20070515 News Clips

State News

May 15^th, 2007

BGE rate decision could come this week

http://www.hometownannapolis.com/cgi-bin/read/2007/05_14-40/TOP

State regulators could issue a decision on Baltimore Gas and Electric Co.'s request for a 50 percent rate increase this week, leaving customers only days to decide whether to sign up for a deferral plan.

I think you could expect to see something within a week. Two weeks on the outside," Public Service Commission Executive Secretary O. Ray Bourland said last week.

O'Malley Considers Gas Tax Increase

Transportation Projects Would Benefit From Funds

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/05/14/AR2007051401577.html

Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley said yesterday that he is weighing an increase in the state's gasoline tax and other options to help pay for billions of dollars in transportation projects that the state could not otherwise afford in coming years.

O'Malley (D) said that state transportation officials have advised him that an additional $400 million to $600 million a year will be needed to keep pace with the state's needs during the next two decades, including a proposed light-rail Metro line connecting Bethesda and New Carrollton and light rail or bus service along part of the Interstate 270 corridor.

House Minority Leader Anthony J. O'Donnell (R-Calvert) said it would be "ill-advised" to raise the gas tax at a time when the price of gasoline is so high.

"That's a horribly bad idea now," O'Donnell said. "I think most of my constituents, and most Marylanders, think we should be cutting the gas tax instead of raising it."

O'Malley Ponders Ways To Raise Money For Transportation Projects

http://wbal.com/news/story.asp?articleid=57805

Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley says the state needs to find "progressive" means to pay for road projects as it attempts to shore up the Transportation Trust Fund.

He says the current transportation spending levels aren't enough to protect state residents' quality of life.

Ehrlich calls OMalleys decision a prudent move

http://www.wcbcradio.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7371&Itemid=35

Although declining to offer specific criticisms or speculate as to the motivation, former Maryland Governor Robert Ehrlich called Martin OMalleys call to departments to reduce spending by $200 million a prudent move. Even though the state is looking at a $1.5 billion structural deficit next year, the General Assembly took no measures to create new revenue streams or increase existing ones during the session that ended last month. Governor OMalley had pledged not to increase taxes during his first year. Last week the Governor instructed his cabinent to look for budget reductions from every state department. Ehrlich, who now hosts a weekly talk show on WBAL radio, was asked about the plan by a caller

O'Malley to sign smoking ban in bars, restaurants

http://washingtontimes.com/metro/20070514-112229-4454r.htm

Gov. Martin O'Malley is set to sign a statewide smoking ban and tougher penalties for repeat child-sex offenders Thursday.

Advocates for tougher sex-crime penalties and state Republicans said they are pleased that Mr. O'Malley will sign what is known as Jessica's Law, which they sponsored in the General Assembly session.

O'Malley cutting wire on first Allegany Business Center building

http://www.times-news.com/local/local_story_134093648.html

Gov. Martin O'Malley will participate in a wire-cutting ceremony for the first building in the Allegany Business Center at Frostburg State University on Tuesday.

The invitation-only event will include Maryland Secretary of Business and Economic Development David Edgerley, FSU President Jonathan Gibralter, the Allegany County commissioners, Sen. George Edwards and Glenn Weaver of Academic Privatization of Maryland.

O'Malley to be in Allegany County Today

http://www.wcbcradio.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7373&Itemid=35

Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley will participate in a wire-cutting ceremony for the first building in the Allegany Business Center at Frostburg State University this afternoon, and will spend much of his day in the county. The event will include Maryland Secretary of Business and Economic Development David Edgerley, FSU President Jonathan Gibralter, the Allegany County commissioners, Sen. George Edwards and Glenn Weaver of Academic Privatization of Maryland. The new 50,000-square-foot technology facility, the FSU Resea rch Center, is being developed by a group of private investors known as Allegany Research Properties, LLC. A spokesperson for the company says this project has come to fruition because of the tremendous teamwork exhibited between the state and the county

Kelly expects major changes in Attorney General's office

http://www.wcbcradio.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7374&Itemid=35

Delegate Kevin Kelly, a longtime member of the House Judiciary Committee in Annapolis, says he expects major changes in the office of the Attorney General with last falls election of Doug Gansler. The position had been held by Joe Curran for 20 years before he opted to retired in 2007, and many critics argued that the office become stagnant. Kelly, addressing area business leaders, describes Gansler as a dynamic, ambitious leader who ultimately will run for the states highest office. Until then, Kelly said citizens can expect a different approach in the coming years from the Attorney Generals Office

National News

State Senator Considering Challenge To Gilchrest

http://wbal.com/news/story.asp?articleid=57799

One of the two Republicans in Maryland's congressional delegation could face a challenge in next year's primary election.

State Senator Andrew Harris told WBAL News that he's going to use this weekend's spring Maryland State Republican Convention in Annapolis, to gauge support for a run against incumbent Congressman Wayne Gilchrest.

Sen. Harris mulls run against Rep. Gilchrest

http://www.wmdt.com/wires/displaystory.asp?id=61586345

First District Congressman Wayne Gilchrest could be facing a re-election challenge from within his own party.

Republican state Senator Andrew Harris says he's testing the water for a possible run against Gilchrest next year in a party primary.

Bush, Once Party-Builder, Leaves Republicans Weakened, Worried

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=aLEVpghgS04Y&refer=home

Representative Tom Davis, a veteran Republican campaign strategist, sees one bright spot for his party's prospects in 2008: President George W. Bush's term will be drawing to a close.

Many Republicans blame Bush's pursuit of the Iraq war for putting them in the minority in 2006 and fear further losses in 2008. Increasingly, they're looking past Bush at a perilous future.

Representative Wayne Gilchrest, a Maryland Republican, said Bush policies that catered to a narrow swath of ideological base voters on issues such as abortion, the role of religion and stem-cell research have hurt the party's image of inclusiveness.

``The rhetoric coming out of the Bush administration has exacerbated a view of the Republican Party that is not reality,'' he said. ``It's a separate little niche in the Republican Party that never really had the bully pulpit before for a lot of reasons, and now they have the bully pulpit.''

Democrats Domestic Agenda Hits Gridlock

http://public.cq.com/docs/cqt/news110-000002511613.html

Democrats face a legislative traffic jam that threatens to leave the party without a single high-profile domestic victory heading into the Memorial Day recess.

On issues ranging from energy policy to a lobbying overhaul, Democrats acknowledge that they must show as soon as possible that they can govern.

Most immediately, some Democrats see an immigration overhaul (S 1348) pending in the Senate as the partys best hope for scoring a legislative victory.

The office of Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer, D-Md., released a statement last week with 14 bullet points of legislative accomplishments. The accomplishments, though, were weighted toward bills passed by the House but not enacted into law.

Vice President Cheney Says "There's Been Not Enough Attention Paid To The Consequences" Of Adopting Democrats' Iraq Policies. THE VICE PRESIDENT: "I think there's been not enough attention paid to the consequences that would flow if we were to adopt the policies that have been recommended by a majority of the Democrats. Nancy Pelosi and 169 Democrats last week voted for immediate withdrawal from Iraq. Everybody I've talked to in the region everybody thinks it would be a disaster. And it's important that we succeed in Iraq. If we can't succeed in Iraq, then it does have consequences for the broader war on terror. Al Qaeda has said Iraq is the central front in their war on the United States. You do not want to withdraw and give them a victory in Iraq." (Fox News' "Special Report," 5/14/07)

Secretary Of State Condoleezza Rice Discusses U.S.-Iran Talks On Iraq. "Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said Monday the United States decided to hold talks with Iran about security in wartorn Iraq because officials believed the timing was right. She said the idea of the talks came from talks with Iraq's neighboring countries in the region, saying 'we all made a commitment there to do what we can to help the Iraqis.' 'And one of the most important things is to help the Iraqis is dealing with their border issues, with the flow of foreign fighters and arms across the border,' Rice added, 'and from our point of view and the coalition's point of view, dealing with the dangerous technologies that are originating in Iran that are putting our soldiers at risk. So this seemed to be a good time to follow up on some of the general commitments that the neighbors took.'" (Matthew Lee, "Rice Confirms Talks With Iran," The Associated Press, 5/14/07)

Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Barham Salih Expresses Optimism For Progress On Oil Law And Amending The Constitution. "Iraq's parliament should pass a new oil law and make progress on amending the constitution before the end of the month, two key 'benchmarks' being demanded by U.S. officials, a top Iraqi official said yesterday. Deputy Prime Minister Barham Salih, one of the highest-ranking Kurdish officials in the government of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, said that despite the increasingly pessimistic debate in Washington, Iraqi lawmakers should take action on both difficult issues in the coming days. 'In any other cou ntry, such a law would take years and years to draft, even if you had stability,' Mr. Salih said. 'We've done the basic work in six months on what has historically been a very contentious issue.'" (David R. Sands, "Iraqi Backs 'Benchmark' Action," The Washington Times, 5/15/07)

20070515 MSNBC is reporting that Rev. Jerry Falwell has passed away

MSNBC is reporting that Rev. Jerry Falwell has passed away

Moral Majority leader Falwell dies

May 15, 2007 2:30 PM

Evangelical pastor was found in his university office

BREAKING NEWS

MSNBC staff and news service reports

Updated: 2:09 p.m. ET May 15, 2007

LYNCHBURG, Va. - The Rev. Jerry Falwell — founder of the Moral Majority and the face of the religious right in the 1980s — died Tuesday after being found unconscious in his office, a Liberty University executive said.

Ron Godwin, Liberty's executive vice president, said Falwell, 73, had been found unresponsive around 10:45 a.m. and was taken to Lynchburg General Hospital.

Read the entire article here: Moral Majority leader Falwell dies

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20070510 Commanding General David H. Petraeus' Letter about Values

Commanding General David H. Petraeus' Letter about Values

HEADQUARTERS
MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE - IRAQ
BAGHDAD, IRAQ
APO AE 09342-1400

10 May 2007

Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen serving in Multi-National Force-Iraq:

Our values and the laws governing warfare teach us to respect human dignity, maintain our integrity, and do what is right. Adherence to our values distinguishes us from our enemy. This fight depends on securing the population, which must understand that we - not our enemies - occupy the moral high ground. This strategy has shown results in recent months. Al Qaeda's indiscriminate attacks, for example, have finally started to turn a substantial proportion of the Iraqi population against it.

In view of this, I was concerned by the results of a recently released survey conducted last fall in Iraq that revealed an apparent unwillingness on the part of some US personnel to report illegal actions taken by fellow members of their units. The study also indicated that a small percentage of those surveyed may have mistreated noncombatants. This survey should spur reflection on our conduct in combat.

I fully appreciate the emotions that one experiences in Iraq. I also know firsthand the bonds between members of the "brotherhood of the close fight." Seeing a fellow trooper killed by a barbaric enemy can spark frustration, anger, and a desire for immediate revenge. As hard as it might be, however, we must not let these emotions lead us - or our comrades in arms - to commit hasty, illegal actions. In the event that we witness or hear of such actions, we must not let our bonds prevent us from speaking up.

Some may argue that we would be more effective if we sanctioned torture or other expedient methods to obtain information from the enemy. They would be wrong. Beyond the basic fact that such actions are illegal, history shows that they also are frequently neither useful nor necessary. Certainly, extreme physical action can make someone "talk;" however, what the individual says may be of questionable value. In fact, our experience in applying the interrogation standards laid out in the Army Field Manual (2-22.3) on Human Intelligence Collector Operations that was published last year shows that the techniques in the manual work effectively and humanely in eliciting information from detainees.

We are, indeed, warriors. We train to kill our enemies. We are engaged in combat, we must pursue the enemy relentlessly, and we must be violent at times. What sets us apart from our enemies in this fight, however, is how we behave. In everything we do, we must observe the standards and values that dictate that we treat noncombatants and detainees with dignity and respect. While we are warriors, we are also all human beings. Stress caused by lengthy deployments and combat is not a sign of weakness; it is a sign that we are human. If you feel such stress, do not hesitate to talk to your chain of command, your chaplain, or a medical expert.

We should use the survey results to renew our commitment to the values and standards that make us who we are and to spur re-examination of these issues. Leaders, in particular, need to discuss these issues with their troopers - and, as always, they need to set the right example and strive to ensure proper conduct. We should never underestimate the importance of good leadership and the difference it can make.

Thanks for what you continue to do. It is an honor to serve with each of you.

David H. Petraeus
General, United States Army
Commanding

20070514 Congressman Roscoe Bartlett Announces Art Competition Winners for 2007

Congressman Roscoe Bartlett Announces Art Competition Winners for 2007

For Immediate Release

Contact: Lisa Lyons Wright or Monica DeLong at

May 14, 2007

lisa.wright@mail.house.gov

Washington, DC - Congressman Roscoe Bartlett is pleased to announce the winners from the Sixth Congressional District of the Artistic Discovery Competition for Senior High Students.

Mr. Nicholas Kasnia from Carroll County was named "Best in Show."

"The 2007 Congressional Artistic Discovery Competition for Senior High School students provided a wonderful opportunity for the young people of the Sixth Congressional District to showcase their talents," said Congressman Roscoe Bartlett.

"Congratulations to all the winners of the competition and all of the students who entered the competition for their hard work and dedication to their passion."

Artistic Discovery is a high school art competition coordinated by individual Members of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Best in Show winner Nicholas Kasnia is a student at Century High School in Carroll County. His winning entry will be on display with other district winners in the U.S. Capitol for one year. Congressman Bartlett called Mr. Kasnia to congratulate him as well as the winners in the five categories.

The other winners from the Sixth Congressional District in five categories were:

Photography - Brittany Kline, Middletown High School, Frederick County

Mixed Media - Dhaval Kumar Kalavadia, Winters Mill High School, Carroll County

Computer Generated Art - Soren Dodge, Middletown High School, Frederick County

Drawing - Lauren Sasser, Winters Mill High School, Carroll County

Painting - Emily Benfield, Middletown High School, Frederick County

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20070511 George Will digest

George Will Columns in review February 18 2007 to May 11 2007

May 14^th, 2007

I’ve always been a fan of George Will’s column – both when I agree with him and when I disagree with him…

Recently I have been remiss in keeping up with Mr. Will’s work. Not having much time for reading this evening, except for work… I noticed earlier this evening that someone had linked to one of his recent columns.

This reminded me to save a handful of links of his recent work - - and I figured that perhaps someone else might appreciate having a digest of George Will at their fingertips also…

_____

A Bustling Hate-Crime Industry

Political entrepreneurship involves devising benefits to excite or mollify niche constituencies. Hence HR 1592 , the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2007, which has passed the House, trailing clouds of sanctimony -- lots of members announced their hatred of hate.

The Real World Bank Problem (By George F. Will, May 10, 2007, Page A23)

The Dignified Slugger From Mobile (By George F. Will, May 6, 2007, Page B07)

The Road to a GOP House (By George F. Will, May 3, 2007, Page A25)

When the Skies Filled With Dust (By George F. Will, April 29, 2007, Page B07)

Real Change In China? (By George F. Will, April 26, 2007, Page A29)

Tommy Thompson's Gamble (By George F. Will, April 22, 2007, Page B07)

Drinking Age Paradox (By George F. Will, April 19, 2007, Page A27)

Taking a Bat to Prejudice (By George F. Will, April 15, 2007, Page B07)

Fuzzy Climate Math (By George F. Will, April 12, 2007, Page A27)

Fred Thompson's Idea of 'Reform' (By George F. Will, April 8, 2007, Page B07)

Same Old 'Soaring' Gas Prices (By George F. Will, April 5, 2007, Page A17)

The Return Of That '70s Thing (By George F. Will, April 1, 2007, Page B07)

The Seat Congress Can't Offer (By George F. Will, March 29, 2007, Page A19)

Anger Is All The Rage (By George F. Will, March 25, 2007, Page B07)

Wallpapering With Red Tape (By George F. Will, March 22, 2007, Page A21)

A Shot in the Arm for the GOP (By George F. Will, March 18, 2007, Page B07)

Why This Primary Push? (By George F. Will, March 15, 2007, Page A19)

Fighting The Real Gridlock (By George F. Will, March 11, 2007, Page B07)

Three Good Options for The Right (By George F. Will, March 8, 2007, Page A23)

Tripping Over the Inevitable (By George F. Will, March 4, 2007, Page B07)

An Assault On Corporate Speech (By George F. Will, February 27, 2007, Page A15)

Iwo Jima's Lesson in Empathy (By George F. Will, February 25, 2007, Page B07)

George F. Will: A Lack of Courage In Their Convictions (By George F. Will, February 22, 2007, Page A19)

Political Markets In Action (By George F. Will, February 18, 2007, Page B07)

Read More Columns by George F. Will

20070514 Westminster Common Council Mins and Election results

Westminster Common Council

Minutes of City Council Meetings | Agenda for next City Council Meeting

Minutes of City of Westminster Council Meeting

May 14, 2007

QUORUM:

A meeting of The Mayor and Common Council was held in City Hall, 1838 Emerald Hill Lane, on the evening of May 14, 2007 at 7:00 P.M. Council President Chiavacci; Council Members Albert, Wack, Utz, and Pecoraro; City Administrator Wolf; Acting Director of Planning and Public Works Glass; Chief Spaulding; Director of Recreation and Parks Schroers; City Treasurer Unger; and City Attorney Walsh were present.

Mayor Ferguson read a Proclamation declaring Wednesday, June 6, 2007 the Carroll County Law Enforcement Torch Run Day for the benefit of the Special Olympics.

MINUTES:

Mrs. Albert moved to approve the minutes of the meeting of April 23, 2007. Mr. Utz seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

PUBLIC HEARINGS:

Ms. Sandy Ebaugh of the Office of Housing and Community Development summarized the Community Development Block Grant Program Citizen Participation Plan and the Residential Anti-Displacement and Relocation Assistance Plan. There being no further comment, Mayor Ferguson closed the hearing and the record.

Mr. Gary Ehlers, Manager of Housing and Community Development, summarized the Annual Public Housing Administration Plan and the Annual Administrative Plan for Fiscal Year 2007 – 2008. There being no further comment, Mayor Ferguson closed the hearing and the record.

REPORTS FROM MAYOR:

Mayor Ferguson announced his reappointment of Mr.Jay Bogash and Mr. Joe Barley to the City Tree Commission. Upon Motion of Mr. Pecoraro, seconded by Mr. Utz and unanimously passed, the reappointments were confirmed.

Mayor Ferguson introduced Toni Pomeroy and Jill Paparonous of the recently opened Pomeroy’s Jewlers, along with their landlord, David Baxter. At the Mayor’s request, Chief Spaulding reported on several initiatives to deal with a group of people that has been loitering near the store on Locust Lane and in front of the Library. He reported that the Police and the Library are working closely together to resolve the issue.

REPORTS FROM STANDING COMMITTEES:

Dr. Wack reported that the Cable Committee would meet on May 24, 2007.

ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS:

Dr. Wack moved to adopt Resolution No. R07-4 - Community Development Block Grant Program Citizen Participation Plan. Mr. Pecoraro seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

Mrs. Albert moved to adopt Resolution No. R07-5 - Residential Anti-Displacement and Relocation Assistance Plan. Mr. Utz seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

NEW BUSINESS:

Mr. Utz moved to cancel the meetings of May 28 and June 25, 2007. Mr. Pecoraro seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

Council President Chiavacci announced that the Biennial Organizational Meeting and the Hearing on the Fiscal Year 2008 Tax Rate, the Fiscal Year 2008 Budget, and the Capital Improvements Program would take place in City Hall on Monday, May 21, 2007 at 7:00 P.M.

DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS

Mr. Schroers reported on the success of the Flower and Jazz Festival. He thanked the Streets Department and the Police Department for their assistance.

Mr. Schroers reported that the family of the late Brandon Main, an avid skateboarder, donated $3,200 to the City skatepark after holding a fundraising event.

Mr. Glass reported that the annual hydrant flushing would begin during the next week. He also gave an update on various construction projects.

Ms. Wolf thanked Sandy Ebaugh for organizing the first annual small business reception on behalf of the Greater Westminster Development Corporation and Carroll Community College.

Ms. Wolf noted that she was working with the Community Media Center to film a program concerning the water situation. The Center has invited the City and the Water Task Force to make a presentation concerning public education about issues with water.

CITIZEN COMMENTS:

Toni Pomeroy, owner of Pomeroy’s Jewelers, thanked City staff for helping her to open the store and expressed concern about loitering in the area of Main Street and Locust Lane. She also thanked the Chief for his efforts thus far to deal with loitering problems.

Greater Westminster Development Corporation President Lori Graham reported on recent activities of the organization. She also advised that the second annual Jeff Graham Memorial Ride would take place on Sunday, May 20, 2007.

Council President Chiavacci recessed the meeting at 7:55 P.M. He reconvened the meeting at 8:15 P.M.

Mayor Ferguson presented City resident Susan Thomas with a Mayor’s Recognition for her years of service on the Historic District Commission.

Chief Judges of Election Nancy Smelser and Susan Thomas announced the results of the election held that day, reading the following Statement.

Today’s election results are as follows: The total number of votes cast is 411.

Of that number, the votes cast for each candidate are as follows:

FOR COMMON COUNCIL

Suzanne Albert 287

Charles Cull 104

William Gill 105

Gregory Pecoraro 284

Robert Wack 319

Kenneth Warren 52

Kevin Dayhoff 3 (write-in)

The three candidates who received the highest number of votes for Common Council are: Robert Wack, Suzanne Albert, and Gregory Pecoraro.

Respectfully submitted this 14th day of May, 2007, Nancy A. Smelser and Susan H. Thomas, Chief Judges of Election.

Council President Chiavacci adjourned the meeting at 8:20 p.m.

Laurell E. Taylor

City Clerk

20070514 Upcoming Meeting of the Westminster Common Council

CITY OF WESTMINSTER, MARYLAND

Upcoming meetings for the Mayor and Common Council which are open to the public:

MAY 14, 2007 - Regular meeting of the Mayor and Common Council

MAY 21, 2007 - Biennial Meeting of the Mayor and Common Council to swear in newly elected council members. Also, a Public Meeting will be held regarding Tax Ordinance, 2007-2008 Budget and the Six Year Capital Improvements Program.

MAY 28, 2007 - There will no meeting due to Memorial Day Holiday.

20070514 Be sure to vote in the Westminster City Election today

Be sure to vote in the Westminster City Election today.

For more information: Elections 20070514 Westminster Councilmatic Election

“Elections have consequences.”

May 14, 2007

So if you are a Westminster voter – get out and vote in the municipal election today, Monday, May 14, 2007

Westminster Elections: Six vie for three seats

Elections for three seats on the Westminster Common Council will be held next Monday, May 14.

Three incumbents — Suzanne Albert, Dr. Robert Wack and Gregory Pecoraro — are squaring off against a trio of challengers — residents Charles Cull, William Gill and Kenneth Warren.

The non-partisan position is for a four-year term.

Polls will be open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information on voting, call Laurell Taylor at city hall, 410-848-9000.

Read the entire article here: Westminster Elections: Six vie for three seats

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20070514 Military puts MySpace, other sites off limits

Military puts MySpace, other sites off limits

May 14^th, 2007

DENVER, Colorado (AP) -- Soldiers serving overseas will lose some of their online links to friends and loved ones back home under a Department of Defense policy that a high-ranking Army official said would take effect Monday.

The Defense Department will begin blocking access "worldwide" to YouTube, MySpace and 11 other popular Web sites on its computers and networks, according to a memo sent Friday by Gen. B.B. Bell, the U.S. Forces Korea commander.

The policy is being implemented to protect information and reduce drag on the department's networks, according to Bell.

[…]

The sites covered by the ban are the video-sharing sites YouTube, Metacafe, IFilm, StupidVideos, and FileCabi, the social networking sites MySpace, BlackPlanet and Hi5, music sites Pandora, MTV, and 1.fm, and live365, and the photo-sharing site Photobucket.

Several companies have instituted similar bans, saying recreational sites drain productivity.

Read the entire article here: Military puts MySpace, other sites off limits

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20070514 CCT coverage of the Westminster Municipal Election

Carroll County Times coverage of the Westminster Municipal Election Monday, May 14^th, 2007

For more information:

Elections 20070514 Westminster Councilmatic Election

Westminster candidate profiles – May 14^th, 2007 edition

Westminster: How do you plan to encourage development? – May 8^th,2007 edition

When Westminster signed an agreement with the Maryland Department of the Environment to make improvements to the city's water system, it lifted a moratorium on growth in the city. The end of the moratorium meant water was freed up for economic develo…

Westminster candidates: How do you propose to manage growth? – May 7^th, 2007 edition

An agreement between Westminster and the Maryland Department of the Environment in April to make improvements to the city's water system lifted a moratorium on growth in the city. The agreement frees up 60,000 gallons per day of water for projects in…

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20070514 Quote of the Day

Quote of the Day - Look

Monday, May 14, 2007

“If you're looking at things with the right set of eyes, people are endlessly fascinating. And then, of course, if you look at it the wrong way, then the whole world is horrible and tedious and boring. That's the battle, really--to keep looking at the world in the right way.” John Cusack Actor

Thanks TC

20070514 Carroll County Times week in review

Carroll County Times Week in review

(The Carroll County Times does not use permalinks. This is being posted Monday May 14^th, 2007 – if you are interested in a story, go click on it now…)

May 14^th, 2007

Mint condition
Collectors show their wealth at Westminster Firehouse Coin and Currency Show

Hearing set for airport expansion
Recommendation includes building new, longer runway northwest of existing one

Long-term plan calls for more additions
After building additions to 10 elementary schools that opened in the past two years to accommodate full-day kindergarten students, the school system is planning to add nine more in the next 10 years.

VFW to undergo ‘facelift’
Brad Wentworth is the commander for District 7 of the Maryland Veterans of Foreign Wars, which covers eastern Baltimore County and all of Carroll and Frederick counties. The Carroll County Times sat down with him to talk about his work with the VFW.

Westminster candidate profiles

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Previous Local News

May 13th, 2007

Student uses funds to pursue career
There was never a question whether Tim Graham would go to college. How his family would pay for it was another story. “I talked to my parents about going to a junior college for a year or two to save money,” said Graham, who graduated fro…

Event celebrates Union Bridge’s history
UNION BRIDGE When Jim Rowe was growing up in Union Bridge in the 1950s and 1960s, there was no need to leave town it had its own department store, bowling alley, movie theater and grocery store. “On a Friday night, this town was bustling,&#…

Catholics await Pope's appointment of new Baltimore archbishop
A Roman Catholic cardinal is considered a prince of the church. Cardinal William Keeler, the 14th archbishop of Baltimore, submitted his resignation two years ago at age 75, as the church requires, and since then speculation has grown about whom the …

Housing prices out of reach: Rising costs push new buyers out of Carroll
Real-estate prices in Carroll County have risen sharply in the past five years, making it almost impossible for people who get jobs in the county to live in the county. Rising home values from around 2002 through 2005 pushed prices in the county up, …

Habitat group works to provide affordable homes
Few benchmarks in pursuit of the American dream are more tangible than owning a home. Habitat for Humanity of Carroll County works with county residents to provide affordable housing to people who wouldn’t qualify for normal financing. Home own…

Board says it’s young, still learning
It was a particularly tense moment at the Board of Education meeting Monday as several members of the audience were speaking out of order, criticizing the board for what appeared to them to be a disorganized process. Carroll County Commissioner Micha…

May 12th, 2007

Team to walk in 3-day event for breast cancer
Even with her second-degree black belt and experience as a certified kickboxing instructor, Kelly Patten knows walking 60 miles in three days will take a toll on her body. But it could also help save lives. This fall, the senior instructor and manage…

Carroll Lutheran Village resident finalist in Energizer contest
After 25 years of inventing devices for people with disabilities, mechanical engineer John Staehlin said he’s yet to find someone who can’t be helped by technology. The 77-year-old resident of Carroll Lutheran Village in Westminster has b…

Cracks in the road: Neighbors divided on widening, repaving project in Carroll
ALESIA When the county first told Falls Road residents it was planning to pave a gravel section of the road with blacktop, many were excited by the news that the dust and washouts would be a thing of the past. But when the county announced at a pub…

Prosecution rests in Jones trial
The prosecution rested its case against a man on trial for murder Friday, after hearing testimony from a homicide detective who linked the accused to the scene of the crime. Murder suspect Shawn Jones dropped a key to his girlfriend’s home in t…

County set to break ground at water plant
The county is scheduled to break ground this month on an addition to the Freedom District Water Treatment Plant in Sykesville. The new facility, which will be located next to the existing one, is intended to boost the county’s daily treatable c…

Man charged with sex crimes
A Sykesville man accused of sexually abusing two teenage girls after taking them to his home and providing them with marijuana has been charged with more than a dozen crimes. Marc Christopher Sanchez, 19, has been charged with two counts each of seco…

May 11th, 2007

School system to ask for suggestions for name of new high school
If the names of the two most recent schools are any guide, then the new northeast-area high school might end up with a mill or a valley in its name. But before a name is chosen, members of the Carroll County Board of Education will solicit suggestion…

Budget increase denied
School system to trim $9M in operating money The Carroll County Board of Education will have to consider next week how to trim almost $9 million from the Carroll County Public Schools’ operating budget. Requests from residents to incr…

Support group for military families started
When Master Sgt. Jose Flores and Bobbi Hollingsworth started looking for military support groups in the fall of 2006, they were unable to find any in Carroll County for friends and family of service members. Now, the two friends are facilitating thei…

Scientist links Jones to scene
Testimony: DNA on seat belt was victim’s Court testimony linked a man on trial for murder to the scene of the crime after a forensic scientist testified Thursday that one of the victim’s DNA was found in an alleged getaway vehicle. Amy Ke…

An accurate portrayal
Shellman House opens doors for third-graders, with focus on 19th century The Sherman-Fisher-Shellman House is starting a new chapter in its history. The Shellman House, as it is commonly called, is credited as the catalyst for the formation of the Hi…

Carroll News Briefs for Friday, May 11, 2007
The Carroll County Youth Service Bureau will apply for a grant to help pay for a new facility after the Carroll County Board of Commissioners OK'd the submission Thursday. The CCYSB will request $400,000 from the Community Development Block Gran…

May 10th, 2007

Finding new funding
Members of the Carroll County Arts Council remain committed to carrying on a partnership with Westminster after the city’s 2008 budget provided no financial support for the council. The city’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2008 dropped …

Carroll News Briefs for Thursday, May 10, 2007
The 2007 Arthritis Walk to benefit the Arthritis Foundation will be held Saturday at the Carroll County Farm Museum. Participants can walk one or three miles. Registration begins at 11 a.m. and the walk starts at noon. For more information, call the …

St. Paul’s gives $100,000 to UCC
The Rev. John Thomas, president of the United Church of Christ, said his denomination needs to face the challenges of the future by staying true to its convictions, refocusing on outreach and preparing its pastors for a changing world. “Without…

Board of Education examines revised banner guidelines
After pilot programs at Century and Francis Scott Key high schools proved that selling banners could be a successful fundraiser for school booster groups, a countywide policy has been developed to allow the sale of banners at all schools. A revised b…

Date slated for run-off election
Close elections are nothing new for New Windsor. In 1997, then-Mayor Jack “Jay” Gullo Jr. won his re-election over challenger Sam Pierce by 12 votes. Then in 1999, when Pierce ran for council, he came in third place, tied with incumbent c…

Cousin: S. Jones admitted to shootings
The cousin of a Westminster man on trial for murder testified against him Wednesday, saying Shawn Jones admitted to a double shooting that left one man dead and another wounded in 2005. “He said he shot Donnie, he shot Lamont,” Anthony Jo…

May 9th, 2007

Corrections for Wednesday, May 9, 2007
Because of an editorial assistant's error, the name of a SoundOff caller was incorrect on page A8 Thursday. The caller's name is George Harrison. Because of a reporter's error, a Manchester Town Council candidate's work experience was incorrect in an…

Chamber to host retirement seminar
The Carroll County Chamber of Commerce is trying to convince people it's never too early to start planning for retirement. On Thursday, the chamber will host an evening of seminars and expositions on senior-living options and issues in the county, wh…

Manchester residents want more police dept. funding
MANCHESTER - The Town of Manchester's proposed budget for fiscal year 2008 includes no property tax rate increases, but several Manchester residents say the town should put more money into its police department. Residents voiced their concerns at Tue…

Manchester candidates answer: Does development dictate need for northeast-area high school?
A planned northeast-area high school in Manchester intended to relieve overcrowding at North Carroll High School has been included in the Carroll County Board of Commissioners’ proposed budget. The current high school is about 350 students abov…

Schools put brakes on shoes with wheels
Add shoes with wheels in the heels to the list of things you can’t have in school anymore. The school system’s central office staff is implementing a district-wide ban on shoes with wheels. The new regulation will be introduced to the Car…

Witness: Drugs led to murder
The motive behind a shooting that left one person dead and another wounded was a $500 drug debt, a witness testified in Carroll County Circuit Court Tuesday. “I said You’re trying to kill me for $500?’” said witness…

Union Bridge newcomer wins
UNION BRIDGE Edgar Wentz is the newest town councilman, beating out one other first-time candidate and joining returning incumbents Councilman Donald Wilson and Mayor Bret Grossnickle. Election Judge George Keeney said 120 people voted in Tuesday&#…

Running on ticket pays off for Hampstead candidates
HAMPSTEAD A ticket of incumbents and one newcomer succeeded in winning four-year terms in Hampstead’s municipal election Tuesday. Incumbent Haven N. Shoemaker won the uncontested mayoral race, while incumbent Councilman Christopher M. Nevin a…

New Windsor candidates tied for third
NEW WINDSOR They checked it once, they checked it twice and still the election judges could not determine who will be the third town councilman after Tuesday’s election. Election judges were baffled Tuesday night when they found that two cand…

Environment council asks county for waste stream study
Wanting to learn more about how Carroll's landfilled waste could be diverted from landfilling or incineration through recycling, composting or reuse, the Carroll County Environmental Advisory Council passed a motion Tuesday asking the county to fund …

May 8th, 2007

Budget hearing to be held
The city of Taneytown would maintain its existing property tax rate, but boost its water and sewer rates if the proposed fiscal year 2008 budget is adopted. The city will hold a public hearing on the budget Wednesday. City Clerk Linda Hess said the p…

New Windsor candidate profiles
F. Tracey Alban II Age: 50 Marital status: Married Children/ages: Jessica, 23, Joshua, 19, Jamie, 16 Profession: Communications/computer technician Years experience: 15 Current employment: State Farm Insurance How many years: 21 Education: High schoo…

Union Bridge candidate profiles
Scott W. Davis Candidate for: Withdrawn Bret Grossnickle (I) Age: 48 Marital status: Married Children/ages: Logan, 14, and Mason, 12 Profession: Water treatment plant superintendent Years experience: 13 Current employment: City of Westminster How man…

Narrow victory
Longtime Taneytown City Councilman James L. McCarron Jr. narrowly defeated Mayor Pro Tem Darryl Glenn Hale in the city’s mayoral race Monday. Carl E. Ebaugh, a member of the city’s planning and zoning commission, and former mayor and coun…

Mount Airy: Study prompts town to pursue groundwater
MOUNT AIRY - Well exploration could start this summer in Mount Airy after the Town Council voted Monday night to accept and pursue new recommendations from the town's engineering consultant firm. Aaron Duke of Hazen and Sawyer gave a presentation at …

Manchester: Does development dictate need for high school?
A planned northeast-area high school in Manchester intended to relieve overcrowding at North Carroll High School has been included in the Carroll County Board of Commissioners' proposed budget. The current high school is about 350 students above the …

Westminster: How do you plan to encourage development?
When Westminster signed an agreement with the Maryland Department of the Environment to make improvements to the city's water system, it lifted a moratorium on growth in the city. The end of the moratorium meant water was freed up for economic develo…

Board of Education makes 3 selections
Governor O’Malley to make final decision on who will fill vacant seat A former board member, a Pennsylvania teacher and a human relations commission member are the three people the Carroll County Board of Education would like to fill the vacanc…

Jones murder trial begins
Prosecution, defense give opening statements; three witnesses testify The prosecution will continue its case today in the murder trial of Shawn A. Jones after a jury was seated and heard testimony from three witnesses. In his opening statement, Alan …

Candidate profiles for Hampstead
Danny R. Lee Age: 62 Marital status: Married Children: Three, ages 29, 33, 36 Profession: Retired Special Agent with the F.B.I. Years experience: 30 Current employment: TDM Inc. How many years: 2 - part-time Education: B.S. - Education Community grou…

May 7th, 2007

Westminster candidates: How do you propose to manage growth?
An agreement between Westminster and the Maryland Department of the Environment in April to make improvements to the city's water system lifted a moratorium on growth in the city. The agreement frees up 60,000 gallons per day of water for projects in…

Carroll News Brief for Monday, May 7, 2007
The Carroll County Board of Education will conduct interviews with the candidates for the vacant seat on the board today at 1:30 p.m. Board member Thomas Hiltz resigned in March, which created the current vacancy. There are 22 candidates that applie…

Manchester: How can town ensure adequate water supply?
With a northeast-area high school planned for Manchester, the town may soon have to look for water outside of the town limits. In the 1990s, the Maryland Department of the Environment changed its standards for water allocations and began requiring de…

Taneytown candidates
Name: Darryl Glenn Hale (I) Age: 40 Marital status: married Children/ages: Morgan, 10, and Mason, 5 Profession: Residential Sales and Service Manager, Heating, Air Conditioning, and Ventilation Years Experience: 22 Current Employment: R. M. Schmidt I…

Residents to give tips for new facility
Linwood residents on Tuesday will have a chance to discuss how a planned public safety training facility in their area should be designed and operated. Scott Campbell, administrator of the county’s Office of Public Safety Support Services, will…

Jury selection begins in murder trial
Man killed one, wounded another behind convenience store in 2005 The trial of a man accused of using a shotgun to kill one person and seriously wounding another is scheduled to start today with jury selection. The trial of Shawn A. Jones is scheduled…

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20070514 I love a woman with a microscope

I love a woman with a microscope.

May 14^th, 2007

Please enjoy: “And The Lovelace Poster Goes To…” Seventy girl geeks vied for top honors in our "She's Such A Geek!" Photo Contest. Who was judged geekiest? by Anne Casselman - 07 March 2007

Dr. Pepper was dripping from my ears when I read: “I have a real Mary Kay pink lab coat…”

She’s Such a Geek! Editors Annalee Newitz and Charlie Anders finally picked their choice geeks. They were even responsible enough to put together some criteria: 1. Was the person involved in one of their chosen geeky activities in the photo? (using a computer wasn’t enough) and 2. Was the photo recent and well composed?

So that’s how 31-year-old life sciences teacher Valory Thatcher gets to take home the poster of super-chic geek Ada Byron, Lady Lovelace (we stand humbly corrected on the exact order of the “Lady” and “Lovelace” parts), and place it in her geeky office at Mount Hood Community College. But the competition was stiff, and beautifully geeky brave souls came pretty darn close. We pestered Valory with some questions to suss out the depths of her geekiness. We were very impressed and can rest easy knowing Ada’s going to a good home.

[…]

Read the entire post here (and put away the Dr. Pepper first…J) “And The Lovelace Poster Goes To…”

For more on the joys of geekdom see: “20070304 True Geek.”

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20070514 Sing to me

Sing to me

May 14, 2007

This post is dedicated to The Ridger over at “The Greenbelt;” Jeremy Bruno up on the “Voltage Gate;” Julie Dunlap at “Pines Above Snow;” and Aydin Örstan at “Snail’s Tails.” (… and Grammy.)

One of the neatest things about the Maryland Blogger Alliance are the number of great science, environmental and nature blogs that have come on board…

I found this while traipsing through some science blogs and thought it was a soothing way to start the week.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1YzlTB8fEsA

Hat Tip: “Inky Circus:” “BBC + Youtube = Good stuff.” “…a David Attenborough clip of a lyrebird 'singing'. I found it on YouTube some months ago as an illegal upload, and it's now up there as an official kosher BBC Worldwide clip. It's superb - it features the lyrebird imitating a camera shutter, a kookaburra and a chainsaw…”

Way too cool.

Enjoy. (I think my favorite was the imitation of the camera shutter with motor drive…)

Kevin

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