DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Wednesday, March 01, 2017
Soros-Financed Groups Provided Script for Anti-Trump Town Halls
An organization partnered with far-left groups that calls itself the Revolutionary Love Project distributed an actual script with anti-Trump talking points for citizens to use when meeting with constituents in town halls, including during last week’s Congressional recess.
The script provides word-for-word language suggestions that accuse the Trump administration of “xenophobia, racism, and Islamophobia.” It asks activists to use the descriptors to petition their representatives to “forcefully condemn” and support legislation opposing President Trump’s immigration and border security agendas.
The script is entitled, “#NoBanNoWallNoRaids Talking Points for Congressional Townhalls.”
It ends with contact information for activists from two groups heavily financed by billionaire George Soros – Avideh Moussavian at the National Immigration Law Center and Deepa Iyer at the Center for Social Inclusion.
More here
The script provides word-for-word language suggestions that accuse the Trump administration of “xenophobia, racism, and Islamophobia.” It asks activists to use the descriptors to petition their representatives to “forcefully condemn” and support legislation opposing President Trump’s immigration and border security agendas.
The script is entitled, “#NoBanNoWallNoRaids Talking Points for Congressional Townhalls.”
It ends with contact information for activists from two groups heavily financed by billionaire George Soros – Avideh Moussavian at the National Immigration Law Center and Deepa Iyer at the Center for Social Inclusion.
More here
Rodents eating away at car wiring, costing consumers
The 11 News I-Team uncovers the furry culprit -- and the stand some consumers are taking against a car maker.
June Wotring has owned many Toyotas. She found them reliable, so it surprised her when the Highlander she has had for little more than a year started acting up.
"The track light and the engine light came on, and it was real sluggish," Wotring said.
Wotring took her SUV to the dealership, where the service department told her what the culprit was.
"They said a rodent had chewed the wires, and they showed me in the engine where they chewed it, and you could see the rodent feces," Wotring said.
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U.S. Gave Soros Groups Millions to Destabilize Macedonia’s Conservative Govt.
The U.S. government has quietly spent millions of taxpayer dollars to destabilize the democratically elected, center-right government in Macedonia by colluding with leftwing billionaire philanthropist George Soros, records obtained by Judicial Watch show.
Barack Obama’s U.S. Ambassador to Macedonia, Jess L. Baily, has worked behind the scenes with Soros’ Open Society Foundation to funnel large sums of American dollars for the cause, constituting an interference of the U.S. Ambassador in domestic political affairs in violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
The cash flows through the State Department and the famously corrupt U.S. Agency of International Development (USAID), which is charged with providing global economic, development and humanitarian assistance. USAID has allocated about $5 million to leftwing Soros groups in Macedonia since 2012, documents show, and at least $9.5 million has been earmarked by the agency to intervene in the Balkan nation’s governmental affairs for 2016-2011.
State Department figures have been tougher to come by and Judicial Watch has filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request for the numbers. Judicial Watch also fired off a public records request to USAID because the preliminary figures, obtained through various sources in both the U.S. and Macedonia, appear to be incomplete.
Here’s how the clandestine operation functions
Barack Obama’s U.S. Ambassador to Macedonia, Jess L. Baily, has worked behind the scenes with Soros’ Open Society Foundation to funnel large sums of American dollars for the cause, constituting an interference of the U.S. Ambassador in domestic political affairs in violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
The cash flows through the State Department and the famously corrupt U.S. Agency of International Development (USAID), which is charged with providing global economic, development and humanitarian assistance. USAID has allocated about $5 million to leftwing Soros groups in Macedonia since 2012, documents show, and at least $9.5 million has been earmarked by the agency to intervene in the Balkan nation’s governmental affairs for 2016-2011.
State Department figures have been tougher to come by and Judicial Watch has filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request for the numbers. Judicial Watch also fired off a public records request to USAID because the preliminary figures, obtained through various sources in both the U.S. and Macedonia, appear to be incomplete.
Here’s how the clandestine operation functions
Photo depicts veteran lying on ground while waiting at VA
DURHAM, N.C. - A couple posted photos on Facebook and said veterans waited for hours in pain inside the Durham VA Medical Center.
Stephen McMenamin, a former U.S. Marine, was there for treatment, and his wife took the pictures.
“My wife found it upsetting, so she took a couple pictures,” he said.
He said a veteran on the ground was using his bag of medication for a pillow after being denied an available reclining chair.
"The nurse started yelling at him, telling him he can't do that. He's like, 'I can't get up and I won't get up. I will be here until you can see me. Can I please have a blanket?’" McMenamin said.
That Facebook post was shared more than 80,000 times.
McMenamin said they started hearing from other veterans and their families.
"All these people, and it was, you know, it's been kind of heartbreaking," he said.
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Trump Effect? Poll Shows CNN Brand Plummeting
CNN’s brand has continued to struggle.
CNN, which President Trump has referred to as the “Clinton News Network,” now trails both MSNBC and Fox News in brand perception, according to findings from YouGov. Both MSNBC and CNN have fallen far behind Fox News in recent months.
Respondents were asked, “If you’ve heard anything about the brand in the last two weeks, through advertising, news or word of mouth, was it positive or negative?”
Of the three cable networks, only Fox News scored a neutral brand perception. Both CNN and MSNBC were well in the negatives.
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CNN, which President Trump has referred to as the “Clinton News Network,” now trails both MSNBC and Fox News in brand perception, according to findings from YouGov. Both MSNBC and CNN have fallen far behind Fox News in recent months.
Respondents were asked, “If you’ve heard anything about the brand in the last two weeks, through advertising, news or word of mouth, was it positive or negative?”
Of the three cable networks, only Fox News scored a neutral brand perception. Both CNN and MSNBC were well in the negatives.
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Most Say Democrats Hurt Themselves With Anti-Trump Strategy
Most voters agree that it’s bad for America and bad for the Democratic Party if Democrats continue to flat out oppose everything President Trump does. Even Democrats are conflicted about their party’s scorched earth policy.
The latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone and online survey finds that only 29% of all Likely U.S. Voters think it’s better for the country if Democrats oppose the president in every way possible. Sixty-three percent (63%) say it’s better for the country if Democrats try to work with the president instead. (To see survey question wording, click here.)
The findings are identical when voters are asked about the impact of the Democrats’ reported strategy on the fortunes of their own party. Just 29% say it’s better for the Democratic Party if Democrats oppose the president in every way possible. Sixty-three percent (63%) disagree and think it’s better for the party if Democrats try to work with Trump.
More here
The latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone and online survey finds that only 29% of all Likely U.S. Voters think it’s better for the country if Democrats oppose the president in every way possible. Sixty-three percent (63%) say it’s better for the country if Democrats try to work with the president instead. (To see survey question wording, click here.)
The findings are identical when voters are asked about the impact of the Democrats’ reported strategy on the fortunes of their own party. Just 29% say it’s better for the Democratic Party if Democrats oppose the president in every way possible. Sixty-three percent (63%) disagree and think it’s better for the party if Democrats try to work with Trump.
More here
Maryland Zoo adopts pair of orphaned grizzly bear cubs
Two female grizzly bears, orphaned youngsters from the wilderness of Montana, have moved in. They are the first grizzlies ever to live at the Baltimore zoo.
It wasn't an easy transition. They were found tiny and crying in an apple orchard in August, just months after emerging from the den with their mother. She was found shot and had to be euthanized.
By the time Baltimore zookeepers were ready to pick the sisters up, heavy snow and frigid temperatures made for a treacherous journey to their new home.
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Maxine Waters Goes Off on MSNBC Host For Talking To Someone Other Than Her
Rep. Maxine Waters (D., Calif.) snapped at MSNBC's Katy Tur on Tuesday after she thought Tur was talking to her, when she was addressing a question to Rep. Eliot Engel (D., N.Y.).
Before addressing Engel, Tur played a montage of all the times he had shaken hands with past presidents.
"And Congressman, we're just, in case you can't see, showing a video of you standing on the aisle and shaking number of presidents' hands over the years," Tur said.
Tur addressed Engel to avoid confusion in the two-person interview.
"Both Republicans and Democrats," Tur said, pointing out who Engel shook hands with. "So my final question to you, Congressman Engel–"
Waters snapped.
Before addressing Engel, Tur played a montage of all the times he had shaken hands with past presidents.
"And Congressman, we're just, in case you can't see, showing a video of you standing on the aisle and shaking number of presidents' hands over the years," Tur said.
Tur addressed Engel to avoid confusion in the two-person interview.
"Both Republicans and Democrats," Tur said, pointing out who Engel shook hands with. "So my final question to you, Congressman Engel–"
Waters snapped.
BEC STRESSES URGENT NEED TO FIX CITY SCHOOLS’ $130 MILLION GAP TO MAYOR PUGH AND GOVERNOR HOGAN
Baltimore, MD-Last Thursday, the Baltimore Education Coalition (BEC) rallied over 2,000 parents, students, teachers, and community leaders from Baltimore City to call upon Mayor Pugh, Governor Hogan, and the General Assembly to fix City Schools’ $130 million budget deficit. The BEC also stressed the need for a multi-year funding plan, as expenditures will continue to outpace projected state and city revenue before an improved state education formula is adopted.
As she promised at the rally, Mayor Pugh did announce that she will work with the Governor on a multi-year plan to increase funding to the city school system. However, she did not provide details. School principals began to submit their budgets to City Schools’ headquarters on Monday. While the BEC is encouraged that the Governor and Mayor are collaborating on a funding plan, we are concerned that the plan will fall short of the need, and that it will not be enacted in time to prevent devastating cuts at the school level. As such, the BEC urges the development of a comprehensive funding plan THIS WEEK to fix the $130 million gap.
Keiffer Mitchell, the Governor’s Special Advisor and former City delegate told WBAL Radio, “The Governor wants to help. He’s in conversation with the Mayor.”
WASHINGTON POST: FAKE-NEWS PARTNER WITH THE CIA
The truth is irrelevant
Let’s frame the situation in simple terms. You work for a company that has a very lucrative partnership with a big-time money man. That money man gives you a piece of information and tells you it’s important.
What you do every day is spread information. That’s how you earn your living.
Are you going to take that piece of info from the money man and spread it, or are you going to question it and research it and shoot back hard-edged questions to the money man?
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Let’s frame the situation in simple terms. You work for a company that has a very lucrative partnership with a big-time money man. That money man gives you a piece of information and tells you it’s important.
What you do every day is spread information. That’s how you earn your living.
Are you going to take that piece of info from the money man and spread it, or are you going to question it and research it and shoot back hard-edged questions to the money man?
More
EASTERN SHORE COUNTIES PARTNER TO OFFER NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SKYWARN WEATHER SPOTTER TRAINING
Participants will learn the basics of thunderstorm development, fundamentals of storm structure, how to identify potential severe weather, collect information to report along with how to report that information, and basic severe weather safety.
The effects of severe weather are felt every year by many Americans. To obtain critical weather information, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Weather Service (NWS), part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, established SKYWARN with partner organizations. SKYWARN is a volunteer program with nearly 290,000 trained severe weather spotters. These volunteers help keep their local communities safe by providing timely and accurate information.
The deadline to register is March 31. To register for this training, visit http://www.weather.gov/akq/SKYWARN. If you have any questions or need help registering, contact Donna Smith at dmsmith@wicomicocounty.org or 410-548-4820.
ISLAM SET TO OVERTAKE CHRISTIANITY AS MOST POPULAR RELIGION
With 1.6 billion, Muslims made up 23 percent of the world’s population
Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world and will overtake Christianity as the most popular before the end of this century, according to an analysis of religious surveys published Tuesday by the Pew Research Center.
With 1.6 billion, Muslims made up 23 percent of the world’s population, according to a 2010 Pew estimate. That figure was still some way short of the 2.2 billion Christians which comprised 31 percent of the population.
However, by 2050 there could be near parity between the numbers of adherents of the two religions for the first time in history. The reasons for this rapid growth are thought to be the greater number of children Muslims have compared to other religious groups and the comparatively young age of Muslims.
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Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world and will overtake Christianity as the most popular before the end of this century, according to an analysis of religious surveys published Tuesday by the Pew Research Center.
With 1.6 billion, Muslims made up 23 percent of the world’s population, according to a 2010 Pew estimate. That figure was still some way short of the 2.2 billion Christians which comprised 31 percent of the population.
However, by 2050 there could be near parity between the numbers of adherents of the two religions for the first time in history. The reasons for this rapid growth are thought to be the greater number of children Muslims have compared to other religious groups and the comparatively young age of Muslims.
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NOI 3/1/17 Wicomico Business Fire Nanticoke Road
NOTICE OF INVESTIGATION
Date: March 1, 2017
Time: 11:10 a.m.
Location / Address: 1100 Nanticoke Road, Salisbury, Wicomico Co.
Type of Incident: Fire
Description of Structure / Property: One story wood frame business
Owner / Occupants: Mitch Wyatt / Red Oak Laundromat
Injuries or Deaths: None
Estimated $ Loss: Structure: $1,000 Contents: $0
Smoke Alarm Status: n/a
Fire Alarm / Sprinkler Status: None
Arrests(s): None
Primary Responding Fire Department: Salisbury Station 16
# of Alarms: 1 # Of Firefighters: 20
Time to Control: 20 minutes
Discovered By: Customer
Area of Origin: Ceiling
Preliminary Cause: Accidental, electrical short in wiring for light
Additional Information:
Former NAACP president Ben Jealous weighs run for Maryland governor
Jealous said Tuesday that he is in the early stages of contemplating a Democratic challenge to popular Republican Gov. Larry Hogan, and that he has been recruited since the summer to enter the 2018 election.
Republican President Donald J. Trump's election in November prompted Jealous to take the urging more seriously, he said, though he has yet to hire a staff.
"I love our state, and we are living through a historic moment that calls on each of us to ask what more we can do," Jealous said in an interview. "I would never do it unless there was a clear path" to victory.
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FOCUS GROUP: Trump exceeds expectations during joint address before Congress
President Donald Trump exceeded expectations during his Tuesday night address before a joint-session of Congress, a focus group said.
Pollster Frank Luntz asked his 21-member focus group how the president performed during his lengthy speech.
Nineteen of the 21 individuals told Luntz that the speech was "better than expected." Luntz said that nine of those individuals were Clinton voters.
"OK, so he did well," Luntz said upon getting the results.
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Pollster Frank Luntz asked his 21-member focus group how the president performed during his lengthy speech.
Nineteen of the 21 individuals told Luntz that the speech was "better than expected." Luntz said that nine of those individuals were Clinton voters.
"OK, so he did well," Luntz said upon getting the results.
More
Fireworks, Explore Festival Events Returning To Berlin
BERLIN – Town officials approved plans for a handful of special events at Burley Oak Brewing Company in spite of concerns regarding permitting issues at the business.
The Berlin Town Council approved the brewery’s plans for three Explore Berlin Festival dates as well as the July 3 fireworks as long as Burley Oak addressed permitting issues identified by the town’s planning and zoning department. According to town staff, Burley Oak employees were doing work without a permit Monday.
“A permitting issue is something that needs to be squared away so nobody can say we’re playing favorites,” Berlin Mayor Gee Williams said.
Bryan Brushmiller, owner of Burley Oak, approached the council Monday seeking approval for festival dates on April 22, May 13 and June 10 as well as permission to host festivities during Berlin’s July 3 fireworks display. Brushmiller said the Explore Berlin Festival was the same event the brewery had hosted in the past. On each of the festival dates, April 22, May 13 and June 10, he said he wanted to cordon off his parking lot from noon to 8 p.m. to offer beer and live music outside Burley Oak. He said downtown merchants would be invited to set up tables to sell their wares during the events, each of which typically attracts 350-400 people.
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The Berlin Town Council approved the brewery’s plans for three Explore Berlin Festival dates as well as the July 3 fireworks as long as Burley Oak addressed permitting issues identified by the town’s planning and zoning department. According to town staff, Burley Oak employees were doing work without a permit Monday.
“A permitting issue is something that needs to be squared away so nobody can say we’re playing favorites,” Berlin Mayor Gee Williams said.
Bryan Brushmiller, owner of Burley Oak, approached the council Monday seeking approval for festival dates on April 22, May 13 and June 10 as well as permission to host festivities during Berlin’s July 3 fireworks display. Brushmiller said the Explore Berlin Festival was the same event the brewery had hosted in the past. On each of the festival dates, April 22, May 13 and June 10, he said he wanted to cordon off his parking lot from noon to 8 p.m. to offer beer and live music outside Burley Oak. He said downtown merchants would be invited to set up tables to sell their wares during the events, each of which typically attracts 350-400 people.
More
Ed Klein: 'Absolutely Sure' Hillary Is Running in 2020
Best-selling conservative author Ed Klein told Newsmax TV he is "absolutely sure" Hillary Clinton is running for president again in 2020.
"My sources tell me that she is energized, ready to go," Klein told Tuesday's "The Steve Malzberg Show." "She's going to write a book for Simon & Schuster. She's going to do paid speeches — and then she's going to go on another listening tour. She's planning another listening tour.
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"My sources tell me that she is energized, ready to go," Klein told Tuesday's "The Steve Malzberg Show." "She's going to write a book for Simon & Schuster. She's going to do paid speeches — and then she's going to go on another listening tour. She's planning another listening tour.
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Watered Down NC ‘Bathroom Bill’ Not Good Enough for LGBT Groups
The North Carolina law mandates that people use bathrooms according to their biological sex in public schools and government buildings.
Swofford, according to USA Today, hopes to bring back ACC tournament play to the Tar Heel State, if the state’s legislature enacts House Bill 186. The new bill would modify the existing “bathroom law” and allow individual NC cities to pass their own ordinances, which could include provisions for transgendered people.
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Holder: Obama Will Be Back, Joining Redistricting Efforts
Former President Barack Obama is reportedly "ready to roll" — and is close to making a public reappearance in politics.
According to Politico, Obama's former Attorney General Eric Holder said Tuesday he'd been speaking with Obama about ways he would help a new National Democratic Redistricting Committee — including fundraising and involvement in state legislative races.
"It's coming. He's coming, Holder told reporters during a briefing for the new group, adding that Obama "will be a more visible part of the effort," Politico reported.
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According to Politico, Obama's former Attorney General Eric Holder said Tuesday he'd been speaking with Obama about ways he would help a new National Democratic Redistricting Committee — including fundraising and involvement in state legislative races.
"It's coming. He's coming, Holder told reporters during a briefing for the new group, adding that Obama "will be a more visible part of the effort," Politico reported.
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Trump signs executive order on historically black colleges
HBCU presidents are hoping Congress will bolster Trump’s actions to strengthen the schools with dramatically increased funding in the upcoming federal budget. They are calling for $25 billion for infrastructure, college readiness, financial aid and other priorities. Under President Barack Obama’s administration, historically black colleges and universities received $4 billion over seven years.
“The next step is the budget. You cannot have mission without money,” Thurgood Marshall College Fund President Johnny Taylor told reporters outside the White House after the signing ceremony.
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Taylor House Museum Continues To Evolve; Berlin’s Historic Home Looking To Expand Hours With Help Of Volunteers
They represent just a few of the fragments of the past on display in Berlin’s Taylor House Museum. The historic home, saved from demolition in the early 1980s, is full of 19th century furniture and exhibits depicting the various periods of Berlin’s past.
“Even though we’re a small community we’re full of rich, diverse history,” said Carol Rose, a member of the museum’s board of directors.
She’s hoping more people will take the time to explore that history this year with the museum’s new extended hours.
For the first time, the facility will open in the morning, at 11 a.m., and remain open until 3 p.m. There’s even the chance the museum, which is open to the public Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays between Memorial Day and the end of October, will increase its days of operation.
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SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH ALERT
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH IN EFFECT
UNTIL 7:00 PM EST, Source U.S. National Weather Service
The National Weather Service has issued Severe Thunderstorm Watch 58 in effect until 7PM EST this evening for the following areas: In Maryland this watch includes 4 counties:
In Southeast Maryland
Dorchester
Wicomico
Worcester
Somerset
In Southeast Virginia
Accomack
City of Williamsburg
Gloucester
James City
Surry
Conway: I 'Meant No Disrespect' With Feet on Oval Office Couch
Kellyanne Conway was picked apart by some media outlets Tuesday for putting her feet on the couch in the Oval Office while attempting to take a group photo, something she later said she did not mean to do.
"I was being asked to take a picture in a crowded room with the press behind us," Conway told Lou Dobbs on the Fox Business Network.
"I was asked to take a certain angle and was doing exactly that. I certainly meant no disrespect, I didn't mean to have my feet on the couch."
President Donald Trump met with leaders from the nation's historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the Oval Office ahead of their listening session with administration officials.
"These are the presidents and other leaders within the historically black college and universities and they came to visit the White House," she said. "Of course, just today, the President signed the executive order on HCBU's, and I had an occasion to speak at length to many of those leaders before that picture, and after that picture, and again today," she continued.
"I was being asked to take a picture in a crowded room with the press behind us," Conway told Lou Dobbs on the Fox Business Network.
"I was asked to take a certain angle and was doing exactly that. I certainly meant no disrespect, I didn't mean to have my feet on the couch."
President Donald Trump met with leaders from the nation's historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the Oval Office ahead of their listening session with administration officials.
"These are the presidents and other leaders within the historically black college and universities and they came to visit the White House," she said. "Of course, just today, the President signed the executive order on HCBU's, and I had an occasion to speak at length to many of those leaders before that picture, and after that picture, and again today," she continued.
Subject: NY Teamsters Pension Becomes First To Run Out Of Money As Expert Warns "Pension Tsunami" Is Coming
The New York Teamsters Road Carriers Local 707 Pension Fund has won the unfortunate award for "First Pension to Officially Run Out of Money." According to the New York Daily News, and a host of angry former truck drivers who've had their pension benefits slashed, the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp. (PBGC) has officially been forced to step in and take over payments to retirees of the Local 707, albeit at a much lower rate.
Teamsters Local 707’s pension fund is the first to officially bottom out financially — which happened this month.
“I had a union job for 30 years,” Chmil said. “We had collectively bargained contracts that promised us a pension. I paid into it with every paycheck. Everyone told us, ‘Don’t worry, you have a union job, your pension is guaranteed.’ Well, so much for that.”
“It’s a nightmare, it has just devastated all of our lives. I’ve gone from having $48,000 a year to less than half that,”said Chmil, one of five Local 707 retirees who agreed to share their stories with the Daily News last week.
“I don’t want other people to have to go through this. We need everyone to wake up and do something; that’s why we’re talking,” said Ray Narvaez.
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Teamsters Local 707’s pension fund is the first to officially bottom out financially — which happened this month.
“I had a union job for 30 years,” Chmil said. “We had collectively bargained contracts that promised us a pension. I paid into it with every paycheck. Everyone told us, ‘Don’t worry, you have a union job, your pension is guaranteed.’ Well, so much for that.”
“It’s a nightmare, it has just devastated all of our lives. I’ve gone from having $48,000 a year to less than half that,”said Chmil, one of five Local 707 retirees who agreed to share their stories with the Daily News last week.
“I don’t want other people to have to go through this. We need everyone to wake up and do something; that’s why we’re talking,” said Ray Narvaez.
More
In Optimistic Speech, Trump Heralds 'New Chapter of American Greatness'
Heralding a "new chapter of American greatness," President Donald Trump stood before Congress for the first time Tuesday night and issued a broad call for overhauling the nation's health care system, significantly boosting military spending and plunging $1 trillion into upgrading crumbling infrastructure. Striking an optimistic tone, Trump declared: "The time for small thinking is over."
Michael Phelps Talks To Congress About Athlete Drug Testing
Phelps and other athletes testified after an investigation revealed widespread doping in Russian sports.
Phelps says he was tested 13 times leading up to the Rio Olympics, while some athletes weren’t tested at all, according to reports.
With 28 medals to his name, Phelps knows exactly what it takes to win at the highest level, along with the shortcuts other athletes take to get there.
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CNN’s Chris Cuomo Still In Toilet Over Male Genital Remark
The Mirror would normally say this was an innocent slip of the tongue.
Or a confusing use of language.
Which likely it was.
But when you use “12-year-old girl” and “penis” in the same sentence to make a point about transgender bathroom guidelines, it’s probably not headed anywhere good.
On Thursday — that’s FIVE days ago — CNN “New Day” host Chris Cuomo buried himself in Twitter turmoil after he suggested a 12-year -old girl or her father were to blame for not being more tolerant about seeing a penis in the ladies room.
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Or a confusing use of language.
Which likely it was.
But when you use “12-year-old girl” and “penis” in the same sentence to make a point about transgender bathroom guidelines, it’s probably not headed anywhere good.
On Thursday — that’s FIVE days ago — CNN “New Day” host Chris Cuomo buried himself in Twitter turmoil after he suggested a 12-year -old girl or her father were to blame for not being more tolerant about seeing a penis in the ladies room.
More
Hogan-Rutherford Administration Declares State of Emergency, Announces Major Funding to Combat Heroin and Opioid Crisis in Maryland
Dedicates $50 Million in Funding Over 5 Years, Taps Senior Emergency Management Advisor to Lead Effort
ANNAPOLIS, MD - Governor Larry Hogan today signed Executive Order 01.01.2017.02 declaring a State of Emergency in response to the heroin, opioid, and fentanyl crisis ravaging communities in Maryland and across the country. This declaration activates the governor’s emergency management authority and enables increased and more rapid coordination between the state and local jurisdictions. The governor, along with Lt. Governor Boyd Rutherford, also announced $50 million in new funding to address the crisis, as well as the appointment of the governor’s senior emergency management advisor Clay Stamp to lead the state’s coordinated effort to combat the crisis.
Governor Hogan and Lt. Governor Rutherford made the announcement at the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Emergency Operations Center in Reisterstown, MD. They were joined by Governor’s Office of Crime Control & Prevention Executive Director Glenn Fueston, MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland, Department of Human Resources Secretary Lourdes Padilla, Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Secretary Dennis Schrader, Department of Juvenile Services Secretary Sam Abed, Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel William Pallozzi, Dr. Sylvia Lawson of the Maryland State Education Department, and emergency management officials from jurisdictions across the state.
“We need to treat this crisis the exact same way we would treat any other state emergency. With this continuing threat increasing at such an alarming rate, we must allow for rapid coordination with our state and local emergency teams,” said Governor Hogan. “We must cut through the red tape so that we are empowering the important work being done in our many state agencies and at the local level all across our state. This is about taking an all-hands-on-deck approach so that together we can save the lives of thousands of Marylanders.”
“The fact of the matter is that people all across Maryland, and across our country, are looking for answers when it comes to this heroin and opioid epidemic. Too many families know the devastation caused by this crisis and the death toll is climbing,” said Lt. Governor Rutherford. “Ultimately, this is about saving lives, and it will take all of us working together in a collaborative, holistic approach to achieve that.”
ANNAPOLIS, MD - Governor Larry Hogan today signed Executive Order 01.01.2017.02 declaring a State of Emergency in response to the heroin, opioid, and fentanyl crisis ravaging communities in Maryland and across the country. This declaration activates the governor’s emergency management authority and enables increased and more rapid coordination between the state and local jurisdictions. The governor, along with Lt. Governor Boyd Rutherford, also announced $50 million in new funding to address the crisis, as well as the appointment of the governor’s senior emergency management advisor Clay Stamp to lead the state’s coordinated effort to combat the crisis.
Governor Hogan and Lt. Governor Rutherford made the announcement at the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Emergency Operations Center in Reisterstown, MD. They were joined by Governor’s Office of Crime Control & Prevention Executive Director Glenn Fueston, MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland, Department of Human Resources Secretary Lourdes Padilla, Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Secretary Dennis Schrader, Department of Juvenile Services Secretary Sam Abed, Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel William Pallozzi, Dr. Sylvia Lawson of the Maryland State Education Department, and emergency management officials from jurisdictions across the state.
“We need to treat this crisis the exact same way we would treat any other state emergency. With this continuing threat increasing at such an alarming rate, we must allow for rapid coordination with our state and local emergency teams,” said Governor Hogan. “We must cut through the red tape so that we are empowering the important work being done in our many state agencies and at the local level all across our state. This is about taking an all-hands-on-deck approach so that together we can save the lives of thousands of Marylanders.”
“The fact of the matter is that people all across Maryland, and across our country, are looking for answers when it comes to this heroin and opioid epidemic. Too many families know the devastation caused by this crisis and the death toll is climbing,” said Lt. Governor Rutherford. “Ultimately, this is about saving lives, and it will take all of us working together in a collaborative, holistic approach to achieve that.”
Matthews: ‘Economic Nationalism’ Is Trump’s Winning Ticket,’ ‘A Winner Politically’
During MSNBC’s coverage of President Trump’s speech before Congress, anchor Chris Matthews stated that Trump’s message on “economic nationalism” “was a winner politically. I think that’s probably the reason he was elected in Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. It is his winning ticket, economic nationalism.”
Matthews said, “I think this line of economic nationalism works. I think left, right, and center, I think, people have a sense of righteous indignation, right or wrong, that we’ve been screwed worldwide. … I thought that was a winner politically. I think that’s probably the reason he was elected in Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. It is his winning ticket, economic nationalism.”
Source
Matthews said, “I think this line of economic nationalism works. I think left, right, and center, I think, people have a sense of righteous indignation, right or wrong, that we’ve been screwed worldwide. … I thought that was a winner politically. I think that’s probably the reason he was elected in Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. It is his winning ticket, economic nationalism.”
Source
Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Press Release
On 2/19/17 at approximately 1738 hours, a Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Deputy stopped a vehicle, for an inoperable brake light, in the area off Bishopville Rd and Rt. 113, Worcester County, MD.
The passenger of the vehicle was identified as Matthew Charles Lawson, 33, of Millsboro, De. Mr. Lawson was wanted through MSP Salisbury. Mr. Lawson was taken into custody. A search of Mr. Lawson was done and ten envelopes containing suspected heroin as well as two syringes were found.
Mr. Lawson subsequently charged with possessing a controlled dangerous substance and two counts of possession of equipment used to administer heroin. Mr. Lawson was released on an unsecure bond of $3,000.00 for his bench warrant and was released on his own recognizance for the possession of heroin.
On 02-18-2017 at approximately 2049 hours, a Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Deputy was patrolling Route 113in the area of Cedartown Road, Snow Hill, Md. when the Deputy observed a silver Jeep Cherokee Latitude in a ditch. The Deputy proceeded to offer assistance to the operator identified as Michele Ferguson Decicco, 60, of Snow Hill, Maryland. The Deputy could smell an odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from Ms. Decicco.
Ms. Decicco did poorly on field sobriety tests. Ms. Decicco was subsequently arrested for driving while intoxicated and driving while impaired. Ms. Decicco was released pending trial.
On 02/27/17 at approximately 1745 hours, a Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Deputy was on patrol in the area of Racetrack Road and Griffin Road, Berlin, Maryland. The Deputy observed a female who they recognized through numerous law enforcement encounters as Sharyn Ann Beach, 41, of Berlin, walking on the shoulder of Racetrack Road. The Deputy spoke with Ms. Beach. During conversation with the Deputy, Ms. Beach admitted to be in possession of suspected heroin and a hypodermic needle.
A search a Ms. Beach’s purse led to the seizure of ten clear plastic bags of suspected heroin. The Deputy also located drug paraphernalia including a metal spoon and broken hypodermic needle. Ms. Beach was placed under arrest and charged with possession of C.D.S, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of controlled drug paraphernalia. Ms. Beach was held on a $5,000 bond at the Worcester County Detention Center.
The passenger of the vehicle was identified as Matthew Charles Lawson, 33, of Millsboro, De. Mr. Lawson was wanted through MSP Salisbury. Mr. Lawson was taken into custody. A search of Mr. Lawson was done and ten envelopes containing suspected heroin as well as two syringes were found.
Mr. Lawson subsequently charged with possessing a controlled dangerous substance and two counts of possession of equipment used to administer heroin. Mr. Lawson was released on an unsecure bond of $3,000.00 for his bench warrant and was released on his own recognizance for the possession of heroin.
On 02-18-2017 at approximately 2049 hours, a Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Deputy was patrolling Route 113in the area of Cedartown Road, Snow Hill, Md. when the Deputy observed a silver Jeep Cherokee Latitude in a ditch. The Deputy proceeded to offer assistance to the operator identified as Michele Ferguson Decicco, 60, of Snow Hill, Maryland. The Deputy could smell an odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from Ms. Decicco.
Ms. Decicco did poorly on field sobriety tests. Ms. Decicco was subsequently arrested for driving while intoxicated and driving while impaired. Ms. Decicco was released pending trial.
On 02/27/17 at approximately 1745 hours, a Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Deputy was on patrol in the area of Racetrack Road and Griffin Road, Berlin, Maryland. The Deputy observed a female who they recognized through numerous law enforcement encounters as Sharyn Ann Beach, 41, of Berlin, walking on the shoulder of Racetrack Road. The Deputy spoke with Ms. Beach. During conversation with the Deputy, Ms. Beach admitted to be in possession of suspected heroin and a hypodermic needle.
A search a Ms. Beach’s purse led to the seizure of ten clear plastic bags of suspected heroin. The Deputy also located drug paraphernalia including a metal spoon and broken hypodermic needle. Ms. Beach was placed under arrest and charged with possession of C.D.S, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of controlled drug paraphernalia. Ms. Beach was held on a $5,000 bond at the Worcester County Detention Center.
What People are Saying on Twitter...
What some people are saying in the Twitter World!
Trump has thoroughly humiliated the Democrats by allowing them to humiliate themselves. For all America to see. #JointAddress— Brent Bozell (@BrentBozell) March 1, 2017
RT JackPosobiec: The last time so many Democrats wore white they founded the KKK https://t.co/HfDKqeWSve— SavageNation (@SavageNation) March 1, 2017
Democrats moan when they hear Trump fighting for Americans killed by illegals.— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) March 1, 2017
Shows where their priorities are.
Something must be wrong with the Dems. The President is talking about the great things he's going to do 4 Americans & they're just sitting pic.twitter.com/DT38Nx7fVy
— Diamond and Silk® (@DiamondandSilk) March 1, 2017
Funny to read people who supported a president who ran on "hope and change" now complain that this Trump quote is pie in the sky https://t.co/jqgvOnWUL7— Buck Sexton (@BuckSexton) March 1, 2017
"Media" is in SHOCK after Trump's speech! Tomorrow they will be hard at work to stop his Soaring popularity & re-election! #JointAddress— Amy Mek (@AmyMek) March 1, 2017
32 yr old caller just now: "I watched 2nite expecting to see Hitler. Or a clown. That's what I was told. I saw neither. I saw a President."— Joe Walsh (@WalshFreedom) March 1, 2017
BREAKING: Results of CNN/ORC poll of speech watchers of Trump's speech: 78% had positive response. 21% had negative response. #TRUMPADDRESS— Sam Feist (@SamFeistCNN) March 1, 2017
If @tedcruz can get behind @realDonaldTrump then no one has any excuse! Battle was brutal but BOTH love USA MORE than sum total of self!— CROWENATION™ ☘️☘️ (@CROWENATION2016) March 1, 2017
LG Electronics to Build $250 Million Appliance Factory in Tennessee
South Korea's LG Electronics Inc said it would spend $250 million to build a new factory in the United States, in a move that comes amid criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump about companies manufacturing abroad for U.S. consumers.
The U.S. administration has threatened an import tax, and Trump has attacked some of the world's biggest companies, triggering many to make promises to invest more in the United States.
LG rival Samsung Electronics Co Ltd. was also considering building a U.S. manufacturing plant as a response to criticisms about imports from Trump, a source told Reuters earlier this month.
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The U.S. administration has threatened an import tax, and Trump has attacked some of the world's biggest companies, triggering many to make promises to invest more in the United States.
LG rival Samsung Electronics Co Ltd. was also considering building a U.S. manufacturing plant as a response to criticisms about imports from Trump, a source told Reuters earlier this month.
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Hogan: No Blank Checks For Pimlico, City Schools
Gov. Larry Hogan said that while Pimlico Race Course is important to Baltimore and Maryland, the state isn't going to hand over nine figures to renovate it without a fight on his watch.
"We're going to be watching every penny of taxpayers' money to make sure it's spent wisely," Hogan told WBAL talk host Derek Hunter Tuesday. "We're certainly not going to write a check for $300 million."
A Maryland Stadium Authority study released last week found renovations to Pimlico would cost $240 million to $320 million. There aren't yet specific plans in place to make those upgrades to the aging home of the Preakness Stakes.
During his phone chat with Hunter, Hogan also discussed his push for sweeping legislative ethics reform.
"It's very difficult to get any legislature to vote to place restrictions on themselves," Hogan conceded.
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"We're going to be watching every penny of taxpayers' money to make sure it's spent wisely," Hogan told WBAL talk host Derek Hunter Tuesday. "We're certainly not going to write a check for $300 million."
A Maryland Stadium Authority study released last week found renovations to Pimlico would cost $240 million to $320 million. There aren't yet specific plans in place to make those upgrades to the aging home of the Preakness Stakes.
During his phone chat with Hunter, Hogan also discussed his push for sweeping legislative ethics reform.
"It's very difficult to get any legislature to vote to place restrictions on themselves," Hogan conceded.
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Target whiffs on Earnings and Outlook, Stock Plummets 13%
Well, Target TGT -13.18% investors can't say they weren't warned.
Six weeks after lowering its fourth quarter outlook and warning that it saw "disappointing traffic and sales trends" during the 2016 holiday shopping season, Target posted earnings results that fell well short of Wall Street expectations, and its outlook for 2017 was similarly disappointing. Because of the misses on the top-, bottom- and forward-looking lines, shares of the retailer are down more than 13% in early Tuesday trading.
Target reported Tuesday that it recorded $20.69 billion in fourth quarter fiscal 2016 revenue, a figure that fell short of the $20.7 billion Wall Street consensus and marks a 4.3% decline from the $21.63 billion reported as sales in the prior-year period. The retailer attributed the drop to combined effect of a 1.5% decline in comparable store sales and the removal of pharmacy and clinic sales from the results.
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Six weeks after lowering its fourth quarter outlook and warning that it saw "disappointing traffic and sales trends" during the 2016 holiday shopping season, Target posted earnings results that fell well short of Wall Street expectations, and its outlook for 2017 was similarly disappointing. Because of the misses on the top-, bottom- and forward-looking lines, shares of the retailer are down more than 13% in early Tuesday trading.
Target reported Tuesday that it recorded $20.69 billion in fourth quarter fiscal 2016 revenue, a figure that fell short of the $20.7 billion Wall Street consensus and marks a 4.3% decline from the $21.63 billion reported as sales in the prior-year period. The retailer attributed the drop to combined effect of a 1.5% decline in comparable store sales and the removal of pharmacy and clinic sales from the results.
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Md. official won’t back immigration bills
That’s how Montgomery County Council President Roger Berliner puts it when referring to striking the balance between public safety and maintaining good relations with the county’s immigrant community.
That’s why he’s not a supporter of twin bills in the Maryland General Assembly that would bar state and local governments from cooperating with Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
When Montgomery County has someone in its jail that has committed a violent crime and ICE comes knocking, Berliner said, the county holds that person and works with the federal agency.
Under the Trust Act filed in Annapolis, that would change.
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JUST IN: 7 Baltimore Police Officers Charged In Racketeering Conspiracy
Offenses include allegedly robbing victims, filing false affidavits, and making fraudulent overtime claims. One of the officers is also charged in a separate drug distribution indictment.
A press conference will be held at 11:15 a.m. at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Baltimore.
Source
Faith-based posters removed from Langley Air Force Base display after feminist uproar
Before we go any further, it’s important to understand the offending passage on the poster was first published in a 1955 Air Force manual.
“Men cannot live without faith except for brief moments of anarchy or despair,” one poster read. “Faith leads to conviction – and convictions lead to actions. It is only a man of deep convictions, a man of deep faith, who will make the sacrifices needed to save his manhood. … It is obvious that our enemy will attack us at our weakest spot. The hole in our armor is our lack of faith. We need to revive a fighting faith by which we can live, and for which we would be willing even to die.”
The words the National Organization for Women found most egregious were “man”, “men” and “manhood.”
The Military Religious Freedom Foundation (MRFF) fired the first shot on the “faith-based” poster – demanding it be removed because it was an endorsement of religion.
“This message undoubtedly expresses a preference for airmen of religious faith over those who practice no religion,” MRFF founder Mikey Weinstein wrote to General Carlisle.
More here
Trump Rally Continues to Surge
$3T of investments have broken records since his election.
Here is historical perspective:
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| click to enlarge |
What does it mean for Americans who don't participate in the stock market? Well, more money invested means they are poised to add more jobs to the job market. Therefore, a strong market is a strong America and has positive repercussions worldwide as well it also helps those who have lost a lot in their 401Ks over the last eight years.
Stuart Varney, main anchor for the morning show on Fox Business has exclaimed, the Media can no longer ignore this Trump Rally. Its too historic and monumental, crushing records set thirty-plus years ago.
The surges have gotten to the point where Fox Business is now officially an action channel.
Trump is the reason, prosperity is the season.
Question, with oil glut and oil prices still relatively low, why is our local gas going up? We went from last Friday $2.09 to now $2.19, yet the oil prices have gone down between Friday and Monday. What happened there? Could it be a collusive effort afoot to keep pricing up?
-- TC
Trump critic Van Jones: ‘One of the most extraordinary moments you have ever seen in American politics, period’
CNN's Van Jones is a frequent Trump critic if there ever was one. But after the president's speech to the nation on Tuesday night, Jones got emotional and was clearly impressed by Trump's handling of one particular part of the speech.
Jones said Trump's tribute to Navy SEAL Ryan Owens, who died in a raid in Yemen, was “one of the most extraordinary moments you have ever seen in American politics, period” and that it was the moment Trump “became president of the United States.” He also said it's the kind of thing that could make Trump a two-term president.
During Trump's remarks, cameras trained on Owens's widow, Carryn Owens, with tears streaming down her face. Facing her, Trump said her husband's legacy was “etched into eternity.”
More/Video
Jones said Trump's tribute to Navy SEAL Ryan Owens, who died in a raid in Yemen, was “one of the most extraordinary moments you have ever seen in American politics, period” and that it was the moment Trump “became president of the United States.” He also said it's the kind of thing that could make Trump a two-term president.
During Trump's remarks, cameras trained on Owens's widow, Carryn Owens, with tears streaming down her face. Facing her, Trump said her husband's legacy was “etched into eternity.”
More/Video
HEARING ALERT: Public Charter School Act Of 2017
Important Legislation Would Expand Educational Opportunities for Students
Note: House Ways And Means Committee to Hold Hearing on HB 878 on February 28, 2017, 1:00 PM
“I believe that every child in Maryland deserves access to a world-class education regardless of what neighborhood they happen to grow up in.” - Governor Larry Hogan, February 1, 2017
Governor Hogan Has Strongly Championed Expanding Educational Opportunities For Students And Their Families
Candidate Larry Hogan Stated That He Would “Push Very Hard” To Expand Charter Schools In Maryland. Hogan: “One of the things that I want to do is to try to bring better schools to the neighborhoods that don’t have better schools, and I’ve been a big proponent of charter schools. When I was serving as a cabinet secretary in the Ehrlich administration we passed the first charter school legislation here in Maryland. It was watered down by the legislature and then the O’Malley-Brown administration failed to implement it… But it’s had wonderful success in many places around the rest of the country, and it’s something that I would push very hard to accomplish.” (“Gubernatorial Debate,” YouTube, 10/18/14)
The Baltimore Sun Editorial: “We’re Heartened By Gov. Elect Larry Hogan’s Recent Remarks Suggesting He Wants To Make Charter Schools A Priority Of His Administration.” (Editorial, “More Choices For Parents And Students,” The Baltimore Sun, 12/21/14)
Governor Hogan Signed Into Law Legislation Strengthening Maryland's Charter Schools
In 2015, Governor Hogan Signed Legislation Providing Greater Flexibility To Public Charter Schools. "During the 2015 legislative session, the governor introduced and championed legislation to improve and expand public charter schools in Maryland for the first time in nearly a decade. In May 2015, Governor Hogan signed into law Senate Bill 595, the Public Charter School Improvement Act of 2015, which provided greater flexibility to public charter schools.” (Press Release, “Governor Larry Hogan Announces Maryland Charter Schools Week,” Office Of The Governor, 5/3/16)
The Baltimore Sun Editorial: Without Governor Hogan’s Desire To Strengthen Charter Schools, Reform Would Not Have Taken Place; Law Represents A “Modest Step Forward.” "Without Mr. Hogan’s influence, there almost certainly would have been no discussion of reforming Maryland's charter school law, which is arguably the most restrictive in the nation. The General Assembly gutted many of the important elements in the governor's legislation, but the final product represents at least a modest step forward and a basis from which Mr. Hogan can seek more reforms in the future.” (Editorial, “Hogan’s First 100 Days,” The Baltimore Sun, 4/27/15)
Governor Hogan Has Been Supportive Of Innovative Programs Granting Maryland Students Educational Choice
In 2016, Governor Hogan Introduced Legislation To Establish P-TECH Schools In Maryland.
Governor Hogan Signed The Legislation Into Law; Legislation Received Near Unanimous Support In Both Chambers Of The Maryland General Assembly. (“Senate Bill 376,” Maryland General Assembly, 4/26/16)
Governor Hogan’s P-TECH School Act Of 2017 Will Establish A Funding Mechanism For P-TECH Schools; Would Not Put Cost Burden On Students. “A P–TECH student may not be required to pay any cost that is related to enrollment and participation in the program, including tuition and mandatory fees.” (“House Bill 413,”Maryland General Assembly, 1/26/17)
Governor Hogan’s Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Commits $855,000 To Double The Number Of P-TECH Schools In Maryland. (Maryland Department Of Budget And Management)
Public Charter School Act Of 2017
Note: House Ways And Means Committee to Hold Hearing on HB 878 on February 28, 2017, 1:00 PM
“I believe that every child in Maryland deserves access to a world-class education regardless of what neighborhood they happen to grow up in.” - Governor Larry Hogan, February 1, 2017
Governor Hogan Has Strongly Championed Expanding Educational Opportunities For Students And Their Families
Candidate Larry Hogan Stated That He Would “Push Very Hard” To Expand Charter Schools In Maryland. Hogan: “One of the things that I want to do is to try to bring better schools to the neighborhoods that don’t have better schools, and I’ve been a big proponent of charter schools. When I was serving as a cabinet secretary in the Ehrlich administration we passed the first charter school legislation here in Maryland. It was watered down by the legislature and then the O’Malley-Brown administration failed to implement it… But it’s had wonderful success in many places around the rest of the country, and it’s something that I would push very hard to accomplish.” (“Gubernatorial Debate,” YouTube, 10/18/14)
The Baltimore Sun Editorial: “We’re Heartened By Gov. Elect Larry Hogan’s Recent Remarks Suggesting He Wants To Make Charter Schools A Priority Of His Administration.” (Editorial, “More Choices For Parents And Students,” The Baltimore Sun, 12/21/14)
Governor Hogan Signed Into Law Legislation Strengthening Maryland's Charter Schools
In 2015, Governor Hogan Signed Legislation Providing Greater Flexibility To Public Charter Schools. "During the 2015 legislative session, the governor introduced and championed legislation to improve and expand public charter schools in Maryland for the first time in nearly a decade. In May 2015, Governor Hogan signed into law Senate Bill 595, the Public Charter School Improvement Act of 2015, which provided greater flexibility to public charter schools.” (Press Release, “Governor Larry Hogan Announces Maryland Charter Schools Week,” Office Of The Governor, 5/3/16)
The Baltimore Sun Editorial: Without Governor Hogan’s Desire To Strengthen Charter Schools, Reform Would Not Have Taken Place; Law Represents A “Modest Step Forward.” "Without Mr. Hogan’s influence, there almost certainly would have been no discussion of reforming Maryland's charter school law, which is arguably the most restrictive in the nation. The General Assembly gutted many of the important elements in the governor's legislation, but the final product represents at least a modest step forward and a basis from which Mr. Hogan can seek more reforms in the future.” (Editorial, “Hogan’s First 100 Days,” The Baltimore Sun, 4/27/15)
Governor Hogan Has Been Supportive Of Innovative Programs Granting Maryland Students Educational Choice
In 2016, Governor Hogan Introduced Legislation To Establish P-TECH Schools In Maryland.
Governor Hogan Signed The Legislation Into Law; Legislation Received Near Unanimous Support In Both Chambers Of The Maryland General Assembly. (“Senate Bill 376,” Maryland General Assembly, 4/26/16)
Governor Hogan’s P-TECH School Act Of 2017 Will Establish A Funding Mechanism For P-TECH Schools; Would Not Put Cost Burden On Students. “A P–TECH student may not be required to pay any cost that is related to enrollment and participation in the program, including tuition and mandatory fees.” (“House Bill 413,”Maryland General Assembly, 1/26/17)
Governor Hogan’s Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Commits $855,000 To Double The Number Of P-TECH Schools In Maryland. (Maryland Department Of Budget And Management)
Public Charter School Act Of 2017
Maryland #8 in U.S. News & World Report “Best States” Rankings
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Maryland has been recognized as one of the best states in the nation to live in by U.S. News & World Report in their inaugural “Best States” ranking, which analyzed data in seven key areas – education, health care, infrastructure, economy, government, opportunity, and crime and corrections – to determine the state’s composite score.
In addition to ranking eighth overall, Maryland ranked among the top five states for education and opportunity, a metric that includes factors like income disparity and upward mobility, as well as having the second-lowest poverty rate in the nation, and the highest household income.
“Maryland has made tremendous strides in turning our economy around, improving education, and working to ensure that every single Marylander has the opportunity to succeed,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “We have made incredible progress over the past two years, but there is still more work to do to continue making Maryland the very best place to live, work, raise a family, and retire.”
Maryland’s high education score follows the Hogan administration funding K-12 education at record levels for three budgets in a row and making record investments in higher education, as well as innovative programs like the Pathways to Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) schools that opened in Baltimore City in 2016 and continue to expand across the state.
The Hogan administration has also taken important steps to provide increased economic opportunity, including expanding the nationally-renowned EARN workforce training program and proposing targeted funding increases in the 2017 legislative session. Since Governor Hogan took office, Maryland has created 73,000 jobs and the unemployment rate has dropped to 4.2 percent, an eight-year low.
This year the governor has introduced the Maryland Jobs Initiative, a legislative and budgetary package that includes the More Jobs for Marylanders Act of 2017, which incentivizes companies to create jobs in high unemployment areas.
U.S. News evaluated states across 68 metrics to create the “Best States” rankings. The resulting rankings are based on tens of thousands of data points provided by McKinsey & Company’s Leading States Index. In calculating the rankings, categories were weighted based on a national “citizen experience” survey, conducted by McKinsey, that asked people to prioritize each subject in their state and provide their levels of satisfaction with government services.
Find more information about the “Best States” rankings, and Maryland’s scores, here.
In addition to ranking eighth overall, Maryland ranked among the top five states for education and opportunity, a metric that includes factors like income disparity and upward mobility, as well as having the second-lowest poverty rate in the nation, and the highest household income.
“Maryland has made tremendous strides in turning our economy around, improving education, and working to ensure that every single Marylander has the opportunity to succeed,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “We have made incredible progress over the past two years, but there is still more work to do to continue making Maryland the very best place to live, work, raise a family, and retire.”
Maryland’s high education score follows the Hogan administration funding K-12 education at record levels for three budgets in a row and making record investments in higher education, as well as innovative programs like the Pathways to Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) schools that opened in Baltimore City in 2016 and continue to expand across the state.
The Hogan administration has also taken important steps to provide increased economic opportunity, including expanding the nationally-renowned EARN workforce training program and proposing targeted funding increases in the 2017 legislative session. Since Governor Hogan took office, Maryland has created 73,000 jobs and the unemployment rate has dropped to 4.2 percent, an eight-year low.
This year the governor has introduced the Maryland Jobs Initiative, a legislative and budgetary package that includes the More Jobs for Marylanders Act of 2017, which incentivizes companies to create jobs in high unemployment areas.
U.S. News evaluated states across 68 metrics to create the “Best States” rankings. The resulting rankings are based on tens of thousands of data points provided by McKinsey & Company’s Leading States Index. In calculating the rankings, categories were weighted based on a national “citizen experience” survey, conducted by McKinsey, that asked people to prioritize each subject in their state and provide their levels of satisfaction with government services.
Find more information about the “Best States” rankings, and Maryland’s scores, here.
HEARING ALERT: Distribution Of Opioids Resulting In Death
Important Legislation Holds Individuals Responsible for Distributing an Opioid or Opioid Analogue that Leads to DeathNote: House Judiciary Committee to Hold Hearing on HB 687 on February 28, 2017, 1:00 PM
Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee to Hold Hearing on SB 539 on March 2, 2017, 1:00 PM
Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee to Hold Hearing on SB 539 on March 2, 2017, 1:00 PM
| “For two years now, together, we have all been committed to facing this crisis head-on. Together, we made the investments to implement the recommendations of the Emergency Task Force. We have gone after it from every angle including education, treatment, interdiction, and law enforcement. We have made strides, but this crisis continues to grow out of control all across our country. We can – and we must – do more to save the lives of Marylanders.” - Governor Larry Hogan, February 1, 2017 |
Governor Hogan Pledged That He Would Take Bold Action To Tackle Maryland’s Heroin And Opioid Crisis
Governor Hogan: “As we were traveling around the state last year, everywhere we went… almost across the board, every single answer everywhere was heroin was the number one problem.” (CJ Lovelace, “Hogan, Rutherford Renew Pledge To Battle Heroin Addiction,” Herald-Mail Media, 4/25/15)
- While Campaigning, Candidate Larry Hogan Noted That Individuals Throughout the State, From Rural Areas, To Cities Were Concerned About The Heroin Epidemic. “Hogan, a Republican, said he heard about the heroin epidemic repeatedly while on the campaign trail in 2014. ‘We heard about it in high-end suburban neighborhoods. We heard about it in rural communities and small towns from one end of the state to the other,’ he said.” (Kaustuv Basu, “Wilson Named To Governor’s Task Force Targeting Heroin,” Herald-Mail Media, 2/24/15)
- Candidate Larry Hogan Vowed That He Would Combat The Heroin Epidemic “Tooth And Nail” If Elected Governor. (CJ Lovelace. “Md. Gubernatorial Hopeful Hogan Vows To Fight Heroin Epidemic ‘Tooth And Nail’,” Herald-Mail Media, 10/27/14)
After Being Elected, Governor Hogan Took Immediate Action To Address The Heroin And Opioid Crisis; Launched A Four Prong Approach
Governor Hogan: “Today We Are Announcing Four Immediate And Important Steps Which Will Begin An Ongoing Effort To Prevent Abuse, Treat Addiction, And Fight The Trafficking Of Narcotics.” (Governor Larry Hogan, Heroin And Opioid Task Force Remarks, Annapolis, MD, 2/24/15)
Governor Hogan Signed Two Executive Orders Establishing The Heroin And Opioid Emergency Task Force And The Inter-Agency Heroin And Opioid Coordinating Council
On February 24, 2015, Governor Hogan Signed An Executive Order Establishing The Governor’s Heroin And Opioid Emergency Task Force. (“Executive Order 01.01.2015.12,” Office Of The Governor, 2/24/15)
On February 24, 2015, Governor Hogan Signed An Executive Order Establishing The Inter-Agency Heroin And Opioid Coordinating Council. (“Executive Order 01.01.2015.13,” Office Of The Governor, 2/24/15)
Governor Hogan Announced A Donation Of Life Saving Treatment Used To Treat Opioid Overdose
Governor Hogan Secured The Donation Of 5,000 Evzio Kits; Rapid Treatment Credited With Saving Lives. Maryland has received a donation of about 5,000 Evzio kits, each with two doses of Naloxone, which is a heroin overdose antidote. The donation comes from a company called Kaleo Pharmaceuticals. Evzio is the only Naloxone auto-injector that is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use by laymen to reverse a suspected overdose.” (Brian Witte, “Hogan Outlines Plan To Fight Surge In Fatal Heroin Overdoses,” The Associated Press, 2/25/15)
- The 5,000 Kits Provided A Total Of 10,000 Doses. “EVZIO is a delivery device similar to an epi-pen for the delivery of naloxone, a drug used to counter the effects of those substances in emergencies. Each kit has two doses, for a total of 10,000.” (Michael Dresser, “Hogan Unveils Plan To Fight Heroin,” The Baltimore Sun, 2/24/15)
Governor Hogan Announced A Half Million Dollar Federal Grant To Expand Heroin Treatment Programs In Prisons
In February 2015, Governor Hogan Announced A $500,000 Federal Grant Toward Re-Entry Programs Providing Non-Addictive Medication And Behavioral Counseling. “In addition, the Governor’s Office of Crime, Control and Prevention will allocate $500,000 of Maryland’s federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant funds to expanding reentry programs at correctional facilities…” “Hogan also announced that $500,000 of a federal grant will be used to expand re-entry programs to help inmates leaving prison stay off of heroin. It combines non-addictive medications and behavioral health counseling following release.” (Press Release, “Governor Hogan, Lt. Governor Rutherford Establish Maryland Heroin And Opioid Task Force And Coordinating Council,” Office Of The Governor, 2/24/15; (Brian Witte, “Hogan Outlines Plan To Fight Surge In Fatal Heroin Overdoses,” The Associated Press, 2/25/15)
Governor Hogan’s 2017 Heroin And Opioid Prevention, Treatment, And Enforcement Initiative Further Demonstrates The Administration's Commitment To Aggressively Addressing The Heroin And Opioid Crisis
Governor Hogan Established The Opioid Operational Command Center To Facilitate Better Collaboration Between Entities To Address Opioid Addiction. “Governor Hogan today signed an Executive Order amending the 2015 Executive Order to establish the Inter-Agency Heroin and Opioid Coordinating Council, authorizing the council to establish the Opioid Operational Command Center. The center will facilitate greater collaboration between state and local public health, human services, education, and public safety entities to reduce the harmful impacts of opioid addiction on Maryland communities. As a direct result from increased collaboration, the center will collect and collate data – data that will be used to save lives.” (Press Release, “Governor Hogan, Lt. Governor Rutherford Announce 2017 Heroin And Opioid Prevention, Treatment, And Enforcement Initiative,” Office Of The Governor, 1/24/17)
Governor Hogan’s Proposed Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Includes $1.3 Billion For Mental Health And Substance Use Disorders, $159 Million Dedicated To Existing Non-Medicaid Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs, And $4 Million To Aid Individuals Struggling With Heroin And Opioid Addiction. “Governor Hogan’s proposed fiscal year 2018 budget includes $4 million in new funding to bolster the state’s efforts in supporting those struggling with heroin and opioid addiction. In addition, the budget contains $1.3 billion for mental health and substance use disorders, including $159 million dedicated to existing non-Medicaid substance use disorder treatment programs. Last year, the administration increased the budget for treatment beds for substance abuse patients, an increase of over 50% over the previous administration. The current budget sustains that increase.” (Press Release, “Governor Hogan, Lt. Governor Rutherford Announce 2017 Heroin And Opioid Prevention, Treatment, And Enforcement Initiative,” Office Of The Governor, 1/24/17)
Additional Legislative Action Includes The Prescriber Limits Act And The Overdose Prevention Act. “The Department of Health and Mental Hygiene will propose two pieces of legislation aimed at preventing addiction from taking root and ensuring that if addiction does develop, that proper means are in place to prevent overdoses from becoming fatal.” (Press Release, “Governor Hogan, Lt. Governor Rutherford Announce 2017 Heroin And Opioid Prevention, Treatment, And Enforcement Initiative,” Office Of The Governor, 1/24/17)
- Prescribers Limits Act: “This legislation would limit the duration of prescription opioids prescribed upon the initial consultation or treatment to a 7-day supply, except for when the opioid is prescribed for the treatment of pain associated with a cancer diagnosis or a terminal illness, or to treat a substance-related disorder.” (Press Release, “Governor Hogan, Lt. Governor Rutherford Announce 2017 Heroin And Opioid Prevention, Treatment, And Enforcement Initiative,” Office Of The Governor, 1/24/17)
- Overdose Prevention Act: “This legislation will authorize local fatality review teams to review non-fatal overdose data in addition to the fatal overdose data they currently review in order to: recommend overdose prevention strategies; expand access to naloxone prescriptions directly from a pharmacist without the current training requirements and extend current immunity provisions to pharmacists; and allow and make more efficient the ability of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s Office of Controlled Dangerous Substances Administration to take action against the CDS registration of a prescriber or dispenser of controlled dangerous substances based on investigations of the federal Drug Enforcement Administration or a state professional licensing board.” (Press Release, “Governor Hogan, Lt. Governor Rutherford Announce 2017 Heroin And Opioid Prevention, Treatment, And Enforcement Initiative,” Office Of The Governor, 1/24/17)
Distribution Of Opioids Resulting In Death
Under Governor Hogan’s Proposal, Drug Dealers Who Distribute An Opioid Or Opioid Analogue Which Results In The Death Of Another, Will Face Up To 30 Years In Jail. “Except as otherwise provided in this title, a person may not distribute an opioid or opioid analogue, the use of which causes the death of another. A person who violates subsection (B) of this section is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 30 years.” (“House Bill 687,”Maryland General Assembly, 2/1/17)
- The Governor’s Proposed Legislation Was Recommended By The Heroin And Opioid Emergency Task Force. “The Task Force recommends legislation creating a crime for the direct or indirect distribution of heroin or fentanyl, the use of which is a contributing cause in nonfatal overdose or death of another.” (“Final Report: Heroin & Opioid Emergency Task Force,” Office Of The Governor, 12/1/15)
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