficulty BreathingCity: Salisbury
• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 07:03:48Nature: Chest PainCity: Salisbury
• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 06:47:07Nature: HemorrhagingCity: Salisbury
• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 06:25:10Nature: Subject FallenCity: Salisbury
• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 03:07:55Nature: Psychiatric EmergencyCity: Salisbury
• Monday January, 13 2014 @ 02:37:23Nature: Psychiatric EmergencyCity: Salisbury

Wicomico County Teachers Question Redspeed Camera Accuracy

WBOC is reporting that seventeen teachers at a Wicomico County school have complained that they received tickets from a speed camera located outside the school where they work, but they believe the speeds on the citations are impossible.

"It hit me at 39 miles per hour, right here," noted Jeremy Michalski, pointing to a ticket he received after a speed camera caught him just after pulling out of the school's parking lot onto Morris Street.
He doesn't see how that speed would even be possible.
"At 2:45, there's school dismissal, so there's parents lined up to pick up their kids, there's kids walking all over the street," he noted. "Every time I drive by that car, which we all know it's there, I look down at my speedometer and I'm going 22 miles per hour to 25."
And he is not alone.

"I got a ticket the beginning of last month," explained Michalski's coworker, Laura Becker. "It said I was going 40 miles per hour and I have a mom-mobile, and I just don't think it's possible for me to exit this parking lot and get up to that speed in that short amount of time."The camera is run by the Wicomico County Sheriff's office and their vendor, RedSpeed. Both the Sheriff's office and Redspeed assured the public that the cameras are accurate because the devices are calibrated regularly.

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Obama Plot: Black Out '40% Of U.S. Power Supply'

In 2008, President Obama said he would “bankrupt” coal plant owners and force energy prices across the U.S. to “skyrocket” as part of his plan to combat global warming – and now a new EPA rule on power plant emissions promises to do just that, slashing as much as 40 percent of the nation’s power supply and possibly even doubling Americans’ energy bills.

“So if somebody wants to build a coal-powered plant, they can; it’s just that it will bankrupt them, because they’re going to be charged a huge sum for all that greenhouse gas that’s being emitted” Obama told the San Francisco Chronicle editorial board in January 2008.

He added, “Under my plan of a cap-and-trade system, electricity rates would necessarily skyrocket. Even regardless of what I say about whether coal is good or bad. Because I’m capping greenhouse gases, coal power plants, you know, natural gas, you name it — whatever the plants were, whatever the industry was, they would have to, uh, retrofit their operations. That will cost money. They will pass that money on to consumers.”
Read more

Has Sheriff Lewis & Rick Pollitt's Pay Increase Opened A Hornets Nest?

As clearly noted above, the one day a week job is now requesting an almost 50% pay increase and the County Executive Rick Pollitt, (related to Melissa Pollitt Bright, above) has asked the County Council to sign off in support of this request.

Ladies & Gentlemen, there's a LOT of additional information 99.9% of you are not aware of. Take for example the Parole & Probation Department in Wicomico County. This is a department that is so understaffed it isn't funny. Right now their case load has increased around 300% per Officer. They haven't seen a decent raise in many, many years. They saw a 3% cost of living increase but union dues ate that up and then some. 

More importantly, we're watching Wicomico County lose jobs on an average of 1,200 a MONTH. The letter above states they feel this increase will bring them in line with other Counties with similar budgets. With all due respect, are THEY losing 1,200 jobs a month? Is their foreclosure rate through the roof? 

They say "there's a time and a place". Is this really the time and place? Many are severely suffering and we're seeing our County Executive ramrod salary increases like there's no tomorrow, including HIS job as well as the County Council. 

It's time for some new leadership in Wicomico County. Rather than it being about performance it's all about pay increases for certain people and not the rest.

I've been told we better watch out for the FOP once, (and if) Sheriff Lewis gets a pay increase because they'll be next. If you've ever wondered what some mean by using the phrase BIG GOVERNMENT, well, here it is Folks. The TAXPAYERS are struggling while the government enjoys incredible pay raises on a local level.  

In closing it should be noted that Delegate Norm Conway has been made well aware of the dire situation with Parole & Probation and has done NOTHING to help that department. 

A Celebration Of “Getting Started” On Rivers Edge Apartments And Studio For The Arts

Rivers Edge Project

A celebration of “Getting Started” on Rivers Edge Apartments and Studio for the Arts on Tuesday January 14, 2014 at 12 Noon.

Please join us and attend the gathering to celebrate the project start of Rivers Edge Apartments and Studio for the Arts.

Tuesday January 14, 2014 at 12 Noon

Itinerary

Gather at 12 Noon at Rivers Edge

Ceremony at 12:15

Rivers Edge Address: 670 Fitzwater Street, Salisbury, MD 21801

Please park on Fitzwater Street, in the parking lot by the Marina or in the Brew River lot.

A Response From Delegate Mike McDermott To Today's Daily Times Editorial

Give Credit Where Credit Is Due

by Delegate Mike McDermott

It is important to tell the truth.

Today in the Daily Times, Senator Jim Mathias makes it appear that he and Delegate Norm Conway are the only ones in the Eastern Shore Delegation looking out for our farmers. Nothing could be further from the truth.

When the new regulations were getting pushed out early last year, were it not for the quick actions of Senator Colburn, the Phosphorus Management Tool (PMT) would have been implemented months ago. It was Senator Colburn, as a member of the AELR Committee, who demanded a hearing in the fall that stalled the regulations long enough to get everyone’s attention.

Everyone on the delegation wanted to get together to fight the administration’s efforts. With this in mind, Delegate Conway set up a meeting for the delegation with Secretary of Agriculture Buddy Hance and his staff along with Dr. Joshua McGrath (the research scientist working on the PMT). This critical first meeting was held in Annapolis on October 17th at 2pm in the Appropriations Conference Room. These are the elected folks who were there:

Senator Coburn, Senator Hershey, Delegate Conway, Delegate Otto, Delegate McDermott

We learned a lot at this meeting. It was the most candid meeting we would have with the Secretary and Dr. McGrath as we all sought to resolve the issues surrounding the PMT implementation.

As more became known about the regulations following this meeting, another was scheduled by Delegate Conway in Wicomico County so other local elected officials and members of the poultry industry and supporting agriculture interests could hear the same information we heard at the Annapolis meeting. Secretary Hance was there along with some support staff to answer questions.

A follow up meeting was held a few days later, and the Delmarva Poultry Industry Inc.(DPI) was asked to craft a response to the PMT regulations that included recommendations from the industry. DPI formatted a response which was to be delivered to Sec. Hance. Although there was some confusion with the original signature page of the document, the letter delivered to Sec. Hance on November 25 contained most of the signatures of the Eastern Shore Delegation.

There was a November 25th meeting scheduled by Secretary Hance at the Department of Agriculture. This meeting was much more discreet. While the meeting was to discuss the department’s response to the DPI letter/recommendations, not one Republican was invited to this meeting. The only two invited to attend were Senator Mathias and Delegate Conway.

I called Sec. Hance on Friday, November 22nd, once I learned about this meeting. I asked him if it was only open to elected democrats. The Secretary then invited me to attend along with any other concerned member of the delegation. I called Senator Colburn, Senator Hershey, Delegate Haddaway-Riccio, Delegate Eckhart, and Delegate Otto. All were unaware of this meeting. I was disgusted, but not surprised.

I, along with Senator Colburn, Senator Hershey, and Delegate Otto attended the meeting. I’m sure this came as a surprise to our democrat colleagues. The meeting showed how dug in on the issue the O’Malley administration has become; and it was made quite clear that the PMT would be implemented before this governor left office.

To sum it all up, these types of legislative issues are not partisan. The response and conduct of a senator from the Eastern Shore should reflect these sentiments. This would be the conduct of a leader. I noticed in Senator Colburn’s editorial in today’s Daily Times that he mentions the efforts of the entire delegation, even though he could rightly claim that his actions slowed the train and allowed all of us to pull together.

Contrast those statements with the ones made by Senator Mathias. He takes full credit for the response to the PMT regulations and wraps his arm around Delegate Conway for good measure. No other person is mentioned. This is not the conduct of a leader; however, it does fit the description of a “politician”.

I tell you, the fight against these types of regulations is truly being carried out by our agriculture community and, in particular, those associated with the poultry and grain industries. They provide the insight and the encouragement that keeps all of us fighting against the tide. I could name a few that really came through on the PMT, but they are not the kind of folks who want a shout out under these circumstances. They just want this madness to stop, or at least slow down.

We need real leaders in all levels of government. We all grew up with those kids crying out, “Look at me! Look at me!” I did not like it much then, and I have little tolerance for it today.

Retired Tampa Police Captain Suspect In Deadly Pasco Theater Shooting

The Pasco County Sheriff's Office reports that the suspect in a deadly shooting Monday at the Cobb Grove 16 Theater in Wesley Chapel is a retired Tampa Police captain.

Sheriff Chris Nocco said that Curtis Reeves,71, was arrested and charged with second-degree homicide.

Investigators are calling the shooting an isolated incident.

They say two couples were at the theater watching previews for the movie the "Lone Survivor" when the shooting occurred. Reeves and his wife got into an argument with another couple who were sitting in front of them. The couple seated in front of him, Nichole and Chad Oulson were texting and Reeves asked him to stop several times.
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MARYLAND HAS ONE OF THE HIGHEST RATES OF MARIJUANA POSSESSION ARRESTS

WASHINGTON – Maryland is a state with a serious marijuana arrest problem, according to the FBI’s 2011 annual Uniform Crime Report.

With 22,043 arrests for marijuana possession producing an arrest rate of 378 people per 100,000, Maryland ranked among the top five in marijuana possession arrests according to the most recent data available. This is not new for the Free State.

Since 2007, Maryland has been in the top five states in marijuana possession arrest rate.

“I have no idea why these numbers are so high,” said state Sen. Bobby Zirkin, D-Baltimore County, who is an advocate for marijuana decriminalization in Maryland. “The numbers are shocking and staggering.”
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JOHN T. CANNON SEEKS BID FOR WICOMICO COUNTY COUNCIL AT-LARGE

John T. Cannon announces his candidacy for Wicomico County Council At-Large. An Eastern Shore native, he is a graduate of Salisbury University and owner of Cannon Management & Rentals, LLC, a residential and commercial property management company.

He has always taken a very active role in his community while working with civic, business and governmental leaders - locally and throughout the State. Cannon’s history includes the following:

Nutter’s Crossing Homeowners Association - President
Salisbury Jaycees - President
Salvation Army and Optimist Little League - Coach & Manager
Epilepsy Association of the Eastern Shore - Executive Board Member
Wicomico County Recreation & Parks Commission - Board Member
Governors Executive Advisory Committee - Chair
Wicomico County Charter Review Committee - Vice Chair
Wicomico County Republican Club - Past Board Member
Wicomico County Republican Central Committee - Representative
Wicomico County Council (at Large Representative) – President
PAC 14 - Board Member (Current)
Chamber of Commerce - Vice-President (Current)

A key campaign message is to ensure that Wicomico County continues to promote a pro-business environment. Cannon states, “Our focus and attention needs to be centered on promoting commerce and job growth. We need a multifaceted approach such as enhancement of educational opportunities, public safety and business incentives; while limiting regulations and taxation.”

Cannon is a strong advocate of fiscal responsibility. “Wicomico County has demonstrated a strong resolve in maintaining a conservative fiscal policy in the face of pressures from the recent recession. Likewise, financial pressures have been exacerbated by the State’s attempt to balance its budget on the backs of local governments, counties and municipalities. Wicomico County needs to continue to work with the State of Maryland, our local legislators and other counties in Maryland to preserve the autonomy of local government. More specifically, Wicomico County needs to advocate for restoration our local highway user funds, limited oversight of our land use plans in the agricultural areas, and limited regulatory measures in our agricultural/poultry industry. We need to develop and promote a healthy, pro-business environment with a realistic solution in support of commerce, education and public safety.”

Cannon sums up his philosophy as such, “You have to approach every issue, with an even temperament, a willingness to listen and the integrity to follow through with conviction. I will offer open and honest leadership to build consensus when possible and stand our ground when necessary. I’m prepared to meet the challenges ahead and look forward to the opportunity to serve the citizens of Wicomico County.”

Contact: (C) 410 251-3282

Email: cannon4wicomico@gmail.com.

Friends of John Cannon - By Authority David Ennis, Treasurer

WCSO Press Release 1-13-14

Press Releases 1/13/2014

Incident: Assault

Date of Incident: 11 January 2014

Location: 8700 block of Bi-State Blvd., Delmar, MD

Suspect: Jenna Nicole Travis, 21, Delmar, MD

                                 

Narrative: On 11 January 2014 at 7:25 AM, a deputy responded for a reported altercation at a residence in the 8700 block of Bi-State Blvd. in Delmar. Upon arrival, the deputy met with a male subject who advised that he was embroiled in an argument with his girlfriend, Jenna Travis that turned physical when she threw a plate at him. According to the victim, the plate struck him in the face. During the investigation, the deputy observed signs of injury to the victim along with a broken plate.

The deputy placed Travis under arrest for the assault and discovered that she was in possession of what was recognized as marijuana. Upon transport to the Central Booking Unit, Travis was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner detained Travis on a bond of $20,000.00.

Charges: Assault 2nd Degree and Possession of Marijuana

Travis, Jenna

Incident: Disorderly / Trespass

Date of Incident: 12 January 2014

Location: 900 block of West Road, Salisbury, MD

Suspect: Eartha Lee Conway, 57, Salisbury, MD

                                 

Narrative: On 12 January 2014 at 11:50 AM, a deputy responded to the Price Check in the 900 block of West Road for the report of a disorderly subject clad in a nightgown. Upon arrival, the deputy found the subject, Eartha Conway, as described and learned that she had refused to leave the store upon request of management. Conway screamed at the deputy that she was owed store credit and she was not leaving. The deputy was aware that Conway had previously been informed by the store management that she was not welcome in the store.

The deputy placed Conway under arrest at which point she went into a profanity laced tirade against the deputy. All of this was in full view of store patrons and those passing by on the street.

The deputy transported Conway to the Central Booking Unit where she was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. Conway is being held without bond pending an initial court appearance.

Charges: Disorderly Conduct and Trespassing

Conway, Eartha

Incident: Disorderly / Trespass

Date of Incident: 12 January 2014

Location: 5485 Airport Terminal Road

Suspect: Darnell Calvin Richards, 30, Brooklyn. NY

                                 

Narrative: On 12 January 2014 at 10:30 PM, a deputy responded to a reported disturbance at the Salisbury-Ocean City/ Wicomico Regional Airport. Upon arrival, the deputy learned a subject, later identified as Darnel Richards of New York was creating a disturbance at the airport. Richards was attempting to locate transportation back to New York but did not have any money with him. Richards left the airport upon request and was told not to return.

Shortly after leaving, Richards returned to the airport and made his way through the passenger gate onto the tarmac where he attempted to approach a commercial flight that was in the process of unloading passengers.

Richards was placed under arrest but he became uncooperative with the deputies and at one point during the arrest process he became physically combative.

Richards was transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner detained Richards on a bond of $5,000.00.

Charges: Disorderly Conduct, Trespassing and Resisting Arrest

Richards, Darnel

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Releasing Authority: Lt. Tim Robinson        Date: 13 January 2014

Maryland Ranked #3 In Housing Foreclosures

Maryland:  1 in every 516 Housing units received a foreclosure filing.  Locally - in Wicomico County we all have personally witnessed that foreclosures are up as many of our neighborhoods are full of abandoned homes.
Maryland is ranked the third highest in the nation for foreclosures per housing units.  There are only two States that exceed this number - Florida #1, and Nevada #2. 

Nationally, that number is 1 - in every 978 Housing units.  The national average for a residential foreclosure is $110,100.

The tax assessment offices in Maryland will not allow the foreclosure transactions to be used in the algorithms for computing real property assessments.  However, one has to wonder with so many foreclosures as to why that law shouldn't be changed.  The current law deems foreclosure sales as not being considered 'Arms Length Sales'.  That standard ought to be changed ASAP as foreclosure sales are an integral part in determining the 'real property' values.  By not allowing foreclosure sales to be integrated into property evaluations - this skews the real property evaluations by inflating everyone else's property throughout the state.

We encourage all of our readers to contact their State legislative officials to try and remedy a change.  For those who running for prospective offices - this is the time to bring this issue to the forefront.

O'Malley Calls For $10 Minimum Wage In Maryland

WASHINGTON - Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley is calling for an increase in the state's minimum wage to at least $10 per hour. 

In an interview Sunday with CNN's "State of the Union", O'Malley said that if the minimum wage had only kept pace with inflation since 1968, it would be a little more than $10 per hour now. He says it would be $20 per hour if the wage had kept pace with productivity.
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Field Notes: Observations And Reflections On Legislative Activities

By Delegate Mike McDermott

Week 1: Jan. 7-10, 2014

Tuesday-Joint Republican Caucus Hearing

Republican Senators and Delegates heard overviews on several of the issues that we will need to address in the coming months. We heard from Travis Brown, the author of“How Money Walks”. He provided insight into how money and people are moving from state to state. Maryland is one of the states that are losing people and money at an alarming rate.

Al Redmer provided information on the problems associated with Maryland-Obamacareroll out and other issues that are causing folks to be without health insurance or unable to afford what is being offered. The situation in Maryland is a real mess and there is talk of closing down the program and turning people over to the federal government program which only further confuses folks.

Lindsey Burke of the Heritage Foundation and Dr. Jack Smith from the Maryland Dept. of Education presented two differing sides on the Common Core rollout in our schools. This change of standards has caused quite a stir and left many with unanswered questions. I questioned Dr. Smith on a couple of items: Why was the program not phased in beginning with First Grade instead of requiring wholesale change even for those preparing to graduate? Why would Maryland (which lauds being “First” in the country in education) choose to move away from local controls which have been so effective in the past? Why should we adopt a program that gives partial credit on tests for wrong answers?

Dr. Smith’s answers: He does not know why the program was not phased in…this is the way it was presented (i.e.…if Maryland liberals want the money they have to dance for their supper). He feels adopting the new standards will keep us progressive in our education. Perhaps most interesting was his response to the kids receiving partial credit for wrong answers: He believes it is acceptable to give credit where a student has tried and showed some work product even if the final outcome was in error. To which I replied: “Doc, I do not want to drive over a Bay Bridge built by an engineer who got partial credit for a wrong math answer…how about you?”

We received an update from MACO President Rick Pollitt (Wicomico Executive) on Local and Regional Transportation Funding. Local governments continue to feel the pain of missing Transportation Funds that the state has failed to restore. Pollitt advised us how the group was looking for greater flexibility in local taxing authority as one means of covering these lost revenue. We agreed that the local tax burden for many counties was already maxed out and the citizens could not afford another back door tax to replace taxes they already pay for road projects. It is a grim picture, and, as I have stated many times, it represents a new normal for local government when it comes to returns of tax money from the state so long as these same folks are running the General Assembly and the Governor’s Mansion.

Congressman Andy Harris provided an update on federal activities and responded to several questions that were asked. Many focused on Obamacare and federal spending.

Wednesday-Opening of 2014 Session:

Opening Day begins at noon and is generally scripted ceremony along the lines of a spaghetti western. This year was slightly modified since the Republican Caucus decided to nominate Minority Leader Nick Kipke for Speaker of the House. Of course, the nomination was defeated on a voice vote. Following a scripted process, Busch was elected to continue as the Speaker of the House. No one could recall the last time the minority party nominated one of their own for the Speaker’s position.

Here is a list of my pre filed bills. Some have already been assigned hearing dates in January.

A curious side note occurred: Mayor Carl Anderton of Delmar, who is also the President of the Maryland Municipal League, was in attendance along with folks like Executive Rick Pollitt, who is President of the Maryland Association of Counties. It is common for elected guests such as Pollitt and Anderton to be allowed a special seat on the floor of the House during the Opening Day ceremonies. While Executive Pollitt had a seat, Anderton was told there was no seat available for him on the floor. There were well over 10-seats available. It made many of us ponder if there was any connection between this slight and the Mayor’s candidacy for the Delegate seat currently held by Norm Conway. If so, it would be an incredibly petty act on the part of leadership.

Thursday Morning Session:

No much to report. Some bills were on First Reader and assigned to committees.

Special Republican Caucus Meeting:

A meeting was called on Thursday morning to discuss the Democrat leadership plan to potentially expel Delegate Don Dwyer (R-Anne Arrundel) from the House. Dwyer explained the situation (Boating Accident/Subsequent DWI), apologized for his actions, and detailed his reclamation actions. He indicated his acceptance of the punishment outlined for him which included his expulsion from the Ways and Means Committee.

Delegate Dwyer is not the first member to ever have issues arise from drinking and driving and subsequent legal battles. There are some prominent members of the Democratic side of the House who have faced similar situations in the past.

Friday Morning Session:

Other than a few bills on First Reader, the only other action was the removal of Delegate Dwyer from his committee assignment while maintaining full House privileges. Dwyer took to the floor and apologized to the body bringing the wrong kind of attention to the House of Delegates. He also indicated his willingness to accept the actions taken by the House leadership and his committee removal. He asked for forgiveness from the membership. There were no further comments or actions requested or taken by the members.

SFD Calls For Service 1-18-14

• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 21:50:43Nature: Psychiatric EmergencyCity: Salisbury
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 21:35:15Nature: Allergic ReactionCity: Salisbury
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 21:27:31Nature: Structure FireAddress: 500 Chelsea Ct Salisbury, MD 21801
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 21:27:29Nature: Structure FireCity: Salisbury
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 21:27:27Nature: Structure FireAddress: 500 Chelsea Ct Salisbury, MD 21801
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 20:58:10Nature: OverdoseCity: Salisbury
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 20:09:09Nature: Subject FallenCity: Salisbury
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 20:07:48Nature: Assault EmsCity: Salisbury
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 19:46:47Nature: InjuryCity: Salisbury
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 19:37:09Nature: Pi AccidentAddress: Dover St and N Salisbury Bv Salisbury, MD 21802
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 19:29:46Nature: Pi AccidentCity: Salisbury
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 18:50:59Nature: Subject FallenCity: Salisbury
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 16:41:53Nature: Chest PainCity: Salisbury
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 15:21:01Nature: Automatic AlarmAddress: 215 Linwood Ave Salisbury, MD 21801
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 13:56:37Nature: Non BreathingCity: Salisbury
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 12:29:46Nature: Sick SubjectCity: Salisbury
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 08:20:48Nature: Abdominal PainCity: Salisbury
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 08:02:38Nature: Chest PainCity: Salisbury
• Saturday January, 18 2014 @ 04:19:23Nature: Sick SubjectCity: Salisbury

School Discipline Racialized

The Obama administration is no stranger to trying to micromanage complex, intractable problems from Washington. But using the Civil Rights Act to direct schools’ disciplinary practices might be its most foolhardy idea yet. Beginning in 2010, the Department of Education, led by the occasionally sensible Arne Duncan, announced that it intended to pursue vigorously civil-rights violations in the American school system. That’s led to a number of DOE investigations of various school districts with racially disparate discipline rates.

This, of course, is not surprising: Black and Hispanic students are much more likely to be low achievers, coming from poor homes, often headed by a single parent. The discipline disparities produced by these tragic circumstances are so widespread that the Departments of Justice and Education have now issued a set of national guidelines for school discipline, summarizing “schools’ obligations to avoid and redress racial discrimination in the administration of school discipline” and explaining the departments’ ability to launch civil-rights investigations if they believe schools have failed in their duties.

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