DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Friday, November 27, 2015
Underwear thefts - often drug-related - on the rise
She was working with an accomplice. The pair got away with more than $1,500 in underwear from a western Henrico County Macy’s. The plan was to sell it for half the retail price, then use the money to buy drugs.
But the authorities caught up with her, and she was sentenced to three years in prison, with all but six months suspended, plus restitution.
The man who prosecuted Rainey, Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Robert J. Windle, estimated he has seen five or more similar cases of underwear shoplifting in the past couple of years.
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Princeton Student Group: We Stand for Academic Freedom and Open Dialogue
Dear President Eisgruber,
We write on behalf of the Princeton Open Campus Coalition to request a meeting with you so that we may present our perspectives on the events of recent weeks. We are concerned mainly with the importance of preserving an intellectual culture in which all members of the Princeton community feel free to engage in civil discussion and to express their convictions without fear of being subjected to intimidation or abuse.
Thanks to recent polls, surveys, and petitions, we have reason to believe that our concerns are shared by a majority of our fellow Princeton undergraduates. Academic discourse consists of reasoned arguments. We simply wish to present our own reasoned arguments and engage you and other senior administrators in dialogue. We will not occupy your office, and, though we respectfully request a minimum of an hour of your time, we will only stay for as long as you wish. We will conduct ourselves in the civil manner that is our hope to maintain and reinforce as the norm at Princeton.
This dialogue is necessary because many students have shared with us that they are afraid to state publicly their opinions on recent events for fear of being vilified, slandered, and subjected to hatred, either by fellow students or faculty. Many who questioned the protest were labeled racist, and black students who expressed disagreement with the protesters were called “white sympathizers” and were told they were “not black.” We, the Princeton Open Campus Coalition, refuse to let our peers be intimidated or bullied into silence on these — or any — important matters.
Read more
We write on behalf of the Princeton Open Campus Coalition to request a meeting with you so that we may present our perspectives on the events of recent weeks. We are concerned mainly with the importance of preserving an intellectual culture in which all members of the Princeton community feel free to engage in civil discussion and to express their convictions without fear of being subjected to intimidation or abuse.
Thanks to recent polls, surveys, and petitions, we have reason to believe that our concerns are shared by a majority of our fellow Princeton undergraduates. Academic discourse consists of reasoned arguments. We simply wish to present our own reasoned arguments and engage you and other senior administrators in dialogue. We will not occupy your office, and, though we respectfully request a minimum of an hour of your time, we will only stay for as long as you wish. We will conduct ourselves in the civil manner that is our hope to maintain and reinforce as the norm at Princeton.
This dialogue is necessary because many students have shared with us that they are afraid to state publicly their opinions on recent events for fear of being vilified, slandered, and subjected to hatred, either by fellow students or faculty. Many who questioned the protest were labeled racist, and black students who expressed disagreement with the protesters were called “white sympathizers” and were told they were “not black.” We, the Princeton Open Campus Coalition, refuse to let our peers be intimidated or bullied into silence on these — or any — important matters.
Read more
ACLU questions legality of Harford County heroin checkpoints
BEL AIR, Md. —Controversy is brewing over whether a drug enforcement initiative by the Harford County Sheriff's Office is legal.
Earlier this week, deputies set up heroin interdiction checkpoints, which involved 73 officers from seven agencies. Authorities targeted major highways, including routes 152, 1, 24 and 40. They also focused on hotspot neighborhoods known for heroin use and sales.
Unlike DUI checkpoints, the heroin checkpoints allowed drivers to proceed at the posted speed limit. Motorists got pulled over for committing some type of traffic offense.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Maryland contends the effort raises red flags. The ACLU believes the checkpoints violate Fourth Amendment protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.
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Earlier this week, deputies set up heroin interdiction checkpoints, which involved 73 officers from seven agencies. Authorities targeted major highways, including routes 152, 1, 24 and 40. They also focused on hotspot neighborhoods known for heroin use and sales.
Unlike DUI checkpoints, the heroin checkpoints allowed drivers to proceed at the posted speed limit. Motorists got pulled over for committing some type of traffic offense.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Maryland contends the effort raises red flags. The ACLU believes the checkpoints violate Fourth Amendment protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.
More
How Much Damage Can He Do In His Last Year In Office?
But, counter-intuitive as it seems, that is fine with Obama: Après nous le déluge.
By sheer force of his personality, Obama has managed to lose the Democratic Senate and House. State legislatures and governorships are now predominantly Republican. Obama’s own favorable ratings rarely top 45 percent. In his mind, great men, whether Socrates or Jesus, were never appreciated in their time. So it is not surprising that he is not, as he presses full speed ahead.
Obama certainly has doubled down going into his last year, most recently insisting on letting in more refugees from the Middle East, at a time when the children of Middle Eastern immigrants and contemporary migrants are terrorizing Europe. What remaining unpopular executive acts might anger his opponents the most? Close down Guantanamo, let thousands more refugees into the United States, free thousands more felons, snub another ally, flatter another enemy, weigh in on another interracial melodrama, extend amnesty to another million illegal aliens, make global warming laws by fiat, expand Obamacare, unilaterally impose gun control? In lieu of achievement, is the Obama theory to become relevant or noteworthy by offending the public and goading political enemies?
Read more
The Latest: 3 dead in Colorado Planned Parenthood shooting
7:15 p.m.
Police say three people are dead after a shooting at a Planned Parenthood clinic in Colorado Springs.
Those who died Friday include two civilians and one police officer from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs.
The university is about 10 minutes away from the clinic and officials say the fallen officer responded to help city police with the shooting.
Mayor John Suthers says the community “mourns the loss of a very brave police officer.”
Nine other people are hospitalized and police say there are in good condition.
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Team Obamacare Fights For An Insurer Bailout
Until recently, the insurance giants saw Obamacare as a cash cow. They are now finding the law's insurance marketplaces to be sickly quagmires causing billions in losses.
In response, the Obamacare insiders — the wealthy and powerful operatives who alternate between top government jobs and top industry jobs — are hustling to find more bailout money for insurers. Republicans, if they are able to hold their ground in the face of lobbyist pressure, can block the bailout of Obamacare and its corporate clientele.
United Healthcare, the nation's largest insurer, last week announced it was suffering huge losses in the exchanges. "We cannot sustain these losses" UHC's CEO said in a conference call, saying conditions for the insurer were "worsening." The company forecast $700 million in losses on the exchanges. Fellow insurance giant Aetna also said it expected to lose money on the exchanges, and other insurers said enrollment was lower than they expected.
More here
In response, the Obamacare insiders — the wealthy and powerful operatives who alternate between top government jobs and top industry jobs — are hustling to find more bailout money for insurers. Republicans, if they are able to hold their ground in the face of lobbyist pressure, can block the bailout of Obamacare and its corporate clientele.
United Healthcare, the nation's largest insurer, last week announced it was suffering huge losses in the exchanges. "We cannot sustain these losses" UHC's CEO said in a conference call, saying conditions for the insurer were "worsening." The company forecast $700 million in losses on the exchanges. Fellow insurance giant Aetna also said it expected to lose money on the exchanges, and other insurers said enrollment was lower than they expected.
More here
Dems: Listen to Trump on Gun Control Bill
Senate Democrats told House Speaker Paul Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on Tuesday that they should follow the lead of Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump, who has indicated support for a Democratic plan to block people on the terrorist watch list from buying guns and explosives.
"Just two days ago, Donald Trump, the Republican front-runner for president, said anyone on terror watchlist should 'absolutely' not be allowed to buy guns," Democrats wrote in their letter to the two congressional leaders.
Senate Democrats want Ryan, R-Wis., and McConnell, R-Ky., to "quickly schedule votes on their legislation, the 'Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act of 2015.'"
Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., first introduced the legislation in February, but Democrats begin promoting it again last week in response to the Paris terrorist attacks, which involved both guns and explosives.
"There is no reason why suspected terrorists who we consider too dangerous to board airplanes should be able to walk into any gun store in the United States and purchase a firearm or an explosive for the purpose of carrying out a terrorist act," Democrats wrote.
More here
"Just two days ago, Donald Trump, the Republican front-runner for president, said anyone on terror watchlist should 'absolutely' not be allowed to buy guns," Democrats wrote in their letter to the two congressional leaders.
Senate Democrats want Ryan, R-Wis., and McConnell, R-Ky., to "quickly schedule votes on their legislation, the 'Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act of 2015.'"
Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., first introduced the legislation in February, but Democrats begin promoting it again last week in response to the Paris terrorist attacks, which involved both guns and explosives.
"There is no reason why suspected terrorists who we consider too dangerous to board airplanes should be able to walk into any gun store in the United States and purchase a firearm or an explosive for the purpose of carrying out a terrorist act," Democrats wrote.
More here
VA Will Let Officials Keep Taxpayer Money They Stole
Two officials at the Department of Veterans Affairs who allegedly defrauded the agency of $400,000 will walk away with the taxpayer money they took after receiving demotions and unspecified pay cuts as punishment.
Diane Rubens and Kimberly Graves were both accused of manipulating a VA program meant to relocate agency employees who transfer long distances to take jobs within the VA. Rubens fraudulently netted more than $274,000 and Graves more than $129,000, according to the agency's inspector general.
Rep. Jeff Miller, chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, said he was "flabbergasted" by the VA's decision to let the two women keep the taxpayer money they siphoned from the program.
"This is not a situation in which VA can have it both ways," Miller said in a letter to VA Secretary Bob McDonald Monday. "In demoting Rubens and Graves, VA has already admitted what they did was wrong. Consequently, the department's failure to recoup the money Rubens' and Graves' unethical behavior enabled them to benefit from defies all logic."
Miller noted the VA "aggressively" goes after veterans or their surviving family members when they accidentally receive overpayments from the agency, but allow its own executives to pocket bonuses or benefits they obtain illegally.
Both Rubens and Graves invoked their Fifth Amendment rights and refused to testify when the House VA Committee attempted to question them about their abuse of the relocation program earlier this month.
More here
Diane Rubens and Kimberly Graves were both accused of manipulating a VA program meant to relocate agency employees who transfer long distances to take jobs within the VA. Rubens fraudulently netted more than $274,000 and Graves more than $129,000, according to the agency's inspector general.
Rep. Jeff Miller, chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, said he was "flabbergasted" by the VA's decision to let the two women keep the taxpayer money they siphoned from the program.
"This is not a situation in which VA can have it both ways," Miller said in a letter to VA Secretary Bob McDonald Monday. "In demoting Rubens and Graves, VA has already admitted what they did was wrong. Consequently, the department's failure to recoup the money Rubens' and Graves' unethical behavior enabled them to benefit from defies all logic."
Miller noted the VA "aggressively" goes after veterans or their surviving family members when they accidentally receive overpayments from the agency, but allow its own executives to pocket bonuses or benefits they obtain illegally.
Both Rubens and Graves invoked their Fifth Amendment rights and refused to testify when the House VA Committee attempted to question them about their abuse of the relocation program earlier this month.
More here
The Perfect Thanksgiving Leftover Meal
Just mix it all.
Mashed potatoes, stuffing,
corn and gravy.
Ahhhhh!
Dessert, the remote and
College Football Games.
Rubio to GOP Congressional Leaders: Let's Stop Obamacare Bailouts
Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., has sent a letter to Republican congressional leaders urging them to take further action in upcoming spending legislation to "completely shield" taxpayers from a potential multibillion dollar bailout of insurers losing money through Obamacare.
"So far we've succeeded in stopping the Obama Administration from bailing out health insurance companies under ObamaCare, and it's critical that Congress once again stand with taxpayers to stop any taxpayer-funded bailout of health insurers from happening," Rubio wrote in the letter to House Speaker Paul Ryan, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, and other top congressional leaders on Tuesday.
Rubio's letter comes as the Republican presidential candidate is aiming to highlight his role in preventing a taxpayer-funded bailout of Obamacare insurers (so far) and ahead of a Dec. 11 deadline for lawmakers to pass a spending bill.
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"So far we've succeeded in stopping the Obama Administration from bailing out health insurance companies under ObamaCare, and it's critical that Congress once again stand with taxpayers to stop any taxpayer-funded bailout of health insurers from happening," Rubio wrote in the letter to House Speaker Paul Ryan, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, and other top congressional leaders on Tuesday.
Rubio's letter comes as the Republican presidential candidate is aiming to highlight his role in preventing a taxpayer-funded bailout of Obamacare insurers (so far) and ahead of a Dec. 11 deadline for lawmakers to pass a spending bill.
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Ocean City Christmas Parade Marches Saturday, Dec. 5
“This is the first year in the parade’s three decade history that the Town of Ocean is coordinating the event,” commented Ocean City Special Events Director, Frank Miller. “We wanted to continue the tradition of the event, which is loved by so many, but also add a few new exciting features, including the first ever Masters of Ceremony and post parade reception.”
This year, WBOC television anchors Maxine Bentzel and Chris Weimer will act as the Masters of Ceremony, providing a play by play of the parade for spectators. Professional judges will review bands and other units in nine categories, with trophies being awarded inside the Carousel Hotel following the parade.
The awards presentation is part of a post-parade reception hosted by the Carousel Hotel, bringing additional family fun for participants and patrons alike. Festivities at the hotel will begin immediately after the parade conclusion and will include half-priced ice skating, a DJ playing continuous holiday music and free photos with Santa and Mrs. Clause. In addition, complimentary winter refreshments will be available.
“We are really excited to continue the holiday celebrations and long lived tradition of the Ocean City Christmas Parade,” Miller continued. “An extra special thanks goes out to our parade sponsors at Carousel Oceanfront Hotel and Condos, Coca-Cola, The Green Turtle, UA Local 486 and Food Lion, for helping us to continue this family tradition in Ocean City.”
To participate in the Ocean City Christmas Parade, which is coordinated by the Town of Ocean City, registrants should contact the Special Events Department at 410-250-0125. There is no charge to participate. For those wishing to view the parade, plenty of seating will be available along the west side of the half-mile parade route, including the Food Lion parking lot and judging area. Spectators will not be permitted to watch the parade from the median area of Coastal Highway. Motorists are reminded that traffic pattern changes will begin approximately 8 a.m. and traffic congestion and delays should be expected. Also, due to the high volume of pedestrian traffic, everyone is reminded to Walk Smart by using cross walks and crossing with the traffic control signal.
US Lifts Sanctions on Italian Firm Helping Iran Cheat
US President Barack Obama's administration has removed the Italian textile and chemical company Dettin Spa from its sanctions list, after the firm helped Iran evade American sanctions.
The lifting of sanctions was announced last Thursday, and an expert cited by the Washington Free Beacon on Tuesday warned the move showed a lenient stance by the US in catering to Iran even before the Islamic regime holds up its side of the controversial nuclear deal.
Dettin Spa still has a presence in Iran, and was sanctioned back in August 2014 for "knowingly providing Iran’s petrochemical industry with goods and support whose value exceeded $250,000," as reported by the US Treasury Department at the time.
Saeed Ghasseminejad, an Iranian dissident and expert at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, told the Washington Free Beacon that "what raises questions about the de-listing decision is its timing."
"The de-listings are supposed to happen on the implementation day, it is not clear why this company is removed from the sanction list at this time. Removing companies from the sanction list even before the implementation day sends a clear message that Iran is open for business even though Iran has not delivered its nuclear promises yet."
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The lifting of sanctions was announced last Thursday, and an expert cited by the Washington Free Beacon on Tuesday warned the move showed a lenient stance by the US in catering to Iran even before the Islamic regime holds up its side of the controversial nuclear deal.
Dettin Spa still has a presence in Iran, and was sanctioned back in August 2014 for "knowingly providing Iran’s petrochemical industry with goods and support whose value exceeded $250,000," as reported by the US Treasury Department at the time.
Saeed Ghasseminejad, an Iranian dissident and expert at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, told the Washington Free Beacon that "what raises questions about the de-listing decision is its timing."
"The de-listings are supposed to happen on the implementation day, it is not clear why this company is removed from the sanction list at this time. Removing companies from the sanction list even before the implementation day sends a clear message that Iran is open for business even though Iran has not delivered its nuclear promises yet."
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OC Planning Commission Reviews Growth Trends
OCEAN CITY — Ocean City planners last week reviewed a couple of pending documents that will chart the future direction of growth in the resort.
The Ocean City Planning Commission received update from staff on two documents in the works, including the 2014 annual report to the Maryland Department of Planning (MDP) and the revision of the resort’s comprehensive plan, which should be completed in 2016 after a lengthy process. Planning and Development Director Bill Neville presented the updates to the commission, which voted to move forward with sending the annual report to the MDP.
Neville explained the annual MDP report provides an update to the state on the town’s growth and development each year. The report includes a checklist of sorts provided by the state and filled in by a community’s planners to chart new growth and redevelopment.
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The Ocean City Planning Commission received update from staff on two documents in the works, including the 2014 annual report to the Maryland Department of Planning (MDP) and the revision of the resort’s comprehensive plan, which should be completed in 2016 after a lengthy process. Planning and Development Director Bill Neville presented the updates to the commission, which voted to move forward with sending the annual report to the MDP.
Neville explained the annual MDP report provides an update to the state on the town’s growth and development each year. The report includes a checklist of sorts provided by the state and filled in by a community’s planners to chart new growth and redevelopment.
More
Bill: Close Mosques Which Incite Terrorism
MK Bezalel Smotrich (Jewish Home) submitted a bill Tuesday that would allow the State of Israel to close mosques which incite terror attacks against Jews and Israelis.
Smotrich's bill follows similar anti-incitement initiatives in France and the US, and the draft already has widespread support, with signatories from Jewish Home, Likud, and Kulanu.
"We will use every tool at our disposal," Smotrich said. "With terrorism, we must deal with the roots and not just the endpoints."
"Arab incitement is a well-oiled machine, and the platform upon which terrorism grows - and it's time to take care of it," he continued. "We will not allow the use of mosques as a fertile ground for incitement and terrorism."
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Smotrich's bill follows similar anti-incitement initiatives in France and the US, and the draft already has widespread support, with signatories from Jewish Home, Likud, and Kulanu.
"We will use every tool at our disposal," Smotrich said. "With terrorism, we must deal with the roots and not just the endpoints."
"Arab incitement is a well-oiled machine, and the platform upon which terrorism grows - and it's time to take care of it," he continued. "We will not allow the use of mosques as a fertile ground for incitement and terrorism."
More
Anonymous trolls ISIS by removing darknet site, replacing it with Prozac ad
Enhance your calm. Too many people are into this ISIS-stuff. Please gaze upon this lovely ad so we can upgrade our infrastructure to give you ISIS content you all so desperately crave.The ad points to CoinRx an online pharmacy that bills itself as “the number one bitcoin online pharmacy” and sells everything from Viagra to Xanax without asking for a prescription.
This is one of the hundreds of websites Anonymous (with some crowdsourced help) has taken down after its recent declaration of war on the Islamic State.
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The Latest: German Official Says Some Migrants ISIS Radicals
THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) -- The latest on the mass movement of asylum-seekers and others seeking refuge in Europe:
A senior German police official says some of the migrants reaching Europe are Islamic State radicals planning terrorist attacks, but the refugee influx is not systemically used by extremists to bring members into the EU.
The Austria Press Agency cited German federal police chief Hans-Georg Maasen as saying that some who blend in with the migrants fought with IS and are planning a "combat mission" once they arrive in Europe. He said Thursday that his office knows of 7,900 Islamic radicals in Germany who advocate violence to advance their goals, with some trying to win migrants to their cause.
He said German authorities receive one or two "fairly concrete tips" a week of planned terrorist activity. And he described IS extremists as "combat-hardened professionals" more dangerous than those from al-Qaida.
Scores of migrants stranded at Greece's northern border have clashed with police while trying to force their way into Macedonia.
The migrants from Iran, Morocco, Pakistan and several other countries confronted Macedonian riot police who were seen hitting protesters with batons.
Macedonia toughened rules for migrant crossings earlier this month, restricting access to citizens from countries typically granted asylum in Europe, including Syria and Afghanistan.
Czech President Milos Zeman, known for his critical views of Islam, says Prime Minister Bohuslav Sobotka is endangering the country by not fully recognizing the danger asylum-seekers are posing.
In an interview published in Thursday's edition of the Mlada Fronta daily, Zeman say that unlike the prime minister he considers the migrant wave "an organized invasion."
More here
A senior German police official says some of the migrants reaching Europe are Islamic State radicals planning terrorist attacks, but the refugee influx is not systemically used by extremists to bring members into the EU.
The Austria Press Agency cited German federal police chief Hans-Georg Maasen as saying that some who blend in with the migrants fought with IS and are planning a "combat mission" once they arrive in Europe. He said Thursday that his office knows of 7,900 Islamic radicals in Germany who advocate violence to advance their goals, with some trying to win migrants to their cause.
He said German authorities receive one or two "fairly concrete tips" a week of planned terrorist activity. And he described IS extremists as "combat-hardened professionals" more dangerous than those from al-Qaida.
Scores of migrants stranded at Greece's northern border have clashed with police while trying to force their way into Macedonia.
The migrants from Iran, Morocco, Pakistan and several other countries confronted Macedonian riot police who were seen hitting protesters with batons.
Macedonia toughened rules for migrant crossings earlier this month, restricting access to citizens from countries typically granted asylum in Europe, including Syria and Afghanistan.
Czech President Milos Zeman, known for his critical views of Islam, says Prime Minister Bohuslav Sobotka is endangering the country by not fully recognizing the danger asylum-seekers are posing.
In an interview published in Thursday's edition of the Mlada Fronta daily, Zeman say that unlike the prime minister he considers the migrant wave "an organized invasion."
More here
State awaits Showell school
Request misses deadline but extension possible if county,
board can agree
Lever couldn’t say how far, or for how long, this extension could last, placing the onus on the county and schools to get on the same page quickly.
“We have a strong interest in seeing that good projects are done,” Lever said. “It’s a technical failure to meet the deadline.”
To that end, an ad-hoc committee composed of Commissioners Jim Bunting, Chip Bertino and Ted Elder as well as a number of Board of Education officials, will negotiate prior to the budget decision to see if plans for a new elementary school can be brought back on track.
Bunting confirmed another meeting, possibly a last-ditch effort, of that committee would be held “soon.”
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BREAKING NEWS: Multiple injuries reported at Planned Parenthood shooting
Injuries have been reported.
The Colorado Springs Fire Department tweeted the call out at 3480 Centennial Boulevard at 11:49 local time. (1:49pm EST)
Police asked media to stay away, saying the area is not secure. Police shut down roads in the area.
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UPDATE: Swat on scene looking for the shooter
Two officers have been injured. Second one just loaded into an ambulance
Listen to live scanner HERE
CSPD just confirmed 3 officers injured, also multiple civilians. The shooter is holed up in the Planned Parenthood building.
— PhotoJuice News5 (@PhotoJuiceNews5) November 27, 2015Islamic State Radicalizes ‘Thousands’ in United States
Report finds that terrorist group ‘has the necessary supporters in place and the financial means to carry out’ attack in America
The Islamic State has likely radicalized thousands of people in the United States, according to a new report, raising concerns that supporters of the terrorist group could be plotting domestic attacks similar to the recent shootings and bombings in Paris.
The Threat Knowledge Group, an organization led by the counterterrorism experts Sebastian and Katharine Gorka, has compiled a list of 82 individuals in the United States who were affiliated with the Islamic State (also known as ISIS or ISIL) and apprehended by law enforcement officials, including those who traveled or attempted to travel to Iraq and Syria, launched domestic attacks, or participated in recruiting or fundraising.
The Gorkas note in a new report that almost one third of these individuals had plotted attacks against Americans on U.S. soil in the last 18 months. Sebastian is also an adviser to the Department of Defense, while Katharine has authored several publications about the terrorist threat to the U.S. homeland.
Through Islamic State propagandists on Twitter and other social media sites, the terrorist group has been able to attract hundreds more supporters in the United States, they said.
Ali Shukri Amin, a 17-year-old Virginia resident and Islamic State supporter who was sentenced to 11 years in prison in August, used his Twitter account with 4,000 followers to raise funds for the group and encourage friends to join it overseas.
Ahmad Musa Jibril, an Islamist preacher in Dearborn, Michigan, who has also spent time in jail for money laundering and tax evasion, also points to the terrorist group’s online reach. Jibril has more than 38,000 Twitter followers, though he has not tweeted since last July and may have found other methods of communication. He is reported to have a large following among foreign fighters in Iraq and Syria.
“Based on the evidence available, the number of ISIS supporters in the United States measures in the thousands, rather than hundreds,” the Gorkas said in their report.
More
The Islamic State has likely radicalized thousands of people in the United States, according to a new report, raising concerns that supporters of the terrorist group could be plotting domestic attacks similar to the recent shootings and bombings in Paris.
The Threat Knowledge Group, an organization led by the counterterrorism experts Sebastian and Katharine Gorka, has compiled a list of 82 individuals in the United States who were affiliated with the Islamic State (also known as ISIS or ISIL) and apprehended by law enforcement officials, including those who traveled or attempted to travel to Iraq and Syria, launched domestic attacks, or participated in recruiting or fundraising.
The Gorkas note in a new report that almost one third of these individuals had plotted attacks against Americans on U.S. soil in the last 18 months. Sebastian is also an adviser to the Department of Defense, while Katharine has authored several publications about the terrorist threat to the U.S. homeland.
Through Islamic State propagandists on Twitter and other social media sites, the terrorist group has been able to attract hundreds more supporters in the United States, they said.
Ali Shukri Amin, a 17-year-old Virginia resident and Islamic State supporter who was sentenced to 11 years in prison in August, used his Twitter account with 4,000 followers to raise funds for the group and encourage friends to join it overseas.
Ahmad Musa Jibril, an Islamist preacher in Dearborn, Michigan, who has also spent time in jail for money laundering and tax evasion, also points to the terrorist group’s online reach. Jibril has more than 38,000 Twitter followers, though he has not tweeted since last July and may have found other methods of communication. He is reported to have a large following among foreign fighters in Iraq and Syria.
“Based on the evidence available, the number of ISIS supporters in the United States measures in the thousands, rather than hundreds,” the Gorkas said in their report.
More
Troopers Conducting Homicide Investigation
Bear, DE - The Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is currently conducting an investigation into the shooting of a male subject which occurred at an area car wash this morning.
The investigation began this morning, Friday, November 27, 2015, at approximately 8:40 a.m., as troopers were told to respond to the American Car Wash located at 1921 Pulaski Highway, Bear. Upon their arrival a male victim was located in the rear of the business suffering from a gunshot wound to his upper body. Resuscitative efforts were then performed by responders from the New Castle County Paramedics who transported the victim to the Christiana Hospital Trauma Center. The victim, however, succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital. The Delaware Division of Forensic Science was contacted and an autopsy is expected to be conducted within the next couple of days to determine the exact cause and manner of death. The victim’s identity is being withheld at this time pending the notification of his next of kin.
The investigation by the Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is in its early stages. No further specific details are being released at this time.
If anyone has any information in reference to this incident they are asked to contact the Homicide Unit at 302739-5939. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword "DSP."
The investigation began this morning, Friday, November 27, 2015, at approximately 8:40 a.m., as troopers were told to respond to the American Car Wash located at 1921 Pulaski Highway, Bear. Upon their arrival a male victim was located in the rear of the business suffering from a gunshot wound to his upper body. Resuscitative efforts were then performed by responders from the New Castle County Paramedics who transported the victim to the Christiana Hospital Trauma Center. The victim, however, succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital. The Delaware Division of Forensic Science was contacted and an autopsy is expected to be conducted within the next couple of days to determine the exact cause and manner of death. The victim’s identity is being withheld at this time pending the notification of his next of kin.
The investigation by the Delaware State Police Homicide Unit is in its early stages. No further specific details are being released at this time.
If anyone has any information in reference to this incident they are asked to contact the Homicide Unit at 302739-5939. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword "DSP."
HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTINGS ACROSS DELMARVA
The holiday season is well underway on Delmarva, which means it’s time for our annual roundup of the area’s holiday tree lightings! Each of our local towns plays host to their own holiday celebrations, which typically begins with an annual Christmas Tree Lighting. Of course, it’s impossible to hit them all, but we will certainly try. Take a look and start making your plans for a little festive holiday fun!
Berlin
Friday, November 27 – The Town of Berlin has several holiday celebrations lined up, starting this Friday, November 27 with the town’s annual Holiday Arts Night. The festivities begin at 5:30pm, with shops and restaurants featuring artists and specials. Activities will also be available throughout downtown, including a live jazz performance at the Berlin Visitors’ Center. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will also be available for photos with children before the tree lighting. Be on the lookout for the three ice sculptures as well, two of which are pre-made and a third that will be sculpted in front of the crowds. Of course the highlight of the evening will be the tree lighting, which will take place in front of the Atlantic Hotel at 7:30pm.
Snow Hill
Tuesday, December 1 – In Snow Hill, the holiday season will officially begin on Tuesday, December 1 with the annual tree lighting in Byrd Park on Market Street. Holiday lights will illuminate at 5:30. Participants are also invited to hang red ribbon bows on the Town Tree. The event will also include seasonal music, holiday readings, and an appearance by Santa Claus.
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Governor Larry Hogan Announces Small Business Saturday in Maryland
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Larry Hogan today issued a statewide proclamation announcing November 28, 2015 as Small Business Saturday in Maryland. With this proclamation, the governor is encouraging Marylanders to join a nationwide movement to support local businesses during the holiday season. Small Business Saturday is recognized by public and private organizations across the country each year on the Saturday following Thanksgiving.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and our administration is committed to supporting them as we work to turn our economy around,” Governor Larry Hogan said. “This is just one small way that we can all make an impact on our communities this holiday season. Whether it’s a clothing store on Main Street or a neighborhood grocery store, small businesses create jobs, boost local economies, and preserve our neighborhoods.”
In recognition of the day, Governor Hogan will visit small businesses on Main Street in Annapolis on Saturday.
China Again Tests Nuclear Hypersonic Missile
China carried out a sixth flight test of its new high-speed nuclear attack vehicle on Monday designed to defeat U.S. missile defenses or carry out global strikes.
The ultra-fast maneuvering strike weapon known as the DF-ZF hypersonic glide vehicle was launched atop a ballistic missile fired from the Wuzhai missile test center in central China’s Shanxi Province, according defense officials.
The vehicle separated from its launcher near the edge of the atmosphere and then glided to an impact range several thousand miles away in western China, said officials familiar with details of the test.
The DF-ZF flight was tracked by U.S. intelligence agencies and flew at speeds beyond Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound.
Pentagon spokesman Cmdr. Bill Urban declined to comment. “We do not comment on specific PRC weapons tests, but we do monitor Chinese military modernization carefully,” Urban told the Washington Free Beacon.
More here
Persian Gulf Muslim States Have Accepted No Syrian Refugees
While the United States and Europe argue over how many Syrian refugees to allow in, the richest Persian Gulf states have accepted exactly zero.
The Muslim countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council that include Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and United Arab Emirates steadfastly refuse to accept any Syrian refugees. Amnesty International, USA (AIUSA) tells The Daily Caller News Foundation they have not accepted a single refugee since the armed Syrian conflict erupted years ago.
“The Gulf States have accepted zero refugees registered with the United Nations and administered through the U.N. resettlement program. They have accepted zero,” Geoffrey Mock, the Syrian country coordinator for AIUSA, tells TheDCNF.
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The Muslim countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council that include Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and United Arab Emirates steadfastly refuse to accept any Syrian refugees. Amnesty International, USA (AIUSA) tells The Daily Caller News Foundation they have not accepted a single refugee since the armed Syrian conflict erupted years ago.
“The Gulf States have accepted zero refugees registered with the United Nations and administered through the U.N. resettlement program. They have accepted zero,” Geoffrey Mock, the Syrian country coordinator for AIUSA, tells TheDCNF.
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Obama Admin: Iran Nuke Deal Nonbinding
State Department officials have acknowledged again to Congress that the recently adopted Iran nuclear agreement is not a legally binding document and was not formally signed by any party, according to another in a series of letters sent by the administration to Congress.
“The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is not a treaty or an executive agreement, and is not a signed document,” wrote Julia Frifield, a State Department assistant secretary for legislative affairs, wrote to Rep. Mike Pompeo (R., Kansas) in a Nov. 19 letter responding to his request for information about the deal.
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“The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is not a treaty or an executive agreement, and is not a signed document,” wrote Julia Frifield, a State Department assistant secretary for legislative affairs, wrote to Rep. Mike Pompeo (R., Kansas) in a Nov. 19 letter responding to his request for information about the deal.
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Senator Wonders If Hillary Is Covering Legal Expenses For Tech Firm That Managed Her Email Server
Republican Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley , the chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, is questioning whether Hillary Clinton paid legal and public relations expenses for a former State Department aide and a tech company that worked on her private email system.
“As you are aware, such arrangements can pose conflict-of-interest issues,” Grassley wrote in a letter he sent on Tuesday to attorneys representing Clinton and several of her State Department aides, including Bryan Pagliano, the IT staffer who managed Clinton’s email system while she was secretary of state.
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“As you are aware, such arrangements can pose conflict-of-interest issues,” Grassley wrote in a letter he sent on Tuesday to attorneys representing Clinton and several of her State Department aides, including Bryan Pagliano, the IT staffer who managed Clinton’s email system while she was secretary of state.
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Proposed Funding Cut Worries Area CASA Program
BERLIN – Federal funding cuts could soon mean big changes for one of Worcester County’s key child advocacy groups.
A portion of funding for CASA — Court Appointed Special Advocates — in Worcester County could be in jeopardy. According to Brigitte Southworth, CASA director, the roughly $26,000 a year the organization usually receives through the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) could be cut by Congress in the coming weeks. She says local volunteers have been busy asking area politicians to do what they can to oppose the move.
“They’ve been inundated with calls,” Southworth said.
According to Southworth, in Worcester County CASA advocates for local children who get caught up in the legal system.
“These are kids that have been abused or neglected and are in the court system,” she said.
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A portion of funding for CASA — Court Appointed Special Advocates — in Worcester County could be in jeopardy. According to Brigitte Southworth, CASA director, the roughly $26,000 a year the organization usually receives through the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) could be cut by Congress in the coming weeks. She says local volunteers have been busy asking area politicians to do what they can to oppose the move.
“They’ve been inundated with calls,” Southworth said.
According to Southworth, in Worcester County CASA advocates for local children who get caught up in the legal system.
“These are kids that have been abused or neglected and are in the court system,” she said.
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Millsboro Man Arrested for DUI after Two Vehicle Crash East of Millsboro
The incident occurred around 6:25 p.m. Thursday November 26, 2015 as Joseph F. Peart Jr., 45 of Millsboro, was operating a 2000 Dodge Durango westbound on John J. Williams Highway (SR24) just east of Maryland Camp Road (CR304). Through witness accounts, the Durango began swerving into the on-coming lane when it struck an eastbound 2003 Volkswagen Beetle head-on. The impact forced the Durango to overturn on its side and rotate 180 degrees before coming to a stop. The Beetle rotated 180 degrees after the collision in the eastbound lane where it came to a stop.
Joseph Peart was transported by EMS to Beebe Healthcare where he was admitted with non-life-threatening injuries. He was subsequently charged with two counts of Vehicular Assault 1st, Driving Under the Influence of a Combination of Alcohol and any Drug, Possession of a Controlled Substance (Xanax) without a Prescription, Reckless Endangering 2nd, Driving While Suspended/Revoked, and various other traffic related charges. He was arraigned by a JP Court Judge out of JP3 and placed in custody of the Delaware Department of Corrections in lieu of $7,102.00 secured bond.
A 30-year-old male from Wilmington was a passenger in Peart’s vehicle. He was transported by EMS to Beebe Healthcare and was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Barbara B. Hahn, 55 of Rehoboth Beach, was properly restrained in the Volkswagen Beetle and was transported by EMS to Beebe Healthcare where she was admitted with undetermined injuries.
SR24 in the area of Mountaire Farms was closed for approximately 90 minutes while the crash was investigated and cleared.
Face of ‘No-Fly List is Islamophobia’ Movement Arrested in Turkey as Part of ISIS Cell
A man who in 2013 became the face of a movement to portray the U.S. government’s no-fly list as discriminatory against Muslims was arrested earlier this month along with members of his family in Turkey for being part of an Islamic State cell, according to an article from PJ Media.
Saadiq Long’s view of the governmental policy was widely promoted by certain elements of the media, including Chris Hayes of MSNBC and Mother Jones, and the Council on American-Islamic Relations legally represented him while helping to spread his message.
In April 2012, Long wished to travel from Qatar, where he lived at the time, to visit his sick mother in his native Oklahoma. Long was unable to make the trip, though, because he was on the TSA’s no-fly list, a case which CAIR said “represented institutional ‘Islamophobia.’”
The PJ Media article describes how the story got international attention after CAIR’s public relations push and because of a piece published by Glenn Greenwald in The Guardian. Other commentators like Kevin Drum also lambasted the no-fly list in Mother Jones.
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Saadiq Long’s view of the governmental policy was widely promoted by certain elements of the media, including Chris Hayes of MSNBC and Mother Jones, and the Council on American-Islamic Relations legally represented him while helping to spread his message.
In April 2012, Long wished to travel from Qatar, where he lived at the time, to visit his sick mother in his native Oklahoma. Long was unable to make the trip, though, because he was on the TSA’s no-fly list, a case which CAIR said “represented institutional ‘Islamophobia.’”
The PJ Media article describes how the story got international attention after CAIR’s public relations push and because of a piece published by Glenn Greenwald in The Guardian. Other commentators like Kevin Drum also lambasted the no-fly list in Mother Jones.
More
Celebrate, America, Because The First TV Channel Dedicated To Selling Guns Is Almost Here
Are you the kind of person who likes the Home Shopping Network but thinks it could be massively improved with a lot less jewelry and a lot more firearms and concealed weapons apparel for women?
If so, next year will be a banner year for you because GunTV, a new, 24-hour live-shopping channel dedicated to the sale of guns and gun-related gear, is scheduled for a January 2016 launch.
The station will be run by The Social Responsibility Network (which appears to run nothing else).
Louisiana-based Sports South, a 174-year-old distributor of guns and ammunition, is a partner in the channel.
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If so, next year will be a banner year for you because GunTV, a new, 24-hour live-shopping channel dedicated to the sale of guns and gun-related gear, is scheduled for a January 2016 launch.
The station will be run by The Social Responsibility Network (which appears to run nothing else).
Louisiana-based Sports South, a 174-year-old distributor of guns and ammunition, is a partner in the channel.
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Clinton, Obama Silent on Murder of American Teen by Terrorists
The silence by these leaders, including Hillary Clinton and President Barack Obama, has drawn outrage from some in the pro-Israel community who accuse these Democrats of drawing a moral equivalency between the Jewish state and Palestinian terrorists, who have committed a series of deadly attacks in recent weeks that have killed several Israelis.
As some Democrats remain mum about the death of 18-year-old Ezra Schwartz, a Massachusetts native, Republicans have issued a series of statements condemning the attacks and the recent spike in Palestinian terrorism.
Robert Kraft, the owner of the New England Patriots NFL franchise, at the urging of an Israeli lawmaker, held a moment of silence for Schwartz before the opening of a Monday night game, along with an address mourning “the many who have recently lost their lives in senseless terrorist attacks abroad.”
“At this time we would like to honor Ezra Schwartz and hundreds of victims like him with a moment of silence,” an announcer said before asking the crowd for a moment of silence.
However, Clinton, Obama, and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D., Mass) have declined to take a public stance on the terror attack and Schwartz’s death, prompting criticism from Israel supporters.
The silence, critics say, is evidence that the far-left of the Democratic Party is beholden to anti-Israel interests.
More here
Fenwick To Hold Public Hearing On Contentious Ordinance Change
On Friday, Dec. 4 at 2:30 p.m., the Fenwick Island Town Council will host a public hearing to gather input on the commercial zoning ordinance proposed in October. The ordinance would enable the aging Sands Motel to be replaced with a larger building, as it would allow existing motels one room per 600 square feet. Currently, town code provides for one motel room every 1,000 square feet.
Though the proposed change was deemed more restrictive than what was originally suggested, many residents are still worried it will bring more hotels to quiet Fenwick Island.
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Evacuation of German Soccer Stadium Due to Warning by Israeli Intelligence
JERUSALEM—The sudden evacuation of a soccer stadium in Hamburg last week less than an hour before the arrival of German Chancellor Angela Merkel was due to a warning by Israeli intelligence of an imminent terrorist attack, according to the German magazine Stern.
The match between Germany and Holland was called off just 90 minutes before the scheduled kickoff. Chancellor Merkel and several of her ministers learned of the warning as they were preparing to head for the stadium. Their visit had been intended to demonstrate the government’s determination not to bow to terrorism in the wake of the attacks in Paris by Islamic State.
According to Stern, Israel had passed on an initial warning to Germany the day before the scheduled game of an attack in the works, but with few details.
On the day of the match, the information became more concrete, including the target and the hour of the attack, according to Stern.
More here
The match between Germany and Holland was called off just 90 minutes before the scheduled kickoff. Chancellor Merkel and several of her ministers learned of the warning as they were preparing to head for the stadium. Their visit had been intended to demonstrate the government’s determination not to bow to terrorism in the wake of the attacks in Paris by Islamic State.
According to Stern, Israel had passed on an initial warning to Germany the day before the scheduled game of an attack in the works, but with few details.
On the day of the match, the information became more concrete, including the target and the hour of the attack, according to Stern.
More here
Worcester medical cannabis applicant hosts info session
Maryland’s Natalie LaPrade Medical Marijuana Commission released the raw numbers of dispensary applicants earlier this week at the same time the Town of Snow Hill played host to the county’s first informational session on how it all might work once dispensaries are open late next year.
Snow Hill has made no secret in trying to attract potential growers, processors and dispensary operators into the town, and the informational session, attended by about 30 people, was couched as a special work session of the mayor and council.
Positive Energy LLC, run by Royal Plus owner Matt Odachowski, also received the town’s endorsement for his three applications: one each for grow, processor and dispensary licenses.
The deadline to submit the 75-page intense applications passed earlier this month, and early approvals are expected to be handed down at the end of January.
Odachowski sought approval from the Worcester Commissioners, who each declined – individually and collectively – to support any one candidate. The commissioners did, however, promise to work with whoever ends up with one of the coveted licenses.
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Snow Hill has made no secret in trying to attract potential growers, processors and dispensary operators into the town, and the informational session, attended by about 30 people, was couched as a special work session of the mayor and council.
Positive Energy LLC, run by Royal Plus owner Matt Odachowski, also received the town’s endorsement for his three applications: one each for grow, processor and dispensary licenses.
The deadline to submit the 75-page intense applications passed earlier this month, and early approvals are expected to be handed down at the end of January.
Odachowski sought approval from the Worcester Commissioners, who each declined – individually and collectively – to support any one candidate. The commissioners did, however, promise to work with whoever ends up with one of the coveted licenses.
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Threat: Settle Syrians Or Face Civil Rights Penalties
The federal government shot a warning to state resettlement officials, telling them they do not have the authority to deny the entry of Syrian refugees.
In a letter sent Wednesday, Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) Director Robert Carey said he is aware of the concern expressed by some local leaders in allowing Syrian refugees into their states. Carey advised that "all refugees are subject to the highest level of security checks of any category of traveler to the United States," in what he called a "multi-layered and intensive screening and vetting process involving multiple law enforcement, national security, and intelligence across the Federal government."
"Syrian refugees are subject to even more precautions than other refugees," he added.
More than half of the nation's governors have pledged not to allow Syrian refugees into their states following the wave of terror attacks that hit Paris earlier in the month, which left 130 dead and hundreds more injured. It is suspected that at least one of the attackers gained entry into France through the European refugee resettlement program. The governors cited security concerns on the possibility of terrorists slipping into the U.S. using the refugee program.
States are required to provide "assistance and services ... to refugees without regard to race, religion, nationality, sex or political position" according to the Refugee Act of 1980, the letter points out.
"States may not deny ORR-funded benefits and services to refugees based on a refugee's country of origin or religious affiliation," the letter states. "Accordingly, states may not deny ORR-funded benefits and services to Syrian refugees."
More here
In a letter sent Wednesday, Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) Director Robert Carey said he is aware of the concern expressed by some local leaders in allowing Syrian refugees into their states. Carey advised that "all refugees are subject to the highest level of security checks of any category of traveler to the United States," in what he called a "multi-layered and intensive screening and vetting process involving multiple law enforcement, national security, and intelligence across the Federal government."
"Syrian refugees are subject to even more precautions than other refugees," he added.
More than half of the nation's governors have pledged not to allow Syrian refugees into their states following the wave of terror attacks that hit Paris earlier in the month, which left 130 dead and hundreds more injured. It is suspected that at least one of the attackers gained entry into France through the European refugee resettlement program. The governors cited security concerns on the possibility of terrorists slipping into the U.S. using the refugee program.
States are required to provide "assistance and services ... to refugees without regard to race, religion, nationality, sex or political position" according to the Refugee Act of 1980, the letter points out.
"States may not deny ORR-funded benefits and services to refugees based on a refugee's country of origin or religious affiliation," the letter states. "Accordingly, states may not deny ORR-funded benefits and services to Syrian refugees."
More here
Leave It To The VA
After two VA employees were accused of manipulating the hiring system to receive unwarranted pay raises, they were demoted and moved to different offices.
Now USA Today reports they could be given even more money because their new positions involved involuntary cross-country moves, making them eligible for relocation reimbursements. The already incensed House Veterans Affairs Committee will be holding a hearing Dec. 9 on problems with employee accountability.
Democrats Rise In Opposition To Obama's Climate Change Agenda
Hundreds of Democrats from 32 states are aligning against the centerpiece of President Obama's climate change agenda, the Clean Power Plan, which they say will cause unnecessary economic harm from increased reliance on renewable energy.
"As Democrats committed to a prosperous America and a healthy environment, we believe the United States has a unique opportunity to lead the world in addressing the global climate challenge, and yet do so, as we must, without unduly burdening the American economy or the American people," the Democratic coalition called CoalBlue said in a letter sent Tuesday to Obama.
The group joined with hundreds of Democratic officeholders and state, local and party officials in telling Obama that the Environmental Protection Agency's emission rules for power plants pose "serious and overriding concerns," representing the wrong approach to the problem of climate change.
"If we are going to provide real leadership in the world community on climate, we cannot begin by implementing policies that have no hope of succeeding outside of the United States, or possibly even within the United States," said the group's chairman, former U.S. Rep. Zack Space of Ohio. His state is one of 27 suing the EPA over the Clean Power Plan.
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"As Democrats committed to a prosperous America and a healthy environment, we believe the United States has a unique opportunity to lead the world in addressing the global climate challenge, and yet do so, as we must, without unduly burdening the American economy or the American people," the Democratic coalition called CoalBlue said in a letter sent Tuesday to Obama.
The group joined with hundreds of Democratic officeholders and state, local and party officials in telling Obama that the Environmental Protection Agency's emission rules for power plants pose "serious and overriding concerns," representing the wrong approach to the problem of climate change.
"If we are going to provide real leadership in the world community on climate, we cannot begin by implementing policies that have no hope of succeeding outside of the United States, or possibly even within the United States," said the group's chairman, former U.S. Rep. Zack Space of Ohio. His state is one of 27 suing the EPA over the Clean Power Plan.
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Trump: NY Times Must Apologize for Accusing Me of Mocking Reporter
Donald Trump on Thursday demanded an apology from The New York Times for saying he mocked one of its reporter's physical disability at a recent campaign event.
In two tweets on Thanksgiving afternoon, the Republican presidential front-runner denied making fun of Serge Kovaleski, who suffers from the congenital condition arthrogryposis, which limits his arm movements.
"Serge Kovaleski must think a lot of himself if he thinks I remember him from decades ago – if I ever met him at all, which I doubt I did," Trump said in the Twitter statement. "He should stop using his disability to grandstand and get back to reporting for a paper that is rapidly going down the tubes."
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In two tweets on Thanksgiving afternoon, the Republican presidential front-runner denied making fun of Serge Kovaleski, who suffers from the congenital condition arthrogryposis, which limits his arm movements.
"Serge Kovaleski must think a lot of himself if he thinks I remember him from decades ago – if I ever met him at all, which I doubt I did," Trump said in the Twitter statement. "He should stop using his disability to grandstand and get back to reporting for a paper that is rapidly going down the tubes."
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Virginia students: Boot Jefferson – he's 'rapist'
The statue’s been peppered with yellow sticky notes of what students think of him. Among the slurs, Breitbart reported: “Racist.” “Rapist.” “Black Lives Matter.”
Other notes stuck on the statue read, “he knew it was wrong,” and “stop worshiping racists.”
Students at the school say the statue should be removed from the grounds – and this isn’t the only campus where this move is afoot.
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The Nation’s Largest Tax Dodgers Are Lobbying Hard for More Tax “Relief”
Headline on press release from the National Press Club:
“Sen. Warren says she's concerned about Hillary Clinton's ties to Wall Street”
Wow. Elizabeth Warren came out swinging against Hillary Clinton, huh? Well, no, she didn’t. In a half hour talk she came out swinging against the way the nation’s largest corporations are dodging taxes. Her aim was to sound the alarm that the tax code is in danger of being tilted even further in their favor.
The Clinton reference came near the end of a half hour of follow-up questions, one of which was whether she was concerned about Clinton’s Wall Street donations. Her answer: "I’m concerned about everybody's ties to Wall Street. Look around Washington. I am worried about the influence Wall Street has on Washington."
Elizabeth Warren didn’t come to the National Press Club to beat up on Clinton. In fact, her answer to that question obviously was designed to avoid even mentioning her.
But the media can’t seem to help itself when it comes to politics. Candidates, polls, political minutia---news judgement invariably defaults into those tired pathways. Serious content becomes oh, by-the-way filler. The round pegs of policy need to fit into the square holes of partisan politics.
Another case in point: The lead paragraph on NPR’s online coverage of Warren’s speech: “Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., may not be running for president in 2016, but she was campaigning hard Wednesday to be an agenda-setting power broker.”
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“Sen. Warren says she's concerned about Hillary Clinton's ties to Wall Street”
Wow. Elizabeth Warren came out swinging against Hillary Clinton, huh? Well, no, she didn’t. In a half hour talk she came out swinging against the way the nation’s largest corporations are dodging taxes. Her aim was to sound the alarm that the tax code is in danger of being tilted even further in their favor.
The Clinton reference came near the end of a half hour of follow-up questions, one of which was whether she was concerned about Clinton’s Wall Street donations. Her answer: "I’m concerned about everybody's ties to Wall Street. Look around Washington. I am worried about the influence Wall Street has on Washington."
Elizabeth Warren didn’t come to the National Press Club to beat up on Clinton. In fact, her answer to that question obviously was designed to avoid even mentioning her.
But the media can’t seem to help itself when it comes to politics. Candidates, polls, political minutia---news judgement invariably defaults into those tired pathways. Serious content becomes oh, by-the-way filler. The round pegs of policy need to fit into the square holes of partisan politics.
Another case in point: The lead paragraph on NPR’s online coverage of Warren’s speech: “Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., may not be running for president in 2016, but she was campaigning hard Wednesday to be an agenda-setting power broker.”
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Don't Miss The Christmas Boat Parade This Weekend
Thanks,
Wicomico Yacht Club
VA is buried in a backlog of never-ending veterans disability appeals
It's a veteran disability case that never ends.
In 1985, Ivan Figueroa Clausell filed a claim for a variety of conditions he said stemmed from a car accident while training with the Puerto Rico Army National Guard. The Department of Veterans Affairs ruled that he wasn't disabled.
He appealed and lost. He appealed again and lost again, and again and again.
In all, the VA has issued more than two dozen rulings on his case over the years. Still, he continues to appeal. Even after he won and started receiving 100% disability pay, he pressed on in hopes of receiving retroactive payments.
"I'm never going to give up," said the 66-year-old Vietnam veteran. "I don't care how long it takes."
Figueroa's is the oldest case among the more than 425,000 now swamping a veterans appeals system that advocates and government officials say is badly broken.
Plaintiffs seeking class cert. in Dead Freddies wage case
Two of the plaintiffs, Desmond Dale and Salman Afridi, of Ocean City and Salisbury respectively, are seeking to represent a class of themselves and any other similarly situated non-exempt, back-of-the-house employees of the restaurant. The defense has filed a couple of motions to dismiss for failure to state a claim against these two plaintiffs in particular, according to court records, and hasn’t responded to any of the other allegations in publicly available documents.
In mid-October another law firm, Gordon, Wolf and Carney located in Towson, Md., specializing in class action lawsuits, joined the plaintiff’s case. Howard Hoffman, the attorney who made the initial filing, specializes in employment law and remains on the case.
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BLUE BUFFALO DOG TREAT RECALL
On November 25, 2015, Blue Buffalo announced the recall of one lot of its Cub Size Wilderness Wild dog chews because the product has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
Salmonella is a bacteria that can affect the health of both pets and humans.
To learn which products are affected, please visit the following link:
Blue Buffalo Dog Chews Recall of November 2015
Please be sure to share the news of this alert with other pet owners.
Mike Sagman, Editor
The Dog Food Advisor
Salmonella is a bacteria that can affect the health of both pets and humans.
To learn which products are affected, please visit the following link:
Blue Buffalo Dog Chews Recall of November 2015
Please be sure to share the news of this alert with other pet owners.
Mike Sagman, Editor
The Dog Food Advisor
States Grapple with Girls in the Juvenile Justice System
When she was 11, KiAmber was arrested for defacing school property—a misdemeanor the Tallahassee, Florida, girl insists she did not commit. That experience scared her.
By the time she turned 12, she was pregnant. School wasn’t safe—fights broke out all the time. So KiAmber asked to enroll in a program for at-risk girls, funded by the state, where she receives intensive counseling and tutoring. Now, the ninth-grader said, she’s matured and is looking forward to creating a stable life for herself and her 3-year-old daughter. Without early intervention, “I don’t know where I’d be,” said KiAmber, who at 15 is still a juvenile and asked that her last name not be used.
Male juvenile offenders still greatly outnumber females. But while the arrest rate for juveniles has declined over the past two decades, it has not fallen as sharply for girls as it has for boys. And minority girls are twice as likely as white girls to be incarcerated.
Advocates say there aren’t enough juvenile justice programs targeted to girls, whose needs are often more complex than boys’. Many girls in the system have been physically or sexually abused or have mental health issues. Forty percent are gay, bisexual or transgender, compared to 14 percent of boys. Many are poor. Many have been funneled through the child-welfare system.
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By the time she turned 12, she was pregnant. School wasn’t safe—fights broke out all the time. So KiAmber asked to enroll in a program for at-risk girls, funded by the state, where she receives intensive counseling and tutoring. Now, the ninth-grader said, she’s matured and is looking forward to creating a stable life for herself and her 3-year-old daughter. Without early intervention, “I don’t know where I’d be,” said KiAmber, who at 15 is still a juvenile and asked that her last name not be used.
Male juvenile offenders still greatly outnumber females. But while the arrest rate for juveniles has declined over the past two decades, it has not fallen as sharply for girls as it has for boys. And minority girls are twice as likely as white girls to be incarcerated.
Advocates say there aren’t enough juvenile justice programs targeted to girls, whose needs are often more complex than boys’. Many girls in the system have been physically or sexually abused or have mental health issues. Forty percent are gay, bisexual or transgender, compared to 14 percent of boys. Many are poor. Many have been funneled through the child-welfare system.
More
How Should Uber Be Regulated?
For two days this month, taxi drivers didn’t pick up any weary travelers leaving Mineta San Jose Airport. Instead they drove past, honking, and hoping their strike would persuade city leaders to make ride-hailing companies such as Uber and Lyft follow the same rules as taxi companies at the airport.
“Either the city should deregulate us completely, like them … or regulate them at least closer to us, and let there be fair business competition,” said Kirpal Bajwa, a taxi driver and union leader.
Ride-hailing companies, which connect paying passengers and drivers through a mobile app, deliver rides like a taxi service. But they’re not taxi companies, and states and cities are beginning to regulate them differently.
California created permitting and public safety rules for ride-hailing companies in 2013. Over half the states now have regulations in place, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL).
But as San Jose’s experience shows, the debate over how to govern Uber and others is far from over.
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“Either the city should deregulate us completely, like them … or regulate them at least closer to us, and let there be fair business competition,” said Kirpal Bajwa, a taxi driver and union leader.
Ride-hailing companies, which connect paying passengers and drivers through a mobile app, deliver rides like a taxi service. But they’re not taxi companies, and states and cities are beginning to regulate them differently.
California created permitting and public safety rules for ride-hailing companies in 2013. Over half the states now have regulations in place, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL).
But as San Jose’s experience shows, the debate over how to govern Uber and others is far from over.
More
Department of Agriculture: Do NOT Deny Syrian Refugees Food Stamp Benefits
The Obama Department of Agriculture sent a letter to Georgia’s social services agency Wednesday, warning that if the state refuses to grant food stamp benefits to Syrian refugees, it would be doing so in direct violation of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008.
“As long as an applicant submits a SNAP application that includes the applicant’s name, address, and signature, the state agency must accept and process the application to be in compliance with federal law,” Jessica Shahin of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program wrote to officials in Georgia.
In the wake of the terror attacks in Paris, a November 16 executive order issued by Georgia Governor Nathan Deal has halted the Obama administration’s resettlement program in that state. Georgia is 1 of 28 states in opposition to the current Syrian refugee program.
Shahin’s letter demands that Georgia lawmakers “rescind this memorandum and cease this practice immediately.”
More
“As long as an applicant submits a SNAP application that includes the applicant’s name, address, and signature, the state agency must accept and process the application to be in compliance with federal law,” Jessica Shahin of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program wrote to officials in Georgia.
In the wake of the terror attacks in Paris, a November 16 executive order issued by Georgia Governor Nathan Deal has halted the Obama administration’s resettlement program in that state. Georgia is 1 of 28 states in opposition to the current Syrian refugee program.
Shahin’s letter demands that Georgia lawmakers “rescind this memorandum and cease this practice immediately.”
More
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