Several key advisers to former President Barack Obama have poured scorn on President Donald Trump’s support for the protests sweeping Iran in recent days.
In 2009, when the “Green Revolution” threatened the Iranian regime, Obama and his administration refrained from supporting the protests. Obama said that “we respect Iranian sovereignty and want to avoid the United States being the issue inside of Iran.”
That weak response, and the administration’s general lack of support for the demonstrators, allowed the regime to consolidate power.
Obama was more concerned with preserving the possibility of an eventual deal on Iran’s nuclear program than he was in removing the Iranian regime as a strategic threat or in standing up for human rights. Critics charge that Obama missed a golden opportunity.
Former National Security Advisor Susan Rice tweeted a New York Times op-ed by former Obama aide Philip Gordon, “How Can Trump Help Iran’s Protesters? Be Quiet.”
More shilling for the mullahs here..
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Wednesday, January 03, 2018
Judicial Watch: New Clinton Emails On Weiner Laptop
On Friday, the U.S. Department of State began releasing Huma Abedin’s work-related documents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) that were found on her estranged husband Anthony Weiner’s personal laptop.
This is a major victory. After years of hard work in federal court, Judicial Watch forced the State Department to finally allow Americans to see these public documents. We have been following this case closely because from our past experience we know that Abedin’s emails include classified and other sensitive materials.
The document are still being posted, but our team has seen enough to confirm that classified information from Hillary Clinton’s email server has been found on the laptop of Anthony Weiner, the disgraced former congressman from New York who was married to Clinton aide Huma Abedin. The fact that classified information has been found from Clinton and Abedin on Weiner’s laptop shows the urgent need for a criminal investigation by the Justice Department.
Back in October, in accordance with a court ordered production of documents, the State Department announced: “The State Department identified approximately 2,800 work-related documents among the documents provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.” The State Department told the court it expected to complete its review and production of the FBI records by December 31, 2017.
More
This is a major victory. After years of hard work in federal court, Judicial Watch forced the State Department to finally allow Americans to see these public documents. We have been following this case closely because from our past experience we know that Abedin’s emails include classified and other sensitive materials.
The document are still being posted, but our team has seen enough to confirm that classified information from Hillary Clinton’s email server has been found on the laptop of Anthony Weiner, the disgraced former congressman from New York who was married to Clinton aide Huma Abedin. The fact that classified information has been found from Clinton and Abedin on Weiner’s laptop shows the urgent need for a criminal investigation by the Justice Department.
Back in October, in accordance with a court ordered production of documents, the State Department announced: “The State Department identified approximately 2,800 work-related documents among the documents provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.” The State Department told the court it expected to complete its review and production of the FBI records by December 31, 2017.
More
Five of the worst university policies restricting free speech in 2017
This past year’s political landscape has been quite tense with riots, protests, stand-outs, and demonstrations. Participants in these protests and nonviolent demonstrations were expressing their right to free speech, which is protected under the First Amendment. Unfortunately, many students across the country were restricted from participating in the aforementioned actions due to public universities infringing on freedom of speech through campus policies.
Public education, funded by taxpayers, must be free from any influence of the opinions of administrators or faculty. Our tax dollars should not go to a school to teach or promote one point of view. Rather, they must be dispassionate and promote the free discussion and cordial debate of ideas – even ideas with which the majority of students, or administration, may not agree.
To promote one point of view and censor another is infringing on the freedom of speech for those of the opposite view – the exact oppression that our founders wished to prevent when they wrote the Constitution.
The following five universities have speech code policies that restrict their students from free expression and speech:
Public education, funded by taxpayers, must be free from any influence of the opinions of administrators or faculty. Our tax dollars should not go to a school to teach or promote one point of view. Rather, they must be dispassionate and promote the free discussion and cordial debate of ideas – even ideas with which the majority of students, or administration, may not agree.
To promote one point of view and censor another is infringing on the freedom of speech for those of the opposite view – the exact oppression that our founders wished to prevent when they wrote the Constitution.
The following five universities have speech code policies that restrict their students from free expression and speech:
City Of Salisbury Offices Closed Tomorrow
In anticipation of heavy snowfall and difficult travel conditions, City of Salisbury offices will be CLOSED tomorrow, January 4th, 2018. It is currently anticipated that the City will reopen for normal operation on Friday, the 5th. If you have an emergency, please call 911. For non-emergency issues, call 410-548-3165.
County Declares emergency. Wicomico County closes
Executive Culver has determined that Wicomico County offices will be closed on Thursday, January 4, 2018. Essential personnel must report as scheduled.
Blizzard conditions with 50 miles per hour winds are expected from 3:00 a.m. until Thursday afternoon. For that reason, we believe it is important for travelers to be at home and off County roadways.
Blizzard conditions with 50 miles per hour winds are expected from 3:00 a.m. until Thursday afternoon. For that reason, we believe it is important for travelers to be at home and off County roadways.
Department heads and supervisors are to adhere to the following county declared emergency policy to compensate employees, and to ensure that all county personnel with the exception of those determined to be essential, do not report to work tomorrow.
'Not Just Murder' - Chicago Carjackings Surge To Highest Point In At Least A Decade
While already the murder capital of America, it appears law and order is really losing control as The Daily Caller's Anders Hagstrom reports that Chicago residents suffered more carjackings in 2017 than in any other year since at least 2007, new statistics released by the Chicago Police Department (CPD) show.
The CPD reported 967 carjackings in 2017 through Dec. 27, a sharp 30 percent increase over 2016’s 682 total, the Chicago Tribune reported Sunday. The past three years have shown a stark upward trend in car thefts after eight consecutive years of decline since 2007, when 898 jackings were reported. The crime rate bottomed out at roughly 300 reports in 2014.
The CPD have joined with the FBI to create a carjacking task force, however. They have reported that one of the most popular carjacking methods is the “bump and run,” where a driver will lightly rear-end another car only for his passenger to steal the vehicle when the owner gets out to inspect the damage.
These incidents almost always include the use of force, with the passenger threatening the owner with a weapon before stepping driving off in the vehicle.
More
The CPD reported 967 carjackings in 2017 through Dec. 27, a sharp 30 percent increase over 2016’s 682 total, the Chicago Tribune reported Sunday. The past three years have shown a stark upward trend in car thefts after eight consecutive years of decline since 2007, when 898 jackings were reported. The crime rate bottomed out at roughly 300 reports in 2014.
The CPD have joined with the FBI to create a carjacking task force, however. They have reported that one of the most popular carjacking methods is the “bump and run,” where a driver will lightly rear-end another car only for his passenger to steal the vehicle when the owner gets out to inspect the damage.
These incidents almost always include the use of force, with the passenger threatening the owner with a weapon before stepping driving off in the vehicle.
More
Snow Emergency in Effect January 3, 2018
The Maryland State Police Barrack "V" Berlin along with State Highway Administration has put a snow emergency plan into effect for January 3, 2018 at 1930 hours . The plan will remain in effect until further notice.
Snow Emergency Plan Somerset County
SNOW EMERGENCY IN EFFECT
The Maryland State Police at the Princess Anne Barrack in Somerset County in conjunction with local agencies and the State Highway Administration have implemented the Snow Emergency Plan. This plan is to assist the State Highway Administration in snow clearing operations throughout the county.
Effective on 1/3/2018 at 9:00 p.m. all vehicles on the roadway must be equipped with snow chains or snow tires on both driving wheels of motor vehicles. In addition, a parking ban is imposed on all snow emergency routes in the County.
A press release will be sent out advising when snow emergency plan has been lifted. Questions should be addressed to the Maryland State Police Barrack in Princess Anne at 443-260-3700.
The Maryland State Police at the Princess Anne Barrack in Somerset County in conjunction with local agencies and the State Highway Administration have implemented the Snow Emergency Plan. This plan is to assist the State Highway Administration in snow clearing operations throughout the county.
Effective on 1/3/2018 at 9:00 p.m. all vehicles on the roadway must be equipped with snow chains or snow tires on both driving wheels of motor vehicles. In addition, a parking ban is imposed on all snow emergency routes in the County.
A press release will be sent out advising when snow emergency plan has been lifted. Questions should be addressed to the Maryland State Police Barrack in Princess Anne at 443-260-3700.
Citywide State of Emergency and Snow Emergency declared
Salisbury – The expectation of extreme winter conditions over the next 18-24 hours has led to the declaration of a State of Emergency, and a Snow Emergency in the City of Salisbury. Both the State of Emergency and the Snow Emergency will take effect when the average snowfall citywide reaches four inches (4”), which is anticipated to occur during the overnight hours tonight.
Pursuant to Chapter 10.12.020 of the Municipal Code of the City of Salisbury, the Chief of Police may declare a snow emergency for all snow emergency routes as a whole or for any one or more snow emergency routes as deemed necessary.
Pursuant to Chapter 10.12.040 of the Municipal Code of the City of Salisbury, it is unlawful for any person to park a vehicle on any city street that is designated and appropriately signposted as a snow emergency route and for which a snow emergency has been declared and is in effect.
Additionally, pursuant to Chapter 10.12.050, during the time when a snow emergency is in effect, the police department shall have the authority to take possession of, issue citations for, remove, tow away and impound any vehicle found parked, stalled, incapable of proceeding under its own power or left unattended upon any street designated as a snow emergency route; and, before the owner thereof may thereafter obtain possession of such vehicles, he shall first pay the cost of removing such vehicle and any storage charges.
Again, these emergency declarations are being announced in advance of them actually taking effect, to allow citizens to prepare. Depending upon the rate of snowfall, expect both states of emergency to begin at some point overnight tonight.
Citizens are urged to stay at home and avoid driving if at all possible. If you must drive during this snow event, it is important to realize that the most slippery surfaces do not appear as hazardous as they actually are. Bridges, overpasses and intersections are common areas where the pavement freezes faster than on ordinary roadways. Please slow down, and allow extra distance when braking.
For service calls after normal business hours, please contact the Salisbury Police Department at 410-548-3165. For emergency situations, please dial 911 immediately.
For information on snow emergency routes and plowing/salting operations, visit http://bit.ly/2BhxRj0
Pursuant to Chapter 10.12.020 of the Municipal Code of the City of Salisbury, the Chief of Police may declare a snow emergency for all snow emergency routes as a whole or for any one or more snow emergency routes as deemed necessary.
Pursuant to Chapter 10.12.040 of the Municipal Code of the City of Salisbury, it is unlawful for any person to park a vehicle on any city street that is designated and appropriately signposted as a snow emergency route and for which a snow emergency has been declared and is in effect.
Additionally, pursuant to Chapter 10.12.050, during the time when a snow emergency is in effect, the police department shall have the authority to take possession of, issue citations for, remove, tow away and impound any vehicle found parked, stalled, incapable of proceeding under its own power or left unattended upon any street designated as a snow emergency route; and, before the owner thereof may thereafter obtain possession of such vehicles, he shall first pay the cost of removing such vehicle and any storage charges.
Again, these emergency declarations are being announced in advance of them actually taking effect, to allow citizens to prepare. Depending upon the rate of snowfall, expect both states of emergency to begin at some point overnight tonight.
Citizens are urged to stay at home and avoid driving if at all possible. If you must drive during this snow event, it is important to realize that the most slippery surfaces do not appear as hazardous as they actually are. Bridges, overpasses and intersections are common areas where the pavement freezes faster than on ordinary roadways. Please slow down, and allow extra distance when braking.
For service calls after normal business hours, please contact the Salisbury Police Department at 410-548-3165. For emergency situations, please dial 911 immediately.
For information on snow emergency routes and plowing/salting operations, visit http://bit.ly/2BhxRj0
"Black Cities Are Still Bleeding To Death": Baltimore Pastor Blames Police Absence For Surge In Killings
For the third consecutive year (2017), Baltimore City, Maryland, has had between 319-343 homicides, making it the most dangerous city in America.
On top of the death and despair, Baltimore gained national attention during the 2015 riots, after Freddie Gray, a young black male was arrested and died in police custody. Needless to say, there are much larger trends at play, including 50-years of failed Democratic leadership and decades of de-industrialization, which have ultimately given today’s war-zone a silver patter to thrive.
The Reverend Kinji Scott, a pastor in Baltimore who’s held various positions in local government, recently spoke with Lauren Frayer, an NPR journalist, on the current environment in Baltimore. Scott clearly describes the city as a war-zone and said, “we have broad daylight shootings–all over the city.”
He’s among a group of activist who believes the higher homicide rate is due to a relaxation of police patrols following the Ferguson effect and the death of Freddy Gray. “We wanted the police there,” Scott said. “We wanted them engaged in the community. We didn’t want them beating the hell out of us, we didn’t want that.” Scott believes real change will come when the black community forms strong relationships with the police; however, that has yet to happen.
More
On top of the death and despair, Baltimore gained national attention during the 2015 riots, after Freddie Gray, a young black male was arrested and died in police custody. Needless to say, there are much larger trends at play, including 50-years of failed Democratic leadership and decades of de-industrialization, which have ultimately given today’s war-zone a silver patter to thrive.
The Reverend Kinji Scott, a pastor in Baltimore who’s held various positions in local government, recently spoke with Lauren Frayer, an NPR journalist, on the current environment in Baltimore. Scott clearly describes the city as a war-zone and said, “we have broad daylight shootings–all over the city.”
He’s among a group of activist who believes the higher homicide rate is due to a relaxation of police patrols following the Ferguson effect and the death of Freddy Gray. “We wanted the police there,” Scott said. “We wanted them engaged in the community. We didn’t want them beating the hell out of us, we didn’t want that.” Scott believes real change will come when the black community forms strong relationships with the police; however, that has yet to happen.
More
Garrett & Wicomico County included in job development initiative
ANNAPOLIS — Gov. Larry Hogan has announced a series of new initiatives to spur job creation and economic growth in Maryland and further establish the state’s leadership in key STEM-related (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) industries.
Hogan pledged to introduce new legislation in the upcoming session to expand on the More Jobs for Marylanders Act, which was passed in the 2017 session and went into effect June 1. The program incentivizes manufacturing companies to create jobs in areas with higher unemployment by providing a tax credit for each new job created.
The new legislation, the More Jobs for Marylanders Act 2.0, will expand the reach of the program to additional jurisdictions, including Garrett, Caroline, Kent, and Wicomico counties, and allow all eligible jurisdictions to select up to three industries or sectors in addition to manufacturing where the tax credits would be applicable. This will give jurisdictions the ability to leverage their unique economic development goals and strengths to create even more jobs. The expanded program will also increase the available funding for tax credits from $9 million to $15 million.
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Hogan pledged to introduce new legislation in the upcoming session to expand on the More Jobs for Marylanders Act, which was passed in the 2017 session and went into effect June 1. The program incentivizes manufacturing companies to create jobs in areas with higher unemployment by providing a tax credit for each new job created.
The new legislation, the More Jobs for Marylanders Act 2.0, will expand the reach of the program to additional jurisdictions, including Garrett, Caroline, Kent, and Wicomico counties, and allow all eligible jurisdictions to select up to three industries or sectors in addition to manufacturing where the tax credits would be applicable. This will give jurisdictions the ability to leverage their unique economic development goals and strengths to create even more jobs. The expanded program will also increase the available funding for tax credits from $9 million to $15 million.
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Congress has a Black Caucus Racism Problem
Vicious cycle of racism, thievery in CBC must be broken
The Congressional Black Caucus had a front seat to #MeToo with the revelation that $220,000 had been paid out to a staffer alleging sexual harassment by Rep. Alcee Hastings (D-FL), a former judge impeached for bribery whose girlfriend has been on his payroll to the tune of $2.4 million, and that Rep. Conyers (D-MI) had his own sexual harassment settlement.
That scandal forced Rep. Conyers to resign and hand the seat to his son at the behest of his wife, Monica, who had been convicted of bribery.
Corruption, fraud and bribery are ongoing problems at the Congressional Black Caucus.
Read more
The Congressional Black Caucus had a front seat to #MeToo with the revelation that $220,000 had been paid out to a staffer alleging sexual harassment by Rep. Alcee Hastings (D-FL), a former judge impeached for bribery whose girlfriend has been on his payroll to the tune of $2.4 million, and that Rep. Conyers (D-MI) had his own sexual harassment settlement.
That scandal forced Rep. Conyers to resign and hand the seat to his son at the behest of his wife, Monica, who had been convicted of bribery.
Corruption, fraud and bribery are ongoing problems at the Congressional Black Caucus.
Read more
Trump's Prioritizing DACA Illegal Aliens Breaks with 'No Amnesty' Commitment
President Trump’s seeming prioritization of nearly 800,000 illegal aliens shielded from deportation under former President Obama’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program breaks a long-held commitment by the populist leader to put American citizens first in every decision.
As Breitbart News reported, Trump posted to Twitter on Tuesday that the open borders activists behind recent protests demanding DACA amnesty will begin “falling in love” with himself and Republicans, hinting that he is interested in a deal to begin giving illegal aliens a pathway to U.S. citizenship.
The statement, though, breaks with Trump’s key commitment to his supporters that Americans will always come first in not only the immigration issue, but on every issue, including trade, healthcare, and foreign policy.
This “America First” commitment best is exemplified in Trump’s historic 2016 immigration speech, in which he repeatedly promised that “there will be no amnesty.”
More/Video
As Breitbart News reported, Trump posted to Twitter on Tuesday that the open borders activists behind recent protests demanding DACA amnesty will begin “falling in love” with himself and Republicans, hinting that he is interested in a deal to begin giving illegal aliens a pathway to U.S. citizenship.
This “America First” commitment best is exemplified in Trump’s historic 2016 immigration speech, in which he repeatedly promised that “there will be no amnesty.”
More/Video
American Airlines, Southwest employees to get bonus after tax reform
U.S. airlines American Airlines Group Inc (AAL.O) and Southwest Airlines Co (LUV.N) said on Tuesday that they would give their employees a $1,000 bonus in light of the recent U.S. tax bill.
The airlines join a host of other companies such as AT&T (T.N), Boeing Co (BA.N) and Wells Fargo & Co (WFC.N) promising to pay bonuses or invest more in training after the biggest overhaul of the U.S. tax code in 30 years, which cuts the corporate tax rate.
American Airlines will distribute the bonus to each team member, excluding officers, at its mainline and wholly owned regional carriers, according to an internal memo seen by Reuters.The distributions will total approximately $130 million and will be made in the first quarter of 2018, the company said.
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The airlines join a host of other companies such as AT&T (T.N), Boeing Co (BA.N) and Wells Fargo & Co (WFC.N) promising to pay bonuses or invest more in training after the biggest overhaul of the U.S. tax code in 30 years, which cuts the corporate tax rate.
American Airlines will distribute the bonus to each team member, excluding officers, at its mainline and wholly owned regional carriers, according to an internal memo seen by Reuters.The distributions will total approximately $130 million and will be made in the first quarter of 2018, the company said.
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How Trump Abandoned Populism
Scott Galupo writes in THE WEEK that the tax reform legislation passed by congress doesn’t fulfill Trump’s campaign promises to give breaks to the working and middle class by clamping down on the wealthy and the big banks:
Conservatives inclined to cheer major tax-cut legislation even if it’s signed by a president they don’t particularly care for are frustrated by its unpopularity. They blame the media and Democrats for torquing up class warfare. In effect, they ask, don’t you know you’ll get a tax cut, too?!
Here is an alternative explanation: Working- and middle-class voters don’t much care that they might get a (temporary) tax cut. The problem is, when they hear Republicans touting the magic of cuts, they smell a rat. They’ve been hearing the same rhetoric for 40 years, and they know the fix is in. They suspect that the wealthiest Americans stand to gain the most — and they would be right.
It didn’t have to be this way.
In fact, Donald Trump, the candidate, promised the country a different way, a different kind of Republicanism; he promised a kind of radical-center populism. Candidate Trump entertained the idea of raising taxes on the wealthy, including himself. As late as this past September, he signaled a commitment to eliminating the carried-interest loophole for hedge fund and private equity managers. As late as this past March, there was still talk of breaking up the big banks and reinstating Glass-Steagall legislation. He says he still wants an infrastructure bill — but the deficits caused by these tax cuts (estimates vary from $500 billion to $1 trillion over the next 10 years, depending on how much growth they stimulate and, conversely, how much easier it becomes to game the tax code) will make it hard to find money for new spending.
President Trump could’ve turned Washington, D.C., on its head. The conventional wisdom about the grand bargain between Trump and the Republican establishment is that they will tolerate his antics and flagrant corruption in exchange for his signing their agenda into law. But Trump could’ve struck an entirely different bargain than the one he’s wedded to now — the one that has him and his congressional allies both mired in approval ratings that are astonishingly low given economic conditions.
Read the rest of the story here.
Conservatives inclined to cheer major tax-cut legislation even if it’s signed by a president they don’t particularly care for are frustrated by its unpopularity. They blame the media and Democrats for torquing up class warfare. In effect, they ask, don’t you know you’ll get a tax cut, too?!
Here is an alternative explanation: Working- and middle-class voters don’t much care that they might get a (temporary) tax cut. The problem is, when they hear Republicans touting the magic of cuts, they smell a rat. They’ve been hearing the same rhetoric for 40 years, and they know the fix is in. They suspect that the wealthiest Americans stand to gain the most — and they would be right.
It didn’t have to be this way.
In fact, Donald Trump, the candidate, promised the country a different way, a different kind of Republicanism; he promised a kind of radical-center populism. Candidate Trump entertained the idea of raising taxes on the wealthy, including himself. As late as this past September, he signaled a commitment to eliminating the carried-interest loophole for hedge fund and private equity managers. As late as this past March, there was still talk of breaking up the big banks and reinstating Glass-Steagall legislation. He says he still wants an infrastructure bill — but the deficits caused by these tax cuts (estimates vary from $500 billion to $1 trillion over the next 10 years, depending on how much growth they stimulate and, conversely, how much easier it becomes to game the tax code) will make it hard to find money for new spending.
President Trump could’ve turned Washington, D.C., on its head. The conventional wisdom about the grand bargain between Trump and the Republican establishment is that they will tolerate his antics and flagrant corruption in exchange for his signing their agenda into law. But Trump could’ve struck an entirely different bargain than the one he’s wedded to now — the one that has him and his congressional allies both mired in approval ratings that are astonishingly low given economic conditions.
Read the rest of the story here.
Trump: Send Hillary Clinton aide Huma Abedin to 'jail'
President Trump on Tuesday demanded Hillary Clinton's former aide Huma Abedin be sent to jail for not properly handling classified information.
"Crooked Hillary Clinton’s top aid, Huma Abedin, has been accused of disregarding basic security protocols. She put Classified Passwords into the hands of foreign agents. Remember sailors pictures on submarine? Jail! Deep State Justice Dept must finally act? Also on Comey & others," Trump tweeted Tuesday morning.
On Dec. 29, the State Department released emails Abedin sent and received while employed at the State Department during Clinton's stint as secretary from 2009 to 2011.
The emails were obtained as the result of a Judicial Watch lawsuit that was launched after federal investigators determined Abedin had sent government information on a laptop that belonged to her ex-husband, former Rep. Anthony Weiner, D-N.Y.
Weiner's computer was seized by the federal government after he was accused of sexting with a minor. He was later found guilty and sentenced to 21 months in prison.
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"Crooked Hillary Clinton’s top aid, Huma Abedin, has been accused of disregarding basic security protocols. She put Classified Passwords into the hands of foreign agents. Remember sailors pictures on submarine? Jail! Deep State Justice Dept must finally act? Also on Comey & others," Trump tweeted Tuesday morning.
On Dec. 29, the State Department released emails Abedin sent and received while employed at the State Department during Clinton's stint as secretary from 2009 to 2011.
The emails were obtained as the result of a Judicial Watch lawsuit that was launched after federal investigators determined Abedin had sent government information on a laptop that belonged to her ex-husband, former Rep. Anthony Weiner, D-N.Y.
Weiner's computer was seized by the federal government after he was accused of sexting with a minor. He was later found guilty and sentenced to 21 months in prison.
More
Will 2018 Be The Year That Interest Rate Hikes Crush Auto Sales?
We've long argued that elevated auto sales in the U.S. are nothing more than yet another debt bubble resulting from perpetually low interest rates and a gradual loosening of underwriting standards, primarily coming in the form of longer loan maturities. Now, asBloomberg points out today, more and more wall street analysts are suddenly starting to question whether 2018 might be the year that interest rate hikes from the Fed finally crush auto sales.
As the Chief Economist of Cox Automotive notes, "monthly payments matter"...and with each 25bps hike from the fed resulting in $8-$20 worth of higher monthly payments one can quickly understand why the notion of three rate hikes in 2018 might start worry auto OEMs...
“Consumers could face slightly higher costs for all their borrowing: credit-card balances, student loans, financing a house or a car,” said Charlie Chesbrough, senior economist at Cox Automotive, which owns websites including Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader. “At the same time, higher rates drive up the cost to provide low-rate financing, which eats into profit margins and hurts the carmakers as well.”
“The monthly payment matters,” said Jonathan Smoke, Cox’s chief economist. “When rates rise, many consumers do not have an option to pay more. We believe higher rates have already led the automotive market to see some shift” toward used-vehicle purchases instead of new ones.
More
As the Chief Economist of Cox Automotive notes, "monthly payments matter"...and with each 25bps hike from the fed resulting in $8-$20 worth of higher monthly payments one can quickly understand why the notion of three rate hikes in 2018 might start worry auto OEMs...
“Consumers could face slightly higher costs for all their borrowing: credit-card balances, student loans, financing a house or a car,” said Charlie Chesbrough, senior economist at Cox Automotive, which owns websites including Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader. “At the same time, higher rates drive up the cost to provide low-rate financing, which eats into profit margins and hurts the carmakers as well.”
“The monthly payment matters,” said Jonathan Smoke, Cox’s chief economist. “When rates rise, many consumers do not have an option to pay more. We believe higher rates have already led the automotive market to see some shift” toward used-vehicle purchases instead of new ones.
More
Pepco Seeking Rate Increase to Cover $41.4 Million in Improvements Made Last Year
Pepco is asking the Maryland Public Service Commission for a rate increase that would add $5.14 to an average consumer’s bill, the company said Tuesday.
The rate increase covers $41.4 million for work done in 2017. The company spent about $222.9 million in the year, said Donna Cooper, Pepco region president, in a conference call with reporters.
The utility spent the money to improve safety, reliability and customer service through replacing and improving aging equipment and installing advanced equipment to automatically identify and isolate issues and automatically restore service to customers, according to a Pepco news release.
More
The rate increase covers $41.4 million for work done in 2017. The company spent about $222.9 million in the year, said Donna Cooper, Pepco region president, in a conference call with reporters.
The utility spent the money to improve safety, reliability and customer service through replacing and improving aging equipment and installing advanced equipment to automatically identify and isolate issues and automatically restore service to customers, according to a Pepco news release.
More
Donald Trump: DACA Amnesty Activists Will Be ‘Falling in Love’ with Republicans
President Donald Trump promised to deliver results for DACA activists who are demanding amnesty for illegal immigrants brought to the United States as children.
“Democrats are doing nothing for DACA – just interested in politics,” Trump wrote. “DACA activists and Hispanics will go hard against Dems, will start ‘falling in love’ with Republicans and their President! We are about RESULTS.”
Trump’s comment signaled an effort to pry Democrats loose on the issue and signal good faith negotiations as he prepares to make a deal on the issue in January.
Previously, Trump signaled that he would demand funding for his long-promised wall in exchange for a DACA deal.
More
“Democrats are doing nothing for DACA – just interested in politics,” Trump wrote. “DACA activists and Hispanics will go hard against Dems, will start ‘falling in love’ with Republicans and their President! We are about RESULTS.”
Previously, Trump signaled that he would demand funding for his long-promised wall in exchange for a DACA deal.
More
Blizzard Warning for Wicomico County, Maryland
BLIZZARD WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 7 PM THIS EVENING TO 1 PM EST THURSDAY...
* WHAT... BLIZZARD CONDITIONS EXPECTED. TRAVEL WILL BE VERY DANGEROUS TO IMPOSSIBLE, INCLUDING DURING THE MORNING COMMUTE ON THURSDAY. TREE BRANCHES COULD FALL AS WELL. TOTAL SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF 6 TO 10 INCHES ARE EXPECTED, WITH LOCALLY HIGHER AMOUNTS UP TO 12 INCHES.
* WHERE... WICOMICO, SOMERSET, INLAND WORCESTER AND MARYLAND BEACHES COUNTIES.
* WHEN... FROM 7 PM THIS EVENING TO 1 PM EST THURSDAY.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS... WINDS GUSTING AS HIGH AS 50 MPH WILL CAUSE WHITEOUT CONDITIONS IN BLOWING SNOW. SIGNIFICANT DRIFTING OF THE SNOW IS LIKELY. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... A BLIZZARD WARNING MEANS SEVERE WINTER WEATHER CONDITIONS ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. FALLING AND BLOWING SNOW WITH STRONG WINDS AND POOR VISIBILITIES ARE LIKELY. THIS WILL LEAD TO WHITEOUT CONDITIONS, MAKING TRAVEL EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. DO NOT TRAVEL. IF YOU MUST TRAVEL, HAVE A WINTER SURVIVAL KIT WITH YOU. IF YOU GET STRANDED, STAY WITH YOUR VEHICLE. THE LATEST ROAD CONDITIONS FOR THE STATE YOU ARE CALLING FROM CAN BE OBTAINED BY CALLING 5 1 1.
WCSO CID Press Releases - Jan. 3, 2018
Double, Nathan and Decelles, Tori
Date of Incident: January 2, 2018
Location: 8100 Block of White Lowe Road Salisbury, Maryland
Suspects:
Nathan Lee Double, 43 years of age, Salisbury, MD
Tori Logan Decelles, 26 years of age, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: Beginning October 2017, the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office Community Action Team (CAT) conducted an investigation into suspected drug activity occurring at a residence located in the 8100 block of White Lowe Road, Salisbury, Maryland.
On January 2, 2018, Deputies with the Community Action Team, assisted by the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team (SERT), and the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division (CID) executed a search and seizure warrant at the residence of Nathan Double. Five people were located inside, to include Nathan Double and Tori Decelles. During a search of the residence, Deputies located cocaine, suspected crack cocaine, and items used to package and sell cocaine. Double and Decelles were arrested, charged and transferred to the Wicomico County Detention Center. Double was released from WCDC on a $25,000 unsecured bond. Decelles was released from WCDC her own personal recognizance. This investigation is open and ongoing and may result in additional arrests.
Charges:
Nathan Double - Maintaining a common nuisance (residence) for distributing a narcotic controlled dangerous substance, maintaining a common nuisance for administering a narcotic controlled dangerous substance, possession of a controlled dangerous substance, and possession of controlled paraphernalia.
Tori Decelles - Possession of a controlled dangerous substance and possession of controlled paraphernalia.Incident: Theft of motor vehicle, Possession of CDS, Possession of firearms by prohibited person
Date of Incident: December 27th, 2017
Location: 7100 Block of White Richardson Road Pittsville, MD
Suspect: Tenille Puaquatia Williams, 42 years of age, Pittsville, MD
Suspects:
Nathan Lee Double, 43 years of age, Salisbury, MD
Tori Logan Decelles, 26 years of age, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: Beginning October 2017, the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office Community Action Team (CAT) conducted an investigation into suspected drug activity occurring at a residence located in the 8100 block of White Lowe Road, Salisbury, Maryland.
On January 2, 2018, Deputies with the Community Action Team, assisted by the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team (SERT), and the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division (CID) executed a search and seizure warrant at the residence of Nathan Double. Five people were located inside, to include Nathan Double and Tori Decelles. During a search of the residence, Deputies located cocaine, suspected crack cocaine, and items used to package and sell cocaine. Double and Decelles were arrested, charged and transferred to the Wicomico County Detention Center. Double was released from WCDC on a $25,000 unsecured bond. Decelles was released from WCDC her own personal recognizance. This investigation is open and ongoing and may result in additional arrests.
Charges:
Nathan Double - Maintaining a common nuisance (residence) for distributing a narcotic controlled dangerous substance, maintaining a common nuisance for administering a narcotic controlled dangerous substance, possession of a controlled dangerous substance, and possession of controlled paraphernalia.
Tori Decelles - Possession of a controlled dangerous substance and possession of controlled paraphernalia.Incident: Theft of motor vehicle, Possession of CDS, Possession of firearms by prohibited person
Williams, Tenille
Location: 7100 Block of White Richardson Road Pittsville, MD
Suspect: Tenille Puaquatia Williams, 42 years of age, Pittsville, MD
Narrative: The Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office initiated a criminal investigation after they learned Tenille Williams was possibly in possession of a stolen vehicle.
On December 26, 2017, a deputy from the Community Action Team (CAT) located the stolen vehicle which was parked across the street from Tenille Williams’ residence, the 7100-Block of White Richardson Road, Pittsville, MD. The deputy learned the vehicle was stolen from the 700-Block of College Lane, Salisbury, Maryland. The owner of the vehicle stated Williams had visited his house on or around December 25th.
The deputy applied for a search and seizure warrant for Williams’ residence. Deputies and detectives executed a search and seizure warrant. During the search of Williams’ property, small amounts of cocaine and heroin along with controlled paraphernalia were located. Additionally, several firearms and ammunition were located inside the home. It was determined that Williams is prohibited from possessing firearms. Williams was arrested, charged and transported to WCDC.
Williams is being held on no bond at the Wicomico County Detention Center.
Charges: Theft of motor vehicle, possession of controlled dangerous substance, and illegal possession of firearms.
Releasing Authority: Cpl J. Banks/W213 Date: 1/2/18
Time to Stand With Iran's People
Protests in Iran continue on Tuesday as millions of ordinary Iranian men and woman stand up to a regime that is feared, hated and distrusted by the population. The spark for the latest nationwide protests was economic, but it ignited a combustible grievance that has been steadily building since at least the late 1990s — in truth since the Islamic Revolution in 1979.
The vast majority of Iran’s 80 million people have no memory of the Revolution, and see only a brutal regime that enforces a medieval Islamic code of social mores while enriching itself and squandering the revenue provided by the world’s fourth-largest oil reserves. Highly educated and technically literate, young Iranians admire and, to the extent feasible, adopt many of the West’s cultural practices in music, television, dress and treatment of women. Yet they see their young Western counterparts enjoying higher employment numbers and freedom of expression, while young Iranians suffer a 40% unemployment rate and state-controlled speech. Very much like Soviet communism in the 1980s, the Islamic Revolution in Iran is old, tired and no longer able to inspire loyalty with its ideas, instead demanding loyalty with its guns.
The regime’s reaction to the latest protests has followed the usual playbook of denunciations by various officials, harsh crackdowns by the security forces, and of course blaming external forces for all of Iran’s problems. President Hassan Rouhani, who is widely blamed for the lack of any economic benefit for ordinary Iranians following the 2015 nuclear deal, stated Monday, “Our great nation has witnessed a number of similar incidents in the past and has comfortably dealt with them. This is nothing.”
More here
The vast majority of Iran’s 80 million people have no memory of the Revolution, and see only a brutal regime that enforces a medieval Islamic code of social mores while enriching itself and squandering the revenue provided by the world’s fourth-largest oil reserves. Highly educated and technically literate, young Iranians admire and, to the extent feasible, adopt many of the West’s cultural practices in music, television, dress and treatment of women. Yet they see their young Western counterparts enjoying higher employment numbers and freedom of expression, while young Iranians suffer a 40% unemployment rate and state-controlled speech. Very much like Soviet communism in the 1980s, the Islamic Revolution in Iran is old, tired and no longer able to inspire loyalty with its ideas, instead demanding loyalty with its guns.
The regime’s reaction to the latest protests has followed the usual playbook of denunciations by various officials, harsh crackdowns by the security forces, and of course blaming external forces for all of Iran’s problems. President Hassan Rouhani, who is widely blamed for the lack of any economic benefit for ordinary Iranians following the 2015 nuclear deal, stated Monday, “Our great nation has witnessed a number of similar incidents in the past and has comfortably dealt with them. This is nothing.”
More here
Kris Kobach: Voter Fraud Commission Will Meet This Month
President Donald Trump's beleaguered election fraud commission plans to meet this month after getting delayed for months by eight lawsuits, commission head and Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach says.
In an interview with the Topeka Capitol-Journal, Kobach said the commission's "very small staff" in Washington, D.C., "has been bogged down in litigation."
"Much of the past few months has been spent by commission staff answering discovery requests for information and drafting affidavits and things that like — going through the legwork of litigation, and that takes time," he told the outlet.
Among the eight lawsuits pending in federal court is one from a commission member — Maine Democratic Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap — and from groups including the American Civil Liberties Union and the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.
The groups are alleging a lack of transparency and that the collection of Americans' personal data violates voters' privacy.
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In an interview with the Topeka Capitol-Journal, Kobach said the commission's "very small staff" in Washington, D.C., "has been bogged down in litigation."
"Much of the past few months has been spent by commission staff answering discovery requests for information and drafting affidavits and things that like — going through the legwork of litigation, and that takes time," he told the outlet.
Among the eight lawsuits pending in federal court is one from a commission member — Maine Democratic Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap — and from groups including the American Civil Liberties Union and the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.
The groups are alleging a lack of transparency and that the collection of Americans' personal data violates voters' privacy.
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Rep. Blackburn: Time for GOP to Act Like Majority Party
Republicans must continue the progress from passing tax reform to record more achievements in Congress, Tennessee Rep. Marsha Blackburn told Fox News on Tuesday.
Asked about the aggressive agenda for the GOP at the start of the year, Blackburn said that "As we look at this entire bucket of issues, we have to realize that the Republican Party is the majority, and it is time for us to act like the majority party, get these things done, just as we did in tax reform. And that's what people want to see. Getting the government funded in doing that in a responsible way. I would like to see us bring in some spending reductions, so we're looking at the long-term and not just the short term."
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Asked about the aggressive agenda for the GOP at the start of the year, Blackburn said that "As we look at this entire bucket of issues, we have to realize that the Republican Party is the majority, and it is time for us to act like the majority party, get these things done, just as we did in tax reform. And that's what people want to see. Getting the government funded in doing that in a responsible way. I would like to see us bring in some spending reductions, so we're looking at the long-term and not just the short term."
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Trump Admin Working to Incubate Nascent Iranian Revolution
The Trump administration is keeping a close eye on the growing protests in Iran, with senior administration officials working to ensure President Donald Trump does not miss an opportunity to incubate a possible revolution that could topple Iran's hardline ruling regime, according to White House officials who spoke to the Washington Free Beacon.
With the world watching growing demonstrations across Iran, the Trump administration sees an opportunity to feed the growing protests. The policy is starkly different than the Obama administration's approach in 2009, when similar protests gripped Iran and were met with silence.
Many viewed the Obama administration's hesitation to back the protests as part of the reason they fizzled out amid a violent crackdown by the Iranian regime, which has engaged in similar tactics as anti-regime activists take to the streets across the Islamic Republic.
President Trump and Vice President Mike Pence are said to be closely monitoring the situation and working to warn Iran's ruling regime that "this will not be a repeat of the 2009 demonstrations," according to a senior administration official briefed on the situation.
More here
With the world watching growing demonstrations across Iran, the Trump administration sees an opportunity to feed the growing protests. The policy is starkly different than the Obama administration's approach in 2009, when similar protests gripped Iran and were met with silence.
Many viewed the Obama administration's hesitation to back the protests as part of the reason they fizzled out amid a violent crackdown by the Iranian regime, which has engaged in similar tactics as anti-regime activists take to the streets across the Islamic Republic.
President Trump and Vice President Mike Pence are said to be closely monitoring the situation and working to warn Iran's ruling regime that "this will not be a repeat of the 2009 demonstrations," according to a senior administration official briefed on the situation.
More here
Coast Guard sets ice condition 3 for Delaware Bay and tributaries
PHILADELPHIA — The Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay Captain of the Port (COTP) set ice condition three Tuesday, and cautions mariners to be aware of ice formation on the Delaware Bay and its tributaries.
Ice condition three is set when weather conditions are favorable for the formation of ice in navigable waters.
The COTP of Delaware Bay is notifying mariners that ice condition 3 has been set for the Port, which includes the Delaware Bay and River, the C&D Canal, Cape May Harbor and Canal and the Intracoastal Waterway.
All masters, ship agents, owners and operators of all vessels, marine facilities and marinas are encouraged to report observed ice conditions to the Sector Delaware Bay command center at 215-271-4940. Additionally, mariners should review and prepare for the seasonal ice procedures below:
When ice is present, but less than two inches, vessels must have a propulsion system with adequate horsepower, and be able to maneuver unassisted through the ice without needing to stop, back off and ram the ice.
Vessel moorings should be checked frequently to ensure vessels are adequately moored.
Vessels at anchor should maintain their engines on standby at all times.
Vessel sea chests should be checked regularly for ice buildup and precautions should be taken to ensure that the sea chests are kept clear.
Vessels at anchor should ensure that proper bridge watches are stood at all times.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has imposed steel hull restrictions on the C&D Canal.
The Sector Delaware Bay COTP may establish additional requirements for specific geographical areas of the COTP zone if conditions warrant such restrictions.
Ice related vessel and waterway restrictions are announced via Coast Guard broadcast notices to mariners, five times daily at 3 a.m., 7:05 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 4 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. local time on marine band radio VHF-FM channel 22A.
The status for local waterways can also be found at https://homeport.uscg.mil/port-directory/delaware-bay or by calling the Sector Delaware Bay ice line at 215-271-4995.
The status and extent of these restrictions are continuously evaluated, as ice condition reports are received and assessed.
“It’s important to always check and monitor the marine weather forecast before any trip on the water,” said Capt. Scott Anderson, the Commander of Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay. “High winds, cold weather, and dropping temperatures are good reasons to re-evaluate an outing. If you must go out, we recommend using the buddy system and filing a float plan with a family member or friend. Letting someone responsible know where you are going and when you will be back could save your life if something unexpected happens.”
Ice condition three is set when weather conditions are favorable for the formation of ice in navigable waters.
The COTP of Delaware Bay is notifying mariners that ice condition 3 has been set for the Port, which includes the Delaware Bay and River, the C&D Canal, Cape May Harbor and Canal and the Intracoastal Waterway.
All masters, ship agents, owners and operators of all vessels, marine facilities and marinas are encouraged to report observed ice conditions to the Sector Delaware Bay command center at 215-271-4940. Additionally, mariners should review and prepare for the seasonal ice procedures below:
When ice is present, but less than two inches, vessels must have a propulsion system with adequate horsepower, and be able to maneuver unassisted through the ice without needing to stop, back off and ram the ice.
Vessel moorings should be checked frequently to ensure vessels are adequately moored.
Vessels at anchor should maintain their engines on standby at all times.
Vessel sea chests should be checked regularly for ice buildup and precautions should be taken to ensure that the sea chests are kept clear.
Vessels at anchor should ensure that proper bridge watches are stood at all times.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has imposed steel hull restrictions on the C&D Canal.
The Sector Delaware Bay COTP may establish additional requirements for specific geographical areas of the COTP zone if conditions warrant such restrictions.
Ice related vessel and waterway restrictions are announced via Coast Guard broadcast notices to mariners, five times daily at 3 a.m., 7:05 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 4 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. local time on marine band radio VHF-FM channel 22A.
The status for local waterways can also be found at https://homeport.uscg.mil/port-directory/delaware-bay or by calling the Sector Delaware Bay ice line at 215-271-4995.
The status and extent of these restrictions are continuously evaluated, as ice condition reports are received and assessed.
“It’s important to always check and monitor the marine weather forecast before any trip on the water,” said Capt. Scott Anderson, the Commander of Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay. “High winds, cold weather, and dropping temperatures are good reasons to re-evaluate an outing. If you must go out, we recommend using the buddy system and filing a float plan with a family member or friend. Letting someone responsible know where you are going and when you will be back could save your life if something unexpected happens.”
Check Out This LIVE Cam in Charleston South Carolina, Here Comes The Snow!
Snow coated Interstate 26 in Charleston, South Carolina, on Wednesday as a winter storm rolled up the East Coast.
The East Coast is facing the threat of a 'bomb cyclone'
What exactly is a 'bomb cyclone?' Its typical reference by meteorologists isbombogenesis, which the NWS says is what takes place when a cold air mass collides with a warm air mass, causing a cyclone which rapidly intensifies.
The process, according to the NWS, is called bombogenesis while the result is called a bomb cyclone.
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How Quitting Facebook Helped Relieve My Depression And Made Me A Better Friend
Social media can help foster friendships and keep us connected to loved ones. When people insisted it couldn’t replace face-to-face, in-person conversation, I scoffed, responding with anecdotes of how many of my friends needed it to keep in touch when the military moved them from place to place.
When folks warned that social media was likely exacerbating my depression, I shook my head, pointing to my support just a click away. When my husband suggested I spent too much time on my accounts and should consider deactivating, I insisted I needed the outlet for an escape from the stress of work and home, of life in general.
But no more. I’m over it. I’m done.
My husband had indeed been encouraging me to consider ditching social media — Facebook specifically — for years, especially after my postpartum depression. But he would always concede when I gave the above reasons for needing to stay.
Then one day my depression hit a new low, sending my mind whirling with thoughts of driving my car off an overpass to spare my family the hassle of having me failing them all the time. I realized something had to give.
More here
When folks warned that social media was likely exacerbating my depression, I shook my head, pointing to my support just a click away. When my husband suggested I spent too much time on my accounts and should consider deactivating, I insisted I needed the outlet for an escape from the stress of work and home, of life in general.
But no more. I’m over it. I’m done.
My husband had indeed been encouraging me to consider ditching social media — Facebook specifically — for years, especially after my postpartum depression. But he would always concede when I gave the above reasons for needing to stay.
Then one day my depression hit a new low, sending my mind whirling with thoughts of driving my car off an overpass to spare my family the hassle of having me failing them all the time. I realized something had to give.
More here
China Covertly Offering Missiles, Increased Aid to North Korea
China's Communist Party adopted a secret plan in September to bolster the North Korean government with increased aid and military support, including new missiles, if Pyongyang halts further nuclear tests, according to an internal party document.
The document, labeled "top secret" and dated Sept. 15—12 days after North Korea's latest underground nuclear blast—outlines China's plan for dealing with the North Korean nuclear issue. It states China will allow North Korea to keep its current arsenal of nuclear weapons, contrary to Beijing's public stance that it seeks a denuclearized Korean peninsula.
Chinese leaders also agreed to offer new assurances that the North Korean government will not be allowed to collapse, and that Beijing plans to apply sanctions "symbolically" to avoid punishing the regime of leader Kim Jong Un under a recent U.N. resolution requiring a halt to oil and gas shipments into North Korea.
A copy of the four-page Chinese-language document was obtained by the Washington Free Beacon from a person who once had ties to the Chinese intelligence and security communities. An English translation can be found here.
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The document, labeled "top secret" and dated Sept. 15—12 days after North Korea's latest underground nuclear blast—outlines China's plan for dealing with the North Korean nuclear issue. It states China will allow North Korea to keep its current arsenal of nuclear weapons, contrary to Beijing's public stance that it seeks a denuclearized Korean peninsula.
Chinese leaders also agreed to offer new assurances that the North Korean government will not be allowed to collapse, and that Beijing plans to apply sanctions "symbolically" to avoid punishing the regime of leader Kim Jong Un under a recent U.N. resolution requiring a halt to oil and gas shipments into North Korea.
A copy of the four-page Chinese-language document was obtained by the Washington Free Beacon from a person who once had ties to the Chinese intelligence and security communities. An English translation can be found here.
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French woman electrocuted while charging phone near bath
A pregnant woman in France has died after being electrocuted by her phone, which she was charging as she took a bath, authorities say.
The 21-year-old woman was just two weeks away from giving birth when she died on New Year's Eve in the town of Saint-Martin-d'Hères near Grenoble, France.
Her husband found her submerged in the water and unconscious on Sunday.
The man had left the home without his keys while his wife was in the bath, and had to break through his front door when she didn't answer his knocks or phone calls upon his return.
The woman, who was eight-and-a-half months pregnant, suffered cardiac arrest while in the tub, according to The Local.
Her husband called emergency services, but medics were unable to save the woman or her baby.
The woman and her husband have not been publicly named.
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The 21-year-old woman was just two weeks away from giving birth when she died on New Year's Eve in the town of Saint-Martin-d'Hères near Grenoble, France.
Her husband found her submerged in the water and unconscious on Sunday.
The man had left the home without his keys while his wife was in the bath, and had to break through his front door when she didn't answer his knocks or phone calls upon his return.
The woman, who was eight-and-a-half months pregnant, suffered cardiac arrest while in the tub, according to The Local.
Her husband called emergency services, but medics were unable to save the woman or her baby.
The woman and her husband have not been publicly named.
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Worcester County Schools Cancels After School Activities
Baltimore Residents Blaming Murder Increase on Lack of Police After BLM Protesters Demanded Pullback
Black American residents of Baltimore, Maryland, are now blaming a lower police presence for the city’s soaring murder rate despite three years of Black Lives Matter (BLM) activists insisting that police be pulled from their neighborhoods.
Baltimore has now experienced higher murder rates for three years in a row after riots and BLM-sponsored protests began rocking the city after the death of Freddie Gray, a suspect who died in police custody in the spring of 2015, National Public Radio (NPR) reported.
Since the riots, police morale has collapsed, and city officials began planning a lighter police footprint in response to complaints of residents and protest leaders.
But now, black leaders are blaming cops for the spiraling murder rate, saying that the police pullback has put them in danger.
The Rev. Kinji Scott, a Baltimore activist, is blaming city hall for leaving the neighborhoods unprotected.
Despite the loud proclamations from BLM activists that the police are the problem, Scott and his fellow activists are now claiming that they never wanted police to go away.
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Baltimore has now experienced higher murder rates for three years in a row after riots and BLM-sponsored protests began rocking the city after the death of Freddie Gray, a suspect who died in police custody in the spring of 2015, National Public Radio (NPR) reported.
Since the riots, police morale has collapsed, and city officials began planning a lighter police footprint in response to complaints of residents and protest leaders.
But now, black leaders are blaming cops for the spiraling murder rate, saying that the police pullback has put them in danger.
The Rev. Kinji Scott, a Baltimore activist, is blaming city hall for leaving the neighborhoods unprotected.
Despite the loud proclamations from BLM activists that the police are the problem, Scott and his fellow activists are now claiming that they never wanted police to go away.
More
State awards Conowingo Dam pilot dredging contract
The Maryland Environmental Service announced Thursday that it had awarded the contract to Northgate-Dutra Joint Venture, which is comprised of Northgate Environmental Management Inc. in Oakland, Calif., and Dutra Group in San Rafael, Calif. Because the contract has not been finalized, terms of the deal, including cost and details of the proposal, are not yet being released, according to Sharon Merkel, a communications specialist with MES.
“Today marks another important milestone in our progress to address critical environmental needs at the Conowingo Dam,” said Gov. Larry Hogan in a statement. “This project is one element of our multi-prong approach to improving the health of the Chesapeake Bay and it is another great example of how we are using innovative approaches to solve the most pressing environmental challenges.”
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Homosexuality Splits Mennonite Church
The largest conference of Mennonite churches in the U.S. split from the Mennonite community Monday in a dispute over the denomination’s stance on homosexuality.
The Lancaster Mennonite Conference’s (LMC) 2015 vote to officially leave the U.S. Mennonite Church took effect on New Year’s day as the culmination of dispute over the definition of marriage and whether homosexuality is a sin,according to Religion News. The LMC’s split from the denomination tore the U.S. Mennonite church in two, as it was the largest conference of Mennonite churches in the U.S., comprising 179 church congregations in New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.
“We are in a sense not really leaving,” Steve Olivieri, pastor of Cornerstone Fellowship of Mill Run in Altoona, Penn., told NPR. “They are the ones that essentially have left true biblical Christianity in this respect.”
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The Lancaster Mennonite Conference’s (LMC) 2015 vote to officially leave the U.S. Mennonite Church took effect on New Year’s day as the culmination of dispute over the definition of marriage and whether homosexuality is a sin,according to Religion News. The LMC’s split from the denomination tore the U.S. Mennonite church in two, as it was the largest conference of Mennonite churches in the U.S., comprising 179 church congregations in New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.
“We are in a sense not really leaving,” Steve Olivieri, pastor of Cornerstone Fellowship of Mill Run in Altoona, Penn., told NPR. “They are the ones that essentially have left true biblical Christianity in this respect.”
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Trump Warns Kim: "I've Got A Bigger Nuclear Button Than Yours"
Perhaps we should not be shocked any more by the tone of President Trump's tweets but he has kicked off 2018 with bang and his latest shot across North Korea's bow is quite stunning in both its seriousness and its juvenileness.
Apparently responding to what North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said in a New Year's Day speech - that he had a nuclear launch button at his desk, and that the international community would have to accept North Korea's status as a nuclear-armed nation as a "reality."
President Trump responded by tweeting "Will someone from his depleted and food starved regime please inform him that I too have a Nuclear Button, but it is a much bigger & more powerful one than his, and my Button works!”
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Apparently responding to what North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said in a New Year's Day speech - that he had a nuclear launch button at his desk, and that the international community would have to accept North Korea's status as a nuclear-armed nation as a "reality."
President Trump responded by tweeting "Will someone from his depleted and food starved regime please inform him that I too have a Nuclear Button, but it is a much bigger & more powerful one than his, and my Button works!”
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Congressional investigators find irregularities in FBI's handling of Clinton email case
Republicans on key congressional committees say they have uncovered new irregularities and contradictions inside the FBI’s probe of Hillary Clinton’s email server.
For the first time, investigators say they have secured written evidence that the FBI believed there was evidence that some laws were broken when the former secretary of State and her top aides transmitted classified information through her insecure private email server, lawmakers and investigators told The Hill.
That evidence includes passages in FBI documents stating the “sheer volume” of classified information that flowed through Clinton’s insecure emails was proof of criminality as well as an admission of false statements by one key witness in the case, the investigators said.
The name of the witness is redacted from the FBI documents but lawmakers said he was an employee of a computer firm that helped maintain her personal server after she left office as America’s top diplomat and who belatedly admitted he had permanently erased an archive of her messages in 2015 after they had been subpoenaed by Congress..
More here
For the first time, investigators say they have secured written evidence that the FBI believed there was evidence that some laws were broken when the former secretary of State and her top aides transmitted classified information through her insecure private email server, lawmakers and investigators told The Hill.
That evidence includes passages in FBI documents stating the “sheer volume” of classified information that flowed through Clinton’s insecure emails was proof of criminality as well as an admission of false statements by one key witness in the case, the investigators said.
The name of the witness is redacted from the FBI documents but lawmakers said he was an employee of a computer firm that helped maintain her personal server after she left office as America’s top diplomat and who belatedly admitted he had permanently erased an archive of her messages in 2015 after they had been subpoenaed by Congress..
More here
MD State Police Helicopter Rescues Man From Shipping Vessel In Bay
(Baltimore, MD) — A Maryland State Police Aviation Command helicopter crew rescued a man suffering from a medical condition and in need of immediate treatment from a shipping vessel underway in the Chesapeake Bay early this morning.
Shortly before 2:00 a.m. today, the United States Coast Guard Sector Maryland-NCR received a request from the vessel’s medical personnel and subsequently requested a Maryland State Police helicopter to assist. The motor vessel Salome, flagged in Singapore, was underway in the Chesapeake Bay north of the Bay Bridge, headed for the Port of Baltimore.
Trooper 2, the Aviation Command’s Washington Section helicopter stationed at Joint Base Andrews, responded to the call for help. The crew included pilot in command Timothy McMahon, second in command Daniel Summerville, crew chief/flight paramedic Trooper First Class Edward Strapp and rescue technician First Sergeant Jonathan Larsen.
When Trooper 2 was overhead the ship, the State Police crew completed a detailed reconnaissance of the vessel and determined the best course of action and approach to rescue the 39-year-old male victim. Due to the condition of the victim, the Aviation Command rescue technician was lowered to the ship’s deck to assist with stabilization and packaging for extraction. The rescue technician was hoisted back to the aircraft with the victim. With the patient safely on-board, Trooper 2 immediately transitioned from a search and rescue platform to a medevac operation and transported the patient to Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, Maryland.
Shortly before 2:00 a.m. today, the United States Coast Guard Sector Maryland-NCR received a request from the vessel’s medical personnel and subsequently requested a Maryland State Police helicopter to assist. The motor vessel Salome, flagged in Singapore, was underway in the Chesapeake Bay north of the Bay Bridge, headed for the Port of Baltimore.
Trooper 2, the Aviation Command’s Washington Section helicopter stationed at Joint Base Andrews, responded to the call for help. The crew included pilot in command Timothy McMahon, second in command Daniel Summerville, crew chief/flight paramedic Trooper First Class Edward Strapp and rescue technician First Sergeant Jonathan Larsen.
When Trooper 2 was overhead the ship, the State Police crew completed a detailed reconnaissance of the vessel and determined the best course of action and approach to rescue the 39-year-old male victim. Due to the condition of the victim, the Aviation Command rescue technician was lowered to the ship’s deck to assist with stabilization and packaging for extraction. The rescue technician was hoisted back to the aircraft with the victim. With the patient safely on-board, Trooper 2 immediately transitioned from a search and rescue platform to a medevac operation and transported the patient to Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, Maryland.
‘California better hold on tight!’ – ICE director slams ‘sanctuary state’ law
Acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Homan slammed California for their “sanctuary city” policies that went into effect January 1, 2018.
“Well look if he thinks he’s protecting the immigrant community, he’s doing quite the opposite, because if you think ICE is going away, we’re not,” Homan said of California Governor Jerry Brown.
“There’s no sanctuary from federal law enforcement, as a matter of fact, we’re in the process now, I’m going to significantly increase our enforcement presence in California,” he explained. “We’re already doing it. We’re going to detail additional enforcement assets to California.”
“California better hold on tight – they’re about to see a lot more special agents,” he added, “a lot more deportation orders in the state of California.”
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“Well look if he thinks he’s protecting the immigrant community, he’s doing quite the opposite, because if you think ICE is going away, we’re not,” Homan said of California Governor Jerry Brown.
“There’s no sanctuary from federal law enforcement, as a matter of fact, we’re in the process now, I’m going to significantly increase our enforcement presence in California,” he explained. “We’re already doing it. We’re going to detail additional enforcement assets to California.”
“California better hold on tight – they’re about to see a lot more special agents,” he added, “a lot more deportation orders in the state of California.”
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Updated Forecast from NWS
Troopers Arrest Lewes Woman For 5th Offense DUI and Drug Charges
Lemonitra Hensley
Lewes- The Delaware State Police have arrested a Lewes woman after she was observed committing a traffic violation and found to be under the influence for the 5thtime, and in possession of crack-cocaine.
The incident occurred at approximately 10:55 a.m. Tuesday, January 2, 2018 as a trooper observed a green Chevrolet Prizm go through a red traffic light at Sweetbriar Road and Lewes-Georgetown Highway. A traffic stop was conducted and contact was made with the operator, identified as 60-year-old Lemonitra K. Hensley of Lewes. Shortly there after, a DUI investigation ensued. A computer check revealed Hensley had four previous DUI convictions making this arrest #5.
Hensley was transported back to Troop 7 in Lewes where it was discovered that she had 0.13 grams of crack-cocaine concealed in her sock. Subsequently, she was charged with 5th Offense Driving Under the Influence, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Failure to Have Insurance Identification in Possession, Failure to have Registration Card in Possession and Failure to Stop at a Red Light. She was arraigned out of Justice of the Peace Court 2 and released on $5700.00 unsecured bond.
Blizzard warning for Tidewater/Hampton Roads/Lower Shore
* WHAT... Blizzard conditions expected. Travel will be very
dangerous to impossible, including during the morning commute on
Thursday. Tree branches could fall as well. Total snow
accumulations of 5 to 8 inches are expected with locally higher
amounts up to 12 inches.
* WHERE... Norfolk/Portsmouth, Chesapeake and Virginia Beach
Counties.
* WHEN... From 7 PM this evening to 1 PM EST Thursday.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS... Winds gusting as high as 50 mph will
cause whiteout conditions in blowing snow. Significant
drifting of the snow is likely.
NWS
Police: Suspects tried to abduct 8-year-old girl, said 'Come to my house, I have candy'
TAKOMA PARK, Md. (WJLA) - Two men reportedly tried to lure an eight-year-old girl into their vehicle as she prepared to head to elementary school Tuesday morning.
According to Takoma Park Police, the young girl was standing in front of her home near the corner of Elm and Pine Avenues around 9:05 a.m. She'd missed her school bus and was waiting for her father to drive her to class instead.
With temperatures in the frigid teens, a silver-colored vehicle (possibly a Chrysler Pacifica) stopped in the street. The front male passenger opened his car door and stated, "Come to my house, I have candy." The girl told investigators she pushed the car door closed, ran inside her home and immediately reported the incident to her father. The suspect vehicle was last seen driving down Elm Avenue toward the defunct John Nevins Andrews School. It had damage (perhaps dents) on the rear passenger side door, and possibly a D.C. license plate with the number "3" included.
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According to Takoma Park Police, the young girl was standing in front of her home near the corner of Elm and Pine Avenues around 9:05 a.m. She'd missed her school bus and was waiting for her father to drive her to class instead.
With temperatures in the frigid teens, a silver-colored vehicle (possibly a Chrysler Pacifica) stopped in the street. The front male passenger opened his car door and stated, "Come to my house, I have candy." The girl told investigators she pushed the car door closed, ran inside her home and immediately reported the incident to her father. The suspect vehicle was last seen driving down Elm Avenue toward the defunct John Nevins Andrews School. It had damage (perhaps dents) on the rear passenger side door, and possibly a D.C. license plate with the number "3" included.
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'Why is an Israeli hospital ward mostly serving Palestinians?'
The Knesset Health Committee postponed a discussion Monday on the proposed Medical Tourism Law for its second and third reading - a bill aimed at regulating the entry of non-Israelis to receive medical treatment in Israel. Among issues up for discussion was the question of whether the bill, which would restrict the ability of 'medical tourists' to pay for use of Israel's medical system, would also apply to Palestinian Authority residents.
Prior to the hearing, a researcher from the Lavi watchdog organization discussed the situation in the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Department at Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital in Jerusalem, in light of reports received by the organization that the majority of the hospitalized patients are not Israeli, and that there are hardly any Israeli citizens there at all.
A fieldworker who visited the department last weekend spoke with a department staff member, who told him that "most of the [patients in the] department are Palestinians. Today there's one Jew, two Russians and the rest are Palestinians."
A Lavi spokesperson called the finding a symptom of a larger "national calamity" afflicting Israel's healthcare system.
"The increasing number of Palestinian patients in Israeli hospitals comes at the expense of Israeli patients," a Lavi report claims.
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Prior to the hearing, a researcher from the Lavi watchdog organization discussed the situation in the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Department at Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital in Jerusalem, in light of reports received by the organization that the majority of the hospitalized patients are not Israeli, and that there are hardly any Israeli citizens there at all.
A fieldworker who visited the department last weekend spoke with a department staff member, who told him that "most of the [patients in the] department are Palestinians. Today there's one Jew, two Russians and the rest are Palestinians."
A Lavi spokesperson called the finding a symptom of a larger "national calamity" afflicting Israel's healthcare system.
"The increasing number of Palestinian patients in Israeli hospitals comes at the expense of Israeli patients," a Lavi report claims.
More
Netanyahu: 'Israel and Iran will be friends again once regime falls'
Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu responded Monday to claims by Iran’s president that Israel was behind a series of anti-government protests in the Islamic republic, a charge Netanyahu called “laughable”.
“Unlike Rouhani, I will not insult the Iranian people. They deserve better. They seek freedom. They seek justice. They seek the basic liberties that have been denied to them for decades.”
On Monday, President Trump hit the Iranian government, accusing it of ‘looting’ Iran’s wealth. Trump also criticized his predecessor over the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, and said the time had come for “change” in the Islamic republic.
“Iran is failing at every level despite the terrible deal made with them by the Obama Administration. The great Iranian people have been repressed for many years. They are hungry for food & for freedom. Along with human rights, the wealth of Iran is being looted. TIME FOR CHANGE!”
In his video message Monday, Netanyahu echoed Trump’s sentiments, saying that Iranian protesters were tired how the “cruel regime wastes tens of billions of dollars spreading hate” in the region.
“This money could have built schools and hospitals,” said Netanyahu.
The Israeli premier also expressed optimism about the possibility of peaceful relations between Iran and Israel – once the Tehran regime is removed from power.
“This regime tries desperately to sow hate between us. But they won’t succeed. And when this regime finally falls, and one day it will, Iranians and Israelis will be great friends once again."
(INN)
“Unlike Rouhani, I will not insult the Iranian people. They deserve better. They seek freedom. They seek justice. They seek the basic liberties that have been denied to them for decades.”
On Monday, President Trump hit the Iranian government, accusing it of ‘looting’ Iran’s wealth. Trump also criticized his predecessor over the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, and said the time had come for “change” in the Islamic republic.
“Iran is failing at every level despite the terrible deal made with them by the Obama Administration. The great Iranian people have been repressed for many years. They are hungry for food & for freedom. Along with human rights, the wealth of Iran is being looted. TIME FOR CHANGE!”
In his video message Monday, Netanyahu echoed Trump’s sentiments, saying that Iranian protesters were tired how the “cruel regime wastes tens of billions of dollars spreading hate” in the region.
“This money could have built schools and hospitals,” said Netanyahu.
The Israeli premier also expressed optimism about the possibility of peaceful relations between Iran and Israel – once the Tehran regime is removed from power.
“This regime tries desperately to sow hate between us. But they won’t succeed. And when this regime finally falls, and one day it will, Iranians and Israelis will be great friends once again."
(INN)
Councilman Larry Dodd Posted This...
Larry Dodd, Wicomico County Councilman
10 hrs ·
***Here's a heads up in case you haven't been paying attention!***
I just happened to see the Tweet by accident. "The Wicomico Board of Ed adopted a draft 2018-2019 school calendar on 1st reading, and welcomes input prior to 2nd and final reading at the Jan. 9 Board meeting." This is going to affect parents of kids more than anything. You might want to go back and check the days off to make sure agree with them. I checked the Professional Days off on the proposed calendar and there is one date that I totally disagree with.
April 4, 2019 Professional Day - Schools closed for students
If you check your calendar that Professional Day is on a Thursday. So that means kids will go to school M, T, W and off Thursday. Then they have to wake up early and go back to school on Friday and then they have the weekend off. That means the Wicomico County Board of Education is stealing a long weekend from you. The other Professional Days appear to be on a Monday or a Friday giving parents a long weekend with their kids. I'm sure many parents would prefer to take their kids to Busch Gardens/Colonial Williamsburg or another location on that weekend.
I served on the Board of Ed for 5 years and my last 2 years the Central Office tried to sneak in a couple of midweek professional days because they don't want their teachers going away on those long weekends. Those Professional Days are granted to the Teachers by negotiation and they are not required to attend a PD on every day. Essentially what the Board of Education is doing is penalizing the families and not the teachers. I encourage each and every one of you parents that don't agree with this Professional Day to contact the BOE or they will adopt this calendar. I and another Board Member who had kids in the school system fought this when the Central Office tried it before and it didn't pass. There were hundreds of emails and people who came to the BOE Meeting to speak out against it. The current Board Members do not have children in the school system so it doesn't make a difference to them. Please don't let it pass this time. I would encourage you to send emails to the BOE, Bd Secretary and to "Comments." They can all be included in one email to all. Please contact your friends to let them know about this. Don't penalize the families! If they don't hear from you they will pass the calendar. Demand they change the Thursday. April 4th Professional Day to Friday, April 5, 2019. They can't say they can't because nothing is on the calendar for that day and it hasn't been approved yet.
dfitzger@wcboe.org - Don Fitzgeral, Board President
gmalone@wcboe.org - Gene Malone, Vice President
abrown@wcboe.org - Allen Brown
jpalmer@wcboe.org - John Palmer
mwaller@wcboe.org - Maria Waller
mmurray@wcboe.org - Michael Murray
bturner@wcboe.org - Bill Turner
mvestal@wcboe.org - Monique Vestal, Board Secretary
comments@wcboe.org - Comments
http://www.wcboe.org/common/pages/DisplayFile.aspx…
10 hrs ·
***Here's a heads up in case you haven't been paying attention!***
I just happened to see the Tweet by accident. "The Wicomico Board of Ed adopted a draft 2018-2019 school calendar on 1st reading, and welcomes input prior to 2nd and final reading at the Jan. 9 Board meeting." This is going to affect parents of kids more than anything. You might want to go back and check the days off to make sure agree with them. I checked the Professional Days off on the proposed calendar and there is one date that I totally disagree with.
April 4, 2019 Professional Day - Schools closed for students
If you check your calendar that Professional Day is on a Thursday. So that means kids will go to school M, T, W and off Thursday. Then they have to wake up early and go back to school on Friday and then they have the weekend off. That means the Wicomico County Board of Education is stealing a long weekend from you. The other Professional Days appear to be on a Monday or a Friday giving parents a long weekend with their kids. I'm sure many parents would prefer to take their kids to Busch Gardens/Colonial Williamsburg or another location on that weekend.
I served on the Board of Ed for 5 years and my last 2 years the Central Office tried to sneak in a couple of midweek professional days because they don't want their teachers going away on those long weekends. Those Professional Days are granted to the Teachers by negotiation and they are not required to attend a PD on every day. Essentially what the Board of Education is doing is penalizing the families and not the teachers. I encourage each and every one of you parents that don't agree with this Professional Day to contact the BOE or they will adopt this calendar. I and another Board Member who had kids in the school system fought this when the Central Office tried it before and it didn't pass. There were hundreds of emails and people who came to the BOE Meeting to speak out against it. The current Board Members do not have children in the school system so it doesn't make a difference to them. Please don't let it pass this time. I would encourage you to send emails to the BOE, Bd Secretary and to "Comments." They can all be included in one email to all. Please contact your friends to let them know about this. Don't penalize the families! If they don't hear from you they will pass the calendar. Demand they change the Thursday. April 4th Professional Day to Friday, April 5, 2019. They can't say they can't because nothing is on the calendar for that day and it hasn't been approved yet.
dfitzger@wcboe.org - Don Fitzgeral, Board President
gmalone@wcboe.org - Gene Malone, Vice President
abrown@wcboe.org - Allen Brown
jpalmer@wcboe.org - John Palmer
mwaller@wcboe.org - Maria Waller
mmurray@wcboe.org - Michael Murray
bturner@wcboe.org - Bill Turner
mvestal@wcboe.org - Monique Vestal, Board Secretary
comments@wcboe.org - Comments
http://www.wcboe.org/common/pages/DisplayFile.aspx…
Trump Admin Backs Union Challenge
The Trump administration could bolster an Illinois state workers' lawsuit to end coercive unionism, according to legal experts.
The Solicitor General's office filed a brief supporting Janus v. American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), a lawsuit challenging coercive unionism for government workers. The suit argues that the Supreme Court's 1977 Abood decision violates the speech and association rights of workers by allowing government agencies to mandate union dues or fees as a condition of employment. The amicus brief from the Justice Department bolsters that argument.
"Abood thus ultimately endorsed precisely what it simultaneously prohibited: compelled subsidization of union speech for political or ideological causes," the brief says.
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The Solicitor General's office filed a brief supporting Janus v. American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), a lawsuit challenging coercive unionism for government workers. The suit argues that the Supreme Court's 1977 Abood decision violates the speech and association rights of workers by allowing government agencies to mandate union dues or fees as a condition of employment. The amicus brief from the Justice Department bolsters that argument.
"Abood thus ultimately endorsed precisely what it simultaneously prohibited: compelled subsidization of union speech for political or ideological causes," the brief says.
More
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