Spotlight On Maryland - Where Your Money Comes From

Estimated Maryland Revenue

MARYLAND GENERAL FUND AND BUDGET RESTORATION FUND REVENUES FY 2012-2014 (Dollars shown in thousands)
		FY 2013				FY 2014
	FY 2012	Current	September			September
	Actual	Estimate	Revision	Difference	% Growth	Estimate	% Growth
INCOME TAXES
Individual	7,114,679	7,552,937	7,650,621	97,684	7.5%	7,967,339	4.1%
Corporation	646,475	741,307	821,752	80,445	-21.7%	783,876	-4.6%
Total	7,761,154	8,294,244	8,472,373	178,129	9.2%	8,751,215	3.3%
SALES AND USE TAXES	4,039,348	4,125,696	4,127,690	1,994	2.2%	4,259,363	3.2%
STATE LOTTERY	536,251	515,064	536,444	21,380	0.0%	543,755	1.4%
OTHER REVENUES
Business Franchise Taxes	207,194	208,932	208,904	(28)	0.8%	210,693	0.9%
Tax on Insurance Companies	304,022	308,109	311,560	3,451	2.5%	319,309	2.5%
Estate and Inheritance Taxes	196,897	217,593	214,814	(2,779)	9.1%	218,827	1.9%
Tobacco Tax	411,427	411,932	415,142	3,210	0.9%	414,066	-0.3%
Alcoholic Beverages Excises	31,010	31,089	31,616	527	2.0%	32,238	2.0%
Motor Vehicle Fuel Tax	5,000	13,000	13,000	-	160.0%	5,000	-61.5%
Highway User Revenue	186,722	0	0	-		-
District Courts	79,395	80,783	78,601	(2,182)	-1.0%	78,994	0.5%
Clerks of Court	35,139	34,339	37,892	3,553	7.8%	37,721	-0.5%
Hospital Patient Recoveries	66,385	67,962	69,962	2,000	5.4%	67,985	-2.8%
Interest on Investments	17,918	34,994	10,000	(24,994)	-44.2%	15,000	50.0%
Miscellaneous	379,982	383,527	379,821	(3,706)	0.0%	363,284	-4.4%
Total	1,921,090	1,792,260	1,771,312	(20,948)	-7.8%	1,763,117	-0.5%
TOTAL CURRENT REVENUES	14,257,843	14,727,264	14,907,819	180,555	4.6%	15,317,450	2.7%
Extraordinary Revenues	-	-	-	-		-	-
GRAND TOTAL	14,257,843	14,727,264	14,907,819	180,555	4.6%	15,317,450	2.7%

Source

MUSLIM DAY PARADE IN NYC FEATURES CALLS FOR GLOBAL LAWS AGAINST INSULTING ISLAM AND PROMOTES SHARIA IN USA

Sunday September 23rd marked the 27th annual United American Muslim Day Parade   in NYC. The parade, which included floats and flags of many nations, marched down Madison Avenue from 42nd Street to 23rd Street. Intrepid blogger Urban Infidel   attended the event and captured many of the images and video seen in this story.

During the parade, a program was handed out featuring shots of the White House with the Black Flag flying over it.

Inside the full-color program handed out to those along the parade route was a four-and-a-half page article titled, “Islam, The Future of America.” That article features the first image shown above with the black flag Islam flying over White House.

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Neil Armstrong's Burial At Sea

The following photos are of the burial at sea of Astronaut and Naval Aviator Neil Armstrong last Friday. The ship, the USS Philippine Sea, CG-58, is a guided missile cruiser and performed the service. NASA shared these images of Neil Armstrong's burial service Friday aboard the USS Philippine Sea.

NFL Replacement Ref's Hand Signals

New ID Laws Could Delay Outcome Of Close Election

 The presidential election is Nov. 6, but it could take days to figure out the winner if the vote is close. New voting laws are likely to increase the number of people who have to cast provisional ballots in key states.

Tight races for Congress, governor and local offices also could be stuck in limbo while election officials scrutinize ballots, a scenario that would surely attract legions of campaign lawyers from both parties.

"It's a possibility of a complete meltdown for the election," said Daniel Smith, a political scientist at the University of Florida.

 More

Pediatricians Discourage Trampoline Use

Pediatricians want to see the family trampoline get bounced.

An updated report from the American Academy of Pediatrics   strongly recommends kids stay off trampolines at home.

The report notes trampoline injuries have fallen since 2004, but nearly 100,000 emergency room visits still come after a bad hop on the springy mat.

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Islam In Britain - Glass Bombed In Burnley

Burnley UK: An American reporter gets pelted with glass for interviewing 2 British women in a Muslim area. "We are prisoners in our own home," says the woman about the danger they face from living in a neighborhood where a significant number of Muslims (Asians, as the Brits call them) have infiltrated. "Our children can't leave school unless they are in a group, otherwise they will be attacked by Muslims and have their belongings stolen." As a reporter is interviewing the two women on the Islamisation of their town and the effects it has, a Muslim mob gathers, signals each other and traps the reporter and his camera man before throwing glass bombs at them. Note: The identity of some individuals has been faded out for their own safety GO HERE to view video.

Car Flips Over On Bi State Blvd Delmar

A vehicle with temporary tags flipped over moments ago on Bi State Blvd. in Delmar. Rescue workers are still trying to get the man out of the car. The speed limit in this area is 35 mph.

Troopers Charge Frankford Man In Multiple Sussex County Residential Burglaries

Dates of Occurrences/Locations: August 13 2012 37000 block of Smithfield Acres Road, Selbyville, DE August 20, 2012 32000 block of Townsends Road, Dagsboro, DE August 22, 2012 34000 block of Evans Road, Frankford, DE 37000 block of Smithfield Acres Road, Selbyville, DE August 24, 2012 31000 block of Townsends Road, Dagsboro, DE August 27, 2012 32000 block of Townsends Road, Dagsboro, DE 36000 block of Old Mill Bridge Road, Selbyville, DE August 30, 2012 32000 block of Townsends Road, Dagsboro, DE Victim: 8 victims (8 residences) Defendant/Charges/Bond Information: William J. Tingle II-24 of Frankford, DE (photo attached) 34 total charges related to Burglary Second Degree, Theft, Theft of a Firearm, Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited, Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony, Conspiracy Second Degree, Possession of Burglar Tools, Criminal Mischief, Theft by False Pretense, and Falsifying Business Records. Arraigned on September 19, 2012 and committed to SCI on $9,200 Secured Bond Resume: Georgetown-The Delaware State Police Troop 4 Property Unit Detectives have charged a Frankford man in connection with 8 residential daytime burglaries of unoccupied Sussex County residences where jewelry and firearms were stolen in August 2012. On Wednesday September 19, 2012, Delaware State Police Detectives charged William J. Tingle II-24 of Frankford, DE for a total of 34 charges related to Burglary Second Degree, Theft, Theft of a Firearm, Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited, Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony, Conspiracy Second Degree, Possession of Burglar Tools, Criminal Mischief, Theft by False Pretense, and Falsifying Business Records. Tingle was committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $9,200 Secured Bond. The arrest of Tingle was the result of a month long investigation into the residential burglaries that occurred in mid-August in Dagsboro, Frankford, and Selbyville. Tingle would enter the unoccupied residences through forced entry and once inside would remove jewelry and firearms, including a handgun and shotgun. The investigation culminated on Wednesday, September 19, 2012 when detectives executed a search warrant at the residence of Tingle located in the 32000 block of Townsends Road, Frankford, DE. Detectives located Tingle hiding in the attic portion of the house where he was taken into custody without incident. Detectives continue their investigation into these burglaries.

Jesus Comes To Salisbury

This man was walking down the middle of Rt. 13 dressed like Jesus carrying a wooden cross barefoot.

Salisbury Quickbooks

What: Email Marketing Course
When: October 3rd 2012 11am-1:30pm
Where: Salisbury Chamber of Commerce, 144 E Main St. Salisbury, MD 21801
Cost: $29 (Includes a Light Lunch)

Description:

Kevin Justice, CEO of Matice Interactive, will be teaching a class on the basics of email marketing.  The importance of email marketing goes far beyond reaching the consumer.  Email marketing represents your company, it is your company’s way of delivering and receiving information, and is the new branding strategy for thriving companies today.  It can be identified in terms of managing your list(s), effective emails, and strong campaigns.  Kevin will also be discussing the importance of nurturing your leads and “drip marketing”.  Does your email marketing strategy measure up?

Today's Fill In The Blank 9-26-12

The animal I enjoy most at the Salisbury Zoo is _____.

Opportunity To Support Our Students And Schools

Saturday, Nov. 3

BingoMania to Benefit Mardela Middle and High School Bands

Wicomico Youth & Civic Center

 

BingoMania 62 will take place at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center on Saturday, Nov. 3, to benefit Mardela Middle and High School Bands. This event is presented by the Mardela Band Parents Organization. Doors open at 5 p.m. Instants Sales begin at 5:15 p.m., Early Bird Bingo 6 p.m., Regular Play Bingo at 7:30 p.m. The Jackpot Round (a single game worth $2,500, $5,000 or more according to attendance) typically begins at 10 p.m. Raffles and Holder Games will be sold. All proceeds support the Mardela Middle and High School Bands. Tickets for this popular event are $48.25 in advance (tickets available through the Civic Center website) and $58.75 at the door. To buy tickets Friday, Nov. 2 at the advance price, call Shirvon Stanford at 443-359-7750 or LeighAnn Taylor at 443-944-6532. Mark your calendar for other BingoMania events this school year: Feb. 9 and April 20.

Highlighted Events In Wicomico Schools This Week

Wednesday, Sept. 26

Wicomico Recipe for homegrown “Butter Fries” on Menu

Wicomico County Public Schools

 

Wicomico students celebrated Maryland Homegrown School Lunch Week last week with fresh local corn on the cob and green beans, and this Wednesday, Sept. 26 they’ll enjoy “butter fries” – locally grown butternut squash cut to resemble French fries, baked, and lightly seasoned with cinnamon, a Wicomico-created recipe. Fresh local fruits and vegetables have been served in Wicomico school cafeterias since the start of the school year when available from farms in Wicomico County or other Maryland counties. 

Wednesday, Sept. 26

Superintendent’s Open Door Session

Board of Education Building

 

Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen will hold the first Superintendent’s Open Door Session of the 2012-13 school year from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 26, in the Administrative Conference Room of the Board of Education Building, Mt. Hermon Road and Long Avenue, Salisbury.  Open Door Sessions provide the opportunity for people to meet one-on-one with the superintendent. People may express concerns, offer comment, or ask questions on any issue involving Wicomico schools. No appointment is needed. Each visitor will have approximately 15 minutes to meet with the superintendent. Follow-up sessions will be held if there are more visitors than there is time on the scheduled night. Additional Open Door Sessions for this school year are scheduled for Oct. 17, Nov. 14, Dec. 12, Jan. 16, Feb. 13, March 13, April 24 and May 15. 410-677-4495.

Thursday, Sept. 27

Mid-term progress report sent home (1st Marking Period ends Oct. 31, report cards distributed Nov. 8)

Friday, Sept. 28

Professional Day

Schools closed for students so staff may participate in professional development

My Favorite Teacher Contest, Instrument Donations

Barnes & Noble “My Favorite Teacher Contest” Open to Middle and High School Students 

Middle and high school students can nominate a favorite teacher for recognition through the Barnes & Noble “My Favorite Teacher Contest.” Entries will be accepted until March 1 at the Barnes & Noble in Salisbury. To nominate a favorite teacher, a student will need to write an essay, poem or thank you letter explaining how a teacher has influenced their life and why they appreciate or admire that teacher. Entries should be 500 words or less, in English, typed on letter-size white paper. An entry form (available online at http://img1.imagesbn.com/PImages/store/special_landings/pdf/BN_My_Favorite_Teacher_Entry_Form_and_Rules_120912.pdf) , signed by a parent or guardian, must accompany the entry. Visit Barnes & Noble for more information and entry forms. The student whose entry is chosen as the winner will receive a certificate of recognition and will be honored at the store alongside the winning teacher, who will win recognition and a special award. 

Donated Instruments Sought for SWAC Instrument Barn

If you have a musical instrument sitting around your home waiting for a new home, please consider donating it to the Instrument Barn, a program offered by the Salisbury Wicomico Arts Council (SWAC).  The Instrument Barn is looking for flutes, clarinets, alto saxophones, and trombones to refurbish and distribute to deserving students in the Wicomico County school system.  If you would like to make a donation, please call SWAC at 410-543-ARTS (2787) and request a copy of an instrument barn donation form to make your tax-deductible donation. (This form can also be downloaded from the SWAC website at www.GetSWAC.org  ) 

Please note: donated instruments can be delivered directly to Salisbury Music and Instrument Store, 925 Eastern Shore Drive, Salisbury, MD attention: Joel Smith.

SWAC’s Instrument Barn program was created to address two critical non-arts issues through the arts: 1) narrowing the achievement gap in Wicomico County public schools and 2) encouraging youth volunteerism and civic engagement while giving the gift of music. Through this program, students may receive an instrument to play until their last day of high school.  The requirements for students to receive an instrument are that they maintain a C average in school work and that they commit to 10 hours of community service. (Students interested in obtaining an instrument should contact their school band or music director to complete the paperwork to be faxed to SWAC at 410-543-2787.)

Today's Advertiser Of The Day 9-26-12

Romney Pulls Ahead

The published polling in this year's presidential race is unusually inaccurate because this is the first election in which who votes determines how they vote.  Obama's massive leads among blacks, Latinos, young people, and single women vie with Romney's margin among the elderly, married white women, and white men.  Tell me your demographic and I'll tell you who you're voting for and I'll be right at least two times out of three!

Most pollsters are weighting their data on the assumption that the 2012 electorate will turn out in the same proportion as the 2008 voters did.  But polling indicates a distinct lack of enthusiasm for the president among his core constituency.  He'll still carry them by heavy margins, but the turnout will likely lag behind the 2008 stats.  (The 2008 turnout was totally unlike that in other years with all-time historic high turnouts among Obama's main demographic groups).

Specifically, most pollsters are using 2008 party preferences to weight their 2012 survey samples, reflecting a much larger Democratic preference than is now really the case.

In my own polling, I found a lurch to the Democrats right after their convention, but subsequent research indicates that it has since petered out. Indeed, when one compares party identification in the August and September polls of this year in swing states, the Democratic Party identification is flat while the ranks of Republicans rose by an average of two points per state.

Pollster Scott Rasmussen has the best solution to the party id problem.  He weights his polls to reflect the unweighted party identification of the previous three weeks, so he has a dynamic model which adjusts for sampling error but still takes account of gradual changes in the electorate's partisan preferences.

Finally, with Obama below 50% of the vote in most swing states, he is hitting up against a glass ceiling in the high 40s.  He can't get past it except in heavily Democratic states like New York or California.  The first time Obama breaks 50 will not be on Election Day.  Either he consistently polls above 50% of the vote or he won't ever get there in the actual vote.

So here's where the race really stands today based on Rasmussen's polling:

•  Romney leads decisively in all states McCain carried (173 electoral votes).

•  Romney is more than ten points ahead in Indiana - which Obama carried. (11 electoral votes)

•  Romney leads Obama in the following states the president carried in 2008:  Iowa (44-47) North Carolina (45-51), Colorado (45-47), and New Hampshire  (45-48).  He'll probably win them all. (34 electoral votes).

This comes to 218 of the 270 Romney needs.  But...

•  Obama is below 50% of the vote in a handful of key swing states and leads Romney by razor thin margins in each one.  All these states will go for Romney unless and until Obama can show polling support of 50% of the vote:

•  Obama leads in Ohio (47-46) and Virginia (49-48) by only 1 point (31 electoral votes)

•  Obama leads in Florida (48-460) and Nevada (47-45) by only 2 points (35 electoral votes)

If Romney carries Ohio, Virginia, and Florida, he wins.  And other states are in play.

•  Obama leads in Wisconsin (49-46) by only 3 points (10 electoral votes)

•  Obama's lead in Michigan is down to four points according to a recent statewide poll

•  Obama is only getting 51% of the vote in Pennsylvania and 53% in New Jersey.  And don't count out New Mexico.

It would be accurate to describe the race now as tied.  But Romney has the edge because:

•  The incumbent is under 50% in key states and nationally.  He will probably lose any state where he is below 50% of the vote.

•  The Republican enthusiasm and likelihood of voting is higher

•  The GOP field organization is better.

That's the real state of play today.

Source

NOW IT’S SERIOUS: GLOBAL BACON SHORTAGE ‘UNAVOIDABLE’

The droughts of 2012 have led to higher prices in raw commodities, The Blaze reported earlier this year, and now some are saying this will lead to an “unavoidable” global bacon shortage.

Bacon, folks. Bacon.

“Economically, it’s not a good time,” Tim Maiers of the Illinois Pork Producers Association, the fourth largest of its kind in the U.S., tells CBS Illinois  .

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Caption This Photo 9-26-12

Cross Walks Need Paint

After the accident this morning I wondered, is there a cross walk where the gentleman was heading. I took another look at the intersection and noticed while there is a cross walk, look at the paint, or the lack thereof. See the blue vehicle to the left, that's where the pedestrian was hit. He was walking north bound to cross the street but the lines are pretty much gone.

Someone is falling asleep at the wheel. Mayor Ireton and Staff should be getting on the ball. You MUST maintain your City. Even if it's SHA who takes care of it, the City needs to let them know there's a problem. Kind of like cleaning up the weeds on the sidewalks along Rt. 50 and so forth.

Today's Survey Question 9-26-12

Do you hunt wild game?

Rt. 50 Delay In Easton

Route 50 eastbound is closed on the southern end of the Easton expressway or parkway. There are 

heavy wreckers recovering some construction equipment from a trailer that turned over so if you 

are driving through Easton take the bypass and you'll be able to get through traffic without 

delay.

Jesse Ventura Embarasses Piers Morgan In Front Of CNN Audience

Route 50 Westbound

There's a delay on route 50 westbound just prior to Easton. A horses escaped it has a running around on route 50 expect a delay of about 10 minutes.

60% Of Firms To Kill Health Insurance Or Charge More Under Obamacare

A majority of small business owners and manufacturers are mulling drastic changes to comply with Obamacare, with 21 percent set to drop health insurance to workers altogether and 38 percent planning to make employees pay much more.

In a poll done for the National Association of Manufacturers and National Federation of Independent Businesses, 59 percent said that they will have to consider changes once the full law kicks in because increased costs will jeopardize their operations. According to the poll, 67 percent expect Obamacare to raise healthcare costs.

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Obama Skirts Another Executive Duty To Pander To ‘The View’

In the wake of a rather tragic and tumultuous events regarding American foreign policy in the Middle East, President Barack Obama plans to forego the opportunity for a one-on-one meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his visit to the UN this week.  The reason is simple.  It just could not wait. The president needed to have a sit down with Barbara Walters and the rest of gals at The View.

Guy Benson at Townhall reported on this development yesterday and cited Thomson Reuters and The Associated Press, no right-wing rags by any stretch, who are equally puzzled by this move by the president. From AP:

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BREAKING NEWS: Singer Andy Williams Dies

Singer and Emmy award-winning TV host Andy Williams, known for 'Moon River,' dies at home in Missouri after a year-long battle with cancer. He was 84. 

From Fox News

Pedestrian Struck By Truck Moments Ago

I just happened to be standing outside with Eric the Barber when all of a sudden we watched a pedestrian walk off the sidewalk and onto the street right in front of the truck shown above.

The driver had the green light arrow to turn right and had just started to move forward when he struck the pedestrian. The man was taken to PRMC and seemed to be fine other than a slight cut to his head.

Md. Online Hunter Safety Course Now in Spanish

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is adding a Spanish-language version of its online hunter safety course.

The Natural Resources Police said Monday that the measure is a large step toward reaching the Hispanic community with hunter safety information.

Lt. Joe Offers says the agency is also working on Spanish-language classroom courses in hunter safety.

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Mayor Ireton Considers A Veto On Pay Raises To Police

Thank You Jim Ireton, for making the race for Mayor that much easier, FOR ME. I received a tip this morning about an article published in today's Daily Times referencing this veto HERE.

Mayor Ireton continues to show his immaturity simply because the Council didn't follow his instructions to a tee. While it states in the article that a veto would be a "symbolic gesture anyway", Ireton continues to prove his hatred towards women by throwing yet another hissy fit.

Ladies & Gentlemen, the Mayor's job is administrative and the Council's job is legislative. The Mayor did his job by proposing an increase. The Chief asked for additional funds BECAUSE THEY NEED IT. The Council did their job and approved the funding. Then Jim Ireton stepped in again and showed what he's truly all about.

If you think for one second this Council is not fiscally responsible, well, I'd say you have some screws loose. While the entire Council is 100% democrats, you have never seen a more fiscally responsible Council throughout the history of Salisbury.

Ireton stated, “So, no, I have not decided whether or not to sign the budget amendment,” according to the Daily Times article. After Ireton made his statement to the Daily Times he then realized just how screwed up it was and called them back later that day and said, he had no intention of blocking the popular measure. Rather, he said he wanted to spend a day going over the potential budget impacts with top city officials. No matter what this Council does, Jim Ireton is just not happy. Well, guess what Jim, that's life. The Citizens elected this legislative body to do a job and in my honest opinion they're doing a damn good job.

Let me offer you a piece of advice, learn to pick your battles. Public Safety is #1, especially in the City of Salisbury where crime is through the roof. Perhaps you might want to consider my proposal with the Salisbury Zoo and turn it over to the Zoo Commission for $1.00 a year. Use your head for once Jim and FIND ways to make City finances work. By the way, many municipalities across America have done this already and or they actually SOLD their Zoo's to private organizations.

Perhaps, IF Mayor Ireton hadn't demanded that the SPD drop everything for two weeks to investigate an alleged phone spoof, (which was NOT even a crime) the SPD wouldn't be in such a desperate position. Perhaps IF the Mayor realized the call came from a Delaware phone number and was received when I was in Delaware it should have been turned over to the Delaware State Police instead. Nah, that would mean the laws are actually different in Delaware and one of his friends would have gone to Jail. No matter what is said or done the Salisbury Police Department had no business investigating that call from the very beginning. How convenient.

I'll see you in April Jim.

New President Of Md. Nonprofits Group Takes Over In Challenging Time

Greg Cantori takes over as president of Maryland Nonprofits next Monday at a time when nonprofit organizations and their clients – like many businesses in Maryland small and large – have been battered by the economy. “Not only did they have to weather this great recession, they have had to take up the slack” from the impact of the economy’s increasing demand for social services, Cantori said in an interview. “It’s been such an incredibly challenging time in the last five years.”

Continue Reading...

America's Last Crusade

For Americans of the Greatest Generation that fought World War II and of the Silent Generation that came of age in the 1950s, the great moral and ideological cause was the Cold War. It gave purpose and clarity to our politics and foreign policy, and our lives. From the fall of Berlin in 1945 to the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, that Cold War was waged by two generations, and with its end Americans faced a fundamental question: If the historic struggle between communism and freedom is over, if the Soviet Empire and Soviet Union no longer exist, if the Russians wish to befriend us and the Maoists have taken the capitalist road, what is our new mission in the world? What do we do now? The debate was suspended when Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait. George H.W. Bush assembled a mighty coalition and won a war that required but 100 hours of ground combat. We had found our mission. More

WAR ON POVERTY RESULTS IN ONE CHART

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44 senators write Cuban president calling for release of Alan Gross

Forty-four senators have written to Cuba's president to call for the release of a Maryland man imprisoned in Cuba for almost three years.

The one-page letter released Tuesday is signed by 34 Democrats, nine Republicans and independent Joseph Lieberman. It says that the detention of Alan Gross is a major obstacle to improving relations between Cuba and the United States.

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Ooops!

Veterans Affairs is rushing to ease fears after mistakenly sending letters to veterans' families saying they would lose benefits under sequestration. Stars and Stripes reported the VA told about 6,000 spouses and parents of seriously wounded veterans that their stipends could be cut in January if the automatic spending cuts go forward. That's not true. The White House said all VA programs were protected from sequestration. The department would not tell the newspaper how the mix-up occurred.

QUOTE OF THE DAY 9-26-12

“Truth lives on in the midst of deception.” 
 Friedrich von Schiller

Retiring Chimps

The National Institutes of Health is retiring 110 research chimpanzees. The chimps were housed at a research center in Louisiana that activists have accused of abusing animals. Earlier this year, NIH asked the Institute of Medicine to do a study. Researchers found most invasive research on chimps was scientifically unnecessary. Nature magazine reported some of these NIH animals will go to Chimp Haven, a federally-funded sanctuary in Louisiana. The rest will go to a San Antonio institute where they can be observed for behavioral studies. NIH will still use about 300 chimps for invasive research of new medical therapies.

The Fed Is Systematically Destroying Social Security And The Retirement Plans Of Millions

The Social Security trust fund needs to earn interest to achieve levels that will preserve it till 2033; with interest rates close to zero, the trust fun is projected to be depleted ten years earlier - by 2023. By law, the money deposited in the SS trust fund must be invested in U.S. government securities, so it cannot just be thrown into the stock market. In order for SS Ponzi to work, the trust fund, invested in government securities, needs to produce healthy returns. It won't; it can't. Thanks QE-genie Bernanke. ~ Ilene [9] The Federal Reserve Is Systematically Destroying Social Security And The Retirement Plans Of Millions Of Americans [10] Courtesy of Michael Snyder of Economic Collapse [10] [11]Last week the mainstream media hailed QE3 [12] as the "quick fix" that the U.S. economy desperately needs, but the truth is that the policies that the Federal Reserve is pursuing are going to be absolutely devastating for our senior citizens. By keeping interest rates at exceptionally low levels, the Federal Reserve is absolutely crushing savers and is systematically destroying Social Security. Meanwhile, the inflation that QE3 will cause is going to be absolutely crippling for the millions upon millions of retired Americans that are on a fixed income. Sadly, most elderly Americans have no idea what the Federal Reserve is doing to their financial futures. Most Americans that are approaching retirement age have not adequately saved for retirement, and the Social Security system that they are depending on is going to completely and totally collapse in the coming years. Right now, approximately 56 million Americans are collecting Social Security benefits. By 2035, that number is projected to grow to a whopping 91 million [13]. By law, the Social Security trust fund must be invested in U.S. government securities. But thanks to the low interest rate policies of the Federal Reserve, the average interest rate on those securities just keeps dropping and dropping. More

DNR Invites Public To Information Meeting October 3

Salisbury, MD - The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Forest Service will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, October 3 at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center to present information on the newly established hunting tracts in Chesapeake Forest. The changes include expanding the forest’s public hunting acreage by 1,822 acres and making 15 tracts available for leased hunting opportunities. “After managing public and leased hunting in the Chesapeake Forest for the last 13 years, it’s apparent that the hunting community values both of these opportunities,” said Forestry Director Steve Koehn. “We want to make certain that anyone interested in why and how this decision was made has the opportunity to hear directly from us.” The meeting will provide an opportunity for the public to hear a presentation from DNR Forest Service staff on the hunting tract changes and have questions answered by both Forest Service and Wildlife and Heritage Service staff regarding the new opportunities these changes provide. The meeting will be held in the DaNang Room of the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center (500 Glen Avenue, Salisbury) on Wednesday, October 3 from 6:30-8:30pm.

VOTER WATCHDOG GROUP SAYS IT FOUND 31 CASES OF ABSENTEE BALLOT FRAUD IN FLORIDA, NY: ‘TIP OF THE ICEBERG’

True The Vote, a national voter fraud watchdog group, announced Tuesday that preliminary research findings show evidence of 31 cases of absentee ballot fraud in New York and Florida. The organization’s president says it is just the “tip of the iceberg” when it comes to voter fraud in the United States.

The group has formally notified the Office of the Florida Secretary of State, the New York State Board of Elections and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) that ballots were cast in both states by 31 people during federal elections, according to a press release  .

“This is just the tip of the iceberg,” True The Vote President Catherine Engelbrecht said in a statement. “This is further evidence of just how susceptible our election system is to voter fraud. Earlier this year, Pew Research found more than 2.75 million people nationwide are registered to vote in more than one state.”

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A Dog's Purpose, From A 6 Year Old Philosopher

... Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife Lisa , and their little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle. I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the o ld dog in their home. As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience. The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker 's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away. The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's Death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives. Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ''I know why.'' Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation. It has changed the way I try and live. He said,''People are born so t hat they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?'' The Six-year-old continued, ''Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long.'' Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like: When loved ones come home, always run to greet them. Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride. Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy. Take naps. Stretch before rising. Run, romp, and play daily. Thrive on attention and let people touch you. Avoid biting when a simple growl will do. On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass. On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree. When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body. Delight in the simple joy of a long walk. Be loyal. Never pretend to be something you're not. If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it. When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently. There comes a time in life, when you walk away from all the drama and people who create it. You surround yourself with people who make you laugh, forget the bad, and focus on the good. So, love the people who treat you right. Think good thoughts for the ones who don't. Life is too short to be anything but happy. Falling down is part of LIFE... Getting back up is LIVING...

Arrests Made In Three County Prostitution Sting

Federal immigration officials say 23 people were arrested for soliciting prostitution in Howard, Anne Arundel and Prince George's counties.

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency says the arrests were part of a probe by its Homeland Security Investigations division into criminal organizations involved in prostitution.

The federal agency says Maryland State Police and officers from Howard and Anne Arundel counties and the Laurel police department also took part in the arrests.

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100 Days Until Taxmageddon

Sunday will mark the start of the 100-day countdown to “Taxmageddon” – the date the largest tax hikes in the history of America will take effect. They will hit families and small businesses in three great waves on January 1, 2013:

First Wave: Expiration of 2001 and 2003 Tax Relief

In 2001 and 2003, the GOP Congress enacted several tax cuts for small business owners, families, and investors (later re-upped by President Obama and Democrat Congress in 2010). The following tax hikes will occur on January 1, 2013:

Personal income tax rates will rise on January 1, 2013. The top income tax rate will rise from 35 to 39.6 percent (this is also the rate at which the majority of small business profits are taxed). The lowest rate will rise from 10 to 15 percent. All the rates in between will also rise. Itemized deductions and personal exemptions will again phase out, which has the same mathematical effect as higher marginal tax rates. The full list of marginal rate hikes is below:

-The 10% bracket rises to a new and expanded 15%

-The 25% bracket rises to 28%

-The 28% bracket rises to 31%

-The 33% bracket rises to 36%

-The 35% bracket rises to 39.6%

Higher taxes on marriage and family coming on January 1, 2013. The “marriage penalty” (narrower tax brackets for married couples) will return from the first dollar of taxable income. The child tax credit will be cut in half from $1000 to $500 per child. The standard deduction will no longer be doubled for married couples relative to the single level. 

Breaking News:
100 Days To Go Before The Largest Tax Hikes In US History

But wait, President Obama, didn't you tell us you were only going to "tax the rich"?? Interesting that this is going to take place AFTER the election.
Middle Class Death Tax returns on January 1, 2013. The death tax is currently 35% with an exemption of $5 million ($10 million for married couples). For those dying on or after January 1 2013, there is a 55 percent top death tax rate on estates over $1 million. A person leaving behind two homes and a retirement account could easily pass along a death tax bill to their loved ones.

Higher tax rates on savers and investors on January 1, 2013. The capital gains tax will rise from 15 percent this year to 23.8 percent in 2013. The top dividends tax will rise from 15 percent this year to 43.4 percent in 2013. This is because of scheduled rate hikes plus Obamacare’s investment surtax.

Second Wave: Obamacare Tax Hikes

There are twenty new or higher taxes in Obamacare. Some have already gone into effect (the tanning tax, the medicine cabinet tax, the HSA withdrawal tax, W-2 health insurance reporting, and the “economic substance doctrine”). Several more will go into effect on January 1, 2013. They include:

The Obamacare Medical Device Tax begins to be assessed on January 1, 2013. Medical device manufacturers employ 409,000 people in 12,000 plants across the country. This law imposes a new 2.3% excise tax on gross sales – even if the company does not earn a profit in a given year. Exempts items retailing for <$100.

The Obamacare Medicare Payroll Tax Hike takes effect on January 1, 2013. The Medicare payroll tax is currently 2.9 percent on all wages and self-employment profits. Starting in 2013, wages and profits exceeding $200,000 ($250,000 in the case of married couples) will face a 3.8 percent rate.

The Obamacare “Special Needs Kids Tax” comes online on January 1, 2013. Imposes a cap on FSAs of $2500 (now unlimited). Indexed to inflation after 2013. There is one group of FSA owners for whom this new cap will be particularly cruel and onerous: parents of special needs children. There are thousands of families with special needs children in the United States, and many of them use FSAs to pay for special needs education. Tuition rates at one leading school that teaches special needs children in Washington, D.C. (National Child Research Center) can easily exceed $14,000 per year. Under tax rules, FSA dollars can be used to pay for this type of special needs education. This Obamacare cap harms these families.

The Obamacare “Haircut” for Medical Itemized Deductions goes into force on January 1, 2013. Currently, those facing high medical expenses are allowed a deduction for medical expenses to the extent that those expenses exceed 7.5 percent of adjusted gross income (AGI). The new provision imposes a threshold of 10 percent of AGI. Waived for 65+ taxpayers in 2013-2016 only.

Third Wave: The Alternative Minimum Tax and Employer Tax Hikes

When Americans prepare to file their tax returns in January of 2013, they’ll be in for a nasty surprise—the AMT won’t be held harmless, and many tax relief provisions will have expired. These tax increases will be in force for BOTH 2012 and 2013. The major items include:

The AMT will ensnare over 31 million families, up from 4 million last year. According to the left-leaning Tax Policy Center, Congress’ failure to index the AMT will lead to an explosion of AMT taxpaying families—rising from 4 million last year to 31 million. These families will have to calculate their tax burdens twice, and pay taxes at the higher level. The AMT was created in 1969 to ensnare a handful of taxpayers.

Full business expensing will disappear. In 2011, businesses can expense half of their purchases of equipment. Starting on 2013 tax returns, all of it will have to be “depreciated” (slowly deducted over many years).

Taxes will be raised on all types of businesses. There are literally scores of tax hikes on business that will take place. The biggest is the loss of the “research and experimentation tax credit,” but there are many, many others. Combining high marginal tax rates with the loss of this tax relief will cost jobs.

Tax Benefits for Education and Teaching Reduced. The deduction for tuition and fees will not be available. Tax credits for education will be limited. Teachers will no longer be able to deduct classroom expenses. Coverdell Education Savings Accounts will be cut. Employer-provided educational assistance is curtailed. The student loan interest deduction will be disallowed for hundreds of thousands of families.

Charitable Contributions from IRAs no longer allowed. Under current law, a retired person with an IRA can contribute up to $100,000 per year directly to a charity from their IRA. This contribution also counts toward an annual “required minimum distribution.” This ability will be there!

Gang Prevention Conference Held In Silver Spring

A week-long conference, which involves 300 local and national gang experts, elected officials and law enforcement officers, is meeting in Silver Spring to discuss the prevention and elimination of gangs in the Washington region.

Those assembled also talked about some of the trends they've been observing.

Diverging from their usual posts in area neighborhoods, local gang members are spending more time recruiting and meeting in city centers. They're also increasingly using social media to gain new members and antagonize rival groups.

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