In a recent column for the Independent, a British media outlet, Clémence Michallon presented her case for why the citizens of foreign countries should have a say when it comes to electing the so-called "leader of the free world."
Michallon, a French citizen living in the United States, is "tired of crossing my fingers hoping that American voters will do the right thing," such as electing Barack Obama to two terms. Because the results of U.S. presidential elections can have such far-reaching consequences for the rest of the world, and for the planet itself via climate change, she reckons it would only be fair to give the international community a voice in those elections.
It's an "absurd" notion that will almost certainly never come to fruition, the French author grants. But that doesn't mean it's not a good idea worth exploring in a column. For example, the fact that the crazed psycho who killed 50 people at mosques in New Zealand was a self-described white nationalist who spoke favorably of Donald Trump means "it’s high time to acknowledge the fact that what happens in the US has immense, tangible consequences on the rest of the world."
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DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Thursday, March 28, 2019
Rand Paul: Need to Determine if Barack Obama, Loretta Lynch Were in on Spying on Donald Trump Campaign
Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) wants to know if former President Barack Obama and former Attorney General Loretta Lynch were in on the decisions to spy on President Donald Trump’s campaign and lend credence to the phony dossier paid for by Hillary Clinton’s campaign that gave way to what became the investigation by Special Counsel Robert Mueller.
In an exclusive interview with Breitbart News on Tuesday, Sen. Paul said he is not sure if Obama or Lynch were personally aware of everything going—but demanded the production of documents that would prove it conclusively one way or the other.
“You know, I don’t know. But I think we ought to know,” Paul said when asked if this rose to the level of the former president and his inner circle of cabinet officials. “The thing is like I say, when they release the information—if the report is to come out, part of the release is they should have to release any documents from Loretta Lynch and any documents from the president that discuss or have information pertaining to the FISA warrant. If this went all the way up to president, to President Obama, yes we should know that. The only way you’ll get that is if Democrats really want to read all million pages of Mueller’s investigation and we tell them fine you’ll get that but only if we get all the information from the Obama administration on who was unmasking names, who was unmasking phone calls. Who was making the arguments for the FISA warrant and what were there arguments for it? Did President Obama get involved in it? Did Loretta Lynch get involved in it? So I think if we’re going to look at the Mueller report we should look at the origins of this Russian hoax investigation as well.”
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In an exclusive interview with Breitbart News on Tuesday, Sen. Paul said he is not sure if Obama or Lynch were personally aware of everything going—but demanded the production of documents that would prove it conclusively one way or the other.
“You know, I don’t know. But I think we ought to know,” Paul said when asked if this rose to the level of the former president and his inner circle of cabinet officials. “The thing is like I say, when they release the information—if the report is to come out, part of the release is they should have to release any documents from Loretta Lynch and any documents from the president that discuss or have information pertaining to the FISA warrant. If this went all the way up to president, to President Obama, yes we should know that. The only way you’ll get that is if Democrats really want to read all million pages of Mueller’s investigation and we tell them fine you’ll get that but only if we get all the information from the Obama administration on who was unmasking names, who was unmasking phone calls. Who was making the arguments for the FISA warrant and what were there arguments for it? Did President Obama get involved in it? Did Loretta Lynch get involved in it? So I think if we’re going to look at the Mueller report we should look at the origins of this Russian hoax investigation as well.”
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JOE BIDEN BLAMES “WHITE MAN’S CULTURE” FOR VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN
During a speech on Tuesday, potential presidential candidate Joe Biden blamed “a white man’s culture” for violence towards women.
The former VP asserted that Anita Hill, who accused Clarence Thomas of sexual harassment, should not have been forced to face a panel of “a bunch of white guys.”
Biden went on to suggest that English common law, the foundation of the western legal system, was anti-women.
The former VP asserted that Anita Hill, who accused Clarence Thomas of sexual harassment, should not have been forced to face a panel of “a bunch of white guys.”
Biden went on to suggest that English common law, the foundation of the western legal system, was anti-women.
“I realize I get a little too passionate about this sometimes, but we all have an obligation to do nothing less than change the culture in this country. Not just the laws, we changed laws — change the culture. The culture. You all know what the phrase rule of thumb means? Where it’s derived from? In English common law, not codification or common law, back in the late 1300s, so many women were dying at the hands of her husbands because they were chattel, just like the cattle or the sheep, that the Court of Common Law decided they had to do something about the extent of the deaths. So, you know what they said? No man has a right to chastise his woman with a rod thicker than the circumference of his thumb. This is English jurisprudential culture a white man’s culture. That’s got to change it’s got to change.”
BIZARRE FLASHBACK VIDEO: BIDEN SAYS HE’S ‘LIKE THE TOKEN BLACK OR THE TOKEN WOMAN’
Biden, then just two years into his first term as a Delaware Senator, claimed that efforts to fundraise in the traditional manner had not worked for him.
During a 1974 appearance on “The Advocates,” a PBS weekly program, Biden likened typical political fundraising efforts to prostitution. Calling it the “most degrading experience in the world,” Biden argued that the current system — which does not appear to have changed much — forced candidates to seek out large donors. And in return for backing candidates, those donors “always want something.”
“You run the risk of deciding whether or not you’re going to prostitute yourself to give the answer you know they want to hear in order to get funded to run for that office,” Biden explained, admitting that he had been ready to go to such lengths to make sure that his campaign would be funded.
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During a 1974 appearance on “The Advocates,” a PBS weekly program, Biden likened typical political fundraising efforts to prostitution. Calling it the “most degrading experience in the world,” Biden argued that the current system — which does not appear to have changed much — forced candidates to seek out large donors. And in return for backing candidates, those donors “always want something.”
“You run the risk of deciding whether or not you’re going to prostitute yourself to give the answer you know they want to hear in order to get funded to run for that office,” Biden explained, admitting that he had been ready to go to such lengths to make sure that his campaign would be funded.
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George Soros Spent $408k on Kim Foxx, Prosecutor in Jussie Smollett Case
Left-wing billionaire mega-donor George Soros donated $408,000 in 2016 to a super PAC that supported Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx, whose office prosecuted — and dropped — the Jussie Smollett case.
In a shock announcement Tuesday, prosecutors dropped all 16 felony charges against the left-wing Hollywood actor, whom police had accused of faking a hate crime in January that he blamed on racist, homophobic white Trump supporters.
Foxx had formally recused herself from the case in February because she had spoken with Smollett’s family. (Update: Prosecutors said Wednesday that Foxx never formally recused herself.) The Chicago Tribune later reported that Foxx had asked police to turn the case over to the FBI after an intervention by Tina Tchen, a former chief of staff for former First Lady Michelle Obama.
Soros has spent heavily on backing “progressive” candidates for local prosecutorial offices across the nation, following the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement in 2014, which alleged that black defendants have been treated unfairly by the justice system.
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In a shock announcement Tuesday, prosecutors dropped all 16 felony charges against the left-wing Hollywood actor, whom police had accused of faking a hate crime in January that he blamed on racist, homophobic white Trump supporters.
Foxx had formally recused herself from the case in February because she had spoken with Smollett’s family. (Update: Prosecutors said Wednesday that Foxx never formally recused herself.) The Chicago Tribune later reported that Foxx had asked police to turn the case over to the FBI after an intervention by Tina Tchen, a former chief of staff for former First Lady Michelle Obama.
Soros has spent heavily on backing “progressive” candidates for local prosecutorial offices across the nation, following the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement in 2014, which alleged that black defendants have been treated unfairly by the justice system.
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ELIJAH CUMMINGS PUTS FOX NEWS IN HIS CROSSHAIRS. JIM JORDAN AND MARK MEADOWS ARE PUSHING BACK
Republican Reps. Jim Jordan of Ohio and Mark Meadows of North Carolina asked the chairman of the House Oversight Committee to reconsider his demand to scrutinize the editorial practices of Fox News.
The committee’s chair, Democratic Maryland Rep. Elijah Cummings, sent a letter to former Fox News reporter Diana Falzone requesting she provide documents and testimony related to a civil lawsuit she filed against Fox in 2017, including “stories about women alleging extramarital affairs with Donald Trump, payments by the President or anyone on his behalf to silence them, or any action taken against you in connection with attempts to report on such stories.”
At issue is Falzone’s claim that she wrote a story about Stormy Daniels’ alleged affair with then-candidate Donald Trump, which editors did not move forward in publishing — a move some called a protective measure by the network.
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The committee’s chair, Democratic Maryland Rep. Elijah Cummings, sent a letter to former Fox News reporter Diana Falzone requesting she provide documents and testimony related to a civil lawsuit she filed against Fox in 2017, including “stories about women alleging extramarital affairs with Donald Trump, payments by the President or anyone on his behalf to silence them, or any action taken against you in connection with attempts to report on such stories.”
At issue is Falzone’s claim that she wrote a story about Stormy Daniels’ alleged affair with then-candidate Donald Trump, which editors did not move forward in publishing — a move some called a protective measure by the network.
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Man pleads guilty to scamming $122 million from Google, Facebook with fraudulent invoices
A Lithuanian man who duped Google and Facebook into transferring over $100 million into accounts he controlled pleaded guilty to wire fraud last week.
Evaldas Rimasauskas, 50, of Vilnius, Lithuania, entered the plea in federal court in Manhattan, where Judge George B. Daniels set a July 24 sentencing date.
The charge could carry as many as 30 years in prison and a fine of as much as $1 million or twice the crime's proceeds. The plea deal he reached with prosecutors said Rimasauskas faces almost certain deportation once he is released from behind bars.
Rimasauskas was extradited in August 2017 to New York from Lithuania after his arrest there in March 2017. He has been detained since.
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Evaldas Rimasauskas, 50, of Vilnius, Lithuania, entered the plea in federal court in Manhattan, where Judge George B. Daniels set a July 24 sentencing date.
The charge could carry as many as 30 years in prison and a fine of as much as $1 million or twice the crime's proceeds. The plea deal he reached with prosecutors said Rimasauskas faces almost certain deportation once he is released from behind bars.
Rimasauskas was extradited in August 2017 to New York from Lithuania after his arrest there in March 2017. He has been detained since.
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Audit finds PGCPS broke the law when awarding millions in school contracts
UPPER MALRBORO, Md. (FOX 5 DC) - Prince George’s Co. Public Schools is not following state law or its own policies when it comes to awarding millions of dollars in contracts, according to a state audit on the school system’s financial management.
FOX 5 has learned the school district’s director of purchasing is no longer employed as of Friday.
According to the audit by the Department of Legislative Services, the contracts in question total nearly $85 million.
According to the report, “the required justification was not documented for 13 of the 15 sole source contracts we tested totaling $6.8 million and PGCPS had not documented the benefits from one ICPA (intergovernmental cooperative purchasing agreement) contract“ valued at $34.8 million over five years.
The audit also found 32 contracts totaling $43.1 million were not submitted to the Board of Education for approval as required. Two of those contracts were awarded to vendors that were either not the most qualified or the lowest cost bidders, according to the audit.
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FOX 5 has learned the school district’s director of purchasing is no longer employed as of Friday.
According to the audit by the Department of Legislative Services, the contracts in question total nearly $85 million.
According to the report, “the required justification was not documented for 13 of the 15 sole source contracts we tested totaling $6.8 million and PGCPS had not documented the benefits from one ICPA (intergovernmental cooperative purchasing agreement) contract“ valued at $34.8 million over five years.
The audit also found 32 contracts totaling $43.1 million were not submitted to the Board of Education for approval as required. Two of those contracts were awarded to vendors that were either not the most qualified or the lowest cost bidders, according to the audit.
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End Of Life Options Act Fails In The Senate After Tie Vote
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) — The End of Life Options Act has failed in the Senate after a 23-23 vote.
The bill failed on the second read.
A tie in the vote allowed the bill to advance to the Full Senate Floor, which automatically kills a bill.
There were emotional testimonies for and against the bill in the Senate on Wednesday.
“This bill and this principle up-end what I would say is thousands of years of medical practice,” Senator Justin Ready said. “The Hippocratic Oath which is to first do no harm.”
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The bill failed on the second read.
A tie in the vote allowed the bill to advance to the Full Senate Floor, which automatically kills a bill.
There were emotional testimonies for and against the bill in the Senate on Wednesday.
“This bill and this principle up-end what I would say is thousands of years of medical practice,” Senator Justin Ready said. “The Hippocratic Oath which is to first do no harm.”
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Prescription Drug Affordability Board advances in House
By Diane Rey
For Maryland Reporter
Maryland delegates are pushing back against high prescription drug costs, but their proposal stops short of setting drug price caps for all Marylanders.
Instead, the House of Delegates advanced a proposal Tuesday that will limit what the state will pay for the prescription drugs of state and local government workers and institutions.
HB768 would establish a Prescription Drug Affordability Board – the first in the nation — to establish upper limits on payment for high-cost medication with the aim of reducing costs.
Though originally intended to cover all Marylanders, the bill was scaled back and heavily amended in the Health and Government Operations Committee, gaining the committee’s approval Friday by a vote of 19-3.
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For Maryland Reporter
Maryland delegates are pushing back against high prescription drug costs, but their proposal stops short of setting drug price caps for all Marylanders.
Instead, the House of Delegates advanced a proposal Tuesday that will limit what the state will pay for the prescription drugs of state and local government workers and institutions.
HB768 would establish a Prescription Drug Affordability Board – the first in the nation — to establish upper limits on payment for high-cost medication with the aim of reducing costs.
Though originally intended to cover all Marylanders, the bill was scaled back and heavily amended in the Health and Government Operations Committee, gaining the committee’s approval Friday by a vote of 19-3.
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Comptroller Issues Statement on Veto of HB 1052
Franchot available for media interviews on costly, reckless, disruptive legislation
ANNAPOLIS, Md. - Comptroller Peter Franchot today issued the following statement in response to Governor Larry Hogan's veto of House Bill 1052, which would create a new commission, led by political appointees and at great expense to Maryland taxpayers, to replace the nationally-renowned Field Enforcement Division that has been housed in the Office of the Comptroller for decades.
Comptroller Franchot is available for additional comment. Interested media should contact Communications Director Susan O'Brien at 443-875-8540 or Press Secretary Alan Brody at 443-924-1473 to arrange an interview.
Following is the Comptroller's statement:
“I commend Governor Hogan for vetoing this unnecessary, reckless and tremendously expensive bill that would put the regulation of alcohol and tobacco in the control of a politically-appointed board that is unaccountable to Marylanders.
“In light of the outrageous improprieties of several University of Maryland Medical System board members, it’s especially brazen and irresponsible for leaders of the General Assembly to use the legislative process to carry out political vendettas that lessens oversight and enables special interests to handpick their regulator. Now more than ever, legislative leaders need to take steps to restore faith and trust in our government, and this bill flies directly in the face of efforts to make government more transparent.
“This bill achieves no public good and serves only to punish me for my unwavering efforts to support Maryland craft breweries. It recklessly disrupts the outstanding public service long provided by the men and women of our Field Enforcement Division, who have been universally praised for their hard work and dedication. The uncertainty of this new commission’s function creates a climate ripe for potential malfeasance. If the veto is overridden, nearly $50 million of taxpayer money will be spent on the upheaval of dozens of state employees who are unfairly being used as political pawns.
“This veto must be sustained. Members of the Senate and House of Delegates should use this opportunity to focus on making government more accountable, not less, to the citizens we serve. Not only is this bill’s price tag too steep, but the cost of further eroding the public’s trust is too high a price to pay.”
Governor Larry Hogan Vetoes Politically Motivated Legislation
ANNAPOLIS, MD - Governor Larry Hogan today vetoed two pieces of politically motivated legislation passed during the 2019 session of the Maryland General Assembly.
“Unravels years of bipartisan work and study.” Governor Hogan vetoed SB128 - Community Control of School Calendars Act, writing that “this unfortunate legislation unravels years of bipartisan work and study by seeking to reverse the post-Labor Day school start for public schools.” Instead, Senate Bill 128 runs directly counter to an action favored by the vast majority of Marylanders.
- The governor stated, “I tried to work with members of the Maryland General Assembly on a compromise bill, which was not even scheduled for a hearing. The legislation would have allowed any local school system that decides to start school before Labor Day to be required to put that decision on the ballot for the voters of that jurisdiction to decide for themselves. Our administration’s bill would have offered genuine, local control over this important issue. Senate Bill 128 masquerades under the guise of more local control, but instead does the complete opposite of what citizens want.” Read the governor’s letter here.
“A solution in search of a problem.” Governor Hogan vetoed HB1052 - Alcohol and Tobacco Commission, writing that the legislation “is not necessary, serves no purpose, will waste taxpayers’ money, and disrupts a well-ordered and completely functional regulatory system. House Bill 1052 is a solution in search of a problem that does not exist.”
- The governor stated, “The reorganization contemplated by House Bill 1052 creates significant budgetary implications and unnecessary disruption for the regulated industries,” resulting in duplication of key personnel and information technology systems. Read the governor’s letter here.
Operation Seven Sentinels Yields 264 Arrests, 25 Arrested on Homicide Charges
Governor Larry Hogan Joins U.S. Marshals Service to Announce Successful Operation to Tackle Crime in Baltimore City
Operation Seven Sentinels Yields 264 Arrests, 25 Arrested on Homicide Charges
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Larry Hogan today joined the U.S. Marshals Service to announce the success of a Baltimore City-wide initiative, “Operation Seven Sentinels,” targeting the most violent fugitives. Governor Hogan requested the U.S. Marshals Service to lead the crime fighting initiative with the goal of reducing the high rate of violent crime in Baltimore City and a special emphasis on the most violent repeat offenders.
The announcement was made inside the Edward A. Garmatz U.S. Courthouse in Baltimore City. The governor joined U.S. Marshal, Johnny Hughes; Baltimore City Police, Commissioner Michael Harrison; Maryland State Police Superintendent, Bill Pallozzi; FBI Baltimore Acting Special Agent in Charge, Jennifer Moore; FBI Violent Crimes Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Brian Nadeau; the Governor's Office of Crime Control and Prevention Executive Director, Glenn Fueston, and other state and local leaders.
“I want to commend the U.S. Marshals Service for the excellent work that you do and especially for your latest efforts over the past few weeks in Baltimore City,” said Governor Hogan. “The successful execution of Operation Seven Sentinels proves our administration not only remains committed to backing up the Baltimore City Police in their mission to protect the citizens of Baltimore, but that we are laser focused on removing the most violent criminals from the streets.”
Governor Larry Hogan Vetoes $15 Minimum Wage Bill
Governor Larry Hogan Vetoes $15 Minimum Wage Bill
Legislation Could Cost Jobs, Push Businesses Out of State
Legislation Could Cost Jobs, Push Businesses Out of State
1. Governor Hogan Offered A Compromise Proposal On The Minimum Wage - The General Assembly Refused To Take The Governor’s Ideas Into Consideration
Governor Hogan: "I would like to offer a compromise to move this discussion forward. Despite my reservations about a dramatic increase in the minimum wage, I could support a reasonable, phased increase of the minimum wage by $2 to $12.10 by the year 2022 if it were amended to include the following provisions…” (Letter, Governor Hogan To Presiding Officers Re: Minimum Wage Compromise, Office Of The Governor, 3/8/19)
- The Governor’s Compromise Proposal Included A “Trigger” That Would Make Increases Above $12.10 Contingent Upon Increases To The Minimum Wage In Surrounding States. “That is why I would like to see the legislature attach a trigger to this legislation that would make any further increases above $12.10 effective only if our surrounding states reach a combined average of 80% of our wage.” (Letter, Governor Hogan To Presiding Officers Re: Minimum Wage Compromise, Office Of The Governor, 3/8/19)
- The Governor Called For Legislation To Take Into Account Regional Differences. “Therefore, I would propose that we differentiate the minimum wage increase to account for these geographical differences. New York and Oregon currently do this, and so should we. We should work out an objective system that would recognize local economic conditions, but which would be simple to implement and regulate; businesses already navigate complex and burdensome regulatory requirements across the country. A regional minimum wage in Maryland should not be a bureaucratic or administrative nightmare for companies that want to do business across our state. Towards this end, your legislation should also consider additional provisions to account for the differences in temporary and seasonal workers.” (Letter, Governor Hogan To Presiding Officers Re: Minimum Wage Compromise, Office Of The Governor, 3/8/19)
- The Governor Suggested That A Compromise Proposal Should Include An Increase In The Earned Income Tax Credit. “I believe that a fair and more effective way to help those who are struggling to get by without losing jobs would be to increase the state Earned Income Tax Credit to 60% of the federal wage.” (Letter, Governor Hogan To Presiding Officers Re: Minimum Wage Compromise, Office Of The Governor, 3/8/19)
THURSDAY NIGHT IS $5.00 1/2 LB. BURGER NIGHT AT CARIBBEAN JOE'S
To top off celebrating our first Thursday opening, enjoy a $1.00 Natural Light with your meal. We'll see you Thursday evening.
Located in West Ocean City at the old ALAMO hotel on Route 50
Still The Best Election Night Compilation Video Of All Time
Yes we have all seen it before but it's worth watching a few more times right? ***Language Warning**
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
7 People Who Were Sentenced for Same Thing Jussie Smollett Allegedly Did
Although the charges that Jussie Smollett allegedly filed a false report were dropped, others charged for the same thing, but lacking Hollywood or political ties, have been prosecuted and sentenced.
In fact, a 30-minute search turned up seven people in Illinois with similar charges to those of Jussie Smollett whose sentences included probation, at the least.
Here are the seven:
In fact, a 30-minute search turned up seven people in Illinois with similar charges to those of Jussie Smollett whose sentences included probation, at the least.
Here are the seven:
- On November 9, 2011, the RRStar.com reported that a 19-year-old Rockford, Illinois, woman received a sentence of two years probation and 40 hours of community service for filing a false report. She was also ordered to undergo counseling. The woman falsely claimed that “she had been threatened at gunpoint.”
The Michelle Obama Staffer Who Helped Get Jussie Smollett Off The Hook Is Also Investigating Racism, Sexism Within The SPLC
Tina Tchen, who was former First Lady Michelle Obama’s chief of staff, has been in the news quite a bit lately, mostly for her role in getting charges dropped against “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett.
While Chicago police were still investigating an alleged hate crime against Smollett and considering him a victim, Tchen reached out to the Cook County State Attorney’s Office asking for the investigation to be handed over to the FBI.
“I wanted to give you a call on behalf of Jussie Smollett and family who I know. They have concerns about the investigation,” Tchen sent in a text message to Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx on February 1.
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While Chicago police were still investigating an alleged hate crime against Smollett and considering him a victim, Tchen reached out to the Cook County State Attorney’s Office asking for the investigation to be handed over to the FBI.
“I wanted to give you a call on behalf of Jussie Smollett and family who I know. They have concerns about the investigation,” Tchen sent in a text message to Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx on February 1.
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Pompeo announces expansion of US ban on aid to groups providing abortion-related services
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced Tuesday that the United States is expanding its ban on giving aid to groups that either promote or provide abortions.
In his announcement on the changes to the so-called Mexico City policy, Pompeo said that the U.S. has extended the ban to include organizations that comply with the rule but give money to others that don’t – adding that the Trump administration will not allow American taxpayer money to pay for “back-door funding schemes and end runarounds to our policy.”
“This administration has shown we can meet critical health care goals while refusing to subsidize the killing of unborn babies,” Pompeo said. “As result of my decision, we will refuse to provide support to NGOs who provide funds to other organizations that promote abortion."
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https://www.foxnews.com/politics/pompeo-announces-expansion-of-us-ban-on-aid-to-groups-providing-abortion-related-services
In his announcement on the changes to the so-called Mexico City policy, Pompeo said that the U.S. has extended the ban to include organizations that comply with the rule but give money to others that don’t – adding that the Trump administration will not allow American taxpayer money to pay for “back-door funding schemes and end runarounds to our policy.”
“This administration has shown we can meet critical health care goals while refusing to subsidize the killing of unborn babies,” Pompeo said. “As result of my decision, we will refuse to provide support to NGOs who provide funds to other organizations that promote abortion."
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https://www.foxnews.com/politics/pompeo-announces-expansion-of-us-ban-on-aid-to-groups-providing-abortion-related-services
America's Fentanyl Problem: China Can Turn Off The Tap... If It Wants
In 2017, Islamic insurgents in Niger ambushed and killed a four-man US Special Forces team. It was front-page news and considered a catastrophe.
That same year, over 28,000 Americans died of overdoses involving the synthetic drug, fentanyl. Yet, it seemed less of an attention-getter in Washington – and still does – even as the death toll mounts.
The fentanyl mostly comes from the People’s Republic of China – although the media usually downplays or ignores this point – seemingly afraid to mention the ‘C’ word.
The Washington Post did recently publish an article by well-regarded reporter and China expert, John Pomfret, explaining why the Chinese government does not stop the fentanyl flow – despite promising the U.S .Government it would do so.
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That same year, over 28,000 Americans died of overdoses involving the synthetic drug, fentanyl. Yet, it seemed less of an attention-getter in Washington – and still does – even as the death toll mounts.
The fentanyl mostly comes from the People’s Republic of China – although the media usually downplays or ignores this point – seemingly afraid to mention the ‘C’ word.
The Washington Post did recently publish an article by well-regarded reporter and China expert, John Pomfret, explaining why the Chinese government does not stop the fentanyl flow – despite promising the U.S .Government it would do so.
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America’s 233-Year-Old Shock at Jihad
Exactly 233 years ago this week, two of America’s founding fathers documented their first exposure to Islamic jihad in a letter to Congress; like many Americans today, they too were shocked at what they learned.
Context: in 1785, Muslim pirates from North Africa, or “Barbary,” had captured two American ships, the Maria and Dauphin, and enslaved their crews. In an effort to ransom the enslaved Americans and establish peaceful relations, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams -- then ambassadors to France and England respectively -- met with Tripoli’s ambassador to Britain, Abdul Rahman Adja. Following this diplomatic exchange, they laid out the source of the Barbary States’ hitherto inexplicable animosity to American vessels in a letter to Congress dated March 28, 1786:
One need not conjecture what the American ambassadors -- who years earlier had asserted that all men were “endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights” -- thought of their Muslim counterpart’s answer. Suffice to say, because the ransom demanded was over fifteen times greater than what Congress had approved, little came of the meeting.
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Context: in 1785, Muslim pirates from North Africa, or “Barbary,” had captured two American ships, the Maria and Dauphin, and enslaved their crews. In an effort to ransom the enslaved Americans and establish peaceful relations, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams -- then ambassadors to France and England respectively -- met with Tripoli’s ambassador to Britain, Abdul Rahman Adja. Following this diplomatic exchange, they laid out the source of the Barbary States’ hitherto inexplicable animosity to American vessels in a letter to Congress dated March 28, 1786:
We took the liberty to make some inquiries concerning the grounds of their [Barbary’s] pretentions to make war upon nations who had done them no injury, and observed that we considered all mankind as our friends who had done us no wrong, nor had given us any provocation. The ambassador answered us that it was founded on the laws of their Prophet, that it was written in their Koran, that all nations who should not have acknowledged their authority were sinners, that it was their right and duty to make war upon them wherever they could be found, and to make slaves of all they could take as prisoners, and that every Musselman who should be slain in battle was sure to go to Paradise
One need not conjecture what the American ambassadors -- who years earlier had asserted that all men were “endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights” -- thought of their Muslim counterpart’s answer. Suffice to say, because the ransom demanded was over fifteen times greater than what Congress had approved, little came of the meeting.
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Attorney General Frosh Joins Coalition to Protect Liberian Residents of Maryland
Attorney General Frosh Joins Coalition to Protect Liberian Residents of Maryland
BALTIMORE, MD – Maryland Attorney General Brian E. Frosh has joined a coalition of 10 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief supporting Liberian nationals who have filed suit to block President Trump’s termination of their Deferred Enforcement Departure (DED) status.
Read more in the full press release: http://www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov/press/2019/032619.pdf
NOI 3/26/19 Wicomico Mobile Home Fire Old Fruitland Road
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NOTICE OF INVESTIGATION
Date: March 26, 2019
Time: 12:39 p.m.
Location / Address: 31067 Old Fruitland Road, Salisbury, Wicomico Co.
Type of Incident: Fire
Description of Structure / Property: 12’ x 60’ Mobile home
Owner / Occupants: David Hoang
Injuries or Deaths: None
Estimated $ Loss: Structure: $20,000 Contents: $10,000
Smoke Alarm Status: Unknown
Fire Alarm / Sprinkler Status: n/a
Arrests(s): None
Primary Responding Fire Department: Salisbury Fire Department
# of Alarms: 2 # Of Firefighters: 40
Time to Control: 45 minutes
Discovered By: Neighbor
Area of Origin: Underside of mobile home
Preliminary Cause: Accidental, electrical
Additional Information: The occupants were displaced and being assisted by the American Red Cross.
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Arby's manager kills man who spat on her, police say
An Oklahoma Arby’s manager has been arrested after shooting and killing a customer she had gotten into an argument with, police say.
Deionna Young, 25, is facing a first-degree murder charge stemming from the alleged incident that unfolded Saturday in Tulsa.
Police told Fox News that Desean Tallent, the deceased 25-year-old, threatened and spat on Young before leaving the store. They did not elaborate on what caused the dispute.
One hour later, they say, Tallent returned to the store and Young got in her car and followed him out of the parking lot.
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https://www.foxnews.com/us/arbys-manager-kills-man-who-spat-on-her-police-say
Deionna Young, 25, is facing a first-degree murder charge stemming from the alleged incident that unfolded Saturday in Tulsa.
Police told Fox News that Desean Tallent, the deceased 25-year-old, threatened and spat on Young before leaving the store. They did not elaborate on what caused the dispute.
One hour later, they say, Tallent returned to the store and Young got in her car and followed him out of the parking lot.
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https://www.foxnews.com/us/arbys-manager-kills-man-who-spat-on-her-police-say
As Virginia Solar Farm Decision Looms, Fight Continues Over Cleanup Costs
As concerned citizens continue to fight against a plan to build the largest solar farm in the eastern United States near their homes in Spotsylvania, Virginia, the local board of supervisors hasn’t made a final decision on the issue.
Critics tell the Taxpayers Protection Alliance the decommission bond that Utah-based builder Sustainable Power Group, or sPower, has proposed is too low, and could leave local taxpayers in a financial lurch if accepted.
sPower wants to build a solar farm consisting of 1.8 million panels on 6,350 acres in Spotsylvania, the largest such farm east of the Rockies. The farm would generate 500 megawatts of solar power to sell to such clients as Apple and Microsoft. A buffer consisting of planted vegetation would be created around the panels, which would use about half of the acreage.
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Critics tell the Taxpayers Protection Alliance the decommission bond that Utah-based builder Sustainable Power Group, or sPower, has proposed is too low, and could leave local taxpayers in a financial lurch if accepted.
sPower wants to build a solar farm consisting of 1.8 million panels on 6,350 acres in Spotsylvania, the largest such farm east of the Rockies. The farm would generate 500 megawatts of solar power to sell to such clients as Apple and Microsoft. A buffer consisting of planted vegetation would be created around the panels, which would use about half of the acreage.
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Here Are 4 Egregious Ways the Left Wants to Transform American Politics
When you can’t win the game, change the rules.”
That seems to be the motto of the far left these days. Not content to play by the rules, they hope to tilt the playing field to their own advantage and in the process transform American politics.
Here are four ways they’ve proposed doing that.
1. Packing the Supreme Court
A number of Democratic presidential hopefuls have floated the idea of adding new seats on the Supreme Court.
To begin with, this is something the Constitution gives Congress the power to determine. But this isn’t the first time the political branches have played politics with the Supreme Court by trying to tinker with the number of seats.
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That seems to be the motto of the far left these days. Not content to play by the rules, they hope to tilt the playing field to their own advantage and in the process transform American politics.
Here are four ways they’ve proposed doing that.
1. Packing the Supreme Court
A number of Democratic presidential hopefuls have floated the idea of adding new seats on the Supreme Court.
To begin with, this is something the Constitution gives Congress the power to determine. But this isn’t the first time the political branches have played politics with the Supreme Court by trying to tinker with the number of seats.
More
Purdue Pharma settles Oklahoma opioid lawsuit for $270 million
Purdue Pharma has reached a settlement with the state of Oklahoma over claims the maker of the painkiller OxyContin helped fuel an opioid epidemic that killed thousands of residents in the state.
The pharmaceutical company, based in Stamford, Connecticut, and owned by the Sackler family, will pay $270 million to resolve the lawsuit, Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter said Tuesday. Of that amount, nearly $200 million will go toward establishing the National Center for Addiction Studies and Treatment at Oklahoma State University in Tulsa, while local governments will get $12.5 million. Twenty million dollars will be set aside for addiction treatment medication, and the remaining $60 million will pay for the state's litigation costs to date.
"The addiction crisis facing our state and nation is a clear and present danger, but we're doing something about it today," Hunter said.
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The pharmaceutical company, based in Stamford, Connecticut, and owned by the Sackler family, will pay $270 million to resolve the lawsuit, Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter said Tuesday. Of that amount, nearly $200 million will go toward establishing the National Center for Addiction Studies and Treatment at Oklahoma State University in Tulsa, while local governments will get $12.5 million. Twenty million dollars will be set aside for addiction treatment medication, and the remaining $60 million will pay for the state's litigation costs to date.
"The addiction crisis facing our state and nation is a clear and present danger, but we're doing something about it today," Hunter said.
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Delegate Jay Jalisi unanimously reprimanded by House
Jalisi was accused of bullying staff members, received warnings and was counseled by Speaker Michael Busch, D-Anne Arundel, multiple times, according to the report, released Monday.
Jalisi was not present on the chamber floor at the time of the 136 to 0 vote for House resolution 2, but said in a statement this week that he is the victim of a political smear campaign.
The report details multiple occasions of Jalisi berating his staff. Persons testified that in 2015, Jalisi told a staff member to work around 100 extra hours of overtime without timesheets to prove it, and in 2017, that he yelled at staffer so loudly a person in a different office called human resources, according to the report.
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Don’t expect any media mea culpas for the ‘collusion’ delusion
The opening scene of the Big Reveal of Robert Mueller’s special counsel report went according to the script: Conservatives “pounced,” the left “pushed back” and the media turned to each other for comfort and reassurance.
Amid the misty-eyed cable news anchors and the hastily arranged panels of pundits carrying out a series of televised group therapy sessions, a theme began to take shape — a soothing, healing incantation of hope and deliverance: This can’t be the end. There’s got to be more.
MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow got the ball rolling with her stream-of-consciousness opening, rhetorically cursing the gods of sitting-president-indictment norms and promising (pleading for?) much more to come from the Southern District of New York and Reps. Adam Schiff and Jerry Nadler.
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Amid the misty-eyed cable news anchors and the hastily arranged panels of pundits carrying out a series of televised group therapy sessions, a theme began to take shape — a soothing, healing incantation of hope and deliverance: This can’t be the end. There’s got to be more.
MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow got the ball rolling with her stream-of-consciousness opening, rhetorically cursing the gods of sitting-president-indictment norms and promising (pleading for?) much more to come from the Southern District of New York and Reps. Adam Schiff and Jerry Nadler.
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Police: Late for work, suspect doesn't stop in high speed-chase
CLEVELAND, OH (WOIO) - It started with an Ohio trooper attempting to pull over a vehicle on I-77 northbound, and ended with multiple police cars smashed and a dramatic arrest.
The reason for the death-defying chase? The suspect said she had to make it to work, according to police.
Imani Edwards is charged with felonious assault and failure to comply after she was finally stopped on East 105th Street in Cleveland, just north of St Clair Avenue.
Police had Edwards boxed in on I-77, and were out of their cruisers with guns drawn when she decided to run again.
More/Video
The reason for the death-defying chase? The suspect said she had to make it to work, according to police.
Imani Edwards is charged with felonious assault and failure to comply after she was finally stopped on East 105th Street in Cleveland, just north of St Clair Avenue.
Police had Edwards boxed in on I-77, and were out of their cruisers with guns drawn when she decided to run again.
More/Video
Retired State Corruption Investigation Calls For Criminal Investigation Into Mayor Pugh’s ‘Healthy Holly’ Dealings
BALTIMORE (WJZ) — A retired state corruption investigator wants a criminal investigation into Mayor Catherine Pugh’s business dealings.
A letter was sent to the State Prosecutor’s office yesterday, calling for the mayor to be investigated for perjury and criminal misconduct.
“I did a 3.5 year undercover investigation down there,” said Jim Cabezas, public corruption investigator.
The retired investigator spent more than 30 years investigating corruption for the State Prosecutor before
“For me this has nothing to do with politics, it has to do with integrity,” Cabezas said.
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A letter was sent to the State Prosecutor’s office yesterday, calling for the mayor to be investigated for perjury and criminal misconduct.
“I did a 3.5 year undercover investigation down there,” said Jim Cabezas, public corruption investigator.
The retired investigator spent more than 30 years investigating corruption for the State Prosecutor before
“For me this has nothing to do with politics, it has to do with integrity,” Cabezas said.
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Detailed images of baby heart inside the womb
Researchers have produced unprecedented images of a baby's heart while it is still inside the womb.
Pregnant women were scanned in an MRI machine and powerful computers built 3D models of the tiny beating hearts inside their unborn children.
The team at King's College London and Guy's and St Thomas's says it will improve the care of babies with congenital heart disease.
The researchers say their approach could easily be adopted by hospitals.
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Pregnant women were scanned in an MRI machine and powerful computers built 3D models of the tiny beating hearts inside their unborn children.
The team at King's College London and Guy's and St Thomas's says it will improve the care of babies with congenital heart disease.
The researchers say their approach could easily be adopted by hospitals.
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Va. to vote on banning handheld cellphone use behind the wheel
Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam is reviving an effort to ban all handheld cellphone use by drivers in the state, a change that would match the laws in Maryland and the District.
“I hope that the General Assembly passes this lifesaving measure,” Northam said at the announcement outside Alexandria City Hall Tuesday morning.
Almost three people were killed per day on Virginia roads last year, and at least 208 of those deaths involved distracted driving. Many more people were injured in those and other crashes.
“Using a phone while driving not only takes your eyes off the road; it distracts your mind as well,” Northam said.
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“I hope that the General Assembly passes this lifesaving measure,” Northam said at the announcement outside Alexandria City Hall Tuesday morning.
Almost three people were killed per day on Virginia roads last year, and at least 208 of those deaths involved distracted driving. Many more people were injured in those and other crashes.
“Using a phone while driving not only takes your eyes off the road; it distracts your mind as well,” Northam said.
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"El Chapo" attorneys ask judge for new trial over jurors' alleged misconduct
Defense attorneys asked a federal judge Tuesday to grant a new trial to the Mexican drug lord known as "El Chapo," saying jurors improperly followed media coverage of the sensational drug conspiracy case. Joaquin Guzman's defense team said in court filings that jurors repeatedly disregarded instructions to avoid the "blizzard of media coverage" before convicting Guzman of murder conspiracy and drug-trafficking charges in February.
The defense asked U.S. District Judge Brian Cogan to hold an evidentiary hearing in the wake of a Vice News report that said at least five jurors followed media reports and Twitter feeds during the three-month trial. The attorneys said juror misconduct denied Guzman his right to a fair trial.
"If a justice system's measure is how it treats the most reviled and unpopular, then ours may have failed Joaquin Guzman by denying him the fair trial before an untainted jury to which he's constitutionally entitled," Guzman's attorneys wrote in a court filing. "Because sunlight is the best disinfectant, that prospect merits serious consideration, close investigation and a new trial as appropriate."
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The defense asked U.S. District Judge Brian Cogan to hold an evidentiary hearing in the wake of a Vice News report that said at least five jurors followed media reports and Twitter feeds during the three-month trial. The attorneys said juror misconduct denied Guzman his right to a fair trial.
"If a justice system's measure is how it treats the most reviled and unpopular, then ours may have failed Joaquin Guzman by denying him the fair trial before an untainted jury to which he's constitutionally entitled," Guzman's attorneys wrote in a court filing. "Because sunlight is the best disinfectant, that prospect merits serious consideration, close investigation and a new trial as appropriate."
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New amendment may reinstate driver's licenses for more than half a million Virginians, governor says
Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam announced an amendment to the state’s budget on Monday eliminating the suspension of driver’s licenses for those who cannot pay court fines and costs. The amendment would restore driving privileges for more than 627,000 Virginians with suspended licenses.
"The practice of suspending a person’s driver’s license for nonpayment of court fines and costs is inequitable. It's past time we end it," Northam said. "A driver’s license is critical to daily life, including a person’s ability to maintain a job. Eliminating a process that envelops hundreds of thousands of Virginians in a counterproductive cycle is not only fair, it’s also the right thing to do."
Northam proposed the bill in the House and Senate during the 2019 legislative session addressing the issue of suspending licenses. Senator Adam Ebbin and Delegate Alfonso Lopez backed him.
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"The practice of suspending a person’s driver’s license for nonpayment of court fines and costs is inequitable. It's past time we end it," Northam said. "A driver’s license is critical to daily life, including a person’s ability to maintain a job. Eliminating a process that envelops hundreds of thousands of Virginians in a counterproductive cycle is not only fair, it’s also the right thing to do."
Northam proposed the bill in the House and Senate during the 2019 legislative session addressing the issue of suspending licenses. Senator Adam Ebbin and Delegate Alfonso Lopez backed him.
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Another Soros-Linked District Attorney Blocks Boston Police from Making Arrests on Shoplifting, Destruction of Property, Resisting Arrest, Drug Offenses… No Deportation of Illegals
The far left District Attorney announced new orders for police officers who are no longer allowed to arrest people for shoplifting, for breaking and entering, for destruction of property/vandalism, for resisting arrest, for disturbing the peace, and for drug offenses.
Rollins also ordered police to refuse access to ICE officials for the arrest any illegals in courthouses — no matter the crime.
Rollins is linked to the far left program originally funded by George Soros to support far left radicals in deep blue cities across the US.
The program has helped elect radical attorneys in Chicago, St. Louis, Sacramento and San Diego. On Tuesday Soros-linked Kim Foxx dropped all charges against hate hoaxer Jussie Smollett in Chicago without explanation.
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Rollins also ordered police to refuse access to ICE officials for the arrest any illegals in courthouses — no matter the crime.
Rollins is linked to the far left program originally funded by George Soros to support far left radicals in deep blue cities across the US.
The program has helped elect radical attorneys in Chicago, St. Louis, Sacramento and San Diego. On Tuesday Soros-linked Kim Foxx dropped all charges against hate hoaxer Jussie Smollett in Chicago without explanation.
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Duke Whistleblower Gets More Than $33 Million In Research Fraud Settlement
Duke University is paying the U.S. government $112.5 million to settle accusations that it submitted bogus data to win federal research grants. The settlement will also bring a $33.75 million payment to Joseph Thomas, the whistleblower who drew attention to the fraud when he worked for Duke.
Thomas, a former Duke lab analyst, sued the university on behalf of the federal government, saying that a Duke researcher fudged data to help the university win and keep lucrative grants from two agencies, the National Institutes of Health and the Environmental Protection Agency.
The dozens of grants in question covered the study of the lung function of mice. The Justice Department says Thomas' lawsuit alleged that "between 2006 and 2018, Duke knowingly submitted and caused to be submitted" claims to federal agencies that were unknowingly paying grant money for falsified research data. It adds that while the agreement settles the court case, it does not mean Duke has been determined liable.
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Thomas, a former Duke lab analyst, sued the university on behalf of the federal government, saying that a Duke researcher fudged data to help the university win and keep lucrative grants from two agencies, the National Institutes of Health and the Environmental Protection Agency.
The dozens of grants in question covered the study of the lung function of mice. The Justice Department says Thomas' lawsuit alleged that "between 2006 and 2018, Duke knowingly submitted and caused to be submitted" claims to federal agencies that were unknowingly paying grant money for falsified research data. It adds that while the agreement settles the court case, it does not mean Duke has been determined liable.
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Maryland voters rally to support gerrymandering case
WASHINGTON — Maryland voters, political groups and state elected officials all rallied together outside the Supreme Court Tuesday morning to support a case being heard on partisan gerrymandering in the state’s congressional districts.
Held on the steps of the Supreme Court, the Fair Maps Rally, sponsored by Common Cause and the League of Women Voters, drew hundreds of supporters to raise public awareness of transparent redistricting and to protest against unfair congressional districts in states across the country.
While supporters chanted and spoke outside for several hours, oral arguments for two Supreme Court cases on gerrymandering were heard inside.
The Maryland case, Benisek v. Lamone, focused on whether the redistricting of the state’s 6th Congressional District was constitutional after the district map was redrawn in 2011 following the release of 2010 political census data, flipping it from being a solid Republican district to majority Democratic in the 2012 election.
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Held on the steps of the Supreme Court, the Fair Maps Rally, sponsored by Common Cause and the League of Women Voters, drew hundreds of supporters to raise public awareness of transparent redistricting and to protest against unfair congressional districts in states across the country.
While supporters chanted and spoke outside for several hours, oral arguments for two Supreme Court cases on gerrymandering were heard inside.
The Maryland case, Benisek v. Lamone, focused on whether the redistricting of the state’s 6th Congressional District was constitutional after the district map was redrawn in 2011 following the release of 2010 political census data, flipping it from being a solid Republican district to majority Democratic in the 2012 election.
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DEAD RECEIVING MILLIONS IN SOCIAL SECURITY PAYMENTS
Social Security Administration (SSA) officials paid nearly $42 million to about 500 dead people in three states, according to Office of the Inspector General audits released in March.
Around 70 million people received more than $1 trillion of economic assistance through Social Security programs in fiscal year 2018. Payments end when the beneficiary dies, however.
The SSA identified 160 individuals who had possibly died, with 57 from Michigan from 1971 through 2010 and 103 from Maryland from 1979 through 2015. Around $16.9 million in payments were issued to 145 individuals who reportedly died in these states. The remaining 15 were alive.
There was an instance where a woman received payments for a person who died in 2000 and used it for personal benefit. She pleaded guilty for theft and was required to pay nearly $170,000 back to SSA. Another person also received Social Security benefits that was posted under the deceased person’s record since 1997. The beneficiary had died in 1974.
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Around 70 million people received more than $1 trillion of economic assistance through Social Security programs in fiscal year 2018. Payments end when the beneficiary dies, however.
The SSA identified 160 individuals who had possibly died, with 57 from Michigan from 1971 through 2010 and 103 from Maryland from 1979 through 2015. Around $16.9 million in payments were issued to 145 individuals who reportedly died in these states. The remaining 15 were alive.
There was an instance where a woman received payments for a person who died in 2000 and used it for personal benefit. She pleaded guilty for theft and was required to pay nearly $170,000 back to SSA. Another person also received Social Security benefits that was posted under the deceased person’s record since 1997. The beneficiary had died in 1974.
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Report: FBI Still Investigating Jussie Smollett for Federal Mail Fraud
Despite all charges being dropped against Empire star Jussie Smollett Tuesday, the actor reportedly still faces an FBI investigation for mail fraud.
Fox News reported on air Tuesday that the FBI is still looking into Jussie Smollett allegedly sending himself a death threat letter through the mail.
“A spokesperson for the FBI, we just reached out to, and they tell us ‘no comment.’ All along, the FBI–which is, you know, usually very quiet, did not weigh in on their investigation,” an FNC reporter said on air.
“But, Jussie Smollett, according to Chicago police, allegedly sent himself a death threat letter just one week prior to the alleged hoax,” the reporter continued.
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Fox News reported on air Tuesday that the FBI is still looking into Jussie Smollett allegedly sending himself a death threat letter through the mail.
“A spokesperson for the FBI, we just reached out to, and they tell us ‘no comment.’ All along, the FBI–which is, you know, usually very quiet, did not weigh in on their investigation,” an FNC reporter said on air.
“But, Jussie Smollett, according to Chicago police, allegedly sent himself a death threat letter just one week prior to the alleged hoax,” the reporter continued.
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Most Democrats vote 'present' on Green New Deal
Senators Tuesday blocked the Democratic Green New Deal resolution in a procedural vote the GOP called up in order to showcase the radical plan to end the use of fossil fuels and address climate change.
Most Senate Democrats voted “present” rather than in favor of the resolution, even though many of them said they support the framework of the measure. The resolution calls for the United States to end greenhouse gas emissions and transition to renewable energy in the coming decades.
No senators voted to advance the resolution, while 57 voted no, including a handful of Democrats: Doug Jones of Alabama, Joe Manchin of West Virginia, and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona. Angus King of Maine, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, also voted no.
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Most Senate Democrats voted “present” rather than in favor of the resolution, even though many of them said they support the framework of the measure. The resolution calls for the United States to end greenhouse gas emissions and transition to renewable energy in the coming decades.
No senators voted to advance the resolution, while 57 voted no, including a handful of Democrats: Doug Jones of Alabama, Joe Manchin of West Virginia, and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona. Angus King of Maine, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, also voted no.
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Analysis: The Mess at UMMS—Part II: Legislative action must be stronger than HB 1428
By Charlie Hayward
For MarylandReporter.com
The type of audit cited in legislation, and who controls the audit, will be pivotal to whether all, or only a few of the red flags, are considered by the auditor. HB 1428 would require the University of Maryland Medical System Corporation (UMMS) to hire an: “independent certified public accountant (CPA) to conduct a performance audit of its administrative and financial offices – specifically to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of financial management practices, including procurement and contracting.”
Professional auditing standards describe several kinds of audits. Performance auditors examine internal controls for efficiency and effectiveness and recommend prospective improvements. They don’t investigate possible wrongdoing or reconstruct previous transactions or events; they typically don’t examine source documents or verify transactions; they don’t assess motives; and they don’t perform any forensic work—unless the mandate requires it and the legislation does not.
A “performance audit” is jargon for a non-critical review whose principal objectives are aligned with future improvements of economy and efficiency. The legislature needs to tighten up language describing the audit to include an investigation covering at least three years prior, including forensic work.
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For MarylandReporter.com
The type of audit cited in legislation, and who controls the audit, will be pivotal to whether all, or only a few of the red flags, are considered by the auditor. HB 1428 would require the University of Maryland Medical System Corporation (UMMS) to hire an: “independent certified public accountant (CPA) to conduct a performance audit of its administrative and financial offices – specifically to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of financial management practices, including procurement and contracting.”
Professional auditing standards describe several kinds of audits. Performance auditors examine internal controls for efficiency and effectiveness and recommend prospective improvements. They don’t investigate possible wrongdoing or reconstruct previous transactions or events; they typically don’t examine source documents or verify transactions; they don’t assess motives; and they don’t perform any forensic work—unless the mandate requires it and the legislation does not.
A “performance audit” is jargon for a non-critical review whose principal objectives are aligned with future improvements of economy and efficiency. The legislature needs to tighten up language describing the audit to include an investigation covering at least three years prior, including forensic work.
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Maryland Senate votes to abolish the state's Handgun Permit Review Board; measure moves to House
The Maryland Senate approved a bill Monday night that would abolish the state’s Handgun Permit Review Board.
The 30-16 vote now moves the measure to the House of Delegates for consideration.
Some lawmakers and gun control advocates have raised concerns about the board, saying it has been too permissive in overturning and modifying Maryland State Police decisions on handgun permits.
Handgun owners who want to carry their guns with them must prove to the Maryland State Police that they have a “good and substantial” reason to carry the guns, under state law.
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The 30-16 vote now moves the measure to the House of Delegates for consideration.
Some lawmakers and gun control advocates have raised concerns about the board, saying it has been too permissive in overturning and modifying Maryland State Police decisions on handgun permits.
Handgun owners who want to carry their guns with them must prove to the Maryland State Police that they have a “good and substantial” reason to carry the guns, under state law.
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Supreme Court hears arguments on Maryland, North Carolina redistricting
WASHINGTON – For the second time in as many years, the Supreme Court heard arguments on partisan redistricting cases from Maryland and North Carolina Tuesday, but it remains unclear whether a constitutional standard for regulating the practice will be issued.
North Carolina’s entire congressional map is being contested, which is currently made up of 10 Republicans and three Democrats despite the state being almost evenly split politically.
At issue in Maryland is the state’s 6th Congressional District. Democratic lawmakers are accused of moving Republican voters out of the district that covers most of the state’s rural Northwest and putting in large numbers of Democratic voters from the Washington suburbs in order to turn the district blue.
The justices seemed to be split evenly down philosophical lines, with the more liberal wing of the court encouraging the deliberation of a manageable standard to apply to future questions of gerrymandering, while the conservative wing seeming wary of intervening in a process left largely to the states.
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North Carolina’s entire congressional map is being contested, which is currently made up of 10 Republicans and three Democrats despite the state being almost evenly split politically.
At issue in Maryland is the state’s 6th Congressional District. Democratic lawmakers are accused of moving Republican voters out of the district that covers most of the state’s rural Northwest and putting in large numbers of Democratic voters from the Washington suburbs in order to turn the district blue.
The justices seemed to be split evenly down philosophical lines, with the more liberal wing of the court encouraging the deliberation of a manageable standard to apply to future questions of gerrymandering, while the conservative wing seeming wary of intervening in a process left largely to the states.
More
VIRAL VIDEO: A normal traffic stop in Brooks County last week turned into a viral video after a brief chase.
WOW! I wasn't expecting that....
Black Helicopters In The Area
Over the next several weeks Delmarva Power will be conducting aerial transmission line inspections throughout the Eastern Shore and into Delaware. Haverfield Aviation will be utilizing a black hughes MD500 with tail number N371EE to do the inspections. They often fly low for extended periods. If you happen to see them do not be concerned and wave hello.
Dropping of charges against ‘Empire’ star Jussie Smollett ‘almost unheard of’: Judge Andrew Napolitano
The stunning decision by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s office to drop all 16 felony charges against “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett in his alleged hate crime hoax is “almost unheard of,” Judge Andrew Napolitano said Tuesday.
The Fox News senior judicial analyst said on “America’s Newsroom” soon after the news broke that it seems like the government asked the court to dismiss its own indictment.
“Quite frankly, this is almost unheard of,” Napolitano said. “It is either the result of extraordinary lawyering on the part of [Smollett’s] lawyers or a realization by the government of a defect in its evidence that it did not know it had at the time it sought and obtained an indictment against him.”
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https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/charges-dropped-against-empire-star-jussie-smollett-almost-unheard-of-judge-andrew-napolitano
The Fox News senior judicial analyst said on “America’s Newsroom” soon after the news broke that it seems like the government asked the court to dismiss its own indictment.
“Quite frankly, this is almost unheard of,” Napolitano said. “It is either the result of extraordinary lawyering on the part of [Smollett’s] lawyers or a realization by the government of a defect in its evidence that it did not know it had at the time it sought and obtained an indictment against him.”
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https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/charges-dropped-against-empire-star-jussie-smollett-almost-unheard-of-judge-andrew-napolitano
Police Union Rep Says Prosecutor Threw Cops 'Under the Bus' on Smollett Case, Following Obama's Example
On Tuesday, the Cook County State's Attorney's office announced it had dropped the 16 counts against Empire star Jussie Smollett. State's Attorney Kim Foxx recused herself from the case, but the prosecutor who dropped the case reports to her. A Chicago police union rep told PJ Media that Foxx was behind the decision to drop the charges, and this represents merely one more example of her throwing the Chicago police "under the bus," following the lead of former president Barack Obama.
"Once again, she's throwing the Chicago Police Department completely under the bus, which she's been doing for the last two years in office," Martin Preib, second vice president at the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), told PJ Media on Tuesday. He argued that Foxx had never truly recused herself from the case, since her "underlings" remained involved.
"What's the difference between her recusing herself and her underlings having the case? What really has been recused here? Nothing," Prieb declared.
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"Once again, she's throwing the Chicago Police Department completely under the bus, which she's been doing for the last two years in office," Martin Preib, second vice president at the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), told PJ Media on Tuesday. He argued that Foxx had never truly recused herself from the case, since her "underlings" remained involved.
"What's the difference between her recusing herself and her underlings having the case? What really has been recused here? Nothing," Prieb declared.
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