Each country that you click on... you get a slide show of that country... pretty neat!

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Wargotz: Mikulski Policies Destroying Housing Market

Existing-home sales plunge 27.2%

Annapolis - Eric Wargotz M.D. today criticized Senator Mikulski for existing-home sales plunging a record 27.2% in July. Analysts expected the existing-home sales to plunge 12%. The housing sector is at the center of the longest and deepest recession since the Great Depression and its weakness is holding the economy back. Actions taken by this Congress have completely distorted the housing market. Congress forced Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to issue loans to people who cannot afford them. Senator Barbara Mikulski supported these actions.


Eric Wargotz M.D. released the following statement on the housing numbers:
"Actions must be taken to restore the housing market. For 34 years, Mikulski has taken actions that have increased government intervention into the housing market. By allowing those who cannot afford houses to buy them, she created a system that resulted in record numbers of home foreclosures. Bigger and more intrusive government is not the answer to every problem facing our nation, and yet that is what Mikulski believes. I support policies that will get Americans back to work which will in turn restore our housing market."

Mosque

MEMORIES From A Friend

My Dad is cleaning out my grandmother's house (she died in December) and he brought me an old Royal Crown Cola bottle. In the bottle top was a stopper with a bunch of holes in it.. I knew immediately what it was, but my daughter had no idea. She thought they had tried to make it a salt shaker or something. I knew it as the bottle that sat on the end of the ironing board to 'sprinkle' clothes with because we didn't have steam irons. Man, I am old.

How many do you remember?

Head lights dimmer switches on the floor.Ignition switches on the dashboard.Heaters mounted on the inside of the fire wall.Real ice boxes.
Pant leg clips for bicycles without chain guards.
Soldering irons you heat on a gas burner.
Using hand signals for cars without turn signals.

DELMARVA FALLS IN SEASON FINALE, 7-2

‘Birds End 2010 Season 59-81

Salisbury, Md. – The Augusta GreenJackets used an eight-inning performance by pitcher Andy Reichard and a four-run sixth inning to beat Delmarva, 7-2, in the finale of the 2010 season from Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

The Shorebirds got on the board in the fourth inning. With two outs, Austin Rauch blasted a low-lying line drive over the left field wall to give the ‘Birds a 1-0 lead. It was his first home run with the Shorebirds this season.

In his final outing of the year, Matt Hobgood allowed only one hit and no runs in five innings. He retired the final nine batters that he faced.

The GreenJackets jumped on relief pitcher Aaron Swenson. Ryan Lollis tripled off the bottom of the right field wall to open the frame. Then, Ydwin Villegas doubled to plate Lollis. Augusta took a 2-1 lead on a sacrifice fly RBI to right field by Skyler Stromsmoe. Then, Chris Dominguez blasted a long home run to give Augusta a 4-1 advantage.

The Shorebirds moved within two runs in the bottom of the sixth inning on a Omar Casamayor single down the left field line to score Stampone.

The GreenJackets tacked on three more runs in the ninth inning to build a 7-2 edge.

Kevin Landry tossed a scoreless seventh inning while T.R. Keating hurled a scoreless eighth inning.

The Shorebirds open the 2011 season on April 5 with a special exhibition game against Salisbury University at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium. For tickets and information, call the Shorebirds Box Office at 410-219-3112.

SHOREBIRDS GAME NOTES: 9/6 vs. Augusta (Season Finale)

THANKS FOR A FANTASTIC SEASON FROM THE MEDIA RELATIONS DEPARTMENT!
Please do not hesitate to contact me for information or interview requests during the off season.


PREVIEW: The Shorebirds aim to close the season on a high note with a win in the finale. With a win, the ‘Birds will avoid becoming the second team in franchise history to win less than 60 games (1999 - 58). A loss would give the ‘Birds the most loses in franchise history (1999 - 80).

60 RBI CLUB: Ty Kelly is two RBIs shy of joining the 60+ RBI club. Since the 2004 season 12 players have reached 60 RBIs: Nick Markakis (64, 2004), Jason Fransz (111, 2005), Arturo Rivas (62, 2005), Ryan Finan (78, 2006), Mark Fleisher (67, 2006), Miguel Abreu (60, 2007), Brandon Tripp (79, 2007), Chris Vinyard (82, 2007), Tyler Henson (62, 2008), Joe Mahoney (61, 2008), Joe Nowicki (78, 2008) and Ron Welty (67, 2009).

41 TRIPLES: The Shorebirds have recorded 41 triples this season, the most in a single-season since the 2000 season (42). The Shorebirds record is 48, achieved by the ‘96 team.

OFFENSIVE THRIVING: Shortstop Garabez Rosa has seen his offensive numbers boom of late. Rosa has hit safely in nine of his last eleven games (16-43, .372).

GAME NUMBER 2083: Tonight marks game number 2083 in the 15 year history of the Shorebirds franchise. The Shorebirds are 1053-1029 since the inaugural 1996 season. Since day one, 3,775,197 fans have watched ‘Birds baseball.

SHRINER HOME RUN POWERS GREENJACKETS TO 3-2 WIN

2010 Season Finale on Monday at 2:05 p.m.

Salisbury, Md. – Jesse Shriner led off the top of the ninth inning with a solo home run to lift the Augusta GreenJackets to a 3-2 win at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium on Sunday night.

The GreenJackets scored the game’s first run in the fourth inning. Skyler Stromsmoe and Shriner drew back-to-back walks. Juan Martinez then dropped a sacrifice bunt to advance the runners to second and third. Then, Nick Liles hit a groundout to short to bring home Stromsmoe.

In the fifth, Chris Dominguez clobbered his 20th home run of the season to give the GreenJackets a 2-0 lead.

The Shorebirds tied the game in the sixth inning. Levi Carolus blasted a bending line drive that flew past the center field for a triple to score Ty Kelly and Tyler Stampone.

In the ninth inning, Shriner connected on a T.R. Keating pitch and drove it over the left field wall to give the GreenJackets a 3-2 lead.

Augusta reliever Chris Gloor earned the win in two innings of relief. He allowed one hit and no runs. Keating was pinned with the loss.

Chris Wilson earned his fourth save of the season. He tossed a scoreless ninth inning.

GreenJackets pitching used the strikeout to record five of the final nine outs of the game.

Edit Draft SHOREBIRDS GAME NOTES: 9/5 vs. Augusta

STAT OF THE DAY: The Shorebirds will play their final game of the season at home for a fourth consecutive year. The last time the ‘Birds finished on the road was 2006 (@ Hagerstown).


PREVIEW: The Shorebirds vie for a game three win in the second to last game of the 2010 season. The Shorebirds will close the 15th Anniversary Season on Monday afternoon at 2:05 p.m. The Shorebirds need one more win to avoid becoming the second team in franchise history to win less than 60 games (1999 - 58).

60 RBI CLUB: Ty Kelly is two RBIs shy of joining the 60+ RBI club. Since the 2004 season 12 players have reached 60 RBIs: Nick Markakis (64, 2004), Jason Fransz (111, 2005), Arturo Rivas (62, 2005), Ryan Finan (78, 2006), Mark Fleisher (67, 2006), Miguel Abreu (60, 2007), Brandon Tripp (79, 2007), Chris Vinyard (82, 2007), Tyler Henson (62, 2008), Joe Mahoney (61, 2008), Joe Nowicki (78, 2008) and Ron Welty (67, 2009).

41 TRIPLES: The Shorebirds have recorded 41 triples this season, the most in a single-season since the 2000 season (42). The Shorebirds record is 48, achieved by the ‘96 team.

OFFENSIVE THRIVING: Shortstop Garabez Rosa has seen his offensive numbers boom of late. Rosa has hit safely in nine of his last eleven games (16-43, .372).

GAME NUMBER 2082: Tonight marks game number 2082 in the 15 year history of the Shorebirds franchise. The Shorebirds are 1053-1028 since the inaugural 1996 season. Since day one, 3,772,606 fans have watched ‘Birds baseball.

PLAYING QUICK: Since August 1, the Shorebirds have only played in one game over three hours long (8/20 vs. Hagerstown (13 innings)).

16 EXTRA INNING GAMES: The Shorebirds have played 16 extra inning games this season, the most since the 2007 season (19). The ‘Birds are 4-12 this season in extra inning games. Eleven of the 16 extra-inning games have come at Perdue Stadium.

SEPTEMBER WOES: The Shorebirds are 2-9 over the last two seasons in the month of September. Last year, the ‘Birds went 1-6 during the final month of the year.

Remember That "Honey-Do List"?

The "Honey-Do List" I received was actually to take my Family away. Away from the Blog. Away from Politics. While we silently make several trips away during the summer months, most of the time we stay fairly local. While some may consider a trip to Kings Dominion local, I haven't been there in 32 years and quite frankly, we had a blast!

We pulled out the Motor Coach and hit the road for a much needed break over the past few days. I'll try to get into more details tomorrow but I just wanted to thank everyone for their patience these past few days. A lot of time and effort goes into Salisbury News and while I don't take enough breaks, this is just what I/We needed.

Tomorrow you can expect a TON of Posts. We have a lot of catching up to do. I hope everyone enjoyed this Holiday Weekend and we'll see you tomorrow morning.

Condoleezza Rice Reveals Chaos Following 9/11 Attacks

Former US national security adviser Condoleezza Rice said that she had to yell at then President George Bush not to return to the White House, a potential terrorist target, following the 9/11 attacks, The Daily Mirror reported on Monday. Rice's comments came in a documentary film entitled 9/11: State of Emergency, which is scheduled to air on British television on Saturday, the nine year anniversary of the deadly attacks.

According to Rice, Bush insisted on returning to Washington from Florida following the attacks, prompting her to order him away from the White House.

"I said, 'You cannot come back here. The United States of America is under attack, you have to go to safety. We don't know what is going on here.' He said, 'I'm coming back.' I said in a raised voice, and I had never raised my voice to the President before, I said, 'You cannot come back here.' I hung up."

More here

MD Primary – House, District 38-B

Republican Primary -

Four Republicans are vying for the two slots to emerge from the GOP primary.  Our choices – A. Kaye Kenney and Mike McDermott.

Kenney, a Wicomico farmer and small business owner, has served Wicomico County as a member of the Liquor Licensing Commission and on the Charter Review Committee.  She has also been actively involved in making sure that the Wicomico County Liquor Control Board ceased using taxpayer funds for illegitimate purposes.

McDermott is a career law enforcement officer serving with the Worcester County Sheriff’s office.  He also serves as the mayor of Pocomoke.  Prior to becoming mayor, McDermott also managed his family’s poultry farm.

While both Kenney and McDermott may be slightly more moderate than those of us here at SbyNEWS, this is not necessarily a bad thing.  Both will be strong fiscal conservatives if sent to Annapolis.  Both will look out for the best interests of the citizens of District 38-B.  Both share the common sense values we need in our legislators.

Democratic Primary -

Three Democrats are seeking their party’s nomination to represent 38-B.  Incumbent delegate Norm Conway and Berlin mayor Gee Williams are the clear choices for 38-B Democrats.

Conway is the current House Appropriations Committee chairman.   As such, he is in a position to deliver funding for projects here on the Lower Shore.  Conway has a long record of service to the people of Salisbury, Wicomico County, and District 38.

Williams has served the people of Berlin and possesses above average name ID in Worcester County.  This is needed if the Democrats are to retain both seats.

Both are staunch supporters of the O’Malley administration and have been able to dance on fine line between supporting left of center policies while not appearing too out of touch with constituents back home.  This trait is key for Democrats who wish to succeed in Annapolis while being able to gain election in a district that is right-of-center.

Body Discovered In The Ocean 16 Miles Out Of OC

A body was discovered about 16 miles off O/C this afternoon. It was discovered by a Fishing Boat and recovered by the Coast Guard. No identification has been made.

MD Primary – House, District 38-A

Republican Primary -

The race to succeed the late Page Elmore has become the most exciting on the Eastern Shore, if not in Maryland.  FOUR strong Republican candidates have lined up to challenge for the GOP nod.  Two – Crisfield attorney John Phoebus and Princess Anne farmer Charles Otto lead the pack.  Phoebus has proven to be the best organized candidate with the most specific proposals.

Jobs have proven to be the number one issue in this race (along with most others).  While all four candidates call for lower state spending, lower taxes, a pull back from excessive state regulation, and for the state to get out of local land use policy, these are generalities to be expected from all GOP candidates and even Democrats on the Maryland shore.

Phoebus has been the only candidate to discuss specific measures which will protect our farmers and watermen, as well as help to bring jobs to the Eastern Shore and Maryland.

In addition to calling for a repeal of the O’Malley sales tax increase, Phoebus has called for a reduction or elimination of the state’s corporate income tax.  Since this tax is one factor which makes Maryland highly uncompetitive in attracting employers, this single proposal could steer the Shore’s economy back towards the private sector and away from dependence on the largesse of the taxpayer.

Phoebus has also called for a new regulatory scheme where the western shore should bear it’s fair share of the burden for polluting the Chesapeake Bay.  Some may scoff, but District 38 needs someone who will fight for the lower Shore’s interests rather than go along to get a few scraps of pork.

While District 38-A Republicans should be gratified by having four candidates run for this seat, John Phoebus is the clear choice.

Democratic Primary -

Somerset County Commissioner Mike McCready is unchallenged in the Democratic primary.

MD Primary – Senate, District 38

Republican Primary -

Four years ago, Michael James almost unseated House Appropriations chair Norm Conway (D-38B).  This year his is running to replace retiring Maryland senator J. Lowell Stoltzfus (R-38).  James has no primary opponent.

Democratic Primary -

Incumbent delegate Jim Mathias (D-38B) is seeking to bring the Distict 38 senate back to the Democrats.  Mathias faces a weak primary opponent and his left of center record in the House should allow him to coast through the Democratic primary.

Major Motorcycle Accident On Rt 50

There is a major motorcycle accident on Route 50 westbound just past Naylor Mill Rd. A citizen was administering CPR on the driver of the motorcycle. Emergency personnel were not on the scene yet.


Update to Follow...



Also-- Traffic Alert-- Westbound Route 50 is backup from the east side of Easton to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge.

UPDATE DEATH INVESTIGATION #2 (Monday September 6, 2010)

Resume:
Rehoboth Beach-The Office of Chief Medical Examiner Sunday September 5, 2010 around 10:10 a.m. completed an autopsy on the body located in a car found in the parking lot of the Kmart located at 19563 Coastal Highway Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.

The victim has been identified by the Medical Examiner’s office as Alex Xavier Arroyo-Flores-21 of Salisbury, Maryland. Flores was reported as a missing person by his family and it was investigated by Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office. All questions related to the missing person investigation should be directed to the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office 410-548-4891.

Delaware State Police is still waiting results of a toxicology report which will possibly the manner and cause of death. Once the toxicology report is completed the results can be ascertained through the Office of Chief Medical Examiner.

Delaware State Police does not suspect foul play in this death investigation. The case is currently remains active until final results of the toxicology report have been analyzed


UPDATE DEATH INVESTIGATION
Resume:
Rehoboth Beach-Delaware State Police has cleared the scene and the found body has been turned over to the Office of Chief Medical Examiners Office for an autopsy.

An autopsy has been scheduled for tomorrow afternoon Sunday September 5, 2010. Presently the Delaware State Police is not able to positively identify the male victim in this complaint. The victim’s body was found in poor condition and an autopsy will assist in the identification. As of right now this is being handled as a death investigation only.

Additional information about this case will be disseminated as soon as it becomes available.


DSP News Release: State Police on Scene Conducting Death Investigation

Location:
19563 Coastal Highway (Kmart Department Store) Rehoboth Beach, De

DATE and TIME:
Saturday September 4, 2010 2:16 p.m.

Victim(s):
Found Body believed to be a male NFD

Vehicle(s):
2007 Silver Toyota Corolla Maryland registration

Resume:
Rehoboth Beach-Delaware State Police is currently on scene conducting a death investigation in the parking lot of the Rehoboth Beach Kmart located at 19563 Coastal Highway.

State Police investigators responded to the scene after being notified by the Sussex County Paramedic crews. State Troopers were advised that a body of a male was located inside of a 2007 silver Toyota Corolla displaying Maryland registration.

The deceased male was found in the rear seat of the Toyota and preliminary indications suggest he has been there for more then a few hours.

A more detailed released will be disseminated as soon as additional details are made available. Anyone who may have information pertaining to this case is asked to contact authorities. Callers may remain anonymous. Tips may also be forwarded to law enforcement through tip lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-333 3 or on line at www.tipsubmit.com.

A Look At John Boehner, Speaker In Waiting

House Minority Leader John A. Boehner, Ohio Republican, could walk down most American streets without turning a head.

But the perpetually tanned, chain-smoking Mr. Boehner might be the next House speaker and a huge force in national politics, trying to manage an increasingly libertarian-leaning Republican caucus while leading the opposition to President Obama's policies.

For those who know Mr. Boehner, the question is which version of the House Republican leader will emerge as speaker if the GOP takes at least 40 seats from Democrats in November.

Will it be the policy-minded lawmaker who sometimes shows bipartisan tendencies, such as when he worked with the late Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, Massachusetts Democrat, on major education bills?

Or will it be the fiery partisan of recent months who shouted "hell no" to Mr. Obama's health care bill and who threw the Democrats' massive economic stimulus bill to the House floor in a theatrical rebuke?

Mr. Boehner left little doubt that the president and other Democrats will face fierce resistance in the House if he is speaker, starting with a push to dismantle Mr. Obama's hard-fought health care law.

"We're going to do everything we can to prevent this law from being implemented, and I mean everything," Mr. Boehner said in a recent interview. "I think it will ruin health care and bankrupt the country."

In truth, Mr. Obama's veto powers will make it virtually impossible to repeal the law. Still, Mr. Boehner said, he would use every parliamentary and appropriations trick available, including making sure "they don't get the funds to hire employees to implement the law."

Mr. Boehner, 60, has been raising his profile in recent days, giving well-publicized speeches in Cleveland and Milwaukee criticizing Mr. Obama's economic and military policies.

Still, he knows he won't become a household name overnight. His ramped-up schedule is mainly a signal to GOP colleagues and political insiders that he's ready to assume leadership of the House — and in some respects, the entire party — if voters end four years of Democratic House control and Rep. Nancy Pelosi's speakership.

For Mr. Boehner, leading a full-throated Republican opposition to Mr. Obama and congressional Democrats might be the easy part. His bigger challenge looms on his right. Restless and uncompromisingly conservative Republicans probably will expand their ranks after "tea party" loyalists win some races Nov. 2.

Mr. Boehner already has a somewhat wary alliance with several younger and more dogmatic GOP members. They include Rep. Eric Cantor of Virginia, the party's second-ranking House leader.

Mr. Cantor and two colleagues — Reps. Kevin McCarthy of California and Paul D. Ryan of Wisconsin — are publishing a Republican manifesto, "Young Guns: A New Generation of Conservative Leaders," which is promoted in a flashy video.

There's one glaring omission in the hoopla over the book: any reference to Mr. Boehner.

Here is more

Obama 'Ends' The War, US Troops Still Fighting

Days after the U.S. officially ended combat operations and touted Iraq's ability to defend itself, American troops found themselves battling heavily armed militants assaulting an Iraqi military headquarters in the center of Baghdad on Sunday. The fighting killed 12 people and wounded dozens.

It was the first exchange of fire involving U.S. troops in Baghdad since the Aug. 31 deadline for formally ending the combat mission, and it showed that American troops remaining in the country are still being drawn into the fighting.

The attack also made plain the kind of lapses in security that have left Iraqis wary of the U.S. drawdown and distrustful of the ability of Iraqi forces now taking up ultimate responsibility for protecting the country.

Sunday's hour-long assault was the second in as many weeks on the facility, the headquarters for the Iraqi Army's 11th Division, pointing to the failure of Iraqi forces to plug even the most obvious holes in their security.

Two of the four attackers even managed to fight their way inside the compound and were only killed after running out of ammunition and detonating explosives belts they were wearing.

The American troops who joined the fight and provided cover fire for Iraqi soldiers pursuing the attackers were based at the compound to train Iraqi forces, said U.S. military spokesman Lt. Col. Eric Bloom. Iraqi forces also requested help from U.S. helicopters, drones and explosives experts, he said. No American troops were hurt, Bloom said.

Under an agreement between the two countries, Iraq can still call on American forces to assist in combat and U.S. troops can defend themselves if attacked.

More

Globalist Soros Launches Frontal Assault Against Tea Party

Soros and the foundation left have launched a website designed to go after the growing Tea Party movement. Teapartytracker.org will post video interviews and blog entries gathered by folks on the false left who never grow weary of demonstrating their outrage over the very idea of a grassroots political effort overthrowing establishment Democrats and Republicans in the district of corporate criminals.

Teapartytracker.org will be sponsored by the NAACP, Think Progress, New Left Media and Media Matters for America. Think Progress is a George Soros operation connected to John Podesta’s Center for American Progress. Podesta is Clinton’s former chief of staff. Media Matters for America is the brainchild of a MoveOn consultant and Podesta’s Center for American Progress. Soros is a major supporter of MoveOn.

On July 13, the NAACP unanimously passed a resolution repudiating the Tea Party for alleged racism. The resolution followed accusations that the Tea Party had accosted members the Congressional Black Caucus as they traipsed the district of criminals mall on their way to vote for Obamacare, a grand larceny scam cooked up by large corporations. “Civil rights icon John Lewis was spit on, while Congressman Emanuel Cleaver was called the ‘N’ word and openly gay Congressman Barney Frank was called an ugly anti-gay slur,” a press released issued by the NAACP claims.

On April 1, Infowars.com provided evidence that protesters in fact did not spit on Missouri Democrat Emanuel Cleaver or did they hurl racial epithets at members of the Congressional Black Caucus.

Cleaver later said a Tea Party protester did not spit on him intentionally. “All I’m saying is we all have to defuse it, and I think it is not in my best interest or in the best interest of this nation to stoke it,” he said on March 30 during a Fox News interview.

The NAACP and the Soros-funded anti-Tea Party operation, however, do not share Cleaver’s desire to defuse the situation. Instead, they plan to extract as much political mileage from the fictitious incident as possible.

In July, Soros’ Think Progress stitched together a video purporting to show that the Tea Party is chock full of racists.

Recall “Crash the Tea Party,” an effort exposed earlier this year, designed to portray the Tea Party as racists and reactionary throwbacks. Tea Party hating liberals “couldn’t sell the transparently nonsensical idea that Tea Partiers are just a bunch of racists, homophobes and morons, so the Crash the Party agents on the Left are infiltrating the Tea Party in order to pose as a bunch of racists, homophobes and morons,” Mark Tapscott wrote for the Washington Examiner on April 11, 2010.

Keep reading here

Higher Education Bubble Poised To Burst

Imagine that you have a product whose price tag for decades rises faster than inflation. But people keep buying it because they're told that it will make them wealthier in the long run. Then suddenly they find it doesn't. Prices fall sharply, bankruptcies ensue, great institutions disappear.

Sound like the housing market? Yes, but it also sounds like what Glenn Reynolds, creator of instapundit.com, writing in The Examiner, has called "the higher education bubble."

Government-subsidized loans have injected money into higher education, as they did into housing, causing prices to balloon. But at some point people figure out they're not getting their money's worth, and the bubble bursts.

Some think this would be a good thing. My American Enterprise Institute colleague Charles Murray has called for the abolition of college for almost all students. Save it for genuine scholars, he says, and let others qualify for jobs by standardized national tests, as accountants already do.

"Is our students learning?" George W. Bush once asked, and the evidence for colleges points to no. The National Center for Education Statistics found that most college graduates are below proficiency in verbal and quantitative literacy. University of California scholars Philip Babcock and Mindy Marks report that students these days study an average of 14 hours a week, down from 24 hours in 1961.

The American Council of Alumni and Trustees concluded, after a survey of 714 colleges and universities, "by and large, higher education has abandoned a coherent content-rich general education curriculum."

They aren't taught the basics of literature, history or science. ACTA reports that most schools don't require a foreign language, hardly any require economics, American history and government "are badly neglected" and schools "have much to do" on math and science.

ACTA's whatwilltheylearn.com Web site provides the grisly details for each school, together with the amount of tuition. Students and parents can see if they will get their money's worth.

Read more at the Washington Examiner

WORCESTER LEADER DEFENDS “GEE” WILLIAMS AND TRASHES THE DAILY TIMES

Joe Moore, a major player in Democrat dealings in Worcester County and prominent attorney there, has quickly come to the defense of Berlin’s mayor, Mr. Williams, who is the subject of a recent article in the Daily Times that discussed a significant donation to his campaign for the House of Delegates. The article reported that at almost at the same time as the Town’s commissioners voted to approve the purchase of land, a group of business firms affiliated with the seller gave $2,500 to the political campaign of Mr. Williams, who actively promoted the deal. It also discussed the fact that the purchase price being paid by Berlin is twice what the property sold for last year, pointing out that the higher value is supported by the appraisal firm of William McCain, who is a member of the Wicomico County Council.

Mr. Moore does not suggest that the article is incorrect in any of the facts that it reported. He points out, also correctly, that the purchase of the property was not approved by Mayor Williams, but rather by the town’s legislative body (as the article also noted), albeit by a bare majority as two Council members disqualified themselves. He also states that James “Bud” Church, who is a member of the Worcester County Commissioners, and the current State’s Attorney, Joel Todd, spoke in support of the deal.

We have no issue with Mr. Moore, a skilled advocate, presenting a factual scenario that appears more favorable for Mayor Williams, although it seems appropriate for the latter to do so and in the process explain whether the value of the property has actually doubled since it was sold last year. Mr. Moore did not address that aspect of the situation.

Instead, he berates the Daily Times for insinuating that “the purchase and a campaign donation had some possible connection”, which he deems to be “offensive”. That’s why we must return fire. The Daily Times reported facts, not fantasy, that some folks finds very disturbing. The media should do basic reportage without concern about the political careers or the sensibilities of the pillars of the community (or as some would say, the “good old boys”).

It’s not often that we applaud the Daily Times, and this may be the first time we have defended it. Mr. Moore offered the readers his best “jury spin”, stating that the article “is unfair to the citizens of Berlin”, which is absurd. His hyperbole, however, is biased and fanciful: the facts can be very inconvenient at times like this.

American Patriot

Do you think that our 44th president, Barack Hussein Obama, is an American Patriot?

MD Primary – House, District 37-B

Republican Primary -

Incumbent delegates Addie Eckardt and Jeannie Haddaway are unopposed in the GOP primary.

Democratic Primary -

Patrice Stanley is the only Democrat running for this two person seat.

MD Primary – House, District 37-A

Republican Primary -

Wicomico County educator Dustin Mills is the only GOP candidate seeking this seat.

Democratic Primary -

Former Salisbury councilwoman Von Siggers is challenging three term incumbent Del. Rudy Cane (D-37A).  She deserves the support of Democrat voters in Distrtict 37-A.

Siggers established herself as an independent voice on the Salisbury city council (particularly in the second half of her term).  Since then she has remained involved in her community and has been willing to build bridges between groups in Salisbury and Wicomico County.

Cane, who is seeking a fourth term, is a kind, jovial fellow.  Sadly, he is too closely tied to special interests both in his district and throughout the state.

Claiming to be a champion of agriculture, Cane has refused to help Wicomico farmers while his political allies have attempted to steal their property rights.  Cane’s most infamous act may have been his running interference for the Wicomico County Liquor Control Board while they continue to sell alcohol to minors with impunity.  It doesn’t hurt that the WCLCB has been doling out the taxpayers’ money to favored constituencies of Mr. Cane.

MD Primary – Senate, District 37

Republican Primary -

Maryland Senator Richard Colburn is seeking re-election to a fifth term.  He deserves the support of Republican voters in Dorchester, Talbot, and the District 37 portions of Caroline and Wicomico.

Serving two terms in the Maryland House and four in the Maryland Senate, Colburn has proved to be a sound, prudent, and conservative voice for Distict 37, the Eastern Shore, and the state of Maryland.

 

Democratic Primary -

Three Democrats are lined up to challenge for the District 37 seat currently held by Richard Colburn.  Given the demographics of the district, Talbot County restaurateur Tim Quinn seems the logical choice.

Active in his community, Quinn is also a small businessman.  Former Maryland governor Harry Hughes (the Eastern Shore’s last governor) believes Quinn worthy for the post and has endorsed Quinn in newspapers throughout the district.

MD Primary – 1st Congressional District

Republican Primary -

Two individuals are facing off for the privilege of facing incumbent Rep. Frank Kratovil (D-MD) – Maryland Senator Andy Harris (R-7) and Rob Fisher.  GOP voters have one clear choice – Andy Harris.

Harris toppled liberal incumbent Wayne Gilchrest in the 2008 GOP primary.  After losing to Kratovil by a hair, he is the best choice to defeat Kratovil this year.

A true conservative, in the Reagan mold, Harris is a physician and citizen-legislator who will put principle above politics if sent to Washington.  This is precisely what the citizens of Maryland’s First Congressional District deserve.

Fisher has faced numerous problems since declaring his candidacy.  While aspiring to be the darling of the Tea Party movement, Fisher made his fortune sucking at the Federal teat (courtesy of YOU, the taxpayers).  To add insult to injury, investigations by Red Maryland’s Mark Newgent and the Baltimore Sun have turned up quite a few problems with Fisher and his candidacy.

Andy Harris is the GOP’s only choice if Republican voters are serious about replacing Frank Kratovil with someone who more closely reflects the district’s values.

Democratic Primary -

Incumbent Rep. Frank Kratovil (D-MD) faces no primary opposition.

MD Primary – US Senate

Republican Primary -

There are 13 candidates seeking the GOP nomination to challenge incumbent US Senator Barbara Mikulski.  Only two have waged a serious campaign – Harford County attorney Jim Rutledge and Queen Anne’s County Commissioner Eric Wargotz.  Only one of these candidates is worthy of your vote – Jim Rutledge.

Rutledge has waged a serious campaign based on the conservative principles this country was founded on.  He has pledged to tow the line on taxes AND spending.  He has also pulled together a strong grassroots coalition throughout Maryland to promote not only his candidacy, but those same principles and ideas.

Rutledge’s chief opponent, Eric Wargotz, is someone who has attempted to win the primary by telling whatever group that was in the room with him whatever he thought they wanted to hear.  If you listen to Wargotz’s radio commercials you would think that he is channeling the spirit of Ronald Reagan.  To other groups he has not only advocated for ObamaCare, but criticized it because it did not include coverage for illegal aliens.

Moderate, or even left-of-center, GOP candidates may be necessary at certain times and in particular races.  That said, any candidate (such as Wargotz) who will flip-flop on nearly every issue of import, or pander whenever the mood suits, is simply not worthy of consideration.

Jim Rutledge is a candidate Maryland Republicans can be proud of and should stand behind.

 

Democratic Primary -

Incumbent US Senator Barbara Mikulski has seven opponents in this year’s primary.  None have waged a real campaign against Mikulski, nor should Maryland Democrats consider giving their vote to them.

MD Primary - Governor

Republican Primary -

Bob Ehrlich may not be the perfect candidate for Maryland conservatives; I don’t think that even Ehrlich would make that claim.  However, Bob Ehrlich is what Maryland conservatives and other Republican voters need RIGHT NOW!

While we all hope that Republicans make great strides in this year’s elections, only the optimistic fool would predict that Republicans will take control of either house of the state legislature.  Re-districting will take place in the next session.  As such, only a Republican governor (or the courts) can keep a greedy and arrogant Democrat machine from gerrymandering the state to the point that the Eastern Shore could be split among several congressional districts or that where I live (the Wicomico portion of 38-A) could wind up being in a legislative district that stretches to Caroline County (or beyond).

Maryland is in a fiscal mess.  Only by replacing incumbent Martin O’Malley will we have a chance of restoring fiscal sanity to the once Free State.

Bob Ehrlich is the only candidate that can beat O’Malley in the general election and hold back the tide of statism that Marylanders have been forced to endure.

Ehrlich’s primary opponent, Brian Murphy, could well be a rising star in Maryland politics.  There is no question that he is an outstanding candidate with some great ideas.  Murphy stepped up to the plate when no one else would carry the GOP banner without the caveat - “I’ll drop out if Bob Ehrlich runs”.  Brian should be commended by all Maryland Republicans, conservative and moderate alike.

However, supporting Bob Ehrlich is the prudent, conservative choice.  Many will cry that this is a betrayal of conservative principles.  NO!  Supporting Bob Ehrlich in 2010 is the right choice for those that adhere to a true conservative philosophy in the vein of Edmund Burke.  Those that scream “betrayal” or “tool of the GOP establishment” are merely showing themselves to be populist ideologues, not the conservatives they claim to be.

Bob Ehrlich is the best candidate for 2010.

 

Democrat Primary -

Incumbent governor Martin O’Malley is the only credible candidate running in the Democrat primary.

Big Fire In Pittsville

There's a three alarm fire somewhere near Pittsville. Gumboro, Pittsville & Pasonsburg have been called out to a chicken house fire.

One Percent Transaction Tax Is Proposed?

President Obama's finance team is recommending a transaction tax. This is a 1% tax on all transactions at any financial institution i. e. Banks, Credit Unions, etc.. Any deposit you make, or move around within your account, i. e. transfer to, will have a 1% tax charged. If your pay check or your social Security or whatever is direct deposit, 1% tax charged. If you hand carry a check in to deposit, 1% tax charged, If you take cash in to deposit, 1% tax charged.This is from the man who promised that if you make under $250,000 per year, you will not see one penny of new tax. Keep your eyes and ears open, you will be amazed at what you learn.

Some will say aw it's just 1%... remember once the tax is there they can raise it at will.

Govt Promotion of Islam? State Dept. Pressed For Imam Book Explanation

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee wants the State Department to explain its use of taxpayer funds to purchase and distribute Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf’s book What’s Right With Islam.

“Certainly Senate Foreign Relations Committee members will want some briefing from the State Department,” Andy Fisher, the spokesman for Sen. Richard Lugar (R-Ind.), the ranking Republican on the Senate Foreign Relations told HUMAN EVENTS. Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass), the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, had no immediate reaction to the controversy.

On the House side, Rep. Ilena Ros-Lehtinen (R-Fla.), ranking Republican on the Foreign Affairs Committee, is “looking into the matter.” Committee Chairman Howard Berman (D-Calif.) would not comment as of press time.

The State Department spent $10,000 of taxpayer funds to buy 2,000 copies of the book written by Ground Zero mosque promoter Feisal Abdul Rauf. U.S. embassy employees are distributing the book during the imam’s taxpayer-funded tour to Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

But the arrangement calls into question whether the U.S. government’s funding of a book which promotes the Muslim religion is in violation of the 1st Amendment’s separation of church and state.

The State Department defends the right to distribute this book by saying the book is not “religious.” An official told HUMAN EVENTS that “we would consider a religious book to be something like the Koran and the Bible. We look at those as book on religion or books about religious.”

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)—which litigates against Christian symbols such as the cross and Ten Commandments in public places—refused to comment on the Islamic book controversy.

GO HERE to read more.

If Obama Won't Investigate ACORN, New Congress Should

When the leaders of organizations tell employees not to cooperate with FBI investigators, they usually have something to hide.

This is especially true when the organization in question is the infamous Association of Community Organizers for Reform Now, or ACORN. Folks may have thought ACORN was out of business by now, thanks to those sensational videos made public last year of its employees advising two associates of journalist Andrew Breitbart on how to get around laws against tax evasion, child prostitution, and illegal immigration.

Since the 'Pimp and Prostitute' videos, ACORN officials have used a tactic familiar to shady operators posing as Persian rug salesmen, home remodelers and roof repairers: Change the business name on the door and keep right on ripping off the unwary.

That's why, as Judicial Watch president Tom Fitton explains on washingtonexaminer.com:

"Today ACORN is alive and well, splintered into rebranded local chapters across the country."

Fitton should know because he and his small but famously spunky staff have been poring over hundreds of documents they've obtained in recent months from court records and Freedom of Information Act requests concerning the multiple federal and state criminal investigations that have been conducted in recent years of ACORN and its most frequent partner in crime, Project Vote. What they've found is mountains of evidence indicating a long-running joint effort by ACORN and Project Vote to subvert anti-voter registration fraud laws.

Federal investigators in St. Louis noted, for example, that Missouri ACORN/Project Vote workers were instructed not to talk to the FBI. Investigators quoted in documents reviewed by Judicial Watch also claimed in shorthand notes that "ACORN hqt wkg for the Democratic Party."

They also found evidence of physical threats against ACORN/Project Vote workers who cooperated with the FBI, and the routine use of names taken from the telephone book being used on fraudulent voter registration cards. All of these acts are criminal felonies that can result in multiple jail terms for convicted offenders.

Despite the evidence, however, President Obama's Justice Department shut down the federal probes in March 2009. Fitton suggests that DOJ's lack of interest in pursuing the ACORN/Project Vote investigation is explained by Obama's long relationship with the two groups. That relationship is reflected in this quote from Obama that appeared on his presidential campaign web site in 2008:

"I've been fighting alongside ACORN on issues you care about my entire career."

More Here

Bob Ehrlich To Attend Boat Docking Contest In Crisfield

Trooper’s Arrest Suspect For Outstanding Warrant And CDS Violations

DATE & TIME: 9/5/2010 at 0022 hours
C C. CARD NUMBER: 1054-00-8026

LOCATION: Old Ocean City Rd @ Main St Ext, Pittsville, MD

BRIEF RESUME:

On the above date and time, a trooper stopped a 1997 Ford for a traffic violation. During the course of the traffic stop the trooper learned the driver had provided him with false identification and was placed under arrest. The passenger for the vehicle was found to have an outstanding Circuit Court Warrant out of Worcester County for Assault. A search of the vehicle revealed an amount of suspected Marijuana. The driver and passenger was arrested for the CDS violations and outstanding warrant.
Arrested:
1. Tyronn Rashaad Lawson, B/M age 23 of Berlin, Maryland
>Poss. Of CDS Marijuana
>Poss. CDS Paraphernalia
>False statement to Police
2. Lavar Jerome Ayres, B/M age 31 of Berlin, Maryland
> Outstanding Warrant

GREENJACKETS SHUTOUT SHOREBIRDS, 3-0, IN GAME TWO

Bundy’s Consecutive Scoreless Innings Streak Ends at 19.2

Salisbury, Md. – Three Augusta pitchers combined to four-hit the Shorebirds in a 3-0 shutout win for the GreenJackets on Saturday night at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium. The Delmarva Shorebirds have lost three straight games.

The GreenJackets plated the first run against Bobby Bundy in the third inning. Nick Liles hit a double off the left field wall. Three batters later, Ryan Cavan hit a single to give Augusta a 1-0 lead.

Augusta plated two more runs in the sixth inning. Cavan led off with a single. Skyler Stromsmoe was hit by a pitch to put two men aboard. Then, Hector Sanchez hit a triple to right-center field to plate both runners.

Bobby Bundy allowed five hits and three runs in 5.2 innings pitched. The three runs scored against him were the first runs he has surrendered since August 16. Bundy struck out six and walked four.

James Brandhorst tossed 2.1 scoreless innings. He allowed just one hit. David Walters tossed a perfect ninth inning.

Augusta starter Jeremy Toole earned his sixth win of the season. He tossed six shutout frames and allowed just two hits. Jose Valdez held the Shorebirds in check in the seventh and eighth innings while Jose Casilla picked up his 14th save of the season by throwing a flawless ninth inning.

The Shorebirds and GreenJackets play game three of the series on Sunday at 5:05 p.m. RHP Brent Allar makes the start for Delmarva.

SHOREBIRDS GAME NOTES: 9/3 vs. Augusta

STAT OF THE DAY: Shorebirds starting pitcher Bobby Bundy has not allowed a run in 17 consecutive innings pitched.

PREVIEW: The Shorebirds aim to level the series in game two against the GreenJackets. Augusta scored six runs in the first inning and cruised to a 10-3 win last night. 2009 1st-round draft pick Zack Wheeler earned the win in five innings. With a win tonight, the Shorebirds would become the 14th team in franchise history (15 years) to win at least 60 games.

60 RBI CLUB: Ty Kelly is two RBIs shy of joining the 60+ RBI club. Since the 2004 season 12 players have reached 60 RBIs: Nick Markakis (64, 2004), Jason Fransz (111, 2005), Arturo Rivas (62, 2005), Ryan Finan (78, 2006), Mark Fleisher (67, 2006), Miguel Abreu (60, 2007), Brandon Tripp (79, 2007), Chris Vinyard (82, 2007), Tyler Henson (62, 2008), Joe Mahoney (61, 2008), Joe Nowicki (78, 2008) and Ron Welty (67, 2009).

41 TRIPLES: The Shorebirds have recorded 41 triples this season, the most in a single-season since the 2000 season (42). The Shorebirds record is 48, achieved by the ‘96 team.

OFFENSIVE THRIVING: Shortstop Garabez Rosa has seen his offensive numbers boom of late. Rosa has hit safely in nine of his last ten games (16-39, .410).

HEAVY WORKLOAD: Brian Parker has worked 16.2 innings in his last five appearances out of the bullpen since August 19.

55 1-RUN GAMES: The Shorebirds lead the league this season with 55 1-run games. They are 23-22 in those games. For comparison, Augusta has played in 43 one-run games.

Missing Person Located Press Release

INCIDENT: Missing Person Located

DATE: September 4, 2010

LOCATION: Rehobeth, DE

NARRATIVE: Unfortunately on 09-4-10 Alex Arroyo-Flores’ body was found in the Rehobeth DE K-Mart shopping center in his car. His death is still under the investigation of the Delaware State Police.

The family would like to thank all those who offered their help, prayers and thoughts.

Early Voting Starting Off Well!

On Friday, September 3rd, 229 Wicomico voters availed themselves of early voting.  There were 116 voting in the GOP primary, 113 in the Democratic primary.  There was one provisional ballot cast in the GOP primary.

This may not seem like a lot of voters, and you would be right.  However, given that this is the first time we have seen early voting in Maryland I was actually encouraged (although I am an opponent of early voting).  As usual, Anthony Gutierrez and the good folk at the Wicomico Board of Elections have done an excellent job.

Alex X. Arroyo-Flores Found Deceased In Rehobeth

Update- Alex Arroyo-Flores was found deceased today in Rehobeth at the Kmart Shopping Center. At this time it is an ongoing investigation. We would like to thank everyone who assisted in the search for Alex. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Alex at this very sad time.

WBI Press Release

INCIDENT: Assault, 2nd Degree

DATE: September 4, 2010

LOCATION: Leonard Mill Apts, 800 Booth Street, Salisbury, Maryland

NARRATIVE: On September 4, 2010 at approximately 0621 hours the Maryland State Police - Salisbury Barrack responded to the above address on Booth St. for a report of a stabbing. Upon arrival, Troopers located Melvin Alexis COLON-CRUZ, Hispanic/Male, 34 YOA of Pocahantas Ave, Salisbury suffering from a stab wound to the abdomen. EMS transported COLON-CRUZ to PRMC for treatment. Troopers also located Luther JAMES, AA/Male, 53 YOA also of Booth St, Salisbury, who had an abrasion on his neck as a result of COLON-CRUZ striking JAMES with a board. JAMES did not require medical treatment. Investigators from WBI responded and assumed the investigation. Investigation revealed that COLON-CRUZ entered JAMES’ apartment and began hitting JAMES about the head and neck with a board, causing slight injuries and breaking the board. JAMES removed a folding knife from his pocket and stabbed COLON-CRUZ one time in the abdomen. COLON-CRUZ and JAMES were previously familiar with each other.

Anyone with additional information pertaining to this or any other investigation is asked to contact the Wicomico Bureau of Investigation at 410-548-4898 or Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776.

SUSPECTS: Melvin Alexis COLON-CRUZ, Hispanic/Male, 12/24/75, Salisbury.



CHARGES: Assault, 2nd Degree


DISPOSITION: Under investigation

State Police On Scene Conducting Death Investigation

Location:
19563 Coastal Highway (Kmart Department Store) Rehoboth Beach, De

DATE and TIME:
Saturday September 4, 2010 2:16 p.m.

Victim(s):
Found Body believed to be a male NFD

Vehicle(s):
2007 Silver Toyota Corolla Maryland registration

Resume:
Rehoboth Beach-Delaware State Police is currently on scene conducting a death investigation in the parking lot of the Rehoboth Beach Kmart located at 19563 Coastal Highway.

State Police investigators responded to the scene after being notified by the Sussex County Paramedic crews. State Troopers were advised that a body of a male was located inside of a 2007 silver Toyota Corolla displaying Maryland registration.

The deceased male was found in the rear seat of the Toyota and preliminary indications suggest he has been there for more then a few hours.

Delaware State Police is asking citizens to please respect the police boundaries and expect delays and congestion in this area.

A more detailed released will be disseminated as soon as additional details are made available. There are no additional details available at the current time. Anyone who may have information pertaining to this case is asked to contact authorities. Callers may remain anonymous. Tips may also be forwarded to law enforcement through tip lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or on line at www.tipsubmit.com.

New Evidence Undermines Feds' Case Against Arizona

You've heard a lot about the Justice Department's lawsuit to stop the new Arizona immigration law. But that's just one part of the Obama administration's multi-front war on immigration enforcement in Arizona.

In addition to the drive to kill the new law, Attorney General Eric Holder is also suing the Maricopa Community College system in Phoenix, alleging it broke the law by requiring a job seeker to provide a green card before being hired. And on Thursday the Justice Department filed suit against the Maricopa County Sheriff's office, run by the flamboyant Joe Arpaio, as part of an extended investigation into alleged civil rights violations there.

Despite the splash of attention from the newest lawsuit, the Justice Department's investigation of Arpaio could end badly for Holder. When the Department first informed Arpaio that a probe was under way, back in March 2009, it sent a letter saying the investigation would focus on "alleged patterns or practices of discriminatory police practices and unconstitutional searches and seizures." But now we learn that just six months before that, in September 2008, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, known as ICE, did its own investigation of Arpaio's office -- and gave it a clean bill of health. Arpaio's lawyers recently got a copy of the ICE report through the Freedom of Information Act.

ICE officials evaluated how the sheriff's office performed under a law that allows specially trained local law enforcement officers to enforce parts of federal immigration law. The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office, which is the largest sheriff's office in the Arizona, has 189 officers who have been trained by ICE to enforce federal immigration statutes.

The report, crammed with acronyms and bureaucratese, is not light reading. But struggle through it, and the key sentence is this: "The OI and DRO supervisors consider the conduct and performance of the MCSO ... officers to be professional and meeting the requirement of the MOA." Translated, that means officials from the Homeland Security Department's Office of Investigation (OI), along with officials from the Detention and Removal Operations office (DRO), concluded that the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office (MCSO), in its handling of illegal immigrants, acted in a professional manner and complied with a memorandum of agreement (MOA) under which the government gave them the authority to enforce federal law. That agreement included a ban on racial profiling.

ICE investigators also interviewed top federal officials involved in illegal immigrant cases in Arizona. They found an "excellent" working relationship between the sheriff's office and the feds. ICE talked as well to federal prosecutors in Phoenix, who described the cases brought by Maricopa County as "high quality."

In all, it's a quite positive assessment of an operation that just six months later would come under the Justice Department's microscope for alleged civil rights violations. It also lends indirect support to Arpaio's contention that the Justice Department investigation is politically motivated.

A tidbit of information contained in other government documents released under the Freedom of Information Act also suggests politics may be involved. Arpaio's lawyers found a March 11, 2009, e-mail, sent just after the Justice Department investigation was announced, from an ICE employee to John P. Torres, then the acting assistant secretary of ICE. "Did you see this?" the e-mail said, attaching a news report on the investigation. "Yes," Torres responded a few minutes later. "Interesting politics at play."

Read more at the Washington Examiner

BERLIN’S “GEE” WILLIAMS IS MIRED IN DEEP DOO-DOO!

It doesn’t get much dicier than this.

In essentially simultaneous transactions, the Town of Berlin recently agreed to purchase land – for which it has no immediate plans but was promoted by Mayor Williams as a good deal, at twice the price that the seller paid for it in 2009 – and a consortium of companies affiliated with the seller contributed a total of $2,500 to Williams’ campaign for a seat in Maryland’s House of Delegates. As the good old boys of Berlin say, “it’s just a ca-ching , , , ca-ching thing.” But even they are asking, why they didn’t wait until after the election in November to contribute, not to mention the primary – DUMB.

And there’s another interesting detail: that much higher price to be paid by Berlin is supported by an appraisal made by the firm of Wicomico County Councilman Wm. McCain, who recently told the public that $300,000 per acre was a fair price for land across the street from the Civic Center.

We’ve got to give credit to the Daily Times for shining a spotlight on this shenanigan, which may cost Mr. Williams his political career, except possibly in Berlin. When running for elective office, it’s not good to be caught with your pants down and hand in the cookie jar.

HISTORICAL COMMENTS BY GEORGE CHEVALLIER

Report Cards

It seems to be the politically correct thing to do in this day and age to not give children a feeling of failure by giving them a failing grade. The two report cards above are from a time when failing was foremost in every student’s mind. The report card on the left is mine from St. Francis in 1950 when I was in the second grade. At St. Francis we had no choice but to get good grades because our teacher was Sister Mary Boniface. Back in those days, every one of the nuns carried a 15” Westcott ruler that would unerringly find the hand of any pupil that misbehaved. The inherent fear of the teacher plus the fact that when she sent a report to your parents (her word was always taken as gospel), well, that was enough to keep any child in line. Looking back, I can see where that discipline was not such a bad thing. By keeping the restless children in line, the other children received better help from the teacher. We all need discipline in our lives and it doesn’t hurt to learn it early.

Now, there are so many instances where a “pass” grade is given. Or, during the annual field day, they give out “participation ribbons” instead of 1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc. In former times, a failing grade meant you had to study harder. If you got a 2nd place ribbon, that meant you had to try harder. Failure can sometimes be a good thing. At St. Francis, if you failed in class, you failed and had to repeat that grade.

Looking at the other report card on the right, we can see that in 1888 they offered such subjects as Declamation, Latin Grammar and Reader, Physiology, Algebra, Physics, Caesar, Virgil, Geometry and Trigonometry among other subjects. The report cards were the same, but the subjects were determined by the grade level you were in. This report card belonged to Elmer C. Williams. He was second in his class with a 94 average. Of course, there were only six in the class. I wonder if it made any difference that the principal was T. H. Williams. Elmer Williams was the proprietor and manager of the parking garage on Church St. behind the Salisbury National Bank all his life. And, remember, he only went to school for nine grades in 1888. The name of the school, Salisbury High School, was changed to Wicomico High School when they built a new school in 1905.

The respect that the teachers received from the students was duly earned by their example. Teachers were held to a higher standard in those days, and the parents saw to it that their children acted accordingly. Many things have changed in the last 122 years, but not all for the better. A lot of times, a gentle nudge in the direction of improvement would do some children a lot of good. Instead, they just tell everyone they are doing fine, even when they aren’t.

Sharp Marine

Last Tuesday President Obama got off the helicopter in front of
The White House - carrying a baby piglet under each arm.
The squared-away Marine guard snapped to attention, saluted and said:

"Nice pigs, sir." The President replied: "These are not pigs. These are
authentic Arkansas Razorback Hogs. I got one for Secretary of State
Hillary Clinton, and I got one for Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi."

The squared-away Marine again snapped to attention, salutes and said,
"Excellent trade, sir."

Earl Meets OC Inlet Parking Lot

Our friend Al sent us these images taken during hurricane Earl 2010 in Ocean City.

Lost Cat

I am emailing because my cat Peaches....a yellow/light orange male is missing. He goes outside during the day, and usually comes in at night. He lost his flea collar the other day, so he would not have a collar on. He is ultra friendly, but if you approach him to look like you are forcing him to go in the house, he will run a bit. Tends to have sleep in his eyes....sorry, giving all the details I can. Anyhow, I stayed out looking for him last night for fear of the Storms we didnt have.....and could not find him at all. I live on Driftwood Drive in Delmar MD....Off Connelly Mill Rd and Shell Rd. Its a pretty quiet neighborhood. I have driven around several times and see no signs of him. I am thinking someone may have thought he was a stray without his collar, and taken him in. At least that is what I am hoping for. Please, if you could post this on Salisbury News....maybe a reader has seen him. My contact info is my email address, and I can be reached at 443-523-9233. If you dont mind, keep my personal info to you....but if you have to post it, thats fine as well. I am attaching two images of him if you dont mind posting them. His brother is in one of them

Senator Mikulski Makes LIST

50 Worst Congress People to Desert Americans By Favoring Increased Illegal Aliens To Compete for Jobs

During the past two years every MONTH 75,000 illegals have been given visas. While 22 million Americans are seeking JOBS, 7 million illegal aliens are working in this country. Senator Mikulski is content to keep her Maryland constituents out of work. When Mikulski is campaigning about her great concern of JOBS for Marylanders, ask her just WHO is getting these JOBS.

More on this Tuesday or go to http://www.numbersusa.com/ to read the op-ed from N.Y. Times ( 50 Worst Deserters of America's Unemployed).

Holiday Weekend

Folks, I don't do this often but I've got some honey-do list things I need to take care of this weekend. That being said, I'm taking it easy on Posts and comments. Most people are away this weekend and with all the local events going on, I want to be able to cover those as well and not have to worry about keeping comments up to speed.

We hope everyone understands. I say I'll be busy but this Blog has become like an extension of my arm, so I may do more than I say, we'll see.

In the mean time, you have a fantastic weekend.

With Earl Gone, Ocean City Expecting Busy Weekend

OCEAN CITY, Md. - Despite an early-weekend brush by Hurricane Earl, Ocean City expects to welcome a lot of visitors over this long holiday weekend and cap off a better than average summer.

"Our numbers are running I think slightly above last summer, and last summer was a good year.

We expect to top over 4 million visitors by the time we get through the Labor Day Weekend," says Donna Abbott with the Town of Ocean City.

One reason for the strong numbers? Great weather.

GO HERE to read more.

Karzai Urges Afghans Not To Panic As Bank Withdrawals Accelerate

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - As depositors thronged branches of Afghanistan's biggest bank, President Hamid Karzai told Afghans on Thursday not to panic shortly after his brother, a major shareholder in the beleaguered Kabul Bank, called for intervention by the United States to head off a financial meltdown.

"Kabul Bank is safe," Karzai said at a joint news conference at the presidential palace in Kabul with Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates. "People need not panic, need not be worried."

Earlier in the day, Mahmoud Karzai voiced concern over Kabul Bank's ability to withstand an onslaught of depositors demanding their money back. "America should do something," he said in a telephone interview. He suggested that the Treasury Department guarantee the funds of Kabul Bank's clients, who number about 1 million and have more than $1 billion on deposit with the bank.

The rush to withdraw funds from Kabul Bank, which handles salary payments for soldiers, police and teachers, began Wednesday, a day after news that Afghanistan's Central Bank had removed the bank's top two executives and installed a Central Bank official as chief executive.

Depositors withdrew $85 million Wednesday and $109 million Thursday, leaving Kabul Bank with about $300 million in liquid cash, said the bank's ousted chairman, Sherkhan Farnood.

GO HERE to read more.

SHOREBIRDS UNVEIL 2011 SEASON SCHEDULE

SAL All-Star Game and Salisbury Exhibition Highlight Home Slate

Salisbury, Md. – The Delmarva Shorebirds are excited to release the 2011 season schedule. The Shorebirds will once again play 70 regular season home games at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium. Additionally, the Shorebirds will host the 2011 South Atlantic League “Strike Out Hunger” All-Star Game sponsored by Perdue on June 21 and a special exhibition game against Salisbury University on April 5.

“The 2011 season promises to be one of the most exciting seasons to date, said general manager Chris Bitters. “I couldn’t be more pleased with the way the schedule has aligned and then to host the 2011 SAL “Strike Out Hunger” All-Star Game and a special exhibition game against Salisbury University will make this a great season for our fans and the community.”

For a second straight year, the Shorebirds will prepare for the season by playing a tune up game against Division III powerhouse Salisbury University on April 5 at Perdue Stadium. To begin the 2010 season, the Shorebirds defeated the Sea Gulls 9-6 in front of a raucous crowd of 3,573 fans.

The Shorebirds will begin the 2011 campaign at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium for the first time since 2008. The Shorebirds open the South Atlantic League portion of their schedule on April 7th with a four-game series against the Greensboro Grasshoppers. They finish the first homestand of the season with four games against the Kannapolis Intimidators between April 11 and 14.

In 2011, 22 of the 70 total home games will be played on Friday and Saturday nights (11 on Friday, 11 on Saturday).

In May, the Shorebirds are home for 14 dates including two weekend series against Greensboro (May 13-16) and West Virginia (May 27-28).

The month of June is highlighted by the South Atlantic League “Strike Out Hunger” All-Star Game sponsored by Perdue. In collaboration with Perdue, the Shorebirds are hosting the three-day event at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium for the first time since 1999. The actual all-star game will be contested on June 21st, pitting the best players from the Northern Division and the premier talent from the Southern Division. Additional all-star festivities will include: home run derby, fan fest and other events that will be announced at a later date.

The Shorebirds will enjoy a lot of home cooking in the month of July. The month begins with a three-game series against rival Lakewood (July 1-3). The Shorebirds return to Perdue Stadium for a seven-game homestand in the middle of the month against Asheville (July 12-15) and Hickory (July 16-18). To conclude July, the Shorebirds will play a four-game weekend set against Hagerstown between July 28 and July 31.

In August, the Shorebirds will play three separate four-game home series. The Lakewood BlueClaws come to town from August 1 through August 4. During the second week of August, the Hagerstown Suns visit from August 10 through August 13. The BlueClaws return to Arthur W. Perdue Stadium for a four-game series on August 22.

For a fifth consecutive season, the Shorebirds will close the curtain on the 2011 season at Perdue Stadium. The ‘Birds will entertain the West Virginia Power from September 1 through September 5.

The road portion of the schedule features two trips to the state of Georgia for the first time in several years. The Shorebirds will travel to Augusta to play the GreenJackets from April 19 through 23. The last time the Shorebirds travelled to Augusta was during the 2007 season. The ‘Birds will depart for Rome to battle the Braves from July 20 through July 22. The Shorebirds have not travelled to Rome since the 2004 season.

Ticket packages for the 2011 season are now on sale. For more information, contact the Delmarva Shorebirds front office at 410-219-3112.

MSP Press Release

DATE & TIME: 9/04/10 @ 0035 hrs
LOCATION: College Ave & Spring Ave Salisbury, Wicomico Co., MD. 21801
CASE NUMBER: 10-54-007994

CRIME: 1. Disorderly Intoxication
Underage possession of alcoholic beverages
Misrepresentation of age utilizing another’s identification to purchase alcohol

VICTIM: State of Maryland

Accused: 1. Lindsey T. Collica w/f age 18 of Salisbury University

BRIEF RESUME: On 9/04/10, at approximately 0035 hrs, Trooper Antal from the Salisbury Barrack was patrolling on E. College Ave. in the area of Spring Ave. when the above suspect stumbled into the roadway in front of Tfc. Antal’s marked M.S.P. cruiser. Tfc. Antal took evasive action to avoid the collision. Tfc. Antal subsequently made contact with the suspect and determined that she was intoxicated and that she was in possession of alcoholic beverages. It was determined through investigation that the suspect had just purchased the alcoholic beverages at a local retail store utilizing her older sister’s identification. The suspect were arrested and transported to the Wicomico County Central Booking Unit for a hearing with the District Court Commissioner.

SIX-RUN FIRST INNING LIFTS GREENJACKETS TO 10-3 WIN

Three Games Remain in 2010 Season

Salisbury, Md. – The Augusta GreenJackets (35-30) scored six runs in the first inning and two more in the second to cruise to a 10-3 win over the Delmarva Shorebirds (59-78) on Friday night at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

Shorebirds starter Patrick Kantakevich lasted just 1.1 innings as Augusta came out swinging. In the first, they plated six runs on eight hits and sent 11 batters to the plate. Included in the frame was a two-run triple by SAL all-star third baseman Chris Dominguez. The first five batters recorded hits and the first four batters scored.

The GreenJackets tacked on two more runs in the second. Tommy Joseph and Luke Anders each recorded RBI hits to give Augusta an 8-0 lead.

The Shorebirds plated a run each in the second, third and fourth innings. In the second, Levi Carolus tripled and scored on a Tyler Stampone groundout to short. In the third, Kyle Moore scored on a single up the middle by Ty Kelly. In the fourth, Stampone led off with a double and scored on an RBI single by Garabez Rosa.

Augusta starter Zach Wheeler, the 6th overall selection in the 2009 draft, earned the win in five innings. He surrendered seven hits and three runs. Shorebirds starter Kantakevich was pinned with the loss in 1.1. He allowed ten hits and eight runs.

Brian Parker to tossed 4.2 innings of relief. He allowed three hits and a run. Parker also fanned five batters.

Kevin Landry appeared for the first time since August 1. He tossed a scoreless seventh inning.

Orioles tenth round pick in 2010, Clay Schrader, tossed two scoreless innings in his second appearance.

The Shorebirds and GreenJackets play game two of the series on Saturday night at 7:05 p.m. RHP Bobby Bundy takes the hill for the Shorebirds.

TROOPERS CHARGE MAN WITH CDS POSSESSION

On September 3, 2010 at 2329 hours, A Trooper from the Salisbury Barrack of the Maryland State Police stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation on Sixty Foot Road near Rohm Road in Pittsville. During the stop, the Trooper subsequently arrested the driver, Daniel Herbert Alloway, 60, of Pasadena, for DUI. A search of his person and vehicle revealed several grams of MARIHUANA along with more than 20 schedule III and IV prescription pills that were not prescribed to him. Alloway was transported to WCDC and charged with Possession of MARIHUANA, paraphernalia and possession of schedule III and IV narcotics. He is awaiting a hearing with the District Court Commissioner.

Addie's Crabs And Saussages On September 12

PLEASE JOIN DELEGATE ADDIE ECKARDT AT THE CRAB FEAST & SAUSAGES FUND RAISER
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2010
5:30PM – 7:30 PM

J. M. CLAYTON’S
COMMERCE STREET
CAMBRIDGE, MARYLAND 21613
(Directions: Rt. 50 to Maryland Avenue into Cambridge, bear right to High Street, turn right onto Commerce Street to Clayton’s – left of Snappers)
$50.00 per person
Authority: Friends to Re-Elect Addie Eckardt, Dick Eckardt, Treasurer
Name: _______________________________
Address: _____________________________
Phone #:_____________________________
E-Mail Address: ________________________

__I will attend the Eckardt Crab/Sausage fundraiser. Enclosed is my check for $__ for __people

___I want to be a sponsor @____$250.00 ____$500.00 ___$1,000.00

___ I am unable to attend, but I would like to help re-elect Addie. Enclosed is my contribution of $____


Please send reservation by 9/8/10 to:
Friends to Re-elect Addie Eckardt
900 Marshycove, #304, Cambridge, MD 21613
(410-228-8048)

nbsp; Authority: Friends to Re-Elect Addie Eckardt, Dick Eckardt, Treasurer

Tech Support

Tech support: What kind of computer do you have?
Customer: A white one...

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Customer: Hi, this is Celine .. I can't get my diskette out.
Tech support: Have you tried pushing the Button?
Customer: Yes, sure, it's really stuck.
Tech support: That doesn't sound good; I'll make a note.
Customer: No, wait a minute. I hadn't inserted it yet... it's still on my desk... sorry...

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Tech support: Click on the 'my computer' icon on to the left of the screen.
Customer: Your left or my left?

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Tech support: Good day. How may I help you?
Male customer: Hello... I can't print.
Tech support: Would you click on 'start' for me and....
Customer: Listen pal; don't start getting technical on me! I'm not Bill Gates..

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Customer: Hi, good afternoon, this is Martha, I can't print. Every time I try, it says 'Can't find printer'. I've even lifted the printer and placed it in front of the monitor, but the computer still says he can't find it.

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Customer: I have problems printing in red..
Tech support: Do you have a color printer?
Customer: Aaaah....................thank you.

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Tech support: What's on your monitor now, ma'am?
Customer: A teddy bear my boyfriend bought for me at the 7-11.

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Customer: My keyboard is not working anymore.
Tech support: Are you sure it's plugged into the computer?
Customer: No. I can't get behind the computer.
Tech support: Pick up your keyboard and walk 10 paces back.
Customer: OK.
Tech support: Did the keyboard come with you?
Customer: Yes
Tech support: That means the keyboard is not plugged in. Is there another keyboard?
Customer: Yes, there's another one here. Ah, that one does work..

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Tech support: Your password is the small letter 'a' as in apple, a capital letter V as in Victor, the number 7.
Customer: Is that 7 in capital letters ?

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Customer: I can't get on the Internet.
Tech support: Are you sure you used the right password?
Customer: Yes, I'm sure. I saw my colleague do it.
Tech support: Can you tell me what the password was?
Customer: Five dots.

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Tech support: What anti-virus program do you use?
Customer: Netscape.
Tech support: That's not an anti-virus program.
Customer: Oh, sorry... Internet Explorer.

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Customer: I have a huge problem. A friend has placed a screen saver on my computer, but every time I move the mouse, it disappears.

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Tech support: How may I help you?
Customer: I'm writing my first email.
Tech support: OK, and what seems to be the problem?
Customer: Well, I have the letter 'a' in the address, but how do I get the little circle around it?

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A woman customer called the Canon help desk with a problem with her printer.
Tech support: Are you running it under windows?
Customer: 'No, my desk is next to the door, but that is a good point. The man sitting in the cubicle next to me is under a window, and his printer is working fine.'

And last but not least...

Tech support: 'Okay Bob, let's press the control and escape keys at the same time. That brings up a task list in the middle of the screen. Now type the letter 'P' to bring up the Program Manager.'
Customer: I don't have a P.
Tech support: On your keyboard, Bob.
Customer: What do you mean?
Tech support: 'P'.....on your keyboard, Bob.
Customer: I'M NOT GOING TO DO THAT!

SHOREBIRDS GAME NOTES: 9/3 vs. Augusta

STAT OF THE DAY: The Shorebirds have 40 triples this year, the most in a single season since the 2000 campaign (42). Willie Harris led the ’00 team with 10.


PREVIEW: Following a third straight series split (Hickory, Hagerstown, Kannapolis) the Shorebirds play game one against the Augusta GreenJackets (San Francisco Giants). Tonight marks the first meeting between the two clubs since July 14, 2008 at Perdue Stadium. The Shorebirds split a four-game series with Augusta back in 2008. The Shorebirds last visited Lake Olmstead Stadium between August 12 and 15 of 2007.

WELCOME BACK DAVE: Current Augusta manager Dave Machemer managed the Delmarva Shorebirds during the 1998 campaign. He guided the ‘98 club to a 81-61 record and a trip to the SAL playoffs. Dave also managed Double-A Bowie in 2001 (59-82).

ASSISTING THE TEAM: Right fielder Mikey Planeta leads the South Atlantic League with 16 outfield assists this season. The last player to record more than 16 was Arturo Rivas, who notched 17 in 2005. According to the current MILB stats portal and The Baseball Cube, nobody in Shorebirds history has ever recorded more than 17 outfield assists in a single season.

OFFENSIVE THRIVING, DEFENSE NOT: Shortstop Garabez Rosa has seen his offensive numbers boom of late but his defensive numbers have worsened. Rosa has hit safely in seven of his last eight games (15-35, .428). Rosa has committed five errors in the last six games (three last) night and leads the league with 46.

55 1-RUN GAMES: The Shorebirds lead the league this season with 55 1-run games. They are 23-22 in those games. For comparison, Augusta has played in 43 one-run games.

SIX STRAIGHT WINNING SEASONS: The Augusta GreenJackets became a San Francisco Giants affiliate in 2005. 2010 will mark their sixth straight winning season in Augusta. Including this season, the GreenJackets are 497-329 since 2005. They won the SAL crown in 2008.

CAROLUS 7-STRAIGHT: Levi Carolus has reached base in seven straight games dating back 8/25. His on-base percentage has gone from .245 to .270 during the recent stretch.