Incident: Burglary
Date of Incident: 24 December 2011
Location: 800 block of Price Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Pending
Narrative: On 24 December 2011 at 11:14 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported burglary in the 800 block of Price Road in Salisbury. The deputy learned that the homeowner returned just prior to calling the Sheriff’s Office to discover his rear sliding door had been smashed out, allowing entry into the residence. The unknown perpetrator(s) then proceeded to unwrap Christmas presents looking for something to steal. The perpetrators left with a watch set that was intended as a gift along with jewelry and cash from elsewhere in the residence.
The deputy processed the scene and initiated an investigation into this crime. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 410-548-4890 or Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776.
Charges: Burglary 1st Degree
Incident: Burglary Investigation
Date of Incident: 23 December 2011
Location: 300 block of Brookdale Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Pending
Narrative: On 23 December 2011 at 3:21 PM, a deputy responded to a residence in the 300 block of Brookdale Drive in Salisbury for a reported residential burglary. Upon arrival, the deputy met with the resident who informed the deputy that upon returning home the resident had discovered an open window that had not been left that way. The resident advised that upon entering his residence he discovered that an unknown perpetrator had entered and stolen items from within. The resident reported jewelry, household electronics and Christmas presents were missing.
The investigating deputy processed the scene and began an investigation. Anyone with information about this crime or the identity of the perpetrators is asked to contact the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office at 410-548-4891 or Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776.
Charges: Burglary 1st Degree
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 24 December 2011
Location: 6100 block of Steve Street, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Edmond F. Cormier, 54, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 24 December 2011 at 11:29 PM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported domestic dispute occurring at a residence in the 6100 block of Steve Street in Salisbury. Upon arrival, the deputies met with a female resident who stated that her live in boyfriend Edmond F. Cormier grabbed her by the hair and threw her out the door during an altercation. The
responding deputies noticed that Cormier appeared visibly intoxicated to the point where Cormier was having trouble standing. Cormier repeatedly insisted on yelling derogatory comments while outside which clearly caused a disturbance to the neighborhood on Christmas Eve.
The investigating deputy attempted to place Cormier under arrest but Cormier struggled against the deputy which forced the deputy to physically subdue Cormier.
The deputy transported Cormier to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner.
After an initial appearance, the Commissioner released Cormier on Personal Recognizance pending a March 2012 court date.
Charges: Assault 2nd Degree Disturbance of the Peace Resisting Arrest
Incident: Possession of Marijuana
Date of Incident: 23 December 2011
Location: Beaglin Park Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Lane A. Miller, 21, Delmar, MD
Narrative: On 23 December 2011 at 11:45, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle operated by Lane Miller of Delmar for an equipment violation on Beaglin Park Drive in the area of Old Ocean City Road in Salisbury. The deputy observed as the operator and sole occupant of the vehicle, Lane Miller, exited her vehicle and appeared to drop something on the ground in the process.
When the deputy inspected what she dropped, the deputy discovered a wooden marijuana smoking device that still held the remnants of that drug. Further search of the vehicle revealed an additional metal smoking device and a grinder all recently used due to their contamination by marijuana. Additionally a baggie containing what was recognized as marijuana was eventually found in Miller’s possession.
Miller was placed under arrest and transported to the Central Booking Unit where she was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance the Commissioner released Miller on Personal Recognizance pending an April 2012 court date.
Charges: Possession of Marijuana
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 25 December 2011
Location: 800 block of Snow Hill Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Mark W. Hastings, 29, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 25 December 2011 at 7:32 PM, a deputy responded to a parking lot in the 800 block of Snow Hill Road for a reported domestic situation. Upon arrival, the deputy met with a female subject who informed the deputy that she became embroiled in an altercation with her boyfriend, Mark Hastings, inside a vehicle in the parking lot when Hastings bit her pinky finger. During the investigation, the deputy saw clear signs of injury on the victim’s finger. During the ensuing investigation, Hastings, who was visibly intoxicated, exited his vehicle and entered the vehicle of his mother who was at the scene. As this was contrary to the deputy’s previous instructions to Hastings, the deputy ordered Hastings out of the vehicle. When Hastings refused, the deputy had to assist him with an exit from the vehicle. Hastings continued to resist the deputy’s efforts to take him into custody which forced the deputy to physically subdue Hastings.
Hastings was placed under arrest and transported 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 Hastings in the Detention Center in lieu of $20,000.00 bond.
Charges: Assault 2nd Degree
Resisting Arrest
Failure to Comply
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Former Fed VP Accuses Bernanke Of Bailing Out Europe Via Currency Swaps
The Federal Reserve's Covert Bailout of Europe
When is a loan between central banks not a loan? When it is a dollars-for-euros currency swap.
America's central bank, the Federal Reserve, is engaged in a bailout of European banks. Surprisingly, its operation is largely unnoticed here.
The Fed is using what is termed a "temporary U.S. dollar liquidity swap arrangement" with the European Central Bank (ECB). There are similar arrangements with the central banks of Canada, England, Switzerland and Japan. Simply put, the Fed trades or "swaps" dollars for euros. The Fed is compensated by payment of an interest rate (currently 50 basis points, or one-half of 1%) above the overnight index swap rate. The ECB, which guarantees to return the dollars at an exchange rate fixed at the time the original swap is made, then lends the dollars to European banks of its choosing.
Why are the Fed and the ECB doing this? The Fed could, after all, lend directly to U.S. branches of foreign banks. It did a great deal of lending to foreign banks under various special credit facilities in the aftermath of Lehman's collapse in the fall of 2008. Or, the ECB could lend euros to banks and they could purchase dollars in foreign-exchange markets. The world is, after all, awash in dollars.
The two central banks are engaging in this roundabout procedure because each needs a fig leaf. The Fed was embarrassed by the revelations of its prior largess with foreign banks. It does not want the debt of foreign banks on its books. A currency swap with the ECB is not technically a loan.
The ECB is entangled in an even bigger legal and political mess. What the heads of many European governments want is for the ECB to bail them out. The central bank and some European governments say that it cannot constitutionally do that. The ECB would also prefer not to create boatloads of new euros, since it wants to keep its reputation as an inflation-fighter intact. To mitigate its euro lending, it borrows dollars to lend them to its banks. That keeps the supply of new euros down. This lending replaces dollar funding from U.S. banks and money-market institutions that are curtailing their lending to European banks—which need the dollars to finance trade, among other activities. Meanwhile, European governments pressure the banks to purchase still more sovereign debt.
More
When is a loan between central banks not a loan? When it is a dollars-for-euros currency swap.
America's central bank, the Federal Reserve, is engaged in a bailout of European banks. Surprisingly, its operation is largely unnoticed here.
The Fed is using what is termed a "temporary U.S. dollar liquidity swap arrangement" with the European Central Bank (ECB). There are similar arrangements with the central banks of Canada, England, Switzerland and Japan. Simply put, the Fed trades or "swaps" dollars for euros. The Fed is compensated by payment of an interest rate (currently 50 basis points, or one-half of 1%) above the overnight index swap rate. The ECB, which guarantees to return the dollars at an exchange rate fixed at the time the original swap is made, then lends the dollars to European banks of its choosing.
Why are the Fed and the ECB doing this? The Fed could, after all, lend directly to U.S. branches of foreign banks. It did a great deal of lending to foreign banks under various special credit facilities in the aftermath of Lehman's collapse in the fall of 2008. Or, the ECB could lend euros to banks and they could purchase dollars in foreign-exchange markets. The world is, after all, awash in dollars.
The two central banks are engaging in this roundabout procedure because each needs a fig leaf. The Fed was embarrassed by the revelations of its prior largess with foreign banks. It does not want the debt of foreign banks on its books. A currency swap with the ECB is not technically a loan.
The ECB is entangled in an even bigger legal and political mess. What the heads of many European governments want is for the ECB to bail them out. The central bank and some European governments say that it cannot constitutionally do that. The ECB would also prefer not to create boatloads of new euros, since it wants to keep its reputation as an inflation-fighter intact. To mitigate its euro lending, it borrows dollars to lend them to its banks. That keeps the supply of new euros down. This lending replaces dollar funding from U.S. banks and money-market institutions that are curtailing their lending to European banks—which need the dollars to finance trade, among other activities. Meanwhile, European governments pressure the banks to purchase still more sovereign debt.
More
Authorities ID Victims In Santa Suit Shooting
(AP)
GRAPEVINE, Texas - A 56-year-old suburban Dallas man facing marital and financial problems killed his estranged wife, two teenage children and three other family members on Christmas Day while dressed as Santa Claus before turning the gun on himself, authorities said Tuesday.
A police spokeswoman said Aziz Yazdanpanah died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound and the six others were shot to death.
Public Policy Polling: Ron Paul In The Lead
The first post-Christmas poll is out and it was conducted by Public Policy Polling, a group I consider the most accurate pollsters in the country. PPP writes:
The last week and a half has brought little change in the standings for the Iowa Republican caucus: Ron Paul continues to lead Mitt Romney by a modest margin, 24-20. Newt Gingrich is in 3rd at 13% followed by Michele Bachmann at 11%, Rick Perry and Rick Santorum at 10%, Jon Huntsman at 4%, and Buddy Roemer at 2%.
Paul's strength in Iowa continues to depend on a coalition of voters that's pretty unusual for a Republican in the state. Romney leads 22-20 with those who are actually Republicans, while Paul has a 39-12 advantage with the 24% who are either independents or Democrats. GOP caucus voters tend to skew old, and Romney has a 34-12 advantage with seniors. But Paul's candidacy looks like it's going to attract an unusual number of younger voters to the caucus this year, and with those under 45 he has a 35-11 advantage on Romney. The independent/young voter combo worked for Barack Obama in securing an unexpectedly large victory on the Democratic side in 2008 and it may be Paul's winning equation in 2012.
Paul continues to have much more passionate support than Romney. 77% of his voters are firmly committed to him, compared to 71% for Romney. Among voters who say their minds are completely made up Paul's lead expands to 7 points at 28-21. If Paul's lead holds on through next Tuesday it appears he'll have won this on the ground- 26% of voters think he's run the strongest campaign in the state to 18% for Bachmann and 10% for Santorum with just 5% bestowing that designation to Romney. There's also an increasing sense that Paul will indeed win the state- 29% think he'll emerge victorious with 15% picking Romney and no one else in double digits....
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The last week and a half has brought little change in the standings for the Iowa Republican caucus: Ron Paul continues to lead Mitt Romney by a modest margin, 24-20. Newt Gingrich is in 3rd at 13% followed by Michele Bachmann at 11%, Rick Perry and Rick Santorum at 10%, Jon Huntsman at 4%, and Buddy Roemer at 2%.
Paul's strength in Iowa continues to depend on a coalition of voters that's pretty unusual for a Republican in the state. Romney leads 22-20 with those who are actually Republicans, while Paul has a 39-12 advantage with the 24% who are either independents or Democrats. GOP caucus voters tend to skew old, and Romney has a 34-12 advantage with seniors. But Paul's candidacy looks like it's going to attract an unusual number of younger voters to the caucus this year, and with those under 45 he has a 35-11 advantage on Romney. The independent/young voter combo worked for Barack Obama in securing an unexpectedly large victory on the Democratic side in 2008 and it may be Paul's winning equation in 2012.
Paul continues to have much more passionate support than Romney. 77% of his voters are firmly committed to him, compared to 71% for Romney. Among voters who say their minds are completely made up Paul's lead expands to 7 points at 28-21. If Paul's lead holds on through next Tuesday it appears he'll have won this on the ground- 26% of voters think he's run the strongest campaign in the state to 18% for Bachmann and 10% for Santorum with just 5% bestowing that designation to Romney. There's also an increasing sense that Paul will indeed win the state- 29% think he'll emerge victorious with 15% picking Romney and no one else in double digits....
More
Maryland May Soon Legalize Sale of Marijuana For Medical Use
As the Maryland General Assembly prepares to convene in just a few days - there is already legislation on the table for the legalization of marijuana use.
HB-15 being proposed by Maryland Delegate Green would allow for such use.
HB-15 being proposed by Maryland Delegate Green would allow for such use.
TRAFFIC ALERT
Bridge Joint Repair Will Require Southbound Lane Closures on Route 1 near Smyrna
Smyrna -- WHEN: Monday, January 9 through Friday, January 13, hours of lane closure from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., pending weather.
WHERE: Route 1 southbound (Bridge 2-918S over Big Oak Road) between Exit 114 and Exit 104, southeast of Smyrna
WHAT: DelDOT's maintenance crews will be repairing the bridge joints.
Smyrna -- WHEN: Monday, January 9 through Friday, January 13, hours of lane closure from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., pending weather.
WHERE: Route 1 southbound (Bridge 2-918S over Big Oak Road) between Exit 114 and Exit 104, southeast of Smyrna
WHAT: DelDOT's maintenance crews will be repairing the bridge joints.
Most Rugged iPhone 4/S Cases
So you work in a potentially hazardous environment for your phone, and you just upgraded to the iPhone 4 or 4S recently? There are plenty of professions that can seem like another day at the office for you, but might be a cracked or broken phone waiting to happen. Construction, emergency services, corrections and law enforcement, HVAC, plumbing, manufacturing, the list goes on. From personal experience, it is very well worth it to invest in a good case for your phone to protect it from bumps, bruises, splashes, and falls. This list highlights the top 20 most rugged cases for the iPhone 4 and 4S. They can be a bit pricey, but will pay for themselves the within the first couple drops from a desk or slippery hand.
A personal end note, I have the iPhone 3GS which I paid $20 for (contract with AT&T). The next day, I went out and spent $45 on the OtterBox Defender Series. It has been dropped dozens of times, been thoroughly showered with CO2/water, rained on, fallen down stairs, etc. When I take the phone out of the case to clean it, it still looks like new. I would definitely recommend this case, and it is being made for each progressive generation of iPhones.
http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-18438_7-20016975-82/top-20-tough-iphone-4-and-4s-cases/?tag=epicStories
Feel free to chip in your thoughts and experiences with various iPhone/Smartphone cases and which ones you would and wouldn't recommend.
Mike's Tech Service
mdtechservice@comcast.net
A personal end note, I have the iPhone 3GS which I paid $20 for (contract with AT&T). The next day, I went out and spent $45 on the OtterBox Defender Series. It has been dropped dozens of times, been thoroughly showered with CO2/water, rained on, fallen down stairs, etc. When I take the phone out of the case to clean it, it still looks like new. I would definitely recommend this case, and it is being made for each progressive generation of iPhones.
http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-18438_7-20016975-82/top-20-tough-iphone-4-and-4s-cases/?tag=epicStories
Feel free to chip in your thoughts and experiences with various iPhone/Smartphone cases and which ones you would and wouldn't recommend.
Mike's Tech Service
mdtechservice@comcast.net
Pitfalls New Bloggers Should Avoid
You've followed your favorite blogs for years and are convinced you can do just as well. With nothing holding you back except for lingering insecurities, you're prepared to try your hand at blogging. If you want the effort to turn into an enjoyable and possibly profitable hobby, there are things you'll need to keep in mind as you get started.
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Libertarianism And Americanism
Given that in the main the American political system is still the closest to protecting varieties of individual liberty – regarding speech, commerce, religion, due process, etc. – most of those who peddle political ideas want to hitch their wagon to the ideas of the American Founders. Socialists, conservatives, populists, agrarians and even communists have laid claim to being the proper carriers of the American political flag. Libertarians, of course, are no different. They hold that it is their political philosophy that most fully realizes the vision first put into practice by the American Founders and Framers. And with their current role in America's political life, it would be useful to see if they or the others are right.
Why would a socialist think the same thing? Or a conservative or populist, let alone a communist?
Socialists tend to believe that the American Founders advocated egalitarianism, first and foremost. They focus on the paramount idea in that document that "all men are created equal." Conservatives, in turn, consider their position to be validated by the Founders and Framers in light of how they derived their political theory from a study of history and the thoughts of numerous influential political philosophers and theorists. This confirms the conservative notion that to do nation building properly, one must consult tradition, history and custom, not concoct ideas and ideals de novo. Populists, of course, focus on the democratic elements of the American political tradition, those that relate to how every citizen has a right to influence public policy. Never mind the limits imposed by, say, the Bill of Rights. What counts is mass participation, the "will of the people." Agrarians will insist that Jefferson & Co., were mostly promoting the special interest of the landed gentry. And communists will argue that the American system is simply a historical precursor to the ideal community in which a nation becomes a family of equals.
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Why would a socialist think the same thing? Or a conservative or populist, let alone a communist?
Socialists tend to believe that the American Founders advocated egalitarianism, first and foremost. They focus on the paramount idea in that document that "all men are created equal." Conservatives, in turn, consider their position to be validated by the Founders and Framers in light of how they derived their political theory from a study of history and the thoughts of numerous influential political philosophers and theorists. This confirms the conservative notion that to do nation building properly, one must consult tradition, history and custom, not concoct ideas and ideals de novo. Populists, of course, focus on the democratic elements of the American political tradition, those that relate to how every citizen has a right to influence public policy. Never mind the limits imposed by, say, the Bill of Rights. What counts is mass participation, the "will of the people." Agrarians will insist that Jefferson & Co., were mostly promoting the special interest of the landed gentry. And communists will argue that the American system is simply a historical precursor to the ideal community in which a nation becomes a family of equals.
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RON PAUL - POLICY VISION IS CLEAR & CONSISTENT
Excellent truthful article from the DesMoines Register. Amazing how well a non-mainstream media journalist can stick to the facts and generate a worthwhile piece of reporting. The clueless lying smear artists on CNN, CNBC, Fox and the NYT should observe how journalism is supposed to be done. Their corporate hit jobs on Ron Paul are a disgrace and further degrade their image around the world. The mainstream media has become a joke. Young people across the land ignore the MSM. They have become obsolete, but they don’t know it yet.
Leadership profile: Ron Paul’s policy vision is consistent, clear (part 3 in a series)
Mary Stegmeir
A mix of tenacity, steadfast ideals and prescient economic predictions has transformed U.S. Rep. Ron Paul of Texas from a quorum of one in Congress to a recognized leader of the crusade to rein in the federal government’s reach and spending. The libertarian-leaning Paul, 76, doesn’t claim party insider status like Newt Gingrich or executive experience like former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney. Supporters say his political clout lies in the clarity and consistency of his policy vision.
“Up until now, I think many would say he was the loneliest man in the House of Representatives,” said Nick Gillespie, editor in chief of the online platforms of Reason, a libertarian magazine. “But there are so many examples of where politics has now kind of caught up to where he’s been for quite some time.”
•See 140 photos of Ron Paul campaigning in Iowa.
The most prominent illustration: Paul’s recruitment of 320 legislators from both sides of the aisle to co-sponsor his 2009 bill calling for the first-ever audit of the Federal Reserve.
Concerns about the U.S. monetary system had prompted the 12-term congressman to first run for office in the 1970s. Starting in 1983, he repeatedly introduced legislation calling for an audit of the Fed before finally gaining its passage two years ago.
The resulting examination, conducted by the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office, revealed that the Fed made $16 trillion in loans to American and foreign banks and businesses during the 2008 economic crisis and lacked sufficient protocols to address conflicts of interests.
Back in 2002, he also used his theories about the Fed’s operations to predict the 2007 housing bubble, a trigger of the subsequent global recession.
Paul’s views on sound money policy were seen before 2007 as “a little nuts — conspiracy theory sort of stuff,” Gillespie said.
Today, Paul chairs the Congressional Domestic Monetary Policy Subcommittee and is joined by a chorus of lawmakers from both parties calling for reforms at the central bank.
And, after America’s decade of war in Afghanistan and Iraq, more of Paul’s Republican brethren show respect for his noninterventionist foreign policy.
“While he certainly is very independent, he’s also someone that people pay attention to,” said Ohio representative and former Democratic presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich. “He’s someone whose credentials do speak on the issues of our time, and, in many cases, he’s been borne out to have been right.”
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Gingrich Puts A Price On His Family Values : He Sheltered His $4-Million Book Bonanza From His Struggling, Non-Trophy Ex-Wife.
The news that Newt Gingrich will receive $4 million from Rupert Murdoch's publishing house must have been greeted with dismay by his former wife, Jacqueline, down in Carroll County, Ga. Newt had pulled a fast one. It was only nine months ago that she consented to the congressman's request for an amendment to their divorce decree that bars her from claiming additional funds due to an increase in his earnings.
Not to be too harsh on Newt, it must be terribly difficult balancing pro-family values with a commitment to a Darwinian survival of the fittest in the marketplace. Newt the congressman-author is a winner in life's sweepstakes, Jacqueline the schoolteacher-mother is a loser, and that must be the way God and/or Adam Smith intended it.
December Was A Banner Month - For State Auditors
Maryland officials will joyfully welcome the new year - on the assumption that January cannot possibly bring a worse spate of stories about state government than December.
Let's review this month's stories in The Capital, many of which featured the word "audit":
A four-year audit found that the state Office of Personnel Services and Benefits stockpiled nearly 10 times the amount in bank accounts that it was authorized to keep, failed to establish adequate controls over nearly $35 million in cash receipts in 2010, and didn't safeguard information on state employees, including Social Security numbers and dates of birth.
The new director of the state Child Support Enforcement Administration promised that he'll vastly improve the situation found by state auditors, who said this year that the department had left more than $1.7 billion in child support uncollected. The agency, auditors said, had failed to use available enforcement tools, such as garnishing wages, seizing bank accounts and suspending occupational licenses.
More
Let's review this month's stories in The Capital, many of which featured the word "audit":
A four-year audit found that the state Office of Personnel Services and Benefits stockpiled nearly 10 times the amount in bank accounts that it was authorized to keep, failed to establish adequate controls over nearly $35 million in cash receipts in 2010, and didn't safeguard information on state employees, including Social Security numbers and dates of birth.
The new director of the state Child Support Enforcement Administration promised that he'll vastly improve the situation found by state auditors, who said this year that the department had left more than $1.7 billion in child support uncollected. The agency, auditors said, had failed to use available enforcement tools, such as garnishing wages, seizing bank accounts and suspending occupational licenses.
More
Little Ava
Last week there was a horrific accident in Ocean City involving an infant child named Ava. Her Aunt is keeping the public aware of her condition for those who might be interested HERE.
How Long Should You Expect To Wait For Refunds From Online Retailers?
We are now three days into the official Holiday Returns & Exchanges Season, and while those shoppers who paid a little more — and put on pants — to go shopping at bricks-and-mortar stores, it's usually just a matter of waiting in line to get your refund. But for gift-givers who did their buying online this year, that wait for a refund could be anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
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Keeping Students From The Polls
Next fall, thousands of students on college campuses will attempt to register to vote and be turned away. Sorry, they will hear, you have an out-of-state driver’s license. Sorry, your college ID is not valid here. Sorry, we found out that you paid out-of-state tuition, so even though you do have a state driver’s license, you still can’t vote.
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Trial By Media: The Justice System No One Wants You To Know About
Remember Mike Nifong? Sure. He's the sleazebag former district attorney in the Duke University lacrosse team's rape scandal back in 2006. He made himself a short-lived hero by agreeing to prosecute members of the Duke Lacrosse team for allegedly raping an African-American exotic dancer the team had hired for a party.
But Nifong, hellbent on winning re-election, forgot that he was an officer of the court. He went public with a series of accusations that later turned out to be untrue; he exaggerated and intensified racial tensions; he unduly influenced the Durham police investigation; he tried to manipulate potential witnesses; he refused to hear exculpatory evidence prior to indictment - that regulations on the conduct of an identification exercise were breached by failure to include "dummy" photographs, that he had never spoken directly to the alleged victim about the accusations and that he made misleadingly incomplete presentations of various aspects of the evidence in the case (including DNA results).
He was dismissed from his job and later disbarred.
Or how about federal prosecutor William Welch, and his deputy chief, Brenda Morris, who convicted the late Sen. Ted Stevens - and helped their own cause by withholding evidence from the defense that could have helped the defendant.
Or there's Richard Convertino, the lead prosecutor in the so-called Detroit Sleeper Cell terrorism case. He was removed from the case on suspicion that he allegedly failed to turn over photographic evidence to the defense.
These acts and alleged acts by prosecutors all qualify as prosecutorial misconduct. There are hundreds of such cases in our justice system every year. Very few of them ever get such high visibility. In fact, most abuses of this kind probably go unnoticed and unreported. In the three cases referenced above, only Nifong lost his law license. The others did not.
But, since 9/11, there has been another kind of misconduct growing. It usually takes place outside the courtroom and is a favorite of politicians of both parties, especially if they are running for re-election.
More
But Nifong, hellbent on winning re-election, forgot that he was an officer of the court. He went public with a series of accusations that later turned out to be untrue; he exaggerated and intensified racial tensions; he unduly influenced the Durham police investigation; he tried to manipulate potential witnesses; he refused to hear exculpatory evidence prior to indictment - that regulations on the conduct of an identification exercise were breached by failure to include "dummy" photographs, that he had never spoken directly to the alleged victim about the accusations and that he made misleadingly incomplete presentations of various aspects of the evidence in the case (including DNA results).
He was dismissed from his job and later disbarred.
Or how about federal prosecutor William Welch, and his deputy chief, Brenda Morris, who convicted the late Sen. Ted Stevens - and helped their own cause by withholding evidence from the defense that could have helped the defendant.
Or there's Richard Convertino, the lead prosecutor in the so-called Detroit Sleeper Cell terrorism case. He was removed from the case on suspicion that he allegedly failed to turn over photographic evidence to the defense.
These acts and alleged acts by prosecutors all qualify as prosecutorial misconduct. There are hundreds of such cases in our justice system every year. Very few of them ever get such high visibility. In fact, most abuses of this kind probably go unnoticed and unreported. In the three cases referenced above, only Nifong lost his law license. The others did not.
But, since 9/11, there has been another kind of misconduct growing. It usually takes place outside the courtroom and is a favorite of politicians of both parties, especially if they are running for re-election.
More
93-Year-Old Tennessee Woman Who Cleaned State Capitol For 30 Years Denied Voter ID
A 93-year-old Tennessee woman who cleaned the state Capitol for 30 years, including the governor’s office, says she won’t be able to vote for the first time in decades after being told this week that her old state ID failed to meet new voter ID regulations.
Thelma Mitchell was even accused of being an undocumented immigrant because she couldn’t produce a birth certificate:
Mitchell, who was delivered by a midwife in Alabama in 1918, has never had a birth certificate. But when she told that to a drivers’ license clerk, he suggested she might be an illegal immigrant.
Thelma Mitchell told WSMV-TV that she went to a state drivers’ license center last week after being told that her old state ID from her cleaning job would not meet new regulations for voter identification.
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Thelma Mitchell was even accused of being an undocumented immigrant because she couldn’t produce a birth certificate:
Mitchell, who was delivered by a midwife in Alabama in 1918, has never had a birth certificate. But when she told that to a drivers’ license clerk, he suggested she might be an illegal immigrant.
Thelma Mitchell told WSMV-TV that she went to a state drivers’ license center last week after being told that her old state ID from her cleaning job would not meet new regulations for voter identification.
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Gun Sales At Record Levels, According To FBI Background Checks
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- December holiday shoppers were not just interested in buying the hottest electronics and toys -- they also were purchasing record numbers of guns, according to the latest FBI figures on background checks required to buy firearms.
With a few days left in December, the FBI reports the number of background checks has already topped the previous one-month record -- set only in November -- of 1,534,414 inquiries by gun dealers to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System also known as NICS. Almost half a million checks were done in just the last six days before Christmas.
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Wicomico Recreation Announces Community Yard Sale
Make room in your house and fill your wallet at Wicomico Recreation, Parks & Tourism's Community Yard Sale. Tables and booths are available for this indoor mega-sale, slated for Saturday, January 7th from 7am to 12pm at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center.
Tables are available at $15 for a 30"x72" size. Booths are also available at $40 for a 10' space with three tables. Set-up for those renting tables or booths will begin at 4am on Saturday morning. Reserve your table or booth at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center Box Office (500 Glen Ave. Salisbury, MD), online at www.WicomicoCivicCenter.org (online fee may apply) or by phone at 410-548-4911.
Those interested in shopping at the Shore's largest yard sale can do so for just $2 at the door. Children under 12 are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Proceeds from the sale will benefit Wicomico Recreation.
Tables are available at $15 for a 30"x72" size. Booths are also available at $40 for a 10' space with three tables. Set-up for those renting tables or booths will begin at 4am on Saturday morning. Reserve your table or booth at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center Box Office (500 Glen Ave. Salisbury, MD), online at www.WicomicoCivicCenter.org (online fee may apply) or by phone at 410-548-4911.
Those interested in shopping at the Shore's largest yard sale can do so for just $2 at the door. Children under 12 are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Proceeds from the sale will benefit Wicomico Recreation.
Sexual Assaults Reported On Rise At U.S. Military Academies
Washington (CNN) -- Sexual assaults at the nation's military academies increased sharply in the last academic year, according to a new report from the Department of Defense.
Accounts of sexual assault rose by nearly 60 percent during the 2010-2011 academic program year.
A total of 65 reports involved cadets and midshipmen compared to a total of 41 reports in the prior year. While the Defense Department was unable to cite definitive causes for the increase, the report did say efforts by the academies to encourage victims to report incidents of sexual assault could have played a role in the swell of cases.
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A total of 65 reports involved cadets and midshipmen compared to a total of 41 reports in the prior year. While the Defense Department was unable to cite definitive causes for the increase, the report did say efforts by the academies to encourage victims to report incidents of sexual assault could have played a role in the swell of cases.
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January 16th: "Occupy The Federal Reserve"
The “Occupy the Dream” coalition has called for a National Day of Action on Martin Luther King Day – Monday, January 16, 2012 – when they will “Occupy the Federal
Reserve,” in multiple cities nationwide, focusing attention on the gross injustice visited upon the 99% by the financial elite.
Indeed, occupying the Fed has been a large part of the Occupy movement from day one.
Source
Reserve,” in multiple cities nationwide, focusing attention on the gross injustice visited upon the 99% by the financial elite.
Indeed, occupying the Fed has been a large part of the Occupy movement from day one.
Source
A Libertarian Christmas
Libertarians always seem to make the most sense. Why are liberals and conservatives so nonsensical? It must be the only way they can rationalize their interventionist government “solutions” to every ill in society. They believe they are smarter than the average person and can run their lives for them better than they can.
The Top Ten Things Santa Claus Forgot To Give Me
By: Doug Bandow
Santa Claus came and went. Truth be told, I’m a bit disappointed. He didn’t leave me even one of my ten favorite gifts. I guess I have to wait another year. Maybe after next year’s election Santa will be more forthcoming.
Top of my list is for Americans to stop confusing Uncle Sam with Santa Claus. The idea of some rich guy from far away showing up to fulfill one’s most devout desires is really quite attractive. When people expect the government to do the same things quickly get ugly—and quite expensive. No wonder economist Lawrence Kotlikoff figures that we face total debts and unfunded liabilities totaling some $211 trillion, 14 times America’s annual GDP. We’ve been racking up the red ink in the belief that someone else would pay the bill.
Next, I wish the people of the world would stop confusing Uncle Sam with Joan of Arc. It seems everyone everywhere expects America to show up and save them. The South Koreans desire to be defended from the North Koreans. The Japanese want protection from China. The Afghans in government want to keep the Taliban out of government. The Europeans expect Americans to buy the expensive weapons necessary to allow them to take credit for tossing out a North African dictator. The Israelis insist that the U.S. bomb their enemies. And so it goes.
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The Top Ten Things Santa Claus Forgot To Give Me
By: Doug Bandow
Santa Claus came and went. Truth be told, I’m a bit disappointed. He didn’t leave me even one of my ten favorite gifts. I guess I have to wait another year. Maybe after next year’s election Santa will be more forthcoming.
Top of my list is for Americans to stop confusing Uncle Sam with Santa Claus. The idea of some rich guy from far away showing up to fulfill one’s most devout desires is really quite attractive. When people expect the government to do the same things quickly get ugly—and quite expensive. No wonder economist Lawrence Kotlikoff figures that we face total debts and unfunded liabilities totaling some $211 trillion, 14 times America’s annual GDP. We’ve been racking up the red ink in the belief that someone else would pay the bill.
Next, I wish the people of the world would stop confusing Uncle Sam with Joan of Arc. It seems everyone everywhere expects America to show up and save them. The South Koreans desire to be defended from the North Koreans. The Japanese want protection from China. The Afghans in government want to keep the Taliban out of government. The Europeans expect Americans to buy the expensive weapons necessary to allow them to take credit for tossing out a North African dictator. The Israelis insist that the U.S. bomb their enemies. And so it goes.
More
Zookeeper: Polar Bear Cub Will Fare Better Than Knut
Bottle-fed Siku is gaining weight, ‘will grow up in a different environment’
As his more than 1 million YouTube fans can attest, polar bear Siku’s main job these days is to be un-bear-ably adorable as he rolls around on his back, sucks a handler’s finger, and takes long, leisurely naps with his tongue hanging out.
But the little 5-week-old Internet sensation has some serious business in his future — serving as an ambassador-at-large for his wild polar bear brethren, whose population is shrinking right along with the sea ice that provides their hunting grounds. In fact, his name means “sea ice” in the Inuit language Inupiat.
Fruitland Police Department Press Releases 12-28-11
DATE & TIME: Wednesday December 21, 2011 @ 2150 hours
INCIDENT: Possession of CDS-Not Marijuana
Possession of CDS-Marijuana/Paraphernalia
LOCATION: Fruitland Intermediate School
CASE NO.: 2011-1510
PERSON(s) CHARGED: Ross A. Perim
William P. Simons
AGE: Both 18
ADDRESS: Salisbury, Maryland and Selbyville, Delaware
CHARGES: Possession of CDS-Not Marijuana (Amphetamine)
Possession of CDS Paraphernalia
Possession of CDS-Marijuana
DISPOSITION: Released to custody of Central Booking at WCDC
SYNOPSIS: On the above date and time a Fruitland Officer was on patrol and observed a vehicle parked in the parking lot of the Intermediate School, while no school functions were being held. The vehicle was also parked in a Handicapped Only space and was not displaying a placard or proper tag. Upon contact with the vehicle occupants, the officer detected the odor of Marijuana emanating from the vehicle and observed that the driver was so nervous he could not speak enough to answer simple questions. A Probable Cause Search was conducted and Marijuana was located in the vehicle and in the driver’s possession. The passenger was also found to be in possession of a suspected Schedule II Amphetamine. Both suspects were arrested and transported to WCDC without incident.
DATE & TIME: Thursday December 22, 2011 @ 1940 hours
INCIDENT: Strong Arm Robbery
LOCATION: Ogle Avenue
CASE NO.: 2011-1503
PERSON(s) CHARGED: 1) Tajh D. Smith / 2) Juvenile Male
AGE(s): 18 / 17
ADDRESS: Fruitland, Maryland
CHARGES: Robbery (Strong Arm)
Assault 2nd
Theft
Burglary
Trespassing
DISPOSITION: Adult released to custody of Central Booking at WCDC
Juvenile to custody of Department of Juvenile Services
SYNOPSIS: On the above date and time Fruitland Officers responded to the 400 block of Ogle Avenue for a reported robbery of a delivery driver. Upon arrival, officers learned that an order was placed for a food delivery and the caller provided an address for a vacant house. Upon delivery, the driver was assaulted and he was robbed of the food that he was attempting to deliver. The investigation led to the immediate arrest of a male juvenile and later the above named adult suspect. The juvenile remains in custody of DJS and the adult suspect was released to the custody of WCDC. Further charges forthcoming as the investigation continues to identify other suspects involved.
DATE & TIME: Friday December 23, 2011 @ 0257 hours
INCIDENT: 1st Degree Assault
LOCATION: Green Street
CASE NO.: 2011-1515
PERSON CHARGED: Tyree Parker
AGE: 31
ADDRESS: Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Assault 1st
Assault 2nd
False Imprisonment
Reckless Endangerment
Concealed Dangerous Weapon (Wear and Carry)
Burglary
Trespassing
DISPOSITION: Released to custody of Central Booking at WCDC
SYNOPSIS: On the above date and time Fruitland Officers responded to the 300 block of Green Street for a reported assault. Upon arrival officers learned that the above named suspect forced his way into a home and attempted to smother and choke a female victim while refusing to let her up. The victim was finally able to free herself and call 911. The suspect was placed under arrest and was found to have a double bladed knife concealed in his pants. The suspect was transported to WCDC without further incident.
INCIDENT: Possession of CDS-Not Marijuana
Possession of CDS-Marijuana/Paraphernalia
LOCATION: Fruitland Intermediate School
CASE NO.: 2011-1510
PERSON(s) CHARGED: Ross A. Perim
William P. Simons
AGE: Both 18
ADDRESS: Salisbury, Maryland and Selbyville, Delaware
CHARGES: Possession of CDS-Not Marijuana (Amphetamine)
Possession of CDS Paraphernalia
Possession of CDS-Marijuana
DISPOSITION: Released to custody of Central Booking at WCDC
SYNOPSIS: On the above date and time a Fruitland Officer was on patrol and observed a vehicle parked in the parking lot of the Intermediate School, while no school functions were being held. The vehicle was also parked in a Handicapped Only space and was not displaying a placard or proper tag. Upon contact with the vehicle occupants, the officer detected the odor of Marijuana emanating from the vehicle and observed that the driver was so nervous he could not speak enough to answer simple questions. A Probable Cause Search was conducted and Marijuana was located in the vehicle and in the driver’s possession. The passenger was also found to be in possession of a suspected Schedule II Amphetamine. Both suspects were arrested and transported to WCDC without incident.
DATE & TIME: Thursday December 22, 2011 @ 1940 hours
INCIDENT: Strong Arm Robbery
LOCATION: Ogle Avenue
CASE NO.: 2011-1503
PERSON(s) CHARGED: 1) Tajh D. Smith / 2) Juvenile Male
AGE(s): 18 / 17
ADDRESS: Fruitland, Maryland
CHARGES: Robbery (Strong Arm)
Assault 2nd
Theft
Burglary
Trespassing
DISPOSITION: Adult released to custody of Central Booking at WCDC
Juvenile to custody of Department of Juvenile Services
SYNOPSIS: On the above date and time Fruitland Officers responded to the 400 block of Ogle Avenue for a reported robbery of a delivery driver. Upon arrival, officers learned that an order was placed for a food delivery and the caller provided an address for a vacant house. Upon delivery, the driver was assaulted and he was robbed of the food that he was attempting to deliver. The investigation led to the immediate arrest of a male juvenile and later the above named adult suspect. The juvenile remains in custody of DJS and the adult suspect was released to the custody of WCDC. Further charges forthcoming as the investigation continues to identify other suspects involved.
DATE & TIME: Friday December 23, 2011 @ 0257 hours
INCIDENT: 1st Degree Assault
LOCATION: Green Street
CASE NO.: 2011-1515
PERSON CHARGED: Tyree Parker
AGE: 31
ADDRESS: Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Assault 1st
Assault 2nd
False Imprisonment
Reckless Endangerment
Concealed Dangerous Weapon (Wear and Carry)
Burglary
Trespassing
DISPOSITION: Released to custody of Central Booking at WCDC
SYNOPSIS: On the above date and time Fruitland Officers responded to the 300 block of Green Street for a reported assault. Upon arrival officers learned that the above named suspect forced his way into a home and attempted to smother and choke a female victim while refusing to let her up. The victim was finally able to free herself and call 911. The suspect was placed under arrest and was found to have a double bladed knife concealed in his pants. The suspect was transported to WCDC without further incident.
It Doesn't Look Like The Earl Campbell, Charlie & OCPD Story Is Going Away Any Time Soon
While some feel the story about an Officer and his K-9 is getting old, the Main Stream Media wants to keep it alive to sell papers and defend Police Chief Bernadette DiPino.
The Anti Albero Bloggers have enjoyed sending me anonymous comments with links back to their stories defending the Chief as well but I refuse to go there as it has been almost 2 years since I've visited their Sites.
Nevertheless, Police Officers continue to send in comments and letters to the editor on a regular basis, clearly bothered by being told there is a gag order on them and removing their first amendment rights.
Here's what I find interesting. A gag order would only be put in place if there's something to hide. I have to agree with one Officer, why would they sell a $10,000.00 K-9 for $1.00 IF the animal wasn't truly injured and in need of retirement? Two OCPD officials stated on the record that they had to see official documents from a Veterinarian before they would allow such a retirement. Then, (of course) I made the statement some time ago about the possibility of the OCPD breaking the law, (or at least abusing their powers) by calling every Veterinarian in a tri-state area to find out if a surgery was done on an animal that was no longer theirs.
What bothers me more than anything is the INSIDERS making contact with Earl Campbell telling him what clothes his Daughter was wearing that day. The next was another INSIDER telling Mr. Campbell the posters that are hanging on his Daughter's walls in her bedroom.
They have done everything in their powers to intimidate this man and his Family, to a point in which they had to leave town for the safety of their children. Are you reading any of this in the Daily Times? No! Why, because all they care about is selling newspaper, at whatever expense that might be.
So when you hear there needs to be an investigation into this matter, it's true and in my honest opinion it should happen. Earl Campbell was not fired from the OCPD. He chose to resign. Out of respect for a man in blue, has the BROTHERHOOD changed in such a way you're only remembered when your ON the force? When you ABUSE your power, one would think it would be for the SAFETY of one of your own, not to attack someone who chose to do what he thought was right and in the best interest of his Partner.
The man stood his ground because he felt he was right. Should the local media make every attempt to bash this man and defame his Family in the hopes of intimidating them and shutting them up? It reminds me of the old Tilghman Administration.
I have to wonder, what will newer Officers think when they see all of this going on. I know I wouldn't want to be in that business if I knew my BROTHERS and SISTERS would turn on me simply because I made a decision similar to Earl Campbell's.
Then to be forced to keep my mouth shut on a matter in which NO CRIME was committed would make me rethink the whole law enforcement issue. One would think Police Officers are in place to protect us from those breaking the law. Can someone please tel me/us what laws have been broken here?
In closing, why won't the Ocean City Town Council allow a meeting with Earl Campbell? Everyone wants to see a receipt from the Veterinarian and Campbell has agreed to bring such documents IF the Council will allow the meeting. It would seem to me, (ESPECIALLY NOW) that they do NOT want the public to see the bill from the Veterinarian because it would put a black eye on the OCPD. Yet the MSM wants to go after Campbell instead.
There are several unanswered questions still out there, ALL of which the Daily Times have conveniently ignored. The only gossip site out there is delmarvanow.com.
The Anti Albero Bloggers have enjoyed sending me anonymous comments with links back to their stories defending the Chief as well but I refuse to go there as it has been almost 2 years since I've visited their Sites.
Nevertheless, Police Officers continue to send in comments and letters to the editor on a regular basis, clearly bothered by being told there is a gag order on them and removing their first amendment rights.
Here's what I find interesting. A gag order would only be put in place if there's something to hide. I have to agree with one Officer, why would they sell a $10,000.00 K-9 for $1.00 IF the animal wasn't truly injured and in need of retirement? Two OCPD officials stated on the record that they had to see official documents from a Veterinarian before they would allow such a retirement. Then, (of course) I made the statement some time ago about the possibility of the OCPD breaking the law, (or at least abusing their powers) by calling every Veterinarian in a tri-state area to find out if a surgery was done on an animal that was no longer theirs.
What bothers me more than anything is the INSIDERS making contact with Earl Campbell telling him what clothes his Daughter was wearing that day. The next was another INSIDER telling Mr. Campbell the posters that are hanging on his Daughter's walls in her bedroom.
They have done everything in their powers to intimidate this man and his Family, to a point in which they had to leave town for the safety of their children. Are you reading any of this in the Daily Times? No! Why, because all they care about is selling newspaper, at whatever expense that might be.
So when you hear there needs to be an investigation into this matter, it's true and in my honest opinion it should happen. Earl Campbell was not fired from the OCPD. He chose to resign. Out of respect for a man in blue, has the BROTHERHOOD changed in such a way you're only remembered when your ON the force? When you ABUSE your power, one would think it would be for the SAFETY of one of your own, not to attack someone who chose to do what he thought was right and in the best interest of his Partner.
The man stood his ground because he felt he was right. Should the local media make every attempt to bash this man and defame his Family in the hopes of intimidating them and shutting them up? It reminds me of the old Tilghman Administration.
I have to wonder, what will newer Officers think when they see all of this going on. I know I wouldn't want to be in that business if I knew my BROTHERS and SISTERS would turn on me simply because I made a decision similar to Earl Campbell's.
Then to be forced to keep my mouth shut on a matter in which NO CRIME was committed would make me rethink the whole law enforcement issue. One would think Police Officers are in place to protect us from those breaking the law. Can someone please tel me/us what laws have been broken here?
In closing, why won't the Ocean City Town Council allow a meeting with Earl Campbell? Everyone wants to see a receipt from the Veterinarian and Campbell has agreed to bring such documents IF the Council will allow the meeting. It would seem to me, (ESPECIALLY NOW) that they do NOT want the public to see the bill from the Veterinarian because it would put a black eye on the OCPD. Yet the MSM wants to go after Campbell instead.
There are several unanswered questions still out there, ALL of which the Daily Times have conveniently ignored. The only gossip site out there is delmarvanow.com.
What Government Really Is
A theory should explain something without reference to something else. That is, a metaphor doesn’t work. It’s just a description. If you say that government is a kind of ‘social contract,’ you are merely describing how it seems to you…or what you think it might be comparable to.
Our theory is that government is a natural phenomenon, an expression of power relationships, in which some people seek to dominate others by force. These dominators gather ‘insiders’ together so that they can take money, power and status away from other people, the ‘outsiders.’
Many people think that government provides some service. That is true, but it is incidental. Governments often deliver the mail. But they don’t have to. They would still be governments even if they didn’t control the Post Office. And what if they didn’t have a department of inland fisheries, or a program to teach retarded democrats to count to 20? They would still be in the government business…and still have their helicopters, chauffeurs and expense accounts. But if they lost control of the police or the army it would be an entirely different matter. Force is the essence of government, not a decorative detail. Without armies and police, they would no longer be governments. It is “from the barrel of a gun,” as Mao put it, that political power projects itself.
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Our theory is that government is a natural phenomenon, an expression of power relationships, in which some people seek to dominate others by force. These dominators gather ‘insiders’ together so that they can take money, power and status away from other people, the ‘outsiders.’
Many people think that government provides some service. That is true, but it is incidental. Governments often deliver the mail. But they don’t have to. They would still be governments even if they didn’t control the Post Office. And what if they didn’t have a department of inland fisheries, or a program to teach retarded democrats to count to 20? They would still be in the government business…and still have their helicopters, chauffeurs and expense accounts. But if they lost control of the police or the army it would be an entirely different matter. Force is the essence of government, not a decorative detail. Without armies and police, they would no longer be governments. It is “from the barrel of a gun,” as Mao put it, that political power projects itself.
More
Rick Perry Files Lawsuit To Get On Virginia Primary Ballot
WASHINGTON -- Republican presidential hopeful Rick Perry filed a lawsuit in federal court to get his name on the Virginia primary ballot, according to a story in businessinsider.com.
Perry, currently the governor of Texas, will not be on the Virginia primary ballot for the state's March 6 primary after his campaign did not file the required number of valid signatures by the deadline.
Eight States Raise Minimum Wage For New Year
Finally there's some good news for the millions of Americans who must to live on pay at or close to the legal minimum wage. Eight states are raising their minimum wage on January First, in line with state laws requiring the minimum to keep pace with inflation.
The raises to come are modest by any measurement. But any increase must be welcomed as desperately needed and hopefully as a major start toward increasing the minimum wage everywhere to a level that will provide a decent living to all working Americans, many of them living in poverty or near-poverty.
The minimum wage is just as important now as it was in 1938, when the wage law was enacted as part of the Fair Labor Standards Act, with a promise of guaranteeing workers "a standard of living necessary for health, efficiency and general wellbeing."
The federal rate was set at 25 cents an hour, with states and local governments free to set their own minimums, as long as they are above the federal rate.
Today's rates are much higher, of course, although barely adequate. The federal rate is $7.25 an hour, only about $15,000 a year for full-time workers before taxes and other deductions. Eighteen states, more than 100 cities and counties and the District of Columbia have higher rates, but their rates also are clearly inadequate.
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The raises to come are modest by any measurement. But any increase must be welcomed as desperately needed and hopefully as a major start toward increasing the minimum wage everywhere to a level that will provide a decent living to all working Americans, many of them living in poverty or near-poverty.
The minimum wage is just as important now as it was in 1938, when the wage law was enacted as part of the Fair Labor Standards Act, with a promise of guaranteeing workers "a standard of living necessary for health, efficiency and general wellbeing."
The federal rate was set at 25 cents an hour, with states and local governments free to set their own minimums, as long as they are above the federal rate.
Today's rates are much higher, of course, although barely adequate. The federal rate is $7.25 an hour, only about $15,000 a year for full-time workers before taxes and other deductions. Eighteen states, more than 100 cities and counties and the District of Columbia have higher rates, but their rates also are clearly inadequate.
More
Group Hopes To Take State Redistricting Case To Supreme Court
Representatives of the Fannie Lou Hamer Foundation Political Action Committee said yesterday they hope to challenge the state's new congressional districts in the U.S. Supreme Court.
On Friday, a three-judge panel ruled against nine African-American plaintiffs backed by the Hamer Foundation and financed by the conservative Legacy Foundation. The judges upheld the maps despite saying that some of the districts outlined by the new plan resembled a "Rorschach-like eyesore."
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On Friday, a three-judge panel ruled against nine African-American plaintiffs backed by the Hamer Foundation and financed by the conservative Legacy Foundation. The judges upheld the maps despite saying that some of the districts outlined by the new plan resembled a "Rorschach-like eyesore."
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Were Your Car Windows Shot Out Last Night?
Hi Joe,
Just wondering how many other people had their car Windows shot out by a pellet gun last night? Around 9:30 we heard an odd noise outside but thought little of it. My husband went to get coffee this morning to find his rear window shattered. The officer who came to write the report said they've gotten calls from all over the county about the same scenario. Little hope of catching him, of course.
His joyride is costing us $260. I hope he enjoyed himself.
Just wondering how many other people had their car Windows shot out by a pellet gun last night? Around 9:30 we heard an odd noise outside but thought little of it. My husband went to get coffee this morning to find his rear window shattered. The officer who came to write the report said they've gotten calls from all over the county about the same scenario. Little hope of catching him, of course.
His joyride is costing us $260. I hope he enjoyed himself.
Congress Ends Corn Ethanol Subsidy
Washington —The United States has ended a 30-year tax subsidy for corn-based ethanol that cost taxpayers $6 billion annually, and ended a tariff on imported Brazilian ethanol.
Congress adjourned for the year on Friday, failing to extend the tax break that's drawn a wide variety of critics on Capitol Hill, including Sens. Tom Coburn, R-Okla., and Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif. Critics also have included environmentalists, frozen food producers, ranchers and others.
The policies have helped shift millions of tons of corn from feedlots, dinner tables and other products into gas tanks.
Environmental group Friends of the Earth praised the move.
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More
HO HO HO-RMUZ
When the domestic situation in a country gets too bad, leaders always find an external “threat” to distract the masses. Would Obama go to war with Iran in order to get re-elected? Will the American people fall for this bullshit again, just like they did with Iraq? I wonder what a war with Iran would cost. Maybe someone can call Cheney or Rumsfeld and get their estimate. Their $50 billion estimate for the Iraq War was so accurate. Only off by $3.950 TRILLION. Paul Krugman would be gleeful, as wars always pump up the economy in his Keynesian dreamworld of theories and models.
A false flag or Archduke Ferdinand moment awaits
More
A false flag or Archduke Ferdinand moment awaits
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Today's Survey Question 12/28/11
When was the last time you went though your cell phone contacts and removed the one's you don't call anymore?
Gingrich Divorce Papers Magically Appear In Media Hands
To this day, Barack Hussein Obama remains a man of mystery. Copious amounts of documentation from his early life and academic career have never been released. It took years of pressure, plus Donald Trump as the ringmaster of a media circus, just to see his birth certificate.
When the L.A. Times obtained a potentially embarrassing videotape of Obama laughing it up at a party for Arafat minion Rashid Khalidi, the paper pursed its lips and fastidiously hid the tape from public view. Their newspaper account of the part didn’t even mention that domestic terrorist Friends of Obama Bill Ayers and Bernadine Dohrn attended the event. Another important connection from Obama’s past, his long attendance at Reverend Jeremiah Wright’s church of racial hatred, was carefully buried by the media until conservative radio hosts and bloggers dragged it into the open.
The rules for “vetting” are very different for Republican candidates. We’ve already seen murky allegations from Herman Cain’s past assigned a level of instant credibility that would never have been granted if he were a black Democrat. Even after a much more serious accusation of a long-running consensual affair caused Cain to suspend his campaign, we still don’t know exactly what the initial “sexual harassment” accusers complained about.
Now CNN has magically obtained the sealed records of Newt Gingrich’s first divorce. Here’s the wonderful story of how this Yuletide journalistic miracle came to pass:
After initially being told that the divorce documents were sealed, CNN on Thursday obtained the folder containing the filings in the divorce, which had been stashed away for years in a Carroll County, Georgia, court clerk's drawer. Retired clerk Kenneth Skinner told CNN his deputy took Gingrich's file out of the public records room around 1994, "when he (Gingrich) became the center of attention," because Skinner feared tampering and theft.
"During these years, you had to make sure those papers were there," Skinner said. "People could go in those files and get things out. We didn't have enough security to control it."
Current Carroll County Clerk of Court Alan Lee said he called the retired deputy clerk, who told him where to find the papers, after CNN began looking for them last week.
Shazam! Those papers just popped right out of a clerk’s drawer, where they were supposedly tucked over fifteen years ago, to keep people from nosing around in them! Oh, the irony! Who knows what CNN might be able to discover about Barack Obama, if they bothered to look for some of his records with the intensity reserved for Republicans’ sealed divorce papers?
By an amazing coincidence, previous Obama opponents have also seen their campaigns destroyed by the sudden exposure of “sealed” divorce papers. It happened to both Obama’s primary and general-election opponents in his 2004 Senate race. In fact, it’s likely that the only reason Obama became either a senator or President is that Chicago Democrat machine operatives and their media allies were able to pull lurid details from Republican Jack Ryan’s divorce records, unsealed for the Chicago Tribune by a very helpful California judge.
More
When the L.A. Times obtained a potentially embarrassing videotape of Obama laughing it up at a party for Arafat minion Rashid Khalidi, the paper pursed its lips and fastidiously hid the tape from public view. Their newspaper account of the part didn’t even mention that domestic terrorist Friends of Obama Bill Ayers and Bernadine Dohrn attended the event. Another important connection from Obama’s past, his long attendance at Reverend Jeremiah Wright’s church of racial hatred, was carefully buried by the media until conservative radio hosts and bloggers dragged it into the open.
The rules for “vetting” are very different for Republican candidates. We’ve already seen murky allegations from Herman Cain’s past assigned a level of instant credibility that would never have been granted if he were a black Democrat. Even after a much more serious accusation of a long-running consensual affair caused Cain to suspend his campaign, we still don’t know exactly what the initial “sexual harassment” accusers complained about.
Now CNN has magically obtained the sealed records of Newt Gingrich’s first divorce. Here’s the wonderful story of how this Yuletide journalistic miracle came to pass:
After initially being told that the divorce documents were sealed, CNN on Thursday obtained the folder containing the filings in the divorce, which had been stashed away for years in a Carroll County, Georgia, court clerk's drawer. Retired clerk Kenneth Skinner told CNN his deputy took Gingrich's file out of the public records room around 1994, "when he (Gingrich) became the center of attention," because Skinner feared tampering and theft.
"During these years, you had to make sure those papers were there," Skinner said. "People could go in those files and get things out. We didn't have enough security to control it."
Current Carroll County Clerk of Court Alan Lee said he called the retired deputy clerk, who told him where to find the papers, after CNN began looking for them last week.
Shazam! Those papers just popped right out of a clerk’s drawer, where they were supposedly tucked over fifteen years ago, to keep people from nosing around in them! Oh, the irony! Who knows what CNN might be able to discover about Barack Obama, if they bothered to look for some of his records with the intensity reserved for Republicans’ sealed divorce papers?
By an amazing coincidence, previous Obama opponents have also seen their campaigns destroyed by the sudden exposure of “sealed” divorce papers. It happened to both Obama’s primary and general-election opponents in his 2004 Senate race. In fact, it’s likely that the only reason Obama became either a senator or President is that Chicago Democrat machine operatives and their media allies were able to pull lurid details from Republican Jack Ryan’s divorce records, unsealed for the Chicago Tribune by a very helpful California judge.
More
The Nurse-In: Why Breast-Feeding Moms Are Mad At Target
If shopping at Target is part of your Wednesday morning plans, here’s hoping you’re not squeamish about public breast-feeding. Nursing mothers intend to turn out en masse from Maine to Oregon to breast-feed their babies while wandering through after-Christmas markdowns or sipping a latte in the in-house Starbucks — it’s a maternal twist on civil disobedience: the nurse-in.
In recent years, the nurse-in — a.k.a., the breast-feeding flash mob — has become a protest vehicle for nursing mothers, a means of banding together in solidarity over perceived mistreatment. In the most recent protest of significant size, moms gathered in Whole Foods stores last summer to express their unhappiness that a shopper had been told to cover up while nursing. (Whole Foods apologized, even offering snacks to the miffed crowds.)
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2012 Presidential GOP Caucus Candidate Survey
As a service to Iowa homeschoolers, Network of Iowa Christian Home Educators created a survey addressing issues of interest to home educators and invited all declared GOP presidential caucus candidates to respond.
Below are all of the candidates, in alphabetical order, who responded to our survey.
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Below are all of the candidates, in alphabetical order, who responded to our survey.
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Michigan A Step Closer To Detroit Takeover
DETROIT — Heading down a path that could lead to the state of Michigan taking over the running of Detroit, Gov. Rick Snyder on Tuesday appointed a team to review the city's finances.
The team was named after a preliminary review of city finances showed "probable financial stress" after Detroit was unable to tackle its mounting deficits.
The team, which includes State Treasurer Andy Dillon and other local officials, has 60 days to complete its work. The formal review was announced last week.
BICYCLIST FOUND UNRESPONSIVE AFTER FALL
On December 22, 2011, at approximately 7:50 p.m., Ocean City Police responded to the area of 11621 Coastal Highway for a check on the welfare of an individual who was observed lying on the ground near a bicycle. When officers arrived on scene, they located a man, who was later identified as Paul Christopher Day, 54, of Ocean City, on the ground and unresponsive.
Officers began administering CPR on Day until Ocean City Paramedics arrived at the
scene and subsequently transported Day to Atlantic General Hospital. An investigation
revealed that Day had fallen from his bicycle and struck his head. On December 24, 2011 at approximately 1:20 a.m., Ocean City officers were advised that Day had not recovered from his injuries and was deceased.
Officers began administering CPR on Day until Ocean City Paramedics arrived at the
scene and subsequently transported Day to Atlantic General Hospital. An investigation
revealed that Day had fallen from his bicycle and struck his head. On December 24, 2011 at approximately 1:20 a.m., Ocean City officers were advised that Day had not recovered from his injuries and was deceased.
Nebraska Sen. Ben Nelson Announces Retirement
Nebraska Democratic Sen. Ben Nelson, a pivotal figure in the health care debate, announced his retirement Tuesday in a letter to Nebraskans, saying, "Simply: it's time to move on."
"It's time for me to step away from elective office, spend more time with my family and look for new ways to serve our state and nation. Therefore, I am announcing today that I will not seek reelection," he said.
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OCEAN CITY NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST
The Ocean City Police Department’s Narcotics Unit recently concluded a follow-up investigation that stemmed from a vehicle collision on December 16, 2011. Andrea James Kaczynski, 47, of Ocean City, was charged with driving while impaired, after the pick-up truck he was driving at a high rate of speed struck another vehicle that was stopped at a red light.
Officers located an amount of Phencyclidine (PCP), a schedule II, controlled dangerous substance, in Kaczynski’s pick-up, which initiated the investigation. On December 22, 2011, Ocean City Police, with the assistance of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Department, the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office and the Ocean Pines Police Department, executed a search and seizure warrant at Kaczynski’s home and found amounts of marijuana and PCP.
Kaczynski, who was not at home at the time of the search, was arrested and charged with possession of PCP and possession of marijuana.
Officers located an amount of Phencyclidine (PCP), a schedule II, controlled dangerous substance, in Kaczynski’s pick-up, which initiated the investigation. On December 22, 2011, Ocean City Police, with the assistance of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Department, the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office and the Ocean Pines Police Department, executed a search and seizure warrant at Kaczynski’s home and found amounts of marijuana and PCP.
Kaczynski, who was not at home at the time of the search, was arrested and charged with possession of PCP and possession of marijuana.
Absentee Ballots Key To Florida GOP Primary
The attention may be focused on the Republican presidential contests around the corner in Iowa and New Hampshire, but the candidates ignore what’s under way in Florida at their peril.
More Florida Republicans — about 370,000 — already have requested absentee ballots for the Jan. 31 primary than the number of Republicans who voted in the 2008 Iowa and New Hampshire contests combined.
The ever-growing volume of votes cast before Election Day in Florida is one of the factors that make the state a very different challenge from the earliest elections in Iowa Jan. 3, New Hampshire Jan. 10 and South Carolina Jan. 21. Candidates not only have to grapple with the sheer size and diversity of Florida, but they must prepare for a contest where half the votes or more are in well before Election Day.
“Under the old model in Florida, a campaign would work toward a 72-hour program going into Election Day,’’ said Republican strategist Brett Doster, who is leading Mitt Romney’s Florida effort.
Now, ballots come in right after the start of the new year, followed by a lull, then more absentees, then early voting, then Election Day.
In theory, that means a successful statewide campaign in Florida requires a formidable campaign apparatus to chase absentee ballots to bank as many votes as possible. But there’s a little secret that most professional campaign operatives in Florida prefer not to acknowledge: It’s not at all clear the ground game matters much in a presidential election.
Florida’s GOP primary results will be driven much more by national momentum — the results in Iowa and New Hampshire and what’s being broadcast on Fox News — than by campaign get out the vote efforts.
John McCain mounted a minimal field campaign in Florida four years ago and still won the primary with 36 percent of the vote to 31 percent for Romney. McCain did benefit, though, from an aggressive absentee ballot program mounted by supporters of the “Save Our Homes” property tax initiative as well as by targeting moderate Republicans in South Florida.
This year, it appears that Romney has the campaign operation best equipped to compete in Florida. He has not only campaign professionals and a grass roots operation built up over seven years, but the financial resources to campaign in a vast state with 10 major television markets.
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More Florida Republicans — about 370,000 — already have requested absentee ballots for the Jan. 31 primary than the number of Republicans who voted in the 2008 Iowa and New Hampshire contests combined.
The ever-growing volume of votes cast before Election Day in Florida is one of the factors that make the state a very different challenge from the earliest elections in Iowa Jan. 3, New Hampshire Jan. 10 and South Carolina Jan. 21. Candidates not only have to grapple with the sheer size and diversity of Florida, but they must prepare for a contest where half the votes or more are in well before Election Day.
“Under the old model in Florida, a campaign would work toward a 72-hour program going into Election Day,’’ said Republican strategist Brett Doster, who is leading Mitt Romney’s Florida effort.
Now, ballots come in right after the start of the new year, followed by a lull, then more absentees, then early voting, then Election Day.
In theory, that means a successful statewide campaign in Florida requires a formidable campaign apparatus to chase absentee ballots to bank as many votes as possible. But there’s a little secret that most professional campaign operatives in Florida prefer not to acknowledge: It’s not at all clear the ground game matters much in a presidential election.
Florida’s GOP primary results will be driven much more by national momentum — the results in Iowa and New Hampshire and what’s being broadcast on Fox News — than by campaign get out the vote efforts.
John McCain mounted a minimal field campaign in Florida four years ago and still won the primary with 36 percent of the vote to 31 percent for Romney. McCain did benefit, though, from an aggressive absentee ballot program mounted by supporters of the “Save Our Homes” property tax initiative as well as by targeting moderate Republicans in South Florida.
This year, it appears that Romney has the campaign operation best equipped to compete in Florida. He has not only campaign professionals and a grass roots operation built up over seven years, but the financial resources to campaign in a vast state with 10 major television markets.
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Seaford Man Arrested On Drugs, Weapons Charges After Being Caught Loitering Outside Apartment Complex
A man loitering in the parking lot of an apartment complex on Christmas Eve is in jail after being arrested for drug and weapons offenses.
Around 9 o’clock Saturday night, Seaford Police say 22-year-old Brandon Ways of Seaford was loitering in the parking lot of the Chandler Heights Apartment Complex, and crouched down as an officer passed. While he was crouched down, police say Ways then threw several items under a fence. The officer says he found a loaded handgun, along with cocaine, ecstasy and pot.
Clerk Punches, Knocks Out Armed Robber
A clerk at a business in Western North Carolina punched a would-be robber and knocked him out cold just minutes after the man barged in with a gun and demanded money.
It happened about 15 minutes before closing time Friday night at We Buy Gold store in Hendersonville.
“When he came through the door he told me had a gun and he even flashed it," said Derek Mothershead. “I stood up and threw my hands up and said, 'Take the money.'”
Mothershead said the man came behind the counter with a bag.“I got the money and he had the bag out and instead of putting it in the bag I stuck it out and said, 'Just take it.'
So, when he reached out, I took a step in, I cocked back and preloaded and I hit him hard,” Mothershead told News 4's Mike McCormick.
The punch knocked out the would-be thief.
Mothershead was able to grab the man's weapon and realized it was a pellet gun.
“When I pulled it out of his waistband I started laughing,” said Mothershead. “I said, 'Man, you came in here with a fake gun?'"
Mothershead said he dragged the man over to a desk and held him down with one hand and called 911 with the other.
The man eventually regained consciousness.“He kind of begged me, begged me to let him go,” Mothershead said. “I said, 'You came in and tried to rob us. You’re going to jail.'
”While they waited for police and paramedics, Mothershead gave the man a roll of paper towels, sprayed the floor with cleaner and told him to clean up his own blood.
Police identify the would-be robber as Mostafa Kamel Hendi.
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Obama Wants ANOTHER $1.2 Trillion Dollars
It's déjà vu all over again. President Obama plans to ask Congress for authority to borrow another $1.2 trillion, the New York Times reports. That would raise the national debt to $16.4 trillion. No more increases would be needed until after the 2012 elections. The last raise in the debt ceiling resulted in a bitter fight on Capitol Hill. That might not happen this time. The borrowing would be in accordance with spending levels Republicans and Democrats agreed to under the Budget Control Act. The government has been borrowing 36 cents for every dollar it spends. Fiscal 2011 added $1.3 trillion to the debt.
Wicomico County Council President Joe Holloway On Benett Middle & More
Funding Decisions for Bennett Middle School
December 21, 2011
Much of our community is engaged in a discussion to replace the Bennett Middle School, a project which would already be under construction, except for a collision with the worst economic recession since the Great Depression., The recession has had a crippling affect on the financial strength of the Wicomico County government. There is great concern that this will continue for some time to come. Adjusting to continuously declining revenues over the past three years, the county has shrunk the size of its workforce and furloughed remaining employees, significantly decreased the level of county services and increased user fees for many of the services remaining. What has been most objectionable to many county residents has been our inability to adequately maintain our roads system, to adequately fund public education, or to fund capital infrastructure, of which 80% is dedicated to school projects.
With the hope of jump starting the project, a community forum was held at BMS on December 13th, at which the Board of Education and its staff, the County Executive and his staff, the County Council and interested citizens gathered to assess the project’s current status and to identify what is needed to put the project back on track. Director of Facilities Planning for the school board, Brian Foret, was the principal speaker.
Mr. Foret gave an informative presentation, clearly laying out that the projected cost of the school is $75.3 million, which through value engineering and cost shifting, will be a savings of $3.8 million from the previous estimate. Of the total project cost, the county will pay $42.8 million and the state will pay $32.5 million. All of the county portion will come from sale of capital improvements bonds.
Subsequent to the December 13th meeting, the Daily Times published an editorial in support of the project; in so doing it erroneously gave readers the impression that the state will pay 96% of the BMS project cost, sdding that it should be an easy decision for the county to pay its small share. Using Mr. Foret’s figures, it is clear that the cost to county taxpayers will be much more than 4%; it will be more than half of the total cost. Whatever percentage it may be, the school will cost Wicomico County $42.8 million.
We agree with the newspaper that building a school is an investment in the future of our community. The County Council still has the concern and it should be everyone’s concern, that if we borrow the money to build BMS, the principal and interest payments won’t add so much to our annual budget to make the county less able to fund the schools operating budget and the budgets of other essential county services. Many county residents argue that these are already unacceptably under funded.
On Tuesday, December 20, 2011 the County Council held a public work session on the BMS project, at which Mr. Foret and Mr. Bruce Ford, Comptroller for the Board; Dr. Frederickson, Superintendent; other Board staff and members of the Board of Education; County Executive, Pollitt and his staff, including Finance Director, Andrew Mackel; met with the County Council. The purpose of that meeting was to determine if, when, and how the county could afford to pay for its share of the project, whether the county would have to borrow all of the money, could the cash flow needs of the project be such that the county could spread the borrowing over several years and will the state money be available when it is needed to meet project cash flow needs.
The County Council asked Mr. Mackel about the county’s current bonded indebtedness and how much will be paid off over the next few years. He said there will soon be relief from bond issues that will be paid off. The Council asked Mr. Mackel about revenue projections and what tax rate he would anticipate the county would need to fund the BMS project. Mr. Mackel responded that he thought the current tax rate would not support funding the BMs project, as well as level funding for other operating expenses, but that the Constant Yield Tax Rate, or the tax rate allowed by the Revenue Cap would both support level funding for current expenses, the BMS project and funding for some other smaller capital projects, or some other budget increases. The Constant Yield Tax Rate and the Revenue Cap Allowed Tax Rate would represent about a 5.4 and 7 cent property tax increase next year respectively.
We asked what other capital projects will be coming in the years when borrowing for BMS would be needed and afterward. Mr. Foret responded that there are school capital needs of an additional $40 million, or so, in the queue for the years after the Bennett Middle School.
On January 25th the Maryland Board of Public Works will decide whether to fund the state’s share of the next round of BMS funding. Approval will depend on whether the county commits to fund the project next year. County Executive, Rick Pollitt committed to ask Dr. David Lever, Director of the IAC which recommends state funding for schools, to intercede on behalf of the county for a grace period before the BPW meeting to allow the county to make a decision.
While all the answers are not in yet, the County Council expects to have answers to the remaining questions for its next meeting on January 3, 2012. The difficult decision for the County Council will be whether to commit to an increase in the property tax rate of 5 to 7 cents now for next year, so the BMS project may proceed, without knowing what else will be required in next year’s operating budget and without knowing whether revenue for next year may decline more than expected. Committing to increase taxes months ahead of the next year’s budget being prepared is without precedent in this county and carries considerable risk.
Wicomico County Council
Joe Holloway
Council President
December 21, 2011
Much of our community is engaged in a discussion to replace the Bennett Middle School, a project which would already be under construction, except for a collision with the worst economic recession since the Great Depression., The recession has had a crippling affect on the financial strength of the Wicomico County government. There is great concern that this will continue for some time to come. Adjusting to continuously declining revenues over the past three years, the county has shrunk the size of its workforce and furloughed remaining employees, significantly decreased the level of county services and increased user fees for many of the services remaining. What has been most objectionable to many county residents has been our inability to adequately maintain our roads system, to adequately fund public education, or to fund capital infrastructure, of which 80% is dedicated to school projects.
With the hope of jump starting the project, a community forum was held at BMS on December 13th, at which the Board of Education and its staff, the County Executive and his staff, the County Council and interested citizens gathered to assess the project’s current status and to identify what is needed to put the project back on track. Director of Facilities Planning for the school board, Brian Foret, was the principal speaker.
Mr. Foret gave an informative presentation, clearly laying out that the projected cost of the school is $75.3 million, which through value engineering and cost shifting, will be a savings of $3.8 million from the previous estimate. Of the total project cost, the county will pay $42.8 million and the state will pay $32.5 million. All of the county portion will come from sale of capital improvements bonds.
Subsequent to the December 13th meeting, the Daily Times published an editorial in support of the project; in so doing it erroneously gave readers the impression that the state will pay 96% of the BMS project cost, sdding that it should be an easy decision for the county to pay its small share. Using Mr. Foret’s figures, it is clear that the cost to county taxpayers will be much more than 4%; it will be more than half of the total cost. Whatever percentage it may be, the school will cost Wicomico County $42.8 million.
We agree with the newspaper that building a school is an investment in the future of our community. The County Council still has the concern and it should be everyone’s concern, that if we borrow the money to build BMS, the principal and interest payments won’t add so much to our annual budget to make the county less able to fund the schools operating budget and the budgets of other essential county services. Many county residents argue that these are already unacceptably under funded.
On Tuesday, December 20, 2011 the County Council held a public work session on the BMS project, at which Mr. Foret and Mr. Bruce Ford, Comptroller for the Board; Dr. Frederickson, Superintendent; other Board staff and members of the Board of Education; County Executive, Pollitt and his staff, including Finance Director, Andrew Mackel; met with the County Council. The purpose of that meeting was to determine if, when, and how the county could afford to pay for its share of the project, whether the county would have to borrow all of the money, could the cash flow needs of the project be such that the county could spread the borrowing over several years and will the state money be available when it is needed to meet project cash flow needs.
The County Council asked Mr. Mackel about the county’s current bonded indebtedness and how much will be paid off over the next few years. He said there will soon be relief from bond issues that will be paid off. The Council asked Mr. Mackel about revenue projections and what tax rate he would anticipate the county would need to fund the BMS project. Mr. Mackel responded that he thought the current tax rate would not support funding the BMs project, as well as level funding for other operating expenses, but that the Constant Yield Tax Rate, or the tax rate allowed by the Revenue Cap would both support level funding for current expenses, the BMS project and funding for some other smaller capital projects, or some other budget increases. The Constant Yield Tax Rate and the Revenue Cap Allowed Tax Rate would represent about a 5.4 and 7 cent property tax increase next year respectively.
We asked what other capital projects will be coming in the years when borrowing for BMS would be needed and afterward. Mr. Foret responded that there are school capital needs of an additional $40 million, or so, in the queue for the years after the Bennett Middle School.
On January 25th the Maryland Board of Public Works will decide whether to fund the state’s share of the next round of BMS funding. Approval will depend on whether the county commits to fund the project next year. County Executive, Rick Pollitt committed to ask Dr. David Lever, Director of the IAC which recommends state funding for schools, to intercede on behalf of the county for a grace period before the BPW meeting to allow the county to make a decision.
While all the answers are not in yet, the County Council expects to have answers to the remaining questions for its next meeting on January 3, 2012. The difficult decision for the County Council will be whether to commit to an increase in the property tax rate of 5 to 7 cents now for next year, so the BMS project may proceed, without knowing what else will be required in next year’s operating budget and without knowing whether revenue for next year may decline more than expected. Committing to increase taxes months ahead of the next year’s budget being prepared is without precedent in this county and carries considerable risk.
Wicomico County Council
Joe Holloway
Council President
Police Ask For Help In Finding Missing Pregnant Woman
Wilmington police are asking you for your help in finding a missing pregnant woman.They've issued a Gold Alert for 24-year-old Davenah Brightwell of Chester, Pa., walked away from St. Francis Hospital in Wilmington on Christmas day.
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TSA Worker Destroyed My Luggage
Fox News Radio host Todd Starnes is blaming agents with the Transportation Security Administration for removing his employer’s logo from his bag and ultimately damaging his luggage as he traveled by air over the holiday weekend.
“TSA ripped off my Fox News logo and sliced up my luggage,” Starnes, host of “Fox News & Commentary,” posted on Twitter.
The host said a TSA agent instructed him to “call the government” for a refund on the allegedly destroyed bag, and that it could take six months for the agency to investigate his claim.
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“TSA ripped off my Fox News logo and sliced up my luggage,” Starnes, host of “Fox News & Commentary,” posted on Twitter.
The host said a TSA agent instructed him to “call the government” for a refund on the allegedly destroyed bag, and that it could take six months for the agency to investigate his claim.
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New Year Could Mean New County Pension Plan
GEORGETOWN — Future Sussex County employees may not have the same retirement benefit enjoyed by the 500 current employees. New employees will likely have to pay into their retirement plans.
Currently, the county pays 100 percent of pension costs; pension funds are a big ticket item in each year's budget. County council recently approved more than $6 million in contributions to the two funds.
A Letter To The Editor 12-28-11
Mr. Albero,
Here is a little something for your readers and Bernadette and her hit squad headed up by Lt. Elton Harmon. So I’m in roll call the other night with probationary Sgt. Doug Smith and apparently an officer wrote something on the blog regarding Sgt. Doug Smith. Well Sgt. Smith ordered us to write a 95 (formal department memo) to him stating if we wrote anything on the blog site. We were also ordered not to discuss it….yeah right!
Under the 1st Amendment we are entitled to Freedom of Speech, however Sgt. Doug Smith feels as though he is above the Founding Fathers of the United States Constitution. How is that? Oh I forgot…he’s an OCPD Sergeant. So the officers have been placed between a rock and a hard place. Fess up and tell Smith if you’ve said anything on the blog site OR don’t say anything and if he finds out the result will be the same….RETALIATION OCPD STYLE! Which is already happening while we are at work right Doug?
I’ll tell you another incident Mr. Albero. I had the unfortunate experience to witness Sgt. Doug Smith one night this past August show another subordinate officer a photocopy of a man and woman. Apparently one or both were of interest to OCPD. Well the glorious PROBATIONARY Sgt. Doug Smith shows the photocopy of this couple to a subordinate TSU (Traffic Safety Unit) officer and makes the comment, “If you look hard enough you can see the outline of her pus*y through her pants”. Whooooooooooooo Nellie I thought to myself! Here we have a PROBATIONARY sergeant that is a supervisor and is suppose to set a professional example to other subordinate officers and he is commenting about this woman’s pus*y. And Sgt. Doug Smith is concerned about what other officers are saying? Hmmmm..maybe he should be concerned about himself.
So now another cat (meow) is out of the bag and I’m sure Lt. Guiton (internal affairs) is going to read this post. Do you think anything is going to happen to PROBATIONARY Sgt. Doug Smith? The answer is no. He is one of DiPino’s protected handpicked golden children.
There’s more where this came from Mac. Do you want to hear more? We have lots more! It’s not just 3 or 4 past officers Mac! Get a clue and get on board or go play tennis with Bernadette!
Here is a little something for your readers and Bernadette and her hit squad headed up by Lt. Elton Harmon. So I’m in roll call the other night with probationary Sgt. Doug Smith and apparently an officer wrote something on the blog regarding Sgt. Doug Smith. Well Sgt. Smith ordered us to write a 95 (formal department memo) to him stating if we wrote anything on the blog site. We were also ordered not to discuss it….yeah right!
Under the 1st Amendment we are entitled to Freedom of Speech, however Sgt. Doug Smith feels as though he is above the Founding Fathers of the United States Constitution. How is that? Oh I forgot…he’s an OCPD Sergeant. So the officers have been placed between a rock and a hard place. Fess up and tell Smith if you’ve said anything on the blog site OR don’t say anything and if he finds out the result will be the same….RETALIATION OCPD STYLE! Which is already happening while we are at work right Doug?
I’ll tell you another incident Mr. Albero. I had the unfortunate experience to witness Sgt. Doug Smith one night this past August show another subordinate officer a photocopy of a man and woman. Apparently one or both were of interest to OCPD. Well the glorious PROBATIONARY Sgt. Doug Smith shows the photocopy of this couple to a subordinate TSU (Traffic Safety Unit) officer and makes the comment, “If you look hard enough you can see the outline of her pus*y through her pants”. Whooooooooooooo Nellie I thought to myself! Here we have a PROBATIONARY sergeant that is a supervisor and is suppose to set a professional example to other subordinate officers and he is commenting about this woman’s pus*y. And Sgt. Doug Smith is concerned about what other officers are saying? Hmmmm..maybe he should be concerned about himself.
So now another cat (meow) is out of the bag and I’m sure Lt. Guiton (internal affairs) is going to read this post. Do you think anything is going to happen to PROBATIONARY Sgt. Doug Smith? The answer is no. He is one of DiPino’s protected handpicked golden children.
There’s more where this came from Mac. Do you want to hear more? We have lots more! It’s not just 3 or 4 past officers Mac! Get a clue and get on board or go play tennis with Bernadette!
UPDATE: Ralph J. Mitchell Jr. Charged In Christmas Party Groping
A 60-year-old Georgetown man was charged with unlawful sexual contact after police say he touched a coworker inappropriately during a Christmas party.
The two were sitting across from each other at Smitty McGee's Restaurant in Selbyville Dec. 15 when Ralph J. Mitchell Jr. reached across the table and touched a 42-year-old woman, said Sgt. Paul Shavack of the Delaware State Police.
Embolism After Long Flight Killed Rapper Heavy D
A pulmonary embolism brought on by a long flight killed rapper Heavy D, according to a report from the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office released Tuesday.
Heavy D (real name: Dwight Arrington Myers) collapsed and died suddenly outside his Beverly Hills home on Nov. 8 at age 44. His cause of death was a blood clot in his lung, but he also suffered from deep vein thrombosis and heart disease.
From Tanning Beds To Immigration Policies, States Set To Enact Controversial Laws
The federal government may have been bogged down in a quagmire this year, but states across the country actively passed a slew of new laws -- ranging from conventional to controversial -- that are set to go into effect in 2012.
California takes the lead in the number of new laws that will be enacted Jan. 1, according to a list compiled by the National Conference of State Legislatures.
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Mom Of 4 Reflects On First Year In Prison For $31 Pot Sale
TAFT - Wearing prison-issue yellow clothes, Patricia Spottedcrow reflects on her first year in prison through the lens of tears and determination.
One year ago, on the week of Christmas, the first-time offender was checked into the Eddie Warrior women's prison - the first holiday away from her four young children.
"I cried and cried just thinking of my kids opening presents on Christmas and I wasn't there," she said. "This year, it's going to be any other day. I try not to keep up with days in here."
At her mother's home in Kingfisher, there is a somber tone among her children - ages 2, 4, 5 and 10.
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5 Charged After A Fight Involving Police Officers Leaves Several Injured
ONSLOW COUNTY -- This happened Christmas Eve on Davis Street in Jacksonville.
Police initially responded to a call for a fight on Davis Street around 4 p.m.
Another fight broke out several minutes later that injured several people including police officers.
I spoke with the people who are accused of assaulting the police officers. They told me the incident all started because the officers targeted the wrong person.
37-year-old Jonathan Guiterrez, of Miami had just arrived in Jacksonville hours before the incident happened. He was charged with two counts of assaulting a government official, failure to disperse and injury to personal property, according to warrants.
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