(Hampstead, MD) – Maryland State Police are continuing to investigate a late morning shooting in Carroll County that left two men dead in what appears to be a murder-suicide.
One man found dead at the scene is tentatively identified as Zaidan S. “Steve” Asid, 51. Asid lived at the home where the shooting occurred, in the 1200-block of Allview Drive, Hampstead, Md.
The second man found dead at the scene is tentatively identified as Michael L. Swift, III, 45. Swift had an address in the 3600-block of Benson Ave., Halethorpe, Md.
Another person in the residence at the time of the shooting is identified as Hallie P. Swift, 44, who is apparently the former wife of Swift and currently the fiancé of Asid. Hallie Swift was living in the home where the shooting occurred.
Shortly after 11:00 a.m. today, the Carroll County Emergency Operations Center received a 911 call from a woman in the 1200-block of Allview Drive. She told the dispatcher that her ex-husband had just come into her home and shot her fiancé before shooting himself.
The Emergency Operations Center dispatcher notified Maryland State Police at the Westminster Barracks of the call and troopers immediately responded. When they arrived, they found a Saturn car in the driveway with its engine running and the two deceased males in the home. Hallie Swift was also found in the home and was taken for a medical examination. She was later determined to be uninjured. No one else was in the home at the time of the shooting.
The scene was secured and members of the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit responded to conduct the investigation. A search warrant was obtained and investigators, accompanied by State Police crime scene technicians, spent the afternoon and evening processing the scene.
The preliminary investigation indicates Michael Swift arrived at the home shortly after 11:00 a.m. in the Saturn, which is registered to his mother. He apparently gained access to the home through a sliding glass door at the back of the house which appears to have been shattered by a gunshot.
Both deceased men were found in a first floor family room at the rear of the house. A .12 gauge shotgun was still in the possession of Michael Swift. Both bodies have been transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for autopsies.
The investigation is continuing.
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest
Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
This Delmar Comment Just In
"In other Delmar news, the Delmar BOE passed the resolution to move 5th grade to the middle school. (it was that or bus them to East Salisbury)"
I Was Right Again. Bomb Threats In Sussex County
Bomb Threat Effects Three Sussex County Schools
Location: Sussex Technical School, Georgetown; Laurel High School, Laurel; Seaford High School, Seaford
Date of Occurrence: Tuesday, 3/16/10, at approximately 12:57 pm and again at 2:12 pm
Suspect(s): Unknown
Resume: At approximately 12:57 pm this afternoon, an unknown person made a 911 call to the Emergency Operations Center in Sussex County stating there was a bomb in Sussex Tech High School. State Troopers and bomb sniffing K9s from various police agencies were dispatched to the school assist with traffic control as well as search the grounds for any suspicious packages or objects. Students and faculty were immediately evacuated from the school during the search.
At approximately 2:12 pm, another call was received through 911 from the same caller who now stated there was a bomb in Laurel High School and one would be at Seaford High School. Police units, again with the aid of the K9s, converged on the two schools looking for anything suspicious.
Nothing was found at any of the schools which took approximately 2 hours each to complete.
This investigation is ongoing and any further information will be disseminated when it's complete.
**The following police agencies assisted by supplying K9s for the search:
Delaware State Police
Delaware River and Bay
Dover PD
Wicomico County PD
Dorchester
Capital PD
Dover Air Force Base
Anyone with information pertaining to this case may contact Troop 4 Detectives at 302-856-5850. Tips may also be forwarded to Law Enforcement through tip lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or online at www.tipsubmit.com.
Location: Sussex Technical School, Georgetown; Laurel High School, Laurel; Seaford High School, Seaford
Date of Occurrence: Tuesday, 3/16/10, at approximately 12:57 pm and again at 2:12 pm
Suspect(s): Unknown
Resume: At approximately 12:57 pm this afternoon, an unknown person made a 911 call to the Emergency Operations Center in Sussex County stating there was a bomb in Sussex Tech High School. State Troopers and bomb sniffing K9s from various police agencies were dispatched to the school assist with traffic control as well as search the grounds for any suspicious packages or objects. Students and faculty were immediately evacuated from the school during the search.
At approximately 2:12 pm, another call was received through 911 from the same caller who now stated there was a bomb in Laurel High School and one would be at Seaford High School. Police units, again with the aid of the K9s, converged on the two schools looking for anything suspicious.
Nothing was found at any of the schools which took approximately 2 hours each to complete.
This investigation is ongoing and any further information will be disseminated when it's complete.
**The following police agencies assisted by supplying K9s for the search:
Delaware State Police
Delaware River and Bay
Dover PD
Wicomico County PD
Dorchester
Capital PD
Dover Air Force Base
Anyone with information pertaining to this case may contact Troop 4 Detectives at 302-856-5850. Tips may also be forwarded to Law Enforcement through tip lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or online at www.tipsubmit.com.
Internet Speculation Of Hoax Surrounds Prius Driver James Sikes
A FOX40 News investigation looked into the validity of some rumors on the internet surrounding San Diego resident James Sikes, whose Toyota Prius allegedly reached speeds of 90 miles per hour on a San Diego freeway earlier this week.
SACRAMENTO - Toyota Prius owner Jim Sikes is in the spotlight after reporting the accelerator pedal of his blue 2008 Toyota Prius got stuck, pushing his car to speeds above 90 miles per hour on Interstate 8 in San Diego County on Monday afternoon.
While the California Highway Patrol doesn't question his story, bloggers and radio listeners are wondering whether this is another "balloon boy" style hoax, done for the publicity or the money.
He's been on TV before, and seems to cherish the attention. In 2006 he was on television, winning $55,000 on "The Big Spin." As a real estate agent in San Diego, he boasts of his celebrity clients, including Constance Ramos of "Extreme Home Makeover."
Questions were first raised after his 911 call became public. The 61-year-old entrepreneur told the dispatcher, "My car can't slow down."
The operator repeatedly told Sikes to put his Prius into neutral during the more than 20 minute call, but Sikes didn't act on her requests, and didn't try it. He said he was afraid it might slip into reverse.
CHP Officer Todd Neibert also gave instructions to Sikes over a loudspeaker. When his patrol car caught up with the Prius, he smelled burning brakes.
Neibert says, "The brakes were definitely down to hardly any material."
The Prius finally stopped after Sikes applied the emergency brake and turned off the ignition.
Don Esmond, senior vice president of automotive operations for Toyota Motor Sales, says all Priuses are equipped with a computer system that cuts power to the wheels if the brake and gas pedals are depressed at the same time.
"It's tough for us to say if we're skeptical. I'm mystified in how it could happen with the brake override system," he said.
With questions about his story, FOX40 News looked into Sikes background. Our report found no evidence of any criminal record, but Sikes definitely had money problems, including a police report for grand theft, a filing for bankruptcy, and a side business that would raise some eyebrows.
In 2001, Sikes filed a police report with the Merced County Sheriff's Department for $58,000 in stolen property, including jewelry, a prosumer mini-DV camera and gear, and $24,000 in cash.
A neighbor near Sikes' former home in Atwater mentioned the money problems to FOX40 News, adding, "I'm not surprised [if] he'd try to get money."
Two years ago, Sikes filed for bankruptcy in San Diego. Documents show he was more than $700,000 in debt and owed Toyota $19000 for his Prius.
He has since told the media that he was never behind in payments.
Sikes still struggles with a reputation in Northern California. Jim Pernetti with AAA California Document Services says he's also aware of Sikes' past.
"I've been warned that he used to do business here," Pernetti told FOX40, "and that I should be wary of anything with him."
The Atwater neighbor says Sikes and his wife Patty had a reputation for other reasons.
GO HERE to read more.
SACRAMENTO - Toyota Prius owner Jim Sikes is in the spotlight after reporting the accelerator pedal of his blue 2008 Toyota Prius got stuck, pushing his car to speeds above 90 miles per hour on Interstate 8 in San Diego County on Monday afternoon.
While the California Highway Patrol doesn't question his story, bloggers and radio listeners are wondering whether this is another "balloon boy" style hoax, done for the publicity or the money.
He's been on TV before, and seems to cherish the attention. In 2006 he was on television, winning $55,000 on "The Big Spin." As a real estate agent in San Diego, he boasts of his celebrity clients, including Constance Ramos of "Extreme Home Makeover."
Questions were first raised after his 911 call became public. The 61-year-old entrepreneur told the dispatcher, "My car can't slow down."
The operator repeatedly told Sikes to put his Prius into neutral during the more than 20 minute call, but Sikes didn't act on her requests, and didn't try it. He said he was afraid it might slip into reverse.
CHP Officer Todd Neibert also gave instructions to Sikes over a loudspeaker. When his patrol car caught up with the Prius, he smelled burning brakes.
Neibert says, "The brakes were definitely down to hardly any material."
The Prius finally stopped after Sikes applied the emergency brake and turned off the ignition.
Don Esmond, senior vice president of automotive operations for Toyota Motor Sales, says all Priuses are equipped with a computer system that cuts power to the wheels if the brake and gas pedals are depressed at the same time.
"It's tough for us to say if we're skeptical. I'm mystified in how it could happen with the brake override system," he said.
With questions about his story, FOX40 News looked into Sikes background. Our report found no evidence of any criminal record, but Sikes definitely had money problems, including a police report for grand theft, a filing for bankruptcy, and a side business that would raise some eyebrows.
In 2001, Sikes filed a police report with the Merced County Sheriff's Department for $58,000 in stolen property, including jewelry, a prosumer mini-DV camera and gear, and $24,000 in cash.
A neighbor near Sikes' former home in Atwater mentioned the money problems to FOX40 News, adding, "I'm not surprised [if] he'd try to get money."
Two years ago, Sikes filed for bankruptcy in San Diego. Documents show he was more than $700,000 in debt and owed Toyota $19000 for his Prius.
He has since told the media that he was never behind in payments.
Sikes still struggles with a reputation in Northern California. Jim Pernetti with AAA California Document Services says he's also aware of Sikes' past.
"I've been warned that he used to do business here," Pernetti told FOX40, "and that I should be wary of anything with him."
The Atwater neighbor says Sikes and his wife Patty had a reputation for other reasons.
GO HERE to read more.
WICOMICO COUNTY LIBRARY BOARD HAS DITCHED DOWNTOWN SALISBURY
At today’s work session of the County Council, the library board disclosed that it now wants to build a new headquarters facility at a 5 acre site on Beaglin Park Drive, between Route 50 and Old Ocean City Road, which is available at about $135,000 per acre. This decision was made despite Jim Ireton’s plea to the board to keep the main library facility in downtown Salisbury.
The board has also discussed an alternate site at the old Salisbury Mall, at the same price as the County has agreed to pay for a 5 acre parking lot – $300,000 per acre.
Apparently, the final call is up to County Exec. Rick Pollitt and, if he makes a recommendation, the County Council.
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Is Steny Hoyer “Playing It Straight”?
If you think you’ve heard them all, try again. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD) claims that the Democrats are “playing it straight” regarding their possible attempt to sleaze ObamaCare into law without making House Dems actually vote on the matter.
I’m pretty jaded, but this one takes the cake:
"We are playing it straight," Hoyer insisted. He said American voters would not care what process Congress uses to enact a sweeping health care overhaul and would focus instead on the merits of the new law.
At the same time, he defended the use of the procedural sidestep, which House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Monday that she was considering employing. He cited statistics that, he said, showed that Republicans had used "deeming" process about twice as often as Democrats over the years.
Hoyer did not specify what period of time or what types of legislation were approved using the procedure.
When, exactly, did the House Republicans ever use this tactic? Honestly, I’d like to know. IF – and that’s a BIG IF – Hoyer is not lying, I want to know if any of these GOP pirates are still in office. If they are we should find primary opponents for those guys. Proposing to pass legislation without actually voting on it is UNCONSTITUTIONAL. It doesn’t matter if the GOP did it in the past, it’s WRONG. But even IF Hoyer is telling the truth, I guess his Mom never taught him that two wrongs don’t make a right.
I’m a conservative, not a radical. However, if House Dems actually use this tactic of “deeming” a bill to have passed to force ObamaCare on an unwilling electorate it’s time to take to the streets.
from Delmarva Dealings
Two 6 Year Old Children Disappear From Delmar Elementary
Last week two 6 year old girls were at recess and simply walked off the school grounds.
Some time later someone finally noticed the children were nowhere to be found in their classroom and a search started.
The two girls were found a couple blocks away from the school.
Salisbury News has received different stories referencing this matter but when we checked with one WBOE Member, they had no idea this event ever took place.
Folks, I have contacted local politicians, Delegates, Senators and even Congressmen in reference to proposing new legislation in reference to sex offenders not being able to live within a one mile radius of any school.
This is a prime example of why this law should go into effect immediately. Sex offenders are allowed to live 1,000 feet away from any school and this just isn't right. If a child is subjected to walking to school and lives less than a mile away and can't be bussed to school, there is no reason a sex offender shouldn't be required to live more than a mile from a school.
These children were LUCKY! You'll not read anything about this in the Daily Times and you'll not see it on WBOC or WMDT. The Board of Education does a fantastic job keeping this kind of thing away from the Press.
While researching this story I came to learn of another one somewhat similar. A child was at recess and simply walked off the school grounds and walked to their Grandparents home, close to the school. One Elementary school in Salisbury isn't even fenced in.
With the way things are going today, not only should the public be aware of these possibilities, they should use such cases to share with their children just how dangerous it is for them to stray from school grounds.
To secure our children's safety, I urge each and every one of you to contact your local Delegates and at least get them to enforce the 1 mile rule on sex offenders by creating new legislation. If the rest of the state wants to pick up on this legislation, good for them.
I'd certainly enjoy your opinion on this matter. It should also be noted, the parent of one of these children mentioned was away on a business trip. The Guardian contacted the school to find out what was going on and the school, (Delmar Elementary) refused to give her any information. I believe if it is documented that the guardian is responsible for the child, the school should keep them up to speed. What do you think about that as well?
Some time later someone finally noticed the children were nowhere to be found in their classroom and a search started.
The two girls were found a couple blocks away from the school.
Salisbury News has received different stories referencing this matter but when we checked with one WBOE Member, they had no idea this event ever took place.
Folks, I have contacted local politicians, Delegates, Senators and even Congressmen in reference to proposing new legislation in reference to sex offenders not being able to live within a one mile radius of any school.
This is a prime example of why this law should go into effect immediately. Sex offenders are allowed to live 1,000 feet away from any school and this just isn't right. If a child is subjected to walking to school and lives less than a mile away and can't be bussed to school, there is no reason a sex offender shouldn't be required to live more than a mile from a school.
These children were LUCKY! You'll not read anything about this in the Daily Times and you'll not see it on WBOC or WMDT. The Board of Education does a fantastic job keeping this kind of thing away from the Press.
While researching this story I came to learn of another one somewhat similar. A child was at recess and simply walked off the school grounds and walked to their Grandparents home, close to the school. One Elementary school in Salisbury isn't even fenced in.
With the way things are going today, not only should the public be aware of these possibilities, they should use such cases to share with their children just how dangerous it is for them to stray from school grounds.
To secure our children's safety, I urge each and every one of you to contact your local Delegates and at least get them to enforce the 1 mile rule on sex offenders by creating new legislation. If the rest of the state wants to pick up on this legislation, good for them.
I'd certainly enjoy your opinion on this matter. It should also be noted, the parent of one of these children mentioned was away on a business trip. The Guardian contacted the school to find out what was going on and the school, (Delmar Elementary) refused to give her any information. I believe if it is documented that the guardian is responsible for the child, the school should keep them up to speed. What do you think about that as well?
SHOULD THE WICOMICO COUNTY LIBRARY EXPAND AND, IF SO, HOW AND WHERE?
Local officials are discussing the library board’s plan to build a larger and completely new headquarters facility. Initially they wanted to relocate to the City’s parking lot at the intersection of Route 50 and Salisbury Boulevard (Route 13), but Mayor Ireton has nixed that site. Since then various sites have been proposed, including other City parking lots that are closer to the Downtown Plaza and sites outside of the downtown area such as the Beaglin Park Drive/Northeast Collector corridor.
The Greater Salisbury Committee and other special interest groups are trying to pressure the City and County to keep the library headquarters in downtown Salisbury in the forlorn hope that it will result in revitalization of that area. Apparently, the library board wants the public officials to act now in order to get a $375,000 grant from the State of Maryland that will be “lost” otherwise.
As usual, public officials hear much from the power elite like the “GSC” to the exclusion of the general public who use the library. This blog is a forum for folks who don’t have the time or inclination to attend Council meetings or contact members to discuss the matter of future growth of the library.
What do you think the growth plan for the library should be? Assume for this question that they somehow manage to get the funding needed, which is far from a sure thing.
Please offer you comments, but stay on that point (and don’t make comments about persons). Here are some factors that you may want to consider:
1. Where is the best location for the library’s main facility – downtown Salisbury or elsewhere (if desired, specify one or more other locations that you favor)?
2. Would you or members of your family use the library more often if the headquarters or a branch facility were located closer to your home?
3. Should SBYnews be available to watch at all times on at least one monitor at each library location? [hey, that’s a joke, folks].
4. Should a location for the library headquarters be selected right now, without further public discussion and input simply to get a $375,000 grant from the State?
Please indicate in your comment if you are not a resident of Wicomico County or if you are not a member of the library at present.
The Greater Salisbury Committee and other special interest groups are trying to pressure the City and County to keep the library headquarters in downtown Salisbury in the forlorn hope that it will result in revitalization of that area. Apparently, the library board wants the public officials to act now in order to get a $375,000 grant from the State of Maryland that will be “lost” otherwise.
As usual, public officials hear much from the power elite like the “GSC” to the exclusion of the general public who use the library. This blog is a forum for folks who don’t have the time or inclination to attend Council meetings or contact members to discuss the matter of future growth of the library.
What do you think the growth plan for the library should be? Assume for this question that they somehow manage to get the funding needed, which is far from a sure thing.
Please offer you comments, but stay on that point (and don’t make comments about persons). Here are some factors that you may want to consider:
1. Where is the best location for the library’s main facility – downtown Salisbury or elsewhere (if desired, specify one or more other locations that you favor)?
2. Would you or members of your family use the library more often if the headquarters or a branch facility were located closer to your home?
3. Should SBYnews be available to watch at all times on at least one monitor at each library location? [hey, that’s a joke, folks].
4. Should a location for the library headquarters be selected right now, without further public discussion and input simply to get a $375,000 grant from the State?
Please indicate in your comment if you are not a resident of Wicomico County or if you are not a member of the library at present.
Lesbian Air Force Sergeant Discharged After Police Find Marriage Certificate, Out Her To Military
OMAHA, Nebraska
Jene Newsome's honorable discharge under "don't ask, don't tell" came only after police officers saw a marriage certificate in her home and told the nearby Ellsworth Air Force Base.
Jene Newsome played by the rules as an Air Force sergeant: She never told anyone in the military she was a lesbian.
The 28-year-old's honorable discharge under the U.S. military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy came only after police officers in Rapid City, South Dakota, saw a marriage certificate from Iowa -- one of the handful of U.S. states that recoganize same-sex marriage -- in Newsome's home and told the nearby Ellsworth Air Force Base.
Newsome and the American Civil Liberties Union filed a complaint against the western South Dakota police department, claiming the officers violated her privacy when they informed the military about her sexual orientation. The case also highlights concerns over the ability of third parties to "out" service members, especially as the Pentagon has started reviewing the 1993 "don't ask, don't tell" law.
The law does not explicitly prohibit gays or lesbians from serving in the military but requires them to serve in silence. If they acknowledge their sexual orientation or engage in a homosexual act, they can be expelled.
"I played by 'don't ask, don't tell,"' Newsome told The Associated Press by telephone.
GO HERE to read more.
Jene Newsome's honorable discharge under "don't ask, don't tell" came only after police officers saw a marriage certificate in her home and told the nearby Ellsworth Air Force Base.
Jene Newsome played by the rules as an Air Force sergeant: She never told anyone in the military she was a lesbian.
The 28-year-old's honorable discharge under the U.S. military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy came only after police officers in Rapid City, South Dakota, saw a marriage certificate from Iowa -- one of the handful of U.S. states that recoganize same-sex marriage -- in Newsome's home and told the nearby Ellsworth Air Force Base.
Newsome and the American Civil Liberties Union filed a complaint against the western South Dakota police department, claiming the officers violated her privacy when they informed the military about her sexual orientation. The case also highlights concerns over the ability of third parties to "out" service members, especially as the Pentagon has started reviewing the 1993 "don't ask, don't tell" law.
The law does not explicitly prohibit gays or lesbians from serving in the military but requires them to serve in silence. If they acknowledge their sexual orientation or engage in a homosexual act, they can be expelled.
"I played by 'don't ask, don't tell,"' Newsome told The Associated Press by telephone.
GO HERE to read more.
Commit A Crime, Collect Your Pension from the WCBOE
Harken back to the days of the great landfill scandal. After Sheriff Mike Lewis caught the criminals and States Attorney Davis Ruark sent them to jail it was discovered that the miscreants would be collecting full county pensions. Shame on us.
By law, nothing could be done about the problem at hand. However, Wicomico’s county council did take steps to make sure that such an event wouldn’t occur in the future. If a county employee was found guilty of defrauding or otherwise stealing from the taxpayers they would forfeit the county’s contribution to their pension.
Last year it was discovered that a Wicomico County Board of Education (WCBOE) employee was defrauding the taxpayers (or if you are a lefty - “stealing form the children”). I’m sure it wasn’t the first time; nor the last. Assuming that this woman is convicted and sentence to jail, she will be eligible to receive her full pension. Shame on us again?
Maybe. The WCBOE bureaucrats read the paper. Hell, thanks to their “special relationship” they practically run it. But, I’m willing to give them the benefit of the doubt as to why they didn’t pass a resolution similar to the county’s soon after the county passed their new pension rules. However, in early December of last year the Wicomico County Council sent a letter to superintendent John Fredericksen asking that they adopt a similar resolution. Almost four months have passed. NOTHING.
If the WCBOE doesn’t act, then the next time an employee is discovered stealing from the taxpayer, the fault will lie squarely on Fredericksen and the board. Perhaps Fredericksen, et al, will argue that their collective bargaining agreements wouldn’t allow them to pass such legislation. But wait, I thought that it was all “FOR THE CHILDREN”.
Tomorrow – Part I of WCBOE – Who Bought the Doughnuts?, our expose of waste, fraud, and abuse in the WCBOE Travel Budget
from Delmarva Dealings
Pelosi Plan To Pass Health Care Without Traditional Vote Riles Critics
A newly emerging Democratic plan to vote on health care reform without really voting on health care reform has critics riled up, accusing House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and her allies of resorting to legislative trickery to send a bill to President Obama's desk.
A newly emerging Democratic plan to vote on health care reform without really voting on health care reform has critics riled up, as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and her allies are accused of resorting to legislative trickery to send a bill to President Obama's desk.
Senate Democratic leaders had already drawn jeers from Republicans for a plan to try to pass a follow-up health bill with only 51 votes, as opposed to 60. Now Pelosi and Rep. Louise Slaughter, D-N.Y., chairwoman of the House Rules Committee, are cooking up a plan to pass the original health bill from the Senate side without forcing rank-and-file Democrats to technically go on record in support of it.
GO HERE to read more.
A newly emerging Democratic plan to vote on health care reform without really voting on health care reform has critics riled up, as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and her allies are accused of resorting to legislative trickery to send a bill to President Obama's desk.
Senate Democratic leaders had already drawn jeers from Republicans for a plan to try to pass a follow-up health bill with only 51 votes, as opposed to 60. Now Pelosi and Rep. Louise Slaughter, D-N.Y., chairwoman of the House Rules Committee, are cooking up a plan to pass the original health bill from the Senate side without forcing rank-and-file Democrats to technically go on record in support of it.
GO HERE to read more.
Genesis, ABBA Inducted Into Rock Hall
The Hollies, Stooges, Jimmy Cliff, David Geffen also honored
NEW YORK - English progressive rockers turned 1980s pop stars Genesis and the harmony-driven Hollies were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on Monday, joined by ABBA, another act that thrived in a second life.
Genesis was inducted by Trey Anastasio of Phish, whose band paid tribute to both incarnations of Genesis by performing "Watcher of the Skies" and "No Reply at All." The new inductees were missing Peter Gabriel, the theatrical lead singer whose departure was the dividing line between the band's two styles.
Former bandmate Mike Rutherford said Gabriel wanted to send his apologies for missing the event.
GO HERE to read more.
NEW YORK - English progressive rockers turned 1980s pop stars Genesis and the harmony-driven Hollies were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on Monday, joined by ABBA, another act that thrived in a second life.
Genesis was inducted by Trey Anastasio of Phish, whose band paid tribute to both incarnations of Genesis by performing "Watcher of the Skies" and "No Reply at All." The new inductees were missing Peter Gabriel, the theatrical lead singer whose departure was the dividing line between the band's two styles.
Former bandmate Mike Rutherford said Gabriel wanted to send his apologies for missing the event.
GO HERE to read more.
Animal Shelter Turned Into A ‘House Of Horrors’
Quest for low-euthanasia rates led to charges of criminal neglect, cruelty
For years, the Toronto Humane Society bragged of its low euthanasia rate — only 6 percent, compared with other big-city shelters that put down 50 percent or more of the animals they accept.
But that impressive statistic was hiding a dark secret, according to criminal charges laid against its top officials. The "model" animal shelter was actually what one investigator called a "house of horrors" — a place where infections ran rampant, animals lived in filthy conditions, food was scarce and a no-euthanasia policy led to sick animals suffering and dying without adequate medical care.
"It's a pretty good donor grab if you say we only euthanize 6 percent of our animals. The sad part is the amount of animals that died in their cages — long, painful, horrible deaths — to obtain those numbers," said Marcie Laking, who worked for the humane society for five years as a volunteer and a paid employee. "The Toronto Humane Society took euthanasia statistics to very inhumane levels."
GO HERE to read more.
For years, the Toronto Humane Society bragged of its low euthanasia rate — only 6 percent, compared with other big-city shelters that put down 50 percent or more of the animals they accept.
But that impressive statistic was hiding a dark secret, according to criminal charges laid against its top officials. The "model" animal shelter was actually what one investigator called a "house of horrors" — a place where infections ran rampant, animals lived in filthy conditions, food was scarce and a no-euthanasia policy led to sick animals suffering and dying without adequate medical care.
"It's a pretty good donor grab if you say we only euthanize 6 percent of our animals. The sad part is the amount of animals that died in their cages — long, painful, horrible deaths — to obtain those numbers," said Marcie Laking, who worked for the humane society for five years as a volunteer and a paid employee. "The Toronto Humane Society took euthanasia statistics to very inhumane levels."
GO HERE to read more.
Tea Party Prepares Anti-Obama 'Surge' In D.C.
Like two heavyweight fighters slugging it out in a battle royal, President Obama and tea party activists are squaring off once again today, as grassroots activists host a "We the People Surge" in the nation's capital in protest of the massive planned overhaul of U.S. healthcare.
Some tea party leaders expect 10,000 to 15,000 protesters. Others believe the crowd will be even larger.
The rally comes at a critical time. The debate over healthcare reform has become the focus of national attention, with Democratic leaders proclaiming again and again that they're closing in on the votes they need to cram the legislation through Congress without subjecting it to a Republican filibuster in the Senate. They would do so via the controversial parliamentary maneuver known as reconciliation.
Rep. Jack Kingston, R-Ga., tells Newsmax that despite the administration's statements to the contrary, healthcare reform is far from a done deal. The legislation's unpopularity with voters appears to be growing, according to recent polls. A Rasmussen Reports poll released Monday indicates that 53 percent of voters oppose the Democratic plan, compared to 43 who think it's a good idea.
One of the major obstacles still standing in the president's way: The same relentless tea-party activists who knocked President Obama's legislative agenda off course last summer during the disputatious town hall meetings.
Planning for the tea party "surge" began a week ago, when various tea party organizations blasted their e-mail lists with news of a "code red rally" to be held in Washington D.C.
Speakers at the event are expected to include Rep. Mike Pence, Rep. Marsha Blackburn, Rep. Joe Wilson, and Tim Phillips of Americans for Prosperity.
Americans for Prosperity is also calling for a "Honk Against the Healthcare Takeover Rally." Its leaders are encouraging voters to drive to their local congressional offices on noon Tuesday, and honk their automobile horns to express their opposition to the president's proposals.
[Editor's note: Here's contact info for 'Frank'-- let him and his staff know what you think:]
Washington, DC Office314 Cannon HOB Washington, DC 20515Phone: 202-225-5311 Fax: 202-225-0254
Bel Air Office202 South Main StreetBel Air, MD 21014Phone: (410) 420-8822
Centreville Office102 Turpins LaneCentreville, MD 21617Phone: (443) 262 -9136 l Fax: (443) 262-9713
Salisbury OfficeOne Plaza EastSuite 103, East Main StreetSalisbury, MD 21801Phone: (410) 334-3072 Fax: (410) 334-3075
How God Created Maryland
God was missing for six days. On the seventh day, Michael, the archangel, found him - resting. He inquired, "Where have you been?" God smiled deeply and proudly pointed downwards through the clouds. "Look, Michael. Look what I've made."
Archangel Michael looked puzzled, and said, "What is it?" "It's a planet" replied God, and I've put life on it. I'm going to call it Earth and it's going to be a place to test Balance." "Balance?" inquired Michael, "I'm confused." God explained, pointing to different parts of Earth. "For example, he said, northern Europe will be a place of great opportunity and wealth, while southern Europe is going to be poor. Over here I've placed a continent of white people, and over there is a continent of black people. Balance in all things."
God continued pointing to different countries. "This one will be extremely hot, while this one will be very cold and covered in ice."
The Archangel, impressed by God's work, then pointed to a land area and asked, "What's that one?" "That's Maryland, the most glorious place on earth. There are beautiful mountains, ocean, rivers and streams, lakes, forests, hills, and plains. The people from Maryland are going to be handsome, modest, intelligent, and humorous, and they are going to travel the world. They will be extremely sociable, hardworking, high achieving, carriers of peace, and producers of good things."
Michael gasped in wonder and admiration, but then asked, "But what about balance, God?
You said there would be balance..."
God smiled, "Right next to Maryland is Washington, DC. Wait till you see the idiots I put there."
Archangel Michael looked puzzled, and said, "What is it?" "It's a planet" replied God, and I've put life on it. I'm going to call it Earth and it's going to be a place to test Balance." "Balance?" inquired Michael, "I'm confused." God explained, pointing to different parts of Earth. "For example, he said, northern Europe will be a place of great opportunity and wealth, while southern Europe is going to be poor. Over here I've placed a continent of white people, and over there is a continent of black people. Balance in all things."
God continued pointing to different countries. "This one will be extremely hot, while this one will be very cold and covered in ice."
The Archangel, impressed by God's work, then pointed to a land area and asked, "What's that one?" "That's Maryland, the most glorious place on earth. There are beautiful mountains, ocean, rivers and streams, lakes, forests, hills, and plains. The people from Maryland are going to be handsome, modest, intelligent, and humorous, and they are going to travel the world. They will be extremely sociable, hardworking, high achieving, carriers of peace, and producers of good things."
Michael gasped in wonder and admiration, but then asked, "But what about balance, God?
You said there would be balance..."
God smiled, "Right next to Maryland is Washington, DC. Wait till you see the idiots I put there."
Salisbury Police Department Press Release
Daniel Michael Bona, 21yoa of Sykesville, MD was charged with 2nd Degree Attempted Murder, 1st Degree Assault, 2nd Degree Assault, Reckless Endangerment, and Openly Wear and Carry a Dangerous Weapon. On March 12, 2010 at approximately 2:38am, officers responded to the 1400 block of Varsity Lane for a reported stabbing. Upon the officers arrival, the victim was found lying at the front door of his residence with several lacerations to his back and lower left side. The victim was transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center-Emergency Room. During the course of the investigation by members of the Criminal Investigation Division it was learned that the victim received the injuries as a result of an altercation with Bona.
Bona was released to Central Booking.
Obama's Health Care Plan: What Do You Think?
After debating health care reform for more than a year, President Obama says it's time for Democrats to deliver.
Hotsheet has followed every step of the process, from early speculation about the process of reconciliation to the raucous protests from the plan's opponents.
Democrats are expected to use reconciliation within weeks, allowing them to bypass a Republican filibuster and pass a final bill with a simple majority of 51 votes in the Senate. Republicans, meanwhile, insist they cannot support the measure and that the American public does not want it to pass. Recent polling from CBS News shows people are growing impatient with the debate, even as strong support still exists for some elements of the Democrats' bills.
Now it's time to hear from our loyal Hotsheet readers. What do you think of the way Washington has handled the debate? What do you think of the policy options on the table? Let us know your opinions in our user poll here and in the comments section below:
GO HERE TO PARTICIPATE IN POLL.
Hotsheet has followed every step of the process, from early speculation about the process of reconciliation to the raucous protests from the plan's opponents.
Democrats are expected to use reconciliation within weeks, allowing them to bypass a Republican filibuster and pass a final bill with a simple majority of 51 votes in the Senate. Republicans, meanwhile, insist they cannot support the measure and that the American public does not want it to pass. Recent polling from CBS News shows people are growing impatient with the debate, even as strong support still exists for some elements of the Democrats' bills.
Now it's time to hear from our loyal Hotsheet readers. What do you think of the way Washington has handled the debate? What do you think of the policy options on the table? Let us know your opinions in our user poll here and in the comments section below:
GO HERE TO PARTICIPATE IN POLL.
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