Dems Deny ‘Secret Plan’ For Lame Duck Session

The head of House Democrats’ campaign committee tried Tuesday to tamp down speculation that the party would try to push through major legislation during a lame-duck session of Congress this fall.

Rep. Chris Van Hollen (Md.), the assistant to the Speaker and chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), said “no one should think there’s some secret plan for after the election on big issues.”

“There’s no secret or overt plan to do something like that,” he told MSNBC.

But Democrats will face a lot of unfinished business when they return to Washington after November’s elections — likely with a smaller majority or even possibly having been relegated to the minority for the 112th Congress. They have yet to tackle immigration reform, climate change and so-called card-check legislation on union organizing, a bill that’s strongly opposed by Republicans.

Another major issue: the George W. Bush-era tax cuts set to expire at year’s end. Because of the political difficulty of tackling tax rates, it seems likely the issue will be taken up only after voters have weighed in at the ballot box.

GOP leaders and conservative activists have increasingly warned that Democrats, who seem likely to lose seats in both the House and Senate, could use the year-end session to ram through big-ticket legislative items that probably wouldn’t pass once the new Congress is seated in January.

Led by House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio), Republicans on Tuesday called on voters to pressure rank-and-file Democrats to swear off doing just that.

Boehner asked Democratic members’ constituents to use town hall meetings and other opportunities during the August recess to confront them on their post-election legislative plans.

“We should all be calling on the Democrats to pledge that they won’t do this,” the minority leader said at his weekly press availability.

More here

United Republicans Block Campaign Disclosure Bill

In a blow to President Barack Obama and his fellow Democrats, Republicans blocked a bill on Tuesday to require an unprecedented level of public disclosure of who pays for political campaign advertising.

On a Senate vote of 57-41, Democrats fell short of the needed 60 to clear a procedural hurdle Republicans set up against The Disclose Act, likely killing the measure for the year.

"This bill represents another attempt by my colleagues to rush through legislation that restricts freedom and creates more federal regulation," said Senator John Cornyn, who heads Republican efforts to pickup seats in the Democratic-led chamber in the November election.

Rejection of the measure comes a week after a potentially fatal setback to Obama's push to curb greenhouse gas emissions. Short on votes, Senate Democrats indefinitely postponed their bid to pass broad legislation to combat climate change.

With Obama's support, Democrats crafted the campaign finance bill in response to a Supreme Court decision in January that overturned federal and state limits on independent expenditures by corporations to support or oppose candidates.

More >>

Senator Kerry Snaps Over Yacht Tax Scandal

Sen. John Kerry on Monday snapped at reporters and tried to dodge questions about his new $7 million, 76-foot yacht.

On Friday, the Boston Herald reported that the Massachusetts Democrat had berthed his yacht Isabel in Rhode Island and suggested he was seeking to avoid paying about $437,000 in sales tax and an annual excise tax of around $70,000 that would be levied if he berthed the vessel in Massachusetts.

Rhode Island has no sales tax on yachts.

Following his first public appearance since the story broke, Kerry tried to dash off to his SUV but was intercepted by reporters who asked about the yacht controversy.

“Wait a minute. Let’s get this straight,” Kerry snapped. “I’ve said consistently we’ll pay our taxes. We’ve always paid our taxes. It’s not an issue, period!”

More to the story here >>

Former Surgeon General: Kagan's Alt Eration Of Statement ‘Unethical’ And ‘Disgraceful’

In an open letter delivered last week, former Surgeon General C. Everett Koop is urging senators to vote against Elena Kagan’s nomination to the Supreme Court, in light of her role in the alteration of a medical statement about partial-birth abortion from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

“I was deeply disturbed to learn the Elena Kagan, the nominee for Supreme Court scheduled for a Senate committee vote next week, manipulated the medical policy statement on partial-birth abortion of a major medical organization, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) in January 1997,” Koop wrote in his letter.

As CNSNews.com has reported, in 1996, when she was associate White House counsel in the Clinton White House, Kagan obtained a preliminary draft of ACOG’s “Statement on Intact Dilatation and Extraction.” (Intact Dilatation and Extraction, or “Intact D&X,” is a form of partial-birth abortion.)

She wrote in a December 14, 1996, memo that “it would be disaster” if the statement were released or leaked because it stated that “[A] select panel convened by ACOG could identify no circumstances under which [the partial-birth] procedure . . . would be the only option to save the life or preserve the health of the woman.”

As Kagan admitted recently in her testimony in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee, that language she “suggested” -- that was eventually added to ACOG’s final statement -- was written in her handwriting and found in her Clinton Library files. The added language stated: “An intact D&X, however, may be the best or most appropriate procedure in a particular circumstance to save the life or preserve the health of a woman.”

This added language that partial-birth abortion “may be the best or most appropriate procedure” was later specifically quoted in the Supreme Court case Stenberg v. Carhart Opinion of the Court that struck down Nebraska’s ban on partial-birth abortion.

More >>

H.R. 5741 Slave Bill Now In Committee

Slavery has a new name: “Mandatory Service”, introduced July 15th 2010 by Charles Rangle.

H.R. 5741 will give the president the authority “To require all persons in the United States between the ages of 18 and 42 to perform national service, either as a member of the uniformed services or in civilian service in furtherance of the national defense and homeland security, to authorize the induction of persons in the uniformed services during wartime to meet end-strength requirements of the uniformed services, and for other purposes.”

Barely a year after introducing H.R. 1444, which was supposed to form a “Congressional Commission on Civic Service to study methods of improving and promoting volunteerism and national service, and for other purposes”, Congress has upped the ante. Anyone between 18 and 42 will be eligible for a two year commitment of civilian or military service. With more college graduates working for the fast food industry, a depression era unemployment rate and less people retiring; the government will have plenty of eligible able bodies to move into the slave ranks.

GO HERE to read more.

Jeb On 2012 Run: Thanks, But No Thanks

Bush brother says he's 'not running for president.'

D.C. flacks like to complain that sometimes a juicy Washington narrative can take on a life of its own based on nothing but rumors. It was certainly the case last week when, seemingly out of nowhere, Jeb Bush was widely floated as a candidate in the race for the 2012 GOP nomination.

ABC News picked up on the fact that Bush’s personal Web site, Jeb.org, was empty, which could mean only that he was preparing to fill it with a presidential platform. Other strategists suggested that with the former Florida governor’s low profile, moderate stances, and fluent Spanish, he could be a competitive candidate against Obama in two years.

Except for one tiny problem: he says he's not interested.

It’s possible he enjoyed the attention and speculation for a week, but earlier today, when asked by a local news anchor in Louisville, Ky., Bush laid it out flat: “I’m not running for president.”

GO HERE to read more.

Is $41,000 Too Much For A Chevy Volt?

After months of speculation about what price General Motors would slap on its first electric vehicle, the Chevy Volt, we finally have an answer, and it's an expensive one. The Chevy -- oops, we mean Chevrolet -- vehicle will debut with a price tag of $41,000.

More »

Nature Photos - Safari Edition!

Hi Joe.

I know that you like to post nature photos for your readers. I've been uploading photos from the safari that my mission team participated in while we were in Kenya. You're more than welcome to post any of them if you would like. http://www.flickr.com/photos/trza-and-jojo/4833570457/

All that I'd like in return is a link to my wife's ministry web site. I'd like to help spread the word about her youth mission trips, and the inbound links mean a lot to search engines. "

In July 2010, several Delmarva churches sponsored a youth mission trip to Kenya. Visit the Eastern Shore Global Missions website to see how our community became a part of God's story of Africa."

Flickr makes it easy to post - under the "Share This" button you can grab the HTML code for the pic you want.

Come learn about the Salisbury Jaycees, the best civic organization for young people.

Visit http://www.salisburyjc.com

STATE POLICE HELICOPTER HOIST RESCUES INJURED CLIMBER

Michaux State Forest, Cooke Township, Cumberland County, PA --

A Maryland State Police helicopter based in Frederick successfully performed a night hoist rescue from the side of a mountain, after an 18 year old female climber fell 15 feet and suffered traumatic injuries.

Shortly after 9:00 p.m. on July 26, 2010, an 18-year-old woman from Carlisle, PA was rock climbing with friends when she fell backward 15 feet off a rock, struck her head and lost consciousness. Due to the remote location of the victim, it took over an hour for Cumberland County EMS to reach the victim. The victim had head and chest injuries and as initial responders assessed the situation, it became apparent that a lengthy technical rescue would be required.

Officials from Cumberland County Fire Rescue requested assistance from the Maryland State Police Aviation Command for the hoist rescue. At 11:10 pm, SYSCOM, the communications center for the Maryland State Police Aviation Command, received the request for aerial rescue services.

Maryland State Police Helicopter Trooper 3, based in Frederick, was dispatched along with Frederick County Advanced Technical Rescue Team (ATR), which is standard operating procedure for aerial rescues. Maryland State Police helicopter Trooper 6, based in Easton, was also dispatched to support the mission. Trooper 6, flown by Pilot Jim Billings and Flight Paramedic Trooper First Class Adam LeCompte, landed at Frederick Municipal Airport and picked up additional ATR members Jamie Daily and Mike Smallwood, en-route to the Pennsylvania scene.

At 11:52 p.m., Trooper 3 was able to locate the victim in the remote forest area utilizing night vision goggles. The crew of Trooper 3, Pilot Craig Renier, and Flight Paramedic Trooper First Class Gregg Lantz, utilized the rescue hoist on the helicopter to deploy Frederick ATR team members Richard Lyons and Kurt Hornicek, who once at the scene prepared the victim to be hoisted. As Trooper 3 Pilot Renier held the aircraft steady, TFC Lantz operated the hoist.

By 12:15 a.m. today, the victim was extracted through a small hole in the canopy of trees and brought alongside the aircraft. Without landing, Trooper 3 moved the victim inside the helicopter, where TFC Lantz initiated patient care. The victim was ultimately transported to York Hospital, York, PA, for evaluation and is reported to be in stable condition.

This mission exemplifies continued successful coordination among the Maryland State Police Aviation Command, the all-volunteer, Frederick County Advanced Technical Rescue Team, and initial responding personnel. The successful completion of a combined rescue and medevac mission further illustrates the effectiveness and value of a multi-mission capable aircraft serving the citizens of Maryland on a daily basis; and, in this case, a citizen from a neighboring state.

CALVERT CO. MAN ARRESTED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

(Owings, MD) – Members of the Maryland State Police Computer Crimes Unit have arrested a Calvert County man in connection with the possession and distribution of child pornography.

The accused is identified as Paul C. Stanley, 20, of the 600-block of Sycamore Lane, Owings, Md. Stanley was charged today with four counts of distributing child pornography, one count of making a false statement to a police officer, and one count of obstructing and hindering. If convicted, Stanley could be sentenced up to 41 years in prison and/or $100,000 in fines.

Earlier this month, a trooper assigned to the Maryland Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force began the investigation after identifying a computer on the Internet that was offering pornographic videos of children for others to download. Troopers were able to trace the computer back to Stanley.

Early this morning, investigators executed a search warrant at Stanley’s Owings residence. The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office provided assistance during the search warrant and investigation.

Investigators made contact with Stanley at another residence and seized computers and other evidence. Stanley was arrested and is being held at the Calvert County Detention Center waiting to see a court commissioner for a bond hearing.

The Maryland Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force is comprised of police agencies from around the state. Its primary mission is to protect children from computer-facilitated sexual exploitation. The Task Force works cooperatively with law enforcement agencies and prosecutors to provide resources to combat these crimes. Additionally, the Task Force provides community awareness campaigns helping to prevent the spread of these crimes through education.

Two More Hours Of Posts

Salisbury News will continue to deliver two more hours of Posts every 5 minutes.

Microsurfacing: Paving The Road Ahead

A Cost Effective Approach To Pavement Management

Dover -- The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) informs motorists about the use of a new process known as microsurfacing, which is becoming a popular alternative to traditional hot-mix asphalt.

Microsurfacing is a thin, tough layer of asphalt emulsion containing aggregate (rocks), water and mineral fillers. It is used to seal cracks and prevent moisture from penetrating the road base. It is primarily used for preservation of the materials in existing hot-mix roadways, which is important as transportation officials look for cost-effective ways to stretch their pavement funding.

It is often most effective when the existing hot-mix surface is 5-7 years old and showing minimal signs of distress. Residents may wonder why a road is being rehabilitated when it appears to be in good condition, but this is the ideal time to do a preservation technique that will further extend the life of the underlying pavement and decrease the long-term maintenance cost of the roadway. If the roadway does exhibit signs of distress, patching and crack-sealing will be done prior to application of the microsurfacing materials.

Microsurfacing is being used on several roads throughout Delaware and provides a smoother road surface, a quieter ride and less loose material than traditional surface treatment (a.k.a tar and chip). When a road is first microsurfaced, it may present an initial rougher driver surface. This somewhat abrasive surface creates a more skid-resistant surface, thus increasing the safety of the road itself. However, as cars travel over the road, the stones and materials become compressed and smoother, ultimately resulting in a road surface that is nearly as smooth as traditional asphalt hot-mix overlay, but still course enough to prevent skidding.

"Motorists can equate microsurfacing to sealcoating a paved driveway. It's a form of maintenance that can be done periodically to preserve the original asphalt at a lower cost," says Jennifer Pinkerton, DelDOT's Pavement and Rehabilitation Program Manager.

The microsurfacing material is also being used to patch rutted roadways like those in the West Dover area. The material creates a smoother surface on the road without the complexities and cost of a full-scale pavement rehabilitation project. In addition, this material can be used during nighttime hours, and on roads with high traffic volumes. It can also be applied anytime during the year as it is not as temperature-sensitive. This lengthens the traditional summer paving season.

Brian Murphy, The Real Deal

THE REAL DEAL!

At last nights Republican club meeting - Brian Murphy - candidate for Maryland Governor - positively shell shocked the attending audience with his vision for Maryland's political landscape.

Now as I have never met this gentlemen until last nights meeting - I can tell you first hand that he gained the attention, appreciation, and admiration of the listening audience. For me - It wasn't the same old rhetoric that I had heard being preached so many times before. But it was refreshing to see his impressive and bold demonstration of articulating a new vision for Maryland. One that would reign in a new era for those of us who are looking for a demonstrable change in Maryland politics.

In my estimation - Brian Murphy - is the only realistic choice for Maryland taxpayers who are looking to be placed at the 'top' of the totem pole as opposed to the bottom. His vision includes a very limited and restrained role of Maryland government - unlike the run-a-way train that had been experienced in recent years under both - a Republican and Democratic - Governor.

You see what separates Brian Murphy from either Ehrlich and O'Malley is that the gentlemen has not allowed himself to become 'tainted' by special interest groups like the teachers unions, insurance lobbyist, utility industry, and other special interest concerns.

Virtually all Marylanders are keenly aware that while under, both, O'Malley - (Democrat) - and Ehrlich - (Republican), that the size of our state government has increased dramatically - even despite the deepening recession.

Bottom line - for both Democrats and Republicans - it would be refreshing to see this gentlemen attain the rank of the Governorship and allow him the opportunity to try and usher-in a new direction for Marylanders.

For those of you who have not yet met and seen this individual - I encourage you to attend his very next public campaign function. I can guarantee you that you won't be disappointed. What happened at the Wicomico County Republican Club meeting this past Monday night - was spectacular to say the least.

S.A.R.A.H’S House

Fernando Guerrero
Bobble Glove Giveaway
Friday, August 20, 2010, at 6:00 p.m.
Delmarva Shorebirds v. Hagerstown Suns
to benefit S.A.R.A.H’S House

**FIREWORKS**
Silent Auction
$$ FIFTY – FIFTY $$
**All fans in attendance will have the chance to meet Fernando as we will do a meet and greet on the second level concourse.**

Tickets MAY BE PURCHASED:
General Admission $6 By contacting the Life Crisis Center at 410-749-4357
Credit cards accepted only at LCC
Wicomico County State’s Attorney’s Office
If you are unable to join us on August 20, contributions may be made to:
Wicomico Child Advocacy Center, c/o Life Crisis, P.O. Box 387, Salisbury, MD 21803
Questions? Call Debbie Stanley, CAC Operations Manager, at 410-713-3459

Jim Rutledge Pasta Dinner Fund Raiser

Jim Rutledge
Candidate for the United States Senate
Pasta Dinner Fund Raiser

Lasagna, Baked Ziti, Antipasti Salad and More

Tuesday, August 3
6:00—8:00 p.m.
Ocean Pines Community Hall
239 Ocean Pkwy

$25 per person

Also an opportunity to be introduced to other local Republican Candidates!
http://www.rutledgeforussenate.com/
Paid for by Rutledge for US Senate Committee

2323

Reservations: Joan Gentile 410-641-6218

Cha-Cha Lesson

If you happen to be in OC on the 28th, stop by and see Bill at Jordans Rooftop. He will teach a Cha-Cha lesson from 5:30 - 6:30pm and open Swing dancing until 9pm.

Free GOOGLE Telephone Directory

I encourage you to watch the short video below about this service.

Here is something you will want to have and use ! I still remember when the telephone company charged me $0..00 now they charge $1.00 to $1.50 to get a phone number from information.

My compliments to Google!

Just leave it up to Google to come up with something like this!!!

Here's a number worth putting in your cell phone, or your home phone speed dial: 1-800-goog411. This is an awesome service from Google, and it's free -- great when you are driving on the road with no pen, pencil or paper handy.

Don't waste your money on information calls and don't waste your time manually dialing the number. I am driving along in my car and I need to call the golf course and I don't know the number. I hit the speed dial for information that I have programmed.

The voice at the other end says, "City & State." I say, " Garland , Texas ." He says, "Business, Name or Type of Service." I say, Firewheel Golf Course." He says, "Connecting" and Firewheel answers the phone. How great is that? This is nationwide and it is absolutely free!

Maryland Motorcycle Safety Program

Fast Track Motorcyle Licensing is available at the Salisbury MVA
Get Legal Get Licensed

If you do not have a class M license this is your opportunity to get on FAST
Join us during Delmarva Bike Week on Thursday, Friday and Saturday September 16th through 19th (1) at Salisbury MVA
The Motorcycle Safety Program will be holding a FAST-TRACK LICENSING EVENT (2) where we will assist you through the licensing process by:

Providing a Study Hall to help you prepare for the knowledge test
Administering the knowledge test
Providing coaching for the on-cycle skills test
Administering the on-cycle skills test (3)
Administering the eye test and
Issuing a new license with the Class M, or a leaner's permit (4)

IT IS CALLED FAST TRACK BECAUSE:
The learners permit requirement is waived
The 14 day waiting period is waived
You will be allowed One opportunity to retake a failed test on the same day and
You could leave with a Class M license or learner's permit

FAST TRACK IS AVIALABLE ONLY TO MARYLAND LICENSED DRIVERS OVER THE AGE OF 18

1-fast track licensing will be conducted during regular business hours Thursday and Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm Saturday 8:30am to 12pm
2-TESTING IS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY; CALL 800-638-1722 or 443-572-8236
or email to motorcyclesafety@mva.maryland.gov PUT FAST TRACK IN THE SUBJECT LINE in body o message include name and phone number. You will get a return email confirming your appointment
3-Applicants will be required to use their own street legal motorcycle and must wear DOT cerified helmet and approved eye protection. Applicants are expected to transport their own motorcycle to the MVA legally
4-Applicants must pay the licensing fee of $45 for the license or $30 for the learner's permit

Westside Community Meeting

Monday August 2, 2010 at 6:30 pm

Westside Volunteer Fire Department

Join Wicomico County Executive, Rick Pollitt and County Councilwoman, Stevie Prettyman, with Sheriff Mike Lewis and his staff to discuss community concerns regarding recent vandalism in the area.

Also present will be John Terrell and Chuck Poole from the Department of Recreation and Parks to address any concerns about the harbors.

All residents are invited to attend to discuss these and any other community concerns.

Issued for immediate release by authority of Matthew Creamer, Council Administrator
July 27, 2010

Today's Nature Photo By Scott Phoebus

Salisbury Police Department Press Releases

On July 22, 2010 at approximately 5:28 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Safe Streets Unit were on routine patrol in the area of East Church Street and stopped the below listed subject for investigative purposes. The subject gave the officers consent to search his person and the search resulted in the recovery of a baggie of suspected marijuana in his pants pocket.
ARRESTED: Taron Tyree Walker, 30 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Possession of marijuana
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000029125

On July 23, 2010 at approximately 11:30 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Safe Streets Unit were on routine patrol in the area of East Church Street and observed the below listed suspect trespassing on posted property. The suspect was attempting to hide from the officers. The officers made contact with the suspect and observed the suspect attempt to discard a smoking device. The device was recovered and was found to contain suspected "crack"/cocaine.
ARRESTED: Chandra Kay Simpson, 32 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Trespassing
Possession of cocaine
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia (2 counts)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000029345

On July 25, 2010 at approximately 1:53 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police arrested the below listed suspect on an outstanding arrest warrant charging the subject with forgery and theft. The warrant was obtained by a Salisbury officer following the investigation of fraudulent payroll checks that were cashed at a local business.
ARRESTED: Sabrina Tennille Belote, 33 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Forgery – Private Documents
Forgery – Possession
Issuing false documents
Theft (under $ 1000)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000029510

On July 25, 2010 and approximately 9:46 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the area of Prince Street for the report of the theft of food from a Dominos delivery person. Upon arrival the officers met with the victim who advised that he had responded to that location to deliver food and met with four (4) suspects. The suspect took the food without payment and fled from the area on foot. There were no weapons involved and the delivery person was not injured. Responding officers checked the area and located the below listed suspect. The victim positively identified the suspect as one of the four (4) suspects and the suspect was taken into custody. Theft charges are pending on the remaining three (3) suspects.
ARRESTED: Female Juvenile, 16 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Theft (under $ 100)
Conspiracy to commit theft
DISPOSITION: Released to parent
CC # 201000029487

On July 26, 2010 at approximately 10:14 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police were on routine patrol in the area of Naylor Street and conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle operated by the below listed suspect. A records check revealed that the suspect was driving on a suspended and revoked driving license. The suspect was arrested and was found to be in possession of a quantity of prescription medication without the proper packaging or prescription.
ARRESTED: Shamar Ralee Cropper, 19 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Possession of CDS
Possession of controlled medication without label
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia
Numerous traffic violations
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000029636

MSP Press Release

DATE & TIME: 07/27/2010 @ 1120 hours
LOCATION: West Rd @ Booth St, Salisbury, MD 21801
CASE NUMBER: 1054006764
Incident: CDS Violations
SUSPECT: Isaac E. Franklin B/M 22yoa Salisbury, MD

BRIEF RESUME: On 07/27/2010, at 1120 hours, a Trooper from the Salisbury Barrack conducted a traffic stop on the above suspect’s vehicle for speeding at the above location. During the encounter, the Trooper requested a drug sniffing K-9 scan of the vehicle based on criminal indicators. The K-9 handler indicated a positive alert for the odor of a Controlled Dangerous Substance. A search of the vehicle revealed a glass smoking device containing a greenish brown vegetable matter suspected Marijuana. Franklin was arrested and transported to WCDC for processing.

What Is The Wicomico County Republican Central Committee?

The Wicomico County Republican Central Committee consist of nine individuals who are elected in the Republican Primary every four years.

These people are the face of the Republican Party in Wicomico County. These are your neighbors. People that you can call on the phone, e-mail or see out in public and ask about the Republican Party in Wicomico County.

Having served on the central committee from 1990-1998, I have decided to be a candidate again.

The central committee is more than a monthy meeting where member's opinions are voiced and two state conventions each year. Members of the committee should be seen at local political events and wear a badge telling that they are committee members. Let people know who you are.

The Wicomico County Republican Central Committee should also have a two year and a four year plan. I personally would like to see a retreat shortly after the committee reorganizes in November. At this retreat, a comprehensive plan could be established where not only the direction of the committee is defined but each of the nine members has a role with specific goals. There are resources available at little or no expense from the Maryland state party headquarters.

The web site should be kept up-to-date with the names of committee members, Republican Club officers and an application blank, and names of Republican elected officials. Dates of up coming events should also be publized.

The Republican Party is alive and well in Wicomico County. We just need to spread the word and let everyone share the good news.

Ann Brittingham Suthowski

GOVERNOR O’MALLEY UNVEILS PLANS FOR FIRST PHASE OF STATE CENTER REDEVELOPMENT

Phase One of Redevelopment to create New Office and Retail near Transit Hub and Support 1,200 Construction Jobs and Attract Another 800 Permanent Jobs in the Heart of Baltimore City

BALTIMORE, MD – Joined by local officials, construction workers, community leaders and others, Governor Martin O’Malley announced plans for the first phase of the landmark State Center redevelopment project in the heart of Baltimore City. Pending Board of Public Works approval tomorrow, the State will lease 500,000 square feet of newly developed office space in the first of two new buildings to be built on the 28-acre site by a state-selected private development team. The five-phase, 15-year redevelopment is the culmination of six years of planning, and is expected to bring nearly 10,000 jobs during the construction phase and more than 5,400 permanent, private-sector jobs to the heart of Baltimore City when the project is complete, in addition to more than 4,800 indirect and induced jobs upon the project’s completion.

“This is the beginning of an ambitious public-private partnership that will transform a stagnant, government office complex into a vibrant, walkable, ‘green space’ that will link nine surrounding communities, revitalize a key part of Baltimore City, and bring thousands of private-sector jobs to the heart of Baltimore,” said Governor O’Malley. “The state commitment to lease office space opens the door for the development team to seek the private funding necessary to build the project, a project that will assist Maryland’s economic recovery by supporting jobs and attracting new business to the area with work beginning this fall.”

The entire State Center redevelopment, a five-phase, 15-year plan, will create 9,403 jobs during construction and 5,439 permanent, private-sector jobs when the project is complete. An additional 4,862 indirect and induced jobs will be added upon the project’s completion.

“The O’Malley-Brown administration has been focused like a laser on job creation in Baltimore and throughout Maryland,” Mayor Rawlings-Blake said. “The State Center redevelopment is a tremendous opportunity for Baltimore, providing more job opportunities and new investment. The City of Baltimore will continue to work in strong partnership with the State to move this exciting project forward.”

The State Center redevelopment transforms an out-dated, 28-acre concrete complex valued at $1.8 million into multi-million dollar retail, commercial and residential transportation oriented development where the State is projected to be $144 million in the black by year 20. This is made possible by the use of the public private partnership which includes a projected $28 million in parking revenue, $30 million in ground rents and shared profits, and $160 million in new state taxes over the first 20 years of the project.

Phase One of State Center Redevelopment

The $215 million Phase One development at State Center will include two new office buildings and a parking garage. In addition to the 500,000 square feet of office space, the two buildings combined will include 70,000 square feet of street-level retail space, including a grocery store that the has been a priority for the surrounding communities for years. In addition to the 1,200 jobs supported by construction of Phase One, the project, when complete, will attract another 800 permanent jobs to the State Center site.
Over the next 20 years the first phase of the State Center redevelopment will generate more than $200 million in state and city taxes and another $30 million in lease payments to the State of Maryland. Phase One will Support 1,200 construction jobs and attract 800 permanent, private-sector direct jobs.
Phase One will construction two office buildings and a parking garage where a parking lot currently sits, creating 500,000 square feet of office space and 70,000 square feet of retail space, including a grocery store.

“This milestone follows three years of intensive planning, research and community involvement,” said Caroline Moore, Chief Executive Officer of Ekistics, LLC and the managing member of the private development team. “We have worked hand-in-hand with citizens and both state and city government to develop a concept that meets the various needs of the community and we have done it in award-winning fashion.”

Currently, State Center is home to four state government office buildings and 3,500 state employees, the largest concentration of state employees in Maryland. However, the layout of the existing complex hinders the ability of residents to move between the nine surrounding communities. The redevelopment of State Center will create a more pedestrian friendly environment, consolidating 14 state agencies and more than 3,500 state employees, in addition to employees and customers of added retail and commercial space, in a complex sits at the intersection of six different public transportation systems.

In May 2010, the overall $1.5 billion State Center redevelopment project received a Charter Award from the Congress on New Urbanism as one of the seven best urban smart growth projects in the world. The 28-acre State Center site will be redeveloped in five phases over fifteen years converting the property from an underutilized government owned and operated office campus into a mix of privately owned and operated office, retail and mixed income residential units, forming a green, walkable community adjacent to Metro, Light Rail and MARC transit stations.

The State Center redevelopment project is a transit oriented development that reflects the goals of Governor O’Malley’s Smart, Green and Growing initiative. Introduced in October 2008, the Smart, Green & Growing initiative was created to strengthen the state’s leadership role in fostering smarter, more sustainable growth and inspire action among all Marylanders to achieve a more sustainable future. The initiative brings together state agencies, local governments, businesses and citizens to create more livable communities, improve transportation options, reduce the state’s carbon footprint, support resource based industry, invest in green technologies, preserve valuable resource lands and restore the health of the Chesapeake Bay.

State Center is the second major public-private partnership to move forward under Governor O’Malley in the past year. In November 2009, the State agreed to lease operation of Seagirt Marine terminal at the Port of Baltimore to Ports America Chesapeake. The State maintains ownership of Seagirt while day to day operations and capital investments are now the responsibility of Ports America Chesapeake. As part of the agreement, Ports America Chesapeake is now constructing a new 50-foot berth at Seagirt using private funds. The new berth is critical to the future success of the Port of Baltimore as an expansion of the Panama Canal will bring larger ships to the US East Coast when completed in 2014. In total, the Seagirt agreement will support 5,700 jobs.

Bob Ehrlich To Discuss His Commitment To The Chesapeake Bay’s Restoration

ANNAPOLIS -- Bob Ehrlich on Wednesday will discuss the importance of Maryland’s landmark Chesapeake Bay Restoration Act on the shores of the Back River in Essex, Maryland. Ehrlich authored the historic legislation, which the Chesapeake Bay Foundation called, “a huge victory for the Bay, the most significant environmental advance in Maryland in nearly 20 years.” Ehrlich will discuss the O’Malley Administration’s decision to drain the Bay Restoration Fund of $155 million that would have been used to reduce pollution flowing into the Bay from outdated wastewater treatment plants. The Back River is home to one of the largest wastewater treatment plants in the region, which is slated for sorely-needed upgrades thanks to the Bay Restoration Act. Bob Ehrlich will be joined by Back River advocates who have launched ambitious efforts to restore the river’s health.

WHEN: Wednesday, July 28th at 10:30am

WHERE: Brewers Landing Bar & Grill, 801 Woodrow Avenue, Essex

WHO: Bob Ehrlich
Mary Kane
Back River conservationists

State Police Probed Rehoboth Area Robbery

Location:
18993 Munchy Branch Rd Rehoboth, De

DATE and TIME:
Tuesday July 27, 2010, 1:56 a.m.

Victim(s):
21 year old woman Lewes, De

Suspect(s):
Brock A. Charles-26 Ashwood Dr Lewes, De

Active Warrant(s)
Robbery Second Degree (Troop 7)

Resume:
Delaware State Police early Tuesday July 27, 2010 investigated a robbery behind the Happy Harry’s located at 18993 Munchy Branch Rd Rehoboth, Delaware.

The robbery occurred around 1:56 a.m. when a 21 year old woman was riding her bike to her residence from work. The victim observed the suspect later determined to be Brock A. Charles-26 of Lewes back behind the Happy Harry’s on Munchy Branch Rd Rehoboth. The victim advised the suspect all of a sudden ran toward her and pushed her off her bike. Charles then grabbed a backpack from the victim’s possession and fled.

The victim pursued Charles and observed him get onto the motorcycle. The victim keeping her wits about her immediately obtained registration information for the motorcycle. The victim provided Delaware registration MC21337. The motorcycle is a gray 2005 Harley Davidson 20C.

State Police upon searching the registration information developed Brock A. Charles as the suspect. Charles was last seen wearing a white t-shirt no further clothing description.

State Troopers obtained an arrest warrant consisting of Robbery Second Degree charge currently on file at Delaware State Police Troop 7.

State Police is asking anyone who knows the whereabouts of Brock A. Charles to contact authorities. Callers may remain anonymous. Tips may also be forwarded to law enforcement through tip lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or on line at http://www.tipsubmit.com/.

Community Concerns - THE RESULTS ARE IN!

Below, please find the results as received from the Wicomico Neighborhood Congress Community Concerns Committee. Kudos goes out to Dot Truitt, John Bonas and Dexter Lunsford who head up the committee. The information and data that has been compiled is outstanding. Thank you also goes out to all WNC members who participated.

WNC Community Concerns Questionnaire Results

An analysis of the results of the 28 questionnaires we received was done. Most of the returns were from Salisbury, but some were from outside of the city: Hebron (1), Fruitland (2), Delmar (1), Riverton (1), and one each from Hunting Park and Nutter's Crossing that we assume are not within the Salisbury City limits.

The raw data was placed on an Excel spreadsheet and the means calculated for the responses to each question, along with the standard deviations. Some respondents didn't answer all of the questions, while a few gave answers to the "other" with explanation; most did not. We included all answers and non-answers in the analysis. (We have not included the explanations to the "other" in the analysis, but the raw data are available.)

We believe that our analysis of the means will offer a quick understanding of the results, which follows below: (Consider that the "3" response to a question is a mid-point response. Respondents who give greater than 3 feel somewhat strongly or strongly about a question; those who answer with less than 3, feel somewhat less than strongly or weakly about a question. The number "5" is the highest response level, while "1" is the lowest.)

Highest Means

Question
#3e: 4.18 -- Violent crime (dislike)
#4e: 4.04 -- Develop coalitions
#2a: 3.93 -- Rural character (like)
#4a: 3.82 -- Lobby politicians
#2b: 3.61 -- Access to recreation (like)
#4c: 3.57 -- Letters to government officials
#4d2: 3.57 -- Seek grants
#4d1: 3.39 -- Monitor criminal justice
#2c: 3.32 -- Friendly people (like)
#2e: 3.25 -- Educational opportunities (like)

Lowest Means

Question
#4b: 1.75 -- Mount demonstrations
#3g: 2.46 -- Government corruption (dislike)
#3b: 2.50 -- Water/sewer fees (dislike)
#2d: 2.54 -- Cultural attractions (like)
#3c: 2.64 -- Lack of cultural attractions (dislike)
#3f: 2.68 -- Lack of public transport (dislike)
#3a: 2.79 -- Taxes (dislike)
#2f: 2.96 -- Community spirit (like)
#3d: 2.96 -- Excess development (dislike)

Our conclusions:

1. We received 28 responses from a total WNC membership of more than 60. Clearly, many did not respond to the questionnaire. We ought to try for more responses.

2. Most of the respondents were from Salisbury or its immediate surrounding areas. This means that a lot of the issues affecting Salisbury also affect the "suburbs." Exceptions to this may come from the outlier locations such as Hebron and Riverton. Therefore, a majority of the responses may be similar reflecting City attitudes and concerns.

3. More should be done to attract membership from other parts of the county; the further from Salisbury, the better. This would enable the WNC to obtain a better cross-section of views from all reaches of Wicomico County.

Data Compiled by Dot Truitt and John Bonas

July 27, 2010

MAY MYSTIFIES SHOREBIRDS IN 9-0 LAKEWOOD WIN

BlueClaws Starter Trevor May Fans 14 Batters

Salisbury, Md. – Lakewood starter Trevor May tied a Lakewood franchise record with 14 strikeouts as the BlueClaws cruised to a 9-0 win in the series finale at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium on Tuesday night. The Shorebirds fall six games out of first place heading into an off day on Wednesday.

Trevor May (4-1) was the headline story. In seven innings, he fanned a career high 14 batters and kept the Shorebirds to just four hits. He fanned seven of the first ten Shorebirds batters and retired 11 in a row between the third and sixth innings.

Lakewood starting the scoring in the fourth inning. Leandro Castro singled and stole second. Later in the inning, Stephen Batts singled Castro home.

The ‘Claws plated three more runs in the fifth inning including another RBI single by Castro. In the sixth inning, Jeremy Barnes belted a solo homer over the left-center field wall to give the BlueClaws a 5-0 lead.

Shorebirds starter Kenny Moreland (6-4) was pinned with the loss in six innings. He allowed ten hits and five runs (three earned).

Lakewood plated four more in the seventh inning. The two big hits were a two-run triple by Batts and a double by Barnes.

Jesse Rasner and David Walters each tossed scoreless relief efforts. Rasner went 1.1 innings while Walters hurled a scoreless ninth inning.

Eight of the nine Lakewood position players record hits. Jonathan Singleton and Jeremy Barnes each notched three hits.

The Shorebirds return to the diamond on Thursday night from Applebee’s Park in Lexington, Kentucky. First pitch is set for 7:05 p.m.

“Salisbury Safe Streets Week” August 2-6, 2010

Mayor James Ireton, Jr. invites the public to participate in events celebrating “Salisbury Safe Streets Week” and “National Night Out: America’s Night Out Against Crime.”

Monday, August 2, 2010
2010 Safe Streets Neighborhood Legislative Package Announcement – 1:00 PM, City Hall
Safe Streets Week Prayer Service – 6:00 PM, Rev. Annette Wilson - Cathedral of Love, 419 E. Church Street, Salisbury

Tuesday, August 3, 2010
1. National Night Out, Salisbury City Park – 6:00 PM. Activities include Salisbury Fire Department truck tours, Neighborhood Services Department face painting & balloons, McGruff the Crime Dog, PRMC’s Wellness Mobile, Maryland Department of Juvenile Services, Red Cross, Wicomico County Health Department, Youth MOVE Maryland/Wicomico Chapter, Maryland Food Bank, St. James A.M.E. Zion Church, New Macedonia Baptist Church, United Church of the First Born, Salisbury Zoo, Center for Conflict Resolution. The City of Salisbury thanks the Centre at Salisbury for making National Night Out possible.

Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Princeton Avenue City Service Center Opening – 1:00 PM, 117 Princeton Avenue
NAACP Back to School Rally – 2:00 PM at Salisbury Middle School

Thursday, August 5, 2010
Safe Streets/Salisbury Neighborhood Housing Services – Stimulus/Community Development Block Grant Sidewalks/Principal Buy-Down Event. Location: Dover & Vaden Streets – 5:30 PM
Doverdale Playground Night – Wicomico County Recreation and Parks, Neighborhood Services & Code Compliance – Moon Bounce, face painting, children’s games – 6:00 PM

Friday, August 6, 2010
Law Enforcement Appreciation Night – Downtown Plaza Salisbury – 5:00 - 7:00 PM
The City of Salisbury and Urban Salisbury, Inc. invite you to come show your appreciation and meet people from many different Maryland law enforcement entities. Food provided by downtown restaurants and Perdue. Drinks by Pepsi. Plaza will be closed for Law Enforcement and their families to visit with citizens of Salisbury.

SHOREBIRDS GAME NOTES: 7/27 vs. Lakewood

PREVIEW: The Shorebirds gear up for the series finale after Lakewood swept the doubleheader last night. The ‘Claws won game one 4-3 and game two 5-0. The Shorebirds and BlueClaws have played 13 hours and 52 minutes included the 1 hour and 28-minute rain delay on Sunday over the last three days. The series has gone 44 innings including an 18-inning game one and a 10-inning game three.

BREAKDOWN OF OPPONENTS: The Shorebirds have 39 games remaining in 2010. Here is a breakdown of their remaining opponents. The ‘Birds will play: 6 games against Lakewood (20-11), four games vs. Hickory (18-13), nine games against Lexington (15-16), eight games against Hagerstown (11-20), four games against Augusta (16-15), four vs. Kannapolis (13-18) and four against West Virginia (13-18).

BAXTER & CAROLUS PITCH: The Shorebirds bullpen has worked 30.1 innings over the last four games (three days). T.J. Baxter was forced into action last night in the seventh inning. It was his first professional outing. He faced the minimum and rolled Sebastian Valle into a double play. Levi Carolus pitched for a second time in his career in game one of the series.

HITLESS: Ty Kelly is hitless in his last 21 at-bats. He has struck out nine times in his last 21 at-bats. His batting average has plummeted .274 to .257.

LANDRY DEALING: Kevin Landry has allowed just one run in his last 13.1 innings in on the hill (seven appearances). His ERA has dropped from 5.14 to 2.21 during the stretch.

Lynyrd Skynyrd Fan Arrested In Fraud Investigation

Location of Incident and Arrest:
(Incident) Lochwood Estates Lewes, De
(Arrest) Delaware State Fair Harrington, De

DATE and TIME:
Between June 9, 2010 and June 20, 2010

Victim(s):
27 year old woman Lewes, De

Defendant(s):
April S. Heiser-36, Arrowhead Rd Lewes, De

Charge(s) and Bond Information:
Identity Theft
Theft $1,500 or Greater
Unlawful Use of Credit Card
Released on $9,000 unsecured bond

Resume:
Yesterday Delaware State Police apprehended April S. Heiser at the Delaware State Fair grounds as she was entering the Lynyrd Skynyrd Concert.

Heiser was detained after she presented tickets that had been flagged as being purchased with a fraudulent credit card. Heiser between June 9, 2010 and June 20, 2010 opened a credit card account using the victim’s information and had the credit card mailed to her residence address in Lewes. Upon obtaining the credit card through the mail Heiser began a spending spree making purchases totaling approximately $2,328. The purchases were made at a number of food restaurants and apparel businesses.

State Police developed Heiser as the suspect with the help of the credit card issuer’s fraud investigator and Wal-Mart’s loss prevention manager.

Heiser was charged with the above listed offenses and released on $9,000 unsecured bond.

Preliminary Release Road Closure Tractor Trailer Crash

Location:
US 113 and Dagsboro Road (SR 20)

DATE and TIME:
Tuesday July 27, 2010 5:30 p.m.

Resume:

Delaware State Police are currently on scene of a traffic crash involving a tractor trailer. The crash is at US 113 northbound and Dagsboro Road Dagsboro, Delaware. The crash occurred around 5:30 p.m. and presently has the northbound lanes of US 113 closed. It is unknown the number of vehicles involved or the severity of injuries. A more detailed release will be prepared when additional details are made available.

Meet Candidate Brian Murphy

Don't Miss Our 6 PM Broadcast Tonight With Brian Murphy

Just How Do You Stimulate Gary Comegys Into Attending Meetings?

Just mention he's being voted in as MML President or even better, mention a new $900,000.00 Fire Boat and he's there.

That's right Folks. Gary Comegys attended last night's meeting as there was no way he was going to see the Fire Department not get their new toys. Mayor Ireton said, it comes from stimulus money, why shouldn't we take it. Well, you have to maintain such a vessel. Then you have to train your Staff to man it, run it and care for it, something the SFD has failed to do in the past. I can see the Mayor's point, (him being a democrat and all) but to think you and I aren't paying for it seems a bit ridiculous.

Anyhow, I'll stop here and let the comments fly.

Republican Club Enjoys Biggest Attendance Ever

It was announced, (by one member) last night that this was the biggest crowd he had ever seen so far.

Yes Folks, we are in full swing with multiple campaigns and the republicans are determined to take back quite a few seats. Heck, even Brian Murphy, (running for Governor) showed up.

In fact, don't miss our 6 PM Broadcast tonight as I interviewed Brian last evening and his camp was so excited about it, they asked if we could put it up right away.

Nevertheless, the atmosphere at the Wicomico Republican Club Meeting last night was truly exciting. I encourage others to participate in these meetings and get to know your candidates better.

Matt Is Back!

This guy should be named the Energizer Bunny! As Salisbury News had mentioned last week, don't count this guy out just yet. Matt announced yesterday afternoon he was back in the race for Wicomico States Attorney and he's back in it to win.

Family and close friends came to support Matt and Folks, we have a serious contender who means business. This will be "the race" to watch in Wicomico County.

Obama Warns Abbas: ‘Start Talks Or Else’

A secret 36-page memo based on Obama administration statements indicates that the president warned Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas to start direct talks with Israel or risk losing American support for the recognition of the PA as a country.

The Associated Press reported it has possession of the document, under the letterhead of the Palestinian Negotiations Department and which indicates the warning came from President Barack Obama via U.S. Middle East envoy George Mitchell.

It shows that the Obama administration has resigned itself to Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu remaining head of Israel's coalition government. “Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is not in political danger of being replaced,” the document states.

It adds that Abbas is under pressure from both the Arab world and within the PA, whereby his consent to direct talks with Israel would be “political suicide” for him. However, the document warns, “Abbas needs to accept direct talks now if he wants President Obama’s help in facilitating statehood.” The memo says that PA advisors are in favor of rejecting the American ultimatum.

Abbas told PA media on Sunday that he is resisting pressure from “the entire world” to concede his long-stated condition that Netanyahu extend the 10-month building freeze that expires in late September.

Senior Cabinet ministers as well as the Prime Minister have clearly stated they will not extend the freeze. Political support for the coalition is strong, with even the center-left Israeli media generally recognizing that the PA keeps adding on new condition for direct talks.

Abbas has in effect insisted on acceptance of a proposed PA state without negotiations on any substantial issues, such as the status of Jerusalem.

Prime Minister Netanyahu repeated on Monday his oft-stated declaration that he is ready meet Abbas immediately without pre-conditions. "We have an understanding with the Americans that we need to move now, without any delay, to direct negotiations, but in response, we have a clear Palestinian attempt to avoid this process," Netanyahu said. "They are trying to stall and to sneak away from direct negotiations and to cause the Arab League to shackle the talks."

More

Kagan Dupes U.S. Supreme Court On Partial-Birth Abortion, Denies Role

Dozens of pro-life organizations are asking Congress for a probe into testimony made by Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan, suggesting that she may have lied to senators during her confirmation hearings.

A letter created by Americans United for Life Action and signed by at least 30 state, national and legal organizations asks for "an investigation into discrepancies between Kagan's testimony before Congress and written documentation of her undue influence on medical organizations while advising President William J. Clinton on partial-birth abortion legislation."

The letter cites memos authored by Kagan and released by the Clinton presidential library prior to the confirmation hearings.

In advising President Clinton on his veto of a partial-birth abortion ban in 1997, Kagan issued a memo to Clinton citing a key American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists statement as "the most reliable opinion" on the medical necessity of partial-birth abortion. That same statement was relied upon by both thepresident and the Supreme Court in justifying opposition to the partial-birth abortion ban.

When asked during her confirmation hearings about any possible, undue influence over the content of the ACOG statement, Kagan testified that "there was no way in which I would have or could have intervened with ACOG … to get it to change its medical views on the question."

Far from not "intervening," however, the released memos and other evidence show Kagan directly rewrote a critical portion of the ACOG statement to contradict the organization's expert panel and shape the ACOG findings – and ultimately, the U.S. Supreme Court's rulings – to match the president's pro-abortion politics.

In a June 22, 1996, memo, Kagan admitted that her meeting with the ACOG was "something of a revelation," for she learned that "in the vast majority of cases, selection of the partial-birth procedure is not necessary to avert serious adverse consequences to a woman's health."

In a Dec. 14 memo of that year, Kagan summarized the official ACOG report released in October as a "disaster," for it stated that "a select panel convened by ACOG could identify no circumstances under which this procedure would be the only option to save the life or preserve the health of the woman," a resounding blow to the president's position.

Read more here

GOP Leadership Will Hold Fire On Rangel

House Republican leaders intend to keep their powder dry as the public ethics trial of embattled Rep. Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.) unfolds.

Throughout the 111th Congress, House GOP lawmakers have offered measures targeting Rangel. But don’t expect one this week.

Republicans are employing a don’t-get-in-the-way-of-your-enemies-when-they-are-destroying-themselves strategy, the same game plan Democrats employed as Republicans grappled with ethics scandals in 2006.

According to several leadership sources, top-ranking Republicans hope that the former Ways and Means Committee chairman fights charges of ethical wrongdoing.

“We want him fighting this tooth and nail. The more defiant he is, the better it is for us,” a GOP leadership aide told The Hill on Monday.

Another Republican leadership aide noted that Republicans can only sit back and watch as the “spectacle” unfolds on Thursday, when the ethics committee will detail its charges against Rangel.

House GOP conference Chairman Mike Pence (Ind.) on Monday discouraged his colleagues from introducing resolutions on the floor while the ethics committee works its will.

“I was heartened to see the ethics committee move forward with this investigation. Now that the ethics committee has assumed its responsibility, it is important that we tone down the politics and let the ethics committee do its job,” Pence told reporters Monday.

Read more

Tancredo Leaving GOP To Run For Colorado Governor

Former GOP congressman Tom Tancredo plans to switch parties and run for Colorado governor on the American Constitution Party ticket, his spokesman said Monday.

Jennifer Raiffie, his communications director, said Tancredo planned to issue a statement later in the day, and that a number of legal details remain to be worked out.

Tancredo will register his new party affiliation with the Colorado secretary of state, and the American Constitution Party will form a vacancy committee to put him on the ballot.

He has said that he believes Republican candidates Scott McInnis and Dan Maes have no chance of beating Democrat John Hickenlooper in November. He gave Maes and McInnis a Monday noon deadline to agree to step down if they are trailing in the polls after the Aug. 10 primary, and both men refused.

"It's high noon, and I'm still here," said Maes.

McInnis said he's waiting for the voters to decide.

"Those looking for a deadline should focus on the only real deadline: August 10 at 7 p.m. This is when the polls close, the people have voted and their votes are counted. That's the way the system works in a free society," McInnis said.

Before announcing his decision, Tancredo got into a testy exchange with Colorado Republican Party chairman Dick Wadhams, accusing Wadhams of disparaging his party's GOP primary candidates in private and discussing ways to get Tancredo on the ballot.

More

58 Percent Of Americans Want Obamacare Repealed

Most voters continue to favor repeal of the national healthcare bill, but nearly half see repeal as unlikely. A plurality believes repeal would be good for the economy.

The latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that 58 percent of voters favor repeal, including 48 percent who strongly favor it. Thirty-seven percent are opposed to repeal, with 28 percent who are strongly opposed.

Support for repeal is up two points from a week ago but is consistent with findings recorded over the past several months. Weekly tracking surveys have found support for repeal has ranged from 52 percent to 63 percent.

Forty-four percent believe repeal of the healthcare bill would be good for the economy. Twenty-eight percent say repeal would hurt the economy. These views have not changed since earlier this month.

Read more here

V.A. Okays Medical Marijuana For Veterans In 14 States & D.C.

Even though more than a dozen states and Washingon, D.C., continue to square off with the federal government regarding the legality of medical marijuana, the folks at the Veterans Affairs Dept. has decided not to penalize veterans who use the drug in states where its permitted for medicinal use.

More »

College Student Goes To Cancun For A Week, Comes Back To $11,667 Sprint Bill

Stacey says while she was on vacation with her family in Cancun for a week recently, she checked her Facebook page from her Evo phone "maybe 5 minutes a day," but never uploaded or sent any photos, "only a handful of texts." Sprint says she managed to burn through either 600 MB or 4.7 GB of data during that period, and now owes them $11,667.73. (Note: Stacey doesn' t specify whether the 4,918,228 kb of data is in kilobits or kilobytes, so I don't know which number is accurate.)

More »

BP Loses $17 Billion, CEO Gets Life Back

As was reported over the weekened, BP CEO Tony Hayward, famous for complaining about how the Gulf of Mexico oil spill had eaten into his private time, is officially being pushed to the side. The news comes on the same day the petroleum giant posted a record $17 billion quarterly loss.

More »

HELP WANTED: Service Advisor/Writer

Partners Auto Sales of Frankford, DE is now hiring for Service Advisor/Writer effective immediately. Must have previous experience within this field. Competitive wages offered ++.

Fax resume with references to 302-732-1160, attn. Jack Harris.

Poker Run For Lee Lee Jones

Time July 31 · 11:30am - 4:00pm

Location Station 7 Restaurant
7456 Gumboro Rd
Pittsville, MD

Created By Station Seven

More Info On Friday, June 4, 2010, Lee Lee graduated from Delmar High School with a promising future. Just a few short days later a serious car crash left her fighting for her life. On Saturday July 31, 2010, friends of Lee Lee are holding a poker run (bikes & cars) to raise money for her hospital bills and future surgeries she is going to need to heal.

The event will begin at Station 7 in Pittsville, MD
Registration: 11:30am-1pm,

GO HERE to read more.

Healthcare

Rising health care costs are expected to erase Maryland’s savings from health care reform; many will still be uninsured

Federal health care reform signed by President Obama this year is expected to save Maryland $829 million in 10 years, but those savings are expected to be wiped out by rising costs.

“I won’t sugarcoat it,” said Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown Monday in releasing a report on the impact of the health care changes. In a decade, “health expenditures in Maryland will exceed the $829 million in savings.”

The health care overhaul passed by Congress is also intended to reduce the ranks of the uninsured. Yet despite cutting the number of uninsured citizens in half, from 14% of Marylanders now to 7% in 2017, there will still be 415,000 uninsured Marylanders in seven years.

GO HERE to read more.

Attempted Restaurant Fraud

Hey Joe

I am The Owner Of Chef Fred's

And I just got a call from a lady who said her name was Patsy Turner and she claimed she was here for dinner last night a party of six and said everyone was upset because their food was not cooked right.

The First time She called she talked to my wife and said she had a bacon cheese burger and some had the buffet they arrived about 6:00 paid w/ cash and wanted to come in tonight and eat for free because of their unhappiness. my wife said she would have to check into it.

When She Called Back I talked to her she said she did not tell the other lady some had the buffet and the kids burger was pink and not well done ,and she had the grilled cheese. prior to and after this I checked my POS transaction log detail and we did not sell any bacon cheese burgers at all or grilled cheese sand. which would be a kids grilled cheese! not to mention we don't even have a buffet on Sundays the only party of six we had, came in @ 2:00 and they all had steamed crabs when I told her we had no record of her order on my pos system She hung up.

Beware !!!

PS. A lot of people try to scam restaurants all the time

Chef Fred

The # She called from was 443-859-8053

I Am America

Man Cited After Cement Truck Overturns

Location: Old Baltimore Pike at Walther Road, Newark, DE
Date of Occurrence: Monday July 26, 2010 at 2:15 p.m.
Operator/Vehicle: Wesley Gamble, 63, Townsend, DE
2005 Mack Cement Mixer

Resume: State Police are investigating a crash that closed the eastbound lanes of Old Baltimore Pike in Newark this afternoon.

The incident occurred at approximately 2:15 p.m. this afternoon as Wesley Gamble of Townsend, DE was operating a 2005 Mack cement truck on northbound Walther Road. Gamble attempted to turn onto eastbound Old Baltimore Pike but lost control of the truck and overturned in the eastbound lane. Gamble, who was trapped in the vehicle for a short time, was transported by EMS to the Christiana Hospital where he was treated for minor injuries. The investigation into the crash in continuing and charges are pending. The eastbound lane of Old Baltimore Pike was closed for approximately 3 hours as the roadway was cleared.

Released Monday July 26, 2010 at 1820 hrs.

LAKEWOOD SWEEPS DOUBLEHEADER FROM DELMARVA

Shorebirds Fall Five Games Out of First

Salisbury, Md. – The Lakewood BlueClaws used solid pitching to sweep the Delmarva Shorebirds in a doubleheader on Monday night at Perdue Stadium. The ‘Claws won game one 4-3 and took game two of the doubleheader 5-0. The Shorebirds drop into fourth place in the division, five games back of Lakewood. The two teams have played 44-innings over the last three days.

In game one, Lakewood jumped on Shorebirds starter Brent Allar for three runs in the fourth inning. Michael Dabbs drew a leadoff walk. Stephen Batts then singled. The runners moved up 90-feet on a sacrifice bunt by Jeremy Barnes. Anthony Hewitt followed with a tapper up the middle to plate the first run. Then, with two outs, Jiwan James ripped a triple to right-center field to plate Batts and Hewitt.

The Shorebirds got one back in the bottom of the fourth and tied the game with two in the seventh inning. Down 3-1 in the seventh, Garabez Rosa scored on a throwing error by Jonathan Singleton. Brian Conley scored on a ground out by Kieron Pope to tie the game.

After no runs came in during the first two extra-innings, Sebastian Valle hit a solo homer in the top of the tenth inning to give Lakewood a 4-3 lead.

Luke Wertz (4-1) picked up the win by throwing two scoreless innings. James Brandhorst (1-6) was pinned with the loss.

Cole McCurry was sent to Delmarva on loan from Frederick to pitch game two of the doubleheader. He lasted only 1.2 innings and allowed two hits and two earned runs. McCurry walked three and struck out four.

The Shorebirds were held to just five hits in game two. Lakewood right-hander Julio Rodriguez was sharp in six shutout innings. He allowed four hits and no runs. He also fanned ten batters and walked one to earn his third win of the season.

The Shorebirds and BlueClaws play the series finale on Tuesday night at 7:05 p.m.

SHOREBIRDS GAME NOTES: 7/26 vs. Lakewood

PREVIEW: After a 1 hour and 28-minute rain delay, the Shorebirds defeated the BlueClaws 3-1 to level the series heading into game three. The ‘Birds jumped over Greensboro for third place in the Northern Division (three games out of first). Including the delay last night, the weekend games lasted a combined eight hours and 51 minutes.

BREAKDOWN OF OPPONENTS: The Shorebirds have 41 games remaining in 2010. Here is a breakdown of their remaining opponents. The ‘Birds will play: 8 games against Lakewood (18-11), four games vs. Hickory (17-13), nine games against Lexington (15-15), eight games against Hagerstown (10-19), four games against Augusta (16-14), four vs. Kannapolis (13-17) and four against West Virginia (13-17).

CONLEY GOES YARD AGAIN: Brian Conley connected on his third home run in four games last night. The Gaithersburg, Md. native now leads the Shorebirds with six homers on the season. In 102 minor league games entering 2010, Conley hit just four home runs.

BACK-TO-BACK: Mikey Planeta has recorded multi-hit games in both games of the Lakewood series. He has nine hits in the last six games. His batting average has jumped from .237 to .248.

NICE DEBUT: Mike Flacco went 3-for-3 with an RBI in his debut last night.

STEALS LEADER: T.J. Baxter is tied with Kyle Hudson (Frederick) for the most stolen bases in the Orioles farm system. They each have 26 stolen bases. Baxter is 11th in the league in stolen bases.

ON PACE FOR RECORD: Brian Conley has walked 68 times this season, second in the SAL. He is slightly behind pace to break the Shorebirds single-season record for walks of 97, set in 1997 by Tim DeCines. Conley already ranks tied for eighth in a single-season with Danny Figueroa (2007). He is three walks from tying Tim Raines (1999) and Matt Angle (2008) for sixth all-time.

4TH IN SINGLE-SEASON: With more than a month to play, Steve Bumbry’s nine triples rank fourth all-time in a single-season. He is one triple from tying Willie Harris, who notched 10 triples in 2000. B.J. Littleton owns the record with 18 back in 2001.

Meet Candidate Gail Bartkovich

Don't Miss Our 6 PM Broadcast Tonight With Gail Bartkovich

NYT: More Married Couples Sleeping In Separate Beds

NYT: The marital bed, once the symbol of matrimony on a par with the diamond ring, is threatened with extinction. “Till Death Do Us Part” is fast becoming “Till Sleep Do Us Part.”

GO HERE to read more.

New Government Rules Allow Unapproved iPhone Apps

'Jailbreaking' is one of a handful of new exemptions from a federal law

WASHINGTON — Owners of the iPhone will be able to break electronic locks on their devices in order to download applications that have not been approved by Apple. The government is making that legal under new rules announced Monday.

GO HERE to read more.

Julie Brewington – Paranoid About John Cannon, “Intimidated” By Joe Albero

With all due respect to my friend Joe Albero - if I were running for the state legislature, worrying about whether Joe Albero liked me or not would be way down the list of things to worry about. Sure, SbyNEWS has lots of readers. Sure, Joe has been known to cut loose on someone every now and again. However, ANY candidate’s best shot at election is by following a simple formula – work hard, court lots of volunteers, treat everyone either nicely (or at least civilly), and be true to yourself. Pandering almost always comes back to bite you.

One thing that really doesn’t help the cause is to wrap yourself up in “victimhood” and accuse Albero (or anyone else) of intimidation. This is but one of the many “boo-boo’s” in a recent blog post by 38-A House candidate Julie Brewington.

Let’s get real Julie! If Joe Albero intimidates you, do you really think that the voters of 38-A can trust you to stand up for them against lobbyist, special interest groups, the media, and the big government, Democrat machine in Annapolis?

GO HERE TO READ MORE ...

GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY TO TOUR STORM DAMAGE, VISIT COOLING SHELTER

ANNAPOLIS, MD (July 26, 2010) – Governor Martin O’Malley today will meet with top local officials, including Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett, and emergency operation officials to assess the damage of yesterday’s storms and the resulting power outages that utility crews continue to work to restore. Governor O’Malley will also visit a cooling shelter where residents can stay to cool off until power is restored.

Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Press Releases

Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 23 July 2010
Location: Ocean Gateway, Willards, MD
Suspect: Darius A. Peace, 31, Laurel, MD

Narrative: On 23 July 2010 at 12:01 PM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to the shoulder of Ocean Gateway in Willards at the request of a female who had called for help. Upon arrival, the deputies met with the victim who advised that she was riding in a car operated by Darius Peace of Laurel, MD when a verbal altercation between the pair escalated into a physical altercation. The victim stated that Darius pulled the vehicle to the shoulder of Ocean Gateway in the Willards area, came around to the passenger side where she was sitting, opened the door and proceeded to choke the victim and the hit her repeatedly in the face.

The investigating deputy observed signs of physical injury on the victim that corroborated her account and subsequently placed Darius under arrest. The deputy transported Darius to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Darius was detained in the Detention Center in lieu of $50,000.00 bond.


Charges: Assault 1st Degree
Assault 2nd Degree

Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 24 July 2010
Location: 1000 block of Beaglin Park Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: 1. Nicole Johnson, 19, Salisbury, MD
2. Taeka R. Leggett, 34, Salisbury, MD

Narrative: On 24 July 2010 at 08:13 AM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported altercation that had occurred inside an apartment in the 1000 block of Beaglin Park Drive in Salisbury. Upon arrival, the deputies met with two women who resided together, Nicole Johnson and Taeka Leggett, who advised they became involved in a verbal altercation over a set of car keys that turned physical. Johnson accused Leggett of attacking her with a lamp while Leggett accused Johnson of coming after her with a knife.

Both of the subjects had signs of physical injury that were apparently inflicted during what appeared to be a mutual assault. Because of the nature of the complaint, the deputy placed both subjects under arrest. Upon arrest, both were transported to the Central Booking unit where they were processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner released both on Personal Recognizance.

Charges: Assault 2nd Degree

Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 25 July 2010
Location: 800 block of Cornish Street, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Darrick D. Mitchell, 32, Salisbury, MD

Narrative: On 25 July 2010 at 3:44 PM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded and investigated a reported altercation inside a residence in the 800 block of Cornish Street. Upon arrival, the deputies discovered that Darrick Mitchell had been involved in an altercation with his live in girl friend that turned physical. The deputies observed signs of physical injury on the victim that appeared to have been inflicted as the result of an assault perpetrated by Mitchell.

The investigating deputy placed Mitchell under arrest and transported him to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner detained Mitchell in the Detention Center in lieu of $5,000.00 bond.

Charges: Assault 2nd Degree

Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 25 July 2010
Location: 7900 block of Jones Hastings Road, Parsonsburg, MD
Suspect: Mark A. Sawinski, 25, Parsonsburg, MD

Narrative: On 25 July 2010 at 8:04 PM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported altercation that had occurred in the 7900 block of Jones Hastings Road in Parsonsburg. Upon arrival, the deputies learned that Mark Sawinski and his wife were involved in a verbal altercation when Mark allegedly grabbed her by the throat. During the investigation, the deputies observed signs of injury on the victim that corroborated that account.

The investigating deputy placed Sawinski under arrest and transported him to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner detained Sawinski in the Detention Center in lieu of $5,000.00 bond.

Charges: Assault 2nd Degree