20080402 News Clips

News Clips 04-02-2008

STATE NEWS

Senate rejects energy bill

Measure is key part of O'Malley initiative

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-te.md.energy02apr02,0,2541295.story

The Maryland Senate voted down a major piece of Gov. Martin O'Malley's environmental agenda yesterday amid a squabble among Democrats over how much money should be dedicated to rate relief for consumers coping with rising utility bills. The Senate voted 25-21 to reject the bill setting out how money from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative would be used. The unexpected defeat reflected how anxious lawmakers are about the effect of soaring energy prices on constituents and left the administration scrambling to resurrect the proposal, which proponents say would help consumers in the long run. During a late-night session Monday, senators tried but failed to change that formula. Sen. Joan Carter Conway, the Baltimore Democrat and chairwoman of the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs Committee, wanted to boost the amount dedicated to help lower-income residents pay utility bills and to direct the rest to efficiency and conservation. Sen. E.J. Pipkin, an Eastern Shore Republican who is influential on energy issues, wanted to give all of the auction funds back to utility customers. Pipkin decried the "boondoggle bill" that creates "a very expensive empire" for the Maryland Energy Administration, which would create the efficiency and conservation programs. "The money should have been returned to ratepayers," he said. Republicans said that a package of bills proposed by O'Malley would increase the cost of electricity in Maryland at a time when rates are soaring. "It's a lovely piece of legislation in theory. Everybody is for a greener world," said Del. Patrick L. McDonough, a Republican representing Baltimore and Harford counties. "But it does not impact consumer rates in any way except for costing them more money."

Tech tax stand-in stymies Senate

http://www.washingtontimes.com/article/20080402/METRO/791870587/1004

Maryland lawmakers are locked on how to repeal a recently approved computer services tax as they go into the final week of the 2008 General Assembly session. Lawmakers began looking for a solution after business leaders fiercely opposed the tax, which they said was approved without warning under the cover of a special session in the fall. Leaders said the tax likely will be repealed but are not sure how. "I think there is a strong consensus that we're going to repeal this computer tax," Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr. said yesterday. "The only issue is whether we adopt the compromise proposal that was put forth by the governor, or do we just look for the cuts in the budget." Democrats appear split about whether the governor has done enough to win support for his so-called millionaire's tax proposal.

Struggling with computer tax Lawmakers want to scrap it, but they're not sure how

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-md.computer02apr02,0,3877343.story

With less than a week left in the annual legislative session, the most contentious issue left to the General Assembly is how to balance a nearly universal desire to scrap the $200 million computer services levy with an equally strong aversion to enacting new taxes. It is not clear whether support exists in the Senate for any of the proposals that have been offered for replacing the revenue that would be lost through a repeal. Gov. Martin O'Malley, a Democrat, is urging lawmakers to pay for the repeal through a combination of budget cuts and a income tax surcharge on people making more than $1 million a year.
But some in the Democratic majority have joined Republicans in calling for a blanket moratorium on new taxes. At the end of the day yesterday, Miller released a statement saying: "We are still working to get a firm sense of the level of support for various aspects of the Governor's proposal to repeal the computer services tax."

Gansler targets alcohol bill

Proposal would allow 'alcopop' to be taxed as beer

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-md.alcopops02apr02,0,5983683.story

Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler and public health advocates launched a campaign yesterday to make sure drinks like Mike's Hard Lemonade and Jack Daniel's Black Jack Cola are considered legally the same as liquor, not beer. Lobbyists for the liquor industry, who deny the drinks are marketed to teens and argue they should be classified like beer because of their alcohol content, have been pushing hard for the bill, which passed in the Senate with little fanfare. If the legislation makes it through the House, the drinks would continue to be taxed at lower rates than alcoholic beverages such as rum and whiskey and would enjoy wider distribution than spirits. While industry sources said they expect the alcopops bill to pass in the Economic Matters Committee, it could become the subject of a major fight on the House floor.

Tanning bill spurs heated debate

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-md.tanning02apr02,0,1121337.story

Tanning in artificial devices would be prohibited for minors in Maryland without parental consent under legislation that's headed toward final passage in the General Assembly. Under the bill, a tanning facility must obtain written consent from a parent or legal guardian of someone under 18 on the premises before allowing the minor to tan. "So many people in college or in preparation for proms tan," said Sen. Nancy Jacobs, a Republican representing Cecil and Harford counties. "We're going a little bit overboard on this." Some lawmakers pointed out that other actions taken by minors in Maryland, including abortion, call for less involvement by parents.

McCain stops in Annapolis, says academy food still bad

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/nation/politics/bal-mccain0402,0,4146187.story

The food's better, but not much, at the U.S. Naval Academy, where Arizona Sen. John McCain stopped for breakfast on a tour to highlight his background. The Republican presidential candidate ate breakfast at the Academy, where the former aviator began his Navy career. Afterward he stopped at a downtown diner where he told a packed house of state Republicans that the food has improved at the Academy, but not by much. McCain had a cup of coffee with former Gov. Robert Ehrlich at Chick & Ruth's Delly in downtown Annapolis, where sandwiches are named for politicians and owners ask diners each morning to stand to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
McCain and his wife joined in for the pledge, then shook hands for about 10 minutes before heading to the Navy football stadium, where McCain planned to continue a national tour designed to introduce himself to a wider audience before being formally named as the Republican presidential nominee.

Speed camera measures roll through legislature

http://www.examiner.com/a-1315350~Speed_camera_measures_roll_through_legislature.html

Proposals to put speed cameras on many roads and highways in Maryland are making their way slowly through both House and Senate. Opponents have been unable to muster enough votes to stall what they see as money-grubbing infringements on due process for drivers. “There’s no conclusive study that this improves traffic safety,” said Sen. Alex Mooney, a Frederick County Republican. But “just imagine the money” the cameras are going to raise for the county government. If approved by local jurisdictions, violations would carry fines up to $40, but no points. Volunteer rescue workers en route to an emergency would be exempt.

County’s teachers protest to demand wage increases

http://www.examiner.com/a-1315363~County_s_teachers_protest_to_demand_wage_increases.html

About 300 veteran Baltimore County teachers protested Tuesday to demand cost-of-living pay increases that County Executive Jim Smith has denied. The teachers said they will continue their protests and a work-to-rule job action — doing only required tasks within their seven-hour workdays — at least until Smith releases his budget April 15. If the budget includes no COLAs for teachers with more than 25 years of experience, the protest and work-to-rule will continue, said Cheryl Bost, president of the Teachers Association of Baltimore County. Smith has repeatedly said the county could provide the COLA raises only if it raised property taxes, which he wants to avoid. Under Smith’s proposed budget, county teachers would receive step increase but no COLAs. An arbitrator is reviewing the dispute over the COLAs.

Harford budget to include raise for county employees

http://www.examiner.com/a-1315361~Harford_budget_to_include_raise_for_county_employees.html

Harford County must offer employees up to 9 percent pay raises to keep salaries competitive with those of surrounding counties, County Executive David Craig said. The raises, Craig said, would be in line with those given Harford teachers and sheriff’s deputies. “We aim to get our employees’ salaries to the middle of the market — not the top, but not the bottom either,” Craig said. “We cut the hell out of everything else in our government services budget, so no new taxpayer dollars are going to fund these raises,” said Lorraine Costello, Craig’s chief of administration. Craig said he had limited employee travel and training budgets to dedicate more money to the pay raise.

Lawmakers could face a longer session if they fail to agree on the state budget

http://www.hometownannapolis.com/cgi-bin/read/2008/04_02-02/OUD

With only a week remaining in the Maryland General Assembly's regular legislative session, lawmakers still have not reached an agreement on the state budget, forcing Gov. Martin O'Malley to issue a constitutional order Tuesday extending the session by 10 days. Lawmakers usually get through the necessary budget reconciliations before the regularly scheduled end of the session, which falls on April 7 this year. They must stay for the extra time only if the budget is not passed by both chambers before that day. The 10-day extension is required by the Maryland constitution in any year in which the General Assembly has not reached a consensus on the budget by the 83rd day of the session, which passed Monday.

Renewable energy could power I-270 center

http://www.fredericknewspost.com/sections/news/display.htm?StoryID=73253

Proponents hope to build a sustainable energy demonstration and economic development center in Frederick in as little as a year, now that key legislation has passed the Maryland General Assembly. The state Senate passed the Maryland Clean Energy Center Act on Tuesday. It sets up the framework for the state to take advantage of federal funds set aside to build a demonstration center at a rest stop off I-270. U.S. Rep. Roscoe Bartlett, R-6th, secured funds in fiscal 2003 and 2004 to design and build a visitors center at the Byron Overlook, off I-270 south of Frederick. He suggested the visitors center use renewable technologies, such as solar power and rain water collection. Bartlett said Tuesday he is pleased the state has approved the legislation. The next step will be to ask local renewable energy companies to help design and build the center, which will be self-sufficient and rely on different types of renewable energy. "What I would like there to the extent that we can, I would like each of these things home sized," Bartlett said. "So people would say 'I could do that in my home, couldn't I?'" Frederick County's lawmakers have supported the bill. Delegate Sue Hecht, a Democrat, and Sen. Alex Mooney, a Republican, sponsored identical bills in the legislature's two chambers. Mooney said it's a good idea to promote sustainable energy because it is good for the economy and energy production. "We can be the role models for the state and perhaps even the country in using renewable energy," he said.

EDITORIALS/OP-EDS

Counting graduates

Our view: States must ensure that more students gain diplomas

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/opinion/editorial/bal-ed.graduate02apr02,0,5745634.story

Baltimore's high school graduation rate has been found wanting yet again - an abysmal 35 percent and fourth lowest among the nation's 50 largest districts, according to a new study. Even worse, the gap between the city's rate and the 82 percent rate in neighboring suburban districts was the nation's largest. In a highly mobile society, the best way to know who finishes high school is to track students individually. Last September, MSDE gave each high school freshman an identification number that should follow the student to any school in the state. It should help track students who are at risk of dropping out, allowing for more interventions and support services. But however these students are counted, there's no disputing this: Quality services must be provided to more of them - particularly minority, disabled and non-English-speaking students. A high school diploma has become a necessary ticket for employment and even a healthy life. Maryland and other states must ensure that each student is given every opportunity to gain this credential.

Uniting the Republican Party

A great deal has changed since President Reagan left the national stage. Our enemies have come to our shores, the rising tide of our economy has not "lifted all boats" and our government has increased, not lessened its intrusion into our lives. However, many of the issues that united us during the Reagan Revolution in the 1980s -- lower taxes, less government spending, free markets and strong national security -- are the same issues that motivate voters today.
Reagan's successes were in large part due to his ability to focus on those things that unite us. Rather than trying to divide the American people along philosophical or political lines, he made a connection with average citizens through themes that inspired us and policies that restored our national pride as well as the security and prosperity of a nation. Reagan did the unthinkable: he helped America embrace conservatism and the core beliefs of the Republican Party.

While our party has changed too, the core of who we are and what we believe has not. Republicans are not conflicted by the ups and downs of elections, but rather by the very nature of conservatism in this post-Reagan era. We are conflicted over defining the vision of the conservative movement, its radical nature, and the unique challenges and opportunities that lie before America. We are conflicted over who and how we will lead during these changing times. Republicans stand on the precipice of conservatism, ready to throw each other off because we feel as if we've lost our grip on what conservatism means; indeed, what it means to be a republican. But, we should never lose faith first and foremost in our belief in the power and ingenuity of the individual to create the legacy of a nation through hard work and self-discipline. Conservatives must stand firm once again in our belief that government should be limited so that it never becomes powerful enough to infringe on the rights of the individual. We must reaffirm the principle of lowering taxes so that individuals might keep more of their hard earned wages, and realize the economic power that it generates. Republicans must promote business regulations that encourage entrepreneurs to take risks so that more individuals can enjoy the satisfaction and fruits of self-made success; and our party must always remain steadfast in its defense of a colorblind society, so that each man or woman is treated as an individual and not as a member of some hyphenated class or group.
Conservatives now have a window of opportunity to demonstrate the truth of America: that every American regardless of his or her station in life, upbringing or social status has the opportunity to turn their hopes into action and to realize the promise that is the American dream! Ronald Reagan understood that; and he acted to lift a dispirited nation to become that "shining city on a hill". Republicans must remind America once again that its promise is the promise of endless possibilities and define for countless generations those values we hold dear: the value to the soul of religious faith, complete integrity, loyalty, and truthfulness. Let's honor America with incorruptible public service, a respect for economy in government, self-reliance, thrift, and individual liberty. Let's stand firm in our patriotism, real love of country and willingness to sacrifice for it as those who have gone before us.
The Party of Lincoln is the Party of ideas and leadership that have made and will continue to make this nation great. Republicans must now gather strength from within as we enter a critical period in America's history. We must work to restore faith in our Party by standing on those principles that not only unite us as Republicans, but as Americans. Republicans need to stop looking for Reagan and start acting like Republicans. It is still a long and bumpy road to the White House this November, but I am confident that Republicans and the conservative movement they inspired will regain in strength if we stick to those values that have long-united our Party and stirred a generation to join our cause. These are the values that continue to empower, uplift and remind us that America will always be the one place on earth where possibility meets opportunity. A place we call the American dream.
Michael S. Steele joined FOX News as a contributor in 2007. He is the chairman of GOPAC and the former Lt. Governor of Maryland.

20080402 Westminster Eagle articles by Kevin Dayhoff and Heidi Schroeder on Carroll County Board of Education Jeff Morse’s resignation

20080402 Westminster Eagle articles by Kevin Dayhoff and Heidi Schroeder on Carroll County Board of Education Jeff Morse’s resignation

Westminster Eagle articles by Kevin Dayhoff and Heidi Schroeder on Carroll County Board of Education Jeff Morse’s resignation:

Jeff Morse incident is a lost opportunity by Kevin E. Dayhoff

April 2, 2008

Over the past few weeks it was revealed that Carroll County Board of Education member Jeff Morse used a racial slur while describing a rock formation during a review of construction at the new Manchester Valley High School.

The incident ultimately led to Mr. Morse resigning from his position with ...

[Read full story]

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School board eyes options after Morse resignation By Heidi Schroeder Friday, April 04

The chair of the Carroll County Human Relations Commission said this week that while Board of Education member Jeffrey Morse's recent use of a racial slur was "stupid" and "insensitive," she was sorry that the incident ended with his resignation on March 26.

"It was a stupid thing to do, it was an... [Read full story]

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Jeff Morse incident is a lost opportunity by Kevin E. Dayhoff

April 2, 2008

Over the past few weeks it was revealed that Carroll County Board of Education member Jeff Morse used a racial slur while describing a rock formation during a review of construction at the new Manchester Valley High School.

The incident ultimately led to Mr. Morse resigning from his position with the school board last week.

The events have brought up a fair amount of talk about the history of race relations in Carroll County.

One of the topics in subsequent community discussion has been the persistent rumor of Ku Klux Klan activity in Carroll County -- an urban legend which is not supported by history.

Some confusion regarding the KKK in our county may stem from a instance in August 1998 in which a KKK rally was held in Carroll County, Virginia -- not here in Maryland. A Klan member was subsequently prosecuted for burning a cross.

The case went all the way to the Supreme Court, Virginia v. Black, where the decision was overturned. The white defendant's attorney, by the way, was David P. Baugh, an African-American.

This brings to mind Supreme Court Justice Hugo Lafayette Black, whose enduring legacy is his steadfast advocacy for equal rights.

Justice Black figured prominently in three landmark cases involving civil rights issues: Chambers v. Florida, 1940; Gideon v. Wainwright, 1963; and Betts v. Brady, a 1942 case which involved the right to legal counsel (that case did originate in Carroll County).

Justice Black had been nominated to the Supreme Court in 1937. His confirmation was difficult after allegations surfaced that he was a former Ku Klux Klan member (a fact which Justice Black admitted in a famous speech in October 1937 after he was confirmed).

The work of civil rights in our nation would have suffered a serious setback if Justice Black had been denied a seat on the Supreme Court.

One advantage we have in living in Carroll is that it is still small enough to hold our leadership to high standards.

So it was that after Mr. Morse offended and hurt our friends and neighbors with his remark that the community demanded that he be held accountable.

Mr. Morse made a terrible mistake, for which he apologized and then put action to words. He resigned last Wednesday, but the following evening he attended a Carroll County NAACP meeting with Superintendent Dr. Charles Ecker and school board President Cynthia Foley.

Mr. Morse's remark comes at a time when folks are beginning to realize that while we may not have "KKK running around," we just may have very polite prejudice -- and we need to talk about it.

Yet, many folks are reluctant to talk about race for fear of making a mistake and being branded a racist. After all, "No good deed goes unpunished" is the motto of many community activists in Carroll County.

Nevertheless, the Carroll County NAACP is working hard to facilitate meaningful conversation about racial relations in Carroll County.

Please do not confuse the local NAACP chapter with the national NAACP's Baltimore chapter, which seemingly finds racists hiding in every difficult moment.

When the national and Baltimore chapters wanted to brand Carroll County racist as a result of the Bowling Brook incident, it was the Carroll chapter who stood up for our county.

And so it was true that the Carroll County NAACP chapter did NOT call for Mr. Morse's resignation -- and for good reasons.

Nelson Mandela said it best. To not forgive is the same as us taking poison ... and then waiting for our enemies to die.

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that," observed Martin Luther King Jr. "Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that. ... (T)oughness multiplies toughness in a descending spiral of destruction."

By many accounts Mr. Morse is not a racist. He has just received a crash course in sensitivity and, if he had remained on the board, all indications were that Mr. Morse would have taken the lessons learned and put them to work for all of us.

Now, we will never know.

In light of Mr. Morse's resignation it is hard to find a win-win in this difficult series of events. One thing that we have learned is that the Carroll County NAACP is part of the solution.

Hopefully, we can also learn that good folks make mistakes. And if we bestow such dire consequences to good folks, what are we going to do when we are faced with a real racist in our community?

I'm just asking.

Kevin Dayhoff writes from Westminster. E-mail him at kdayhoff@carr.org.

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School board eyes options after Morse resignation

04/02/08 By Heidi Schroeder

The chair of the Carroll County Human Relations Commission said this week that while Board of Education member Jeffrey Morse's recent use of a racial slur was "stupid" and "insensitive," she was sorry that the incident ended with his resignation on March 26.

"It was a stupid thing to do, it was an insensitive thing to do, he should never have said it," said Virginia Harrison, chair of the Human Relations Commission, of the comment, but added, "but I just felt like ... as a community we should have been able to resolve the issue."

Morse submitted his resignation following the school board's March 26 meeting.

The resignation followed an apology to the board last week for making an "inappropriate comment" during a tour of the under-construction Manchester Valley High School. The school board did not reveal what the statement was, but acknowledged that someone on that tour had lodged a complaint, which led to a board review.

In a statement from the school board, officials noted Morse's apology to those on the tour and to citizen groups, including the NAACP and Human Relations Commission, but said that after hearing citizen comments on the issue at the board meeting, Morse determined it was in the best interest of the board to resign.

Carroll County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Charles Ecker said that at the March 26 meeting, six or seven residents requested to speak. After those comments -- of which Ecker said some were in favor of Morse's resignation and some were opposed -- the board met in closed session and accepted Morse's resignation.

Harrison said she was sad that the situation reached that conclusion.

"I was very sorry that he resigned, because I felt that it was something that could have been resolved," Harrison said.

She was among those to whom Morse apologized following the comment, and Harrison said that his willingness to meet with community leaders and discuss his comment was "courageous."

Morse had been selected by Gov. Martin O'Malley from a field of 22 applications to join the board in May 2007 following Thomas Hiltz's resignation.

In the event of a vacancy -- such as Hiltz's -- the governor is responsible for appointing a new representative to the vacant post.

However, given the proximity of the November election -- when voters will elect candidates for Morse's former seat and the seat currently held by board president Cynthia Foley -- Ecker said he plans to propose to Gov. Martin O'Malley that the board operate with four members until the election occurs.

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NBH

20080402 This week in The Tentacle

This week in The Tentacle

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

The McCain Vice President Decision

Kevin E. Dayhoff

Speculation persists as to who presumptive Republican presidential nominee Senator John McCain will choose as a running mate. This upcoming decision has sparked a growing debate among many political pundits for a number of reasons.

Certainly one issue is that when he is sworn in next January, he will be 72 years – old and therefore the oldest first term president in American history.

Remember, President Ronald Reagan was 73 when he was sworn in for his second term.

Another reason, which I first discussed back in January – after the New Hampshire primary – on WYPR with political analyst Bob Sommersby, is that Senator McCain needs to shore-up his conservative base. At the time, I got very little traction on the idea.

Read the rest of the column here: The McCain Vice President Decision

Farmers and the Bays

Tom McLaughlin

Where in the world are we going to put the chicken poop? That is the question most people on the Eastern Sore are asking. “Not in my back yard!” said the towns. “Not in my backyard” said the counties. Not on the fields said the wacko environmentalists.

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Tuesday, April 1, 2008

War That Won't Disappear

Roy Meachum

Despite administration strategy to keep the war in Iraq out of sight, the official image formed over the past five years busted out in the open last week. The accompanying text confirmed the road to peace had made another violent turn. Those surprised belonged to the administration's Coue faction.

In The Preacher’s Defense

Derek Shackelford

So far this presidential election has developed many subplots. They – if we are not careful as voters – will take us away from the important issues that affect this nation.

Roadmaps to Success

Nick Diaz

What is happening to American institutions requires both art and science. From its churches to its educational system, from the government and political party system to the military, an invasive form of totalitarian groupthink has been artfully and successfully applied to those institutions.

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Monday, March 31, 2008

Hang ‘Em High, Just Not in Maryland!

Richard B. Weldon Jr.

As the 2008 General Assembly session starts to wind down, the issues are easier to define. The big revenue shortfall is the 800-pound gorilla, but there a whole bushel of other topics that have garnered the attention of the press corps.

The Semantic War 4000

Steven R. Berryman

Survey says: You don’t want to hear it. The 4,000 war-attributed deaths in combat were reported as a “milestone” event last week in our Iraq War. Why did one have to turn to page A-3 in many papers to read the story? Strange, as we are told by President George W. Bush’s administration that this is the defining issue of our day, even in light of the “recession.”

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Friday, March 28, 2008

Clintons' "Audacity of Hopelessness"

Roy Meachum

The phrase is not mine. Playing off the title of one of Sen. Barack Obama's books, New York Times' columnist David Brooks strung the words together, which is why they're set in quotes. Running counter to the newspaper's endorsement, he both opposes and doubts Sen. Hillary Clinton's White House quest.

Camelot "Revisited"

Roy Meachum

A REVIEW

Shortly after Jack Kennedy's inauguration, I moved to New York, taking residency at the now-vanished Hotel Dauphin. By chance, the rooms assigned me had once been part of the suite of legendary Broadway producer David Belasco.

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Thursday, March 27, 2008

Dems Campaign Won’t End In Desired Result

Chris Cavey

A week or so ago, while chatting up Maryland politics with a yellow dog Democrat friend of mine, our topic shifted to presidential politics. He lamented to me about not knowing what he would do come November. He might even stay home in disgust! Unable to remain silent my comment was: “Glad I’m not a Democrat.”

Consequences of Irresponsibility

Joan McIntyre

Before it's too late and you and I are left holding the entire bag, do something for me, please. Start screaming; make it so loud that the local, state and federal governments finally hear you.

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Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Preaching to the Choir

Kevin E. Dayhoff

As April 7, the final day of the 2008 Maryland General Assembly session, looms on the horizon, a great deal of conversation is focused on the fate of many of the “social initiatives” of the administration of Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley.

Piner Whiners

Tom McLaughlin

The people in Ocean Pines are so old! That’s what I discovered when I returned to Middletown after a month’s absence. It is so nice to see young people and families. Strong vibrant individuals walking purposefully onward in their lives.

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Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Joyful Noises

Roy Meachum

If you still wonder what the Psalm meant by "Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the world," you obviously didn't visit Walkersville's Calvary Assembly of God church this Easter weekend.

You Can’t Get There from Here

Farrell Keough

Recent articles on the Transportation Planning Board for the National Capital Region studies indicate that solutions to our road congestion are still very much in limbo. Ideas like Private Toll Roads, (HOT Lanes and such) may not offer the solutions people were hoping to see.

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Monday, March 24, 2008

General Assembly Journal 2008 – Volume 5

Richard B. Weldon Jr.

Crossing Over

Okay, I’m not talking about that show where they talk to dead people. This is Cross Over Week, the constitutional deadline for bill passage in the House and Senate so bills can “cross over” to the other chamber by Sine Die.

The Dilution of our Citizenship and Branding of America

Steven R. Berryman

Membership has its rewards! Just ask major credit card providers. Citizenship in America is much the same way. When we “brand” America, in the demographic sense, citizenship should be the upgrade, and it should not be provided with no strings attached!

20080401 New Clips

News Clips 04-01-2008

STATE NEWS

Amid budget struggle, O'Malley ups 'core' spending request

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-md.spend01apr01001517,0,7568870.story

As lawmakers worked yesterday to trim state spending to balance Maryland's budget for next year, Gov. Martin O'Malley proposed $18.2 million in new expenditures, much of it earmarked for health care, programs for children with disabilities and a fund to help the poor pay their electricity bills. O'Malley spokesman Rick Abbruzzese defended the governor's submission of a supplemental budget request - an annual tradition - at a time when lawmakers are struggling to balance the state budget and repeal an unpopular computer services tax. "This is a very lean supplemental budget that goes directly to making government more effective and more efficient," Abbruzzese said. He said the governor focused his spending requests on "core services" such as juvenile services, state police and aid for infants and toddlers with learning disabilities. O'Malley's additional spending requests reduce by about $8 million the $181 million in unspent funds that lawmakers had reserved to cover unanticipated drops in revenue or increases in costs, Abbruzzese said. But still unresolved is the question of how to keep the budget in balance while repealing Maryland's new tax on computer services - a growing priority for O'Malley and a majority of the General Assembly.

Legislature to withhold Morgan planning funds

University must overhaul procurement procedures

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/education/college/bal-md.morgan01apr01,0,1792815.story

Top lawmakers have agreed to withhold more than $3.1 million in planning money for Morgan State University's new $80 million business school until the university overhauls its procurement processes, which are under criminal investigation by the state attorney general's office. The proposal, which the House of Delegates approved last night, is the legislature's response to an audit report that uncovered millions in questionable contracts at the Northeast Baltimore school. Under the terms of the restrictions, Morgan State would be required to hire an independent management consultant to review the university's capital project management and recommend comprehensive reforms in order to receive the $3.1 million, as well as about $750,000 earmarked for an ongoing campus utility project.

Power auctions cleared

PSC regulators find no wrongdoing by Constellation Energy

http://www.baltimoresun.com/business/bal-md.rates01apr01,0,6398410.story

Maryland's top utility watchdog said yesterday that regulators found no wrongdoing on the part of Constellation Energy Group during wholesale power auctions several years ago that caused household electricity bills in the state to skyrocket.

Steven B. Larsen, chairman of the Public Service Commission, told state lawmakers yesterday that the regulatory body found no evidence of collusion in the 2005-2006 wholesale power auctions that caused a 72 percent price increase for households buying power from Baltimore Gas and Electric Co., which is a subsidiary of Constellation.

There was no reason to believe that the rates weren't "just and reasonable," Larsen said. Larsen appeared at a hearing yesterday before the Senate Finance Committee to testify on legislation that would implement the state's settlement with Constellation.

Sen. Rob Garagiola, a Montgomery County Democrat on the committee, said the settlement gives much-needed "closure" to a number of outstanding issues, including the auction inquiry. "A lot of energy has been expended looking backward, and that needed to be done, but we need to start looking forward with respect to where Maryland goes from here," he said.

Lobbyists target Zirkin to repeal computer tax

http://www.examiner.com/a-1313146~Lobbyists_target_Zirkin_to_repeal_computer_tax.html

Baltimore County Sen. Bobby Zirkin was a loud opponent of the computer services sales tax enacted in November’s special session. Now he’s one of the few senators on the Budget and Taxation Committee who are the focus of intense lobbying to repeal it, replacing half of it with a surcharge on millionaires. “At the end of the day, I will make up my mind to see what the package is,” Zirkin said, refusing to say whether he would support a tax increase. “Nothing could be more important now as getting rid of the technology tax,” because it would be so damaging to Maryland’s economy.

Bill prompted by drag racing deaths gets preliminary approval

http://www.hometownannapolis.com/cgi-bin/read/2008/04_01-01/OUD

A bill to expand the use of speed cameras in Prince George's County has received preliminary approval from the Maryland Senate after a close vote. The bill was prompted by eight deaths last month at an illegal drag race near Accokeek. It would allow county authorities to put speed cameras on highways with speed limits up to 55 mph. The bill enables more extensive use of speed monitoring cameras in Prince George's than a statewide proposal to allow them in highway work zones and in local jurisdictions that approve their use in neighborhoods and near schools.

'Tech Tax' Repeal Likely to Clear Md. Senate Panel

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/31/AR2008033102710.html

The governor and legislative leaders have corralled enough votes to send a bill to the full Maryland Senate that would repeal the state's new tax on computer services and offset part of the lost revenue with a surcharge on the income of millionaires, a key lawmaker said yesterday. The apparent breakthrough, with a week remaining in the legislative session, came amid intense lobbying by Gov. Martin O'Malley (D) and a flood of phone calls yesterday from representatives of the information technology industry to wavering members of the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee. Momentum to repeal the computer services tax has grown considerably in recent weeks, but some Democrats have warned of the political consequences of embracing another tax increase, particularly given the sluggish economy. Senate Minority Leader David R. Brinkley (R-Frederick) said he does not anticipate any Republican support for a repeal of the computer services tax that includes the imposition of another tax. Republicans hold 14 of the Senate's 47

seats. "We don't believe that's necessary," Brinkley said. "There's an alternative, which is to cut back on the spending increases."

Seasonal-worker shortage looms

http://www.delmarvanow.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080401/OPI05/804010309/-1/OPI

Throughout the United States, employers in 2008 were limited to hiring a total of 66,000 seasonal workers in nonagricultural jobs through the federal visa program called H2B. But an extension to the program that in past years granted additional workers employers say were needed was not passed by Congress for 2008. Seafood packing companies on Maryland's Eastern Shore were able to place H2B workers from the 66,000 federal pool for this summer's seasonal operations, said Melissa Schwartz, spokeswoman for Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), a major supporter for an extension of the H2B cap. Aggressiveness by employers to get applications forwarded in time helped the process, she said. "Maryland companies that fought all received visas in time," she said last week. "We walked Maryland businesses through the process to make sure they got the workers they needed." The quota this year limits the number of H2B workers coming to the Eastern Shore to between 4,000 and 5,000, of which an estimated 1,000 will be in the seafood industry, said Bill Sieling, executive director of the Chesapeake Bay Seafood Industries Association. "We are simply trying to extend the guest worker provision that has expired. Small and seasonal businesses are counting on us, and we are letting them down," Mikulski said last week. "We cannot let the businesses who rely on us be forced to limit services, lay off permanent U.S. workers, or worse yet, close their doors."

State to get $5.7 million for BRAC costs

http://www.mddailyrecord.com/article.cfm?id=4892&type=UTTM

Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger says the federal government will give Maryland $5.7 million to help prepare the state for the new jobs coming to the state under military base realignment. The money will for road improvements, transit facilities and workforce training.
According to Ruppersberger's office, the money will pay for road improvements near Aberdeen Proving Ground, traffic light synchronization along Route 175 near Fort Meade, lane widening on the Baltimore Beltway and to build and improve bus facilities.

EDITORIALS/OP-EDS

Boosterism

Our view: Maryland's child seat law needs an update

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/opinion/editorial/bal-ed.boosters01apr01,0,5404185.story

For children between the ages of 4 and 8 - too old for a child safety seat and too young or small for just a seat belt - a booster seat can be a lifesaver. Studies show that when combined with a shoulder belt, the booster seat can reduce serious injury in a crash by 60 percent. All of Maryland's neighboring states require boosters for children through the age of 7. It's time Maryland caught up. Under current state law, boosters are only required for children through age 5, regardless of weight, and for those who weigh 40 pounds or less regardless of age. That's just not adequate. The state Senate recently approved legislation to change the requirement - but may actually have made things worse by amending Maryland law to require booster seats for children up to 50 pounds and deleting the age standard entirely.

If Maryland brings the booster seat law in line with neighboring states (and the national model), the state will also be eligible for $1 million in federal grants for traffic safety education and booster seat loan programs. But the more pressing reason to pass the law is to protect the estimated 154,009 Maryland children ages 6 and 7 who aren't required to use a booster now.

Tots, Teens and Safety

Maryland lawmakers have a chance to save some young lives

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/31/AR2008033102406.html

TUCKED INTO the end-of-session bundle of bills before the Maryland General Assembly are several auto safety and teen drinking measures that address major problems for minor travelers. One proposal would suspend driver's licenses for teens who commit serious infractions; another would bring Maryland's child booster-seat laws into line with those of every nearby state and the District. Both are sound lifesaving proposals, worthy of passage. In addition, a bill scheduled to be taken up in a House committee today would classify "alcopops" -- fruity beverages laced with alcohol -- as beer, which they are not; they are distilled spirits. Beers are taxed at a lower rate and can be sold at convenience stores and other spots more likely to be frequented by young people. The makers of these seemingly innocent but decidedly loaded drinks are pushing hard for the bill, but thoughtful lawmakers should resist. If lawmakers need added incentive, passage would make the state eligible for extra federal highway safety funds -- $1 million over two years -- for traffic safety services such as loaner and free booster seats and safety education programs. Countless studies show that booster seats significantly reduce injuries and save young lives. That should be incentive enough to enact a sensible bill before adjournment.

Editorial: Md.’s diversity police trample basic freedoms

http://www.examiner.com/a-1313133~Md__s_diversity_police_trample_basic_freedoms.html

L egislation to force institutions of higher learning in Maryland to create “cultural diversity” programs is making its way through the General Assembly with little opposition from lawmakers — who should be defending academic freedom, not crushing it. HB 905, which passed the House of Delegates 122-to-9, requires all colleges and universities that receive state aid to submit a yearly report on what they’ve done “to promote and enhance cultural diversity.” A companion bill sailed through the state Senate on an equally lopsided 41-6 vote. Campus multiculturalism has been sold to the taxpaying public as a sort of benign foreign-exchange program that teaches students to respect different cultures and religions. The reality is that these programs have devolved into ugly caricatures of toleration used by leftist professors and administrators as battering rams against free speech, merit-based advancement, religious liberty and national unity. Things will only get worse if this unnecessary and dangerous legislation is signed into law by Gov. Martin O’Malley. Then all of Maryland’s institutions of higher learning, public and private, will be forced to bow before the same multicultural idol. That’s oppression, not diversity.

20080331 Update on "Carrolls Idol"

Carroll’s Idol

March 12, 2008 – March 31, 2008 UPDATE on previous March 14, 2008 posts: 20080312 Carroll's Idol NBH: 20080312 Carroll's Idol

By Kevin Dayhoff

Photo captions:

Top: Members of the Carroll’s Idol committee compare notes after auditions at the VFW Post in Westminster, Monday evening, March 10, 2008

Bottom: Audrey Cimino and Eileen Gist confer as other members of the Carroll’s Idol committee compare notes after auditions at the VFW Post in Westminster, Monday evening, March 10, 2008

*****

Ten winners from the Semi-Finals will progress to the finale on Friday, April 25th at Grace Lutheran Church at 21 Carroll Street, in Westminster.

Community celebrities as well as Jennifer Franciotti from WBAL will be on hand to present and judge the competition.

Tickets are $10.00 adults; $8.00 seniors; $5.00 Children 12 and under.

For more information visit their website: www.g9m.org/carrollsidol or e-mail: www.Carrolls_Idol@yahoo.com

Tickets will go on sale at all New Windsor Bank branches, Orbital Hair Co. Salon/Spa and Shipley's Fine Jewelry, Buttersburg Inn in Union Mills on March 7th.

All proceeds will go to The Community Foundation of Carroll County, Inc. so they may continue their philanthropic efforts in our community.

Sponsors of this event are WTTR, Carroll County Times, Dutterer’s Flowers, New Windsor State Bank, Orbital Hair Co. Salon/Spa, Friedel Travel Services, Shipley's Fine Jewelry, Metalloy Production Studio, Jean Burgess Productions, Boscov's, J&P Pizza and Hearty Party Entertainment

******

March 12, 2008

There were smiles all around the room last Monday night after 15 Carroll Countians got together at the Westminster VFW Post 467 at 519 Poole Rd Westminster to belt out some tunes.

That was when the first 15 contestants of “Carroll’s Idol” gathered around a few tables to discuss some organizational details for our county’s very own version of the hit TV series, “American Idol.”

“I want to thank the judges for being so positive. We didn’t have a Simon (Cowell.)” said one of the members of the team, Sharon Templeton above the chatter.

“On behalf of the Community Foundation I want to thank everyone involved,” said Audrey Cimino, the foundation’s executive director as she surveyed all the activity.

A brainchild of Eileen Dutterer Gist and Cheryl Schuster, the project is a fundraiser for operating capital for the Community Foundation. Gist reminisced, “I called my friend Audrey, knowing how much she’s into music… I want to put on (a talent contest) to raise money for the (Community) Foundation.”

“Let’s do it,” said Cimino. “Cheryl has been thinking about something similar.”

The next step in the contest is for approximately 20 contestants to audition at the Freedom Optimist Hall in Eldersburg this evening. 20 contestants will then progress to the semi-final on Tuesday, March 18th at the Westminster VFW Post 467. This competition is open to the public.

Ten winners from the Semi-Finals will progress to the finale on Friday, April 25th at Grace Lutheran Church at 21 Carroll Street, in Westminster.

Community celebrities as well as Jennifer Franciotti from WBAL will be on hand to present and judge the competition.

Tickets are $10.00 adults; $8.00 seniors; $5.00 Children 12 and under.

For more information visit their website: www.g9m.org/carrollsidol or e-mail: www.Carrolls_Idol@yahoo.com

Kevin Dayhoff writes from Westminster Maryland USA.

www.kevindayhoff.net http://www.youtube.com/kevindayhoff http://www.livejournal.com/

E-mail him at: kdayhoff AT carr.org or kevindayhoff AT gmail.com

His columns and articles appear in The Tentacle - www.thetentacle.com; Westminster Eagle Opinion; www.thewestminstereagle.com, Winchester Report and The Sunday Carroll Eagle – in the Sunday Carroll County section of the Baltimore Sun. Get Westminster Eagle RSS Feed

“When I stop working the rest of the day is posthumous. I'm only really alive when I'm writing.” Tennessee Williams

20080331 Carroll County Agriculture Center Events Calendar

Carroll County Agriculture Center Events Calendar

March 31, 2008

Carroll County Home Show April 5, 2008 from 9AM-5PM. April 6, 2008 from 11AM-4PM. Admission $4.00.

Farmers Market

April 5, 2008 from 8AM-2PM

Admission FREE

Maryland Alpaca Show April 12-13, 2008 from 8AM-6PM. Admission FREE

Mid Atlantic cake Show & Wedding Cake Competition April 19, 2008 from 10AM-5PM. April 20, 2008 from 9AM-5PM. Admission: Adults $7, children 5-12 $3, under 5 free.

Maryland Four Seasons Fine Art & Craft Market April 19, 2008 from 10AM-4PM. Admission $3.

Farmers Market May 10, 2008 from 8AM-2PM. Admission FREE

Carroll County (Maryland) Agriculture Center

To book any of the Ag Center facilities – or inquire about rates, specifications, etc., contact Larry Collins, General Manager at 410-848-6704 or larry AT carrollcountyagcenter DOT com

For more information on the Carroll County Maryland Agricultural Center – go here: Website: http://www.carrollcountyagcenter.com/

For articles on “Soundtrack” about the Carroll Co. Ag Center

http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/search/label/Carroll%20County%20Maryland%20Agriculture%20Center

20080226 The Carroll County Maryland Ag Center Show

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ickmq4LhpMo

*****

Kevin Dayhoff writes from Westminster Maryland USA.

www.kevindayhoff.net http://www.youtube.com/kevindayhoff http://www.livejournal.com/

E-mail him at: kdayhoff AT carr.org or kevindayhoff AT gmail.com

His columns and articles appear in The Tentacle - www.thetentacle.com; Westminster Eagle Opinion; www.thewestminstereagle.com, Winchester Report and The Sunday Carroll Eagle – in the Sunday Carroll County section of the Baltimore Sun. Get Westminster Eagle RSS Feed

“When I stop working the rest of the day is posthumous. I'm only really alive when I'm writing.” Tennessee Williams

20080226 The Carroll County Maryland Ag Center Show

The Ag Center Show

Carroll County Maryland Agriculture Center

Westminster, Maryland

February 26, 2008

http://www.carrollcountyagcenter.com/

20080226 The Carroll County Maryland Ag Center Show

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ickmq4LhpMo

Storyboard for “The Ag Center Show.”

In the evening of February 26, 2008, the Carroll County Maryland Agriculture Center held its annual meeting.

At that meeting, the Ag Center Manager Larry Collins screened the following video of highlights of recent events at the Ag Center.

However, before we get to the video, let’s get acquainted with the Ag Center by way of the web site greeting:

WELCOME to the Carroll County Agriculture Center; the site of the new state-of-the-art Danele Shipley Memorial Arena…

… as well as numerous meeting facilities, function and banquet rooms, outdoor facilities, and much more!

Located in central Carroll County – the Region's finest agriculture country –

- the Agriculture Center and Shipley Arena are perfectly situated to meet our diverse needs…

… and those of our neighbors in Baltimore, Washington D.C., southern Pennsylvania and western Delaware.

Our facilities are designed to host a wide variety of events from livestock and …

… equestrian outings to live music shows and entertainment events to trade shows and exhibits, and fairs and circuses.

The Carroll County Agriculture Center is the permanent home of the nationally known and highly regarded Carroll County 4H & FFA Fair.

The Agriculture Center and Shipley Arena are available to all for exciting events, meetings, and outings YEAR-ROUND!

Visit us soon – we look forward to hosting you or your next event in comfort and style in any one of our facilities.

To book any of our facilities – or inquire about rates, specifications, etc., contact Larry Collins, General Manager at 410-848-6704 or larry AT carrollcountyagcenter DOT com

For more information on the Carroll County Maryland Agricultural Center – go here: http://www.carrollcountyagcenter.com/

Carroll County (Maryland) Agriculture Center

Website: http://www.carrollcountyagcenter.com/

For articles on “Soundtrack” about the Carroll Co. Ag Center

http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/search/label/Carroll%20County%20Maryland%20Agriculture%20Center

*****

Kevin Dayhoff writes from Westminster Maryland USA.

www.kevindayhoff.net http://www.youtube.com/kevindayhoff http://www.livejournal.com/

E-mail him at: kdayhoff AT carr.org or kevindayhoff AT gmail.com

His columns and articles appear in The Tentacle - www.thetentacle.com; Westminster Eagle Opinion; www.thewestminstereagle.com, Winchester Report and The Sunday Carroll Eagle – in the Sunday Carroll County section of the Baltimore Sun. Get Westminster Eagle RSS Feed

“When I stop working the rest of the day is posthumous. I'm only really alive when I'm writing.” Tennessee Williams