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Friday, May 21, 2010

Nightly News At 6 PM

Councilman Gary Comegys A No Show Again At Today's Work Session

Gary Comegys was a no show again to today's work session. I have come to learn that the e-mail correspondences from Gary to the Council have ended. As always, we wish Gary a speedy recovery.

SB411, Civil Immunity Bill, Signed Into Law

We're pleased to report to you that SB411 was signed into law by the Governor today. This bill, now law, provides protection to homeowners in the event of the injury or death of an assailant while in the act of committing a crime.

Our community spent several years working on this bill and it's a perfect example of how persistent pressure and focused efforts can reap concrete results.

The law will go into effect October 1 of this year.

Don't Miss Our 6 PM News Broadcast Tonight

MARYLAND BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS FULLY FUNDS JMB HIGH SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION

Wicomico County Executive Richard M. Pollitt, Jr. and Wicomico County Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen jointly announced today that the Maryland Board of Public Works has approved $9,975,425 in funding for the completion of the new James M. Bennett High School. The State of Maryland Public School Construction Program informed the officials of the BPW decision in a letter dated May 21, 2010 (attached).

As of last January, only $7,000,000 had been allocated to complete the project. Both Pollitt and Fredericksen made personal appeals before the Board of Public Works to increase the allocation by almost $3,000,000. Dr. Fredericksen said, “The success of our appeal was made possible by the efforts of Appropriations Committee chair, Delegate Norman H. Conway (District 38B) and members of the Wicomico legislative delegation. This type of support in Annapolis is what will make for a great 2010-2011 school year for the first group of students to enter the new JMB.” Pollitt had high praise for the BPW members, Governor O’Malley, Treasurer Kopp and Comptroller Franchot for their “high level of concern for the schoolchildren of our county.”

James M. Bennett High School will open its doors to students in August…a full year ahead of schedule. Governor O’Malley visited the construction site on August 15, 2008 and discussed the unprecedented support his administration has provided for funding school construction. While there, Governor O’Malley joined members of the JMB Band, singing and playing guitar. The Board of Education is inviting alumni and guests of JMB to the school for a final visit on Sunday, June 6th, from 1-to-3 P.M.

DNA RESULTS CONFIRM THE IDENTITY OF HUMAN REMAINS


The human remains recovered by the Ocean City Police Department on April 28, 2010, were positively identified through DNA evidence, as that of 29-year-old missing Delaware resident Greg Forte. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has ruled the cause and manner of death as undetermined.

Forte was last seen on February 9, 2010 at approximately 11:30 p.m. in Fenwick, Delaware. The investigation into Forte’s disappearance is being conducted by the Delaware State Police, with the assistance of the Ocean City Police.

If you have information in regards to the disappearance of Forte, please contact Delaware State Police Troop Four at 302.856.5850.

Ireton Concerned About Short Sighted Decision On Bateman/Onley Road Issue

Mayor James Ireton, Jr. issues this statement regarding the Salisbury City Council postponement of a much needed upgrade to the Onley Road/Bateman Street intersection on South Division Street in Salisbury. The postponement happened at Friday morning’s council worksession.

“The Board of Education, Salisbury University, and the City of Salisbury have presented a workable, affordable solution to the bottleneck at Onley Road/Bateman Street along the South Division Street Corridor. The council, today, asked for a timeline going back 10 years and questioned the ability of the Salisbury Public Works Director to sign public works agreements. Public works agreements are administrative matters per the city code. It is a huge overreach for the council to attempt to micromanage these agreements – making them subject to political winds. Since March 1, 2010 we have been on the same page with Salisbury University and the Wicomico County Board of Education in finding a fiscally responsible solution that will take that intersection from a Grade D to Grade B under criteria from the National Transportation Research Board. Council has delayed action, again, putting the safety of pedestrians, busses, and schoolchildren in the balance. I urge them to reconsider and act swiftly on my plan to bring the intersection to an acceptable level of safety,” said Mayor Ireton

Ireton Submits Budget Concerns To City Council


Salisbury Mayor James Ireton, Jr. submitted this letter to Salisbury City Council members today, in response to the council finalizing their deliberations on May 18, 2010. Below is his correspondence to council members.

Council members – First, let me commend you for your work in preparing the FY2011 Budget for our city. I am keenly aware of the time and energy it takes to go through page by page and ask relevant questions.  Staff has worked exceptionally hard and lightning fast to answer your many questions in order that you could perform your charter duties. 
My concerns are few as to where you ended up in the process, yet they are important enough for me to ask for a response in writing.
1.      Elimination of Code Enforcement Officer Position – The increase in rental registration fees that I proposed was to create a position in a severely understaffed department. Specifically speaking, if the money generated by the fee increase, the first since 2004, went for anything other than the position, I could not support the increase.
2.      No furloughs for employees making under 30K/no reclassifications – Plainly speaking –council members have refused to support raises recommended by the administration for employees working at a higher pay grade than what their paycheck reflects on the basis that you didn’t want to single out a group of employees for separate treatment and, yet decided to, in the same vein, create a class of employees that are subject to a different set of rules (exempting employees under $30,000 from the furlough plan).  The furlough plan I submitted equitably dispersed the pain of this budget over all of our employees –which was the only way I could conscionably approach the difficult decision.  In my opinion, the council has sent mixed signals about its intention - employees that are underpaid for their jobs are acceptable, yet employees making under a certain amount are immune from budget difficulties.  I ask you to please clarify for me.
3.      Engine Replacements – Engine replacements for a sedan in the Salisbury Fire Department and Water and Sewer Department are, at best, a micromanaging of resources that I find the council has no purview over.  After reviewing the situation, I asked for new vehicles, in that the motor of each was more expensive than the total worth of the car.  The council indicates that it has no trust in the administration to determine if a car is needed in a department.  I remind you that I cannot administrate if we are debating the viability of carburetors – that is what staff is for.
4.      No In-house attorney/rebid procedure for legal department – This particular scenario leaves us in no different a position than what we now experience.  Surely you know that the day-to-day operations of city government, with the many questions of employee rights, dump trucks, zoning issues, etc., warrant that the city executive have an attorney that works directly for the government.  With the issues listed above, and the on-going wastewater treatment plant litigation, it is clear we need in house attorney.  I respectfully ask you not to micromanage this situation, as you have others, and realize that the city attorney – the highest paid in our budget, needs to work every day, all day solely for Salisbury.
5.      Bidding of Liability and Property Insurance – I object to the deletion of this appropriation that has the chance of saving us money by going out for competitive bid.
6.      Harbor Pointe Sidewalks – All of the work that has been done, by this administration and the previous one, would be sidetracked if the council changes the policy for handling this special assessment at the last minute.  I am not in disagreement with the policy.  Yet, this is not the scenario that the city and Harbor Pointe have been working under.  If you change this decision now, you will need to completely explain to the residents of Harbor Pointe that you have switched the policy at the last moment and have affectively put off the sidewalk project for that neighborhood until 2014.
I welcome the chance to dialogue with you and discuss the divide that we have on these issues.  The issues of neighborhood integrity, legal department, and micromanaging are not ones that I take lightly, so I look forward to that discussion.  I need to be clear, that a reasoning that solely rests on fiduciary responsibility will not be sufficient in these situations, I am hoping for much more.
In seeking a way to resolve these issues collaboratively, I suggest the following modifications to the budget crafted by the Council:
Add the Code Enforcement Officer back into the budget on the basis that the added fees were to pay for the position but we budget on the assumption that that person will not actually start until September 1 (cost $35,000)
Add a vehicle associated with this position to be purchased on lease-purchase (cost $5,000)
Add the consultant fee for the bidding of the property and liability insurance back in on the basis that there may be significant cost savings as a result of this project that may help us in preparing the FY 12 budget (cost $5,000)
Remove the exemption for employees under $30,000 in salary on the basis that to exempt one group of employees places an extra burden on all other employees (savings $29,500)
Provide for the purchase of the vehicle for the Nuisance Officer on a lease-purchase basis rather than a cash purchase as currently in the budget (savings $15,000)

The above changes balance each other and would maintain a balanced budget.

Agree to an in-house attorney on the basis of the need for the attorney to work closely with the City’s chief executive (this has no budgetary impact)
Add Harbor Pointe sidewalks back in on the basis that it is not fair to the Harbor Pointe community to switch the rules in the middle of the game (this point has no budgetary impact since we would be appropriating $55,000 in surplus to offset the $55,000 in cost).

I look forward to hearing from you.
Mayor Ireton

New York Man Arrested On Drug Charges After Car Stop


Location: U.S. 13 south of CR 534, Seaford, Sussex County, DE
Date of Occurrence: May 18, 2010 at approximately 7:20 p.m.
Suspect: Sean A. Greene, 36, Bronx, NY

Resume:


Delaware State Police have arrested a Bronx, New York man after he was stopped for a traffic violation near Seaford.

Just before 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday May 18th a state trooper stopped silver car with suspended New York registration. When the trooper made contact with Greene, who was driving the car. Trooper also learned Greene had a suspended driver’s license. He could smell an odor of marijuana coming from inside the car and later found 114 grams for marijuana and drug paraphernalia in the vehicle. The marijuana was packaged in such a manner so it could be sold in individual packets.

Greene was charged possession with the intent to deliver marijuana, maintaining a vehicle for keeping controlled substances, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving under the influence, driving with a suspended license and driving an unregistered vehicle. He was arraigned and committed to the Department of Correction in default of $10,602.00

WHY WON’T RICK POLLITT MEET WITH THE WICOMICO COUNTY COUNCIL?


Apparently Mr. Pollitt is unwilling to confer with the County Council regarding details of his proposed County Budget. If anyone out there knows why he won’t disclose this information and discuss the budget with the Council, please send a comment.

Team Guerrero Announcement


Hello All,

Whenever we have news to announce we are eager to get it to you and keep you updated on Fernando's career.

Team Guerrero is pleased to announce that Fernando next fight will be on Friday June 25th. The bout will take place at the Santa Anna Star Casino in New Mexico. Fernando's bout will be the Main Event on Sho Box once again and will be televised worldwide. Due to the fact negotiations are still ongoing, our opponent can not be named at this time and will be released as soon as negotiations are completed.

For anyone wanting to travel to the fight, you would fly into Albuquerque NM.

Although Fernando's success does seem to be moving him toward bigger fights and outside of our home, we want all of our supporters to know that, as always, we will work to bring him back home to fight again, if and when that opportunity presents it's self.

We also look forward to the time that we can fight in Atlantic City, so that our supporters have the opportunity to travel the few hours north and enjoy the time leading up to the fight. "My hometown supporters aren't a small part of my career, they are huge part of what drives me, whether they are sitting ringside or not, whether they know it of not, I take them with me"......Fernando Guerrero

Salisbury Challengers Little League


Come out and support the West Salisbury Challengers at Applebee's in Salisbury on May 22 from 8:00 - 10:00 am. We will be having an Applebee's Flapjack Fundraiser to help with the costs of uniforms, equipment, and trips/events such as the World Challenger Jamboree, Wish a Fish, and the end of season team picnic.We will also be having basket raffles, a bake sale, and a 50/50. Tickets can be purchases at the event for $6In case you don't know, The Challenger Division was established in 1989 as a separate division of Little League to enable boys and girls with physical and mental challenges, ages 5-18, or up to age 22 if still enrolled in high school, to enjoy the game of baseball along with the millions of other children who participate in this sport worldwide. Today more than 30,000 children participate in more than 900 Challenger Divisions worldwide. The West Salisbury Challengers are associated with the West Salisbury Little League and has children from Wicomico and Sussex counties.

You can contact the team at salisburychallengers@hotmail.com and you can find us on Facebook too: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000786170778
We hope to see you there!!!

STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY ON PRINCE GEORGE’S HOSPITAL AUTHORITY FINAL REPORT

ANNAPOLIS, MD (May 21, 2010) – Governor Martin O’Malley issued this statement today following the release of the Prince George’s Hospital Authority’s final report.

“I want to thank Chairman Ken Glover, and all the members of the Prince George’s Hospital Authority for the time and extraordinary effort they put into this process. It remains our strong commitment to improving access and quality of healthcare for the people of Prince George’s County. There is still work ahead of us in this process. The Authority’s report and recommendations provide a pathway for the state and county to work together, leveraging a combination of existing assets and public funds to build a new healthcare delivery system with greater access to primary care, and ultimately, a new hospital.

“I look forward to continuing the work ahead with County Executive Johnson, the County Council, legislators from the area, and all Prince George’s County stakeholders to achieve these goals.”

Mike Calpino Files Files For District 2 County Council






Is this what the citizens of Wicomico County want? I mean, what the heck is going on around here. You've got one guy claiming to be a republican, backed and supported by all democrats and now we've got a County Council race where this Libatarian who has a degree in religous science claiming he wants to represent YOU on the County Council.

Man, Obama has certainly brought out the BS artists and wing nuts. I did an article back in July of last year on this guy and believe it or not the photo went world wide. It even made the Huffington Post. Even the DNC got involved by stealing the image to use it for ad campaigns HERE. Our original article was HERE that gained 122 comments. I personally wasn't happy with the way this guy carried himself. What if Frank Kratovil's kids and Wife had come along, like they do to so many of his events.

Nevertheless, even Jonathan Taylor has claimed he wants to run for office, Tom McGuire and his other half Nikki ran for Mayor and Council in Delmar and now we've got this guy who believes hanging someone in effigy is the answer to District two. Oh well, its your vote Folks. Let the games begin.

Oh, take a wild guess who's supporting this guy. McGuire and Taylor.

MARYLAND STATE POLICE CRIMINAL NEWS RELEASE

DATE & TIME: 5/19/2010 at 1339 hours
LOCATION: Rt 346 @ New Hope Rd, Wicomico Cnty
CASE NUMBER: 1054-004724
CRIME: CDS Possession
VICTIM: State of Maryland
SUSPECT: Christopher Charles Dennis, B/M, 24 YOA Glen Burnie, MD


BRIEF RESUME:
On the above date and time, Tfc Mann was working speed enforcement at the above location when he stopped a green Toyota T-100 pickup truck displaying NJ registration. Upon stopping the vehicle, contact was made with the driver, identified as Christopher Charles Dennis. An MVA check of the registration plates indicated that the tags belonged to a buick passenger vehicle. Additionally, Tfc Mann observed Dennis and the female passenger to make furtive movements inside the vehicle. Tfc Mann ultimately had Dennis exit the vehicle for safety reasons. As he exited the vehicle, he grabbed his belongings and was backing away from the Tfc Mann. Tfc Mann advised Dennis to walk back to the vehicle at which time he spoke to Dennis regarding the registration plates. While being detained, Tfc Mann observed an orange metal smoking device behind the rear tire of the vehicle on the driver’s side. Tfc Mann retrieved the smoking device with suspected marijuana inside of it. Dennis was charged with CDS possession, CDS paraphernalia, as well as traffic charges. He was turned over to the Wicomico Cnty Detention facility.

Tom McGuire Needs to Get a Life!

Delmar resident Tom McGuire evidently needs to find a hobby. Take up golf, fish, chase your girlfriend around the house. Instead, McGuire seems to have a manic obsession with SbyNEWS publisher Joe Albero.

McGuire recently sent off for vanity plates. What do they say? FUJA1.

For the uninitiated, FUJA stands for “F*** You Joe Albero”. Nice car to drive the kids around in; don’t you think?

Now you know that I like to document accusations, and I expect that McGuire and his defenders will try to claim that “FUJA” doesn’t really mean what I claim. Here’s a review of a couple of blogs (including a not-so-flattering take on SbyNEWS):

On Taylor's main page theres a sticker that reads "FUJA" which stands for "F*** You Joe Albero", kinda funny yes. But then it reads "Salisbury's Answer to the bullying that has gone on for far to long". This guy is a moron with a keyboard. The grinch's blog is not about any news reporting whatsoever. It is more about spreading rumors, lies, and anything generally destructive about people he doesn't like … (sic, emphasis and asterisks mine)

While McGuire’s tag probably violates Maryland’s regulations against issuing tags with obscene or racist remarks (even abbreviated), you can always shrug your shoulders. My concern is the bizarre lengths some of these anti-Albero types go to in order to attack Albero. I guess the world needs all types – including sickly strange people like Mr. McGuire.

O’MALLEY ON MARYLAND’S SECOND STRAIGHT MONTH OF JOBS GAINS

STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY ON MARYLAND’S SECOND STRAIGHT MONTH OF JOBS GAINS

ANNAPOLIS, MD (May 21, 2010)
– Governor Martin O’Malley issued this statement today following the announcement that, for the second straight month, Maryland experienced net job growth. In April, Maryland’s unemployment rate dropped .2% to 7.5%, marking the first monthly decline in the state’s jobless rate since December 2007.

“Today’s announcement is another positive sign for families and businesses in Maryland. Building on our progress in March, Maryland created thousands of jobs in April as we come through the national recession. While there is still more to do, this second straight month of jobs gains shows that our economy is turning in a positive direction.

“We will continue to focus our energies on creating jobs, saving jobs, and helping our small businesses create and save jobs, delivering results for the people of our state and moving Maryland forward.”

Maryland’s unemployment rate is now approximately 25 percent below that national rate, which rose last month to 9.9 percent. The addition of 8,200 jobs last month marks the highest three-month jobs gain for Maryland in at least 20 years. The O’Malley-Brown Administration continues to leverage the enormous job-creating potential of our State, including strategic tax cuts for businesses that hire unemployed workers, and investments in important growth sectors of our economy, a world-class workforce, and America’s #1 ranked public schools.

Breakfast At Ginger's

More Questions About Joe Ollinger

Five-Plank Platform Highlights
Serve as the Primary Representative and Advocate of the Wicomico County Taxpayers

Implement a County-Wide Pay-for-Performance Compensation Plan

Transform our Public Schools into the Safest and Most Disciplined in the State of Maryland

Empower the County Executive to Appoint All Members to the County’s Board of Education

Create a One County-Wide Law Enforcement Agency

For a detailed explanation of my platform, please click on "My Platform".

When you read his platform and IF you know what you're talking about, most of what Joe has presented can't be done. It seems to me he has a platform that simply sounds good. You know, what everyone wants to hear. However, he can't, (as County Executive) actually make the BOE do what he wants. Nice try Joe. Again, sounds good but impossible to do. You need to check into this more.

As for the County Wide Police Department, you neglect to mention what this will cost the taxpayers. What you don't know and or understand Joe is that each agency has a different retirement plan. You can't just shove it down their throats and demand that they all become one. Not unless you want the taxpayers to pay out hefty legal fees defending a case from the F.O.P.. Good sound bites but no real meat.

What puzzles me more than anything else I read was the name of your Treasurer.

While you claim to be a "long-time registered Republican," your campaign Staff are registered Democrats. Again, something the regular citizen wouldn't pick up on.

"By Authority of Committee to Elect Joe Ollinger, John B. Long II, Treasurer"/Registered Democrat.

Two Years Ago Today

Fernando Guerrero has certainly proven he is all about Salisbury. On Tuesday Fernando was in a soup kitchen for the homeless washing dishes. He just couldn't believe the volume of people they serve every day.

JOE OLLINGER’S SCHOOL BOARD SCHEME – IS IT SENSIBLE OR STUPID?


First, let’s give Mr. Ollinger kudos for providing a detailed platform for public reference on his campaign website: www.joeollinger.com.

His most unique position involves the process for selection of members of the Wicomico County Board of Education. At present, in most Maryland counties the members are elected, but in Wicomico and a handful of other counties they are appointed by the Governor from candidates submitted by the political parties.

Mr. Ollinger proposes different method: appointment by the County Executive – him if he is elected and the state code is amended. The latter may be the bigger “if”. He says that he will work diligently to have the General Assembly pass the necessary bill.

My initial view is that such a scheme is not appropriate or preferable to either the current one or to election of the school board, neither of which are perfect. The current gubernatorial appointment scheme can be corrupted by political shenanigans, and the election scheme makes those who seek to serve bear the burden of campaigning and raises the potential for the election of persons who are popular but lack competence.

Does the Ollinger scheme reduce those risks? I’m not convinced that it might not increase them.

So, what do you think?

EASTERN SHORE DRIVE IS NOW SUBTITLED “PETE COOPER WAY”


In ceremony yesterday, Salisbury honored its former City Engineer and director of the Public Works Department, Phillip (“Pete”) Cooper by designating Eastern Shore Drive, which he planned, in his name. Mr. Cooper served the City for many years. If everyone gave as much to his community as he has over the years, the City would be a much different place.

Third Friday Event TONIGHT

New Exhibit Tonight


Come by tonight at the AI&G from 5 - 7. The exhibit is in conjunction with the annual photography show, and Downtown Salisbury's Third Friday.

View the work online at cherylnemazie.com

Two Years Ago Today

During Barrie Tilghman's final budget meeting, Lynn Cathcart, (former City Council Member) started raising her hand wanting to be heard. It wasn't that long before that Lynn was still on Council when she yelled at a citizen, (Tim Chaney) for raising his hand in a meeting and she yelled, PUT YOUR HAND DOWN, PUT YOUR HAND DOWN YOUNG MAN! Oh, those were the days.

Local High School Student Takes A Zero Grade On Art Project

Editors Note: I added this photo to make a point.


A 9th grader in Art class was given a project to create a piece of work with a large letter imposed over a background that they should draw which signifies and expresses things meaningful to the student – things that represent them or things they like. After the project was underway, the teacher saw a student had part of the confederate flag as one third of the background. The other two parts were an ocean and the words USA. The teacher said that he had to redo the project because the confederate flag is offensive. His classmates, including two African American students stated that they didn’t think it was offensive. The teacher said that what they thought didn’t matter. The student was given the choice of redoing the project or taking a zero. He chose the zero. I would add that there is no written school policy against wearing, carrying or displaying this flag. Some students do wear them on clothing, etc.

My initial question is – does the teacher have the ability to punish the student or ban the student from the use of the flag in a personal art project? (not to be displayed publicly)

I posed this question to the administration who responded, and not very delicately, that students do not have “rights” over the teacher deciding what is acceptable in the classroom. They also said that what the other students felt or thought was irrelevant. The teacher is the ultimate law and whether it is fair or not doesn’t matter because children have to obey the authority figure in a classroom no matter what. How can that be possible?

I agree that the student should not disrespect or argue publicly with the teacher.

I personally do not agree that the flag was used in an abusive manner nor was it intended as a slight or infringement or offense to fellow students. The flag represented (in his words) the South, southern rock, hunting and things he enjoys. I do understand that the teacher in an effort to be hyper cautious was trying to avoid a possible issue.

The teacher also pointed out to the student that because he was of partial Mexican decent he should be offended himself. Isn’t it up to the individual what is offensive to them? Why try and convince or question a child to make them feel an offense if none existed before? I feel like children are taught to be offended and more discontent is fed to them then would exist on its own. The cycle will never end if generations continue to teach hate and discontent.

If this project was offensive then equally most history classes, literature classes and other venues should be curtailed so as to not offend. We as a society spend so much time trying not to offend that we are tripping over ourselves and being even more hurtful in the process. And I have to believe that intention does matter – particularly in a case of artistic expression. There was no malice intended nor perceived by any of the students. I feel that the end result was that in an effort to resist possibly offending someone, the teacher managed to clearly offend the personal right to expression of the student.

I am undecided on how I will proceed at this point. I feel that there is a line being crossed or blurred when an administrator can say that the students do not have rights. Perhaps that was not really what they meant, but they were the words used exactly. So my second question is – is that the case? That our children leave the protection of the Constitution at the door or the school? Don’t get me wrong – I do believe that there need to be limitations – I just felt that this teacher applied her understanding of the situation inappropriately, but for the administration to back it up based on exceptions in place to protect the student body as a whole and prevent disruption was out of line. Or is there no actual line?

I feel that the situation could have been assisted by the teacher taking the time to privately explain why the flag might cause discomfort to another student. It could have been a learning experience rather than a public display of power. I’m discouraged by the statements that the students because they are children do not have rights. I understand that the flag has complex and multiple meanings for various cultures and generations. The student now understands that too, but for him it still stands for something personal which is not derogatory. And isn’t he equally entitled to that?

There are many symbols that various people find offensive for different reasons. I wonder if it were a Cross, Star of David, Masonic symbol, Mexican flag, Crescent and Star, Don’t Tread On Me flag, etc if these would have been considered offensive as well. None of these symbols is banned from use in our schools – nor do I think they should be. America is diverse – that is what we as a country have consistently supported and extolled. Doesn’t diversity require a measure of equitable acceptance?

I would like honest and candid opinions on this topic. It has many facets and is a controversial one, but I would like to make an informed decision on what if anything I should consider as a next step.

Thank you and have a good day!

Yard Sales

CLICK HERE for the latest yard sales.

Don't forget the car show in OC this weekend. Come smell some burning rubber and cam II.

If you have a yard sale that you would like to post here, please email me, SunnyInOC, at atlanticjw@aol.com. Please type "yard sale" in the subject of your email.

Stocks Set To Extend Slump

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- U.S. stocks were poised for a lower start Friday, extending losses from the previous session's rout that sent the market into correction territory.

At 8:15 a.m. ET, Dow Jones industrial average (INDU), S&P 500 (SPX) and Nasdaq (COMP) futures were down about 0.6%.

Futures measure current index values against perceived future performance and offer an indication of how markets may open when trading begins in New York.

U.S. stocks swooned Thursday as fears about the global economic recovery escalated. The Dow dived 3.6%, the S&P 500 tanked 3.9% and the Nasdaq sank 4.1%.

Stocks: Best moves to make now
The plunge brought U.S. markets into an official correction, a technical term for when stocks fall more than 10% from their recent highs.

GO HERE to read more.

CITY OF SALISBURY CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA


Meeting #9 May 24, 2010 6:00 p.m.
City/County Government Office Building Room 301

Times shown for agenda items are estimates only.

6:00 p.m. CONVENE – LORD’S PRAYER – PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

6:04 p.m. ADOPTION OF AGENDA

6:06 p.m. CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION
St. Francis de Sales Boy Scout Troop 185

6:12 p.m. CONSENT AGENDA – Assistant City Clerk Kim Nichols
May 10, 2010 minutes

Resolution No. 1919 - accepting overtime reimbursement funding from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the Salisbury Police Department’s investigation and prosecution of violent firearms related criminal offenses

Resolution No. 1920 - accepting donations from various donors to be used to help build a dog park in the City Park

Resolution No. 1921 – accepting labor and materials from the Salisbury Zoo Commission for remodeling of the Education Animal Holding Building at the Salisbury Zoo

6:15 p.m. AWARD OF BIDS – Internal Services Director Pam Oland

6:35 p.m. PUBLIC HEARING – City Attorney Paul Wilber
Ordinance No. 2109 - approving a Service and Equipment Lease Agreement between the City of Salisbury and the Wicomico County Board of Elections

6:40 p.m. FY11 BUDGET – Council President Louise Smith
Ordinance No. 2107 - 2nd reading - adoption of FY11 Budget
Resolution No. 1911 - adoption of water and sewer rates

7:10 p.m. RESOLUTIONS – City Administrator John Pick

Resolution No. 1922 - adoption of the 2010 Salisbury Comprehensive Plan

Resolution No. 1923 - authorizing the Acting Chief of Police to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the Salisbury Police Department and the United States Marshals Service concerning the Salisbury and Wicomico County Warrant Fugitive Task Force

7:35 p.m. PUBLIC COMMENTS

7:15 p.m. ADJOURN

Four Years Ago Today












While the Eastern Shore mourned two Soldiers killed overseas, Corey Parker & Rick James, these nut jobs came in from Texas to protest their funeral in Seaford.

Soros-Funded Group Urges Media Run By Government

A George Soros-funded, Marxist-founded organization calling itself Free Press has published a study advocating the development of a "world class" government-run media system in the U.S.

A newly released book, meanwhile, documents Free Press has close ties to top Obama administration officials.

"The need has never been greater for a world-class public media system in America," begins a 48-page document, "New Public Media: A Plan for Action," by the far-left Free Press organization.

"Commercial media's economic tailspin has pushed public media to the center of the debate over the future of journalism and the media, presenting the greatest opportunity yet to reinvigorate and re-envision the modern U.S. public media system," argued the Free Press document, which was reviewed by WND.

The Free Press study urges the creation of a trust fund-– largely supported by new fees and taxes on advertising and the private media-– to jump start the founding of a massive government-run public media system that will ultimately become self-sufficient.

"We believe local news reporting should become one of public media's top priorities," said Free Press Managing Director Craig Aaron, one of the paper's co-authors.

"We should redeploy and redouble our resources to keep a watchful eye on the powerful and to reliably examine the vital issues that most Americans can't follow closely on their own," Aaron stated.

Free Press is a well-known advocate of government intervention in the Internet.

A new book, "The Manchurian President," documents the founder of the Free Press, Robert W. McChesney, is an avowed Marxist who has recommended capitalism be dismantled.

The book, subtitled "Barack Obama's ties to communists, socialists and other anti-American extremists," also documents the close ties between Free Press and leading Obama administration officials.

More here

Sestak Has ‘Moral Imperative’ To Answer Questions On White House Job Offer

Fresh off a win over incumbent Sen. Arlen Specter in the Pennsylvania Democratic primary, Rep. Joe Sestak is still obligated to answer questions about a job he says the White House offered him as an inducement not to run against Specter, a leading House Republican said.

“Could the reason why Congressman Joe Sestak refuses to name names is because the very people who tried to bribe him are now his benefactors?” Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) ranking member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, said in a statement Wednesday.

“For months, Sestak has repeatedly said without equivocation that the White House illegally offered him a federal job in exchange for dropping out of the race,” Issa said.

“Was Joe Sestak embellishing what really happened or does he have first-hand knowledge of the White House breaking the law? If what he said is the truth, Joe Sestak has a moral imperative to come forward and expose who within the Obama Administration tried to bribe him,” he added.

Sestak on Tuesday defeated the incumbent Republican-turned-Democrat Sen. Arlen Specter in the Democratic primary even though Specter had the support of President Barack Obama and most establishment Democrats.

In February, Sestak said that a White House official offered a high level administration job to drop out of the primary against Specter. If this is true, it could violate federal statutes dealing with bribery, or with interfering in a federal election.

Read more here

Thank God Its Friday

What Will You Be Doing This Weekend?

Caption This Photo


Bobby Brittingham Also Running For Sheriff In Worcester County

GO HERE to read his platform.

Tea Party Favorite Enters Race For Souder's Seat

Stutzman says he confronted Souder about rumors of infidelity years ago

GOSHEN, Ind.
- The Indiana state senator and tea party favorite who finished second in this month's Republican U.S. Senate primary announced Thursday he would seek the U.S. House seat of Mark Souder, who is resigning in the wake of revelations about his extramarital affair.

Marlin Stutzman, considered by many a front-runner for the Republican nomination for the northeastern Indiana seat after his strong showing in the Senate primary, entered the race two days after Souder's resignation announcement.

Stutzman said he confronted Souder about rumors of infidelity a couple of years ago and that the congressman denied them.

GO HERE to read more.

Gunman Gets Smashed In Robbery Attempt

Police in Virginia said they've arrested a man caught on surveillance video robbing the Mr. Fuel gas station in Caroline County.

On May 8, a man walked into the station. He began shooting at the cashier's feet when she failed to open the register.

Police say A 61-year-old man in the store at the time tried stopping the suspect, police said. He grabbed two bottles of beer and smashed them over the gunman's head.

GO HERE to read more.

Today's Nature Photo By Scott Phoebus


Loon Lodge, Maine

Dhimmitude And Draw Mohammed Day

I noted the other day that Internet jihadists were leaving death threat comments on the Facebook page of the “Draw Mohammed Day” organizer. Now, the Internet jihadi sympathizers are crowing this morning on Twitter about Facebook taking the DMD page down. As I write, the page appears to be back up. Who knows for how long. [Update 10:21pm: See Allahpundit for the latest shenanigans.]

If you’ve been reading this blog regularly for years, you know that dhimmitude at social networking and Web2.0 sites is nothing new. Nor is dhimmitude in the MSM or in higher education or in Washington. It’s the Achilles’ heel of Western civilization.

GO HERE to read more.

Soros-Funded Group Urges Media Run By Government

Marxist-led study has close ties to Obama White House officials


NEW YORK – A George Soros-funded, Marxist-founded organization calling itself Free Press has published a study advocating the development of a "world class" government-run media system in the U.S.

A newly released book, meanwhile, documents Free Press has close ties to top Obama administration officials.

"The need has never been greater for a world-class public media system in America," begins a 48-page document, "New Public Media: A Plan for Action," by the far-left Free Press organization.

"Commercial media's economic tailspin has pushed public media to the center of the debate over the future of journalism and the media, presenting the greatest opportunity yet to reinvigorate and re-envision the modern U.S. public media system," argued the Free Press document, which was reviewed by WND.

The hot new best-seller, "The Manchurian President," by Aaron Klein reveals the inside story on Team Obama and its members. Now available autographed at WND's Superstore!

The Free Press study urges the creation of a trust fund – largely supported by new fees and taxes on advertising and the private media – to jump start the founding of a massive government-run public media system that will ultimately become self-sufficient.

GO HERE to read more.

Your Taxes Next Year

This is part of the new Health Care Bill.

I contacted my Congressman about House bill HR3590 the health care bill Just passed. I asked for a summary of changes. The aid directed me to go to www: thomas.gov ; enter HR3590 in the search Box and look for summaries.

Starting in 2011 (next year folks) your W 2 tax form sent by your employer Will be increased to show the value of what ever health insurance you are Given by the company. It does not matter if that's a private concern or Governmental body of some sort. If you're retired ? So what; your gross will go up by the amount of insurance you get.

You will be required to pay taxes on a large sum of money that you have Never seen.

Take your tax form you just finished and see what $15,000 or $20,000 Additional gross does to your tax debt. That's what you'll pay next year. For many it also puts you into a new higher bracket so it's even worse.

This is how the government is going to buy insurance for 15 % that don't Have insurance and it's only part of the tax increases.

Not believing this I researched the summaries and here's what I'm reading:

On page 25 of 29 :

TITLE IX REVENUE PROVISIONS- SUBTITLE A: REVENUE OFFSET PROVISIONS-(sec ..
9001, as modified by sec. 10901) Sec.9002. "requires employers to include in the W-2 form of each employee The aggregate cost of applicable employer sponsored group health coverage
That is excludable from the employees gross income."

Joan Pryde is the senior tax editor for the Kiplinger letters. Go to Kiplingers and read about 13 tax changes that could affect you. Number 3 is What I just told you about.

Another Sad Day For The Guys In Blue

Police Officer Bill Evans
West Memphis Police Department
Arkansas
End of Watch: Thursday, May 20, 2010

Biographical Info
Age: Not available
Tour of Duty: 9 years
Badge Number: Not available

Incident Details
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: Thursday, May 20, 2010
Weapon Used: Gun; Unknown type
Suspect Info: Shot and killed

Police Officer Bill Evans and Police Officer Brandon Paudert were shot and killed during a vehicle stop.

Officer Evans and Officer Paudert were on Interstate-40 when they pulled over a vehicle with an out-of-state license plate. During the stop, the occupants of the vehicle opened fire. Both Officer Evans and Officer Paudert were fatally wounded in an exchange of gunfire.

The suspect fled, and were later located at a nearby store. They were shot and killed in a shootout with members of the Crittenden County Sheriff's Office, in which the County Sheriff and the Chief of Patrol were seriously wounded.

Officer Evans was a nine year veteran of the department and a member of the Drug Interdiction Unit. He was the nephew of the West Memphis Chief of Police. He is survived by his two children.

LOAD OF MARIJUANA FOUND DURING TRAFFIC STOP IN WORCESTER CO.


(Pocomoke, MD) – Two Virginia men are in custody today after a Maryland State Police traffic stop in Worcester County last night led to the recovery of 75 pounds of marijuana.

The two men arrested are identified as Darnell L. Kelley, 24, and Modis L. Chandler, 40, both of Newport News, VA. Both men are charged with possession of more than 50 pounds of marijuana, possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, and possession of marijuana. Both men are incarcerated in the Worcester County Detention Center on $100,000 bond each.

Shortly before 7:00 p.m. yesterday, a Maryland state trooper assigned to the Eastern Troop Special Enforcement Team stopped a 2010 Infinity for speeding southbound on Rt. 13 at Old Virginia Road, near Pocomoke. During this contact with the two men in the rental car, the trooper observed indications of criminal activity and requested that a drug dog team respond.

A State Police K-9 team from the Princess Anne Barracks responded and the drug dog gave a positive alert for the presence of drugs in the car. Two duffle bags were found in the trunk. The bags contained 75 pounds of marijuana. Both men were arrested.

Assistance during the subsequent investigation was provided by members of the Worcester County Narcotics Task Force. The investigation is continuing.

Saturday, 22 May Barbeque Rutledge Fundraiser

Please share this event with your family, associates and friends! Help us spread the word about our campaign to elect Jim Rutledge to the US Senate!
Bring the family to meet

Maryland's United States Senatorial Candidate

Jim Rutledge

at a
Pig Roast - Barbeque
Fundraiser
(Rain or Shine!)

Saturday, May 22, 2010

1:00 pm - 6:00 pm

32625 Spearin Road

Salisbury, MD 21804
(Head south from Salisbury on Snow Hill Road, turn left onto Spearin Road. It is the last farm on the right.)
*Meet other Republican Candidates running for various offices

*Horseshoes

*Wagon Rides (hayrides)
*Nature Walks
*BYOB
*4-wheelers welcome

Minimum suggested donation

$25 per individual

Children under 16 ~ free

Please R.S.V.P. (include the names of each person attending)

Contact Don Coffin at 410-860-2111 or e-mail

Donations can be made the afternoon of the event

OR

On line at Rutledge for US Senate
OR

Checks should be payable to and mailed to:

Rutledge for U.S. Senate

P.O. Box 263

Forest Hill, MD 21050

(Please indicate on check the donation is for the May 22th event)

Please forward this email onto interested friends and colleagues!

GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY TO ANNOUNCE PLAN, REGULATIONS TO ENHANCE OYSTER RESTORATION

ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Martin O’Malley will formally announce new proposed regulations aimed at restoring the Chesapeake Bay’s oyster population. The Governor will announce the next step in adopting Maryland’s Oyster Restoration and Aquaculture Development Plan, the submission of proposed regulations to the General Assembly’s Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive, and Legislative Review (AELR) for consideration.

For the last four months, the O’Malley-Brown Administration engaged with stakeholders, concerned citizens, and industry experts to develop a plan to restore the oyster population in the Chesapeake Bay, allowing the filtering benefits of oysters to help in the Bay’s clean-up efforts. Last month, Governor O’Malley announced that after new regulations were put in place, the Bay’s blue crab population rose to its highest levels since 1997.

EARLY RUNS DROP SHOREBIRDS IN GAME ONE OF SERIES, 10-6

Michael Ohlman Hits First Professional Homer

Salisbury, Md.
– The Hagerstown Suns plated nine runs in the first four innings and held on tight for a 10-6 win over the Delmarva Shorebirds at Perdue Stadium on Thursday night.

Hagerstown jumped on the board in the first. Francisco Soriano hit a lead off double and moved to third on a wild pitch by Tony Butler. He scored on a sacrifice fly to left field by Dan Lyons.

In the third, Justin Bloxom connected on a two-run single that scored both Soriano and Steven Souza to build the lead to 3-0.

The Suns scored five more runs in the fourth inning to take an 8-0 lead. The second, third and fourth hitters played a large role in the inning. Dan Lyons hit an RBI single, Steven Souza ripped a two-run double and Justin Bloxom delivered an RBI single.

After the Suns plated another run in the fifth inning, the ‘Birds began their comeback in the home half of the fifth. Michael Ohlman blasted his first professional home run to left field with one out. Two batters later, Gary Helmick drew a walk. Then, Ty Kelly smashed a double into right-center to plate Helmick.

In the sixth, the Shorebirds tacked on a run. Tyler Kolodny was hit by a pitch to open the frame. He moved to third on a double by Tyler Stampone. Two batters later, Michael Ohlman hit a sacrifice fly to right field to plate Kolodny.

Delmarva continued to climb back in the seventh inning. Helmick drew a lead off walk. Ty Kelly hit his second double of the night to put runners at second and third. Then, Brian Conley singled to plate Helmick, which cut the deficit to 10-4. Tyler Kolodny followed with an RBI single. Later, Mikey Planeta hit a sacrifice fly to right field to score the third run of the frame.

The Shorebirds ran out of steam in the final two innings. Jack McGeary earned the win in a starting role. In five innings, he allowed five hits and three runs. Tony Butler was pinned with the loss in 3.2 innings pitched.

The Shorebirds play a doubleheader on Friday night at Perdue Stadium. Game one will begin at 5:30 p.m.

Mike McDermott Fundraiser

Dear Fellow Patriot,

Our campaign for the House of Delegates is in full swing and growing daily. I have had many opportunities in the past months to bring our message of
Smaller, more efficient government;
Lower taxes, and a Business friendly environment;
Conservation that works for farmers, watermen, and the environment; and
Trusting that Marylander’s know what is best for their families.

The response has been tremendous! The people know what is at stake in this year’s election, and they are prepared to help and be engaged in campaigns that can make a difference. We have welcomed their outpouring of support with open arms.

On Thursday, June 17th, we will be hosting an evening of Italian Cuisine at the Ocean Pines Community Center. I am asking you to sponsor a table for this event. The cost is $200.00 which includes 10 tickets for you to sell or give to others.(Please see attachment).

I have concentrated on budget friendly events so everyone can get involved, but I need your help for this event to be a success. Your partnership in this campaign is the only way to insure that I will have the opportunity to serve you and this district in Annapolis.

Our shared eastern shore values deserve to be heard. Please help me as I work to be your strong voice in Annapolis!

With Warmest Regards,

electmikemcdermott.com

Mike