Obama Can Shut Down Internet For 4 Months Under New Emergency Powers

President Obama will be handed the power to shut down the Internet for at least four months without Congressional oversight if the Senate votes for the infamous Internet ‘kill switch’ bill, which was approved by a key Senate committee yesterday and now moves to the floor.

The Protecting Cyberspace as a National Asset Act, which is being pushed hard by Senator Joe Lieberman, would hand absolute power to the federal government to close down networks, and block incoming Internet traffic from certain countries under a declared national emergency.

Despite the Center for Democracy and Technology and 23 other privacy and technology organizations sending letters to Lieberman and other backers of the bill expressing concerns that the legislation could be used to stifle free speech, the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee passed in the bill in advance of a vote on the Senate floor.

In response to widespread criticism of the bill, language was added that would force the government to seek congressional approval to extend emergency measures beyond 120 days.

Still, this would hand Obama the authority to shut down the Internet on a whim without Congressional oversight or approval for a period of no less than four months.

Fears that the legislation is aimed at bringing the Internet under the regulatory power of the U.S. government in an offensive against free speech were heightened further on Sunday, when Lieberman revealed that the plan was to mimic China’s policies of policing the web with censorship and coercion.

“Right now China, the government, can disconnect parts of its Internet in case of war and we need to have that here too,” Lieberman said.

While media and public attention is overwhelmingly focused on the BP oil spill, the establishment is quietly preparing the framework that will allow Obama, or indeed any President who follows him, to bring down a technological iron curtain that will give the government a foot in the door on seizing complete control over the Internet.

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Scott Brown Could Scuttle Financial Reform Bill

President Barack Obama's efforts to win final approval of a historic financial regulatory reform bill looked more complicated on Saturday after a Republican senator threatened to oppose it.

"I was surprised and extremely disappointed to hear that $18 billion in new assessments and fees were added in the wee hours of the morning by the conference committee," Massachusetts Senator Scott Brown said.

He issued the statement after negotiators from the Senate and House of Representatives emerged from a marathon session early Friday morning with a final compromise on a bill that would bring about the most sweeping financial rules revamp since the 1930s.

The legislation would set up a new financial consumer watchdog, create a protocol for dismantling troubled financial firms and mandate higher bank capital standards -- all in an effort to avoid a repeat of the 2007-2009 credit crisis that hammered the economy and triggered taxpayer bailouts of floundering firms.

"While I'm still reviewing the bill's details, these provisions were not in the Senate version of the bill which I previously supported ... I've said repeatedly that I cannot support any bill that raises tax," Brown said.

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Iran Is Surrounded By US Troops In 10 Countries

Iran literally is surrounded by American troops, notes an oil market analyst, Energy and Capital editor Christian A. DeHaemer. There is no evidence of an imminent attack, but he connects a number of recent events and the presence of American soldiers to warn that oil prices might soar -- with or without a pre-emptive strike aimed at stopping Iran’s nuclear power ambitions.

Iran is bordered on the east by Pakistan and Afghanistan, where U.S. troops have been waging a costly war, in terms of money and lives, against Taliban, Al-Qaeda and other terrorists.

The Persian Gulf is on Iran’s southern border, and last week’s report, confirmed by the Pentagon, that 11 warships had sailed through the Suez Canal, raised alarm bells that the U.S. is ready to fight to keep the Persian Gulf open.

Iran has threatened it could close the waterway, where 40 percent of the world’s oil flows in tankers, if the United Nations or the United States by itself carry out harsh energy sanctions against the Islamic Republic. An Israeli ship has also reportedly joined the U.S. armada.

Kuwait, which is heavily armed by the U.S. and is home to American bases, is located on the southwestern border of Iran. The country’s western neighbors are Turkey and Iraq, also home to American bases, and Turkmenistan, the Caspian Sea and Azerbaijan are the Islamic Republic’s northern neighbors.

The U.S.army last year advanced military cooperation with Turkmenistan. An independent Caspian news agency has confirmed unusually heavy activity of American troops along the border with Iran. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards' Brigadier General Mehdi Moini said last week that his forces increased patrols, including tanks and anti-aircraft units, along the border with Azerbaijan because they noticed increased American activity. Iran charged that Israeli forces were also present, sparking a virtual war alert among the Iranian Guards.

In addition, the Times of London reported earlier this month that Saudi Arabia has agreed to open its air space for Israel Air Force jets, a claim that the Saudi monarchy denied. It similar denied Iranian news agency claims that Israeli helicopters unloaded military equipment at a northwestern Saudi Arabian air base, from where Israeli planes theoretically could reach Iran in the shortest possible time.

There's more here

Caption This Photo

Conflicting Reports On Iran Flotilla Ship

Conflicting reports about whether or not Iran will be sending a ship with humanitarian aid to attempt to break the Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip were given by officials from Teheran on Sunday.

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Arab Affairs Reza Shibani said Sunday that Iran will send a ship with humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, denying reports that the Iranian flotilla had been canceled, Israel Radio reported.

Shibani said that the timing of the flotilla leaving from his country will depend on when various other flotillas are planning to set sail for Gaza.

He added that Teheran asked Egypt if they would allow Iran to send humanitarian aid to Gaza through the air and is awaiting a reply.

The Iranian Red Crescent announced earlier on Sunday that the aid ship it intended to send to Gaza will be postponed after Egypt refused to allow any vessels belonging to the Iranian organization from entering the Suez Canal.

"The ship's departure has been postponed because of more restrictions imposed by the Zionist occupying regime on the movement of aid to Gaza and prevention of the ship from using the Suez Canal," the Iranian Red Crescent said in a statement sent to AFP.

On Saturday another Iranian lawmaker said that the Islamic Republic would not be sending a blockade-busting ship to Gaza , citing Israeli "restrictions."

Mahmoud Ahmadi Bighash told the semiofficial ISNA news agency that instead of sending a ship, an Iranian delegation of lawmakers would travel to Lebanon and sail on one of the aid ships expected to head to Gaza from there.

More here

Theft Last Friday At United Refrigeration

Mr Albero,

At about approximately 11am today, United Refrigeration on Eastern Shore Dr had 4 units taken out of their parking lot. The employee was loading units onto a truck to make a delivery, he went inside for no more than 10 minutes, when the employee returned to finish loading the truck the units were gone.

A customer in the store said he saw a white van (long version) with windows in the lot loading equipment.(which is not un-common).

The suspect was described as a tall, thin, white male, approx 50 yrs of age.

Employees believe this man was the same person they found roaming aroung in the store just this week.

United believes they possibly may have had more equipment stolen at this time

V-J Day: 1945

Edith Shain, who claimed to be the nurse kissed by a sailor in Life magazine’s memorable photograph of V-J Day in Times Square on Aug. 14, 1945, died last week at age 91.

“The happiness was indescribable,” Mrs. Shain later recalled, and the joy over Japan’s surrender, captured in that one image by the renowned photographer Alfred Eisenstaedt, swept across the city. “Restraint was thrown to the four winds,” The New York Times reported the next day. New Year's Eve celebrations paled into insignificance. ... In the Times Square area particularly, crowds in bars were four and five deep with servicemen — principally sailors — predominating.” At one dinner club, the Zanzibar, “patrons climbed on tables and shouted and screamed. ...Pandemonium took over.”

Next President Elected By Just 15% Of Voters

A four-year-old effort that effectively would turn the Electoral College out to pasture in the United States by arranging a direct vote of president by the people is gaining strength, and is poised to claim support from states that control 106 of the 270 votes now needed to claim the Oval Office.

The total might be even higher already.

But that has a number of analysts alarmed, including author Tara Ross, who has written in opposition to the concept of a direct national vote for president at the Save Our States.com website.

"Eliminating the Electoral College would probably mean at least two things: Elections will become easier to steal and the two-party system will be undermined. So it follows that two types of political parties would benefit the most: Those that don't mind stealing elections and third parties," she wrote.

The California-based National Popular Vote has been working since about 2006 on its plan that would assign Electoral College votes to the presidential candidate who has captured the most individual votes in a presidential election nationwide – no matter who has won in an individual state.

The Electoral College system now assigns votes by the state – or in a couple of cases by the congressional district – based on the popular vote in that state or district. This is the circumstance that gave George W. Bush the presidency in 2000 even though Al Gore collected more popular votes.

It is being promoted in state legislatures – it has been introduced in all 50 – as a compact among the states in which legislators commit their state's votes to the popular vote winner as soon as there are enough states to guarantee a victor with 270 ElectoralCollege votes.

So far, Hawaii, with 4 votes; New Jersey, 15; Illinois, 20; Maryland, 10; and Washington, 11; have made commitments. As of now, there are active bills that could put another three states in that camp: New York, 31; Massachusetts, 12; and Delaware, 3.

That would total 106 of the needed 270 Electoral College votes.

Spokesman Barry Fadem told WND the move would help small states and other "flyover" regions where political candidates don't usually campaign because a vote is a vote wherever, and advertising and such would be less expensive in rural areas.

He said the compact among the states is perfectly legitimate because the Founding Fathers gave to the state legislatures the responsibility to determine the allocation of Electoral College votes.

"Why would a presidential candidate campaign in Hawaii or Alaska? The reason is because every vote would count," he said.

However, Ross, who has written, "Enlightened Democracy: The Case for the Electoral College," said in a National Review analysis that the campaign is coming "startlingly close to success even as most Americans remain completely unaware that the presidential-election process is so close to being turned on its head."

Read more about this

Today's Nature Photo By Scott Phoebus

Dem Lawmakers Feel The Heat On Border Security

As the White House bolsters security along the U.S.-Mexico border while declaring that the region has never been safer, Democratic lawmakers are demanding further action, saying that they are feeling the heat from dissatisfied voters.

Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano this week laid out several new initiatives aimed at strengthening the federal government’s partnership with local law enforcement, and President Barack Obama requested $600 million in emergency border funds from Congress.

The money will go toward supporting an additional 1,200 Border Patrol agents as well as launching two aerial surveillance drones.

But Arizona Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D) pointed to recent drug cartel threats against local law enforcement officials in her home state as evidence that the ongoing drug cartels are escalating the levels of violence along the border. If the U.S. fails to tighten border security, it could pay the price, said Kirkpatrick -- one of roughly a dozen lawmakers who, over the July Fourth recess, will likely face voters who are not satisfied with the status quo.

“With the drug war in Mexico burning hotter than ever and our citizens being targeted more and more, the risks to law enforcement and to our communities are unmistakably growing,” said Kirkpatrick.

“The cartels have shown an increasing level of violence and brutality. We should act now, before that violence crosses our borders, instead of waiting for it to come to us.”

Several other Democratic lawmakers representing districts along the U.S.-Mexico border have told The Hill that more violent episodes, such as the recent killing of a Mexican teenager by a U.S. Border Patrol officer, can be expected as the region’s law enforcement is heightened.

Meanwhile, Rep. Sue Myrick (R-N.C.) wrote a letter to Napolitano last week asking her to look into possible ties between Central and South American drug cartels – especially those along the U.S.-Mexico border – with the Iranian-backed Hezbollah, which is designated a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S.

Myrick said there is an increasing amount of evidence that supports the theory that Hezbollah may have a significant amount of influence along the border, which could result in Middle-East style car bombings.

Here is more

Flooding In Ireland

If this doesn't tug at your heart strings nothing will.

We've all seen the faces of those ravaged by the floods of Sri Lanka and New Orleans ... and recently even in Nashville.

This "award-winning" photograph of the recent flood waters rising in Ireland captures the horror and suffering there.

Keep these people in your thoughts and prayers.

Border Patrol Boycotting Arizona?

By: Alan Yarborough

The U.S. Border Patrol and the Department of Education cancelled conferences in the state of Arizona over the controversy surrounding the state’s immigration law. The federal agencies seem to be joining a growing list of entities, from cities to gay rights organizations, that are boycotting the state of Arizona for passing its controversial immigration enforcement bill.

President Obama has expressed a desire to strengthen border security along the nation’s southern border, and earlier this week acted on the desire by throwing money at the Border Patrol.

Arizona passed the immigration reform to make up for the federal government’s incompetence to secure the border and protect American citizens. So now federal agencies are boycotting the state because they passed legislation that actually took steps towards solving a national security issue the federal government itself is incapable of solving.

Even U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, an Arizona Democrat opposed to the immigration law, finds the recent actions taken by the U.S. Border Patrol and the Department of Education appalling:

“It is very troubling when the federal government becomes involved in a boycott against our state,” said Giffords in a statement. “Although I personally disagree with the immigration law, it came about because of growing frustration over the federal government’s unwillingness to secure the border. The federal government’s participation in this boycott only adds to that frustration.”

The Border Patrol has almost a one quarter of its agents in Arizona, or a little over 4,000 agents.Read more at the Washington Examiner:

http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/blogs/beltway-confidential/Federal-agencies-boycotting-Arizona-97190169.html#ixzz0s99rUu9G

Russian Navy Commandos Capture Somali Pirates

This is part of the videotape showing Russian Navy commandos on a Somalia pirate ship. You may remember that the pirates captured a Russian oil tanker. The EuroUnion navy that patrols these waters could not interfere because there could be casualties.

All explanations are in Russian and, with a single exception when a wounded pirate tells something in English, all conversations are between the commandos, in Russian. If you don't understand Russian, the pictures speak for themselves.

http://true- turtle.livejourn al.com/85315. html

The soldiers freed their compatriots, moved all the pirates to their own (pirate) ship, searched the pirate ship for weapons and explosives, and took seven Somalia pirates. Then they left the ship and exploded it with all remaining pirates on it.

The commandos sank the majority of the pirates without any court proceedings, lawyers, etc. That is, they used the anti-piracy laws of the 18th and the 19th centuries.

The captain of the rescuing ship has the right to decide what to do with the pirates. Usually, they were hanged.

I would think from now on the Russian ships will not be targets...

NO MIRANDA ISSUES HERE.

THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON ONCE SAID---"THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR COLD STEEL".

MSP Press Release

DATE & TIME: 6/26/10 @ 1130pm C C. CARD NUMBER: 1054-005877
LOCATION: XXXX Burnt Branch Rd, Salisbury, Wicomico Cnty, Md

BRIEF RESUME:
On 6/27/10, at approximately 0228hrs, a report was received of an assault at the above location. The complainant/victim advised that she was involved in a verbal altercation with her girlfriend at her place of residence. The victim further advised that her girlfriend retrieved a knife from the kitchen area and followed her to the bathroom. The victim also stated that the girlfriend attempted to push open the door and to threaten her with the knife. There were no reported injuries.

Arrested:
Juvenile, B/F, 15 YOA, Salisbury, MD
Charges: 1st Degree Assault, Second Degree Assault, Reckless Endangerment.

TROOPERS CHARGE 4 WITH CDS FOLLOWING PROPERTY DAMAGE CRASH

On June 26, 2010 at 0657 hours, Troopers from the Salisbury Barrack of the Maryland State Police responded to the intersection of Rt. 50 and Walston Switch Road in Salisbury for a property damage crash. Upon arrival, Troopers learned that a 2004 Chrysler SUV with PA registration was west on Rt. 50 and failed to stop for the red signal at Walston Switch Road. The Chrysler collided with a 2005 Toyota Camry operated by Joseph Long, 54, of Parsonsburg. The collision caused the Camry to spin out of control and strike a 1993 Mercury Tracer operated by Kim Jackson, 52, of Salisbury. No injuries were reported at the time of the crash. During the investigation Troopers noticed the odor of burning MARIHUANA coming from the Chrysler and its four occupants. Troopers arrested the driver of the Chrysler, Ryan Lerner, 21, of Ford City PA, along with passengers Amber Snyder, 20, of Ford City PA., a 17 year old male juvenile and a 15 year old male juvenile, both also from PA. All four subjects were charged with several counts of possession of MARIHUANA and possession of drug paraphernalia. Several smoking devices and a small baggie of marihuana were found inside of the vehicle. The adults are awaiting a hearing with the Wicomico County District Court Commissioner while the juveniles are to be released to the custody of their parents.

Drinking In 1968

Picked up from This Day in Delaware History

Today in 1968 Tavern patrons were permitted to stand up to a bar and drink due to legislation signed by Governor Terry.

This Day in Delaware History facts were compiled by historian Roger Martin and brought to you by the Delaware Public Archives

For those of us old enough to remember in the 1960's Delaware had a number of odd laws concerning drinking in taverns, compared to Maryland. I can remember the bar stools had to be screwed to the floor and if you decided to move from the bar to a table you couldn't pick up your drink and just go, the waitress had to carry the drink over to the table for you.

Start Your Day Off With This

Another winner from:

Britain's Got Talent 2010

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49cU7gtPIzM

BLUECLAWS SECURE SERIES WITH 4-2 GAME FOUR VICTORY

Justin Dalles Hits RBI Double In Return to Club

Salisbury, Md. – Lakewood scored three early runs and relied on solid pitching performances to top the Shorebirds, 4-2, on Sunday night at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium. The BlueClaws wrap away the series win.

The Lakewood BlueClaws plated the first run of the game in the top of the first. Jonathan Villar hit a one out double. Leandro Castro then singled to put runners at first and third. Then, with Jonathan Singleton batting, Jesse Beal was charged with a balk to plate Villar.

The Shorebirds knotted the game at one apiece in the second inning. Levi Carolus blasted a Matt Way changeup over the left field wall. It was his second home run of the season.

In the third Lakewood took the lead for good. Jonathan Villar hit a one out double. Then, two batters later, Jonathan Singleton cracked a double into left-center field to give the ‘Claws a 2-1 edge.

Lakewood extended their lead in the fourth inning. Brian Gump connected on a lead off triple off the base of the wall in center field. The next batter, Anthony Hewitt, hit a sharp grounder back into center field to pad the lead to 3-1.

The Shorebirds pushed within a run in the seventh inning. Garabez Rosa hit a one out single. Then, Justin Dalles, who played in his first game since May 5, blasted a double to deep center field to score Rosa from first.

Lakewood added cushion in the ninth inning courtesy of a Singleton long ball to right field.

Lakewood starter Matt Way picked up the win in six strong innings. He allowed a mere two hits and one run. Jordan Ellis earned his eighth save of the season in two scoreless frames.

‘Birds starter Jesse Beal was saddled with the loss in seven strong frames. He surrendered eight hits and three runs.

The Shorebirds are back in action on Monday night at 7:05 p.m. RHP Bobby Bundy will make the start for Delmarva.

Salisbury Police Department Homicide Press Release

On June 28, 2010 at approximately 12:01 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the area of West Main St. and Catherine Street for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival the officers observed an adult male victim lying in a grassy area near the intersection.

The victim was transported to the Peninsula Regional Medical Center by Salisbury Fire Department Emergency Services and later died from his injuries. The victim has been identified as 37 year old Jackie Dwayne Hopkins of Georgetown, Delaware.

Witnesses to the incident advised detectives that the victim was attempting to enter his vehicle when he was approached by two (2) suspects. One of the suspects produced a handgun and fired at the victim, striking the victim. The victim then fled a short distance before collapsing to the ground. The motive for the shooting is unknown at this time. The suspects were described as:
Black male, dark skin, short, medium build, wearing dark Clothing Black male, dark skin.

The Salisbury Police has received assistance in this investigation from the Wicomico Bureau of Investigation, the Maryland State Police and the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office.

If anyone has any information regarding this incident they are asked to contact the Salisbury Police at 410-548-3165. Information may be submitted anonymously.
CC # 201000025879

A Comment From Worcester County States Attorney Joel Todd

I want the citizens of our great Eastern Shore to know that there was so much more to Sam Vincent than just being a prosecutor. Sam Vincent was one of the most decent and honorable people I have ever known and we were friends for nearly 40 years.

We met through an organization called the Order of DeMolay, a group that teaches the virtues of brotherly love, reverence for sacred things, courtesy, comradeship, fidelity, and patriotism. In both his personal life and his professional life Sam lived by those virtues on a daily basis.

As an adult, Sam continued as a DeMolay advisor to a generation of young men in Worcester and Wicomico counties. My own three sons called him “Dad Sam” and he was a father figure to many other young men he advised over the years.

Sam was a Past Master of Wicomico Masonic Lodge in Salisbury and was proud of his work with that organization. He was actively involved in the Methodist Church in his community, and truly loved the fellowship there. He was a devoted husband, son and brother.

For over 20 years Sam mentored young prosecutors, guiding and teaching them. He served one term as an at-large member of the Maryland State's Attorneys Association, a position normally reserved for a prosecutor from one of Maryland's metropolitan counties.

There is no doubt that Sam was a skilled and respected prosecutor, but everyone should know that he was first and foremost great man and an honorable human being. I will truly miss him and I feel blessed to know he was my friend.

May God bless his mother, wife and brother during these horrible days.

Joel Todd
Worcester County State's Attorney

More Animals Up For Adoption

This Time It's Kittens.

Let's Clear The Air Righth Here And Now!!!!!!

"Joe, I just received an email from a friend in Salisbury and he said that gossip is running rampant in Salisbury that Ruark had something to do with Sam's accident. Sounds completely ridiculous to me. Have you heard anything?? "

Now look Folks, I have been receiving some of the dumbest phone calls and e-mail messages, let's cut out the BS right here and now.

Sam Vincent was in a very unfortunate accident and lost his life. No matter what has been said and done recently, Davis Ruark loved Sam Vincent like a Brother. Like Brothers, they had their differences recently but PLEASE!

Each and every one of you spreading such rumors needs to cut it out right now. This was an unfortunate accident.

We Have A New Animal Up For Adoption

This time it's a DOG.

SHOREBIRDS GAME NOTES: 6/27 vs. LAKEWOOD

TONIGHT’S GAME BEGINS AT 5:05 PM. ALL SUNDAY GAMES WILL BEGIN AT 5:05 PM FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE SEASON EXCEPT JULY 4TH (6:05 PM).

PREVIEW: The Shorebirds look to knot the series at two games apiece in game four against the BlueClaws. Kenny Moreland finished with nine strikeouts last night to earn his fourth consecutive win. Steve Bumbry paced the Shorebirds offensive punch with four RBIs.

BEST MONTH?: A win tonight would give the Shorebirds their 12th win in June, tied with April for the most in a month this season. The Shorebirds went 12-10 in April and 10-20 in May. The ‘Birds are 11-10 in June.

WALK LEADERS: The Shorebirds lead the South Atlantic League in walks (252). Lexington is second in the league with 251. Conley is second in the league (52) while Kelly is fifth in the SAL (37).

SECOND HALF HISTORY: Here are the Shorebirds records in the second half since 2005: 30-37 (2009), 40-30 (2008), 34-35 (2007), 27-42 (2006), 42-27 (2005), 34-35 (2004). The ‘Birds won the second half crown in 2005. The ‘Birds are one game over .500 since the 2004 season in the second half (207-206).

THREE STRAIGHT: The Shorebirds have won three straight home series’ at Perdue Stadium over Hagerstown (3-1), Kannapolis (3-0) and Lexington (3-1).

SIX-GAMER: Tyler Townsend has recorded a hit in all six games that he has appeared in this season. The current hit streak is the longest of his career.

TIED FOR FIRST IN SAL: Tyler Townsend is tied for first in the South Atlantic in hit-by-pitches with Cesar Puello of Savannah (11). The single-season Shorebirds record is 17, owned by Tyler Kolodny (2009) and Kieron Pope (2008). Stampone is on pace to shatter the mark.

CAREER HIGH FOUR RBI’S: For this first time in his career, Steve Bumbry recorded four RBIs in a single game. His previous high was three, accomplished on May 29 against Lakewood.

50 PERCENT OF RUNNERS: Luis Bernardo is throwing out 50 percent of base runners this season. He has caught 18 runners in 36 chances.

MOST DOUBLE PLAYS: Garabez Rosa has been involved in 41 double plays this season, most in the South Atlantic League.

More People Are Seeing The Light

Conservatives have maintained their leading position among U.S. ideological groups in the first half of 2010. Gallup finds 42% of Americans describing themselves as either very conservative or conservative. This is up slightly from the 40% seen for all of 2009 and contrasts with the 20% calling themselves liberal or very liberal.

The 2010 results are based on eight Gallup and USA Today/Gallup surveys conducted from January through June, encompassing interviews with more than 8,000 U.S. adults. The 42% identifying as conservative represents a continuation of the slight but statistically significant edge conservatives achieved over moderates in 2009. Should that figure hold for all of 2010, it would represent the highest annual percentage identifying as conservative in Gallup's history of measuring ideology with this wording, dating to 1992.

More from Gallup

We'd Like To Know?

Salisbury News is considering a new feature we'd like your input about. We're considering a link to another Site in which we would publish all of the nasty comments, death threats and personal attacks against me, my Wife and Grandson.

We have been saving many of these comments for more than a year now and I thought it might be worth while giving you the option to click on a link and see just what we deal with on a daily basis.

We all pretty much know who's behind these comments and this "option" would mean you'd have to put some effort into actually going there. If you'd be offended, (which 99% of you should be) then you simply do not click on the link.

This feature would NOT be a part of Salisbury News. It would be separate and would offer a warning telling you that you are about to view harsh material.

You see Folks, these 5 or 6 people know I won't publish these comments on Salisbury News but what they didn't know was that we have been saving these comments and that one day we might just publish them elsewhere.

Nothing is set in stone with this. We're simply considering it and we'd like to hear what you think. If we make these comments available and you have a pretty good idea who's behind them, perhaps they might reconsider sending me hundreds of nasty comments per day once their exposed.

Let us know what you think.

ADAMS: Inside The Black Panther Case-- Anger, Ignorance And Lies

By J. Christian Adams

On the day President Obama was elected, armed men wearing the black berets and jackboots of the New Black Panther Party were stationed at the entrance to a polling place in Philadelphia. They brandished a weapon and intimidated voters and poll watchers. After the election, the Justice Department brought a voter-intimidation case against the New Black Panther Party and those armed thugs. I and other Justice attorneys diligently pursued the case and obtained an entry of default after the defendants ignored the charges. Before a final judgment could be entered in May 2009, our superiors ordered us to dismiss the case.

The New Black Panther case was the simplest and most obvious violation of federal law I saw in my Justice Department career. Because of the corrupt nature of the dismissal, statements falsely characterizing the case and, most of all, indefensible orders for the career attorneys not to comply with lawful subpoenas investigating the dismissal, this month I resigned my position as a Department of Justice (DOJ) attorney.

The federal voter-intimidation statutes we used against the New Black Panthers were enacted because America never realized genuine racial equality in elections. Threats of violence characterized elections from the end of the Civil War until the passage of the Voting Rights Act in 1965. Before the Voting Rights Act, blacks seeking the right to vote, and those aiding them, were victims of violence and intimidation. But unlike the Southern legal system, Southern violence did not discriminate. Black voters were slain, as were the white champions of their cause. Some of the bodies were tossed into bogs and in one case in Philadelphia, Miss., they were buried together in an earthen dam.

Based on my firsthand experiences, I believe the dismissal of the Black Panther case was motivated by a lawless hostility toward equal enforcement of the law. Others still within the department share my assessment. The department abetted wrongdoers and abandoned law-abiding citizens victimized by the New Black Panthers. The dismissal raises serious questions about the department's enforcement neutrality in upcoming midterm elections and the subsequent 2012 presidential election.

More from The Washington Times

Troop 5 Units Probe Shots Fired Complaint

Location: Residential address along the 11000 block of Hastings Farm Road, Seaford, Delaware

Date of Occurrence: Sunday, June 27, 2010, at 2:35 a.m.

Involved Parties: 39-year-old female and her two daughters- ages 17 and 19.

Resume: On Sunday, June 27th, at approximately 2:35 a.m., Troop 5 uniform patrol officers responded to an address along the 11000 block of Hastings Farm Road in Seaford for a report of shots fired.

Upon arrival, Troopers made contact with the homeowner- a 39-year-old female. She stated that while she was asleep on the couch she heard several gunshots. She immediately called 911 and officers responded.

This investigation revealed that unknown suspect(s) fired an unknown caliber weapon at the residence striking it six times. The front door of the home was struck four times and the siding between two front windows was struck twice. The victim’s two daughters were also in the home at the time of the shooting.

There is no suspect information at this time and a motive for the shooting has not been identified.

Anyone with information pertaining to this case is asked to call Troop 5 at 302-337-8253 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.

O'Reilly: Obama Could Face Impeachment If He Pardons Illegals

Fox News' Bill O'Reilly is warning that if President Barack Obama ever bypasses Congress and uses his pardon power to make millions of illegal aliens citizens, he could face serious calls for his impeachment.

“If President Obama were to sign an executive order giving illegal aliens amnesty, his career would be over and an impeachment movement would explode,” O'Reilly said Friday night on his “Talking Points” segment during his top-rated Fox show.

At the same time, O'Reilly said he did not believe reports that the Obama administration would grant such a blanket amnesty.

Fox News, however, reported this week: “The Obama administration has been holding behind-the-scenes talks to determine whether the Department of Homeland Security can unilaterally grant legal status on a mass basis to illegal immigrants, a former Bush administration official who spoke with at least three people involved in those talks told FoxNews.com.”

More here

KRATOVIL’S CAMPAIGN KICKOFF VISITS SALISBURY

Saturday afternoon Congressman Frank Kratovil came to Salisbury as the lower Shore stop of his tour of the First Congressional District to announce his candidacy for reelection to the seat that he won in a close race two years ago. For about thirty minutes he discussed his views of major matters as well as his record and reasons for seeking reelection before a nice sized crowd on a hot day in the Salisbury City Park.

He was accompanied by his wife, who is expecting their fifth child and first daughter, and two of their sons. Mayor Jim Ireton was the warm-up speaker and got the crown going before the Congressman spoke. Fortunately, a pleasant breeze kicked up shortly before he began and the audience was in the shade.

Mr. Kratovil has improved as a campaign speaker since his first race; he now seems much less lawyer-like. He did a nice job of distancing himself from the Democrat elite in Washington and was greeted with numerous moments of applause. To be sure, he was speaking to a friendly audience of active supporters for the most part; even the several AFP people in attendance were polite.

Given the political milieu, we will surely be seeing Mr. Kratovil hereabouts a lot more between now and November. No doubt he would welcome a repeat of his debate with Andy Harris at Salisbury University in 2008.

The location of the campaign stop has historic political significance. In the 1950’s Nixon and his wife made an appearance at that spot. Some old-timers still talk about Pat Nixon getting her heel stuck between the boards while walking across the footbridge.

Obama Internet Kill Switch Plan Approved By US Senate

A US Senate committee has approved a wide-ranging cybersecurity bill that some critics have suggested would give the US president the authority to shut down parts of the Internet during a cyberattack.

Senator Joe Lieberman and other bill sponsors have refuted the charges that the Protecting Cyberspace as a National Asset Act gives the president an Internet "kill switch." Instead, the bill puts limits on the powers the president already has to cause "the closing of any facility or stations for wire communication" in a time of war, as described in the Communications Act of 1934, they said in a breakdown of the bill published on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee website.

The committee unanimously approved an amended version of the legislation by voice vote Thursday, a committee spokeswoman said. The bill next moves to the Senate floor for a vote, which has not yet been scheduled.


The bill, introduced earlier this month, would establish a White House Office for Cyberspace Policy and a National Center for Cybersecurity and Communications, which would work with private US companies to create cybersecurity requirements for the electrical grid, telecommunications networks and other critical infrastructure.

The bill also would allow the US president to take emergency actions to protect critical parts of the Internet, including ordering owners of critical infrastructure to implement emergency response plans, during a cyber-emergency. The president would need congressional approval to extend a national cyber-emergency beyond 120 days under an amendment to the legislation approved by the committee.

The legislation would give the US Department of Homeland Security authority that it does not now have to respond to cyber-attacks, Lieberman, a Connecticut independent, said earlier this month.

Other sponsors of the bill are Senators Susan Collins, a Maine Republican, and Tom Carper, a Delaware Democrat.

More here

Iran And Gaza Behind Meeting Of US, Israel Military Chiefs

U.S. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen is meeting his Israeli counterpart IDF Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi for the 15th time in three years on Sunday, an extraordinary reversal in top consultations following 10 years without direct discussions.

The unscheduled visit in Israel was described by the IDF as a “brief professional visit,” but it will be long enough to include discussions with five top IDF officers, including the head of the navy and of military intelligence.

The United States formerly has ignored the Iranian nuclear threat, angering Israel with its assessment, disclosed in late 2007, that American intelligence had concluded that Iran had suspended its efforts to build a nuclear weapon.

Events in the Islamic Republic since then have thoroughly disproved the conclusion, and the prospect of a military strike by Israel on Iran’s nuclear sites, possibly with the approval or even participation of the United States, has been raised from time to time. U.S. President Barack Obama has consistently opted for diplomacy and sanctions against Iran while Tehran continues to produce enriched uranium, a key element for a nuclear weapon.

Most estimates are that Iran will be able to manufacture such a weapon within a year but will not have the capacity to atttack Israel with a nuclear warhead for three years. However, fears remain that Iran could transfer a nuclear weapon, in the form of a “dirty bomb” or some other means, to terrorist groups such as Hizbullah, based in Lebanon, Israel's northern neighbor.

Following previous meetings with Chief of Staff Ashkenazi, Mullen has stated that there is a “shared recognition that there remains a potential for Iran to develop nuclear weapons and to threaten its neighbors.”

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Walmart Parking Lot Jerk Today

Hello Joe. I have a story to tell you about Walmart parking lot today. My boyfriend and I were heading into the store shortly before noon. We were closer to the entrance near the Garden Department. As we headed up the aisle, we saw someone sitting in their car and thought that they were leaving. So we backed up and put our turn signal on. Out of no where this blue car came speeding up to us and started blowing their horn. I looked back and this guy was trying to go around us. It didn't like look these people were going to leave so we went ahead and pulled forward. We made a right and turned down the next aisle and this guy followed us following too close to us. Somebody was leaving so we put our turn signal on and waited for the people to back out. So here we go again, he started blowing the horn. My boyfriend got out and went and asked him what his problem was. He told him that he was trying to find a parking space and we didn't have his turn signal on. Uh, sorry yes we did considering when he was back there talking to him he clearly pointed it out that he did. So we pull into the parking space and this jerk goes speeding up the aisle blowing his horn the whole way. We got out of the car and started heading into the store. As we got up to the crosswalk area he had gone up the first aisle we had gone down and started blowing the horn and flipping us off. Mind you he was in the crosswalk section of Walmart while he was doing this. So he turns left down the next aisle and starts blowing the horn at someone else who was waiting for another car to pull out. It was at that point, I went out there and and took the attached picture. When I got into the store the greeter was telling someone else that the store manager had been made aware of it and was on the way out to him.

A few points I would like to make to Mr. MD Tag MCX847:

1. I don't think you need to go to Walmart, particularly on a Saturday. This is a very busy retail establishment and you can certainly expect people to wait for another vehicle to leave so they can have a parking spot.

2. Your aggressive behavior and tailgating is going to get you into trouble.

3. You sir are going to seriously hurt or kill someone with your obnoxious behavior, particularly since you were speeding through the parking lot and the crosswalk area with no regard for people, children or the elderly. How would you have felt if you would have hit a child today?

4. If you were in that much of a hurry, you should have parked in the first available spot, got your lazy a$$ out of the car and walked.

So Mr. MD Tag MCX847, the only thing left to say is you've just been blogged.

Beth

Iran Calls Off Gaza Flotilla Over 'Israeli Threats'

Organizers of an Iranian flotilla to Gaza announced Thursday that they would not set sail due to “Israeli threats.” The flotilla was to launch on Sunday.

Two Iranian ships said they planned to challenge Israel at sea with the help of volunteer marines. Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad had expressed hope that the marines would “teach Israelis a lesson.”

The cancellation follows reports that Egypt allowed Israeli and American warships to pass through the Suez Canal. The armada's passage was seen as a possible warning to Iran.

Former Iranian ambassador to Syria Hussein, Sheikh al-Islam, said the flotilla had originally been postponed “because of hurdles put up by the Zionist regime regarding the impossibility of getting some of the goods [into Gaza].” The goods will be sent by air or land instead, he said.

Israel allows all goods to enter Gaza through its crossings with the exception of weapons and weapons-making materials. Goods sent by sea are rerouted to the Ashdod port and inspected, then sent to Gaza by land.

While the planned flotilla has been called off, a different Iranian boat is scheduled to set sail from Turkey, avoiding the Suez canal. Its passengers will include four Iranian lawmakers.

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Israeli Agent Breaks Cover To Implore US Not Do Deport Hamas Informant

The Israeli handler of a Palestinian informant revealed his identity Wednesday night to plead for US authorities not to deport the former spy on Hamas.

Gonen Ben-Itzhak, a Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) agent who for 10 years worked with Mosab Hassan Yousef, appeared before cameras for the first time at a dinner honoring Yousef and other recipients of the Endowment for Middle East Truth’s Rays of Light in the Darkness award.

Ben-Itzhak, who was previously referred to by the media only as “G” and had his face obscured on camera, said he traveled to America to testify on Yousef’s behalf at an immigration hearing scheduled for the end of the month in San Diego.

Yousef, son of Hamas leader Sheik Hassan Yousef, is credited by Israel with helping thwart countless terror attacks. He is now being threatened with deportation after the US turned down his request for asylum, since statements in his autobiography about working for Hamas are being interpreted as providing material support to the US-designated terrorist organization, despite his explanation that they were intended to undermine the group.

Rep. Doug Lamborn (R-Colorado), who was also honored at Wednesday’s dinner, said he was circulating a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano urging that the US not deport Yousef.

The Department of Homeland Security declined to comment on his case due to privacy and pending litigation.

Sources close to the case, however, indicate they have received reports that the department understands the complexities of his case but faces limited options under the law.

That has given some of Yousef’s supporters hope that his June 30 hearing will turn out in his favor.

Ben-Itzhak stressed that he will be doing his best to make sure that happens, telling the audience, “Mosab is not a terrorist!”

More here

Tancredo: It's Time To Open Impeachment File

Yes, yes, I know. An impeachment investigation will never be started while Nancy Pelosi is speaker of the House. The good news is that this obstacle to impeachment will likely be removed by January.

It goes without saying that the impeachment process should never be a political weapon used to pursue partisan political advantage. But neither should an impeachment investigation be obstructed for political reasons.

Impeachment is a constitutional remedy to be used for serious offenses identified in the Constitution. So, we must ask this question: Has Barack Obama crossed the line that separates political differences from the serious offenses that warrant impeachment?

The Constitution's provisions for impeachment and removal are not aimed solely at the office of president. Article II, Section 4, stipulates that "the President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors."

I believe there is a growing body of evidence of impeachable offenses sufficient to warrant a formal impeachment resolution in the House, followed by a trial in the Senate.

It is instructive that the founders listed only two specific crimes justifying impeachment – bribery and treason. The accusations of bribery against this president are now numerous and growing, and by themselves deserve an independent investigation under supervision of a bipartisan committee of the House of Representatives. In Pennsylvania and Colorado, candidates for the U.S. Senate were offered federal appointments in exchange for dropping out of their respective races. On their face, those actions are attempted bribery and warrant a thorough investigation.

There are also presidential actions that may stray into the category of high crimes and misdemeanors. Only this past week we have witnessed a United States senator tell his constituents that the president, in an Oval Office conversation, refused a direct request to enforce the Constitution 's guarantee of federal protection against foreign invasion. Obama wants a legislative "deal" in exchange for acting to secure the southwest border.

Keep reading

New GOP Group Plans To Spend Millions This Fall

In a campaign season of anti-establishment ferment, some of the Republican Party's best-known insiders are building an ambitious fundraising machine for the fall elections and beyond.

They started with a bang in April, cashing a $1 million check from a Texas oil magnate. After a quiet May, friends and foes are watching to see if the new organization's core group, American Crossroads, can reach its goal of raising $52 million by November.

Karl Rove, who was President George W. Bush's top political strategist, and Ed Gillespie, a former Republican Party chairman and White House aide, modeled their network on successful operations created by Democrats several years ago.

American Crossroads is a 527 organization — named for a section in the tax law — that is exempt from limits on campaign fundraising and spending that apply to party-affiliated groups. It can tap rich conservatives, such as Trevor Rees-Jones, president of Dallas-based Chief Oil and Gas, who chipped in the first $1 million.

But eyebrows rose in political circles when the group filed its next monthly report with the Internal Revenue Service, showing only $200 raised in May.

Steven Law, a former U.S. Chamber of Commerce lawyer and now president of American Crossroads, said the group has about $30 million in pledges that Rove, Gillespie and others secured during recent trips to various cities.

"We feel very good about the progress we've made," Law said, predicting a strong fundraising report for June.

He said the idea for American Crossroads grew from talks last fall involving Rove, Gillespie and other conservatives who feel liberals outhustled the GOP after the McCain-Feingold campaign finance law in 2002 and subsequent court rulings set new limits — and opportunities — for political activities.

The goal, Law said, is to build "an enduring and robust outside organization that can, in the long run, compete with the very successful groups the Democrats have built."

Pro-Democratic groups that Law and others cite as role models include Moveon.org, Democracy Alliance — founded by liberal billionaire George Soros — and Democracy Corps, founded by Democratic strategists James Carville and Stanley Greenberg.

More here

Happy Birthday Bob Keeshan

1927-2004

Happy Birthday, Bob Keeshan!

What a great career!

As Clarabell the Clown with Buffalo Bob Smith and Howdy Doody

and then for decades as Captain Kangaroo.

A short video tribute here.

Thanks for the memories!

Statement Regarding Governor O'Malley's Department Of Human Resources

Statement Regarding Governor O’Malley’s Department of Human Resources

“Marylanders have a right to wonder why Governor O’Malley has left a vital state agency (DHR) without a long-term leader. The citizens of Maryland, particularly those who depend on this agency for key services, deserve to know the reasons behind this abrupt departure and why there was no succession plan in place. Failure to be forthright with Maryland on this matter will simply leave too many questions unanswered.” - Bob Ehrlich

WHITEHAVEN FERRY CLOSED

Because of mechanical difficulties, the Whitehaven Ferry will be closed until at least Monday (June 28th) afternoon. The public is asked to call the Ferry Hotline at 410-543-2765 for current information. Wicomico County regrets the inconvenience and thanks ferry users for their patience.

SHOREBIRDS TOP BLUECLAWS 7-4 IN GAME THREE OF SERIES

SHOREBIRDS TOP BLUECLAWS 7-4 IN GAME THREE OF SERIES

Kenny Moreland Wins Fourth Straight Start

Salisbury, Md. – The Delmarva Shorebirds scored all seven of their runs in the first four innings to defeat the Lakewood BlueClaws, 7-4, on Saturday night at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium. Mikey Planeta recorded three hits while Steve Bumbry notched four RBIs. All four of Bumbry’s runs-batted-in came with two outs.

The Shorebirds raced to an early lead in the first inning. Brian Conley walked for a 52nd time this season to open the inning. Ty Kelly then singled. After two outs were recorded, Steve Bumbry lashed a two run double to right-center field to give the Shorebirds a 2-0 edge. Two batters later, Mikey Planeta connected on a sharp single into right field to give the ‘Birds a 3-0 edge.

In the third, the Shorebirds added a run. Gary Helmick was issued a lead off walk. Luis Bernardo then delivered a single to push Helmick to third. Then, Brian Conley hit a line drive sacrifice fly to left field to give the ‘Birds a 4-0 lead.

The Shorebirds built a 7-0 lead in the fourth. Brian Conley hit a one out triple to right-center field. Then, Ty Kelly hit a single back up the middle to give the ‘Birds a 5-0 lead. Later in the inning, Steve Bumbry bounced a double up the right field line to plate two more runs.

The BlueClaws battled with two runs in the sixth and seventh innings but fell short.

Kenny Moreland earned his fourth straight win in 5.2 innings pitched. He allowed just five hits and two runs. Moreland also fanned nine batters, one shy of his career high. He struck out six straight batters between the end of the first inning and the middle of the third inning.

Nick Haughian, James Brandhorst, Josh Dowdy and Brent Allar followed Moreland to close out the BlueClaws. Allar picked up the final out to earn the save after Dowdy took a line drive off the pinky finger on his right hand.

The Shorebirds and BlueClaws square off in game four of the series on Sunday afternoon at 5:05 p.m. RHP Jesse Beal makes the start for the Shorebirds. For tickets and information, call the Shorebirds Box Office at 410-219-3112 or visit www.theshorebirds.com.

Page Elmore Has Passed Away

It's another unfortunate day on Delmarva as Delegate Page Elmore lost his battle today with cancer.

Again, our thoughts and prayers go out to the Elmore Family.

2nd Biggest Day In Salisbury News History

Salisbury News experienced a monstrous day yesterday. Friday's usually drop off quite a bit in the evening but Sam Vincent must have known a LOT of people because our visits soared.

We take no real pleasure in such days like yesterday other than knowing when people want to know what's really going on they rely on Salisbury News to provide such information.

That being said, yesterday was an extremely frustrating day but it was also a day of growth. No, not in numbers but in learning to be more patient and understanding when tragedies such as Mr. Vincent's accident.

When this accident happened, I received an immediate phone call. I then started receiving photos like there was no tomorrow. The stories varied from one call to the other. I received 161 text messages yesterday on this matter and while I did reply via text message as to what happened, we chose to stop all comments, removed the Survey Question Post and when we were confident the Vincent Family had been made aware of Sam's unfortunate death, we started allowing comments to resume.

So we can clear the air on this matter, let me explain what REALLY happened yesterday, (to a point).

Sam was traveling 55 mph west bound on Rt. 50. A vehicle crossed onto Rt. 50 striking the right rear end of Sam's vehicle. Sam's vehicle went into a spin and the pressure from the hit and weight dug into the pavement and his vehicle started flipping over, (probably 5 times) before coming to a stop. That's all I have to say about that. The driver of the other vehicle had no injuries.

I'm not sure why this particular tragedy has hit home so deeply for me personally but I'd have to say it has reminded me that we just never know when our time is up. I knew Sam more as an associate, not a friend. EVERY single experience I have had with Sam over the past 7 years has been respectful. What I enjoyed the most was that smirk/smile Sam would give me, (no words necessary) whenever someone would say something about an article on Salisbury News and he was around.

There was a part of Sam that seemed to want to jump out and start cracking up laughing but he had complete control of those emotions. I had always heard wonderful things about his Bride Jill. Jill, if you are reading this article, Sam was a wonderful man to those of us on the outside. We are so truly sorry for your unexpected loss. Again, as an outsider, allow me to say this. Of the hundreds of messages I have received in the last 24 hours, if you hadn't realized the Family you have in the Law Enforcement community, you do now. You will never be alone. Sam was a BROTHER to so many.

I'll close with this. There's something to be said about a person who joins special groups like the States Attorneys Office, Law Enforcement, Firefighters and or the Military. There's a special bond many people do not know of. There's a Family/Brotherhood outside your own and one thing I have witnessed over the many years I have been on this earth, that outside Family NEVER goes away, unless you want them to.

If there's ANY comfort I personally hold out of this tragic event it's knowing Jill Vincent will not be alone the rest of her life. She will be asked to join others at Christmas, Thanksgiving, cook outs weddings and so forth. I truly envy that Brotherhood/Family, as we all should, it's earned.

Our numbers yesterday clearly showed Sam Vincent was loved by many and for what it's worth, I hope it means something to the Vincent Family.

USA World Cup Today At Market Street Inn

5-Year-Old Injured in Dirt Bike Crash

Location: 6000 block of Carpenter Bridge Road, Frederica, Delaware

Date of Occurrence: Friday, June 25th, 2010, at approximately 6:30 p.m.

Involved Parties:
Victim: 5-year-old Frederica, Delaware boy
Suspect: James R. Edge, 46, of Frederica

Resume: Yesterday evening, Troopers were called to an address along the 6000 block of Carpenter Bridge Road in Frederica in reference to a motorbike crash with injury.

This investigation revealed the accused James R. Edge was in the yard of the aforementioned property when he was showing his friend’s soe, a 5-year-old boy, how to ride a 70cc dirt bike. It has been alleged that Edge had been drinking alcohol and was impaired while he was explaining to the little boy how to ride the bike.

The boy had the throttle wide open while Edge was holding up the back of the bike as the back wheel was spinning. Edge let go, the back wheel came down and the boy and the bike took off headed right for Carpenter Bridge Road. The bike struck a 1995 Plymouth Neon traveling along Carpenter Bridge Road.

The 5-year-old was thrown from the bike. He was not wearing a helmet and sustained head and leg injuries. He was airlifted from the scene to Christiana Hospital where he was admitted in critical condition.

The Neon was driven by John H. Davis, III, 25, of Smyrna, Delaware. He was found to have been driving on a suspended license. He was cited with Driving While Suspended. He was not injured in the collision.

James Edge was arrested and formally charged with Reckless Endangering 1st (felony) and Endangering the Welfare of a Child (felony). Bail was set at $3,500 unsecured and Mr. Edge was released from custody.

Open Forum On Sam Vincent

If you'd like to share your thoughts and experiences with Sam Vincent, please do so.

HISTORICAL COMMENTS BY GEORGE CHEVALLIER

Camden Avenue

Camden Avenue was once referred as the road to Noah Rider’s mill. Noah Rider had the mill at Tony Tank because it had belonged to his family for generations. The Rider family was originally from Quantico but relocated near Salisbury and became very influential in the growth of both the city and what was then Somerset County. One of the Riders, Thomas F. J. Rider, was instrumental in the formation of Wicomico County in 1867. His sister, Nannie, married Elihu E. Jackson, another prominent Salisburian who became the Governor of Maryland in 1888.

Originally, it was just a dirt country road that ran through W. F. Allen’s extensive property. A growth plan was adopted in 1920 that was supposed to suffice until 2000. Then two events quickly overloaded the system. The first was the building of a college from land purchased from the Allen family in 1922. The school was built and opened in September, 1925. Second was the building of Route 13 in 1939. The expansion of the Camden area between Camden Avenue and the railroad was to be a mixture of residential and commercial properties. The limit south was to be Tony Tank Lake with the town of Fruitland eventually expanding northward to meet there. All this land from what is now College Avenue belonged to the W. F. Allen Co. Over the years, they have sold off parcels for the college and to Asbury Methodist Church for their new structure. Many other lots were sold off over the years and individual families built there.

The college was not anticipated in the original growth plan, so for a sewer system, a pipe was laid down College Avenue that drained directly into the Wicomico River. Eventually it was incorporated into the city system. The system also extended southward paralleling Camden Avenue along the back of the several residences facing Camden Avenue. The water main down Camden Avenue that serviced the same houses was built by prisoners-of-war from Rommel’s Africa Corps. That had to be during the Second World War. Surprisingly, the recipients of this municipal service received it with no cost to them. Some things never change.

The paving of Camden Avenue came about as a result of a great debate in 1906. The downtown had their streets paved with a light buff-colored brick. Since this was before the automobile was used extensively, the iron-rimmed wagon wheels were deemed too noisy on brick for a residential area. The debate ensued over the use of brick or the new material called asphalt. Asphalt won out or we would have had a brick Camden Avenue now. It was just a matter of timing. Apparently, the dirt roads handled the wagon wheels to everybody’s satisfaction and, if they had waited a few short years, the pneumatic tires on cars and trucks would have been quiet enough.

Houses on Camden Avenue started appearing even before the street was paved. The first house was situated between Pennsylvania and Virginia Avenues across from North Boulevard. It was the home of Col. Marion A. Humphreys. Other large homes soon appeared on the west side of Camden Avenue that earned that section the term “millionaire’s row”. The homes built on the east side of Camden were more modest by comparison. Most of the homes south of Winder Street were built later than the early homes of prominent Salisburians. The Jackson mansions were built at the end of the 19th Century. They are both now gone. The homes of Wm. B. Tilghman and L. W. Gunby remain, however.

Check This Out

WOW!!!!! Imagine the cost to put this into service???

Click on the BUDAPEST line below.

BUDAPEST . Multiparker 730

IAF Hits Gaza Terror Targets After Mortar Barrage

Israel responded late on Thursday night to a series of terrorist mortar shell and rocket attacks from Gaza that took place earlier in the day. IAF planes hit three terror-related targets in the area.

The targets were a weapons storage facility in northern Gaza and two smuggling tunnels in southern Gaza. Arab sources stated that one person was injured in the strike on the tunnels.

IDF spokespeople confirmed that the operation was a response to Thursday's attacks. “The IDF will not tolerate attempts to harm Israeli civilians and IDF soldiers,” they said.

"The IDF will respond with force and determination to any element using terrorism against the state of Israel. The IDF sees the Hamas terrorist group as bearing sole responsibility for what happens in Gaza,” they continued.

On Thursday, Gaza terrorists fired nine mortar shells and one rocket at Israeli towns in the western Negev. Several of the shells fell short and exploded within Gaza. No injuries were reported in either the Negev or Gaza.

IsraelNationalNews

Arizona Governor: Most Illegal Immigrants Smuggling Drugs

Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer said Friday most illegal immigrants entering Arizona are being used to transport drugs across the border.

Brewer said the motivation of "a lot" of the illegal immigrants is to enter the United States to look for work, but that drug rings press them into duty as drug "mules."

"I believe today, under the circumstances that we're facing, that the majority of the illegal trespassers that are coming into the state of Arizona are under the direction and control of organized drug cartels and they are bringing drugs in," Brewer said.

"There's strong information to us that they come as illegal people wanting to come to work. Then they are accosted and they become subjects of the drug cartel," she said.

Brewer spoke Friday when asked about comments she made in a recent election debate among Republican candidates for governor.

She said during the June 15 debate that she believed that most illegal immigrants were not entering the United States for work. She then associated illegal immigrants with drug smuggling, drop houses, extortion and other criminal activity.

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GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY PRESS RELEASES

GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY PARTICIPATES IN AMERICA’S GREAT OUTDOORS LISTENING SESSION

Maryland well-positioned to partner in national conservation movement

ANNAPOLIS, MD (June 25, 2010) — Governor Martin O’Malley today joined U.S. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar and other senior representatives of the Obama Administration for a public listening session and discussion on land conservation, recreation and reconnecting people to the outdoors. The second such session under President Obama’s America’s Great Outdoors Initiative was attended by approximately 300 land and recreation managers, outdoor educators, sportsmen, landowners and conservationists from across the 64,000-square mile Chesapeake Bay watershed.

“I want to thank President Obama, Secretary Salazar and the other members of the President’s “green” cabinet for their leadership on this important issue and for bringing this public discussion to the great State of Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay region,” said Governor O’Malley. “We are also pleased that the President has selected the Chesapeake as one of America’s first Treasured Landscapes, and believe Maryland is especially well poised to partner with the Administration and public and private sectors in conserving our great rivers and related landscapes as our legacy for future generations.”

President Obama established the America’s Great Outdoors Initiative in April to develop a conservation and recreation agenda worthy of the 21st century and to reconnect Americans with our great outdoors.

“Governor O’Malley and the citizens of Maryland have set a high standard in their efforts to conserve and restore the Chesapeake Bay,” said Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar. “Their strong commitment to the health of the Bay and to opening up more opportunities for outdoor recreation for people who have not in the past had the opportunity to enjoy its wonders embody the spirit and purpose of the President’s America’s Great Outdoors Initiative.”

During his remarks Governor O’Malley offered his own recommendations on the process for preserving the Bay region’s treasured landscapes, defined as targeted conservation areas – important ecosystems, working and recreation lands, historic, cultural and scenic resources, water access and trails -- that connect people to rivers or the main stem of the Bay. These included:

§ a request for full funding for the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCS) -- the principal means by which land conservation is achieved at the federal level;

§ a funding formula that would direct at least 40% of revenues to State and local governments;

§ a refocus of state share funding priorities to support, in addition to land acquisition, green projects such as trail development, passive recreation amenities, natural play areas, nature centers, water access, resource restoration on public lands and youth conservation corps;

§ the creation of a Federal-State GIS Land Conservation Map for the Bay Region based on concepts used in Maryland’s GreenPrint; and

§ a bottom-up process for designating conservation lands through a federally-sponsored competition to States in partnership with their local governments and private organizations.

“Wherever possible the federal agencies and their State and local government counterparts need to work together to conserve, manage and operate lands within these targeted areas,” said Governor O’Malley, citing the the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park as an example. “On the Harriet Tubman Project, we are jointly acquiring land, jointly developing the project and will jointly manage it. This is the new model for the future -- one that taxpayers deserve and should expect – a more efficient way of combing resources to get the job done.”

Prior to the public break out sessions, during which federal leaders had an opportunity to hear from people across the region, Salazar facilitated a panel discussion on Sharing Examples of Innovative Land Conservation, Recreation & Citizen Stewardship. The panel included: Jacqueline M. Carrera, President & CEO, Parks & People Foundation; Robert Etgen, Executive Director, Eastern Shore Land Conservancy; Chris Miller, President, Piedmont Environmental Council/Treasurer, Journey Through Hallowed Ground Partnership; and Annette Gantt, President and CEO, Earth Conservation Corps.

"Maryland has a strong and long-standing track record in land conservation, including protecting farms, forests, environmentally sensitive areas, and culturally and historically significant lands," said David O'Neill, president, Chesapeake Conservancy. "Governor O'Malley has built on this tradition and strengthened the state's conservation initiatives with the creation of Maryland Greenprint, a land conservation targeting tool that has quickly become a national model. The President's America’s Great Outdoors Initiative will build on the fine work of Maryland the GreenPrint program."

Earlier in the day, federal representatives held a special listening session for about 50 young people, aged 16-20, to receive their in put on the issues.

Bob Perciasepe, Deputy Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and Harris Sherman, Under Secretary of the US Department of Agriculture also participated in the event.

“As we seek to preserve our national treasures and provide meaningful outdoor opportunities and connections for all of our citizens, we must remember that all of these investments and bear heavily on sustainable economies,” added the Governor. “Nature based recreation such as hunting, birding, ecotourism, and boating are vital economic drivers for Maryland, and every dollar spent on land preservation has a multiplier effect, supporting jobs, and increased property values.”

According to the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development, tourism accounts for $14.5 billion in sales and more than 146,000 jobs in Maryland. The total impact on the Maryland economy from recreational boating alone is estimated to be about $2.03 billion by the University of Maryland.

Under the leadership of Governor O’Malley, Maryland has maintained land conservation as a top priority, fully funding our premier land conservation program for the 4th year in a row, and made land conservation programs work smarter through the advent GreenPrint, a cutting edge GIS tracking and targeting tool. Governor O’Malley also the Maryland Partnership for Children in Nature, which developed one of the nation’s first comprehensive plans for expanding outdoor opportunities for young people and bringing environmental literacy to the classroom. The State Board of Education is currently considering a proposal to require Maryland young people to be environmentally literate in order to graduate from high school. This summer 500 at risk young people will have paid jobs performing conservation work in our State Parks through the Civic Justice Corps – a program inspired by the Maryland Conservation Corps that has nearly tripled since it was launched three years ago.


GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY ANNOUNCES DHR SECRETARY BRENDA DONALD TO STEP DOWN, ACCEPTS LEADERSHIP ROLE AT ANNIE E. CASEY FOUNDATION

ANNAPOLIS, MD (June 25, 2010) – Governor Martin O'Malley announced today that Department of Human Resources Secretary Brenda Donald has accepted a new senior position at the Annie E. Casey Foundation after three years of reforms at the historically troubled agency. Together, Governor Martin O’Malley and DHR Secretary Brenda Donald endeavored to radically reform Maryland’s child welfare system, resulting in drastic reductions in foster care and group home placements, reforms to Maryland’s outdated child support system, and increases in family setting placements for foster children.

“I want to thank Brenda Donald for her service to the people of Maryland over the past three years. Her professionalism and reform-minded approach to leading DHR has benefited children and adults throughout our state,” said Governor O’Malley. “Brenda was appointed to lead one of our largest and most complicated state agencies. Her steady leadership will be missed.”

Donald will step down as Secretary of Human Resources effective July 23, 2010. She has accepted the role of Vice President for the Center for Effective Family Services and Systems at the Annie E. Casey Foundation, a private charitable organization dedicated to helping build better futures for disadvantaged children in the United States.

“It has been my distinct honor to help the O’Malley/Brown Administration achieve notable outcomes for foster children, improve the way we process benefit applications and work to strengthen our child support collections,” said Donald. “I am excited to move onto the next phase of my career and help other states implement some of Maryland’s successful strategies.”

Under Secretary Donald’s leadership, the Department of Human Resources implemented Place Matters, an ambitious initiative that promotes safety, family strengthening, permanency, and community based services for children and families in child welfare. As a result:

Nearly 20 percent fewer children have been placed in foster care.
More than 50 percent fewer foster children are placed in group homes.
77 percent of children placed in the foster system are now placed into family settings, a 10 percent increase from four years ago.
More than 2,225 foster families have been recruited under the O’Malley-Brown Administration.
Nearly 2,000 adoptions have been finalized under the O’Malley-Brown Administration.

The reforms implemented by Governor O’Malley and Secretary Donald aimed to improve the lives of children who find themselves within the social work system, include:

Fought for legislation to update the state’s child support guidelines for the first time in 22 years.
Provided all front-line social welfare and child welfare workers with cell phones, improving efficiency and communications.
Improved compliance rates for benefit applications such as food stamps and cash assistance.
Reformed the Baltimore City Department of Social Services and strengthened its management.
Collected $1.5 billion in child support payments and redistributed to custodial parents, continuing the upward trend in collections, even in a tough economy.
Invested federal Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds to create 100 full time jobs for previous Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) customers.
Restricted new group homes from opening unnecessarily, allowing new group homes to open only if there is a specific need in an area, focusing resources on family-setting placements instead.

Donald will serve as Vice President for the Center for Effective Family Services and Systems at the Annie E. Casey Foundation. In her new position as a member of the Foundation’s senior leadership team, Donald will be leading the Center’s work of improving outcomes for children living in the country’s most fragile families. The focus of the Center is to promote policies and identify best practices that support family-strengthening interventions, provide data-driven accountability for public systems, and bring evidence-based interventions to scale.

“Brenda Donald is a recognized leader who has dedicated her career to improving children and family services and leading governmental reform efforts,” said Patrick McCarthy, president of the Annie E. Casey Foundation. “We are confident that her extensive knowledge and experience will help build on our work for years to come.”

Prior to being appointed DHR Secretary in February of 2007, Donald was Deputy Mayor for Children, Youth, Families and Elders for the District of Columbia. She directed nine agencies that provided an array of social services to more than 200,000 residents. She was also the director of the District's Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA), with 950 employees serving 6,000 abused and neglected children.

Governor O’Malley announced that Brian Wilbon will serve as Acting Secretary of DHR while a national search takes place for a new secretary. Wilbon currently serves as Deputy Secretary of the agency.

GOVERNOR MARTIN O'MALLEY'S PUBLIC SCHEDULE

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

8:20 a.m. Governor O’Malley to appear on WICO, 92.5 FM, Salisbury-Ocean City

Location: 92.5 FM, Salisbury-Ocean City

8:35 a.m. Governor O’Malley to appear on WSCL, 89.5 FM, Salisbury-Ocean City Public Radio

Location: 89.5 FM, Salisbury-Ocean City Public Radio

9:30 a.m. Governor O’Malley to hold roundtable discussion on potential impact of Gulf Oil Spill on Maryland waters and businesses

Location: Fish Tales, 2207 Herring Way, Ocean City

11:30 a.m. Governor O’Malley to walk through floor displays at Maryland Municipal League Convention

Location: Ocean City Convention Center, Exhibit Hall C, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City

5:30 p.m. First Lady Katie O’Malley will join Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake to formally dedicate the newest attraction at the Maryland Zoo, The Jones Falls Zephyr

Location: The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, Druid Hill Park, Baltimore

Note: Reception begins at 4:30pm, Dedication is at 5:30pm

7:00 p.m. Governor O’Malley to deliver keynote address at Maryland Municipal League Convention

Location: Ocean City Convention Center, Grand Ballroom, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City

SHOREBIRDS OPEN SECOND HALF WITH TWO LOSSES TO LAKEWOOD

Moreau Matches Career High With Nine Strikeouts

Salisbury, Md. – The Lakewood BlueClaws produced two big innings on Friday night to take two games from the Delmarva Shorebirds at Perdue Stadium to begin the second half. The Shorebirds have dropped three straight dating back to the end of the first half.

The BlueClaws won the completion of the suspended game, 5-2, and took a seven-inning game two, 2-1. Tyler Townsend notched three hits and two RBIs over the two games in his return from injury.

The two teams resumed the suspended game from Thursday night in the top of the third. Lakewood took a 1-0 lead in the top of the fourth inning. Leandro Castro and Jonathan Singleton connected on back-to-back singles. After a double steal put runners at second and third, Sebastian Valle delivered an RBI sacrifice fly to center field.

The ‘Birds tied the game at 1-1 in the fifth. Steve Bumbry blasted a lead off double to right field. He moved to third on a wild pitch and scored on a bounce out to first off the bat of Tyler Townsend.

The BlueClaws scored three runs in the sixth inning to build a 4-1 lead. Anthony Hewitt, Stephen Batts and Alan Shoenberger each recorded RBI hits as eight batters came to the plate.

The Shorebirds were unable to recover as Jonathan Pettibone tossed six strong innings to earn the win. He allowed just two hits and two runs. Pat Kantakevich was pinned with the loss in three innings. He surrendered eight hits and four runs.

In game two of the day, Nate Moreau and Josh Zeid were locked in a pitcher’s duel for the first three innings. Josh Zeid went through the third and allowed one hit and no runs. He struck out five. Nate Moreau held the BlueClaws hitless through four and tied his career high with nine strikeouts in six strong innings.

The BlueClaws finally deciphered Moreau in the fifth inning. Three consecutive hits produced the lone two runs for Lakewood. Stephen Batts hit an RBI single up the middle while Jiwan James doubled down the left field line.

The ‘Birds plated their only run in the sixth inning. Brian Conley led off with a flare double down the left field line. He advanced to third on a ground out to first by Ty Kelly and scored on a grounder to short by Tyler Townsend.

Eric Massingham earned the win in three stellar innings on the hill. He gave up just two hits and a run. Nate Moreau was pinned with the loss.

The Shorebirds return to action on Saturday night at 6:35 p.m. RHP Kenny Moreland will make the start for the Shorebirds.

Happy 50th Birthday Jennifer!