DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Rand Paul: Hillary Clinton Is A 'Big Proponent of The Surveillance State'
A preview of a 2016 campaign argument?
Sen. Rand Paul offered a possible preview of the 2016 presidential campaign Tuesday.
The Kentucky Republican argued that the GOP could win over young voters and independents by opposing the National Security Agency's surveillance powers, and took a swipe at possible Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton.
"I think in 2016 if you had a more libertarian-leaning Republican, and you had someone like Hillary Clinton, I think you could actually completely transform where people think they are and what party people think they have allegiance for," Paul said at the State of the Net conference in Washington.
"Has she said anything about privacy? She's been a big proponent of the surveillance state and the NSA."
Sen. Rand Paul offered a possible preview of the 2016 presidential campaign Tuesday.
The Kentucky Republican argued that the GOP could win over young voters and independents by opposing the National Security Agency's surveillance powers, and took a swipe at possible Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton.
"I think in 2016 if you had a more libertarian-leaning Republican, and you had someone like Hillary Clinton, I think you could actually completely transform where people think they are and what party people think they have allegiance for," Paul said at the State of the Net conference in Washington.
"Has she said anything about privacy? She's been a big proponent of the surveillance state and the NSA."
MIKE LEE GIVES ERIC HOLDER THE GRILLING OF A LIFETIME OVER OBAMA’S USE OF EXECUTIVE ORDERS: ‘I RESPECTFULLY, BUT FORCEFULLY, DISAGREE’
The surprising admission came after Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) grilled Holder for several minutes on the constitutional limits of executive orders and the executive branch during a Senate hearing on Wednesday.
“I’ll be honest with you, I have not seen — I don’t remember looking at or having seen the analysis in some time, so I’m not sure where along the spectrum that would come,” Holder replied after Lee pressed him about the employer mandate delay.
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Oklahoma’s ‘Piers Morgan’ Act Would Restore 2nd Amendment Rights
According to Fox 25, a State Senator has filed legislation that he says would ‘reaffirm Oklahomans’ Second Amendment rights’ by not requiring law-abiding citizens to obtain a gun license.
In 2012, Oklahoma passed an “open carry” law that allowed permit-holders to openly carry firearms. Senate Bill 1473 goes beyond that. It restores 2nd Amendment rights by not requiring gun owners to obtain a gun permit.
State Sen. Nathan Dahm states, “The Second Amendment says the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed, and yet when we require our citizens to jump through hoops, pay fees and undergo a process that presumes they’re guilty of something until proven otherwise, their rights are being infringed upon,” Dahm said in a press release. “Senate Bill 1473 simply says Oklahomans can carry firearms in all the places currently allowed by law, but they will no longer be required to obtain a license to do so.”
The bill is named after Piers Morgan, one of the most vocal gun rights opponents on cable news. Morgan responded to the bill tweeting, “UNBELIEVABLE.”
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In 2012, Oklahoma passed an “open carry” law that allowed permit-holders to openly carry firearms. Senate Bill 1473 goes beyond that. It restores 2nd Amendment rights by not requiring gun owners to obtain a gun permit.
State Sen. Nathan Dahm states, “The Second Amendment says the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed, and yet when we require our citizens to jump through hoops, pay fees and undergo a process that presumes they’re guilty of something until proven otherwise, their rights are being infringed upon,” Dahm said in a press release. “Senate Bill 1473 simply says Oklahomans can carry firearms in all the places currently allowed by law, but they will no longer be required to obtain a license to do so.”
The bill is named after Piers Morgan, one of the most vocal gun rights opponents on cable news. Morgan responded to the bill tweeting, “UNBELIEVABLE.”
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Super Bowl: Temperature Up. Prices Down. Security Tight. Game On!
There are things that are down. The temperature, for one. Ticket prices, in some cases, are another.
A few things are up. The cost of the ads many people will be tuning in for -- a record $4.5 million.
The security presence, even by Super Bowl standards, will be big.
So how about some good news?
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Dept. Of Education Spent $20.3 Million On 10 Equity Centers To Fight The ‘Isms’
(CNSNews.com) - The Department of Education (DOE) spent $20,396,892 over the last three years to set up and staff 10 Equity Assistance Centers (EACs) across the United States that work with school districts and state boards of education to fight “all of the –isms, like racism, ableism, orientation, etc.,” Velma Cobb, director of the EAC at Touro College in Lower Manhattan, told CNSNews.com.
The EACs cover 10 regions throughout the United States, and are funded under Title IV of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. DOE spent $6,575,460 on EACs in 2013, $6,938,817 in 2012, and $6,882,615 in 2011.
Jenelle Leonard, director of Office of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (OESE) School Support and Rural Programs, which provides oversight for the EACs, told CNSNews.com that the facilities “offer technical assistance to school districts, state education agencies, and others who seek to resolve civil rights conflicts and promote social justice and equity.”
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The EACs cover 10 regions throughout the United States, and are funded under Title IV of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. DOE spent $6,575,460 on EACs in 2013, $6,938,817 in 2012, and $6,882,615 in 2011.
Jenelle Leonard, director of Office of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (OESE) School Support and Rural Programs, which provides oversight for the EACs, told CNSNews.com that the facilities “offer technical assistance to school districts, state education agencies, and others who seek to resolve civil rights conflicts and promote social justice and equity.”
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Be Here Tomorrow At 6:00 AM
Outrageous! Top Benghazi Official At State Not Fired – But Promoted
In December 2012 three top State Department officials reportedly resigned after the release of the Benghazi investigation.
Not true.
They just took a little time off.
And, now one of those officials, Charlene Lamb, was just promoted.
The Blaze reported:
Charlene Lamb, cited for failures in leadership from the Department of State’s own Accountability Review Board report, has been promoted to Regional Security Officer. We’ve heard rumor that she’s slated for international duty in Canada. She started the security officer training last week, much to the dismay of many within the State Department.
For those not keeping track, Charlene Lamb was in charge of the office that denied extra security personnel to the U.S. Ambassador in Libya before the Sept. 11, 2011 attacks.
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Not true.
They just took a little time off.
And, now one of those officials, Charlene Lamb, was just promoted.
The Blaze reported:
Charlene Lamb, cited for failures in leadership from the Department of State’s own Accountability Review Board report, has been promoted to Regional Security Officer. We’ve heard rumor that she’s slated for international duty in Canada. She started the security officer training last week, much to the dismay of many within the State Department.
For those not keeping track, Charlene Lamb was in charge of the office that denied extra security personnel to the U.S. Ambassador in Libya before the Sept. 11, 2011 attacks.
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Closing And Delays For Thursday January 30th 2014
Kent County Public Schools - Two-hour delay Thursday.
Queen Anne's County Public Schools - 90-minute delay Thursday
Somerset County Public Schools - Closed Thursday
Talbot County Public Schools -2 hour delay with No morning Pre-K
Wicomico County Schools - Closed Thur, Jan. 30. Central Office two-hour delay.
Worcester County Public Schools - Closed for students & 10mos staff on Thurs., Jan. 30, 2014. 12mos staff report at 10am.
Maryland Polar Bear Plunge Rescheduled for March
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Organizers of the 18th Annual Maryland Polar Bear Plunge at Sandy Point Park announced Tuesday the event has been rescheduled to March 8.
The plunge was supposed to be held last Saturday, but was postponed because of bitter cold temperatures and high winds.
In a statement, the organizers said, "A combination of high winds gusting up to 25 mph has created three-foot waves. Combined with freezing temperatures, this has created a large buildup of snow and ice on the shore resulting in unsafe conditions for Plungers."
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National Review: GOP Should 'Do Nothing' On Immigration Reform
Monday morning, MSNBC's Joe Scarborough warned that the one thing that could cost the GOP control of the Senate this year would be to pass immigration reform. That same day the editors of National Review shouted "don't do it" with the warning that history proves "President Obama obviously can’t be trusted" to abide by any kind immigration deal.
Though not in a way the media, GOP Establishment, big business, and Barack Obama would like, it looks as though conservatives, the grassroots, and various elements of the Republican Party are unifying on this issue. National Review's reasoning starts with the obvious, that immigration reform is only seen as a priority by 3% of the American people and therefore hardly the burning issue the media and Democrats pretend it is.
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Though not in a way the media, GOP Establishment, big business, and Barack Obama would like, it looks as though conservatives, the grassroots, and various elements of the Republican Party are unifying on this issue. National Review's reasoning starts with the obvious, that immigration reform is only seen as a priority by 3% of the American people and therefore hardly the burning issue the media and Democrats pretend it is.
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Beretta Move Plant To Tennessee
Gun manufacturer Beretta USA announced Wednesday it would build its newest plant not in Maryland, but in Tennessee.
Last year, the centuries-old Italian gun-maker threatened to abandon plans to expand its U.S. headquarters in Prince George's County when Maryland weighed some of the toughest gun laws in the country.
At least eight states began trying to woo Maryland gun manufacturers last year. When state lawmakers approved a ban on the sale of assault-style rifles - some of which Beretta had been developing at its Accokeek plant - the company said it would look elsewhere for its next $45-million, 300-job plant.
On Wednesday, the company announced it had followed through on those plans and would build a new research and development plant in Gallatin, a town of about 30,000 people north east of Nashville. It will be the first U.S. Beretta manufacturing plant outside of Maryland.
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Last year, the centuries-old Italian gun-maker threatened to abandon plans to expand its U.S. headquarters in Prince George's County when Maryland weighed some of the toughest gun laws in the country.
At least eight states began trying to woo Maryland gun manufacturers last year. When state lawmakers approved a ban on the sale of assault-style rifles - some of which Beretta had been developing at its Accokeek plant - the company said it would look elsewhere for its next $45-million, 300-job plant.
On Wednesday, the company announced it had followed through on those plans and would build a new research and development plant in Gallatin, a town of about 30,000 people north east of Nashville. It will be the first U.S. Beretta manufacturing plant outside of Maryland.
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Obama Promises A Dramatic ‘Year Of Action’ — With Or Without Congress
Insists U.S. must ‘reverse the tides’ of inequality
Provoking Republican lawmakers with an in-your-face vow to bypass Congress if necessary, President Obama said Tuesday night that he would use his executive authority on a dozen issues including income inequality and job training
to spur “a year of action” for his stalled agenda.
“America does not stand still — and neither will I,” Mr. Obama said in the annual State of the Union address. “So wherever and whenever I can take steps without legislation to expand opportunity for more American families, that’s what I’m going to do.”
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Provoking Republican lawmakers with an in-your-face vow to bypass Congress if necessary, President Obama said Tuesday night that he would use his executive authority on a dozen issues including income inequality and job training
to spur “a year of action” for his stalled agenda.“America does not stand still — and neither will I,” Mr. Obama said in the annual State of the Union address. “So wherever and whenever I can take steps without legislation to expand opportunity for more American families, that’s what I’m going to do.”
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Arctic Blast Takes Its Toll On Waterman, Boats Frozen In Port
KENT ISLAND, Md. - Days of below zero temperatures – an “arctic blast” or “Polar Vortex” as meteorologists call it – are taking a toll on Maryland waterman whose boats are stuck in port.
Moochie Gilmer has been a waterman for 40 years.
He's made a career of fishing, crabbing and going for oysters. Winter isn't the offseason for watermen. They are dredging and diving for oysters now and also netting rock fish in the bay .
“We've been unable to work for the last week or so in the Eastern Bay or the Chester River,” Gilmer said.
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Moochie Gilmer has been a waterman for 40 years.
He's made a career of fishing, crabbing and going for oysters. Winter isn't the offseason for watermen. They are dredging and diving for oysters now and also netting rock fish in the bay .
“We've been unable to work for the last week or so in the Eastern Bay or the Chester River,” Gilmer said.
More
Smith & Wesson Unveils Monster .460 Caliber Gun: The ‘Backpack Cannon’
The manufacturing company is billing it as “great for a back-up gun, or for hunting,” and has dubbed it the “Backpack Cannon,” The Daily Mail reported.
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Wicomico County Schools Closed Again Tomorrow
Obama Step Closer To Seizing Retirement Accounts
In November 2012, WND reported the Obama administration was exploring a creative way to finance continuing trillion-dollar annual federal budget deficits through forcing private citizens holding IRA and 401(k) accounts to purchase Treasury bonds by mandating the placement of government-structured annuities in their retirement accounts.
Two years ago, WND reported the U.S. Department of Labor and the Treasury Department held joint hearings on whether government lifetime annuity options funded by U.S. Treasury debt should be required for private retirement accounts, including IRAs and 401(k) plans.
Read more
Obamacare Is The Final Nail In The Coffin For The Disappearing American Middle Class
If you are still fortunate enough to call yourself “middle class,” enjoy it while you can, because thanks to the ravages of Obamacare, you’re liable to lose that status at some point in the future.
Since Oct. 1, when the individual mandate kicked in and health insurance plans were required to include minimal coverage standards, millions of Americans have lost their insurance or will be losing it soon when policies come up for renewal, because their plans do not meet the mandates of the imperial ruling class.
Now granted, the middle class has been shrinking for some time. The damage to the middle class has truly been bipartisan; middle class families have been disappearing under both Republican and Democratic administrations. But this is mostly due to the fact that the massive federal bureaucracy is infested with career statists who impose rules and regulations on the American public and American industry relentlessly (these are increasing at a massive pace under Obama). And each of these rules carries a price for compliance – a price which must be paid by us.
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Since Oct. 1, when the individual mandate kicked in and health insurance plans were required to include minimal coverage standards, millions of Americans have lost their insurance or will be losing it soon when policies come up for renewal, because their plans do not meet the mandates of the imperial ruling class.
Now granted, the middle class has been shrinking for some time. The damage to the middle class has truly been bipartisan; middle class families have been disappearing under both Republican and Democratic administrations. But this is mostly due to the fact that the massive federal bureaucracy is infested with career statists who impose rules and regulations on the American public and American industry relentlessly (these are increasing at a massive pace under Obama). And each of these rules carries a price for compliance – a price which must be paid by us.
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MARYLAND’S DEMOCRATIC MEMBERS OF CONGRESS PRAISE OBAMA’S STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS
WASHINGTON – Saying this could be “a breakthrough year for America,” President Barack Obama called on Congress to build on the economic recovery he said is already underway by restoring jobless benefits, raising the minimum wage and helping women earn equal pay for equal work, in his sixth State of the Union address Tuesday night.
“After five years of grit and determined effort, the United States is better-positioned for the 21st century than any other nation on Earth,” Obama said, during his more than hour-long address to a joint session of Congress.
Following through on a pledge to use executive action if Congress fails to act, the president announced that he would sign an executive order requiring federal contractors to raise the minimum wage for their employees from $7.25 per hour to $10.10 per hour in all future contracts.
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“After five years of grit and determined effort, the United States is better-positioned for the 21st century than any other nation on Earth,” Obama said, during his more than hour-long address to a joint session of Congress.
Following through on a pledge to use executive action if Congress fails to act, the president announced that he would sign an executive order requiring federal contractors to raise the minimum wage for their employees from $7.25 per hour to $10.10 per hour in all future contracts.
More
Police: Man Says He Was Beaten Unconscious After Car Got Stuck In Snow At NJ Business
BRIDGETON, N.J. – A southern New Jersey man says he was beaten unconscious by two men who had approached him asking for money after his car got stuck in the snow.
The Press of Atlantic City (http://bit.ly/1aAAfix) reports the Bridgeton man told police that he got stuck Sunday morning as he tried to enter the parking lot of a local business.
When he tried to free his vehicle, the man says two men and a woman approached him and asked for money. When the victim told them he had nothing, he says the two males beat him until he was unconscious.
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The Press of Atlantic City (http://bit.ly/1aAAfix) reports the Bridgeton man told police that he got stuck Sunday morning as he tried to enter the parking lot of a local business.
When he tried to free his vehicle, the man says two men and a woman approached him and asked for money. When the victim told them he had nothing, he says the two males beat him until he was unconscious.
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As Obama Talks, Republicans Fire Back On Twitter
Lawmakers took to Twitter Tuesday night to agree with, bash and fact-check President Obama’s State of the Union address in real time.
Republican members of Congress did most of the tweeting, disagreeing with many of Mr. Obama’s assertions during the speech, including that unemployment is down and that the president has the power to go around Congress to get things done.
“Obama: ‘I will take steps without legislation.’ Your oath of office says no,”Rep. Steve Stockman, Texas Republican, tweeted Tuesday night.
The president claimed that the unemployment rate is falling, but some GOP lawmakers said it’s only because so many have dropped out of the workforce entirely.
“Obama just bragged unemployment rate is finally back down to what he inherited. And only b/c millions gave up finding work under Obama,” Mr. Stockman tweeted.
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Republican members of Congress did most of the tweeting, disagreeing with many of Mr. Obama’s assertions during the speech, including that unemployment is down and that the president has the power to go around Congress to get things done.
“Obama: ‘I will take steps without legislation.’ Your oath of office says no,”Rep. Steve Stockman, Texas Republican, tweeted Tuesday night.
The president claimed that the unemployment rate is falling, but some GOP lawmakers said it’s only because so many have dropped out of the workforce entirely.
“Obama just bragged unemployment rate is finally back down to what he inherited. And only b/c millions gave up finding work under Obama,” Mr. Stockman tweeted.
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We Really Hope Nissan Puts Its New Racing Engine Into Cars We Can Buy
Nissan has revealed the remarkably small, powerful engine that will power its NEOD RC car, which will compete at the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in June.
To illustrate just how unusual this engine is, Nissan showed it off in the arms of Shoichi Miyatani, president of Nismo, Nissan's motorsports and performance division.
The DIG-T R 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine weighs just 88 pounds. It measures 19.68” x 15.74” x 7.78”, small enough to fit in your carry-on bag.
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To illustrate just how unusual this engine is, Nissan showed it off in the arms of Shoichi Miyatani, president of Nismo, Nissan's motorsports and performance division.
The DIG-T R 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine weighs just 88 pounds. It measures 19.68” x 15.74” x 7.78”, small enough to fit in your carry-on bag.
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Domestic Violence Bills Heard By Md. Lawmakers
ANNAPOLIS, Md. -- Maryland lawmakers are hearing from victims of domestic violence about how several changes in the law would increase protections for them.
A Senate panel held a hearing on the measures Tuesday. Gov. Martin O'Malley's administration is highlighting three bills in particular.
One would make it easier for victims to obtain a protective order by changing the standard of evidence needed to get one.
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A Senate panel held a hearing on the measures Tuesday. Gov. Martin O'Malley's administration is highlighting three bills in particular.
One would make it easier for victims to obtain a protective order by changing the standard of evidence needed to get one.
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OCEAN CITY GRANDMOTHER WINS BIG WITH MARYLAND LOTTERY
“I’ve had a few days for it to sink in and I know they all keep telling me it’s real, but I just can’t believe it,” the winner told Lottery officials. Accompanied by her daughter, the 83-year-old former federal employee is the biggest winner produced from a decade-old family tradition. Whenever the family gets together, in groups large or small, all of the adults bring a few scratch-off tickets and put them in a pile. Each family member then picks one and scratches it off.
As the Ocean City resident played her $5 Super Slots ticket, she immediately revealed the $77,700 win. “I showed my daughters, who spent the next hour trying to figure out what we were missing,” said the mother of three. “None of us could believe that I’d actually won.”
Eventually, they enjoyed a loud, happy celebration. “Once we determined that the ticket was real, it got pretty crazy,” she said. The grandmother of three will spend her winnings on home improvements, a cruise and members of her family.
A family member purchased the winning Super Slots ticket from the Royal Farms #107 at 12826 Ocean Gateway in Ocean City. Three $77,700 top prize-winning tickets and nine $7,000 winners remain in stores awaiting discovery.
Georgetown Man Arrested In Lincoln Barricade
Date of Occurrence: Monday January 27, 2014 at approximately 10:19 p.m.
Victims:
33 year old female
13 year old female
6 year old female
1 year old female
4 month old female
Defendant, Charges, and Bond Information:
Juan Sanchez, 43, Georgetown, DE (Photo Attached)
Kidnapping 1st (5 counts)
Criminal Contempt of a Domestic Violence Protective Order (5 counts)
Endangering the Welfare of a Child (4 counts)
Malicious Interference with Emergency Communications
Offensive Touching
Arraigned at JP3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $524,500.00 cash bond.
Resume:
Lincoln, DE- The Delaware State Police have formally charged a 43 year old Georgetown man after he barricaded himself inside a residence located in the 8000 block of Railroad Avenue, Lincoln, DE and would not allow his ex-wife and their four children to leave.
The incident began at approximately 10:19 p.m. Monday evening when troopers received a call about a male subject that physically assaulted his ex-wife and was refusing to allow her and her kids leave. At one point during the incident, the 13 year old female attempted to call 9-1-1, but was forced to drop her phone as her step-father grabbed her by her hair.
At approximately 6:05 a.m. Tuesday morning, the Delaware State Police Special Operations Response Team (SORT) made entry into the house and located the 43 year old male, who was identified as Juan Sanchez, where he was taken into custody without incident.
Sanchez suffered self-inflicted wounds to his wrists and was treated by DSP SORT Medics and transported by ambulance to Milford Memorial Hospital for evaluation. He was released from the hospital Tuesday evening and transported to Troop 4 where he was charged with five counts of Kidnapping 1st, five counts of Criminal Contempt of a Domestic Violence Protective Order, four counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Malicious Interference with Emergency Communications, and Offensive Touching. He was arraigned at JP3 and committed to SCI in lieu of $524,500.00 cash bond.
The 33 year old female suffered non-life-threatening injuries from the initial physical altercation and was later transported to Nanticoke Memorial Hospital where she was treated and released. Her four kids ages 4 months to 13 years old were uninjured in this incident.
Should The Fed Stop The Dominoes From Falling?
The forest (the economy) can only remain vibrant and healthy if the dead wood is burned off in bankruptcy and insolvency. Retail commercial real estate is over-built and over-leveraged. If it is allowed to burn off as Nature intended, we can finally move forward.
Last week I suggested that Retail-CRE (Commercial Real Estate) would be The First Domino to Fall in the domestic U.S. economy. The reason is simple supply and demand: for a variety of structural reasons, there is an enormous oversupply of retail commercial space and an ever-declining demand for bricks-n-mortar commercial space.
I laid all this out in a three-part series last week:
Dead Mall Syndrome: The Self-Reinforcing Death Spiral of Retail (January 22, 2014)
The First Domino to Fall: Retail-CRE (Commercial Real Estate) (January 21, 2014)
After Seven Lean Years, Part 2: US Commercial Real Estate: The Present Position and Future Prospects (January 20, 2014)
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Last week I suggested that Retail-CRE (Commercial Real Estate) would be The First Domino to Fall in the domestic U.S. economy. The reason is simple supply and demand: for a variety of structural reasons, there is an enormous oversupply of retail commercial space and an ever-declining demand for bricks-n-mortar commercial space.
I laid all this out in a three-part series last week:
Dead Mall Syndrome: The Self-Reinforcing Death Spiral of Retail (January 22, 2014)
The First Domino to Fall: Retail-CRE (Commercial Real Estate) (January 21, 2014)
After Seven Lean Years, Part 2: US Commercial Real Estate: The Present Position and Future Prospects (January 20, 2014)
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Old Betsy Clears The Way
My hat is tipped to the Dentist, Palmer and Roadie Joe's as their area was perfectly clear bright and early this morning.
Since I just returned I can report that most of the main roads are now clear. It was rough this morning but after doing my usual rounds I saw an incredible difference hours later. The side roads are still very bad but it's coming along nicely as the sun is out and melting what's left.
How Economists And Policymakers Murdered Our Economy
The economy has been debilitated by the offshoring of middle class jobs for the benefit of corporate profits and by the Federal Reserve’s policy of Quantitative Easing in order to support a few oversized banks that the government protects from market discipline. Not only does QE distort bond and stock markets, it threatens the value of the dollar and has resulted in manipulation of the gold price. See http://www.paulcraigroberts.org
When US corporations send jobs offshore, the GDP, consumer income, tax base, and careers associated with the jobs go abroad with the jobs. Corporations gain the additional profits at large costs to the economy in terms of less employment, less economic growth, reduced state, local and federal tax revenues, wider deficits, and impairments of social services.
When policymakers permitted banks to become independent of market discipline, they made the banks an unresolved burden on the economy. Authorities have provided no honest report on the condition of the banks. It remains to be seen if the Federal Reserve can create enough money to monetize enough debt to rescue the banks without collapsing the US dollar. It would have been far cheaper to let the banks fail and be reorganized.
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When US corporations send jobs offshore, the GDP, consumer income, tax base, and careers associated with the jobs go abroad with the jobs. Corporations gain the additional profits at large costs to the economy in terms of less employment, less economic growth, reduced state, local and federal tax revenues, wider deficits, and impairments of social services.
When policymakers permitted banks to become independent of market discipline, they made the banks an unresolved burden on the economy. Authorities have provided no honest report on the condition of the banks. It remains to be seen if the Federal Reserve can create enough money to monetize enough debt to rescue the banks without collapsing the US dollar. It would have been far cheaper to let the banks fail and be reorganized.
More
Delta Force Commando Who Saved ‘Numerous Lives’ In Benghazi Seige Honored
An Army Delta Force commando who infiltrated Benghazi to rescue U.S. diplomats, spies and security officers during a 2012 terrorist attack “was critical to the success of saving numerous lives,” according to a citation awarding him the military’s second-highest honor.
Delta Force’s role was not disclosed in any public report or congressional testimony. The Army citation for the Distinguished Service Cross, posted on a website for Army personnel, provides the first detailed look at what one of the commandos, Master Sgt. David R. Halbruner, accomplished.
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Delta Force’s role was not disclosed in any public report or congressional testimony. The Army citation for the Distinguished Service Cross, posted on a website for Army personnel, provides the first detailed look at what one of the commandos, Master Sgt. David R. Halbruner, accomplished.
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Podesta: Obama's 'Warmed Up' To Executive Action; Will Use It For 'Climate Change And Energy Transformation Agenda'
(CNSNews.com) - President Obama has "warmed up" to using executive authority, and when he believes "he has the authority" to "make progress" without action by Congress, he will do it, White House adviser John Podesta told NPR Tuesday morning.
"But he doesn't like to do this, does he?" the NPR host asked Podesta.
"Uh, I think he's warmed up to it," Podesta replied, laughing.
"And I think you'll see that across a wide range of topics, including retirement security, moving forward on his climate change and energy transformation agenda," said Podesta.
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"But he doesn't like to do this, does he?" the NPR host asked Podesta.
"Uh, I think he's warmed up to it," Podesta replied, laughing.
"And I think you'll see that across a wide range of topics, including retirement security, moving forward on his climate change and energy transformation agenda," said Podesta.
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A Letter To The Editor: RIght Church Wrong Pew
After years of waiting for the City to address the inequity of downtown residential trash pick up the City erected this “thing” in parking lot #1 , you know that one that they stopped issuing parking permits for so that they could sell it, ha ha. With stake holder input, the City had agreed to find a different , better location on parking lot #15 where it could appropriately concealed with landscaping and the existing transformer and not interfere with supposedly developers plans
They, unfortunately put this , frontiertown thing in the old proposed location, front and center stage to downtown visitors.
Maryland Dropout Rate Plummets
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The state says its dropout rate stands at 9.36 percent for the 2013 graduating class, marking the first time the statewide dropout rate has fallen below 10 percent. The state says 84.97 percent of all students in the 2013 class graduated. That's up from 83.57 percent in 2012.
Baltimore County schools are also sharing some positive news. According to a news release from the Baltimore County Public Schools:
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States Fight Back Against NSA Spying
The American people aren't falling for NSA's propaganda. They want the rogue agency reined in. But Obama refuses to rein in the NSA, Dianne Feinstein says that Congress "doesn't have the votes" to do anything about mass surveillance, and at least some judges are supporting the NSA's spying (and it's not clear what the Supreme Court will do). But states are trying to fight back ... Legislation has been introduced in 10 states (and counting) proposing one or both of the following:
(1) Cutting off water, electricity or other resources to NSA facilities within the state
(2) Prohibiting the state's cooperation with the NSA; for example, sharing data about its citizens, or university research support for NSA
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(1) Cutting off water, electricity or other resources to NSA facilities within the state
(2) Prohibiting the state's cooperation with the NSA; for example, sharing data about its citizens, or university research support for NSA
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We, The "Unwanted" People
The fact that the phrase sounds antique should warn us of the scale of our folly. We have lost, given away, pawned the power we once claimed. We have ceased to be who we once were. Or at least who we claimed and hoped to be – The People. Now who are we? The Consumer? The Unemployed. The Unwanted? ”We, the Unwanted” does not have the same ring about it does it? And yet that is what we are fast becoming. It is time to chose. Sit in front of your television or computer screen and let it sooth you, until one day you too find you have have become one of the unheard, unlamented, Unwanted. Or reach out to others and grasp hold.
It is surely time that we re-assert what the phrase “We, The People” once meant. It is suybolic I know. But symbols are powerful. And the powerful fear them.
For too long now we have been supine, docile and cowed. There have been sputterings of resolve when a million people took to the streets to oppose the War in Iraq. But the rulers of the day ignored us and ‘the people’ simply went home vaguely disquieted, perhaps a little hurt at being ignored but mainly just confused as to what to do next – if anything.
For decades now we have let others have the initiative, let others define what was acceptable and legitimate. When it was never their position to do so. This must stop.
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It is surely time that we re-assert what the phrase “We, The People” once meant. It is suybolic I know. But symbols are powerful. And the powerful fear them.
For too long now we have been supine, docile and cowed. There have been sputterings of resolve when a million people took to the streets to oppose the War in Iraq. But the rulers of the day ignored us and ‘the people’ simply went home vaguely disquieted, perhaps a little hurt at being ignored but mainly just confused as to what to do next – if anything.
For decades now we have let others have the initiative, let others define what was acceptable and legitimate. When it was never their position to do so. This must stop.
More
No To Executive Overreach
The president is wrong when he argues that Congress is a Bureau of Friendly Advice.
If the reports that have trickled out of the White House over the past few days are any indication of what is to come, we will this evening be treated to a stern presidential rebuke, the dull restatement of a political agenda with which we are all depressingly familiar, and, intermittently at least, a series of indecorous threats. “Mr. Obama,” yesterday’s Wall Street Journal tells us, “will emphasize his intention to use unilateral presidential authority — bypassing Congress when necessary — to an extent not seen in his previous State of the Union speeches.” If it wishes to preserve the integrity of the American settlement, Congress must push back — and hard.
More
If the reports that have trickled out of the White House over the past few days are any indication of what is to come, we will this evening be treated to a stern presidential rebuke, the dull restatement of a political agenda with which we are all depressingly familiar, and, intermittently at least, a series of indecorous threats. “Mr. Obama,” yesterday’s Wall Street Journal tells us, “will emphasize his intention to use unilateral presidential authority — bypassing Congress when necessary — to an extent not seen in his previous State of the Union speeches.” If it wishes to preserve the integrity of the American settlement, Congress must push back — and hard.
More
Predator Drone Helps Convict North Dakota Farmer In First Case Of Its Kind
What began as a wild west-style cattle-stealing case may have ushered in a brave new world of law enforcement officials using drones to gather evidence to put Americans behind bars.
In the first-ever case of a U.S. citizen being convicted and sentenced to prison based in part on evidence gathered by a drone, Lakota, N.D., farmer Rodney Brossart got a three-year sentence for his role in an armed standoff with police that began after he was accused of stealing his neighbors' stray cattle in 2011.
Brossart was arrested on June 23, 2011, but his family refused at gunpoint to let authorities armed with a search warrant onto their 3,600-acre property to investigate the neighbors' complaint. Brossart was later released on bail, and warrants issued for his three sons, but the family refused for months to respond to orders to appear in court, prompting Nelson County Sheriff Kelly Janke to have the U.S. Border Patrol deploy a Predator drone conduct live video surveillance of the farm.
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In the first-ever case of a U.S. citizen being convicted and sentenced to prison based in part on evidence gathered by a drone, Lakota, N.D., farmer Rodney Brossart got a three-year sentence for his role in an armed standoff with police that began after he was accused of stealing his neighbors' stray cattle in 2011.
Brossart was arrested on June 23, 2011, but his family refused at gunpoint to let authorities armed with a search warrant onto their 3,600-acre property to investigate the neighbors' complaint. Brossart was later released on bail, and warrants issued for his three sons, but the family refused for months to respond to orders to appear in court, prompting Nelson County Sheriff Kelly Janke to have the U.S. Border Patrol deploy a Predator drone conduct live video surveillance of the farm.
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Parents Protest Common Core
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Critics have charged that schools will collect and distribute private information about students through Common Core. Teachers have also complained that the standards are being implemented before a formal curriculum has been written.
Kimberly Shaw, a mother from Annapolis who was one of the demonstration's organizers, told WBAL News that the state should at least "pause" implementing the new federal standards.
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Have A Heart
Baywater Animal Rescue Scores Big for Pets with Have A Heart Gala Celebrates Love of Extended Family on Valentine’s Day Weekend
Cambridge, MD – Baywater Animal Rescue will host its Have a Heart Gala at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay on Saturday February 15, 6:30-8:30 pm to toast a special kind of love this Valentine’s Day weekend. Building on the success of last year’s inaugural gala, the event is a significant fundraiser for the animal adoption shelter and culminates with the crowning of King and Queen of Hearts, canine and feline royalty.
“This year’s Have a Heart gala features music by DJ Erik Higgins, a live and silent auction, and delicious small plates,” said Suzette Stitely, Executive Director, adding, “but the crowning moment will be the coronation of two royal pets as the 2014 King and Queen of Hearts.” Stitely explained that guests will be able to elect the king and queen by donating a dollar per vote; the pet who raises the most money will be crowned.
Have a Heart is the major fundraising event for Baywater; it funds 10% of the organization’s operating costs. The 2013 gala raised $28,000 according to chairwoman Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio who said, “We hope more people will join us this year to demonstrate the special love we share with our pets on Valentine’s Day – and every day.”
Baywater Board President Jerilyn Gibbs credits the mid-shore community and Dorchester residents and business owners for making the center the region’s premiere No Kill shelter. “Thanks to the generosity and support of donors, adopters and volunteers, more than 300 homeless animals found happy endings in 2013.”
Have a Heart is sponsored by Perdue and the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay and all proceeds benefit the shelter’s operations. Tickets are $75 per person, including a cash bar and can be purchased at www.baywaterhaveaheart.org or by contacting Baywater at 410-228-3090.
Cambridge, MD – Baywater Animal Rescue will host its Have a Heart Gala at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay on Saturday February 15, 6:30-8:30 pm to toast a special kind of love this Valentine’s Day weekend. Building on the success of last year’s inaugural gala, the event is a significant fundraiser for the animal adoption shelter and culminates with the crowning of King and Queen of Hearts, canine and feline royalty.
“This year’s Have a Heart gala features music by DJ Erik Higgins, a live and silent auction, and delicious small plates,” said Suzette Stitely, Executive Director, adding, “but the crowning moment will be the coronation of two royal pets as the 2014 King and Queen of Hearts.” Stitely explained that guests will be able to elect the king and queen by donating a dollar per vote; the pet who raises the most money will be crowned.
Have a Heart is the major fundraising event for Baywater; it funds 10% of the organization’s operating costs. The 2013 gala raised $28,000 according to chairwoman Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio who said, “We hope more people will join us this year to demonstrate the special love we share with our pets on Valentine’s Day – and every day.”
Baywater Board President Jerilyn Gibbs credits the mid-shore community and Dorchester residents and business owners for making the center the region’s premiere No Kill shelter. “Thanks to the generosity and support of donors, adopters and volunteers, more than 300 homeless animals found happy endings in 2013.”
Have a Heart is sponsored by Perdue and the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay and all proceeds benefit the shelter’s operations. Tickets are $75 per person, including a cash bar and can be purchased at www.baywaterhaveaheart.org or by contacting Baywater at 410-228-3090.
State Of The Union: Statement And Rebuttal From The Tenth Amendment Center
Today, the TAC published a letter regarding our position on the State of the Union speech from Pres. Obama tonight. See the full public document below.
It’s short, and pretty much sums up our official rebuttal, which follows:
“We intend to resist each and every unconstitutional act coming from this president and the next.”
We strongly recommend that you join us in using our precious minutes to take some concrete actions which can help nullify the endless mountain of unconstitutional acts which have come from Pres. Obama and his predecessors.
Here are some options:
If you oppose Obamacare, get a list of groups who might agree with you around the state, and make some phone calls to them tonight. Talk to them, encourage them to support legislation to ban its implementation in the state.
Here: http://tenthamendmentcenter.com/obamacare
More
It’s short, and pretty much sums up our official rebuttal, which follows:
“We intend to resist each and every unconstitutional act coming from this president and the next.”
We strongly recommend that you join us in using our precious minutes to take some concrete actions which can help nullify the endless mountain of unconstitutional acts which have come from Pres. Obama and his predecessors.
Here are some options:
If you oppose Obamacare, get a list of groups who might agree with you around the state, and make some phone calls to them tonight. Talk to them, encourage them to support legislation to ban its implementation in the state.
Here: http://tenthamendmentcenter.com/obamacare
More
VILLAGE OF HOPE APPOINTS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Ms. Rogers has been with the Village as both an intern and an employee since 2010. Her most recent position was that of Case Manager. Ms. Rogers is a graduate of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore where she earned a dual degree in conjunction with the Social Work program at Salisbury University. She also holds a Master of Public Administration degree from Ashford University.
Ms. Rogers is a native of Cambridge, Maryland and resides in Salisbury.
Gassy German Cows Blamed For Barn Explosion
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Police in Hesse state said in a statement that a static electric charge apparently triggered the detonation, and a spurt of flame, on Monday at a farm in Rasdorf. The roof was slightly damaged and one cow suffered light burns. No people were hurt.
Police say 90 cows are kept in the shed and it wasn't clear why quantities of methane had built up. Bovine belching and flatulence releases large quantities of the gas.
The Humane Society, USDA, And 2 Lawsuits Against Perdue
Because of a video obtained by The Humane Society of the United States, the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture has closed a slaughterhouse of calves:
A New Jersey company involved in the veal and lamb business for more than 65 years was forced to shut down last Friday when USDA inspectors left the building because of alleged inhumane practices going on inside.
At least two egregious violations of federal humane handling requirements documented on a video obtained by the Humane Society of the United States (HBUS) were enough for USDA to shut down the Catelli Brothers, Inc., veal slaughter plant in Shrewsbury, NJ.
-- From “Slaughter Plant Closes After HSUS Video Prompts USDA Inspectors to Leave,” at this January 28, 2014 Global FoodMate site:
http://news.foodmate.com/201401/news_29081.html
The above-mentioned video is posted here:
http://www.humanesociety.org/issues/slaughter/#.UufFTHn0DVA
...and here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7suPjXRwVTk
The Humane Society reports that Perdue Farms is being sued twice, over Perdue's alleged false advertising of factory-farmed chicken products as “humane”:
Earlier this year a federal court in New Jersey rejected Perdue’s attempt to have a similar case dismissed, paving the way for that action to proceed. Both lawsuits allege that Perdue’s “humanely raised” labels mislead consumers.
Public records obtained from USDA—which Perdue fought to keep hidden from public view—show that the standards upon which Perdue bases its “Humanely Raised” claim are the voluntary so-called “Animal Welfare Guidelines” of the National Chicken Council—the trade group for the chicken industry. The suit alleges that those guidelines allow for mistreatment that no reasonable consumer would consider humane.
-- From “Second Class Action Lawsuit Filed Challenging Perdue’s ‘Humane’ Claims” at this October 24, 2013 Humane Society of the United States site: http://www.humanesociety.org/news/press_releases/2013/10/perdue-humane-claims-lawsuit-102413.html
A New Jersey company involved in the veal and lamb business for more than 65 years was forced to shut down last Friday when USDA inspectors left the building because of alleged inhumane practices going on inside.
At least two egregious violations of federal humane handling requirements documented on a video obtained by the Humane Society of the United States (HBUS) were enough for USDA to shut down the Catelli Brothers, Inc., veal slaughter plant in Shrewsbury, NJ.
-- From “Slaughter Plant Closes After HSUS Video Prompts USDA Inspectors to Leave,” at this January 28, 2014 Global FoodMate site:
http://news.foodmate.com/201401/news_29081.html
The above-mentioned video is posted here:
http://www.humanesociety.org/issues/slaughter/#.UufFTHn0DVA
...and here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7suPjXRwVTk
The Humane Society reports that Perdue Farms is being sued twice, over Perdue's alleged false advertising of factory-farmed chicken products as “humane”:
Earlier this year a federal court in New Jersey rejected Perdue’s attempt to have a similar case dismissed, paving the way for that action to proceed. Both lawsuits allege that Perdue’s “humanely raised” labels mislead consumers.
Public records obtained from USDA—which Perdue fought to keep hidden from public view—show that the standards upon which Perdue bases its “Humanely Raised” claim are the voluntary so-called “Animal Welfare Guidelines” of the National Chicken Council—the trade group for the chicken industry. The suit alleges that those guidelines allow for mistreatment that no reasonable consumer would consider humane.
-- From “Second Class Action Lawsuit Filed Challenging Perdue’s ‘Humane’ Claims” at this October 24, 2013 Humane Society of the United States site: http://www.humanesociety.org/news/press_releases/2013/10/perdue-humane-claims-lawsuit-102413.html
Dr. Mark Edney - Obama Care Update
Monthly meeting Thursday 1/30/14 at 7 pm at Ocean Pines Community Center. Doors open at 6:30 pm
Guest speaker: Dr. Mark Edney, a recognized expert on the Affordable Care Act. Dr. Edney will update us on the bad & the ugly of Obama Care.
Guest speaker: Dr. Mark Edney, a recognized expert on the Affordable Care Act. Dr. Edney will update us on the bad & the ugly of Obama Care.
28th Anniversary Of Space Shuttle Challenger Disaster
We are remembering the disaster of the space shuttle Challenger which exploded back on January, 28th, 1986.
Seven astronauts died on that launch exactly twenty-eight years ago.
One was school-teacher Christa McAuliffe.
The challenger shuttle broke apart 73- seconds into its flight.
NASA did not try again for almost three years.
The disaster changed the design of rocket boosters and forced NASA to create a new office of safety.
Source
Seven astronauts died on that launch exactly twenty-eight years ago.
One was school-teacher Christa McAuliffe.
The challenger shuttle broke apart 73- seconds into its flight.
NASA did not try again for almost three years.
The disaster changed the design of rocket boosters and forced NASA to create a new office of safety.
Source
O’Malley’s Irish Ghost Writer, And A Wee Tale Of Speechifying
“The only things worth doing are the things that might possibly break your heart,” O’Malley said.
As MarylandReporter.com wrote here last week, it is a partial quote from an Irish writer named Colum McCann.
We ran into O’Malley attending a Monday night kick-off party for the Center Maryland “magazine,”a slim 16 pages of columns and interviews, with O’Malley on the cover.
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REPEAL COMMON CORE HEARING FEBRUARY 5 2014
January 28, 2014
Open Letter to the elected representatives known as the Worcester County School Board:
Who among you is planning to attend the MD Legislature hearing on repealing Common Core in the MD school system? I am sure you are aware it is being held next Wednesday, February 5, in Annapolis.
Your thoroughly cohesive body has rejected all our local efforts to educate you and the Department you supposedly oversee on the dangers of relinquishing your responsibilities to the Federal Government. I am sure you cannot wait to extol the RIGOR of Common Core by joining your fellow proponents in Annapolis to prove (to those of us neanderthals who have objected to this one-size-fits-all system of indoctrination, data collection and ever increasing expense) how you STAKEHOLDERS know better.
Let’s carpool. Your gas and mileage expenses would probably be paid for by the taxpayers and we did pay for that.
Sincerely,
Gwen Cordner
Ocean City MD
Learn more HERE
Open Letter to the elected representatives known as the Worcester County School Board:
Who among you is planning to attend the MD Legislature hearing on repealing Common Core in the MD school system? I am sure you are aware it is being held next Wednesday, February 5, in Annapolis.
Your thoroughly cohesive body has rejected all our local efforts to educate you and the Department you supposedly oversee on the dangers of relinquishing your responsibilities to the Federal Government. I am sure you cannot wait to extol the RIGOR of Common Core by joining your fellow proponents in Annapolis to prove (to those of us neanderthals who have objected to this one-size-fits-all system of indoctrination, data collection and ever increasing expense) how you STAKEHOLDERS know better.
Let’s carpool. Your gas and mileage expenses would probably be paid for by the taxpayers and we did pay for that.
Sincerely,
Gwen Cordner
Ocean City MD
Learn more HERE
Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Press Release 1-29-14
How to avoid being Skimmed
- Inspect the ATM, gas pump, or credit card reader before using it…be suspicious if you see anything loose, crooked, or damaged, or if you notice scratches or adhesive/tape residue.
- When entering your PIN, block the keypad with your other hand to prevent possible hidden cameras from recording your number.
- If possible, use an ATM at an inside location (less access for criminals to install skimmers).
- Be careful of ATMs in tourist areas…they are a popular target of skimmers
ATMs aren’t the only target of skimmers—we’ve also seen it at gas pumps and other point-of-sale locations where customers swipe their cards and enter their PIN.
The 10 Worst States For Taxes In 2014
New York
Top State Income Tax Rate: 8.82 percent
Sales tax: 4 percent
Property taxes per capita: $2,280
The Empire State takes the prize as the worst state for taxes, thanks to its high individual tax rate and relatively high sales tax. New York is in a virtual tie with neighboring New Jersey, though the former state gets the bottom spot because its individual income tax suffers from such high rates and narrow bases, according to the Tax Foundation. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced the formation of a tax relief commission to look for ways to transform the state’s onerous tax code.
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Top State Income Tax Rate: 8.82 percent
Sales tax: 4 percent
Property taxes per capita: $2,280
The Empire State takes the prize as the worst state for taxes, thanks to its high individual tax rate and relatively high sales tax. New York is in a virtual tie with neighboring New Jersey, though the former state gets the bottom spot because its individual income tax suffers from such high rates and narrow bases, according to the Tax Foundation. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced the formation of a tax relief commission to look for ways to transform the state’s onerous tax code.
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MARYLAND is one of them.
A Comment Worthy Of A Post 1-29-14
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Wicomico's Operational Budget - Out of Sync":
If I am understanding this correctly, you can also note that the Per Capita taxable income level is below poverty. You have to understand that this is an "average" of all tax filers and to get such a low figure, it means that there are a boat load of people making very low wages.
I understand this includes deductions, but that is a very low figure.
I recently made a comment that I was making the same wage as I was in 2005. And did not realize how rich I was back then. Factor in the fact that all basic needs and goods have doubled in cost.
This is indisputable proof that taxpayers can not afford any more mismanagement by both the county and city
If I am understanding this correctly, you can also note that the Per Capita taxable income level is below poverty. You have to understand that this is an "average" of all tax filers and to get such a low figure, it means that there are a boat load of people making very low wages.
I understand this includes deductions, but that is a very low figure.
I recently made a comment that I was making the same wage as I was in 2005. And did not realize how rich I was back then. Factor in the fact that all basic needs and goods have doubled in cost.
This is indisputable proof that taxpayers can not afford any more mismanagement by both the county and city
96 Percent Of Dems Who Support Minimum Wage Hike Don’t Pay Their Interns
Liberals are really pushing raising the minimum wage for 2014. Thirty states have put forward bills to increase it, and Democrats have made this issue part of their political strategy for this year. Yet, a new study from the Employment Policies Institute (EPI) has exposed the proponents of raising the minimum wage of their "hypocrisy." It seems that 96% of Democrats who support such measures don't pay their interns.
The abstract of the EPI study noted that "the same Members of Congress who are supporting a 40% wage hike on private sector employers are simultaneously failing to provide any wages to their own employee interns."
Last year, I wrote for Newsbusters about how the media rail about the gender wage gap, but seem to ignore that the Obama White House paid their female staffers 88.3% of what their male ones earn.
Furthermore, then-Washington Free Beacon reporter Andrew Stiles reported in May 2012 that the female members of the Senate Democratic Caucus are some of the worst offenders concerning the gender wage gap.
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The abstract of the EPI study noted that "the same Members of Congress who are supporting a 40% wage hike on private sector employers are simultaneously failing to provide any wages to their own employee interns."
Last year, I wrote for Newsbusters about how the media rail about the gender wage gap, but seem to ignore that the Obama White House paid their female staffers 88.3% of what their male ones earn.
Furthermore, then-Washington Free Beacon reporter Andrew Stiles reported in May 2012 that the female members of the Senate Democratic Caucus are some of the worst offenders concerning the gender wage gap.
More
Pork In The Farm Bill
In a bipartisan development, Democrats and Republicans team up, again, to mug taxpayers.
It’s been overshadowed by the hoopla surrounding the State of the Union, but we have finally had an outbreak of bipartisanship in Washington. Of course, bipartisanship means, as it usually does, that Democrats and Republicans have teamed up to mug taxpayers: An agreement has finally been reached on a new farm bill.
The farm bill will cost taxpayers about $950 billion over the next ten years. Lawmakers are calling this a $23 billion cut. But as Veronique de Rugy and my colleague Chris Edwards have pointed out, this is a cut only in the Washington sense of spending less than previously predicted. In reality, it represents an inflation-adjusted $258 billion increase over the ten-year cost of the last farm bill, in 2008. That’s a whopping 37 percent jump in real spending!
More
It’s been overshadowed by the hoopla surrounding the State of the Union, but we have finally had an outbreak of bipartisanship in Washington. Of course, bipartisanship means, as it usually does, that Democrats and Republicans have teamed up to mug taxpayers: An agreement has finally been reached on a new farm bill.
The farm bill will cost taxpayers about $950 billion over the next ten years. Lawmakers are calling this a $23 billion cut. But as Veronique de Rugy and my colleague Chris Edwards have pointed out, this is a cut only in the Washington sense of spending less than previously predicted. In reality, it represents an inflation-adjusted $258 billion increase over the ten-year cost of the last farm bill, in 2008. That’s a whopping 37 percent jump in real spending!
More
SFD Calls For Service 1-28-14
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 23:21:43Nature: SeizureCity: Salisbury
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 22:24:28Nature: Subject Locked In CarAddress: 1422 Ballinadee Dr Salisbury, MD 21801
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 18:04:55Nature: Pro Qa EmsCity: Salisbury
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 15:10:47Nature: Sick SubjectCity: Salisbury
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 15:08:57Nature: Sick SubjectCity: Salisbury
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 12:06:36Nature: Subject FallenCity: Salisbury
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 09:26:22Nature: Subject FallenCity: Salisbury
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 09:20:51Nature: Automatic AlarmAddress: 4644 Airport Rd Salisbury, MD 21801
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 09:18:36Nature: SeizureCity: Salisbury
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 07:23:22Nature: Difficulty BreathingCity: Salisbury
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 06:16:22Nature: Chest PainCity: Salisbury
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 05:32:44Nature: Medical AlarmCity: Salisbury
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 04:45:39Nature: Abdominal PainCity: Salisbury
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 03:33:27Nature: Pro Qa EmsCity: Salisbury
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 02:49:31Nature: Non BreathingAddress: 351 Deers Head Hospital Rd Salisbury, MD 21801
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 01:30:33Nature: Difficulty BreathingCity: Salisbury
- Tuesday January, 28 2014 @ 00:12:58Nature: Subject FallenCity: Salisbury
A President Becalmed Grasps For Power He May Not Have
A year ago, President Obama was fresh from his reelection victory and filled his State of the Union message with bold plans for everything from immigration to gun control. Since then his job-approval rating has fallen from 52 percent down to just over 43 percent in the Real Clear Politics average of all polls. Obamacare, his signature legislative accomplishment, is fodder for every late-night comedian and even has Democrats worrying in public that it might be fiscally unsustainable.
It’s now clear that President Obama is politically weakened and that his dreams of a legislative home run are now merely a field of dreams. But Obama is determined to make 2014 “a year of action,” which is why under the tutelage of new presidential aide John Podesta he has decided to dramatically expand his assertions of executive power. In tonight’s State of the Union, he proclaimed: “Wherever and whenever I can take steps without legislation to expand opportunity for more American families, that’s what I’m going to do.” He then announced a dozen new executive orders, some unremarkable and some dubious, such as his unilateral decision demanding that businesses doing work for the federal government pay a minimum wage of $10.10 an hour, jacked up some 40 percent from the current rate of $7.25.
More
It’s now clear that President Obama is politically weakened and that his dreams of a legislative home run are now merely a field of dreams. But Obama is determined to make 2014 “a year of action,” which is why under the tutelage of new presidential aide John Podesta he has decided to dramatically expand his assertions of executive power. In tonight’s State of the Union, he proclaimed: “Wherever and whenever I can take steps without legislation to expand opportunity for more American families, that’s what I’m going to do.” He then announced a dozen new executive orders, some unremarkable and some dubious, such as his unilateral decision demanding that businesses doing work for the federal government pay a minimum wage of $10.10 an hour, jacked up some 40 percent from the current rate of $7.25.
More
Ted Cruz: The Imperial Presidency Of Barack Obama
Of all the troubling aspects of the Obama presidency, none is more dangerous than the president’s persistent pattern of lawlessness, his willingness to disregard the written law and instead enforce his own policies via executive fiat. On Monday, Mr. Obama acted unilaterally to raise the minimum wage paid by federal contracts, the first of many executive actions the White House promised would be a theme of his State of the Union address Tuesday night.
The president’s taste for unilateral action to circumvent Congress should concern every citizen, regardless of party or ideology. The great 18th-century political philosopher Montesquieu observed: “There can be no liberty where the legislative and executive powers are united in the same person, or body of magistrates.” America’s Founding Fathers took this warning to heart, and we should too.
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The president’s taste for unilateral action to circumvent Congress should concern every citizen, regardless of party or ideology. The great 18th-century political philosopher Montesquieu observed: “There can be no liberty where the legislative and executive powers are united in the same person, or body of magistrates.” America’s Founding Fathers took this warning to heart, and we should too.
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Public Information Statement As Of 7:13 am EST On January 29, 2014
The following are unofficial observations taken during the past 24
hours for the storm that has been affecting our region. Appreciation
is extended to Highway departments... cooperative observers... Skywarn spotters and media for these reports. This summary is also available on our home Page at weather.Gov/Wakefield
storm total snowfall
Location storm total time/date comments
snowfall of /inches/ measurement
Maryland
... Dorchester County...
Toddville 5.5 530 am 1/29 trained spotter
Cambridge 5.0 645 am 1/29 public
3 S Cambridge 2.0 1100 PM 1/28 trained spotter
... Somerset County...
Crisfield 2.5 930 PM 1/28 public
... Wicomico County...
Salisbury 5.0 645 am 1/29 public
2 N Salisbury-wicomi 4.3 110 am 1/29 trained spotter
Centennial Village 2.3 1200 am 1/29 trained spotter
... Worcester County...
Pocomoke City 3.6 130 am 1/29 public
hours for the storm that has been affecting our region. Appreciation
is extended to Highway departments... cooperative observers... Skywarn spotters and media for these reports. This summary is also available on our home Page at weather.Gov/Wakefield
storm total snowfall
Location storm total time/date comments
snowfall of /inches/ measurement
Maryland
... Dorchester County...
Toddville 5.5 530 am 1/29 trained spotter
Cambridge 5.0 645 am 1/29 public
3 S Cambridge 2.0 1100 PM 1/28 trained spotter
... Somerset County...
Crisfield 2.5 930 PM 1/28 public
... Wicomico County...
Salisbury 5.0 645 am 1/29 public
2 N Salisbury-wicomi 4.3 110 am 1/29 trained spotter
Centennial Village 2.3 1200 am 1/29 trained spotter
... Worcester County...
Pocomoke City 3.6 130 am 1/29 public
Medicaid Overpays Millions For Diapers
A lack of competitive bidding processes among state Medicaid agencies caused the program to overpay for diapers by about $62 million in 2012, according to a report released by federal auditors on Monday.
Only five state Medicaid agencies have implemented competitive bidding programs for “disposable incontinence supplies,” according to the inspector general for the department of Health and Human Services.
Those states reported saving up to of 50 percent on those supplies, the IG reportfound.
States nationwide implemented cost control mechanisms, the report noted, but Medicaid could have saved about $62 million if competitive bidding processes were adopted nationwide.
More
Only five state Medicaid agencies have implemented competitive bidding programs for “disposable incontinence supplies,” according to the inspector general for the department of Health and Human Services.
Those states reported saving up to of 50 percent on those supplies, the IG reportfound.
States nationwide implemented cost control mechanisms, the report noted, but Medicaid could have saved about $62 million if competitive bidding processes were adopted nationwide.
More
We Performed For You Last Night, Send Us Some Money
From Joe Biden
To Joe Albero
To Joe Albero
Joe --
I am so proud to stand with Barack tonight.
If you are too, chip in $3 or more to support Democrats, and let's go follow through:
Thanks,
Joe
I am so proud to stand with Barack tonight.
If you are too, chip in $3 or more to support Democrats, and let's go follow through:
Thanks,
Joe
I thought being a whore was illegal? It seems to me that Obama and Biden have not only screwed us over the past 5 years, now they want us to pay up every time they bend us over and perform. I wonder, is this cash going to Obama's next trip to Hawaii? I didn't think so.
Statement From Rep. Andy Harris On SOTU
“Instead of reaching out to Congress, President Obama instead chose to lecture Congress tonight. The President is more interested in attempting to implement his liberal utopia unilaterally, in defiance of the Constitutional limits on the presidency, than in actually working together with Congress to get our economy moving again. Instead of accepting that his health care plan has major flaws and needs changing, he obstinately holds firm—harming families across the country. By taking unilateral actions and refusing to enforce parts of laws he does not like, he shows he has no interest in the rule of law. There are a number of names for the governing system President Obama envisioned in tonight's address, but representative government as envisioned by our founders is not one of them.”
Closings & Delays 1-29-14
Caroline County Public Schools have closed for staff and students January 29th, 2014
Delmar Middle/Senior High school AND Delmar Elementary schools are closed
Dorchester County Public Schools are CLOSED today's date.
Kent County Public Schools will be closed today's date all 12 month employees are to report at 10AM.
Queen Anne's County Pubic Schools are closed today
Queen Anne's County Government is on a two hour delay.
Salisbury Christian School Closed Today
The Salisbury School Closed Today
Salisbury University Closed Today
Salisbury University Essential Personnel Report To Work
Somerset County Schools Closed Today
Talbot County School Are Closed For Today.
UMES is closed today, Wed. Jan. 29. Essential employees ~ contact supervisors for instructions
Wicomico County Schools Schools will be closed Wed Jan 29. Central Office reports 2 hours late. No Substitute Orientation.
UPDATE Central Offices are now closed for today
Worcester County Public Schools are closed for students & 10mos staff on Wed., Jan. 29, 2014. 12mos staff report at 1pm.
State offices in Sussex and Kent Counties will open at 10 am today, Wednesday Jan 29
MarylandStateClosing Liberal leave in effect beginning 6:00am Wed Jan 29 until 11:00 am. Emergency essential personnel should report as scheduled.
Snow Emergency Plans
WHAT IS A SNOW EMERGENCY PLAN?
The Maryland State Police (MSP) declares snow emergencies with input from MD State Highway Administration. Once a snow emergency is declared, the law requires certain precautions.
They include:
- Prohibited parking on roads and streets designated as snow emergency routes; and
- The use of snow tires/chains (most cars now use all weather tires, so changing to "snow" tires is unnecessary);
Once an emergency is in effect, all requirements are in effect until lifted. A Snow Emergency Plan is put into effect by county. Certain exceptions can occur while a snow emergency plan is in effect. A specific route(s) can be lifted and the remainders of the roads in the county still remain under the Snow Emergency Plan. If the Statewide Operations Center is notified of an exception, we will note these routes as exceptions in our list below. For the most up to date information, it is advised to call the local MSP barrack for the county. http://www.mdsp.org/Organization/FieldOperationsBureau/Barracks.aspx
Active Snow Emergencies
| County | Date / Time Effective | Exceptions |
| Caroline | 1/29/2014 12:00:00 PM | |
| Charles | 1/29/2014 1:00:00 AM | |
| Kent | 1/29/2014 1:00:00 PM | |
| Queen Annes | 1/29/2014 1:00:00 PM | |
| Somerset | 1/28/2014 10:00:00 PM | |
| Talbot | 1/29/2014 12:00:00 PM | |
| Worcester | 1/28/2014 9:30:00 PM |
Click HERE for updates
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