DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Thursday, March 05, 2015
Stephen Hawking Warns That Aggression Could 'Destroy Us All'
“The human failing I would most like to correct is aggression,” Hawking told contest winner Adaeze Uyanwah, according to the Independent. “It may have had survival advantage in caveman days, to get more food, territory or a partner with whom to reproduce, but now it threatens to destroy us all.”
Uyanwah, a 24-year-old from California, won the "Guest of Honor" contest fromVisitLondon.com. The prize package included a tour of London's Science Museumwith Hawking.
While being shown around, Uyanwah asked Hawking which human shortcoming he would most like to change, and which trait he'd enhance.
Hawking chose aggression and warned that a nuclear war could end civilization and possibly the human race. We need to replace aggression with empathy, which "brings us together in a peaceful loving state,” he said.
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Hillary Clinton Ran Homebrew Computer System For Official Emails
WASHINGTON (AP) — The computer server that transmitted and received Hillary Rodham Clinton's emails — on a private account she used exclusively for official business when she was secretary of state — traced back to an Internet service registered to her family's home in Chappaqua, New York, according to Internet records reviewed by The Associated Press.
The highly unusual practice of a Cabinet-level official physically running her own email would have given Clinton, the presumptive Democratic presidential candidate, impressive control over limiting access to her message archives. It also would distinguish Clinton's secretive email practices as far more sophisticated than some politicians, including Mitt Romney and Sarah Palin, who were caught conducting official business using free email services operated by Microsoft Corp. and Yahoo Inc.
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The highly unusual practice of a Cabinet-level official physically running her own email would have given Clinton, the presumptive Democratic presidential candidate, impressive control over limiting access to her message archives. It also would distinguish Clinton's secretive email practices as far more sophisticated than some politicians, including Mitt Romney and Sarah Palin, who were caught conducting official business using free email services operated by Microsoft Corp. and Yahoo Inc.
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SEARCH UNDERWAY FOR DRIVER IN FATAL HIT/RUN IN HARFORD CO.
Maryland State Police Press Release
03/05/2015 21:26
(FALLSTON, MD) – Maryland State Police are searching for a driver and vehicle that struck and killed a Harford County man tonight as he walked behind a snow blower near his home. 03/05/2015 21:26
The victim is identified as Christian J. Widomsky, 44, of the 2800-block of Harford Road, Fallston, Md. He was transported from the scene by emergency services personnel to Upper Chesapeake Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.
Police do not have a good physical description of the suspect driver. The vehicle that struck the victim is described by witnesses as a dark colored Jeep Cherokee, with dark flared fenders and a silver push bumper. The vehicle has a lift kit, which means it sets higher off the road than regular Jeep Cherokees.
At about 7:00 p.m. today, Maryland State Police at the Bel Air Barrack were dispatched to the 2800-block of Harford Road for the report of a hit and run crash. Investigating troopers learned the victim had borrowed his neighbor’s snow blower. He was walking along the shoulder of Harford Road back to his house behind the snow blower.
Witnesses said the Jeep Cherokee was northbound on Harford Road approaching the victim from behind. Troopers were told the driver of the Jeep appeared to lose control and the vehicle struck the victim from behind. After striking the victim, the Jeep Cherokee did not stop and continued north on Harford Road toward Rt. 152.
Anyone with information about the driver or vehicle involved in this fatal crash is urged to contact Maryland State Police at the Bel Air Barrack immediately, at 410-879-2101. Callers may remain anonymous.
CONTACT: Duty Officer
Bel Air Barrack
410-879-2101
Huge Stakes As Supreme Court Takes Third Crack At Obamacare
WASHINGTON -- Obamacare faces its strangest challenge yet when the Supreme Court takes up the law for the third time Wednesday, but the oddity of the lawsuit shouldn’t obscure the cataclysm that a loss for President Barack Obama would provoke.
The Supreme Court case is the latest legal effort by political opponents of the Affordable Care Act to ruin Obama’s signature domestic achievement. If successful, the suit would tarnish Obama’s legacy, foment infighting among Republicans, aggravate bitter partisanship between the GOP Congress and the White House, and threaten chaos in the health insurance market. But the worst consequences would fall on the estimated 9.6 million people who would lose their health insurance.
The lawsuit, King v. Burwell, isn’t like the previous two Obamacare cases that came before the Supreme Court. Three years ago, in National Federation of Independent Business v. Sebelius, Chief Justice John Roberts joined the court’s four liberals inupholding the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate that most Americans obtain health insurance. The Supreme Court last year weakened Obamacare’s birth-control coverage rule in Hobby Lobby v. Burwell, a case with religious-freedom implications.
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The Supreme Court case is the latest legal effort by political opponents of the Affordable Care Act to ruin Obama’s signature domestic achievement. If successful, the suit would tarnish Obama’s legacy, foment infighting among Republicans, aggravate bitter partisanship between the GOP Congress and the White House, and threaten chaos in the health insurance market. But the worst consequences would fall on the estimated 9.6 million people who would lose their health insurance.
The lawsuit, King v. Burwell, isn’t like the previous two Obamacare cases that came before the Supreme Court. Three years ago, in National Federation of Independent Business v. Sebelius, Chief Justice John Roberts joined the court’s four liberals inupholding the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate that most Americans obtain health insurance. The Supreme Court last year weakened Obamacare’s birth-control coverage rule in Hobby Lobby v. Burwell, a case with religious-freedom implications.
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Hundreds of starving koalas killed in Australia
Victoria state Environment Minister Lisa Neville said the koalas were euthanised around Cape Otway near the scenic tourist drawcard the Great Ocean Road, in 2013 and 2014, with a caravan site owner saying the whole area "smelt like death" before they were put down.
"The intervention was necessary to prevent suffering of koalas because they weren't able to find enough food," Neville said in a statement.
Neville said 686 koalas were found to be in poor health and were humanely killed by veterinarians in consultation with koala experts and animal welfare personnel.
The minister said she was seeking expert advice on how to manage the issue and wanted to be open with the community on the process, but has not ruled out further similar operations.
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These Are the Odds You’ll Get Cancer During Your Lifetime
New research could predict your risk.
Hearing “you have cancer” from your doctor is something no one wants to experience at any point in life. But shockingly, half of all adults will get a cancer diagnosis, according to a new study from the British Journal of Cancer, which predicts that one out of every two U.K. adults born in 1960 will develop the disease during their lifetime.
Broken down by gender, the numbers slightly favor women, but only because more men smoke: Men born in 1960 have a lifetime cancer risk of 53.5 percent, while the risk is 47.5 percent for women. The study forecasts a rise in cancer rates; by contrast, only one in three U.K. residents born in 1930 were projected to get cancer.
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Hearing “you have cancer” from your doctor is something no one wants to experience at any point in life. But shockingly, half of all adults will get a cancer diagnosis, according to a new study from the British Journal of Cancer, which predicts that one out of every two U.K. adults born in 1960 will develop the disease during their lifetime.
Broken down by gender, the numbers slightly favor women, but only because more men smoke: Men born in 1960 have a lifetime cancer risk of 53.5 percent, while the risk is 47.5 percent for women. The study forecasts a rise in cancer rates; by contrast, only one in three U.K. residents born in 1930 were projected to get cancer.
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10-month-old baby: 41 pounds and growing? Couple continues to feed obese baby
Writes GrowingYourBaby.com on March 4: “Mohammad Saleem and Shabana Parveen have already lost one child due to rapid and excessive weight gain. Now they fear they will lose their 10-month-old daughter, Aliya Saleem to the very same issues. Aliya was born at nine pounds, but started to rapidly gain weight starting at the age of four months. Now ten months old, she weighs more than 40 pounds—the same weight as an average six-year-old girl.”
From birth to four months, Aliya put on over two dozen pounds. At 41 pounds and growing, she’s considered one of the heaviest children in the world for her age.
Aliya’s mother, 25-year-old Shabana Parveen said: “A few months after her birth, she starting gaining weight. We had to buy her a new pair of clothes every two weeks because the old ones become too tight for her.”
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Post Reaches EIGHT HUNDRED COMMENTS!
A Very Interesting Find: UPDATE has now surpassed more than 800 comments. Hey, that's more than one wanna be Blogger has received in more than a YEAR on ALL of their articles.
Troopers Urge Motorist Safety During Winter Weather
Sussex County
The roads are snow covered with heavy snow falling.
Property Damage Accidents - 52
Personal Injury Accidents - 3
Disabled Vehicles - 9
Traffic Hazards - 0
The roads are snow covered with heavy snow falling.
Property Damage Accidents - 52
Personal Injury Accidents - 3
Disabled Vehicles - 9
Traffic Hazards - 0
Officer dies after shooting In Philadelphia; two reported in custody
Sources identified the officer as Robert Wilson.
The shooting happened inside a GameStop store at 21st Street and Lehigh Avenue in the Swampoodle neighborhood, according to an officer on the scene.
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Golden Gate Bridge jumper says sea lion saved him
A man who jumped off San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge to try to take his own life and was kept afloat by a sea lion said Wednesday suicide prevention was now his life's work.
Kevin Hines, in Australia to speak at several conferences, was a teenager struggling with mental illness and depression when he jumped off the famous bridge in 2000.
He survived the fall, only to see what he thought was a shark beneath him.
"I was freaking out in those waters. And I was thinking I didn't die there and now I am going to die here in the water because of a creature of some sort," he told AFP.
"I really thought it was a shark and I thought it was going to take off a leg and I was panicking.
"And then it just didn't, it just kept circling beneath me. I remember floating atop the water and this thing just bumping me, bumping me up."
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Kevin Hines, in Australia to speak at several conferences, was a teenager struggling with mental illness and depression when he jumped off the famous bridge in 2000.
He survived the fall, only to see what he thought was a shark beneath him.
"I was freaking out in those waters. And I was thinking I didn't die there and now I am going to die here in the water because of a creature of some sort," he told AFP.
"I really thought it was a shark and I thought it was going to take off a leg and I was panicking.
"And then it just didn't, it just kept circling beneath me. I remember floating atop the water and this thing just bumping me, bumping me up."
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Father says no proof his son is 'Jihadi John'
The father of "Jihadi John" said in an interview published Wednesday that there was no proof that his son was the Islamic State executioner, adding there were a number of "false rumours" circulating.
"There is nothing that proves what is being circulated in the media, especially through video clips and footage, that the accused is my son Mohammed, who is being referred to as the alleged executioner of Daesh (Islamic State)," Jassem Emwazi told the Kuwaiti newspaper Al-Qabas.
The daily said it spoke to the father of Kuwait-born Mohammed Emwazi at a secret location in his first media interview following accusations that his son is the jihadist who killed several Western hostages.
"I have a message to the Kuwaiti people that many of the rumours are false," he told the daily.
"Because I felt that some people have believed it, I have assigned a lawyer to defend me and to prove ... that what is being said is untrue," he said.
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"There is nothing that proves what is being circulated in the media, especially through video clips and footage, that the accused is my son Mohammed, who is being referred to as the alleged executioner of Daesh (Islamic State)," Jassem Emwazi told the Kuwaiti newspaper Al-Qabas.
The daily said it spoke to the father of Kuwait-born Mohammed Emwazi at a secret location in his first media interview following accusations that his son is the jihadist who killed several Western hostages.
"I have a message to the Kuwaiti people that many of the rumours are false," he told the daily.
"Because I felt that some people have believed it, I have assigned a lawyer to defend me and to prove ... that what is being said is untrue," he said.
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House OKs speed limit boost to 70 mph on Maryland highways
The House of Delegates voted 126-10 on Thursday for a measure sponsored by Delegate Wendell Beitzel, a Garrett County Republican.
The Senate voted 39-7 last month for a bill sponsored by Sen. George Edwards that does the same thing. The House passed the bill last year, but it stalled in the Senate.
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HARRISON FORD PLANE CRASHES ... Actor Seriously Injured
TMZ has learned ... Ford was piloting what appears to be a vintage 2-seater fighter plane Thursday ... when something went wrong and he crashed into Penmar golf course in Venice, CA.
We're told Ford suffered multiple gashes to his head and was bleeding. Two doctors who happened to be at the golf course rushed over to treat the actor.
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The Circus Will Proceed Tonight At The Wicomico Youth & Civic Center
The Circus will proceed as scheduled tonight. Ticket holders who are unable to attend should contact the Box Office at 410-548-4911.
Get Ready for Another Real Estate Bubble
Real estate prices increased again in January, with several states reaching new historic highs, leading experts to wonder whether another real estate bubble might be brewing.
Nationwide, home prices rose by 5.7 percent in January compared to a year ago, according to data released Tuesday by CoreLogic.
CoreLogic also cited four states (Colorado, Texas, Wyoming and New York) where home prices have reached new historical record highs. Colorado was the state with the highest home price appreciation in January with a 9.1 percent increase, while Texas and Wyoming were shortly behind with 8.3 percent increases. New York homes rose by 5.6 percent.
“In part, these trends reflect the strength of regional economies,” Frank Nothaft, chief economist at CoreLogic, said in a press release. “Colorado and Texas have had stronger job creation and have seen 8 to 9 percent price gains over the past 12 months.” Core Logic wasn’t immediately available for comments.
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Nationwide, home prices rose by 5.7 percent in January compared to a year ago, according to data released Tuesday by CoreLogic.
CoreLogic also cited four states (Colorado, Texas, Wyoming and New York) where home prices have reached new historical record highs. Colorado was the state with the highest home price appreciation in January with a 9.1 percent increase, while Texas and Wyoming were shortly behind with 8.3 percent increases. New York homes rose by 5.6 percent.
“In part, these trends reflect the strength of regional economies,” Frank Nothaft, chief economist at CoreLogic, said in a press release. “Colorado and Texas have had stronger job creation and have seen 8 to 9 percent price gains over the past 12 months.” Core Logic wasn’t immediately available for comments.
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Derick Dillard tries to run over a cat with his sled while Duggar family cheers
Cruelty to animals?
"19 Kids and Counting" star Derick Dillard is catching some flack over an Instagram video he recently posted, which shows the 25-year-old reality star intentionally trying to run over a cat in the snow with a cookie sheet sled.
"Move, cat," Dillard says in the video, before being pushed directly into the cat by who appears to behis brother-in-law Ben Seewald. Members of the Duggar family are heard loudly laughing, as Dillard nearly collides with the cat before it leaps away.
"Sledding with friends and family at the Duggar home. #smallestsled," he captioned the video. However, his 35-week pregnant wife Jill was not present.
Not surprisingly, plenty of people aren't as amused with the video as the Duggars.
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"19 Kids and Counting" star Derick Dillard is catching some flack over an Instagram video he recently posted, which shows the 25-year-old reality star intentionally trying to run over a cat in the snow with a cookie sheet sled.
"Move, cat," Dillard says in the video, before being pushed directly into the cat by who appears to behis brother-in-law Ben Seewald. Members of the Duggar family are heard loudly laughing, as Dillard nearly collides with the cat before it leaps away.
"Sledding with friends and family at the Duggar home. #smallestsled," he captioned the video. However, his 35-week pregnant wife Jill was not present.
Not surprisingly, plenty of people aren't as amused with the video as the Duggars.
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Hillary Adviser Faulted Bush WH for Same Email Practice
John Podesta, top adviser to Hillary Clinton, is being dragged into Clinton's personal email scandal with revelations that he criticized the George W. Bush administration for the same practice in 2007.
When the Bush administration came under fire for using personal email accounts during an investigation into whether they had fired federal prosecutors for political purposes, Podesta, who served in the Bill Clinton White House as chief of staff, told The Wall Street Journal, "At the end of the day, it looks like they were trying to avoid the records act ... by operating official business off the official systems."
The NY Times said that Clinton aides "took no actions to have her personal emails preserved on department servers at the time, as required by the Federal Records Act."
More here
When the Bush administration came under fire for using personal email accounts during an investigation into whether they had fired federal prosecutors for political purposes, Podesta, who served in the Bill Clinton White House as chief of staff, told The Wall Street Journal, "At the end of the day, it looks like they were trying to avoid the records act ... by operating official business off the official systems."
The NY Times said that Clinton aides "took no actions to have her personal emails preserved on department servers at the time, as required by the Federal Records Act."
More here
A Viewer Writes: Dan Satterfield WBOC
Crude reality: Oil poses biggest political risk
Low oil prices will compound political risks across emerging markets this year, according to a new report released Wednesday.
Aon's Political Risk Map for 2015 warns that countries including Russia, Iraq, Venezuela and Libya will face further political pressure in the months ahead.
"The fall in oil prices are having quite a dramatic impact on a lot of oil producing countries which don't have the strength of foreign reserves," Karl Hennessy, CEO, Aon Global Broking told CNBC via telephone ahead of the report's release.
"As they start to lose revenue, this puts pressure on countries and raises the potential for instability."
The annual study grades 163 countries for political risk based on factors like the probability of political interference, banking sector vulnerability, sovereign non-payment and quality of regulation.
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Aon's Political Risk Map for 2015 warns that countries including Russia, Iraq, Venezuela and Libya will face further political pressure in the months ahead.
"The fall in oil prices are having quite a dramatic impact on a lot of oil producing countries which don't have the strength of foreign reserves," Karl Hennessy, CEO, Aon Global Broking told CNBC via telephone ahead of the report's release.
"As they start to lose revenue, this puts pressure on countries and raises the potential for instability."
The annual study grades 163 countries for political risk based on factors like the probability of political interference, banking sector vulnerability, sovereign non-payment and quality of regulation.
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SCOTUS Raises the Stakes—Again—in Obamacare Politics
The Court hears oral arguments Wednesday in its third high-profile challenge to the health care law, and both parties have a lot to lose.
President Obama and congressional Republicans both have a lot on the line Wednesday morning as the Supreme Court hears another high-profile challenge to Obamacare—its third in three years.
The justices are hearing oral arguments in King v. Burwell, a challenge to Obamacare's insurance subsidies—a case that could severely damage the health care law, wiping away most of the insurance coverage it has provided and making the unpopular individual mandate harder to enforce.
A loss for the White House would also be a stinging rebuke for Obama's signature domestic achievement, even as it has gotten up and running and is, for the most part, working.
But no matter how the Court rules, it will not wipe out the law entirely. As eager as Republicans are for anti-Obamacare ruling, it would put them in a difficult political spot: The greatest disruption would come in red states and 2016 battlegrounds, giving the party an obvious incentive to find a fix.
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President Obama and congressional Republicans both have a lot on the line Wednesday morning as the Supreme Court hears another high-profile challenge to Obamacare—its third in three years.
The justices are hearing oral arguments in King v. Burwell, a challenge to Obamacare's insurance subsidies—a case that could severely damage the health care law, wiping away most of the insurance coverage it has provided and making the unpopular individual mandate harder to enforce.
A loss for the White House would also be a stinging rebuke for Obama's signature domestic achievement, even as it has gotten up and running and is, for the most part, working.
But no matter how the Court rules, it will not wipe out the law entirely. As eager as Republicans are for anti-Obamacare ruling, it would put them in a difficult political spot: The greatest disruption would come in red states and 2016 battlegrounds, giving the party an obvious incentive to find a fix.
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SNOW EMERGENCY IN EFFECT IN BERLIN
The Maryland State Police at the Berlin Barrack in Worcester County in conjunction with local agencies and the State Highway Administration have implemented the Snow Emergency Plan. This plan is to assist the State Highway Administration in snow clearing operations throughout the county.
Effective on 3-5-15 all vehicles on the roadway must be equipped with snow chains or snow tires on both driving wheels of motor vehicles. In addition, a parking ban is imposed on all snow emergency routes in the County.
Effective on 3-5-15 all vehicles on the roadway must be equipped with snow chains or snow tires on both driving wheels of motor vehicles. In addition, a parking ban is imposed on all snow emergency routes in the County.
Snow emergency plan
05/05/15 Somerset County will be under a snow emergency plan.
Maryland State Police
Princess Anne Barrack "X"
LAPD: Homeless man shot dead by police stole Frenchman's ID
A homeless man shot dead by the LAPD stole a Frenchman's identity more than 15 years ago and was wanted for violating terms of a bank robbery conviction, officials said last night.
Charley Saturmin Robinet, 39, was killed on Los Angeles' impoverished Skid Row when he allegedly tried to grab the holstered pistol of an officer while police arrested him on Sunday.
The shooting was caught by an onlooker on a video that went viral, leading to protests and calls by civil rights activists for a special police commission hearing on the use of force.
Originally thought to be French, officials now say Robinet stole the identity of a Frenchman with the same name and birth date to apply for a French passport in the 1990s, when he came to the U.S. to pursue an acting career.
His true identity remains unknown, said Axel Cruau, the consul general for France in Los Angeles.
According to the consulate's account, Robinet was identified as a French national in 2000 when robbed a Wells Fargo branch in Thousand Oaks, some 40 miles west of downtown Los Angeles, and pistol-whipped an employee.
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Charley Saturmin Robinet, 39, was killed on Los Angeles' impoverished Skid Row when he allegedly tried to grab the holstered pistol of an officer while police arrested him on Sunday.
The shooting was caught by an onlooker on a video that went viral, leading to protests and calls by civil rights activists for a special police commission hearing on the use of force.
Originally thought to be French, officials now say Robinet stole the identity of a Frenchman with the same name and birth date to apply for a French passport in the 1990s, when he came to the U.S. to pursue an acting career.
His true identity remains unknown, said Axel Cruau, the consul general for France in Los Angeles.
According to the consulate's account, Robinet was identified as a French national in 2000 when robbed a Wells Fargo branch in Thousand Oaks, some 40 miles west of downtown Los Angeles, and pistol-whipped an employee.
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Roads Are Bad Everywhere
The Circus event is going on tonight so be very careful on the roads. The Roads Division is going to pay special attention to clearing the roads in that area to assure a safer journey.
Is there a Maryland sniper? Police search for car linked to shootings
Authorities have arrested a gunman suspected of randomly opening fire on five public places in Maryland over the past week, in attacks that left two injured.
What appears to be the same blue car had been linked to the attacks in which a gunman opened fire on a driver at a mall, a Walmart, a movie theater, a truck on a highway and headquarters of the NSA over the last seven days.
If the same gunman is behind all the attacks, it would be a case with chilling similarities to the DC Sniper attacks of 2002 when John Allen Muhammad and Lee Boyd Malvo killed ten people with gunfire from a hidden firing spot in the back of their blue Chevrolet sedan.
Early morning reports on Wednesday revealed that a suspect was in custody who was believed to be involved in the shootings that occurred since last Tuesday in the Baltimore-Washington metro area, according to the Washington Post.
Lt. Kevin Ayd, a spokesman for the Maryland Transportation Authority Police told the Baltimore Sun of the five shootings: 'They're looking into whether these are linked together.'
So far, only two dump truck workers have been hurt in the attacks - they suffered only minor injuries when the gunfire shattered the windshield of their vehicle and by a bullet fragment.
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What appears to be the same blue car had been linked to the attacks in which a gunman opened fire on a driver at a mall, a Walmart, a movie theater, a truck on a highway and headquarters of the NSA over the last seven days.
If the same gunman is behind all the attacks, it would be a case with chilling similarities to the DC Sniper attacks of 2002 when John Allen Muhammad and Lee Boyd Malvo killed ten people with gunfire from a hidden firing spot in the back of their blue Chevrolet sedan.
Early morning reports on Wednesday revealed that a suspect was in custody who was believed to be involved in the shootings that occurred since last Tuesday in the Baltimore-Washington metro area, according to the Washington Post.
Lt. Kevin Ayd, a spokesman for the Maryland Transportation Authority Police told the Baltimore Sun of the five shootings: 'They're looking into whether these are linked together.'
So far, only two dump truck workers have been hurt in the attacks - they suffered only minor injuries when the gunfire shattered the windshield of their vehicle and by a bullet fragment.
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BREAKING NEWS: Cardinal Egan, former archbishop of New York, dead at 82
Edward Cardinal Egan, archbishop of New York from 2000 to 2009, has died at age 82, the Archdiocese of New York says.
From Fox News
From Fox News
Eagle covered with snow up to her beak as she protects eggs in storm
WASHINGTON — No one likes cold eggs. Not even the United States’ national bird.
The Bald Eagle Live Stream in Havover, Pennsylvania captured an amazing sight Thursday, March 5 as a bald eagle became covered with snow as she refused to leave her nest. Inside the nest were two eggs.
Despite being so covered with snow that only her head and the tip of her tail remained exposed, the bald eagle continued to protect her eggs as snow fell. Occasionally, as her beak becomes covered, she’ll move her head for room. But other than that, the eagle doesn’t move.
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Shore Transit Stops Service Thursday Afternoon
(SALISBURY, Md.)- Shore Transit public bus service will stop operating the rest of today due to the sleet, ice and expected snow. Due to road conditions now and the expect freeze, it would not be safe to put the buses on the road.
The following routes have been terminated already: 112, 251, 702 N, and 702 S.
The following routes are operating but will terminate at the end of their current runs at the time stated in an effort to get passengers to their destination:
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California teacher found hanging knew suicide's devastation
PLACENTIA, Calif. — The Southern California teacher whose students found her hanging from her classroom ceiling knew the devastating effects of suicide: Her own father went missing and was found dead with a bullet wound to his head after committing suicide nearly four years earlier.
Jillian Jacobson, 31, had spoken with students about her father's suicide and had counseled one class of students just a few weeks ago, saying if they ever felt down, they should ask for help.
Jacobson did a weeklong unit on depression for freshmen, emphasizing that suicide wasn't the answer to anyone's problems and it affected many people greatly.
On Monday, students arriving to their morning photography class found the door to Jacobson's room locked. Thinking their teacher was late, the students asked another teacher to unlock the door. When they opened it, they found Jacobson hanging from the ceiling.
Two school staff members got her down while another worker called 911.
"We have a teacher that's down," the caller said in a hurried voice.
"Do you know if they're breathing?" the 911 dispatcher said.
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Jillian Jacobson, 31, had spoken with students about her father's suicide and had counseled one class of students just a few weeks ago, saying if they ever felt down, they should ask for help.
Jacobson did a weeklong unit on depression for freshmen, emphasizing that suicide wasn't the answer to anyone's problems and it affected many people greatly.
On Monday, students arriving to their morning photography class found the door to Jacobson's room locked. Thinking their teacher was late, the students asked another teacher to unlock the door. When they opened it, they found Jacobson hanging from the ceiling.
Two school staff members got her down while another worker called 911.
"We have a teacher that's down," the caller said in a hurried voice.
"Do you know if they're breathing?" the 911 dispatcher said.
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Can These Daily Meds Give You Dementia?
Research suggests popping certain pills could drain your brain
Eggstravaganza Returns to Pemberton Historical Park on Sunday, March 29
Salisbury, MD – The Easter Bunny is laying eggs all over Pemberton Historical Park! Hop on over to Wicomico Recreation's Annual Eggstravaganza event on Sunday, March 29 from 1 - 3 p.m. Four egg hunts will take place throughout the afternoon for children twelve and under. (Please bring your own basket.) The whole family can take part in face painting, crafts, egg toss, bunny hop, egg dyeing and more!
Registration will be available on site. The program fee is $2 for ages 3 & under and $4 for ages 4 & up. Pemberton Historical Park is located at 5561 Plantation Lane in Salisbury, MD.
For more information, visit www.WicomicoRecandParks.org or contact Cortney Kline atcfronczak@wicomicocounty.org or call 410-548-4900 ext. 109.
Eggstravaganza is brought to you by Wicomico Recreation's Kid Klub After School Program.
Registration will be available on site. The program fee is $2 for ages 3 & under and $4 for ages 4 & up. Pemberton Historical Park is located at 5561 Plantation Lane in Salisbury, MD.
For more information, visit www.WicomicoRecandParks.org or contact Cortney Kline atcfronczak@wicomicocounty.org or call 410-548-4900 ext. 109.
Eggstravaganza is brought to you by Wicomico Recreation's Kid Klub After School Program.
Japan's cat island
An army of feral cats rules a remote island in southern Japan, outnumbering humans six to one in the fishing village.
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DEA Warns Of Stoned Rabbits If Utah Passes Medical Marijuana
Where would this country be if Peter Cottontail got cottonmouth?
Matt Fairbanks, an agent with the Drug Enforcement Administration's "marijuana eradication" team in Utah, testified to a state Senate panel last week, and said rabbits could get addicted to pot, lose their natural instincts and sit around getting high all the time should a bill pass that would allow medical marijuana edibles in the state.
Fairbanks testified in opposition to the bill, and spent some of his testimony splitting hares, according to The Washington Post. He claimed that illegal pot farms could have bad environmental consequences, and said he saw rabbits addicted to weed at illegal grow sites.
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Matt Fairbanks, an agent with the Drug Enforcement Administration's "marijuana eradication" team in Utah, testified to a state Senate panel last week, and said rabbits could get addicted to pot, lose their natural instincts and sit around getting high all the time should a bill pass that would allow medical marijuana edibles in the state.
Fairbanks testified in opposition to the bill, and spent some of his testimony splitting hares, according to The Washington Post. He claimed that illegal pot farms could have bad environmental consequences, and said he saw rabbits addicted to weed at illegal grow sites.
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Pot growers convicted on fed count in state where it's legal
SPOKANE, Wash. — Three people were found guilty Tuesday of growing marijuana, but they also were exonerated of more serious charges in a widely-watched federal drug case in a state where medical and recreational marijuana is legal.
The three remaining defendants of the so-called Kettle Falls Five were all found guilty of growing marijuana. But a jury found them not guilty of distributing marijuana, conspiracy to distribute and firearms charges that carried long prison sentences.
U.S. District Court Judge Thomas Rice set sentencing for June 10.
The defendants were Rhonda Firestack-Harvey, her son Rolland Gregg and his wife, Michelle Gregg.
Firestack-Harvey wiped away tears as she declared victory in the case.
"The truth comes out," she said, noting that the defendants were growing marijuana for medical purposes and had cards permitting that use. "We would have loved to be exonerated of all charges."
However, there was no doubt that federal drug agents found marijuana plants growing on their property near Kettle Falls, she said.
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The three remaining defendants of the so-called Kettle Falls Five were all found guilty of growing marijuana. But a jury found them not guilty of distributing marijuana, conspiracy to distribute and firearms charges that carried long prison sentences.
U.S. District Court Judge Thomas Rice set sentencing for June 10.
The defendants were Rhonda Firestack-Harvey, her son Rolland Gregg and his wife, Michelle Gregg.
Firestack-Harvey wiped away tears as she declared victory in the case.
"The truth comes out," she said, noting that the defendants were growing marijuana for medical purposes and had cards permitting that use. "We would have loved to be exonerated of all charges."
However, there was no doubt that federal drug agents found marijuana plants growing on their property near Kettle Falls, she said.
More
Most Embarrassing Dads
Most Embarrassing Dads
Costume-Wearing Dad
And you thought your dad’s old acid-washed jeans were embarrassing. Ha. Dale Price, a dad of three from Utah, thought it would be fun to embarrass his 16-year-old son, Rain, on the first day of school last year. So he dressed up in a costume and waved as the Rain boarded the bus. Later, when dad overheard his son saying to his wife, “Mom, don’t let dad go out there again,” Price rose to the challenge. He spent the 180 school days in different costumes waving Rain off on the bus. From Wonder Woman and Michael Jackson to Raggedy Andy, he dressed up, much to his son’s dismay, although eventually Rain grew to be entertained by his dad. “Everybody else on the bus learned to like it a lot sooner than I did,” his son said. “It wasn't their dad dressing up like a fool.”
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Alabama Probate Judges Ordered to Halt Gay Wedding Licenses
Probate judges must again decide whether to issue wedding licenses to gay couples after the Alabama Supreme Court ruled the state's ban on same-sex marriage is legal, despite a federal court's decision to the contrary.
The all-Republican court sided with a pair of conservative groups Tuesday night and ordered Alabama's 68 probate judges to stop issuing marriage licenses to gay couples.
A previous ruling by U.S. District Judge Callie Granade that gay-marriage bans violate the U.S. Constitution does not preclude the judges from following state law, which defines marriage as between a man and a woman, the court ruled.
It was not immediately clear what effect the court's ruling would have, or what probate judges would do after opening their doors Wednesday.
While a six-member majority of the nine-member court did not explicitly invalidate the marriages of hundreds of same-sex couples who obtained licenses in the state in recent weeks, the decision used the term "purported" to describe those licenses.
The court's most outspoken opponent of gay marriage, Chief Justice Roy Moore, recused himself from the case and did not participate in the writing of the unsigned 134-page decision.
More on this..
The all-Republican court sided with a pair of conservative groups Tuesday night and ordered Alabama's 68 probate judges to stop issuing marriage licenses to gay couples.
A previous ruling by U.S. District Judge Callie Granade that gay-marriage bans violate the U.S. Constitution does not preclude the judges from following state law, which defines marriage as between a man and a woman, the court ruled.
It was not immediately clear what effect the court's ruling would have, or what probate judges would do after opening their doors Wednesday.
While a six-member majority of the nine-member court did not explicitly invalidate the marriages of hundreds of same-sex couples who obtained licenses in the state in recent weeks, the decision used the term "purported" to describe those licenses.
The court's most outspoken opponent of gay marriage, Chief Justice Roy Moore, recused himself from the case and did not participate in the writing of the unsigned 134-page decision.
Former Salisbury City Councilwoman Mary B. Pinkett Dies At 101 Years Old
Mary was honored as one of Maryland's Top 100 Women. She also served on the Salisbury City Council.
You should know that in September of 2013 the Mayor and Council delivered a Proclamation – proclaiming Mary Black Pinkett Day.
May Mary rest in peace. I'm hearing there may be a funeral for Mary this Saturday at the Holloway Funeral Home in Salisbury. Follow this link for updates and confirmation.
BREAKING NEWS: Hung jury in penalty phase of Jodi Arias murder trial
Jury in Phoenix, Ariz., unable to reach a decision on whether to sentence Jodi Arias to death in the murder of her ex-boyfriend.
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Ted Cruz, GOP Offer Alternatives to Obamacare
Sen. Ted Cruz on Tuesday offered the latest in a series of Republican alternatives to Obamacare ahead of a Supreme Court ruling which could effectively gut the law, according to The Hill.
The Texas senator's bill, known as the Health Care Choices Act, would allow people to purchase health insurance across state lines, a longstanding Republican goal.
It would also repeal Title I of Obamacare, which would undo much of the law, including the mandate to buy insurance, along with insurance marketplaces and subsidies to enable people to afford Obamacare insurance.
Republicans are looking to show that they have a plan ready if the Supreme Court strikes down subsidies for around 7.5 million people in the 36 states using federally-run marketplaces. On Wednesday, the court will hear arguments in King vs. Burwell, the case challenging subsidies through the federal exchanges.
"The administration has done absolutely nothing to prepare for an upcoming Supreme Court decision that could leave millions of Americans unable to afford insurance thanks to this failed law," Cruz said.
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The Texas senator's bill, known as the Health Care Choices Act, would allow people to purchase health insurance across state lines, a longstanding Republican goal.
It would also repeal Title I of Obamacare, which would undo much of the law, including the mandate to buy insurance, along with insurance marketplaces and subsidies to enable people to afford Obamacare insurance.
Republicans are looking to show that they have a plan ready if the Supreme Court strikes down subsidies for around 7.5 million people in the 36 states using federally-run marketplaces. On Wednesday, the court will hear arguments in King vs. Burwell, the case challenging subsidies through the federal exchanges.
"The administration has done absolutely nothing to prepare for an upcoming Supreme Court decision that could leave millions of Americans unable to afford insurance thanks to this failed law," Cruz said.
More
Feds Raid 'Maternity Hotels' Used to Birth US Citizens
Federal agents raided about 20 Southern California locations on Tuesday suspected of involvement in "maternity tourism" schemes offering travel and lodging services to pregnant foreign women seeking to give birth in the United States, U.S. immigration officials said.
Authorities say the so-called maternity hotels targeted in the sweep catered largely to women from China who paid $15,000 to $50,000, depending on services provided, in hopes of obtaining U.S. citizenship for their children.
The locations searched included apartment complexes and other sites in Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino counties that were suspected of housing foreign clients, according to a statement issued by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency, or ICE.
No criminal arrests were anticipated from Tuesday's raids, which were carried out by federal agents and local law enforcement, the agency said.
The U.S. Constitution grants citizenship to any child born on U.S. soil, regardless of parentage, and immigration experts say there was nothing inherently illegal about women coming from abroad to give birth to children in the United States.
But investigators are seeking evidence related to such possible criminal offenses as visa and tax fraud, money laundering and conspiracy, immigration officials said.
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Authorities say the so-called maternity hotels targeted in the sweep catered largely to women from China who paid $15,000 to $50,000, depending on services provided, in hopes of obtaining U.S. citizenship for their children.
The locations searched included apartment complexes and other sites in Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino counties that were suspected of housing foreign clients, according to a statement issued by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency, or ICE.
No criminal arrests were anticipated from Tuesday's raids, which were carried out by federal agents and local law enforcement, the agency said.
The U.S. Constitution grants citizenship to any child born on U.S. soil, regardless of parentage, and immigration experts say there was nothing inherently illegal about women coming from abroad to give birth to children in the United States.
But investigators are seeking evidence related to such possible criminal offenses as visa and tax fraud, money laundering and conspiracy, immigration officials said.
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Jet skids off runway at LaGuardia Airport in NYC
A Delta MD-80 jet has skidded off the runway and into a fence at New York's LaGuardia Airport, which is experiencing a major snowstorm.
From Fox News
From Fox News
Rabbi: 'Ridiculous' Pelosi Reaction to Netanyahu Speech
Democrats who panned the speech to Congress by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu either weren't listening or chose to level "ridiculous" complaints that didn't reflect the speech's actual content, a Jewish rights activist who attended told Newsmax TV on Tuesday.
Netanyahu made a "powerful" case against ever allowing a nuclear-armed Iran, speaking with "dignity," "passion," and more substance than his critics might have allowed, Rabbi Abraham Cooper, associate dean of the Los Angeles-based Simon Wiesenthal Center, told "MidPoint" host Ed Berliner.
Democrats were wrong to call the speech "condescending" or bereft of "concrete action," he said.
Cooper singled out the reaction of House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, who claimed to be "saddened by the insult to the intelligence of the United States."
"It's frankly ridiculous," he said.
Netanyahu said that what he wants is a deal "with which we could live, literally," alluding to fears that a nuclear-armed Iran would contemplate annihilating the Jewish state.
"So it wasn't that he was trying to nix any deal," said Cooper. "He was basically putting forward in a very respectful fashion why the current [deal] parameters only play the tune of the mullahs in Iran."
"He wasn't saying there shouldn't be negotiations with Iran," said Cooper. "He just said let's make sure at the other end that they're not capable to do exactly what North Korea did: Sign on the dotted line and when it was convenient for them … break out and become a nuclear power."
More on this
Netanyahu made a "powerful" case against ever allowing a nuclear-armed Iran, speaking with "dignity," "passion," and more substance than his critics might have allowed, Rabbi Abraham Cooper, associate dean of the Los Angeles-based Simon Wiesenthal Center, told "MidPoint" host Ed Berliner.
Democrats were wrong to call the speech "condescending" or bereft of "concrete action," he said.
Cooper singled out the reaction of House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, who claimed to be "saddened by the insult to the intelligence of the United States."
"It's frankly ridiculous," he said.
Netanyahu said that what he wants is a deal "with which we could live, literally," alluding to fears that a nuclear-armed Iran would contemplate annihilating the Jewish state.
"So it wasn't that he was trying to nix any deal," said Cooper. "He was basically putting forward in a very respectful fashion why the current [deal] parameters only play the tune of the mullahs in Iran."
"He wasn't saying there shouldn't be negotiations with Iran," said Cooper. "He just said let's make sure at the other end that they're not capable to do exactly what North Korea did: Sign on the dotted line and when it was convenient for them … break out and become a nuclear power."
Sheriff Clarke: Holder Conducting 'Witch Hunt' on Ferguson Police
The African-American sheriff of Milwaukee County, Wisconsin says U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder is conducting a "witch hunt" in Ferguson, Missouri to save face in the Michael Brown case.
Holder on Wednesday announced that there is no evidence that white Ferguson Police Officer Darren Wilson did anything illegal when he fatally shot unarmed black teenager Michael Brown, whom Wilson said was charging him. But Holder said a separate civil rights investigation into the Ferguson Police Department found systemic racism and that blacks were targeted in an effort to collect money through fines.
Sheriff David Clarke, appearing Wednesday on Fox News Channel's "Your World with Neil Cavuto," said Holder's statement was part of a pattern of "inflammatory rhetoric" he has made before. Holder has had Ferguson in his crosshairs ever since the shooting occurred, he said.
"He did not have an open mind. He had a pre-determined mindset going into this investigation," Clarke told Cavuto. "I think that Eric Holder has an animosity, a genuine hostility toward local law enforcement, specifically white police officers."
Clarke said Holder thinks every white police officer is a "stone-cold racist."
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Holder on Wednesday announced that there is no evidence that white Ferguson Police Officer Darren Wilson did anything illegal when he fatally shot unarmed black teenager Michael Brown, whom Wilson said was charging him. But Holder said a separate civil rights investigation into the Ferguson Police Department found systemic racism and that blacks were targeted in an effort to collect money through fines.
Sheriff David Clarke, appearing Wednesday on Fox News Channel's "Your World with Neil Cavuto," said Holder's statement was part of a pattern of "inflammatory rhetoric" he has made before. Holder has had Ferguson in his crosshairs ever since the shooting occurred, he said.
"He did not have an open mind. He had a pre-determined mindset going into this investigation," Clarke told Cavuto. "I think that Eric Holder has an animosity, a genuine hostility toward local law enforcement, specifically white police officers."
Clarke said Holder thinks every white police officer is a "stone-cold racist."
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Hillary Camp Pushes Back on E-mail Story
An aide to the former secretary of state says her use of a private e-mail account did not violate the law.
In an extended statement provided to Bloomberg Politics, a Clinton aide detailed ways in which Clinton did not run afoul of archival laws or the practices of her predecessors. Clinton only used her e-mail account for non-classified information, the aide said, backing up an assertion that the State Department made earlier Tuesday.
“We don’t care how many accounts you have as long as those on which you’re doing federal business are captured for the record.”
said David Ferriero, National Archives and Records Administration archivist.
More here
In an extended statement provided to Bloomberg Politics, a Clinton aide detailed ways in which Clinton did not run afoul of archival laws or the practices of her predecessors. Clinton only used her e-mail account for non-classified information, the aide said, backing up an assertion that the State Department made earlier Tuesday.
“We don’t care how many accounts you have as long as those on which you’re doing federal business are captured for the record.”
said David Ferriero, National Archives and Records Administration archivist.
More here
Kristol: It's 'Grownup' Bibi vs. 'Cartoon' Obama
Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a "grown-up speech" to Congress on Tuesday — in dramatic contrast to the cartoonish way President Barack Obama speaks on issues, says Bill Kristol, founder and editor of The Weekly Standard.
"It was really moving I would say … Netanyahu spoke as both the prime minister of Israel and on behalf of the Jewish people, but obviously as really the leader of the West," Kristol said Wednesday on "The Steve Malzberg Show" on Newsmax TV.
"He tried to tell Americans that they have to step up and be serious about the world, which unfortunately, our president doesn't seem to want to do.
"I was proud of Netanyahu and it was both a moving and an amazing experience.... He gave a grownup speech."
He said Netanyahu's no-nonsense talk about the dangers of a nuclear deal with Iran was in stark contrast how Obama "argues about anything or doesn't argue about anything,"
"It's just cartoons with Obama. One or two-sentence sound bites and that's it," Kristol said.
More here
"It was really moving I would say … Netanyahu spoke as both the prime minister of Israel and on behalf of the Jewish people, but obviously as really the leader of the West," Kristol said Wednesday on "The Steve Malzberg Show" on Newsmax TV.
"He tried to tell Americans that they have to step up and be serious about the world, which unfortunately, our president doesn't seem to want to do.
"I was proud of Netanyahu and it was both a moving and an amazing experience.... He gave a grownup speech."
He said Netanyahu's no-nonsense talk about the dangers of a nuclear deal with Iran was in stark contrast how Obama "argues about anything or doesn't argue about anything,"
"It's just cartoons with Obama. One or two-sentence sound bites and that's it," Kristol said.
More here
Clinton’s Office Was Warned Over Private Email Use
State Department technology experts expressed security concerns that then–Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was using a private email service rather than the government’s fortified and monitored system, but those fears fell on deaf ears, a current employee on the department’s cybersecurity team told Al Jazeera America on Tuesday.
The employee, who spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of losing his job, said it was well known that Clinton’s emails were at greater risk of being hacked, intercepted or monitored, but the warnings were ignored.
“We tried,” the employee said. “We told people in her office that it wasn’t a good idea. They were so uninterested that I doubt the secretary was ever informed.”
The New York Times reported Monday night that Clinton used only private email accounts during her tenure — a move that prevented the National Archives and Records Administration from automatically archiving her correspondence for historical purposes when she left office. Instead, the newspaper reported, two months ago Clinton aides turned over some 55,000 pages of emails after they reviewed all the messages she sent and received during her four-year tenure.
More here
The employee, who spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of losing his job, said it was well known that Clinton’s emails were at greater risk of being hacked, intercepted or monitored, but the warnings were ignored.
“We tried,” the employee said. “We told people in her office that it wasn’t a good idea. They were so uninterested that I doubt the secretary was ever informed.”
The New York Times reported Monday night that Clinton used only private email accounts during her tenure — a move that prevented the National Archives and Records Administration from automatically archiving her correspondence for historical purposes when she left office. Instead, the newspaper reported, two months ago Clinton aides turned over some 55,000 pages of emails after they reviewed all the messages she sent and received during her four-year tenure.
More here
Canadians Paying Tribute To Leonard Nimoy By “Spocking” Their Currency
The news of beloved actor Leonard Nimoy’s passing on Friday has saddened his fans over the last few days, but we’ve got to hand it to our neighbors in the wintry north for their unique way of paying tribute: Reviving a past trend known as “Spocking,” mourning Canadians have been doodling on their $5 bills, turning the image of Prime Minister Sir Wilfrid Laurier into that of the half Vulcan, half human Star Trek character.
Trekkies in Canada are flexing their artistic muscles with variations on the Spocking theme, which works best on older, cotton cloth bills — though some have succeeded in drawing his likeness on the newer polymer currency as well.
This outburst in affection for Nimoy was prompted by a Tweet from Canadian Design Resource, urging Canadians to Spock their bills:
Canadians have been doing this since at least 2008, notes CNET, when the Facebook group “Spock Your Fives” promoted the practice.
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Trekkies in Canada are flexing their artistic muscles with variations on the Spocking theme, which works best on older, cotton cloth bills — though some have succeeded in drawing his likeness on the newer polymer currency as well.
This outburst in affection for Nimoy was prompted by a Tweet from Canadian Design Resource, urging Canadians to Spock their bills:
Canadians have been doing this since at least 2008, notes CNET, when the Facebook group “Spock Your Fives” promoted the practice.
More
Prosecutors Mull Charges In Brown Family Attack
Late teen's kin could face arrest for ransacking of t-shirt stand
Prosecutors are now considering criminal charges against members of Michael Brown’s family in connection with a violent confrontation over the sale of merchandise commemorating the late teenager, who was shot to death last year by a police officer.
The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney recently received the results of a months-long investigation by Ferguson Police Department detectives who probed the October 18 beating and robbery of t-shirt vendors, one of whom was hospitalized following the assault.
A prosecutor’s spokesperson told TSG that lawyers are now reviewing material forwarded by police, a package that addresses charges that could be filed against the suspects.
The decision on whether to pursue charges in connection with the ransacking of the “Justice for Mike Brown” merchandise operation (seen above) is particularly sensitive since Lesley McSpadden, Brown’s mother, is named in a police report as one of the “attackers” who participated in the assault, which cops classified as a felony armed robbery.
Additionally, prosecutors are mulling charges in the face of a Department of Justice probe that has concluded that Ferguson cops have engaged in a “pattern and practice” of discrimination against African-American citizens, whose rights have routinely been violated by members of the Missouri city’s predominantly white police force.
The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney also handled the grand jury presentment in the Brown case, which ended when jurors declined to vote indictments against Officer Darren Wilson, the Ferguson cop who killed the unarmed teenager.
More details here
Prosecutors are now considering criminal charges against members of Michael Brown’s family in connection with a violent confrontation over the sale of merchandise commemorating the late teenager, who was shot to death last year by a police officer.
The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney recently received the results of a months-long investigation by Ferguson Police Department detectives who probed the October 18 beating and robbery of t-shirt vendors, one of whom was hospitalized following the assault.
A prosecutor’s spokesperson told TSG that lawyers are now reviewing material forwarded by police, a package that addresses charges that could be filed against the suspects.
The decision on whether to pursue charges in connection with the ransacking of the “Justice for Mike Brown” merchandise operation (seen above) is particularly sensitive since Lesley McSpadden, Brown’s mother, is named in a police report as one of the “attackers” who participated in the assault, which cops classified as a felony armed robbery.
Additionally, prosecutors are mulling charges in the face of a Department of Justice probe that has concluded that Ferguson cops have engaged in a “pattern and practice” of discrimination against African-American citizens, whose rights have routinely been violated by members of the Missouri city’s predominantly white police force.
The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney also handled the grand jury presentment in the Brown case, which ended when jurors declined to vote indictments against Officer Darren Wilson, the Ferguson cop who killed the unarmed teenager.
More details here
Judge Slams EPA for Discriminating Against Conservative Group
Judge: EPA has been 'offensively unapologetic'
A federal judge rebuked the Environmental Protection Agency on Monday for discriminating against a conservative group, saying the agency was either lying or apathetic in its response to a request made under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
In a blistering 25-page opinion, Judge Royce C. Lamberth of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia said that although the Landmark Legal Foundation—a conservative public interest law firm—had not sufficiently proven that the EPA acted in bad faith against it to be awarded punitive damages, the EPA has been “offensively unapologetic” and “continues to demonstrate a lack of respect for the FOIA process.”
“It is obvious to this Court that EPA has, once again, fumbled its way through its legally unambiguous FOIA obligations,” Lamberth wrote.
In 2012, the Landmark Legal Foundation filed a FOIA request with the EPA seeking communications between senior agency officials and outside groups to determine whether the EPA postponed controversial regulations until after the 2012 election.
However, the EPA performed inadequate searches of senior officials’ email accounts—including then-Administrator Lisa Jackson and deputy administrator Robert Perciasepe—and initially failed to search Jackson’s personal email account and Blackberry, even though she frequently used both to perform government business. Jackson’s Blackberry was scrubbed after she resigned from the agency in February 2013.
“Either EPA intentionally sought to evade Landmark’s lawful FOIA request so the agency could destroy responsive documents, or EPA demonstrated apathy and carelessness toward Landmark’s request,” Lamberth said. “Either scenario reflects poorly upon EPA and surely serves to diminish the public’s trust in the agency.”
More here
A federal judge rebuked the Environmental Protection Agency on Monday for discriminating against a conservative group, saying the agency was either lying or apathetic in its response to a request made under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
In a blistering 25-page opinion, Judge Royce C. Lamberth of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia said that although the Landmark Legal Foundation—a conservative public interest law firm—had not sufficiently proven that the EPA acted in bad faith against it to be awarded punitive damages, the EPA has been “offensively unapologetic” and “continues to demonstrate a lack of respect for the FOIA process.”
“It is obvious to this Court that EPA has, once again, fumbled its way through its legally unambiguous FOIA obligations,” Lamberth wrote.
In 2012, the Landmark Legal Foundation filed a FOIA request with the EPA seeking communications between senior agency officials and outside groups to determine whether the EPA postponed controversial regulations until after the 2012 election.
However, the EPA performed inadequate searches of senior officials’ email accounts—including then-Administrator Lisa Jackson and deputy administrator Robert Perciasepe—and initially failed to search Jackson’s personal email account and Blackberry, even though she frequently used both to perform government business. Jackson’s Blackberry was scrubbed after she resigned from the agency in February 2013.
“Either EPA intentionally sought to evade Landmark’s lawful FOIA request so the agency could destroy responsive documents, or EPA demonstrated apathy and carelessness toward Landmark’s request,” Lamberth said. “Either scenario reflects poorly upon EPA and surely serves to diminish the public’s trust in the agency.”
More here
Clinton Ran Homebrew Computer System for Official Emails
The computer server that transmitted and received Hillary Clinton's emails — on a private account she used exclusively for official business when she was secretary of state — traced back to an Internet service registered to her family's home in Chappaqua, New York, according to Internet records reviewed by The Associated Press.
The highly unusual practice of a Cabinet-level official physically running her own email would have given Clinton, the presumptive Democratic presidential candidate, impressive control over limiting access to her message archives.
Clinton has not described her motivation for using a private email account — hdr22@clintonemail.com, which traced back to her own private email server registered under an apparent pseudonym — for official State Department business.
More here
The highly unusual practice of a Cabinet-level official physically running her own email would have given Clinton, the presumptive Democratic presidential candidate, impressive control over limiting access to her message archives.
Clinton has not described her motivation for using a private email account — hdr22@clintonemail.com, which traced back to her own private email server registered under an apparent pseudonym — for official State Department business.
More here
An Open Letter From An American Grandmother to Netanyahu
Dear Mr. Prime Minister,
Thank you for coming to America. I am just a grandma from Goleta who can no longer stand idly by. I can see that the world today is a dangerous place and I fear for my children and grandchildren. It is apparent that we are on the brink of another World War, and yet, the U.S. is somnolent, lulled into an easy, yet unrestful sleep having been soothed by the deceptions of a narcissistic president who prefers to indulge in fantasies rather than lead, as you are doing. He has tarnished the reputation of our once great nation.
America has suffered more than its share of foolish ideologies and misguided leaders, but these times are different, with decisions that will not only change the future, but determine whether or not there is a future at all. That is why, as a mother and grandmother, I look to you for help.
You have been around long enough and understand the U.S. well enough to know that we have an accomplice media who, along with our present administration considers that the only open mind is one that is closed against Israel. They have sullied your good name and that of the great State of Israel.
By no means do they represent me.
As Michelle Obama once famously said, “For the first time in my life I am proud of my country.” May I say in retort, for the first time in my life, I feel shame for mine.
As I stand on the precipice of time and look at a world on the verge of collapse, the bright beacon of hope in the distance would have been the light that shone from America; no longer is that true. Our light has grown dim and our power has become weak.
If only I had something to offer other than words and pleas, alas, I have no more. My fear for the future is palpable. My worry for my family is tangible. What seems to be a bleak and certain future, however, is still far enough away to be reshaped, but only with tools tempered from the fires of wisdom; wisdom that you, out of all of today’s world leaders, embodies.
May God’s blessing and protection be upon you and the people of Israel. May His hand guide yours through these treacherous times and may we all be humbled by His mercy and love.
With greatest sincerity…and hope,
Carol J. Cannon
[ Ms. Cannon is a grandmother from Summerland, California. ]
(From The Washington Times)
Thank you for coming to America. I am just a grandma from Goleta who can no longer stand idly by. I can see that the world today is a dangerous place and I fear for my children and grandchildren. It is apparent that we are on the brink of another World War, and yet, the U.S. is somnolent, lulled into an easy, yet unrestful sleep having been soothed by the deceptions of a narcissistic president who prefers to indulge in fantasies rather than lead, as you are doing. He has tarnished the reputation of our once great nation.
America has suffered more than its share of foolish ideologies and misguided leaders, but these times are different, with decisions that will not only change the future, but determine whether or not there is a future at all. That is why, as a mother and grandmother, I look to you for help.
You have been around long enough and understand the U.S. well enough to know that we have an accomplice media who, along with our present administration considers that the only open mind is one that is closed against Israel. They have sullied your good name and that of the great State of Israel.
By no means do they represent me.
As Michelle Obama once famously said, “For the first time in my life I am proud of my country.” May I say in retort, for the first time in my life, I feel shame for mine.
As I stand on the precipice of time and look at a world on the verge of collapse, the bright beacon of hope in the distance would have been the light that shone from America; no longer is that true. Our light has grown dim and our power has become weak.
If only I had something to offer other than words and pleas, alas, I have no more. My fear for the future is palpable. My worry for my family is tangible. What seems to be a bleak and certain future, however, is still far enough away to be reshaped, but only with tools tempered from the fires of wisdom; wisdom that you, out of all of today’s world leaders, embodies.
May God’s blessing and protection be upon you and the people of Israel. May His hand guide yours through these treacherous times and may we all be humbled by His mercy and love.
With greatest sincerity…and hope,
Carol J. Cannon
[ Ms. Cannon is a grandmother from Summerland, California. ]
(From The Washington Times)
Spending board rejects radio cost overrun, rakes university officials over coals
Led by Gov. Larry Hogan, the Board of Public Works voted 2 to 1 to disapprove a $19 million increase in a $485 million contract to develop a communication system for first responders after learning that agency officials had failed to factor operating costs for the system into the deal with Motorola Inc.
"I just don't think that's acceptable," Hogan said. "That's not the way we want our agencies to do business."
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Portion of Nanticoke River Reclassified for Shellfish Harvesting
A portion of the Nanticoke River just south of Hatcrown Point, which had been approved for shellfish harvesting, has been reclassified as restricted, meaning that it is closed to shellfish harvesting. The change is due to recent evaluations showing elevated bacteria levels in portions of the River. About 1,442 acres of water are affected by this change, which is effective today.
MDE conducts regular surveys to identify potential pollution sources near shellfish harvesting waters, but the cause of an increase in bacteria levels is not always known, and no specific cause has been identified for the increased levels in these areas.
Information on shellfish harvesting areas is available on MDE’s website. These designations apply only to the harvesting of shellfish (oysters and clams); they do not apply to fishing or crabbing.Consumption advisories for recreationally caught fish and crabs can also be found on MDE’s website.
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Advocates, critics of fracking turn out for hearing on bills
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — Dozens of supporters are showing up for a Senate hearing on legislation that would limit natural gas drilling in Maryland.
By 6 p.m., Tuesday the hearing had yet to start but residents of western Maryland, where the hydraulic drilling method commonly known as fracking would be targeted, were eager to share their concerns.
The worries range from public health risks to threats to the quiet, rural environment. Others fear excessive truck traffic will destroy the area’s roads.
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By 6 p.m., Tuesday the hearing had yet to start but residents of western Maryland, where the hydraulic drilling method commonly known as fracking would be targeted, were eager to share their concerns.
The worries range from public health risks to threats to the quiet, rural environment. Others fear excessive truck traffic will destroy the area’s roads.
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Md. group asks lawmakers to eliminate soda from children’s menus
Going out to eat can be a treat for some families. Anjali Varma, a mother of two, said she still tries up keep it healthy.
"Sometimes a lemonade or a juice, and we are OK with that from time to time," said Varma.
Varma says milk is usually her drink of choice when it comes to her sons.
Soon, milk and other healthy options may be the requirement on children's menus across Maryland.
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Ben Carson Forms An Exploratory Committee To Run For President
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Carson, the only African-American expected to enter the race, rose to national prominence after criticizing President Barack Obama's health care law at the 2013 National Prayer breakfast. He quickly developed a loyal following among the GOP's most conservative voters.
"Obviously, this is a very big step," committee chairman Terry Giles said in an interview with The Associated Press. "Today we begin the formal process of exploring whether or not Ben can win the presidency."
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AP Exclusive: Ringling Bros. eliminating elephant acts
POLK CITY, Fla. (AP) — The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is ending its iconic elephant acts.
The circus’ parent company, Feld Entertainment, told The Associated Press exclusively that the acts will be phased out by 2018. Growing public concern about how the animals are treated led to the decision.
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The circus’ parent company, Feld Entertainment, told The Associated Press exclusively that the acts will be phased out by 2018. Growing public concern about how the animals are treated led to the decision.
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MD manure-to-energy plant appears to be going nowhere
Green Planet Power hasn’t even applied for permits for a facility that was supposed to be built this year.
Maryland was supposed to be deep into the planning stages for a manure-to-energy plant by now, a plant that was a key component in the state’s strategy to reduce pollution from poultry manure. The state signed a contract in October 2013 with Maryland Bio Energy, a subsidiary of California-based Green Planet Power Solutions, to construct a power plant on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The plant was to turn 175,000 tons of poultry manure — about 75 percent of Maryland’s Eastern Shore’s excess manure — into electricity. The state and the University of Maryland signed on as customers. A federal subsidy was in place. The plant was to be built in the fall of 2015 and to generate energy by 2016.
Its construction would have given poultry growers a safe place to take manure they could not use as fertilizer because of new rules designed to reduce pollution from phosphorus. Many of the Eastern Shore’s fields are saturated with phosphorus, and poultry manure is phosphorus-rich.
Instead, the state’s manure-to-energy plan appears stalled. Neither Green Planet Power Solutions nor Maryland Bio Energy have applied for the necessary air permits from the Maryland Department of the Environment, according to officials there. That permit review alone would likely take 11 months — the amount of time that the MDE estimates when public concern mounts in a public review process.
Several environmental groups, including the Assateague Coastkeeper and Chesapeake Climate Action Network, oppose various aspects of the proposed plant. They are concerned about high ammonia emissions and health consequences.
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On This Day in 1963 the Hula Hoop Was Patented
In 1948, friends Arthur Melin and Richard Knerr founded a company in California to sell a slingshot they created to shoot meat up to falcons they used for hunting. The company’s name, Wham-O, came from the sound the slingshots supposedly made. Wham-O eventually branched out from slingshots, selling boomerangs and other sporting goods. Its first hit toy, a flying plastic disc known as the Frisbee, debuted in 1957. The Frisbee was originally marketed under a different name, the Pluto Platter, in an effort to capitalize on America’s fascination with UFOs.
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WCSO Monthly Crime Statistics February 2015
Salisbury, Allen,
Deer Harbour, Fruitland,
Fox Chase
Parsonsburg, Delmar
Delmar, Reservation,
Booth/West Rd.
Nanticoke, Waterview,
White Haven, Tyaskin
Booth Street, Reservation
Hebron, Mardela Springs,
Sharptown
Pittsville, Willards,
Powellville
Emmett returns for Erling's 90th birthday
"Happy Birthday Erling," said the preschooler as he hugged the WWII vet.
The friendship that became an internet sensation in the summer of 2014 is still going strong.
When America first met Emmett and Erling, they were next door neighbors sharing lawnmower races and backyard croquet matches, despite an age difference of 86 years.
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Winter Storm Warning 3-5-15
Winter Storm Warning
URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WAKEFIELD VA 623 AM EST THU MAR 5 2015 DORCHESTER-WICOMICO-SOMERSET-INLAND WORCESTER-MARYLAND BEACHES- INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...CAMBRIDGE...SALISBURY...CRISFIELD... PRINCESS ANNE...SNOW HILL...OCEAN CITY 623 AM EST THU MAR 5 2015 ...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT EST TONIGHT... A WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT EST TONIGHT. * AREAS AFFECTED: LOWER MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE. * HAZARDS: MIX OF SLEET AND SNOW...THEN SNOW LATE THURSDAY MORNING THROUGH EARLY EVENING. * TIMING: RAIN WILL MIX WITH SLEET OVER THE NEXT FEW HOURS. A TRANSITION TO A SNOW/SLEET MIX IS EXPECTED BY LATE MORNING...BECOMING ALL SNOW BY MID AFTERNOON THURSDAY THROUGH EARLY THURSDAY EVENING. * ACCUMULATION: SNOW AND SLEET ACCUMULATION OF 3 TO 5 INCHES IS EXPECTED ACROSS THE NORTHWEST PORTION OF THE LOWER MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE. THIS IS EXPECTED TO TAPER TO 2 TO 3 INCHES CLOSER TO THE ATLANTIC COAST WHERE MORE PRECIPITATION WILL FALL AS SLEET. TRACE AMOUNTS OF ICE ARE POSSIBLE. * TEMPERATURES: LOW 30S...DROPPING INTO THE MID 20S BY EARLY EVENING. * WINDS: NORTH 10 TO 15 MPH WITH GUSTS TO 25 MPH. * IMPACTS: ROADS WILL BECOME SNOW COVERED BY MID TO LATE AFTERNOON. VISIBILITY WILL DROP TO AROUND A QUARTER-MILE AT TIMES THIS AFTERNOON AND EARLY EVENING...MAKING TRAVEL DANGEROUS. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW... SLEET...AND ICE ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG WINDS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE. THIS WILL MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE.
#GiveKidsTheCredit: Maryland Education Credit Initiative Focus Of Nonpublic Schools Advocacy Day
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This year's event supports the Maryland Education Credit Initiative, which seeks to promote business investment to assist the state's public and nonpublic schools students and their families. No money is given directly to schools. Instead, it goes directly to families through state-registered nonprofit organizations.
The Maryland Education Credit Initiative would provide a qualifying Maryland business with a tax credit equal to 60 percent of its donation to education assistance.
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MARYLAND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY
MARYLAND
AGENCIES PREPARE FOR NEXT WINTER STORM
GOVERNOR HOGAN
URGES RESIDENTS TO STAY OFF ROADS THURSDAY
REISTERSTOWN,
Md. (March 4,
2015)
— A
wet mix of rain, sleet, and heavy snow
are expected across the entire State of Maryland tonight and
tomorrow. The storm is expected to begin this evening, with up to 10
inches of snow expected in the northern, central, and western regions
of the State and at least three inches of snow predicted in parts of
southern Maryland and the lower Eastern Shore. The National Weather
Service has indicated that snow could be falling at a rate of over
one inch per hour during the height of the storm Thursday.
Residents
should make preparations now and are urged to stay off the roads
tomorrow, especially during the rush-hour commutes.
“While
the calendar says spring is just around the corner, we anticipate
another blast of winter,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “I am asking
that you stay inside so crews can work to clear roadways. And
remember to check on relatives, friends, and neighbors. Helping
your neighbors also helps our first responders.”
If
you must travel, travelers may obtain the latest free traffic and
weather information by calling 5-1-1 from a telephone or
visiting www.MD511.org or www.traffic.md.gov.
Additionally,
traffic, weather, and power outage alerts, as well as winter
preparedness information, can be accessed on the Maryland Emergency
Management Agency’s website at mema.maryland.gov.
Mobile device users can also download the free Maryland Prepares app.
MEMA
and other state agencies are preparing to assist local responders
with any issues related to the storm. MEMA has coordinated conference
calls with the National Weather Service, state agencies, local
emergency management offices, and other partners to coordinate
response efforts. "Don't
be lulled into a false sense of security if snow is not falling when
you wake up on Thursday,"
MEMA’s Executive Director Clay Stamp said. "Heavy
precipitation is expected to begin mid-morning throughout the State
and drivers will not want to be caught out on the road during the
height of the storm."
After the snow begins, temperatures are expected to stay below
freezing in much of Maryland until Saturday. This could inhibit
melting and make prolonged outdoor exposure a safety concern.