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Thursday, March 03, 2011

A State Of Financial Emergency?

Joe,

I know you get busy doing what you do for the blog everyday. I want you to know that some time ago you posted a video. I included a link to the video below.

http://www.stansberryresearch.com/pro/1011PSIENDVD/OPSIM305/PR

Although this is an attempt to market a product, he indicates that his financial predictions were accurate in the past even though others ridiculed his predictions. However it's important to note the following. When you posted this previously, the  U.S. dollar was the worlds reserve currency. This guy predicted that should that status change, fuel would immediately skyrocket. Sometime after you posted the video, nations around the world began engaging in dialogue designed to change the worlds reserve currency. Although no currency has been decided upon to replace the U.S. dollar as the worlds reserve currency, some nations have begun to use their own currency to deal with other countries who also refused to deal in U.S. dollars. Now look at whats happening. I recognize the fact that things in the middle east and Africa are unstable but this instability is suspect. Our dollar is falling away from being the worlds reserve currency and fuel is skyrocketing - just as the author of the video claimed it would. the price of food is skyrocketing as well. I bought cracked corn for my chickens 3 weeks ago and it was almot 9 dollars a bag - now its almost 12 dollars a bag. 73 cents each for nectarines. People had better get ready Joe.  This guy knows what he's talking about. Also, the things this guy predicted are not far at all from what we talked about happening.

My Personal Response To County Executive Rick Pollitt & Bennett Middle School

Forget the fact that the Citizens of Wicomico County have spoken, (time and time again) and our County Council heard our cries and respected the fact that we simply cannot afford this project, We the People have spoken.

The only person not listening is our County Executive. Why, because he was just re-elect and in 4 more years most of you will have forgotten his challenge today against the Council.

Let's look at some of the things Salisbury News has heard about this middle school. We've been told that Mr. Pollitt made an alleged agreement with the BOE if they were to take the upcoming $5 million hit in this budget, Pollitt would deliver Bennett Middle School. We believe this is the key reason we/you haven't heard the BOE screaming like little girls about so many millions of dollars taken away from them recently.

We've also been told that one of the maintenance workers at Bennett Middle School has allegedly stated they have been instructed to fix NOTHING! If a window gets broken, tape a piece of cardboard over the window, you know the rest of the drill. Make it look as if things are desperate. Do I believe it, absolutely!

So, what do I think is the solution to this problem. Well, it's very simple. Screw the politicians and screw the Board of Education. Listen very closely because this is going to be VERY hard for many to understand, especially in today's world.

ONLY build Schools that are Blue Ribbon Schools! I don't give a crap if the NAACP screams and yells that they're being discriminated against. LIFE is NOT about football scholarships and so forth.

PROVE you have what it takes to build a quality environment to TEACH.

PROVE you want EVERYONE to succeed.

As the grades improve, teachers AND students are rewarded, PERIOD!

Go drive to Pittsville and see their school. If there's ever been a school district who deserves  a new one, Pittsville does. My additional beef with this, their grades are far better than anyone else out there in the County. Delmar Elementary is another school that should get anything they want, because they've earned it.

Some say the County needs to concentrate on a Middle School, (and others) on the East side of the County. While Mr. Pollitt claims in his message that the County Council Members are playing POLITICS, do tell me what Mr. Pollitts message says. Is he not playing politics as well?

Finally, just imagine how well our children would be educated IF there was actually some kind of incentive involved. Oh, I know, tell a DEMOCRAT to actually WORK for something WITHOUT it being a GIFT instead, I must be crazy.

The County Council made a fiscally responsible decision and the Democrats are crying foul. Welcome to the DEPRESSION Democrats. Someone has to act responsible. Get Over it!

COUNTY EXECUTIVE POLLITT'S RESPONSE TO VOTE ON BENNETT MIDDLE SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION

County Executive’s statement on the decision of the County Council to eliminate the new Bennett Middle School Project from the Capital Improvement Budget

“I am deeply disappointed in the decision of the County Council to eliminate construction of  the new Bennett Middle School from the Capital Improvement Budget.  All of us appreciate the serious challenge before us in making this vital project affordable.  However, the council’s decision did not need to come at this time.  My staff and I have been working diligently with the Board of Education and others to identify new and innovative funding options such as lease/purchase and we have been carefully examining our budget opportunities for ways to fund the school project.

“I am further concerned that the council’s action will cost us millions of dollars in State funding and will lead to an even more expensive project down the road whenever they deem it is the right time. 

“There would be several opportunities later in the budget process during the year to pull the plug if we found we could not make the project work.  I said myself that when the time came to commit the necessary funds to build the school, if I didn’t think we could afford it, I would cancel the project myself. 

“The council’s vote at this early stage of the process sends the unfortunate message that our challenges overwhelm us and rather than fighting to confront them, we are simply going to throw up our hands and say, ‘We quit.’  Well, I don’t intend to quit.  The new middle school is long over-due and our community deserves our best efforts at seeing it through.  I strongly encourage our community to rally behind this cause and demand that their county government do better.”

Richard M. Pollitt, Jr.
Wicomico County Executive
March 3, 2011

Former Planned Parenthood Director Challenges Cecile Richards To Public Debate On Federal Funding

Abby Johnson, a former director for Planned Parenthood turned pro-life activist and author, is challenging Planned Parenthood President Cecile Richards to a public debate on whether Congress should continue to provide taxpayer funding to the nation’s largest abortion provider.

Johnson, who worked for eight years at Planned Parenthood’s Bryan, Texas clinic, said she could provide unique perspective “as a former insider who is now here to tell the truth about how Planned Parenthood operates.”

Johnson’s book, “Unplanned: The Dramatic True Story of a Former Planned Parenthood Leader's Eye-Opening Journey across the Life Line,” detailed her move from abortion rights advocate to pro-life activist. She witnessed an ultrasound-guided abortion, and it changed her life. "I was taking a new stand, beginning a new life," she said.

“For many years I was part of the deception that taxpayer funds don't finance abortions at Planned Parenthood clinics, the deception that Planned Parenthood wants to reduce the number of abortions, and the deception that Planned Parenthood's highest priority is women's health and safety. You continue to repeatedly perpetuate these deceptions and the public deserves to know the truth,” Johnson said in a letter to Richards on Monday.


There's more here

Fried Chicken & Fritter Carry Out

Fried Chicken & Fritter Carry Out
Bishopville Vol Fire Dept.
Friday, March 4  5:00pm -  till we run out or 7pm

Location
Bishopville Vol Fire Department
10709 Bishopville Road - Bishopville, MD 21813

Created By
BVFD 410.352.5757

More Info
Menu Items Include and are sold as combos or ala cart: 1/2 fired chicken, single fried oysters, single fried oyster sandwiches, pork barbecue sandwiches, homemade peas & dumplings, & french fries. Sodas & water avail for purchase. Event supports BVFD. Doors open @ 5pm and close when sold out or @ 7pm. Please help support our efforts.

Lincoln Man Arrested In Sexual Assault Of 8 Year Old Child

Location:
10000 block Heritage Road, Heritage Acres, Lincoln, DE

Date of Occurrence:
Wednesday, March 2, 2011, 7:53 p.m.

Victim:
8 year old victim

Defendant:
Guy K. Griffin-28, Lincoln, Delaware (Photo Attached)

Charges and Bond Information:

Rape 1st Degree (2 Counts)
Possession Of Deadly Weapon During The Commission Of Felony
Kidnapping 2nd Degree
Sexual Solicitation Of A Child (2 Counts)
Unlawful Sexual Contact 2nd Degree (2 Counts)
Possession of Deadly Weapon By Person Prohibited
Endangering the Welfare Of A Child (2 Counts)
Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon
Committed to Sussex Correctional Institution, $140,000.00 Cash Bond

Resume:
Lincoln-Delaware State Police Major Crimes Detectives have arrested and charged a 28 year old Lincoln, Delaware man in the missing child incident that occurred last evening, Wednesday, March 2, 2011.

Delaware State Police received a 911 call on Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at approximately 7:53 p.m. from the mother of the victim, that the victim left their residence at approximately 4:00 p.m. located in the 10000 block Heritage Road, with a known acquaintance of the mother, identified as Guy K. Griffin-28 who also has been staying at the residence. At approximately 5:45 p.m. she became concerned and attempted to locate and contact Griffin and the victim by cell phone and checking with neighbors. The mother became concerned when Griffin and the child had not returned home at approximately 7:53 p.m. and notified Delaware State Police.

Upon arrival at the residence, Troopers initiated the investigation and began a search for the child utilizing Troopers, Firefighters, and an aerial search by Delaware State Police Aviation Helicopter, Trooper 2. Due to circumstances of the disappearance, Delaware State Police activated an “AMBER ALERT” to aid in the search and recovery of the child.

At approximately 10:54 p.m. Griffin and the victim were located by searchers in an unlit area of the Heritage Acres development. When taken into custody, Griffin was found to be in possession of concealed pocketknife.

Investigation revealed that Griffin had taken the child to a wooded area, in the area of Ellendale, DE and engaged in inappropriate sexual acts with the child. Further investigation and interviews discovered that a similar incident with Griffin and the child had taken place in February 2011, also in a wooded area.

Detectives arrested and charged Guy K. Griffin with the above listed charges. Griffin was arraigned and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution in lieu of $140,000.00 Cash Bond.

Fruitland Police Dog (Bullet & Stab Proof Dog Safety Vest) Fundraiser

SALISBURY MD KENNEL CLUB
CHARITABLE TRUST, INC.
1ST ANNUAL DOG WALK
SATURDAY, APRIL 2, 2011
REGISTRATION 8A.M. TO 9:30 A.M. ~ WALK 9:30AM
SALISBURY MD KENNEL CLUB TRAINING CENTER
31663 WINTERPLACE PARKWAY, SALISBURY, MD
BENEFIT VEST-A-DOG
(Bullet & Stab Proof Dog Safety Vest)
FOR CITY OF FRUITLAND POLICE DOG
& OXYGEN MASKS FOR SMALL ANIMALS
FOR FIRE DEPTS IN THE TRI-COUNTY AREA


DOG WALK REGISTRATION FORM
NAME______________________________________________
ADDRESS___________________________________________
PHONE #______________________ E-MAIL____________________________
DOG & HANDLER $20.00 ~ ADDITIONAL DOGS $5.00 EACH
AMOUNT ENCLOSED_______________________________

Bring Day of Event or Mail by 3/20/11 to Bonnie Garris, 321 Cedar Dr., Salisbury, MD 21804
MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO SALISBURY MD KENNEL CLUB CHARITABLE TRUST
[Contributions are tax deductible IRS code 501(c)(3)]

In consideration of the furtherance of the Salisbury MD Kennel Charitable Trust, and of the Salisbury MD Kennel Club Charitable Trust permitting me and my dog(s) to participate in the SMKCCT Dog Walk, on behalf of myself, my heirs, executors, administrators and assigns, by submitting this form or participating in this event, I hereby waive and release any and all rights and claims for damages or injuries that I and my dog(s) might sustain while taking part in this event or as a result there of: the Salisbury MD Kennel Club Charitable Trust, Salisbury MD Kennel Club or any other person connected with the event. I give the Salisbury MD Kennel Club Charitable Trust and Salisbury MD Kennel Club permission to take photographs or video of myself and dog(s) at this event and use them on their websites, in print and in other media to promote the Salisbury MD Kennel Club Charitable Trust.

Signature Date
For Questions Contact: mailto:begtempest@aol.com

PLEDGE SHEET
SALISBURY MD KENNEL CLUB CHARITABLE TRUST, INC.
1ST ANNUAL DOG WALK ~ SATURDAY, APRIL 2, 2011

Benefit for a Bullet & Stab Proof Dog Safety Vest For City of Fruitland Police Dog and Oxygen Masks for Small Animals for Fire Departments in the Tri-County Area

NAME AMOUNT PAID
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
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PLEASE FEEL FREE TO MAKE ADDITIONAL COPIES

Mardela Hypnotist Performance Rescheduled To May 19

RESCHEDULED FOR MAY 19
Hypnotist Performs to Raise Funds
Mardela High School

The March 4 performance of hypnotist Jason Linett has been rescheduled for May 19. This event will be a fund-raiser for the Prom Committee at Mardela Middle and High School.

O'Malley Septic Curb Hits Roadblock

 
Prospects for Gov. Martin O'Malley's bid to restrict rural and suburban development on septic systems apppear dim this year with a key House leader expressing reservations, but the governor's press secretary maintains he's not giving up on trying to get his legislation passed this year.
 

House Panel Vote On Gay Marriage Unlikely Thursday

ANNAPOLIS, Md. - The chairman of Maryland's House Judiciary Committee says he will likely delay voting again on a bill to legalize same-sex marriage.

Delegate Joseph Vallario, D-Prince George's, said Thursday that his committee has a lengthy list of bills to hear and is not likely to have time for a vote on the high-profile bill.

Efforts to extend full marriage rights to same-sex couples stalled in the House this week after speeding through the Senate.

House leaders have had trouble finding support on the committee for the bill and have spent the last two days lobbying members.
 
"I don't know whether the votes are there or not, we'll wait and see," Vallario says.

More

Dem Rep Sheila Jackson Lee.. Queen Of The Hill

A lot of politicians give nicknames to their aides. George W. Bush famously referred to his attorney general, Alberto Gonzalez, as “Fredo.” Mitch Daniels, then head of the Office of Management and Budget, was known as “The Blade.” Barack Obama reportedly called Larry Summers, his chief economic advisor, “Dr. Kevorkian.”

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas also hands out nicknames to the people who work for her. The Houston Democrat addressed one of her employees as “you stupid mother***er.”

And not just once, but “constantly,” recalls the staffer, “like, all the time.”

Another Jackson Lee aide recounts the time her parents came to Washington to visit: “They were really excited to come to the congressional office. They’re small town people, so for them it was a huge deal. They were actually sitting in the main lobby waiting area….[Jackson Lee] came out screaming at me over a scheduling change. Called me a ’stupid idiot. Don’t be a moron, you foolish girl’ and actually did this in front of my parents, of all things.”

Yet another staffer remembers requesting a meeting early on in her tenure to ask how best to serve the congresswoman. Jackson Lee’s response: “What? What did you say to me? Who are you, the Congresswoman? You haven’t been elected. You don’t set up meetings with me! I tell you! You know what? You are the most unprofessional person I have ever met in my life.” With that, Jackson Lee hung up the phone.

According to the same staffer, Jackson Lee “would always say, ‘What am I a prostitute? Am I your prostitute? You can’t prostitute me.’”

Capitol Hill is famous for its demanding, insensitive bosses. Yet even by the harsh standards of Congress, Sheila Jackson Lee stands out. She may be the worst boss in Washington. “It’s like being an Iraq War veteran,” says someone who worked for her. Strangers may say, “‘oh I know what you’ve been through.’ No, you really don’t. Because until you’ve experienced it…. People don’t tell the worst of the stories, because they’re really unbelievable.”

For some, a job in Jackson Lee’s office proved not just emotionally but physically perilous. One staffer recalls a frank conversation with his doctor, who told him he needed to quit. “It’s your life or your job,” the doctor told him, warning that the stress and long hours were wreaking havoc on his body.

Only a few on staff fought back. One of Jackson Lee’s drivers became so frustrated with her abuse the person pulled the car over and demand she stop: “She’s screaming and swearing. ‘M.F.’ everything. Finally I slammed on the brakes and told her to get the hell out of my car. I’m like ‘I can’t drive with you like this. Either get out, or you can calm down.’ And she’s like ‘you need to go or get fired.’ I’m like, ‘that’s fine. But I’m either leaving without you or you can calm down,’” the staffer said.

Jackson Lee then threatened to call the police and claim she was being held hostage in the car. But she finally did calm down when the staffer called her bluff, offering to flag down a Capitol Police officer to explain the situation.

Read more

Caption This Photo

Obummer

SAPOA's Candidates

The landlords and SAPOA sent a clear message to their tenants as to who to vote for. Did YOU get one of these from another landlord? If so, please send a copy to alberoburtzo@wmconnect.com.

Here's The Rest Of The Numbers

Boda          29 votes
Cohen        51 votes
Dixon         24 votes
Dryden      24 votes
Ford           23 votes
Mitchell     21 votes
Spies           43 votes
Taylor        11 votes

Boda          438 total votes
Cohen        583 total votes
Dixon         299 total votes
Dryden      328 total votes
Ford           300 total votes
Mitchell     472 total votes
Spies          583 total votes
Taylor        161 total votes

New Castle Man Arrested In Attempted Carjacking

Location:  Boston Market, 300 University Plaza Shopping Center, Newark, DE
 
Date of Occurrence: Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at 7:55 p.m.
 
Victim:  22 year old Bear, DE female
 
Defendant:
 
-Neil D. David, 32, New Castle, DE
 
Charges:
 
-Carjacking 2nd Degree
-Offensive Touching
-Criminal Mischief
 
Resume:  
Newark- The Delaware State Police have arrested a New Castle man for the attempted carjacking of a Bear woman that occurred yesterday evening in Newark.
 
The incident occurred at approximately 7:55 p.m. as a Bear, DE woman was walking to her vehicle after leaving the Boston Market located in the University Plaza Shopping Center. As the victim began to enter her car, she was confronted by a male subject who then produced a lighter and demanded that the victim move over to the passenger seat of the car. When the victim refused, the suspect began choking the victim who then complied with his demands. The victim, however; fled out of the passenger side door and ran back into the Boston Market where she called 9-1-1. The victim was able to provide police with a description of the suspect who had fled the area.
 
A short time later, troopers responded to the Boscov’s Department store parking lot located at 361 W. Main Street (Christiana Town Center), Newark, in reference to a subject who had been observed by store loss prevention employees looking into the windows of vehicles parked in the lot. The store employees then responded to the parking lot and confronted the subject who attempted to flee on foot. However, the employees were able to detain him until troopers arrived. Troopers then observed that this subject matched the description of the suspect who had just committed the attempted carjacking at the Boston Market. The suspect was then relayed back to the Boston Market where he was positively identified by the victim.
 
Neil David was arrested and charged with one count each of Attempted Carjacking 2nd Degree, Offensive Touching, and Criminal Mischief. He was arraigned at JP Court 11 and then committed to the Howard Young Correctional Institute for lack of $2200.00 cash bail. The victim was not injured. 

Fruitland Police Department Press Release

DATE & TIME OF INCIDENT: February 28, 2011 @ 9:30 p.m.
TYPE OF INCIDENT: Possession of CDS
LOCATION OF INCIDENT: N. Division Street. Fruitland, Md.
VICTIM: State of Maryland
CASE NO.: 2011-217
ADDRESS:      

1. NAME OF PERSON CHARGED: RYAN MORRIS WARWICK
AGE OF PERSON CHARGED: 19
ADDRESS OF PERSON CHARGED: Porter Mill Road, Hebron, Md.
Charges: Possession of CDS, Possession of CDS Paraphernalia
Disposition: Remanded to custody of Central Booking, WCDC     

DATE & TIME OF ARREST: February 28, 2011 @ 9:30 p.m.     

PLEASE CONTACT OFFICER: between 8:30am hrs to 4:30pm hrs (If additional information is requested)

While on routine patrol, Fruitland officers observed a gold Ford Ranger travelling at what appeared to be a speed greater than the posted speed limit northbound on North Division Street. Upon stopping the vehicle the above named subject was identified as the operator and sole occupant. A strong odor of burnt marijuana was detected eminating from the vehicle. As a result of this observation, a K9 scan was initiated which resulted in CDS and CDS Paraphernalia being discovered.

State Highway

Dear Joe,
   
I own a small buisness on route 13.  And now repeatedly, when I attempt to open my store there has been some sort of "construction" on the highway in front of my buisness.  Today I could not even attempt to get into the one and only entrance to the 3 buisness in my building.  I drove over the curb, parked my truck and went down to converse with crew perdorming the work.  I asked them to please remove the cones that blocked my driveway and was told that I should call state highway because they set it up not the city of Salisbury.  I said no problem I'll contact the city police for obstructon.  Imediately his attitude changed and within minutes a crew of 8 highly trained men came to remove the 3 cones that blocked my driveway.  Why would he not just make the radio call himself?  Why was my driveway blocked at all?  I don't get how it takes 12 people to dig a hole on 13 with one shovel.

Somerset County Sheriff's Office Press Release

Jamal Francis Taylor of Crisfield, arrested 2-24-11 on a warrant regarding violation of probation. Taylor was later held on a $25,000 bond.
Jeremiah Ulysses Handy of Princess Anne, arrested 2-25-11 on a warrant regarding failing to register as a sex offender. Handy was later held without bond.
Caitlyn Sheree Dillard of Lancaster Pennsylvania, arrested 2-28-11 regarding driving on a suspended out of state drivers license. Dillard was released after signing citations. 
Juvenile arrested for assaulting teacher on 2-28-11. Deputies were called to the Washington High school regarding an assault. Deputies later learned that a male juvenile had assaulted a teacher. The student was arrested and charged with assault, and disturbing school functions. The student was later released to parents pending juvenile court actions. 
Two juvenile females arrested for fighting on 2-28-11. Deputies were called to the Washington High School regarding a fight between two female students. Both students were arrested and charged with second degree assault, and disturbing school functions. Both students were released to parents pending juvenile court actions. 
Robert Wayne Booher of Crisfield, arrested 3-1-11 on a warrant regarding failing to appear in court for child support. Booher was later held without bond. 
Jeremiah Ulysses Handy of Princess Anne, arrested 3-2-11 on a warrant regarding violation of probation. Handy was later held on an additional $50,000 bond. 
Michael Shane Somers Sr. of Princess Anne, arrested 3-2-11 on a warrant regarding failing to appear in court. Somers was later released after posting bond. 
Vernon Tawes Sterling of Salisbury, arrested 3-2-11 on a warrant regarding violation of probation. Sterling was later held without bond.

SALISBURY’S PRIMARY ELECTION – ANOTHER VIEW OF THE NUMBERS


The scorecard published by the election board on Tuesday, although accurate numerically, is misleading. It gives an itemized tally for each candidate’s percentage vote on primary day that is based on the total number of votes cast (2,938) rather than the actual number of voters who cast ballots ("cards"): 1,099 persons. Each voter could vote for up to 3 candidates -- so a total of 3,297 votes could have been cast – but not everyone voted for 3 (some "single shot" or "double shot" for just 1 or 2 candidates).

Because a voter could cast only one vote for a particular candidate, the number of votes received by a candidate represents the exact number of persons who voted for him or her (and, typically. for 2 others), and that number, divided by the total voters (1,099), establishes the percent thereof who supported that candidate. That percentage is much greater than the percentage, based on the total votes (2,938), listed on the board’s "unofficial" scorecard – here are the significantly greater percentages of the actual voters who supported each candidate (ranked in order of support):

49.1% -- Spies
48.4% -- Cohen
41.0% -- Mitchell
37.2% -- Boda*
27.7% -- Dryden*
25.2% -- Ford
25.0% -- Dixon*
13.6% -- Taylor

designates one of the candidates who are supported substantially by a small group of "super-donors" – see our earlier post about that group: http://sbynews.blogspot.com/2011/02/who-are-these-super-donors-in.html

Thus, for example, the lead that Tim Spies has over Muir Boda in actual voter support is about 12%, rather than the much smaller lead suggested on the board’s scorecard (4.5%). It is possible, albeit unlikely, that all (100%) of the voters who support Boda also support Spies, but it is impossible that more than 76% of those who support Spies also support Boda. And it is also possible that none of those who voted for one also voted for the other. This same analysis could be done for any pair of the candidates.

And it is interesting to run the data for a hypothetical even result, in which each of the 8 candidates receives the same share of the total votes cast, or 367 votes, which would represent support by about one-third (33.3%) of the actual voters. Only 4 candidates – Spies, Cohen, Mitchell and Boda (in that order) -- exceeded the "average" level of support.

Obviously, Mr. Spies and Ms Cohen garnered the highest level of support, no matter how you do the numbers, by a comfortable margin over the next highest, Ms. Mitchell, who also did better than expected. The three candidates supported by super-donors – Boda, Dryden and Dixon – did not meet expectations, possibly because of their manifest landlord support.

No doubt, in response, SAPOA will be much more aggressive as the general election approaches, if its exploits in the past several City elections are a reliable predictor.

Four Years Ago Today


It was four years ago today former Mayor Barrie Tilghman threatened a lawsuit against me. SHE LOST IN COURT.

The Dollar Will Be Wiped Out

Preparing for QE 3.

Baltic Dry Index. 1281 +19
LIR Gold Target by 2019: $30,000. Revised due to QE.
"The dollar will be wiped out."


Dr. Franz Pick

Once on quantitative easing it’s hard if not impossible to stop. Stopping brings on the very depression the policy was adopted in the first place to stop. Yesterday America’s top bankster appeared to confirm this sad fact. Below, helicopter Ben on the need for QE3. Stay long precious metals, we all know that this ends badly, we just don’t know when. It’s why insiders are selling out of stocks at unprecedented rates, and the bailed out banksters are all still busy looting the banks via outrageous bonuses. The googol bonuses are quickly converted from failing fiat currency into real estate, artworks, and tangible assets with intrinsic value.


"The fate of the nation and the fate of the currency are one and the same."


Dr. Franz Pick

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Detectives Investigate Stabbing At High School

Location:  A.I. DuPont High School, 50 Hillside Road, Wilmington, DE
 
Date of Occurrence:  Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at 12:40 p.m.
 
Victim:  14 year old Wilmington, DE male (student)
 
Defendant: 14 year old Hockessin, DE male (student)
 
Charges:
 
-Assault 2nd Degree
-Carrying a Concealed Dangerous Instrument
 
Resume:  
Wilmington- The Delaware State Police arrested a 14 year old A.I. DuPont High School student yesterday after he stabbed another student during an altercation at the school in Greenville yesterday afternoon.
 
The incident occurred in the boy’s locker room of the school at approximately 12:40 p.m. as the victim, a ninth grade student at the school, and the defendant, also a ninth grade student, were involved in a verbal altercation. During the altercation, the defendant lunged at the victim and stabbed him in the back with a pair of metal tweezers. The victim then began to chase the defendant, however; he was able to flee from the gym area. The victim was then escorted to the school nurse who then contacted EMS. The victim was then transported to the Christiana Hospital where he was treated and released with non life threatening injuries.
 
The defendant was arrested and charged with one count each of Assault 2nd Degree and Carrying a Concealed dangerous Instrument. He was arraigned at JP Court 11 and released after posting $500.00 secured bail.

Gas Prices Skyrocket

"Gasoline prices rose as much as 22 cents in the Washington area last week, as prices nationwide posted the biggest weekly increase in the last five years. Drivers are paying the price at the pump, heading into what could be a record-setting summer for gasoline costs."

Washington Examiner

Metrobus Drivers Carry Guns For Protection

WASHINGTON (WUSA) -- In past years, Metrobus operators have been spit on, cussed out, assaulted and threatened.

The bus operators' union has gathered the numbers for attacks on drivers in the past year and provided them to 9NEWS NOW.

There have been 59 passenger assaults against bus operators, 135 attempted assaults and 140 threats.

Leaders of the Amalgamated Transit Union say only about 40% of the assaults are reported because bus drivers are convinced Metro officials will do nothing about them.

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Holdouts Ready To Vote On Same-Sex Marriage

Two delegates had held up key House committee vote

A day after skipping a committee vote on same-sex marriage, two delegates said Wednesday that they are prepared to register their positions on the issue. But the House Judiciary Committee had no immediate plans to schedule a new vote.

Dels. Jill Carter and Tiffany Alston — two sponsors of the House bill — threw a wrench into what was to have been a majority vote on the committee to send the divisive issue to the full House of Delegates. The civil marriage proposal won Senate approval last week.

The two are critical votes: The marriage bill needs 12 votes to clear the committee, and exactly 12 delegates have signaled their support by co-sponsoring the legislation. If they approve the legislation, it would go to the entire 141-member chamber, where House leaders were anticipating a rocky floor debate.

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USPS Financial Rescue May Not Stop 'Death Spiral'

Postmaster General Pat Donahoe said he's ready to announce more RIFs and without legislative help USPS will face insolvency this year. Sen. Susan Collins introduced a bill to help solve some of the challenges the Postal Services faces.  

Lost Dog In Hebron UPDATE

Hi Joe,

We received a call last night from one of your readers.  Jake was found but had been hit by a car and passed away.  He lived a long, fun-filled life of chasing softballs.

I have been a reader of sbynews for years.  Thanks again for posting this. Without it, we wouldn't have been able to bring Jake home for a proper burial to cherish his memories.

Editors Notes: We are very sorry for your loss.


Hi Joe,

My brother's black lab ran off on Sunday night, Feb. 27th.  I have noticed others have good luck when writing to you so I thought I'd give it a try.  We can't find him anywhere.
The dog, Jake, is male and wriggled out of his collar so he is currently collarless. He has a small patch of white hair on his chin and another on his belly.

A Letter To The Editor

I wish I knew of this outlet a few days ago so I could warn others about Muir Boda since he ran for office.  I tried to get my letter published by the Daily Times, but he must be friends with somebody, since they refuse to publish it.

I was a former employee at the Wal-Mart where Muir Boda is a manager.  Let me say that he is the most unprofessional manager I have ever worked under.  Now I know some will deride me for not being smart enough to work anywhere else, but when you lose your jobs due to the economy, you will do what it takes to put food in your kids mouths.

I was (until a few days ago) an employee at Walmart of seven months. The management played favorites, to the extent of reversing a prior decision (which is part of company policy) so that a worthless employee can keep his job. However, the worst came for me last week. It was my off day (one of the few my fiance and I have together) when I was called into work…over thirty miles away. There were some rumors going around the store that I would finally be promoted to management, so I went into work. I was asked to sign a statement saying that I clocked in late (by one minute). I thought it was odd, but no big deal. I was then cornered by management and was demanded to explain why certain breaks were an extra few minutes, why I stopped to talk to associates (because we’re friends?), and who “the man in the Ford Explorer” (my fiance) was. They accused me of hanging around the store (I have no car, which they knew, so I had to wait for my fiancee to get off so I could get a ride). While being raked over the coals, I realized that even though we are being robbed blind by shoplifters, this Wal-Mart is watching their employees like hawks. They do not want us to be late at all, not make friends, and not even talk to other associates. After being reamed for half an hour, I was fired, and as an extra kick in the balls, I was placed on the “do not rehire” list, which has now officially screwed up my resume. And the wonderful people at Walmart pulled me in on my day off just so I wouldn’t be fired on company time. Joke is on them, though. I clocked in before I went in for my reaming and never clocked out.
What a bunch of jerks.

You can use my name if you want.  I'm going to go public with this!

Eleanor Green

In-State Tuition For Illegal Immigrant Children?

A fight is brewing in Maryland over allowing illegal immigrants to pay reduced in-state tuition as Montgomery and Prince George's senators introduce bills that others are trying to kill.

Both state Sen. Richard Madaleno, D-Wheaton, and Senator-elect Victor Ramirez, D-Cheverly, plan to file bills that would allow illegal immigrants who graduated from Maryland high schools and whose parents or guardians pay taxes to receive the in-state rate of $8,416. Currently, undocumented students admitted to the public University of Maryland system pay out-of-state tuition of $24,831.

"We're long past the time to pass this," said Madaleno, pointing to the state's large immigrant population. "We have young people who through no action on their part have been brought to this country; if they have succeeded to the point that they're able to gain admission to one of these four-year institutions, it makes sense to give these students an affordable rate."

The bill passed both houses in the General Assembly in 2003 but was vetoed by Republican Gov. Bob Ehrlich. In 2007, a similar bill passed in the House but was rejected in the Senate.

Immigration has been on the rise in the Maryland suburbs, with the number of Hispanic students in Montgomery County nearly tripling since 1992 and now comprising 23 percent of the K-12 public school system. In Prince George's County, the Hispanic student population has jumped five-fold to 20 percent of the public school district.

"We can't continue to put our heads in the sand and pretend we do not have qualified and capable students that unfortunately fall into this [illegal] category," Ramirez said.

But to other legislators, it's not a matter of academic ability.

Del. Pat McDonough, R-Baltimore Co., says he will "lead the fight" against any bills to reduce tuition for undocumented students.

"They shouldn't be here, whether it's their fault or not, and they shouldn't receive a benefit for being here," said McDonough, estimating that $990 million is spent educating illegal students in the K-12 system. "In a state with a budget problem, that's not supposed to happen."

Read more at the Washington Examiner

["...$990 million is spent educating illegal students in the K-12 system."   How much of that is being spent HERE? -- Editor]

Watchdog Group Warns Libya Stockpiled Mustard Gas

A watchdog group confirms that Libyan dictator Muammar Qaddafi has 10 tons of mustard gas stockpiled, and it is feared he may use it on opposition forces seeking to bring an end to his 41-year-old regime.

The group, The Organization for the Prohibition for Chemical Weapons, issued the warning on Sunday.

Former United Nations weapons inspector Tim Trevan confirmed the report on the American cable news network Fox News, saying the substance was actually “a very viscous liquid, rather than a gas, but it's called mustard gas popularly.”

He added that although Libya was “required to destroy these stocks … they still have about 9.5 tons they haven't destroyed yet.”

Trevan said the substance is being stored in a location about 600 kilometers south of Tripoli, and noted that it was not clear how or even if Qaddafi could manage to transport the poison to the capital.

More from INN

Dick Morris: End To Wisconsin Turmoil Near

Veteran political analyst and best-selling author Dick Morris says he sees an end in sight to the political turmoil that has gripped Wisconsin for weeks and that his new book – published this week – predicted and supports the governors’ revolution spreading across the United States, which is curtailing public-employee unions and promoting education reform.

“Once the [Wisconsin] governor has to actually start to layoff people, because the senators won’t come back and pass the cuts that are necessary – and refinance the bonds that are necessary to be refinanced – he will be able to stand up and say: ‘These are 100 people who have lost their jobs,’ because these guys [the senators] haven’t come back,” Morris. author of "Revolt! How to Defeat Obama and Repeal His Socialist Programs," said Wednesday on Fox News.

Host Bill O’Reilly asked Morris why Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker has not yet taken any such action.

“Because he doesn’t have to yet, if he starts doing it just because there is a threat, people will say: ‘You are just ratcheting this up.’ But when the numbers dictate that he has to, which will come in a few days, they are going to have to come back,” Morris said, adding that he sees the situation resolving itself next week and “he wins, they lose.”

“The important thing to understand about this, that nobody is talking about – and [Wisconsin Gov. Scott] Walker is not talking about – is he talks about ‘I only want wages on the table when I do collective bargaining,’” Morris said.

“Well, the other step he is sweeping off the table, is largely very popular education reforms, that the union is blocking, and if he restricts collective bargaining to wages and benefits, he can go ahead and implement [them]: like teacher-tenure reform; like if there are layoffs, laying them off in order of merit, not based on seniority; merit pay.

“In other words, he needs to say what he is for, that he is for those reforms rather than just what he is against,” he said.

Read more

First Call For impeachment By Member Of Congress

A Republican congressman has told a left-leaning blog that if there is collective support, he would favor the impeachment of Barack Obama over his decision to stop defending the federal Defense of Marriage Act.

Scott Keyes of ThinkProgress.org asked U.S. Rep. Trent Franks, R-Ariz.: "I know Newt Gingrich has came out (sic) and said if they don't reverse course here, we ought to be talking about possibly impeaching either Attorney General [Eric] Holder or even President Obama to try to get them to reverse course. Do you think that is something you would support?" Keyes asked.

Franks replied: "If it could gain the collective support, absolutely. I called for Eric Holder to repudiate the policy to try terrorists within our civil courts, or resign. So it just seems like that they have an uncanny ability to get it wrong on almost all fronts."

Keyes was referring to the announcement by Holder and Obama that they no longer would fulfill their official duties to defend the law of the United States when it came to the Defense of Marriage Act.

More here

Law Professor To Congress: Obama’s Failure To Enforce Immigration Law Is ‘Dereliction Of Duties'

A Vanderbilt University law professor told a House committee on Tuesday that President Barack Obama's failure to enforce federal immigration law is a "dereliction of duties" that puts Americans at risk.

“President Obama’s failure to enforce federal immigration laws raises the question of whether we are a nation of laws or a nation without the courage of its convictions,” Professor Carol Swain said in her opening remarks. “This dereliction of duties places our citizens at risk, and it damages our national sovereignty and standing in the world.”

The hearing before the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration Policy and Enforcement focused on the impact of illegal immigration on American workers and unemployment in the United States.

“The failure to enforce immigration laws means that American citizens are unprotected from a massive influx of people of foreign-born persons who have entered the country without authorization and have openly stolen jobs, goods, and opportunities from law-abiding American citizens,” Dr. Swain said.

Instead of enforcing federal immigration law, the Obama administration is thwarting state and local efforts to do so, she testified.

“Not only is the current presidential administration not adequately enforcing immigration laws, it has used the power of the federal government to fight states and localities (that) have made good faith efforts to assist the federal government in performing its constitutional duties to protect the citizenry against domestic and foreign threats.”

Dr. Swain said an estimated 8 million illegal aliens are holding jobs in the U.S. labor market while 14 million Americans remain unemployed. Millions more Americans have given up looking for work, she added.

More here

Latino Tea Party Leader Rips Conyers For Racial Politics

At a House hearing on immigration on Tuesday, Rep. John Conyers (D-Mich.) said the debate about the estimated 14 million illegal aliens in the United States is dividing the black and Latino communities. But one witness at the hearing said Mexican-Americans have nothing in common with people who have broken the law by being in the country illegally.

George Rodriguez, president of the San Antonio, Texas, Tea Party who formerly worked in the Reagan and George H. W. Bush administrations, objected to Conyers’ implication that Mexican-Americans have tensions with the black community over immigration issues.

“Mr. Conyers, with all due respect, one thing you said a few moments ago as far as abhorrence and the competition between people -- let me tell you what is really abhorrent -- that Hispanic Americans are classified in the same breath with illegal aliens,” Rodriguez said. “We are American citizens."

“We are born in this country and we honor this country,” said Rodriguez. Not distinguishing Mexican-Americans from illegal aliens is “unfair and discriminatory,” he added.

Rodriguez said in his opening statement that he was a third generation American whose father struggled to support the family by running a printing business. He said one of the greatest challenges faced by Mexican-Americans who lived in Texas towns along the Mexican border was the illegal aliens who came across the border to work for low wages.

“My father’s story is not unique, but rather typical of the experience most Mexican Americans have had in border towns,” Rodriguez said. “Even today, Mexican American, not just in border communities, but everywhere, will tell you that they do not want illegal aliens competing for their jobs in any form or fashion."

Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) was not present for all of the two-hour hearing, but her opening statement mirrored Conyers’ and blamed Republicans for blocking “comprehensive immigration reform.”

Waters concluded her remarks by rebuffing the witnesses.

“I wish I could stay to hear further from these witnesses but I really don’t think it’s worth it,” Waters said before leaving the room.

More

Treasury Drains $158.5 Billion From Its Cash Reserves

The net national debt increased by $63.7 billion in February—hitting $14.195 trillion ($14,194,764,339,462.64) at the end of the month--even as the Obama administration began draining the Treasury’s cash reserves in order to keep federal borrowing down and push back the date when the government will hit the statutory debt limit.

In October, at the beginning of fiscal year 2011, according to the Daily Treasury Report, the government's cash balance was $309.8 billion.

More details here

Obama ‘Saddened,’ ‘Outraged’ By Shooting Of Americans In Germany

President Barack Obama condemned on Wednesday the shooting of U.S. Air Force soldiers in Frankfurt, Germany, in which two were killed and two others were wounded. The gunman reportedly shouted the Arabic phrase “Allahu Akbar” (God is Great) as he fired upon the airmen who were on a transport bus.

“I am saddened, I am outraged by this attack that took the lives of two Americans and wounded two others,” Obama told reporters on Wednesday. “I think the American people are united in expressing our gratitude for the service of those who were lost. Michelle and I have their family and their friends in our thoughts and prayers. And we are praying for the speedy recovery of those who were injured.”

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Don’t Read This Story While Driving — It Might Soon Be Illegal

The Senate debate over whether people should be able to read their text messages while driving escalated Wednesday morning into a discussion of distracted driving of all types, what drivers can do in emergencies, and a backhanded affirmation of newspapers.

Continue Reading...

Doctor: 5-Second Rule Should Become 0-Second Rule

We've written many times about science's ongoing war on the 5-second rule. Despite evidence that you really shouldn't eat food you drop on the ground, only 20 percent of voters in our poll last year said they trash food that's taken the plunge.

More »

White House: More Women Are Educated Than Men, But Don't Get Paid As Much

In a mysterious inequity, American women earn about 75 percent of what their male counterparts make at all levels of education, according to a White House report that claims to be the first comprehensive federal evaluation of the status of women since 1963.

More »
On Whitehouse.gov today there's a post declaring that the government has a stupidly large amount of real estate that taxpayers are paying to maintain — but that it doesn't really need.

More »

USPS Delivers Letter... 66 Years Late

If you've ever lost a piece of mail through the USPS, this story might give you hope that your grandchildren might eventually find out what happened to it.

More »

How The Rich Soaked The Rest Of Us

How the rich soaked the rest of us: The astonishing story of the last few decades is a massive redistribution of wealth, as the rich have shifted the tax burden.

Over the last half-century, the richest Americans have shifted the burden of the federal individual income tax off themselves and onto everybody else. The three convenient and accurate Wikipedia graphs below show the details. The first graph compares the official tax rates paid by the top and bottom income earners. Note especially that from the end of the Second World War into the early 1960s, the highest income earners paid a tax rate over 90 percent for many years. Today, the top earners pay a rate of only 35 percent. Note, also, how the gap between the rates paid by the richest and the poorest has narrowed. If we take into account the many loopholes the rich can and do use far more than the poor, the gap narrows even more.

One conclusion is clear and obvious: the richest Americans have dramatically lowered their income tax burden since 1945, both absolutely and relative to the tax burdens of the middle income groups and the poor.

Michael Moore: People Still Have The Power (Video)


"This is a movement that is not going to stop," says filmmaker Michael Moore of the uprising in Madison, Wisconsin (and across the country--all 50 states held solidarity rallies this weekend). "I knew sooner or later people would say they've had enough."

More

Salisbury Police Department Press Releases

On March 1, 2011 at approximately 11:51 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Kmart Department Store on Tilghman Road for the report of a shoplifter. Upon arrival the officers met with store security who advised that store employees had observed the below listed suspect take clothing from the store without making any attempts at payment. The property was recovered from the suspect and returned to the store.

ARRESTED: Lisa Marie Hubbard, 21 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Theft (under $ 1,000)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201100007604

On March 1, 2011 at approximately 11:31 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police arrested the below listed suspect on an outstanding arrest warrant for an assault that occurred earlier the same day. On the day in question, officers had responded to the area of Buena Vista Avenue for the report of an assault. Upon arrival the officers met with an adult male victim who advised the officers that the below listed suspect had assaulted him and an adult female during a domestic type argument. The suspect had assaulted the female by choking her and refusing to let her leave the area. The male victim was struck in the facial area by the suspect. Neither victim required medical attention.

ARRESTED: Sidney Davion Jackson, 21 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Second degree assault (2 counts)
False imprisonment
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201100007605

There's 192 Countries That Exist In The World & We Give Foreign Aid To Over 150 Of Them!"

The Shot

K-9 Fundraiser

Attached are coupons for a Fruitland Police Department K-9 fund raiser event on March 5, 2011.   The event will be held at Uno’s Bar and Grill from 11 A.M. to 11 P.M.    Uno’s will donate up to 20% of the your tab if the attached Fund Raising Flyer is presented.  Please feel free to copy, forward and distribute to everyone. 

Click on image and then print.  

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS BRING BASKETBALL’S FIRST-EVER 4-POINT SHOT TO SALISBURY

COUNTY EXECUTIVE RICHARD M. POLLITT, JR. TO TAKE FIRST 4-POINT SHOT IN WICOMICO COUNTY
WITH ASSISTANCE OF HARLEM GLOBETROTTER “FLIGHT TIME” LANG

TIME:             
Thursday, March 3rd at 4:00 p.m.

PLACE:          
Pemberton Elementary School; 1300 Pemberton Drive Salisbury, MD 21801-2493

DETAILS:      
With the coaching of Harlem Globetrotter player “Flight Time” Lang (currently on the CBS show Amazing Race) and the cheering on by members of the Kids Klub after school program and the Stars program at Pemberton Elementary, County Executive Rick Pollitt will take Wicomico County’s first ever 4-point shot, the Globetrotters’ newest innovation to the game of basketball.

The 4-point shot is 35 feet from the basket and will make its official debut in Wicomico County when the Globetrotters play the infamous Washington Generals on Monday, March 14 at 7 p.m. at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center.

The Harlem Globetrotters, who have contributed more innovations to the game of basketball than any other team in history, have implemented the first-ever 4-point shot as part of all of its games on the team’s 2011 “4 Times the Fun” North American tour, the team’s record 85th season of touring.

Tickets, starting at $21.00, will be on sale http://www.wicomicociviccenter.org/, the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center box office, or by phone at 410-548-4911. Information on group and scout tickets can also be found at http://www.harlemglobetrotters.com/
                  
Media Policies: 
Media is encouraged to join us at Pemberton Elementary for Wicomico County’s first 4-Point Shot.  Video and photos are permitted. 

SALISBURY CITY COUNCIL AGENDA


MARCH 7, 2011
4:30 P.M.
COFERENCE ROOM 306
GOVERNMENT OFFICE BUILDING

4:30 p.m. Follow-up - Crime Free Lease Addendum

5:00 p.m. Budget amendments – Pam Oland/Teresa Gardner/Barbara Duncan amending FY11 General Fund Budget to appropriate additional funds to pay City’s unemployment costs amending FY11 Marina Fund Budget and FY11 General Fund Budget to appropriate additional funds to pay the projected cost of electricity usage during the remaining half of FY11 and to purchase electric meters for live-aboard customers to reduce excessive electricity usage and charges amending FY11 Street Lighting budgetary account and FY11 General Fund Budget to appropriate additional funds to pay the projected cost of lighting facilities maintenance and electricity usage during the remaining half of FY11 amending FY11 General Fund Budget to appropriate funds received from the recovery and recycling of brass shell casings at the Salisbury Police Range to purchase service weapons

5:45 p.m. Amending Section 15.24, Method of Service, of the Salisbury Municipal Code requiring owner of a vacant building, who is not domiciled in Wicomico County, to have a local designated agent who is a permanent resident of Wicomico County – Tom Stevenson

6:20 p.m. Amending Section 15.24, Accumulation of Rubbish Prohibited, of the Salisbury Municipal Code - adjustment of administrative fee – Tom Stevenson

6:55 p.m. Adding Section 8.09, Tree and Plant Trimming or Removal, to the Salisbury Municipal Code, to provide departmental authority to examine nuisance tree, shrub or other plant growth – Tom Stevenson

7:30 p.m. General discussion/upcoming agendas

The Council reserves the right to convene in Closed Session as permitted under the Annotated Code of Maryland 10-508(a)

YOUR CHILD CAN BE A STAR!

YOUR CHILD CAN BE A STAR!
Enjoy America’s best-loved, crowd pleasing basketball team, The Harlem Globetrotters at The Wicomico Youth and Civic Center March, 14 2011.
Join Magic 98.9 and Harlem Globetrotter Flight Time
DELMAR AUTO OUTLET
Route 13, Delmar, MD
Thursday, MARCH 3, 2011
4-6 PM
HOW TO WIN:  Bring your child (son or daughter) to the Delmar Auto Outlet on Thursday, March 3rd no later than 4:45 pm to sign up for our Dribble Contest. Bring your own ball and the best dribbler will be the Ball Boy / Girl at the game and will also win a family 4 pack of VIP tickets to the event.
Be sure to bring your camera and basketball, as Flight Time will be available for autographs and photos!

Read Across America

SALISBURY, MD---The Salisbury Jaycees hosts its fourth annual Read Across America event 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 5, at the Wicomico Public Library in downtown Salisbury.

The event features local celebrities reading their favorite children’s books, as well as coloring activities and a visit from Saul, the Salisbury Jaycees Bear. Guest readers include library director Tom Hehman, Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis and WBOC meteorologist Jennifer Walker. The first 75 children in attendance receive a free book.

Held in connection with Dr. Seuss’ birth week, Read Across America is a nationwide children’s literacy event sponsored by the National Education Association.

Admission is free and the public is invited. For more information call 410-749-0144, ext. 109, or visit the Salisbury Jaycees’ website at http://www.salisburyjc.com/.

STATE POLICE TEAM PULLS MAN FROM BURNING CAR ON I-70

(NEW MARKET, MD) – Some say ‘police are never there when you need them,’ but that was not the case last night when a state trooper and a cadet pulled a man from a burning car along I-70 in eastern Frederick County.

Shortly before 8:00 p.m. yesterday, Trooper First Class Joseph Romanchak of the Frederick Barrack was patrolling on eastbound I-70 near New Market. Riding with him was State Police Cadet Jeremy Blackburn, assigned to the West Friendship scale house of the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division.

TFC Romanchak and Cadet Blackburn spotted a car on the slow shoulder of westbound I-70 that appeared to be on fire. Immediately turning around and responding, the two found a 1997 Nissan Maxima stopped against the guardrail. Smoke and flames were billowing from the engine compartment of the car.

TFC Romanchak and Cadet Blackburn found the driver and sole occupant, a 46-year-old man from Carroll County, still inside the car. He appeared disoriented and it was not immediately known if he had been in a collision or suffered some type of medical emergency. The trooper and cadet removed the man from the burning vehicle and took him to a safe area. TFC Romanchak returned to the car and used his fire extinguisher to put out the flames.

Fire department units from Carroll County responded to the scene. The man was taken to Frederick Memorial Hospital.

TFC Romanchak and Cadet Blackburn were also taken to Frederick Memorial Hospital as a precaution, due to smoke inhalation. Both were treated and released.

The cause of the incident remains under investigation.