DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Attention
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
How Old Is Grandma
One evening a grandson was talking to his grandmother about current events.
The grandson asked his grandmother what she thought about the shootings at schools, the computer age, and just things in general.
The Grandmother replied, "Well, let me think a minute, I was born before:
television
penicillin
polio shots
frozen foods
Xerox
contact lenses
Frisbees and
the pill
There were no:
credit cards
laser beams or
ball-point pens
Man had not yet invented:
pantyhose
air conditioners
dishwashers
clothes dryers
and the clothes were hung out to dry in the fresh air and
man hadn't yet walked on the moon
Your Grandfather and I got married first, and then lived together.
Every family had a father and a mother.
Until I was 25, I called every man older than me, "Sir."
And after I turned 25, I still called policemen and every man with a title, "Sir."
We were before gay-rights, computer-dating, dual careers, daycare centers, and group therapy.
Our lives were governed by the Ten Commandments, good judgment, and common sense.
We were taught to know the difference between right and wrong and to stand up and take responsibility for our actions.
Serving your country was a privilege; living in this country was a bigger privilege.
We thought fast food was what people ate during Lent.
Having a meaningful relationship meant getting along with your cousins.
Draft dodgers were those who closed front doors as the evening breeze started.
Time-sharing meant time the family spent together in the evenings and weekends -not purchasing condominiums.
We never heard of FM radios, tape decks, CD's, electric typewriters, yogurt, or guys wearing earrings.
We listened to Big Bands, Jack Benny, and the President's speeches on our radios.
And I don't ever remember any kid blowing his brains out listening to Tommy Dorsey.
If you saw anything with 'Made in Japan ' on it, it was junk.
The term 'making out' referred to how you did on your school exam.
Pizza Hut, McDonald's, and instant coffee were unheard of.
We had 5 &10-cent stores where you could actually buy things for 5 and 10 cents.
Ice-cream cones, phone calls, rides on a streetcar, and a Pepsi were all a nickel.
And if you didn't want to splurge, you could spend your nickel on enough stamps to mail 1 letter and 2 postcards.
You could buy a new Ford Coupe for $600, but who could afford one?
Too bad, because gas was 11 cents a gallon.
In my day:
' "grass" was mowed,
' "coke" was a cold drink,
' "pot" was something your mother cooked in and
' "rock music" was your grandmother's lullaby.
' "Aids" were helpers in the Principal's office,
' "chip" meant a piece of wood,
' "hardware" was found in a hardware store and.
' "software" wasn't even a word.
And we were the last generation to actually believe that a lady needed a husband to have a baby.
No wonder people call us "old and confused" and say there is a generation gap.
How old do you think I am?
I bet you have this old lady in mind. You are in for a shock!
Read on to see -- pretty scary if you think about it and pretty sad at the same time.
Nope, not telling you. Put your comment up and I'll let every one know the answer later today.
The 'Heroic' Louis Freeh And His Legacies
So far, the media response has been lockstep not only in its condemnation for Penn State and the late Joe Paterno, the legendary coach who won more games than any other NCAA Division I football coach in history, but also in its praise for Freeh. (I include links from the New York Times, ESPN, and CBS Sports.)
Not being familiar with the details of the report or the Sandusky case and the role of Penn State officials in trying to hide what they feared was happening, I will ask readers to judge the accuracy and tone of Freeh’s report and make their own assessments. However, before the media and legal world goes on to paint Louis Freeh in the most heroic terms, I would remind readers that probably any one of us could have written that report and made the same damning comments made by Freeh and his underlings. It hardly is heroic to come upon a situation after the fact and to write those things which apparently were obvious in hindsight.
More
IQ Testing Shows Women Smarter Than Men
Women might just be smarter than men.
For the first time since IQ testing began, women's scores have surpassed those of men.
The Daily Mail reports that renowned IQ testing expert James Flynn plans to publish the results in an upcoming book.
"In the last 100 years the IQ scores of both men and women have risen but women's have risen faster," Flynn tells The Daily Mail. "This is a consequence of modernity. The complexity of the modern world is making our brains adapt and raising our IQ."
More
WELCOME TO DOWNTOWN SALISBURY

If Mayor Ireton had his way about revitalizing Downtown Salisbury, the image above is just a perfect example of how things would look in about 5 more years.
Oh, it might look pretty going up but it will take no time at all before Code & Compliance would be dealing with the same junk.
The Mayor can't even keep the current housekeeping going. Its easy to SAY you have a vision but as this image proves, this Mayor couldn't care less about Downtown Salisbury.
Then again, maybe he's a lot like Fredericksen telling employees to continue to let things fall apart without repair so they can get MILLIONS of dollars to build new. The apple doesn't fall far from the Boss' tree.
Incomplete SSA Records Lead to Payments to Dead People
The IG found SSA did not transfer death information for approximately 1.2 million people from an internal records system to its Numident database, a master file of information on each individual issued a social security number. SSA uses the Numident database to generate the Death Master File and help with the E-Verify process. A variety of agencies and private sector companies use both to ensure they have correct information when confirming people's identities.
Of the 50 cases randomly selected for review by the IG, SSA failed to transfer the death information for all 50 to the Numident.
More
Could Not Believe My Eyes
You know I'm always glad when an animal finds a forever home, but I had to pick my chin up off the floor after reading that.
Check it out for yourself.
`I Love Lucy' director Bill Asher dies at 90
His wife, Meredith, says he died Monday at a facility in Palm Desert, Calif., of complications from Alzheimer's disease.
Asher was best known for his work on "I Love Lucy," where he directed Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz for 100 of the show's 181 episodes between 1952 and 1957.
More
Kitty Wells Dies at 92; Country Music Trailblazer
Wells was one of the first women to have a significant effect on country music. She had a No. 1 hit with 'It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels' in 1952.
Country singer Kitty Wells had been recording, touring and broadcasting without major success for more than a decade when she accepted an offer in 1952 to record one more song before she planned to turn her attention to staying at home and raising a family.Mostly she was interested in the $125 union scale pay she'd get for the session, at which she recorded "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels," a song that not only turned her career around but also helped upend stereotypical thinking about men who strayed and the women they strayed with.
More
Troopers Arrest Georgetown Man For Burglary
17000 block of Chatham Street, Lewes, DE
28000 block of Woodcrest Drive, Harbeson, DE
Date(s) of Occurrence:
Monday June 18, 2012 at approximately 5:20 a.m. (Lewes)
Tuesday June 19, 2012 at approximately 5:45 a.m. (Lewes)
Tuesday June 26, 2012 at approximately 5:30 a.m. (Lewes)
Wednesday July 11, 2012 at approximately 5:20 a.m. (Harbeson)
Victim(s):
23 year old female victim (Lewes)
41 year old female victim (Harbeson)
Defendant, Charges, and Bond Information:
Henry L. Dukes Jr., 41, Georgetown, DE
Burglary 2nd
Attempted Burglary 2nd
Wearing a Disguise During the Commission of a Felony
Stalking
Attempted Theft (2 counts)
Criminal Trespass 3rd
Arraigned at JP2 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $10,001.00 secured bond. (Since been released after posting bail)
Resume:
Lewes, DE- The Delaware State Police have arrested a Georgetown man after he broke into a home in Lewes and was seen trying to break into another house in Harbeson.
Henry L. Dukes Jr., 41 of Georgetown was arrested Wednesday July 11th after an investigation revealed he had broken into a home in Lewes. On Monday June 18th a 23 year old victim from the 17000 block of Chatham Street, Lewes called 911 around 5:20 a.m. after she awoke to a male subject standing in her living room dressed in all black and wearing a mask that partially covered his face. The suspect fled through a rear door of the residence and left the area in a white passenger car. The victim again called 911 on Tuesday June 19th around 5:45 a.m. when she observed the same white car in an alley behind her residence. Prior to the troopers arrival, the car had departed. On Tuesday June 26th at approximately 5:30 a.m., the 23 year old victim observed the white car parked in the alley behind her residence, but it departed the area as she was on the phone with emergency dispatchers from 911. A short time later, the same suspect wearing a mask and gloves approached her house. The victim activated her panic alarm on her security system and ran to another room in the house. Troopers were unable to locate the vehicle and suspect upon their arrival.
On Wednesday July 11th around 5:20 a.m., troopers responded to the 28000 block of Woodcrest Drive, Harbeson after a 41 year old female victim reported hearing a noise around the window unit of the air conditioner unit and a flash light coming from the window. A male suspect was located outside the house and upon being chased away by the victim and a male friend, he was observed running to residence on Harmon Hill Road where he entered a white in color vehicle. The victim was able to obtain registration information that was used to track down Henry L. Dukes Jr.
Dukes turned himself into Detectives at Troop 4 and was arrested on the above listed charges. He was arraigned at JP2 and initially committed to SCI on $10,001.00 secured bond and has since been released.
Monday, July 16, 2012
More Record Achievement
According to its report, Maryland led the country in the growth in student achievement between 1992 and 2011.
Maryland’s economy is an Innovation Economy and we know that investments that improve the education of our children are investments that expand economic opportunities for our entire State. That’s why even as we’ve made record spending cuts, we have chosen together to make record investments in public education and school construction.
We’ve made real progress together:
For the past four years in a row, Education Week has named Maryland’s public schools #1 in the nation.
This year, we achieved the highest-ever MSA scores in elementary reading and math.
This year, we achieved the highest-ever middle school math scores.
Today, more than 76% of our middle school students score proficient in math—up from 39% in 2003.
Our high school students continue to lead the nation with the highest Advanced Placement Scores.
Working together, since 2007, we’ve closed the achievement gaps between African-American and white students by 23% and between Hispanic and white students by 38%.
Thank you to all of the educators, parents, administrators, support staff and faculty who work every day to help our children succeed and become the leaders of tomorrow.
And of course, a special thank you to all of our students who continue to make us proud!
Denver Company That Pays Employees $7,500 To Go On Vacation Needs Workers
Co-Sleeping Research Looks At Breathing Risks For Baby
Tim Geithner's Libor Recommendations Came Straight From Banks, Documents Show
"The New York Fed analysis culminated in a set of recommendations to reform LIBOR, which was finalized in late May. On June 1, 2008, Mr. Geithner emailed Mervyn King, the Governor of the Bank of England, a report, entitled 'Recommendations for Enhancing the Credibility of LIBOR,'" a Fed statement released Friday reads. "As is clear from the work culminating in the report to Mr. King of the Bank of England, the New York Fed helped to identify problems related to LIBOR and press the relevant authorities in the UK to reform this London-based rate."
More
Rep. Ryan: Obama is "Dividing," "Distracting" The Country
"I'm sitting here in Janesville, Wisconsin; people are not worried about the details as to when Mitt Romney left Bain Capital to save the Olympics or the details about his assets, which are managed by a blind trust for Pete's sake," Ryan told Bob Schieffer. "They're worried about their jobs and their family's future.
"Barack Obama, he doesn't want to talk about that," the top Republican on the House Budget committee added. "He has a terrible jobs result, he has a terrible record to run on, so since he cannot run on his record he has now gone to dividing the country in order to distract the country and try to win this election."
More
Democrat Suggests Jews Behind 9/11 Attacks
Sept. 11, 2001, however, was not a Jewish holiday, and estimates conclude at least 200 to 400 Jews, including five Israelis, died in the World Trade Center attacks.
In the interview, Alam also defended “Loose Change,” a series of online videos arguing the 9/11 attacks were planned and conducted by elements within the U.S. government.
More
Lawmakers Criticize the FDA for Surveillance Operation
The surveillance campaign, according to The New York Times, gathered more than 80,000 pages of documents of communication between five scientists and journalists, members of Congress, lawyers and President Obama.
"The extent to which the FDA spied on employees' personal email is shocking. The more we learn, the more disturbing it is," Senator Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, said. "The FDA's actions raise serious implications for the right of any agency employee to make protected disclosures about waste, fraud, abuse, mismanagement, or public safety to Congress or anyone else."
More
Sheriff Joe Responds to Smutty Comic
After joking Romney was a closeted Latino because his father was born in Mexico, Lopez ripped into Arpaio with a string of obscenities and insults.
More
Language Warning.
Dog Found On Eastern Shore Drive
Syria Thought to Be Moving Chemical Weapons
The stockpile is believed to be is under the control of regime forces, the source said.
The official, who would only speak anonymously because the source was speaking about intelligence matters, said the reason behind the movement is unclear. The source could not say what types of chemical stockpiles were involved or how much was moved.
More
Canada Swooped in to Freeze Billions in Arab Spring Assets: Documents
An RCMP briefing note says the national police force's federal policing branch worked with the Foreign Affairs Department, Public Safety, security intelligence agencies and Canadian banks to "identify and freeze" the assets.
More
Remember Them?
I'm sure everyone saw the movie these two were in when they were younger. Do you recognize them now that they are older?
To see more Then and Now click HERE
New Ethanol-Blend Fuel Approved by EPA Can Damage Car Engines, Group Warns
“We don’t have a problem with ethanol,” council director Ken Peterson told CNSNews.com. “We use it virtually in every gallon of gasoline that’s produced for sale in this country, but the E15 is kind of a different animal in that both the petroleum industry and the car manufacturers have raised concerns about potential damage from the use of E15 fuel in a misfueling situation [putting the wrong type of fuel in your vehicle by mistake].
More
Washington DC Plagued By Scandal And Bad News
A federal probe into Mayor Vincent Gray’s 2010 campaign has snared three of his aides, and news that some close advisers helped orchestrate an illegal shadow campaign could force him from office. Three city council members have called on Gray to step down.
The city already is reeling from leadership changes. One council member, Harry Thomas Jr., just began a three-year prison term for stealing $353,000 in taxpayer money slated for poor kids. And, in an entirely separate corruption probe, the council president, Kwame Brown, stepped down last month after pleading guilty to federal charges of falsifying mortgage documents.
More
Economists Less Bullish as Early 2012 Gains Wither
QUOTE OF THE DAY 7-16-12
Dwight D. Eisenhower – April 1953
Are Greg Bassett & The Daily Times Out Of Their Mind

This weekend Greg Bassett wrote an editorial that really threw me for a loop and I'm sure those of you who read it felt the same way.
Here we have a business sharing their alleged wisdom towards what is right and wrong about Downtown Salisbury. Let's just take a look at the Daily Times involvement in this matter.
First of all, they sold their Downtown building. Not only did they sell it, they sold it to PRMC who no longer pays taxes on that property.
Mr. Bassett goes on to rag on Debbie, Terry & Tim, the Council of no's. Well Greg, you, (the DT's) DID endorse them this last go around. You make no mention of subsidized housing units Downtown nor did you mention that the former City Council's for the last 30 years rejected this idea as well.
Mr. Bassett goes on to IMPLY that these ideas should be up to the Council. He said, "That was pretty surprising to me, because I wasn't exactly aware that the council majority actually possessed any plans, viewpoints, goals, wishes, dreams, ideals, notions and hopes for Downtown Salisbury."
No Greg, the Council is the LEGISLATIVE body. Their responsibility is to accept or deny and again, the past 30 years worth of Council's DENIED such Downtown ideas as well, yet we're just not hearing personal attacks on those Council Members.
Mr. Bassett continues by saying, "And I guess I'm wrong for thinking this, but it seems to me that even if the council does have downtown-grandization (I made up that word) ideas swimming in their brains, these same folks have no ability, true determination or public support to get to any of those ideas implemented -- nonexistent though they are."
You are wrong for thinking that. IF any of the Council Members wanted to run for Mayor, I'd say they'd have a LOT more citizen support than you would ever have Mr. Bassett. So I'd say their support is a whole lot greater than you attempt to imply. The ONLY difference is, YOU wouldn't publish those better ideas even if they sent them in to you AND they were great ideas. The Daily Times only agenda is THEIR agenda.
Mr. Bassett then said, "Let's try this in words anyone can understand: Don't politicize Downtown Salisbury -- come together and fix it."
And just what exactly are YOU doing Mr. Bassett? This coming from a guy who has watched the company he works for go from 200+ employees down to what now, 12?
"Leaders are generally known to throw out a list of goals, and then seek public consensus on which goals should be addressed in which order. Leaders are measured by their ability to lead the completion of these goals. It's a leadership thing."
And the local MSM goal seems to be the same as the Mayors, throw a FIT and write nasty things about people implying this is actually the Council's job and not the Mayor's. The Council said NO to affordable, subsidized section 8 housing on waterfront parking lots Greg. It was a PACKAGE and it was turned down because of this.
"The epitome of indecision is the current state of the Downtown Plaza. Is it a plaza, is it Main Street? -- It's half dead and half alive."
You know what Greg, maybe you should get off your lazy corporate butt, (I'm being nice) and actually come down to the Plaza and see that it's actually 80%, (if not more, seriously) full/occupied. Once again the Daily Times tries to lead people into believing whatever they say is true when in fact it is not.
"Salisbury's leaders have a job to do on downtown. They're not doing it. Things will only stay that way, it seems, until the public makes them."
As did 30 years worth of past Council's Mr. Bassett. Just because someone comes up with a plan he "stole" from 30 years ago to current doesn't mean it is the right plan. Again, you removed your business from Downtown. You have reduced your employees by 90% and as a FAILING business now attracting other newspapers to compete I seriously doubt ANYTHING you have to say would hold any real weight to it.
So, that being said Mr. Bassett, in all your years of wisdom, why didn't YOU take that opportunity to offer your suggestions for Downtown? You sit on the outside criticizing people of some pretty horrible things, yet you offer no solution, other than to abandon Downtown yourself.
You make absolutely no mention whatsoever of my plans/ideas/proposal for Downtown. Instead you act as if Jim Ireton's "stolen" plan is the best ever. Mr. Ireton's plan removes property from the tax roll. His plan would decrease ALL property value even lower than it already is Downtown. His plan eliminates most of the parking Downtown that will be vital once the Downtown is revitalized.
I also did not read a solution from Mr. Bassett on how we're supposed to unite the Council. I guess Mr. Bassett still feels the Daily Times has some power left in them to influence this Council into doing what Mayor Ireton wants. Perhaps Mr. Bassett is trying to make good on the recent alleged phone scandal and is simply putting out there what the Mayor wants the public to see. Desperate people do some pretty desperate things.
Now let me say this. I believe we would ALL enjoy seeing Downtown full of foot traffic and people spending money. I believe that this can be accomplished with a lot of hard work. I believe we need to visit successful Downtown areas and learn from their decisions. Using the easy out by selling off parking lots and bringing in grant money is the wrong avenue. Yeah, I've already heard from some local developers bitching because the Council said NO. While I respect these developers, I disagree with them simply because THEY are the ONLY ones who would benefit from Mayor Ireton's proposal.
Again, I want ALL of you to think about the following. How many student housing units, affordable housing and section 8 housing units have been built in the last 6 years. The answer is, A LOT! Now, how many new homes have been built in Salisbury in the last 6 years. The answer, NOT MANY. Are we now in the market majority of entitlement housing?
Mr. Bassett and Mr. Ireton, this is Salisbury, Maryland. It is not Harlem. I do NOT believe the citizens want to see an inner city built here in Salisbury. I also don't think ANYONE has forgotten what happened to Crisfield, Maryland. We already have an abandoned high rise on Fitzwater that reminds us of what Crisfield looked like only a few years ago. Their answer was all section 8 housing. Our economy has NOT turned around. I will NOT allow any such project to be proposed to this Council or ANY other Council. If we ever want to climb out of this depression we'll need to do so utilizing the WATER FRONT PROPERTY we now own to our ADVANTAGE, if we ever choose to go that route.
AND, IF you don't like it, DON'T vote for me.
Tacks On Road Cause About 30 Punctures During Tour de France 14th stage
Nation Becoming 'Killing Fields' as Islamists Declare, 'Convert or Die'
The attack by armed gunmen was only the first in a 12-village spree of violence that left over 100 dead in northern Nigeria’s Plateau State, a region that had previously been outside Islamic terrorist group Boko Haram’s operational area and is the homeland of the largely Muslim Fulani tribesmen.
Yet Boko Haram claimed responsibility for the attacks and threatened even more violence.
More
The Simple Unvarnished Truth
Both Republicans & Democrats
We're "broke" & can't help our own Seniors, Veterans, Orphans, Homeless etc.,???????????
In the last years we have provided aid to Haiti , Chile , Pakistan, Lybia , Egypt and Turkey, And Japan Literally, BILLIONS of DOLLARS!!!
Our retired seniors living on a 'fixed income' receive no aid nor do they get any breaks while our government and religious organizations pour Hundreds of Billions of $$$$$$'s and Tons of Food to Foreign Countries!
We have hundreds of adoptable children who are shoved aside to make room for the adoption of foreign orphans.
AMERICA: a country where we have homeless without shelter, children going to bed hungry, elderly going without 'needed' meds,and mentally ill without treatment -etc,etc.
YET.......................
They have a 'Benefit' for the people of Haiti on 12 TV stations, ships and planes lining up with food, water, tents clothes, bedding, doctors and medical supplies.
Imagine if the *GOVERNMENT* gave 'US' the same support they give to other countries.
Sad isn't it?
Judge to Begin 5-day Hearing in Military Leak Case
Pfc. Bradley Manning is charged with aiding the enemy and other offenses. Prosecutors say he gave hundreds of thousands of classified diplomatic cables and war logs to the secret-sharing website WikiLeaks.
More
Troopers Investigate Crash On US 113, Selbyville
Date of Occurrence: Monday July 16, 2012 at approximately 8:25 a.m.
Operator and Vehicle Information:
Operator: Steven B. Emich, 51, Milford, DE
Vehicle: 2009 CIXK Scooter
Passenger: Mary M. Suchting, 46, Milford, DE
Resume:
Selbyville, DE- The Delaware State Police are currently investigating a crash that occurred this morning sending two people to the hospital.
The crash occurred at approximately 8:25 a.m. this morning as Steven B. Emich was operating a 2009 CIXK Scooter southbound on the shoulder of US 113 near McCabe Road, Selbyville. For unknown reasons, Emich failed to see a disabled 1995 Chevrolet Lumina parked on the shoulder of the road. The Scooter struck the left rear of the Lumina ejecting Emich and his passenger, Mary M Suchting, into the southbound lanes of US113.
Emich and Suchting, who were not wearing helmets, were airlifted from the scene by the Delaware State Police Helicopter and LifeNet Helicopter to Christiana Hospital where they are listed in stable condition.
The investigation is continuing into the cause of the crash. Northbound and southbound lanes of US113 were impacted approximately an hour and a half due to the helicopters landing in the roadway as well as the troopers investigating and clearing the scene. It is unknown what the relationship is between Emich and Suchting.
Wicomico County Tax Increase
MSNBC.com Disappears as Microsoft and NBC Dissolve 16-Year Partnership
The breakup announced late Sunday dissolves the final shreds of a 16-year marriage between Microsoft Corp. and NBC News, which is now owned by Comcast Corp. The relationship began to unwind in 2005 when Microsoft sold its stake in MSNBC’s cable TV channel to NBC.
NBC is buying Microsoft’s 50 percent interest in the MSNBC website for an undisclosed amount, though the New York Times reports that Microsoft will receive roughly $300 million.
More
Daily Times Educates You About Sex On The Beach
"No matter what, sand will find its way to places where you don't want it to be,"
"I think there is something inherently appealing about risqué public behavior, but I think (sex on the beach) is more about saying you did it than the actual sensation that comes from it,"
"I don't have any problem with it. If I see it, I'd just say 'whatever,' " he said. "Some girls like it, and some don't; it depends who you are."
More
UK Downplays Olympic Security Snafu
G4S, the security contractor, admitted on Wednesday that it would not be able to provide more than 10,000 security staffers by the time the Olympics begin in less than two weeks.
The government hurriedly announced it would bring in 3,500 military personnel to boost security for the Games.
More
Obama Piles New Sanctions Against Iran
The Treasury Department said it was blacklisting 11 companies and several individuals associated with Iran's defence ministry, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), as well as Iran's national shipping line.
It also blacklisted several companies in Hong Kong, Switzerland and Malaysia, as well as the National Iranian Tanker Company (NITC), which the treasury alleged have been used by the national oil company to evade existing sanctions against Iranian oil experts.
More
6 Hotel Chains Allow Point Gifts to Wounded Vets
The Maryland Democrats scheduled a news conference Monday at the JW Marriott Hotel in Washington to discuss the "Hotels for Heroes" program.
More
California County Weighs Drastic Plan To Aid Homeowners
Desperate for a way out of a housing collapse that has crippled the region, officials in San Bernardino County, where Fontana is one of the largest cities, are exploring a drastic option — using eminent domain to buy up mortgages for homes that are underwater.
Then, the idea goes, the county could cut the mortgages to the current value of the homes and resell the mortgages to a private investment firm, which would allow homeowners to lower their monthly payments and hang onto their property.
More
Clock Ticks On Possible Gambling Special Session
Time is running out for gambling supporters to get legislation creating a sixth casino before voters this fall.
Today and tomorrow , Governor Martin O'Malley is holding meetings to determine if a special session to consider the legislation can take place.
This morning, the governor meets with Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, Prince George's County Executive Rushern Baker and Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett.
More
Obituary For David Bromley

David Neil Bromley, 37, of Powellville died as a result of injuries sustained in a boating accident on July 13, 2012. Born in Salisbury, MD he was the son of Ralph Wayne Bromley and Beverly Bromley of Pittsville.
David is survived by his brother Daniel Bromley and sister in law Karen Bromley; nephews Connor Hall and Luke Bromley all of Powellville; His fiancée Kelly Popp and his canine son Pollo also of Powellville; his best friend Bobby White; a special friend Laura Lowe: aunts and uncles; Jeff Brittingham of Willards; Frank and Joyce Hall of Gumboro; and Barry and Wanda Rayne of Salisbury. David also leaves behind countless friends and many other relatives too numerous to mention.
He was preceded in death by paternal grandparents Ralph and Catherine Bromley of Eden; maternal grandparents James ‘Nut’ and Dorothy Brittingham of Willards.
David was part owner of Bromley’s Auto Sales in Pittsville and loved working beside his family every day. He loved the car business and especially traveling to auto auctions. David loved life and had a great sense of humor. He loved fishing, spending time with friends and family and storytelling. He could often be found at the VFW in Powellville and American Legion in Berlin. His joy was his dog, Pollo.
David was a member of the Sons of American Legion, Salisbury Moose Lodge, The National Rifle Association and the Crooked Oak Hunting Club.
David, you were the light of our lives and we will miss you very much.
A funeral service will be held Wednesday at 1pm at Holloway Funeral Home. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 6 – 8pm and Wednesday one hour prior to the service. The Reverend Paul Sherwood will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Eastside Memorial VFW Post 2996, 35481 Mount Hermon Road, Pittsville, MD 21850 or Sons of the American Legion, c/o Boggs Disharoon Post 123, 10111 Ocean City Road, Berlin, Maryland, 21811.
DNREC Fish & Wildlife Enforcement Blotter June 27-July 11
More
Salisbury Police department Press Release 7-16-12
On July 12, 2012 at approximately 11:00pm, officers were on patrol in the 600 block of East RailRoad Ave. The officers observed a group of subjects standing outside of a residence. As the officers drove by, the officers smelled a strong odor of burning marihuana coming from the area of the group. As the officers exited the patrol vehicle to investigate, they observed Jones start to leave the area at a quick pace. The officers were able to make contact with Jones before he entered into a residence. The officers detected a strong smell of marihuana coming from Jones. As the officers began to question Jones he became irate and started to yell at the officers. Jones was asked
to calm down and be quiet. Jones continued to be disorderly and was arrested. A search of Jones incident to arrest found suspected “crack” cocaine in sufficient quantity to indicate distribution, a quantity of suspected marihuana and related
paraphernalia.
Jones was released to the custody of central booking.
UPSIDE-DOWN LAND
A Muslim officer crying "Allah Akbar" while shooting up an army base is considered to have committed "Workplace Violence" while an American citizen boasting a Ron Paul bumper sticker is classified as a "Domestic Terrorist".
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
You can get arrested for expired tags on your car but not for being in the country illegally.
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
Your government believes that the best way to eradicate trillions of dollars of debt is to spend trillions more of our money.
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
A seven year old boy can be thrown out of school for calling his teacher "cute" but hosting a sexual exploration or diversity class in grade school is perfectly acceptable.
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
The Supreme Court of the United States can rule that lower courts cannot display the 10 Commandments in their courtroom, while sitting in front of a display of the 10 Commandments.
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
Children are forcibly removed from parents who appropriately discipline them while children of "underprivileged" drug addicts are left to rot in filth infested cesspools.
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
Working class Americans pay for their own health care (and the health care of everyone else) while unmarried women are free to have child after child on the "State's" dime while never being held responsible for their own choices.
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
Hard work and success are rewarded with higher taxes and government intrusion, while slothful, lazy behavior is rewarded with EBT cards, WIC checks, Medicaid and subsidized housing.
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
The government's plan for getting people back to work is to provide 99 weeks of unemployment checks (to not work).
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
Being self-sufficient is considered a threat to the government.
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
Politicians think that stripping away the amendments to the constitution is really protecting the rights of the people.
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
The rights of the Government come before the rights of the individual.
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
Parents believe the State is responsible for providing for their children.
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
You can write a post like this just by reading the news headlines.
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
You pay your mortgage faithfully, denying yourself the newest big screen TV while your neighbor defaults on his mortgage (while buying iphones, TV's and new cars) and the government forgives his debt and reduces his mortgage (with your tax dollars).
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
Your government can add anything they want to your kid's water (fluoride, chlorine, etc.) but you are not allowed to give them raw milk.
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
Being stripped of the ability to defend yourself makes you "safe".
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
You have to have your parents signature to go on a school field trip but not to get an abortion.
You know you live in an Upside-down Land if....
An 80 year old woman can be stripped searched by the TSA but a Muslim woman in a burqa is only subject to having her neck and head searched.
THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU JUST READ WHEN YOU VOTE ! ! !
Injured Owl

Joe,
This beautiful owl has been in the back yard of our house for several days, he sits on the ground or any low item it can find to perch. At times it appears his wing might be injured but can’t be sure. I find it odd that an owl would run around during the day and be a ground based animal. We contacted all the numbers you would expect and were referred to a Bird Rescue group in Newark Del. They asked that we capture the bird and meet them in Delaware. We are not prepared to capture an animal like this and don’t want to bother him if nothing is wrong.
Hoping one of your readers may have some insight, experience or ideas on what to do.
Publishers Notes: I would start by contacting the Salisbury Zoo. They have incredible resources in this area and they may even have some interest in the Owl. Many of the animals at the Zoo are injured animals that could not survive in the wild.
Current European Tax Rates
Income Tax: 50%
VAT: 17.5% TOTAL: 67..5%
France
Income Tax: 40%
VAT: 19.6% TOTAL: 59.6%
Greece
Income Tax: 40%
VAT: 25% TOTAL: 65%
Spain
Income Tax: 45%
VAT: 16% TOTAL: 61%
Portugal
Income Tax: 42%
VAT: 20% TOTAL: 62%
Sweden
Income Tax: 55%
VAT: 25% TOTAL: 80%
Norway
Income Tax: 54.3%
VAT: 25% TOTAL: 79.3%
Netherlands
Income Tax: 52%
VAT: 19% TOTAL: 71%
Denmark
Income Tax: 58%
VAT: 25% TOTAL: 83%
Finland
Income Tax: 53%
VAT: 22% TOTAL: 75%
If you've started to wonder what the real costs of socialism are going to be - once the full program in these United States hits your wallet, take a look at the table. As you digest these mind-boggling figures, keep in mind that in spite of these astronomical tax rates, these countries are still not financing their social welfare programs exclusively from tax revenues! They are deeply mired in public debt of gargantuan proportions. Greece has reached the point where its debt is so huge it is in imminent danger of defaulting. That is the reason the European economic community has intervened to bail them out. If you're following the financial news, you know Spain and Portugal are right behind Greece.
The United States is now heading right down the same path. The VAT tax in the table is the national sales tax that Europeans pay. Stay tuned because that is exactly what you can expect to see the administration proposing if the Democrats win the fall elections. The initial percentage in the United States isn't going to be anywhere near the outrageous numbers you now see in Europe. Guess what, the current outrageous numbers in Europe didn't start out as outrageous either. They started out as minuscule - right around the 1% or 2% where they will start out in the United States. Magically, however, they ran up over the years to where they are now. Expect the same thing here.
It is the very notion that with hard work and perseverance, anybody can get ahead economically here in the USA. Do you think that can ever happen with tax rates between 60% and 80%? Think again. With the government taking that percentage of your money, your life will be exactly like life in Europe. You will never be able to buy a home. You will never buy a car. You will never send your children to college. Let's not shuffle the battle cry of the socialists under the rug either. It's always the same cry. Equalize income. Spread the wealth to the poor (whoever they are). Level the economic playing field. Accomplish that and everything will be rosy.
It's time to take a really hard look at reality. Greece is a perfect example. Despite the socialism system that has ruled this country for decades, with a 65% tax rate, they are drowning in public debt, would have defaulted without hundreds of billions in bailout money from the EU, and still . . . 20% of their population lives in poverty. What has all that socialism money bought, besides ultimate power for the politicians running the show? Do you think these people are "free?" They're not. They are slaves to their economic "system."
Ford recalls 2013 Escape SUVs
The recall affects SUVs made between March 8 and June 7, 2012, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. There are 8,266 Escapes involved in the recall.
More
University System of Maryland - Salisbury University Report
The Most Honest Three And A Half Minutes Of Television, EVER
WARNING: This video does have foul language. HOWEVER, it is a VERY powerful message.
The Hookers' Union
When he got to the first one, he asked the Madam, "Is this a union house?"
"No,'"she replied, "I'm sorry it isn't."
"Well, if I pay you $100, what cut do the girls get?"
"The house gets $80 and the girls get $20,'"she answered.
Offended at such unfair dealings, the union man stomped off down the street in search of a more equitable, hopefully unionized shop. His search continued until finally he reached a brothel where the Madam responded, "Why yes sir, this is a union house. We observe all union rules."
The man asked, "And, if I pay you $100, what cut do the girls get?"
"The girls get $80 and the house gets $20."
"That's more like it!" the union man said.
He handed the Madam $100, looked around the room, and pointed to a stunningly attractive green-eyed blonde.
"I'd like her," he said.
"I'm sure you would, sir," said the Madam. Then she gestured to a 92-year old woman in the corner, "but Ethel here has 67 years seniority and according to union rules, she's next.'"
Solar Panels At Jail Expected To Save $10,000 Per Year
A jail in Frederick County is installing solar panels that will be used to heat water for the facility.
The Frederick News-Post reports the project at the Frederick County Adult Detention Center is being paid for almost entirely by a grant from the Department of Energy.
The cost of the project is about $266,000.
More
Tomatoes, Shoes Thrown at Clinton in Egypt
Egyptian protesters threw tomatoes and shoes at U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's motorcade Sunday and shouted, "Monica, Monica, Monica" as she left the newly reopened U.S. Consulate in Alexandria.
Clinton said she was in the city to answer critics who believe Washington has taken sides in Egyptian politics. There were already vocal protesters at the start of her visit to the consulate, forcing the ceremony to be moved inside.
"I want to be clear that the United States is not in the business, in Egypt, of choosing winners and losers, even if we could, which, of course, we cannot," Clinton said at the ceremony to reopen the consulate, which was closed in 1993 because of budget constraints.
More
Salad Days Of The Public Sector Are Over
Harrisburg and Scranton, Pa., and Jefferson County, Ala., home to Birmingham, are already there to welcome them.
Detroit has been taken into receivership by Michigan. A plan under discussion is to level a fourth of the city and reconvert it into the pasture and farmland it used to be a century ago.
On the Web, one may find a pictorial tale of two cities: Hiroshima, a smoking flattened ruin in 1945, now a beautiful gleaming metropolis. And Detroit, forge and furnace of democracy in 1945, today resembling Dresden after Bomber Command paid its visit.
Other American cities are exploring bankruptcy to escape from under the mountain of debt they have amassed or to get out of contracts that an earlier generation of politicians negotiated.
No longer shameful, bankruptcy is now seen as an option for U.S. cities. The crisis of the public sector has come to River City.
What happened to us?
More
Republicans Accuse HHS Of Gutting Welfare Reform With Quiet Policy Change
HHS made the announcement in a policy memo Thursday, news that slipped well below the radar amid a raucous day on the presidential campaign trail. But a few prominent GOP lawmakers on Capitol Hill picked up on the change, and accused the administration of overhauling one of the most important bipartisan agreements of the past several decades.
"President Obama just tore up a basic foundation of the welfare contract" Republican Study Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, said in a statement. He also called the move a "blatant violation of the law."
More
Va. One of Strictest States in Felon Voting Rights
A Look At How Democrats And Republicans Differ
Let me ask you a question: does it really matter whether a free man is enslaved by a socialist state or a fascist state? Are the prisons any more accommodating? Are the lashes from the whip any less painful? Is the agony of losing a loved one any less grievous? Is the persecution any less revolting? What difference does it make to a free man if his liberties are stolen by an Adolf Hitler or by a Joseph Stalin?
More
Hillary Clinton Has Plane, Will Stir Up Trouble
In Hanoi on July 10, the Secretary met with senior Vietnamese leaders. She witnessed the signing of several agreements covering education exchanges and commercial contracts and meet with representatives of U.S. and Vietnamese business communities.
Secretary Clinton arrived in Vientiane on July 11. This groundbreaking visit to Laos marked the first by a Secretary of State in 57 years. The Secretary met with Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong and other senior government officials to discuss a variety of bilateral and regional issues, including the Lower Mekong Initiative and ASEAN integration efforts.
More
The Government is Encouraging Non-Citizens To Enroll For Food Stamps
Key Quotes:
The government has been targeting Spanish speakers with radio “novelas” promoting food stamp usage as part of a stated mission to increase participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or food stamps.
In addition to the Spanish-language outreach, the USDA is also pushing to get non-citizens enrolled in the program. The radio novelas overcome one of the hurdles the agency has identified as hampering participation: “lack of knowledge” about the program.
“Although many non-citizens are now eligible for SNAP, SNAP participation has been historically low among eligible non-citizen households,” reads a 2011 Guidance on Non-Citizen Eligibility.
More
U.S. Olympic Diving Team Gears Up For London
Missing Dog: UPDATE


Joe...
You did it again!!! You, along with the few comments on the post, led me to a neighbor five houses down!
You are awesome!! Your site is amazing for the furry family!!!
Thank you from the very very bottom of my heart!
Bless you and all you do!
Hi Joe.
I know that you have had a lot of success with finding lost pets. I am hoping that your blog can help with another reuniting.
My puppy got loose around 6 this evening. He doesn't have his collar on, so no id. His name is Gizmo. He is 10 months old.
We are on the south end of Camden Ave, near the 4 way stop. We, as well as a few neighbors have been looking with no luck.
He has 4 kids missing him as well. He wasn't wearing this sweater when he ran away, but he is mostly black with little patches of brown on his face and chest.
Our number is 443-397-0592.
Thanks for all you do! I hope you are able to do it again!
Maryland House of Correction in Jessup Set To Be Torn Down
The former correctional officer returned Saturday to take a last look at the sprawling, brick-and-stone Italianate structure that for 128 years housed some of Maryland's most violent predators. The state is preparing to tear down the antiquated facility, closed in 2007.
As he examined the 6-by-9-foot cinder block cells and walked through the dining hall where the inmates once protested their prison work wages, Walton said his memories were still vivid.
More
Dorchester County Romney Ralley
Delegate Addie Eckardt and the Dorchester County Republican Central Committee are sponsoring a reception Rally for Romney on Saturday, July 21 at the Richardson Museum from 5-7pm. This is an opportunity for citizens to gather and obtain campaign signs, materials and learn about the campaign on the Eastern Shore. Representatives from the Romney organization in Maryland and other candidates will be in attendance.
According to Delegate Eckardt “It is time for a new direction for our economy, with growth policies that will finally give businesses and consumers the confidence they need to get our country back on the right track.”
For more information or to RSVP please call Addie 410-310-7003 or email addieeckardt@gmail.com.
US Pledge to Rebuild Haiti Not Being Met
But after the rubble was cleared and the dead buried, what the quake laid bare was the depth of Haiti's dysfunction. Today, the fruits of an ambitious, $1.8 billion U.S. reconstruction promise are hard to find. Immediate, basic needs for bottled water, temporary shelter and medicine were the obvious priorities. But projects fundamental to Haiti's transformation out of poverty, such as permanent housing and electric plants in the heavily hit capital of Port-au-Prince have not taken off.
More














