Lamenting The Lost Legacy Of Independence Day
Why do we still celebrate Independence Day? Is it a lingering habit, a mindless bit of nostalgia, a time to indulge in fireworks and barbecues, devoid of any deeper meaning? Can anyone honestly argue that our nation still honors the values, or practices the principles, for which our Founders fought?
Today, most Americans have been trained to be embarrassed by the “extremist” individualist ethos that made the protection of liberty the primary purpose of government. They have been taught to apologize for the shortcomings of the “rich white men” who led the revolution. A majority of Americans now subscribe to an expansive view of government as both great provider and beneficent leveler. Its primary purpose is to redress unequal or unhappy outcomes, regardless of their source, through wealth redistribution on a scale so vast that it mocks the concept “private property.”
As for the causes of revolution, we’ve lost sight of them, too. King George III was a champion of laissez-faire compared to the modern cradle-to-grave entitlement state. The swollen capital city named after the man who won our freedom now claims the prize for erecting “a Multitude of new offices” bent on sending out “Swarms of officers to harass our people and eat out their substance.” If there is a field of endeavor that the federal government does not yet regulate, subsidize, or penalize, just wait. A new law is only a “crisis” away.
Have these new offices been imposed on us by some malevolent force that has undermined the workings of democracy? No. We the people ceaselessly demand new offices at an accelerating rate. The majority of Americans vote as if they believe that massive new government programs— created by incomprehensibly complex laws and administered by increasingly unaccountable bureaucrats—can solve an expanding array of “problems” which our Founders would have surely concluded were the proper province of civil society and not the sovereign state.
The King was criticized for unjustly imprisoning seamen. Today, our federal and state governments imprison more of our fellow citizens than any totalitarian regime in history—the vast majority for violating a futile prohibition on the possession, sale, or consumption of substances our Founders would not have thought twice about. Vast portions of our youth are thus rendered permanently unemployable, branded as felons and outcasts with nowhere to turn but a life of crime. And yet we persist in this folly, unable to admit that drug prohibition has been as huge a failure as alcohol prohibition.
And taxes? The Founders knew a tax when they saw one—and there were very few they could abide, with or without representation. Thanks to a Supreme Court that long ago gave up defending the Constitution, we now have a chameleon levy that is not a tax when politically inconvenient yet magically becomes a tax when seeking constitutional muster. As if we didn’t have a wide enough variety of taxes, this new tax is designed to penalize anyone who refuses to participate in a great communal project designed to make every citizen even more deeply dependent on the government.
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DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Thursday, July 05, 2012
Paying The Price
One giant pharmaceutical company just got busted for putting profits ahead of peoples' lives. In the largest healthcare fraud settlement in U.S. history, British drug maker GlaxSmithKline was slapped with $3 billion in fines after pleading guilty to a number of criminal and civil violations related to 10 drugs the company produces that are taken by millions of Americans. The company illegally promoted the use of anti-depressants like Paxil and Wellbutrin for unapproved uses. It also failed to report safety problems with its drug Avandia after it was discovered it could substantially increase the risk of heart attacks. On top of that, the company defrauded taxpayers by over-charging Medicaid programs for drugs – and routinely gave kickbacks to doctors who prescribed their medicines. Glaxo's CEO apologized for the crimes and claimed his company learn from its mistakes. But how long until the American people learn that profiteers and hucksters have no place in our nation's healthcare system?
June 26, 2012 Special Meeting Notes From The Wicomico County Board of Education
Board Notes provide an informal summary of business conducted at recent meetings of the Wicomico County Board of Education. The Board of Education at a special meeting held on June 26, 2012:
FY 2013 Budget Approved
Approved the Fiscal Year 2013 Consolidated Current Expense Budget for the budget year beginning July 1. The Board approved the Consolidated Current Expense Budget of almost $175.5 million, an increase of nearly $6.9 million over the previous year’s budget. The increase is largely due to a $5.5 million boost in state aid. The unrestricted portion of the school system’s budget is $162.5 million, a budget level that is 4.3% more than last year. The Board is appreciative of the County Executive and the Wicomico County Council for a 2.22% increase in county funding for FY 2013. This $803,108 increase (part of a total county allocation of $37 million) exceeds the Maintenance of Effort level for the first time since FY 2009 and will enable the school system to avoid cuts that could have affected direct face-to-face instruction and services for students. Included in this increase is the county’s additional allocation of $79,170 for Textbooks and Instructional Supplies, funding which will be put to good use in every classroom in Wicomico County.
Ethics Provision, Ethics Panel
Approved the final version of the Wicomico County Board of Education Ethics Provisions, as required by state law, and approved four of the five WCBOE Ethics Panel members: Edward Henry, Robin Holloway, Anthony Sarbanes and Philip Tilghman. The newly approved panel members have extensive experience in business, government and education and their service is appreciated.
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FY 2013 Budget Approved
Approved the Fiscal Year 2013 Consolidated Current Expense Budget for the budget year beginning July 1. The Board approved the Consolidated Current Expense Budget of almost $175.5 million, an increase of nearly $6.9 million over the previous year’s budget. The increase is largely due to a $5.5 million boost in state aid. The unrestricted portion of the school system’s budget is $162.5 million, a budget level that is 4.3% more than last year. The Board is appreciative of the County Executive and the Wicomico County Council for a 2.22% increase in county funding for FY 2013. This $803,108 increase (part of a total county allocation of $37 million) exceeds the Maintenance of Effort level for the first time since FY 2009 and will enable the school system to avoid cuts that could have affected direct face-to-face instruction and services for students. Included in this increase is the county’s additional allocation of $79,170 for Textbooks and Instructional Supplies, funding which will be put to good use in every classroom in Wicomico County.
Ethics Provision, Ethics Panel
Approved the final version of the Wicomico County Board of Education Ethics Provisions, as required by state law, and approved four of the five WCBOE Ethics Panel members: Edward Henry, Robin Holloway, Anthony Sarbanes and Philip Tilghman. The newly approved panel members have extensive experience in business, government and education and their service is appreciated.
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New Audit Uncovers Millions Of Maryland Dollars Wasted
A new audit has uncovered that Maryland state agencies have wasted as much as $63 million over the past three years.
The Maryland Office of Legislative Audits uncovered the findings in the routine examinations it performs on each state agency every three years.
The office says that some departments are repeatedly making the same mistakes and all of them are costing taxpayers a bundle.
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Key Regulations To Prevent Another Financial Crisis Are Being Delayed Or Scrapped
Five years after Wall Street started melting down; key regulations to prevent another financial crisis are being delayed or scrapped altogether. More than one-third of all the new regulation created by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street reform law of 2010 have yet to even be written. On top of that, the Securities and Exchange Commission has missed the implementation deadlines on 71% of its new rules. One reason why new regulations are being delayed is that Republicans in the House have slashed funding for critical Wall Street watchdogs – and are threatening to defund the Dodd-Frank reform law altogether – giving banksters a chance to turn Wall Street into a casino again.
Republican Lawmakers Again Get High Grades From Business Group
Republican members of the Maryland General Assembly, as usual, got A-pluses from Maryland Business for Responsive Government, but some Democrats improved their scores as well.
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Maryland Live! Casino Revenues Exceed Expectations
The new Maryland Live! casino has drawn a half million visitors and paid more than $19 million in state taxes, and it's not even operating at full capacity.
Our Interpretations Of Patriotism Can Inspire Solidarity Or Discrimination: Which Will Americans Choose?
In the last two weeks, the Supreme Court has allowed police in Arizona to demand proof of citizenship from people they stop on other grounds (while throwing out the rest of Arizona's immigration law), and has allowed the federal government to require everyone buy health insurance — even younger and healthier people — or pay a penalty.
What do these decisions — and the national conversations they've engendered — have to do with patriotism? A great deal. Because underlying them are two different versions of American patriotism.
The Arizona law is aimed at securing the nation from outsiders. The purpose of the heatlhcare law is to join together to provide affordable health care for all.
The first version of patriotism is protecting America from people beyond our borders who might otherwise overrun us — whether immigrants coming here illegally or foreign powers threatening us with aggression.
The second version of patriotism is joining together for the common good. That might mean contributing to a bake sale to raise money for a local school or volunteering in a homeless shelter. It also means paying our fair share of taxes so our community or nation has enough resources to meet all our needs, and preserving and protecting our system of government.
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What do these decisions — and the national conversations they've engendered — have to do with patriotism? A great deal. Because underlying them are two different versions of American patriotism.
The Arizona law is aimed at securing the nation from outsiders. The purpose of the heatlhcare law is to join together to provide affordable health care for all.
The first version of patriotism is protecting America from people beyond our borders who might otherwise overrun us — whether immigrants coming here illegally or foreign powers threatening us with aggression.
The second version of patriotism is joining together for the common good. That might mean contributing to a bake sale to raise money for a local school or volunteering in a homeless shelter. It also means paying our fair share of taxes so our community or nation has enough resources to meet all our needs, and preserving and protecting our system of government.
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Brother In Law
A man suffered a serious heart attack while shopping in a store.
The store clerks called 911 when they saw him collapse to the floor.
The paramedics rushed the man to the nearest hospital where he had emergency open heart bypass surgery.
He awakened from the surgery to find himself in the care of nuns at the Catholic Hospital he was taken to.
A nun was seated next to his bed holding a clip board loaded with several forms, and a pen.
She asked him how he was going to pay for his treatment.
"Do you have health insurance?" she asked.
He replied in a raspy voice, "No health insurance."
The nun asked, "Do you have money in the bank?"
He replied, "No money in the bank."
"Do you have a relative who could help you with the payments?" asked the irritated nun.
He said, "I only have a spinster sister, and she is a nun."
The nun became agitated and announced loudly, "Nuns are not spinsters! Nuns are married to God."
The patient replied, "Perfect. Send the bill to my brother-in-law..."
The store clerks called 911 when they saw him collapse to the floor.
The paramedics rushed the man to the nearest hospital where he had emergency open heart bypass surgery.
He awakened from the surgery to find himself in the care of nuns at the Catholic Hospital he was taken to.
A nun was seated next to his bed holding a clip board loaded with several forms, and a pen.
She asked him how he was going to pay for his treatment.
"Do you have health insurance?" she asked.
He replied in a raspy voice, "No health insurance."
The nun asked, "Do you have money in the bank?"
He replied, "No money in the bank."
"Do you have a relative who could help you with the payments?" asked the irritated nun.
He said, "I only have a spinster sister, and she is a nun."
The nun became agitated and announced loudly, "Nuns are not spinsters! Nuns are married to God."
The patient replied, "Perfect. Send the bill to my brother-in-law..."
Malware May Knock Thousands Off Internet on Monday
The warnings about the Internet problem have been splashed across
Facebook and Google. Internet service providers have sent notices, and
the FBI set up a special website.
But tens of thousands of Americans may still lose their Internet service Monday unless they do a quick check of their computers for malware that could have taken over their machines more than a year ago.
Despite repeated alerts, the number of computers that probably are infected is more than 277,000 worldwide, down from about 360,000 in April. Of those still infected, the FBI believes that about 64,000 are in the United States.
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But tens of thousands of Americans may still lose their Internet service Monday unless they do a quick check of their computers for malware that could have taken over their machines more than a year ago.
Despite repeated alerts, the number of computers that probably are infected is more than 277,000 worldwide, down from about 360,000 in April. Of those still infected, the FBI believes that about 64,000 are in the United States.
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MEDICARE: Note Confirmed
Look clearly at the 2014 rate compared to the 2013 rate.For those of you who are on Medicare, read the following. It's short,but important and you probably haven't heard about it in theMainstream News:..."The per person Medicare Insurance Premium will increase from thepresent Monthly Fee of $96.40, rising to:
$104.20 in 2012
$120.20 in 2013
And
$247.00 in 2014.
"These are Provisions incorporated in the Obamacare Legislation, purposelydelayed so as not to confuse the 2012 Re-Election Campaigns. Send this toall Seniors that you know, so they will know who's throwing them under thebus.
$104.20 in 2012
$120.20 in 2013
And
$247.00 in 2014.
"These are Provisions incorporated in the Obamacare Legislation, purposelydelayed so as not to confuse the 2012 Re-Election Campaigns. Send this toall Seniors that you know, so they will know who's throwing them under thebus.
Morning Walk
Every day - at the same time - she waits for him...
He comes... and they go for a walk
Wouldn't it be great if we all had friends like this...no words needed...
they just intuitively recognize the value of each other in their lives and act accordingly.
Big Foreclosure Compensation, But Only For The Right Wrongs
Last month, the government released information on the compensation victims of the banks’ foreclosure practices might receive. For homeowners, it turns out that it’s crucially important just how the bank messed up.
Can you put a price on the damage caused by a wrongful foreclosure? Banking regulators have. And it’s $125,000. Or $60,000. Or $15,000. Or… it’s unclear.
Last November, banking regulators launched a process to force the big banks to compensate homeowners victimized by their foreclosure abuses. Many crucial details remained unclear [1], including how much victims might receive.
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Can you put a price on the damage caused by a wrongful foreclosure? Banking regulators have. And it’s $125,000. Or $60,000. Or $15,000. Or… it’s unclear.
Last November, banking regulators launched a process to force the big banks to compensate homeowners victimized by their foreclosure abuses. Many crucial details remained unclear [1], including how much victims might receive.
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Maryland Man Rides Cross Country For Wounded Warriors
A Carroll County man is continuing his bike ride across the country to raise awareness for injured troops.
Sgt. First Class Bill Cherneski started his bike trip in late April in LaPush, Washington.
On Wednesday, he made a stop back in his hometown of Hampstead before making his way to Ocean City later this week.
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Sgt. First Class Bill Cherneski started his bike trip in late April in LaPush, Washington.
On Wednesday, he made a stop back in his hometown of Hampstead before making his way to Ocean City later this week.
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WICOMICO COUNTY TO OPEN COOLING CENTER ON THURSDAY JULY 5th
(Salisbury, MD) With temperatures expected to rise into the triple digits over the next few days, Wicomico County health officials will open a cooling center on Thursday, July 5th, Friday, July 6th and Saturday, July 7th 2012 from 10AM till 8PM. The cooling center will be located at the Wicomico County Civic Center (Flanders Rooms 5, 6 and 7), 500 Glen Avenue Salisbury, MD. Residents will need to bring their own food, beverages, and medications. Bottled water will be available. No pets will be permitted. Individuals needing transportation may contact Shore Transit by calling 443-260-2300.
In response to extreme temperatures, Wicomico County health officials are urging residents to remain indoors in air conditioned environments. “Until temperatures return to normal, we are asking residents to avoid all outside activities, drink lots of water, stay cool, and check on neighbors. If air conditioning is not available, residents should consider visiting the local mall or cooling center. It is important during times like these to look after one another, and help ensure each other’s safety.” said Lori Brewster, Health Officer for Wicomico County.
For local and updated cooling center information, facts on heat related illness, or additional tips on how to stay cool, visit the Wicomico County Health Department's website at www.wicomicohealth.org.
MOTORISTS: TELL US WHAT IT’S LIKE OUT THERE
Participate in the Maryland Annual Driving Survey
Do Maryland drivers cause you concern? Is the State doing all it could to ensure safety on Maryland’s roadways?
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration is interested in your opinion. A brief survey of its highway safety programs is being offered by the MVA’s Highway Safety Office. The survey aims to identify the problems on Maryland’s roadways, assess the public’s perception of enforcement and prevention programs, and ultimately, help improve safety on Maryland’s roads.
“Each year, over 500 people die on Maryland’s roadways. Your input will help us shape our highway safety programs,” said MVA Administrator John Kuo. As the Governor O’Malley’s Highway Safety Representative, Kuo leads the efforts of the Maryland Highway Safety Office.
The Maryland Highway Safety Office surveys Maryland’s motorists about pressing safety issues, including drunk driving, speeding, aggressive driving, motorcycle safety and more. The surveys help in the development of programs that decrease motor vehicle crashes, deaths and injuries.
The Maryland Highway Safety Office’s Annual Driving Survey addresses:
• the behaviors that contribute to the risk of crashing;
• the knowledge about Maryland’s driving laws;
• the attitudes related to driving laws and behaviors; and
• the awareness of outreach efforts to combat the risks associated with certain driving behaviors.
Last year’s survey revealed:
• 45% were supportive of a law requiring Ignition Interlock devices for first time DUI offenders.
• 29% felt it was likely that they would get a ticket for not wearing a seatbelt.
• Approximately half of the drivers who drank claimed that they wore a seatbelt, though they also admitted to driving above the 65mph posted speed limit.
Please take a moment to complete the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration’s Annual Driving Survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/2012_MADS_MVA_Website
Do Maryland drivers cause you concern? Is the State doing all it could to ensure safety on Maryland’s roadways?
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration is interested in your opinion. A brief survey of its highway safety programs is being offered by the MVA’s Highway Safety Office. The survey aims to identify the problems on Maryland’s roadways, assess the public’s perception of enforcement and prevention programs, and ultimately, help improve safety on Maryland’s roads.
“Each year, over 500 people die on Maryland’s roadways. Your input will help us shape our highway safety programs,” said MVA Administrator John Kuo. As the Governor O’Malley’s Highway Safety Representative, Kuo leads the efforts of the Maryland Highway Safety Office.
The Maryland Highway Safety Office surveys Maryland’s motorists about pressing safety issues, including drunk driving, speeding, aggressive driving, motorcycle safety and more. The surveys help in the development of programs that decrease motor vehicle crashes, deaths and injuries.
The Maryland Highway Safety Office’s Annual Driving Survey addresses:
• the behaviors that contribute to the risk of crashing;
• the knowledge about Maryland’s driving laws;
• the attitudes related to driving laws and behaviors; and
• the awareness of outreach efforts to combat the risks associated with certain driving behaviors.
Last year’s survey revealed:
• 45% were supportive of a law requiring Ignition Interlock devices for first time DUI offenders.
• 29% felt it was likely that they would get a ticket for not wearing a seatbelt.
• Approximately half of the drivers who drank claimed that they wore a seatbelt, though they also admitted to driving above the 65mph posted speed limit.
Please take a moment to complete the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration’s Annual Driving Survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/2012_MADS_MVA_Website
Daily Times Editorial Today Gets It Backwards
"Bateman Street will be one-way between South Division and Wayne Street (where the SU parking garage is located), heading toward South Division only; it will remain two-way from Wayne Street to Route 13".
It will NOT head towards S. Division Street. Instead, it will head towards the College. The IDEA is to get traffic off S. Division Street.
The paper went on to say, "We applaud the City Council for making the right decision, for Salisbury's sake".
Are you still applauding the Council after WE got it right?
Knife Found Inside Comb at BWI Checkpoint
QUOTES OF THE DAY 7-5-12
“The issue which has swept down the centuries and which will have to be fought sooner or later is the people versus the banks.”
Lord Acton
“The bold effort the present (central) bank had made to control the government … are but premonitions of the fate that await the American people should they be deluded into a perpetuation of this institution or the establishment of another like it.
From the earliest ages of history to the present day there have never been thirteen millions of people associated in one political body who enjoyed so much freedom and happiness as the people of these United States. You have no longer any cause to fear dangers from abroad … It is from within, among yourselves – from cupidity, from corruption, from disappointed ambition and inordinate thirst for power – that factions will be formed and liberty endangered …
Every man is equally entitled to protection by law; but when the laws undertake to add… artificial distinctions, to grant titles, gratuities, and exclusive privileges, to make the rich richer and the potent more powerful, the humble members of society — the farmers, mechanics, and laborers — who have neither the time nor the means of securing like favors to themselves, have a right to complain of the injustice of their government.
I am one of those who do not believe that a national debt is a national blessing, but rather a curse to a republic; inasmuch as it is calculated to raise around the administration a moneyed aristocracy dangerous to the liberties of the country.
Gentlemen, I have had men watching you for a long time and I am convinced that you have used the funds of the bank to speculate in the breadstuffs of the country. When you won, you divided the profits amongst you, and when you lost, you charged it to the bank. You tell me that if I take the deposits from the bank and annul its charter, I shall ruin ten thousand families. That may be true, gentlemen, but that is your sin! Should I let you go on, you will ruin fifty thousand families, and that would be my sin! You are a den of vipers and thieves, and by the grace of the Eternal God, will rout you out.
As long as our government is administered for the good of the people, and is regulated by their will; as long as it secures to us the rights of persons and of property, liberty of conscience and of the press, it will be worth defending.
It is to be regretted that the rich and powerful too often bend the acts of government to their selfish purposes.
If Congress has the right under the Constitution to issue paper money, it was given to be used by themselves, not to be delegated to individuals or corporations.”
Andrew Jackson
Lord Acton
“The bold effort the present (central) bank had made to control the government … are but premonitions of the fate that await the American people should they be deluded into a perpetuation of this institution or the establishment of another like it.
From the earliest ages of history to the present day there have never been thirteen millions of people associated in one political body who enjoyed so much freedom and happiness as the people of these United States. You have no longer any cause to fear dangers from abroad … It is from within, among yourselves – from cupidity, from corruption, from disappointed ambition and inordinate thirst for power – that factions will be formed and liberty endangered …
Every man is equally entitled to protection by law; but when the laws undertake to add… artificial distinctions, to grant titles, gratuities, and exclusive privileges, to make the rich richer and the potent more powerful, the humble members of society — the farmers, mechanics, and laborers — who have neither the time nor the means of securing like favors to themselves, have a right to complain of the injustice of their government.
I am one of those who do not believe that a national debt is a national blessing, but rather a curse to a republic; inasmuch as it is calculated to raise around the administration a moneyed aristocracy dangerous to the liberties of the country.
Gentlemen, I have had men watching you for a long time and I am convinced that you have used the funds of the bank to speculate in the breadstuffs of the country. When you won, you divided the profits amongst you, and when you lost, you charged it to the bank. You tell me that if I take the deposits from the bank and annul its charter, I shall ruin ten thousand families. That may be true, gentlemen, but that is your sin! Should I let you go on, you will ruin fifty thousand families, and that would be my sin! You are a den of vipers and thieves, and by the grace of the Eternal God, will rout you out.
As long as our government is administered for the good of the people, and is regulated by their will; as long as it secures to us the rights of persons and of property, liberty of conscience and of the press, it will be worth defending.
It is to be regretted that the rich and powerful too often bend the acts of government to their selfish purposes.
If Congress has the right under the Constitution to issue paper money, it was given to be used by themselves, not to be delegated to individuals or corporations.”
Andrew Jackson
Orphaned Colombian Children in US to find Adoptive Families
Ten orphaned children from Colombia are visiting families in Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia and Pennsylvania with hopes to find a family to adopt them.
Gustavo, who's staying with a family in Havre de Grace, is the third sibling to participate in the KidSave Summer Miracle program. He hopes to stay connected with his biological family and find a home in Maryland.
A translator speaking for Gustavo said, "He wants a family who loves him and (will) be with him -- a father and a mom."
HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!
Happy Birthday to a wonderful place to live!
I know you're sad because of the way the government has changed things.
We are sad also.
Our government has taken the United part out of the United States of America!
We are no longer United in any way that We The People want.
The government is trying to divide and create war between ourselves.
They have taken everything that America stands for and are taking it apart by bits and pieces.
They are disecting the Constitution like a science experiment so they can toss away what they don't like.
We are losing the rights that so many fought and died for.
They want to take away our freedom of speech and our right to bear arms.
They make laws for us that do not apply to those who make the laws.
We are expected to share our hard earned money made by working with those who don't work.
We also help out other countries to feed their poor and homeless when we have millions here who are homeless and hungry.
What was once the most powerful country in the world is now broke.
I for one want to apologise on behalf of our government to you on your birthday America.
Please don't be sad on your birthday. Many of us are fighting back to restore you to the glory that you deserve.
Sincerely,
We The People Of The United States Of America!
I know you're sad because of the way the government has changed things.
We are sad also.
Our government has taken the United part out of the United States of America!
We are no longer United in any way that We The People want.
The government is trying to divide and create war between ourselves.
They have taken everything that America stands for and are taking it apart by bits and pieces.
They are disecting the Constitution like a science experiment so they can toss away what they don't like.
We are losing the rights that so many fought and died for.
They want to take away our freedom of speech and our right to bear arms.
They make laws for us that do not apply to those who make the laws.
We are expected to share our hard earned money made by working with those who don't work.
We also help out other countries to feed their poor and homeless when we have millions here who are homeless and hungry.
What was once the most powerful country in the world is now broke.
I for one want to apologise on behalf of our government to you on your birthday America.
Please don't be sad on your birthday. Many of us are fighting back to restore you to the glory that you deserve.
Sincerely,
We The People Of The United States Of America!
Wednesday, July 04, 2012
Local Media Acting More Like Tabloid Papers
Let me start by saying this. I have always enjoyed my professional relationship with WMDT and Kathleen McLean. I believe she is a well respected professional in this community but there are many who firmly disagree with Kathleen on many issues and topics. That being said, when I attended yesterday's press conference with the Mayor I was watching her head bob up and down suggesting she agreed with the Mayor. I watched her clap her hands every time the Mayor lead the crown by saying, (and this happened at least 20 times yesterday) let's give so and so a round of applause. Quite frankly it made me sick to my stomach because it came off so elementary school level politics and the tin foiled hat listeners just followed their cult leader. You know, kind of like 6 year olds who don't know better but are being taught this is what you do in public school.
Yesterday the Mayor insisted the news companies go directly to the council majority's homes and knock on their doors and ask the tough questions. When I watched WMDT's piece on line today I was not only ticked off, I was extremely disappointed that Kathleen McLean would stoop so low as to have her staff go to their homes unannounced. They didn't air anywhere near what the Council President had to say but I'll leave that for Mrs. Cohen to express because I firmly believe she's not going to be very kind to the Press the next time she has an open mike.
So what are we seeing any more. We watch WBOC copy what Salisbury News delivers. Any Post that has big comments they're right on it. WMDT is now following the leader, (Jim Ireton) because their G.M. has special interests and wants her agenda pushed. Kathleen refused to air my portion or Jim's portion of the phone scandal, even though it was major news. She was too afraid it would hurt her politically, so she stayed away from it. Sorry but I lost a LOT of respect for her at that point.
The Daily Times, well, they'd go so far as sacrifice a lamb or two to express their loyalty to the almighty Mayor. They can't bite off the hand that feeds them, right?
So what we're left with is Salisbury News. At least I'm not afraid of ANY special interests. I'll tell it like it is because it's the truth. I'm not here to make friends. I'm here to tell the news. The Main Stream Media REFUSED to interview me, with the exception of Bryan Russo. The Mayor keeps taking the opportunity at each press conference to defame me personally but thankfully, (so far) the press hasn't published those remarks by the Mayor. I guess he just feels good doing so in front of his very own paid to be there audience. Don't think they won't archive those statements for down the road though.
The Mayor ended his interview with Bryan Russo using the words, "your damn straight". Laura Mitchell ended her interview with WMDT with saying it's a "damn shame". Is this how we TEACH our Children to handle themselves Mr. Ireton and Mrs. Mitchell? Are YOU really the example Salisbury needs to lead this City?
Here's my take on things after these recent interviews. As a professional businessman I'd say the Mayor has proven he cannot keep his cool. The Mayor has proven he CANNOT manage the City. The Mayor has proven he cannot and will not work with the entire City Council, (which is a BIG part of his job description) and instead will act like a little girl not getting her way.
Look Folks, it is what it is. Love me or hate me, YOU know what I'm saying is absolutely true. You CANNOT EVER get a company fine tuned by pointing fingers, threatening, demanding through outside sources, (the MSM) to move in the right direction. Do YOU really know what the Mayor's job is here in Salisbury? The Mayor has NO POWER when it comes to legislative policies, NONE! And that's the way it should be. However, Barrie Tilghman and Jim Ireton stood there demanding they get their way and threw fits every time they didn't get what they wanted.
Look, Barrie Tilghman and Jim Ireton are politicians, that's it. They couldn't run a business, heck, they never have run a business, yet the majority voted them into office and look where Salisbury stands. All I'm saying is, this is a 2 year term this go around. Vote for me in the upcoming election and see how smooth things go. If you don't like what you see, fire me. One thing is for sure, it could NEVER be as bad as what we've experienced over the past 15+ years.
As for the local Main Stream Media, go back to being leaders. Go back to investigative reporting. Start off by telling the TRUTH for once. Grow a pair and start reporting BOTH SIDES of a story. Salisbury News continues to grow each day because more and more people continue to learn we've been the ONLY source of real local news that isn't afraid of the special interests.
The next time you want an interview, act like professionals and CALL the Council and ask for the interview. Pounding on their doors at dinner time is about as bad as WBOC knocking on the door of a house who's Family just lost their 3 year old to a drowning. It's not only sick, it's unprofessional and uncalled for. Kathleen, you should be ashamed of yourself as a professional for pushing your people in the wrong direction. Remember Kathleen, you too are the teaching example for these up and coming reporters. Again, I'm very disappointed at all of you.
"It's not Joe Albero's election to lose, it's the citizens election to lose".
Happy Independence Day From The Maryland Young Republicans
On this day, we celebrate our 236th birthday of our great nation. In the Summer of 1776, our Founding Fathers threw off the shackles of tyranny and oppression to create a new nation, one that was truly endowed by our creator with certain unalienable rights, among them life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Today is a day that we celebrate freedom with our friends and our family. However we would be remiss if we did not take the opportunity to recommit ourselves to freedom and independence. Both in Maryland and across the nation, freedom is constantly under attack.
In Washington, our freedom and religious liberty is under attack, with Obamacare set to increase costs and decrease access to health care, while at the same time forcing religious organizations to choose between obeying the state and obeying their God.
In Annapolis, Governor Martin O'Malley is content to try to tax our middle class into poverty, expand the already overreaching web of government regulations on business, and job losses as he prepares to run for President in 2016. Legislative Democrats, when poised with citizen challenges to overreaching and unpopular laws, are preparing to restrict the right of citizens to petition legislation to the ballot in upcoming sessions, while planning to expand the scope of government and raise even more taxes on average Marylanders.
While we celebrate independence and freedom today, please remember what President Ronald Reagan so famously said about freedom:
Perhaps you and I have lived with this miracle too long to be properly appreciative. Freedom is a fragile thing and is never more than one generation away from extinction. It is not ours by inheritance; it must be fought for and defended constantly by each generation, for it comes only once to a people. Those who have known freedom and then lost it have never known it again.
We must be prepared to fight for and defend that freedom. Join us the Maryland Young Republicans in supporting our Republican candidates, our Republican Party, and our shared conservative principles. It is our responsibility to act, for this and future generations to enjoy the freedoms that we so cherish.
Conservatively,
Brian Griffiths
Today is a day that we celebrate freedom with our friends and our family. However we would be remiss if we did not take the opportunity to recommit ourselves to freedom and independence. Both in Maryland and across the nation, freedom is constantly under attack.
In Washington, our freedom and religious liberty is under attack, with Obamacare set to increase costs and decrease access to health care, while at the same time forcing religious organizations to choose between obeying the state and obeying their God.
In Annapolis, Governor Martin O'Malley is content to try to tax our middle class into poverty, expand the already overreaching web of government regulations on business, and job losses as he prepares to run for President in 2016. Legislative Democrats, when poised with citizen challenges to overreaching and unpopular laws, are preparing to restrict the right of citizens to petition legislation to the ballot in upcoming sessions, while planning to expand the scope of government and raise even more taxes on average Marylanders.
While we celebrate independence and freedom today, please remember what President Ronald Reagan so famously said about freedom:
Perhaps you and I have lived with this miracle too long to be properly appreciative. Freedom is a fragile thing and is never more than one generation away from extinction. It is not ours by inheritance; it must be fought for and defended constantly by each generation, for it comes only once to a people. Those who have known freedom and then lost it have never known it again.
We must be prepared to fight for and defend that freedom. Join us the Maryland Young Republicans in supporting our Republican candidates, our Republican Party, and our shared conservative principles. It is our responsibility to act, for this and future generations to enjoy the freedoms that we so cherish.
Conservatively,
Brian Griffiths
Correctional Officer Arrested For Sexual Relations In A Detention Facility
Location: Sussex Correctional Institution – Work Release, 23207 DuPont Boulevard, Georgetown, DE
Date of Occurrence: Between March 7, 2012 – May 23, 2012
Victim: 22 year old female prisoner
Defendant, Charges, and Bond Information:
Daniel L. Mann, 49, Dover, DE (Photo Attached)
Sexual Relations in a Detention Facility (3 counts)
Resume:
Georgetown, DE- The Delaware State Police have arrested a correctional officer after it was reported he was having sexual relations with a female prisoner.
State Police Detectives began an investigation into the allegations on June 29, 2012, after a 22 year old female prisoner disclosed to prison officials that she and Daniel L. Mann had become involved in a sexual relationship. The female reported that shortly after she entered into the work release program on March 7th, she and Mann, who worked in the unit, began a friendly relationship that soon became sexual in nature on three separate occasions. Each encounter occurred in the facility where the victim was housed.
Mann was arrested this afternoon at Troop 4 in Georgetown on three counts of Sexual Relations in a Detention Facility. He was arraigned at JP2 and is currently committed to SCI on $4,500.00 cash bail.
Date of Occurrence: Between March 7, 2012 – May 23, 2012
Victim: 22 year old female prisoner
Defendant, Charges, and Bond Information:
Daniel L. Mann, 49, Dover, DE (Photo Attached)
Sexual Relations in a Detention Facility (3 counts)
Resume:
Georgetown, DE- The Delaware State Police have arrested a correctional officer after it was reported he was having sexual relations with a female prisoner.
State Police Detectives began an investigation into the allegations on June 29, 2012, after a 22 year old female prisoner disclosed to prison officials that she and Daniel L. Mann had become involved in a sexual relationship. The female reported that shortly after she entered into the work release program on March 7th, she and Mann, who worked in the unit, began a friendly relationship that soon became sexual in nature on three separate occasions. Each encounter occurred in the facility where the victim was housed.
Mann was arrested this afternoon at Troop 4 in Georgetown on three counts of Sexual Relations in a Detention Facility. He was arraigned at JP2 and is currently committed to SCI on $4,500.00 cash bail.
TWO ARRESTED WHILE STEALING HIGHWAY LIGHT POLE
(GLEN BURNIE, MD) – While state and local police were manning intersections with non-working traffic signals yesterday due to power outages caused by the weekend storm, two thieves apparently thought it was a good time to steal a highway light pole, but were foiled by an observant motorist who called police.
The two are identified as James A. Phaneuf, 46, of Brooklyn, Md., and Quincy R. Hawkins, 47, of Glen Burnie, Md. Both are charged with theft over $1,000 and malicious destruction of property. After processing, they were taken to a court commissioner for bond hearings and were both released on recognizance.
Just before 9:00 a.m. yesterday, Maryland State Police at the Glen Burnie Barrack received a call from a motorist who said something did not look right about a pickup truck stopped on the ramp from eastbound I-695 to southbound Rt. 2. The motorist said the pickup truck had its hood up, but the two men there did not appear to be working on the truck or waiting for assistance due to a breakdown.
When a state trooper arrived, he found the two suspects standing next to a highway light pole that was laying on the ground. The trooper saw that a power inverter had been hooked to the truck battery and was being used to run a reciprocating saw. The men were using the saw to cut up the light pole. A section of the pole had already been loaded in the pickup.
Both men were arrested on the scene. State Highway Administration officials say the light pole was valued at $1,740, in addition to the value it has in lighting up the ramp for motorists at night.
The two are identified as James A. Phaneuf, 46, of Brooklyn, Md., and Quincy R. Hawkins, 47, of Glen Burnie, Md. Both are charged with theft over $1,000 and malicious destruction of property. After processing, they were taken to a court commissioner for bond hearings and were both released on recognizance.
Just before 9:00 a.m. yesterday, Maryland State Police at the Glen Burnie Barrack received a call from a motorist who said something did not look right about a pickup truck stopped on the ramp from eastbound I-695 to southbound Rt. 2. The motorist said the pickup truck had its hood up, but the two men there did not appear to be working on the truck or waiting for assistance due to a breakdown.
When a state trooper arrived, he found the two suspects standing next to a highway light pole that was laying on the ground. The trooper saw that a power inverter had been hooked to the truck battery and was being used to run a reciprocating saw. The men were using the saw to cut up the light pole. A section of the pole had already been loaded in the pickup.
Both men were arrested on the scene. State Highway Administration officials say the light pole was valued at $1,740, in addition to the value it has in lighting up the ramp for motorists at night.
At Least 9 Injured After Fireworks Cause Explosion In Home
PELHAM, NH – A fireworks explosion
likely inside a home set it ablaze Tuesday night and filled it with
smoke, injuring at least nine people, police said.
When police officers and firefighters arrived at the home around 7:30 p.m., there were lots of fireworks in and around it, the police department said. The initial report was fireworks had blown up in the home, police said.
Firefighters put out the blaze.
The nine injured people ranged in age from infant to adult. Two children were taken to Boston hospitals for treatment.
More
When police officers and firefighters arrived at the home around 7:30 p.m., there were lots of fireworks in and around it, the police department said. The initial report was fireworks had blown up in the home, police said.
Firefighters put out the blaze.
The nine injured people ranged in age from infant to adult. Two children were taken to Boston hospitals for treatment.
More
Obama Administration Already Granting Amnesty
President Barack Obama issued an executive directive in which his administration would not deport illegal immigrants who came to the United States before they were 16 years of age, are 30, and have been in the country for at least five years. Further, the Obama administration told Congress that it would take 60 days to implement the directive.
It has not been even been a month since
Obama’s directive, but, according to Rep. Lamar Smith (R-TX), the
federal government has already been granting illegal immigrants
“tentative legal status.” More incredibly, according to a Washington Times report,
immigration officials have been giving tentative legal status to those
who do not even meet the requirements, according to U.S. Customs and
Immigration (ICE) documents.
According to the Times, Smith
said “he’s learned some illegal immigrants who have been in the U.S.
less than five years have had their deportations canceled” even though
the administration “listed the five-year mark as one of their criteria.”
Texas Rolls Out Gunboats to Combat Violence Spilling Over River Border With Mexico
Law enforcement officers working along the U.S.-Mexico border are
stepping up efforts to respond to what is in effect a war going on south
of the border, where drug cartel violence has spun out of control.
In Texas, where the two countries are separated only by the Rio Grande River, stopping the violence from spilling into the United States means taking to the water -- with 34-foot-long gunboats that pack some serious firepower.
The stakes are high. Since 2007, roughly 56,000 people in Mexico have been killed in the escalating drug cartel violence. The U.S. government and local police agencies are working around the clock, 365 days a year to try and stop the flow of drugs, weapons and illegal immigrants into America from our southern neighbor.
More
In Texas, where the two countries are separated only by the Rio Grande River, stopping the violence from spilling into the United States means taking to the water -- with 34-foot-long gunboats that pack some serious firepower.
The stakes are high. Since 2007, roughly 56,000 people in Mexico have been killed in the escalating drug cartel violence. The U.S. government and local police agencies are working around the clock, 365 days a year to try and stop the flow of drugs, weapons and illegal immigrants into America from our southern neighbor.
More
Pa. High School Puts Itself Up For Sale on eBay
Forget magazine drives and candy sales. A cash-strapped high school
near Philadelphia hopes to raise money by auctioning itself on eBay.
The starting bid of just under $600,000 for The Learning Center in Langhorne, Pa., is designed to offset steep budget cuts. A tongue-in-cheek listing describes the alternative school for at-risk teens as "pre-owned" and "slightly used."
The winner won't own the facility, which is part of the Neshaminy School District. But he or she will get a plethora of goodies, including a naming opportunity, a free large pizza, a personalized school coffee mug and the chance to deliver a speech at graduation.
More
The starting bid of just under $600,000 for The Learning Center in Langhorne, Pa., is designed to offset steep budget cuts. A tongue-in-cheek listing describes the alternative school for at-risk teens as "pre-owned" and "slightly used."
The winner won't own the facility, which is part of the Neshaminy School District. But he or she will get a plethora of goodies, including a naming opportunity, a free large pizza, a personalized school coffee mug and the chance to deliver a speech at graduation.
More
More Eerie 'Ghost Cities' Popping Up
Why is China constructing large, well-designed “ghost cities” that are completely devoid of people?
Now, the BBC reports a giant new Chinese-built city has been spotted in Africa in the outskirts of Angola’s capital Luanda.
The city, Nova Cidade de Kilamba, was designed to hold up to a half million people and features 750 eight-story apartment buildings, 12 schools and more than 100 retail units, according to the report.
State-owned China International Trust and Investment Corporation reportedly took less than three years to build the city at a cost of $3.5 billion. It covers 12,355 acres.
More
Now, the BBC reports a giant new Chinese-built city has been spotted in Africa in the outskirts of Angola’s capital Luanda.
The city, Nova Cidade de Kilamba, was designed to hold up to a half million people and features 750 eight-story apartment buildings, 12 schools and more than 100 retail units, according to the report.
State-owned China International Trust and Investment Corporation reportedly took less than three years to build the city at a cost of $3.5 billion. It covers 12,355 acres.
More
Career Test for Kindergarteners in the Works
A new digital tool to test academic and behavioral skills will target students starting in kindergarten.
ACT, the organization that developed the ACT college-entrance exam, will start testing the tool in the fall. It will be available to schools starting in 2014.The tool tracks students' career interests, academic performance and progress toward goals. It's designed to follow students from kindergarten through high school.
Jon Erickson, president of ACT's education division, said the goal is to identify and address gaps in skills needed for college and the workforce. The assessment combines traditional testing with teacher-led projects to generate an instant, digital score.
More
ACT, the organization that developed the ACT college-entrance exam, will start testing the tool in the fall. It will be available to schools starting in 2014.The tool tracks students' career interests, academic performance and progress toward goals. It's designed to follow students from kindergarten through high school.
Jon Erickson, president of ACT's education division, said the goal is to identify and address gaps in skills needed for college and the workforce. The assessment combines traditional testing with teacher-led projects to generate an instant, digital score.
More
Body Found In Berlin
Salisbury News has learned a body has been found in the City Park in Berlin. The body is covered with a sheet and Police are everywhere. More to come...
And finally, the IRS gets audited!
The federal agency that strikes fear into many U.S. taxpayers is
getting a dose of its own medicine – as it is now the focus of a
year-long audit for allowing illegal aliens to scam the system and bilk
taxpayers out of billions of dollars every year.
Federal employees are blowing the whistle on the Internal Revenue Service, according to a report by Indianapolis television station WTHR-TV.
The scam involves the use of an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, or ITIN –a nine-digit tax-processing number assigned by the IRS to individuals who are obligated to file a federal tax return but do not have or are not eligible for a Social Security Number. Illegal aliens may obtain an ITIN by sending the IRS documents such as original or notarized photocopies of birth certificates, driving records, voter ID cards, school records and vaccination records – all documents that are easily forged or falsely notarized.
More
Federal employees are blowing the whistle on the Internal Revenue Service, according to a report by Indianapolis television station WTHR-TV.
The scam involves the use of an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, or ITIN –a nine-digit tax-processing number assigned by the IRS to individuals who are obligated to file a federal tax return but do not have or are not eligible for a Social Security Number. Illegal aliens may obtain an ITIN by sending the IRS documents such as original or notarized photocopies of birth certificates, driving records, voter ID cards, school records and vaccination records – all documents that are easily forged or falsely notarized.
More
Obama Administration Apologizes to Pakistan
Love means never having to say you’re sorry? Not for the Obama administration. According to the Obama administration, love means always saying you’re sorry –especially if it’s to foreign governments that hate America. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has offered the Pakistani government an apology for last November’s incident where U.S.-led forces accidentally killed two dozen Pakistani troops at the Afghanistan border.
"We
are sorry for the losses suffered by the Pakistani military. We are
committed to working closely with Pakistan and Afghanistan to prevent
this from ever happening again," Clinton said in a statement.
Sherry Rehman, Pakistan's ambassador to the U.S., said Pakistan was pleased:
"We
appreciate Secretary Clinton's statement, and hope that bilateral ties
can move to a better place from here. I am confident that both countries
can agree on many critical issues, especially on bringing peace to the
region."
Al-Qaeda Plot to Blow Up US Planes Uncovered
In August 2009 the Obama administration quit using the phrase “War on Terror,” and in April 2012 the administration pronounced the war on terror over altogether.
Somebody forgot to tell Al Qaeda that the war was over, because their plan to blow up U.S. passenger planes in the days leading up to the London games was just uncovered.More
Dear Person Seeking a Job: Why I Can't Hire You
Potential employers have to respond to the incentives and disincentives that exist in today's world, and those do not favor conventional permanent employees.
I know you're hard-working, motivated, tech-savvy and willing to learn. The reason I can't hire you has nothing to do with your work ethic or skills; it's the high-cost Status Quo, and the many perverse consequences of maintaining a failing Status Quo.
The sad truth is that it's costly and risky to hire anyone to do anything, and "bankable projects" that might generate profit/require more labor are few and far between. The overhead costs for employees have skyrocketed. So even though the wages employees see on their paychecks have stagnated, the total compensation costs the employer pays have risen substantially.
Thirty years ago the overhead costs were considerably less, adjusted for inflation, and there weren't billboards advertising a free trip to Cabo if you sued your employer. (I just saw an advert placed by a legal firm while riding a BART train that solicited employees to sue their employers, with the incentive being "free money" for a vacation to Cabo.)
The other primary reason is that there are few (to borrow a phrase used by John Michael Greer) "bankable projects," that is, projects where hiring another worker would pay for the costs of the additional overhead, labor and capital and generate a reason for making the investment, i.e. a meaningful profit.
There is very little real "new business" in a recessionary, deflationary economy: any new business is poaching from an established business. The new restaurant isn't drawing people from their home kitchens, it's drawing customers from established restaurants.
More
I know you're hard-working, motivated, tech-savvy and willing to learn. The reason I can't hire you has nothing to do with your work ethic or skills; it's the high-cost Status Quo, and the many perverse consequences of maintaining a failing Status Quo.
The sad truth is that it's costly and risky to hire anyone to do anything, and "bankable projects" that might generate profit/require more labor are few and far between. The overhead costs for employees have skyrocketed. So even though the wages employees see on their paychecks have stagnated, the total compensation costs the employer pays have risen substantially.
Thirty years ago the overhead costs were considerably less, adjusted for inflation, and there weren't billboards advertising a free trip to Cabo if you sued your employer. (I just saw an advert placed by a legal firm while riding a BART train that solicited employees to sue their employers, with the incentive being "free money" for a vacation to Cabo.)
The other primary reason is that there are few (to borrow a phrase used by John Michael Greer) "bankable projects," that is, projects where hiring another worker would pay for the costs of the additional overhead, labor and capital and generate a reason for making the investment, i.e. a meaningful profit.
There is very little real "new business" in a recessionary, deflationary economy: any new business is poaching from an established business. The new restaurant isn't drawing people from their home kitchens, it's drawing customers from established restaurants.
More
Remembering the Many Talents of Andy Griffith
It simply seemed that, as a denizen of make-believe Mayberry, N.C., Griffith, with his wide grin and gentle drawl, wasn't acting, but instead a natural. (Note that Griffith was overlooked for so much as an Emmy nomination for "The Andy Griffith Show," while his comical co-star, Don Knotts, bagged five trophies as Deputy Barney Fife.)
Sure, being Andy Taylor would've been plenty. But for Griffith, who died Tuesday at age 86, there was more to the act.
More
A Vast New Federal Power
Of the 17 lawyers who have served as chief justice of the United States, John Marshall – the fourth chief justice – has come to be known as the "Great Chief Justice." The folks who have given him that title are the progressives who have largely written the history we are taught in government schools. They revere him because he is the intellectual progenitor of federal power.
Marshall's opinions over a 34-year period during the nation's infancy – expanding federal power at the expense of personal freedom and the sovereignty of the states – set a pattern for federal control of our lives and actually invited Congress to regulate areas of human behavior nowhere mentioned in the Constitution. He was Thomas Jefferson’s cousin, but they rarely spoke. No chief justice in history has so pronouncedly and creatively offered the feds power on a platter as he.
Now he has a rival.
More
Marshall's opinions over a 34-year period during the nation's infancy – expanding federal power at the expense of personal freedom and the sovereignty of the states – set a pattern for federal control of our lives and actually invited Congress to regulate areas of human behavior nowhere mentioned in the Constitution. He was Thomas Jefferson’s cousin, but they rarely spoke. No chief justice in history has so pronouncedly and creatively offered the feds power on a platter as he.
Now he has a rival.
More
US Military Deaths in Afghanistan at 1,896
As of Tuesday, July 3, 2012, at least 1,896 members of the U.S.
military had died in Afghanistan as a result of the U.S.-led invasion of
Afghanistan in late 2001, according to an Associated Press count.
The AP count is six less than the Defense Department's tally, last updated Tuesday at 10 a.m. EDT.
At least 1,579 military service members have died in Afghanistan as a result of hostile action, according to the military's numbers.
More
The AP count is six less than the Defense Department's tally, last updated Tuesday at 10 a.m. EDT.
At least 1,579 military service members have died in Afghanistan as a result of hostile action, according to the military's numbers.
More
The Plan
A. Back off and let those men who want to marry men, marry men.
B. Allow those women who want to marry women, marry women.
C. Allow those folks who want to abort their babies, abort their babies.
D. In three generations, there will be no Democrats.
Man - I love it when a plan comes together!
B. Allow those women who want to marry women, marry women.
C. Allow those folks who want to abort their babies, abort their babies.
D. In three generations, there will be no Democrats.
Man - I love it when a plan comes together!
Wages Drop, Only 5th Time In 33 Years
While the corrupt media coordinates with the White House to attack Romney using the work of a high-profile Occupy Wall Street supporter, not only is unemployment increasing, but three years into Barack Obama's term and for only the fifth time in 33 years, wages fell.
NBC, CBS, ABC, The Washington Post, Politico, The New York Times, NPR, CNN... None of them want to talk about the beating the middle class and the unemployed and under-employed are taking in Obama's failed economy.All the corrupt media wants to discuss is what Obama wants to discuss: War on Women, immigration, same-sex marriage, lies about Romney outsourcing, and now Romney's wealth...again.
More
Tabernacle Of Prayer For All People Presents Summer Conference August 1-3
Salisbury, MD – The Tabernacle of Prayer family of Jamaica, New York and across the Eastern Seaboard will present its 2012 Summer Conference at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center this summer. The conference, using the theme Learning to Trust God for Our Every Need will begin on Wednesday, August 1st and run through Friday, August 3rd.
Join Bishop Ronny Davis for morning prayer each day beginning at 9:00am. Seminars for adults, young people and children will be held throughout the remainder of the day, which ends with an evening praise and worship service at 7:00pm.
For further information on the conference, please contact Sister Theodora Forbes at 718.657.4210 ext. 20 or Minister Priscilla Cyrus, Conference Coordinator at 347.274.4115.
Join Bishop Ronny Davis for morning prayer each day beginning at 9:00am. Seminars for adults, young people and children will be held throughout the remainder of the day, which ends with an evening praise and worship service at 7:00pm.
For further information on the conference, please contact Sister Theodora Forbes at 718.657.4210 ext. 20 or Minister Priscilla Cyrus, Conference Coordinator at 347.274.4115.
First Baby Born On The 4th Of July At PRMC
Isabella Grace Malone9 lbs 10 ounces
22 inches long
Mother Grace Malone
Father Mack Malone
Concerns Over Eagles Douse NY Hamlet's Fireworks
Concerns over the welfare of bald eagles have led an upstate New
York community to cancel its longtime July Fourth fireworks display.
The hamlet of Narrowsburg, on the Pennsylvania border in southeastern New York, bills itself as the state's "bald eagle capital." It hosts an annual EagleFest to celebrate the eagles that nest along the Delaware River.
Narrowsburg also hosts an annual July Fourth celebration, capped by fireworks sponsored by the local fire department.
More
The hamlet of Narrowsburg, on the Pennsylvania border in southeastern New York, bills itself as the state's "bald eagle capital." It hosts an annual EagleFest to celebrate the eagles that nest along the Delaware River.
Narrowsburg also hosts an annual July Fourth celebration, capped by fireworks sponsored by the local fire department.
More
Happy Hour Specials All Night!!!
We are celebrating tonight at Evolution Public House with $3.50 eVo pints and $3.50 glass wine selections all night!!! Our outdoor seating is perfect for a view of the Salisbury fireworks going off this evening and spots are limited and filling fast. Call 443-260-2337 now to reserve your spot for the hottest seats in town and have the best view of the fireworks in all of Salisbury. Our tasting room is open all day to fill growlers and the Public House opens at 4 P.M. tonight. See you here!!!
40th Annual Camp Barnes Benefit Stock Car Race
Location: Delaware International Speedway, Delmar, Sussex County, DE
Date of Occurrence: Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Resume:
Delmar, DE- The 40th Annual Camp Barnes Benefit Stock Car Race will be held at the Delaware International Speedway on Tuesday, July 10th 2012. Gates will open at 4:00 p.m. and racing action beginning at 7:00 p.m. Rain date is scheduled for Wednesday, July 11th 2012. The Delaware International Speedway is located on US 13, north of the Delaware/Maryland line.
This year’s event will feature competitors from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. They will compete for prize money over $35,000. Big Block Modifieds, Super Late Models, TSS Modifieds, Crate Late Model, Modified Lites, Little Lincoln and Delmarva Chargers will compete in over 100 laps of feature racing in their respective classes.
Returning this year will be the Camp Barnes Shootout which will include the top 5 feature finishers in the Big Block Modifieds and the Super Late models. They will compete in a twelve lap shootout for bragging rights and prize money.
In addition, making the racing more exciting for the fans and more competitive for the drivers, a $40 per lap leader bonus will be paid to all feature events.
Gates open early at 4:00 p.m. for the first ever “Fan Zone”. Several activities and vendors will be on display including, Monster Truck Rides, Silent Auction, HP1 1/5 Scale Baja remote control car speedway, Cornhole tournament and activities for the kids. Local drivers and cars will be on hand from 4-6 for an autograph session.
Tickets to the event are available at the speedway’s ticket booth the night of the event. Spectator’s tickets are $17 and pit tickets are $27. Children under 10 accompanied by parent or guardian are admitted free to spectator seating.
Camp Barnes originally opened in 1948 and was named in recognition of Colonel Herbert Barnes. The camp is located next to the Assawoman Wildlife Area on Miller Creek near Bethany Beach. For six weeks in the summer, each week, 70 children ages 10-13 attend Camp Barnes with no financial burden on their parents. They participate in outdoor activities and are taught leadership and teamwork skills.
For additional information, please call Det. Jeff Hudson or Det. Keith Collins at 302-856-5850 ext. 346 or jeff.hudson@state.de.us.
Date of Occurrence: Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Resume:
Delmar, DE- The 40th Annual Camp Barnes Benefit Stock Car Race will be held at the Delaware International Speedway on Tuesday, July 10th 2012. Gates will open at 4:00 p.m. and racing action beginning at 7:00 p.m. Rain date is scheduled for Wednesday, July 11th 2012. The Delaware International Speedway is located on US 13, north of the Delaware/Maryland line.
This year’s event will feature competitors from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. They will compete for prize money over $35,000. Big Block Modifieds, Super Late Models, TSS Modifieds, Crate Late Model, Modified Lites, Little Lincoln and Delmarva Chargers will compete in over 100 laps of feature racing in their respective classes.
Returning this year will be the Camp Barnes Shootout which will include the top 5 feature finishers in the Big Block Modifieds and the Super Late models. They will compete in a twelve lap shootout for bragging rights and prize money.
In addition, making the racing more exciting for the fans and more competitive for the drivers, a $40 per lap leader bonus will be paid to all feature events.
Gates open early at 4:00 p.m. for the first ever “Fan Zone”. Several activities and vendors will be on display including, Monster Truck Rides, Silent Auction, HP1 1/5 Scale Baja remote control car speedway, Cornhole tournament and activities for the kids. Local drivers and cars will be on hand from 4-6 for an autograph session.
Tickets to the event are available at the speedway’s ticket booth the night of the event. Spectator’s tickets are $17 and pit tickets are $27. Children under 10 accompanied by parent or guardian are admitted free to spectator seating.
Camp Barnes originally opened in 1948 and was named in recognition of Colonel Herbert Barnes. The camp is located next to the Assawoman Wildlife Area on Miller Creek near Bethany Beach. For six weeks in the summer, each week, 70 children ages 10-13 attend Camp Barnes with no financial burden on their parents. They participate in outdoor activities and are taught leadership and teamwork skills.
For additional information, please call Det. Jeff Hudson or Det. Keith Collins at 302-856-5850 ext. 346 or jeff.hudson@state.de.us.
‘Overpowered’: Passengers Beat 2 ‘Hijackers’ to Death on Chinese Flight
The moral of this story is: Don’t try to hijack a plane in China.
Two would-be plane hijackers were beaten to death by passengers and crew aboard a flight bound for the regional Chinese capital of Urumqi on Friday, The Global Times reports. The men died in the hospital from the injuries they suffered at the hands of those whom they thought would be their victims.
There were a total of six men involved in the foiled plot to hijack the Tianjin Airlines flight. All of the men were reportedly Uyghurs, a local Muslim ethnic minority.
Less than 10 minutes after the plane took off from Hotan airport in southwest Xinjiang, China at 12:25 a.m., the men, aged 20 to 36, announced their intentions to horrified passengers and attempted to storm the cockpit using a “broken crutch” made of aluminum as a weapon.
More
Two would-be plane hijackers were beaten to death by passengers and crew aboard a flight bound for the regional Chinese capital of Urumqi on Friday, The Global Times reports. The men died in the hospital from the injuries they suffered at the hands of those whom they thought would be their victims.
There were a total of six men involved in the foiled plot to hijack the Tianjin Airlines flight. All of the men were reportedly Uyghurs, a local Muslim ethnic minority.
Less than 10 minutes after the plane took off from Hotan airport in southwest Xinjiang, China at 12:25 a.m., the men, aged 20 to 36, announced their intentions to horrified passengers and attempted to storm the cockpit using a “broken crutch” made of aluminum as a weapon.
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Audit The Fed Headed For The House Floor!
Last week supporters of Federal Reserve transparency had a major victory when the House Committee on Government Oversight and Reform passed my Audit the Fed bill, HR 459 unanimously with all major audit provisions intact. This clears the way for a House floor vote expected sometime in late July, and with a whopping 263 cosponsors, the chances of it passing have never looked better! This is an unprecedented opportunity for transparency into how the currency of the United States is handled, and mishandled by the Federal Reserve. It is more important than ever that my colleagues in the House and Senate understand what this legislation does and why it is so important.
The Federal Reserve is an enormously destructive and unaccountable force in both the U.S. economy and the greater global economy. Federal Reserve policies affect average Americans far more than fiscal, spending, and tax policies legislated by Congress; indeed the Fed "spends" more than Congress when it creates trillions of new dollars on its balance sheet to bail out favored financial institutions.
For several decades the Fed has relentlessly increased the supply of US dollars (both real and electronic) and kept interest rates artificially low. These monetary policies punish thrift, erode the value of savings, and harm older Americans living on fixed incomes and the poor. The Fed's expansion of the money supply, combined with artificially low interest rates, creates destructive cycles of malinvestment. This results in housing, stock market, and employment booms and busts that destroy lives
More
The Federal Reserve is an enormously destructive and unaccountable force in both the U.S. economy and the greater global economy. Federal Reserve policies affect average Americans far more than fiscal, spending, and tax policies legislated by Congress; indeed the Fed "spends" more than Congress when it creates trillions of new dollars on its balance sheet to bail out favored financial institutions.
For several decades the Fed has relentlessly increased the supply of US dollars (both real and electronic) and kept interest rates artificially low. These monetary policies punish thrift, erode the value of savings, and harm older Americans living on fixed incomes and the poor. The Fed's expansion of the money supply, combined with artificially low interest rates, creates destructive cycles of malinvestment. This results in housing, stock market, and employment booms and busts that destroy lives
More
Celebrating Americas Birthday On The Shore
Last night literally thousand of people gathered in Willards for a spectacular fireworks display. More importantly it was a Family event with fantastic live music, great food vendors, (we brought a small grill and Nathan's Hot Dogs) lots of activities to keep the kids busy but more importantly as far as the eye could see it was one Family after the other enjoying great fellowship.
Tonight Salisbury will hold their event but we're told because of the proximity of homes in the immediate area the fireworks won't be shot up as high in the air, (this coming from several experts I know in the business) so you'll need to be at the event and right underneath it to get a good view.
Be prepared for a LOT of speeches beforehand as this is traditional coming from the group running the event. I'd like to thank my sisters mother in laws brother who knows the cousin of the guy running the fireworks who contacted an employee of public works who's ex husband knows a friend of the Mayor who spoofed a call to Albero in order to make contact with his friend who owns a fireworks company. You know how it works at these events.
HAPPY 4TH OF JULY EVERYONE!‘Oh My Gosh. I Pushed Green’: NC Lawmaker Accidentally Legalizes Fracking by Pressing Wrong Button
State Representative Becky Carney of North Carolina accidentally cast
the wrong vote for one of the state’s most controversial topics Monday
night and, because it was the deciding vote, Republicans won’t allow her to change it.
According to the Atlantic Wire, lawmakers had already passed a bill establishing rules for hydraulic fracking and horizontal drilling for oil and gas exploration in the state, but the bill was vetoed by the Governor Bev Perdue.
The House needed exactly 72 votes to override the veto late Monday night and, lo and behold, Carney’s accidental “yes” vote gave opponents the exact number they needed. Whoops.
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According to the Atlantic Wire, lawmakers had already passed a bill establishing rules for hydraulic fracking and horizontal drilling for oil and gas exploration in the state, but the bill was vetoed by the Governor Bev Perdue.
The House needed exactly 72 votes to override the veto late Monday night and, lo and behold, Carney’s accidental “yes” vote gave opponents the exact number they needed. Whoops.
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Which Fireworks Are Banned In My State And Where I Can Light Off The Good Stuff?
Today we celebrate the birth and continued independence of these fifty, nifty United States of America, almost all of which have very different, very specific fireworks laws. So before you go lighting that fuse in remembrance of our founding folks, it couldn't hurt to learn whether or not you'll get in trouble for lighting off that really expensive fireworks package you bought at South of the Border during your drive to Disney World -- or even that sparkler you picked up at a convenience store the other day.
IN GOD WE TRUST
You may have served in Combat or in non-combat. You may have retired out or you may have served for a short time. You may have been a draftee or a volunteer. You may have served in the Corps, Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard or the Merchant Marines, BUT YOU SERVED. You did not run off to England or Canada, etc. YOU DID YOUR JOB HONORABLY and for that I am PROUD to call you Brother/Sister.
You may have served during Korea, WWII,. Vietnam, Persian Gulf, Iraq or Afghanistan, But you served, you did not run. You have a DD 214 with those words "HONORABLY DISCHARGED" the two MOST NOBLE words in the world.
Again I am proud to know each and every one of you. Brother-Sister, life is too short to wake up with regrets. So love the people who treat you right. Forgive the ones who don't, just because you can. Believe everything happens for a reason. If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands, but know this. If it changes your life, let it.
Take a few minutes to think before you act when you're mad. Forgive quickly. God never said life would be easy, he just promised it would be worth it.
Send this to all your brothers, fathers, sons and fellow veterans you know. To the cool men that have touched my life: Here's to you!!
I was never a hero, but I am thankful I served among them. A real Brother walks with you when the rest of the world walks on you. Send to all your Band of Brothers, because the fake ones won't.
You may have served during Korea, WWII,. Vietnam, Persian Gulf, Iraq or Afghanistan, But you served, you did not run. You have a DD 214 with those words "HONORABLY DISCHARGED" the two MOST NOBLE words in the world.
Again I am proud to know each and every one of you. Brother-Sister, life is too short to wake up with regrets. So love the people who treat you right. Forgive the ones who don't, just because you can. Believe everything happens for a reason. If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands, but know this. If it changes your life, let it.
Take a few minutes to think before you act when you're mad. Forgive quickly. God never said life would be easy, he just promised it would be worth it.
Send this to all your brothers, fathers, sons and fellow veterans you know. To the cool men that have touched my life: Here's to you!!
I was never a hero, but I am thankful I served among them. A real Brother walks with you when the rest of the world walks on you. Send to all your Band of Brothers, because the fake ones won't.
Easy Fix Eludes Power Outage Problems in US
In the aftermath of storms that knocked out power to millions, sweltering residents and elected officials are demanding to know why it's taking so long to restring power lines and why they're not more resilient in the first place.
The answer, it turns out, is complicated: Above-ground lines are vulnerable to lashing winds and falling trees, but relocating them underground incurs huge costs _ as much as $15 million per mile of buried line _ and that gets passed onto consumers.With memories of other extended outages fresh in the minds of many of the 1.26 million customers who still lack electricity, some question whether the delivery of power is more precarious than it used to be. The storms that began Friday have been responsible for the deaths of 24 people in seven states and the District of Columbia, including a utility contractor who fell to his death Monday in Garrett County, Md., while removing limbs from a storm-damaged tree.
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Update On The Rumor That Pepco ordered Delmarva Crews To Leave The Shore And Report To The D.C, P.G., Montgomery County Area.
After receiving a few phone calls and seeing postings on social media about Pepco having ordered Delmarva Crews To Leave The Shore And Report To the D.C, P.G., Montgomery County area I called to get clarification on what is happening. I have been assured that no crews have left the shore and none will until all homes have their electric restored.,
I was told that the Delmarva crews have been informed that after all power is restored on the shore and only after all power is restored will any crews be assigned to the D.C., PG., Montgomery County area.
That is all I know for now. Should anyone have any further questions or hear rumors you think should be addressed please let me or another public official know who can get you an answer.
California Lawmakers Pass Historic Foreclosure Protections
State lawmakers approve what would be the nation's strongest legislation to help financially troubled borrowers stay in their homes. Gov. Jerry Brown is expected to sign them this week or next.
Sacramento - California lawmakers have passed legislation that would provide homeowners with some of the nation's strongest protections from foreclosure and such aggressive bank practices as seizing a home while the owner is negotiating to lower mortgage payments.
After years of distress in the housing and mortgage markets, during which lenders seized nearly a million California houses, legislators Monday sent a pair of Assembly and Senate bills to Gov. Jerry Brown designed to help financially troubled borrowers stay in their homes.
The legislation would make California the first state to prohibit lenders from "dual tracking," the practice of negotiating with clients to modify a mortgage so that payments become more affordable while simultaneously pursuing foreclosure. In such cases, homeowners can wind up being evicted even though they had been working with the bank to modify their loans.
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Sacramento - California lawmakers have passed legislation that would provide homeowners with some of the nation's strongest protections from foreclosure and such aggressive bank practices as seizing a home while the owner is negotiating to lower mortgage payments.
After years of distress in the housing and mortgage markets, during which lenders seized nearly a million California houses, legislators Monday sent a pair of Assembly and Senate bills to Gov. Jerry Brown designed to help financially troubled borrowers stay in their homes.
The legislation would make California the first state to prohibit lenders from "dual tracking," the practice of negotiating with clients to modify a mortgage so that payments become more affordable while simultaneously pursuing foreclosure. In such cases, homeowners can wind up being evicted even though they had been working with the bank to modify their loans.
More
Soccer Tournament
2012 Caitlin Lutz Soccer TournamentAges Groups U6-U18
Location: Games will be held at the Salisbury YMCA
715 S. Schumaker Drive Salisbury, MD 21804 (410) 749-0101
Date: Aug. 18-19, 2012
Deadline: Aug. 4th
Team Fee: $135.00
Check In Time: 8:30am
Activities:
Area for the family/ Food, Games, Giveaways, Air bouncer, Much More!!!!!!!
Contact Gary 443-735-5139
Here Are The New Obamacare Taxes
Well, Obamacare is now official, which means that a lot more people in the United States will have health insurance.
And it also means a lot more people will be paying more taxes.
(You didn't think Obamacare was free, did you?)
Here are some of the new taxes you're going to have to pay to pay for Obamacare:
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And it also means a lot more people will be paying more taxes.
(You didn't think Obamacare was free, did you?)
Here are some of the new taxes you're going to have to pay to pay for Obamacare:
More
SALISBURY FIREWORKS TRAFFIC ADVISORY
Beginning at 8:00 a.m. on July 4, 2012 the following roadways will be closed to traffic
in preparation for the firework activities. Traffic will be restricted to only vendors
participating in the event which begin at 6:30 p.m.
• Wayne St. at Milford St.
• Wayne St. at Bateman St. just south of the Salisbury University Parking Garage
• Power St. at South Division St.
Launch Zone: Closed to all foot and vehicle traffic at 8:00 a.m.
• Avery St. at South Division St.
• N. Wayne St. at Bateman St.
Beginning at 6:00 p.m. the following roadways will be closed and restricted to local
traffic only until the conclusion of the fireworks presentation. Traffic control sign boards will be positioned at both locations.
• South Division St. at College Ave.
• South Division St. at Milford St.
Event Parking:
Parking is available at the Salisbury University parking garage located at the
corner of Bateman St. and Wayne St. Access to this garage will only be from Bateman
St. directly off Rt. 13. Traffic control sign boards will be positioned on Rt. 13.
At the conclusion of the event all vehicles exiting the parking garage will be
directed to Rt. 13 and Bateman St.
The above areas are expected to be congested with high volumes of vehicle and
pedestrian traffic. All motorists should expect delays and utilize extreme caution while
driving in the area.
in preparation for the firework activities. Traffic will be restricted to only vendors
participating in the event which begin at 6:30 p.m.
• Wayne St. at Milford St.
• Wayne St. at Bateman St. just south of the Salisbury University Parking Garage
• Power St. at South Division St.
Launch Zone: Closed to all foot and vehicle traffic at 8:00 a.m.
• Avery St. at South Division St.
• N. Wayne St. at Bateman St.
Beginning at 6:00 p.m. the following roadways will be closed and restricted to local
traffic only until the conclusion of the fireworks presentation. Traffic control sign boards will be positioned at both locations.
• South Division St. at College Ave.
• South Division St. at Milford St.
Event Parking:
Parking is available at the Salisbury University parking garage located at the
corner of Bateman St. and Wayne St. Access to this garage will only be from Bateman
St. directly off Rt. 13. Traffic control sign boards will be positioned on Rt. 13.
At the conclusion of the event all vehicles exiting the parking garage will be
directed to Rt. 13 and Bateman St.
The above areas are expected to be congested with high volumes of vehicle and
pedestrian traffic. All motorists should expect delays and utilize extreme caution while
driving in the area.
Discover June Consumer Discretionary Spending
Consumer Discretionary Spending 'Plummets'
Ruh-oh.
We just got this in the inbox from Discover Financial Services, which keeps its own tally of consumer discretionary purchases.
The title of the email we got:
Consumer discretionary spending plummets on eve of holiday - June Discover U.S. Spending Monitor
Discover’s June U.S. Spending Monitor is available today and shows consumer confidence dropped to its lowest levels since the start of 2012, declining 4.8 percentage points to 90.7. June’s monitor reports that consumers saw their personal finances and the economy as worsening, leading to lower spending intentions, specifically on discretionary purchases.
More
Ruh-oh.
We just got this in the inbox from Discover Financial Services, which keeps its own tally of consumer discretionary purchases.
The title of the email we got:
Consumer discretionary spending plummets on eve of holiday - June Discover U.S. Spending Monitor
Discover’s June U.S. Spending Monitor is available today and shows consumer confidence dropped to its lowest levels since the start of 2012, declining 4.8 percentage points to 90.7. June’s monitor reports that consumers saw their personal finances and the economy as worsening, leading to lower spending intentions, specifically on discretionary purchases.
More
CAPITALISM WITHOUT CONSCIENCE LEADS TO COLLAPSE
Farrell and Grantham are dead on. We don’t have free market capitalism in this country or anywhere in the world. Politicians in the pockets of mega-corporations and powerful banking interests have attempted to manipulate the worldwide economic system to benefit the few at the expense of the many. They have created a Frankenstein’s Monster and it has escaped. They use their control of the corporate media to try and use propaganda and misinformation to keep the masses sedated and ignorant of the danger. They are incapable of stopping the monster at this point. There are not enough courageous people in positions of authority to stop the self destruction of the worldwide economic system. The efforts of those in power to keep the ponzi scheme going are becoming increasingly futile. The fake solutions and creation of new debt to replace bad debt have a half life of about two weeks. Then a new leak develops in the dyke. The end is drawing near. There will be revolution. There will be blood. You know the enemy. They inhabit the top floor executive offices on Wall Street and the offices in the Capital Building in Washington DC.
10 explosive bubbles that will kill capitalism
Commentary: Slow-motion train wreck in store for U.S.
By Paul B. Farrell, MarketWatch
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. (MarketWatch) — In mid-2005, three years before Wall Street’s credit meltdown, the Economist warned of the “Biggest Bubble in History.” In five short years after the 2000 dot-com crash property prices across the world had risen an unprecedented 75%. Real estate had become the new dot-com.
In his April 2007 quarterly newsletter, Jeremy Grantham, founder of the $95 billion GMO firm, reinforced the warning: “First Truly Global Bubble, impacting all countries, all assets worldwide.”
More
10 explosive bubbles that will kill capitalism
Commentary: Slow-motion train wreck in store for U.S.
By Paul B. Farrell, MarketWatch
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. (MarketWatch) — In mid-2005, three years before Wall Street’s credit meltdown, the Economist warned of the “Biggest Bubble in History.” In five short years after the 2000 dot-com crash property prices across the world had risen an unprecedented 75%. Real estate had become the new dot-com.
In his April 2007 quarterly newsletter, Jeremy Grantham, founder of the $95 billion GMO firm, reinforced the warning: “First Truly Global Bubble, impacting all countries, all assets worldwide.”
More
Change Maryland Releases County-By-County Analysis Of Tax Base
Annapolis - Change Maryland released today an analysis of how the state's 24
jurisdictions are performing in a key metric of their ability to provide essential government services, improve quality of life and maintain fiscal responsibility - the rise or fall of the tax base.
The Internal Revenue Service maintains tax file data between tax years on both the state and county levels. With this data, it is possible to determine which counties are increasing, decreasing or are remaining stagnant when it comes to their tax base.
"A growing tax base is the ultimate win/win situation in public policy," said Change Maryland Chairman Larry Hogan. "It eases the pressure to raise revenues, and conversely, a shrinking tax base often leads to a troublesome tax-and-spend downward spiral as actual revenues fail to meet estimates."
Some of Maryland's most successful counties in terms of increasing its tax base are those with smaller populations. Eastern shore counties Worcester, Kent, Queen Anne's and Talbot are increasing their tax base in percentage terms relatively higher than other jurisdictions throughout the state. Garrett and St. Mary's are also performing well. On the other hand, the state's largest jurisdictions -
Baltimore City and County, Prince George's and Montgomery range from sharply negative growth to stagnant.
"I'm very encouraged by how well we're doing in the rural and outlying counties," said Hogan. "These small economic engines are powering the state forward by attracting new residents. Clearly where we need to see improvement is in our largest jurisdictions. Baltimore City is losing its tax base at unacceptable levels and Montgomery County's stagnant tax base will further tarnish its business reputation as elected officials seek more revenue to make up for budget shortfalls."
Change Maryland noted this Spring that the state overall has lost its tax base more than any other state in the region - and seventh highest nationally.
jurisdictions are performing in a key metric of their ability to provide essential government services, improve quality of life and maintain fiscal responsibility - the rise or fall of the tax base.
The Internal Revenue Service maintains tax file data between tax years on both the state and county levels. With this data, it is possible to determine which counties are increasing, decreasing or are remaining stagnant when it comes to their tax base.
"A growing tax base is the ultimate win/win situation in public policy," said Change Maryland Chairman Larry Hogan. "It eases the pressure to raise revenues, and conversely, a shrinking tax base often leads to a troublesome tax-and-spend downward spiral as actual revenues fail to meet estimates."
Some of Maryland's most successful counties in terms of increasing its tax base are those with smaller populations. Eastern shore counties Worcester, Kent, Queen Anne's and Talbot are increasing their tax base in percentage terms relatively higher than other jurisdictions throughout the state. Garrett and St. Mary's are also performing well. On the other hand, the state's largest jurisdictions -
Baltimore City and County, Prince George's and Montgomery range from sharply negative growth to stagnant.
"I'm very encouraged by how well we're doing in the rural and outlying counties," said Hogan. "These small economic engines are powering the state forward by attracting new residents. Clearly where we need to see improvement is in our largest jurisdictions. Baltimore City is losing its tax base at unacceptable levels and Montgomery County's stagnant tax base will further tarnish its business reputation as elected officials seek more revenue to make up for budget shortfalls."
Change Maryland noted this Spring that the state overall has lost its tax base more than any other state in the region - and seventh highest nationally.
Six Weeks That Saved America
More than any six weeks in recent memory, the events that transpired during the period May 21 to June 28, 2012 confirmed the ingenuity and wisdom of the founders and sealed the fate of an administration as well as of the American left.
The founders of the United States, fearful of dictators and monarchs, were determined to diffuse power as much as humanly possible. They knew, based on firsthand experience as well the writings of men such as John Locke and his emphasis on the rights of property, and Montesquieu and his theory of the separation of power, that only a structure of government geared toward making it extraordinarily difficult for any one person or group to fully seize the reins of governance could insure the long-term survival of a nation. At the base and foundation of their convoluted but ingenious pyramid, consisting of the federal government (split into three parts) and the individual states and their governmental prerogatives, were the people.
Over the past 220 years prior to 2008, the nation went through an evolutionary process whereby the federal government was granted more power than was ever envisioned by the founders. However, this has been, as the nation became enormously prosperous, the will of the people in their desire to ensure the welfare of all citizens. It was never the citizenry's intention to evolve a monolithic, all-powerful central government controlling the day-to-day affairs of every American.
More
The founders of the United States, fearful of dictators and monarchs, were determined to diffuse power as much as humanly possible. They knew, based on firsthand experience as well the writings of men such as John Locke and his emphasis on the rights of property, and Montesquieu and his theory of the separation of power, that only a structure of government geared toward making it extraordinarily difficult for any one person or group to fully seize the reins of governance could insure the long-term survival of a nation. At the base and foundation of their convoluted but ingenious pyramid, consisting of the federal government (split into three parts) and the individual states and their governmental prerogatives, were the people.
Over the past 220 years prior to 2008, the nation went through an evolutionary process whereby the federal government was granted more power than was ever envisioned by the founders. However, this has been, as the nation became enormously prosperous, the will of the people in their desire to ensure the welfare of all citizens. It was never the citizenry's intention to evolve a monolithic, all-powerful central government controlling the day-to-day affairs of every American.
More
Surge of Health-Care Jobs Expected
The Washington region is likely to see a surge in health-care jobs
through the remainder of the decade as an aging population puts a strain on the
modern workforce, according to Georgetown University researchers.
The report, produced by the university's Center for Education and the Workforce, predicts a 25 percent increase in health-care jobs across the country from 2010 to 2020.
Virginia is expected to add jobs at a faster clip. The commonwealth is projected to have 482,370 health-care and social-assistance industry jobs by 2020, a 36 percent increase over 2010 levels.
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The report, produced by the university's Center for Education and the Workforce, predicts a 25 percent increase in health-care jobs across the country from 2010 to 2020.
Virginia is expected to add jobs at a faster clip. The commonwealth is projected to have 482,370 health-care and social-assistance industry jobs by 2020, a 36 percent increase over 2010 levels.
More
Auditor Retires From Decades Uncovering Md. Waste, Fraud And Abuse
When it comes to finding waste, fraud and abuse -- or just plain old carelessness -- within Maryland government, no agency does more than the Office of Legislative Audits – mainly because it’s their job. Bruce Myers, 61, has headed the office for the last 15 years and was the deputy legislative auditor for 10 years before that. On Friday, he retired after 35 years of producing hundreds of audits that have generated familiar headlines over the years.
‘Mass Concentration Prison Camps’: Read the Shocking Emails That Forced a Florida DNC Member To Resign
President Barack Obama’s Democratic party has been accused by many
sources of being overly cozy with anti-Israel cranks. It is perhaps
because of this reputation, fair or unfair though it may be, that the
DNC ended up choosing the Jewish Floridian Debbie Wasserman Schultz to
be its leader just in time for this year’s Presidential elections.
Schultz is certainly loathed among the Democratic party’s anti-Israel
base for her outward support of the Jewish state, perhaps best
exemplified by this video:
However, noble though Schultz’s own convictions may be, they scarcely excuse those held by members of her own party. Indeed, they might even look suspect, especially if one of Schultz’s close longtime allies were shown to harbor extremist anti-Israel sentiments.
Oh, wait. One of her longtime allies does. Meet Evelyn Garcia, who until yesterday was the Palm Beach representative to the Democratic National Committee:
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However, noble though Schultz’s own convictions may be, they scarcely excuse those held by members of her own party. Indeed, they might even look suspect, especially if one of Schultz’s close longtime allies were shown to harbor extremist anti-Israel sentiments.
Oh, wait. One of her longtime allies does. Meet Evelyn Garcia, who until yesterday was the Palm Beach representative to the Democratic National Committee:
More
Can A Local Bank Survive
It's been reported the Farmers Bank of Willards is seeing some pretty tough times right now and some wonder if they'll survive.Being a local bank, it would be a shame to see the, (I call it) "It's a wonderful life" bank lose out to its bigger rivals.
Time will tell and we wish them the best during these trying times.
No More Tax Deductions
Federal employees who use mass-transit to get to work will have to dig a little deeper. The Transportation Bill Congress passed last week does not extend a tax deduction for users of public transportation. The deduction was worth $230 a month until the end of last year. It then dropped to $125 a month. The new bill, which the president is expected to sign this week, keeps the lower subsidy level. But a spokesman for the House Ways and Means Committee said it was possible Congress would reconsider raising it. One union estimated tens of thousands of federal workers are affected by the lower subsidy.
Stock Act
The new Stock Act meant to prevent insider-trading among lawmakers will hurt science. That's the claim that federal researchers are making in a letter to lawmakers. The Assembly of Scientists represents National Institutes of Health researchers. It asked senators to repeal a section of the law that requires the government to post top career feds' financial information online. It said the provision left employees open to cyber crimes and fraud. It said it discouraged scientists at universities from joining national labs. This letter followed a white paper from The Senior Executives Association that claimed the law unfairly snared government executives in a net meant for lawmakers and political appointees.
‘Pretend War’: Leftist Teacher Slams 4th of July Fireworks
As if there wasn’t already enough evidence that the Left has trouble with the idea of celebrating America’s independence, this story from EagNews’ Kyle Olson comes down the pike:
Bill Bigelow of the radical teacher organization Rethinking Schools, wrote that we need to “rethink” the 4th of July. This “progressive” teacher has declared war on fireworks.
The Fourth of July “…provides cover for people to blow off fireworks that terrify young children and animals, and that turn the air thick with smoke and errant projectiles. Last year, the fire department here [Portland, OR] reported 172 fires sparked by toy missiles, defective firecrackers, and other items of explosive revelry.”
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Bill Bigelow of the radical teacher organization Rethinking Schools, wrote that we need to “rethink” the 4th of July. This “progressive” teacher has declared war on fireworks.
The Fourth of July “…provides cover for people to blow off fireworks that terrify young children and animals, and that turn the air thick with smoke and errant projectiles. Last year, the fire department here [Portland, OR] reported 172 fires sparked by toy missiles, defective firecrackers, and other items of explosive revelry.”
More
More Supreme Court News
The Federal Government secured a victory against the state of Arizona and its controversial "papers, please" immigration law known as SB 1070. The High Court struck down 3-out-of-4 provisions of the law – including the parts that required immigrants to always carry their immigration papers on them and the part that gave authority to police officers to stop and arrest anyone who they merely suspected of being an undocumented immigrant. The court said that such state laws pre-empt the authority of the federal government to handle immigration. But, the court did, however, uphold part of the law that requires police to check the immigration status of anyone they've arrested for breaking a law that's already on the books, which could lead to future litigation and create a real headache for cops on the beat.
Supreme Court Strikes Down Montana Law Against Corporate Political Spending
The Supreme Court had a chance to correct its mistake with Citizens United today – but chose not to. In another 5-to-4 ruling, the Conservative justices struck down a Montana law that banned corporate spending in state elections – and ruled that it's 2010 Citizens United decision applies not just to federal elections – but state elections as well. Twenty-two states, plus the District of Columbia, and several lawmakers urged the high court to hear oral arguments in the case and re-litigate Citizens United now that the damage of the decision is clearly on display two years later. Right-wing Justice Anthony Kennedy ruled in 2010 that corporate spending in our elections, "do[es] not give rise to corruption or the appearance of corruption." But today, with billionaires like Sheldon Adelson and the Koch Brothers pledging to spend a half billion dollars to elect Mitt Romney – you'd have to be born yesterday to believe that the money comes with no strings attached. Thanks to the Roberts Court, American oligarchs aren't making campaign contributions – they're making investments and, day by day, getting big returns on those investments.
QUOTES OF THE DAY 7-4-12
"To compel a man to furnish contributions of money for the propagation of opinions which he disbelieves and abhors, is sinful and tyrannical."
-- Thomas Jefferson
(1743-1826), US Founding Father, drafted the Declaration of Independence, 3rd US President
Source: Virginia Statutes of Religious Freedom, 1779.
-- Thomas Jefferson
(1743-1826), US Founding Father, drafted the Declaration of Independence, 3rd US President
Source: Virginia Statutes of Religious Freedom, 1779.
Judge Goes Absolutely Berserk and Berates Local Pastor During Divorce Hearing: ‘You Disgusting Piece of–’
What you’re about to hear is a local family court judge in Winfield, WV,
absolutely lose his mind during a divorce hearing involving a local
pastor. The judge, William M. “Chip” Watkins III, was accusing Rev.
Arthur D. Hage of talking to the media after a previous hearing. That
conversation, he believed, led to an article about the judge and his
wife that apparently included a picture of his house and information
about his residence. So when Hage showed up for another hearing, Judge
Watkins was irate. And he let loose, threatening to incarcerate Hage for
life.
The West Virginia Record explains what happened during the May 23 hearing, which was called to settle a discrepancy over Hage and his wife selling their house:
Shortly after the hearing started, Watkins, calmly, said, “Mr. Hage, if you say one word out of turn, you’re going to jail. Do you understand me?”
To which Hage replied, “Yes.”
Video and More HERE
The West Virginia Record explains what happened during the May 23 hearing, which was called to settle a discrepancy over Hage and his wife selling their house:
Shortly after the hearing started, Watkins, calmly, said, “Mr. Hage, if you say one word out of turn, you’re going to jail. Do you understand me?”
To which Hage replied, “Yes.”
Video and More HERE
Secret Service Is Fast-And-Furious In Crushing Anti-Holder Protest
Another terrorist attack thwarted. Another protest crushed. Take that Al Qaeda!
You know the Obama goons couldn’t stand this photo below. You know, since their only rebuttal to any criticism to the fact this entire Administration appears to be complete and total criminals is to yell “racist!”
A huge kudos to this guy for calling out the BS.
Key quotes:
Agents on scene claimed a backpack abandoned on a sidewalk was a “suspicious package,” closing the Pennsylvania Avenue pedestrian mall in front of the White House, and the adjoining Lafayette Park, from protesters and tourists. All pedestrian traffic, including media, was forced to retreat to side streets.
“To me, it seems like a bit of an overreaction to evacuate the entire — like — I don’t know. Was the White House evacuated?” Darcy said.
“It did seem very odd that during a protest of Attorney General Eric Holder and Barack Obama in front of the White House that all of a sudden there was a mysterious bag left — accidentally, right?” Darcy continued.
More
You know the Obama goons couldn’t stand this photo below. You know, since their only rebuttal to any criticism to the fact this entire Administration appears to be complete and total criminals is to yell “racist!”
A huge kudos to this guy for calling out the BS.
Key quotes:
Agents on scene claimed a backpack abandoned on a sidewalk was a “suspicious package,” closing the Pennsylvania Avenue pedestrian mall in front of the White House, and the adjoining Lafayette Park, from protesters and tourists. All pedestrian traffic, including media, was forced to retreat to side streets.
“To me, it seems like a bit of an overreaction to evacuate the entire — like — I don’t know. Was the White House evacuated?” Darcy said.
“It did seem very odd that during a protest of Attorney General Eric Holder and Barack Obama in front of the White House that all of a sudden there was a mysterious bag left — accidentally, right?” Darcy continued.
More
This Summer is 'What Global Warming Looks Like'
Is it just freakish weather or something more? Climate scientists
suggest that if you want a glimpse of some of the worst of global
warming, take a look at U.S. weather in recent weeks.
Horrendous wildfires. Oppressive heat waves. Devastating droughts. Flooding from giant deluges. And a powerful freak wind storm called a derecho.
These are the kinds of extremes experts have predicted will come with climate change, although it's far too early to say that is the cause. Nor will they say global warming is the reason 3,215 daily high temperature records were set in the month of June.
More
Horrendous wildfires. Oppressive heat waves. Devastating droughts. Flooding from giant deluges. And a powerful freak wind storm called a derecho.
These are the kinds of extremes experts have predicted will come with climate change, although it's far too early to say that is the cause. Nor will they say global warming is the reason 3,215 daily high temperature records were set in the month of June.
More
John Roberts Makes His Career Move
For John Roberts, it is Palm Sunday.
Out of relief and gratitude for his having saved Obamacare, he is being compared to John Marshall and Oliver Wendell Holmes.
Liberal commentators are burbling that his act of statesmanship has shown us the way to the sunny uplands of a new consensus.
If only Republicans will follow Roberts' bold and brave example, and agree to new revenues, the dark days of partisan acrimony and tea party intransigence could be behind us.
Yet imagine if Justice Stephen Breyer had crossed over from the liberal bench to join Antonin Scalia, Sam Alito, Clarence Thomas and Anthony Kennedy in striking down Obamacare. Those hailing John Roberts for his independence would be giving Breyer a public caning for desertion of principle.
Why did Roberts do it? Why did this respected conservative uphold what still seems to be a dictatorial seizure of power – to order every citizen to buy health insurance or be punished and fined?
More
Out of relief and gratitude for his having saved Obamacare, he is being compared to John Marshall and Oliver Wendell Holmes.
Liberal commentators are burbling that his act of statesmanship has shown us the way to the sunny uplands of a new consensus.
If only Republicans will follow Roberts' bold and brave example, and agree to new revenues, the dark days of partisan acrimony and tea party intransigence could be behind us.
Yet imagine if Justice Stephen Breyer had crossed over from the liberal bench to join Antonin Scalia, Sam Alito, Clarence Thomas and Anthony Kennedy in striking down Obamacare. Those hailing John Roberts for his independence would be giving Breyer a public caning for desertion of principle.
Why did Roberts do it? Why did this respected conservative uphold what still seems to be a dictatorial seizure of power – to order every citizen to buy health insurance or be punished and fined?
More
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