DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Monday, September 28, 2015
The man who refused to sign the Constitution
Bill Federer remembers George Mason: 'The laws of nature are the laws of God'
“Congress shall make no law respecting the establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.”
Thus began the first of the Ten Amendments, or Bill of Rights, which were approved Sept. 25, 1789.
“The father of the Bill of Rights” was George Mason of Virginia. George Mason was the richest man in Virginia, owning 15,000 acres. When George Washington was chosen to be the commander of the Continental army, George Mason was drafted by the citizens of Virginia to fill Washington’s place in the Continental Congress. George Mason wrote the Virginia Declaration of Rights, from which Jefferson drew from to write the Declaration of Independence.
George Mason stated before the General Court of Virginia: “The laws of nature are the laws of God, whose authority can be superseded by no power on earth.”
This phrase of Mason’s was mirrored in the Declaration of Independence as: “The laws of nature and nature’s God.”
George Mason was one of 55 founders who wrote the U.S. Constitution, but was one of the few who refused to sign it because it did not end the slave trade and did not put enough limits on the federal government’s power.
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“Congress shall make no law respecting the establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.”
Thus began the first of the Ten Amendments, or Bill of Rights, which were approved Sept. 25, 1789.
“The father of the Bill of Rights” was George Mason of Virginia. George Mason was the richest man in Virginia, owning 15,000 acres. When George Washington was chosen to be the commander of the Continental army, George Mason was drafted by the citizens of Virginia to fill Washington’s place in the Continental Congress. George Mason wrote the Virginia Declaration of Rights, from which Jefferson drew from to write the Declaration of Independence.
George Mason stated before the General Court of Virginia: “The laws of nature are the laws of God, whose authority can be superseded by no power on earth.”
This phrase of Mason’s was mirrored in the Declaration of Independence as: “The laws of nature and nature’s God.”
George Mason was one of 55 founders who wrote the U.S. Constitution, but was one of the few who refused to sign it because it did not end the slave trade and did not put enough limits on the federal government’s power.
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Next time you think something is difficult, look at this
Next time you think something is difficult, look at this.
Posted by Willy Foo - Photographer, Marketer, Technopreneur on Saturday, April 4, 2015
Revealed, the 10 best stress-busting foods - and the good news is chocolate's on the list!
We've all had those moments when stress leads us to grab junk food - either to cheer ourselves up or get a quick energy fix - only to regret it minutes later.
In fact, stress can make us crave junk food and increase our levels of fat-promoting stress hormones, says nutritionist Charlotte Watts, writing for Healthista.
As she explains in her book, The De-Stress Effect, this can lead to weight gain around the tummy, hips and thighs.
Here, she reveals the ten foods that are proven to relieve stress - and some of they may surprise you...
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In fact, stress can make us crave junk food and increase our levels of fat-promoting stress hormones, says nutritionist Charlotte Watts, writing for Healthista.
As she explains in her book, The De-Stress Effect, this can lead to weight gain around the tummy, hips and thighs.
Here, she reveals the ten foods that are proven to relieve stress - and some of they may surprise you...
More
Senate supports continuing resolution to avoid government shutdown
The Senate has voted in support of a bill that would keep open the government to Dec. 11.
The continuing resolution would hold funding at 2015 levels and including money for Planned Parenthood.
Read the full story
The continuing resolution would hold funding at 2015 levels and including money for Planned Parenthood.
Read the full story
The Economics of Hillary Clinton
In a recent Labor Day speech to union workers in Illinois, Hillary Clinton declared that if she is elected president of the United States, she would make sure that “some employers go to jail for wage theft and all the other abuses they engage in.” Her incendiary comments were obvious “red meat” for the audience, but it also helped to clarify her own economic views and how she would govern if elected.
Even though Clinton is somewhat mired down in a scandal involving her email servers used while she was at Foggy Bottoms, it seems that she will survive it — as she and her husband have survived every other scandal that has defined their political careers — and be the official Democratic Party nominee. Given the current state of US politics and given the fact that there doesn’t seem to be a Republican challenger who can stand up to her star power, at least from this current vantage point, it seems Clinton will slide into the office for where she has been “destined” since 1992.
Given that there is a very good chance Clinton will march into the White House in January 2017, we should scrutinize her economic beliefs and her proposed economic policies, as we may well have to be living them in less than two years. Not surprising for people interested in economics of liberty (or, better put, the economics of prosperity), Hillary’s policies will disappoint and disappoint greatly.
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Even though Clinton is somewhat mired down in a scandal involving her email servers used while she was at Foggy Bottoms, it seems that she will survive it — as she and her husband have survived every other scandal that has defined their political careers — and be the official Democratic Party nominee. Given the current state of US politics and given the fact that there doesn’t seem to be a Republican challenger who can stand up to her star power, at least from this current vantage point, it seems Clinton will slide into the office for where she has been “destined” since 1992.
Given that there is a very good chance Clinton will march into the White House in January 2017, we should scrutinize her economic beliefs and her proposed economic policies, as we may well have to be living them in less than two years. Not surprising for people interested in economics of liberty (or, better put, the economics of prosperity), Hillary’s policies will disappoint and disappoint greatly.
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Oh good: Iran will release 3 U.S. hostages if we release 19 actual criminals
If the deal we're hearing about is the one he had in mind, it's another example of Obama and Kerry either being the world's worst negotiators, or - as the boss suggested on Sunday - simply giving away the store left and right because they really don't give a crap. Remember the trade of five Gitmo terrorists for deserter Bowe Bergdahl? Multiply the number of bad guys being released by nearly four, and you've got the deal that's apparently in the works. The only thing that might make this a little better is that the four Americans actually deserve their freedom.
But that doesn't change the fact that Obama and Kerry are about to give away what they absolutely did not have to:
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3 Found Dogs: UPDATE
MEMA National Preparedness Month Lip-Dub Video
Discover the hazards in Maryland learn how to prepare for them in this National Preparedness Month fun and informative video.
Barricade Ends Peacefully In Somerset Co.
(Crisfield, MD) A barricade situation in Somerset County ended peacefully this afternoon when Maryland State Police arrested a man who is believed to have fired at police from his residence before being taken into custody.
The accused is identified as Jamie L. Coulbourne, 32, of the 26000-block of Silver Lane in Crisfield. After consultation with the Somerset County State’s Attorney’s Office, Coulbourne is being charged tonight with attempted first degree murder, first degree assault, second degree assault, illegal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of ammunition, and reckless endangerment.
The situation began about 9:00 a.m. today, when troopers from the Princess Anne Barrack were called to the home where the man was living with his mother. His mother reported he was yelling, screaming and was possibly suicidal. She said he was possibly under the influence of a drug and was accessing a room where firearms were located. She had left the house and no one else was inside with Coulbourne.
A perimeter with state, county and local police officers was established. The Maryland State Police Special Tactical Assault Team Element and State Police negotiators responded to assist. Contact was made by phone with Coulbourne and he told troopers he had an officer in his gunsight and he would kill the first police officer who came through the door. Police saw him walking around inside the home with a rifle.
Shortly after 11:30 a.m., Coulbourne fired a rifle out a rear window toward two troopers on the perimeter. No one was struck by the round. Police continued to attempt to talk with the man by phone and convince him to surrender peacefully.
At about 2:00 p.m. today, Coulbourne walked out the front door of the home, but repeatedly ignored instructions by police about how to surrender. He kept putting his hands into his pockets and pulling them out quickly. Police could not tell if he was armed with a handgun and did not want him to return inside the home to the weapons there and continue the barricade.
A tactical trooper on the STATE Team fired a ‘less lethal’ round which caused the suspect to stumble. STATE Team members were then able to take him into custody without further incident. Coulbourne was not armed when he was arrested.
Investigators obtained a search warrant and recovered a 30-30 rifle believed to have been the one used to fire at police. Two additional long guns were found in the home. All are believed to be owned by the suspect’s mother. The suspect is prohibited by law to be in possession of firearms.
Following his arrest, Coulbourne was transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center for an examination. He was released before 6:00 p.m. and transported to the Princess Anne Barrack, where he will be served with charges. He will be taken for his initial appearance before a court commissioner later tonight.
The investigation is continuing.
The accused is identified as Jamie L. Coulbourne, 32, of the 26000-block of Silver Lane in Crisfield. After consultation with the Somerset County State’s Attorney’s Office, Coulbourne is being charged tonight with attempted first degree murder, first degree assault, second degree assault, illegal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of ammunition, and reckless endangerment.
The situation began about 9:00 a.m. today, when troopers from the Princess Anne Barrack were called to the home where the man was living with his mother. His mother reported he was yelling, screaming and was possibly suicidal. She said he was possibly under the influence of a drug and was accessing a room where firearms were located. She had left the house and no one else was inside with Coulbourne.
A perimeter with state, county and local police officers was established. The Maryland State Police Special Tactical Assault Team Element and State Police negotiators responded to assist. Contact was made by phone with Coulbourne and he told troopers he had an officer in his gunsight and he would kill the first police officer who came through the door. Police saw him walking around inside the home with a rifle.
Shortly after 11:30 a.m., Coulbourne fired a rifle out a rear window toward two troopers on the perimeter. No one was struck by the round. Police continued to attempt to talk with the man by phone and convince him to surrender peacefully.
At about 2:00 p.m. today, Coulbourne walked out the front door of the home, but repeatedly ignored instructions by police about how to surrender. He kept putting his hands into his pockets and pulling them out quickly. Police could not tell if he was armed with a handgun and did not want him to return inside the home to the weapons there and continue the barricade.
A tactical trooper on the STATE Team fired a ‘less lethal’ round which caused the suspect to stumble. STATE Team members were then able to take him into custody without further incident. Coulbourne was not armed when he was arrested.
Investigators obtained a search warrant and recovered a 30-30 rifle believed to have been the one used to fire at police. Two additional long guns were found in the home. All are believed to be owned by the suspect’s mother. The suspect is prohibited by law to be in possession of firearms.
Following his arrest, Coulbourne was transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center for an examination. He was released before 6:00 p.m. and transported to the Princess Anne Barrack, where he will be served with charges. He will be taken for his initial appearance before a court commissioner later tonight.
The investigation is continuing.
Old Farmer's Almanac predicts 'super cold winter' on horizon
A “super cold winter” is coming.
That’s according to the 2016 Old Farmer’s Almanac, the latest installment of the quaint guidebook famous for forecasting the weather since 1792.
“[B]ut the good news is that areas with record-shattering snow last winter — like Boston — won’t have to deal with quite so many flakes,” editor Janice Stillman said in a press release.
Before Bostonians get too excited, the release did include the Northeast among regions that have “a slew of snow” to look forward to, along with the Ohio Valley, northern Plains and Pacific Northwest.
The Almanac derives its forecasts from a “secret formula” developed by its founder, Robert B. Thomas, nearly 225 years ago.
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That’s according to the 2016 Old Farmer’s Almanac, the latest installment of the quaint guidebook famous for forecasting the weather since 1792.
“[B]ut the good news is that areas with record-shattering snow last winter — like Boston — won’t have to deal with quite so many flakes,” editor Janice Stillman said in a press release.
Before Bostonians get too excited, the release did include the Northeast among regions that have “a slew of snow” to look forward to, along with the Ohio Valley, northern Plains and Pacific Northwest.
The Almanac derives its forecasts from a “secret formula” developed by its founder, Robert B. Thomas, nearly 225 years ago.
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Ever wonder what happens to all large items we throw away? Watch this!
Ever wonder what happens to all large items we throw away? Watch this!
Posted by Obvious Magazine on Monday, July 27, 2015
Maine mayor pushing bill to post welfare recipients’ addresses online
A Maine mayor is proposing a controversial name-and-shame strategy for welfare recipients, saying he plans to push a bill requiring the state to publish the names and addresses and other details for “every individual on the dole.”
Robert Macdonald, mayor of Lewiston, Maine, pitched the plan in his regular column for the Twin City Times. He noted that a website already lists information on state pensioners, and complained that “liberal, progressive legislators” think similar information on welfare recipients should be private.
“Well, the days of being quiet are gone,” he wrote. “We will be submitting a bill to the next legislative session asking that a website be created containing the names, addresses, length of time on assistance and the benefits being collected by every individual on the dole.
“After all, the public has a right to know how its money is being spent,” Macdonald said.
Robert Macdonald, mayor of Lewiston, Maine, pitched the plan in his regular column for the Twin City Times. He noted that a website already lists information on state pensioners, and complained that “liberal, progressive legislators” think similar information on welfare recipients should be private.
“Well, the days of being quiet are gone,” he wrote. “We will be submitting a bill to the next legislative session asking that a website be created containing the names, addresses, length of time on assistance and the benefits being collected by every individual on the dole.
“After all, the public has a right to know how its money is being spent,” Macdonald said.
O’Malley: Clinton email controversy threatens to define Democratic Party
“I believe that there are a lot of legitimate questions still to be answered about this particular controversy – the email, the email server, the FBI investigation and the like,” O’Malley said on CNN’s "State of the Union.”
O’Malley has been fighting for the party to expand the debate schedule beyond the six that are currently on the docket.
He argued Sunday that more debates are necessary, particularly in light of Clinton’s email controversy, because the issue threatens to swallow the race for the Democratic nomination.
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This animated map shows how religion spread across the world
Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, Judaism, and Islam are five of the biggest religions in the world. Over the last few thousand years, these religious groups have shaped the course of history and had a profound influence on the trajectory of the human race. Through countless conflicts, conquests, missions abroad, and simple word of mouth, these religions spread around the globe and forever molded the huge geographic regions in their paths.
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WCSO Press Releases September 28, 2015
Incident: County Wide DUI Enforcement
Date of Incident: 27 September 2015
Participating Agencies: Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office
Maryland State Police Salisbury Barrack
Maryland Natural Resources Police
Fruitland Police
Delmar Police
Narrative: On 27 September 2015 a county wide multi-agency initiative targeting drunk and impaired drivers took place from 9:00 PM to 3:00 AM. During this operation law enforcement officers made the following arrests:
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol:
Meghan Elizabeth Gordy, 24, Salisbury, MD
Asael Gilberto Soriano, 27, Salisbury, MD
Zachary Scott Summers, 19, Forest Hill, MD
Marshall Scott Boykin, 53, Salisbury, MD
Nicolas Paul Garbarino, 20, Binghamton, NY
Possession of Heroin
Shane Lee Faucette, 29, Delmar, MD
Possession of Marijuana (Charged on a Civil Citation)
Zachary Scott Summers, 19, Forest Hill, MD
LeBraun Markee Williams, 23, Salisbury, MD
Christian Phillip Chandler, 19, Salisbury, MD
Willard Michael Oney, 32, Salisbury, MD
Underage Possession of Alcohol (Charged on a Civil Citation)
Christopher Michael Lloyd, 19, Salisbury, MD
Male Juvenile, 17, Salisbury, MD
Vincent William Posey, 18, Poolesville, MD
Driving While Suspended (Charged on a Traffic Citation)
Robert Ober, 32, Salisbury, MD
Dantoine Thomas Svainkier, 32, Salisbury, MD
Driving Without a License (Charged on a Traffic Citation)
Manasia Mone Ross, 19, Salisbury, MD
Maria Hales, 18, Salisbury, MD
Governor Larry Hogan and Comptroller Peter Franchot Deliver $200 Million in Tax Refunds
Governor and Comptroller Launch New Website to Help Maryland Taxpayers Receive Refunds Following Supreme Court Decision
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Larry Hogan and Comptroller Peter Franchot today urged eligible Maryland residents who filed and paid income taxes to another state between 2011 and 2014 to apply for a tax refund against the county portion of their Maryland state income taxes. Refunds are now taking place following a recent Supreme Court ruling related to local income taxes.
“For years I have said that Maryland citizens were being overtaxed and overcharged, and now an estimated 55,000 taxpayers are eligible for substantial income tax refunds,” Governor Hogan said. “The Supreme Court’s decision earlier this year allows us to provide another $200 million in tax relief, which will immediately go back into the pockets of Maryland taxpayers, and back into our state economy.”
“For the thousands of Maryland taxpayers impacted by the Wynne decision, the Comptroller’s Office is working diligently to get your money back to you, where it belongs,” Comptroller Franchot said. “We have dedicated an enormous amount of resources, technology, and staff to getting refunds out the door as quickly as possible. To date, my office has processed more than 4,000 claims, returning more than $53 million to Marylanders.”
Maryland taxpayers should visit www.WynneTaxRefund.Maryland.gov to get more information on whether they are eligible for a refund. Individual circumstances vary and taxpayers are encouraged to have a tax professional advise them regarding how this decision affects them. In general, Maryland residents who have paid taxes on income earned in certain jurisdictions of another U.S. state may be eligible for a tax refund. However, these refunds are not automatic, and taxpayers who believe they may be entitled to a refund are encouraged to file as soon as possible.
Earlier this year, Maryland residents Brian and Karen Wynne won their case in the U.S. Supreme Court after challenging that payment of local income in both Maryland and other local jurisdictions was illegal double taxation. The Wynnes won their case when a majority of justices ruled that Maryland’s income tax law was unconstitutional.
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Larry Hogan and Comptroller Peter Franchot today urged eligible Maryland residents who filed and paid income taxes to another state between 2011 and 2014 to apply for a tax refund against the county portion of their Maryland state income taxes. Refunds are now taking place following a recent Supreme Court ruling related to local income taxes.
“For years I have said that Maryland citizens were being overtaxed and overcharged, and now an estimated 55,000 taxpayers are eligible for substantial income tax refunds,” Governor Hogan said. “The Supreme Court’s decision earlier this year allows us to provide another $200 million in tax relief, which will immediately go back into the pockets of Maryland taxpayers, and back into our state economy.”
“For the thousands of Maryland taxpayers impacted by the Wynne decision, the Comptroller’s Office is working diligently to get your money back to you, where it belongs,” Comptroller Franchot said. “We have dedicated an enormous amount of resources, technology, and staff to getting refunds out the door as quickly as possible. To date, my office has processed more than 4,000 claims, returning more than $53 million to Marylanders.”
Maryland taxpayers should visit www.WynneTaxRefund.Maryland.gov to get more information on whether they are eligible for a refund. Individual circumstances vary and taxpayers are encouraged to have a tax professional advise them regarding how this decision affects them. In general, Maryland residents who have paid taxes on income earned in certain jurisdictions of another U.S. state may be eligible for a tax refund. However, these refunds are not automatic, and taxpayers who believe they may be entitled to a refund are encouraged to file as soon as possible.
Earlier this year, Maryland residents Brian and Karen Wynne won their case in the U.S. Supreme Court after challenging that payment of local income in both Maryland and other local jurisdictions was illegal double taxation. The Wynnes won their case when a majority of justices ruled that Maryland’s income tax law was unconstitutional.
BREAKING NEWS: MULTIPLE VICTIM BEACH RESCUE IN OCEAN CITY
UPDATE: Ocean Pines, Berlin and Bethany Beach Paramedic units just requested to respond to the scene at 33rd st. and the beach.
McCarthy announces run for House speaker
"I have decided to run for Speaker of the House and graciously ask for your support," he said in a statement.
McCarthy, R-Calif., made the announcement three days after Boehner stunned Washington by announcing his resignation. Even before Monday's statement, McCarthy was seen as the heavy favorite to replace the Ohio Republican in the top post, though he faces a challenge from Florida Republican Rep. Daniel Webster.
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Jury Awards Maryland Man $45K In ‘Excessive Force’ Lawsuit
The Daily Record reports the jury’s decision was given last week after a three-day trial in U.S. District Court in Baltimore.
Brenden Thomas’ attorney Patricia Cresta-Savage says the jury ruled that officer Ryan Flanagan violated Thomas’ constitutional rights by falsely arresting him and using excessive force.
The lawsuit says Thomas was leaving an Ocean City nightclub in August 2012 when Flanagan allegedly confronted him without cause and then knocked him unconscious.
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Salisbury’s record win saves the day for Maryland football
After the Terps lost 45-6 at West Virginia, Salisbury won a 91-7 victory over Southern Virginia, the first home game in their new conference, the New Jersey Athletic Conference.
This was a record for the Sea Gulls — the previous record was an 84-7 win over Husson University back in 2010. The record for most points scored in a single Division III football game is 105, set by Rockford against Trinity Bible in 2003.
Despite the score, the Gulls didn’t “run it up” on Southern Va., who are in just their second season in Division III football and only won one game last season
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HILLARY CLINTON IS WRONG ON KEYSTONE XL
WASHINGTON, September 22, 2015 – API President and CEO Jack Gerard said Hillary Clinton’s anti-Keystone XL pipeline position demonstrates an unwillingness to follow the will of American voters who strongly support the project.
“Hillary Clinton’s decision to oppose Keystone is a missed opportunity to seize the true potential of our energy renaissance,” said Gerard. “It is most unfortunate for American workers and consumers that she has joined the forces of delay and denial. The years of indecision by this White House on this project are mind boggling. Who thought seven years ago when the Keystone permit was first initiated that 2016 presidential candidates would be weighing in on KXL?
“Instead of embracing our neighbor to the north, this administration continues to snub Canada and turns a deaf ear to our other allies who have appealed to the U.S. to move more oil onto the global markets. How can the administration advocate a deal that would help Iranian oil producers but not do the same for U.S. and Canadian producers? This is not how you harness America’s economic and diplomatic potential.”
API is the only national trade association representing all facets of the oil and natural gas industry, which supports 9.8 million U.S. jobs and 8 percent of the U.S. economy. API’s more than 625 members include large integrated companies, as well as exploration and production, refining, marketing, pipeline, and marine businesses, and service and supply firms. They provide most of the nation’s energy and are backed by a growing grassroots movement of more than 25 million Americans.
Source
“Hillary Clinton’s decision to oppose Keystone is a missed opportunity to seize the true potential of our energy renaissance,” said Gerard. “It is most unfortunate for American workers and consumers that she has joined the forces of delay and denial. The years of indecision by this White House on this project are mind boggling. Who thought seven years ago when the Keystone permit was first initiated that 2016 presidential candidates would be weighing in on KXL?
“Instead of embracing our neighbor to the north, this administration continues to snub Canada and turns a deaf ear to our other allies who have appealed to the U.S. to move more oil onto the global markets. How can the administration advocate a deal that would help Iranian oil producers but not do the same for U.S. and Canadian producers? This is not how you harness America’s economic and diplomatic potential.”
API is the only national trade association representing all facets of the oil and natural gas industry, which supports 9.8 million U.S. jobs and 8 percent of the U.S. economy. API’s more than 625 members include large integrated companies, as well as exploration and production, refining, marketing, pipeline, and marine businesses, and service and supply firms. They provide most of the nation’s energy and are backed by a growing grassroots movement of more than 25 million Americans.
Source
Where 'gays' are heroes, pedophiles victims, Christians crazy
Homosexuals, whose behavior once was illegal and reviled, are heroes. Pedophiles, considered among the lowest of the low for millennia, are being characterized as victims.
And if you think there’s something wrong about all of this, you might have a mental disorder.
It’s a perspective that Paul Kengor, a university professor, historian and author of “Takedown: From Communists to Progressives, How the Left Has Sabotaged Family and Marriage,” argues is being pursued aggressively by Democrats.
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More work emails discovered in Hillary Clinton's private account
BREAKING NEWS: NASA confirms evidence that liquid water flows on Mars
Scientists announce that new findings from NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter provide the strongest evidence yet that liquid water flows intermittently on Mars.
There's Something Going On In Salisbury or Wicomico County
We've been getting reports of all kinds of emergency vehicles running up and down Rt. 50 in Wicomico County but we've yet to confirm what it is. Some are saying they are seeing swat like vehicles. If anyone knows what's going on let us know through comments.
Republican lawmaker mounting campaign for Senate
A high-ranking Republican state lawmaker from Baltimore County is building a campaign for U.S. Senate, giving some state GOP leaders hope that the party can compete for the seat now held by retiring Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski.
Del. Kathy Szeliga, the minority whip in the House of Delegates, is alerting fellow Republicans that she plans to seek the seat, despite the advantage Democrats will have in Maryland next year. Her effort is drawing early support from some of the state's best-known GOP figures.
Republicans, a minority in Maryland, will face steep odds in the Senate race next year, when the presidential election is likely to spur more Democrats to the polls. Low turnout in Baltimore and Montgomery and Prince George's counties last year helped Republican Larry Hogan upset Democratic Lt. Gov. Anthony G. Brown in the governor's race.
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Del. Kathy Szeliga, the minority whip in the House of Delegates, is alerting fellow Republicans that she plans to seek the seat, despite the advantage Democrats will have in Maryland next year. Her effort is drawing early support from some of the state's best-known GOP figures.
Republicans, a minority in Maryland, will face steep odds in the Senate race next year, when the presidential election is likely to spur more Democrats to the polls. Low turnout in Baltimore and Montgomery and Prince George's counties last year helped Republican Larry Hogan upset Democratic Lt. Gov. Anthony G. Brown in the governor's race.
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Primary Absurdity: Our Expensive Presidential Beauty Contests
State presidential primaries have strayed far from their original purposes. So why must taxpayers pick up the tab?
Feb. 9, 2016, looms larger by the day. That's the date of the iconic New Hampshire presidential primary, famous for dashing the dreams of so many White House wannabes and vaulting previously obscure candidates onto center stage.
So is this also the day reserved for loyal Granite State Democrats and Republicans to reflect carefully on their respective parties' bedrock principles as they weigh who their party's standard-bearers deserve to be? Think again.
Today, 44 percent of New Hampshire's approximately 900,000 voters are none-of-the-aboves, officially registered as "undeclared." Yet every one of these voters is eligible to cast a presidential primary ballot in either party's contest simply by registering in one party or another on the spot. Once they've done their electoral duty, they can switch back to the party status (or lack thereof) that they enjoyed when they woke up that morning. Most do exactly that.
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Feb. 9, 2016, looms larger by the day. That's the date of the iconic New Hampshire presidential primary, famous for dashing the dreams of so many White House wannabes and vaulting previously obscure candidates onto center stage.
So is this also the day reserved for loyal Granite State Democrats and Republicans to reflect carefully on their respective parties' bedrock principles as they weigh who their party's standard-bearers deserve to be? Think again.
Today, 44 percent of New Hampshire's approximately 900,000 voters are none-of-the-aboves, officially registered as "undeclared." Yet every one of these voters is eligible to cast a presidential primary ballot in either party's contest simply by registering in one party or another on the spot. Once they've done their electoral duty, they can switch back to the party status (or lack thereof) that they enjoyed when they woke up that morning. Most do exactly that.
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Ben Carson: Muslims Welcome, But Can't Change Who We Are
Ben Carson on Thursday continued his defense of his words on "Meet the Press" Sunday when he said a Muslim should not serve as president.
Carson has since clarified that he has no problem with a person with a Muslim background being president, but not someone who places Islam over the U.S. Constitution.
"This is America. We have our own set of values and principles," Carson said Thursday on Fox News Channel's "The O'Reilly Factor." "I'm not willing to subjugate that to another belief system, to another philosophy.
"This is America," Carson continued. "If you want to live in another system, go somewhere else. You are welcome to be here, but no one else gets to change who we are."
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Carson has since clarified that he has no problem with a person with a Muslim background being president, but not someone who places Islam over the U.S. Constitution.
"This is America. We have our own set of values and principles," Carson said Thursday on Fox News Channel's "The O'Reilly Factor." "I'm not willing to subjugate that to another belief system, to another philosophy.
"This is America," Carson continued. "If you want to live in another system, go somewhere else. You are welcome to be here, but no one else gets to change who we are."
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Maryland cracking down on domestic violence
Under the new law, if a man or woman beats their romantic partner, a judge can now force them to immediately surrender their gun[s], no questions asked. The law also doubles the length of dating restraining orders from six to 12 months.
"This is going to make a difference," said Laurie Duker, vice president of the Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence (MNADV). "Victims of dating violence deserve all the same protection that spouses who are being abused receive, and now they're going to get it. I think more people in abusive relationships will now come to court, say what's happened and have the court change it."
According to MNADV, guns were behind nearly 74 percent of domestic violence deaths in Maryland last fiscal year.
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NAACP Wants Special Prosecutor in Delaware Police Shooting
The fatal shooting of a wheelchair-bound man by Wilmington police is being investigated by a new unit within the Delaware attorney general's office that was established to help instill public trust in government, but the state NAACP is calling for an independent investigation by a special prosecutor.
Authorities say Jeremy McDole, 28, was shot Wednesday afternoon after police responded to a 911 call about man who had shot himself and was still armed with a handgun.
Police Chief Bobby Cummings said Thursday that McDole, who was left paralyzed by a shooting 10 years ago, failed to obey officers' commands to show his hands and put his weapon down, and that he was shot as he began to remove the gun from his waist.
Cummings said he did not know if McDole pointed the gun at any of the four officers, "but when he went to remove the weapon, they engaged him."
Video of the shooting posted online, which the chief said appeared to be authentic, shows an officer approaching McDole with a gun drawn, shouting "show me your hands" and "drop the gun." Other officers then appear in the video with their guns drawn, yelling similar commands.
McDole moves around in his wheelchair and reaches into his jeans, but it's unclear from the video what he is doing. The officers, who are not in the video at this point, fire multiple shots and McDole falls out of his wheelchair.
Read more here
Authorities say Jeremy McDole, 28, was shot Wednesday afternoon after police responded to a 911 call about man who had shot himself and was still armed with a handgun.
Police Chief Bobby Cummings said Thursday that McDole, who was left paralyzed by a shooting 10 years ago, failed to obey officers' commands to show his hands and put his weapon down, and that he was shot as he began to remove the gun from his waist.
Cummings said he did not know if McDole pointed the gun at any of the four officers, "but when he went to remove the weapon, they engaged him."
Video of the shooting posted online, which the chief said appeared to be authentic, shows an officer approaching McDole with a gun drawn, shouting "show me your hands" and "drop the gun." Other officers then appear in the video with their guns drawn, yelling similar commands.
McDole moves around in his wheelchair and reaches into his jeans, but it's unclear from the video what he is doing. The officers, who are not in the video at this point, fire multiple shots and McDole falls out of his wheelchair.
Read more here
The Most Distrusted Administration in History
And then on Saturday, Gallup released a poll...
Why Europe Is Losing the Refugee War
While hundreds of thousands of Middle Eastern and Afghani refugees pour into the European Union’s member nations, the EU seems to be treating the crisis as an academic exercise. It can be better understood as a war game that the EU is losing.
It’s neither a faculty lounge problem nor a war game, of course. An estimated four million refugees from Syria, Iraq, Libya and Yemen — as well as Afghanistan — are fleeing the conflicts in their nations for the possibility of a more peaceful home in Europe. As is often said, it is the largest refugee crisis Europe has endured since World War II.
However, if you analyze the crisis in war game terms, it becomes clearer why and how Europe is losing and will be defeated.
There are three sides in our war game scenario and it’s possible for more than one to “win.” On one side are the 28 European Union nations, many of which are members of NATO. They are not-quite-governed by the not-quite-sovereign European Union.
They face a tidal wave of refugees that threatens to radically change their demographic identity. It is something less than an invasion but much more than what peace can accommodate. It is, in short, a significant threat to their national security and their economies.
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It’s neither a faculty lounge problem nor a war game, of course. An estimated four million refugees from Syria, Iraq, Libya and Yemen — as well as Afghanistan — are fleeing the conflicts in their nations for the possibility of a more peaceful home in Europe. As is often said, it is the largest refugee crisis Europe has endured since World War II.
However, if you analyze the crisis in war game terms, it becomes clearer why and how Europe is losing and will be defeated.
There are three sides in our war game scenario and it’s possible for more than one to “win.” On one side are the 28 European Union nations, many of which are members of NATO. They are not-quite-governed by the not-quite-sovereign European Union.
They face a tidal wave of refugees that threatens to radically change their demographic identity. It is something less than an invasion but much more than what peace can accommodate. It is, in short, a significant threat to their national security and their economies.
More
Judge Tosses ACLU Suit Over Indiana Nativity Scene
The lawsuit, filed last year by the American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana against Franklin County, accuses the county of violating the First Amendment by allowing a Christian symbol on public property, suggesting that the government favors one religion over another.
But that allegation no longer holds, federal district Judge Tanya Walton Pratt said in a ruling issued Wednesday, because a newly passed ordinance already allows Franklin County residents to erect their own displays — religious or not — outside the courthouse.
Officials enacted the ordinance about a month after the lawsuit was filed.
The ruling comes a little less than a year after the ACLU of Indiana sued Franklin County in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana on behalf of the Freedom From Religion Foundation, a Wisconsin-based nonprofit, and two Franklin County residents who oppose the display of the Nativity scene.
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Donald Trump Unveils Tax Plan
On Monday, the billionaire candidate will lay out his plan, which also includes cutting rates for corporations and the middle class and eliminating payments for more of the poor.
Criticized by Republican presidential rivals as having a loose grip on policy, billionaireDonald Trump laid out a tax plan on Monday that he said will increase the burden on hedge fund managers, cut rates for corporations and the middle class, and eliminate payments for more of the poor.
The plan is “going to cost me a fortune,” Trump said at a news conference at Trump Tower in New York.
It would eliminate the alternative minimum tax, the so-called marriage penalty, the estate tax, and the carried interest deduction while keeping the mortgage interest deduction, he said. Single people earning less than $25,000 per year or married people earning less than $50,000 per year would pay no income tax.
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Criticized by Republican presidential rivals as having a loose grip on policy, billionaireDonald Trump laid out a tax plan on Monday that he said will increase the burden on hedge fund managers, cut rates for corporations and the middle class, and eliminate payments for more of the poor.
The plan is “going to cost me a fortune,” Trump said at a news conference at Trump Tower in New York.
It would eliminate the alternative minimum tax, the so-called marriage penalty, the estate tax, and the carried interest deduction while keeping the mortgage interest deduction, he said. Single people earning less than $25,000 per year or married people earning less than $50,000 per year would pay no income tax.
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Frederick Police Department rolling out souped-up new cruisers
When Frederick police Sgt. Jay Brown hits the streets in one of the department’s new 2015 Ford Police Interceptors, it doesn’t take long for people to notice.
“I’ve had a couple of people come up to me saying, ‘Man, those are sweet! Those are nice. I didn’t know Frederick Police Department could afford something like that!’” Brown said with a laugh.
The department’s budget allowed it to buy a total of 12 vehicles: six marked interceptors, four unmarked sedans and two SUV-type vehicles referred to as “utility vehicles” by Ford, said Lt. Joseph Hayer, who oversees the department’s fleet. While the vehicles, all of which are built loosely on the frame of a Ford Taurus, were hardly free, the department made the most of the funds available to it, Hayer said.
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BREAKING NEWS-Obama taunts Putin at U.N.: 'I lead the strongest military the world has ever known'
President Obama told the United Nations Monday that the world cannot stand by while Russia violates Ukraine’s sovereignty with impunity — and he left little doubt about which leader in attendance has the world’s strongest military.
“I lead the strongest military the world has ever known,” Mr. Obama told the general convention.
“I will never hesitate to protect my country…by force when necessary,” he added.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are expected to follow Mr. Obama at the U.N. podium.
Mr. Obama is also set to meet with Mr. Putin privately later in the day.
Earlier, the U.N. secretary-general for the first time called Monday for the situation in Syria to be referred to the International Criminal Court, as world leaders including President Barack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin were addressing a global gathering with conflict at center stage.
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“I lead the strongest military the world has ever known,” Mr. Obama told the general convention.
“I will never hesitate to protect my country…by force when necessary,” he added.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are expected to follow Mr. Obama at the U.N. podium.
Mr. Obama is also set to meet with Mr. Putin privately later in the day.
Earlier, the U.N. secretary-general for the first time called Monday for the situation in Syria to be referred to the International Criminal Court, as world leaders including President Barack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin were addressing a global gathering with conflict at center stage.
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Standing O at Values Voter Summit as Rubio Announces Boehner's Resignation
Conservative voters roared in a standing ovation Friday at the Values Voter Summit in Washington after Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) announced Speaker John Boehner's (R-Ohio) plans to retire.
Rubio, who is running for president, shared the news that broke just before his speech, working it into prepared remarks where he questioned why a Republican Congress isn't "able to stop our country from sliding in the wrong direction."
"Just a few minutes ago, Speaker Boehner announced that he will be resigning," Rubio said to thunderous applause.
He told the crowd it is time for Republicans to "turn the page."
"With all due respect to people who serve in government, it is important at this moment, with respect to him and the service he has provided to our country, it’s not about him, and I’m not here today to bash anyone, but the time has come to turn the page."
Boehner shocked Washington on Friday morning by announcing that he will resign the Speakership and his congressional seat in October.
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Rubio, who is running for president, shared the news that broke just before his speech, working it into prepared remarks where he questioned why a Republican Congress isn't "able to stop our country from sliding in the wrong direction."
"Just a few minutes ago, Speaker Boehner announced that he will be resigning," Rubio said to thunderous applause.
He told the crowd it is time for Republicans to "turn the page."
"With all due respect to people who serve in government, it is important at this moment, with respect to him and the service he has provided to our country, it’s not about him, and I’m not here today to bash anyone, but the time has come to turn the page."
Boehner shocked Washington on Friday morning by announcing that he will resign the Speakership and his congressional seat in October.
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Empty Tables, Deserted Streets For Pope’s Philadelphia Visit
Even as hundreds of thousands of people thronged the Benjamin Franklin Parkway on Sunday for Mass with Pope Francis, his weekend visit to Philadelphia apparently failed to deliver the economic boon predicted by organizers.
Some businesses closed early, downtown hotel rooms went unfilled and normally bustling city streets were deserted over the weekend as residents either stayed home or left town, and pilgrims kept their wallets in their pockets.
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TX Mayor: More to Muslim Student’s ‘Clock’ Story Than Is Being Revealed
IRVING, Texas – The mayor of Irving, Texas is speaking out about the case of Ahmed Mohamed, a 14-year-old Muslim student who was arrested after bringing a homemade clock to school that looked like a bomb.
Irving Mayor Beth Van Duyne and Center for Security Policy’s Jim Hanson appeared on Glenn Beck’s 'The Blaze' to discuss Mohamed’s arrest, which the teen’s family and others have blamed on Islamophobia.
Pictures of the device and Mohamed’s arrest quickly spread online this month prompting support for the teen from celebrities including President Barack Obama, who tweeted support for Mohamed and invited him to the White House, The Washington Post reports.
But Van Duyne and Hanson believe there’s more to the story than the public realizes, and they’re sounding the alarm.
Van Duyne told Beck that news reports are “one side of the story, but the other side of the story is not coming out,” adding that she’s urged the Mohamed family to allow school officials to release all details on the case.
“Attorneys advised the family not to sign a release, according to a spokeswoman with the Council on American-Islamic Relations,” WFAA 8 reports.
Van Duyne also questioned why President Obama was quick to pat Mohamed on the back. The president commended the student for his “clock,” Van Duyne said, well before anyone described the device as a clock.
“In fact,” the mayor said, “I don’t even think the picture of the hoax bomb was released before [President Obama] tweeted out, ‘Cool clock, kid.'”
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Irving Mayor Beth Van Duyne and Center for Security Policy’s Jim Hanson appeared on Glenn Beck’s 'The Blaze' to discuss Mohamed’s arrest, which the teen’s family and others have blamed on Islamophobia.
Pictures of the device and Mohamed’s arrest quickly spread online this month prompting support for the teen from celebrities including President Barack Obama, who tweeted support for Mohamed and invited him to the White House, The Washington Post reports.
But Van Duyne and Hanson believe there’s more to the story than the public realizes, and they’re sounding the alarm.
Van Duyne told Beck that news reports are “one side of the story, but the other side of the story is not coming out,” adding that she’s urged the Mohamed family to allow school officials to release all details on the case.
“Attorneys advised the family not to sign a release, according to a spokeswoman with the Council on American-Islamic Relations,” WFAA 8 reports.
Van Duyne also questioned why President Obama was quick to pat Mohamed on the back. The president commended the student for his “clock,” Van Duyne said, well before anyone described the device as a clock.
“In fact,” the mayor said, “I don’t even think the picture of the hoax bomb was released before [President Obama] tweeted out, ‘Cool clock, kid.'”
Read more here
Mayors Of 18 Cities Say They Are Ready To Take More Syrian Refugees
Mayors from eighteen U.S. cities signed a letter to President Obama saying they are willing to take even more refugees than what has been proposed by the administration.
“We will welcome the Syrian families to make homes and new lives in our cities,” wrote the mayors, all of whom are part of the Cities United for Immigration Action coalition.
“Indeed, we are writing to say that we stand ready to work with your Administration to do much more and to urge you to increase still further the number of Syrian refugees the United States will accept for resettlement.”
“This is a challenge we can meet, and the undersigned mayors stand ready to help you meet it,” they wrote.
The mayors who signed included New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh.
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“We will welcome the Syrian families to make homes and new lives in our cities,” wrote the mayors, all of whom are part of the Cities United for Immigration Action coalition.
“Indeed, we are writing to say that we stand ready to work with your Administration to do much more and to urge you to increase still further the number of Syrian refugees the United States will accept for resettlement.”
“This is a challenge we can meet, and the undersigned mayors stand ready to help you meet it,” they wrote.
The mayors who signed included New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh.
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Poll: Most U.S. Muslims Would Trade Constitution For Shariah
'Quran should be highest authority in America, and Islam the only accepted religion'
Ben Carson’s comment that he would not support a Shariah-compliant Muslim for president because Islamic law is incompatible with the U.S. Constitution led to the former brain surgeon’s roasting among media talkers and politicians of all stripes.
He has been excoriated as “anti-Muslim,” “bigoted,” even “anti-American” and unfit for office.
“For any candidate to suggest that someone should not be elected president because of what he or she may believe is nothing short of religious bigotry,” said Rep. Andre Carson, D-Ind., one of two Muslim congressmen.
But what do American Muslims believe?
The Council on America-Islamic Relations, or CAIR, which has been most vocal in its calls for Carson’s withdrawal from the GOP presidential race, claims to speak for American Muslims. The organization has a long history of ties to terrorists, as documented by WND’s “Rogues gallery of terror-tied leaders,” but it is still treated by most U.S. media as the Muslim equivalent of the American Civil Liberties Union.
According to a local newspaper report, Omar Ahmad, a founder of CAIR, told a conference hall packed with California Muslims in July 1998 that Islam isn’t in America to be equal to any other faith, but to become dominant.
The reporter paraphrased Ahmad saying, “The Quran … should be the highest authority in America, and Islam the only accepted religion on earth.”
More here
Ben Carson’s comment that he would not support a Shariah-compliant Muslim for president because Islamic law is incompatible with the U.S. Constitution led to the former brain surgeon’s roasting among media talkers and politicians of all stripes.
He has been excoriated as “anti-Muslim,” “bigoted,” even “anti-American” and unfit for office.
“For any candidate to suggest that someone should not be elected president because of what he or she may believe is nothing short of religious bigotry,” said Rep. Andre Carson, D-Ind., one of two Muslim congressmen.
But what do American Muslims believe?
The Council on America-Islamic Relations, or CAIR, which has been most vocal in its calls for Carson’s withdrawal from the GOP presidential race, claims to speak for American Muslims. The organization has a long history of ties to terrorists, as documented by WND’s “Rogues gallery of terror-tied leaders,” but it is still treated by most U.S. media as the Muslim equivalent of the American Civil Liberties Union.
According to a local newspaper report, Omar Ahmad, a founder of CAIR, told a conference hall packed with California Muslims in July 1998 that Islam isn’t in America to be equal to any other faith, but to become dominant.
The reporter paraphrased Ahmad saying, “The Quran … should be the highest authority in America, and Islam the only accepted religion on earth.”
More here
Students Gather For 'See You at the Pole' Prayer
"See You at the Pole" started in 1990 through the initiative of a youth group in Burleson, Texas.
"The teenagers felt led to go and pray at night at several area schools during a weekend youth group retreat. They had a profound time of prayer, and their experience was shared with thousands of other youth from across Texas in the form of a challenge in June 1990 at a large conference," according to the movement website.
That year, more than 56,000 students in 1,200 campuses in Texas and three other states held the first "See You at the Pole" in September 1990.
About 145 students at Fultondale Elementary School in Fultondale, Alabama, gathered before classes started, according to AL.com.
"The heart and the desire of those kids to stand out from their peers and pray, it was beautiful," said James Cato, an area director for First Priority of Alabama. "They were thankful they had the freedom to do that, thankful for who Christ made them."
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Resort braces for impact as H2Oi audience returns
Colloquially known as H2Oi, this year’s show will be the 18th, taking place Oct. 3-4. It will also, quite possibly, be the make-it-or-break-it year in terms of Ocean City’s ability to continue dealing with its fallout.
“I’m excited to hopefully clear up some of the problems we’ve had recently,” said show organizer Jay Shoup. “Quite frankly, there are a ton of old-schoolers, some of the older guys and even the young guys, who are here for their love of VWs and don’t want to deal with the nonsense anymore.”
For the past three years in particular, H2Oi — a rally for Volkswagen and Audi enthusiasts — has become notorious for the level of disruption it causes in the resort. But very little of this is directly related to Shoup’s car show, which takes place at the Fort Whaley campground in Whaleyville, many miles from Ocean City.
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This Little-known Tax Credit Could Save You $1,000
Most people know they should save more for retirement, but many can't — or won't — because they say it's hard, confusing, or it is simply not their only priority.
A recent survey by Charles Schwab found 35 percent of 401(k) participants say they aren't willing to sacrifice dinner out, vacations and other "quality of life" expenditures to save more.
But would you forgo a night out at Olive Garden or a trip to Disney if you knew that that Uncle Sam would help you cut your tax bill dollar-for-dollar depending on how much you save?
Many low- and moderate-income workers may think they don't have enough money to save for retirement, but they may be unaware of the Saver's Tax Credit.
Fewer than one in four American workers who are eligible are aware of this tax break that can reduce or even eliminate your tax bill entirely.
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A recent survey by Charles Schwab found 35 percent of 401(k) participants say they aren't willing to sacrifice dinner out, vacations and other "quality of life" expenditures to save more.
But would you forgo a night out at Olive Garden or a trip to Disney if you knew that that Uncle Sam would help you cut your tax bill dollar-for-dollar depending on how much you save?
Many low- and moderate-income workers may think they don't have enough money to save for retirement, but they may be unaware of the Saver's Tax Credit.
Fewer than one in four American workers who are eligible are aware of this tax break that can reduce or even eliminate your tax bill entirely.
More here
Top GOP Official Seeks McConnell Ouster
With John Boehner now departing as House speaker, an influential Republican Party official is now seeking the ouster of another GOP leader who has frustrated conservatives: Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.
“McConnell needs to resign!!” Louisiana GOP Chairman Roger Villere wrote in a Facebook posting.
Mr. Villere isn’t just any Republican. He’s the longest-serving state GOP chairman in the nation, with 12 years on the job, and is the vice chairman of the Republican National Committee, the GOP’s national governing body. He also serves on the RNC’s executive committee that makes decisions alongside Chairman Reince Priebus.
“Mitch is a good and honorable guy, but the base is leaving our party,” Mr. Villere said in an interview with The Washington Times. “I’m out in the field all the time and we have all our elections this year for state offices, and it’s hurting us tremendously with our elections.”
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“McConnell needs to resign!!” Louisiana GOP Chairman Roger Villere wrote in a Facebook posting.
Mr. Villere isn’t just any Republican. He’s the longest-serving state GOP chairman in the nation, with 12 years on the job, and is the vice chairman of the Republican National Committee, the GOP’s national governing body. He also serves on the RNC’s executive committee that makes decisions alongside Chairman Reince Priebus.
“Mitch is a good and honorable guy, but the base is leaving our party,” Mr. Villere said in an interview with The Washington Times. “I’m out in the field all the time and we have all our elections this year for state offices, and it’s hurting us tremendously with our elections.”
More here
Huge Fire at 'Europe's Largest Mosque'
A huge fire broke out Saturday morning at a mosque in south London that describes itself as the largest in Western Europe.
London Fire Brigade said that 70 fire-fighters attended the scene in Morden Saturday afternoon with ten fire engines as well as specialist equipment.
According to ITV News, one witness said the smoke was so thick it was almost impossible to see the fire-fighters tackling the blaze.
The fire broke out Saturday morning at the Baitul Futuh Mosque in London Road, Morden. Its website describes it as the largest mosque in Western Europe, with capacity for 10,000 worshippers. The London Evening Standard says that it was completed in 2003 and cost about £5.5 million to build.
Eyewitness Mark Gale said: “It just solid smoke, it’s so thick you can hardly see the firefighters through it. There must be about a hundred emergency vehicles down there.”
More here
London Fire Brigade said that 70 fire-fighters attended the scene in Morden Saturday afternoon with ten fire engines as well as specialist equipment.
According to ITV News, one witness said the smoke was so thick it was almost impossible to see the fire-fighters tackling the blaze.
The fire broke out Saturday morning at the Baitul Futuh Mosque in London Road, Morden. Its website describes it as the largest mosque in Western Europe, with capacity for 10,000 worshippers. The London Evening Standard says that it was completed in 2003 and cost about £5.5 million to build.
Eyewitness Mark Gale said: “It just solid smoke, it’s so thick you can hardly see the firefighters through it. There must be about a hundred emergency vehicles down there.”
More here
IT’S OFFICIAL: GROUND ZERO MOSQUE DEFEATED!
Crains New York reports that the unsavory developer behind the Ground Zero Mosque initiative, Sharif El-Gamal, is now making different plans: “Mr. El-Gamal’s Soho Properties has proposed a 667-foot condominium tower at lower Manhattan’s 45 Park Place. The glass skyscraper, which has yet to break ground, will include at least 15 full-floor units of 3,200 to 3,700 square feet, and average prices higher than $3,000 a square foot, according to plans released to Bloomberg by the developer.”
If El-Gamal hopes to snag $3,000 a square foot, there is no way he would sneak a controversial mosque into a superlux apartment building at the site of the worst attack in American soil. Who would want to live in such a high profile target?
But El-Gamal’s announcement makes it official: The Ground Zero Mosque project is dead.
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The Dangerous Feeding Practice I Can't Condone
By Dr. Becker
Today I want to talk about a dangerous practice that seems to be growing in popularity: feeding dogs and cats a vegan or vegetarian diet.
First of all you should know that I'm a vegetarian. Oftentimes people make the switch away from meat after learning about the realities of factory farming, especially the inhumane treatment of food animals, as well as the negative impact these practices have on the environment and potentially, our bodies. So I certainly understand and appreciate the decision many people make to adopt a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle.
I also really appreciate people who do eat meat, but recognize the difference between factory-farmed animals and free-range, ethically grown animals. Free-range food animals are able to be outdoors in the sunshine where they can move around freely and live a wholesome, natural life.
While I appreciate the personal decision to adopt a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, or alternatively, to eat only animal products from free-range food animals, what I will never understand is why many vegans and vegetarians think it's okay to force their personal viewpoints – their personal dietary choices – onto other species.
Today I want to talk about a dangerous practice that seems to be growing in popularity: feeding dogs and cats a vegan or vegetarian diet.
First of all you should know that I'm a vegetarian. Oftentimes people make the switch away from meat after learning about the realities of factory farming, especially the inhumane treatment of food animals, as well as the negative impact these practices have on the environment and potentially, our bodies. So I certainly understand and appreciate the decision many people make to adopt a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle.
I also really appreciate people who do eat meat, but recognize the difference between factory-farmed animals and free-range, ethically grown animals. Free-range food animals are able to be outdoors in the sunshine where they can move around freely and live a wholesome, natural life.
While I appreciate the personal decision to adopt a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, or alternatively, to eat only animal products from free-range food animals, what I will never understand is why many vegans and vegetarians think it's okay to force their personal viewpoints – their personal dietary choices – onto other species.
Dogs and Cats Are Carnivores
Humans are omnivores, meaning our bodies can digest both plant material and animal tissue. Dogs and cats are carnivores, which means they are meat-eaters and aren't designed to digest plant material efficiently.
Dogs are scavenging carnivores; cats are obligate carnivores. Nature designed the bodies of carnivores to thrive on nutrients provided by animal flesh and organ meat. Obligate carnivores (cats) must eat meat to sustain life. As scavenging carnivores, dogs can survive on plant material but they can't thrive on it alone. To thrive means to grow vigorously – to flourish.
Meat eaters must consume meat to unlock the body's healing potential, and to provide all the raw materials the body needs to function optimally. Carnivores, including dogs, fed a diet of plant material will not live a long, healthy life, and will have medical and degenerative conditions along the way.
When a carnivore is fed a vegetarian diet, or an herbivore like a rabbit is fed a meat-based diet, health problems are the inevitable result. Some species are better able to eat biologically inappropriate diets than others (I call this nutritional abuse).
However, a very delicate creature like a hummingbird, for example, if forced to eat anything other than it's evolutionary diet of nectar, will be dead within a few days.
Dogs and cats, on the other hand, are quite resilient. They can suffer a great deal of nutritional abuse and survive, however, their bodies will degenerate over time. Just because they can withstand nutritional abuse doesn't make it okay to feed diets that are inappropriate for their species.
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Humans are omnivores, meaning our bodies can digest both plant material and animal tissue. Dogs and cats are carnivores, which means they are meat-eaters and aren't designed to digest plant material efficiently.
Dogs are scavenging carnivores; cats are obligate carnivores. Nature designed the bodies of carnivores to thrive on nutrients provided by animal flesh and organ meat. Obligate carnivores (cats) must eat meat to sustain life. As scavenging carnivores, dogs can survive on plant material but they can't thrive on it alone. To thrive means to grow vigorously – to flourish.
Meat eaters must consume meat to unlock the body's healing potential, and to provide all the raw materials the body needs to function optimally. Carnivores, including dogs, fed a diet of plant material will not live a long, healthy life, and will have medical and degenerative conditions along the way.
When a carnivore is fed a vegetarian diet, or an herbivore like a rabbit is fed a meat-based diet, health problems are the inevitable result. Some species are better able to eat biologically inappropriate diets than others (I call this nutritional abuse).
However, a very delicate creature like a hummingbird, for example, if forced to eat anything other than it's evolutionary diet of nectar, will be dead within a few days.
Dogs and cats, on the other hand, are quite resilient. They can suffer a great deal of nutritional abuse and survive, however, their bodies will degenerate over time. Just because they can withstand nutritional abuse doesn't make it okay to feed diets that are inappropriate for their species.
More
Harper’s Index
Estimated percentage change since 2010 in household food consumption in Greece : –15
Amount won by a Czech family in June for completing a reality show that re-created rural life under Nazi occupation : $40,000
Rank of Syria among the world’s largest sources of refugees last year : 1
Number of consecutive years before 2014 that Afghanistan held that rank : 32
Portion of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iraq and Syria under the control of the Islamic State : 1/3
Number of Twitter users who follow @ISILCats, an Islamic State propaganda account featuring pictures of kittens : 5,188
Portion of anti-Muslim discrimination and harassment in France that is directed at women : 4/5
Number of celebrities, politicians, and athletes currently under investigation by British police for sexual abuse : 261
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Amount won by a Czech family in June for completing a reality show that re-created rural life under Nazi occupation : $40,000
Rank of Syria among the world’s largest sources of refugees last year : 1
Number of consecutive years before 2014 that Afghanistan held that rank : 32
Portion of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iraq and Syria under the control of the Islamic State : 1/3
Number of Twitter users who follow @ISILCats, an Islamic State propaganda account featuring pictures of kittens : 5,188
Portion of anti-Muslim discrimination and harassment in France that is directed at women : 4/5
Number of celebrities, politicians, and athletes currently under investigation by British police for sexual abuse : 261
More
Children Battling Cancer Join Governor Larry Hogan to Cheer on Ravens
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Larry Hogan today attended the Baltimore Ravens home opener against the Cincinnati Bengals, along with four children who are also battling cancer. At the game, Governor Hogan appeared on the field with his four friends, Adrian (6), Madison (15), Olivia (16), and Gregory (22), to recognize Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
“While receiving chemotherapy treatments from the University of Maryland Medical Center, I have met many amazing patients, doctors, and nurses,” Governor Hogan said. “The children, who approach their cancer diagnosis with unimaginable courage and positivity, have been especially inspiring. They are fighting a battle much more difficult than my own, and I am honored to have the opportunity to raise awareness with these extraordinary kids.”
Throughout his treatment, Governor Hogan has encouraged support for cancer research and organizations that assist people and families fighting this disease. Shortly after his diagnosis, the governor started HoganStrong to raise awareness and resources for cancer-fighting organizations.
Earlier this month, the governor joined with the Baltimore Orioles and the Washington Redskins to raise awareness for childhood cancer and blood cancer. The governor’s office also held a blood drive and bone marrow registry at the State House with theAmerican Red Cross, There Goes My Hero, and Delete Blood Cancer on World Lymphoma Day, September 15.
New York State Man gets state prison for lighting puppy on fire
Scott Cusson Jr., the Halfmoon man who pleaded guilty in August to aggravated cruelty to animals was sentenced Friday to 18 months in state prison by Saratoga County Court Judge James A. Murphy III.
The sentencing took place at the Saratoga County Municipal Plaza in Ballston Spa.
Cusson was arrested in February and later indicted for intentionally lighting a nine-month-old pit bull named Roxy on fire. In his August 21 guilty plea, Cusson admitted he intentionally caused serious injury to Roxy with no justifiable purpose. He acknowledged in open court that on Feb. 9 he sprayed isopropyl alcohol on the dog and lit the alcohol, causing injuries to the dog’s face and ear.
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