Something is looming in the shadows that could help erode our basic rights and contaminate our food. The Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) has the potential to become the biggest regional Free Trade Agreement in history, both in economic size and the ability to quietly add more countries in addition to those originally included. As of 2011 its 11 countries accounted for 30 percent of the world’s agricultural exports. Those countries are the US, Australia, Brunei, Chile, Canada, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Viet Nam. Recently, Japan has joined the negotiations.
Six hundred US corporate advisors have had input into the TPP. The draft text has not been made available to the public, press or policy makers. The level of secrecy around this agreement is unparalleled. The majority of Congress is being kept in the dark while representatives of US corporations are being consulted and privy to the details.
The chief agricultural negotiator for the US is the former Monsanto lobbyist, Islam Siddique. If ratified the TPP would impose punishing regulations that give multinational corporations unprecedented right to demand taxpayer compensation for policies that corporations deem a barrier to their profits.
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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
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Tuesday, January 21, 2014
EB-5 Program
The Homeland Security Department received a record number of applications for its EB-5 visas in 2013. Under the EB-5 program, foreigners who invest at least $0.5 million in a job creating venture are allowed to live in the U.S. They get a green card if the venture produces 10 jobs in two years. The Wall Street Journal reports, 6,400 foreigners applied for EB-5 visas last year. That's hundreds more than a year earlier. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services had approved 3,700 of them as of Sept. 30. The greatest number of applications come from China.
So This Deer Visits Every Morning and.... (Enjoy)
Enjoy! These pictures were taken in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania .
'It's just too awesome not to share. Deer visits cat in yard every morning! The owner finally took pics.
'It's just too awesome not to share. Deer visits cat in yard every morning! The owner finally took pics.
Those we love don't have to be exactly like us. Life is too short for
drama and petty things ,so kiss slowly, laugh insanely, love truly,
forgive quickly and pray often! "Friendship isn't about whom you
have known the longest, it's about those who came and never left
your side."
Too cute to not share!!! Have a great day!!!
Olympic Safety
Members of Congress are voicing worry about the safety of Americans attending the winter olympics in Sochi, Russia next month. The concerns follow recent suicide bombings in the country. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Mich.) chairs the House Intelligence Committee. He says American officials aren't getting enough information needed to fully protect fans and athletes. Rep. Mike McCaul (R-Texas), chairman of the Homeland Security Committee, was to visit Moscow for a first-hand look at security preparations. The British newspaper, the Guardian, reports Pentagon officials are reviewing contingency plans to rescue Americans should a terrorist attack occur in Sochi.
Nabb Gallery Presents 'Delmarvans At War' Exhibit January 27-May 26
SALISBURY, MD---Both Union and Confederate supporters impacted families throughout the Delmarva Peninsula and further into the tri-state area in the 1860s.
Salisbury University’s Edward H. Nabb Research Center for Delmarva History and Culture commemorates the 150th anniversary of the Civil War with the exhibit “Delmarvans at War.” The installation is on display in the center’s gallery, 190 Power Street, from January 27-May 16.
Through photographs, maps, diaries, correspondence and other seldom-seen documents, the exhibit features the people of Delmarva on both the home front and the battlefield.
Gallery hours are 1-4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Sponsored by the Nabb Research Center, admission is free and the public is invited.
Salisbury University’s Edward H. Nabb Research Center for Delmarva History and Culture commemorates the 150th anniversary of the Civil War with the exhibit “Delmarvans at War.” The installation is on display in the center’s gallery, 190 Power Street, from January 27-May 16.
Through photographs, maps, diaries, correspondence and other seldom-seen documents, the exhibit features the people of Delmarva on both the home front and the battlefield.
Gallery hours are 1-4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Sponsored by the Nabb Research Center, admission is free and the public is invited.
Snow Tax Alert
Not only are the roads a mess and schedules messed up, but we also have the dreaded O’Malley-Brown snow tax to contend with! Stay warm today and thanks to our road crews and emergency responders working to keep everyone safe.
Breaking News: Shooting In Salisbury
Wicomico / Salisbury St 2 / Reported Shooting / 418 Hammond St / police on scene confirming shooting and scene is secure / ESBN #8675309
Bring It On, We're Ready
I pulled old Betsy out this morning in preparation of the so called big storm. If all goes well and we actually get the amount of snow they're claiming we'll be ready to go tomorrow morning. Now its just a waiting game.
Fun Fact of The Day: Obama Has Raked Up More Than $1.6 Million In Debt For Each Child Born During His Presidency
Under President Barack Obama, the total debt of the U.S. government has increased by approximately $1,608,304 for each of the 4,130,665 babies born in the United States in 2009, the year Obama took office.
Today–Jan. 20, 2009–is the fifth anniversary of Obama’s first inauguration.
If the federal government were to continue accumulating net debt throughout the expected 78.5-year lifespan of a baby born in 2009 at the same average annual pace it has accumulated net debt during Obama’s first five years as president, the government would add more than $104 trillion in net debt during the life expectancy of those babies.
So far during Obama’s presidency, the federal government has borrowed a net total of $6,643,363,305,451.78. That works out to an average of approximately $1,328,672,661,090 per year, or $104,300,803,895,565 over 78.5 years.
Keep reading…
Today–Jan. 20, 2009–is the fifth anniversary of Obama’s first inauguration.
If the federal government were to continue accumulating net debt throughout the expected 78.5-year lifespan of a baby born in 2009 at the same average annual pace it has accumulated net debt during Obama’s first five years as president, the government would add more than $104 trillion in net debt during the life expectancy of those babies.
So far during Obama’s presidency, the federal government has borrowed a net total of $6,643,363,305,451.78. That works out to an average of approximately $1,328,672,661,090 per year, or $104,300,803,895,565 over 78.5 years.
Keep reading…
Former Governor Bob McDonnell To Address Federal Indictments Made Against Him At 7pm
WAVY TV 10
WATCH LIVE: Former Governor Bob McDonnell will address federal indictments made against him today in a live news conference at 7 p.m. Watch live on WAVY.com: http://www.wavy.com/virginia-governor
WATCH LIVE: Former Governor Bob McDonnell will address federal indictments made against him today in a live news conference at 7 p.m. Watch live on WAVY.com: http://www.wavy.com/virginia-governor
Republicans More Satisfied With Income Distribution Than Democrats, Poll Shows
Republicans are more satisfied than Democrats with the income and wealth distribution in the U.S. today, said a Gallup poll released Monday.
Of all adults nationwide, 32 percent are either very satisfied or somewhat satisfied with the way income and wealth are distributed in the country, the poll found. Forty-five percent of Republicans feel that way, while only 24 percent of Democrats report any satisfaction with income distribution.
Democrats have made income inequality an early 2014 focus in Washington, with many lawmakers talking about the need to increase the minimum wage. The push to extend long-term unemployment insurance was also the first major issue Congress tried to tackle in the new year, though the effort stalled after a GOP filibuster in the Senate.
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Of all adults nationwide, 32 percent are either very satisfied or somewhat satisfied with the way income and wealth are distributed in the country, the poll found. Forty-five percent of Republicans feel that way, while only 24 percent of Democrats report any satisfaction with income distribution.
Democrats have made income inequality an early 2014 focus in Washington, with many lawmakers talking about the need to increase the minimum wage. The push to extend long-term unemployment insurance was also the first major issue Congress tried to tackle in the new year, though the effort stalled after a GOP filibuster in the Senate.
More
Delaware State Police News Room Update
Troopers have responded to 105 crashes statewide with only a few involving minor injuries since 10:00 a.m. and continue to patrol, assist disabled vehicles and manage roadway incidents.
If you must go out, plese be safe!
-Sgt Paul Shavack
6:00 p.m. Condition Update
Troopers have responded to an additional 9 vehicle crashes with 1 involving minor injuries in the last two hour period in New Castle County. Roadway conditions continue to be snow covered and slippery. There continues to be an increase in disabled vehicles (8 at this time) due to vehicles not being able to navigate the difficult roadway conditions.
Kent County roadways snow covered. An additional 5 crashes reported at this time with 1 involving minor injuries and 5 disabled vehicles.
Sussex County roadways are reported as snow covered. A total of 7 crashes reported at this time with one involving injuries.
Troopers urge all motorists to use extreme caution when traveling on the roadways. Motorists should be prepared for windy conditions slippery roads and limited visibilities which make driving conditions difficult. Use caution while driving when approaching intersections and off ramps. Motorists should reduce their normal speed on the highways and secondary roads and postpone or avoid unnecessary travel. Those who must drive are reminded to use extreme caution and be aware of these conditions.
If you must go out, plese be safe!
-Sgt Paul Shavack
6:00 p.m. Condition Update
Troopers have responded to an additional 9 vehicle crashes with 1 involving minor injuries in the last two hour period in New Castle County. Roadway conditions continue to be snow covered and slippery. There continues to be an increase in disabled vehicles (8 at this time) due to vehicles not being able to navigate the difficult roadway conditions.
Kent County roadways snow covered. An additional 5 crashes reported at this time with 1 involving minor injuries and 5 disabled vehicles.
Sussex County roadways are reported as snow covered. A total of 7 crashes reported at this time with one involving injuries.
Troopers urge all motorists to use extreme caution when traveling on the roadways. Motorists should be prepared for windy conditions slippery roads and limited visibilities which make driving conditions difficult. Use caution while driving when approaching intersections and off ramps. Motorists should reduce their normal speed on the highways and secondary roads and postpone or avoid unnecessary travel. Those who must drive are reminded to use extreme caution and be aware of these conditions.
GOVERNOR O'MALLEY ADVISES RESIDENTS TO USE CAUTION AS WINTER STORM MOVES THROUGH THE REGION
ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 21, 2014) – Governor O’Malley advises residents to take appropriate safety precautions as moderate to heavy snow showers make their way across Maryland. As road conditions continue to deteriorate, the focus turns to the evening commute.
“It is extremely important that Marylanders take the appropriate safety measures to ensure safe travels during this evening’s commute," said Governor Martin O’Malley. “If you do not have to be on the roadways, we encourage you to limit travel. If you must travel in these conditions, keep a family member or friend informed of your route and take a fully charged cellphone.”
The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has been monitoring the weather forecast all day and has been in touch with the four National Weather Service offices serving the State as well as local emergency management offices. MEMA and other state agencies are closely monitoring conditions to support local efforts.
“We want all Marylanders to be safe during this winter weather. Once the snow showers move out of the area we are expecting very cold temperatures to remain with us” said MEMA Executive Director Ken Mallette. He offers the following tips for dealing with the upcoming cold snap:
Wear layers of clothing that can be easily removed if you become overheated, and make sure to use socks, hats and scarves to protect feet, head and exposed skin.
Make sure your car’s radiator and windshield washer fluid tanks are full and watch for black ice when driving.
In addition to normal supplies in your car, keep some extra blankets and snacks, such as energy bars, available in case you become stranded.
Allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you.
Consider SAFE alternative heating methods in case you lose power, or see if friends or relatives can provide a place to stay. Avoid using heaters with open flames or heating methods that produce carbon monoxide gas.
Limit the time pets stay outdoors in these conditions, including pets that normally live outside. If they must remain outside, please make sure they have a dog house or some other type of shelter available and plenty of non-frozen water to drink. (Avoid leaving blankets outside for pets to sleep on in the winter as they may become wet and icy.)
If some of your pipes are susceptible to freezing, leave a trickle of cold water running from the sink on the lowest level or your home. If possible, insulate pipes.
“It is extremely important that Marylanders take the appropriate safety measures to ensure safe travels during this evening’s commute," said Governor Martin O’Malley. “If you do not have to be on the roadways, we encourage you to limit travel. If you must travel in these conditions, keep a family member or friend informed of your route and take a fully charged cellphone.”
The Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has been monitoring the weather forecast all day and has been in touch with the four National Weather Service offices serving the State as well as local emergency management offices. MEMA and other state agencies are closely monitoring conditions to support local efforts.
“We want all Marylanders to be safe during this winter weather. Once the snow showers move out of the area we are expecting very cold temperatures to remain with us” said MEMA Executive Director Ken Mallette. He offers the following tips for dealing with the upcoming cold snap:
Wear layers of clothing that can be easily removed if you become overheated, and make sure to use socks, hats and scarves to protect feet, head and exposed skin.
Make sure your car’s radiator and windshield washer fluid tanks are full and watch for black ice when driving.
In addition to normal supplies in your car, keep some extra blankets and snacks, such as energy bars, available in case you become stranded.
Allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you.
Consider SAFE alternative heating methods in case you lose power, or see if friends or relatives can provide a place to stay. Avoid using heaters with open flames or heating methods that produce carbon monoxide gas.
Limit the time pets stay outdoors in these conditions, including pets that normally live outside. If they must remain outside, please make sure they have a dog house or some other type of shelter available and plenty of non-frozen water to drink. (Avoid leaving blankets outside for pets to sleep on in the winter as they may become wet and icy.)
If some of your pipes are susceptible to freezing, leave a trickle of cold water running from the sink on the lowest level or your home. If possible, insulate pipes.
Medicaid Mailing Mishap Leaks Personal Information
BALTIMORE - The Maryland Health Benefit Exchange has another problem on their hands after hundreds of Medicaid enrollment packages were mistakenly mailed to the wrong addresses.
The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene explained they were first alerted to the problem on Friday. A customer called an enrollment broker saying they had received the wrong Medicaid packet.
The enrollment packets include the customer's name, date of birth, and Medicaid identification number, according to state health officials.
An investigation has revealed the mailing error affected nearly 400 households and 1,078 people.
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Wall Street Adviser: Actual Unemployment Is 37.2%, 'Misery Index' Worst In 40 Years
Don't believe the happy talk coming out of the White House, Federal Reserve and Treasury Department when it comes to the real unemployment rate and the true “Misery Index.” Because, according to an influential Wall Street advisor, the figures are a fraud.
In a memo to clients provided to Secrets, David John Marotta calculates the actual unemployment rate of those not working at a sky-high 37.2 percent, not the 6.7 percent advertised by the Fed, and the Misery Index at over 14, not the 8 claimed by the government.
Marotta, who recently advised those worried about an imploding economy to get a gun, said that the government isn't being honest in how it calculates those out of the workforce or inflation, the two numbers used to get the Misery Index figure.
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In a memo to clients provided to Secrets, David John Marotta calculates the actual unemployment rate of those not working at a sky-high 37.2 percent, not the 6.7 percent advertised by the Fed, and the Misery Index at over 14, not the 8 claimed by the government.
Marotta, who recently advised those worried about an imploding economy to get a gun, said that the government isn't being honest in how it calculates those out of the workforce or inflation, the two numbers used to get the Misery Index figure.
More
Cops Bloody Old Man — For Jaywalking
Cops bloodied an 84-year-old man and put him in the hospital Sunday when he jaywalked at an Upper West Side intersection and didn’t appear to understand their orders to stop, witnesses said.
Kang Wong was strolling north on Broadway and crossing 96th Street at around 5 p.m., when an officer told him to halt because he had walked against the light.
Police were targeting jaywalkers in the area following the third pedestrian fatality this month around West 96th Street.
Wong, who lives a block away, appeared to not understand the cop, the witnesses said.
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Kang Wong was strolling north on Broadway and crossing 96th Street at around 5 p.m., when an officer told him to halt because he had walked against the light.
Police were targeting jaywalkers in the area following the third pedestrian fatality this month around West 96th Street.
Wong, who lives a block away, appeared to not understand the cop, the witnesses said.
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JUST IN: Former Va. Gov. McDonnell And Wife Charged In Gifts Case
Former Virginia governor Robert F. McDonnell and his wife Maureen were charged Tuesday with illegally accepting gifts, luxury vacations and large loans from a wealthy Richmond-area businessman who sought special treatment from state government.
The two were charged in connection with their relationship with dietary supplement executive Jonnie R. Williams Sr.
Authorities alleged that McDonnell and his wife received gifts from Williams again and again, lodging near constant requests for money, clothes, trips, golf accessories and private plane rides.
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The two were charged in connection with their relationship with dietary supplement executive Jonnie R. Williams Sr.
Authorities alleged that McDonnell and his wife received gifts from Williams again and again, lodging near constant requests for money, clothes, trips, golf accessories and private plane rides.
More
1 Dead After Shooting At Purdue University
Federal law enforcement officials tell Fox News there is one person dead after a shooting at Purdue University; suspect in custody.
2 Arrested In Target Security Breach Investigation
McALLEN, Texas (AP) — Account information stolen during the Target security breach is now being divided up and sold off regionally, a south Texas police chief said Monday after the arrest of two Mexican citizens who authorities say arrived at the border with 96 fraudulent credit cards.
McAllen Police Chief Victor Rodriguez said Mary Carmen Garcia, 27, and Daniel Guardiola Dominguez, 28, both of Monterrey, Mexico, used cards containing the account information of south Texas residents. Rodriguez said they were used to buy tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of merchandise at national retailers in the area including Best Buy, Wal-Mart and Toys R Us.
“They’re obviously selling the data sets by region,” Rodriguez said.
Garcia and Guardiola were both being held Monday on state fraud charges. It was not immediately known whether they had retained lawyers.
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McAllen Police Chief Victor Rodriguez said Mary Carmen Garcia, 27, and Daniel Guardiola Dominguez, 28, both of Monterrey, Mexico, used cards containing the account information of south Texas residents. Rodriguez said they were used to buy tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of merchandise at national retailers in the area including Best Buy, Wal-Mart and Toys R Us.
“They’re obviously selling the data sets by region,” Rodriguez said.
Garcia and Guardiola were both being held Monday on state fraud charges. It was not immediately known whether they had retained lawyers.
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Mussolinism In The 21st Century
This talk was delivered at the 2014 Mises Circle in Houston, Texas.
We know about the transformation of the American police, with their paramilitary equipment, their SWAT team raids, and incentive to terrorize people over drug offenses rather than pursue crimes against person and property. We know about the National Security Agency, which can access every American’s e-mails, phone calls, or text messages. And yet too many average Americans have greeted all this with indifference.
This indifference, I suggest, derives from the widespread public acceptance of the myth of the state that Americans are taught from the moment they step into a government classroom. The myth is this: the state is a public-service institution established to provide you with security, both personal and economic. And after years of indoctrination into this myth, it is little wonder that so many Americans are prepared to give the state the benefit of the doubt, and to look upon dissidents as incorrigible troublemakers. The police and the military, the most celebrated public faces of the state, are to be questioned least of all.
More
We know about the transformation of the American police, with their paramilitary equipment, their SWAT team raids, and incentive to terrorize people over drug offenses rather than pursue crimes against person and property. We know about the National Security Agency, which can access every American’s e-mails, phone calls, or text messages. And yet too many average Americans have greeted all this with indifference.
This indifference, I suggest, derives from the widespread public acceptance of the myth of the state that Americans are taught from the moment they step into a government classroom. The myth is this: the state is a public-service institution established to provide you with security, both personal and economic. And after years of indoctrination into this myth, it is little wonder that so many Americans are prepared to give the state the benefit of the doubt, and to look upon dissidents as incorrigible troublemakers. The police and the military, the most celebrated public faces of the state, are to be questioned least of all.
More
Weather Update 1-21-14
Weather Bulletin
National Weather Service Forecast
Tuesday 1/21/2014 at 2:15 PM
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Wicomico County which will be in effect from 10 AM Tuesday (1/21/14) through 3:00 AM Wednesday (1/22/14). Also in effect is a wind chill advisory beginning 3:00 AM Wednesday morning through 12:00 PM Wednesday.
Snow accumulations of 4 to 8 inches of snow are possible. Snow will begin late afternoon on Tuesday continuing into early morning Wednesday. The period of heaviest snowfall is expected Tuesday evening through early Wednesday morning. There could be near blizzard like conditions with blowing snow between 7 p.m. and 3 a.m. Snow fall amounts of 1” per hour are possible during this period of time. Winds will be averaging 15 to 25 MPH with gusts around 40 MPH Tuesday evening into Wednesday. Temperatures will be around freezing during the day on Tuesday dropping to the mid to upper 20s in the 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM timeframe. Temperatures will drop into the teens after the snowfall ends. Wind chills zero to minus 5 Tuesday night through Wednesday morning are possible.
Impacts: Roads will be snow covered and slippery. The combination of snow and blowing snow will reduce visibility to below one-half mile at times. Travelling may be dangerous Tuesday night into early Wednesday. The Tuesday evening commute and the Wednesday morning commute may be impacted by the snow and freezing temperatures.
National Weather Service Forecast
Tuesday 1/21/2014 at 2:15 PM
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Wicomico County which will be in effect from 10 AM Tuesday (1/21/14) through 3:00 AM Wednesday (1/22/14). Also in effect is a wind chill advisory beginning 3:00 AM Wednesday morning through 12:00 PM Wednesday.
Snow accumulations of 4 to 8 inches of snow are possible. Snow will begin late afternoon on Tuesday continuing into early morning Wednesday. The period of heaviest snowfall is expected Tuesday evening through early Wednesday morning. There could be near blizzard like conditions with blowing snow between 7 p.m. and 3 a.m. Snow fall amounts of 1” per hour are possible during this period of time. Winds will be averaging 15 to 25 MPH with gusts around 40 MPH Tuesday evening into Wednesday. Temperatures will be around freezing during the day on Tuesday dropping to the mid to upper 20s in the 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM timeframe. Temperatures will drop into the teens after the snowfall ends. Wind chills zero to minus 5 Tuesday night through Wednesday morning are possible.
Impacts: Roads will be snow covered and slippery. The combination of snow and blowing snow will reduce visibility to below one-half mile at times. Travelling may be dangerous Tuesday night into early Wednesday. The Tuesday evening commute and the Wednesday morning commute may be impacted by the snow and freezing temperatures.
Governor Jack Markell has just issued a Level 1 State of Emergency.
Delaware Office of Highway Safety
Governor Jack Markell has just issued a Level 1 State of Emergency. What that means is any person operating a motor vehicle shall exercise extra caution. Nonessential employees regardless of whether employed by a public or private entity are encouraged not to operate a vehicle on state roadways unless there is a significant safety, health or business reason to do so.
Governor Jack Markell has just issued a Level 1 State of Emergency. What that means is any person operating a motor vehicle shall exercise extra caution. Nonessential employees regardless of whether employed by a public or private entity are encouraged not to operate a vehicle on state roadways unless there is a significant safety, health or business reason to do so.
Town Of Delmar Weather Announcement
Temperatures are falling and the snow its setting in. Once you get home safely, please stay there so road crews can do their job!
OCEAN CITY UNDER WINTER STORM WARNING
(January 21, 2014) – Ocean City is currently under a Winter Storm Warning. According to the National Weather Service in Wakefield, VA, Ocean City will experience snowfall accumulations between 5 to 8 inches and north winds averaging 20 to 30 miles per hour, with gusts reaching 40 to 45 miles per hour. Light snow will begin by noon and continue through the early afternoon. The period of heaviest snowfall is expected Tuesday afternoon through the evening.
The Town of Ocean City’s Winter Storm Plan is in effect and the Emergency Operations Center is partially activated. Liberal leave for Town of Ocean City employees has been authorized as of 2 p.m. today and all Ocean City Recreation and Parks programs scheduled for this evening have been canceled. Also, the regularly scheduled Mayor and City Council Meeting for tonight has been canceled, however; all items on tonight’s agenda will be rescheduled for the January 28 work session or the regular session on February 3.
Due to the combination of heavy snow, gusty winds and very cold temperatures, travel is strongly discouraged late today and tonight. If you must travel, please use extra caution and follow these winter driving safety tips: http://ocpdmdinfo.blogspot.com/2014/01/ocean-city-under-winter-storm-warning.html.
The Town of Ocean City’s Winter Storm Plan is in effect and the Emergency Operations Center is partially activated. Liberal leave for Town of Ocean City employees has been authorized as of 2 p.m. today and all Ocean City Recreation and Parks programs scheduled for this evening have been canceled. Also, the regularly scheduled Mayor and City Council Meeting for tonight has been canceled, however; all items on tonight’s agenda will be rescheduled for the January 28 work session or the regular session on February 3.
Due to the combination of heavy snow, gusty winds and very cold temperatures, travel is strongly discouraged late today and tonight. If you must travel, please use extra caution and follow these winter driving safety tips: http://ocpdmdinfo.blogspot.com/2014/01/ocean-city-under-winter-storm-warning.html.
Democratic Exodus
Terrified Democratic lawmakers are retiring in droves because they know it won’t be easy to survive the anti-establishment electoral tsunami expected to swamp Capitol Hill in November.
Democrats have every reason to feel depressed about the approaching midterm elections, according to famed psephologist and prognosticator Larry Sabato.
This will probably be “a good election year for the GOP,” Sabato says. Rattling off the main factors that appear to be driving this election cycle, Sabato opined,
The president is a Democrat and his approval is weak. The economy may be improving, based on GDP growth (4.1 percent in the third quarter), but voters still don’t believe their personal economy, at least, has picked up much. Instead, the major national issue of the moment is Obamacare, which at this point is a loser for Democrats. The structure of the election in the House and Senate also bends in the GOP direction.
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Democrats have every reason to feel depressed about the approaching midterm elections, according to famed psephologist and prognosticator Larry Sabato.
This will probably be “a good election year for the GOP,” Sabato says. Rattling off the main factors that appear to be driving this election cycle, Sabato opined,
The president is a Democrat and his approval is weak. The economy may be improving, based on GDP growth (4.1 percent in the third quarter), but voters still don’t believe their personal economy, at least, has picked up much. Instead, the major national issue of the moment is Obamacare, which at this point is a loser for Democrats. The structure of the election in the House and Senate also bends in the GOP direction.
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Md. Mayor Proposes Changes In Public Comments
People who go to government meetings just to talk to their elected officials will like the city of Frederick's new rules.
At a workshop Wednesday, Mayor Randy McClement suggested changing the city's procedure to allow for public comments at the beginning and the end of each meeting. Before this, comments were only allowed at the time of each public hearing agenda item and at the end of the meeting.
The aldermen saw no problem with the change as long as officials apply the same rules to all who speak.
Alderwoman Donna Kuzemchak said that numerous times she saw residents, including herself, treated unfairly when they came to speak at board meetings.
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At a workshop Wednesday, Mayor Randy McClement suggested changing the city's procedure to allow for public comments at the beginning and the end of each meeting. Before this, comments were only allowed at the time of each public hearing agenda item and at the end of the meeting.
The aldermen saw no problem with the change as long as officials apply the same rules to all who speak.
Alderwoman Donna Kuzemchak said that numerous times she saw residents, including herself, treated unfairly when they came to speak at board meetings.
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Washington State Moves To Block NSA Surveillance
Bill would cut electricity & water to physical NSA locations
Washington State Rep. Matt Shea (R) has introduced a “Fourth Amendment Protection Act’ that would block all unlawful NSA surveillance and lay the groundwork for other states to follow suit.
House BIll 2272 (PDF), which also received bipartisan backing from Representatives Taylor, Moscoso, Overstreet, Scott, Blake, and Condotta, would codify Washington State’s refusal to allow the federal government to collect the electronic information of its citizens without a warrant.
“It is the policy of this state to refuse material support, participation, or assistance to any federal agency which claims the power, or with any federal law, rule, regulation, or order which purports to authorize, the collection of electronic data or metadata of any person pursuant to any action not based on a warrant that particularly describes the person, place, and thing to be searched or seized,” states the bill.
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Washington State Rep. Matt Shea (R) has introduced a “Fourth Amendment Protection Act’ that would block all unlawful NSA surveillance and lay the groundwork for other states to follow suit.
House BIll 2272 (PDF), which also received bipartisan backing from Representatives Taylor, Moscoso, Overstreet, Scott, Blake, and Condotta, would codify Washington State’s refusal to allow the federal government to collect the electronic information of its citizens without a warrant.
“It is the policy of this state to refuse material support, participation, or assistance to any federal agency which claims the power, or with any federal law, rule, regulation, or order which purports to authorize, the collection of electronic data or metadata of any person pursuant to any action not based on a warrant that particularly describes the person, place, and thing to be searched or seized,” states the bill.
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Former Reagan Adviser David Malpass: Big Government Makes Income Inequality Worse
While progressives favor a bigger government to solve the income inequality problem, that would just add to it, says David Malpass, president of Encima Global research firm and former adviser to Ronald Reagan.
"Washington's increased size and power has concentrated income and wealth in fewer hands," he writes in The Wall Street Journal.
"Making government bigger will exacerbate this problem. It is already too big, intrusive and expensive to allow a robust economy that benefits everyone," wrote Malpass, deputy assistant Treasury secretary in the Reagan administration and deputy assistant secretary of state in the George H.W. Bush administration.
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"Washington's increased size and power has concentrated income and wealth in fewer hands," he writes in The Wall Street Journal.
"Making government bigger will exacerbate this problem. It is already too big, intrusive and expensive to allow a robust economy that benefits everyone," wrote Malpass, deputy assistant Treasury secretary in the Reagan administration and deputy assistant secretary of state in the George H.W. Bush administration.
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Congress Feasts On Vegan Pork Despite Earmark Ban
Not long ago, appropriations cardinals had the best jobs in Washington. They didn’t just have the power of the purse; they got to brag about how they used it. But three years ago, when profligate spending became a political liability, Congress imposed an earmark moratorium. In these days of austerity, poor appropriators are reduced to boasting about their parsimony. “There were no earmarks in this bill,” Senate Appropriations chairwoman Barbara Mikulski, a Maryland Democrat, told reporters on Monday, after she struck a deal on a $1.1 trillion omnibus bill to fund the government this year.
But wait. Here’s Senator Patty Murray, a Democrat, boasting about how the bill’s “strong investments in our environment and natural resources” represent a coup for her home state of Washington. Murray’s press release touting how she “secured dozens of wins” notes, for example, that she got $65 million for the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund, $15 million more than requested by President Obama’s budget, as well as $25 million for restoring the Puget Sound ecosystem, $8 million more than Obama’s budget request.
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But wait. Here’s Senator Patty Murray, a Democrat, boasting about how the bill’s “strong investments in our environment and natural resources” represent a coup for her home state of Washington. Murray’s press release touting how she “secured dozens of wins” notes, for example, that she got $65 million for the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund, $15 million more than requested by President Obama’s budget, as well as $25 million for restoring the Puget Sound ecosystem, $8 million more than Obama’s budget request.
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The Left Versus The Realities Of Race
In almost every instance of the so-called “knock out game,” perpetrators have been black and their victims mostly white (and/or) Asian. There isone—and only one—case in which the racial dynamics of this violence reversed course, an incident from Texas involving a white predator and a black prey. Not unsurprisingly, this is the only instance of “the game” that Barack Obama’s Department of Justice is choosing to pursue as a “hate crime.”
And it is the one and only incident regarding which Katie Couric unreservedly disclosed the respective races of the perpetrator and victim on her daily television show. As for the phenomenon generally, Couric was careful to convey the impression that it was racially-neutral, an activity in which “kids” of all races routinely engaged.
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And it is the one and only incident regarding which Katie Couric unreservedly disclosed the respective races of the perpetrator and victim on her daily television show. As for the phenomenon generally, Couric was careful to convey the impression that it was racially-neutral, an activity in which “kids” of all races routinely engaged.
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The Drip, Drip, Drip Of Benghazi
Another day, another revelation on Benghazi.
The “bipartisan” Senate Select Committee on Intelligence last week put out a scathing report on the Sept. 11, 2012, attack on U.S. diplomatic outposts in Libya, citing “systematic failures” that led to the death of Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens and three other Americans.
While the heavily redacted report released to the American public spread the blame, the committee repeatedly pointed the finger at former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton’s State Department.
In perhaps the most significant finding, the report said the intelligence community (IC), including the CIA, NSA and Pentagon, among others, delivered many warnings on the growing threats in Benghazi, but the State Department failed to take them seriously and increase security.
“Finding 1: In the months before the attacks on September 11, 2012, the IC provided ample strategic warning that the security situation in eastern Libya was deteriorating and the U.S. facilities and personnel were at risk in Benghazi,” the report said.
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The “bipartisan” Senate Select Committee on Intelligence last week put out a scathing report on the Sept. 11, 2012, attack on U.S. diplomatic outposts in Libya, citing “systematic failures” that led to the death of Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens and three other Americans.
While the heavily redacted report released to the American public spread the blame, the committee repeatedly pointed the finger at former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton’s State Department.
In perhaps the most significant finding, the report said the intelligence community (IC), including the CIA, NSA and Pentagon, among others, delivered many warnings on the growing threats in Benghazi, but the State Department failed to take them seriously and increase security.
“Finding 1: In the months before the attacks on September 11, 2012, the IC provided ample strategic warning that the security situation in eastern Libya was deteriorating and the U.S. facilities and personnel were at risk in Benghazi,” the report said.
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MD 404 Closed At Route 50
ALERT-Talbot Co.-All lanes are CLOSED in both directions on MD 404 at US 50. Get updates at http://ow.ly/sNAJW #MDtraffic
Seven Devastating Economic Facts
U.S. economic conditions in 2014 continue to languish, as millions of Americans remain jobless. Seven economic facts underscore America’s increasingly dire economic outlook.
1. A Record 91.8 Million Americans Are No Longer in the Workforce
The latest Labor Department figures reveal that a record 91.8 million Americans are no longer in the U.S. labor force. To be included in the Labor Department's calculations for this statistic, a person must be 16 years or older, a civilian, not in an institution (such as prison), and someone who has not looked for a job in the last four weeks.
Minorities have been hit especially hard. As Dean Baker of the Center for Economic and Policy Research noted to PBS, last month’s jobs report also saw “the lowest rate of labor force participation among African-American men since we have kept that count. So that was really striking.”
According to the U.S. Census, 317 million people live in the United States.
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1. A Record 91.8 Million Americans Are No Longer in the Workforce
The latest Labor Department figures reveal that a record 91.8 million Americans are no longer in the U.S. labor force. To be included in the Labor Department's calculations for this statistic, a person must be 16 years or older, a civilian, not in an institution (such as prison), and someone who has not looked for a job in the last four weeks.
Minorities have been hit especially hard. As Dean Baker of the Center for Economic and Policy Research noted to PBS, last month’s jobs report also saw “the lowest rate of labor force participation among African-American men since we have kept that count. So that was really striking.”
According to the U.S. Census, 317 million people live in the United States.
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The Retail Death Rattle
“I was part of that strange race of people aptly described as spending their lives doing things they detest, to make money they don’t want, to buy things they don’t need, to impress people they don’t like.” -Emile Gauvreau.
If ever a chart provided unequivocal proof the economic recovery storyline is a fraud, the one below is the smoking gun. November and December retail sales account for 20% to 40% of annual retail sales for most retailers. The number of visits to retail stores has plummeted by 50% since 2010. Please note this was during a supposed economic recovery. Also note consumer spending accounts for 70% of GDP. Also note credit card debt outstanding is 7% lower than its level in 2010 and 16% below its peak in 2008. Retailers like J.C. Penney, Best Buy, Sears, Radio Shack and Barnes & Noble continue to report appalling sales and profit results, along with listings of store closings. Even the heavyweights like Wal-Mart and Target continue to report negative comp store sales. How can the government and mainstream media be reporting an economic recovery when the industry that accounts for 70% of GDP is in free fall? The answer is that 99% of America has not had an economic recovery. Only Bernanke’s 1% owner class have benefited from his QE/ZIRP induced stock market levitation.
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If ever a chart provided unequivocal proof the economic recovery storyline is a fraud, the one below is the smoking gun. November and December retail sales account for 20% to 40% of annual retail sales for most retailers. The number of visits to retail stores has plummeted by 50% since 2010. Please note this was during a supposed economic recovery. Also note consumer spending accounts for 70% of GDP. Also note credit card debt outstanding is 7% lower than its level in 2010 and 16% below its peak in 2008. Retailers like J.C. Penney, Best Buy, Sears, Radio Shack and Barnes & Noble continue to report appalling sales and profit results, along with listings of store closings. Even the heavyweights like Wal-Mart and Target continue to report negative comp store sales. How can the government and mainstream media be reporting an economic recovery when the industry that accounts for 70% of GDP is in free fall? The answer is that 99% of America has not had an economic recovery. Only Bernanke’s 1% owner class have benefited from his QE/ZIRP induced stock market levitation.
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Weather Related Closing
THE WICOMICO COUNTY HEALTH DEPT.
EVENING CLINIC HOURS HAVE BEEN CANCELLED
AND THE BUILDINGS WILL BE CLOSING TODAY AT 5:00 P.M.
EVENING CLINIC HOURS HAVE BEEN CANCELLED
AND THE BUILDINGS WILL BE CLOSING TODAY AT 5:00 P.M.
LATEST WEATHER FORECAST
DORCHESTER-WICOMICO-SOMERSET-INLAND WORCESTER-MD BEACHES-INCLUDING THE CITIES OF. CAMBRIDGE. SALISBURY. CRISFIELD. PRINCESS ANNE. SNOW HILL. OCEAN CITY
.WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT EST TONIGHT.
.
* AREAS AFFECTED: PORTIONS OF NORTH CENTRAL VA. THE VA NORTH NECK & THE LWR MD EASTERN SHORE.
* HAZARDS: SNOW.BLOWING SNOW.& GUSTY WINDS.
* ACCUMULATIONS: 5 TO 8 INCHES.
* WINDS: NORTH WINDS OF 20 TO 25 MPH WITH GUSTS TO 40 TO 45 MPH THIS EVENING. THESE WINDS COMBINED WITH THE BLOWING SNOW MAY CREATE NEAR BLIZZARD CONDITIONS AT TIMES THIS EVENING.
* TEMPS & WIND CHILL: TEMPS WILL FALL BELOW FREEZING THIS AFTERNOON. THEN FALL INTO THE LOW TEENS BY EARLY WED MORNING. THE COMBINATION OF GUSTY WINDS AND COLD TEMPS WILL PRODUCE WIND CHILL VALUES AROUND 20 DEGREES THIS AFTERNOON TO NEAR ZERO BY WED MORNING.
* TIMING: A MIXTURE LIGHT RAIN & SNOW WILL BEGIN BY NOON. THEN QUICKLY TURN OVER TO ALL SNOW EARLY THIS AFTERNOON & CONTINUE INTO TUES EVENING. THE PERIOD OF HEAVIEST SNOWFALL IS EXPECTED TUES AFTERNOON THROUGH THE EVENING.
* IMPACTS. ROADS WILL QUICKLY BECOME SNOW COVERED & SLIPPERY DUE TO THE RAPIDLY FALLING TEMPERATURES & INCREASED SNOWFALL RATES. THE COMBINATION OF SNOW & GUSTY WINDS WILL PRODUCE BLOWING SNOW THAT WILL REDUCE VISIBILITY TO BELOW ONE MILE AT TIMES. TRAVEL CONDITIONS WILL BECOME DANGEROUS THIS EVENING.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS. A WINTER STORM WARNING FOR HEAVY SNOW MEANS SEVERE WINTER WEATHER CONDITIONS ARE EXPECTED. SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW ARE FORECAST THAT WILL MAKE TRAVEL DANGEROUS. ONLY TRAVEL IN AN EMERGENCY. IF YOU MUST TRAVEL. KEEP AN EXTRA FLASHLIGHT. FOOD.& WATER IN YOUR VEHICLE IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY.
.WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT EST TONIGHT.
.
* AREAS AFFECTED: PORTIONS OF NORTH CENTRAL VA. THE VA NORTH NECK & THE LWR MD EASTERN SHORE.
* HAZARDS: SNOW.BLOWING SNOW.& GUSTY WINDS.
* ACCUMULATIONS: 5 TO 8 INCHES.
* WINDS: NORTH WINDS OF 20 TO 25 MPH WITH GUSTS TO 40 TO 45 MPH THIS EVENING. THESE WINDS COMBINED WITH THE BLOWING SNOW MAY CREATE NEAR BLIZZARD CONDITIONS AT TIMES THIS EVENING.
* TEMPS & WIND CHILL: TEMPS WILL FALL BELOW FREEZING THIS AFTERNOON. THEN FALL INTO THE LOW TEENS BY EARLY WED MORNING. THE COMBINATION OF GUSTY WINDS AND COLD TEMPS WILL PRODUCE WIND CHILL VALUES AROUND 20 DEGREES THIS AFTERNOON TO NEAR ZERO BY WED MORNING.
* TIMING: A MIXTURE LIGHT RAIN & SNOW WILL BEGIN BY NOON. THEN QUICKLY TURN OVER TO ALL SNOW EARLY THIS AFTERNOON & CONTINUE INTO TUES EVENING. THE PERIOD OF HEAVIEST SNOWFALL IS EXPECTED TUES AFTERNOON THROUGH THE EVENING.
* IMPACTS. ROADS WILL QUICKLY BECOME SNOW COVERED & SLIPPERY DUE TO THE RAPIDLY FALLING TEMPERATURES & INCREASED SNOWFALL RATES. THE COMBINATION OF SNOW & GUSTY WINDS WILL PRODUCE BLOWING SNOW THAT WILL REDUCE VISIBILITY TO BELOW ONE MILE AT TIMES. TRAVEL CONDITIONS WILL BECOME DANGEROUS THIS EVENING.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS. A WINTER STORM WARNING FOR HEAVY SNOW MEANS SEVERE WINTER WEATHER CONDITIONS ARE EXPECTED. SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW ARE FORECAST THAT WILL MAKE TRAVEL DANGEROUS. ONLY TRAVEL IN AN EMERGENCY. IF YOU MUST TRAVEL. KEEP AN EXTRA FLASHLIGHT. FOOD.& WATER IN YOUR VEHICLE IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY.
Warfare, Welfare, And Wonder Woman — How Congress Spends Your Money
Supporters of warfare, welfare, and Wonder Woman cheered last week as Congress passed a one trillion dollar “omnibus” appropriation bill. This legislation funds the operations of government for the remainder of the fiscal year. Wonder Woman fans can cheer that buried in the bill was a $10,000 grant for a theater program to explore the comic book heroine.
That is just one of the many outrageous projects buried in this 1,582 page bill. The legislation gives the Department of Education more money to continue nationalizing education via “common core.” Also, despite new evidence of Obamacare’s failure emerging on an almost daily basis, the Omnibus bill does nothing to roll back this disastrous law.
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That is just one of the many outrageous projects buried in this 1,582 page bill. The legislation gives the Department of Education more money to continue nationalizing education via “common core.” Also, despite new evidence of Obamacare’s failure emerging on an almost daily basis, the Omnibus bill does nothing to roll back this disastrous law.
More
'America's Got Talent' Holding Auditions In Baltimore
Do you have a talent that America needs to see?
Your chance to gain fame for your ability can be one step closer when NBC's "America's Got Talent" holds an open casting call at the Baltimore Convention Center on Jan. 30. Those who audition get 90 seconds to showcase a talent in front of judges Howard Stern, Mel B., Heidi Klum and Howie Mandel.
The judges, with some help from host Nick Cannon, will decide who moves on to the next round of the competition. The winner of the show gets $1 million and the opportunity to launch a career in show business.
"America's Got Talent" Executive Producer Jason Raff told The Avenue News that he expects several thousand people to show up at the open casting call in Baltimore.
More
Your chance to gain fame for your ability can be one step closer when NBC's "America's Got Talent" holds an open casting call at the Baltimore Convention Center on Jan. 30. Those who audition get 90 seconds to showcase a talent in front of judges Howard Stern, Mel B., Heidi Klum and Howie Mandel.
The judges, with some help from host Nick Cannon, will decide who moves on to the next round of the competition. The winner of the show gets $1 million and the opportunity to launch a career in show business.
"America's Got Talent" Executive Producer Jason Raff told The Avenue News that he expects several thousand people to show up at the open casting call in Baltimore.
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Man Accidentally Shot Self In Road Rage Incident, Orlando Police Say
OPD turns investigation over to Seminole County sheriff's deputies
ORLANDO, Fla. - Authorities say a man accidentally shot himself in a possible road rage incident on Interstate 4 on Monday.
Orlando police said officers responded to a call of a shooting at the ramp at I-4 and Princeton Street at around 11:30 a.m. Video shows crime scene tape roping off a white car on the roadway.
According to a driver, he was traveling on I-4 when another driver showed a gun in what he told police was a road rage incident.
The victim, identified as 36-year-old Richard Coles, then said during the altercation he accidentally shot himself in the leg.
Hewas taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
More Read the comments from this link.
Orlando police said officers responded to a call of a shooting at the ramp at I-4 and Princeton Street at around 11:30 a.m. Video shows crime scene tape roping off a white car on the roadway.
According to a driver, he was traveling on I-4 when another driver showed a gun in what he told police was a road rage incident.
The victim, identified as 36-year-old Richard Coles, then said during the altercation he accidentally shot himself in the leg.
Hewas taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
More Read the comments from this link.
GOP Poised To Retake Senate In November As Disillusioned Democrats Depart
Several congressional retirements and a number of vulnerable Democrats seeking re-election may give the Republicans a clear shot at regaining the Senate in this year's November elections.
"There's trouble in paradise for Democrats," Bradley Blakeman, a former adviser to President George W. Bush, told Newsmax in an interview. "Incumbent Democrats don’t like their chances in 2014.
"They've had enough of Washington," said Blakeman, who lectures on politics and public policy at Georgetown University. "They have a record that they would have to defend and a president that they would have to defend.
"I don't like the Democrats' chances if I were a Democrat. Democrats would not only lose House seats, but they're also very much in danger of losing the Senate."
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"There's trouble in paradise for Democrats," Bradley Blakeman, a former adviser to President George W. Bush, told Newsmax in an interview. "Incumbent Democrats don’t like their chances in 2014.
"They've had enough of Washington," said Blakeman, who lectures on politics and public policy at Georgetown University. "They have a record that they would have to defend and a president that they would have to defend.
"I don't like the Democrats' chances if I were a Democrat. Democrats would not only lose House seats, but they're also very much in danger of losing the Senate."
More
LIBERAL ICON URGES OBAMA IMPEACHMENT
'The most destructive, dangerous president we've ever had'
WASHINGTON — Worse than Richard Nixon. An unprecedented abuse of powers. The most un-American president in the nation’s history.
Nat Hentoff does not think much of President Obama.
And now, the famous journalist says it is time to begin looking into impeachment.
Hentoff sees the biggest problem as Obama’s penchant to rule by executive order when he can’t convince Congress to do things his way.
The issue jumped back into the headlines last week when, just before his first Cabinet meeting of 2014, Obama said, “I’ve got a pen and I’ve got a phone … and I can use that pen to sign executive orders and take executive actions.”
“Apparently he doesn’t give one damn about the separation of powers,” Hentoff told WND. “Never before in our history has a president done these things.”
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WASHINGTON — Worse than Richard Nixon. An unprecedented abuse of powers. The most un-American president in the nation’s history.
Nat Hentoff does not think much of President Obama.
And now, the famous journalist says it is time to begin looking into impeachment.
Hentoff sees the biggest problem as Obama’s penchant to rule by executive order when he can’t convince Congress to do things his way.
The issue jumped back into the headlines last week when, just before his first Cabinet meeting of 2014, Obama said, “I’ve got a pen and I’ve got a phone … and I can use that pen to sign executive orders and take executive actions.”
“Apparently he doesn’t give one damn about the separation of powers,” Hentoff told WND. “Never before in our history has a president done these things.”
More
Analyst Dissects Tactics O’Malley Used To Balance Md. Budget, Including Pension Cut
Picking apart Gov. Martin O’Malley’s proposed fiscal 2015 budget, the legislature’s chief fiscal analyst told lawmakers Monday that the administration relied on “familiar budget balancing strategies” to make the numbers work.
According to the fiscal briefing by chief analyst Warren Deschenaux, these tactics in O’Malley’s final spending plan included:
According to the fiscal briefing by chief analyst Warren Deschenaux, these tactics in O’Malley’s final spending plan included:
- leaving a fund balance cushion of only $30 million, far too small to cover unexpected spending, known as deficiencies. Deficiencies have averaged $145 million in recent years;
"Daily Slime Screwup"
Saw something unusual in the Daily Slime classifieds last week.
I have attached a copy here for your review.
Seems that even their "correction" was not quite accurate ....
Guerrero Stops By Albero Ranch Before Heading Back To California
I have to tell you, it was a VERY interesting evening having Fernando and friends come by and meet all the animals. We don't call it the Ranch for nothing.
Even cooler was having the opportunity to invite Fernando into my Man Cave, The Billiard Room. He was fascinated seeing MY past professional life including pictures of great Billiard Legends, articles of my past, all of which had nothing to do with Boxing. I had no idea he'd be so amazed.
Here's the funny part. So here I'm showing him pictures of me in the Color of Money and all my memorabilia from the making of the movie. For once I'M excited to show him my past and guess what, he had NO clue. He doesn't know of the movie, Tom Cruise, Paul Newman, NOTHING! POP goes MY bubble!
Oh well, at least I finally got him in MY RING. It was a wonderful evening with great company.
Even cooler was having the opportunity to invite Fernando into my Man Cave, The Billiard Room. He was fascinated seeing MY past professional life including pictures of great Billiard Legends, articles of my past, all of which had nothing to do with Boxing. I had no idea he'd be so amazed.
Here's the funny part. So here I'm showing him pictures of me in the Color of Money and all my memorabilia from the making of the movie. For once I'M excited to show him my past and guess what, he had NO clue. He doesn't know of the movie, Tom Cruise, Paul Newman, NOTHING! POP goes MY bubble!
Oh well, at least I finally got him in MY RING. It was a wonderful evening with great company.
SFD Calls For Service 1-20-14
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 23:13:01Nature: Assault EmsCity: Salisbury
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 20:15:11Nature: Medical AssistAddress: 1705 Eastgate Dr Salisbury, MD 21801
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 20:15:05Nature: OverdoseCity: Salisbury
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 20:13:02Nature: Pi AccidentAddress: 1810 N Salisbury Blvd Salisbury, MD 21801
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 16:30:06Nature: Difficulty BreathingCity: Salisbury
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 15:45:33Nature: StrokeCity: Salisbury
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 13:43:24Nature: Chest PainCity: Salisbury
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 13:37:28Nature: Emergency UnknownCity: Salisbury
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 12:20:28Nature: Sick SubjectCity: Salisbury
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 12:14:03Nature: Natural CoverAddress: Salisbury Byp and old Ocean City Rd Salisbury, MD 21801
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 12:07:32Nature: Petroleum SpillAddress: 1801 Autumn Grove Ct Salisbury, MD 21801
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 12:07:32Nature: Chest PainCity: Salisbury
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 12:07:30Nature: Medical AssistAddress: 200 Civic Ave Salisbury, MD 21801
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 10:30:48Nature: Natural CoverAddress: Salisbury Bypass Salisbury, MD 21802
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 09:34:03Nature: Chest PainCity: Salisbury
- Monday January, 20 2014 @ 04:11:57Nature: Unconscious SubjectCity: Salisbury
Accident On Rt. 13
There's been a two car accident on Rt. 13 and Naylor Street. Two south bound lanes are closed on Rt. 13 and one north bound lane is also closed. It's a mess.
DelDOT Prepares Roads For Snow
Accumulation Expected Tuesday
Dover -- Dover -- Roads across Delaware are being pretreated with a salt and water mixture called brine this morning, in preparation of tomorrow's forecasted snow fall.
Crews from the Delaware Department of Transportation are spending today pre-treating the primary and some secondary roads in every county.
Brine's purpose is to slow or prevent any accumulation of snow or ice on roads and bridges.
Drivers should drive carefully and allow extra travel time tomorrow, as snow is expected, and could accumulate and create some slick areas.
Dover -- Dover -- Roads across Delaware are being pretreated with a salt and water mixture called brine this morning, in preparation of tomorrow's forecasted snow fall.
Crews from the Delaware Department of Transportation are spending today pre-treating the primary and some secondary roads in every county.
Brine's purpose is to slow or prevent any accumulation of snow or ice on roads and bridges.
Drivers should drive carefully and allow extra travel time tomorrow, as snow is expected, and could accumulate and create some slick areas.
Janary 21st County Council Meeting- Agenda Change
Due to the impending winter storm, projected to arrive mid to late morning, by authority of Council President, Matt Holloway, the Wicomico County Council Legislative session will be held according to schedule. All work sessions for today are cancelled and will be rescheduled.
BEARS HEADED TO THE BEACH - PLUNGE COUNTDOWN IS ON!
(ANNAPOLIS, MD) – The temperatures are down, but the tents are up as final preparations are being made for Maryland’s largest and most unusual outdoor winter events set to occur this Friday and Saturday at Sandy Point State Park.
The 18th Annual Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics will be the main event of 2014 Plungefest this weekend, as thousands of warm-hearted people brave the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Their “plunges” will raise money to support year-round sports training and competition provided free to children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
Governor Martin O’Malley is set to complete a perfect record of plunging every year since he has been in office. He will be joined by Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel Marcus Brown, Natural Resources Police Superintendent Colonel George Johnson, Anne Arundel County Executive Laura Neuman, and many others as they take a quick dip in the Bay for a great cause.
Plungefest Weekend will begin Friday morning as more than 40 Super Plungers begin their quest to plunge once an hour for 24 hours. At noon Friday, more than 400 police officers are expected to hit the beach in the Police Plunge. Friday afternoon, polar bears from multiple area businesses will participate in the Corporate Plunge.
Sandy Point State Park will open at 8:00 a.m. Saturday to begin welcoming the more than 10,000 who are expected to plunge in the main events, along with their families, friends and a lot of spectators. A kid’s plunge will be held on the beach at 11:00 a.m. The MSP Polar Bear Plunge will occur at 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Those interested in registering to plunge, sponsoring a plunger, or learning more about the events are urged to visitwww.plungemd.com. Potential plungers can also register on-site the day of the plunge. Plungers are asked to raise a minimum of $75 for Special Olympics. They will receive an official Plunge sweatshirt, will qualify for other great prizes, and will know they have helped thousands of Marylanders with intellectual disabilities realize their full potential.
Plungefest is free and open to the public. The Carnival Funfest tent will be filled with a 40-ton sand sculpture, along with vendors selling food and other products. The Rams Head Live tent will feature live music all day long. The 98Rock Hot Spot tent will also have music and an assortment of vendors. There will be a variety of other sights to see and locations to visit throughout the Plungefest venue.
Plungers and spectators are urged to use the free Polar Express shuttle service, which is available at Navy-Marine Corps Stadium, Anne Arundel Community College, and Kent Island High School. There will be no general parking at Sandy Point. All those parking at the park must have a pass issued by Special Olympics.
Alcohol is not permitted in the venue except in three specific areas. Security will be in place to ensure the alcohol restrictions are adhered to. Plungefest is hosted by the Maryland Park Service. All visiting the park are urged to respect the venue and help preserve the park by obeying all rules and respecting this great natural resource.
Plungefest is produced by Special Olympics Maryland with assistance from a team of law enforcement agencies, business sponsors, and committed citizens. The event is part of the Maryland Law Enforcement Torch Run, which coordinates year-round events to support Special Olympics. Special Olympics is the adopted charity of law enforcement worldwide. Law Enforcement Torch Run programs exist and support Special Olympics in all 50 states and 45 foreign countries.
The 18th Annual Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics will be the main event of 2014 Plungefest this weekend, as thousands of warm-hearted people brave the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Their “plunges” will raise money to support year-round sports training and competition provided free to children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
Governor Martin O’Malley is set to complete a perfect record of plunging every year since he has been in office. He will be joined by Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel Marcus Brown, Natural Resources Police Superintendent Colonel George Johnson, Anne Arundel County Executive Laura Neuman, and many others as they take a quick dip in the Bay for a great cause.
Plungefest Weekend will begin Friday morning as more than 40 Super Plungers begin their quest to plunge once an hour for 24 hours. At noon Friday, more than 400 police officers are expected to hit the beach in the Police Plunge. Friday afternoon, polar bears from multiple area businesses will participate in the Corporate Plunge.
Sandy Point State Park will open at 8:00 a.m. Saturday to begin welcoming the more than 10,000 who are expected to plunge in the main events, along with their families, friends and a lot of spectators. A kid’s plunge will be held on the beach at 11:00 a.m. The MSP Polar Bear Plunge will occur at 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Those interested in registering to plunge, sponsoring a plunger, or learning more about the events are urged to visitwww.plungemd.com. Potential plungers can also register on-site the day of the plunge. Plungers are asked to raise a minimum of $75 for Special Olympics. They will receive an official Plunge sweatshirt, will qualify for other great prizes, and will know they have helped thousands of Marylanders with intellectual disabilities realize their full potential.
Plungefest is free and open to the public. The Carnival Funfest tent will be filled with a 40-ton sand sculpture, along with vendors selling food and other products. The Rams Head Live tent will feature live music all day long. The 98Rock Hot Spot tent will also have music and an assortment of vendors. There will be a variety of other sights to see and locations to visit throughout the Plungefest venue.
Plungers and spectators are urged to use the free Polar Express shuttle service, which is available at Navy-Marine Corps Stadium, Anne Arundel Community College, and Kent Island High School. There will be no general parking at Sandy Point. All those parking at the park must have a pass issued by Special Olympics.
Alcohol is not permitted in the venue except in three specific areas. Security will be in place to ensure the alcohol restrictions are adhered to. Plungefest is hosted by the Maryland Park Service. All visiting the park are urged to respect the venue and help preserve the park by obeying all rules and respecting this great natural resource.
Plungefest is produced by Special Olympics Maryland with assistance from a team of law enforcement agencies, business sponsors, and committed citizens. The event is part of the Maryland Law Enforcement Torch Run, which coordinates year-round events to support Special Olympics. Special Olympics is the adopted charity of law enforcement worldwide. Law Enforcement Torch Run programs exist and support Special Olympics in all 50 states and 45 foreign countries.
Want To Stab The Poor And Help Labor Unions?
The minimum wage on its face is an unemployment law, not an employment law. It does not compel anyone to hire anyone else. It only stipulates who CANNOT legally be employed: no one may be hired for less than the amount stipulated by law. If the minimum wage law is set at $10 per hour, the law does not require any employer to hire any employee at that wage level. It only FORBIDS employment contracts set at $9.99 or below. This is not a matter of empirical evidence, not that there can be any such thing in proper, e.g., Austrian economics; this conclusion is a matter of pure logic. We repeat: the minimum wage on its face is anunemployment law, not an employment law.
What about empirical studies (economic history, for praxeological economists)? Here, economists disagree. Some say there will be no unemployment effects whatsoever. That is, a person with a productivity level of $6 per hour will still be hired and paid $10 per hour, even though any such firm that does so will lose $4 per hour. Such “economists” are in a distinct minority. Other dismal scientists opine there will be very slight unemployment effect; some few unskilled workers will lose their jobs or not attain them in the first place; but a large number will retain their jobs and be paid more. Then there is a third or majority view: most economists conclude that this law will boost unemployment for those with low productivity, and will only raise wages for them temporarily, until employers can substitute away from the factor of production (unskilled labor) now priced out of the market.
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What about empirical studies (economic history, for praxeological economists)? Here, economists disagree. Some say there will be no unemployment effects whatsoever. That is, a person with a productivity level of $6 per hour will still be hired and paid $10 per hour, even though any such firm that does so will lose $4 per hour. Such “economists” are in a distinct minority. Other dismal scientists opine there will be very slight unemployment effect; some few unskilled workers will lose their jobs or not attain them in the first place; but a large number will retain their jobs and be paid more. Then there is a third or majority view: most economists conclude that this law will boost unemployment for those with low productivity, and will only raise wages for them temporarily, until employers can substitute away from the factor of production (unskilled labor) now priced out of the market.
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