by Victor Davis Hanson
NRO’s The Corner
The Gates incident seems to have had little to do with race but a lot to do with the natural human misunderstandings that happen every day in police scenes — and its final twist has everything to do with insider privilege and aristocratic disdain.
Regarding the latter, here are the apparent facts: Both an African-American and a Hispanic officer were soon at the scene and seem to confirm the arresting white officer’s narrative, as do disinterested witnesses in the neighborhood (Cambridge, Mass., not being known as a hotbed of racist activity); a picture tells a thousand words, as one seems to show a handcuffed Gates screaming among a calm group of multiracial police; anyone who has had law enforcement come to his residence investigating a possible break-in knows that the one thing you do not do is begin insulting armed policemen who are tense and not sure exactly what is going down as they arrive; soon the machinery of Harvard University, the African-American mayor and governor, and ultimately the president all weigh in on behalf of Professor Gates in a way not true of most “I say/he says” disputes.
And when the president says the police acted “stupidly” he speaks without the facts of the case and is more right that he thinks: If someone were to call a policeman in Cambridge to investigate a possible entry by two African-American looking suspects into the home of the country’s leading emblem of racial theory and grievance, the officer would be entering a cultural minefield from which he might not escape unscathed: come too late to Professor Gates’s home: racist; come not at all to Professor Gates’s home: racist; come to Professor Gates’s home: racist.
When the healer President Obama casually characterizes law enforcement as acting “stupidly” and then blithely says we all know that African-Americans and Latinos are stopped disproportionately — without the corollary that we all know that African-American and Latino males also commit and are convicted of crimes in numbers higher than their general percentages of the population and therefore can naturally also become more likely suspects — then we simply regress on questions of race, though in frustration rather than due to the “cowardice” cited by the attorney general.
It is tragic that the officer did not say, “Sorry for bothering you, Professor Gates. Of course I recognize you and regret that I had to bother you while you were legitimately breaking into your own home. This won’t happen again.” (And of course, Professor Gates might have said, “No problem; I’m relieved you’re looking out for my house while I’m gone.”) But as the Romans said, sumus homines, non dei.
Bottom line: Professor Gates probably overreacted, insulted a police officer who was trying to ensure that his home was not being broken into as was first reported, wrongly alleged racism on the part of the officer, and got arrested for his disorderly conduct amid witnesses and fellow police officers who confirm the arresting officer’s narrative — and then assumed — quite rightly as it turns out — that his Harvard connections, personal friendship with the president, governor, and mayor would allow him latitudes not open to others.
Meanwhile, that the rest of the country is supposed to cringe and feel sorry that we are still a racist nation — as an African-American president, governor, and mayor all weigh in on the plight of an endowed African-American professor — seems odd. Sorry, but somehow I think most would tend to disagree.
And if the public comes away with any lasting impression, it will be that an impromptu Obama, for all the post-racial rhetoric, still sees controversies in prisms that reflect stereotyped us/them racialism rather than looking at each incident empirically.
There were no winners in this comic tragedy — but one clear loser: last week, the president of the United States.
Source
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
The After Hours Fix
It was around 5:30 PM last night when I was walking down the Plaza and noticed, (once again) the fountain was empty. However, this time I noticed that the water was still slowly running into the pond area and then I saw the white pipe lying on the bottom of the pool. I stepped into the pool and simply placed the pipe back into the hole and bam, problem fixed. Now I highly doubt the pipe simply fell over because it does have quite a snug fit. I mention this because I'd like to ask those of you who travel this area often to keep an eye on this because people like to steal the money that has been put into the fountain and this is an easy way for them to drain the pool and walk right in and collect the coins. Community Policing, right Chief?
China Wok Robbery
Location of Incident: China Wok, 715 Rehoboth Ave, Rehoboth, Delaware, Sussex County.
Date of Occurrence: Monday, July 27, 2009 at approximately 10:40 p.m.
Suspect(s): One black male suspect approximately 5’6’ to 5’7’, and between 130 and 140 pounds, wearing a black shirt, black pants, and a red bandana. The suspect was armed with a handgun.
Resume: Troop 7 Detectives are investigating a robbery that occurred last evening at the Rehoboth China Wok.
In this incident, the suspect entered the store and approached the front counter wearing a red bandana to conceal his identity. The suspect then brandished a handgun and demanded cash. The employee of the store complied by turning over an undisclosed amount of cash. The suspect then fled out of the front door of the business traveling in an unknown direction. Surveillance video is not available.
No further information at this time as the investigation continues.
Anyone with information pertaining to this incident is asked to call investigators at 302-644-5020. Callers may remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333. or on line at www.tipsubmit.com.
Robbery Suspect Sought (originally released July 21st)
Woodside (Kent County)- Authorities have obtained the following surveillance images from a July 20th robbery at a Woodside liquor store- Liquor Warehouse. Unfortunately, because of the video format, the video itself can not be disseminated.
It became apparent by watching the surveillance film that a second party was driving the get away car.
Anyone who may recognize this subject or who may information pertaining to this case is asked to call Troop-3 at 302-697-4454 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
Well, So Much For Watching Progress
It's amazing what a couple of days and one post can bring you. While Salisbury News has been keeping a close eye on the progress of the 6 foot tall pipe coming into the River, construction workers have now constructed a barrier in front of where the pipe is supposed to come out, (least impact I'll assume) but perhaps there's a good/better reason for spending this much time and money to create such a wall. Nevertheless, it is what it is I guess.
Obama Press Sec. Exasperated Over “Birther” Issue
The New York Times claims the Obama birth certificate issue is “a rumor that has been widely discredited,” and yet the state of Hawaii, where Obama was allegedly born, refuses to release the primary birth certificate document, instead offering this image, declared to be a Photoshop fake.
It is an obvious fake for the following reasons: 1) the document does not have a raised, embossed seal 2) it is not signed (take a look at your birth certificate and see if it has the signature of a physician or hospital officials) 3) there are no creases from folding in the scanned version above 4) the certificate number is redacted 5) the document claims to be a “certification of birth,” not a “certificate of birth,” and 6) the date supposedly bleeding through the back of the document says 2007, not 2008, when it was allegedly released.
GO HERE to read more.
It is an obvious fake for the following reasons: 1) the document does not have a raised, embossed seal 2) it is not signed (take a look at your birth certificate and see if it has the signature of a physician or hospital officials) 3) there are no creases from folding in the scanned version above 4) the certificate number is redacted 5) the document claims to be a “certification of birth,” not a “certificate of birth,” and 6) the date supposedly bleeding through the back of the document says 2007, not 2008, when it was allegedly released.
GO HERE to read more.
Money From Iraqi Jobs Program Siphoned To Insurgents
The top U.S. aid agency has suspended a $644 million Iraq jobs program after two outside reviews raised concerns about misspending, including an inspector general’s audit that found evidence of phantom jobs and money siphoned to insurgents.
The Community Stabilization Program, launched in 2006, was designed to tamp down the insurgency by paying Iraqis cash to do public works projects such as trash removal and ditch digging. International Relief and Development (IRD), a Virginia-based non-profit corporation, ran the program, one of many it manages for the U.S. government.
GO HERE to read more.
The Community Stabilization Program, launched in 2006, was designed to tamp down the insurgency by paying Iraqis cash to do public works projects such as trash removal and ditch digging. International Relief and Development (IRD), a Virginia-based non-profit corporation, ran the program, one of many it manages for the U.S. government.
GO HERE to read more.
Court Ordered Terror Suspect To Lose Hand, Foot
N.C. drywaller’s punishment was eventually overturned by Pakistan court
RALEIGH, N.C. - American Daniel Patrick Boyd faced a stern punishment after being convicted of robbing a bank in Pakistan: Losing a hand and foot.
He avoided the sentence when his conviction was overturned. Two decades later, the 39-year-old Boyd is accused of organizing a group in the U.S. with international terrorist aspirations, and he faces life in prison if convicted.
Prosecutors say Boyd's time in Pakistan also included terrorist training that he brought back to North Carolina, where over the past three years he recruited followers willing to die as martyrs waging jihad — the Arabic word for holy war. Seven members of the group, including Boyd and two adult sons, were arrested Monday and charged with providing material support to terrorism and "conspiracy to murder, kidnap, maim and injure persons abroad."
GO HERE to read more from MSNBC.
RALEIGH, N.C. - American Daniel Patrick Boyd faced a stern punishment after being convicted of robbing a bank in Pakistan: Losing a hand and foot.
He avoided the sentence when his conviction was overturned. Two decades later, the 39-year-old Boyd is accused of organizing a group in the U.S. with international terrorist aspirations, and he faces life in prison if convicted.
Prosecutors say Boyd's time in Pakistan also included terrorist training that he brought back to North Carolina, where over the past three years he recruited followers willing to die as martyrs waging jihad — the Arabic word for holy war. Seven members of the group, including Boyd and two adult sons, were arrested Monday and charged with providing material support to terrorism and "conspiracy to murder, kidnap, maim and injure persons abroad."
GO HERE to read more from MSNBC.
ASA 16U Eastern Nationals Brings 63 Teams To Salisbury This Week
(Salisbury, MD) The Amateur Softball Association 16U Eastern Nationals will be held in Salisbury, MD this week. The tournament, which runs through August 2nd will bring over 63 teams from around the country to compete.
Arriving teams bring their families, friends and fans, with them to Wicomico County. Their stay is projected to infuse over a million dollars of economic impact into our community by staying in our hotels, eating at our restaurants, shopping and playing lots of softball!
OPENING CEREMONIES: Open to the Public!
Who: Media representatives, General public
Where: Arthur W. Purdue Stadium
Time: 5:00pm
The Teams and families will be welcomed by Wicomico County Executive Rick Pollitt. There will be a parade of participating teams followed by an evening of activities, games and entertainment! A big thank you to the Delmarva Shorebirds, Pepsi, The Ramada and the many other local and regional sponsors who helped to make this tournament possible.
This tournament brings the best of the best to the Eastern Shore for a chance to walk away as a champion. Tournament games begin tomorrow (Wednesday, July 29) at 8:00am at the Henry S. Parker Complex. Pool play continues throughout the day with games being played at several area fields. For a full schedule, please contact Kate Roth.
For further information please contact Sports Marketing Manager Kate Roth at 410-548-4914 or katemroth@comcast.net
Arriving teams bring their families, friends and fans, with them to Wicomico County. Their stay is projected to infuse over a million dollars of economic impact into our community by staying in our hotels, eating at our restaurants, shopping and playing lots of softball!
OPENING CEREMONIES: Open to the Public!
Who: Media representatives, General public
Where: Arthur W. Purdue Stadium
Time: 5:00pm
The Teams and families will be welcomed by Wicomico County Executive Rick Pollitt. There will be a parade of participating teams followed by an evening of activities, games and entertainment! A big thank you to the Delmarva Shorebirds, Pepsi, The Ramada and the many other local and regional sponsors who helped to make this tournament possible.
This tournament brings the best of the best to the Eastern Shore for a chance to walk away as a champion. Tournament games begin tomorrow (Wednesday, July 29) at 8:00am at the Henry S. Parker Complex. Pool play continues throughout the day with games being played at several area fields. For a full schedule, please contact Kate Roth.
For further information please contact Sports Marketing Manager Kate Roth at 410-548-4914 or katemroth@comcast.net
Hawaii Reasserts Obama ‘Natural-Born’ Citizen
State officials say they've checked and confirmed the birth records
HONOLULU - State officials in Hawaii on Monday said they have once again checked and confirmed that President Barack Obama was born in Hawaii and is a natural-born American citizen, and therefore meets a key constitutional requirement for being president.
Health Director Dr. Chiyome Fukino said she hoped to end lingering rumors about Obama's birthplace.
"I ... have seen the original vital records maintained on file by the Hawaii State Department of Health verifying Barack Hussein Obama was born in Hawaii and is a natural-born American citizen," she said in a brief statement. "I have nothing further to add to this statement or my original statement issued in October 2008 over eight months ago."
GO HERE to read more from MSNBC.
Suicide Bridge Restaurant
I received a call this morning informing me that the Suicide Bridge Restaurant in Secretary Maryland was closing their doors. This is absolutely incorrect! I spoke with the manager who answered the phone at 8:00 AM and I shared with him the information I had been told and with great pleasure, (on my behalf) he chuckled and said, no, we're actually having a fantastic season.What started as a small restaurant, (I'm told back in the 1960's) was purchased by Dave Nickerson in the mid 1980's where he expanded the restaurant and turned it more upscale. In 1997 they added the Riverboat Cruises and even though we've seen quit a dip in the economy, Suicide Bridge Restaurant is going very strong and will be around for many more years to come.
So if you're one of those people who had been told they were closing their doors, let everyone know this absolutely is not the case. If you'd like to learn more about this restaurant go to their website at, http://www.suicidebridge.com.
FRANK KRATOVIL – “BLUE DOG” OR DEAD PUPPY?
Many folks who voted for Mr. Kratovil were happy that he won the election last year, but that euphoria has vanished. They are not happy that he supported the Cap & Trade nonsense. Whether he proves to be a true conservative Democrat and votes to kill ObamaCare will be decisive to his future in the First District.
If he marches to the tune of the Pelosi-Hoyer cabal, he may get a few goodies and a junket or two from the National Democrat leadership before the 2010 congressional election, but he won’t be reelected to the seat he now holds. It’s his to lose.
What say you, Mr. Kratovil?
Outstanding Individual
Mr. Albero -
I would like to share with you a first-hand incident I witnessed downtown on the Plaza last Thursday morning. After the storm we had the night before there must have been some downed-limb issues along the Plaza whereas City Public Works crews needed to clean up for the benefit of motorist using the thoroughfare. I know for a fact because I had attempted to park down on the Plaza but was unable to pass due to a City truck stopped collecting limbs. No big deal to me, I just parked along Division Street. As I was walking back from one of the offices there I heard a horn blowing but didn't think much of it. As I got further down the plaza I see someone stopped in their truck waiting for the City crew to get out of their way. They continued to blow their horn and eventually a gentleman - and I mean this is the truest sense of the word - from the Public Works crew approached and kindly informed the motorist that it would be a few more minutes and they would be out of the way. Regardless, this individual unloaded a barrage of expletives to this man, even bringing his mother's name into the fray. In an astonishing display of professionalism and Christian character, the City employee thanked the man for his understanding and asked him to have a blessed day. Even after that he endured yet another verbal attack from this 'man'. Look, say what you will about the City's departments (I for one have been critical at times to them personally) but when I see the good, I have a moral obligation to recognize it as well. I made a point to contact Mr. Messick about the incident in hopes that it would get to the right people in the Department so that this Gentleman would receive the recognition he deserves. I just hope that this City employee understands that his work is appreciated and similarly, I hope that the arrogant individual giving him a hard time sleeps well at night feeling better about himself by giving a hard time to a good, hardworking Christian man.
Bruce Giordano - GM
Bennett Construction, Inc.
Green Advantage Certified - Commercial
I would like to share with you a first-hand incident I witnessed downtown on the Plaza last Thursday morning. After the storm we had the night before there must have been some downed-limb issues along the Plaza whereas City Public Works crews needed to clean up for the benefit of motorist using the thoroughfare. I know for a fact because I had attempted to park down on the Plaza but was unable to pass due to a City truck stopped collecting limbs. No big deal to me, I just parked along Division Street. As I was walking back from one of the offices there I heard a horn blowing but didn't think much of it. As I got further down the plaza I see someone stopped in their truck waiting for the City crew to get out of their way. They continued to blow their horn and eventually a gentleman - and I mean this is the truest sense of the word - from the Public Works crew approached and kindly informed the motorist that it would be a few more minutes and they would be out of the way. Regardless, this individual unloaded a barrage of expletives to this man, even bringing his mother's name into the fray. In an astonishing display of professionalism and Christian character, the City employee thanked the man for his understanding and asked him to have a blessed day. Even after that he endured yet another verbal attack from this 'man'. Look, say what you will about the City's departments (I for one have been critical at times to them personally) but when I see the good, I have a moral obligation to recognize it as well. I made a point to contact Mr. Messick about the incident in hopes that it would get to the right people in the Department so that this Gentleman would receive the recognition he deserves. I just hope that this City employee understands that his work is appreciated and similarly, I hope that the arrogant individual giving him a hard time sleeps well at night feeling better about himself by giving a hard time to a good, hardworking Christian man.
Bruce Giordano - GM
Bennett Construction, Inc.
Green Advantage Certified - Commercial
Ho Be Yo nxt Doc
Ho Be Yo nxt Doc
My name be Eboneesha Li Herenandez, an African Hispanic Asiatic-American Girl who just got an award for being the bess speler in class. I got 67% on the speling test and 30 points for being black, 5 points for not bringin drugs into class, 5 points for not bringin guns into class, and 5 points for not gettin pregnut during the cemester. It be hard to beat a score of 120% White dude who sit nex to me is McGee from Ocala .. He got a 94% on the test but no extra points on acount of he have the same skin color as the opressirs of 150 years ago. Granny ax me to thank all Dimocrafts and Liberuls for suportin Afermative action. You be showin da way to true eqwallity. I be gittin in medical skool nex an mabe I be yo doctor when Barrac take over da healtcare in dis cuntry.
My name be Eboneesha Li Herenandez, an African Hispanic Asiatic-American Girl who just got an award for being the bess speler in class. I got 67% on the speling test and 30 points for being black, 5 points for not bringin drugs into class, 5 points for not bringin guns into class, and 5 points for not gettin pregnut during the cemester. It be hard to beat a score of 120% White dude who sit nex to me is McGee from Ocala .. He got a 94% on the test but no extra points on acount of he have the same skin color as the opressirs of 150 years ago. Granny ax me to thank all Dimocrafts and Liberuls for suportin Afermative action. You be showin da way to true eqwallity. I be gittin in medical skool nex an mabe I be yo doctor when Barrac take over da healtcare in dis cuntry.
Letter To The Editor
Joe,
I'm wondering if you or any of your readers could answer something for me concerning where privacy begins and ends medically.
On Saturday I attended a class at Hancock's. From the moment I arrived it was extremely awkward for me. There was another woman arriving at the same time as I. Due to her walking slowly I took another aisle to go around her. This is where her childish behavior started. As soon as she saw that I had gone in a different direction she sped up and actually tried to cut me off at the door. She made sure what she had to say about me to her friend was loud enough for me to hear. I did try to explain that I had something heavy with me that I wanted to put down which is why I was in a hurry. I could see that her friend was uncomfortable with the situation since this woman continued to make comments.
After the class several of us were lingering around so we could talk one-to-one with the teacher. During this time what happened next shocked me. This woman told her friend that she had done my mammogram. I had to leave the room for a few in order to keep from saying something in front of the others.
Is this common practice for those people you trust at the PRMC, doctor's offices, etc to tell others that you go to them? Due to her not being a doctor or a nurse I'm not sure if the privacy rule even exist. I've given it lots of thought since returning home. Before my next mammogram I will find another location due to PRMC only having that one woman (or she's the only one who has been working when I've been). Before I have been seen I've always had to sign the privacy paper. I'm now confused what the paper covers. If there is someone out there who can fill me in please do.
Thank you.
I'm wondering if you or any of your readers could answer something for me concerning where privacy begins and ends medically.
On Saturday I attended a class at Hancock's. From the moment I arrived it was extremely awkward for me. There was another woman arriving at the same time as I. Due to her walking slowly I took another aisle to go around her. This is where her childish behavior started. As soon as she saw that I had gone in a different direction she sped up and actually tried to cut me off at the door. She made sure what she had to say about me to her friend was loud enough for me to hear. I did try to explain that I had something heavy with me that I wanted to put down which is why I was in a hurry. I could see that her friend was uncomfortable with the situation since this woman continued to make comments.
After the class several of us were lingering around so we could talk one-to-one with the teacher. During this time what happened next shocked me. This woman told her friend that she had done my mammogram. I had to leave the room for a few in order to keep from saying something in front of the others.
Is this common practice for those people you trust at the PRMC, doctor's offices, etc to tell others that you go to them? Due to her not being a doctor or a nurse I'm not sure if the privacy rule even exist. I've given it lots of thought since returning home. Before my next mammogram I will find another location due to PRMC only having that one woman (or she's the only one who has been working when I've been). Before I have been seen I've always had to sign the privacy paper. I'm now confused what the paper covers. If there is someone out there who can fill me in please do.
Thank you.
The 5 Best Sentences You'll Ever Read
This is probably the 5 best sentences you'll ever read. This is one
paragraph that should be in every book in every school room in every city in
every state in our great Union. Our educators should make a lesson plan on
this one statement and beat these words into every head in every class in
every state in these United States of America.
1. You cannot legislate the poor into prosperity by legislating the wealthy
out of prosperity.
2. What one person receives without working for, another
person must work for without receiving.
3. The government cannot give to
anybody anything that the government does not first take from somebody else.
4. When half of the people get the idea that they do not have to work because
the other half is going to take care of them, and when the other half gets
the idea that it does no good to work because somebody else is going to get
what they work for, that my dear friend, is the beginning of the end of any
nation.
5. You cannot multiply wealth by dividing it."
Adrian Rogers, 1931*
paragraph that should be in every book in every school room in every city in
every state in our great Union. Our educators should make a lesson plan on
this one statement and beat these words into every head in every class in
every state in these United States of America.
1. You cannot legislate the poor into prosperity by legislating the wealthy
out of prosperity.
2. What one person receives without working for, another
person must work for without receiving.
3. The government cannot give to
anybody anything that the government does not first take from somebody else.
4. When half of the people get the idea that they do not have to work because
the other half is going to take care of them, and when the other half gets
the idea that it does no good to work because somebody else is going to get
what they work for, that my dear friend, is the beginning of the end of any
nation.
5. You cannot multiply wealth by dividing it."
Adrian Rogers, 1931*
Op-Ed: Health Care Status Quo Would Be Disaster For Middle Class
By House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD)
Washington, DC — How’s this for a health care plan? It will make your premiums go up—in fact, it will double health costs over the next ten years. It will strip millions of Americans of their coverage. It will send our deficit through the roof.
That, as President Obama recently pointed out, is the health care plan we choose by doing nothing. That is the status quo, and it will be the health care plan we end up with if health insurance reform fails.
And although no one will come out and argue for a plan that doubles costs and cuts coverage, we are being pushed in just that direction by transparent attempts to kill reform for partisan gain. As one Republican Senator put it, “If we’re able to stop Obama on this, it will be his Waterloo. It will break him.” Another said this about efforts to cover millions more Americans: “We can stall it. And that’s going to be a huge gain for those of us who want to turn this thing over in the 2010 election.”
Failure to reform health care might be a boon for some members of Congress, but it would be a disaster for middle-class families, for the 47 million uninsured Americans, and for small businesses across America.
That’s why Democrats are working hard to get a health care bill to President Obama’s desk this fall. The details of that bill are still under strong debate—which is healthy considering the historic challenge we face. But Democrats are unshakably committed to four driving principles: health insurance stability, affordability, quality, and patient choice.
GO HERE to read more.
Washington, DC — How’s this for a health care plan? It will make your premiums go up—in fact, it will double health costs over the next ten years. It will strip millions of Americans of their coverage. It will send our deficit through the roof.
That, as President Obama recently pointed out, is the health care plan we choose by doing nothing. That is the status quo, and it will be the health care plan we end up with if health insurance reform fails.
And although no one will come out and argue for a plan that doubles costs and cuts coverage, we are being pushed in just that direction by transparent attempts to kill reform for partisan gain. As one Republican Senator put it, “If we’re able to stop Obama on this, it will be his Waterloo. It will break him.” Another said this about efforts to cover millions more Americans: “We can stall it. And that’s going to be a huge gain for those of us who want to turn this thing over in the 2010 election.”
Failure to reform health care might be a boon for some members of Congress, but it would be a disaster for middle-class families, for the 47 million uninsured Americans, and for small businesses across America.
That’s why Democrats are working hard to get a health care bill to President Obama’s desk this fall. The details of that bill are still under strong debate—which is healthy considering the historic challenge we face. But Democrats are unshakably committed to four driving principles: health insurance stability, affordability, quality, and patient choice.
GO HERE to read more.
Blonde Guy Joke
The very first ever Blonde Guy joke..... And well worth the wait !!!!
An Irishman, a Mexican and a Blonde Guy were doing construction work on scaffolding on the 20th floor of a building.
They were eating lunch and the Irishman said, 'Corned beef and cabbage! If I get corned beef and cabbage one more time for lunch, I'm going to jump off this building.'
The Mexican opened his lunch boxand Exclaimed,' Burritos again! If I get burritos one more time I'm going to jump off, too.'
The blonde opened his lunch and said, 'Bologna again! If I get a bologna sandwich one more time, I'm jumping too.' < /B>
The next day, the Irishman opened his lunch box, saw corned beef and cabbage, and jumped to his death.
The Mexican opened his lunch, saw a burrito, and jumped, too.
The blonde guy opened his lunch, saw the bologna and jumped to his death as well.
At the funeral, the Irishman's wife was weeping. She said, 'If I'd known how really tired he was of corned beef and cabbage, I never would have given it to him again!'
The Mexican's wife also wept and said, 'I could have given him tacos or enchiladas! I didn't realize he hated burritos so much.'
(Oh this is GOOD!!)?
Everyone turned and stared at the blonde's wife. The blonde's wife said,
'Don't look at me. He makes his own lunch.'
An Irishman, a Mexican and a Blonde Guy were doing construction work on scaffolding on the 20th floor of a building.
They were eating lunch and the Irishman said, 'Corned beef and cabbage! If I get corned beef and cabbage one more time for lunch, I'm going to jump off this building.'
The Mexican opened his lunch boxand Exclaimed,' Burritos again! If I get burritos one more time I'm going to jump off, too.'
The blonde opened his lunch and said, 'Bologna again! If I get a bologna sandwich one more time, I'm jumping too.' < /B>
The next day, the Irishman opened his lunch box, saw corned beef and cabbage, and jumped to his death.
The Mexican opened his lunch, saw a burrito, and jumped, too.
The blonde guy opened his lunch, saw the bologna and jumped to his death as well.
At the funeral, the Irishman's wife was weeping. She said, 'If I'd known how really tired he was of corned beef and cabbage, I never would have given it to him again!'
The Mexican's wife also wept and said, 'I could have given him tacos or enchiladas! I didn't realize he hated burritos so much.'
(Oh this is GOOD!!)?
Everyone turned and stared at the blonde's wife. The blonde's wife said,
'Don't look at me. He makes his own lunch.'
Senators Allegedly Told Of Countrywide Favors
Conrad, Dodd were given special deals, rates by mortgage lending giant
WASHINGTON - Despite their denials, influential Democratic Sens. Kent Conrad and Chris Dodd were told from the start they were getting VIP mortgage discounts from one of the nation’s largest lenders, the official who handled their loans has told Congress in secret testimony.
Both senators have said that at the time the mortgages were being written they didn’t know they were getting unique deals from Countrywide Financial Corp., the company that went on to lose billions of dollars on home loans to credit-strapped borrowers. Dodd still maintains he got no preferential treatment.
Dodd got two Countrywide mortgages in 2003, refinancing his home in Connecticut and another residence in Washington. Conrad’s two Countrywide mortgages in 2004 were for a beach house in Delaware and an eight-unit apartment building in Bismarck in his home state of North Dakota.
GO HERE to read more.
WASHINGTON - Despite their denials, influential Democratic Sens. Kent Conrad and Chris Dodd were told from the start they were getting VIP mortgage discounts from one of the nation’s largest lenders, the official who handled their loans has told Congress in secret testimony.
Both senators have said that at the time the mortgages were being written they didn’t know they were getting unique deals from Countrywide Financial Corp., the company that went on to lose billions of dollars on home loans to credit-strapped borrowers. Dodd still maintains he got no preferential treatment.
Dodd got two Countrywide mortgages in 2003, refinancing his home in Connecticut and another residence in Washington. Conrad’s two Countrywide mortgages in 2004 were for a beach house in Delaware and an eight-unit apartment building in Bismarck in his home state of North Dakota.
GO HERE to read more.
NFL Reinstates Michael Vick On Conditional Basis
(CNN) -- Nearly two years after he pleaded guilty to a federal charge of bankrolling a dogfighting operation at a home he owned in Virginia, Michael Vick was reinstated to the National Football League on a conditional basis, according to an NFL statement Monday.
Michael Vick will be considered for full reinstatement based on his progress by the sixth week.
1 of 2 Vick "will be considered for full reinstatement and to play in regular-season games by Week 6 based on the progress he makes in his transition plan," the statement said. Week 6 of the NFL season is in October.
Vick may participate in practices, workouts and meetings and may play in his club's final two preseason games under the conditions of his reinstatement, the league said.
Vick, in a statement, thanked the league's commissioner and former Indianapolis Colts coach Tony Dungy, who has served as his mentor.
"I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to Commissioner [Roger] Goodell for allowing me to be readmitted to the National Football League," Vick said in a statement. "I fully understand that playing football in the NFL is a privilege, not a right, and I am truly thankful for the opportunity I have been given."
GO HERE to read more from CNN.
Do You Save Fuel When You Slow Down?
With gas prices rising, gas-saving advice abounds: Drive more gently, don't carry extra stuff in your trunk, combine your shopping trips.
This is all sound advice but there's one driving tip that will probably save you more gas than all the others, especially if you spend a lot of time on the highway: Slow down.
In a typical family sedan, every 10 miles per hour you drive over 60 is like the price of gasoline going up about 54 cents a gallon.
GO HERE to learn more.
This is all sound advice but there's one driving tip that will probably save you more gas than all the others, especially if you spend a lot of time on the highway: Slow down.
In a typical family sedan, every 10 miles per hour you drive over 60 is like the price of gasoline going up about 54 cents a gallon.
GO HERE to learn more.
Monday, July 27, 2009
New Castle Man Charged With 6th DUI Offense
Location of Incident: State Route 9, west of Harbeson, Delaware, Sussex County.
Date and Time of Occurrence: Sunday, July 26th, 2009 at approximately 5:00 pm.
Suspect(s): John D. McMullen, 40, of Memorial Drive in New Castle, Delaware
Resume: While on routine patrol Sunday evening, Troopers were dispatched to the area of State Route 9, approximately 1 mile west of Harbeson, for reports of a vehicle driving erratically. Officers located the vehicle in question, a maroon Toyota, and observed it traveling on the right shoulder of the roadway. A traffic stop ensued and Troopers subsequently contacted the operator- John D. McMullen. The Trooper could smell the odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from the vehicle, and along with other observations, a DUI investigation ensued. Mr. McMullen was subsequently taken into custody.
Mr. McMullen was transported back to Troop 4 where a computer check revealed he had five previous DUI convictions- this arrest would make his 6th.
John D. McMullen was formally charged with Felony DUI along with Driving a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended License, and Failure to Have Insurance. Mr. McMullen was committed to the Sussex Correctional Institute in lieu of $25,000 cash bond.
55 Killed As Police Battle Nigerian Islamists
BAUCHI, Nigeria (AFP) – Nigeria's security forces on Monday fought gun battles with radical Islamists who went on a rampage torching churches, police posts and government buildings in four northern states.
Police put the number of dead from the weekend religious clashes at 55 in two states of Bauchi and Yobe, as of early Monday morning.
In Borno state, heavily armed Islamist rebels torched a police headquarters, a church and a customs office in the border town of Gamboru-Ngala overnight before moving to the state capital Maiduguri where battles ran into the afternoon.
A Nigerian Islamist sect styled on Afghanistan's Taliban burnt down a central prison in Maiduguri, two police stations, several churches, a government primary school and offices of a state unemployment bureau.
"The situation has degenerated into big battles between the Taliban ... and the soldiers and police. Since morning, you can hear nothing but gunfire all over the city," resident Sanisu Ahamad told AFP by telephone as sound of gunfire could be heard in the background.
"Many government buildings have been burnt including the central prison and several churches. Streets are deserted. People are in their homes," he said.
Several telecommunications masts have been burnt cutting off many parts of the city.
GO HERE to read more.
Police put the number of dead from the weekend religious clashes at 55 in two states of Bauchi and Yobe, as of early Monday morning.
In Borno state, heavily armed Islamist rebels torched a police headquarters, a church and a customs office in the border town of Gamboru-Ngala overnight before moving to the state capital Maiduguri where battles ran into the afternoon.
A Nigerian Islamist sect styled on Afghanistan's Taliban burnt down a central prison in Maiduguri, two police stations, several churches, a government primary school and offices of a state unemployment bureau.
"The situation has degenerated into big battles between the Taliban ... and the soldiers and police. Since morning, you can hear nothing but gunfire all over the city," resident Sanisu Ahamad told AFP by telephone as sound of gunfire could be heard in the background.
"Many government buildings have been burnt including the central prison and several churches. Streets are deserted. People are in their homes," he said.
Several telecommunications masts have been burnt cutting off many parts of the city.
GO HERE to read more.
Cops: Mom Accused In Infant Slaying Ate Brain
Texas woman was screaming that devil made her kill infant, police say
SAN ANTONIO - A woman charged with murdering her 3 1/2-week-old son used a knife and two swords to dismember the child and ate parts of his body, including his brain, before stabbing herself in the torso and slicing her own throat, police said Monday.
Otty Sanchez, 33, is charged with capital murder in the death of her infant son, Scott Wesley Buchholtz-Sanchez. She was recovering from her wounds at a hospital, and was being held on $1 million bail.
San Antonio Police Chief William McManus said the early Sunday morning attack occurred a week after the child's father moved out. The child's aunt and two cousins, ages 5 and 7, were in the house, but none were harmed.
McManus, who appeared uncomfortable as he addressed reporters, said Sanchez apparently ate the child's brain and some other body parts. She also tore his face off, chewed off three of his toes and decapitated the infant before stabbing herself.
"It's too heinous for me to describe it any further," McManus said.
GO HERE to read more from MSNBC.
SAN ANTONIO - A woman charged with murdering her 3 1/2-week-old son used a knife and two swords to dismember the child and ate parts of his body, including his brain, before stabbing herself in the torso and slicing her own throat, police said Monday.
Otty Sanchez, 33, is charged with capital murder in the death of her infant son, Scott Wesley Buchholtz-Sanchez. She was recovering from her wounds at a hospital, and was being held on $1 million bail.
San Antonio Police Chief William McManus said the early Sunday morning attack occurred a week after the child's father moved out. The child's aunt and two cousins, ages 5 and 7, were in the house, but none were harmed.
McManus, who appeared uncomfortable as he addressed reporters, said Sanchez apparently ate the child's brain and some other body parts. She also tore his face off, chewed off three of his toes and decapitated the infant before stabbing herself.
"It's too heinous for me to describe it any further," McManus said.
GO HERE to read more from MSNBC.
Listen To Parts Of The Police Dispatch Call That Led To The Arrest Of Henry Louis Gates Jr.
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
Tape: Cop called Gates uncooperative
Released dispatch recording shows sergeant wanted more backup
BOSTON - A police sergeant who responded to a 911 call about a possible break-in at the home of black Harvard scholar Henry Louis Gates Jr. can be heard calling Gates uncooperative during a radio communication with a police dispatcher.
Sgt. James Crowley said he was with a man who claims to live in the house and with identification showing he was Gates. Crowley said the man was not cooperating and told the dispatcher to "keep the cars coming."
Another voice can be heard in the background of the transmissions, but it is unintelligible and unclear if it is Gates.
GO HERE to read more.
Salisbury Police Arrest Man On Out Of State Warrant
A few minutes ago the Salisbury Police pulled over an individual wanted on an outstanding warrant from another state. The arrest was made on Milford Street. No names are available at this time. Great work Officers.
Alexandria Police Chief Faces DUI Charge
Breathalyzer test reported at .19
Alexandria police Chief David P. Baker, who was arrested Saturday night on a DUI charge, was placed on administrative leave Sunday, and his purported .19 blood alcohol content means the consequences may be just beginning -- mandatory jail time, loss of driver's license and possible lawsuits against the city.
Alexandria City Manager James K. Hartmann imposed the immediate sanction on Chief Baker pending an internal investigation of the arrest in a late-night two-car crash Saturday in Arlington that sent both drivers to the hospital.
Mr. Hartmann elevated Deputy Police Chief Earl Cook to acting police chief, effective immediately.
According to Arlington County police, Chief Baker, who has held his post for three years and served almost 20 years in the department, took a Breathalyzer test that registered his blood alcohol content (BAC) at .19, more than twice Virginia's legal limit of .08.
GO HERE to read more from the Washington Times.
Chamber Of Commerce Opposes Obama Health Plan
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
Pelosi Restarts Health Care Talks
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
Jury Backs Hospital That Deported Patient
Luis Jimenez secretly returned to Guatemala over objections of his family
STUART, Florida - A hospital that quietly chartered a plane and sent a seriously brain injured illegal immigrant back to Guatemala over the objections of his family and legal guardian did not act unreasonably, a jury found Monday.
Health care and immigration experts across the country have closely watched the court case in the sleepy coastal town of Stuart. They say it underscores the dilemma facing hospitals with patients who are unable to pay for the long-term care they need and don't qualify for federal or state aid because of their immigration status.
Deputy Court Clerk Carol Harper said the unanimous 6-member jury found in favor of the hospital.
GO HERE to read more from MSNBC.
STUART, Florida - A hospital that quietly chartered a plane and sent a seriously brain injured illegal immigrant back to Guatemala over the objections of his family and legal guardian did not act unreasonably, a jury found Monday.
Health care and immigration experts across the country have closely watched the court case in the sleepy coastal town of Stuart. They say it underscores the dilemma facing hospitals with patients who are unable to pay for the long-term care they need and don't qualify for federal or state aid because of their immigration status.
Deputy Court Clerk Carol Harper said the unanimous 6-member jury found in favor of the hospital.
GO HERE to read more from MSNBC.
Coastal Kids Consignment Now Accepting Consignors
Coastal Kids Consignment Now accepting Consignors, Volunteers, New Moms and Advertising Sponsors!
http://www.coastal-kids.com/
Coastal Kids Consignment Sales is a semi-annual consignment event held each year in the spring and fall providing a great opportunity for local families to clean out closets and attics and cash in on their kids high quality, gently used items. Less work than a yard sale and more money in your pocket than traditional consignment stores!
Children often outgrow their clothes, gear and toys faster than parents can afford to replace them. Make money by recycling outgrown items and earn 55 - 65% of the sales price. You decide the price; tag the item with an easy to use online computerized inventory system and it will be sold for you! You do not have to be present to sell. Coastal Kids Consignment Sales will mail you a check within two weeks of sale close.
Public Sale
Wicomico Youth & Civic Center
Friday Sept 11, 2009 from 9am – 7pm
(Shop Friday for best selection)
Saturday Sept 12, 2009 from 9am – 1pm
(Many items ½ price on Saturday)
Private Pre-sale
As a volunteer, advertising sponsor, new mom or consignor of 25 items or more, you will have the opportunity to shop before everyone else for best selection and pricing. Registration limited & required. Pre-sale event on Thursday September 10th.
Looking for a fresh idea for fundraising? Coastal Kids Consignment can help! Instead of asking friends and families to buy something, ask them to clean out their kids clutter and donate their high quality, gently used children’s items to your organization. Your organization then becomes a consignor at our event and earns 65% of your sales.
Free admission! Cash, Visa & Mastercard accepted. Children are welcome to accompany parents while they shop however strollers and bags (diaper, shopping, etc) are no longer permitted to be brought in so please plan accordingly. Shopping baskets available or bring your own basket to hold items while you shop. To learn more about selling items, shopping the sale, registering as a new parent, fundraisers or becoming an advertising sponsor visit www.coastal-kids.com or call 410-603-3925.
http://www.coastal-kids.com/
Coastal Kids Consignment Sales is a semi-annual consignment event held each year in the spring and fall providing a great opportunity for local families to clean out closets and attics and cash in on their kids high quality, gently used items. Less work than a yard sale and more money in your pocket than traditional consignment stores!
Children often outgrow their clothes, gear and toys faster than parents can afford to replace them. Make money by recycling outgrown items and earn 55 - 65% of the sales price. You decide the price; tag the item with an easy to use online computerized inventory system and it will be sold for you! You do not have to be present to sell. Coastal Kids Consignment Sales will mail you a check within two weeks of sale close.
Public Sale
Wicomico Youth & Civic Center
Friday Sept 11, 2009 from 9am – 7pm
(Shop Friday for best selection)
Saturday Sept 12, 2009 from 9am – 1pm
(Many items ½ price on Saturday)
Private Pre-sale
As a volunteer, advertising sponsor, new mom or consignor of 25 items or more, you will have the opportunity to shop before everyone else for best selection and pricing. Registration limited & required. Pre-sale event on Thursday September 10th.
Looking for a fresh idea for fundraising? Coastal Kids Consignment can help! Instead of asking friends and families to buy something, ask them to clean out their kids clutter and donate their high quality, gently used children’s items to your organization. Your organization then becomes a consignor at our event and earns 65% of your sales.
Free admission! Cash, Visa & Mastercard accepted. Children are welcome to accompany parents while they shop however strollers and bags (diaper, shopping, etc) are no longer permitted to be brought in so please plan accordingly. Shopping baskets available or bring your own basket to hold items while you shop. To learn more about selling items, shopping the sale, registering as a new parent, fundraisers or becoming an advertising sponsor visit www.coastal-kids.com or call 410-603-3925.
This Just In
"I just called Kratovils office and OMG his aid argued and debated me over the healthcare bill. Undecided my a$$!"
Salisbury Police Department Press Releases
On July 27, 2009 at approximately 4:16 a.m., Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Dunkin Donuts Restaurant on South Salisbury Boulevard for the report of an armed robbery. Upon arrival the officers met with the store manager who advised that a lone suspect had entered the store and produced a handgun. The suspect threatened the manager and a second employee with the handgun then ordered the manager to give the suspect the U.S. currency from the store. The suspect upon receiving the U.S. currency, fled from the store on foot. The suspect is described as:
Black male, approximately 6’00” tall, 110 lbs., wearing a black or navy blue hooded sweatshirt, blue jeans and black shoes.
The investigation is continuing, and if anyone has any information regarding this robbery, they are asked to contact the Salisbury Police Department at 410-548-3165 or contact Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776. CC # 200900026328
On July 24, 2009 at approximately 7:34 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Boscov’s Department Store at the Centre at Salisbury for the report of a shoplifter. Upon arrival the officers met with store security who advised that store employees had observed the below listed suspect take jewelry from the store without making payment. The jewelry was recovered and returned to the store.
ARRRESTED: Nicholas Phil Robinson, 27 years of age Bridgeville, Delaware
CHARGES:
Theft (under $ 500)
Theft (under $ 100)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200900026035
On July 25, 2009 at approximately 4:51 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police were on routine patrol in the area of Charles and Baker Streets and observed the below listed suspect walking between several residences. The suspect was stopped and was found to be a minor in possession of tobacco. The suspect was arrested, and a search of the suspect incident to arrest revealed a quantity of suspected cocaine.
ARRESTED: Juvenile, 16 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
Possession of cocaine with intent to distribute
Possession of cocaine
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200900026095
On July 26, 2009 at approximately 12:46 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police arrested the below listed suspect on an outstanding warrant charging the suspect with a theft that occurred on June 19, 2009. On that date the suspect took a vehicle that was the property of a victim known to the suspect, without the permission of the victim.
ARRESTED: Michael Allen Peterson, 39 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
Unlawful taking of a motor vehicle
Theft (over $ 500)
DISPOSITION: Released to central booking CC # 200900026270
VA OPEN HOUSE - PERRY POINT
The Veterans Affairs (VA) Maryland Health Care System is hosting an Open House and Information Fair on Saturday, August 22, 2009, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Outpatient Clinic at the Perry Point VA Medical Center, Building 361, Perry Point, MD.
Veterans and their family members are invited to learn about VA health care eligibility and enrollment, available health care services, compensation and pension benefits, pharmacy services, and burial benefits. Information will also be available about VA programs and services to support veterans struggling due to a job loss or financial setback.
Representatives will also be available to provide information and assistance to veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Veterans interested in enrolling for VA health care should bring a copy of their discharge paperwork (Form DD214) and a photo ID to assist in the enrollment process.
For more information about this free information fair or for directions to the Perry Point VA Medical Center, please call the VA Maryland Health Care System's Community Outreach Office at 1-800-949-1003, extension 5407.
If you are already enrolled with the VA Maryland Health Care System, we ask that you share this information with fellow veterans in your community.
Date of Event:
August 22, 2009
Time:
10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Where:
Perry Point VA Medical Center
Outpatient Clinic, Building 361
Perry Point, MD
Information: 1-800-949-1003, extension 5407
Veterans and their family members are invited to learn about VA health care eligibility and enrollment, available health care services, compensation and pension benefits, pharmacy services, and burial benefits. Information will also be available about VA programs and services to support veterans struggling due to a job loss or financial setback.
Representatives will also be available to provide information and assistance to veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Veterans interested in enrolling for VA health care should bring a copy of their discharge paperwork (Form DD214) and a photo ID to assist in the enrollment process.
For more information about this free information fair or for directions to the Perry Point VA Medical Center, please call the VA Maryland Health Care System's Community Outreach Office at 1-800-949-1003, extension 5407.
If you are already enrolled with the VA Maryland Health Care System, we ask that you share this information with fellow veterans in your community.
Date of Event:
August 22, 2009
Time:
10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Where:
Perry Point VA Medical Center
Outpatient Clinic, Building 361
Perry Point, MD
Information: 1-800-949-1003, extension 5407
More Of What The Democrats Don't Want You To See About Obama's Healthcare Reform
Amy Menefee Eastern Shore Healthcare Summit, Part 2
Amy Menefee Part 3
Amy Menefee Part 3
CHAMBER DOUBLES ANTE TO A $2,000.00 CASH REWARD
Law Enforcement Agencies came together this morning for a Press Conference at the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce to announce they are doubling the CASH REWARD being offered for the Shell Gas Station Armed Robbery and Murder of Abdul Choudrey.
Mr. Mark McIver received the check on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce/Crime Solvers and encourages ALL citizens to come forward with any information on this case so they can put closure to it.
Chief Webster asked the community for public input & support and thanked Mark McIver & Crime Solvers for all of their help.
Tim Robinson of the WCSO said, "Crime Solvers Works." The information already provided has been invaluable through Crime Solvers.
Sheriff Lewis was also grateful for the large sum of money being offered by the Chamber of Commerce and the business community. Sheriff Lewis also stated "they are much further in this case than they were a week ago, right Chief."
If YOU have any information regarding this murder please contact Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776. Or visit http://crimesolverseasternshore.blogspot.com .
If you would also like to make an additional donation please contact Brad Bellacicco at the Chamber of Commerce office at 410-749-0144 or brad@salisburyarea.com .
O’Malley Hides Public’s Suggestions
Del. Mike Smigiel (R-36) has a great review of Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley’s new “Online Suggestion Box”:
When I first heard about this, I thought, What a great idea! Unfortunately, like most things in government, the devil is in the details.
Mike is, again, right on about this issue. IF O’Malley were serious, rather than just pandering to an electorate that will judge him in just over a year, he would allow the public to see the suggestions of their fellow citizens. IF O’Malley were 1/10 of the chief executive he claims to be, he would know that many great ideas come from hearing and seeing the ideas of others.
Of course, O’Malley is PANDERING and he sure isn’t the executive he claims to be. Marylanders are paying the tax increases that prove it.
cross posted at Delmarva Dealings
Customer Service at Johnson's Feed & Seed
I decided to write in hopes you would let people know about the customer service at Johnsons Feed & Seed on Isabella St. We hear so much about the bad service provided by businesses.
Last week I stopped in to buy Brussel Sprout seeds for my fall garden, they didn't have any available. The lady working that day(I wish I had gotten her name),asked if I would like to order them. She immediately picked up the phone and called her supplier to see if there were any to be delivered in her order for the next day, if not, she asked them to put them in her order for Monday delivery. This morning I received a phone call from Johnson's that my seeds were there. That is customer service and that is the reason I have been buying my seed and plants from them since the 1980's when Q Johnson owned it and will continue to spend my locally earned money there now that the Ashcrafts own it, again.
Another reason I buy my veggie plants from them is because they buy them from a local grower. I have always been of the opinion that you must take care of home (local businesses)first. These people live in our community, spend in our community and provide a service to our community. They should be supported by others in the community as well.
Thank you to Johnson's Feed & Seed for your continued outstanding customer service.
Editors note: Thank you for sharing your experience with this locally owned and operated business. I too am a long time customer of this business and agree with you, they can't be beat when it comes to customer service.
Last week I stopped in to buy Brussel Sprout seeds for my fall garden, they didn't have any available. The lady working that day(I wish I had gotten her name),asked if I would like to order them. She immediately picked up the phone and called her supplier to see if there were any to be delivered in her order for the next day, if not, she asked them to put them in her order for Monday delivery. This morning I received a phone call from Johnson's that my seeds were there. That is customer service and that is the reason I have been buying my seed and plants from them since the 1980's when Q Johnson owned it and will continue to spend my locally earned money there now that the Ashcrafts own it, again.
Another reason I buy my veggie plants from them is because they buy them from a local grower. I have always been of the opinion that you must take care of home (local businesses)first. These people live in our community, spend in our community and provide a service to our community. They should be supported by others in the community as well.
Thank you to Johnson's Feed & Seed for your continued outstanding customer service.
Editors note: Thank you for sharing your experience with this locally owned and operated business. I too am a long time customer of this business and agree with you, they can't be beat when it comes to customer service.
Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Press Releases
Incident: Possession of Crack Cocaine
Date of Incident: 25 July 2009
Location: 200 block of Morris Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Relysee Haywood, 46, Fruitland, MD
Narrative: On 25 July 2009 at 10;12 PM, a deputy from the WCSO responded to the 200 block of Morris Drive in Salisbury for the report of an individual going door to door attempting to solicit a ride. The located an individual, Relysee Haywood, who was determined to be the subject in question. Upon speaking with Haywood, the deputy inquired as to the contents of a small bag to which Haywood replied “crack”. Haywood then stated it was something else. Based on Haywood’s admission, the deputy searched the bag and Haywood and found a crack pipe along with accompanying crack related paraphernalia. The pipe carried by Haywood had been used and still contained the remnants of burnt crack cocaine. Also during this encounter, Haywood began yelling loudly, causing residents to come outside to see the commotion.
Haywood was transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Haywood was detained by the Commissioner in the Detention Center in lieu of $7,500.00 bond.
Charges:
Possession of CDS
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Disorderly Conduct
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 26 July 2009
Location: 22000 block of Royal Oak Road, Quantico, MD
Suspect: Male juvenile, 15, Quantico, MD
Narrative: On 26 July 2009, a deputy responded to a residential youth facility in the 22000 block of Royal Oak Road for a reported altercation inside the facility. Upon arrival, the deputy learned that a 15 YOA juvenile assaulted another resident in the facility. The juvenile was involved in an argument with the other resident when it turned physical and the juvenile began assaulting the other resident.
The deputy completed a request for Juvenile Charges that will be referred to the Department of Juvenile Services. The juvenile was released to the youth facility pending future court action.
Charges: Assault 2nd Degree
Bernanke: Economy To Bounce Back Stronger
At a town hall meeting in Kansas City, Mo., the Fed chairman said the recovery will take some time, but that lessons learned will benefit the nation.
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said Sunday that lessons learned from the recession and the financial crisis will help make the economy stronger than it was before the crisis.
The Fed chairman answered questions from members of the public as well as moderator Jim Lehrer of PBS at a town hall event sponsored by the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, Mo.
"The silver lining in this whole thing is that people are starting to save more, since they saw what happened with 401(k) investments," Bernanke said. "People are adopting good habits, so not only will we will be back on track, but the economy will be stronger than it had been before this started."
GO HERE to read more from CNN.
Cash For Keys: Why Banks Pay Homeowners To Move Out
Cash for Keys Keeps Foreclosures From Being Trashed
Two of the biggest problems banks face when taking back a home in foreclosure are the condition of the home and getting rid of its occupants. This is why cash for keys is a quick and easy solution for many banks. Cash for keys is a term that had been kept under wraps by the banks for years, but the subprime mortgage meltdown of 2007 -- which led to an onslaught of foreclosures -- forced many banks to initiate a cash for keys policy as standard procedure.
What is Cash For Keys?
Cash for keys is a way for homeowners in foreclosure -- or for tenants who are victims of foreclosure -- to receive cash in exchange for surrendering the keys and vacating. Banks generally reach an agreement with the occupants of a foreclosed home, which stipulates the home will be left in good condition and cleaned. The agreements typically set forth a specific date that the home will be left vacant, including a promise from the occupants that they will not:
Vandalize the foreclosed-upon home.
Strip the foreclosure of light fixtures, appliances, copper.
Leave foreclosure pets behind.
GO HERE to read more.
Scams Pose As 'Cash For Clunkers' Program
By Karina Nova
WBNS-10TV
Michelle Starcher sees a real opportunity in the federal government's "Cash for Clunkers" program.
"We have an old '92 Ford that we want to trade in," the Guernsey County resident said. "I can get up to $3,500, which is a big incentive to buy a new car."
Formally known as the Car Allowance Rebate System, the $1 billion program is intended to help revive the country's slumping auto industry by encouraging consumers to replace their gas guzzlers with more-fuel-efficient vehicles.
Unfortunately, prospective car-buyers such as Starcher aren't the only ones hoping to take advantage of the program. According to government officials and consumer watchdogs, plenty of con artists are also eager to get mileage out of it.
"Scammers often try to piggyback on new programs or trends, and this is no exception," Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray said.
Scammers have benefited from confusion that arose after the "Cash for Clunkers" law was signed last month, consumer advocates say.
At that time, some rules were clear: To qualify for credits of as much as $4,500, for example, trade-ins would have to be less than 25 years old and get 18 miles per gallon or less in combined city/highway driving.
Other details of the program, however, still had to be hammered out, leaving many interested consumers unsure how to proceed.
Con artists stepped into the information void, and scores of unofficial "Cash for Clunkers" Web sites began popping up.
Many claim -- falsely -- that consumers must preregister to participate in the program. Some ask for addresses, phone numbers and Social Security numbers, none of which is required. Others promise to put consumers in touch with "authorized" dealers.
"Nobody should be fooled into registering or giving out personal information," Cordray said. "If anyone asks for that, it's a scam."
Dealers will do the bulk of the work under the program: If a customer trades in an eligible "clunker," the dealer will provide a credit based on the fuel-efficiency of the old car compared with that of a new vehicle. That will reduce the amount the consumer must pay for the new vehicle. The dealer will then scrap the trade-in and get reimbursed by the federal government.
The customer justs needs to show up with the trade-in's title, its registration and proof that the vehicle has been insured under his or her name for the past year.
"The biggest misconception is that I can go out and buy a clunker for $500 and trade it to the dealer for $4,500," said Marc Hellman, general sales manager for Ricart Automotive. "That won't work."
The incentive program will run through Nov. 1 or until the allocated funds are exhausted.
Starcher said she's taking no chances.
"I'm getting a lot of money off a vehicle, so I think it's a really good time to buy."
SOURCE
WBNS-10TV
Michelle Starcher sees a real opportunity in the federal government's "Cash for Clunkers" program.
"We have an old '92 Ford that we want to trade in," the Guernsey County resident said. "I can get up to $3,500, which is a big incentive to buy a new car."
Formally known as the Car Allowance Rebate System, the $1 billion program is intended to help revive the country's slumping auto industry by encouraging consumers to replace their gas guzzlers with more-fuel-efficient vehicles.
Unfortunately, prospective car-buyers such as Starcher aren't the only ones hoping to take advantage of the program. According to government officials and consumer watchdogs, plenty of con artists are also eager to get mileage out of it.
"Scammers often try to piggyback on new programs or trends, and this is no exception," Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray said.
Scammers have benefited from confusion that arose after the "Cash for Clunkers" law was signed last month, consumer advocates say.
At that time, some rules were clear: To qualify for credits of as much as $4,500, for example, trade-ins would have to be less than 25 years old and get 18 miles per gallon or less in combined city/highway driving.
Other details of the program, however, still had to be hammered out, leaving many interested consumers unsure how to proceed.
Con artists stepped into the information void, and scores of unofficial "Cash for Clunkers" Web sites began popping up.
Many claim -- falsely -- that consumers must preregister to participate in the program. Some ask for addresses, phone numbers and Social Security numbers, none of which is required. Others promise to put consumers in touch with "authorized" dealers.
"Nobody should be fooled into registering or giving out personal information," Cordray said. "If anyone asks for that, it's a scam."
Dealers will do the bulk of the work under the program: If a customer trades in an eligible "clunker," the dealer will provide a credit based on the fuel-efficiency of the old car compared with that of a new vehicle. That will reduce the amount the consumer must pay for the new vehicle. The dealer will then scrap the trade-in and get reimbursed by the federal government.
The customer justs needs to show up with the trade-in's title, its registration and proof that the vehicle has been insured under his or her name for the past year.
"The biggest misconception is that I can go out and buy a clunker for $500 and trade it to the dealer for $4,500," said Marc Hellman, general sales manager for Ricart Automotive. "That won't work."
The incentive program will run through Nov. 1 or until the allocated funds are exhausted.
Starcher said she's taking no chances.
"I'm getting a lot of money off a vehicle, so I think it's a really good time to buy."
SOURCE
Salisbury Police Department Press Releases
On July 1, 2009 at approximately 11:07 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Royal Farms Store on South Division St. for the report of an armed robbery. Upon arrival the officers met with a store employee who advised that he had been robbed at gunpoint by a single suspect. The employee advised that the suspect had entered the store and produced the handgun moving toward the cash register area. The suspect emptied the cash register then fled from the store on foot. Deputies of the Wicomico County Sheriffs Office observed a suspicious vehicle in the area of the store and stopped the vehicle. Upon stopping the vehicle the deputies found that the driver matched the suspect description. The suspect was positively identified as the suspect that robbed the store. The Salisbury Police were also assisted by the Maryland State Police in this robbery. The stolen property was recovered.
ARRESTED: Justin Christopher Bryant, 19 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
Armed robbery
First degree assault
Use of a handgun in the commission of a felony
Second degree assault
Theft (under $ 500)
Reckless endangerment
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200900023097
On July 1, 2009 at approximately 11:54 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Hardees Restaurant on South Salisbury Boulevard for the report of a robbery. Upon arrival the officers met with an employee who advised that he had been robbed at gunpoint by a suspect in a vehicle as the employee operated the drive through window. The employee advised that the suspect had produced a handgun and demanded the cash drawer from the cash register. A witness provided a description of a suspect vehicle which was located and stopped on South Division Street. The investigation of this incident revealed that the Hardees employee, the below listed suspect, was a willing participant in the theft of U.S. Currency from the restaurant with the suspect in the vehicle. The suspect in the vehicle has been identified and arrest warrants by the Salisbury Police are pending.
ARRESTED: Mark Olander McCullegan, 18 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES:
Theft (under $ 500)
Conspiracy to commit theft
Obstructing and hindering
False Statement
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200900023101
EDITORS NOTE: Once again, these Press Releases came out this morning, dated back to the beginning of the month.
One Year Ago Today
It was one year ago when we found Shred It Trucks around Downtown Salisbury doing the nasty for former Mayor Barrie Tilghman and the Salisbury Fire Department. Even though legislation had been passed top stop any of this shredding, even though a Fire Department shouldn't have anything to hide, the City hired a company to make sure no one ever knew what was being shredded. "I trust our Department Heads," said Shanie Shields.
Another Man's Point Of View
The fact of the matter is that this incident did consist of stupidity, over-reaction, and racism. However, the tragedy of the story, is that all of those contributing factors have been miss-assigned! There was stupidity alright, but not on the part of the Cambridge PD, or as "Presidential" inference and innuendo implied, Sergeant Crowley
The stupidity was Obama's, for pre-judging a situation that he admittedly knew
little or nothing about! The over-reaction was not on the part of the police, but rather on the "professor", who, being a well educated man, should have understood the situation.
Finally, the racial component was interjected by the professor not the police officer! Obama, by his "knee jerk" judgmental, also contributed to implications of anti-black motivation and "racism". It was the President's statements that made this a racial incident. Obama went on to say that the police reacted stupidly and carelessly. Unfortunately, the Presidents remarks were as damaging and incorrect as they were inflammatory. Obama damaged the efforts of police to gain trust in the black community, and they inflamed racial tensions!
Gates simply resented the fact that he was being confronted by an authority figure who happened to not be black. His highly militant persona caused him to rebel, over-react, and falsely bring up the "race card!". From the report, it was clear to note, he was spoiling for a fight.
That Sergeant would have been criminally derelict in the performance of his sworn duty, had he abandoned that house to an "unidentified" possible miscreant! Gates should be thanking that Sergeant!
And now, we have the "beer blast" at the White House, where Gates and Obama intend to "educate" this Sergeant about black superiority, as if he somehow needs an "attitude correction";
The good Sergeant did absolutely nothing wrong, nothing! He did not inject racism
into this incident, nor did he over-react, the President and Gates did that!
The only reason why Sergeant Crowley should agree to appear at the White House, is to accept the unequivocal and public apologies of Obama and Gates; they are the culprits in this case, not this Sergeant!
The lack of leadership on the part of our President was regretful. Obama showed the America and the world how incompetent he is to handle a situation under the pressure of the moment. What is truly frightening is that his is the finger on the nuclear trigger.
And that is the truth of the matter.
Robert Di Stefano
Major (retired) Baltimore City PD
Abingdon, MD
The stupidity was Obama's, for pre-judging a situation that he admittedly knew
little or nothing about! The over-reaction was not on the part of the police, but rather on the "professor", who, being a well educated man, should have understood the situation.
Finally, the racial component was interjected by the professor not the police officer! Obama, by his "knee jerk" judgmental, also contributed to implications of anti-black motivation and "racism". It was the President's statements that made this a racial incident. Obama went on to say that the police reacted stupidly and carelessly. Unfortunately, the Presidents remarks were as damaging and incorrect as they were inflammatory. Obama damaged the efforts of police to gain trust in the black community, and they inflamed racial tensions!
Gates simply resented the fact that he was being confronted by an authority figure who happened to not be black. His highly militant persona caused him to rebel, over-react, and falsely bring up the "race card!". From the report, it was clear to note, he was spoiling for a fight.
That Sergeant would have been criminally derelict in the performance of his sworn duty, had he abandoned that house to an "unidentified" possible miscreant! Gates should be thanking that Sergeant!
And now, we have the "beer blast" at the White House, where Gates and Obama intend to "educate" this Sergeant about black superiority, as if he somehow needs an "attitude correction";
The good Sergeant did absolutely nothing wrong, nothing! He did not inject racism
into this incident, nor did he over-react, the President and Gates did that!
The only reason why Sergeant Crowley should agree to appear at the White House, is to accept the unequivocal and public apologies of Obama and Gates; they are the culprits in this case, not this Sergeant!
The lack of leadership on the part of our President was regretful. Obama showed the America and the world how incompetent he is to handle a situation under the pressure of the moment. What is truly frightening is that his is the finger on the nuclear trigger.
And that is the truth of the matter.
Robert Di Stefano
Major (retired) Baltimore City PD
Abingdon, MD
BEWARE THE IDES OF AUGUST!
On Fox News Sunday, Obama’s mouthpiece, Robert Gibbs, did not reject or seriously dispute the suggestion that Obama may try to hold Congress in session during its scheduled recess in August to do the ObamaCare bill. And on the CNN and CBS Sunday morning new shows David Axelrod took the same hands off approach when asked if a push will be made this week to “beat the clock.”
Could that “we can’t do it before vacation” cry by Dirty Harry Reed and Slick Steny Hoyer be a ruse to take the wind out of the sail of opponents? Only Nancy Pelosi knows.
Could that “we can’t do it before vacation” cry by Dirty Harry Reed and Slick Steny Hoyer be a ruse to take the wind out of the sail of opponents? Only Nancy Pelosi knows.
How Brew River Will Get Away With Metered Parking
Even though it's your parking lot, even though there are metered parking spaces in the parking lot, some how, some way, Frank Hannah used Comegys & Co. to put in this new Electronic Parking Meters, (similar to Ocean City) where they have requested certain parking spaces designated to Brew River in which Frank claims Brew River will pay for people to park there IF they're customers of Brew River.
While some Council Members, (I'm sure you can guess who) suggested Frank Hannah pay them a yearly fee for those spaces instead, the majority of the Council chose NOT to do that and we can assure you your revenues will certainly decrease now, even though YOU just spent all this money for this equipment.
Karen Reddison sold the project top the City and Karen Reddison oversees that department that gives out tickets. Can you say, conflict of interest? Help is on the way???????
House Fire On Nanticoke Road Displaces Family Of Five
At approximately 1300 hours on Friday, July 24, a house fire was reported on the 25000 block of Nanticoke Road. Thanks to a quick response time by member of Salisbury Fire Dept, Engine 16 was able to quickly control the fire and limit fire damage to the kitchen. Outside of the kitchen, however, there was extensive smoke and water damage throughout the house. Several long-time family pets were lost in the fire with the exception of their sheltie, Scooter.
After completing initial firefighting procedures, the crew began to remove pets from the house. When Scooter was removed, he was the only pet that still had a pulse. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of several firefighters, Scooter was resuscitated on scene and transported to the Salisbury Animal Hospital by Hebron EMS, and later to the Pet's E.R. Despite a heat related eye injury and smoke inhalation, Scooter is expected to make a full recovery in time.
The family, Tim and Tammy Cannon, their son Timothy Jr, daughter Shelby, and brother Michael Dugan are currently displaced and are staying at an area hotel. The family currently has nothing but what they have been able to get since the fire. The family has stated that their primary concerns right now are for the kids, Timothy and Shelby, and their dog Scooter. As of right now, the vet bills for Scooter are expected to run into the thousands of dollars, and he is still under care at the animal hospital. The family has stated that they will gratefully accept any donations at this time, as all belongings in the house have been smoke damaged. Specifically, the family is asking for donations to help cover the cost of the vet bill, and donations for their kids.
For further information or to contact/make a donation to the family, please contact Mike at 443-614-7644. The family would like to express their gratitude for all who have jumped in to help so far.
OK Folks, let's show this Family what we're all about. 2009 is the year to Give Back. This could be any one of us and we need to dig deep, pull together and provide, especially for these children. We will update everyone with sizes and furnishings needed. Thanking You In Advance, Joe
A list of requests by the family has been compiled, consisting of:
-Clothing for an 8 year old girl, size 14/16
-Clothing for an 11 year old boy, size 16 husky or men's medium shirts
-Age appropriate toys for both kids
-Any and all dishes (plates, bowls, silverware, cooking utensils)
-Pots, pans, cookie sheets, and baking dishes
-Towels, hand towels, dishrags, washcloths, etc
-Pillows, blankets, sheets, pillowcases, etc
-Beds, box springs, and mattresses
-Washer, dryer, stove, refrigerator, microwave
-Any small appliances, but please NO toasters
-Furniture for entire house (kitchen table, chairs, recliners, sofa, lamps, etc)
Any other donations will be greatly appreciated, however the family has not yet found a temporary home, so space is very limited. Specifically, the family is asking for monetary donations to help cover the cost of the vet bill, and donations for their kids.
"Hi Joe,
I just wanted to personally thank you for everything you are doing to help my family. We have suffered such tragedy, especially losing our four pets. It is sooooo heartbreaking I don't know if I will ever recover. I am sad for my children who lost their sense of safety and security along with their toys and things. My daughter broke my heart, she said "Mommy, will we be able to get more clothes and toys?" Our sheltie, Scooter, survived and what a blessing! We picked him up yesterday. Linda Lugo donated 500 dollars towards his bills and also said when we get moved back in someday, we can come to the humane society and pick out 3 kitties for free. That made my kids smile!! Will you please send a huge thank you to her for us on your website? Our insurance does not cover pets, sadly. Well I just wanted to say thank you for anything and everything you do for us and others, and for being a voice for our animals. Blessings, Tammy Cannon (Quantico fire)"
Dear Cannon Family,
One of the ONLY rewards to this Blog is knowing we can make a difference in cases like yours. Not to get long winded but I have been extremely fortunate in life and when I chose to retire, I wanted a way to give back and I found that path through Salisbury News. Many people do not realize the sacrifice my Family puts up with but they know why I do it. The fact that we reach an audience in the tens of thousands per day means that we can reach out to the good people of the Eastern Shore and together we can all make a difference. Every time I consider calling it quits, someone like Brooke Mulford comes along or the Red Kettle Campaign with the Salvation Army, Tracy Gibb and so many others like yourself. We're proud to be a part of every ones lives on a daily basis making a positive difference, even for the animals that have no voice. So it is our pleasure to serve you and so many others as we should all never forget where we came from and or the surprises life can bring us along the way.
RICK WARREN INTERVIEW
In the interview by Paul Bradshaw with Rick Warren, Rick said: People ask me, What is the purpose of life?
And I respond: In a nutshell, life is preparation for eternity. We were not made to last forever, and God wants us to be with Him in Heaven.
One day my heart is going to stop, and that will be the end of my body-- but not the end of me.
I may live 60 to 100 years on earth, but I am going to spend trillions of years in eternity. This is the warm-up act - the dress rehearsal. God wants us to practice on earth what we will do forever in eternity...
We were made by God and for God, and until you figure that out, life isn't going to make sense.
Life is a series of problems: Either you are in one now, you're just coming out of one, or you're getting ready to go into another one.
The reason for this is that God is more interested in your character than your comfort; God is more interested in making your life holy than He is in making your life happy.
We can be reasonably happy here on earth, but that's not the goal of life. The goal is to grow in character, in Christ likeness.
This past year has been the greatest year of my life but also the toughest, with my wife, Kay, getting cancer.
I used to think that life was hills and valleys - you go through a dark time, then you go to the mountaintop, back and forth. I don't believe that anymore.
Rather than life being hills and valleys, I believe that it's kind of like two rails on a railroad track, and at all times you have something good and something bad in your life.
No matter how good things are in your life, there is always something bad that needs to be worked on.
And no matter how bad things are in your life, there is always something good you can thank God for.
You can focus on your purposes, or you can focus on your problems:
If you focus on your problems, you're going into self-centeredness, which is my problem, my issues, my pain.' But one of the easiest ways to get rid of pain is to get your focus off yourself and onto God and others.
We discovered quickly that in spite of the prayers of hundreds of thousands of people, God was not going to heal Kay or make it easy for her- It has been very difficult for her, and yet God has strengthened her character, given her a ministry of helping other people, given her a testimony, drawn her closer to Him and to people.
You have to learn to deal with both the good and the bad of life.
Actually, sometimes learning to deal with the good is harder. For instance, this past year, all of a sudden, when the book sold 15 million copies, it made me instantly very wealthy.
It also brought a lot of notoriety that I had never had to deal with before. I don't think God gives you money or notoriety for your own ego or for you to live a life of ease.
So I began to ask God what He wanted me to do with this money, notoriety and influence. He gave me two different passages that helped me decide what to do, II Corinthians 9 and Psalm 72.
First, in spite of all the money coming in, we would not change our lifestyle one bit.. We made no major purchases.
Second, about midway through last year, I stopped taking a salary from the church.
Third, we set up foundations to fund an initiative we call The Peace Plan to plant churches, equip leaders, assist the poor, care for the sick, and educate the next generation.
Fourth, I added up all that the church had paid me in the 24 years since I started the church, and I gave it all back. It was liberating to be able to serve God for free.
We need to ask ourselves: Am I going to live for possessions? Popularity?
Am I going to be driven by pressures? Guilt? Bitterness? Materialism? Or am I going to be driven by God's purposes (for my life)?
When I get up in the morning, I sit on the side of my bed and say, God, if I don't get anything else done today, I want to know You more and love
You
better. God didn't put me on earth just to fulfill a to-do list. He's more interested in what I am than what I do.
That's why we're called human beings, not human doings.
And I respond: In a nutshell, life is preparation for eternity. We were not made to last forever, and God wants us to be with Him in Heaven.
One day my heart is going to stop, and that will be the end of my body-- but not the end of me.
I may live 60 to 100 years on earth, but I am going to spend trillions of years in eternity. This is the warm-up act - the dress rehearsal. God wants us to practice on earth what we will do forever in eternity...
We were made by God and for God, and until you figure that out, life isn't going to make sense.
Life is a series of problems: Either you are in one now, you're just coming out of one, or you're getting ready to go into another one.
The reason for this is that God is more interested in your character than your comfort; God is more interested in making your life holy than He is in making your life happy.
We can be reasonably happy here on earth, but that's not the goal of life. The goal is to grow in character, in Christ likeness.
This past year has been the greatest year of my life but also the toughest, with my wife, Kay, getting cancer.
I used to think that life was hills and valleys - you go through a dark time, then you go to the mountaintop, back and forth. I don't believe that anymore.
Rather than life being hills and valleys, I believe that it's kind of like two rails on a railroad track, and at all times you have something good and something bad in your life.
No matter how good things are in your life, there is always something bad that needs to be worked on.
And no matter how bad things are in your life, there is always something good you can thank God for.
You can focus on your purposes, or you can focus on your problems:
If you focus on your problems, you're going into self-centeredness, which is my problem, my issues, my pain.' But one of the easiest ways to get rid of pain is to get your focus off yourself and onto God and others.
We discovered quickly that in spite of the prayers of hundreds of thousands of people, God was not going to heal Kay or make it easy for her- It has been very difficult for her, and yet God has strengthened her character, given her a ministry of helping other people, given her a testimony, drawn her closer to Him and to people.
You have to learn to deal with both the good and the bad of life.
Actually, sometimes learning to deal with the good is harder. For instance, this past year, all of a sudden, when the book sold 15 million copies, it made me instantly very wealthy.
It also brought a lot of notoriety that I had never had to deal with before. I don't think God gives you money or notoriety for your own ego or for you to live a life of ease.
So I began to ask God what He wanted me to do with this money, notoriety and influence. He gave me two different passages that helped me decide what to do, II Corinthians 9 and Psalm 72.
First, in spite of all the money coming in, we would not change our lifestyle one bit.. We made no major purchases.
Second, about midway through last year, I stopped taking a salary from the church.
Third, we set up foundations to fund an initiative we call The Peace Plan to plant churches, equip leaders, assist the poor, care for the sick, and educate the next generation.
Fourth, I added up all that the church had paid me in the 24 years since I started the church, and I gave it all back. It was liberating to be able to serve God for free.
We need to ask ourselves: Am I going to live for possessions? Popularity?
Am I going to be driven by pressures? Guilt? Bitterness? Materialism? Or am I going to be driven by God's purposes (for my life)?
When I get up in the morning, I sit on the side of my bed and say, God, if I don't get anything else done today, I want to know You more and love
You
better. God didn't put me on earth just to fulfill a to-do list. He's more interested in what I am than what I do.
That's why we're called human beings, not human doings.
Quiz For People Who "Think" They Know Everything
This is a quiz for people who "think" they know everything! I found out in a hurry that I didn't. These are not trick questions. They are straight questions with straight answers.
1. Name the one sport in which neither the spectators nor the participants know the score or the leader until the contest ends.
2. What famous North American landmark is constantly moving backward?
3. Of all vegetables, only two can live to produce on their own for several growing seasons. All other vegetables must be replanted every year. What are the only two perennial vegetables?
4. What fruit has its seeds on the outside?
5. In many liquor stores, you can buy pear brandy, with a real pear inside the bottle. The pear is whole and ripe, and the bottle is genuine; it hasn't been cut in any way. How did the pear get inside the bottle?
6. Only three words in standard English begin with the letters "dw," and they are all common words. Name two of them.
7. There are 14 punctuation marks in English grammar. Can you name at least half of them?
8. Name the only vegetable or fruit that is never sold frozen, canned, processed, cooked, or in any other form except fresh.
9. Name 6 or more things that you can wear on your feet beginning with the letter "S."
Answers To Quiz:
1. The one sport in which neither the spectators nor the participants know the score or the leader until the contest ends: Boxing.
2. The North American landmark constantly moving backward: Niagara Falls. (The rim is worn down about two and a half feet each year because of the millions of gallons of water that rush over it every minute.)
3. The only two vegetables that can live to produce on their own for several growing seasons: Asparagus and Rhubarb.
4. The fruit with its seeds on the outside: Strawberry.
5. How did the pear get inside the brandy bottle? It grew inside the bottle.. The bottles are placed over pear buds when they are small, and are wired in place on the tree. The bottle is left in place for the entire growing season. When the pears are ripe, they are snipped off at the stems.
6. The three English words beginning with the letters dw: Dwarf, dwell, and dwindle.
7. The fourteen punctuation marks in English grammar: Period, comma, colon, semicolon, dash, hyphen, apostrophe, question mark, exclamation point, quotation mark, brackets, parenthesis, braces, and ellipses.
8. The only vegetable or fruit never sold frozen, canned, processed, cooked, or in any other form but fresh is: Lettuce.
9. Six or more things you can wear on your feet beginning with the letter "S": Shoes, Socks, Sandals, Sneakers, Slippers, Skis, Skates, Snowshoes, Stockings, and Stilts.
1. Name the one sport in which neither the spectators nor the participants know the score or the leader until the contest ends.
2. What famous North American landmark is constantly moving backward?
3. Of all vegetables, only two can live to produce on their own for several growing seasons. All other vegetables must be replanted every year. What are the only two perennial vegetables?
4. What fruit has its seeds on the outside?
5. In many liquor stores, you can buy pear brandy, with a real pear inside the bottle. The pear is whole and ripe, and the bottle is genuine; it hasn't been cut in any way. How did the pear get inside the bottle?
6. Only three words in standard English begin with the letters "dw," and they are all common words. Name two of them.
7. There are 14 punctuation marks in English grammar. Can you name at least half of them?
8. Name the only vegetable or fruit that is never sold frozen, canned, processed, cooked, or in any other form except fresh.
9. Name 6 or more things that you can wear on your feet beginning with the letter "S."
Answers To Quiz:
1. The one sport in which neither the spectators nor the participants know the score or the leader until the contest ends: Boxing.
2. The North American landmark constantly moving backward: Niagara Falls. (The rim is worn down about two and a half feet each year because of the millions of gallons of water that rush over it every minute.)
3. The only two vegetables that can live to produce on their own for several growing seasons: Asparagus and Rhubarb.
4. The fruit with its seeds on the outside: Strawberry.
5. How did the pear get inside the brandy bottle? It grew inside the bottle.. The bottles are placed over pear buds when they are small, and are wired in place on the tree. The bottle is left in place for the entire growing season. When the pears are ripe, they are snipped off at the stems.
6. The three English words beginning with the letters dw: Dwarf, dwell, and dwindle.
7. The fourteen punctuation marks in English grammar: Period, comma, colon, semicolon, dash, hyphen, apostrophe, question mark, exclamation point, quotation mark, brackets, parenthesis, braces, and ellipses.
8. The only vegetable or fruit never sold frozen, canned, processed, cooked, or in any other form but fresh is: Lettuce.
9. Six or more things you can wear on your feet beginning with the letter "S": Shoes, Socks, Sandals, Sneakers, Slippers, Skis, Skates, Snowshoes, Stockings, and Stilts.
Clinton Says 'No' To White House ... Maybe
WASHINGTON (July 26) - There is apparently no such thing as a simple yes or no when it comes to Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and questions about another run for the White House.
Clinton, 61, seemed to go further Sunday than she had previously in shutting the door to another presidential campaign, following her defeat for the Democratic nomination last year by President Barack Obama.
GO HERE to read more.
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