Over the weekend, Democratic fresh face and socialist darling Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., spoke at the South by Southwest conference. While sitting amidst the enormous bounty provided by capitalism—top-notch electronic equipment, a massive crowd of paid ticket holders—AOC tore into capitalism.
She called the system that has raised 80 percent of the globe from extreme poverty since 1980 “irredeemable.” She railed against the injustice of people having to work jobs rather than write poetry—as though socialist countries are famous for ensuring that people work only the jobs they find spiritually rewarding.
Finally, she settled on her most damning line of attack: America as it currently stands is “garbage,” because in the United States, “if you don’t have a job, you are left to die.”
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DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Friday, March 15, 2019
Democrats, Fed Up With Rep. Ilhan Omar, Are Working On Finding A Primary Challenger
Minnesota Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar is supposed to be in a fairly safe district having secured around 75% of the vote in her last go-round, but if some Minnesota Democrats have their way, she may be facing a significant primary challenge.
The Hill reports that Minnesota Dems are so frustrated with what they see as Omar's blatant anti-Semitism and refusal to learn from her mistakes that they're already talking about holding recruitment for a primary challenger, even though Omar has been in office less than three months.
"There’s definitely some buzz going around about it, but it’s more a buzz of is anyone talking about finding someone to run against her than it is anyone saying they’re going to run against her or contemplate it. There’s definitely talk about people wanting someone to run against her," one Minnesota state senator, who represents part of Omar's district, told the Washington, D.C. outlet.
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The Hill reports that Minnesota Dems are so frustrated with what they see as Omar's blatant anti-Semitism and refusal to learn from her mistakes that they're already talking about holding recruitment for a primary challenger, even though Omar has been in office less than three months.
"There’s definitely some buzz going around about it, but it’s more a buzz of is anyone talking about finding someone to run against her than it is anyone saying they’re going to run against her or contemplate it. There’s definitely talk about people wanting someone to run against her," one Minnesota state senator, who represents part of Omar's district, told the Washington, D.C. outlet.
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How Previous Democratic Presidents Would Fare in the 2020 ‘Woke’ Primary
Consider the following analysis:
BARACK OBAMA
WHY HE'S WOKE: Half black, exotic middle name, listens to Cardi B, might be a secret Muslim
WHY HE'S PROBLEMATIC: Half white, male, straight, more accomplished as a memoirist than as a politician, books can't be repealed — unlike most of his signature "accomplishments" in office, picked a racially problematic goofball (Joe Biden) as his VP, bailed out Wall Street, staffed his cabinet with lobbyists and banking executives, championed "conservative" health-care reform, filled out NCAA brackets while Libya and Yemen burned, put immigrant kids in cages, became addicted to drone strikes and cigarettes, caved to House Republicans, pretended to oppose gay marriage, didn't do enough to combat climate change, core convictions limited to 1) "I am right," and 2) "If I keep talking long enough, everyone will agree that I'm right," didn't take the Russia threat seriously enough, succeeded by Donald Trump, if he really is a secret Muslim why hasn't he proudly admitted it by now?
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What Conservatives Face on Your Campus
Here's a quick summary:
1. [Scale from 0 – 10] How welcoming is your campus to Republicans and Democrats?
For Republicans: on average, Republicans answered 4.96; Democrats 5.96; Moderates 5.41
For Democrats: on average, Republicans answered 8.55; Democrats 8.23; Moderates 7.93
2. Do you ever feel unsafe on campus for having your political views?
37.5% of Republicans answered yes, while 62.5% answered no.
11.5% of Democrats answered yes, while 88.5% answered no.
3. Do you ever feel unsafe on campus for having your political views?
55.1% of Republicans answered yes, while 44.9% answered no.
15.5% of Democrats answered yes, while 84.5% answered no.
4. Do you agree with this statement? Student government seats are elected with a political bias rather than by issues facing the campus.
33.81% of Republicans answered yes; 26.33% answered no; 39.86% answered I don’t know.
19.14% of Democrats answered yes; 35.41% answered no; 45.45% answered I don’t know.
25.09% of Moderates answered yes; 26.20% answered no; 48.71% answered I don’t know.
5. Has a political encounter ever made you contemplate transferring schools?
10.52% of Republicans answered yes.
4.90% of Democrats answered yes.
TEXAS DEMOCRATIC PARTY CHAIRMAN UNABLE TO NAME ONE BETO ACCOMPLISHMENT
The chairman of the Texas Democratic Party failed to name a single accomplishment made by presidential hopeful Beto O’Rourke, despite being pressed repeatedly to do so by Fox News’ Ed Henry on Thursday.
Gilberto Hinojosa was on The Story With Martha MacCallum, guest-hosted by Henry, to discuss O’Rourke, who announced his candidacy for the Democratic nomination earlier in the day.
“What would you say is Beto O’Rourke’s top accomplishment that he brings to the table?” Henry asked at the beginning of the interview.
Hinojosa responded, “I think what Beto O’Rourke has done, particularly in the last senatorial campaign that he ran in 2018, is…show the people of Texas and now the people of America what it means to be an honest politician, an honest person who going to talk about things that are important to families all across this country. You don’t always see that.”
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Gilberto Hinojosa was on The Story With Martha MacCallum, guest-hosted by Henry, to discuss O’Rourke, who announced his candidacy for the Democratic nomination earlier in the day.
“What would you say is Beto O’Rourke’s top accomplishment that he brings to the table?” Henry asked at the beginning of the interview.
Hinojosa responded, “I think what Beto O’Rourke has done, particularly in the last senatorial campaign that he ran in 2018, is…show the people of Texas and now the people of America what it means to be an honest politician, an honest person who going to talk about things that are important to families all across this country. You don’t always see that.”
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Stacey Abrams: '2020 is definitely on the table'
Georgia Democrat Stacey Abrams said today that she had long seen 2028 as the "earliest" she could see herself running for president but later tweeted "2020 is definitely on the table" as she weighs her next political move.
Abrams, in an interview at SXSW in Austin, Texas, referred to a quote from her book where she said she keeps a spreadsheet to document her goals.
"In the spreadsheet with all the jobs I wanted to do, 2028 would be the earliest I would be ready to stand for president because I would have done the work I thought necessary to be effective in that job," Abrams said.
After the interview, Abrams insisted in a tweet that the comment did not mean she has ruled out running for president next year.
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Abrams, in an interview at SXSW in Austin, Texas, referred to a quote from her book where she said she keeps a spreadsheet to document her goals.
"In the spreadsheet with all the jobs I wanted to do, 2028 would be the earliest I would be ready to stand for president because I would have done the work I thought necessary to be effective in that job," Abrams said.
After the interview, Abrams insisted in a tweet that the comment did not mean she has ruled out running for president next year.
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‘Self-Sufficiency, Not a Sinkhole’: JOBS Act Updates Work Requirements for Welfare Recipients
Republicans in the House and Senate are making another legislative push to enforce work requirements for able-bodied adults on welfare.
Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., and Republicans on the House Ways and Means Committee on Thursday announced the Jobs and Opportunity with Benefits and Services Act.
The JOBS Act comes as the Trump administration makes a renewed push for work requirements for welfare recipients in its fiscal year 2020 budget proposal.
The successful 1996 welfare reform law is now broken, Daines said, asserting that states that find loopholes to avoid imposing work requirements undermine the aim of that law.
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Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., and Republicans on the House Ways and Means Committee on Thursday announced the Jobs and Opportunity with Benefits and Services Act.
The JOBS Act comes as the Trump administration makes a renewed push for work requirements for welfare recipients in its fiscal year 2020 budget proposal.
The successful 1996 welfare reform law is now broken, Daines said, asserting that states that find loopholes to avoid imposing work requirements undermine the aim of that law.
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Here’s what robots destroy when they compete with humans
Robots are jerks.
That’s according to the demoralized humans who played against the machines for money in a recent Cornell University-led experiment shedding light on what can happen to worker’s drive in an increasingly automated workplace.
When humans unsuccessfully vied against a robot arm for cash prizes, participants ended up viewing themselves as less competent, didn’t try as hard, and tended to dislike the automated appendage that bested them, the researchers found.
“I felt very stressed competing with the robot,” one participant admitted. “In some rounds, I kept seeing the robot’s score increasing out of the corner of my eye, which was extremely nerve-racking [sic].”
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That’s according to the demoralized humans who played against the machines for money in a recent Cornell University-led experiment shedding light on what can happen to worker’s drive in an increasingly automated workplace.
When humans unsuccessfully vied against a robot arm for cash prizes, participants ended up viewing themselves as less competent, didn’t try as hard, and tended to dislike the automated appendage that bested them, the researchers found.
“I felt very stressed competing with the robot,” one participant admitted. “In some rounds, I kept seeing the robot’s score increasing out of the corner of my eye, which was extremely nerve-racking [sic].”
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Woman inspired by Oscar-winning film Three Billboards puts up a huge plea offering a $100,000 reward to try and find out who murdered her twin sister 23 years ago
A woman whose twin sister was murdered 23 years ago has put up a billboard in a bid to find her killer after she was inspired by Oscar-winning film Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.
Jennifer Carrieri, 46, first put up a billboard last October in Baltimore County in hope it would reach people who don't watch news or television.
The red billboard has a photo of Jody LeCornu that reads 'find my killer' and offers a $100,000 reward.
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Jennifer Carrieri, 46, first put up a billboard last October in Baltimore County in hope it would reach people who don't watch news or television.
The red billboard has a photo of Jody LeCornu that reads 'find my killer' and offers a $100,000 reward.
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One Thing Congress Gets Right: Funding Their Own Pensions...
Turns out Congressmen make a lot of money...
A study found that while the average American’s net worth increased 3.7% per year between 2004-2012, members of Congress averaged 15.4% annual gains.
That high level of pay means half the members of Congress are millionaires today… and continue to collect their $174,000 annualsalary.
Of course it’s you, the taxpayer, paying that cushy salary.
But did you know the taxpayer also foots the bill for insane retirement benefits for Congress?
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A study found that while the average American’s net worth increased 3.7% per year between 2004-2012, members of Congress averaged 15.4% annual gains.
That high level of pay means half the members of Congress are millionaires today… and continue to collect their $174,000 annualsalary.
Of course it’s you, the taxpayer, paying that cushy salary.
But did you know the taxpayer also foots the bill for insane retirement benefits for Congress?
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Feds forced to raise oil price forecast amid Venezuela sanctions
Trump's sanctions on Venezuela have managed to reduce the country's oil production by 100,000 barrels a day from January to February, enough to drive up oil prices for 2019, the federal government forecast Wednesday.
The Energy Information Administration, which issued the forecast, is closely tracking the effects of the administration's sanctions on oil prices, along with OPEC's production cuts. Venezuela production dipped from 1.2 million barrels per day to 1.1 million barrels per day in the first month of sanctions.
EIA increased its 2019 crude oil forecast by nearly $2 per barrel to $63 per barrel.
Since Venezuela is an OPEC member, the EIA is tracking how the Venezuela losses from sanctions will factor into the international oil cartel's decision to pull back overall production to balance the global oil market.
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The Energy Information Administration, which issued the forecast, is closely tracking the effects of the administration's sanctions on oil prices, along with OPEC's production cuts. Venezuela production dipped from 1.2 million barrels per day to 1.1 million barrels per day in the first month of sanctions.
EIA increased its 2019 crude oil forecast by nearly $2 per barrel to $63 per barrel.
Since Venezuela is an OPEC member, the EIA is tracking how the Venezuela losses from sanctions will factor into the international oil cartel's decision to pull back overall production to balance the global oil market.
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Loretta Lynch gave this one order that proves she is a criminal
Former Attorney General Loretta Lynch’s corruption is only now coming to light.
And it is bad news for the Obama Deep State.
That’s because an FBI official testified Lynch approved this one order that proves she is a criminal.
Congress finally made public transcripts of former FBI lawyer Lisa Page’s closed door testimony from last summer.
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And it is bad news for the Obama Deep State.
That’s because an FBI official testified Lynch approved this one order that proves she is a criminal.
Congress finally made public transcripts of former FBI lawyer Lisa Page’s closed door testimony from last summer.
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Trump seeks to boost VA spending by $6.5 billion
President Donald Trump is seeking just over $93 billion for the Department of Veterans Affairs in his budget proposal for 2020, an increase of $6.5 billion from the year before.
The president's request would support the implementation of a bill Trump signed into law last year to give veterans more freedom to see doctors outside the troubled Veterans Affairs system, a major shift aimed at reducing wait times and improving care by steering more patients to the private sector.
An overview of the budget says reducing veteran suicides would be a top priority. The plan also sets aside $4.3 billion for information technology investments to "improve the online interface between the veteran and the department."
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The president's request would support the implementation of a bill Trump signed into law last year to give veterans more freedom to see doctors outside the troubled Veterans Affairs system, a major shift aimed at reducing wait times and improving care by steering more patients to the private sector.
An overview of the budget says reducing veteran suicides would be a top priority. The plan also sets aside $4.3 billion for information technology investments to "improve the online interface between the veteran and the department."
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GUN CONTROLLERS DON’T REALLY WANT THAT ‘CONVERSATION
Time and again, we hear from those advocating for more gun control laws who intone with a sense of moral superiority that we need to have a “conversation” on guns. The goal, they say, is to reduce violence, suggesting that they are somehow more evolved.
Yet, just this week, some anti-gun activists and politicians were caught red-handed fantasizing about wanting to shoot politicians and gun rights advocates as well as suggesting the “doxing,” or publicly posting private information, on gun owners.
In one instance, a woman attending the Connecticut General Assembly’s Joint Committee on the Judiciary hearing on several gun control bills, was photographed texting a threat against Republican state Sen. Rob Sampson and NRA members.
“If I had a gun, I’d blow away Sampson and a large group of NRA,” a photo of the text message reads. The anti-gun activist was escorted from the hearing. Later, Sampson said that wasn’t the first time he’s been threatened with violence for standing up for the Constitutional rights of Connecticut citizens. No charges were filed against the woman.
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Yet, just this week, some anti-gun activists and politicians were caught red-handed fantasizing about wanting to shoot politicians and gun rights advocates as well as suggesting the “doxing,” or publicly posting private information, on gun owners.
In one instance, a woman attending the Connecticut General Assembly’s Joint Committee on the Judiciary hearing on several gun control bills, was photographed texting a threat against Republican state Sen. Rob Sampson and NRA members.
“If I had a gun, I’d blow away Sampson and a large group of NRA,” a photo of the text message reads. The anti-gun activist was escorted from the hearing. Later, Sampson said that wasn’t the first time he’s been threatened with violence for standing up for the Constitutional rights of Connecticut citizens. No charges were filed against the woman.
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While Black Women Are Killing Their Babies They’re Killing Their Future
I despise the very thought of abortion. While Hillary Clinton may believe that killing babies is “humane” and Obama believes that “Planned Parenthood does good work” and therefore deserves “God’s blessing” – I believe killing babies is satanic, murder and a black mark on mankind that will not be washed away save by the “Blood of Christ.”
I watch with disgust the demonic dilettantes who parade the streets of our cities, armed with signs that read: “keep your hands off my vagina.” They are too blinded by evil, to realize that “keeping hands off their vagina” is what those such as myself are advocating when we oppose baby-killing.
But typical of their crazed kind, their tortured minds are oblivious to the reality that keeping hands away from their vagina is in one key respect a good thing, because that would save the lives of unborn children.
The one thing however, that is never discussed is the cost abortion, i.e., baby-killing costs future generations and what it specifically costs black people as a demographic.
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I watch with disgust the demonic dilettantes who parade the streets of our cities, armed with signs that read: “keep your hands off my vagina.” They are too blinded by evil, to realize that “keeping hands off their vagina” is what those such as myself are advocating when we oppose baby-killing.
But typical of their crazed kind, their tortured minds are oblivious to the reality that keeping hands away from their vagina is in one key respect a good thing, because that would save the lives of unborn children.
The one thing however, that is never discussed is the cost abortion, i.e., baby-killing costs future generations and what it specifically costs black people as a demographic.
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Back to the Sixties
Many Americans are shocked that socialism, which has been anathema to the vast majority throughout our history, has suddenly emerged as the guiding principle for most Democratic presidential candidates. How has this happened?
The seeds of todays’ socialist and conservative movements grew out of the 1960s — a time of turmoil, war protests, civil rights riots, assassinations and a clash of fundamental ideas about the role of government in organizing society.
Communism had been making great strides in Europe and the United States was in the crosshairs. A former FBI agent, W. Cleon Skouse, wrote an alarming book, “The Naked Communist,” outlining the Communist strategy to take over America. In 1963, Florida Congressman Albert Herlong Jr. inserted a list of 45 Communist goals from Clauson’s book into the Congressional Record. Today it reads like a checklist of the left.
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High Winds Cause Train Derailment In Northern New Mexico
High winds are no secret in New Mexico, but winds strong enough to blow a train off its tracks, off a train trestle and down into a deep ravine are alarming.
State Senator Pat Woods (R-Broadview) represents the district where 26 cars of a Union Pacific train were derailed because of high winds near Logan, New Mexico this afternoon. Senator Woods said it is a reminder that New Mexico winds can be extremely dangerous and people need to heed high wind warnings and take them very seriously.
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Minority students offered no-whites ‘safe space’ racial healing circle
San Diego State University is set to host a “Racial Healing Workshop” for minority students and faculty later this month that aims to help students and professors of color get through college and career life.
“This intimate one and a half hour Racial Healing Workshop catered to students and faculty of color will be led by well-known professional Dr. Cheryl E. Matias,” state the student organizers of the event, the Marriage and Family Therapy Association, a recognized student organization under the College of Education.
“She will provide a safe space for students and faculty of color to discuss issues that impact persons of color in higher academia,” the event’s online description states.
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“This intimate one and a half hour Racial Healing Workshop catered to students and faculty of color will be led by well-known professional Dr. Cheryl E. Matias,” state the student organizers of the event, the Marriage and Family Therapy Association, a recognized student organization under the College of Education.
“She will provide a safe space for students and faculty of color to discuss issues that impact persons of color in higher academia,” the event’s online description states.
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MSP Troopers Arrest MD Man Wanted In Florida For Animal Cruelty
The suspect is identified as William Hunter Hardesty, 31, of Riva, Md. He was arrested on a warrant from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission that charges him with animal cruelty to migratory birds and the intentional feeding of pelicans. He is currently being held as a fugitive in the Worcester County Detention Center.
Troopers arrested Hardesty shortly after 9:00 a.m. today at a hotel in the 12000-block of Ocean Gateway, in Ocean City, Md. He was processed at the Maryland State Police Berlin Barrack. Hardesty was taken before a court commissioner for a bond hearing and then transported to the detention center, where he will await extradition to Florida. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office has been notified of the arrest and is initiating extradition proceedings.
A video showing a man in Florida luring and then jumping on top of a pelican in the water was posted on social media. Florida authorities investigated and obtained an arrest warrant for Hardesty.
Maryland State Police at the Berlin Barrack were contacted this morning by concerned citizens who said they believed the individual in the video was staying at the Ocean City hotel. Troopers were told the individual was bragging to them about being wanted for feeding and tackling a pelican in the Florida Keys.
Troopers confirmed the extraditable arrest warrant with Florida law enforcement. They responded to the hotel and, after identifying Hardesty, arrested him without incident.
Hourly Parking Rate Increase A Reasonable Call
After much hot air was blown around at the first meeting, the Ocean City Parking Task Force is now getting to work on the true objective of the effort – deciding on how to make more money for the city without hurting the commercial sector, angering residents and alienating visitors.
We advocate for keeping things simple. It often leads to the best results. That’s why we like Ocean City hotelier/restaurateur G. Hale Harrison’s idea of simply increasing hourly paid parking rates for this summer. An argument can be made it’s too cheap to park in Ocean City, a clean and safe oceanfront resort destination. A quick evaluation of other tourist and metropolitan destinations confirms the resort could and should be charging more for parking to ensure daytrippers are paying their way.
“Why don’t we look at raising the rates? The rate at the municipal lots and on the street is $2, but maybe that can go to $2.50,” Harrison said. “The same with the Inlet lot from $3 to $3.50. That might be more palatable for people and meet the revenue needs. Let’s keep it simple. That’s something that could be done this summer.”
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We advocate for keeping things simple. It often leads to the best results. That’s why we like Ocean City hotelier/restaurateur G. Hale Harrison’s idea of simply increasing hourly paid parking rates for this summer. An argument can be made it’s too cheap to park in Ocean City, a clean and safe oceanfront resort destination. A quick evaluation of other tourist and metropolitan destinations confirms the resort could and should be charging more for parking to ensure daytrippers are paying their way.
“Why don’t we look at raising the rates? The rate at the municipal lots and on the street is $2, but maybe that can go to $2.50,” Harrison said. “The same with the Inlet lot from $3 to $3.50. That might be more palatable for people and meet the revenue needs. Let’s keep it simple. That’s something that could be done this summer.”
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Archaeologists discover 200-year old DNA on pipe discovered in Belvoir off Generals Highway
“When Africans stepped on those slave ships, they lost not only their freedom but their identity,” said Dr. Julie Schablitsky, MDOT SHA chief archaeologist. “This is one way archaeologists can help descendants reclaim their heritage.”
The slave quarter was discovered as part of an MDOT SHA Transportation Enhancement Program project to learn more about the history of along MD 178 in Anne Arundel County. The program is partially funded by the Federal Highway Administration.
The excavation yielded thousands of artifacts, including broken dishes, animal bones, and clay tobacco pipes. Knowing that DNA can survive on archaeological artifacts, Dr. Schablitsky sent four tobacco pipe stems from the slave quarter for DNA analysis to better understand the story of these Marylanders. Dr. Schablitsky conferred with Dr. Ripan Malhi, who leads an ancient DNA (aDNA) laboratory at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and hoped he could link the aDNA from the pipe stems with the living descendants who had genetic ties to Belvoir’s ancestors.
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Hillary Clinton to headline DNC fundraiser
Hillary Clinton will raise money for the Democratic National Committee at an intimate dinner fundraiser in Washington later this month, according to an invitation obtained by POLITICO.
The event, scheduled for March 27, is billed as “dinner & conversation” with Clinton and DNC Chairman Tom Perez and comes as the DNC ramps up for the 2020 presidential race. Between 20 and 30 people are expected to attend, according to a person familiar with the event.
The fundraiser is being hosted by Claire Lucas and Judy Dlugacz, a couple who fundraised for Clinton during her 2016 bid.
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The event, scheduled for March 27, is billed as “dinner & conversation” with Clinton and DNC Chairman Tom Perez and comes as the DNC ramps up for the 2020 presidential race. Between 20 and 30 people are expected to attend, according to a person familiar with the event.
The fundraiser is being hosted by Claire Lucas and Judy Dlugacz, a couple who fundraised for Clinton during her 2016 bid.
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Hillary Clinton received what amounts to a secret pre-pardon from the Obama DOJ
Bombshell testimony released this week revealed that Hillary Clinton received what amounts to a secret pre-pardon to avoid the possibility that she would be charged under the Espionage Act for her gross negligence in the handling and dissemination of classified material.
According to the newly disclosed testimony of former FBI official Lisa Page, the Obama Justice Department instructed the FBI not to pursue charges against Clinton
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According to the newly disclosed testimony of former FBI official Lisa Page, the Obama Justice Department instructed the FBI not to pursue charges against Clinton
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2020 Democrats: The Economy Is Terrible (It’s Not)
With the 2020 presidential campaign on its way, Democratic candidates are trying to portray an economy that is in "crisis" and not working for everyone under President Donald Trump.
"The economy in America today is not working for working people," Sen. Kamala Harris (D., Calif.) said.
"When they declare victory at 4 percent unemployment, it is not good enough," Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D., N.Y.) declared.
"We have enormous crises in this country … in terms of millions of people living in poverty, in terms of a shrinking middle class," Sen. Bernie Sanders (I., Vt.) said.
"The middle-class squeeze is real," Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D., Mass.) said. "And millions of families can barely breathe."
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"The economy in America today is not working for working people," Sen. Kamala Harris (D., Calif.) said.
"When they declare victory at 4 percent unemployment, it is not good enough," Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D., N.Y.) declared.
"We have enormous crises in this country … in terms of millions of people living in poverty, in terms of a shrinking middle class," Sen. Bernie Sanders (I., Vt.) said.
"The middle-class squeeze is real," Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D., Mass.) said. "And millions of families can barely breathe."
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Peter Strzok transcript released
A transcript from former FBI agent Peter Strzok’s private June 2018 testimony before a joint congressional task force was released by the top House Judiciary Committee Republican on Thursday.
Strzok, a lead investigator in the investigation into former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's unauthorized private email server, appeared before the House Judiciary and Oversight Committees as part of their investigation into potential bias in the Justice Department and FBI.
“As I have said before, I believe the American people deserve transparency, and deserve to know what transpired in the highest echelons of the FBI during that tumultuous time for the bureau,” House Judiciary Committee ranking member Doug Collins, R-Ga., said as he announced the release of the Strzok transcript.
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Strzok, a lead investigator in the investigation into former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's unauthorized private email server, appeared before the House Judiciary and Oversight Committees as part of their investigation into potential bias in the Justice Department and FBI.
“As I have said before, I believe the American people deserve transparency, and deserve to know what transpired in the highest echelons of the FBI during that tumultuous time for the bureau,” House Judiciary Committee ranking member Doug Collins, R-Ga., said as he announced the release of the Strzok transcript.
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House advances $46.7 billion budget
By Diane Rey
For Maryland Reporter
State support for public schools will exceed $7 billion for the first time in a budget plan given preliminary approval Wednesday by the Maryland House of Delegates.
The $46.7 billion state budget bill for fiscal 2020 also includes a 3% general salary increase for state workers (5% for law enforcement officers) effective July 1.
Education is the big winner in the House plan, allocating $500 million for school construction and $320 million to begin funding recommendations coming out of the Kirwan Commission report to enhance education, expand public preschool, and raise teacher salaries.
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For Maryland Reporter
State support for public schools will exceed $7 billion for the first time in a budget plan given preliminary approval Wednesday by the Maryland House of Delegates.
The $46.7 billion state budget bill for fiscal 2020 also includes a 3% general salary increase for state workers (5% for law enforcement officers) effective July 1.
Education is the big winner in the House plan, allocating $500 million for school construction and $320 million to begin funding recommendations coming out of the Kirwan Commission report to enhance education, expand public preschool, and raise teacher salaries.
More
Hogan hires Michael Ricci as Communications Director
Governor Larry Hogan has announced the appointment of Michael Ricci as Communications Director.
Ricci brings more than 15 years of experience in marketing and communications to the governor’s communications office. He most recently served as Director of Communications for U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) from 2015-2019, where he led a ten-member communications team. He previously served as Deputy Communications Director and Chief Speechwriter for prior House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) and held several additional communications positions for Members of Congress.
“It’s a pleasure to welcome Mike to our team, and I know his experience and perspective will add value to our administration from day one as we work to effectively communicate our priorities to the people of Maryland,” said Governor Hogan.
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Ricci brings more than 15 years of experience in marketing and communications to the governor’s communications office. He most recently served as Director of Communications for U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) from 2015-2019, where he led a ten-member communications team. He previously served as Deputy Communications Director and Chief Speechwriter for prior House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) and held several additional communications positions for Members of Congress.
“It’s a pleasure to welcome Mike to our team, and I know his experience and perspective will add value to our administration from day one as we work to effectively communicate our priorities to the people of Maryland,” said Governor Hogan.
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Maryland House Unanimously Passes ‘Grace’s Law’ 2.0 Anti-Cyberbullying Bill
BALTIMORE (WJZ) — An anti-online harassment and bullying bill passed in the Maryland House of Delegates on Thursday.
The bill, “Grace’s Law 2.0” passed unanimously at 137-0. It has already been passed unanimously in the Senate in February.
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The bill, “Grace’s Law 2.0” passed unanimously at 137-0. It has already been passed unanimously in the Senate in February.
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Ex-Obama Official Tried Pulling Strings To Have Smollett Case Transferred To FBI; Told To Pound Sand
Michelle Obama's former Chief of Staff, Tina Tchen, attempted to have the Jussie Smollett case transferred from the Chicago Police Department to the FBI, according to texts and emails released by the Cook County State's Attorney's Office.
Tchen, a Chicago-based attorney, reached out on Feb. 1 to Chicago's top prosecutor Kim Foxx - telling her that the "Empire" actor's family had "concerns" about the investigation.
Smollett was considered at the time to be the victim of an assault, however the actor was subsequently charged with disorderly conduct for filing a false police report in connection with a staged hate crime. Last week, a Chicago grand jury slapped Smollett with a 16 count indictment for lying to the police - to which he pleaded not guilty on Thursday.
"Spoke to the Superintendent Johnson," Foxx emailed Tchen on Feb. 1, in reference to Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson. "I convinced him to Reach out to FBI to ask that they take over the investigation."
Foxx also texted with one of Smollett's relatives whose name was redacted from the text release, saying: "Spoke to the superintendent earlier, he made the ask ... Trying to figure out logistics. I’ll keep you posted."
"OMG this would be a huge victory" the family member texted back.
"I make no guarantees, but I'm trying" replied Foxx - who recused herself from the case on Feb. 20.
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Tchen, a Chicago-based attorney, reached out on Feb. 1 to Chicago's top prosecutor Kim Foxx - telling her that the "Empire" actor's family had "concerns" about the investigation.
Smollett was considered at the time to be the victim of an assault, however the actor was subsequently charged with disorderly conduct for filing a false police report in connection with a staged hate crime. Last week, a Chicago grand jury slapped Smollett with a 16 count indictment for lying to the police - to which he pleaded not guilty on Thursday.
"Spoke to the Superintendent Johnson," Foxx emailed Tchen on Feb. 1, in reference to Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson. "I convinced him to Reach out to FBI to ask that they take over the investigation."
Foxx also texted with one of Smollett's relatives whose name was redacted from the text release, saying: "Spoke to the superintendent earlier, he made the ask ... Trying to figure out logistics. I’ll keep you posted."
"OMG this would be a huge victory" the family member texted back.
"I make no guarantees, but I'm trying" replied Foxx - who recused herself from the case on Feb. 20.
More
Feasibility Study On Mardela School OK’d
SALISBURY – School leaders this week approved a final feasibility study for improvements at Mardela Middle and High School.
On Tuesday, Facility Planner Matt Auchey presented the Wicomico County Board of Education with a completed feasibility study for Mardela Middle and High School. The study included four options for improving the facility, from simple mechanical and electrical upgrades to a completely new school.
“The School Building Commission recommended Option 3,” he said, “as well as the superintendent and the community.”
According to the feasibility study, the third option calls for a revised parking layout, a two-story addition and complete systematic upgrades to the existing space. The facility would increase from 96,000 square feet to 106,000 square feet.
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On Tuesday, Facility Planner Matt Auchey presented the Wicomico County Board of Education with a completed feasibility study for Mardela Middle and High School. The study included four options for improving the facility, from simple mechanical and electrical upgrades to a completely new school.
“The School Building Commission recommended Option 3,” he said, “as well as the superintendent and the community.”
According to the feasibility study, the third option calls for a revised parking layout, a two-story addition and complete systematic upgrades to the existing space. The facility would increase from 96,000 square feet to 106,000 square feet.
More
Guilty Plea In Pot Growing Operation
SNOW HILL — The second of two local men indicted last fall in a sophisticated marijuana-growing operation pleaded guilty this week and was placed on probation for one year.
Michael Cluster, 33, of Berlin, was indicted by a Worcester County grand jury last fall on multiple counts including possession of over 10 grams of marijuana, possession with intent to distribute marijuana and conspiracy to manufacture marijuana after the execution of a search and seizure warrant revealed a vast pot-growing operation on a property just north of Berlin. On Tuesday, Cluster pleaded guilty to the conspiracy to manufacture charge and the other counts against him were not prosecuted. Cluster was placed on supervised probation for one year. He was also ordered to forfeit over $3,200 in cash and equipment.
Cluster’s co-defendant in the case, John Harrison, 31, also of Berlin, last month pleaded guilty to the same charge and was sentenced to 18 months, all of which was suspended in favor of probation and a forfeiture of equipment seized during the investigation.
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Michael Cluster, 33, of Berlin, was indicted by a Worcester County grand jury last fall on multiple counts including possession of over 10 grams of marijuana, possession with intent to distribute marijuana and conspiracy to manufacture marijuana after the execution of a search and seizure warrant revealed a vast pot-growing operation on a property just north of Berlin. On Tuesday, Cluster pleaded guilty to the conspiracy to manufacture charge and the other counts against him were not prosecuted. Cluster was placed on supervised probation for one year. He was also ordered to forfeit over $3,200 in cash and equipment.
Cluster’s co-defendant in the case, John Harrison, 31, also of Berlin, last month pleaded guilty to the same charge and was sentenced to 18 months, all of which was suspended in favor of probation and a forfeiture of equipment seized during the investigation.
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The St. Patrick's Day Festivities Start TODAY At Caribbean Joe's
Muslim FOX News Producer Who Called Out Judge Jeanine has Twitter Account Littered with Vile Attacks on Conservatives
On Sunday FOX News “strongly condemned” Judge Jeanine Pirro for asking viewers if Rep. Ilhan Omar’s hijab means she follows Sharia Law.
Judge Jeanine attacked anti-Semite Ilhan Omar on Saturday and asked if her hijab means she’s against the Constitution.
Fox News Channel issued an official statement on Sunday: “We strongly condemn Jeanine Pirro’s comments about Rep. Ilhan Omar. They do not reflect those of the network and we have addressed the matter with her directly.”
FOX News released the statement after FOX producer Hufsa Kamal, a Pakistani-American, tweeted her disgust against Judge Jeanine Pirro on Sunday.
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Judge Jeanine attacked anti-Semite Ilhan Omar on Saturday and asked if her hijab means she’s against the Constitution.
Fox News Channel issued an official statement on Sunday: “We strongly condemn Jeanine Pirro’s comments about Rep. Ilhan Omar. They do not reflect those of the network and we have addressed the matter with her directly.”
FOX News released the statement after FOX producer Hufsa Kamal, a Pakistani-American, tweeted her disgust against Judge Jeanine Pirro on Sunday.
More
Prostate cancer breakthrough as new questionnaire that takes MINUTES can determine life expectancy and save thousands from unnecessary 'harmful treatments'
Thousands of men could be spared life-changing treatment for prostate cancer following a scientific breakthrough.
They can now find out how likely they are to die in next 10 or 15 years, and how much treatment will improve their survival chances.
For a third of prostate cancer patients, or roughly 15,000 men in Britain, the chance of dying is so low that choosing to have surgery or radiotherapy will provide little benefit.
The decision of whether to go ahead with treatment is now easier after scientists developed a computer questionnaire.
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They can now find out how likely they are to die in next 10 or 15 years, and how much treatment will improve their survival chances.
For a third of prostate cancer patients, or roughly 15,000 men in Britain, the chance of dying is so low that choosing to have surgery or radiotherapy will provide little benefit.
The decision of whether to go ahead with treatment is now easier after scientists developed a computer questionnaire.
More
12 Statistics That Prove The US Is Facing A Consumer Debt Apocalypse
In the entire history of the United States, consumers have never been in so much debt. And that would not be a crisis as long as the vast majority of us were regularly making our debt payments, but as you will see below delinquency levels are starting to rise to extremely alarming levels. In fact, some of the numbers that are coming in are even worse than we witnessed at any point during the last recession. If things are this bad already, what are they going to look like once the economy really gets bad?
Because even though it appears that we are heading into a new recession, according to the Federal Reserve it has not officially begun yet. That means that much worse is yet to come. Just like last time, millions of Americans will likely lose their jobs, and without an income most of those that suddenly find themselves unemployed will not be able to pay their bills. The stage is set for the largest tsunami of consumer debt defaults that this country has ever seen, and that will absolutely devastate major financial institutions all across America.
If you think that I am exaggerating even a little bit, please read over the following list very carefully. The following are 12 statistics that prove that the U.S. is facing a consumer debt apocalypse…
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Because even though it appears that we are heading into a new recession, according to the Federal Reserve it has not officially begun yet. That means that much worse is yet to come. Just like last time, millions of Americans will likely lose their jobs, and without an income most of those that suddenly find themselves unemployed will not be able to pay their bills. The stage is set for the largest tsunami of consumer debt defaults that this country has ever seen, and that will absolutely devastate major financial institutions all across America.
If you think that I am exaggerating even a little bit, please read over the following list very carefully. The following are 12 statistics that prove that the U.S. is facing a consumer debt apocalypse…
More
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