DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Tuesday, February 09, 2016
California issues 650,000 driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants in 2015
Immigrant rights groups and traffic safety experts have hailed the law because, they say, it means more drivers will be properly trained, licensed and more likely to have car insurance.
"We believe that this new law increases safety on California roads by putting licensed drivers behind the steering wheel," Artemio Armenta, a spokesman for the California Department of Motor Vehicles, told the Los Angeles Times.
But some have complained that under the bill, many applicants have had to wait longer to get an appointment. And even with an appointment, they have to wait in long lines.
More
Condom-Nation Hits Middle Schools
The San Francisco Unified School District’s board is poised to expand its Condom Availability Program for high school students into middle schools. The school district no longer offers Algebra I as an eighth-grade course — Algebra I has been folded into a two-year, eighth-grade and ninth-grade class that is supposed to be more comprehensive. But the board is ready to bring a high school program to middle school by handing out condoms to sixth-graders.
What could possibly go wrong?
Superintendent Richard Carranza backs the proposal to distribute condoms to middle schoolers “in conjunction with a session with a school nurse or social worker to identify risk factors and provide referrals or resources as necessary.” The idea, supporters say, is not to encourage preteens to have sex, but to make sure that the estimated 5 percent of San Francisco middle schoolers who are sexually active protect themselves from sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancies.
“It’s not going to be like Mardi Gras,” school district Director of Safety and Wellness Kevin Gogin told me. (There will be no floats with school nurses tossing out condoms.) The idea is to allow students to visit a social worker or nurse, who can ascertain if he or she is already sexually active and taking precautions. Everything is confidential unless a social worker sees a problem — an adult sexual predator — and sees a need to contact Child Protective Services.
More
What could possibly go wrong?
Superintendent Richard Carranza backs the proposal to distribute condoms to middle schoolers “in conjunction with a session with a school nurse or social worker to identify risk factors and provide referrals or resources as necessary.” The idea, supporters say, is not to encourage preteens to have sex, but to make sure that the estimated 5 percent of San Francisco middle schoolers who are sexually active protect themselves from sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancies.
“It’s not going to be like Mardi Gras,” school district Director of Safety and Wellness Kevin Gogin told me. (There will be no floats with school nurses tossing out condoms.) The idea is to allow students to visit a social worker or nurse, who can ascertain if he or she is already sexually active and taking precautions. Everything is confidential unless a social worker sees a problem — an adult sexual predator — and sees a need to contact Child Protective Services.
More
OFFICE of the SHERIFF for QUEEN ANNE’S COUNTY Press Release 2-9-16
The underage person was instructed to enter a business and attempt to purchase various products and if asked for identification to display his actual MD driver’s license. In addition if asked by the clerk how old he was to reply his actual age of 17.
The following businesses sold a tobacco product or electronic cigarette:
VAPE Frog (Clerk James M. Wolfe Jr.) located at 110 South Piney Road, Chester, MD.
Kent Island Depot (Clerk Anibal D. Gonzalez-Gomez) located at 320 Romancoke Road, Stevensville, MD
Dollar General Store (Clerk Brianna G. Dunn) located at 1213 Shopping Center Road, Stevensville, MD
Dominion Tiger Mart (Clerk Adeel Ghazali) located at 100 Dominion Road, Chester, MD.
Clerks at the above businesses were issued a civil citation. In one case the clerk told the youth that “You’re not old enough to buy these. I’ll do you a favor, but don’t tell anyone”.
The following businesses REFUSED to sell to the underage person:
Vape Bird, 356 Romancoke Road, Stevensville, MD
Chesapeake Vape, 121 Wood Duck Court, Chester, MD
Stevensville Citgo, 101 Duke Street, Stevensville, MD
Acme Store, 611 Railroad Avenue, Centreville, MD
Everest Mart, 201 N. Liberty Street, Centreville, MD
Outpost 544, 1921 Dudley Corner Road, Crumpton, MD
7/11 Store, 212 Grange Hall Road, Queenstown, MD.
Safeway Fuel Station, 1835 Main Street, Chester, MD
7/11 Store, 110 Pullman Crossing, Grasonville, MD.
We would like to congratulate those businesses for your diligence in following the requirements of the law.
*****
MD Annotated Code CR 10-107 prohibits sales of tobacco products to persons under the age of 18.
MD Annotated Code Health – General 24-305 prohibits sales of electronic cigarettes, accessories, fluids or parts to persons under the age of 18.
Lt. Dale L. Patrick (Ret.)
Public Information Officer
In Retrospect, How Bad Was Rubio's Repetition?
Sometimes it takes a Sunday morning to see how much damage was done Saturday night.
So it was this weekend, in New Hampshire and in the broader national conversation about the 2016 presidential race.
On Saturday night, many observers seized on the meatiest moment from the GOP debate staged here — perhaps the most salient moment of all the debates so far. It was the clash between Chris Christie and Marco Rubio that turned into a stunning exposé of Rubio's technique.
Still fixed on the mind's eye was the image of the young Florida senator repeating a single sentence almost verbatim, not once but several times — each time as if it had just popped into his head.
Christie, the New Jersey governor, who needs a breakthrough in New Hampshire to keep his flagging hopes alive, seemed to have drawn blood in a big way.
But in the new dawn, given the reality of the debates' limited audience and the general competition for voters' attention, the exact extent of the damage was less clear. Rubio's first event of the day drew overflow crowds showing both interest and enthusiasm. And he himself told George Stephanopoulos on ABC's This Week that he would pay the networks to show his repetitious sound bites again and again.
"I would pay for them to keep running that clip, because that's what I believe passionately," Rubio said. "It's one of the reasons why I'm not running for re-election to the Senate, and I'm running for president."
More
So it was this weekend, in New Hampshire and in the broader national conversation about the 2016 presidential race.
On Saturday night, many observers seized on the meatiest moment from the GOP debate staged here — perhaps the most salient moment of all the debates so far. It was the clash between Chris Christie and Marco Rubio that turned into a stunning exposé of Rubio's technique.
Still fixed on the mind's eye was the image of the young Florida senator repeating a single sentence almost verbatim, not once but several times — each time as if it had just popped into his head.
Christie, the New Jersey governor, who needs a breakthrough in New Hampshire to keep his flagging hopes alive, seemed to have drawn blood in a big way.
But in the new dawn, given the reality of the debates' limited audience and the general competition for voters' attention, the exact extent of the damage was less clear. Rubio's first event of the day drew overflow crowds showing both interest and enthusiasm. And he himself told George Stephanopoulos on ABC's This Week that he would pay the networks to show his repetitious sound bites again and again.
"I would pay for them to keep running that clip, because that's what I believe passionately," Rubio said. "It's one of the reasons why I'm not running for re-election to the Senate, and I'm running for president."
More
Maryland Return Preparer Convicted of Aiding and Assisting in the Preparation of False Tax Returns
Charles Imariagbe was convicted of 15 counts of aiding and assisting in the preparation of false income tax returns after a five day jury trial. According to court documents and testimony at trial, between 2008 and 2012, the defendant operated a tax preparation business called JC Tax Service Inc., in Baltimore. During that time, the defendant prepared false individual income tax returns for at least seven clients for submission to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). These tax returns claimed false and fraudulent income and expenses from Schedule C businesses and grossly inflated or wholly fictitious mileage expenses. The false items on these returns resulted in the clients receiving larger tax refunds than they were entitled to receive.
“Yesterday’s verdict sends a clear message that tax return preparers who knowingly prepare and file false returns will be investigated and prosecuted, and will face substantial incarceration,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Ciraolo. “As we enter the 2016 filing season, U.S. taxpayers are entitled to seek assistance from honest and competent professionals, and the Tax Division is committed to holding these return preparers accountable for their conduct.”
U.S. District Judge Ellen L. Hollander for the District of Maryland set sentencing for May 12. The defendant faces a statutory maximum sentence of three years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000 on each count of conviction.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Ciraolo commended agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who investigated the case and Trial Attorneys Brittney Campbell and Andrew J. Kameros, who prosecuted the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
New Hampshire Primary
Fox News can project that Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders will decisively win the New Hampshire Democratic primary, and Donald Trump will win the Republican primary contest.
The projection is based on Fox News exit polls and early voting returns.
The victories for Trump and Sanders come after the two placed second in last week’s Iowa caucuses.
A fierce battle is underway, however, for second place on the Republican side.
Ohio Gov. John Kasich is currently slightly ahead of Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush. But it is too early to say in what order these four will finish.
More
Ocean City Man Charged With Burglary
The Ocean City Police Department is encouraging citizens with unoccupied homes in Ocean City to sign up for the Residential Security Check program in an effort to keep homes safe and secure. Officers will check on the home periodically to ensure that everything is as the homeowner said it would be. To sign up, visit http://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/police/programs/ or contact the Ocean City Police Department at 410-723-6610.
On January 4, 2016, at approximately 3:10 p.m. Ocean City police responded to a residence on 17th Street in reference to a report of a burglary. The residence was unoccupied for the winter months and the owner had noticed an increase in the homes’ utility bills in recent months. When the owner checked on the home, the owner discovered that an individual, later identified as Howard R. Shaffer, 59, of Ocean City, MD, had been living in the residence.
On February 2, Shaffer was located by the Maryland State Police Fugitive Apprehension Team and arrested by Ocean City police. Shaffer was charged with burglary in the first, third and fourth degree, theft less than $1,000 and malicious destruction of property valued less than $1,000. Shaffer was seen by a Maryland District Court Commissioner and released after posting $15,000 bond.
TRUMP CRITIC: YOU’RE RACIST IF YOU’RE AGAINST WELFARE
Politician calls criticism against welfare "racist"
Jack Dromey, the politician who wanted Donald Trump banned from the UK, now claims you’re “racist” if you’re against welfare.
The British Labour Party politician made the claim when criticizing a spoof leaflet circulating around the UK with the headline: “England: the welfare country,” which blasts the UK’s generous welfare system.
“Birmingham Erdington MP Jack Dromey called on Prime Minister David Cameron to condemn the ‘racist rant,'” RT reported. “Others described the post as reaching an ‘amazing level of vileness.’”
The leaflet, however, does not mention a specific racial or ethnic group at all:
Death penalty opponents launch new protest
So chanted those gathered outside Legislative Hall Monday for the first “Moral Monday” protest.
Holding signs, a dozen protesters positioned themselves at the west entrance steps around noon to voice their opposition to the death penalty and perceived racial injustice in Delaware.
Passers-by entering and exiting the building appeared to take little notice of the chants or signs.
It was the first of what organizers plan to be a series of Monday protests aimed at bringing attention to what they believe are systemic problems in Delaware.
The first small gathering came Monday, with most of the action coming in the first 45 minutes or so of what originally was scheduled to be a two-hour event.
More
Wanted for homicide in Accomack County
 |
| Jahad Arell Triggs |
 | ||
| Tavone Tyrell Cropper |
Tavone Tyrell Cropper, 24, of Pocomoke and Jahad Arell Triggs, 20, of New Church Virgina are wanted in the homicide.
THE AMERICAN DREAM IS DEAD, AND NOW EVEN THE MAINSTREAM MEDIA IS STARTING TO ADMIT IT
A new survey has found that there is nowhere on the entire planet where the average wage earner is making enough money to live “the American Dream”
Are you living “the American Dream”? If so, you should consider yourself to be very fortunate, because most Americans are not.
In fact, as you will see below, a new survey has found that there is nowhere on the entire planet where the average wage earner is making enough money to live “the American Dream”. Once upon a time, the United States had the largest and most prosperous middle class in the history of the world, but now the middle class makes up a minority of the population, 51 percent of all American workers make less than $30,000 a year, and poverty is growing rapidly. The American Dream is essentially dead, and even the mainstream media is starting to figure this out.
Just today, someone sent me a U.S. News & World Report article entitled “Even Americans Can’t Afford the American Dream”. The following is an excerpt from that article…
More
Are you living “the American Dream”? If so, you should consider yourself to be very fortunate, because most Americans are not.
In fact, as you will see below, a new survey has found that there is nowhere on the entire planet where the average wage earner is making enough money to live “the American Dream”. Once upon a time, the United States had the largest and most prosperous middle class in the history of the world, but now the middle class makes up a minority of the population, 51 percent of all American workers make less than $30,000 a year, and poverty is growing rapidly. The American Dream is essentially dead, and even the mainstream media is starting to figure this out.
Just today, someone sent me a U.S. News & World Report article entitled “Even Americans Can’t Afford the American Dream”. The following is an excerpt from that article…
More
PRESSURE GROWS FOR AN AUDIT OF IOWA CAUCUS RESULTS
State party chair's claim on raw vote counts doesn’t add up
The Iowa Democratic Party is rejecting calls for it to perform an audit of caucus results from last week despite the discrepancies that have been reported since it declared that Hillary Clinton narrowly defeated Sen. Bernie Sanders (I., Vt.).
The pressure for an audit grew on Thursday evening when the Des Moines Registereditorial board wrote that the “refusal to undergo scrutiny or allow for an appeal reeks of autocracy” and that the “Iowa Democratic Party must act quickly to assure the accuracy of the caucus results, beyond a shadow of a doubt.”
The final tally announced by the Iowa Democratic Party awarded 700.59 delegates to Clinton and 696.82 to Sanders, but the results coming out of numerous precincts have been called into question.
“Too many accounts have arisen of inconsistent counts, untrained and overwhelmed volunteers, confused voters, cramped precinct locations, a lack of voter registration forms and other problems,” wrote the Des Moines Register. “Too many of us, including members of the Register editorial board who were observing caucuses, saw opportunities for error amid Monday night’s chaos.”
Read more
The Iowa Democratic Party is rejecting calls for it to perform an audit of caucus results from last week despite the discrepancies that have been reported since it declared that Hillary Clinton narrowly defeated Sen. Bernie Sanders (I., Vt.).
The pressure for an audit grew on Thursday evening when the Des Moines Registereditorial board wrote that the “refusal to undergo scrutiny or allow for an appeal reeks of autocracy” and that the “Iowa Democratic Party must act quickly to assure the accuracy of the caucus results, beyond a shadow of a doubt.”
The final tally announced by the Iowa Democratic Party awarded 700.59 delegates to Clinton and 696.82 to Sanders, but the results coming out of numerous precincts have been called into question.
“Too many accounts have arisen of inconsistent counts, untrained and overwhelmed volunteers, confused voters, cramped precinct locations, a lack of voter registration forms and other problems,” wrote the Des Moines Register. “Too many of us, including members of the Register editorial board who were observing caucuses, saw opportunities for error amid Monday night’s chaos.”
Read more
Announcement From Wicomico County Public Schools
This is an updated school safety announcement from Wicomico County Public Schools. Wicomico High School resumed normal operations at 2:10 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 9. School personnel and school system safety staff worked cooperatively with law enforcement after the school received an automated bomb threat message at 12:50 p.m. Students and staff remained safe in place as the school was searched by law enforcement officers and a K-9. Nothing was found. Dismissal will continue as usual. This matter is being handled with the safety of students and staff as our highest priority, and the school system will continue to work with law enforcement on this investigation. Thank you.
Maryland legislators on business issues: The next two weeks are going to be telling
Tax issues and business-related spending alike will be on display in the next dozen days, lawmakers said Monday morning at the Greater Baltimore Committee's annual legislative forum. The forum came as the Hogan administration moved to introduce supplemental budgets to fund priorities like a $700 million Baltimore blight-elimination effort and a Prince George' County hospital. It also came as early deadlines loom for legislators to introduce bills in the General Assembly.
"The next two weeks are really going to be telling — what's coming and what spending and tax reductions you're going to see," said Senate Minority Leader J.B. Jennings, a Republican from Baltimore and Harford counties. "I think you're going to see several hundred bills introduced."
Chief among questions to be answered is what tax changes are in store. Hogan has already backed a number of tax and fee cuts. Tax cuts are likely to spur debate, especially after a commission led by retired Lockheed Martin CEO Norman Augustine that was backed by legislative Democratic leaders came out in January with several recommendations.
More
Hail Falling In Ocean City
Hillary Clinton to New Hampshire Voters: Don’t Worry, You Don’t Need An ID!
Hillary Clinton’s campaign assures people in New Hampshire that they do not need a valid photo ID in order to vote in the state’s Democratic primary.
Clinton promoted on Twitter a page on her website called “What you need to know before the New Hampshire primary.”
“If you have one of these types of photo ID, bring it with you to the polls: A driver’s license from any state; a non-driver’s ID from any state; a U.S. Military ID; U.S. passport; another photo ID containing your name and photograph that the election official determines is acceptable; or a student ID from a valid NH high school or college. All IDs must be current or expired for less than five years,” the campaign said.
“Don’t have any of those? That’s okay, you can still vote by signing a brief, sworn statement.”
More
Clinton promoted on Twitter a page on her website called “What you need to know before the New Hampshire primary.”
“If you have one of these types of photo ID, bring it with you to the polls: A driver’s license from any state; a non-driver’s ID from any state; a U.S. Military ID; U.S. passport; another photo ID containing your name and photograph that the election official determines is acceptable; or a student ID from a valid NH high school or college. All IDs must be current or expired for less than five years,” the campaign said.
“Don’t have any of those? That’s okay, you can still vote by signing a brief, sworn statement.”
More
MD. LEGISLATURE OVERRIDES VETO ON FELON VOTING
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- The Maryland General Assembly on Tuesday overrode Republican Gov. Larry Hogan's veto of a bill with the help of a lawmaker who was allowed to vote twice: once as a member of the House and again as a senator.
The vote happened with the tightest of margins amid debate about whether it was proper for one lawmaker to vote twice.
The vote, which became snagged in some confusion Tuesday before it was finally passed, already had been delayed for weeks because the Senate was one vote short of the three-fifths majority needed to pass it after a vacancy was created by a retiring senator. Hogan appointed Del. Craig Zucker, a Democrat first chosen by Democratic officials, to fill the Senate seat. As a member of the House, Zucker already had voted in favor of overriding the veto.
The Senate voted 29-18 on two similar bills: One includes Zucker's vote as both a member of the Senate and the House, and is the one that makes the veto override official because it had already been approved by the other chamber. The second bill contains Zucker's vote only as a senator. This bill still needs to be approved by the House for the override to be official.
Republicans say the distinction between the two bills matters, because they have questioned the constitutionality of one lawmaker voting twice on the same veto override.
More
The vote happened with the tightest of margins amid debate about whether it was proper for one lawmaker to vote twice.
The vote, which became snagged in some confusion Tuesday before it was finally passed, already had been delayed for weeks because the Senate was one vote short of the three-fifths majority needed to pass it after a vacancy was created by a retiring senator. Hogan appointed Del. Craig Zucker, a Democrat first chosen by Democratic officials, to fill the Senate seat. As a member of the House, Zucker already had voted in favor of overriding the veto.
The Senate voted 29-18 on two similar bills: One includes Zucker's vote as both a member of the Senate and the House, and is the one that makes the veto override official because it had already been approved by the other chamber. The second bill contains Zucker's vote only as a senator. This bill still needs to be approved by the House for the override to be official.
Republicans say the distinction between the two bills matters, because they have questioned the constitutionality of one lawmaker voting twice on the same veto override.
More
Thieves stealing Marylanders' tax returns
All it takes is capturing some of your personal information online, then filing for a refund under your name, and it even happened to someone you might not expect.
Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh said an identity thief used his personal information to collect his federal tax refund.
"If they can steal the identity of the state attorney general, they can steal the identity of everybody and they probably already have," Frosh said. "I felt violated. It didn't cost us any money, thankfully. It may have cost the federal government or the state of Maryland some money if they issued a refund to that person."
More
IF ANYONE’S GOING TO HELL, IT’S MADELEINE ALBRIGHT
As UN ambassador, Albright justified the death of 500,000 children
“There’s a special place in hell for women who don’t help each other… [some] don’t understand the importance of why young women have to support Hillary Clinton,” Albright said during a Clinton campaign event on Saturday.
The remark was another reference to what seems to be the Clinton campaign’s primary platform – ‘vote for Hillary because she has a vagina’.
The irony of Clinton constantly touting her feminist credentials is particularly disgusting given her past role in hiring people to terrorize women who alleged they were raped by Bill Clinton.
More
Troopers Investigate Threat to Lake Forest High School
The incident occurred around 12:55 p.m. when a robotic style phone call was received at the main office of Lake Forest High School located at 5407 Killens Pond Road. The caller stated there was an armed subject on the roof of the high school and threatened to do harm to the students and faculty. Students there, as well as students at the Central Elementary School located directly across the street at 5424 Killens Pond Road, were immediately placed on a low level lock down as troopers and K9 units immediately responded to the high school. An administrative search was conducted by school administrators and state police of the interior and exterior of the buildings with nothing of suspicious nature or persons located. The lockdown was lifted around 1:40 p.m. and students resumed normal school activities.
This incident remains under investigation by the Delaware State Police at this time. It is unknown if this threat is related to the series of bomb threats which have been occurring throughout the state over the past few weeks.
If anyone has any information in reference to any of the bomb threats which have occurred, they are asked to contact Troop 2 Youth Aid Division at 302-834-2620, Troop 3 Youth Aid Division at 302-697-4454, or Troop 4 Youth Aid Division at 302-856-5850. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword "DSP."
SLOW DOWN!!!!! Roads in Salisbury are SLICK
The bypass is nothing but a sheet of ice. They are closing down the southbound lanes starting at the mall.
Accident On The Bypass
THE RAMP ONTO THE BYPASS IS EXTREMELY SLICK USE CAUTION!
The southbound lanes are currently shut down
One-Third of Lawyers Have Drinking Problem
Drinking problems, depression and anxiety are common among American lawyers, a new study finds.
An anonymous survey of more than 12,800 licensed, working lawyers in 19 states revealed that one-third are problem drinkers, 28 percent have depression, and 19 percent have symptoms of anxiety, The New York Times reported.
The study by the American Bar Association and the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation appears in the February issue of the Journal of Addiction Medicine.
More
An anonymous survey of more than 12,800 licensed, working lawyers in 19 states revealed that one-third are problem drinkers, 28 percent have depression, and 19 percent have symptoms of anxiety, The New York Times reported.
The study by the American Bar Association and the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation appears in the February issue of the Journal of Addiction Medicine.
More
WCBOE: Wicomico High School Bomb Threat
What's For Dessert: Cheesecake-Stuffed Strawberries
CHEESECAKE-STUFFED STRAWBERRIES
Makes 16 to 20 strawberries
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
You’ll Need
– 1 pound fresh, ripe strawberries, rinsed and patted dry
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– ¾ cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla
– Optional toppings: graham cracker crumbs, shaved chocolate, finely-chopped nuts
– 1 pound fresh, ripe strawberries, rinsed and patted dry
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– ¾ cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla
– Optional toppings: graham cracker crumbs, shaved chocolate, finely-chopped nuts
How To
- Working with a paring knife, remove the stems from the strawberries. Use the point of the knife to cut around the inside of the strawberry to create room for the filling.
- Cut a small part off the tips of the strawberries to create a flat surface for them to stand upright. Place the strawberries on a sheet pan.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the cream cheese, sugar and vanilla on medium speed for 2 minutes, until fluffy.
- Place the cream cheese mixture in a pastry bag and pipe into each strawberry, adding a little extra to the top.
- Sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs, shaved chocolate or finely chopped nuts, if desired.
- Refrigerate until chilled.
BREAKING NEWS: BOMB THREATS AT STEPHEN DECATUR MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL
UPDATE: Stephen Decatur Middle School has been cleared by law enforcement. Classes are resuming as scheduled.
UPDATE: @SDHSSeahawks @SHHSEagles schools have also been cleared. Classes will resume as scheduled.
Troopers Investigate Seaford Area Attempted Home Invasion
Seaford, DE – Troopers are investigating an attempted home invasion that occurred east of Seaford early Monday evening.
Preliminary investigation reveals the incident occurred at approximately 6:50 p.m. Monday February 8, 2016 as a 32-year-old female victim was in the living room of her residence, located in the 100 block of Loblolly Drive, when she heard a knock at the side door. Upon looking out of the window, she observed two males in all dark clothing with masks covering their faces and one of them asked for a male subject that lives in the home by name. When the female victim informed the two that he was not at the house, one of the suspects attempted to open the door. The victim then fled to a bedroom where she called 9-1-1. As she was on the phone, she could hear the subjects attempt to open the front door and also heard a single gunshot before the two fled the area in an unknown direction. The victim was uninjured in the incident, but was transported to an area hospital where she was treated for an undetermined medical condition and later released.
The two suspects were described as black males, 20-25 years of age, wearing all dark clothing with masks partially covering their faces (No further physical or clothing description available). One or both of them may possibly be armed with an unknown type firearm.
Troopers have determined through preliminary interviews and investigation that this was not a random act, and the residence may have been targeted.
If anyone has any information in reference to this incident, they are asked to contact Troop 5 at 302-337-1090. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword "DSP."
Preliminary investigation reveals the incident occurred at approximately 6:50 p.m. Monday February 8, 2016 as a 32-year-old female victim was in the living room of her residence, located in the 100 block of Loblolly Drive, when she heard a knock at the side door. Upon looking out of the window, she observed two males in all dark clothing with masks covering their faces and one of them asked for a male subject that lives in the home by name. When the female victim informed the two that he was not at the house, one of the suspects attempted to open the door. The victim then fled to a bedroom where she called 9-1-1. As she was on the phone, she could hear the subjects attempt to open the front door and also heard a single gunshot before the two fled the area in an unknown direction. The victim was uninjured in the incident, but was transported to an area hospital where she was treated for an undetermined medical condition and later released.
The two suspects were described as black males, 20-25 years of age, wearing all dark clothing with masks partially covering their faces (No further physical or clothing description available). One or both of them may possibly be armed with an unknown type firearm.
Troopers have determined through preliminary interviews and investigation that this was not a random act, and the residence may have been targeted.
If anyone has any information in reference to this incident, they are asked to contact Troop 5 at 302-337-1090. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword "DSP."
Bill Clinton Accuses Sanders of 'Sexist' Attacks
Former President Bill Clinton accused the campaign of Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders of making sexist attacks against supporters of his wife, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
"When you're making a revolution you can't be too careful with the facts," Clinton said in a speech to supporters Sunday in Milford, New Hampshire, The New York Times reported.
Bill Clinton talked about the race for almost 50 minutes, beginning with kind words for his wife, and steadily grew more and more angry at Sanders and his supporters.
Clinton said Sanders' supporters use misogynistic language to attack his wife and anyone else who supporter her.
One female "progressive" blogger was force to write under a pseudonym because vitriol is so angry, Clinton said.
More
"When you're making a revolution you can't be too careful with the facts," Clinton said in a speech to supporters Sunday in Milford, New Hampshire, The New York Times reported.
Bill Clinton talked about the race for almost 50 minutes, beginning with kind words for his wife, and steadily grew more and more angry at Sanders and his supporters.
Clinton said Sanders' supporters use misogynistic language to attack his wife and anyone else who supporter her.
One female "progressive" blogger was force to write under a pseudonym because vitriol is so angry, Clinton said.
More
Volkswagen May Buy Back, Replace Emissions-Cheating Diesels In U.S.
While owners of Volkswagen’s emission-cheating vehicles in the U.S. continue to wait for news on how the company plans to fix their cars, one lawyer working for the automaker says he’s preparing a generous compensation package for affected consumers.
Reuters, citing German Publikation Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung, reports that Kenneth Feinberg, the same lawyer who recently handled General Motor’s ignition switch compensation plan, is at work putting the finishing touches on VW’s attempt to win back customers.
Feinberg says that the carmaker hasn’t decided yet if it will offer cash, car buybacks, repairs, or replacement cars for the more than 500,000 VW cars equipped with “defeat devices” that allow the vehicle to skirt federal emissions tests.
VW has given Feinberg full authority to set up the compensation fund, which is in addition to the previously announced “goodwill package” that included $1,000 in prepaid cards and credit the carmaker made available to owners.
It’s unclear if Feinberg will allow consumers to submit claims that the vehicle’s high-emission output damaged their health.
“I am inclined to not accept that and tell such people they should sue Volkswagen if they want to,” he said.
More
Reuters, citing German Publikation Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung, reports that Kenneth Feinberg, the same lawyer who recently handled General Motor’s ignition switch compensation plan, is at work putting the finishing touches on VW’s attempt to win back customers.
Feinberg says that the carmaker hasn’t decided yet if it will offer cash, car buybacks, repairs, or replacement cars for the more than 500,000 VW cars equipped with “defeat devices” that allow the vehicle to skirt federal emissions tests.
VW has given Feinberg full authority to set up the compensation fund, which is in addition to the previously announced “goodwill package” that included $1,000 in prepaid cards and credit the carmaker made available to owners.
It’s unclear if Feinberg will allow consumers to submit claims that the vehicle’s high-emission output damaged their health.
“I am inclined to not accept that and tell such people they should sue Volkswagen if they want to,” he said.
More
Breaking News: Bomb Threat At Snow Hill High School
Just in from a viewer...
Hospital Operated On Healthy Baby Due To Infant Mixup, Mom Says
A Tennessee mother said she is shocked and furious after doctors performed unnecessary surgery on her healthy newborn after reportedly mistaking him for another infant.
Jennifer Melton gave birth to her healthy son Nate at University Medical Center in Lebanon, Tennessee, according to CBS affiliate WTVF. Soon after his birth, Melton said, Nate was taken for what she believed was a routine physical exam.
When the nurse returned the infant two hours later, however, Melton realized something had gone terribly wrong.
"At that point the nurse started to mention the procedure that they had done that they had clipped his tongue," Melton told WTVF.
"Essentially they took our child who was healthy from the room and cut his mouth," Melton continued. "At that point I began to cry hysterically."
More
Jennifer Melton gave birth to her healthy son Nate at University Medical Center in Lebanon, Tennessee, according to CBS affiliate WTVF. Soon after his birth, Melton said, Nate was taken for what she believed was a routine physical exam.
When the nurse returned the infant two hours later, however, Melton realized something had gone terribly wrong.
"At that point the nurse started to mention the procedure that they had done that they had clipped his tongue," Melton told WTVF.
"Essentially they took our child who was healthy from the room and cut his mouth," Melton continued. "At that point I began to cry hysterically."
More
Chesapeake Bay’s Health Starting To Improve
Now, as Mike Schuh reports, experts are offering a glimmer of hope.
Too much fertilizer, too few crabs, fish and grasses. Experts worried if the damage could ever be undone—but according to a new report, things are moving in the right direction.
“This year, there are a number of indicators that are moving in a very positive direction. In many cases, it represents a trend that has taken place over a significant period of time,” said Chesapeake Bay Program Director Nick DePasquale.
More
Veteran Shames Truck Thief With Sign On Front Lawn
A 20-year Army veteran in Rowlett, Texas, decided not to just stand by after his truck was stolen by a thief. Instead, he reportedly created a sign to shame the thief.
James Huff, a former Army Sergeant who served three tours of duty overseas, said he painted a sign and placed it on his lawn for all to see, Fox News reports. The 4-by-8-foot plywood sign is meant to shame the thief who stole his vehicle.
“To the worthless dirtbag that took my truck,” the sign reads, according to Fox News. “I gave 20 years of my life serving in 3 armed conflicts to protect YOUR freedom. A freedom you pissed away when you stole what I earned.
"I hope your mother sees this so she knows YOU STOLE FROM A SOLDIER!"
More
“Significant Immigrant Populations from Central America” Fueling Violent Gang MS-13
A major bust involving the nation’s most violent street gang reveals that the criminal enterprise—known as Mara Salvatrucha or MS-13—continues to be energized with new recruits provided by the steady flow of illegal immigrant minors entering the U.S. through Mexico.
The affiliation between gangs and the hordes of Central American illegal immigrants who continue invading the U.S. is a story Judicial Watch has been reporting for more than a year. The Obama administration calls them Unaccompanied Alien Children (UAC) and tries to portray them as innocent, desperate kids fleeing violence and famine in their homeland. The reality is much different, as top Homeland Security sources have told JW in the course of an ongoing investigation into the dangerously porous southern border.
As soon as the UACs started arriving in the summer of 2014, Homeland Security sources told Judicial Watch that many had ties to gang members in the U.S. In fact, JW reported in 2014 that street gangs—including MS-13—went on a recruiting frenzy at U.S. shelters housing the illegal immigrant minors and they were using Red Cross phones to communicate. The MS-13 is a feared street gang of mostly Central American illegal immigrants that has spread throughout the U.S. and is renowned for drug distribution, murder, rape, robbery, home invasions, kidnappings, vandalism and other violent crimes. The Justice Department’s National Gang Intelligence Center (NGIC) says criminal street gangs like the MS-13 are responsible for the majority of violent crimes in the U.S. and are the primary distributors of most illicit drugs.
More here
The affiliation between gangs and the hordes of Central American illegal immigrants who continue invading the U.S. is a story Judicial Watch has been reporting for more than a year. The Obama administration calls them Unaccompanied Alien Children (UAC) and tries to portray them as innocent, desperate kids fleeing violence and famine in their homeland. The reality is much different, as top Homeland Security sources have told JW in the course of an ongoing investigation into the dangerously porous southern border.
As soon as the UACs started arriving in the summer of 2014, Homeland Security sources told Judicial Watch that many had ties to gang members in the U.S. In fact, JW reported in 2014 that street gangs—including MS-13—went on a recruiting frenzy at U.S. shelters housing the illegal immigrant minors and they were using Red Cross phones to communicate. The MS-13 is a feared street gang of mostly Central American illegal immigrants that has spread throughout the U.S. and is renowned for drug distribution, murder, rape, robbery, home invasions, kidnappings, vandalism and other violent crimes. The Justice Department’s National Gang Intelligence Center (NGIC) says criminal street gangs like the MS-13 are responsible for the majority of violent crimes in the U.S. and are the primary distributors of most illicit drugs.
More here
Jimmy Carter: U.S. Campaign Finance System Is 'Legalized Bribery'
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter is pessimistic about the current state of our democracy. Chastising the U.S. Supreme Court’s Citizens United ruling in 2010, Carter says that elections have become “legalized bribery.”
During an appearance on BBC Radio 4’s “Today,” 91-year-old Carter reflected on how campaign finance has changed since he ran for president.
“I didn’t have any money,” Carter said, according to The Guardian. “Now there is a massive infusion of millions of dollars into campaigns for all the candidates. Some candidates like Trump can put in his own money but others have to be able to raise, let's say $100 million to $200 million just to get the Republican or Democratic nomination. That’s the biggest change in America.”
Carter on Citizens United, which lifted caps on how much private interests could spend on election contribution through Super PACs:
The erroneous ruling of the supreme court, where millionaires, billionaires, can put in unlimited amounts of money, give legal bribery the chance to prevail, because all the candidates, whether they are honest or not, or whether they are Democratic or Republican, depend on these massive infusions of money from very rich people in order to have money to campaign.
More
During an appearance on BBC Radio 4’s “Today,” 91-year-old Carter reflected on how campaign finance has changed since he ran for president.
“I didn’t have any money,” Carter said, according to The Guardian. “Now there is a massive infusion of millions of dollars into campaigns for all the candidates. Some candidates like Trump can put in his own money but others have to be able to raise, let's say $100 million to $200 million just to get the Republican or Democratic nomination. That’s the biggest change in America.”
Carter on Citizens United, which lifted caps on how much private interests could spend on election contribution through Super PACs:
The erroneous ruling of the supreme court, where millionaires, billionaires, can put in unlimited amounts of money, give legal bribery the chance to prevail, because all the candidates, whether they are honest or not, or whether they are Democratic or Republican, depend on these massive infusions of money from very rich people in order to have money to campaign.
More
Judge Wants Explanation from State Department on ‘Newly’ Discovered Clinton Records
(Washington, DC) – Judicial Watch announced today that a federal judge ordered the State Department to explain how and when new records from the office of Hillary Clinton were located and why they were not identified previously. The court order comes in a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit seeking records about the State Department vetting of then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s potential conflicts of interest. The explanation was initially due on Monday, but Judge Rudolph Contreras granted the State Department an extension to Friday, February 5, 2015, due to the federal government shutdown because of the recent blizzard (Judicial Watch v. U.S. Department of State (No. 1:15-cv-00688)).
Last month, Judicial Watch learned that the Obama State Department recently found “thousands” of new records from Hillary Clinton’s tenure as Secretary of State. According to information provided to Judicial Watch by various Justice Department attorneys, the new documents appear be “working” records in electronic format located on both “shared” and “individual” drives accessible to or used by persons identified as being relevant to Judicial Watch’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuits on the Benghazi scandal and controversies from Clinton’s term at State. The State Department admitted to Judge Contreras on January 14 that the new records include the files of two of Clinton’s top aides:
The newly identified files that need to be searched in this case consist of office files that were available to employees within the Office of the Secretary during former Secretary Clinton’s tenure as well as individual files belonging to Jake Sullivan and Cheryl Mills.
Judge Contreras responded with a January 15 order that states:
Last month, Judicial Watch learned that the Obama State Department recently found “thousands” of new records from Hillary Clinton’s tenure as Secretary of State. According to information provided to Judicial Watch by various Justice Department attorneys, the new documents appear be “working” records in electronic format located on both “shared” and “individual” drives accessible to or used by persons identified as being relevant to Judicial Watch’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuits on the Benghazi scandal and controversies from Clinton’s term at State. The State Department admitted to Judge Contreras on January 14 that the new records include the files of two of Clinton’s top aides:
The newly identified files that need to be searched in this case consist of office files that were available to employees within the Office of the Secretary during former Secretary Clinton’s tenure as well as individual files belonging to Jake Sullivan and Cheryl Mills.
Judge Contreras responded with a January 15 order that states:
Obama to Propose $10 a Barrel Tax on Oil
The bastards will never give the people a break. The price of oil is falling so the government wants to squeeze some of the benefit for itself.
President Barack Obama will propose a $10 a barrel tax on oil to pay for transportation programs,according to Politico.
The fee could add as much as 25 cents a gallon to the cost of gasoline.
The proposal is due to be included in Obama's final budget request next week.
Maybe the Republican-controlled Congress can act like men and stop this, but no doubt this will result in their own backdoor tax increases.
Source
President Barack Obama will propose a $10 a barrel tax on oil to pay for transportation programs,according to Politico.
The fee could add as much as 25 cents a gallon to the cost of gasoline.
The proposal is due to be included in Obama's final budget request next week.
Maybe the Republican-controlled Congress can act like men and stop this, but no doubt this will result in their own backdoor tax increases.
Source
Hillary's Emails Endangered CIA Operatives In The Field
As one who was responsible for handling classified material during my years at the Department of State I can tell you that this is a very big deal, and if Hillary is not indicted the government security system is torn to shreds. She must be held accountable! That said, politically Hillary may be our best candidate to run against and beat! So hope she is the nominee and an indictment comes in September!
Hillary's Emails Endangered CIA Operatives In The Field
By DICK MORRIS & EILEEN MCGANN
Published on TheHillaryDaily.com on February 3, 2016
Hillary Clinton's use of a private, non-secure email server housed in her Chappaqua basement resulted in the exposure of hundreds of classified documents to foreign hackers. Some of her emails contained highly classified information that endangered the lives of our spies.
According to the State Department Inspector General, 22 of Hillary's emails totaling 38 pages included materials marked "HCS-O," the most sensitive category reserved for information about clandestine CIA operatives in ongoing operations. These emails were so sensitive that they could not be released -- even with the entire message redacted.
According to John Schindler, an intelligence analyst writing for The Observer,, "these classified emails could jeopardize "sources, methods, and lives...and exposed the Holy Grail items of American espionage such as the true names of Central Intelligence Agency intelligence officers serving overseas under cover," Schindler added :"Worse, some of those exposed are serving under non-official cover."
Schindler has confirmed the content of the emails and labeled them as "colossally damaging to our national security [that[has put lives at risk," According to Schindler's sources, the names of foreigners on the CIA payroll were also included, jeopardizing their cover -- and their lives -- if the material was hacked.
On her home-brewed server, the documents were unprotected and easily vulnerable to hackers. According to former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, Hillary's emails were probably hacked by China, Russia, and Iran.
Hillary's response to this shocking disclosure by the Inspector General is vintage Clinton: there's no problem because she "never sent or received any emails marked "classified." To her, that's the end of the discussion. All the attention to her emails and her private server by the FBI and by U.S. intelligence agencies is either unnecessary bureaucratic in-fighting or the right wing conspiracy trying to derail her candidacy. Nothing is her fault.
Hillary's Emails Endangered CIA Operatives In The Field
By DICK MORRIS & EILEEN MCGANN
Published on TheHillaryDaily.com on February 3, 2016
Hillary Clinton's use of a private, non-secure email server housed in her Chappaqua basement resulted in the exposure of hundreds of classified documents to foreign hackers. Some of her emails contained highly classified information that endangered the lives of our spies.
According to the State Department Inspector General, 22 of Hillary's emails totaling 38 pages included materials marked "HCS-O," the most sensitive category reserved for information about clandestine CIA operatives in ongoing operations. These emails were so sensitive that they could not be released -- even with the entire message redacted.
According to John Schindler, an intelligence analyst writing for The Observer,, "these classified emails could jeopardize "sources, methods, and lives...and exposed the Holy Grail items of American espionage such as the true names of Central Intelligence Agency intelligence officers serving overseas under cover," Schindler added :"Worse, some of those exposed are serving under non-official cover."
Schindler has confirmed the content of the emails and labeled them as "colossally damaging to our national security [that[has put lives at risk," According to Schindler's sources, the names of foreigners on the CIA payroll were also included, jeopardizing their cover -- and their lives -- if the material was hacked.
On her home-brewed server, the documents were unprotected and easily vulnerable to hackers. According to former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, Hillary's emails were probably hacked by China, Russia, and Iran.
Hillary's response to this shocking disclosure by the Inspector General is vintage Clinton: there's no problem because she "never sent or received any emails marked "classified." To her, that's the end of the discussion. All the attention to her emails and her private server by the FBI and by U.S. intelligence agencies is either unnecessary bureaucratic in-fighting or the right wing conspiracy trying to derail her candidacy. Nothing is her fault.
Somerset County Sheriff's Office Press Release 2-9-16
Paul Alfred Les Callett of Westover, arrested 1-24-16 for driving under the influence of alcohol, driving while impaired by alcohol, negligent driving and failure to drive right of center. Les Callett was later released on citations pending court actions. The arrest was the result of a traffic accident investigation in the area of Old Westover Marion Rd.
Kyle Robert Mills of Princess Anne, arrested 1-25-16 for driving on a suspended driver’s license, violating license restrictions, and underage possession of alcohol. Mills was later released on citations pending court actions. The arrest was the result of a traffic stop in the area of Mt. Vernon Rd, where Deputies observed open cases of beer within the vehicle.
Santonio Sanchez Daniels Sr. of Cambridge, arrested 1-25-16 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Daniels was later held on a $500.00 bond.
Katrice Denise Sanders of Princess Anne, arrested 1-26-16 on a warrant for telephone misuse. Sanders was later released on personal recognizance.
Jadeen Sherlock Wallop of Princess Anne, arrested 1-30-16 for possessing a concealed dangerous weapon, and possessing an altered weapon. Wallop was later held on a $30,000 bond. Deputies responded to a call of a subject pointing a handgun at a residence in the area of Beachwood St, Princess Anne. Deputies later found Wallop carrying a backpack containing a sawed off loaded 12 gauge shotgun.
Jonelle Dominique Handy of Princess Anne, arrested 1-30-16 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Handy was later released on bond.
Erica Ann Uff of Marion Station, criminal summons served 2-5-16 for theft less than $1,000. Uff was later released on signature pending court actions.
Eladio Mendez Diaz of Salisbury, arrested 2-5-16 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Diaz was later held on a $500.00 bond.
Christopher Andre Parker, Vaughn Brandon Handon, and Javel Alden Longman all UMES students, arrested 2-6-16 for cds possession not marijuana, cds possession with the intent to deliver, possession of marijuana, and prescription removal of label. All three subjects were later released on a $30,000 unsecured bond. The arrests were the result of a traffic stop conducted by Deputies in the area of Somerset Ave, and Queens Grant Drive, Princess Anne.
Andre Lamar Schoolfield of Princess Anne, arrested 2-8-16 on five warrants charging him with multiple counts of 1st, 2nd, 3rd, degree assault, possession of a dangerous weapon, and concealing a dangerous weapon. Schoolfield was later released to The Department Of Corrections on an unrelated case.
Rekesha Marie Austin of Princess Anne, arrested 2-8-16 on a warrant for 2nd degree escape. Austin was later held without bond.
Kyle Robert Mills of Princess Anne, arrested 1-25-16 for driving on a suspended driver’s license, violating license restrictions, and underage possession of alcohol. Mills was later released on citations pending court actions. The arrest was the result of a traffic stop in the area of Mt. Vernon Rd, where Deputies observed open cases of beer within the vehicle.
Santonio Sanchez Daniels Sr. of Cambridge, arrested 1-25-16 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Daniels was later held on a $500.00 bond.
Katrice Denise Sanders of Princess Anne, arrested 1-26-16 on a warrant for telephone misuse. Sanders was later released on personal recognizance.
Jadeen Sherlock Wallop of Princess Anne, arrested 1-30-16 for possessing a concealed dangerous weapon, and possessing an altered weapon. Wallop was later held on a $30,000 bond. Deputies responded to a call of a subject pointing a handgun at a residence in the area of Beachwood St, Princess Anne. Deputies later found Wallop carrying a backpack containing a sawed off loaded 12 gauge shotgun.
Jonelle Dominique Handy of Princess Anne, arrested 1-30-16 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Handy was later released on bond.
Erica Ann Uff of Marion Station, criminal summons served 2-5-16 for theft less than $1,000. Uff was later released on signature pending court actions.
Eladio Mendez Diaz of Salisbury, arrested 2-5-16 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Diaz was later held on a $500.00 bond.
Christopher Andre Parker, Vaughn Brandon Handon, and Javel Alden Longman all UMES students, arrested 2-6-16 for cds possession not marijuana, cds possession with the intent to deliver, possession of marijuana, and prescription removal of label. All three subjects were later released on a $30,000 unsecured bond. The arrests were the result of a traffic stop conducted by Deputies in the area of Somerset Ave, and Queens Grant Drive, Princess Anne.
Andre Lamar Schoolfield of Princess Anne, arrested 2-8-16 on five warrants charging him with multiple counts of 1st, 2nd, 3rd, degree assault, possession of a dangerous weapon, and concealing a dangerous weapon. Schoolfield was later released to The Department Of Corrections on an unrelated case.
Rekesha Marie Austin of Princess Anne, arrested 2-8-16 on a warrant for 2nd degree escape. Austin was later held without bond.
West Virginia House Approves Permitless Concealed Gun Bill
Currently, it's legal in West Virginia to carry a gun without a permit openly, like in a holster.
This bill would let people cover up guns in public without a permit; for instance, under a coat.
People ages 18 through 20 would still need a permit and training under the proposal.
The bill also increases penalties for felonies committed with a gun.
More
Bernie Sanders and the Fraud of Democratic Socialism
With his recent strong showing in the Iowa caucus, Senator Bernie Sanders now deserves to have his policy ideas examined seriously by admirers and critics alike.
Sanders has policy positions on dozens of important issues but two stand out: One, Sanders is a self-described “democratic socialist” and two, he has argued repeatedly that the rich don’t pay their fair share of taxes. Presumably, in a Sanders Administration, there would be more “socialism” and higher taxes on the “rich”.
What is democratic socialism? From my training in economics, socialists believe that free-market capitalism is a failed system and that it should be replaced by government ownership of the means of production. This means that all important decisions concerning the production of output and the direction of investment should be made by the State. The “democracy” part of the definition implies that democratic institutions such as a constitution and elections would be preserved.
Does Bernie Sanders really believe that democratic socialism makes sense? Probably not, for a number of reasons. First, many economists accept that socialism fails in both theory and practice; it is not a coherent economic system. It fails in theory because if all of the “means of production” are nationalized, there would be no intelligent way for government planners to decide which factor combinations are the cheapest or which outputs and investments would tend to maximize consumer welfare. The economy would literally be at sea without a rudder.
To see why this is so, we must understand that under free-market capitalism, prices and profit incentives guide resources into uses that consumers prefer relative to alternatives. But in socialism, where the crucial factors of production (such as capital and land) are owned by the State, there are no meaningful price signals or profit and loss incentives to ensure that scarce resources are used efficiently and not wasted. And this so-called economic calculation problem is not made any easier by arguing that the government would be “democratic” or that it’s intentions are to help the poor.
More
Sanders has policy positions on dozens of important issues but two stand out: One, Sanders is a self-described “democratic socialist” and two, he has argued repeatedly that the rich don’t pay their fair share of taxes. Presumably, in a Sanders Administration, there would be more “socialism” and higher taxes on the “rich”.
What is democratic socialism? From my training in economics, socialists believe that free-market capitalism is a failed system and that it should be replaced by government ownership of the means of production. This means that all important decisions concerning the production of output and the direction of investment should be made by the State. The “democracy” part of the definition implies that democratic institutions such as a constitution and elections would be preserved.
Does Bernie Sanders really believe that democratic socialism makes sense? Probably not, for a number of reasons. First, many economists accept that socialism fails in both theory and practice; it is not a coherent economic system. It fails in theory because if all of the “means of production” are nationalized, there would be no intelligent way for government planners to decide which factor combinations are the cheapest or which outputs and investments would tend to maximize consumer welfare. The economy would literally be at sea without a rudder.
To see why this is so, we must understand that under free-market capitalism, prices and profit incentives guide resources into uses that consumers prefer relative to alternatives. But in socialism, where the crucial factors of production (such as capital and land) are owned by the State, there are no meaningful price signals or profit and loss incentives to ensure that scarce resources are used efficiently and not wasted. And this so-called economic calculation problem is not made any easier by arguing that the government would be “democratic” or that it’s intentions are to help the poor.
More
Roaming Dog
There is a black/brown lab mix running around the Cannon Drive/Bennett Road area.
It has been around here for at least 2 days. It will not come to anyone. It has been fed and stayed in a neighbor’s pen last night but he could not catch him.
Could you please share this on your site?
This Is Where Donald Trump Played By The Rules And Learned To Beat The Game
When Rules Were Meant To Be Broken
Before military school, Trump was famous for breaking the rules. Long before buildings would be named after him, schoolmates used the Trump name as shorthand for getting into trouble.
"We used to refer to our detention as a 'DT' — a 'Donny Trump' — because he got more of them than most other people in the class," said Paul Onish, one of Trump's grade school classmates.
Onish calls Trump one of his best friends at the Kew-Forest School in Forest Hills, Queens. Trump attended the school through seventh grade, and the two of them got into trouble together constantly — talking out of turn during class, passing notes and throwing spitballs. Onish remembers a few stunts on the soccer field, too.
"There was even a couple of incidences during half-time when we would eat whole oranges without peeling them in front of the competition to show them how tough we really were," Onish said.
More
Obama Ignores the Jobs Number that Really Matters
Perhaps the economy has been good as Barack Obama claims, but is it resilient? On Friday, the chief executive used the Bureau of Labor Statistics' January Jobs Report to boast about his prowess of managing the U.S. economy. America has “the strongest, most durable economy in the world,” Obama said. As proof, he pointed to the jobs report, which said the unemployment rate dipped to 4.9% — the lowest it has ever been in eight years — and the fact that the hourly wage increased 12 cents. Obama also pointed to more people buying health insurance and cheap oil prices as evidence that his economy was working. First, Obama cannot force people to buy health insurance then say it’s a sign that his economy works. And as for cheap oil, Obama used his weekly address the next day to rail against “dirty fuels” and to push for greater government investment into green fuels — funded by a $10-a-barrel tax on the struggling oil industry. Meanwhile, the U-6 unemployment rate — a better measure of labor underutilization — skims along at 9.9%, and the labor force participation rate stands at a near-record low of 62.7%. Economists are now saying the economy is due for another recession, and we doubt the Obama administration’s boast of eight years of job growth will prepare the nation for a downturn.
Source
Source
New England Lawyers Mobilize to Ensure Fair Vote
With 20 minutes left before the voting closed in the 2012 New Hampshire primary, the fire alarms at the Hanover polling site went off, forcing the crowd still waiting to cast their ballots to exit the building.
Manchester, New Hampshire, lawyer Andru Volinsky obtained an extension in the polling hours to make up for lost time from a judge who was on call for just such an emergency. Volinksy, one of dozens of lawyers on hand on primary day that year, and the judge were part of an effort to make sure the voting went smoothly, the attorney said.
Volinksy, who serves as Sen. Bernie Sanders' state legal counsel, said he thinks fire alarms will stay quiet throughout the Granite State this year.
"There's a kind of chippiness that happens around primary day, and there may be individuals who try to take things into their own hands," he said. "That's exactly what we're looking for."
This primary day, dozens of attorneys and law students from across New England, including at least five from Vermont, again will observe the polls.
Their goal: to ensure that everyone who is qualified to vote gets to vote. Lawyers recruited as observers are non-partisan. An estimate of the number of lawyers and law students was not immediately available.
The Clinton camp has recruited attorneys and students for the same purpose, said Paul Twomey. He serves as Clinton's state legal counsel, and was President Obama's New Hampshire state legal counsel in 2008 and 2012.
More
Manchester, New Hampshire, lawyer Andru Volinsky obtained an extension in the polling hours to make up for lost time from a judge who was on call for just such an emergency. Volinksy, one of dozens of lawyers on hand on primary day that year, and the judge were part of an effort to make sure the voting went smoothly, the attorney said.
Volinksy, who serves as Sen. Bernie Sanders' state legal counsel, said he thinks fire alarms will stay quiet throughout the Granite State this year.
"There's a kind of chippiness that happens around primary day, and there may be individuals who try to take things into their own hands," he said. "That's exactly what we're looking for."
This primary day, dozens of attorneys and law students from across New England, including at least five from Vermont, again will observe the polls.
Their goal: to ensure that everyone who is qualified to vote gets to vote. Lawyers recruited as observers are non-partisan. An estimate of the number of lawyers and law students was not immediately available.
The Clinton camp has recruited attorneys and students for the same purpose, said Paul Twomey. He serves as Clinton's state legal counsel, and was President Obama's New Hampshire state legal counsel in 2008 and 2012.
More
Public School Kisses Goodbye to Valentine's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas to be Culturally Sensitive
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — A Minnesota elementary school has kissed Valentine's Day goodbye. Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas, too.
Bruce Vento Elementary in St. Paul is joining other public schools in opting out of holiday celebrations as school officials strive to be more culturally sensitive and inclusive. The school has a predominantly Asian and black student body, and English is a second language for more than half of its pupils, who come from a range of faith backgrounds.
In a letter to parents last week, Principal Scott Masini said his rationale was to avoid "encroaching on the educational opportunities of others and threatening a culture of tolerance and respect for all." He acknowledged it would be an unpopular decision for some.
"I have come to the difficult decision to discontinue the celebration of the dominant holidays until we can come to a better understanding of how the dominant view will suppress someone else's view," he said.
More
Bruce Vento Elementary in St. Paul is joining other public schools in opting out of holiday celebrations as school officials strive to be more culturally sensitive and inclusive. The school has a predominantly Asian and black student body, and English is a second language for more than half of its pupils, who come from a range of faith backgrounds.
In a letter to parents last week, Principal Scott Masini said his rationale was to avoid "encroaching on the educational opportunities of others and threatening a culture of tolerance and respect for all." He acknowledged it would be an unpopular decision for some.
"I have come to the difficult decision to discontinue the celebration of the dominant holidays until we can come to a better understanding of how the dominant view will suppress someone else's view," he said.
More
Prosecution Seeking Halt In Trials Of Three Officers Who Arrested Freddie Gray
Prosecutors filed the motions Friday in the cases of Lt. Brian Rice and officers Edward Nero and Garrett Miller in Baltimore Circuit Court.
In all three motions, the prosecution argues that Judge Barry Williams did not have the authority to review, "the State's Attorney's vested exercise of lawful discretion in determining that Officer (William) Porter's testimony may be necessary to the public interest in the prosecution of the defendant."
More
Clueless college kids can’t name any freedoms in First Amendment
I don’t know what happened to college, but this generation of students are especially stupid. A group has surveyed students and reports that most college students can’t name a single freedom listed in the First Amendment that we live by every day. This is frightening and I hope the students surveyed are art students.
“[Students] cannot identify the term lengths of members of Congress, the substance of the First Amendment, or the origin of the separation of powers,” says the report by the ACTA.
Perhaps the most shocking: One third of college students couldn’t name a single First Amendment right and 43 percent couldn’t name the Freedom of Speech as one of those rights, CampusReform is reporting.
The report – called “abysmal” by the authors, found only 20 percent identified James Madison as the Father of our Constitution, 40 percent didn’t realize Congress was the body authorized to declare war and almost ten percent thought Judge Judy was on the Supreme Court.
Universities’ failure to teach a proper civics education is to blame.
More
“[Students] cannot identify the term lengths of members of Congress, the substance of the First Amendment, or the origin of the separation of powers,” says the report by the ACTA.
Perhaps the most shocking: One third of college students couldn’t name a single First Amendment right and 43 percent couldn’t name the Freedom of Speech as one of those rights, CampusReform is reporting.
The report – called “abysmal” by the authors, found only 20 percent identified James Madison as the Father of our Constitution, 40 percent didn’t realize Congress was the body authorized to declare war and almost ten percent thought Judge Judy was on the Supreme Court.
Universities’ failure to teach a proper civics education is to blame.
More
'God Bless America' Signs Fly After Atheist Group Targets Banner
Freedom from Religion Foundation cried foul after the group noticed a “God Bless America” banner that employees at a post office in Pittsburg, Kan., had erected after Sept. 11, 2001. A lawsuit filed by FFRF on behalf of a Pittsburg resident forced the banner down in late January, The Christian Post reported.
But the sign’s removal after nearly 15 years of display had an unintended effect.
More here