20070608 Task Force Aviation Classification Repair Activity Depot

Task Force Aviation Classification Repair Activity Depot

June 14^th, 2007

For Flag Day what better way to salute the flag that to salute folks who are defending the flag and our way of life. One such person is Command Sergeant Major Tom Beyard, who is the City of Westminster’s Director of Planning and Public Works in his civilian role.

Click here for more information about Tom.

Currently he is deployed with the Task Force Aviation Classification Repair Activity Depot and he recently e-mailed some additional information about TF AVCRAD.

For Flag Day why not send him a care package…

Cards, coffee, cookies, and stuff from home can be sent to:

CSM Thomas Beyard
Command Sergeant Major
TF AVCRAD 06-08
Camp Arifjan, Kuwait
APO AE 09366

Below, please find more information about TF AVCRAD from Tom Beyard.

Task Force Aviation Classification Repair Activity Depot

(TF AVCRAD 06-08)

TF AVCRAD 06 – 08 was officially formed on July 11, 2006. TF AVCRAD consists of over 225 soldiers from sixteen different states.

Soldiers come from HQ, ADMRU from Edgewood, Maryland; F Company, 135^th Aviation from Frankfort, Kentucky; 1106^th AVCRAD from Fresno; California; 1109^th AVCRAD from Groton, Connecticut; 1107^th AVCRAD from Springfield, Missouri; and soldiers from Alabama, Pennsylvania, Texas, Illinois, Iowa, Tennessee, New York, Hawaii, Ohio, North Carolina and Georgia.

TF AVCRAD 06 – 08 was formed to become the “fifth” AVCRAD. To date, the four organic AVCRADs already deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom (OIF/OEF). TF AVCRAD tests a new concept for Army aviation logistics – to bring together a command and control cell and match it with an enhanced AVIM plus – to perform the mission of an AVCRAD. This is a huge task and TF AVCRAD soldiers have met the challenge and are setting the standard for follow-on units.

The command and control cell comes from HQ, ADMRU, a unit of Maryland Army National Guard. HQ, ADMRU, as well as all of TF AVCRAD, is commanded by COL Timothy Gowen of Leonardtown, Maryland and CSM Thomas Beyard of Westminster, Maryland serves as Command Sergeant Major.

The enhanced AVIM plus comes from F Company, 135^th Aviation, with supporting maintenance and supply soldiers from the 1106^th, 1107^th and the 1109^th AVCRADs. This unique organization required intensive post-mobilization training for TF AVCRAD soldiers to reach the required level of individual and collective skill.

TF AVCRAD 06-08 executes the Theater Aviation Maintenance Program (TAMP) mission in support of OIF/OEF. TF AVCRAD soldiers provide: 1) National Maintenance Program (NMP) repair management capability; 2) back-up Supply Support Activity (SSA) operations; 3) “limited” Depot level maintenance support; and 4) on order, provide Aviation Intermediate Maintenance Support (AVIM) support to aviation units located in Kuwait and perform Air Port/Sea Port of Debarkation (APOD/APOD) operations.

TF AVCRAD soldiers are executing their mission at various locations including Camp Arifjan, the Kuwait APOD and SPOD, Udari Army Airfield at Camp Buehring, Ali Al Salem Air Base and Kuwait Naval Base in Kuwait, in addition to the work of the fix forward teams at Balad, Iraq and Bagram, Afghanistan and other locations in those countries.

Six TF AVCRAD soldiers completed a mission in Sinai, Egypt in support of the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) and only recently TF AVCRAD assumed responsibility for the operations of the Theater Aviation Single Manager (TASM), a unique organization responsible for responding to non-standard problems and providing solutions in the aviation field, in addition to other important duties.

The 60+ soldiers from HQ, ADMRU are proud of the role they play in supporting the warfight. While aviation logistics doesn’t always get the attention of other important missions, professionals know and understand that aviation logistics helps insure the Army helicopters are always flying and ready for the next mission. “Semper volans”, Latin for “always flying”, is also the motto of TF AVCRAD. The unit is set to complete its mission and redeploy to Maryland in the October, 2007 timeframe.

POC: CSM Thomas Beyard

20070614 Quote of the Day - Will you be satisfied

Quote of the Day - Will you be satisfied?

Thursday June 14^th, 2007

“Will you be satisfied with the fruit of your life's work? Will the efforts you are making now bring you satisfaction when the things of time are receding and eternity looms ahead?”

Raymond L. Cox

Thanks TC

20070611 Eugene Gene H Blizzard 53 of Delta Pa

Westminster High School Class of 1971

Eugene 'Gene' H. Blizzard, 53, of Delta, Pa.

Eugene "Gene" Howell Blizzard, 53, of Delta, Pa., died Monday, June 11, 2007, at Franklin Square Hospital from pancreatic cancer.

Born June 21, 1953, in Baltimore, he was the son of Maurice "Ham" and Freda Stauffer Blizzard. He was the husband of Gay Ebaugh Blizzard, his wife of 30 years.

He was a 1971 graduate of Westminster High School where he played football and was on the wrestling team. He attended Bridgewater College and was a 1977 graduate of Towson State University, where he also played football.

He was a physical education teacher in the Harford County school system for 21 years, teaching at both Bel Air and Aberdeen high schools, where he was the wrestling and football coach.

He enjoyed gardening and had a hobby farm for goats and chickens.

Surviving, in addition to his wife and parents, are children Lucas Jeremiah and Justin Ross Blizzard, both of York, Pa., Adrienne Gayle Blizzard of Delta, Pa., and Samantha Blizzard of York College; brother and sister-in-law Gary Lee and Linda Blizzard of Milford, Del.; and mother-in-law Dorothy Ebaugh of Westminster.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Pritts Funeral Home & Chapel, 412 Washington Road, Westminster with the Rev. Frederick P. Eckhardt officiating. Interment will be private.

The family will receive friends from noon until time of service Saturday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Johns Hopkins University for Pancreatic Cancer Research, Ralph H. Hruban, M.D., Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, 401 N. Broadway, Weinberg 2242, Baltimore, MD 21231-2410.

20070613 News Clips

News Clips

June 13^th, 2007

State News

Lawmakers look for budget fat in policy analysis

http://www.washtimes.com/metro/20070612-104040-5989r.htm

The state government's budget crisis has lawmakers looking everywhere for cuts, including an unlikely scourge: reports from task forces, study groups and blue-ribbon commissions.

House Minority Leader Anthony J. O'Donnell, Southern Maryland Republican, told his colleagues yesterday that the state should examine how much it spends on reports to the General Assembly.

"There are hundreds and hundreds of these things, and somebody has to do them," Mr. O'Donnell said.

Groups seek to halt work on ICC

Environmentalists say air pollution from highway could be harmful

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/bal-md.icc13jun13,0,5077281.story?coll=bal-local-headlines

Environmentalists called yesterday for the federal government to stop work on a disputed six-lane toll road across Montgomery and Prince George's counties, contending that there is new evidence that children and other residents living along the route could be harmed by pollutants from the traffic.

Two groups, Environmental Defense and the Sierra Club, said a study commissioned by one of them shows that construction of the 18-mile Inter-County Connector would violate tightened federal air-quality health standards on soot -- the fine particles emitted in vehicle exhaust and other forms of combustion.

Tom Moore: Enforce new gang laws - and hire more police to do it

http://www.examiner.com/a-777685~Tom_Moore__Enforce_new_gang_laws___and_hire_more_police_to_do_it.html

The Maryland General Assembly passed a new law designed to help the state better prosecute gang members who engage in violent crimes. But whether local law enforcement officials will be able to support the cause, or even have the manpower to do so, is unclear.

The Maryland Gang Prosecution Act of 2007 prohibits a person from participating in a criminal gang “knowing that the gang members engage in or have engaged in criminal activity,” according to state Sen. Roy Dyson, D-District 29.

Home loan relief sought

O'Malley lines up $111 million plan to aid refinancing in face of foreclosure

http://www.baltimoresun.com/business/realestate/bal-te.md.foreclosure13jun13,0,5284661.story?coll=bal-home-headlines

Seeking to reduce the risk of Marylanders losing their homes because of the state's quick foreclosure process, Gov. Martin O'Malley plans to announce today $111 million in private-sector commitments for refinancing and to create a task force charged with studying reforms to protect homeowners.

O'Malley plans to announce the creation of the Maryland Homeownership Preservation Task Force, which will be charged with developing a comprehensive homeownership preservation plan and with finding ways to mitigate the negative outcomes of foreclosures, which state officials worry will rise with the proliferation of subprime lending.

Purses, races cut at ailing Md. tracks

Plunging revenues left them no other choice, officials say

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/horseracing/bal-te.sp.racing13jun13,0,7543894.story?coll=bal-home-headlines

With revenues plummeting, the Maryland Jockey Club will cut $3 million from its budget this fall, reducing the purse $2,000 in every race for the rest of the year and trimming the number of races at Laurel Park through Dec. 31.

The Jockey Club and the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association said they had no choice.

"It's another nail in the coffin for Maryland racing," Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller said.

Plan aims to ease voting

Moyer proposes use of provisional ballots in Annapolis elections

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/annearundel/bal-ar.ballots13jun13,0,4800536.story?coll=bal-local-arundel

Aiming to avoid a repeat of the 2005 city election when some voters weren't listed on precinct rolls and had difficulty casting a vote, the Annapolis city council will take up a proposal to revise the election code and implement the use of provisional ballots.

The council also will consider loosening restrictions on absentee ballots.

Hey you, read this sign!

Moyer wants to limit city's sandwich boards

http://www.hometownannapolis.com/cgi-bin/read/2007/06_12-42/CAN

From City Dock up to Westgate Circle, the chalky handwritten signs call to visitors with everything from the daily special of a steak chalupa at Acme Bar & Grill to free parking at Cafe Matisse.

The free-standing signs line the sidewalks, assuring guests that yes, they are open, and even yell at them to get in the door.

But under city law, sandwich-board advertising is illegal. And Mayor Ellen O. Moyer wants the law enforced.

Study Says Baltimore Third-Worst In Graduation

http://wbal.com/news/story.asp?articleid=59150

Almost two-thirds of high school students in city public schools do not earn diplomas, giving Baltimore the third-worst graduation rate in the nation, according to a study released by the publication Education Week.

The study, which analyzed 2004 data, found that only 34.6 percent of Baltimore high school students graduated four years after they began school. Detroit had the worst graduation rate at 24.9 percent, and Cleveland was next, at 34.1 percent.

City campaign season kicks into gear

Mitchell runs ad; Harris picks up endorsement

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-te.md.ci.campaign13jun13,0,975278.story

Standing in the shadow of the West Baltimore elementary school where she once taught kindergarten, Mayor Sheila Dixon formally announced yesterday her intention to seek a full four-year term as mayor in this year's election, pledging to bring the city's neighborhoods and police together to fight crime.

On the same day, City Councilman Keiffer J. Mitchell Jr. - one of Dixon's leading opponents in the Democratic primary - launched the first television commercial of the campaign, which focused on city schools and his vow to take control of a system that he said is failing city students.

Mitchell aims his first salvo at school system's problems

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-te.md.adwatch13jun13,0,2202047.story?coll=bal-local-headlines

Just as the hangover from last fall's gubernatorial television commercial bonanza was starting to wear off, Baltimore City Councilman and mayoral candidate Keiffer J. Mitchell Jr. aired the first television commercial of this year's mayoral race. The 30-second spot, which aired yesterday only, focuses entirely on schools.

What the ad says: Somber piano music plays in the background as the camera trains on a dark school hallway and an empty classroom. A female narrator says: "Friday is the last day of school. Too bad it isn't the last day of a broken school system. Too bad it isn't the last day of no accountability."

Dixon stresses youth in crime fight

Offering choices in recreation centers and in education is crucial, mayor says

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/baltimore_city/bal-md.ci.violence13jun13,0,257904.story?coll=bal-local-headlines

Amid Baltimore's surge in crime, Mayor Sheila Dixon yesterday continued her effort to reassure neighborhoods.

Speaking at a forum sponsored by the Greater Homewood Community Corp., she outlined her wide-ranging strategy to counter the increase in crime and emphasized efforts to better reach the city's youth.

Top prosecutor backs Harris for council

http://www.examiner.com/a-777706~Top_prosecutor_backs_Harris_for_council.html

Baltimore City States Attorney Patricia Jessamy, who has not made an endorsement in any citywide race since her election in 1995, threw her support behind City Councilman Kenneth Harris Tuesday for the councils top job.

“Ken Harris has been one of the members of the council who has been responsive to our efforts - and he has done so in a nonhostile and non-aggrandizing way,” Jessamy said in a written statement.

Harris also received an endorsement from state Sen. Joan Carter Conaway, D-District 43.

“Based on [what] has happened to the city government, we need Ken Harris as City Council president,” she said.

U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin also attended to support the endorsements.

“He has the vision we need, and more importantly, the integrity; he’s not afraid to stand on his own,” Cardin said.

Candidates look to add to police force

http://www.examiner.com/a-777719~Candidates_look_to_add_to_police_force.html

With the number of murders in Baltimore City threatening to hit 300 this year, the solution on the table by nearly every political candidate is to add more police to serve the population.

What no one appears to have asked is one question: Will it work?

Statistics suggest it’s not the answer, and criminologists say it might have the opposite impact.

Sex-ed proposal OK'd for schools

http://www.washtimes.com/metro/20070612-104035-2415r.htm

The Montgomery County Board of Education yesterday approved Superintendent Jerry D. Weast's proposal to expand lessons on sexual orientation and condom use to all middle schools and high schools beginning this fall.

The curriculum, five years in the making, was approved in a 6-1 vote, despite a last-minute addition allowing teachers to tell students who ask that homosexuality is not a mental illness.

Board member Stephen Abrams cast the dissenting vote, saying that he was "extraordinarily upset and offended" that Mr. Weast did not notify the board about the one-sentence addition until Monday night.

Sex-Ed Lessons Revised For Vote

Teachers Could Answer Questions On Homosexuality

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/06/11/AR2007061102218.html

Montgomery County sex education teachers would be allowed to tell students who ask that homosexuality is not a mental illness under a last-minute change to new lessons that go to the school board today for a politically charged vote.

Superintendent Jerry D. Weast informed school board members in a memo yesterday of a one-sentence addition to the lessons, which are proposed for all eighth- and 10th-grade health classes in the fall. The lessons were field-tested at six schools this spring.

Final sex-ed revisions OK’d

http://www.gazette.net/stories/061307/bethnew213928_32366.shtml

With a 6-1 vote, the county school board adopted final revisions to a controversial sex-education curriculum on Tuesday, even as the embattled lesson plans are being contested at the state level. And for the first time in county classrooms, teachers will be allowed to answer students questions about homosexuality.

Permitting teachers to answer the questions was a change Superintendent Jerry D. Weast forwarded to the board on Monday.

National News

Mikulski urges more action against sexual assaults in the military

Letter to defense chief prompted by report of attacks on 500 servicewomen since 2002

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/bal-md.mikulski13jun13,0,4776211.story?coll=bal-local-headlines

Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski is pressing Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates for details on what, if anything, the Pentagon is doing to reduce the number of sexual assaults against female members of the military.

In a letter released by her office yesterday, the Maryland Democrat asked Gates how he planned to create "an environment of zero tolerance for sexual misconduct of any kind." The senator said she wanted to know what steps the Pentagon is taking to address "the unique stress and mental health needs" of women in uniform - "especially those who have suffered sexual assault."

Immigrants still give us their best by Michael Olesker

http://www.examiner.com/a-777721~Immigrants_still_give_us_their_best.html

The first time Sen. Barbara Mikulski ran for political office, she marched through the Broadway Market shaking everybody’s hands. In those days, you still heard six different languages hollered across the aisles. It made Mikulski, the granddaughter of Polish immigrants, feel right at home.

She was running for Baltimore City Council. One of the people at the market that day was John Prevas, who was just out of law school. He was helping out at his family’s luncheonette. The next time he saw her, at Miss Irene’s Pub around the corner, Mikulski was shooting pool.

The visitors wanted to talk about Americas ongoing angst over immigration. First they went to Mikulskis office, and then they walked a mile to Sen. Ben Cardins office while handing out cards supporting immigration reform.

Bush honors victims of communism

http://www.washtimes.com/metro/20070612-104043-4985r.htm

President Bush yesterday told hundreds of people whose countries had emerged from the grip of communism that their sacrifices would not be forgotten as he dedicated the Victims of Communism Memorial to the millions oppressed and killed by totalitarian regimes.

"We'll never know the names of all who perished, but at this sacred place, communism's unknown victims will be consecrated to history and remembered forever," he said to more than 500 people just blocks from the Capitol. "We dedicate this memorial because we have an obligation to those who died, to acknowledge their lives and honor their memory."

Gilchrest cosponsors emergency room bill

http://www.delmarvanow.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070613/NEWS01/706130367/1002

U.S. Rep. Wayne T. Gilchrest, R-Md.-1st, has cosponsored legislation in Congress that will help keep emergency rooms open across the country and available when they are needed the most.

H.R. 882, the Access to Emergency Medical Services Act, addresses some of the problems facing emergency rooms today.

Security budget nears House approval

http://washingtontimes.com/national/20070612-102254-1511r.htm

The House began debate yesterday on the first of 12 appropriations bills, under a threat from President Bush to veto any spending bill that exceeds his budget requests.

The 2008 Homeland Security Department spending bill, which was headed for approval late yesterday, would provide more than $36 billion for fiscal 2008 -- about $2.5 billion more than last year and $2 billion more than the president's request.

Democrats said the increase is necessary because Republicans have neglected spending on domestic issues for years.

"Over the last six years, President Bush and the rubber-stamp Republican Congress shortchanged America's priorities and neglected our country's most pressing needs," said House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer of Maryland.

Members squabble over Cuba travel ban

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0607/4469.html

A proposal to lift the travel ban to Cuba has prompted a spat between two cardinals on the House Appropriations Committee, pitting sophomore Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) against veteran Rep. Jose E. Serrano (D-N.Y.).

"It's an emotional issue for both sides. Everyone just has to calm down," said Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-Md.), who serves on the financial services subcommittee with the other two and tried to mediate the dispute.

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20070613 Quote of the Day - Commitment

Quote of the Day - Commitment

Wednesday, June 13^th, 2007

“It takes a deep commitment to change and an even deeper commitment to grow.”

Ralph Ellison (1914-1994) Novelist

Thanks TC

20070611 2007 Preservation Month Westminster Architectural Scavenger Hunt

2007 Preservation Month Westminster Architectural Scavenger Hunt

June 13^th, 2007

The winners for the 2007 Preservation Month Westminster Architectural Scavenger Hunt were announced at the Westminster Common Council meeting last Monday, June 11^th, 2007.

For additional posts about this year’s contest click on: History Westminster or Westminster Eagle.

Dean Camlin was kind enough to e-mail me some additional information and the winners:

The poster contest was initially proposed by HDC (Westminster Historic District Commission) member Laurie Walters.

Stan Ruchlewicz shot many of the pictures used on the poster, and Dean Camlin did an initial graphic layout.

Jerry Trescott wrote the contest clues, and Tim Rogers donated many hours of support.

The entry form ran in a full color center-spread in the Eagle May 2 & was also available at many downtown locations, including the Flower & Jazz Festival.

The Eagle provided graphic design layout and ran additional clues in subsequent weeks. All of this was free of charge, through the generous support of editor Jim Joiner.

Additional funding was provided through a Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area matching mini-grant.

The contest received uniform positive comments from the community. 57 entries were received by the May 31 deadline. Entrants received a commemorative poster (with the correct answers) and a CD of The Building of Westminster. The winners, selected from the correct entries at random, are listed below along with their prizes:

Bob Nangel - HSCC print framed by Gizmo's

Residents of Westminster Ridge - O'Lordans gift certificate

Katie & Wendy (mom) Raith - Thai Classic 3 gift certificate

Lauren Douzat - Rafael's gift certificate

David Taylor - Johansson's gift certificate

Mary Mullinix - Pour House gift certificate

Celene Steckel - Giulianova's Italian Deli gift certificate

The commemorative enlarged posters, with the correct addresses of the dozen buildings, were designed and printed by Kohn Creative. These are available at City Hall to the public.

Studies: Death Penalty Discourages Crime

Studies: Death Penalty Discourages Crime

AP Monday, June 11, 2007

Anti-death penalty forces have gained momentum in the past few years, with a moratorium in Illinois, court disputes over lethal injection in more than a half-dozen states and progress toward outright abolishment in New Jersey.

The steady drumbeat of DNA exonerations — pointing out flaws in the justice system — has weighed against capital punishment. The moral opposition is loud, too, echoed in Europe and the rest of the industrialized world, where all but a few countries banned executions years ago.

What gets little notice, however, is a series of academic studies over the last half-dozen years that claim to settle a once hotly debated argument — whether the death penalty acts as a deterrent to murder. The analyses say yes. They count between three and 18 lives that would be saved by the execution of each convicted killer.

The reports have horrified death penalty opponents and several scientists, who vigorously question the data and its implications.

So far, the studies have had little impact on public policy. New Jersey's commission on the death penalty this year dismissed the body of knowledge on deterrence as "inconclusive."

But the ferocious argument in academic circles could eventually spread to a wider audience, as it has in the past.

"Science does really draw a conclusion. It did. There is no question about it," said Naci Mocan, an economics professor at the University of Colorado at Denver. "The conclusion is there is a deterrent effect."

A 2003 study he co-authored, and a 2006 study that re-examined the data, found that each execution results in five fewer homicides, and commuting a death sentence means five more homicides. "The results are robust, they don't really go away," he said. "I oppose the death penalty. But my results show that the death penalty (deters) — what am I going to do, hide them?"

Statistical studies like his are among a dozen papers since 2001 that capital punishment has deterrent effects. They all explore the same basic theory — if the cost of something (be it the purchase of an apple or the act of killing someone) becomes too high, people will change their behavior (forego apples or shy from murder).

To explore the question, they look at executions and homicides, by year and by state or county, trying to tease out the impact of the death penalty on homicides by accounting for other factors, such as unemployment data and per capita income, the probabilities of arrest and conviction, and more.

Among the conclusions:

[…]

The studies' conclusions drew a philosophical response from a well-known liberal law professor, University of Chicago's Cass Sunstein. A critic of the death penalty, in 2005 he co-authored a paper titled "Is capital punishment morally required?"

[…]

"We just don't have enough data to say anything," said Justin Wolfers, an economist at the Wharton School of Business who last year co-authored a sweeping critique of several studies, and said they were "flimsy" and appeared in "second-tier journals."

[…]

Then, economist Isaac Ehrlich had also concluded that executions deterred future crimes. His 1975 report was the subject of mainstream news articles and public debate, and was cited in papers before the U.S. Supreme Court arguing for a reversal of the court's 1972 suspension of executions. (The court, in 1976, reinstated the death penalty.)

[…]

Read the entire Associated Press article here: Studies: Death Penalty Discourages Crime

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,280215,00.html
SDOSM 20070612
20070611 Studies Death Penalty Discourages Crime
Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

20070712 Golfers play 110 holes in one day

Golfers play 110 holes in one day

Tue Jun 12, 4:49 PM ET

When a buddy said they couldn't do it — play six rounds of golf in one day — that was all the challenge they needed. At the Beatrice Country Club on Monday, Beatrice High School golf coach Dick Stuart, middle school teacher Ben Essam and golf pro Joel Brueggemann played 110 holes — two more than six rounds of 18 holes.

[…]

Stuart, Essam and Brueggemann started their golf morning at 5:45 a.m. and finished at 9:15 p.m.

[…]

Although a world record was not their goal, they finished well short.

With the aid of a golf cart, Robb James of Canada played 851 holes at Victoria Golf Course at Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, over 24 hours on June 21-22, 2004.

The most holes played in 24 hours of walking is 401, a feat achieved by Australian Ian Colston at Bendigo Golf Club, Victoria, Australia, on Nov. 27-28, 1971.

___

Information from: Beatrice Sun, http://www.beatricedailysun.com

More

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20070612 Ronald Reagan Tear Down This Wall June 12 1989

Ronald Reagan Tear Down This Wall June 12 1989

"Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate!

Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!"

President Ronald Reagan’s remarks in a speech given at the Brandenburg Gate in West Berlin, June 12, 1987

"We should not confuse the signing of agreements with the solving of problems."

Remarks on the subject of arms control in an address to the U.N. General Assembly, in New York City, June 17, 1982

To see a complete copy of his June 12^th, 1989 speech go here – or here.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=7OcVEvG4L9Y

Ronald Reagan Tear Down This Wall June 12 1989

For more posts on “Soundtrack” for President Ronald Reagan 1981 to 1989 – go here.

For President Ronald Reagan fans – if you have not been to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Foundation web site – please do so. You will love it…

http://www.reaganfoundation.org/welcome.asp

Welcome to the official web site for the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation. Our goal is to ensure present and future generations will be able to learn first hand about the legacy of the man who came to be known as “the great communicator”. From this site you can access Presidential Papers and Presidential Photographs, learn about the Museum and Air Force One, become a member of the Library, learn about our events, and shop at our online Museum Store.

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20070612 Ronald Reagan Tear Down This Wall June 12 1989

http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2007/06/20070612-ronald-reagan-tear-down-this.html

20070612 CCG News Release: Commissioners adopt Airport Master Plan

CCG News Release Commissioners adopt Airport Master Plan

News Release

For more information, contact: Vivian D. Laxton, (WAB) Public Information Administrator, 410-386-2973

For Immediate Release

Commissioners adopt Airport Master Plan

June 12, 2007 – 4:04 PM

Citing safety concerns and a need to increase Carroll County’s industrial tax base, the Board of County Commissioners today voted to extend the runway at Carroll County Regional Airport.

The 2-1 vote was to pursue the Technical Advisory Group’s recommended Alternative 3.

Commissioners Julia W. Gouge and Dean L. Minnich supported the measure, while Commissioner Michael D. Zimmer opposed it.

The plan calls for the runway to be relocated 250 feet west and 600 feet north.

The expected $56 million cost will be funded primarily by the Federal Aviation Administration’s trust fund (95 percent).

The remaining 5 percent will be evenly split between the Maryland Aviation Administration and revenue generated by the airport’s users.

New hangars will be paid for by private enterprises.

“If we had opted to rehabilitate the present runway, the airport would be closed for the better part of a year,” Commissioner Gouge said after the vote. “It is important to note that the county will address all the issues identified in the environmental assessment, which will be reviewed by numerous agencies.”

After the results of the environmental study are known, the Board of County Commissioners will vote on whether to proceed with extending the runway. Construction could begin in 2011.

A new runway would be operational sometime in 2013. It is expected to create “significant economic and fiscal returns” for the county, according to a study by the Sage Policy Group.

# # #

20070612 Colonel Sheridan Promotes New Chief Of Field Operations

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 12, 2007

COLONEL SHERIDAN PROMOTES NEW CHIEF OF FIELD OPERATIONS

(Pikesville, MD) – Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel Terrence B. Sheridan today announced the appointment and promotion of a new Chief of the Field Operations Bureau.

Major Matthew G. Lawrence, 48, was promoted today to Lieutenant Colonel and appointed Chief of the Field Operations Bureau. Lt. Colonel Lawrence is a 27-year veteran of the State Police and most recently served as the Assistant Chief of the Homeland Security and Investigation Bureau.

“Lt. Colonel Lawrence is an outstanding commander who has expertise in a broad spectrum of assignments within the Maryland State Police,” Colonel Sheridan said.

“He is well-respected by the citizens he has served over the years, by law enforcement officials at the local, state, and federal level, and by his fellow troopers. He is an individual with the highest degree of integrity and commitment, who will continue to serve with great dedication.”

Lt. Colonel Lawrence assumed command today of the largest of the three Maryland State Police bureaus. The Field Operations Bureau encompasses all uniformed patrol troopers, the Transportation Safety Command, the Aviation Command, and the Special Operations Division.

Lt. Colonel Lawrence entered the Maryland State Police Academy in October 1980, and began his career as a patrol trooper at the Waldorf Barracks upon graduation. During his career, he also served at the Westminster and North East Barracks as a patrol trooper, patrol supervisor, and criminal investigator.

He was an assistant commander and section commander in the Internal Affairs Unit, Special Operations Unit, Drug Enforcement Division, Technical Surveillance Unit, and Special Investigation Support Unit.

He also served as the chief of staff to the bureau chief of the former Bureau of Drug and Criminal Enforcement.

Promoted to Captain in 1999, he assumed command of the Internal Affairs Unit.

He was promoted to Major in 2003 and took command of the Criminal Investigation Division. In 2004, he became Assistant Chief of the Homeland Security and Investigation Bureau.

Lt. Colonel Lawrence has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Salisbury University and a Master of Science degree from John Hopkins University.

He is also a graduate of the Federal Executive Institute. He resides in Carroll County with his wife and four children.

###

CONTACT: Program Manager Gregory Shipley

Office of Media Communications & Marketing

410-653-4236 (Office) 410-653-4200 (through Headquarters Duty Officer)

20070612 CBS Chief Calls Rather Comments sexist

In a battle of the moonbats…

TV: CBS Chief Calls Rather Comments `sexist'

By SETH SUTEL, The Associated Press 2007-06-12

NEW YORK - CBS Corp. Chief Executive Leslie Moonves shot back at former CBS news anchor Dan Rather on Tuesday, saying remarks Rather made about his successor, Katie Couric, were "sexist."

Rather, speaking on MSNBC by phone on Monday, said CBS had made the mistake of taking the evening news broadcast and "dumbing it down, tarting it up," and playing up topics such as celebrities over war coverage. The comments appeared in blogs and in a story published Tuesday in the New York Daily News.

While referring to Couric as a "nice person," Rather said "the mistake was to try to bring the 'Today' show ethos to the 'Evening News,' and to dumb it down, tart it up in hopes of attracting a younger audience."

Moonves, asked about the remarks at an appearance in New York sponsored by the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University, called the remarks "sexist" and said he was surprised at the amount of negative coverage Couric was receiving. Couric, the first solo female news anchor, has been struggling in the ratings.

"She's been on the air for nine months," Moonves said. "Let's give her a break."

More

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20070612 Commissioners vote to go ahead with airport expansion

Commissioners vote to go ahead with airport expansion

By a vote of 2 to 1, the Carroll County commissioners decided this morning to move forward with plans to expand the Carroll County Regional Airport.

10:25 AM, June 12^th, 2007

Live - remote - blogging the commissioners’ deliberations of the proposed expansion of the airport…

9:56 AM, June 12^th, 2007

Cindy Parr made a brief presentation on the four alternatives as to the proposed expansion of the airport.

At the conclusion of Ms. Parr’s presentation, the president of the board of commissioners, Julia Gouge asked for deliberations.

Commissioner Mike Zimmer led off with a discussion of the safety, quality of life, money and the environmental impacts of the proposed airport expansion.

Before his discussion of those issues he commented that he was satisfied with the process in which the proposed expansion has been considered.

In the end he has come decided upon the no-build option.

Commissioner Dean Minnich then spoke…

He despaired at the misinformation that has been disseminated. He shared that the county is not planning to build Friendship Airport. He commented that improvements to Rte 97 have continued and will be forthcoming.

He said that ever since his first election campaign for commissioner issues of economic development have been discussed…

He noted that the airport is not the lynchpin for economic development but it is a piece…

He lamented that there isn’t anything that we can do that will not have an adverse impact on someone.

He also expressed satisfaction with the process.

He said that he is inclined to favor Option Three.

Commissioner Julia Gouge then spoke. She said that by looking at the outlying area it leads one to conclude that the county will not be building another BWI.

She focused upon the safety aspects of the expanded airport.

She noted that even if the no-build option is chosen the runway will have to be refurbished in the future…

She noted that the airport has been there a long time and anyone who has purchased a home near the airport has known that there is an airport there…

At that board of commissioners’ president Gouge entertained a motion. Commissioner Minnich motioned to adopt Option Three. Commissioner Gouge seconded the motion.

Commissioners Minnich and Gouge voted yes and Commissioner Zimmer voted no.

At the point Commissioner Gouge noted that the next step is to proceed with an environmental study. Commissioner Minnich noted that noise is a component of the environmental study.

10:25 AM

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20070611 Westminster Common Council Meeting Minutes

Westminster Common Council Meeting Minutes

http://www.westgov.com/citygovernment/minutes/061107.asp

City Council

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

Minutes of City of Westminster Council Meeting

JUNE 11, 2007

QUORUM:

A meeting of The Mayor and Common Council was held in City Hall, 1838 Emerald Hill Lane, on the evening of June 11, 2007 at 7:00 P.M. Council President Chiavacci; Council Members Albert, Wack, Utz, and Pecoraro; City Administrator Wolf; Chief Spaulding; Director of Recreation and Parks Schroers; City Treasurer Unger; City Attorney Walsh; and City Clerk Taylor were present.

Council President Chiavacci presented Mayor Ferguson’s reappointment of Stephen Allgeier to the Parks Board. Mr. Pecoraro moved to confirm the reappointment. Mr. Utz seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

Council President Chiavacci introduced Daniel Byrd from Scout Troop 381.

Geographic Information Technician Tim Rogers and Historic District Commission Chairperson Dean Camlin introduced winners of the Preservation Month Scavenger Hunt and distributed their prizes. Mr. Camlin described the contest and noted that the Commission received 57 entries. He added that the Commission intends to hold the contest annually.

MINUTES:

Council President Chiavacci observed that the draft minutes of the March 14, 2007 meeting had been corrected to reflect the fact that three write-in votes were cast for Kevin Dayhoff in that day’s election. Mr. Pecoraro moved to approve the minutes of the meetings of May 7, May 14, and May 21, 2007. Mrs. Albert seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

CONSENT CALENDAR:

Council President Chiavacci summarized the four items on the Consent Calendar: April and May Departmental Operating Reports; renewal of the audit contract; purchase orders for vehicles; and the wireless connection from 56 West Main to 105 Railroad Avenue. Mr. Ehlers explained that the last item would complete the wireless hookup among the main City buildings. Upon Motion of Mrs. Albert, seconded by Mr. Utz and unanimously passed, the Consent Calendar was approved.

REPORTS FROM STANDING COMMITTEES:

Mr. Pecoraro reported that the Growth and Annexation Committee met the preceding week. The Committee has directed staff to discuss with applicants the desirability of bringing pending annexations and good cause waivers for smaller parcels before the Mayor and Common Council in order to move them along. Action on the larger parcels will wait until completion of the permanent Water Allocation Policy, The Capacity Management Plan, which will precede adoption of the permanent Policy, is due to the Maryland Department of the Environment by March 31, 2008. The Committee hopes to submit recommendations to the Mayor and Common Council in the fall.

Mr. Pecoraro noted that the Commissioners would vote on the proposed expansion of the Carroll County Regional Airport the next day. The City requested a presentation on the project from the County several months ago, but the presentation had not yet occurred. Ms. Wolf explained that County Chief of Staff Steve Powell assumed management of the project following the recent departure of another County employee. He would schedule a presentation in the near future. Mr. Pecoraro observed that the City does not yet have enough information to take a position on the expansion. However, the implementation period would be long. At Mr. Pecoraro’s suggestion, Ms. Wolf was directed to prepare a memorandum urging the Commissioners to consider forming an airport advisory commission that would include representatives from the City.

Dr. Wack advised that he met with Ms. Wolf and Mr. Unger to discuss establishment of formal written policies concerning City finances.

Dr. Wack reported that renegotiation of the ten-year City cable franchise would soon begin.

Dr. Wack announced that the annual commemoration of Corbit’s Charge would take place on June 23 and June 24, 2007. He complimented the Pipe Creek Civil War Round Table for assuming oversight of the event.

ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS:

Mr. Schroers summarized a packet of proposed legislation relating to the Recreation and Parks Department. In 2006, the Mayor and Common Council created the position of Director of Recreation and Parks. Subsequently, the Parks Board requested adjustments to the Board’s title and duties. Ordinance 765 would change the Board’s name to the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board and make the other requested changes to Article I, Chapter 7 of the Westminster City Code. Ordinance 766 would make the Director of Recreation and Parks responsible for recommending park rules and regulations to the Mayor and Common Council. The Ordinance also would authorize the Mayor and Common Council to adopt the rules and regulations and to make infractions punishable by an initial fine of $200.00. The accompanying Resolution, R07-7, sets forth the actual rules and regulations, which were last adjusted in 1991. The last piece of legislation in the packet, Resolution R07-8, designates as Locust Lane Park the property owned by the City in the 100 block of East Main Street.

Mr. Pecoraro thanked the Mayor and Council President for following up on citizen concerns about Locust Lane. In response to a question by Dr. Wack, Mr. Walsh advised that representatives from the City and public library would meet to establish uniform regulations for Locust Lane and the front courtyard of the library. At Dr. Wack’s request, Mr. Walsh also advised that he would add language to Resolution R07-7 clarifying the authority of the Director to authorize the use of audio devices in connection with events such as park concerts.

Mr. Pecoraro moved to suspend the Rules of Order and Procedure in order to introduce and adopt Ordinances No. 765 and 766. Mrs. Albert seconded and the Motion passed unanimously. Upon Motion of Mr. Pecoraro, seconded by Mrs. Albert and unanimously passed, the Ordinances were introduced and adopted. Mr. Pecoraro moved to adopt Resolutions R07-7 and R07-8. Dr. Wack seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

Council President Chiavacci noted that the next meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission would take place on June 21, 2007 and that the Mayor and Common Council would next meet on July 9, 2007.

DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS

Mr. Unger reported that the Department has started using the new software for accounts payable. Transfer of payroll and utility bills to the new system will take place during September and October.

Council President Chiavacci complimented Chief Spaulding for coordinating the recent Torch Run for the Special Olympics.

Ms. Wolf reported that staff is working diligently on the water conservation plan. The plan will include an education component and the Community Media Center has been asked to produce a major film about water. She observed that the timing for the film is excellent because of the major projects underway. The Center will produce two versions of the film, one for the general public and the other for school-aged children.

Ms. Wolf noted that the Finance Committee, in addition to formulating new policies, is considering a new budget format. Ms. Wolf announced that the West Green Street project is proceeding on schedule.

Mr. Schroers reported that the basketball court resurfacing and the pool upgrade are

complete. Mr. Schroers also noted that day camp would begin on Monday, June 18, 2007. Mr. Schroers lastly reported that Concerts in the Park would take place each Sunday in July.

CITIZEN COMMENTS:

Several City and County residents voiced disapproval of a proposed expansion of the Carroll County Regional Airport: Victoria Oneda, Kevin Gregor, Dr. Brink, Siniti Oneda, Rebekah Orenstein, Karen Priest, David Taylor, and Beatrice Wolf. Ms. Oneda served as the main spokesperson. The concerns included traffic, noise, safety, and water. Mr. Oneda encouraged formation of an citizens’ advisory commission.

City resident Lyndi McNulty advised that her son, Roger, would travel to Estonia and work as a camp counselor as part of the sister city program with Paide.

City resident Toni Pomeroy, owner of Pomeroy’s Jewelers, thanked the Mayor and Common Council and City staff for promptly addressing her concerns about loitering in the area of Main Street and Locust Lane.

Council President Chiavacci adjourned the meeting at 8:35 P.M.

Laurell E. Taylor

City Clerk

_____

2007 Westminster Common Council Meeting Minutes to date:

January 8, 2007

January 22, 2007

February 12, 2007

February 26, 2007

March 12, 2007

March 26, 2007

April 3, 2007

April 9, 2007

April 23, 2007

May 7, 2007

May 14, 2007

May 21, 2007

June 11, 2007

20070612 Quote of the Day - Good Will

Quote of the Day – Good Will

Tuesday, June 12, 2007

“Good will is the mightiest practical force in the universe.”

Charles Fletcher Dole (1845-1927) Cleric and writer

Thanks TC