When pressed by Associated Press reporter Matt Lee at a Tuesday press conference, State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki was unable to name a single “tangible achievement” from Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s 2010 Quadrennial Diplomacy and Development Review.
In 2009, Clinton announced the State Department would begin conducting routine performance reviews in the QDDR. The Pentagon reportedly uses a similar review process.
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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
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
According to RadCast.org, there's been another dangerous mistake at Japan's Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant
Last week, TEPCO announced that 200 tons of highly radioactive water flooded basements at that plant, after the wrong pumps were left on because of human error. The tainted water that filled the basements was used to cool nuclear fuel rods, and it leaked before going through a radiation-reducing purification process. That means that the water was highly radioactive, and it's just the latest example of how dangerous the ongoing situation is at Fukushima. Only days before, TEPCO announced that an August leak of 300 tons of water was way more radioactive than initially thought. That August leak made it's way into the Pacific Ocean, however this latest incident is said to have been contained. These leaks clearly show that TEPCO isn't qualified to handle the massive Fukushima disaster, and it's time for the international community to step in. For the safety of our planet, the world must come together to deal with this disaster. Check out RadCast.org for the latest updates on Fukushima, and all your other nuclear news.
Court’s Affirmative Action Ruling: A Step Towards Respecting States’ Rights
The 6-2 decision reversed a 2012 ruling by the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals that struck down the voter initiative on the grounds that it violated the 14th Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause, and carved out more power for the states over Washington in the process.
“The big message here is that U.S. Constitution does not prohibit states from considering affirmative action, but neither does it hamper states that want to cut back on that experiment,” said Vikram Amar, a professor and associate dean at the University of California’s Davis Law School. “It’s neither prohibited nor required once it is enacted. It is up to each state how they want to handle this issue — at least for now.”
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Aereo Supreme Court Case Could Change TV & Cloud-Based Tech Forever, Regardless Of Who Wins
Many big court cases involve one side arguing to maintain the status quo while the other contends that the current situation needs revising. But tomorrow, the broadcast TV networks face off against startup streaming video service Aereo in front of the U.S. Supreme Court in a case that could have far-reaching implications no matter which side is victorious.
THE BASIC FACTS
• Aereo is a streaming video service that takes freely available over-the-air broadcast signals and makes them available online to paying subscribers. It is available in around a dozen markets around the country.
• It is being sued by the major broadcast networks. They allege copyright infringement because Aereo is retransmitting their signals without consent and (more importantly) without paying the huge fees paid by cable and satellite operators for retrans rights.
• Aereo says it is not violating copyright or retransmitting broadcast signals. In each market it operates, Aereo uses arrays of tiny antennae to capture the broadcast signals. Each antenna within an array is dedicated to just one end-user. Aereo contends that this one-to-one connection is no different than a consumer having a really nice rooftop antenna on her roof to improve reception.
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THE BASIC FACTS
• Aereo is a streaming video service that takes freely available over-the-air broadcast signals and makes them available online to paying subscribers. It is available in around a dozen markets around the country.
• It is being sued by the major broadcast networks. They allege copyright infringement because Aereo is retransmitting their signals without consent and (more importantly) without paying the huge fees paid by cable and satellite operators for retrans rights.
• Aereo says it is not violating copyright or retransmitting broadcast signals. In each market it operates, Aereo uses arrays of tiny antennae to capture the broadcast signals. Each antenna within an array is dedicated to just one end-user. Aereo contends that this one-to-one connection is no different than a consumer having a really nice rooftop antenna on her roof to improve reception.
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Pat Gray: Don’t Applaud Illegal Immigrants, Hold Them Responsible for Breaking the Law
OK, I have had it UP TO HERE with all the lies about illegal immigration and all of the false premises and the straw-man arguments. I’ve HAD IT! I really can’t take it anymore.
Last week Hillary Clinton was at some “Up With Women” sort of conference, talking about women’s issues. During this estrogen-inspired event, a 19-year-old named “Nova” stood and told her heart-wrenching story.
Nova, for the “first time publicly,” announced she was an “undocumented immigrant.” To which, the audience applauded (granted, after some prompting from Nova).
First of all, why would you applaud the fact that someone was in the United States illegally? Even prompted?
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Last week Hillary Clinton was at some “Up With Women” sort of conference, talking about women’s issues. During this estrogen-inspired event, a 19-year-old named “Nova” stood and told her heart-wrenching story.
Nova, for the “first time publicly,” announced she was an “undocumented immigrant.” To which, the audience applauded (granted, after some prompting from Nova).
First of all, why would you applaud the fact that someone was in the United States illegally? Even prompted?
MORE
Okla. May Charge Cust. Who Install Own Solar Panels, Wind Turbines
Oklahoma residents trying to go green by producing energy through solar panels or small turbines may soon be forced to pay an additional monthly fee to energy companies.
The new measure, which passed the state legislature and is expected to be signed into law soon by Republican Gov. Mary Fallin, charges residents who install energy-saving devices on their property an additional monthly fee.
Oklahomans who already have panels and turbines in place will not be forced to pay the additional monthly charge. It is not clear how much the new fee will be.
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The new measure, which passed the state legislature and is expected to be signed into law soon by Republican Gov. Mary Fallin, charges residents who install energy-saving devices on their property an additional monthly fee.
Oklahomans who already have panels and turbines in place will not be forced to pay the additional monthly charge. It is not clear how much the new fee will be.
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Texas Cop Trips, Pushes Students During Victory Celebration
George Bermudez is facing an internal affairs investigation after the cell phone video was posted on YouTube by a student. Furious parents then started calling the Georgetown Police Department.
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Brand Names Appear in NY Common Core Tests
NEW YORK – "Just Do It" has been a familiar Nike slogan for years, but some parents are wondering what it was doing on some of New York's Common Core standardized English tests.
Brands including Barbie, iPod, Mug Root Beer and Life Savers showed up on the tests more than a million students in grades 3 through 8 took this month, leading to speculation it was some form of product placement advertising.
New York state education officials and the test publisher say the brand references were not paid product placement but just happened to be contained in previously published passages selected for the tests.
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Brands including Barbie, iPod, Mug Root Beer and Life Savers showed up on the tests more than a million students in grades 3 through 8 took this month, leading to speculation it was some form of product placement advertising.
New York state education officials and the test publisher say the brand references were not paid product placement but just happened to be contained in previously published passages selected for the tests.
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Romney Gives $10,000 To McDonnell’s Legal Defense Fund
McDonnell and his wife, Maureen, were indicted in January on federal charges of bribery and fraud involving their relationship with a prominent Virginia businessman and campaign donor. The McDonnells are scheduled to face trial in July.
As chairman of the Republican Governors Association in 2012, McDonnell endorsed Romney at a critical time — in the run-up to the South Carolina primary — and became one of the nominee's most visible campaign surrogates. McDonnell and Romney campaigned together frequently across the swing state of Virginia and in other states.
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13 Everyday Phrases That Actually Came From Shakespeare
On Wednesday, April 23, renowned poet, playwright and snappy dresser, William Shakespeare, will turn 450 years old.
Whether a fan or not, you probably use many of his phrases on a regular basis — maybe without even knowing.
We created a list of 13 popular, albeit strange, sayings The Bard coined. In fact, we say or write some of them so often, they've become clichés.
1. "Green-eyed monster"
Meaning: jealousy.
In "Othello," Iago describes jealousy as a monster which devours its source.
"Oh, beware, my lord, of jealousy!
It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock
The meat it feeds on" (Act 3, Scene 3).
In this case, Iago uses romance as an example. He thinks a man would rather know his wife is cheating than suspect her without proof.
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Whether a fan or not, you probably use many of his phrases on a regular basis — maybe without even knowing.
We created a list of 13 popular, albeit strange, sayings The Bard coined. In fact, we say or write some of them so often, they've become clichés.
1. "Green-eyed monster"
Meaning: jealousy.
In "Othello," Iago describes jealousy as a monster which devours its source.
"Oh, beware, my lord, of jealousy!
It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock
The meat it feeds on" (Act 3, Scene 3).
In this case, Iago uses romance as an example. He thinks a man would rather know his wife is cheating than suspect her without proof.
More
Osprey Versus Maryland: The Nest Battle Live
The federally protected birds have built a nest in front of a traffic camera at the Chesapeake Bay Bridge three different times in the last week. The nests are being built on a camera pole facing the Bay Bridge from the toll plaza.
The nest must be removed because it is blocking the traffic camera, says John Sales, MDTA spokesman.Also, the birds have been captured attacking the camera.
Traffic cameras, like the one on the Bay Bridge, are a form of public safety, Sales says. The cameras help MDTA stay informed about traffic issues and dangers on the roadways.
More
Jeb Bush on Board of Directors of Pro-Obamacare Company
Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush wanted to cash out after he left office, but those business entanglements may hurt him if he chooses to run for the GOP nomination in a party that is increasingly becoming opposed to crony capitalism.
According to a report in The New York Times, "Bush left public office seven years ago with a net worth of $1.3 million and an unapologetic determination to expand his wealth, telling friends that his finances had suffered during his time in government."
Bush tried to prop up Lehman Brothers before it collapsed and almost took down the financial system with it, eventually costing taxpayers billions of dollars to bail out banks. This galvanized what would become the Tea Party movement. He has also been associated with some troubled and shady companies and executives, as well as a company that promoted Obamacare.
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According to a report in The New York Times, "Bush left public office seven years ago with a net worth of $1.3 million and an unapologetic determination to expand his wealth, telling friends that his finances had suffered during his time in government."
Bush tried to prop up Lehman Brothers before it collapsed and almost took down the financial system with it, eventually costing taxpayers billions of dollars to bail out banks. This galvanized what would become the Tea Party movement. He has also been associated with some troubled and shady companies and executives, as well as a company that promoted Obamacare.
More
Lawmakers Want Gov’t to Remove Proposal That Would Make Beer More Expensive
Sen. Charles Schumer (D-NY) is visiting Rohrbach Brewing Co., a craft brewery in Rochester, N.Y., the latest of several brewery visits, Monday and will be asking the Food and Drug Administration to drop a provision in its preventative standards for the Food Safety Modernization Act.
Here’s the issue: Brewers have given or sold for a nominal fee their spent grain to farmers who use it as animal feed. The new rule would classify brewers doing this as animal feed manufacturers and would thus require them to ship the material dry, instead of wet as it generally is after the beer-making process.
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Recruiting Thugs for the Police State in New Mexico
The state considers the American people the enemy
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38 Senators Put Aside Differences For Lawsuit Challenging Legality Of Obamacare
Thirty-eight Republican lawmakers, including such unlikely bedfellows as John McCain of Arizona and Ted Cruz of Texas, have joined to support a lawsuit challenging the legality of the Affordable Care Act and accusing the president of repeatedly ignoring the law he signed for political reasons.
The lawmakers have signed onto a legal brief in support of a lawsuit filed by Sen. Ron Johnson, the Wisconsin Republican who is asking a federal court to overturn Obamacare’s special treatment for members of Congress and their staffs.
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The lawmakers have signed onto a legal brief in support of a lawsuit filed by Sen. Ron Johnson, the Wisconsin Republican who is asking a federal court to overturn Obamacare’s special treatment for members of Congress and their staffs.
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Here's How Much Money Doctors Actually Make
Medscape, a subsidiary of the medical information website WebMD, has released its 2014 Physician Compensation Report. The data in the report come from more than 24,000 doctors in 25 specialties, who responded to Medscape's annual survey with information on their compensation for 2013.
The infographic below shows the average earnings for each surveyed specialty. Orthopedists were the highest earners:
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The infographic below shows the average earnings for each surveyed specialty. Orthopedists were the highest earners:
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Runner Can’t Make It To The Boston Marathon Finish Line, So Others Carry Him To The End
Sometimes, the people who train and train are simply unable to finish. That happened on Monday at the Boston Marathon, with a runner falling down just shy of the finish line.
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Latest Trick for Illegal Immigrants: Granting Amnesty in Return for Military Service
Here’s a disturbing new idea from some members of Congress: Trade instant citizenship to illegal immigrants if they’ll agree to serve in the U.S. military.
Serving in the military is a high calling and a privilege—certainly not something to be treated as a bargaining chip in immigration politics. Yet these congressmen are trying to sneak this provision into the larger National Defense Authorization Act, which lays out the budget for the Department of Defense.
What’s more, the immigrants in question would be those who are brought to the U.S. as children—often called DREAMers (after the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act).
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Serving in the military is a high calling and a privilege—certainly not something to be treated as a bargaining chip in immigration politics. Yet these congressmen are trying to sneak this provision into the larger National Defense Authorization Act, which lays out the budget for the Department of Defense.
What’s more, the immigrants in question would be those who are brought to the U.S. as children—often called DREAMers (after the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act).
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WCSO Press Release 4-22-14
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 17 April 2014
Location: 600 block of Cook Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Jerome Mykelle Moss, 18,Salisbury, MD
Jerome Moss
Narrative: On 17 April 2014 at 5:54 PM a deputy responded to a residence in the 600 block of Cook Drive for a reported altercation between family members. During the altercation, Jerome Moss allegedly became involved in an argument that turned physical when he struck his sister in the face.
During the investigation,the deputy observed signs of injury on the victim that corroborated her account.
The deputy placed Moss under arrest and transported him to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner detained Moss in the Detention Center in lieu of $10,000.00 bond.
Charges: Assault2nd Degree
***********************************
Incident: Possession of CDS / Handgun
Date of Incident: 16 April 2014
Location: Delaware Avenue at Salisbury Parkway, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: 1. Ryan D. Cannon, 22,Salisbury, MD
Ryan Cannon
2. Anthony Hardy Jr., 20,Salisbury, MD
Anthony Hardy
3. Evan S. Byrd, 17, Salisbury,MD (Charged as an adult)
Evan Byrd
Narrative: On 16 April 2014 at 11:46 PM a deputy stopped a vehicle operated by Anthony Hardy Jr. for an equipment violation. Upon approaching the vehicle, the deputy detected the odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle that was also occupied by Ryan Cannon and Evan Byrd. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, the deputy located a loaded semi-automatic handgun that had a round chambered. The pistol was found loaded with hollow-point bullets. Also during the search the deputy located a small amount of marijuana but also found a baggie containing what was identified as crack cocaine.
Upon conducting a query on the handgun, the deputy discovered that it was reported stolen through the State of Delaware.
During processing, Hardy was found to have what was identified as marijuana flakes on the sweatshirt he was wearing.
All three subjects were arrested and transported to the Central Booking Unit where they were processed.Upon their appearances in front of the District Court Commissioner, all three were detained on bond:
Hardy: $150,000.00
Cannon: $75,000.00
Byrd: $50,000.00
Charges: Possession of CDS
Handgun in Vehicle
Theft
***********************************
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 19 April 2014
Location: 1700 block of E. Clearlake Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Sheila A. Merritt, 43,Salisbury, MD
Sheila Merritt
Narrative: On 19 April 2014 at 1:10 AM a deputy responded to a residence in the 1700 block of E. Clearlake Drive for the report of an assault. Upon arrival, the deputy learned that Shelia Merritt reportedly became involved in an argument with a woman she shares the residence with that turned physical. During the investigation, the deputy observed signs of injury that were allegedly caused by Merritt.
The deputy placed Merritt under arrest and transported her to the Central Booking Unit where she was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner released Merritt on Personal Recognizance
Charges: Assault2nd Degree
***********************************
Incident: Assault on a Deputy
Date of Incident: 20 April 2014
Location: 1506 S. Salisbury Blvd., Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Hakeem Dewhite Wrightout, 24,Salisbury, MD
Hakeem Wrightout
Narrative: On 20 April 2014 just after midnight, deputies responded to the Court Plaza Shopping Center for the report of a large disorderly crowd and shots being fired. Upon arrival, the deputies observed a crowd engaged in a general tumultuous behavior that was estimated at almost 100people. While the deputies were engaged in clearing the crowd, one of the patrons, Hakeem Wrightout, assaulted one of the deputies on scene.
Wrightout was placed under arrest and transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner detained Wrightout in the Detention Center in lieu of $45,000.00 bond.
Charges: Assault2nd Degree
Releasing Authority: Lt. Tim Robinson Date: 22 April 2014
Ryan Cannon
SFD Calls For Service 4-21-14
- Monday April, 21 2014 @ 22:08:04Nature: Pro Qa Ems City: Salisbury
- Monday April, 21 2014 @ 21:24:03Nature: Stroke City: Salisbury
- Monday April, 21 2014 @ 19:46:43Nature: Service Cal Address: 2717 N Salisbury Blvd Salisbury, MD 21801
- Monday April, 21 2014 @ 18:49:35Nature: Stroke City: Salisbury
- Monday April, 21 2014 @ 16:23:19Nature: Psychiatric Emergency City: Salisbury
- Monday April, 21 2014 @ 14:53:11Nature: Unresponsive Patient City: Salisbury
Hubris. Greed. Distraction. Denial.
The wonder is that more Americans are not ticked off about the state of our country than whatever is happening ten thousand miles away. For instance, how come the US Department of Justice is not as avid to prosecute the pervasive racketeering in the US economy as the State Department is for provoking unnecessary wars in foreign lands on the other side of the planet, over matters that have little bearing on life here? This racketeering, by the way, amounts to a war against American citizens.
I’m speaking especially of the US military racket, the banking and finance rackets, the health care racket and the college loan racket, all of which have evolved insidiously and elegantly to swindle the public in order to support a claque of American oligarchs. In other civilized lands, health care and college are considered the highest priority public goods (i.e. responsibilities of government), and national resources are applied to support them under the theory that bankrupting people for an appendectomy or a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering is not in the public interest. In our land, that would be considered “socialism.” Instead, we “socialize” the costs of supporting Too Big To Fail banks — so their employees can drive Beemers to their Hamptons summer house parties — and a military machine that goes around the world wrecking one country after another to support a parasitical class of contractors, lobbyists, and bought-off politicians in their northern Virginia McMansions.
Hence, the laughable conceit pinging through the news media lately that some dynastic grifter like Jeb Bush or Hillary Clinton will slide into the White House in 2016 as easily as a watermelon seed popped into a shot glass. I don’t think it’s going to work out that way. The US political system needs to be turned upside down and inside out, and I expect that it will be. Either it happens within the bounds of electoral politics, or you’ll see it playing out in the streets and the windswept plains.
More
I’m speaking especially of the US military racket, the banking and finance rackets, the health care racket and the college loan racket, all of which have evolved insidiously and elegantly to swindle the public in order to support a claque of American oligarchs. In other civilized lands, health care and college are considered the highest priority public goods (i.e. responsibilities of government), and national resources are applied to support them under the theory that bankrupting people for an appendectomy or a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering is not in the public interest. In our land, that would be considered “socialism.” Instead, we “socialize” the costs of supporting Too Big To Fail banks — so their employees can drive Beemers to their Hamptons summer house parties — and a military machine that goes around the world wrecking one country after another to support a parasitical class of contractors, lobbyists, and bought-off politicians in their northern Virginia McMansions.
Hence, the laughable conceit pinging through the news media lately that some dynastic grifter like Jeb Bush or Hillary Clinton will slide into the White House in 2016 as easily as a watermelon seed popped into a shot glass. I don’t think it’s going to work out that way. The US political system needs to be turned upside down and inside out, and I expect that it will be. Either it happens within the bounds of electoral politics, or you’ll see it playing out in the streets and the windswept plains.
More
Dems' 2014 challenge: How to win when Americans see a liar in th
Timing is everything in politics and the latest Fox News poll suggests the timing of the 2014 midterm election could not be worse forPresident Obama and his fellow Democrats.
With public approval of Congress in the single digits, senators and representatives in both parties may face the most challenging political environment of their careers.
But the Fox survey makes clear that things aren't breaking well for Obama, either, and his popularity rating may be the most important factor in determining how Democrats fare in November.
Liar, liar, pants on fire
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With public approval of Congress in the single digits, senators and representatives in both parties may face the most challenging political environment of their careers.
But the Fox survey makes clear that things aren't breaking well for Obama, either, and his popularity rating may be the most important factor in determining how Democrats fare in November.
Liar, liar, pants on fire
More
Does Tax Refund Fraud Benefit Democrats?
In the lead up to Tax Day, the mainstream media devoted some deserved attention to the huge tax refund fraud problem we have in this country. But as usual, they failed to get specific about the root causes of the issue. That the Democrats in government gain from keeping the tax credit system as dysfunctional as possible is probably a good guess why.
Last week the AP reported on the “$4 billion” lost every year due to “fraudulent tax refunds.” The story coincided with a recent video produced by the Department of Justice wherein Attorney General Holder reminds us to not worry, they’re on the case. The AP report isn’t specific about what types of “fraudulent tax refunds” are in issue, but $4 billion is definitely a low number compared to the total problem.
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Last week the AP reported on the “$4 billion” lost every year due to “fraudulent tax refunds.” The story coincided with a recent video produced by the Department of Justice wherein Attorney General Holder reminds us to not worry, they’re on the case. The AP report isn’t specific about what types of “fraudulent tax refunds” are in issue, but $4 billion is definitely a low number compared to the total problem.
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Two Americans
The Democrats are right, there are two Americas.
The America that works, and the America that doesn’t. The America that contributes, and the America that doesn’t.
It’s not the haves and the have nots, it’s the dos and the don’ts. Some people do their duty as Americans, to obey the law and support themselves and contribute to society, and others don’t.
That’s the divide in America.
It’s not about income inequality, it’s about civic irresponsibility. It’s about a political party that preaches hatred, greed and victimization in order to win elective office. It’s about a political party that loves power more than it loves its country.
That’s not invective, that’s truth.
And it’s about time someone said it.
The America that works, and the America that doesn’t. The America that contributes, and the America that doesn’t.
It’s not the haves and the have nots, it’s the dos and the don’ts. Some people do their duty as Americans, to obey the law and support themselves and contribute to society, and others don’t.
That’s the divide in America.
It’s not about income inequality, it’s about civic irresponsibility. It’s about a political party that preaches hatred, greed and victimization in order to win elective office. It’s about a political party that loves power more than it loves its country.
That’s not invective, that’s truth.
And it’s about time someone said it.
Guess Who Makes More Than Bankers: Their Regulators
It is true that the very top bank executives make more in a year than most of us make in a lifetime, but compensation of this magnitude is rare. Most banks in this country are small businesses and pay employees modest salaries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average annual salary of a bank employee was $49,540 in 2012, not much higher than the average annual across all occupations, $45,790.
Yet one group in banking stands out as highly paid—federal bank regulators. Before the Dodd-Frank Act, the average employee of a federal bank regulatory agency received 2.3 times the average compensation of a private banker. By 2013 this ratio increased to more than 2.7—and in some cases considerably more.
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SU Legislative Interns Share Experiences Tuesday, April 22
SALISBURY, MD---Gun control. Marijuana decriminalization. Minimum wage.
Maryland’s politicians debated these hot topics and others during this year’s General Assembly session, and Salisbury University students were on the front lines for the discussions as legislative interns.
These students share their experiences and insights from the recent session and their work with legislators, state officials, lobbyists and concerned citizens 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, in Teacher Education and Technology Center Room 156.
Sponsored by the Political Science Department, admission is free and the public is invited. For more information call 410-543-6030 or visit the SU website atwww.salisbury.edu.
Source
Maryland’s politicians debated these hot topics and others during this year’s General Assembly session, and Salisbury University students were on the front lines for the discussions as legislative interns.
These students share their experiences and insights from the recent session and their work with legislators, state officials, lobbyists and concerned citizens 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, in Teacher Education and Technology Center Room 156.
Sponsored by the Political Science Department, admission is free and the public is invited. For more information call 410-543-6030 or visit the SU website atwww.salisbury.edu.
Source
D.C. area job market is gloomier in crucial government and contracting sectors
The pullback in federal spending appears to be weighing more heavily than before on the region’s job growth, with a fresh round of Labor Department data showing a tepid market for new hires.
Virginia shed more than 5,000 jobs between February and March, while the District neither added nor lost any positions. Maryland saw only slight overall job growth last month, gaining 2,300 positions.
Overall, the Washington metropolitan area, which includes the District and its suburbs, added a meager 5,500 jobs in the one-year period ended in March. That’s some of the weakest job growth seen here since the recession.
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Virginia shed more than 5,000 jobs between February and March, while the District neither added nor lost any positions. Maryland saw only slight overall job growth last month, gaining 2,300 positions.
Overall, the Washington metropolitan area, which includes the District and its suburbs, added a meager 5,500 jobs in the one-year period ended in March. That’s some of the weakest job growth seen here since the recession.
More
Common Questions On Common Core Part 1: About The New School Standards
Despite all this attention, Common Core still remains a confusing topic for many people. In this three-part series MarylandReporter.com answers some basic questions about Common Core. The first part will focus on the Common Core itself and how it was developed, while parts 2 and 3 will look at the standards, how they are working in Maryland and what they will cost.
The series was edited by associate editor Meg Tully and part 1 was written by Margaret Sessa-Hawkins.
1. What is Common Core? Why was it developed?
The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) are “a set of high-quality academic standards in mathematics and English language arts/literacy (ELA)”. These standards lay out a set of academic benchmarks that establish what every public school student in the United States should have learned by the end of each grade. Whether students have reached these benchmarks is measured by standardized tests.
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Guerrero Fights May 9Th Dover Downs, Inks Deal with Champs Management
Champs Management is headed by the former IBC Super Middleweight Champion, Dave “TNT” Tiberi. Tiberi is famously remembered for the highly controversial decision in his fight against James “Lights Out” Toney in 1992 for the IBF Championship belt in Atlantic City. Immediately following, Tiberi left the ring on a mission to help clean up the sport he loved so much, working on legislation to make boxing both safer and more accountable.
In 2011, Tiberi, along with five prominent Delaware business partners, formed Champs Management. With the addition of Guerrero, Champs has five blue chip fighters in their stable, including four that hold NABF Championship belts, as well as one former WBO Champion in Lightweight, Cornelius Lock. Among Tiberi’s fighters is “The New” Ray Robinson, an amateur standout who is now ranked 10 in the world by the WBC, and poised for a world title shot.
Guerrero commented on his management deal with Champs saying, “This is what I have been waiting for. Now I can stop stressing about if I am going to fight or when and just focus on training. I’m very excited to be working with Dave and his group. They put fights on in Dover, but are able to do bigger things as well. The last time I fought in Dover a lot of people were able to come up and support me, so I am hoping they will be able do it again on May 9th.”
BREAKING NEWS: Supreme Court upholds Michigan affirmative action
Supreme Court, in a 6-2 ruling, upholds Michigan ban on using race as a factor in college admissions, saying voters had right to change state constitution.
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Md. Spent $90 Million On Health Exchange Technology, According To Cost Breakdown
Maryland’s highly anticipated insurance marketplace crashed on its first day and struggled through the first enrollment period, which ran Oct. 1 to March 31. State officials have said the exchange is so structurally flawed that it would be cheaper to replace the system than continue to fix it.
Maryland hired Deloitte Consulting this month to oversee that replacement, which is expected to cost at least $40 million to $50 million, plus software and hardware costs. Maryland is using code from Connecticut’s exchange, which has had one of the highest enrollment rates in the country.
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The Increasing Desperation of Democrats
Slanders and lies may be part of a deliberate strategy to drive up turnout in November.
Harry Reid isn’t backing down from his claim that rancher Cliven Bundy’s supporters are “domestic terrorists.”
It’s astonishing rhetoric given the White House’s characterization of the mass shooting by a genuine terrorist, Major Nidal Hasan, who killed 13 Americans at the Fort Hood Army base after yelling “Allahu Akbar!” (God is great.) Rather than labeling Hasan’s actions “domestic terrorism,” the Obama administration is prosecuting him for having committed “workplace violence.”
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Harry Reid isn’t backing down from his claim that rancher Cliven Bundy’s supporters are “domestic terrorists.”
It’s astonishing rhetoric given the White House’s characterization of the mass shooting by a genuine terrorist, Major Nidal Hasan, who killed 13 Americans at the Fort Hood Army base after yelling “Allahu Akbar!” (God is great.) Rather than labeling Hasan’s actions “domestic terrorism,” the Obama administration is prosecuting him for having committed “workplace violence.”
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Fruitland Police Department Press Release 4-21-14
In an effort to combat the increase in retail thefts, the Fruitland Police Department is working closely with retailers to effectively deploy resources in commercial areas using both high visibility and plain clothes assignments. Each week the department will be sending out a press release with information about those subjects that have been charged for theft. Officers will be provided bulletins alerting them to habitual offenders and suspects. Information will be forwarded to the area colleges to address the associated Code of Conduct violations.
The following people were charged with theft between April 13th and April 19th.
Name Age City / State
Alexis Wilson 20 Princess Anne, Md.
Malcom J. Rowe 18 Princess Anne, Md.
Whitney D. Dupont 20 Salisbury, Md.
Torrie K. Dupont 22 Salisbury, Md.
Latoya D. Jackson 22 Princess Anne, Md.
Travon M. Toomer 19 Princess Anne, Md.
Krystal R. McCarden 20 Salisbury, Md.
Christina S. Mena 24 Princess Anne, Md.
Troy Waters 30 Salisbury, Md.
Kelsey L. Como 21 Stevensville, Md.
Christopher B. Frazier 20 Salisbury, Md.
Jonathan J. Knudsen 18 Woodbine, Md.
Caryn A. Williams 20 Parksley, Va.
Kimberly R. Johnson 47 Delmar, Md.
Dixie R. Sherrill 66 Delmar, Md.
Christina M. Mewborn 27 Fruitland, Md.
Erica T. Bounds 34 Fruitland, Md.
Kizzy M. Holbrook 34 Salisbury, Md.
(4) Female Juveniles 12-16 years old Maryland
The following people were charged with theft between April 13th and April 19th.
Name Age City / State
Alexis Wilson 20 Princess Anne, Md.
Malcom J. Rowe 18 Princess Anne, Md.
Whitney D. Dupont 20 Salisbury, Md.
Torrie K. Dupont 22 Salisbury, Md.
Latoya D. Jackson 22 Princess Anne, Md.
Travon M. Toomer 19 Princess Anne, Md.
Krystal R. McCarden 20 Salisbury, Md.
Christina S. Mena 24 Princess Anne, Md.
Troy Waters 30 Salisbury, Md.
Kelsey L. Como 21 Stevensville, Md.
Christopher B. Frazier 20 Salisbury, Md.
Jonathan J. Knudsen 18 Woodbine, Md.
Caryn A. Williams 20 Parksley, Va.
Kimberly R. Johnson 47 Delmar, Md.
Dixie R. Sherrill 66 Delmar, Md.
Christina M. Mewborn 27 Fruitland, Md.
Erica T. Bounds 34 Fruitland, Md.
Kizzy M. Holbrook 34 Salisbury, Md.
(4) Female Juveniles 12-16 years old Maryland
HILLARY CLINTON MEGA-DONOR BUSTED
FUNDRAISING SCANDAL REVEALS UGLY TRUTH ABOUT AMERICAN POLITICS
Sant Singh Chatwal – a major donor on Hillary Clinton’s 2008 presidential campaign – pleaded guilty this week to making more than $180,000 in illegal campaign donations to three unnamed candidates.
The hotel magnate was also caught on tape vocalizing what everyone already knows about American politicians: That they don’t give a damn about you unless you’re giving them money.
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Sant Singh Chatwal – a major donor on Hillary Clinton’s 2008 presidential campaign – pleaded guilty this week to making more than $180,000 in illegal campaign donations to three unnamed candidates.
The hotel magnate was also caught on tape vocalizing what everyone already knows about American politicians: That they don’t give a damn about you unless you’re giving them money.
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DEMOCRAT: OBAMACARE WILL BURY DEMOCRATS IN 2014
Democrat Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-MA) told the Boston Herald last week Obamacare will cost Democrats dearly in the upcoming midterm elections.
"We will lose seats in the House," said Lynch. "And I think we may lose the Senate. I think that's a possibility if things continue to go the way they have been... primarily because of health care."
Lynch added, "There's all these taxes and fees that are the tough medicine, that up to now they haven't implemented. I don't know who's going to do that. Maybe... they expect the next administration is going to put these penalties in place. I think that's the time it's going to hit the fan."
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"We will lose seats in the House," said Lynch. "And I think we may lose the Senate. I think that's a possibility if things continue to go the way they have been... primarily because of health care."
Lynch added, "There's all these taxes and fees that are the tough medicine, that up to now they haven't implemented. I don't know who's going to do that. Maybe... they expect the next administration is going to put these penalties in place. I think that's the time it's going to hit the fan."
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Retail Store Closures Soar In 2014: At Highest Pace Since Lehman Collapse
What a better way to celebrate the rigged markets that are telegraphing a "durable" recovery, than with a Credit Suisse report showing, beyond a reasonable doubt, that when it comes to traditional bricks and mortar retailers, who have now closed more stores, or over 2,400 units, so far in 2014 and well double the total amount of storefront closures in 2013, this year has been the worst year for conventional discretionary spending since the start of the great financial crisis!
From Credit Suisse's Michael Exstein
Since the start of 2014, retailers have announced the closure of more than 2,400 units, amounting to 22.6 million square feet, more than double the closures at this point in 2013 (940 units and 6.9 million square feet). After several years of attempting to cut overhead costs, the acceleration in store closures appears to be a response on the part of retailers to cope with the challenge of ecommerce and structural declines in foot traffic, and the need to address declining levels of in-store productivity. The year-to-date totals for store closing activities now challenges 2009 as the most recent year for the highest number of store closings announcements.
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From Credit Suisse's Michael Exstein
Since the start of 2014, retailers have announced the closure of more than 2,400 units, amounting to 22.6 million square feet, more than double the closures at this point in 2013 (940 units and 6.9 million square feet). After several years of attempting to cut overhead costs, the acceleration in store closures appears to be a response on the part of retailers to cope with the challenge of ecommerce and structural declines in foot traffic, and the need to address declining levels of in-store productivity. The year-to-date totals for store closing activities now challenges 2009 as the most recent year for the highest number of store closings announcements.
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Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration Implements Policy Change
"(The wait), it's too long. It was too long," driver Danielle Mouring said.
MVA has a marketing campaign out now focused on its new self-serve driver's license renewal process.
"You don't have to leave your home. We'll mail you the product in seven to 10 days," MVA spokesman Philip Dacey said.
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"It's Impossible To Work Your Way Through College Nowadays"
"It's impossible to work your way through college nowadays"...is the hard-to-swallow (but not entirely surprising) conclusion of Randal Olson's research into just how extreme national tuition costs have become in the US. As The Atlantic notes, the economic cards are stacked such that today’s average college student, without support from financial aid and family resources, would need to complete at least 48 hours of minimum-wage work a week to pay for his courses.
To better measure the cost of tuition, Olson links to a Reddit discussion of cost per "credit hours" -
MSU calculates tuition by the "credit hour," the term for the number of hours spent in a classroom per week. By this metric, which is used at many U.S. colleges and universities, a course that's worth three credit hours is a course that meets for three hours each week during the semester. If the semester is 15 weeks long, that adds up to 45 total hours of a student's time. The Reddit user quantified the rising cost of tuition by cost per credit hour:
This is interesting. A credit hour in 1979 at MSU was 24.50, adjusted for inflation that is 79.23 in today dollars. One credit hour today costs 428.75.
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To better measure the cost of tuition, Olson links to a Reddit discussion of cost per "credit hours" -
MSU calculates tuition by the "credit hour," the term for the number of hours spent in a classroom per week. By this metric, which is used at many U.S. colleges and universities, a course that's worth three credit hours is a course that meets for three hours each week during the semester. If the semester is 15 weeks long, that adds up to 45 total hours of a student's time. The Reddit user quantified the rising cost of tuition by cost per credit hour:
This is interesting. A credit hour in 1979 at MSU was 24.50, adjusted for inflation that is 79.23 in today dollars. One credit hour today costs 428.75.
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Bankers are Behind the Wars
Former managing director of Goldman Sachs – and head of the international analytics group at Bear Stearns in London (Nomi Prins) - notes:
Throughout the century that I examined, which began with the Panic of 1907 … what I found by accessing the archives of each president is that through many events and periods, particular bankers were in constant communication [with the White House] — not just about financial and economic policy, and by extension trade policy, but also about aspects of World War I, or World War II, or the Cold War, in terms of the expansion that America was undergoing as a superpower in the world, politically, buoyed by the financial expansion of the banking community.
In the beginning of World War I, Woodrow Wilson had adopted initially a policy of neutrality. But the Morgan Bank, which was the most powerful bank at the time, and which wound up funding over 75 percent of the financing for the allied forces during World War I … pushed Wilson out of neutrality sooner than he might have done, because of their desire to be involved on one side of the war.
Now, on the other side of that war, for example, was the National City Bank, which, though they worked with Morgan in financing the French and the British, they also didn’t have a problem working with financing some things on the German side, as did Chase …
When Eisenhower became president … the U.S. was undergoing this expansion by providing, under his doctrine, military aid and support to countries [under] the so-called threat of being taken over by communism … What bankers did was they opened up hubs, in areas such as Cuba, in areas such as Beirut and Lebanon, where the U.S. also wanted to gain a stronghold in their Cold War fight against the Soviet Union. And so the juxtaposition of finance and foreign policy were very much aligned.
So in the ‘70s, it became less aligned, because though America was pursuing foreign policy initiatives in terms of expansion, the bankers found oil, and they made an extreme effort to activate relationships in the Middle East, that then the U.S. government followed. For example, in Saudi Arabia and so forth, they get access to oil money, and then recycle it into Latin American debt and other forms of lending throughout the globe. So that situation led the U.S. government.
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Throughout the century that I examined, which began with the Panic of 1907 … what I found by accessing the archives of each president is that through many events and periods, particular bankers were in constant communication [with the White House] — not just about financial and economic policy, and by extension trade policy, but also about aspects of World War I, or World War II, or the Cold War, in terms of the expansion that America was undergoing as a superpower in the world, politically, buoyed by the financial expansion of the banking community.
In the beginning of World War I, Woodrow Wilson had adopted initially a policy of neutrality. But the Morgan Bank, which was the most powerful bank at the time, and which wound up funding over 75 percent of the financing for the allied forces during World War I … pushed Wilson out of neutrality sooner than he might have done, because of their desire to be involved on one side of the war.
Now, on the other side of that war, for example, was the National City Bank, which, though they worked with Morgan in financing the French and the British, they also didn’t have a problem working with financing some things on the German side, as did Chase …
When Eisenhower became president … the U.S. was undergoing this expansion by providing, under his doctrine, military aid and support to countries [under] the so-called threat of being taken over by communism … What bankers did was they opened up hubs, in areas such as Cuba, in areas such as Beirut and Lebanon, where the U.S. also wanted to gain a stronghold in their Cold War fight against the Soviet Union. And so the juxtaposition of finance and foreign policy were very much aligned.
So in the ‘70s, it became less aligned, because though America was pursuing foreign policy initiatives in terms of expansion, the bankers found oil, and they made an extreme effort to activate relationships in the Middle East, that then the U.S. government followed. For example, in Saudi Arabia and so forth, they get access to oil money, and then recycle it into Latin American debt and other forms of lending throughout the globe. So that situation led the U.S. government.
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For many Americans, ‘temp’ work becomes permanent way of life
For Americans who can’t find jobs, the booming demand for temp workers has been a path out of unemployment, but now many fear it’s a dead-end route.
With full-time work hard to find, these workers have built temping into a de facto career, minus vacation, sick days or insurance. The assignments might be temporary — a few months here, a year there — but labor economists warn that companies’ growing hunger for a workforce they can switch on and off could do permanent damage to these workers’ career trajectories and retirement plans.
“It seems to be the new norm in the working world,” said Kelly Sibla, 54. The computer systems engineer has been looking for a full-time job for four years now, but the Amherst, Ohio, resident said she has to take whatever she can find.
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With full-time work hard to find, these workers have built temping into a de facto career, minus vacation, sick days or insurance. The assignments might be temporary — a few months here, a year there — but labor economists warn that companies’ growing hunger for a workforce they can switch on and off could do permanent damage to these workers’ career trajectories and retirement plans.
“It seems to be the new norm in the working world,” said Kelly Sibla, 54. The computer systems engineer has been looking for a full-time job for four years now, but the Amherst, Ohio, resident said she has to take whatever she can find.
Read more
Whoops! Half of Georgia’s Insurance Enrollees Haven’t Paid Yet
Georgia insurers received more than 220,000 applications for health coverage in the Affordable Care Act’s exchange as of the official federal deadline of March 31, state officials said Wednesday.
Insurance Commissioner Ralph Hudgens, though, said premiums have been received for only 107,581 of those policies, which cover 149,465 people.
“Many Georgians completed the application process by the deadline, but have yet to pay for the coverage,” Hudgens said in a statement Wednesday.
Half? Half? Sure, the nonpayment rates will be a lot lower in other places. But this indicates how much skepticism is warranted for the administration’s much-touted enrollment figures.
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Insurance Commissioner Ralph Hudgens, though, said premiums have been received for only 107,581 of those policies, which cover 149,465 people.
“Many Georgians completed the application process by the deadline, but have yet to pay for the coverage,” Hudgens said in a statement Wednesday.
Half? Half? Sure, the nonpayment rates will be a lot lower in other places. But this indicates how much skepticism is warranted for the administration’s much-touted enrollment figures.
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Sussex Official Says Collecting Water Tax An Expensive Problem
For starters, Sussex County Administrator Todd Lawson said the county's computer system cannot provide data requested by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control to determine how the tax would be collected.
An upgrade to the system would cost tens of thousands of dollars, he said during a recent county council meeting. The county sends out more than 160,000 property tax bills each fall and already collects school taxes for every district in Sussex County, passing those funds on to the state.
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Martin Armstrong Asks "Do The Feds Really Own The Land In Nevada?"
QUESTION: Is it true that nearly 80% of Nevada is still owned by the Federal Government who then pays no tax to the State of Nevada? This seems very strange if true as a backdrop to this entire Bundy affair.
REPLY: The truth behind Nevada is of course just a quagmire of politics. Nevada was a key pawn in getting Abraham Lincoln reelected in 1864 during the middle of the Civil War. Back on March 21st, 1864, the US Congress enacted the Nevada Statehood statute that authorized the residents of Nevada Territory to elect representatives to a convention for the purpose of having Nevada join the Union. This is where we find the origin of the fight going on in Nevada that the left-wing TV commenters (pretend-journalists) today call a right-wing uprising that should be put down at all costs. The current land conflict in Nevada extends back to this event in 1864 and how the territory of Nevada became a state in order to push through a political agenda to create a majority vote. I have said numerous times, if you want the truth, just follow the money.
The “law” at the time in 1864 required that for a territory to become a state, the population had to be at least 60,000. At that time, Nevada had only about 40,000 people. So why was Nevada rushed into statehood in violation of the law of the day? When the 1864 Presidential election approached, there were special interests who were seeking to manipulate the elections to ensure Lincoln would win reelection. They needed another Republican congressional delegation that could provide additional votes for the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment to abolish slavery. Previously, the attempt failed by a very narrow margin that required two-thirds support of both houses of Congress.
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REPLY: The truth behind Nevada is of course just a quagmire of politics. Nevada was a key pawn in getting Abraham Lincoln reelected in 1864 during the middle of the Civil War. Back on March 21st, 1864, the US Congress enacted the Nevada Statehood statute that authorized the residents of Nevada Territory to elect representatives to a convention for the purpose of having Nevada join the Union. This is where we find the origin of the fight going on in Nevada that the left-wing TV commenters (pretend-journalists) today call a right-wing uprising that should be put down at all costs. The current land conflict in Nevada extends back to this event in 1864 and how the territory of Nevada became a state in order to push through a political agenda to create a majority vote. I have said numerous times, if you want the truth, just follow the money.
The “law” at the time in 1864 required that for a territory to become a state, the population had to be at least 60,000. At that time, Nevada had only about 40,000 people. So why was Nevada rushed into statehood in violation of the law of the day? When the 1864 Presidential election approached, there were special interests who were seeking to manipulate the elections to ensure Lincoln would win reelection. They needed another Republican congressional delegation that could provide additional votes for the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment to abolish slavery. Previously, the attempt failed by a very narrow margin that required two-thirds support of both houses of Congress.
More
WCEA Managers Update
Our First Week....
The interim managers have been hard at work the last week to assess the Association's current status and to determine the best way to move forward, together, as a stronger, unified Association.
Dr. Fredericksen contacted me Wednesday morning to suggest that we meet; Mr. Pavic then emailed me updates regarding negotiations. It’s clear that the administration has recognized the interim managers of WCEA, which is a big step in the right direction! We are in the process of identifying the negotiating team so that the discussions may resume, and this time with the support and expertise of MSEA.
Some other important updates:
1) We have established a Review Board to handle the recall process as outlined in Article XII of the WCEA Bylaws. We anticipate that the currently suspended officers and directors will individually receive copies of the charges in the coming days. Each will have an opportunity to respond. Upon receipt of the charges and the responses, the Review Board will prepare ballots for distribution to the membership. We are hopeful that ballots will be available for voting during the week of May 5, 2014. In order to recall officers, a majority of those voting must approve of the action.
The interim managers have been hard at work the last week to assess the Association's current status and to determine the best way to move forward, together, as a stronger, unified Association.
Dr. Fredericksen contacted me Wednesday morning to suggest that we meet; Mr. Pavic then emailed me updates regarding negotiations. It’s clear that the administration has recognized the interim managers of WCEA, which is a big step in the right direction! We are in the process of identifying the negotiating team so that the discussions may resume, and this time with the support and expertise of MSEA.
Some other important updates:
1) We have established a Review Board to handle the recall process as outlined in Article XII of the WCEA Bylaws. We anticipate that the currently suspended officers and directors will individually receive copies of the charges in the coming days. Each will have an opportunity to respond. Upon receipt of the charges and the responses, the Review Board will prepare ballots for distribution to the membership. We are hopeful that ballots will be available for voting during the week of May 5, 2014. In order to recall officers, a majority of those voting must approve of the action.
BREAKING NEWS: US pledges $50 million for Ukraine
The United States is promising an additional $50 million in aid for political and economic reforms in Ukraine amid ongoing tension with Russia.
From Fox News
From Fox News
Former Drone Operators Reveal Air Force Plays Key Role in Secret CIA Assassination Campaign
A new documentary film reveals how a regular U.S. Air Force unit based in the Nevada desert is responsible for flying the CIA’s drone strike program in Pakistan. "Drone" identifies the unit conducting CIA strikes in Pakistan’s tribal areas as the 17th Reconnaissance Squadron, which is located on the Creech Air Force Base, about 45 miles from Las Vegas. We are joined by the film’s director, Tonje Hessen Schei, and Chris Woods, an award-winning reporter who investigates drone warfare. Woods is featured in "Drone" and is working on a forthcoming book on U.S. drone warfare.
TRANSCRIPT: This is a rush transcript. Copy may not be in its final form.
JUAN GONZÁLEZ: We end today’s show with a new film that reveals how a regular U.S. Air Force unit based in the Nevada desert is responsible for flying the CIA’s drone strike program in Pakistan. The documentary identifies the unit conducting CIA strikes in Pakistan’s tribal areas as the 17th Reconnaissance Squadron, which is located on the Creech Air Force Base, about 45 miles from Las Vegas. This is the trailer for Drone.
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TRANSCRIPT: This is a rush transcript. Copy may not be in its final form.
JUAN GONZÁLEZ: We end today’s show with a new film that reveals how a regular U.S. Air Force unit based in the Nevada desert is responsible for flying the CIA’s drone strike program in Pakistan. The documentary identifies the unit conducting CIA strikes in Pakistan’s tribal areas as the 17th Reconnaissance Squadron, which is located on the Creech Air Force Base, about 45 miles from Las Vegas. This is the trailer for Drone.
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TONIGHT: NAACP Sponsors “Implementation of Common Core State Educational Standards” Seminar
Salisbury, MD … Dr. Barbara Dezmon will be the guest speaker for an NAACP special seminar on Common Core on Tuesday April 22, 2014 at 6:30 pm. This meeting will be held at Chipman Cultural Center, 325 Broad Street, Salisbury, MD.
The Common Core Standards focuses on raising expectations for what students should know and be able to do at the conclusion of their schooling. The standards represent an attempt to have all children held to rigorous results. The Standards comprise a list of educational outcomes to enhance the academic and personal life success for all children.
Dr. Dezmon completed her doctorate in Education Policy, Planning, and Administration at the University of MD. at College Park. During her work at the Maryland Dept. of Education, she was
Chair of the Achievement Initiative for Maryland’s Minority Students. Also, Dr. Dezmon has developed software for curriculum development and differentiation to enhance the academic achievement of minority and other students.
For additional information about this meeting, contact Mary Ashanti, President, at 410-543-4187.
The public is invited to attend this meeting.
Light refreshments will be served.
The Common Core Standards focuses on raising expectations for what students should know and be able to do at the conclusion of their schooling. The standards represent an attempt to have all children held to rigorous results. The Standards comprise a list of educational outcomes to enhance the academic and personal life success for all children.
Dr. Dezmon completed her doctorate in Education Policy, Planning, and Administration at the University of MD. at College Park. During her work at the Maryland Dept. of Education, she was
Chair of the Achievement Initiative for Maryland’s Minority Students. Also, Dr. Dezmon has developed software for curriculum development and differentiation to enhance the academic achievement of minority and other students.
For additional information about this meeting, contact Mary Ashanti, President, at 410-543-4187.
The public is invited to attend this meeting.
Light refreshments will be served.
$461 Million To Be Spent On New Training Center For Diplomats
The State Department will build a new training center at Fort Pickett, Va. The state's Congressional delegation says it's a done deal. Courses will prepare diplomats and other government employees for assignments at dangerous posts around the globe. The Foreign Affairs Security Training Center will consolidate training now done at facilities nationwide. The State Department estimates construction at $461 million, of which some has been appropriated. The 2012 attack on the U.S. compound in Benghazi, Libya, underscored the need for better training. The Virginia Army National Guard base, southwest of Richmond, beat out sites in Maryland, Georgia, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
More Troubles With Healthcare.gov
Federal cybersecurity officials have flagged HealthCare.gov in a review of websites vulnerable to the Heartbleed computer bug. People with accounts on the insurance enrollment website are being told to change their passwords. Senior administration officials say the warning is made out of an abundance of caution. There's no sign the website has been compromised. The government continues to review federal websites. Cyber officials at the Homeland Security Department say their network has detected hackers trying to exploit Heartbleed. They say they have blocked attempts in many cases. Heartbleed affects sites using the Open SSL encryption technology. Many government sites do not use it.
GOVERNOR O’MALLEY ANNOUNCES LUMINAL MOVES TO MARYLAND, RECEIVES $600,000 FROM INVESTMARYLAND
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Martin O’Malley announced that Luminal, a cybersecurity startup that simplifies and secures cloud computing systems, has moved to Frederick from West Virginia and has been awarded a $600,000 investment from the State’s InvestMaryland program. Administered by the State’s Maryland Venture Fund (MVF), InvestMaryland is a public-private partnership of the State and venture capital firms and one of Governor O’Malley’s key economic development initiatives. InvestMaryland raised $84 million to reinvigorate the State-run MVF and support the growth of young Maryland companies in biotechnology, cybersecurity, e-commerce and other high-growth industries.
“Investing in young, high-tech companies is a critical piece of Maryland’s strategy to strengthen and expand our Innovation Economy, grow family-sustaining jobs, and support the development of technologies that keep us safer, healthier and better connected than ever before,” said Governor O’Malley. “We are proud to make this investment in Luminal and to have them in our state. Maryland is the epicenter of cybersecurity and we look forward to Luminal playing a significant and growing role in that community.”
“The current model for computing is broken, and bad actors are racing far ahead of available defenses,” said Josh Stella, CEO of Luminal and previously a principal solutions architect at Amazon Web Services. “We’re taking advantage of the nature of cloud computing to deliver native security, declarative control, and operational simplicity previously unattainable.”
“Investing in young, high-tech companies is a critical piece of Maryland’s strategy to strengthen and expand our Innovation Economy, grow family-sustaining jobs, and support the development of technologies that keep us safer, healthier and better connected than ever before,” said Governor O’Malley. “We are proud to make this investment in Luminal and to have them in our state. Maryland is the epicenter of cybersecurity and we look forward to Luminal playing a significant and growing role in that community.”
“The current model for computing is broken, and bad actors are racing far ahead of available defenses,” said Josh Stella, CEO of Luminal and previously a principal solutions architect at Amazon Web Services. “We’re taking advantage of the nature of cloud computing to deliver native security, declarative control, and operational simplicity previously unattainable.”
Elaborate Funeral
Pasquale died. His will provided $40,000 for an elaborate funeral.
As the last guests departed the affair, his wife Angelina turned to her oldest and dearest friend.
"Ah well, Pasquale would be pleased," she said.
"You're right," replied Maria, who lowered her voice and leaned in close.
"So go on, how much did this really cost?"
"All of it," said Angelina. "Forty thousand."
"Aw No!" Maria exclaimed, "I mean, it was very grand, but $40,000?!!!"
Angelina answered, "The funeral was $6,500. I donated $500 to the church. The whiskey, wine and snacks were another $500. The rest went for the Memorial Stone."
Maria computed quickly.
"Mama Mia !!! For the love of God Angelina, $32,500 for a Memorial Stone? How big is it?"
As the last guests departed the affair, his wife Angelina turned to her oldest and dearest friend.
"Ah well, Pasquale would be pleased," she said.
"You're right," replied Maria, who lowered her voice and leaned in close.
"So go on, how much did this really cost?"
"All of it," said Angelina. "Forty thousand."
"Aw No!" Maria exclaimed, "I mean, it was very grand, but $40,000?!!!"
Angelina answered, "The funeral was $6,500. I donated $500 to the church. The whiskey, wine and snacks were another $500. The rest went for the Memorial Stone."
Maria computed quickly.
"Mama Mia !!! For the love of God Angelina, $32,500 for a Memorial Stone? How big is it?"
Congressman Andy Harris’ Office to Host College and Academy Resource Event
The Event Is Open to Eighth-Grade and High School Students on the Lower Eastern Shore
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Andy Harris would like to remind his constituents that his office will host a College and Military Service Academy Resource Event for the students of the lower Eastern Shore this Wednesday, April 23. The event will be held at Washington High School in Princess Anne, Maryland, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. All eighth-graders and high school students on the Lower Shore, and their parents, are encouraged to attend.
Rep. Harris’ office has invited representatives from the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy to attend. They will guide students in mapping out their high school careers, in the effort to help them increase their chances of being accepted to an elite service academy.
Other experts will also be available to discuss financial aid resources with students who wish to attend a four-year college, technical school, or trade school.
The event will be an excellent opportunity for our future leaders and their parents to ask questions and learn more about the academy and college application process. If you have any questions or would like to RSVP for the event, please feel free to contact Rep. Harris’ Salisbury District Office at 443-944-8624.
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Andy Harris would like to remind his constituents that his office will host a College and Military Service Academy Resource Event for the students of the lower Eastern Shore this Wednesday, April 23. The event will be held at Washington High School in Princess Anne, Maryland, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. All eighth-graders and high school students on the Lower Shore, and their parents, are encouraged to attend.
Rep. Harris’ office has invited representatives from the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy to attend. They will guide students in mapping out their high school careers, in the effort to help them increase their chances of being accepted to an elite service academy.
Other experts will also be available to discuss financial aid resources with students who wish to attend a four-year college, technical school, or trade school.
The event will be an excellent opportunity for our future leaders and their parents to ask questions and learn more about the academy and college application process. If you have any questions or would like to RSVP for the event, please feel free to contact Rep. Harris’ Salisbury District Office at 443-944-8624.
Oklahoma will charge homeowners who generate their own power
A disturbing story out of the Sooner State this week, noted by Doug Mataconis at Outside the Beltway. Under the terms of a recently passed bill, expected to be signed by Governor Mary Fallin, homeowners who install their own private solar or wind turbine energy resources and sell some of the juice back to energy companies will be paying a fee for the privilege.
Utility customers who want to install rooftop solar panels or small wind turbines could face extra charges on their bills after legislation passed the Oklahoma House of Representatives on Monday.
Senate Bill 1456 passed 83-5 after no debate in the House. It passed the Senate last month and now heads to Gov. Mary Fallin for her approval.
The bill was supported by the state’s major electric utilities, but drew opposition from solar advocates, environmentalists and others. It sets up a process at the Oklahoma Corporation Commission to establish a separate customer class and monthly surcharge for distributed generation such as rooftop solar or small wind turbines.
As Doug notes, the claimed reasons for the energy companies and their surrogates (who are behind the move) wanting these fees imposed are weak tea at best.
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Utility customers who want to install rooftop solar panels or small wind turbines could face extra charges on their bills after legislation passed the Oklahoma House of Representatives on Monday.
Senate Bill 1456 passed 83-5 after no debate in the House. It passed the Senate last month and now heads to Gov. Mary Fallin for her approval.
The bill was supported by the state’s major electric utilities, but drew opposition from solar advocates, environmentalists and others. It sets up a process at the Oklahoma Corporation Commission to establish a separate customer class and monthly surcharge for distributed generation such as rooftop solar or small wind turbines.
As Doug notes, the claimed reasons for the energy companies and their surrogates (who are behind the move) wanting these fees imposed are weak tea at best.
More