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Thursday, July 01, 2010

We Have A New Cat Up For Adoption

GO HERE to meet Spike.

We Need Your Help On This Lost Animal Right Away


Today, this lovable dog was found in the Country Grove Subdivision in Delmar on Woodview Point.

She is being kept at a home and is staying cool inside but the person who found her has to make arrangements by the end of the night tonight to place her somewhere.

That being said, if this dog looks familiar to you or if you know the owner, PLEASE make contact with this person right away.

Deb Geissler 302-604-0816 or 302-907-0287

A Letter To The Editor

Dear SBYNEWS and Mr.Joe Albero,

I am writing to you to give you the latest Breaking News. In the past week I have seen numerous people file of a public office. I have come to the conclusion that I am perfect for any political office position out there.

Here are my qualifications. I am a female, I am blonde, I really enjoy drinking (a lot ) and last but not least I do not know anything about running a public office. I hope I can count on Your support as I believe it may be needed.

Sincerely and Sober,
Mrs. Ditsy

Armed Citizens Patrolling The Border Badlands In Arizona

NRA Opposes Kagan

The National Rifle Association says today it's opposing Elena Kagan's nomination for the Supreme Court and will score her vote, which could further discourage Republicans from voting for her.

"This vote matters and will be a part of future candidate evaluations," the NRA says.

Excerpts from an NRA statement follow:

In testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee, she refused to declare support for the Second Amendment, saying only that the matter was "settled law."

This was eerily similar to the scripted testimony of Justice Sonia Sotomayor last year, prior to her confirmation to the Court. When pressed on the Second Amendment then, Sotomayor also referred to the issue as "settled law."

But in the recently decided case of McDonald v. City of Chicago, Sotomayor ignored the "settled law" of the Heller decision and signed a dissenting opinion that declared, "I can find nothing in the Second Amendment's text, history, or underlying rationale that could warrant characterizing it as 'fundamental' insofar as it seeks to protect the keeping and bearing of arms for private self-defense purposes."

It has become obvious that "settled law" is the scripted code of an anti-gun nominee's confirmation effort. The NRA is not fooled. No member of the U.S. Senate should be either.

GO HERE to read more.

AFP-Maryland Demands O’Malley Balance State Budget, Heed Constitution


Absence of $389 million federal bailout puts state in the red, breaks constitutional requirement


ANNAPOLIS – On the first day of fiscal year 2011, Americans for Prosperity-Maryland demands that Gov. Martin O’Malley heed the constitution and balance the state budget immediately. The Governor relied on $389 million from the federal government, which has not been appropriated, to put the state of Maryland in the black this year. Unlike the federal government, the state constitution (Article III, Subsection 5a) does not allow for a running deficit.

“Gov. O’Malley is breaking the bank, and now is breaking the law,” stated Americans for Prosperity-Maryland state director Dave Schwartz. “Instead of balancing the budget the correct way, the Governor used accounting gimmicks and government bailouts to close the books. The dependence on federal money is the equivalent of a household relying on a winning lottery ticket to pay for their children’s college tuition. It is irresponsible and another example of fiscal mismanagement from the O’Malley administration.”

In March, members of Americans for Prosperity-Maryland came to Annapolis and testified against the budget for fear of this scenario. AFP-Maryland believes that this type of irresponsible budget management will inevitably lead to larger structural deficits and tax hikes on Maryland families. We have been holding town hall meetings across the state discussing ways to turn around the Maryland economy – our next stop is Annapolis on Thursday, July 8th. For more information, please visit http://www.getmarylandmovingagain.com/.

38TH ANNUAL CAMP BARNES BENEFIT STOCK CAR RACE

Location: Delaware International Speedway, Delmar, Sussex County, DE
Date of Occurrence: Tuesday July 6, 2010

Resume:

Delmar
- The 38th Annual Camp Barnes Benefit Stock Car Race will be held at the Delaware International Speedway on Tuesday July 6, 2010. Gates to the speedway will open at 5:00 p.m. and racing action beginning at 7:00 p.m. Rain date is scheduled for Wednesday July 7, 2010. The Delaware International Speedway is located U.S. 13, north of the Delaware / Maryland line.

This year’s event will feature competitors from New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Delaware. They will compete for prize money over $35,000. Modifieds, Late Models, Street Modifieds, Modified Lites and Little Lincoln Vintage Clubs will compete in over 100 laps of feature racing in their respective classes.

In addition, making the racing more exciting for the fans and more competitive for the drivers, $25 per lap leader bonus will be paid to all feature events.

Camp Barnes originally opened in 1948 to combat juvenile delinquency. The camp was named in recognition of Colonel Herbert A. Barnes. Colonel Barnes was the Superintendent of the State Police at the time of the camp’s establishment and was instrumental in raising the necessary funds and volunteer help to make Camp Barnes a reality. The camp is located next to Assawoman Wildlife Area on Miller Creek, 6.7 miles southeast of Bethany Beach. For eight weeks in the summer, each week, 60 children, ages 10-13 attend Camp Barnes with no financial burden on parents or guardians.

Tickets to the event are available at the speedway’s ticket booth the night of the event. Spectator’s tickets are $15 and pit tickets are $25. Children under 14 accompanied by parent or guardian are admitted free to spectator seating.

For additional information, please call DET. Preston Lewis 302-856-5850 EXT. 301.

Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Press Release

Below are the Calls for service the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office handled for the month of June 2010

Accidents
31

Alarms
57

Assaults
3

Assist Other Agencies
174

Burglaries
6

Child Abuse
1

Civil
23

Disorderly
17

Domestics
17

Drug Investigations
6

K9
2

Malicious destruction of property
9

Missing persons
3

Paper Service
152

Patrol Checks
879

Suspicious Persons
46

Thefts
18

Traffic
541

Trespass
6

Warrant Service
76

The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Issued 404 traffic warnings 416 traffic citations, arrested 14 people for driving while intoxicated, and served 76 warrants in the month of June 2010.

YOU'VE BEEN BLOGGED TEE SHIRTS NOW ON SALE

Folks, the Salisbury News "You've Been Blogged" tee shirts are now on sale for $10.00 each. 100% of the money brought in will go to the Wicomico Humane Society through the month of July.

Stop into Mr Curley at 652 South Salisbury Blvd, (Rt. 13 near WaWa) in Salisbury and they'll take care of you right away, (410) 749-1099. Remember, by showing off our tee shirts, every one will know you made a 100% donation to each charity of the month.

Salisbury News is eating the cost of each and every shirt and the entire ten dollars goes to the Humane Society. Please support this wonderful organization and enjoy a quality tee shirt to boot.

Thanks everyone!!!!! Rough/Meow

Rick Pollitt Has Filed To Run Again

Wicomico County Executive Rick Pollitt has officially filed again to run for County Executive. While we have known about this since early morning, we were hoping to get an official Press Release but have yet to receive one. Perhaps we'll see one in the very near future.

IMMIGRATION

Why do we need an immigration plan? Why is it so hard for us to use the one we have? It seems quite simple to me.

First thing to do is secure our borders so that nobody can enter our country with out the legal authority to be here. If someone who wasn't born here wants to come here, then they should apply for the correct visa.

There are 31 types of visas to come here on a temporary basis. Visit this web page http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1286.html to see which one applies to you. If you would like to become an American citizen, visit this web page http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/types/types_1326.html and you have the information on how to do this. If you would like more information about becoming a US citizen, go here http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.eb1d4c2a3e5b9ac89243c6a7543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=02729c7755cb9010VgnVCM10000045f3d6a1RCRD&vgnextchannel=02729c7755cb9010VgnVCM10000045f3d6a1RCRD

We already have laws for people to legally come to our country. If people don't want to come here this way, then they are breaking the law. If they are breaking the law, they should be arrested and prosecuted and deported. If they don't want to follow our laws for coming here legally, what makes you think they will follow the laws once here?

Why is it so hard for our politicians and fellow Americans to understand this? It seems quite simple to me.

We don't need any new laws or policies on immigration. We need to close our porous borders and evict the people who don't respect our country, our constitution, and our way of life. The people who want to come here legally should be taught what our country's laws and values are. They should learn our language and they should assimilate to our way of life.

I'm an American. I'm an American. I'm an American. What are you?

New Layout On Salisbury News


We have created a new layout for Salisbury News. While we hope you like it,
we'd be interested in knowing what you think about it.


We're still working on a few things, like rotating ads,
changing the header on each article title and so forth.


However, your input is very important.

Who's The Better Man?


WOW, um, let's see? If you're a Somerset County resident and you must vote, you've got a tough decision to make. Seriously though, my guess is that the election results in Somerset County for Police Chief will be the lowest numbers they have ever seen. That is, unless another real Cop steps up to the plate to run.
Webster walked away from Salisbury as the 4th Most Dangerous City in America, (per capita). Jones has a history being labeled a Good Ol' Boy. At least Bobby doesn't sue anyone and every one who challenges his authority or ability.

Picture Of Devastating Earthquake

Picture of the devastation after recent earthquake in Western New York area.

GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY ANNOUNCES NEW PROTECTIONS FOR MARYLAND FAMILIES FACING FORECLOSURE

Foreclosure mediation will help qualified homeowners obtain mortgage loan modifications or other alternatives to foreclosure

ANNAPOLIS, MD (July 1, 2010)
– Today, Maryland’s new Foreclosure Mediation law will take effect, giving mortgage challenged homeowners another tool to help them save their homes. The program aims to give homeowners more time and a better opportunity to work with their lender, help qualified borrowers get relief through a loan modification and provide an independent party to help both sides come to a resolution.

“For homeowners who continue to be proactive, work in good faith and stay in touch with their lenders, this program is a valuable tool as they try to resolve their situation. This legislation will help keep more Marylanders in the homes they worked hard to purchase,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “These new protections empower our fellow Marylanders, putting them on a more equal footing with mortgage companies that too often can’t be bothered to pick up the phone before beginning a foreclosure proceeding against a Maryland family. If a mortgage giant can pick up the phone to put a family into a home, they should be expected to pick up the phone before they throw a Maryland family out of a home.”

Under the program, when a lender notifies a homeowner about possible foreclosure, it also must provide information on options available to the homeowner about modification programs, such as the federal Home Affordable Modification Program, or those available through a lender as well as non-profit and government resources and assistance.

“The law is intended to ensure that a homeowner who qualifies for a modification is able to get one. In cases where a modification is not possible, the law is intended to ensure that lenders fully explore options for a graceful exit short of foreclosure, such as deed in lieu or cash for keys,” said Alexander M. Sanchez, Secretary of the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.

Before a lender forecloses, it is required to file an affidavit attesting that it has fully evaluated the homeowner’s eligibility for loss mitigation programs, and state the basis for any denial. At this stage, the lender also must send a homeowner a “Request for Foreclosure Mediation” form. Homeowners who believe they should not have been denied for relief and wish to take part in the foreclosure mediation program must “opt in” to the program within 15 days and also must pay the $50 filing fee. Lenders are required to pay a fee of $300 with each filing. This is the only time a homeowner will be offered the opportunity to request foreclosure mediation. Commercial and other non-owner occupied properties are not eligible for foreclosure mediation.

Once a mediation request is filed with the Circuit Court, the court refers it to the Maryland Office of Administrative Hearings, which will schedule a mediation session. This session must be held within 60 days. Mediators aim to assist the parties in finding common ground and helping them reach a solution that is satisfactory to both parties.

“We encourage homeowners to contact their lender and a housing counselor at the earliest sign of financial difficulty,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Raymond A. Skinner. “The opportunity to participate in mediation occurs later in the foreclosure process and does not guarantee that a homeowner will avoid foreclosure.” A list of housing counseling agencies may be obtained by calling the MDHOPE hotline at 877-462-7555 or by visiting www.mdhope.org

Since 2007 when Governor O’Malley created the Homeownership Preservation Task Force, Maryland has become a national model in combating foreclosures by developing a comprehensive strategy that includes legal and regulatory reforms and housing counseling and legal assistance networks. This coalition has assisted approximately 41,495 homeowners in the last three years with more than 12,500 of those as positive outcomes.

Geezer Bandid Strikes Again

Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com


The so-called "Geezer Bandit" has robbed for the 11th time, but some are speculating that he might not be a geezer at all.

New Jobless Claims Rise Unexpectedly

Employers lay off more workers, especially in housing market

WASHINGTON — Initial claims for unemployment benefits rose last week for the second time in three weeks, a sign that layoffs are rising.

The Labor Department says new claims for jobless benefits jumped by 13,000 to a seasonally adjusted 472,000. Analysts expected a small drop, according to a survey by Thomson Reuters.

Greater layoffs by construction firms contributed to the increase, a Labor Department analyst said. Home sales slumped last month after the expiration of a popular homebuyer tax credit. Summer layoffs in many school districts also added to the total.

The number of people continuing to claim benefits rose by 43,000 to 4.6 million, the department said. But the number of people collecting extended benefits fell by 376,000, as lawmakers have refused to continue the extra aid.

Source

TROOPERS READY FOR BUSY WEEKEND SERVING AND PROTECTING

(Pikesville, MD) – From “Operation Centipede” on the Capital Beltway, to “Operation Gauntlet” on the route to Ocean City, to “Smooth Operator” enforcement in Garrett County, to Inner Harbor assistance in Baltimore, Maryland state troopers are ready to implement traffic and criminal enforcement initiatives throughout the holiday weekend in an effort to reduce traffic fatalities and keep Marylanders safe.

In every Maryland county and Baltimore City, state troopers will be involved in a variety of enforcement efforts targeting drunk drivers, aggressive drivers, and speeders, while also assisting with security and traffic control at fireworks displays from Deep Creek Lake, to the Inner Harbor, to Worcester County. Troopers not normally assigned to road patrol, as well as supervisors and commanders will add more than 75 extra troopers to the regular on-duty patrol force throughout the weekend.

“Our priority is to keep Marylanders and those visiting our state safe through this busy holiday weekend,” Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel Terrence B. Sheridan said. “Our troopers will be on patrol in every Maryland county, conducting enforcement operations that target specific highway safety needs and working with local law enforcement to keep communities safe. I am urging drivers to obey the speed limit, not to drink and drive, to ensure everyone in their vehicle is buckled up, and to make traffic safety their priority.”

Troopers are reminding those headed to Ocean City not to try to reduce their travel time by increasing their speed. “Operation Gauntlet” will be positioning troopers in strategic locations along Rt. 50 from Kent Island to Ocean City. Troopers will be focusing on speed and aggressive driving violations.

“Operation Centipede” will ring the Capital Beltway with extra troopers who will be on the alert for traffic violations that cause crashes and tie up traffic. Troopers at each of the 22 State Police barracks will be conducting saturation patrols in areas known for high numbers of drunk driving crashes and/or arrests. Troopers will also be working to provide prompt assistance to disabled vehicles and to quickly move crashes off the roads to keep traffic moving smoothly.

More than 30 state troopers will be providing assistance to the Baltimore Police Department Sunday evening for July 4th festivities at the Inner Harbor. They will assist with traffic direction, commercial vehicle enforcement, and other security initiatives. State Police helicopters will provide aerial support in the area when returning from medevacs to Baltimore hospitals.

PUBLIC NOTICE

CLOSED SESSION / SPECIAL MEETING

The City Council has scheduled a closed session to be held on Tuesday, July 6, 2010 at 4:00 p.m. for a personnel matter as permitted under the Annotated Code of Maryland Section

10-508(a)(1).

In accordance with §SC2-4 of the Salisbury City Charter, a majority of the City Council have called for a Special Meeting to be held on Tuesday, July 6, 2010, for consideration of Resolution No. 1935, accepting “Safe Streets Coalition – MSSP” State grant funds. The meeting will convene following the conclusion of the closed session.

The closed session and the special meeting will be held in Conference Room 306 of the City/County Government Office Building (125 N. Division Street).

Indiana Supreme Court Upholds Voter ID Law

The Indiana Supreme Court upheld the state's voter identification law in a 4-1 decision Wednesday, saying the Legislature has the power to require voters to show a photo ID at the polls.

Wednesday's ruling is the latest decision in a string of lawsuits trying to overturn the politically charged 2005 law -- among the strictest in the nation -- but it may not bring an end to the challenges.

Justice Brent Dickson wrote in the majority decision that no actual voters harmed by the law were named in the suit.

"No individual voter has alleged that the voter ID law has prevented him or her from voting or inhibited his or her ability to vote in any way," the decision states. "Our decision today does not prevent any such voter from challenging the law in the future."

Attorneys for the League of Women Voters, which challenged the law, said in oral arguments before the state supreme court in March that people have been hurt by the law and that they could testify if the court decides to take up the matter.

The league argued that the law violates the state constitution because it imposed a requirement on some voters, but not all, since absentee voters aren't required to prove their identity. The state appeals court agreed in 2009 and threw out the law, but the ID requirements remained in place as the supreme court took up the case.

The Indiana Supreme Court said Wednesday that the photo ID requirement was not a "substantive voter qualification."

It cited the U.S. Supreme Court's 2008 ruling in a federal court challenge by the state Democratic Party to the Indiana law that said a photo ID is required to enter federal buildings and board planes and voting was equally important.

"The voter ID law's requirement that an in-person voter present a government-issued photo identification card containing an expiration date is merely regulatory in nature," Dickson wrote.

Indiana Secretary of State Todd Rokita, a Republican, applauded the decision.

"It is overwhelmingly supported by voters and taxpayers, despite a very small but very vocal partisan minority," Rokita said. "Protecting the votes of honest people from being diluted by those who have no respect for the franchise is the right thing to do."

Here are more details

Ex-DoJ lawyer: Holder Won't Prosecute Blacks

A leading Department of Justice attorney who quit his job after over the Obama administration's refusal to prosecute Black Panthers who intimidated voters outside polls during the 2008 election claims the administration has ordered the DOJ not to pursue voting rights cases against black people.

In an interview today, J. Christian Adams, former DOJ attorney and now a contributor at Pajamas Media, told Fox News, "There is a pervasive hostility within the Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department toward these sorts of cases."

Asked whether there is a specific Justice Department policy against pursuing cases where the defendant is black and the victim is white, Adams replied, "Particularly in voting, that will be the case for the next few years. No doubt about it. If you had all the attorneys who worked on this case here, I am quite sure that they would say the exact same thing."

When Fox News asked Adams who has issued that mandate, he said, "There are some things I'm not going to reveal. They know who they are. They said if somebody wants to review these kinds of cases, it's not going to be done out of the Civil Rights Division. If the U.S. attorney wants to do it, that's up to them, but it's not going to happen in the Civil Rights Division. … It's a political appointee."

He added, "This is one of the examples of Congress not being told the truth and the American people not being told the truth about this case. It's one of other examples in this case where the truth simply is becoming another victim in the process."

More details here

Appeals Panel Considers Whether Obama Is Even An American

Three judges on the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals are beginning to review a case that alleges Barack Obama is not eligible to be president and may not even be American.The federal court case, brought by attorney Mario Apuzzo on behalf of plaintiffs Charles Kerchner and others, had been dismissed at the district court level.Arguments earlier had been scheduled for June 29 in the dispute, but a court order recently canceled the hearing and instead announced the case would be decided based on the merits of the legal briefs submitted by attorneys.A document from court clerk Marcia Waldron said the case will be decided by Judge Dolores Sloviter, who was appointed by Jimmy Carter; Maryanne Trump Barry, appointed by Bill Clinton; and Thomas Hardiman, appointed by George W. Bush.


The filings were due on the day the hearing would have been held, but there's no published timetable for a decision to be released.


The case argues Obama probably is not even a U.S. citizen, much less a "natural born citizen" as required by the U.S. Constitution of the chief executive officer,
On a blog dealing with the case, lead plaintiff Kerchner has delivered updates.


The case filed was against Obama, Congress and others, just before Obama was sworn into office.The case has argued, "Under the British Nationality Act of 1948 his father was a British subject/citizen and not a United States citizen and Obama himself was a British subject/citizen at the time Obama was born."We further contend that Obama has failed to even conclusively prove that he is at least a 'citizen of the United States' under the Fourteenth Amendment as he claims by conclusively proving that he was born in Hawaii," the arguments have claimed.

Read more here

Gun-Rights Groups Ready For Battle Against ‘Restrictive’ Regulations

Given the Supreme Court’s 5-4 ruling on Monday that the Constitution’s Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms applies to individuals in the states, gun rights advocates are maneuvering to legally challenge and remove what they view as burdensome regulations on gun ownership and use.

"We are already preparing to challenge other highly restrictive anti-gun laws across the country,” said Alan Gottlieb, vice president of the Second Amendment Foundation, in a statement. “Our objective is to win back our firearms freedoms one lawsuit at a time.”

The Second Amendment Foundation was one of the legal co-sponsors for the plaintiff in the case, McDonald v. Chicago, for which the Supreme Court ruled in favor on Monday.

Dave Workman, with the Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms, said he expects the "battlefield" over gun regulations to "expand to the states now," and that there will be numerous challenges to gun laws and regulations across the country.

According to the Brookings Institution, there are approximately 300 different state gun-control laws on the books.

Wayne LaPierre, president of the National Rifle Association, said of Monday’s ruling, “The Supreme Court has now said the Second Amendment is an individual freedom for all. And that must have meaning. This decision must provide relief to law-abiding citizens who are deprived of their Second Amendment rights.”

Read more here

Gun Rights Re-affirmed

After a few days of reading headlines such this gem from Reuters, "Top court extends gun rights to states, cities", I decided to go back to the source of the right, the Second Amendment.

It reads:

A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.

This amendment is read purposefully a few differing ways depending on one's feelings toward the right to keep and bear arms. The proponents of gun bans and over-regulation of fire arms contend that the amendment's real definition is the right for people in militias to keep and bear arms, but this interpretation denies the context.

Note how the amendment ends with "the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." Why doesn't it state "the right of militia members to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed"?

Why does it assert the word "people" and infer upon people this right?

If the amendment was only giving the right to keep and bear arms to militias it would have been worded that way. Instead the second amendment clearly gives the right to keep and bear arms to the people- where it belongs.

Thus this Supreme Court has finally given the people a right they should have had since the Bill of Rights was written. This was not any sort of extension of rights at all. If nothing else, it was the proper restriction of over-arching government intrusion into a right of the people. Calling the McDonald v. Chicago or the District of Columbia v. Heller two years ago some sort of enlargement of the people's power in America is only correct in that the amendment had been eroded over time by unconstitutional laws. What really happened in those two cases wasn't an extension of rights, but a reclamation of the original intent of the amendment. We the people didn't get anything in this decision that wasn't promised to us long ago.

US Finally Revokes 'Death Sentence' Deportation Of Son-Of-Hamas


The son of a Hamas strongman, who had provided Israel's security establishment with valuable inside information for almost a decade, will not be deported from the United States, a California court ruled on Wednesday.

The U.S. Department of Homeland of Security ruled more than a year ago that Mosab Hassan Yousef should be denied asylum because he has "engaged in terrorist activity" and is a "danger to the security of the United States."

However, on Wednesday Homeland Security officials indicated they were prepared to grant Yousef asylum, thus retracting their original intention, after claiming to have received new information which shed new light on the case.

The pro-Israel think-tank EMET, who had aided Yusef in his attempts to be granted asylum, said in a statement following Wednesday's ruling that they were "enormously grateful to all those who played a part in standing with Mosab during this time, and helping the Department of Homeland Security come to understand what a grave error deporting Mosab would have been."

The 32-year-old son of one of Hamas' founders, whose story was first exposed by Haaretz earlier in the year, argued before Judge Rico Bartolomei at the San Diego court that he will be killed if he is deported because he spied on the militant group for the Shin Bet security's intelligence agency for a decade and abandoned Islam for Christianity.

"For 10 years, he fought terrorism in secret, hiding what he was doing and who he was," his attorney, Steven Seick, wrote in a court filing. "He deserves a safe place away from violence and fear."

Yousef has rallied support from members of Congress and others. Former CIA Director James Woolsey calls him a "remarkable young man" who should be commended for "extraordinary heroism and courage."

Israel has not commented on Yousef's claims, though members of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee wrote him this month to thank him and recognize his work for Shin Bet.

His attorney said Shin Bet will not have a representative address the immigration judge, but the now-retired officer who recruited and supervised him, Gonen Ben-Itzhak, is expected to testify. "G", as he was known, came out from deep cover to aid Yousef in his fight against the deportation order.

More here

Stock Futures Fall After China Data

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Stock index futures fell on Thursday after soft Chinese manufacturing data and a day after Moody's warned of a potential downgrade for Spain and Wall Street ended its worst quarter since the collapse of Lehman Brothers.

Global equities markets were pressured after Chinese data showed moderation in the world's third-largest economy, but no precipitous drop that some investors feared.

Spain sold 3.5 billion euros of five-year bonds at the top end of its target amount but demand was below the prior auction as Moody's placed Spain on review for a potential downgrade on Wednesday.

In U.S. economic data, weekly jobless claims were set for 8:30 a.m. EDT, while U.S. pending home sales for May and the Institute for Supply Management's June manufacturing index were due at 10:00 a.m. EDT.

Economists in a Reuters survey expected jobless claims to fall to 452,000 from 457,000 in the previous week. U.S. pending home sales were seen declining 12.5 percent from a 6 percent rise. The ISM manufacturing index was forecast a reading of 59.0 versus 59.7 in May.

GO HERE to read more.

Caption This Photo


Statement From Maryland Republican Party Chairman Audrey Scott


ANNAPOLIS – Maryland Republican Party Chairman Audrey Scott released the following statement today regarding Bob Ehrlich's selection of Mary Kane as his running mate:

“Republicans across Maryland welcome Bob Ehrlich’s pick of Mary Kane as his running mate. Mary’s extensive experience and commitment to economic opportunity makes her the perfect complement to Bob Ehrlich’s pro economic growth agenda. As a daughter of immigrants, she has a unique understanding of the American Dream and the sacrifices families across Maryland make daily to provide a better way of life for future generations. Together, Bob Ehrlich and Mary Kane are the right team to get our State back on track and put Marylanders back to work.”

Teacher Of Salisbury School Stepmother To 2 Boys Found Dead

The Salisbury school news (Dragon) put this out yesterday regarding the 2 boys that were found dead in Hebron

I deeply regret to inform you of the tragic and untimely deaths of Maribel Rolon and her husband’s two sons, Steven and Abraham. Those of us close to our school know how selflessly and joyously Sra. Rolon has served our children over the many years she has worked as a teacher at The Salisbury School. She has inspired our students to love learning and enjoy foreign language study.

I am certain that you will want to communicate your condolences and your deep concern for her and her family during this time of great personal and family distress. She will most certainly appreciate your kindness, concern, and support for her and her family. Cards and letters may be sent to Sra. Rolon at P.O. Box 1370, Salisbury, Maryland 21801. Additionally, we have established a memorial fund at PNC Bank to assist Sra. Rolon with the overwhelming expenses she will be facing due to the death of her two sons as well as the recent illnesses of both her husband and youngest child. To contribute to this fund, please send checks made payable to “Steven and Abraham Memorial Fund” to The Salisbury School (Attention: Jamie LaCates).

Many of our families have also inquired about taking food to Sra. Rolon’s home. Mrs. Liz Anderson, our Parents and Friends President, has graciously offered to assist in the coordination of this effort. If interested families provide dinners on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, we would be able to keep Sra. Rolon’s refrigerator filled without creating waste. If you are interested in making a dinner for Sra. Rolon’s family, please contact Mrs. Anderson at 410-651-0022 or at spotsalot@gmail.com.

Once the funeral arrangements have been made, we will communicate them to you.

Sincerely,

James Landi

MSP Press Release

LOCATION: U.S. Route 13 S/B @ Hampshire Rd Salisbury, Wicomico County, Maryland

BRIEF RESUME:
On 06-30-2010
at approximately 2050 hours, a Trooper from the Salisbury Barrack with the assistance of a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle on U.S. Route 13 S/B in the area of Hampshire Road. The trooper had knowledge that the driver, Erica Ann Uff did not have a driver’s license therefore she was placed under arrest. Search incident to arrest revealed suspected CDS. Uff was transported to the Wicomico County Central booking unit for an appearance before the District Court Commissioner.
SUSPECT:
Erica Ann Uff w/f age 20 of Westover, Maryland
CHARGES:
Driving w/o a license
CDS Possession not Marijuana

Young Professionals Special


Joe,

The Young Professionals of the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce have just launched their first ever Community Card. We have a stellar line up this year! The headliner is Ocean City’s own – Seacrets Bar and Grill. They are offering FREE COVER for the entire year – a deal exclusively offered to The Salisbury Young Professionals.

The card is available for sale for only $20.00 and is available to anyone 18 years or older – for a limited time only. The cards can be purchased at the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce located on West Main Street, Downtown Salisbury or several other local establishments including Pohanka and EXIT Shore Realty. ID must be present when purchasing the card.

This card is bound to save tons of money, but better yet, a large portion of the proceeds will be donated to local non-profit organizations and to start our yearly Young Professional college scholarship! Since you contribute to the community and help many non-profits yourself, we hope you can pass this along to your readers.

For more information and details about the card please visit http://www.salisburyyoungprofessionals.com/card/ or call the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce at 410-749-0144. The cards are selling fast and there are only a limited amount left!

Thank you for your continued support!

The Salisbury Young Professionals of the SACC

Today's Nature Photo By Scott Phoebus

POPE’S BIG NIGHT LEADS DELMARVA TO 7-1 GAME TWO WIN

Luis Noel Tosses Five One-Hit Innings to Earn the Win

Salisbury, Md.
– The Delmarva Shorebirds scored seven unanswered runs over the sixth and seventh innings to top the West Virginia Power, 7-1, at Appalachian Power on Wednesday night. Kieron Pope lead the offensive effort by matching his season high with four RBIs. The Shorebirds outhit the Power 10-5.

After five scoreless innings, the Shorebirds finally cracked the scoreboard in the sixth inning. Brian Conley led off with his team best 54th walk of the season. Ty Kelly followed with a sacrifice bunt to push Conley to second. Tyler Townsend then singled to put runners at the corners. Then, Kieron Pope ripped a double to deep center field to score both runners to give the ‘Birds a 2-0 edge. Two batters later, Mikey Planeta hit a soft blooper into right field to score Pope.

In the seventh inning, the Shorebirds tacked on four more runs. With Luis Bernardo at second and two outs, Ty Kelly wrapped a double down the right field line to plate Bernardo. Then, Tyler Townsend blasted a double to deep center field to score Kelly, which gave the Shorebirds a 5-0 cushion. Pope followed with his fourth homer of the season over the left field wall.

Right-hander Luis Noel earned the win in five solid innings. He allowed just one hit, a bunt single by Evan Chambers in the fifth inning. Nick Haughian shut­­down the Power in the sixth and seventh innings while Brent Allar slammed the door in the eighth and ninth innings.

The Shorebirds return to action on Thursday night at 7:05 p.m. RHP Kenny Moreland makes the start for Delmarva.

Wargotz Leads Mikulski By 3% In Recent Poll


Annapolis, MD--In a poll conducted by the Tarrance Group, lead Republican U.S. Senate candidate Dr. Eric Wargotz is leading 24-year incumbent Senator Barbara Mikulski in Baltimore County. Wargotz, serving out his first term as the elected President of the Queen Anne's County Board of Commissioners, received 34% of the vote, while Mikulski received 31%. A little known independent candidate received 9%. Twenty-six percent of the voters were undecided.

The poll was done over two days at the end of May. The Tarrance Group is one of the most widely respected and successful Republican strategic research and polling firms in the nation. For more information see http://www.tarrance.com/.

"These results prove what I have known for over a year, this race is winnable," Wargotz said. "I am particularly pleased with these numbers as we have focused campaign resources and time in the Baltimore area, her home base. As we continue to focus our efforts in other counties, we are confident that we will see similar, if not better, positive numbers," Wargotz continued.

"In fact, with these poll results, I am so confident that our message is resonating with the voters of Maryland, I have placed an additional $500,000 into the campaign so that we can take our message of creating jobs, cutting wasteful spending and lowering taxes to the four corners of Maryland" continued Wargotz.

In addition to being the only elected official running for the Republican nomination, Commissioner Wargotz is also a practicing physician and business owner. Eric and his wife, Cheryl-Ann live on the Eastern Shore where they are raising their three children.

A Comment Worthy Of A Post


Pulse Car Audio has left a new comment on your post "Nightly News At 6 PM":

Thank you Joe for putting your foot down about negative comments, "bashing", etc. I have received a lot of positive feedback from devoted readers and hope to keep with the same. My web page has had increased traffic, phone calls have increased as well. I urge local business owners to give it a try. Thank you for delivering us NEWS!

Thanks again Joe!

Board Of Education Adopts Fiscal Year 2010-11 Budget

Frequently Asked Budget Questions

The Wicomico County Board of Education at a special meeting on Tuesday, June 29, approved the Fiscal Year 2010-2011 Consolidated Current Expense Budget for the budget year beginning July 1.

The Board of Education unanimously approved the Consolidated Current Expense Budget of $173.4 million, a total that is nearly $11 million less than the previous year’s budget due to funding reductions from the county, state and federal governments and decreases in other local resources. The consolidated budget includes $157.4 million in the unrestricted current expenses budget and $16.1 million in the restricted (grants) budget.

“This has been a very trying and difficult process that we’ve gone through for many months, to see how we could reduce the budget by almost $11 million dollars, and we have done our due diligence,” said Board President Mark S. Thompson, who was leading is final Board of Education meeting before his term ends June 30.

Board Vice President L. Michelle Wright said it was the most challenging budget the Board has worked on in her four years on the Board. “Under the circumstances, although it was difficult, I think we have a budget that can work, that will fund the education of our students and still provide some of the training that our staff needs.”

In approving the budget in what has been a very difficult budget year, the Board aligned budgeted items with the school system’s Bridge to Excellence Master Plan Strategic Priorities of High Student Achievement, Safe Learning Environment, and Effective and Efficient Operations. Every effort was made to keep the effect of budget cuts away from the classroom and away from direct student-teacher contact, Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen said.

The fiscal year 2010-2011 budget will be posted under Quick Links at www.wcboe.org on July 1.

GO HERE to read more.

Michael Vick In Snow Hill

Joe,

I just bought a house and was packing up my kitchen dishes with newspaper (crabs n moving, that’s the only need for it) and somewhat enjoyed seeing little “snippets” of news as I was packing. I don’t get to see/read much news other than your site, which keeps me informed. Anyway, apparently Michael Vick was a guest speaker at some of the public schools in Snow Hill, didn't read if it was elementary, middle, high school, etc. It floored me! Sure, he “served his time” but I can’t really think of too many that have respect for Vick, especially considering his recent limelight of allegedly being part of a shooting at a nightclub in Guadalajara for his birthday…the person who got shot was a co defendant in his dog fighting case that he had an earlier confrontation with in the restaurant. Ironic huh? Idk, I just can’t imagine what was going through Worcester Co Board of Ed’s minds when inviting him in to talk to children a/b being a good person. Can someone elaborate? I feel like no one knew this happened. But then again, it could be that I missed it altogether.

Seems crazy,

Sarah

Editors Notes: Sarah, if you go back to the home page and type in Michael Vick in the search bar in the top left corner of the Blog, it will take you to the article we provided about this quite a few days ago.

Let Your Pet Strut Its Stuff At The Wicomico Youth & Civic Center

Free Children’s Pet Fair on Saturday, July 10

(Salisbury, MD)
Dogs, cat and other pets are invited to the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center on Saturday, July 10 for a free Children’s Pet Fair. Children 18 and under are encouraged to enter their dogs, cats and other miscellaneous pets into the fun competition, which will begin at 10:00am. Trophies and ribbons will be awarded to the top four-legged friends and other furry creatures in either the dog or miscellaneous pet categories.

Brought to you by Wicomico County Recreation, Parks and Tourism and sponsored in part by Salisbury Super Pet, the event is free and open to the public. Pets must be in good health and up to date with all shots. Participants are encouraged to register in advance, to do so or for more information contact Jamie Bozman at 410-548-4900 ext. 108 or email jbozman@wicomicocounty.org. Registrations will also be accepted the day of the event. Those registering at the event should arrive by 9:15am to allow ample time.

Eric Wargotz Receives Endorsement Of Major General Paul Vallely


As we approach the celebration of Independence Day, The Wargotz Campaign is especially proud to announce that Commissioner Eric Wargotz, M.D., candidate (R) for U.S. Senate has been honored with the endorsement of Major General Vallely, a true American Patriot.
----------------------------------------------

Paul E. Vallely
Major General, US Army (Ret)
225 Shawnee Drive, PO Box 1596
Bigfork, MT 59911

June 23, 2010
Dear Eric:

Today, I am pleased and proud to announce my endorsement of your candidacy for Senator from the great state of Maryland. After reviewing your background and your position statements on the critically important issues facing Maryland, and our Nation, I have no doubt that you understand the difficulties facing us today, and particularly, “WE THE PEOPLE” of Maryland.

I trust that you will bring the necessary leadership, and sound economic understanding and experience that is vitally needed. We are in dire need of principled public servants who will put loyalty to the Constitution and the principles that guarantee our freedom ahead of party affiliation, money, and special interests. I believe you will keep that oath as a United States Senator. We have a solemn obligation of proper stewardship of our Nation and the State of Maryland, and to the Constitution of each to ensure that the vitality and strengths of each are intact for the generations to come after us. Your dedication to conservative values, fiscal discipline, and family values will serve the good folks of Maryland and our Nation well.

I commend you for your past service to your community and its citizenry. Private Citizens such as yourself who go the extra mile for our elderly, our youth, our veterans, our soldiers, and our American ideals is to be lauded. As a Physician, I trust that you will lead the charge to repeal the so-called “Health Care” Bill, help strengthen our security, support our troops with the best equipment and proper rules of engagement, and to reduce the size and scope of our Federal Government.

We wish you Godspeed in your campaign. I will be encouraging others to support your candidacy in the forthcoming election. You may communicate my endorsement to the voters as you see fit.

Respectfully,

Paul E. Vallely

Major General Paul E Vallely, US Army (Ret)
Chairman – Stand Up America
Co-Chairman – Veteran Defenders of America

Bob Ehrlich Speaks Out For Maryland Commuters


Failures of service and Failures of Leadership are unacceptable

Bob Ehrlich today issued the following statement regarding the escalating implosion of service on the MARC commuter lines.

“One week after Martin O’Malley’s publicity ride on the MARC system and his faux apology to its riders, Maryland citizens see no improvement—they continue to endure unacceptable failures of service. Their nightmare enforces what every Marylander other than Martin O’Malley knows: Photo-ops don’t solve problems—leaders do.

“Commuters deserve better than late trains, overshot stations, and hours-long ordeals stuck on sweltering trains without water, information, or hope. While I am heartened that Governor O’Malley’s transportation secretary heeded my call to attend today’s MARC Rider Council meeting, it comes four years too late.

“I make this promise to every Marylander who depends on MARC and rightfully expects quality service: State Government’s culture of indifference toward you and your quality of life will end if I am elected Governor in November.” --Bob Ehrlich

(Background: Ehrlich’s statement follows several incidents of unsatisfactory service . Just Monday night a MARC train from Washington to Baltimore failed to make its scheduled stop in Odenton; passengers were delayed almost an hour. Even more serious were two incidents of trains stalling on their tracks and stranding passengers in broiling heat without air conditioning or water. In one of these incidents 900 people spent two hours in stifling confinement; a day later another train was stopped for 45 minutes.)

NATHAN MOREAU PROMOTED TO THE FREDERICK KEYS

Left-Hander Posted a 2.98 ERA in Delmarva

Salisbury, Md.
– The Baltimore Orioles announced on Wednesday that Shorebirds left-handed starter Nathan Moreau has been promoted to the Frederick Keys. The 23-year old dominated the South Atlantic League to the tune of a 2-3 record with a 2.98 ERA. The opposition batted just .209 against Moreau. Additionally, over his final 48.1 innings pitched, he surrendered just eight runs.

Moreau started the 2010 season in the bullpen before moving into the starting rotation on May 18. It was at that point that he began to blossom. In his first start, he tossed a four-inning shutout against the West Virginia Power. He did not allow a hit and struck out seven batters. Moreau proceeded to dazzle throughout the entire month of May. In three starts and seven appearances during May, he went 1-0 with a microscopic 0.36 ERA. In 25.0 total innings, he allowed only one run on ten hits. He also struck out 33 batters. For his dynamic May, Moreau was honored as the Orioles Minor League Pitcher of the Month.

His stranglehold over the SAL never wavered as the calendar turned to June. Against Lexington on June 10, he tossed a seven-inning gem. The Legends managed only four hits and one run. In his final start in a Shorebirds uniform (June 25), he struck out a season high nine batters against the Lakewood BlueClaws.

Moreau’s tenure with the Shorebirds began in 2009. He posted a 5-3 record with a 3.61 ERA in 20 starts and 87.1 innings pitched. Moreau fanned 95 batters.

The 11th round selection of the Orioles in 2008 is expected to make his Carolina League debut on Wednesday night against the Salem Red Sox at Salem Memorial Stadium. First pitch is set for 7:05 p.m.

The Shorebirds are expected to add Pat Kantakevich to the starting rotation to fill the vacant spot left by Moreau.

Luis Noel is scheduled to start Wednesday night’s game on the road at Appalachian Power Park against the West Virginia Power. The Shorebirds return to Perdue Stadium on July 4th for an Independence Day Bash. For tickets and information, call the Shorebirds Box Office at 410-219-3112.

SHOREBIRDS GAME NOTES: 6/30 @ West Virginia

PREVIEW: The Shorebirds squeezed out a 4-3 win in game win as they aim to take a 2-0 lead in the series in game two. Tom Phelps earned his first win of the season in 2.2 innings pitched. James Brandhorst locked away his third save of the season by striking out Evan Chambers to end the game.

FIRST ROAD SERIES: The Shorebirds are on the road for the first time since June 10-12 when they played a three-game series in Lexington. The ‘Birds have only played eight games on the road in the month of June. Including the all-star break, the Shorebirds spent 16 straight days on the Eastern Shore.

BIRDS LOSE STAMPONE: Stampone suffered an injury to his left hand on Monday night. Stampone ranked second on the team in RBIs with 28. He was batting .249 in 59 games for the Shorebirds.

7 0F 16: Through the first five games of the second half, the Shorebirds have plated seven of their 16 total runs in the first two innings. The Shorebirds scored four runs through the first two innings on June 26 against Lakewood.

INDEPENDENCE DAY AT PERDUE: The Shorebirds have not been at home for July 4th since the 2005 season. That will end this season as they play the Hickory Crawdads on July 4th at Perdue Stadium. The last the ‘Birds were home on the fourth, they defeated Hagerstown 6-5. In 2009, the Shorebirds were in Kannapolis on July 4. In 2008, the ‘Birds were in Greensboro for the fourth. The Shorebirds will host an Independence Day Bash. There are a limited amount of tickets remaining for the Shorebirds return.

CONLEY/ROSA MONTH-BY-MONTH: Right-fielder Brian Conley hit .338 in April, .282 in May and just .254 in the month of June. Garabez Rosa hit .333 in April, .261 in May and .195 in June.

ZAGONE MOVING TO DOUBLE-A: Rick Zagone is set to make his Double-A debut for the Bowie BaySox tonight against the Erie SeaWolves. Zagone pitched for the Shorebirds in 2009. He went 4-5 with a 4.66 ERA before earning a mid-season promotion to Frederick. Zagone was a 2009 SAL All-Star.

FIRST IN SYSTEM: Shorebirds closer Josh Dowdy is first in the Orioles system in saves with 11. Dowdy has not thrown since June 26th when he was nailed on the pinky finger of his right hand by a line drive off the bat of Jiwan James (Lakewood).

TRIPLES RECORD WATCH: Steve Bumbry is tied for fourth in the SAL with seven triples on the year. Evan Crawford of Augusta leads the loop with ten triples. The single-season Shorebirds record for triples is 18.

MOST ONE-RUN GAMES: The Shorebirds lead the South Atlantic League with 26 one-run games (13-13). West Virginia has played in 18 one-run games (9-9).