By Orson Scott Card
*Editor's note:** Orson Scott Card is a Democrat and a newspaper columnist, and in this opinion piece he takes on both while lamenting the current state of journalism. **
An open letter to the local daily paper — almost every local daily paper in America:
*
I remember reading All the President's Men and thinking: That's journalism. You do what it takes to get the truth and you lay it before the public, because the public has a right to know.
This housing crisis didn't come out of nowhere. It was not a vague emanation of the evil Bush administration. It was a direct result of the political decision, back in the late 1990s, to
loosen the rules of lending so that home loans would be more accessible to poor people. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac were authorized to approve risky loans.
What is a risky loan? It's a loan that the recipient is likely not to be able to repay.
The goal of this rule change was to help the poor — which especially would help members of minority groups. But how does it help these people to give them a loan that they can't repay? They get into a house, yes, but when they can't make the payments, they lose the house — along with their credit rating.
They end up worse off than before.
This was completely foreseeable and in fact many people did foresee it. One political party, in Congress and in the executive branch, tried repeatedly to tighten up the rules. The other party blocked every such attempt and tried to loosen them.
Furthermore, Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae were making political contributions to the very members of Congress who were allowing them to make irresponsible loans. (Though why quasi-federal agencies were allowed to do so baffles me. It's as if the Pentagon were allowed to contribute to the political campaigns of Congressmen who support increasing their budget.)
Isn't there a story here? Doesn't journalism require that you who produce our daily paper tell the truth about who brought us to a position where the only way to keep confidence in our economy was a $700 billion bailout? Aren't you supposed to follow the money and see which politicians were benefiting personally from the deregulation of mortgage lending?
I have no doubt that if these facts had pointed to the Republican Party or to John McCain as the guilty parties, you would be treating it as a vast scandal. "Housing-gate," no doubt. Or "Fannie-gate."
Instead, it was Senator Christopher Dodd and Congressman Barney Frank, both Democrats, who denied that there were any problems, who refused Bush administration requests to set up a regulatory agency to watch over Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and who were still pushing for these agencies to go even further in promoting sub-prime mortgage loans almost up to the minute they failed.
As Thomas Sowell points out in a TownHall.com <http://townhall.com/> essay entitled "Do Facts Matter?" ( http://snipurl.com/457townhall_com] ): "Alan Greenspan warned them four years ago. So did the Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers to the President.. So did Bush's Secretary of the Treasury."
These are facts. This financial crisis was completely preventable. The party that blocked any attempt to prevent it was ... the Democratic Party. The party that tried to prevent it was ... the Republican Party.
Yet when Nancy Pelosi accused the Bush administration and Republican deregulation of causing the crisis, you in the press did not hold her to account for her lie. Instead, you criticized Republicans who took offense at this lie and refused to vote for the bailout!
What? It's not the liar, but the victims of the lie who are to blame?
Now let's follow the money ... right to the presidential candidate who is the number-two recipient of campaign contributions from Fannie Mae.
And after Franklin Raines, the CEO of Fannie Mae who made $90 million while running it into the ground, was fired for his incompetence, one presidential candidate's campaign actually consulted him for advice on housing.
If that presidential candidate had been John McCain, you would have called it a major scandal and we would be getting stories in your paper every day about how incompetent and corrupt he was.
But instead, that candidate was Barack Obama, and so you have buried this story, and when the McCain campaign dared to call Raines an "adviser" to the Obama campaign — because that campaign had sought his advice — you actually let Obama's people get away with accusing McCain of lying, merely because Raines wasn't listed as an official adviser to the Obama campaign.
You would never tolerate such weasely nit-picking from a Republican.
If you who produce our local daily paper actually had any principles, you would be pounding this story, because the prosperity of all Americans was put at risk by the foolish, short-sighted, politically selfish, and possibly corrupt actions of leading Democrats, including Obama.
If you who produce our local daily paper had any personal honor, you would find it unbearable to let the American people believe that somehow Republicans were to blame for this crisis.
There are precedents. Even though President Bush and his administration never said that Iraq sponsored or was linked to 9/11, you could not stand the fact that Americans had that misapprehension — so you pounded us with the fact that there was no such link. (Along the way, you created the false impression that Bush had lied to them and said that there was a connection.)
If you had any principles, then surely right now, when the American people are set to blame President Bush and John McCain for a crisis they tried to prevent, and are actually shifting to approve of Barack Obama because of a crisis he helped cause, you would be laboring at least as hard to correct that false impression.
Your job, as journalists, is to tell the truth. That's what you claim you do, when you accept people's money to buy or subscribe to your paper..
But right now, you are consenting to or actively promoting a big fat lie — that the housing crisis should somehow be blamed on Bush, McCain, and the Republicans. You have trained the American people to blame everything bad —even bad weather — on Bush, and they are responding as you have taught them to.
If you had any personal honor, each reporter and editor would be insisting on telling the truth — even if it hurts the election chances of your favorite candidate.
Because that's what honorable people do. Honest people tell the truth even when they don't like the probable consequences. That's what honesty means. That's how trust is earned.
Barack Obama is just another politician, and not a very wise one. He has revealed his ignorance and naivete time after time — and you have swept it under the rug, treated it as nothing.
Meanwhile, you have participated in the borking of Sarah Palin, reporting savage attacks on her for the pregnancy of her unmarried daughter — while you ignored the story of John Edwards's own adultery for many months.
So I ask you now: Do you have any standards at all? Do you even know what honesty means?
Is getting people to vote for Barack Obama so important that you will throw away everything that journalism is supposed to stand for?
You might want to remember the way the National Organization of Women threw away their integrity by supporting Bill Clinton despite his well-known pattern of sexual exploitation of powerless women. Who listens to NOW anymore? We know they stand for nothing; they have no principles.
That's where you are right now.
It's not too late. You know that if the situation were reversed, and the truth would damage McCain and help Obama, you would be moving heaven and earth to get the true story out there.
If you want to redeem your honor, you will swallow hard and make a list of all the stories you would print if it were McCain who had been getting money from Fannie Mae, McCain whose campaign had consulted with its discredited former CEO, McCain who had voted against tightening its lending practices.
Then you will print them, even though every one of those true stories will point the finger of blame at the reckless Democratic Party, which put our nation's prosperity at risk so they could feel good about helping the poor, and lay a fair share of the blame at Obama's door.
You will also tell the truth about John McCain: that he tried, as a Senator, to do what it took to prevent this crisis. You will tell the truth about President Bush: that his administration tried more than once to get Congress to regulate lending in a responsible way.
This was a Congress-caused crisis, beginning during the Clinton administration, with Democrats leading the way into the crisis and blocking every effort to get out of it in a timely fashion.
If you at our local daily newspaper continue to let Americans believe — and vote as if — President Bush and the Republicans caused the crisis, then you are joining in that lie.
If you do not tell the truth about the Democrats — including Barack Obama — and do so with the same energy you would use if the miscreants were Republicans — then you are not journalists by any standard.
You're just the public relations machine of the Democratic Party, and it's time you were all fired and real journalists brought in, so that we can actually have a news paper in our city.
This article first appeared in The Rhinoceros Times of Greensboro, North Carolina.
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
2008 Pocomoke Christmas Parade A Success
The 2008 Annual Pocomoke City Christmas Parade appeared to be a resounding success for the organizers and participants. We are still waiting for the announcement of who won which awards but there were a lot of very good entries. The crowd enjoyed a cool but mild tempatures this evening and the weather cooperated with Mike Shannon and his team of volunteers.
There were the politicians of course but the good news is most of them rode at the front so everyone got to enjoy a variety of marching bands, church groups (reminding us of the reason) kids dancing, a motorcycle club and for a change there were more businesses, civic groups and troups of children having a great time.
The people in our stretch of Market Street around Sixth Street enjoyed having friends and family over to watch the parade. We had our first bonfire in the front yard which proved to be the 'hot ticket' for those wanting to stay warm while watching the event.
Overall the 2008 Pocomoke City Christmas parade was a very enjoyable family event. Many Thanks to those who participated as entrants and to those who volunteered in any of the countless ways to make something like this happen.
There were the politicians of course but the good news is most of them rode at the front so everyone got to enjoy a variety of marching bands, church groups (reminding us of the reason) kids dancing, a motorcycle club and for a change there were more businesses, civic groups and troups of children having a great time.The people in our stretch of Market Street around Sixth Street enjoyed having friends and family over to watch the parade. We had our first bonfire in the front yard which proved to be the 'hot ticket' for those wanting to stay warm while watching the event.Overall the 2008 Pocomoke City Christmas parade was a very enjoyable family event. Many Thanks to those who participated as entrants and to those who volunteered in any of the countless ways to make something like this happen.
Obama Birth Certificate Rears Its Head - Again
The election may be over, but not the controversy. GO HERE.
Inhumane Conditions At WCDC?
"I thought you might be interested in this information, I can not confirm all of this but I figured you had the resources to investigate more in depth. Mr Tomaszewski after being sentenced to 9 months was ordered to report to the detention center friday the 28th at 6 pm which he did. Mr Tomaszewski has several health conditions which were discussed before he even made his plea bargain, some of which included specific sleeping arrangements needed due to injuries to his back for which he has been on narcotic pain relievers for many years, pain relievers that with out them Mr Tomaszewski would first go through withdraw then would be in so much pain that he would be unable to walk, stand, or even sleep. As of monday night Mr Tomaszewski had not even seen the doctor, he had been denied his pain medication, medication for a skin condition, as well as medication for a thyroid condition. All of these conditions were discussed before his trial and Mr Tomaszewski was promised that he would be through medical at the detention center and receiving his medications in no more than 24 hours. Mr Tomaszewski has also received death threats from inmates for cooperating with the county and helping them make their case against Mr Townsend and Mr Lewis.
I can not imagine what Mr Tomaszewski and his family is going through right now after his complete cooperation with the county from the first time he was taken to the sherrif station at 3 am for "questioning". The best way I can think to describe how he is being treated is inhumane. If I were to treat a dog the way he has been treated I would be the one in jail, and probably receiving better treatment than Mr Tomaszewski.
Thank you for your time
Darrin Payne"
UPDATE: Pretty much everything you have just read above is true. I have confirmed that these issues are being taken very seriously and will be resolved TODAY. While no one appreciates what Mr. Tomaszewski has done, he has certainly saved the County a ton of time by cooperating and a deal is a deal! Just because he's behind bars at this moment doesn't mean the Warden should not fulfill the County's end of the bargain. So Mr. Payne, not that this information will comfort you any but I have it on the highest authority this WILL be taken care of today.
I can not imagine what Mr Tomaszewski and his family is going through right now after his complete cooperation with the county from the first time he was taken to the sherrif station at 3 am for "questioning". The best way I can think to describe how he is being treated is inhumane. If I were to treat a dog the way he has been treated I would be the one in jail, and probably receiving better treatment than Mr Tomaszewski.
Thank you for your time
Darrin Payne"
UPDATE: Pretty much everything you have just read above is true. I have confirmed that these issues are being taken very seriously and will be resolved TODAY. While no one appreciates what Mr. Tomaszewski has done, he has certainly saved the County a ton of time by cooperating and a deal is a deal! Just because he's behind bars at this moment doesn't mean the Warden should not fulfill the County's end of the bargain. So Mr. Payne, not that this information will comfort you any but I have it on the highest authority this WILL be taken care of today.
HARFORD COUNTY MAN FATALLY WOUNDED AFTER ASSAULTING THREE POLICE OFFICERS
(Fallston, MD) – A man who threatened relatives after breaking into their Harford County home early this morning was fatally wounded by a state trooper when he violently assaulted the three responding police officers and attempted to gain control of a deputy’s gun.
The deceased man is identified as John M. Abbate, 52, of the100-block of Fidelity Drive, Fallston, Md. He was pronounced dead at the scene. His body will be taken to the Office of the State Medical Examiner for an autopsy.
Shortly after 4:30 a.m. today, a Harford County 9-1-1 call was received from the home of Randall G. Willis, 51, in the 2700-block of Lakeland Drive, Fallston. Willis reported that Abbate, who was married to his sister, had broken into his house and was being violent. While police were on their way, Abbate allegedly threatened to kill Willis’ wife and said he could get a gun from his vehicle.
The preliminary investigation indicates two Harford County Sheriff’s Office deputies and one state trooper from the Bel Air Barracks responded to the call. They confronted Abbate inside the home and ordered him to take his hand out of his pocket. Abbate, who was described as being about 6 feet tall and about 300 pounds, refused all commands from police and lunged at the deputies.
A violent struggle ensued that involved all three police officers. Deputies used a Taser twice, but it had no effect on Abbate, who reportedly pulled the Taser prongs from his body. The trooper used an expandable baton, which also had no effect.
When Abbate attempted to choke one of deputies, the trooper and second deputy both attempted to intervene. Abbate threw both police officers off and reportedly picked up the trooper and slammed him onto a computer table.
Abbate continued to assault the deputy and attempted to pull the deputy’s gun from its holster. In fear for the life of the deputy and the lives of all three officers if Abbate gained control of the gun, the trooper fired his Department issued Beretta Px4 Storm .40 caliber pistol. Abbate was fatally wounded.
Investigators have not verified a clear motive for Abbate’s actions at this time. Information has been obtained indicating he was having domestic problems.
The trooper is identified as Trooper First Class Sean Harris, 27, who is assigned to road patrol duties at the Bel Air Barracks. TFC Harris has been a trooper for 6.5 years.
He was transported to an area hospital where he was treated for injuries to his arms and legs. He was released and will be recuperating at home. TFC Harris will be on administrative leave, which is procedure after a police involved shooting.
One of the two deputies was also taken to an area hospital. He was treated for back and neck injuries.
The Maryland State Police Homicide Unit is conducting the investigation. The State Police Internal Affairs Unit is also conducting an administrative investigation which is procedure in police-involved shootings.
Support For The Ocean City Elks Lodge Regarding Slots
I'm posting the below comment to wtopnews.com regarding the second attempt by the Elks to get approval for slots (5 machines) in their lodge. In the event you were not aware, the Salisbury Elks has had 5 machines in their lodge for years. The story originated from delmarvanow.com according to WTOP. Budget info is from OC's website. Local Slot revenue allocation is from several recent articles about Ocean Pines' desire to share in the windfall. The delmarvanow article nor any other I've seen indicates the magnitude of the revenue windfall to OC or the County. The delmarvanow article is at:
http://www.delmarvanow.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008812010309
The Town's budgeted revenue for 2008 is $75M. Estimated State Slot yearly revenue - $600M Ocean Downs, one of 5 Casinos, could bring in $120M of the total. OC will receive 20% of Ocean Downs revenue - $24M (County gets 10%) This represents a 32% increase in total operating revenue or an amount equal to 55% of their current Property Tax revenue. It covers more than 75% of their current Public Safety (Police) budget. The Town of Ocean City and the County are being handsomely compensated for any impact that the forthcoming Casino at Ocean Downs will have. The local Elks Lodge has asked for permission to operate just 5 slot machines as other fraternal organizations on Delmarva such as the Elks in Salisbury have been permitted for years. OC Slot money will go into the Town's coffer. Any Elks Slot money would go to charity. I think the Town and County can clearly afford to support this request by the Elks. The challenge is whether they will have the motivation to go beyond their selfish interests to work towards legislative approval of the Elk's request. I am a member of the OC Elks and have worked for OC for several years driving a bus. I don't gamble, play slots, or buy lottery tickets. I am therefore familiar with the Town and the Lodge and can say with a gambling neutral view that the OC Elk's request that they be given equal treatment on the issue of Slots as other fraternal organizations on the Shore be supported by the Town, the County, and the State.
Elks to O.C.: Support slots
December 1, 2008 - 10:00am
Fraternal groups want to operate slot machines
OCEAN CITY, Md. (AP) - The Ocean City Town Council is being asked to support possible state legislation allowing fraternal organizations to operate slot machines.
Ocean City Elks Lodge treasurer Jim Flaig says his group has already raised the issue with state lawmakers in the area and hopes to meet with the Speaker of the House Michael Busch and State Senate President Thomas V. "Mike" Miller.
Flaig has sent a letter to the town council seeking its endorsement of the proposal.
A bill that would have allowed fraternal organizations to operate slot machines for their members and guests failed in the General Assembly this year.
Information from: The (Salisbury, Md.) Daily Times
http://www.delmarvanow.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008812010309
The Town's budgeted revenue for 2008 is $75M. Estimated State Slot yearly revenue - $600M Ocean Downs, one of 5 Casinos, could bring in $120M of the total. OC will receive 20% of Ocean Downs revenue - $24M (County gets 10%) This represents a 32% increase in total operating revenue or an amount equal to 55% of their current Property Tax revenue. It covers more than 75% of their current Public Safety (Police) budget. The Town of Ocean City and the County are being handsomely compensated for any impact that the forthcoming Casino at Ocean Downs will have. The local Elks Lodge has asked for permission to operate just 5 slot machines as other fraternal organizations on Delmarva such as the Elks in Salisbury have been permitted for years. OC Slot money will go into the Town's coffer. Any Elks Slot money would go to charity. I think the Town and County can clearly afford to support this request by the Elks. The challenge is whether they will have the motivation to go beyond their selfish interests to work towards legislative approval of the Elk's request. I am a member of the OC Elks and have worked for OC for several years driving a bus. I don't gamble, play slots, or buy lottery tickets. I am therefore familiar with the Town and the Lodge and can say with a gambling neutral view that the OC Elk's request that they be given equal treatment on the issue of Slots as other fraternal organizations on the Shore be supported by the Town, the County, and the State.
Elks to O.C.: Support slots
December 1, 2008 - 10:00am
Fraternal groups want to operate slot machines
OCEAN CITY, Md. (AP) - The Ocean City Town Council is being asked to support possible state legislation allowing fraternal organizations to operate slot machines.
Ocean City Elks Lodge treasurer Jim Flaig says his group has already raised the issue with state lawmakers in the area and hopes to meet with the Speaker of the House Michael Busch and State Senate President Thomas V. "Mike" Miller.
Flaig has sent a letter to the town council seeking its endorsement of the proposal.
A bill that would have allowed fraternal organizations to operate slot machines for their members and guests failed in the General Assembly this year.
Information from: The (Salisbury, Md.) Daily Times
A New Christmas Poem
TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS,
HE LIVED ALL ALONE,
IN A ONE BEDROOM HOUSE MADE OF
PLASTER AND STONE.
I HAD COME DOWN THE CHIMNEY
WITH PRESENTS TO GIVE,
AND TO SEE JUST WHO
IN THIS HOME DID LIVE.
I LOOKED ALL ABOUT,
A STRANGE SIGHT I DID SEE,
NO TINSEL, NO PRESENTS,
NOT EVEN A TREE.
NO STOCKING BY MANTLE,
JUST BOOTS FILLED WITH SAND,
ON THE WALL HUNG PICTURES
OF FAR DISTANT LANDS.
WITH MEDALS AND BADGES,
AWARDS OF ALL KINDS,
A SOBER THOUGHT
CAME THROUGH MY MIND.
FOR THIS HOUSE WAS DIFFERENT,
IT WAS DARK AND DREARY,
I FOUND THE HOME OF A SOLDIER,
ONCE I COULD SEE CLEARLY.
THE SOLDIER LAY SLEEPING,
SILENT, ALONE,
CURLED UP ON THE FLOOR
IN THIS ONE BEDROOM HOME.
THE FACE WAS SO GENTLE,
THE ROOM IN SUCH DISORDER,
NOT HOW I PICTURED
A UNITED STATES SOLDIER.
WAS THIS THE HERO
OF WHOM I'D JUST READ? CURLED UP ON A PONCHO,
THE FLOOR FOR A BED?
I REALIZED THE FAMILIES
THAT I SAW THIS NIGHT,
OWED THEIR LIVES TO THESE SOLDIERS
WHO WERE WILLING TO FIGHT.
SOON ROUND THE WORLD,
THE CHILDREN WOULD PLAY,
AND GROWNUPS WOULD CELEBRATE
A BRIGHT CHRISTMAS DAY.
THEY ALL ENJOYED FREEDOM
EACH MONTH OF THE YEAR,
BECAUSE OF THE SOLDIERS,
LIKE THE ONE LYING HERE.
I COULDN'T HELP WONDER
HOW MANY LAY ALONE,
ON A COLD CHRISTMAS EVE
IN A LAND FAR FROM HOME.
THE VERY THOUGHT
BROUGHT A TEAR TO MY EYE,
I DROPPED TO MY KNEES
AND STARTED TO CRY.
THE SOLDIER AWAKENED
AND I HEARD A ROUGH VOICE,
'SANTA DON'T CRY,
THIS LIFE IS MY CHOICE;
I FIGHT FOR FREEDOM,
I DON'T ASK FOR MORE,
MY LIFE IS MY GOD,
MY! COUNTRY, MY CORPS.'
THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER
AND DRIFTED TO SLEEP,
I COULDN'T CONTROL IT,
I CONTINUED TO WEEP.
I KEPT WATCH FOR HOURS,
SO SILENT AND STILL
AND WE BOTH SHIVERED FROM THE COLD NIGHT'S CHILL.
I DIDN'T WANT TO LEAVE
ON THAT COLD, DARK, NIGHT,
THIS GUARDIAN OF HONOR
SO WILLING TO FIGHT.
THEN THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER,
WITH A VOICE SOFT AND PURE,
WHISPERED, 'CARRY ON SANTA,
IT'S CHRISTMAS DAY, ALL IS SECURE.'
ONE LOOK AT MY WATCH,
AND I KNEW HE WAS RIGHT.
'MERRY CHRISTMAS MY FRIEND,!
AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT.'
This poem was written by a Marine.
HE LIVED ALL ALONE,
IN A ONE BEDROOM HOUSE MADE OF
PLASTER AND STONE.
I HAD COME DOWN THE CHIMNEY
WITH PRESENTS TO GIVE,
AND TO SEE JUST WHO
IN THIS HOME DID LIVE.
I LOOKED ALL ABOUT,
A STRANGE SIGHT I DID SEE,
NO TINSEL, NO PRESENTS,
NOT EVEN A TREE.
NO STOCKING BY MANTLE,
JUST BOOTS FILLED WITH SAND,
ON THE WALL HUNG PICTURES
OF FAR DISTANT LANDS.
WITH MEDALS AND BADGES,
AWARDS OF ALL KINDS,
A SOBER THOUGHT
CAME THROUGH MY MIND.
FOR THIS HOUSE WAS DIFFERENT,
IT WAS DARK AND DREARY,
I FOUND THE HOME OF A SOLDIER,
ONCE I COULD SEE CLEARLY.
THE SOLDIER LAY SLEEPING,
SILENT, ALONE,
CURLED UP ON THE FLOOR
IN THIS ONE BEDROOM HOME.
THE FACE WAS SO GENTLE,
THE ROOM IN SUCH DISORDER,
NOT HOW I PICTURED
A UNITED STATES SOLDIER.
WAS THIS THE HERO
OF WHOM I'D JUST READ? CURLED UP ON A PONCHO,
THE FLOOR FOR A BED?
I REALIZED THE FAMILIES
THAT I SAW THIS NIGHT,
OWED THEIR LIVES TO THESE SOLDIERS
WHO WERE WILLING TO FIGHT.
SOON ROUND THE WORLD,
THE CHILDREN WOULD PLAY,
AND GROWNUPS WOULD CELEBRATE
A BRIGHT CHRISTMAS DAY.
THEY ALL ENJOYED FREEDOM
EACH MONTH OF THE YEAR,
BECAUSE OF THE SOLDIERS,
LIKE THE ONE LYING HERE.
I COULDN'T HELP WONDER
HOW MANY LAY ALONE,
ON A COLD CHRISTMAS EVE
IN A LAND FAR FROM HOME.
THE VERY THOUGHT
BROUGHT A TEAR TO MY EYE,
I DROPPED TO MY KNEES
AND STARTED TO CRY.
THE SOLDIER AWAKENED
AND I HEARD A ROUGH VOICE,
'SANTA DON'T CRY,
THIS LIFE IS MY CHOICE;
I FIGHT FOR FREEDOM,
I DON'T ASK FOR MORE,
MY LIFE IS MY GOD,
MY! COUNTRY, MY CORPS.'
THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER
AND DRIFTED TO SLEEP,
I COULDN'T CONTROL IT,
I CONTINUED TO WEEP.
I KEPT WATCH FOR HOURS,
SO SILENT AND STILL
AND WE BOTH SHIVERED FROM THE COLD NIGHT'S CHILL.
I DIDN'T WANT TO LEAVE
ON THAT COLD, DARK, NIGHT,
THIS GUARDIAN OF HONOR
SO WILLING TO FIGHT.
THEN THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER,
WITH A VOICE SOFT AND PURE,
WHISPERED, 'CARRY ON SANTA,
IT'S CHRISTMAS DAY, ALL IS SECURE.'
ONE LOOK AT MY WATCH,
AND I KNEW HE WAS RIGHT.
'MERRY CHRISTMAS MY FRIEND,!
AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT.'
This poem was written by a Marine.
Monday, December 01, 2008
Tomorrow's County Council Meeting, Hmmmmmmm!
Look What The Wicomico County Council Is Doing Tomorrow (Dec. 2)
11:05 a.m. Open Work Session:
Crown Sports Center
Dog Ordinance
Tax Differential Study
PAC14 discussion
12:30 p.m. LUNCH
1:00 p.m. Closed Work Session:
Salisbury Mall Property
West Metro Core Park
11:05 a.m. Open Work Session:
Crown Sports Center
Dog Ordinance
Tax Differential Study
PAC14 discussion
12:30 p.m. LUNCH
1:00 p.m. Closed Work Session:
Salisbury Mall Property
West Metro Core Park
Media Monday - Daily Times, Tall Tales and PAC-14
In August, 2007 we noted that Daily Times reporter Greg Latshaw could prove to be quite dangerous. Why? He possesses the doubly dangerous traits of bias and cleverness. Additional evidence was printed on Sunday with Latshaw's story about PAC-14.
Rather than resort to the normal Daily Times MO of he said / she said journalism, Latshaw wove a wicked little tale with just enough facts to be plausible. The obvious intent of the piece is to build support for the concept of a so-called "community board" for PAC-14.
The concept of a "community board" is important to those wishing to seize control of PAC-14, and the $200,000 plus in taxpayer dollars that go with it. If Latshaw had been honest in his reporting his readers would know that this "community board" will be accountable to neither the taxpayers of Wicomico County nor the "community" in general.
Latshaw is clever. Note his wording in the second paragraph:
... with most saying they want the next board decided by the community and not government appointees.
Latshaw makes it sound as if the "community board" approach is the one that is actually the one which is more accountable to the average citizens. Forget that fact that it is ELECTED OFFICIALS that are making board appointments. Forget the fact that these ELECTED OFFICIALS have to stand for election every four years. Forget the fact that a small, elitist clique would be deciding who serves on the PAC-14 board under the so-called "community board" model. Let's also forget the fact that this "community board" will be accountable to no one.
Read More ...
It's CRUNCH Time
OK Ladies & Gentlemen, it's time to help the Salvation Army. They are in need of 4 Volunteers tonight to cover the North WalMart, Walgreen's Gander Mountain and the Salisbury Super Fresh from 6:00 to 9:00 PM tonight.
You will no longer see ANY Work Release people at ANY location but we must step up and give a helping hand. If you have the time, please contact the Salvation Army directly at 410-749-7771 ext. 100 or contact me directly at 410-430-5349 and I'll let them know who's filling in, where.
This goes for Rick Pollitt, Barrie Tilghman, John Cannon and the likes of such. Please let me know as soon as you possibly can. Thank You Very Much!
By the way, thanks for pitching in Chief See and ALL of the Salisbury Firefighters this past weekend.
UPDATE: Mark & Hala McIver just took Gander Mountain.
Talk About Being Ticked Off!
Ladies & Gentlemen, I have been rejecting comments like there's no tomorrow all morning. Personal attacks, lies about my past, you name it, they've been challenging me.
Then Tilghman Administration is HOT today and they should be spending more time fixing problems and paying more attention to the City's infrastructure than sending in so many nasty comments they know I'm going to reject anyway.
While I'd LOVE to put up some of these comments, many tend to complain that I'd allow something so nasty. The funny part to me is, I've been doing this for 3 years now and I can pretty much tell who's doing what.
The nasty comments dry up and then when I put up a realy sensative Post about the City, BAM! They come flying in. So to those of you trying to slip one through over and over again, it's not going to happen. Give it up and go do something productive, like earn your paycheck. That would be something new, eh!
Then Tilghman Administration is HOT today and they should be spending more time fixing problems and paying more attention to the City's infrastructure than sending in so many nasty comments they know I'm going to reject anyway.
While I'd LOVE to put up some of these comments, many tend to complain that I'd allow something so nasty. The funny part to me is, I've been doing this for 3 years now and I can pretty much tell who's doing what.
The nasty comments dry up and then when I put up a realy sensative Post about the City, BAM! They come flying in. So to those of you trying to slip one through over and over again, it's not going to happen. Give it up and go do something productive, like earn your paycheck. That would be something new, eh!
Annual Pocomoke Christmas Parade 7:00 PM Tonight
Pocomoke City is not only the home to the most openly corrupt municipal government in the State of Maryland, they are also home and host of the largest night time parade.The parade runs the length of Market Street from the new firehouse to the river in whats left of the downtown starting at 7:00 PM tonight.
There will be featured dignitaries such as City Manager "Boss Hogg" Russ Blake and his puppet Mayor Mike McDermott, who will put on the best of their two faces to show the public along with all the members of the most openly corrupt City Council on the Eastern seaboard.
Many regional policians find the parade a great opportunity to be seen with "Boss Hogg" and his crew in P-City and you can look forward to a few delegates, county officials waving from their parade cars.
The good news is THE CHILDREN LOVE THE PARADE & DON'T CARE ABOUT CROOKED POLITICIANS!
There will be floats and entries from local churches and civic organizations, marching bands from across the Eastern Shore, equistrian units and fire trucks, lots of fire trucks and fire equipment will be driven down Market Street tonight.
The highlight is always Santa Claus at the tail end of the parade.
So come on down to Pocomoke, bring a couple of beach chairs and a thermos of hot chocolate to enjoy the parade for yourself.
It's Official
-- The U.S. entered a recession in December 2007, according to the National Bureau of Economic Research.
A Friend Reaches Out For Help
Chuck Campbell
NTAF Mid-Atlantic Lung Transplant Fund
Husband of Vicki
Father of Chuck, Donny, Bethany and Jenna
Dear Family and Friends,
Breathing is something most of us take for granted. I know I did. But when your lungs don’t provide the air you need, your body becomes paralyzed and you can’t move. It’s a very painful and frightening experience to go through. I’ve been slowly losing lung capacity since I was diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) about three years ago.
Now, even with oxygen, I find it very difficult to perform simple tasks such as walking upstairs or even getting dressed. After breathing tests, x-rays and a CAT scan of my lungs, the results show that my disease has progressed and a double lung transplant is necessary. It’s really my only chance of survival. Through the gift of transplantation, I hope to some day return to a fairly normal life, both professionally and personally.
Organ transplantation is life saving, but very expensive. Financing this procedure is a monumental task, and my wife and I need help from our family and friends in order to survive. There are many pre- and post-transplant expenses that are not covered by my insurance. As a result, Temple Lung Center’s transplant department recommended fundraising.
To help ease this financial burden, a fundraising campaign in my honor has been established with the National Transplant Assistance Fund (NTAF) for my uninsured expenses. NTAF is a nonprofit organization that has been assisting the transplant community for 25 years. All donations are tax-deductible and are administered for transplant-related expenses only. If you wish to make a donation:
Make checks payable to:
NTAF Mid-Atlantic Lung Transplant Fund
Print in memo section:
In honor of Chuck Campbell
Please send to:
NTAF
150 N. Radnor Chester Rd., Suite F-120
Radnor, PA 19087
To make a credit card contribution, please call 800-642-8399 or click “Contribute Now.” To email this page directly to others in your community, who might wish to learn about the campaign, click the “Email to Friend” button and type in as many email addresses as you wish.
Your financial gifts will be greatly appreciated and will help our family make it through this difficult time. If you would be interested in helping us organize a fundraiser, please call and volunteer your talents.
With Sincere Gratitude,
Chuck Campbell
302-424-2189
GO HERE to see Chuck's complete profile.
Mayor Barrie Tilghman, Chief Webster & Gary Comegys NEED TO GO!
Last Monday night Mr. Trader stood in front of the City Council discussing the $1,900,000.00 EPA Facility/Building. We have provided the audio from that meeting so you can clearly get an idea as to where I'm going with this Post.
Mr. Trader NP EPA.mp3
As you can clearly see from the photos I've provided above, the EPA is going to be PISSED OFF! Not only is the location wide open and not secure, vandals have broken open the door and stripped the facility of every wire and valuable piece of metal inside and out of this building. NO ONE NOTICED except Salisbury News! One of the key factors here is the fact that NOTHING has been working here for months. As you can see from the chains and security, they haven't been secure for God knows how long.
Now here's what I've been told. Last Monday night was the second time Mr. Trader has confronted the City about this facility on Lake Street and they have yet to get back with him on it. I've been told that the property owners want to donate the property to the City but one has to ask what the liability would be on the taxpayers? It was claimed years ago that a alleged 12,000 gallons of oil leaked into the ground and 4,000 gallons made it into the River. So IF the City were to accept this offer, YOU would be liable for cleaning it up and that's not cheap.
Now I have a lot of friends of mine who own properties with the same kind of conditions and I'm told there are new processes available today to clean it up that are much simpler to do and far less expensive as it was in years past. However, no matter what anyone says, it won't be inexpensive to do. I'm confident the Mayor and Comegys are chomping at the bit on another free piece of property on the North Prong.
One of the other main issues I saw on this property was the DANGER to anyone, (especially children) where someone can be harmed or even killed instantly. If someone walks that property at night, there are wide open tanks to fall into but even worse, one of the pictures I have provided has overgrown grass but you can see a hole there. The man hole cover was stolen, leaving it wide open for anyone to fall into day or night. I'm glad I walked this property with someone who was familiar with the surroundings because I swear to you, there's a very strong chance I would have fallen right in.
When I arrived at the property on Lake Street, there was no, "No Trespassing" signs and the one gate was wide open. The second gate, (photo above) has a lock and chain on it but you can clearly see how the cut the latch so you can take it off instantly, yet the Police wouldn't notice it from the road as it looks secure.
One thing I can assure you of this morning is that the Mayor and Chief of Police are reading this article and sending people to this location right away. However, before they arive I'd almost bet that WBOC, WMDT and te Daily Times will get down there right away to get some of their own shots of the vandalism. One way or the other, this property will have a ton of attention as this is not only a slap in the face of Mr. Trader, it's a slap in the face to ALL Maryland Taxpayers.
The paragraph below is a direct statement from the EPA on this property.
"The Maryland Department of the Environment and the City of Salisbury recently praised the cleanup efforts and the improvement of the shoreline near the Dale Enterprise site in Salisbury, Maryland. Along the shoreline of the Wicomico River and near the site, EPA installed a new bulkhead that will contain and capture leaching oil from the ground due to years of onsite spills. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to build an oil/water treatment system for the site."
GO HERE to see the actual article from the EPA. The Salisbury information is on Page 3.
Kenneth Townsend & The Salvation Army?
Do you remember Mr.Kenneth Townsend? You know, the guy that was arrested for stealing almost $500,000.00 from the Wicomico County Landfill with Ray Lewis and received only 1.5 years and a $10,000.00 Fine?
Well, as much as I do NOT want to put up this Post, I have received 3 phone calls since Friday in reference to Kenneth Townsend working Walgreen's in Salisbury ringing the bell for the Salvation Army on Work Release.
I can assure you of one thing Folks, the Salvation Army's phone is ringing off the hook this morning by concerned citizens screaming about criminals working any location for the Salvation Army.
In order to relieve them I am personally willing to work any shift they hand me to assure the Citizens that NO WORK RELEASE people/criminals fill in for anyone. As I'm sure they only did so because they didn't have enough volunteers, we simply need to step up to the plate Ladies & Gentlemen and give a helping hand.
Let me assure you of one thing, it's a wonderful experience and people appreciate what you're doing so much.So rather than turning this into a bad thing, let's all make contact with the Salvation Army and donate our time to help a great cause.
For those of you who have been calling me about this situation, I have been in contact with Sheriff Lewis about it and one thing I can assure you is, he is on it like you wouldn't believe. Sheriff Lewis is upset and I was told that something would be done about it first thing this morning.
The Rise of the Citizen Journalist
We have been witnessing a lot of history recently.
The Times they are a changin and we are holdin on for the ride of our lives.
I have written quite a few articles about Mr. Obama having trouble producing his 'real' birth certificate. It has been a focus of many of my articles for the last couple of months, and I have taken a lot of heat for voicing my concerns.
But, lets for one moment put aside that Mr. Obama is a person of color, and lets put aside that he is a member of the Democratic Party. Lets just for a minute pretend that he is a white man and a Republican.
Now, that he is a white Republican lets pretend for a minute that he was born to a woman in Hawaii who was fathered by a German who left her, but soon she remarried a Russian guy who took her and her son to Russia where he adopted him, and enrolled him in a private Russian school?
Then lets suppose he were asked about his birth certificate and his true loyalties, and he refused to show it.
Would there be anyway for this man to avoid producing the documents? I just don't think so!
This is what I see... I see a country that is so taken with the fact that a person of color has been elected to the highest office in the land, that one negative question is construed as racist.
I see a country that is so ridiculously afraid of being politically incorrect that it's supposed Professional Journalists are avoiding this story like the plague.
This story is quite possibly the biggest story since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and what have our MSM reporters done?
Absolutely nothing!
What in the name of everything that is Holy is going on?
Why aren't they all over this story?
Why didn't Barbara Walters ask him?
Professional Journalist are supposed to follow a story to it's completion. They are supposed to check out leads, verify, annalize and report. No matter whether they like what they find, or not.
Hannity has been sent numerous emails about this.
Limbaugh has been sent the same emails.
O'Rielly addressed it once and caved immediately, and never asked again.
There are far too many questions that need answers.
Professional Journalists work for giant corporations that have bought up every independent news paper across the country and the journalist don't answer to their editors any longer as much as they answer to the corporate offices.
Obama is selling papers.
He is like a cult.
He's a Political Rock Star!
Anything about him or his family is making money, so which one of them will step out on a limb and actually ask the tough questions?
This week of all papers, it was the Globe Super Market Tabloid that is reporting about the soon to be released 'tell all' book written by Larry Sinclair. Sinclair claims to have had a homosexual relationship with Obama, used cocaine with Obama, and has evidence in a murder case involving Obama and the Choir director at Obama's sensationalized church led by Rev. Wright.
The Globe is the only publication that would cover the story when Sinclair went public with it last July.
Blogger Citizen Wells reports on the story , Lame Cherry does as well.
MSNBC Blogs were talking about it, but it's not making the front page of the New
York Times, and Greta and Hannity aren't dissecting it.
It is the Citizen Journalists who are hitting this topic head on and they are relentlessly pushing to find the truth.
Our Citizen Journalist aren't owned by a media conglomerate they are merely doing what they know to do that is right.
They want to find the answer to this question, they want the Supreme Court to rule on it one way or the other. They want to be able to go on with their lives and know that whether we like this man for President or not, we know that the Constitution was upheld, and for 4 years he will be our Commander in Chief.
This is far too big to let it slip by, the Citizen Journalists have said so.
We may never win any award, we may never be paid for our articles, we may never even be picked up and syndicated, but it's okay, we do it because it is what we are supposed to do. We are Patriots and we care, and we will continue to care as long as we live.
The following is a list of Citizen Journalist who find this topic important:
http://atlasshrugs2000.typepad.com/atlas_shrugs/
http://atlah.org/
http://obamacrimes.com/
http://texasdarlin.wordpress.com/
http://therealbarackobama.wordpress.com/
There are more and if you read into any of these you will find links to others. I don't agree with everything that all of these folks say, but when you see the numbers of comments attached to these articles, you will see that thousands upon thousands of Americans want and deserve the truth.
Read something other than the MSM and educate your selves, then decide for yourself... Is there enough of a question in your mind that you want the Justices of the Supreme Court to demand to see these documents?
The Times they are a changin and we are holdin on for the ride of our lives.
I have written quite a few articles about Mr. Obama having trouble producing his 'real' birth certificate. It has been a focus of many of my articles for the last couple of months, and I have taken a lot of heat for voicing my concerns.
But, lets for one moment put aside that Mr. Obama is a person of color, and lets put aside that he is a member of the Democratic Party. Lets just for a minute pretend that he is a white man and a Republican.
Now, that he is a white Republican lets pretend for a minute that he was born to a woman in Hawaii who was fathered by a German who left her, but soon she remarried a Russian guy who took her and her son to Russia where he adopted him, and enrolled him in a private Russian school?
Then lets suppose he were asked about his birth certificate and his true loyalties, and he refused to show it.
Would there be anyway for this man to avoid producing the documents? I just don't think so!
This is what I see... I see a country that is so taken with the fact that a person of color has been elected to the highest office in the land, that one negative question is construed as racist.
I see a country that is so ridiculously afraid of being politically incorrect that it's supposed Professional Journalists are avoiding this story like the plague.
This story is quite possibly the biggest story since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and what have our MSM reporters done?
Absolutely nothing!
What in the name of everything that is Holy is going on?
Why aren't they all over this story?
Why didn't Barbara Walters ask him?
Professional Journalist are supposed to follow a story to it's completion. They are supposed to check out leads, verify, annalize and report. No matter whether they like what they find, or not.
Hannity has been sent numerous emails about this.
Limbaugh has been sent the same emails.
O'Rielly addressed it once and caved immediately, and never asked again.
There are far too many questions that need answers.
Professional Journalists work for giant corporations that have bought up every independent news paper across the country and the journalist don't answer to their editors any longer as much as they answer to the corporate offices.
Obama is selling papers.
He is like a cult.
He's a Political Rock Star!
Anything about him or his family is making money, so which one of them will step out on a limb and actually ask the tough questions?
This week of all papers, it was the Globe Super Market Tabloid that is reporting about the soon to be released 'tell all' book written by Larry Sinclair. Sinclair claims to have had a homosexual relationship with Obama, used cocaine with Obama, and has evidence in a murder case involving Obama and the Choir director at Obama's sensationalized church led by Rev. Wright.
The Globe is the only publication that would cover the story when Sinclair went public with it last July.
Blogger Citizen Wells reports on the story , Lame Cherry does as well.
MSNBC Blogs were talking about it, but it's not making the front page of the New
York Times, and Greta and Hannity aren't dissecting it.
It is the Citizen Journalists who are hitting this topic head on and they are relentlessly pushing to find the truth.
Our Citizen Journalist aren't owned by a media conglomerate they are merely doing what they know to do that is right.
They want to find the answer to this question, they want the Supreme Court to rule on it one way or the other. They want to be able to go on with their lives and know that whether we like this man for President or not, we know that the Constitution was upheld, and for 4 years he will be our Commander in Chief.
This is far too big to let it slip by, the Citizen Journalists have said so.
We may never win any award, we may never be paid for our articles, we may never even be picked up and syndicated, but it's okay, we do it because it is what we are supposed to do. We are Patriots and we care, and we will continue to care as long as we live.
The following is a list of Citizen Journalist who find this topic important:
http://atlasshrugs2000.typepad.com/atlas_shrugs/
http://atlah.org/
http://obamacrimes.com/
http://texasdarlin.wordpress.com/
http://therealbarackobama.wordpress.com/
There are more and if you read into any of these you will find links to others. I don't agree with everything that all of these folks say, but when you see the numbers of comments attached to these articles, you will see that thousands upon thousands of Americans want and deserve the truth.
Read something other than the MSM and educate your selves, then decide for yourself... Is there enough of a question in your mind that you want the Justices of the Supreme Court to demand to see these documents?
Clone UPS Truck
2,118 pounds marijuana seized from cloned UPS vehicle in Arizona:
On November 14, 2008, detectives assigned to the Pima County, Arizona Counter Narcotics Alliance conducted an investigation which resulted in the seizure of approximately 2,118 pounds of marijuana from a cloned United Parcel Service truck. Painted a shade of brown similar to UPS brown, the vehicle had reflective yellow decals affixed in the same general areas as an authorized UPS vehicle. The suspects misspelled the word “synchronizing” in the UPS slogan “Synchronizing the World of Commerce”. The suspects spelled the word “sinchronizing”. The lettering was crude and not level with horizontal lines on the body panels. The vehicle displayed a homemade license plate which returned to a UPS truck. The plate appeared to have been made with the aid of a stencil and green spray paint. The lettering on the plate was uneven with a significant green overspray around some of the characters. A search of UPS’s vehicle inventory revealed the vehicle number on the cloned UPS truck was a vehicle number assigned to an authentic UPS truck servicing the area of 6th Avenue and Valencia Road in Tucson, Arizona.
The Seven Sustainable Wonders Of The World.
I've never seen any of the Seven Wonders of the world, and to tell you the truth I wouldn't really want to. To me, the real wonders are all the little things--little things that work, especially when they do it without hurting the earth. Here's my list of simple things that, though we take them for granted, are absolute wonders. These implements solve every day problems so elegantly that every one in the world today--and everyone who is likely to live init in the next century--could make use of them without Mother Nature's being any the worse for wear. Alan Thein Durning
1. The bicycle THE MOST THERMODYNAMICALLY EFFICIENT TRANSPORTATION DEVICE EVER CREATED AND THE MOST WIDELY USED PRIVATE VEHICLE IN THE WORLD,THE BICYCLE LETS YOU TRAVEL THREE TIMES AS FAR ON A PLATE FULL OF CARORIES AS YOU COULD WALKING. AND THEY'RE 53 TIMES MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT-- COMPARING FOOD CALORIES WITH GASOLINE CALORIES--THAN THE TYPICAL CAR. NOT TO MENTION THE FACT THEY DON'T POLLUTE THE AIR, LEAD TO OIL SPILLS (AND OIL WARS), CHANGE THE CLIMATE, SEND CITIES SPRAWLING OVER THE COUNTRYSIDE, LOCK UP HALF OF URBAN SPACE IN ROADS AND PARKING LOTS, OR KILL A QUARTER MILLION PEOPLE IN TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS EACH YEAR.
2. The ceiling fan. APPROPRIATE TECHNOLOGY'S ANSWER TO AIR CONDITIONING, CEILING FANS COOL TENS OF MILLIONS OF PEOPLE IN ASIA AND AFRICA. A FAN OVER YOUR BED BRINGS RELIEF IN SWELTERING CLIMES, AS I'VE HAD PLENTY OF TIME TO REFLECT ON DURING EPISODES OF DIGESTIVE TURMOIL IN CHEAP TROPICAL HOTELS. AIR CONDITIONING, FOUND IN TWO-THIRDS OF U.S. HOMES, IS A JUICE HOG AND THE BANE OF THE STRATOSPHERIC OZONE LAYER BECAUSE OF ITS CFC COOLANTS. CEILING FANS, ON THE OTHER HAND, ARE SIMPLE, DURABLE, AND REPAIRABLE AND TAKE LITTLE ENERGY TO RUN.
3. The clothesline. A FEW YEARS AGO, I READ ABOUT AN ENGINEERING LABORATORY THAT CLAIMED IT HAD ALL BUT PERFECTED A MICROWAVE CLOTHES DRYER. THE DRYER, THE STORY WENT, WOULD GET THE MOISTURE OUT OF THE WASH WITH ONE-THIRD THE ENERGY OF A CONVENTIONAL UNIT AND CAUSE LESS WEAR AND TEAR ON THE FABRIC. I DON'T KNOW IF THEY EVER GOT IT ON THE MARKET, BUT IT STRUCK ME AT THE TIME THAT IF SIMPLE WONDERS HAD A PR AGENT, THERE MIGHT HAVE BEEN A NEWS STORY INSTEAD ABOUT THE PERFECTION OF A SOLAR CLOTHES DRYER. IT TAKES FEW MATERIALS TO MANUFACTURE , IS SAFE FOR KIDS, REQUIRES ABSOLUTELY NO ELECTRICITY OR FUEL, AND EVEN GETS PEOPLE OUTDOORS WHERE THEY CAN TALK TO THEIR NEIGHBORS.
4. The telephone. THE GREATEST INNOVATION IN HUMAN COMMUNICATIONS SINCE GUTENBERG'S PRINTING PRESS, TELEPHONE SYSTEMS ARE THE ONLY ENTRY ON MY WONDERS LIST INVENTED IN THIS CENTURY, AND--HYPE OF THE INFORMATION AGE NOT-WITH-STANDING--I'LL WAGERTHAT THEY NEVER LOSE GROUND TO OTHER COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGIES. UNLIKE FAX MACHINES, PERSONAL COMPUTERS AND COMPUTER NETWORKS, TELEVISION, VCR'S AND CAMCORDERS,CD-ROM, AND ALL THE OTHER FLOTSAM AND JETSAM OF THE INFORMATION AGE, TELEPHONES ARE A SIMPLE EXTENSION OF THE MOST TIME-TESTED MEANS OF HUMAN COMMUNICATION: SPEECH.
5. The public library. PUBLIC LIBRARIES ARE THE MOST DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS YET INVENTED. THINK OF IT! EQUAL ACCESS TO INFORMATION FOR ANY CITIZEN WHO COMES INSIDE. A LIFETIME OF LEARNING, ALL FREE. LIBRARIES FOSTER COMMUNITY,TOO, BY BRINGING PEOPLE OF DIFFERENT CLASSES ,RACES, AND AGES TOGETHER IN THAT ENDANGERED FORM OF HUMAN HABITAT: NONCOMMERCIAL PUBLIC SPACE. ALLTHOUGH CONCEIVED WITHOUT ANY ECOLOGICAL INTENTION WHATSOEVER, LIBRARIES ARE WASTE REDUCTION AT ITS BEST. EACH LIBRARY SAVES A FORESTFUL OF TREES BY MAKING THOUSANDS OF PERSONAL COPIES OF BOOKS AND PERIODICALS UNNECESSARY. ALLTHAT PAPERSAVINGS MEANS HUGE REDUCTIONS IN ENERGY USE AND WATER AND AIR POLLUTION,TOO. IN PRINCIPLE, THE LIBRARY CONCEPT COULD BE APPLIED TO OTHER THINGS--CAMERAS AND CAMCORDERS,TAPES AN CD'S, CLEANING EQUIPMENT AND EXTRA DINING CHAIRS.
6. The interdepartmental envelope. I DON'T KNOW WHAT THEY'RE REALLY CALLED: THOSE OLD-FASHIONED SLOTTTED MANILA ENVELOPES BOUND WITH A STRING AND COVERED WITH LINES FOR ROUTING PAPERS TO ONE PERSON AFTER ANOTHER. WHATEVER THEY'RE CALLED, THEY PUT MODERN RECYCLING TO SHAME.
7. The condom. IT'S A REMARKABLE LITTLE DEVICE HIGHLY EFFECTIVE, INEXPENSIVE, AND PORTABLE. A FEW PURISTS 'GREENS' MIGHT COMPLAIN ABOUT DISPOSABILITY AND EXCESS PACKAGING, BUT THESE ARE TRIVIAL CONSIDERING THE WORK THE CONDOM HAS TO DO--BATTLING THE SCOURGE OF AIDS AND STABILIZING THE HUMAN POPULATION AT A LEVEL THE EARTH CAN COMFORTABLY SUPPORT.
1. The bicycle THE MOST THERMODYNAMICALLY EFFICIENT TRANSPORTATION DEVICE EVER CREATED AND THE MOST WIDELY USED PRIVATE VEHICLE IN THE WORLD,THE BICYCLE LETS YOU TRAVEL THREE TIMES AS FAR ON A PLATE FULL OF CARORIES AS YOU COULD WALKING. AND THEY'RE 53 TIMES MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT-- COMPARING FOOD CALORIES WITH GASOLINE CALORIES--THAN THE TYPICAL CAR. NOT TO MENTION THE FACT THEY DON'T POLLUTE THE AIR, LEAD TO OIL SPILLS (AND OIL WARS), CHANGE THE CLIMATE, SEND CITIES SPRAWLING OVER THE COUNTRYSIDE, LOCK UP HALF OF URBAN SPACE IN ROADS AND PARKING LOTS, OR KILL A QUARTER MILLION PEOPLE IN TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS EACH YEAR.
2. The ceiling fan. APPROPRIATE TECHNOLOGY'S ANSWER TO AIR CONDITIONING, CEILING FANS COOL TENS OF MILLIONS OF PEOPLE IN ASIA AND AFRICA. A FAN OVER YOUR BED BRINGS RELIEF IN SWELTERING CLIMES, AS I'VE HAD PLENTY OF TIME TO REFLECT ON DURING EPISODES OF DIGESTIVE TURMOIL IN CHEAP TROPICAL HOTELS. AIR CONDITIONING, FOUND IN TWO-THIRDS OF U.S. HOMES, IS A JUICE HOG AND THE BANE OF THE STRATOSPHERIC OZONE LAYER BECAUSE OF ITS CFC COOLANTS. CEILING FANS, ON THE OTHER HAND, ARE SIMPLE, DURABLE, AND REPAIRABLE AND TAKE LITTLE ENERGY TO RUN.
3. The clothesline. A FEW YEARS AGO, I READ ABOUT AN ENGINEERING LABORATORY THAT CLAIMED IT HAD ALL BUT PERFECTED A MICROWAVE CLOTHES DRYER. THE DRYER, THE STORY WENT, WOULD GET THE MOISTURE OUT OF THE WASH WITH ONE-THIRD THE ENERGY OF A CONVENTIONAL UNIT AND CAUSE LESS WEAR AND TEAR ON THE FABRIC. I DON'T KNOW IF THEY EVER GOT IT ON THE MARKET, BUT IT STRUCK ME AT THE TIME THAT IF SIMPLE WONDERS HAD A PR AGENT, THERE MIGHT HAVE BEEN A NEWS STORY INSTEAD ABOUT THE PERFECTION OF A SOLAR CLOTHES DRYER. IT TAKES FEW MATERIALS TO MANUFACTURE , IS SAFE FOR KIDS, REQUIRES ABSOLUTELY NO ELECTRICITY OR FUEL, AND EVEN GETS PEOPLE OUTDOORS WHERE THEY CAN TALK TO THEIR NEIGHBORS.
4. The telephone. THE GREATEST INNOVATION IN HUMAN COMMUNICATIONS SINCE GUTENBERG'S PRINTING PRESS, TELEPHONE SYSTEMS ARE THE ONLY ENTRY ON MY WONDERS LIST INVENTED IN THIS CENTURY, AND--HYPE OF THE INFORMATION AGE NOT-WITH-STANDING--I'LL WAGERTHAT THEY NEVER LOSE GROUND TO OTHER COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGIES. UNLIKE FAX MACHINES, PERSONAL COMPUTERS AND COMPUTER NETWORKS, TELEVISION, VCR'S AND CAMCORDERS,CD-ROM, AND ALL THE OTHER FLOTSAM AND JETSAM OF THE INFORMATION AGE, TELEPHONES ARE A SIMPLE EXTENSION OF THE MOST TIME-TESTED MEANS OF HUMAN COMMUNICATION: SPEECH.
5. The public library. PUBLIC LIBRARIES ARE THE MOST DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS YET INVENTED. THINK OF IT! EQUAL ACCESS TO INFORMATION FOR ANY CITIZEN WHO COMES INSIDE. A LIFETIME OF LEARNING, ALL FREE. LIBRARIES FOSTER COMMUNITY,TOO, BY BRINGING PEOPLE OF DIFFERENT CLASSES ,RACES, AND AGES TOGETHER IN THAT ENDANGERED FORM OF HUMAN HABITAT: NONCOMMERCIAL PUBLIC SPACE. ALLTHOUGH CONCEIVED WITHOUT ANY ECOLOGICAL INTENTION WHATSOEVER, LIBRARIES ARE WASTE REDUCTION AT ITS BEST. EACH LIBRARY SAVES A FORESTFUL OF TREES BY MAKING THOUSANDS OF PERSONAL COPIES OF BOOKS AND PERIODICALS UNNECESSARY. ALLTHAT PAPERSAVINGS MEANS HUGE REDUCTIONS IN ENERGY USE AND WATER AND AIR POLLUTION,TOO. IN PRINCIPLE, THE LIBRARY CONCEPT COULD BE APPLIED TO OTHER THINGS--CAMERAS AND CAMCORDERS,TAPES AN CD'S, CLEANING EQUIPMENT AND EXTRA DINING CHAIRS.
6. The interdepartmental envelope. I DON'T KNOW WHAT THEY'RE REALLY CALLED: THOSE OLD-FASHIONED SLOTTTED MANILA ENVELOPES BOUND WITH A STRING AND COVERED WITH LINES FOR ROUTING PAPERS TO ONE PERSON AFTER ANOTHER. WHATEVER THEY'RE CALLED, THEY PUT MODERN RECYCLING TO SHAME.
7. The condom. IT'S A REMARKABLE LITTLE DEVICE HIGHLY EFFECTIVE, INEXPENSIVE, AND PORTABLE. A FEW PURISTS 'GREENS' MIGHT COMPLAIN ABOUT DISPOSABILITY AND EXCESS PACKAGING, BUT THESE ARE TRIVIAL CONSIDERING THE WORK THE CONDOM HAS TO DO--BATTLING THE SCOURGE OF AIDS AND STABILIZING THE HUMAN POPULATION AT A LEVEL THE EARTH CAN COMFORTABLY SUPPORT.
An Interesting Arrest This Past Week
The Maryland State Police received a 911 call from an individual complaining someone had allegedly thrown beer bottles at his vehicle, (or something along those lines). He then stated they were allegedly following him and the State Police were able to stop the vehicle. The driver who called the whole thing in was asked to identify the people causing trouble and he did just that.
HOWEVER, it turns out, the guy who made the original complaint from the 911 call was questioned by the Dispatcher feeling as if this person was intoxicated. Aaron Scott Osterwalder, (the 911 caller) was also given a sobriety test and was immediately arrested for a DUI as well. Officers could smell the alcohol and I believe he is the son of Patti Thompson? Mr. Thompson is retired from the SFD.
HOWEVER, it turns out, the guy who made the original complaint from the 911 call was questioned by the Dispatcher feeling as if this person was intoxicated. Aaron Scott Osterwalder, (the 911 caller) was also given a sobriety test and was immediately arrested for a DUI as well. Officers could smell the alcohol and I believe he is the son of Patti Thompson? Mr. Thompson is retired from the SFD.
Keys To Gate #5
I was told recently that Mayoral Candidate Gary Comegys allegedly has a key to Gate 5 at Parson's Cemetery. If you're wondering why this might be a concern, there's a reason why. Apparently Gary's community doesn't allow Boats to be stored on their property. While I am having issues loading pictures, I have seen a Boat obviously brought in through the Cemetery.
I wonder if the rest of his neighbors have a key to that gate as well?
I wonder if the rest of his neighbors have a key to that gate as well?
Issues With Blogger
In case you hadn't noticed, I haven't put up as many Posts as I usually do. One of the main reasons for this is because I have been having serious problems loading pictures onto Blogger.
Many of these photos help tell the stories I produce. Hopefully some time today I will get these issues resolved. In the mean time I'll do what I can to keep you up to speed and informed on things going on locally.
Thanks for your patience.
Many of these photos help tell the stories I produce. Hopefully some time today I will get these issues resolved. In the mean time I'll do what I can to keep you up to speed and informed on things going on locally.
Thanks for your patience.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Debbie Campbell on Reddish
Debbie Campbell will be the guest of Bill Reddish, 7:40 tomorrow morning on WICO 1320 AM
Swiss voters nix legal marijuana but approve legal heroin use
The world's most comprehensive legalized heroin program became permanent Sunday with overwhelming approval from Swiss voters who simultaneously rejected the decriminalization of marijuana.Does this sound strange to anyone else BUT me?And the government will be footing most of the bill....read on.
The heroin program, started in 1994, is offered in 23 centers across Switzerland. It has helped eliminate scenes of large groups of drug users shooting up openly in parks that marred Swiss cities in the 1980s and 1990s and is credited with reducing crime and improving the health and daily lives of addicts.
The nearly 1,300 selected addicts, who have been unhelped by other therapies, visit one of the centers twice a day to receive the carefully measured dose of heroin produced by a government-approved laboratory.
They keep their paraphernalia in cups labeled with their names and use the equipment and clean needles to inject themselves - four at a time - under the supervision of a nurse, and also receive counseling from psychiatrists and social workers.
The aim is to help the addicts learn how to function in society.
The United States and the U.N. narcotics board have criticized the program as potentially fueling drug abuse, but it has attracted attention from governments as far away as Australia and Canada, which in recent years have started or are considering their own programs modeled on the system.
Sixty-eight percent of the 2.26 million Swiss voters casting ballots approved making the heroin program permanent.
By contrast, around 63.2 percent of voters voted against the marijuana proposal, which was based on a separate citizens' initiative to decriminalize the consumption of marijuana and growing the plant for personal use.
Olivier Borer, 35, a musician from the northern town of Solothurn, said he welcomed the outcome in part because state action was required to help heroin addicts, but he said legalizing marijuana was a bad idea.
"I think it's very important to help these people, but not to facilitate the using of drugs," Borer said. "You can just see in the Netherlands how it's going. People just go there to smoke."
Sabina Geissbuehler-Strupler of the right-wing Swiss People's Party, which led the campaign against the heroin program, said she was disappointed in the vote.
"That is only damage limitation," she said. "Ninety-five percent of the addicts are not healed from the addiction."
Health insurance pays for the bulk of the program, which costs 26 million Swiss francs ($22 million) a year. All residents in Switzerland, which has a population of 7.5 million, are required to have health insurance, with the government paying insurance premiums for those who cannot afford it.
Jo Lang, a Green Party member of parliament from the central city of Zug, said he was disappointed in the failure of the marijuana measure because it means 600,000 people in Switzerland will be treated as criminals because they use cannabis.
"People have died from alcohol and heroin, but not from cannabis," Lang said.
The heroin program, started in 1994, is offered in 23 centers across Switzerland. It has helped eliminate scenes of large groups of drug users shooting up openly in parks that marred Swiss cities in the 1980s and 1990s and is credited with reducing crime and improving the health and daily lives of addicts.
The nearly 1,300 selected addicts, who have been unhelped by other therapies, visit one of the centers twice a day to receive the carefully measured dose of heroin produced by a government-approved laboratory.
They keep their paraphernalia in cups labeled with their names and use the equipment and clean needles to inject themselves - four at a time - under the supervision of a nurse, and also receive counseling from psychiatrists and social workers.
The aim is to help the addicts learn how to function in society.
The United States and the U.N. narcotics board have criticized the program as potentially fueling drug abuse, but it has attracted attention from governments as far away as Australia and Canada, which in recent years have started or are considering their own programs modeled on the system.
Sixty-eight percent of the 2.26 million Swiss voters casting ballots approved making the heroin program permanent.
By contrast, around 63.2 percent of voters voted against the marijuana proposal, which was based on a separate citizens' initiative to decriminalize the consumption of marijuana and growing the plant for personal use.
Olivier Borer, 35, a musician from the northern town of Solothurn, said he welcomed the outcome in part because state action was required to help heroin addicts, but he said legalizing marijuana was a bad idea.
"I think it's very important to help these people, but not to facilitate the using of drugs," Borer said. "You can just see in the Netherlands how it's going. People just go there to smoke."
Sabina Geissbuehler-Strupler of the right-wing Swiss People's Party, which led the campaign against the heroin program, said she was disappointed in the vote.
"That is only damage limitation," she said. "Ninety-five percent of the addicts are not healed from the addiction."
Health insurance pays for the bulk of the program, which costs 26 million Swiss francs ($22 million) a year. All residents in Switzerland, which has a population of 7.5 million, are required to have health insurance, with the government paying insurance premiums for those who cannot afford it.
Jo Lang, a Green Party member of parliament from the central city of Zug, said he was disappointed in the failure of the marijuana measure because it means 600,000 people in Switzerland will be treated as criminals because they use cannabis.
"People have died from alcohol and heroin, but not from cannabis," Lang said.
Citizenship Issue on MSNBC
On Dec 5 the Supreme Court will either allow or disallow the usurpation of both the Constitution and the Government of the United States — easily the most pivotal decision since our nation’s founding — and the silence of the news media is deafening (if not downright scary).
Sent in by a loyal reader.
Posts
I have received some e-mails asking if everything is OK and why are things so slow today or this weekend.
Every once in a while I need a break and weekends are usually the best time to do so. The hits are much slower on weekends and the biggest reason why Bloggers like Bill Duvall chose not to post at all on Saturdays.
Nevertheless, even though I need a break every so often, I was actually busy this weekend filling in gaps with the Salvation Army. In fact, I was supposed to be on one of the Boats last night in the Christmas Boat Parade but I got a cal at the very last minute stating how some people were in one location for almost the entire day and they had no one to replace them.
I chose that it was far more important to get out there and take over than it was to take a ride down the river on a Boat. Because of this, I was not able to get out and take photos of the Parade as well as the lights in the Park. So if anyone wants to send in photos of either or, that would be great.
I will say this however. I have received numerous calls about today"s Daily Times and how their three main local articles, I did them almost a month ago. ROTFLMAO! It looks like I can now relax for the next 4 weeks until they catch up to us once again.
Tomorrow's Posts will blow you away. Put that seat belt on Barrie Tilghman and Gary Comegys, we're about to rock the Boat like there's no tomorrow.
Every once in a while I need a break and weekends are usually the best time to do so. The hits are much slower on weekends and the biggest reason why Bloggers like Bill Duvall chose not to post at all on Saturdays.
Nevertheless, even though I need a break every so often, I was actually busy this weekend filling in gaps with the Salvation Army. In fact, I was supposed to be on one of the Boats last night in the Christmas Boat Parade but I got a cal at the very last minute stating how some people were in one location for almost the entire day and they had no one to replace them.
I chose that it was far more important to get out there and take over than it was to take a ride down the river on a Boat. Because of this, I was not able to get out and take photos of the Parade as well as the lights in the Park. So if anyone wants to send in photos of either or, that would be great.
I will say this however. I have received numerous calls about today"s Daily Times and how their three main local articles, I did them almost a month ago. ROTFLMAO! It looks like I can now relax for the next 4 weeks until they catch up to us once again.
Tomorrow's Posts will blow you away. Put that seat belt on Barrie Tilghman and Gary Comegys, we're about to rock the Boat like there's no tomorrow.
Was Blognetnews Listening?
After my article yesterday on Michael Schwartz and his Influential Ratings with Blognetnews with only 82 hits per day, today we were ranked #1 in Maryland, #2 in Delaware and #2 on Delmarva. My guess is they had no choice but to make some immediate changes because there's just no denying someone who only gets an average of 82 hits per day could not be considered the most Influential Blogger in the State.
This week Michael's Rankings jumped to #8 in Maryland and #14 on Delmarva. Makes more sense. Anyhow, we'll have to see how things go from this point forward because like I said yesterday, Blognetnews needs to tweak their system and make things right.
This week Michael's Rankings jumped to #8 in Maryland and #14 on Delmarva. Makes more sense. Anyhow, we'll have to see how things go from this point forward because like I said yesterday, Blognetnews needs to tweak their system and make things right.
The Marine
Katie Couric, Charlie Gibson, Brian Williams and a tough old U.S. Marine Sergeant were captured by terrorists in Iraq. The leader of the terrorists told them he'd grant each of them one last request
before they were beheaded and dragged naked through the streets.
Katie Couric said, 'Well, I'm a Southerner, so I'd like one last plate of fried chicken.' The leader nodded to an underling who left and returned with the chicken. Couric ate it all and said, 'Now I can die content.'
Charlie Gibson said, 'I'm living in ' New York , so I'd like to hear the song 'The Moon and Me one last time.' The terrorist's leader nodded to another terrorist who had studied the Western world and knew the music. He returned with some rag-tag musicians and played the song. Gibson was satisfied.
Brian Williams said, 'I'm a reporter to the end. I want to take out my tape recorder and describe the scene here and what's about to happen. Maybe, someday, someone will hear it and know that I was on the job till the end.' The leader directed an aide to hand over the tape recorder and Williams dictated his comments. He then said, 'Now I can die happy.'
The leader turned and said, 'And now, Mr. US Marine, what is your final wish?'
'Kick me in the ass,' said the Marine.
'What?' asked the leader, 'Will you mock us in your last hour?'
'No, I'm NOT kidding. I want you to kick me in the ass,' insisted the Marine.
So the leader shoved him into the yard and kicked him in the ass. The Marine went sprawling, but rolled to his knees, pulled a 9 mm pistol from inside his cammies and shot the leader dead. In the resulting confusion, he emptied his sidearm on six terrorists, with his knife he slashed the throat of one with an AK-47, which he took, and sprayed the rest of the terrorists killing another 11!
In a flash, all of them were either dead or fleeing for their lives.
As the Marine was untying Couric, Gibson and Williams, they asked him, ' Why didn't you just shoot them all in the first place? Why did you ask him to kick you in the ass?'
'What!?!' replied the Marine, 'and have you three assholes report that I was the aggressor....?
before they were beheaded and dragged naked through the streets.
Katie Couric said, 'Well, I'm a Southerner, so I'd like one last plate of fried chicken.' The leader nodded to an underling who left and returned with the chicken. Couric ate it all and said, 'Now I can die content.'
Charlie Gibson said, 'I'm living in ' New York , so I'd like to hear the song 'The Moon and Me one last time.' The terrorist's leader nodded to another terrorist who had studied the Western world and knew the music. He returned with some rag-tag musicians and played the song. Gibson was satisfied.
Brian Williams said, 'I'm a reporter to the end. I want to take out my tape recorder and describe the scene here and what's about to happen. Maybe, someday, someone will hear it and know that I was on the job till the end.' The leader directed an aide to hand over the tape recorder and Williams dictated his comments. He then said, 'Now I can die happy.'
The leader turned and said, 'And now, Mr. US Marine, what is your final wish?'
'Kick me in the ass,' said the Marine.
'What?' asked the leader, 'Will you mock us in your last hour?'
'No, I'm NOT kidding. I want you to kick me in the ass,' insisted the Marine.
So the leader shoved him into the yard and kicked him in the ass. The Marine went sprawling, but rolled to his knees, pulled a 9 mm pistol from inside his cammies and shot the leader dead. In the resulting confusion, he emptied his sidearm on six terrorists, with his knife he slashed the throat of one with an AK-47, which he took, and sprayed the rest of the terrorists killing another 11!
In a flash, all of them were either dead or fleeing for their lives.
As the Marine was untying Couric, Gibson and Williams, they asked him, ' Why didn't you just shoot them all in the first place? Why did you ask him to kick you in the ass?'
'What!?!' replied the Marine, 'and have you three assholes report that I was the aggressor....?
Mardela Town Tour
Sunday afternoon - early evening is the Mardela Town Tour. FREE admission and free parking.
Start at the firehouse for plenty of parking. The firehouse will have the programs of houses open for tour and what is happening in between houses so make sure you get a program so you don't miss anything. At the firehouse, Andy Fox and Chuck Zimmerman will be playing Christmas music, seats will be available to sit and enjoy. There will transportation available to the houses opened for tours. On display at the firehouse will be gingerbread houses drawn, colored and made by the children at Northwestern Schools. Please don' t miss these talented youths.
The tour starts with a parade of antique cars at 3:30pm which will bring Santa to town on the firetruck to go to his temporary Mardela Christmas house for the kids to visit. They will be a live nativity scene at the Spring House, the Church on Barren Creek will be open, Wallace and Joan Catlin's home has been added to the tour this year.
House Tour ends at 8 pm. Millies will be on hand with food near the General Store.
Start at the firehouse for plenty of parking. The firehouse will have the programs of houses open for tour and what is happening in between houses so make sure you get a program so you don't miss anything. At the firehouse, Andy Fox and Chuck Zimmerman will be playing Christmas music, seats will be available to sit and enjoy. There will transportation available to the houses opened for tours. On display at the firehouse will be gingerbread houses drawn, colored and made by the children at Northwestern Schools. Please don' t miss these talented youths.
The tour starts with a parade of antique cars at 3:30pm which will bring Santa to town on the firetruck to go to his temporary Mardela Christmas house for the kids to visit. They will be a live nativity scene at the Spring House, the Church on Barren Creek will be open, Wallace and Joan Catlin's home has been added to the tour this year.
House Tour ends at 8 pm. Millies will be on hand with food near the General Store.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Holly Has Been Adopted
I just received a cal from one of the Deputies at the Court House informing me he and his Bride just returned from the Humane Society after adopting Holly.
These are the kind of phone calls I appreciate more than any other. It will take several more days for Holly to come home as she's being micro chipped and getting the remainder of her shots and the they'll surprise the kids with an early Christmas Present.
Keep the good news coming and again, THANK YOU!
Debbie Campbells Is Ringing the Bell
Debbie Campbell is at Giant Foods right now ringing the bell for the Salvation Army. If you are out that way, stop by and help Debbie fill the kettle for a very worthy cause. Debbie has volunteered for the 9am until Noon shift today.
From A Loyal Reader
This was written following the 9-11 attacks. I do not know who wrote it. I pray that nothing like 9-11 will ever happen again. I am sending this in hopes that many who read this will remember this the next time they make stupid threats like the one against Mr. Joe and his family on Thanksgiving. I would much rather be thought of as these brave Firemen are than the one who made the threat. Although not mentioned, I think this would also apply to Policemen. These men and women did NOT run for their own safety and truly understood the REAL reason they became Fire and Police Personel. Sometimes, people need to be reminded.
I have always thought that angels wore halos and wings of white
But now I find they wear hard hats and black coats with yellow stripes
And angels, in my mind, wore long flowing gowns of white
But now I see dark pants and shirts and badges shining bright
And angels always floated with bare feet above the ground
Not true! For they wear steel toed boots and go where death is found
Not all angels have smooth hands that look like porcelain
Some angels have torn gloves and cuts and burns upon their skin
And while I thought all angels glowed from heavens light
I see an angel cutting steel his torch is shining bright
And while these earthly angels passed buckets of debris
The angels up in heaven looked down on bended knee
So while the smoke continued to rise into the sky
I watched the rescue workers weep I've seen the angels cry
I have always thought that angels wore halos and wings of white
But now I find they wear hard hats and black coats with yellow stripes
And angels, in my mind, wore long flowing gowns of white
But now I see dark pants and shirts and badges shining bright
And angels always floated with bare feet above the ground
Not true! For they wear steel toed boots and go where death is found
Not all angels have smooth hands that look like porcelain
Some angels have torn gloves and cuts and burns upon their skin
And while I thought all angels glowed from heavens light
I see an angel cutting steel his torch is shining bright
And while these earthly angels passed buckets of debris
The angels up in heaven looked down on bended knee
So while the smoke continued to rise into the sky
I watched the rescue workers weep I've seen the angels cry
2008 Wicomico Yacht Club Christmas Boat Parade Tonight
.jpg)
Joe,
You have always given us publicity in the past and we wanted to give you the updated information. The Wicomico Yacht Club 2008 Christmas Boat Parade will be held Saturday evening November 29. The parade format has changed this year. The fleet will depart Wicomico Yacht Club at approximately 4:15PM and proceed up river toward Salisbury. We should arrive in downtown Salisbury about 6:30PM and immediately the fleet will move back down the river and arrive back at WYC around 8:30PM. The public may view the parades return to the club from WYC grounds. This will give spectators along the river two opportunities to view the display. For additional information please call 410-430-2282.
Thanks For Your Support,
Wicomico Yacht Club,
Scott McCurdy, Commodore
Monoblogue Has No Influence Whatsoever & Here's Proof
Below are the Site Meter numbers for Monoblogue. Although Michael claims he has increased some 45% this past year, I was almost right on when I said he had very few hits and increasing 45% didn't really mean much and I was right.
It's a shame someone can put so many years into a Blog, (3+ years) and only average 82 hits per day but as I've told Michael for the past few years, he's too verbose in every single Post he does and I never believed he did any real volume anyway.
I will no longer consider his Site as one of the top Blogs on the Eastern Shore because ANYONE can start a Blog and get these kind of hits no matter what the content is. I remember when I started National-Joe-A-Graphic and I was averaging 250 hits a day 3 years ago.
Now don't get me wrong, Michael is a very smart man and knows his politics. However, when he runs around saying he's an influential political Blogger, PLEASE! Hell, he'll get more hits off this Post than he gets in one month.
Currently Michael is #1 on Delmarva and #2 in Maryland. With the information below directly from Site Meter, Blognetnews has no clue what they're doing. Now I know some Bloggers will read this and say, Albero is just ticked off because he didn't rank that high this past week. That's just not true. Quite frankly, I'm pleased someone else is filling my shoes but I will admit that I'd rather see someone beating me out who actually posts more than once a day and gets thousands of hits per day. It's pretty bad when Michael's Site beats me out with only 82 hits per day. There's no question linking to one and other works and no matter what those other Bloggers say, I now have proof.
It doesn't matter what he says, I have seen his numbers and averages and I have even saved those images for future reference but more influential, I don't think so. So the next time you rag on me Michael, the joke is now on you and will forever be that way.
monoblogue
Site Summary
VISITS
Total 130,403
Average Per Day 82
Average Visit Length 2:03
Last Hour 9
Today 46
This Week 573
Here's the history per MONTH for the past year............
It's a shame someone can put so many years into a Blog, (3+ years) and only average 82 hits per day but as I've told Michael for the past few years, he's too verbose in every single Post he does and I never believed he did any real volume anyway.
I will no longer consider his Site as one of the top Blogs on the Eastern Shore because ANYONE can start a Blog and get these kind of hits no matter what the content is. I remember when I started National-Joe-A-Graphic and I was averaging 250 hits a day 3 years ago.
Now don't get me wrong, Michael is a very smart man and knows his politics. However, when he runs around saying he's an influential political Blogger, PLEASE! Hell, he'll get more hits off this Post than he gets in one month.
Currently Michael is #1 on Delmarva and #2 in Maryland. With the information below directly from Site Meter, Blognetnews has no clue what they're doing. Now I know some Bloggers will read this and say, Albero is just ticked off because he didn't rank that high this past week. That's just not true. Quite frankly, I'm pleased someone else is filling my shoes but I will admit that I'd rather see someone beating me out who actually posts more than once a day and gets thousands of hits per day. It's pretty bad when Michael's Site beats me out with only 82 hits per day. There's no question linking to one and other works and no matter what those other Bloggers say, I now have proof.
It doesn't matter what he says, I have seen his numbers and averages and I have even saved those images for future reference but more influential, I don't think so. So the next time you rag on me Michael, the joke is now on you and will forever be that way.
monoblogue
Site Summary
VISITS
Total 130,403
Average Per Day 82
Average Visit Length 2:03
Last Hour 9
Today 46
This Week 573
Here's the history per MONTH for the past year............
Friday, November 28, 2008
A Comment Worthy Of A Post
"Jedadiah Cross has left a new comment on your post "Slow Morning":
My Christmas wish would be Joe and Chief See ringing together anywhere. In the spirit of the season, it would be nice to see them work together for a good cause. I bet the Chief would do fine if he just let his defense down and tried to get along. It would be a sight to behold and a real message of cooperation and fellowship. Can this be arranged ?"
Mr. Cross:
In the spirit the Holidays, I would be more than happy to stand with not only Chief See for two hours ringing a bell for the Salvation Army, I will also extend that same offer to Chief Webster from the Salisbury Police Department.
I believe I have proven time and time again that I am willing to put personal issues aside and do what is best for the cause, hence the Humane Society as just one example.
So, that being said, you have my word in writing on this Blog and if ANY one of you want to make that arrangement, just tell me the time and place and I will be there. I'll even go so far as to say, "any time, any place." It's the right thing to do and my guess is that we would raise more money than anyone has ever raised locally in the past for two hours worth of bell ringing.
Black Friday
While it's been a long day for many of us, I for one did absolutely no shopping whatsoever today and never planned on it.
However, it's not all about me and what I choose to do.
Did you go shopping today?
Did you find any really good deals?
Was it worth getting up at 4:00 AM?
Were the lines out of this world?
Were people in nasty moods?
You're welcome to answer one or all if you like.
However, it's not all about me and what I choose to do.
Did you go shopping today?
Did you find any really good deals?
Was it worth getting up at 4:00 AM?
Were the lines out of this world?
Were people in nasty moods?
You're welcome to answer one or all if you like.
Berlin Fall Arts Night Tonight!!
Come on out to Berlin tonight for the Annual Berlin Fall ARTS Night.
It is Berlins version of Black Friday. All stores will be open late and hosting Open Houses. There will be entertainers in the streets, and in the shops.
Food, Wine and other Holiday beverages will be served.
Tonight also marks the lighting of the Berlin Town Christmas Tree in front of the Atlantic Hotel.
Artists will displaying their works in different shops throughout the town as well as doing demonstrations of their creations.
The Worcester County Arts Council will be having a Silent Auction of Holiday Wreaths that have been decorated and donated to the Arts Council by local Artists and Merchants to be sold in support of the Councils Annual Scholarship Fund that assists graduating seniors to persue their dreams in college.
Additionally, the Worcester County Arts Council in conjunction with Carraba's Italian Restaurant will be selling raffle tickets to win a lunch at the restaurant for you and 11 of your best friends for just $10.00 !!!!
The Worcester County Arts Council's Gallery will be open tonight as well as our new Art and Education Center at #6 Jefferson Street, just behind MRDUCKS and the Atlantic Hotel. Wine, beer and light appetizers will be served all evening, so come on out and join the fun!
Festivities begin at 6PM!
Slow Morning
Posts will be slow this morning as I will be out ringing the Bell for the Salvation Army. I have volunteered for a few terms this Holiday Season and look forward to doing so.
I have received calls and messages from friends telling me they got involved as well once they saw our Post last week on this.
If you have the time, (2 hours at a time) to volunteer please contact the Salvation Army. Thanks for understanding and I'll be back to Posting later this morning.
To reserve a bell ringing time slot, please call The Salvation Army at 410-749-7771, extension 100 or email kkundell@uss,salvationarmy.org.
A Little American History
It was the first day of a school in the USA
and a new Indian student named Chandrasekhar Subramanian entered the fourth grade.
The teacher said, "Let's begin by reviewing some American History.
Who said 'Give me Liberty , or give me Death'?"
She saw a sea of blank faces, except for Chandrasekhar, who had his hand up:
'Patrick Henry, 1775' he said.
'Very good!'
Who said 'Government of the People, by the People, for the People, shall not perish from the Earth?'
Again, no response except from Chandrasekhar.
'Abraham Lincoln, 1863' said Chandrasekhar.
The teacher snapped at the class, '
Class, you should be ashamed.
Chandrasekhar, who is new to our country,
knows more about its history than you do.'
She heard a loud whisper: 'F*ck the Indians,'
'Who said that?' she demanded. Chandrasekhar put his hand up.
'General Custer, 1862.' At that point, a student in the back said,
'I'm gonna puke.' The teacher glares around and asks
'All right! Now, who said that?'
Again, Chandrasekhar says, 'George Bush to the Japanese Prime Minister, 1991.'
Now furious, another student yells,
'Oh yeah? Suck this!'
Chandrasekhar jumps out of his chair waving his hand and shouts to the teacher ,
'Bill Clinton, to Monica Lewinsky, 1997!'
Now with almost mob hysteria someone said
'You little ****. If you say anything else, I'll kill you.'
Chandrasekhar frantically yells at the top of his voice,
'Michael Jackson to the child witnesses testifying against him- 2004.'
The teacher fainted.
And as the class gathered around the teacher on the floor,
someone said, 'Oh sh!t, we're screwed!'
And Chandrasekhar said quietlly,
"I think it was the American people,
November 4, 2008."
and a new Indian student named Chandrasekhar Subramanian entered the fourth grade.
The teacher said, "Let's begin by reviewing some American History.
Who said 'Give me Liberty , or give me Death'?"
She saw a sea of blank faces, except for Chandrasekhar, who had his hand up:
'Patrick Henry, 1775' he said.
'Very good!'
Who said 'Government of the People, by the People, for the People, shall not perish from the Earth?'
Again, no response except from Chandrasekhar.
'Abraham Lincoln, 1863' said Chandrasekhar.
The teacher snapped at the class, '
Class, you should be ashamed.
Chandrasekhar, who is new to our country,
knows more about its history than you do.'
She heard a loud whisper: 'F*ck the Indians,'
'Who said that?' she demanded. Chandrasekhar put his hand up.
'General Custer, 1862.' At that point, a student in the back said,
'I'm gonna puke.' The teacher glares around and asks
'All right! Now, who said that?'
Again, Chandrasekhar says, 'George Bush to the Japanese Prime Minister, 1991.'
Now furious, another student yells,
'Oh yeah? Suck this!'
Chandrasekhar jumps out of his chair waving his hand and shouts to the teacher ,
'Bill Clinton, to Monica Lewinsky, 1997!'
Now with almost mob hysteria someone said
'You little ****. If you say anything else, I'll kill you.'
Chandrasekhar frantically yells at the top of his voice,
'Michael Jackson to the child witnesses testifying against him- 2004.'
The teacher fainted.
And as the class gathered around the teacher on the floor,
someone said, 'Oh sh!t, we're screwed!'
And Chandrasekhar said quietlly,
"I think it was the American people,
November 4, 2008."
Coded message From Bin Laden
After numerous rounds of 'We don't even know if Osama is still alive', Barrack Hussein Obama has now been telling everyone he will capture Osama Bin Laden when elected.'
So, Osama himself decided to send Barrack Hussein Obama a letter in his own handwriting to let him know he was still in the game.
Obama opened the letter and it contained a single line of coded message:
370H-SSV-0773H
Obama was baffled, so he e-mailed it to Howard Dean.
Dean and the DNC and his aides had no clue either, so they sent it to Joe Biden.
Joe Biden could not solve so it was sent to the FBI and the CIA.
Eventually they asked Rush Limbaugh to look at it.
And within a few minutes Limbaugh's Staff e-mailed Obama with this reply: 'Tell Obama he's holding the message upside down'.
So, Osama himself decided to send Barrack Hussein Obama a letter in his own handwriting to let him know he was still in the game.
Obama opened the letter and it contained a single line of coded message:
370H-SSV-0773H
Obama was baffled, so he e-mailed it to Howard Dean.
Dean and the DNC and his aides had no clue either, so they sent it to Joe Biden.
Joe Biden could not solve so it was sent to the FBI and the CIA.
Eventually they asked Rush Limbaugh to look at it.
And within a few minutes Limbaugh's Staff e-mailed Obama with this reply: 'Tell Obama he's holding the message upside down'.
A Reader Sends In This Message
How much do you think this event is costing Salisbury Taxpayers? I believe this is the second time they hosted this Business After Hours. With the economy as bad as it is we should not be wasting tax dollars to show off our $12 million dollar McMansion.
Networking Opportunity
Business After Hours:
Tuesday, December 16, 2008 Hosted by Firestation No. 16, located at
325 Cypress Street, Salisbury from 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Please R.S.V.P. to the Chamber for this event.
http://www.salisburyarea.com/News%20&%20Notes/129a.pdf
Networking Opportunity
Business After Hours:
Tuesday, December 16, 2008 Hosted by Firestation No. 16, located at
325 Cypress Street, Salisbury from 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Please R.S.V.P. to the Chamber for this event.
http://www.salisburyarea.com/News%20&%20Notes/129a.pdf
Salisbury Police Department Press Releases
On November 24, 2008 at approximately 1:10 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to the Food Lion food store for the report of a shoplifter. Upon arrival, the officers were advised by store employees that the below listed suspect had been observed attempting to take items from the store without making any attempts at payment. The items were recovered and returned to the store.
ARRESTED: Dwayne Lee Miles, 21 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Theft (under $ 100)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200800043189
On November 25, 2008 at approximately 4:13 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to an apartment on Fairground Drive for the report of a domestic assault. Upon arrival the officers were advised by the female victim that the below listed suspect had struck her in the face and head several times and had choked her during an argument. The suspect was taken into custody without incident.
ARRESTED: Frankie Dwayne Long, 40 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Second degree assault
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200800043256
ARRESTED: Dwayne Lee Miles, 21 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Theft (under $ 100)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200800043189
On November 25, 2008 at approximately 4:13 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to an apartment on Fairground Drive for the report of a domestic assault. Upon arrival the officers were advised by the female victim that the below listed suspect had struck her in the face and head several times and had choked her during an argument. The suspect was taken into custody without incident.
ARRESTED: Frankie Dwayne Long, 40 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Second degree assault
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200800043256
Campbell's Campaign Website Designed By Visually Impared
Campbell Campaign Site www.Campbell4Council.net Designed for Access by the Visually Impaired
Debbie Campbell, candidate for reelection to her district 2 Salisbury City Council Seat, has announced incorporating technology innovations into her campaign website www.Campbell4Council.net to accommodate the visually impaired.
We have made every effort to make the site accessible for the visually impaired by accommodating screen readers on our pages. There are other many other features that visitors are enjoying such as icons that allow the type size to be changed, a public opinion poll to gauge public sentiment on various issues affecting the city, the ability for supporters to make contributions or volunteer on line, and was built with Joomla, an open source developer tool, which is free to everyone.
Campbell adds that not everyone is Internet savvy or even likes the idea of using a computer. This is just one way of reaching constituents, but I am especially proud that we have been able to present a site that has been designed according to Section 508 guidelines so we can be inclusive of visually impaired citizens.
Campbell learned more about how screen readers work and how her site performs during a tour of Blind Industries’ facility in Salisbury’s industrial park. Danielle Earl, Blind Industries rehabilitation specialist, clicked through the site like the master she is, checking links and demonstrating how the test is read aloud for the visually impaired. Ms. Earl called the site “very well created” and was especially impressed that the site has text to accompany most images and that the menu and tool bar were especially easy to navigate.
Blind Industries will have sales from its two Salisbury facilities that total in excess of $79 million this year. For additional photos and video clips of the plant tour and site demo visit www.Campbell4Council.net
Debbie Campbell, candidate for reelection to her district 2 Salisbury City Council Seat, has announced incorporating technology innovations into her campaign website www.Campbell4Council.net to accommodate the visually impaired.
We have made every effort to make the site accessible for the visually impaired by accommodating screen readers on our pages. There are other many other features that visitors are enjoying such as icons that allow the type size to be changed, a public opinion poll to gauge public sentiment on various issues affecting the city, the ability for supporters to make contributions or volunteer on line, and was built with Joomla, an open source developer tool, which is free to everyone.
Campbell adds that not everyone is Internet savvy or even likes the idea of using a computer. This is just one way of reaching constituents, but I am especially proud that we have been able to present a site that has been designed according to Section 508 guidelines so we can be inclusive of visually impaired citizens.
Campbell learned more about how screen readers work and how her site performs during a tour of Blind Industries’ facility in Salisbury’s industrial park. Danielle Earl, Blind Industries rehabilitation specialist, clicked through the site like the master she is, checking links and demonstrating how the test is read aloud for the visually impaired. Ms. Earl called the site “very well created” and was especially impressed that the site has text to accompany most images and that the menu and tool bar were especially easy to navigate.
Blind Industries will have sales from its two Salisbury facilities that total in excess of $79 million this year. For additional photos and video clips of the plant tour and site demo visit www.Campbell4Council.net
The Three Stooges Play Robo Cops This Morning
It's Black Friday and See, Gordy and Hoppes, (The Three Stooges) are running around Salisbury giving people crap for parking in Fire Lanes at the Mall and Shopping Centers. They don't do it any other time of the year, only when it's the busiest day of the shopping season.
Now don't be alarmed. They cannot do anything to you but act like tough guys and while I agree, you should NOT ever park your vehicle in these lanes, the Three Stooges should be out enforcing this all year round rather than sitting on their fat asses doing nothing, especially See. See is about as useless as a sh!t flavored lollipop.
Hey, Three Stooges, You've Been Blogged!
Now don't be alarmed. They cannot do anything to you but act like tough guys and while I agree, you should NOT ever park your vehicle in these lanes, the Three Stooges should be out enforcing this all year round rather than sitting on their fat asses doing nothing, especially See. See is about as useless as a sh!t flavored lollipop.
Hey, Three Stooges, You've Been Blogged!
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Ireton Should Sue The Daily Times
Considering I dropped my subscription to the Daily Times a month or so ago, I thought the article about 10 Reasons to Elect Jim Ireton Salisbury's Mayor (David Letterman Style) was a joke.
However, someone just sent in the link to the actual article HERE and I truly could not believe my eyes. Are you F/N kidding me?
How ANY one of you can still continue to keep your subscription to this piece of crap newspaper is beyond me. Your message should be LOUD AND CLEAR, you're sick and tired of this leadership in Salisbury and their main spokes people, the Daily Times.
How many of you have had enough?
However, someone just sent in the link to the actual article HERE and I truly could not believe my eyes. Are you F/N kidding me?
How ANY one of you can still continue to keep your subscription to this piece of crap newspaper is beyond me. Your message should be LOUD AND CLEAR, you're sick and tired of this leadership in Salisbury and their main spokes people, the Daily Times.
How many of you have had enough?
Executive Order from Republican President #16
The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God.
In the midst of a civil war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union.
Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defence, have not arrested the plough, the shuttle or the ship; the axe has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore.
Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battle-field; and the country, rejoicing in the consiousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom.
No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.
It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People.
I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.
And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.
In the midst of a civil war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union.
Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defence, have not arrested the plough, the shuttle or the ship; the axe has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore.
Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battle-field; and the country, rejoicing in the consiousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom.
No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.
It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People.
I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.
And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the United States to be affixed.
Done at the City of Washington, this Third day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the Independence of the Unites States the Eighty-eighth.
By the President: Abraham Lincoln
Done at the City of Washington, this Third day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the Independence of the Unites States the Eighty-eighth.
By the President: Abraham Lincoln
Special Holiday Wishes From Gordy
"Gordy has left a new comment:
Joe, I hope you and your family die a painful, fiery death this holiday season. I can assure you we won't respond."
Here's my response. Gas is 10 cents a gallon cheaper at Sam's Club. Happy Thanksgiving Folks!
Joe, I hope you and your family die a painful, fiery death this holiday season. I can assure you we won't respond."
Here's my response. Gas is 10 cents a gallon cheaper at Sam's Club. Happy Thanksgiving Folks!
FIREWOOD!
I have readers regularly asking if I know of anyone who sells seasoned firewood. With 7.5 acres of land here and many more wooded acres next to me, firewood is not an issue for us. However, it's my understanding for others they're having a difficult time finding someone who sells and delivers cords of wood.
That being said, if YOU know of someone reliable and reasonable, please leave their name and number on this Post.
Teach your children about Thanksgiving
How to Teach Children the Meaning of Thanksgiving
By eHow Relationships & Family Editor
Many countries throughout the world have a harvest festival of some kind. In North America, Thanksgiving is the most common autumn celebration, but what does it really mean, and how should you explain it to your children?
Many countries throughout the world have a harvest festival of some kind. In North America, Thanksgiving is the most common autumn celebration, but what does it really mean, and how should you explain it to your children?
Explain the ancient origins of the harvest festival to your children. In ancient times, people of many cultures (including the ancient Greeks, Romans, Hebrews, Egyptians and Chinese) gave thanks to their god or gods for a successful harvest, and some of the traditions associated with modern Thanksgiving celebrations have their roots in these ancient festivals.
Discuss the roots of the American Thanksgiving celebration. In 1621, near the end of the Plymouth colony's first year in America, the settlers gave thanks for a plentiful first harvest. The pilgrims and the natives celebrated together (they had arranged a peace treaty), and everyone feasted on geese, ducks, deer, corn, oysters, fish and berries.
Discuss Native American issues surrounding Thanksgiving. Despite the harmonious relations that may have existed between natives and pilgrims at the first Thanksgiving feast, many subsequent American Thanksgivings involved settlers giving thanks for victories over the natives. Ask your children how they feel about this, and discuss the recent efforts that have been made by the American government and people to apologize for past discrimination and violence.
Explain when ' and why ' Thanksgiving became an official holiday. In 1863, during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed that Thanksgiving should be a national observance. To some degree, this was a way to brighten the spirits of the American people, who were dealing with a great deal of difficulty and deprivation.
Explain that one aspect of Thanksgiving involves gratitude for having enough food to eat, and encourage your children to help you buy groceries for the food bank, or make a donation to a local soup kitchen.
By eHow Relationships & Family Editor
Many countries throughout the world have a harvest festival of some kind. In North America, Thanksgiving is the most common autumn celebration, but what does it really mean, and how should you explain it to your children?
Many countries throughout the world have a harvest festival of some kind. In North America, Thanksgiving is the most common autumn celebration, but what does it really mean, and how should you explain it to your children?
Explain the ancient origins of the harvest festival to your children. In ancient times, people of many cultures (including the ancient Greeks, Romans, Hebrews, Egyptians and Chinese) gave thanks to their god or gods for a successful harvest, and some of the traditions associated with modern Thanksgiving celebrations have their roots in these ancient festivals.
Discuss the roots of the American Thanksgiving celebration. In 1621, near the end of the Plymouth colony's first year in America, the settlers gave thanks for a plentiful first harvest. The pilgrims and the natives celebrated together (they had arranged a peace treaty), and everyone feasted on geese, ducks, deer, corn, oysters, fish and berries.
Discuss Native American issues surrounding Thanksgiving. Despite the harmonious relations that may have existed between natives and pilgrims at the first Thanksgiving feast, many subsequent American Thanksgivings involved settlers giving thanks for victories over the natives. Ask your children how they feel about this, and discuss the recent efforts that have been made by the American government and people to apologize for past discrimination and violence.
Explain when ' and why ' Thanksgiving became an official holiday. In 1863, during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed that Thanksgiving should be a national observance. To some degree, this was a way to brighten the spirits of the American people, who were dealing with a great deal of difficulty and deprivation.
Explain that one aspect of Thanksgiving involves gratitude for having enough food to eat, and encourage your children to help you buy groceries for the food bank, or make a donation to a local soup kitchen.
Happy Thanksgiving
. . . just in case you have your mother-in-law over for dinner and you need to smile . . . .
48 Years Old and No Foot Print!
The American People Want to Know, Who Sent You?
Obama has lived for 48 years without leaving any footprints -- none! There is no Obama documentation -- no records -- no paper trail -- none -- this can't be an accident.
Original, vault copy birth certificate -- Not released
Certificate of Live Birth -- Released -- Counterfeit
Obama/Dunham marriage license -- Not released
Soetoro/Dunham marriage license -- Not released
Soetoro adoption records -- Not released
Fransiskus Assisi School School application -- Released
Punahou School records -- Not released
Selective Service Registration -- Released -- Counterfeit
Occidental College records -- Not released
Passport (Pakistan) -- Not released
Columbia College records -- Not released
Columbia thesis -- Not released
Harvard College records -- Not released
Harvard Law Review articles -- None (maybe 1, unsigned?)
Baptism certificate -- None
Medical records -- Not released
Illinois State Senate records -- None
Illinois State Senate schedule -- Lost
Law practice client list -- Not released
University of Chicago scholarly articles -- None
The Parrot
A young man named John received a parrot as a gift. The parrot had a bad attitude and an even worse vocabulary. Every word out of the bird's mouth was rude, obnoxious and laced with profanity. John tried and tried to change the bird's attitude by consistently saying only polite words, playing soft music and anything else he could think of to "clean up" the bird's vocabulary.
Finally, John was fed up and he yelled at the parrot.The parrot yelled back. John shook the parrot and the parrot got angrier and even ruder. John, in desperation, threw up his hand, grabbed the bird and put him in the freezer. For a few minutes the parrot squawked and kicked and screamed. Then suddenly there was total quiet. Not a peep was heard for over a minute.
Fearing that he'd hurt the parrot, John quickly opened the door to the freezer. The parrot calmly stepped out onto John's outstretched arms and said, "I believe I may have offended you with my rude language and actions. I'm sincerely remorseful for my inappropriate transgressions and I fully intend to do everything I can to correct my rude and unforgivable behavior."
John was stunned at the change in the bird's attitude. As he was about to ask the parrot what had made such a dramatic change in his behavior, the bird continued, "May I ask what the turkey did?"
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Thanks Capsfan!
Finally, John was fed up and he yelled at the parrot.The parrot yelled back. John shook the parrot and the parrot got angrier and even ruder. John, in desperation, threw up his hand, grabbed the bird and put him in the freezer. For a few minutes the parrot squawked and kicked and screamed. Then suddenly there was total quiet. Not a peep was heard for over a minute.
Fearing that he'd hurt the parrot, John quickly opened the door to the freezer. The parrot calmly stepped out onto John's outstretched arms and said, "I believe I may have offended you with my rude language and actions. I'm sincerely remorseful for my inappropriate transgressions and I fully intend to do everything I can to correct my rude and unforgivable behavior."
John was stunned at the change in the bird's attitude. As he was about to ask the parrot what had made such a dramatic change in his behavior, the bird continued, "May I ask what the turkey did?"
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Thanks Capsfan!
Happy Thanksgiving
Dear Joe,
Allow me to take this opportunity to wish you a happy Thanksgiving that is rich with all the joy and meaning of the season. While many of us are facing real and serious challenges that may seem insurmountable at times, I believe there is also a growing sense of hope and optimism.
We have much to be thankful for in the greatness of a nation that puts the power of change in our hands; hands that labored with love to help an entire country chart a better course for all.
This Thanksgiving I will be reflecting in amazement on the millions of people like you, who came together to transform a simple expression of hope - "Yes We Can" - into a reality. I join with so many American voices this holiday in expressing my heartfelt gratitude for your contribution - no matter how large or small - that has changed the course of history and confirmed the true promise and spirit of America.
In less than two months we will experience the inauguration of Barack Obama and Joe Biden. We will begin to watch them work with a new Congress forged in your image and elected on your hopes and dreams.
The change we seek will not come instantly or easily. But the miracle of America is our ability to overcome and emerge stronger. We will overcome again.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Michael Cryor
Chair
Maryland Democratic Party
Paid for by the Maryland Democratic Party and not authorized by any federal candidate or candidate's committee. By authority of Ken Banks, Treasurer.
Allow me to take this opportunity to wish you a happy Thanksgiving that is rich with all the joy and meaning of the season. While many of us are facing real and serious challenges that may seem insurmountable at times, I believe there is also a growing sense of hope and optimism.
We have much to be thankful for in the greatness of a nation that puts the power of change in our hands; hands that labored with love to help an entire country chart a better course for all.
This Thanksgiving I will be reflecting in amazement on the millions of people like you, who came together to transform a simple expression of hope - "Yes We Can" - into a reality. I join with so many American voices this holiday in expressing my heartfelt gratitude for your contribution - no matter how large or small - that has changed the course of history and confirmed the true promise and spirit of America.
In less than two months we will experience the inauguration of Barack Obama and Joe Biden. We will begin to watch them work with a new Congress forged in your image and elected on your hopes and dreams.
The change we seek will not come instantly or easily. But the miracle of America is our ability to overcome and emerge stronger. We will overcome again.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Michael Cryor
Chair
Maryland Democratic Party
Paid for by the Maryland Democratic Party and not authorized by any federal candidate or candidate's committee. By authority of Ken Banks, Treasurer.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)