Whatever one thinks of the practical implications of the Kalecki equation (and as we pointed out a month ago, GMO's James Montier sure doesn't think much [18] particularly when one accounts for the ever critical issue of asset depreciation), it intuitively has one important implication: every incremental dollar of debt created at the public level during a time of stagnant growth (such as Q1 2012 as already shown earlier) should offset one dollar of deleveraging in the private sector. In turn, this should facilitate the growth of private America so it can eventually take back the reins of debt creation back from the public sector (and ostensibly help it delever, although that would mean running a surplus - something America has done only once in the post-war period). This growth would manifest itself directly by the hiring of Americans by US corporations, small, medium and large, who in turn, courtesy of their newly found job safety, would proceed to spend, and slowly but surely restart the frozen velocity of money which would then spur inflation, growth, public sector deleveraging, and all those other things we learn about in Econ 101. All of the above works... in theory. In practice, not so much. Because as the WSJ demonstrates, in the period 2009-2011, America's largest multinational companies: those who benefit the most from the public sector increasing its debt/GDP to the most since WWII, or just over 100% and rapidly rising, and thus those who should return the favor by hiring American workers, have instead hired three times as many foreigners as they have hired US workers. Those among us cynically inclined could say, correctly, that the US is incurring record levels of leverage to fund foreign leverage, foreign employment, and, most importantly, foreign leverage.
More
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Monday, April 30, 2012
Breitbart's Coroner Possibly Poisoned To Death
Michael Cormier, a respected forensic technician for the Los Angeles County Coroner, who likely worked on the autopsy of Andrew Breitbart, died under suspicious circumstances at his North Hollywood home April 20, the same day Breitbart’s cause of death was finally made public.
“There are mysterious circumstances surrounding his death,” said Elizabeth Espinosa, a news reporter for KTLA-TV. “We’re told detectives are looking into the possibility that he was poisoned by arsenic.”
More
“There are mysterious circumstances surrounding his death,” said Elizabeth Espinosa, a news reporter for KTLA-TV. “We’re told detectives are looking into the possibility that he was poisoned by arsenic.”
More
Maryland's Highest Court Says All Pit Bulls Are "Inherently Dangerous."
When pit bulls make the news, it's often for a vicious attack.
Animal advocates think their reputation is unfair, but the Maryland
Court of Appeals is keeping count with cases like Keyniya Harris in
mind.
"The dog came running after me because the door wasn't locked and he just came pushing the door open and running after me," said Harris.
Seven-year-old Keyniya has deep gashes in her leg after a pit bull in her Rosedale neighborhood pinned her down. It happened in October of last year.
She needed 40 stitches and she missed a month of school.
"All she can do is holler mommy, mommy it just hurts, leg just all gashed over. I never seen nothing like that in my life," said Loretta Harris, Keyniya’s mom.
More
"The dog came running after me because the door wasn't locked and he just came pushing the door open and running after me," said Harris.
Seven-year-old Keyniya has deep gashes in her leg after a pit bull in her Rosedale neighborhood pinned her down. It happened in October of last year.
She needed 40 stitches and she missed a month of school.
"All she can do is holler mommy, mommy it just hurts, leg just all gashed over. I never seen nothing like that in my life," said Loretta Harris, Keyniya’s mom.
More
The New Drug Of Choice In The White House, Federal Reserve And Treasury: Delusionol
If you just want to suppress the symptoms but leave the financial disease untouched, Delusionol (tm) is the drug of choice.
Inside sources are reporting that there's a new drug of choice circulating in the hallways of power--the White House, Federal Reserve and the Treasury Department--and it's a perfectly legal prescription psychotropic: Delusionol (tm). Delusionol works by activating the parts of the brain that replace cognition and reasoning with positive fantasies.
For example, a driver on Delusionol might run over a person in a wheelchair, bounce off a fire hydrant and send a baby carriage hurtling into a brick wall, and they would be happily convinced that they were an excellent driver.
More
Inside sources are reporting that there's a new drug of choice circulating in the hallways of power--the White House, Federal Reserve and the Treasury Department--and it's a perfectly legal prescription psychotropic: Delusionol (tm). Delusionol works by activating the parts of the brain that replace cognition and reasoning with positive fantasies.
For example, a driver on Delusionol might run over a person in a wheelchair, bounce off a fire hydrant and send a baby carriage hurtling into a brick wall, and they would be happily convinced that they were an excellent driver.
More
GOP Lawmaker: Eligibility Too Scary To Take On
In former Arizona House Speaker Kirk Adams, eligibility activist Tom
Ballantyne thought he had found a Republican ally who would champion the
Constitution by demanding a congressional investigation into Barack
Obama’s “natural-born citizen” status.
After all, Adams told Ballantyne he was so fierce a defender of the Constitution that he battled his state’s Republican governor in court to protect the legislature’s enumerated powers from executive-branch encroachment.
When it came to investigating Obama’s eligibility, however, Adams – who is now running for the U.S. House – said he feared Congress standing up to the chief executive would trigger “a constitutional crisis unlike one we’ve seen since perhaps the Civil War.”
More
After all, Adams told Ballantyne he was so fierce a defender of the Constitution that he battled his state’s Republican governor in court to protect the legislature’s enumerated powers from executive-branch encroachment.
When it came to investigating Obama’s eligibility, however, Adams – who is now running for the U.S. House – said he feared Congress standing up to the chief executive would trigger “a constitutional crisis unlike one we’ve seen since perhaps the Civil War.”
More
Rick Konrad To Join Wicomico County As Head Of Purchasing
Rick Konrad
As my two weeks closed out at my new position I decided that it was not a good fit for me and an opportunity presented itself to return to Wicomico County as the Head of Purchasing. I have seven years in with the County already (2003-2010) and will be “coming home” to work with my former colleagues and friends.Although I am sorry my opportunity in Delaware did not work out, I now get to remain i...n Salisbury, Maryland (my adopted home) and a place that I love to live, and be part of the solution to the County’s current difficult circumstances.Life takes some odd turns sometimes and I may never have had the chance to return to the organization I love unless I made the move to Delaware. This is truly a case in which in the end fate has had a hand and in which I have followed my heart. There will be some bad press over this but I know that in the end one has to take the path that God leads them on and look out for their family and themselves first and foremost. Worrying about what some writer or blogger says means very little to me and I am ever thankful to my family and friends for their support and love.
As my two weeks closed out at my new position I decided that it was not a good fit for me and an opportunity presented itself to return to Wicomico County as the Head of Purchasing. I have seven years in with the County already (2003-2010) and will be “coming home” to work with my former colleagues and friends.Although I am sorry my opportunity in Delaware did not work out, I now get to remain i...n Salisbury, Maryland (my adopted home) and a place that I love to live, and be part of the solution to the County’s current difficult circumstances.Life takes some odd turns sometimes and I may never have had the chance to return to the organization I love unless I made the move to Delaware. This is truly a case in which in the end fate has had a hand and in which I have followed my heart. There will be some bad press over this but I know that in the end one has to take the path that God leads them on and look out for their family and themselves first and foremost. Worrying about what some writer or blogger says means very little to me and I am ever thankful to my family and friends for their support and love.
Police Outraged By Court Ruling That Bars Them From Collecting DNA Samples
A major court decision could change the way police catch criminals
in Maryland. It’s a ruling that’s sparking outrage among public safety
officials.
Weijia Jiang has more on the DNA debate.
Police say that ruling makes it easier for repeat offenders to get away with their crimes.
A crime-solving tool is under fire in Maryland, and police say public safety is at stake.
“Our concern about the court’s ruling is that it’s going to impede us from being able to put certain bad guys behind bars that we’ve been able to put behind bars,” Elise Armacost, spokeswoman for the Baltimore County Police Department, said.
More
Weijia Jiang has more on the DNA debate.
Police say that ruling makes it easier for repeat offenders to get away with their crimes.
A crime-solving tool is under fire in Maryland, and police say public safety is at stake.
“Our concern about the court’s ruling is that it’s going to impede us from being able to put certain bad guys behind bars that we’ve been able to put behind bars,” Elise Armacost, spokeswoman for the Baltimore County Police Department, said.
More
McGuire's In Delmar Bailed Out Again
Tom McGuire was hit with another 25 charges last week and was once again released on bail. The McGuire's are facing a multitude of charges including Sex Abuse Minor, Sex Offense Second Degree, Unnatural Or Perverted Practice, Assault-First Degree, Child Abuse: 2nd Deg -Cust, Sex Abuse Minor, False Imprisonment and many other charges.
As the charges continue to rack up, so do the fees to bail them out of jail each time.
File Date:
04/27/2012Close Date:
Party Type:
Bond Remitter/BondsmanParty No.:1
Document Name:
Corporate Bail Bond posted by ABBA Bail Bond in the amount $3040.00 and Property
Bond posted by Sandra G. Thomas and Jeanne W. McGuire in the amount of $246,960.00, ReleaseFiled by BND001-ABBA Bail Bonds, BND002-Seneca Insurance Company, BND003-Sandra G. Thomas And Jeanne W. McGuire
Chief: Drones 'Certainly' Coming to Skies Over Beltway
WASHINGTON - Look up. Drones are "certainly" coming to the skies over
the Beltway in the next few years, one area police chief says.
The use of drones in the D.C. area became public information last week, after the Federal Aviation Administration released a list of agencies currently or previously permitted to use the unmanned aerial vehicles. It included many federal departments, such as Agriculture, Homeland Security and Energy as well as local organizations such as Virginia Commonwealth University and Virginia Tech.
"Drones will certainly have a purpose and a reason to be in this region in the next, coming years," said Fairfax County Police Chief David Rohrer, while speaking on WTOP's "Ask the Chief" program on Monday. "Just as a standpoint as an alternative for spotting traffic and sending information back to our VDOT Smart Traffic centers, and being able to observe backups."
More
The use of drones in the D.C. area became public information last week, after the Federal Aviation Administration released a list of agencies currently or previously permitted to use the unmanned aerial vehicles. It included many federal departments, such as Agriculture, Homeland Security and Energy as well as local organizations such as Virginia Commonwealth University and Virginia Tech.
"Drones will certainly have a purpose and a reason to be in this region in the next, coming years," said Fairfax County Police Chief David Rohrer, while speaking on WTOP's "Ask the Chief" program on Monday. "Just as a standpoint as an alternative for spotting traffic and sending information back to our VDOT Smart Traffic centers, and being able to observe backups."
More
With An Asterisk, WTC Is Back On Top In NYC
NEW YORK (AP) - One World Trade Center, the giant monolith being built to replace the twin towers destroyed in the Sept. 11 attacks, will lay claim to the title of New York City's tallest skyscraper on Monday. Workers will erect steel columns that will make its unfinished skeleton a little over 1,250 feet high, just enough to peak over the roof of the observation deck on the Empire State Building.
More
More
Obama Aide Mum on Whether US Protecting Activist
A top White House aide on Sunday said President Barack Obama wants to
strike an "appropriate balance" between advancing human rights and
maintaining U.S. relations with China, the first public comments by the
administration on its potential involvement in harboring a Chinese
activist on the eve of diplomatic talks between the two world powers.
John Brennan, Obama's counterterrorism adviser, declined to provide details on the incident or say whether the activist, Chen Guangcheng, might be hiding in the U.S. embassy in Beijing as reported.
Chen, who has exposed forced abortions and sterilizations in villages as a result of China's one-child policy, escaped house arrest a week ago in Shandong province in eastern China. Chinese-based activists say he was driven away by supporters and then handed over to others who brought him to Beijing.
More
John Brennan, Obama's counterterrorism adviser, declined to provide details on the incident or say whether the activist, Chen Guangcheng, might be hiding in the U.S. embassy in Beijing as reported.
Chen, who has exposed forced abortions and sterilizations in villages as a result of China's one-child policy, escaped house arrest a week ago in Shandong province in eastern China. Chinese-based activists say he was driven away by supporters and then handed over to others who brought him to Beijing.
More
Officials Probe Bronx SUV Accident That Killed 7
Three generations of a family died in a horrifying crash just a few
miles from home when the SUV they were traveling in plunged more than 50
feet off a highway overpass and into a ravine on the grounds of the
Bronx Zoo, killing all seven aboard, including three children.
"Sometimes you come upon events that are horrific and this is one of them," FDNY deputy Chief Ronald Werner said shortly after the crash.
Authorities were trying to determine what caused Sunday's accident that killed Jacob Nunez, 85, and Ana Julia Martinez, 81, both from the Dominican Republic, their daughters, Maria Gonzalez, 45, and Maria Nunez, 39, and three grandchildren. Police say Gonzalez was driving.
More
"Sometimes you come upon events that are horrific and this is one of them," FDNY deputy Chief Ronald Werner said shortly after the crash.
Authorities were trying to determine what caused Sunday's accident that killed Jacob Nunez, 85, and Ana Julia Martinez, 81, both from the Dominican Republic, their daughters, Maria Gonzalez, 45, and Maria Nunez, 39, and three grandchildren. Police say Gonzalez was driving.
More
Dog Found: UPDATE
Joe,
A male golden retriever ran into our building this morning. He's a very sweet,
friendly guy. We've been giving him food and water but are hoping to find his
owners to get him back home safe and sound. Would you please post this picture
of him? He is wearing a black collar with red and tan flowers on it. He has no
tags. He does have a rash/dry skin on his back above his tail. Thanks.
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Strassel: The President Has a List
Try this thought experiment: You decide to donate money to Mitt
Romney. You want change in the Oval Office, so you engage in your
democratic right to send a check.
Several days later, President Barack Obama, the most powerful man on the planet, singles you out by name. His campaign brands you a Romney donor, shames you for "betting against America," and accuses you of having a "less-than-reputable" record. The message from the man who controls the Justice Department (which can indict you), the SEC (which can fine you), and the IRS (which can audit you), is clear: You made a mistake donating that money.
Are you worried?
Richard Nixon's "enemies list" appalled the country for the simple reason that presidents hold a unique trust. Unlike senators or congressmen, presidents alone represent all Americans. Their powers—to jail, to fine, to bankrupt—are also so vast as to require restraint. Any president who targets a private citizen for his politics is de facto engaged in government intimidation and threats. This is why presidents since Nixon have carefully avoided the practice.
More
Several days later, President Barack Obama, the most powerful man on the planet, singles you out by name. His campaign brands you a Romney donor, shames you for "betting against America," and accuses you of having a "less-than-reputable" record. The message from the man who controls the Justice Department (which can indict you), the SEC (which can fine you), and the IRS (which can audit you), is clear: You made a mistake donating that money.
Are you worried?
Richard Nixon's "enemies list" appalled the country for the simple reason that presidents hold a unique trust. Unlike senators or congressmen, presidents alone represent all Americans. Their powers—to jail, to fine, to bankrupt—are also so vast as to require restraint. Any president who targets a private citizen for his politics is de facto engaged in government intimidation and threats. This is why presidents since Nixon have carefully avoided the practice.
More
Adam Roop Throws 110% Towards Joe Albero For Mayor
Adam R Roop2 hours ago via mobile ·Well the cat, or in this case I should say the elephant, is out of the bag..Joe Ablero is running for Mayor of the City of Salisbury. And I support him 110% . No matter what your personal opinion is about Mr. Albero...can we all agree that he has an enormous amount of political knowledge and backing!?! Can we all agree that he is a highly successful business man!?! Can we all agree that he has alot of good ideas for the future of not just Salisbury but the Eastern Shore at large!?! These are all traits and experiences that can bring real change to a City and its citizens that desperately need it. Mr. Albero is a leader. One that can bring all walks of people and political parties to action. I will be sharing my personal plans moving forward this month with everyone, but for now I give props to Mr. Albero for going against the naysayers and standing up for what he believes in! #SalisburyUnite — with Joe Albero.
BREAKING NEWS:
Seven reportedly dead after van plunged off an overpass and into New York's Bronx Zoo
Secret Service Agent in Sex Scandal Lives in Md.
A Secret Service agent embroiled in the Colombia prostitution scandal lives in Anne Arundel County, NBC News and CNN are reporting.
The networks reported Friday that the agent lives in Severna Park.
Sources with knowledge of the investigation in contact with CNN identified the agent as Arthur Huntington. WBAL-TV 11 News found local land records that indicate a man with the same name listed on property in Severna Park; however, it was not immediately known whether that man is indeed the agent in question.
More
Andy Harris Endorses Mitt Romney for President
Harris Promotes Romney at GOP Convention
BEL AIR - Congressman Andy Harris has pledged his full support and efforts to help Mitt Romney win in November. “It is with great enthusiasm that I endorse Mitt Romney for President,” said Harris yesterday. He continued, “Mitt Romney has proven he is a great leader and a man of integrity during this primary election season. I know Mitt Romney will direct this country back on the right path to economic prosperity. I am proud to stand with Mitt Romney and ask Marylanders to stand with Mitt too,” Harris concluded.
'Civilization jihad' and Obama's connections
A new video series warns than an effort to overthrow the American
system already is well under way through the “civilization jihad” of the
Muslim Brotherhood, with the support of key U.S. government leaders,
including Barack Obama.
Radical Muslims have penetrated “team Obama,” according to the series, which examines six individuals who have been allowed into high positions. The consequent danger is “acute,” according to the video makers.
Included in the conversation are the White House, director of National Intelligence, State Department, Justice Department, the Pentagon, Department of Homeland Security and NASA.
More
Radical Muslims have penetrated “team Obama,” according to the series, which examines six individuals who have been allowed into high positions. The consequent danger is “acute,” according to the video makers.
Included in the conversation are the White House, director of National Intelligence, State Department, Justice Department, the Pentagon, Department of Homeland Security and NASA.
More
COLOR IS GOOD (Maxine)
Yesterday I went to the doctor for my yearly physical.
My blood pressure was high.
My cholesterol was high.
I'd gained some weight,
and I didn't feel so hot.
My doctor said eating right doesn't
have to be complicated and it would
solve my physical problems.
He said:
Just think in colors.
Fill your plate with bright colors.
Try some greens, oranges, reds,
maybe something yellow, etc.
and eat an entire bowl of
bright colors.
My blood pressure was high.
My cholesterol was high.
I'd gained some weight,
and I didn't feel so hot.
My doctor said eating right doesn't
have to be complicated and it would
solve my physical problems.
He said:
Just think in colors.
Fill your plate with bright colors.
Try some greens, oranges, reds,
maybe something yellow, etc.
and eat an entire bowl of
bright colors.
The Beach Boys Preview Their First New Song in Two Decade
The Beach Boys have unveiled a clip of "That's Why God Made the Radio,"
the first single off their reunion album that's due to hit shelves this
summer. The group split in the late 1990s and toured in separate camps,
occasionally firing off nasty lawsuits at each other. Last year, they
decided to put the acrimony behind them and reunite for a tour. They've
spent the last few months at a Los Angeles studio working on their new
album.
PUBLIC NOTICE
FY13 Budget Sessions – Updated Schedule
The following is the Salisbury City Council’s FY13 Updated Budget schedule:
Monday April 30 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Debt Service & Other Uses
Room 306 Marina Fund
Parking Authority
SWED
Internal Services - Finance
Internal Services - Procurement
Internal Services - Human Resources
Lunch Break
Municipal Buildings – Poplar Hill Mansion
Government Office Building
Community Development
Planning & Zoning
Public Works - General Fund
Thursday May 3 4:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Water & Sewer Fund
Room 306 Water & Sewer Rates
Thursday May 10 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Personnel Committees - Police & Fire
Room 306
Monday May 14 6:00 p.m. Regular Council Meeting - Public Hearing on FY13
Council Chambers Budget; Constant Yield Tax Rate
Tuesday May 15 9:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Police Department
Room 306 Elections
City Attorney
Mayor’s Office
Community Promotions
Information Technology
General Discussion
Follow-up on outstanding issues
Thursday May 17 TBD General Discussion (if necessary)
Room 306 Follow-up on outstanding issues
Tuesday May 29 6:00 p.m. Regular Council Meeting - 2nd reading and adoption
Council Chambers of Budget; adoption of Water & Sewer rates
All questions may be directed to the entire council via email to
ALLCityCouncilMembers@ci.salisbury.md.us, or by calling the Office of the City Clerk at
(410) 548-3140.
The following is the Salisbury City Council’s FY13 Updated Budget schedule:
Monday April 30 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Debt Service & Other Uses
Room 306 Marina Fund
Parking Authority
SWED
Internal Services - Finance
Internal Services - Procurement
Internal Services - Human Resources
Lunch Break
Municipal Buildings – Poplar Hill Mansion
Government Office Building
Community Development
Planning & Zoning
Public Works - General Fund
Thursday May 3 4:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Water & Sewer Fund
Room 306 Water & Sewer Rates
Thursday May 10 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Personnel Committees - Police & Fire
Room 306
Monday May 14 6:00 p.m. Regular Council Meeting - Public Hearing on FY13
Council Chambers Budget; Constant Yield Tax Rate
Tuesday May 15 9:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Police Department
Room 306 Elections
City Attorney
Mayor’s Office
Community Promotions
Information Technology
General Discussion
Follow-up on outstanding issues
Thursday May 17 TBD General Discussion (if necessary)
Room 306 Follow-up on outstanding issues
Tuesday May 29 6:00 p.m. Regular Council Meeting - 2nd reading and adoption
Council Chambers of Budget; adoption of Water & Sewer rates
All questions may be directed to the entire council via email to
ALLCityCouncilMembers@ci.salisbury.md.us, or by calling the Office of the City Clerk at
(410) 548-3140.
Dog Means Life or Death for War-Wounded Vets
What happens when an 89-year-old prisoner of war from World War II is
put together with a service dog? The answer is changing the lives of
scores of wounded American veterans returning home from tours in Iraq
and Afghanistan.
Irwin Stovroff, founder of Vets Helping Heroes, said he witnessed first-hand how service dogs can save the lives of veterans. He explained he was motivated to start a foundation for the purpose since government funds were largely unavailable.
“What motivated me was the fact that I realized these young heroes were coming back and were going to have one tough life,” Stovroff told WND’s Aaron Klein in a radio interview. “They had so many handicaps, being blind, losing arms, having seizures, post traumatic stress disorder, and our government had no funds for dogs.”
More
Irwin Stovroff, founder of Vets Helping Heroes, said he witnessed first-hand how service dogs can save the lives of veterans. He explained he was motivated to start a foundation for the purpose since government funds were largely unavailable.
“What motivated me was the fact that I realized these young heroes were coming back and were going to have one tough life,” Stovroff told WND’s Aaron Klein in a radio interview. “They had so many handicaps, being blind, losing arms, having seizures, post traumatic stress disorder, and our government had no funds for dogs.”
More
The President Has A List
Barack Obama attempts to intimidate contributors to Mitt Romney's campaign.
Try this thought experiment: You decide to donate money to Mitt Romney. You want change in the Oval Office, so you engage in your democratic right to send a check.
Several days later, President Barack Obama, the most powerful man on the planet, singles you out by name. His campaign brands you a Romney donor, shames you for "betting against America," and accuses you of having a "less-than-reputable" record. The message from the man who controls the Justice Department (which can indict you), the SEC (which can fine you), and the IRS (which can audit you), is clear: You made a mistake donating that money.
Are you worried?
Richard Nixon's "enemies list" appalled the country for the simple reason that presidents hold a unique trust. Unlike senators or congressmen, presidents alone represent all Americans. Their powers—to jail, to fine, to bankrupt—are also so vast as to require restraint. Any president who targets a private citizen for his politics is de facto engaged in government intimidation and threats. This is why presidents since Nixon have carefully avoided the practice.
Save Mr. Obama, who acknowledges no rules. This past week, one of his campaign websites posted an item entitled "Behind the curtain: A brief history of Romney's donors." In the post, the Obama campaign named and shamed eight private citizens who had donated to his opponent. Describing the givers as all having "less-than-reputable records," the post went on to make the extraordinary accusations that "quite a few" have also been "on the wrong side of the law" and profiting at "the expense of so many Americans."
These are people like Paul Schorr and Sam and Jeffrey Fox, investors who the site outed for the crime of having "outsourced" jobs. T. Martin Fiorentino is scored for his work for a firm that forecloses on homes. Louis Bacon (a hedge-fund manager), Kent Burton (a "lobbyist") and Thomas O'Malley (an energy CEO) stand accused of profiting from oil. Frank VanderSloot, the CEO of a home-products firm, is slimed as a "bitter foe of the gay rights movement."
These are wealthy individuals, to be sure, but private citizens nonetheless. Not one holds elected office. Not one is a criminal.
"We don't tolerate presidents or people of high power to do these things," says Theodore Olson, the former U.S. solicitor general. "When you have the power of the presidency—the power of the IRS, the INS, the Justice Department, the DEA, the SEC—what you have effectively done is put these guys' names up on 'Wanted' posters in government offices." Mr. Olson knows these tactics, having demanded that the 44th president cease publicly targeting Charles and David Koch of Koch Industries, which he represents. He's been ignored.
The real crime of the men, as the website tacitly acknowledges, is that they have given money to Mr. Romney. This fundraiser of a president has shown an acute appreciation for the power of money to win elections, and a cutthroat approach to intimidating those who might give to his opponents.
He's targeted insurers, oil firms and Wall Street—letting it be known that those who oppose his policies might face political or legislative retribution. He lectured the Supreme Court for giving companies more free speech and (falsely) accused the Chamber of Commerce of using foreign money to bankroll U.S. elections. The White House even ginned up an executive order (yet to be released) to require companies to list political donations as a condition of bidding for government contracts. Companies could bid but lose out for donating to Republicans. Or they could quit donating to the GOP—Mr. Obama's real aim.
The White House has couched its attacks in the language of "disclosure" and the argument that corporations should not have the same speech rights as individuals. But now, says Rory Cooper of the Heritage Foundation, "he's doing the same at the individual level, for anyone who opposes his policies." Any giver, at any level, risks reprisal from the president of the United States.
It's getting worse because the money game is not going as Team Obama wants. Super PACs are helping the GOP to level the playing field against Democratic super-spenders. Prominent financial players are backing Mr. Romney. The White House's new strategy is thus to delegitimize Mr. Romney (by attacking his donors) as it seeks to frighten others out of giving.
The Obama campaign has justified any action on the grounds that it has a right to "hold the eventual Republican nominee accountable," but this is a dodge. Politics is rough, but a president has obligations that transcend those of a candidate. He swore an oath to protect and defend a Constitution that gives every American the right to partake in democracy, free of fear of government intimidation or disfavored treatment. If Mr. Obama isn't going to act like a president, he bolsters the argument that he doesn't deserve to be one.
Source
Try this thought experiment: You decide to donate money to Mitt Romney. You want change in the Oval Office, so you engage in your democratic right to send a check.
Several days later, President Barack Obama, the most powerful man on the planet, singles you out by name. His campaign brands you a Romney donor, shames you for "betting against America," and accuses you of having a "less-than-reputable" record. The message from the man who controls the Justice Department (which can indict you), the SEC (which can fine you), and the IRS (which can audit you), is clear: You made a mistake donating that money.
Are you worried?
Richard Nixon's "enemies list" appalled the country for the simple reason that presidents hold a unique trust. Unlike senators or congressmen, presidents alone represent all Americans. Their powers—to jail, to fine, to bankrupt—are also so vast as to require restraint. Any president who targets a private citizen for his politics is de facto engaged in government intimidation and threats. This is why presidents since Nixon have carefully avoided the practice.
Save Mr. Obama, who acknowledges no rules. This past week, one of his campaign websites posted an item entitled "Behind the curtain: A brief history of Romney's donors." In the post, the Obama campaign named and shamed eight private citizens who had donated to his opponent. Describing the givers as all having "less-than-reputable records," the post went on to make the extraordinary accusations that "quite a few" have also been "on the wrong side of the law" and profiting at "the expense of so many Americans."
These are people like Paul Schorr and Sam and Jeffrey Fox, investors who the site outed for the crime of having "outsourced" jobs. T. Martin Fiorentino is scored for his work for a firm that forecloses on homes. Louis Bacon (a hedge-fund manager), Kent Burton (a "lobbyist") and Thomas O'Malley (an energy CEO) stand accused of profiting from oil. Frank VanderSloot, the CEO of a home-products firm, is slimed as a "bitter foe of the gay rights movement."
These are wealthy individuals, to be sure, but private citizens nonetheless. Not one holds elected office. Not one is a criminal.
"We don't tolerate presidents or people of high power to do these things," says Theodore Olson, the former U.S. solicitor general. "When you have the power of the presidency—the power of the IRS, the INS, the Justice Department, the DEA, the SEC—what you have effectively done is put these guys' names up on 'Wanted' posters in government offices." Mr. Olson knows these tactics, having demanded that the 44th president cease publicly targeting Charles and David Koch of Koch Industries, which he represents. He's been ignored.
The real crime of the men, as the website tacitly acknowledges, is that they have given money to Mr. Romney. This fundraiser of a president has shown an acute appreciation for the power of money to win elections, and a cutthroat approach to intimidating those who might give to his opponents.
He's targeted insurers, oil firms and Wall Street—letting it be known that those who oppose his policies might face political or legislative retribution. He lectured the Supreme Court for giving companies more free speech and (falsely) accused the Chamber of Commerce of using foreign money to bankroll U.S. elections. The White House even ginned up an executive order (yet to be released) to require companies to list political donations as a condition of bidding for government contracts. Companies could bid but lose out for donating to Republicans. Or they could quit donating to the GOP—Mr. Obama's real aim.
The White House has couched its attacks in the language of "disclosure" and the argument that corporations should not have the same speech rights as individuals. But now, says Rory Cooper of the Heritage Foundation, "he's doing the same at the individual level, for anyone who opposes his policies." Any giver, at any level, risks reprisal from the president of the United States.
It's getting worse because the money game is not going as Team Obama wants. Super PACs are helping the GOP to level the playing field against Democratic super-spenders. Prominent financial players are backing Mr. Romney. The White House's new strategy is thus to delegitimize Mr. Romney (by attacking his donors) as it seeks to frighten others out of giving.
The Obama campaign has justified any action on the grounds that it has a right to "hold the eventual Republican nominee accountable," but this is a dodge. Politics is rough, but a president has obligations that transcend those of a candidate. He swore an oath to protect and defend a Constitution that gives every American the right to partake in democracy, free of fear of government intimidation or disfavored treatment. If Mr. Obama isn't going to act like a president, he bolsters the argument that he doesn't deserve to be one.
Source
NYT: Tide Has Cancer Causing Chemical
Could a popular laundry brand cause cancer?
According to the New York Times, Tide laundry detergent contains trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a cancer causing chemical. Tests run by an environmental group, Women's Voices for the Earth found small amounts of the dioxane in Tide Free and Gental and Tide Original Scent. A Procter and Gamble toxicologist says the amount of the chemical in Tide is well below the safety risk level.
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According to the New York Times, Tide laundry detergent contains trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a cancer causing chemical. Tests run by an environmental group, Women's Voices for the Earth found small amounts of the dioxane in Tide Free and Gental and Tide Original Scent. A Procter and Gamble toxicologist says the amount of the chemical in Tide is well below the safety risk level.
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Conway Isn't Looking Out For Wicomico County
Wicomico County is facing a pretty bleak budget. While you may be tempted to blame the County Council or County Executive Rick Pollitt for the budget mess, save your ire for the person who really deserves it: Delegate Norman Conway. His actions in Annapolis during this year's legislative session are largely responsible for the deplorable county budget we face today.
As he reminds us every election year, Conway is chairman of the Appropriations Committee in the House of Delegates. That's the committee responsible for the spending bills in that chamber. Besides the speaker of the House, there is no delegate more powerful than Conway when it comes to spending.
Instead of using his power to help Wicomico County cope with the recession that has reduced local tax revenue, Conway made the local fiscal situation worse by supporting a stricter education maintenance of effort requirement for our county government. Thanks to the maintenance of effort mandate, the state is imposing a new $14 million burden on the county this year.
This $14 million mandate wipes out any chance for a new Bennett Middle School. It means income and local property taxes have to be raised to the maximum extent possible. It means the county pension plan cannot be properly funded. It means roads will go unpaved. It means our county will have to spend down its reserves to almost nothing.
Conway's supporters may say he was not the author of the maintenance of effort legislation signed into law. True enough, but he and Delegate Rudy Cane were the only Eastern Shore lawmakers who voted for it. Furthermore, Conway introduced a similar maintenance of effort bill this session. That legislation was passed by the House of Delegates and would have imposed the same kind of fiscal burden on the county.
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As he reminds us every election year, Conway is chairman of the Appropriations Committee in the House of Delegates. That's the committee responsible for the spending bills in that chamber. Besides the speaker of the House, there is no delegate more powerful than Conway when it comes to spending.
Instead of using his power to help Wicomico County cope with the recession that has reduced local tax revenue, Conway made the local fiscal situation worse by supporting a stricter education maintenance of effort requirement for our county government. Thanks to the maintenance of effort mandate, the state is imposing a new $14 million burden on the county this year.
This $14 million mandate wipes out any chance for a new Bennett Middle School. It means income and local property taxes have to be raised to the maximum extent possible. It means the county pension plan cannot be properly funded. It means roads will go unpaved. It means our county will have to spend down its reserves to almost nothing.
Conway's supporters may say he was not the author of the maintenance of effort legislation signed into law. True enough, but he and Delegate Rudy Cane were the only Eastern Shore lawmakers who voted for it. Furthermore, Conway introduced a similar maintenance of effort bill this session. That legislation was passed by the House of Delegates and would have imposed the same kind of fiscal burden on the county.
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SU MEN’S LAX BEATS STEVENSON (AGAIN) FOR CONFERENCE TITLE
In another exciting game, the Gulls lead most of the way in a 12-9 win over the Mustangs at Sea Gull Stadium – the second in 2 weeks -- but this time not as close or exciting as the earlier victory on a goal with just a few seconds left at Stevenson.
SU’s age-experience proved decisive against a very good but younger squad that may play here again in the NCAA playoffs.
Corey Nowak scored with several sizzler shots at ground level that really sparked the team, and the defense was stellar. More details to come.
This win should give the Gulls the top seed and its home-field advantage in the playoffs leading to the championship game in Massachusetts.
Lost Dog
I found a female siberian husky last night and have her at my house. She does not have a collar or tag to help locate her owner and animal control does not come out for a loose dog. She was in the middle of the road and almost got hit several times before we could get her in my car. I cannot keep her as I already have a large dog. Please call me and identify her and I will make arrangements to get her back to her owner. 443-235-3920.
Life Is Better In Jail
Inmate brags about living better in jail than when he was free. You tube censored the original video or closed the account, either way where there is a will theres a way!
Elizabeth Smart Shares Harrowing Tale of Abuse
Elizabeth Smart is sharing her harrowing tale
of physical and emotional abuse turned into survival and hope, saying
she's ready to break her silence in an effort to help others.
Smart, 24, was kidnapped at the age 14, taken from her bedroom in 2002, found and returned home nine months later. On Friday, she visited Maryland to share her story with others at Cherish the Child, the eighth-annual Child Protection Awareness Event.
Sharing incredibly personal details about the most horrific time of her life, Smart talked about her kidnapping before a sold-out crowd of 700 people who converged on the New Life Center at Mountain Christian Church in Harford County.
More
Smart, 24, was kidnapped at the age 14, taken from her bedroom in 2002, found and returned home nine months later. On Friday, she visited Maryland to share her story with others at Cherish the Child, the eighth-annual Child Protection Awareness Event.
Sharing incredibly personal details about the most horrific time of her life, Smart talked about her kidnapping before a sold-out crowd of 700 people who converged on the New Life Center at Mountain Christian Church in Harford County.
More
Who’s Afraid Of Maryland’s ‘Doomsday’ Budget?
TWO SPECIAL SESSIONS! THIS IS AN OUTRAGE. THE GOVERNOR AND LEGISLATURE HAVE ONE CONSTITUTIONAL DUTY - AND THAT IS TO PASS A BALANCED BUDGET DURING THE 90 DAY SESSION. NOW THE GOVERNOR WANTS TWO SPECIAL SESSIONS SO THAT THEY CAN INCREASE SPENDING BY AN ADDITIONAL $500 MILLION OVER AND ABOVE THE $700 MILLION INCREASE IN THE SO-CALLED “DOOMSDAY” BUDGET… AND IN ADDITION TO TRY TO RAM THE GAMBLING BILL THROUGH, SO IT CAN BE ON THE NOVEMBER BALLOT.
REPUBLICANS NEED TO BE VERY VOCAL IN DISPUTING THE DEMOCRAT AND MEDIA SPIN THAT THE DOOMSDAY BUDGET CUTS SPENDING BY $500 MILLION, WHEN IT IS ACTUALLY JUST A REDUCTION IN O’MALLEY’S PROPOSED $1.2 BILLION INCREASE.
Who’s afraid of Maryland’s ‘doomsday’ budget?
By Editorial Board, Friday, April 27, 12:44 AM
MARYLAND LAWMAKERS have made such a mess of the people’s business that it now looks like it will take two special legislative sessions in Annapolis, not just one, to straighten things out. But really, there’s a simpler solution: Do nothing.
We’re being facetious, but only slightly. The truth is that if lawmakers in the General Assembly were to stay home and skip the special sessions, the effect would be to cancel plans for a tax increase; spare the state a senseless expansion of casino gambling; eliminate some dubious spending programs; and ensure that Maryland’s $35 billion budget still manages to grow by a respectable $700 million, about 2 percent.
None of that sounds exactly like doomsday. Nonetheless, the Democrats who dominate the legislature insist that returning to Annapolis is obligatory to prevent what they refer to as a “doomsday” budget — a default spending plan whose $500 million in cuts to certain programs were designed to be distasteful to Democrats and the interest groups that support them. A second special session would deal with proposals to add table games at existing casinos and to authorize construction of a new casino.
The doomsday budget came into play when lawmakers, distracted by ego contests among their leadership and a proposal to expand casino gambling, failed to adopt related tax and spending bills as the clock ran out on their regular legislative session this month. That failure scuttled a bill to increase taxes on individuals making more than $100,000 a year (and families clearing $150,000) and one to shift part of the cost of teachers’ pensions to localities from the state, which until now has paid the full tab.
When lawmakers rubbed their eyes the next day, they discovered the doomsday plan amid the wreckage — more than $200 million in cuts to schools; reduced aid to state universities and community colleges; and the elimination of funds for police, libraries and state employees, who’d lose their first pay increase in several years.
The doomsday budget would inflict some pain to schools, particularly in Prince George’s County, Baltimore City and some other relatively poor systems. But not all the reductions would cut very deeply, and some would be an improvement. For instance, it would be an excellent thing to scrap the $12 million slush funds that lawmakers use to hand out scholarships to the children of their constituents and donors.
The funding cuts for state universities would result in higher-than-planned tuition and fees — but would probably leave the schools competitive with comparable institutions in the Mid-Atlantic. And the state would survive if it scrubbed $10.4 million for stem cell research and $8 million in tax credits for biotechnology.
Restoring those programs would require tax increases on people barely beyond the middle class. Gov. Martin O’Malley (D) argues that Maryland has one of the nation’s lowest state and local tax burdens as a percentage of income, owing to the state’s relative wealth. But the fact remains that its taxes remain very high in nominal terms, and Maryland, which competes with Virginia for jobs, can ill afford to undercut its competitive standing by reinforcing its reputation for soaking the rich.
If Mr. O’Malley and lawmakers are intent on returning to Annapolis to fix the budget and fiddle with taxes, their best course would be a minimalist one — restoring some school funding and leaving the rest alone. As for a separate session to add a sixth casino before the five previously authorized ones have all been built, what a waste of time.
REPUBLICANS NEED TO BE VERY VOCAL IN DISPUTING THE DEMOCRAT AND MEDIA SPIN THAT THE DOOMSDAY BUDGET CUTS SPENDING BY $500 MILLION, WHEN IT IS ACTUALLY JUST A REDUCTION IN O’MALLEY’S PROPOSED $1.2 BILLION INCREASE.
Who’s afraid of Maryland’s ‘doomsday’ budget?
By Editorial Board, Friday, April 27, 12:44 AM
MARYLAND LAWMAKERS have made such a mess of the people’s business that it now looks like it will take two special legislative sessions in Annapolis, not just one, to straighten things out. But really, there’s a simpler solution: Do nothing.
We’re being facetious, but only slightly. The truth is that if lawmakers in the General Assembly were to stay home and skip the special sessions, the effect would be to cancel plans for a tax increase; spare the state a senseless expansion of casino gambling; eliminate some dubious spending programs; and ensure that Maryland’s $35 billion budget still manages to grow by a respectable $700 million, about 2 percent.
None of that sounds exactly like doomsday. Nonetheless, the Democrats who dominate the legislature insist that returning to Annapolis is obligatory to prevent what they refer to as a “doomsday” budget — a default spending plan whose $500 million in cuts to certain programs were designed to be distasteful to Democrats and the interest groups that support them. A second special session would deal with proposals to add table games at existing casinos and to authorize construction of a new casino.
The doomsday budget came into play when lawmakers, distracted by ego contests among their leadership and a proposal to expand casino gambling, failed to adopt related tax and spending bills as the clock ran out on their regular legislative session this month. That failure scuttled a bill to increase taxes on individuals making more than $100,000 a year (and families clearing $150,000) and one to shift part of the cost of teachers’ pensions to localities from the state, which until now has paid the full tab.
When lawmakers rubbed their eyes the next day, they discovered the doomsday plan amid the wreckage — more than $200 million in cuts to schools; reduced aid to state universities and community colleges; and the elimination of funds for police, libraries and state employees, who’d lose their first pay increase in several years.
The doomsday budget would inflict some pain to schools, particularly in Prince George’s County, Baltimore City and some other relatively poor systems. But not all the reductions would cut very deeply, and some would be an improvement. For instance, it would be an excellent thing to scrap the $12 million slush funds that lawmakers use to hand out scholarships to the children of their constituents and donors.
The funding cuts for state universities would result in higher-than-planned tuition and fees — but would probably leave the schools competitive with comparable institutions in the Mid-Atlantic. And the state would survive if it scrubbed $10.4 million for stem cell research and $8 million in tax credits for biotechnology.
Restoring those programs would require tax increases on people barely beyond the middle class. Gov. Martin O’Malley (D) argues that Maryland has one of the nation’s lowest state and local tax burdens as a percentage of income, owing to the state’s relative wealth. But the fact remains that its taxes remain very high in nominal terms, and Maryland, which competes with Virginia for jobs, can ill afford to undercut its competitive standing by reinforcing its reputation for soaking the rich.
If Mr. O’Malley and lawmakers are intent on returning to Annapolis to fix the budget and fiddle with taxes, their best course would be a minimalist one — restoring some school funding and leaving the rest alone. As for a separate session to add a sixth casino before the five previously authorized ones have all been built, what a waste of time.
The Banality Of Tyranny
German-Jewish (and eventually naturalized American) philosopher Hannah Arendt (1906-1975) outraged the Left with her definitive account of modern tyranny, The Origins of Totalitarianism.
Written in 1951 when Stalin was still ruling the Soviet Union and worshipped by the Left, it exposed with ruthless logic and evidence the essential sameness between Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia. Nazism and Communism were just two sides of the same tyrannical coin, said Arendt, not opposites of Right and Left.
The world's leftist intellectuals never forgave her, and so were scandalized again in 1963 by her book, On Revolution, an impeccably scholarly study of why the American Revolution was a success and the French Revolution an abysmal failure.
Yet it is her account of the 1962 trial of Nazi leader Adolf Eichmann, Eichmann in Jerusalem, for which she is most famous. Hitler had put Eichmann in charge of transporting Jews to his extermination camps such as at Auschwitz. At his trial in Jerusalem, Eichmann claimed that he was just doing his duty, conforming to the law, and that he was powerless to do otherwise.
Arendt saw that Eichmann really believed this. He wasn't a "radically evil" sociopath; he was an ordinary man just going along with what was happening. This was an evil that frightened Arendt more than that of a rare monster like Hitler, for it was an evil perpetrated by otherwise normal people.
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Written in 1951 when Stalin was still ruling the Soviet Union and worshipped by the Left, it exposed with ruthless logic and evidence the essential sameness between Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia. Nazism and Communism were just two sides of the same tyrannical coin, said Arendt, not opposites of Right and Left.
The world's leftist intellectuals never forgave her, and so were scandalized again in 1963 by her book, On Revolution, an impeccably scholarly study of why the American Revolution was a success and the French Revolution an abysmal failure.
Yet it is her account of the 1962 trial of Nazi leader Adolf Eichmann, Eichmann in Jerusalem, for which she is most famous. Hitler had put Eichmann in charge of transporting Jews to his extermination camps such as at Auschwitz. At his trial in Jerusalem, Eichmann claimed that he was just doing his duty, conforming to the law, and that he was powerless to do otherwise.
Arendt saw that Eichmann really believed this. He wasn't a "radically evil" sociopath; he was an ordinary man just going along with what was happening. This was an evil that frightened Arendt more than that of a rare monster like Hitler, for it was an evil perpetrated by otherwise normal people.
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Motor Vehicle Theft
Suspect #1: Driver (Juvenile)
B/M Salisbury, MD
Suspect #2:Passenger (Juvenile)
B/M Salisbury, MD.
BRIEF RESUME: On 04/28/2012, at 2249 hours, a Trooper from the Salisbury Barrack was dispatched to Shawnee Ave, Salisbury, MD for a report of a Motor Vehicle Theft. The Trooper while on patrol, located the stolen vehicle shortly after.
Additional units responded to the location and attempted to perform a traffic stop on the stolen vehicle. The vehicle fled from police in an attempt to elude police in the area of Mohawk Ave and Miami Ave. The driver of the vehicle lost control and collided with a home on Mohawk Ave. Suspects fled from police on foot. After a brief foot pursuit two of three suspects were arrested. Both suspects obtained injuries from a result of the collision and were transported to PRMC for treatment. The driver of the vehicle was found to have an outstanding Juvenile Warrant. Salisbury Police Department and Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the investigation. The Juvenile’s were released to the Department of Juvenile Services for disposition. No one inside the home was injured in the collision.
B/M Salisbury, MD
Suspect #2:Passenger (Juvenile)
B/M Salisbury, MD.
BRIEF RESUME: On 04/28/2012, at 2249 hours, a Trooper from the Salisbury Barrack was dispatched to Shawnee Ave, Salisbury, MD for a report of a Motor Vehicle Theft. The Trooper while on patrol, located the stolen vehicle shortly after.
Additional units responded to the location and attempted to perform a traffic stop on the stolen vehicle. The vehicle fled from police in an attempt to elude police in the area of Mohawk Ave and Miami Ave. The driver of the vehicle lost control and collided with a home on Mohawk Ave. Suspects fled from police on foot. After a brief foot pursuit two of three suspects were arrested. Both suspects obtained injuries from a result of the collision and were transported to PRMC for treatment. The driver of the vehicle was found to have an outstanding Juvenile Warrant. Salisbury Police Department and Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the investigation. The Juvenile’s were released to the Department of Juvenile Services for disposition. No one inside the home was injured in the collision.
Officials: 1 killed, 16 hospitalized when storm collapses St. Louis tent
One person was killed and 16 others hospitalized Saturday afternoon
when a sports bar tent collapsed during a storm that swept through the
St. Louis area, fire officials said.
Five people suffered
serious injuries. Nearly 100 others were treated at the scene, mostly
for bruises, cuts, twisted ankles and one broken arm, officials said.
St. Louis Cardinals
baseball fans had gathered at Kilroy's, which had a tent set up in the
rear, according to fire Capt. Dan Sutter.
Wind gusts estimated to be about 50 miles per hour lifted the tent, according to Eddie Roth, the city's public safety director.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Does This Mean Anything To You?
Come down to the Salisbury Festival today and tomorrow and look for this shirt. I'll be happy to answer any questions you might have.New Posts to fall below.
Homelessness skyrockets in D.C.
WASHINGTON - Homelessness is skyrocketing in D.C.
The number of families living in the city's shelters has increased by about 50 percent since this time last year.
"This is a very difficult problem that every city in America right now is experiencing," Mayor Vincent Gray tells WTOP's 'Ask the Mayor.' "So much of this is a function of the economy."
Gray said the District is working to increase affordable housing and has brought on 1,100 new housing units since last year, with another 1,100 planned.
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The number of families living in the city's shelters has increased by about 50 percent since this time last year.
"This is a very difficult problem that every city in America right now is experiencing," Mayor Vincent Gray tells WTOP's 'Ask the Mayor.' "So much of this is a function of the economy."
Gray said the District is working to increase affordable housing and has brought on 1,100 new housing units since last year, with another 1,100 planned.
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Man Sues Md. Police Over Fiery Crash That Killed 3
A man who survived a police chase that ended in a fiery crash with three dead has sued the Montgomery
County police department.
The Washington Post reports that a lawsuit seeking more than $10 million in damages was filed on behalf of 18-year-old Reeco Richardson.
Richardson was the front-seat passenger in a Toyota Echo that slammed into a tree, bursting into flames, in the culmination of a police chase at Chevy Chase Circle last month. Officers drove after the vehicle in a high-speed chase after the car had been reported stolen.
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County police department.
The Washington Post reports that a lawsuit seeking more than $10 million in damages was filed on behalf of 18-year-old Reeco Richardson.
Richardson was the front-seat passenger in a Toyota Echo that slammed into a tree, bursting into flames, in the culmination of a police chase at Chevy Chase Circle last month. Officers drove after the vehicle in a high-speed chase after the car had been reported stolen.
More
Wedding Ring Returned 2 Years Later After Efforts by Boston City Employees
Maura Burke thought she had lost her diamond wedding band after it went down the drain Labor Day weekend in 2010.
But DPW employees and Braintree, Mass., Mayor Joseph Sullivan worked together to perform the miracle return mission.
Anti-Bullying Speaker Curses Christian Teens
As many as 100 high school students walked out of a national
journalism conference after an anti-bullying speaker began cursing,
attacked the Bible and reportedly called those who refused to listen to
his rant “pansy assed.”
The speaker was Dan Savage, founder of the “It Gets Better” project, an anti-bullying campaign that has reached more than 40 million viewers with contributors ranging from President Obama to Hollywood stars. Savage also writes a sex advice column called “Savage Love.”
Savage, and his husband, were also guests at the White House for President Obama’s 2011 LGBT Pride Month reception. He was also invited to a White House anti-bullying conference.
More
The speaker was Dan Savage, founder of the “It Gets Better” project, an anti-bullying campaign that has reached more than 40 million viewers with contributors ranging from President Obama to Hollywood stars. Savage also writes a sex advice column called “Savage Love.”
Savage, and his husband, were also guests at the White House for President Obama’s 2011 LGBT Pride Month reception. He was also invited to a White House anti-bullying conference.
More
'WAR' PROMISED IF IRS ATTACKS CHURCH SPEECH
While a group that opposes expressions of Christianity in public forums wants the IRS to use its formidable power to crack down on what pastors say, one legal foundation says, “Bring it on,” promising a “legal war” if churches are attacked on such issues.
Americans United for the Separation of Church and State Executive Director Barry Lynn recently wrote a letter to the IRS demanding help in quashing the speech of a leader in the Roman Catholic Diocese in Peoria, Ill.
The April 19 letter calls a recent homily given by Bishop Daniel Jenky a violation of IRS regulations relating to the tax-exempt status of the church, because Jenky cited atrocities of past governments, specifically naming Hitler and Stalin, and then cited the failings of the Obama administration.
Mexican Woman with Four Children Prepares to Give Birth to Another Nine
A woman in Mexico is due to give birth to nine babies within the next month -- to add to the four children she already has.
Karla Vanessa Castaneda Perez is scheduled to give birth by caesarian section in Arteaga, northeast Mexico, late May when she will be seven months pregnant, El Universal newspaper reported.
The 32-year-old -- who already has a four-year-old son and six-month-old triplets -- said she was struggling to sleep over concerns about buying enough milk, diapers and clothes for the babies.
Castaneda Perez described her pregnancy as a miracle, but said she was prepared for multiple births after her triplets were born on Nov. 4.
Karla Vanessa Castaneda Perez is scheduled to give birth by caesarian section in Arteaga, northeast Mexico, late May when she will be seven months pregnant, El Universal newspaper reported.
The 32-year-old -- who already has a four-year-old son and six-month-old triplets -- said she was struggling to sleep over concerns about buying enough milk, diapers and clothes for the babies.
Castaneda Perez described her pregnancy as a miracle, but said she was prepared for multiple births after her triplets were born on Nov. 4.
'Crucify Them': The Obama Way
One of President Obama's radical eco-bureaucrats has apologized for
confirming an indelible truth: This White House treats politically
incorrect private industries as public enemies who deserve regulatory
death sentences.
Environmental Protection Agency administrator Al Armendariz, an avowed greenie on leave from Southern Methodist University, gave a little-noticed speech in 2010 outlining his sadistic philosophy. "I was in a meeting once, and I gave an analogy to my staff about my philosophy of enforcement, and I think it was probably a little crude and maybe not appropriate for the meeting, but I'll go ahead and tell you what I said," he began. In a video obtained and released by Sen. James Inhofe, R-Okla., Armendariz then shared his bloody analogy:
"It was kind of like how the Romans used to conquer little villages in the Mediterranean. They'd go into a little Turkish town somewhere, they'd find the first five guys they saw, and they would crucify them. And then you know that town was really easy to manage for the next few years. ... So, that's our general philosophy."
More
Environmental Protection Agency administrator Al Armendariz, an avowed greenie on leave from Southern Methodist University, gave a little-noticed speech in 2010 outlining his sadistic philosophy. "I was in a meeting once, and I gave an analogy to my staff about my philosophy of enforcement, and I think it was probably a little crude and maybe not appropriate for the meeting, but I'll go ahead and tell you what I said," he began. In a video obtained and released by Sen. James Inhofe, R-Okla., Armendariz then shared his bloody analogy:
"It was kind of like how the Romans used to conquer little villages in the Mediterranean. They'd go into a little Turkish town somewhere, they'd find the first five guys they saw, and they would crucify them. And then you know that town was really easy to manage for the next few years. ... So, that's our general philosophy."
More
OCCUPY PREPARES NATIONWIDE MAY DAY MAYHEM
Occupy’s plans for nationwide May Day chaos are going ahead full-speed ahead, with the movement boasting of “direct action” schemes that include protest marches, shutting down the financial sector, and blocking bridges and tunnels.
The group’s official websites announce plans to “occupy” Manhattan-bound bridges and tunnels as well as the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco Tuesday.
Besides street protests, sympathizers are asked to engage in a U.S. general strike to “shut it down,” referring to the country’s economy.
Survey: Some Doctors Would Chose a Different Career Path
They make more than the average American, yet more and more U.S.
doctors say they regret their career choice. And when it comes to
salaries, there are discrepancies among the different specialties.
Medscape/WebMD released their annual survey of physician pay. They surveyed 24,000 physicians to get their thoughts on the medical field. Here are some of the highest paid doctors:
Medscape/WebMD released their annual survey of physician pay. They surveyed 24,000 physicians to get their thoughts on the medical field. Here are some of the highest paid doctors:
McCain: 'Shame on Barack Obama'
Arizona senator John McCain just released the following statement on the Obama campaign's Osama bin Laden campaign ad:
"Shame on Barack Obama for diminishing the memory of September 11th and the killing of Osama bin Laden by turning it into a cheap political attack ad. This is the same President who once criticized Hillary Clinton for invoking bin Laden 'to score political points.'
"This is the same President who said, after bin Laden was dead, that we shouldn't 'spike the ball' after the touchdown. And now Barack Obama is not only trying to score political points by invoking Osama bin Laden, he is doing a shameless end-zone dance to help himself get reelected.
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"Shame on Barack Obama for diminishing the memory of September 11th and the killing of Osama bin Laden by turning it into a cheap political attack ad. This is the same President who once criticized Hillary Clinton for invoking bin Laden 'to score political points.'
"This is the same President who said, after bin Laden was dead, that we shouldn't 'spike the ball' after the touchdown. And now Barack Obama is not only trying to score political points by invoking Osama bin Laden, he is doing a shameless end-zone dance to help himself get reelected.
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Several In Custody After Shots Fired In Hebron
Last night around 3 AM there were shots fired in Hebron on the 200 block of East Lane Street. There are several people in custody and we await a Press Release from the Sheriff's Department for further details.
Gov't Records: Michelle Obama’s Vacation in Spain Cost Taxpayers at Least $467,585
First Lady Michelle Obama’s vacation in Spain with her daughter
Sasha, several friends, their children, and some White House staffers
cost U.S. taxpayers at least $467,585, according to documents obtained
by Judicial Watch, a conservative public interest group that fights
government corruption.
Mrs. Obama took the trip from Aug. 4-8, 2010. That same month, Judicial Watch filed Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests with the Secret Service and the Air Force to obtain information on the cost of the trip. On March 5, 2012, Judicial Watch followed up on its FOIA request with a lawsuit seeking the relevant information.
According to the information Judicial Watch obtained from the Air Force, the costs for the travel services that Air Force provided to Mrs. Obama and her entourage totaled $213,124.15.
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Mrs. Obama took the trip from Aug. 4-8, 2010. That same month, Judicial Watch filed Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests with the Secret Service and the Air Force to obtain information on the cost of the trip. On March 5, 2012, Judicial Watch followed up on its FOIA request with a lawsuit seeking the relevant information.
According to the information Judicial Watch obtained from the Air Force, the costs for the travel services that Air Force provided to Mrs. Obama and her entourage totaled $213,124.15.
More
FDIC Information For Bank Of The Eastern Shore, Cambridge, MD
On Friday, April 27, 2012, Bank of the Eastern Shore, Cambridge, MD was closed by the Maryland Commissioner of Financial Regulation. Subsequently, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) was named Receiver. No advance notice is given to the public when a financial institution is closed.
The FDIC has assembled useful information regarding your relationship with Bank of the Eastern Shore. Besides a checking account, you may have Certificates of Deposit, a business checking account, a Social Security direct deposit, and other relationships with the institution.
Please select the link below to read more about this event:
FDIC Bank Closing Information for Bank of the Eastern Shore
The FDIC has assembled useful information regarding your relationship with Bank of the Eastern Shore. Besides a checking account, you may have Certificates of Deposit, a business checking account, a Social Security direct deposit, and other relationships with the institution.
Please select the link below to read more about this event:
FDIC Bank Closing Information for Bank of the Eastern Shore
Hung Up On Your Cell Phone? It Could Be An Addiction
It will come as no surprise to most Washingtonians, but more and more Americans are developing a serious cell phone addiction.
"If in fact there is such a thing as cell phone addiction, D.C. is a town that is guilty as charged," Dr. Drew Pinsky tells WTOP.
But Pinsky cautions against the over-utilization of the term 'addiction.' The overuse of cell phones is not a biological addiction, rather a preoccupation or dependency, he says
Gov’t $15.6T in Debt Funds 16 Programs to Teach Citizens ‘Financial Literacy’
A federal government that is $15.6 trillion in debt is currently
using its “bully pulpit” to run 16 different programs to teach citizens
“financial literacy,” according to the Government Accountability
Office, the accounting agency of the U.S. Congress.
Previously, relying on a study by the RAND Corporation, the GAO had reported that the federal government operated 56 programs to teach citizens “financial literacy.” However, it subsequently determined that 16 was a better count of what it called the government’s “significant financial literacy programs.”
Even among these 16 federal programs that teach citizens “financial literacy,” the GAO found that there is some duplication of efforts and no definitive way to measure the programs’ effectiveness.
More
Previously, relying on a study by the RAND Corporation, the GAO had reported that the federal government operated 56 programs to teach citizens “financial literacy.” However, it subsequently determined that 16 was a better count of what it called the government’s “significant financial literacy programs.”
Even among these 16 federal programs that teach citizens “financial literacy,” the GAO found that there is some duplication of efforts and no definitive way to measure the programs’ effectiveness.
More
Obama Threatens To Veto GOP Student Loan Extension To Protect Fund He Planned to Cut
The Obama administration threatened to veto the House Republican version of the extension of the student loan bill Friday, arguing that it cuts funding for preventive health services to offset the one year extension of the 3.4 percent student loan rate.
In a statement released Friday, the OMB said the GOP version of the bill includes “an attempt to repeal the Prevention and Public Health Fund, created to help prevent disease, detect it early, and manage conditions before they become severe. Women, in particular, will benefit from this Prevention Fund, which would provide for hundreds of thousands of screenings for breast and cervical cancer. This is a politically-motivated proposal and not the serious response.”
But House Speaker John Boehner’s office countered the president’s threat by saying President Obama already authorized trimming down the Prevention and Public Health Fund in his proposed FY2013 budget.
Underreported Unemployment Generates Feel-Good Headlines
The credibility gap is widening between what theObama administration says about the jobs picture and what Americans sense is the grim reality. Despite the official line that things are getting better, the employment situation is growing progressively worse.
You would never know this from the headlines. The Labor Department reported Thursday that initial unemployment claims for the previous week had fallen by 1,000. This was the sixth reported decline in the last eight weeks. The overall impression is that the situation is improving, slowly but surely.
Over that same period, however, the actual number of new jobless per week has increased by almost 40,000. The Obama administration is managing perceptions by revising the weekly numbers upward after the fact. Every week for at least the last eight weeks, the initial jobless number has been raised after it was released, sometimes significantly. So while the combined initial figures over that period show a 13,000 new jobless decline, this is only because 49,000 jobless were not included in the initial reports.
Government's Answer to "Fast and Furious" Records Requests: Blank pages
For more than a year, CBS News has been investigating the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms' "Fast and Furious" operation and related cases that also employed the controversial tactic of "gunwalking." With Justice Department officials refusing all interview requests to date, CBS News requested numerous public documents through the Freedom of Information Act.
So far, all of the requests that have been answered have been denied in part or in full.
This week, we received a partial response to a request made more than a year ago. It asked for communications involving "Project Gunrunner," the umbrella program for Fast and Furious, from 2010 through April 2011. Specifically, it sought any communications to which any of the following top Justice officials were a party: Attorney General Eric Holder; Lanny Breuer, Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division; Kevin Carwile, chief of the Capital Case Unit; and Deputy Assistant Attorney Generals Bruce Schwarz and Kenneth Blanco.
The response includes mostly-blank pages.
COPS CANCEL 'ABUSIVE' MIDNIGHT WAKEUPS
Only some 12 hours after WND reported on a letter from the Rutherford Institute alerting Richmond, Va., authorities to the dangers of a midnight police “wakeup call” program, city officials have announced it is being discontinued.
WND learned in an email from the city early today that the program that was launched earlier this month is scheduled to be terminated May 1.
The institute, which had sent a letter to the city regarding Fourth Amendment rights and several safety concerns, were pleased when the city’s announcement came today.
Drug-Overdose Antidote is Put in Addicts' Hands
WEST BRIDGEWATER, Mass. (AP) - Steve Wohlen lay on his front lawn, blue, unconscious and barely breathing, overdosing on heroin.
His mother ran outside, frantically assembling a pen-like canister. Her heart pounding, she dropped to her knees and used the device to deliver two squirts up her son's nostrils.
Within minutes, his eyes opened, color returned to his face, and he sat up _ brought back from a potentially lethal overdose by a drug commonly known by its old brand name, Narcan.
Surge in Child Immigrants Stresses Support Network
McALLEN, Texas (AP) - An unprecedented surge of children caught trudging through South Texas scrublands or crossing at border ports of entry without their families has sent government and nonprofit agencies scrambling to expand their shelter, legal representation and reunification services. On any given day this year, the U.S. Office of Refugee Resettlement has been caring for more than 2,100 unaccompanied child immigrants.
The influx came to light last week when 100 kids were taken to Lackland Air Force Base near San Antonio for temporary housing. It was the first time the government has turned to the Defense Department _ now, 200 boys and girls younger than 18 stay in a base dormitory.
While the issue of unaccompanied minors arriving in the U.S. isn't new, the scale of the recent increase is. From October 2011 through March, 5,252 kids landed in U.S. custody without a parent or guardian _ a 93 percent increase from the same period the previous year, according to data released by the Department of Health and Human Services. In March alone, 1,390 kids arrived.
Soybean Products Recalled for Listeria Contamination
WASHINGTON - A recall was issued on Friday for certain soybean products that may be contaminated with listeria.
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services says Henry's Farm Inc., of Woodford, Virgina, is recalling all packages of soybean sprouts because of the possible contamination.
Listeria can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections to individuals with weakened immune systems. Healthier individuals can experience short term symptoms when exposed, such as high fevers, severe headaches, stiffness and nausea.
No More Cheek Swabs For DNA in Md., High Court Rules
WASHINGTON - Maryland's high court has ruled swabbing arrestees' cheeks for DNA is unconstitutional and the state's attorney general is expected to give police departments some direction on the ruling.
The Court of Appeals found that taking "buckle swabs" - as they're called - is a violation of a person's Fourth Amendment rights.
As of Thursday, the Montgomery County attorney told jail staff to stop taking DNA swabs. There are questions as to what will happen to already collected samples that have not been processed.
Governor Martin O'Malley, police departments and Montgomery County State's Attorney John McCarthy are among those urging Maryland Attorney General Doug Gansler to ask for a stay and to take the case to the Supreme Court.
More
The Court of Appeals found that taking "buckle swabs" - as they're called - is a violation of a person's Fourth Amendment rights.
As of Thursday, the Montgomery County attorney told jail staff to stop taking DNA swabs. There are questions as to what will happen to already collected samples that have not been processed.
Governor Martin O'Malley, police departments and Montgomery County State's Attorney John McCarthy are among those urging Maryland Attorney General Doug Gansler to ask for a stay and to take the case to the Supreme Court.
More
Deputy Rescues Scared Deer
Huron County (MI) Deputy Rescues Scared Deer In The Road By Picking Her Up. Deputy Ryan Swartz, responded to a car versus deer accident on Friday, Nov. 11 on Hellems Road in Dwight Township. No one was injured other than a doe deer which remained standing dazed in the middle of the roadway for almost 25 minutes. The scene was captured on the patrol car's camera. When Deputy Swartz first arrived we're told he thought it was a decoy, but quickly learned it was indeed a live deer. The deputy had to make a decision on how to get the deer off the roadway before another accident occurred. Sheriff Kelly Hanson says what the deputy did is not recommended, but it worked. As you can see on the video, Deputy Swartz picks up the deer and moves it to the side of the road. The alternative may have been euthanizing the deer. The deer finally got its wits back and trotted off into the field.
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