20070913 Address by the President to the Nation on the Way Forward in Iraq

For Immediate Release

Office of the Press Secretary

September 13, 2007

Address by the President to the Nation on the Way Forward in Iraq

Oval Office

Video (Windows) /news/releases/2007/09/20070913-2.wm.v.html

Presidential Remarks

Audio

Fact Sheet: "Return On Success" Guiding Principle For Troop Levels In Iraq

9:01 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Good evening. In the life of all free nations, there come moments that decide the direction of a country and reveal the character of its people. We are now at such a moment.

In Iraq, an ally of the United States is fighting for its survival. Terrorists and extremists who are at war with us around the world are seeking to topple Iraq's government, dominate the region, and attack us here at home. If Iraq's young democracy can turn back these enemies, it will mean a more hopeful Middle East and a more secure America. This ally has placed its trust in the United States. And tonight, our moral and strategic imperatives are one: We must help Iraq defeat those who threaten its future and also threaten ours.

Eight months ago, we adopted a new strategy to meet that objective, including a surge in U.S. forces that reached full strength in June. This week, General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker testified before Congress about how that strategy is progressing. In their testimony, these men made clear that our challenge in Iraq is formidable. Yet they concluded that conditions in Iraq are improving, that we are seizing the initiative from the enemy, and that the troop surge is working.

The premise of our strategy is that securing the Iraqi population is the foundation for all other progress. For Iraqis to bridge sectarian divides, they need to feel safe in their homes and neighborhoods. For lasting reconciliation to take root, Iraqis must feel confident that they do not need sectarian gangs for security. The goal of the surge is to provide that security and to help prepare Iraqi forces to maintain it. As I will explain tonight, our success in meeting these objectives now allows us to begin bringing some of our troops home.

Since the surge was announced in January, it has moved through several phases. First was the flow of additional troops into Iraq, especially Baghdad and Anbar province. Once these forces were in place, our commanders launched a series of offensive operations to drive terrorists and militias out of their strongholds. And finally, in areas that have been cleared, we are surging diplomatic and civilian resources to ensure that military progress is quickly followed up with real improvements in daily life.

Anbar province is a good example of how our strategy is working. Last year, an intelligence report concluded that Anbar had been lost to al Qaeda. Some cited this report as evidence that we had failed in Iraq and should cut our losses and pull out. Instead, we kept the pressure on the terrorists. The local people were suffering under the Taliban-like rule of al Qaeda, and they were sick of it. So they asked us for help.

To take advantage of this opportunity, I sent an additional 4,000 Marines to Anbar as part of the surge. Together, local sheiks, Iraqi forces, and coalition troops drove the terrorists from the capital of Ramadi and other population centers. Today, a city where al Qaeda once planted its flag is beginning to return to normal. Anbar citizens who once feared beheading for talking to an American or Iraqi soldier now come forward to tell us where the terrorists are hiding. Young Sunnis who once joined the insurgency are now joining the army and police. And with the help of our provincial reconstruction teams, new jobs are being created and local governments are meeting again.

These developments do not often make the headlines, but they do make a difference. During my visit to Anbar on Labor Day, local Sunni leaders thanked me for America's support. They pledged they would never allow al Qaeda to return. And they told me they now see a place for their people in a democratic Iraq. The Sunni governor of Anbar province put it this way: "Our tomorrow starts today."

The changes in Anbar show all Iraqis what becomes possible when extremists are driven out. They show al Qaeda that it cannot count on popular support, even in a province its leaders once declared their home base. And they show the world that ordinary people in the Middle East want the same things for their children that we want for ours -- a decent life and a peaceful future.

In Anbar, the enemy remains active and deadly. Earlier today, one of the brave tribal sheikhs who helped lead the revolt against al Qaeda was murdered. In response, a fellow Sunni leader declared: "We are determined to strike back and continue our work." And as they do, they can count on the continued support of the United States.

Throughout Iraq, too many citizens are being killed by terrorists and death squads. And for most Iraqis, the quality of life is far from where it should be. Yet General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker report that the success in Anbar is beginning to be replicated in other parts of the country.

One year ago, much of Baghdad was under siege. Schools were closed, markets were shuttered, and sectarian violence was spiraling out of control. Today, most of Baghdad's neighborhoods are being patrolled by coalition and Iraqi forces who live among the people they protect. Many schools and markets are reopening. Citizens are coming forward with vital intelligence. Sectarian killings are down. And ordinary life is beginning to return.

One year ago, much of Diyala province was a sanctuary for al Qaeda and other extremist groups, and its capital of Baqubah was emerging as an al Qaeda stronghold. Today, Baqubah is cleared. Diyala province is the site of a growing popular uprising against the extremists. And some local tribes are working alongside coalition and Iraqi forces to clear out the enemy and reclaim their communities.

One year ago, Shia extremists and Iranian-backed militants were gaining strength and targeting Sunnis for assassination. Today, these groups are being broken up, and many of their leaders are being captured or killed.

These gains are a tribute to our military, they are a tribute to the courage of the Iraqi security forces, and they are the tribute to an Iraqi government that has decided to take on the extremists.

Now the Iraqi government must bring the same determination to achieving reconciliation. This is an enormous undertaking after more than three decades of tyranny and division. The government has not met its own legislative benchmarks -- and in my meetings with Iraqi leaders, I have made it clear that they must.

Yet Iraq's national leaders are getting some things done. For example, they have passed a budget. They're sharing oil revenues with the provinces. They're allowing former Baathists to rejoin Iraq's military or receive government pensions. Local reconciliation is taking place. The key now is to link this progress in the provinces to progress in Baghdad. As local politics change, so will national politics.

Our troops in Iraq are performing brilliantly. Along with Iraqi forces, they have captured or killed an average of more than 1,500 enemy fighters per month since January. Yet ultimately, the way forward depends on the ability of Iraqis to maintain security gains. According to General Petraeus and a panel chaired by retired General Jim Jones, the Iraqi army is becoming more capable -- although there is still a great deal of work to be done to improve the national police. Iraqi forces are receiving increased cooperation from local populations. And this is improving their ability to hold areas that have been cleared.

Because of this success, General Petraeus believes we have now reached the point where we can maintain our security gains with fewer American forces. He has recommended that we not replace about 2,200 Marines scheduled to leave Anbar province later this month. In addition, he says it will soon be possible to bring home an Army combat brigade, for a total force reduction of 5,700 troops by Christmas. And he expects that by July, we will be able to reduce our troop levels in Iraq from 20 combat brigades to 15.

General Petraeus also recommends that in December we begin transitioning to the next phase of our strategy in Iraq. As terrorists are defeated, civil society takes root, and the Iraqis assume more control over their own security, our mission in Iraq will evolve. Over time, our troops will shift from leading operations, to partnering with Iraqi forces, and eventually to overwatching those forces. As this transition in our mission takes place, our troops will focus on a more limited set of tasks, including counterterrorism operations and training, equipping, and supporting Iraqi forces.

I have consulted with the Joint Chiefs of Staff, other members of my national security team, Iraqi officials, and leaders of both parties in Congress. I have benefited from their advice, and I have accepted General Petraeus's recommendations. I have directed General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker to update their joint campaign plan for Iraq, so we can adjust our military and civilian resources accordingly. I have also directed them to deliver another report to Congress in March. At that time, they will provide a fresh assessment of the situation in Iraq and of the troop levels and resources we need to meet our national security objectives.

The principle guiding my decisions on troop levels in Iraq is "return on success." The more successful we are, the more American troops can return home. And in all we do, I will ensure that our commanders on the ground have the troops and flexibility they need to defeat the enemy.

Americans want our country to be safe and our troops to begin coming home from Iraq. Yet those of us who believe success in Iraq is essential to our security, and those who believe we should begin bringing our troops home, have been at odds. Now, because of the measure of success we are seeing in Iraq, we can begin seeing troops come home. The way forward I have described tonight makes it possible, for the first time in years, for people who have been on opposite sides of this difficult debate to come together.

This vision for a reduced American presence also has the support of Iraqi leaders from all communities. At the same time, they understand that their success will require U.S. political, economic, and security engagement that extends beyond my presidency. These Iraqi leaders have asked for an enduring relationship with America. And we are ready to begin building that relationship -- in a way that protects our interests in the region and requires many fewer American troops.

The success of a free Iraq is critical to the security of the United States. A free Iraq will deny al Qaeda a safe haven. A free Iraq will counter the destructive ambitions of Iran. A free Iraq will marginalize extremists, unleash the talent of its people, and be an anchor of stability in the region. A free Iraq will set an example for people across the Middle East. A free Iraq will be our partner in the fight against terror -- and that will make us safer here at home.

Realizing this vision will be difficult, but it is achievable. Our military commanders believe we can succeed. Our diplomats believe we can succeed. And for the safety of future generations of Americans, we must succeed.

If we were to be driven out of Iraq, extremists of all strains would be emboldened. Al Qaeda could gain new recruits and new sanctuaries. Iran would benefit from the chaos and would be encouraged in its efforts to gain nuclear weapons and dominate the region. Extremists could control a key part of the global energy supply. Iraq could face a humanitarian nightmare. Democracy movements would be violently reversed. We would leave our children to face a far more dangerous world. And as we saw on September the 11th, 2001, those dangers can reach our cities and kill our people.

Whatever political party you belong to, whatever your position on Iraq, we should be able to agree that America has a vital interest in preventing chaos and providing hope in the Middle East. We should be able to agree that we must defeat al Qaeda, counter Iran, help the Afghan government, work for peace in the Holy Land, and strengthen our military so we can prevail in the struggle against terrorists and extremists.

So tonight I want to speak to members of the United States Congress: Let us come together on a policy of strength in the Middle East. I thank you for providing crucial funds and resources for our military. And I ask you to join me in supporting the recommendations General Petraeus has made and the troop levels he has asked for.

To the Iraqi people: You have voted for freedom, and now you are liberating your country from terrorists and death squads. You must demand that your leaders make the tough choices needed to achieve reconciliation. As you do, have confidence that America does not abandon our friends, and we will not abandon you.

To Iraq's neighbors who seek peace: The violent extremists who target Iraq are also targeting you. The best way to secure your interests and protect your own people is to stand with the people of Iraq. That means using your economic and diplomatic leverage to strengthen the government in Baghdad. And it means the efforts by Iran and Syria to undermine that government must end.

To the international community: The success of a free Iraq matters to every civilized nation. We thank the 36 nations who have troops on the ground in Iraq and the many others who are helping that young democracy. We encourage all nations to help, by implementing the International Compact to revitalize Iraq's economy, by participating in the Neighbors Conferences to boost cooperation and overcome differences in the region, and by supporting the new and expanded mission of the United Nations in Iraq.

To our military personnel, intelligence officers, diplomats, and civilians on the front lines in Iraq: You have done everything America has asked of you. And the progress I have reported tonight is in large part because of your courage and hard effort. You are serving far from home. Our nation is grateful for your sacrifices, and the sacrifices of your families.

Earlier this year, I received an email from the family of Army Specialist Brandon Stout of Michigan. Brandon volunteered for the National Guard and was killed while serving in Baghdad. His family has suffered greatly. Yet in their sorrow, they see larger purpose. His wife, Audrey, says that Brandon felt called to serve and knew what he was fighting for. And his parents, Tracy and Jeff, wrote me this: "We believe this is a war of good and evil and we must win even if it cost the life of our own son. Freedom is not free."

This country is blessed to have Americans like Brandon Stout, who make extraordinary sacrifices to keep us safe from harm. They are doing so in a fight that is just, and right, and necessary. And now it falls to us to finish the work they have begun.

Some say the gains we are making in Iraq come too late. They are mistaken. It is never too late to deal a blow to al Qaeda. It is never too late to advance freedom. And it is never too late to support our troops in a fight they can win.

Good night, and God bless America.

END 9:18 P.M. EDT

20070913 The president in HD

The president in HD

Thursday, Sept. 13, 2007

Thanks to David Wissing over at the Hedgehog Report – “President Bush Speech Notes/Open Thread” we learn that “tonight's Presidential address from the White House (was) broadcast for the first time in high definition television.”

Mr. Wissing credits TVNewser, “The President In HD” for the information, which notes, “Previous events, including this year's State of the Union address, were in HD but now that the White House is wired, the networks can carry the speech in HiDef.”

But quick, when was the first presidential speech on TV?

The History News Network, “How the White House Discovered Television” cites Christine Gibson in American Heritage : “…the first televised Presidential speech ever…” was “President Harry Truman's speech on October 5, 1947, urging Americans to save wheat…”

The speech and the circumstances are to be the subject of a future column that I am writing to coincide with the anniversary. I had come across the information before and then when I was at the Truman Key West “Little White House” this past February, I gained some more insight into the event. See: 20070214 President Harry Truman and Gauging a presidential legacy.

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Florida Key West, President George W. Bush, President Harry S Truman, The Tentacle, History American Presidents

Kevin Dayhoff writes from Westminster Maryland USA.

www.kevindayhoff.net

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 and Winchester Report.

####

20070913 Excerpts From The President’s Address To The Nation

EXCERPTS FROM THE PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS TO THE NATION

9:00 PM Thursday, September 13, 2007

As Prepared for Delivery

Tonight President Bush will address the Nation from the Oval Office to lay out his plan for the way forward in Iraq.

On keeping us safe here at home:

In Iraq, an ally of the United States is fighting for its survival. Terrorists and extremists who are at war with us around the world are seeking to topple Iraq’s government, dominate the region, and attack us here at home.

This ally has placed its trust in the United States. And tonight, our moral and strategic imperatives are one: We must help Iraq defeat those who threaten its future and also threaten ours.

On the success of the surge:

The premise of our strategy is that securing the Iraqi population is the foundation for all other progress. The goal of the surge is to provide that security and to help prepare Iraqi forces to maintain it. As I will explain tonight, our success in meeting these objectives now allows us to begin bringing some of our troops home.

On political progress:

Now the Iraqi government must bring the same determination to achieving reconciliation. This is an enormous undertaking after more than three decades of tyranny and division. The government has not met its own legislative benchmarks and in my meetings with Iraqi leaders, I have made it clear that they must.

Yet Iraq’s national leaders are getting some things done. For example, they have passed a budget. They are sharing oil revenues with the provinces. And local reconciliation is taking place. The key now is to link this progress in the provinces to progress in Baghdad. As local politics change, so will national politics.

On the principle of “Return on Success”:

The principle guiding my decisions on troop levels in Iraq is “return on success.” The more successful we are, the more American troops can return home. And in all we do, I will ensure that our commanders on the ground have the troops and flexibility they need to defeat the enemy.

On coming together as a Nation to support this mission:

Americans want our country to be safe, and our troops to begin coming home from Iraq. Yet those of us who believe success in Iraq is essential to our security, and those who believe we should bring our troops home, have been at odds. Now, because of the measure of success we are seeing in Iraq, we can begin seeing troops come home.

The way forward I have described tonight makes it possible, for the first time in years, for people who have been on opposite sides of this difficult debate to come together.

On an enduring relationship with Iraq that requires many fewer American troops:

This vision for a reduced American presence also has the support of Iraqi leaders from all communities. At the same time, they understand that their success will require U.S. political, economic, and security engagement that extends beyond my Presidency. These Iraqi leaders have asked for an enduring relationship with America. And we are ready to begin building that relationship - in a way that protects our interests in the region and requires many fewer American troops.

On why we must succeed:

The success of a free Iraq is critical to the security of the United States.

Realizing this vision will be difficult - but it is achievable. Our military commanders believe we can succeed. Our diplomats believe we can succeed. And for the safety of future generations of Americans, we must succeed.

Whatever political party you belong to, whatever your position on Iraq, we should be able to agree that America has a vital interest in preventing chaos and providing hope in the Middle East. We should be able to agree that we must defeat al Qaeda, counter Iran, help the Afghan government, work for peace in the Holy Land, and strengthen our military so we can prevail in the struggle against terrorists and extremists.

So tonight I want to speak to Members of the United States Congress: Let us come together on a policy of strength in the Middle East. I thank you for providing crucial funds and resources for our military. And I ask you to join me in supporting the recommendations General Petraeus has made, and the troop levels he has asked for.

On the gains we are making in Iraq:

Some say the gains we are making in Iraq come too late. They are mistaken. It is never too late to deal a blow to al Qaeda. It is never too late to advance freedom. And it is never too late to support our troops in a fight they can win.

# # #

20070912 Westminster Eagle: Eagles top Owls to gain early edge in county

Eagles top Owls to gain early edge in county

09/12/07 By Steve Jones

Westminster Eagle

For the latest in Carroll County Sports coverage, read Steve Jones in the Westminster Eagle

Related on Soundtrack: Sports in Carroll County, Sports in Carroll County Football, Sports in Carroll County Football Westminster High School

See also: 20070912 Westminster Eagle: Carroll County High School Football Results and Schedule

Also see: 20070907 Francis Scott Key vs Westminster High Game Video Clips

And: 20070919 Part 1 of Herb Ruby and Ruby Field - Resetting a local gem to mark Ruby Field

Westminster Eagle sports writer wrote:

Thomas' run clinches season-opening victory

They gained only five yards of total offense in the first half and made only seven first downs the entire game.

Their best player was limited to less than two yards per carry, and they didn't complete a single pass during the warm, muggy night.

Yet somehow, Francis Scott Key found a way to win.

The Eagles utilized a standout defense that limited Westminster to just 53 yards on the ground and big plays from two unlikely heroes to record a 14-9 win over the host Westminster Owls in the season opener for both teams Friday night.

While the Westminster defense bottled up last year's county rushing leader Brad Martz for most of the contest, the Eagles got game-changing plays from two less heralded running backs.

Dustin Ebaugh raced 22 yards for a third-quarter touchdown and David Thomas added the clinching score on a 55-yard run with just over two minutes remaining.

"Everybody knows about Brad, but we also have other playmakers," said Key's second-year head coach Bill Hyson. "Dustin came close to popping some long runs and David had a nice one for the touchdown. Along with Tyler Bridges, they're going to give Brad some opportunities down the road, because defenses will have to start respecting them, too."

The win enabled defending county champion Key to take an early lead in the county race.

The Eagles host a formidable North Carroll team this Friday, while Westminster travels to South Carroll to continue the county's oldest rivalry.

Key gained just five total yards in the first half, as Westminster clearly won the battle at the line of scrimmage. Martz, who led the county with 1,443 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns a year ago, had seven carries for minus-8 yards in the opening half.

The Owls picked up nine first downs to just one for the Eagles, but Westminster could not convert opportunities into points. On their opening drive, the Owls kept the ball for 13 plays but did not score. On Westminster's next possession, a 10-play march resulted in the only points of the first half, as Tom Magrogan booted a 31-yard field goal that gave the Owls a 3-0 lead at the break.

"How many opportunities did we have that we didn't take advantage of in the first half?," said Westminster head coach Brad Wilson, who watched the Owls lose their first season opener in his four years at the helm. "We made young mistakes and just didn't finish."

Francis Scott Key scored on its first possession of the second half. After Thomas returned a Bobby Krauk punt to the Westminster 36-yard line, the Eagles needed just five plays to reach the end zone. Ebaugh followed the blocking of Martz and dashed for a 22-yard touchdown to put Francis Scott Key ahead for good with 6:50 left in the third quarter.

The teams picked up a combined three first downs on the next nine series, as the defenses dominated into the latter stages of the fourth quarter.

Krauk sailed a 55-yard punt past Thomas that was downed at the Eagle 37, and Martz moved Key to midfield with a 13-yard burst up the middle. After a delay of game penalty, Thomas put the game away for the Eagles.

The senior running back moved through a sizable hole then cut to the left sideline and outraced two Westminster defenders for a 55-yard touchdown that gave Key a 14-3 advantage with 2:05 remaining in the game.

"I can't say enough about the blocking of our line," said Thomas, who led all rushers with 74 yards on seven carries. "We didn't change our blocking schemes (in the second half). We just came out and played hard."

Westminster found new life on its next offensive play.

Senior running back Hunter Smith took a short screen pass from sophomore quarterback Andy Gilford and raced 73 yards down the right sideline for the Owls' only touchdown of the night with 1:45 remaining.

Smith was stopped short on the two-point conversion try, but a well-placed onside kick by junior John Hajnos was recovered by Westminster at the Key 49.

The Eagles' defense smothered Westminster on its final offensive series to preserve the win, as Key linebackers David Groomes and Dean Seal sacked Gilford on consecutive plays to end the game.

"I was proud of their effort," Hyson said of his defense, which yielded just 189 total yards. "We were fortunate to be down only 3-0 (at half-time) with the short field that we were playing on."

Smith, who was the only Owl back to run with the ball, accounted for most of Westminster's offensive output.

A former wide receiver who was moved to running back after senior Jesse Astlin suffered a season-ending injury in a late August scrimmage, Smith gained 68 yards on 20 carries and also caught five passes for 75 yards.

In his first start, Gilford completed 16 of 33 passes for 136 yards and one score. Junior linebacker Brett Baer led the Owl defensive effort, recording a game-high nine tackles while also playing a strong game on the offensive line.

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20070907 Francis Scott Key vs Westminster High Video Clip 1

20070907 Francis Scott Key vs Westminster High Game Clip 2

20070907 Francis Scott Key vs Westminster High Game Clip 3

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20070907 Francis Scott Key vs Westminster High Game Video Clips

Westminster High School – Francis Scott Key football game at Ruby Field on Friday, Sept. 7 in Carroll County Maryland. www.kevindayhoff.net

Francis Scott Key vs Westminster High Game Video Clips

September 7, 2007

I took three quick videos at the Westminster – Francis Scott Key football game on Friday, Sept. 7 in Carroll County Maryland.

I had the pleasure to attend the “rededication” of the “Ruby Field” sign under the scoreboard at the Westminster High School football field right before the Westminster – Francis Scott Key football game on Friday, Sept. 7.

After the rededication ceremonies, I stayed to watch some of the game and took several short videos…

Update: Steve Jones, writing in the Westminster Eagle, wrote about the game on September 12, 2007:

“The Eagles utilized a standout defense that limited Westminster to just 53 yards on the ground and big plays from two unlikely heroes to record a 14-9 win over the host Westminster Owls in the season opener for both teams Friday night.”

More: 20070912 Westminster Eagle: Eagles top Owls to gain early edge in county

Westminster Eagle

For the latest in Carroll County Sports coverage, read Steve Jones in the Westminster Eagle

Related on Soundtrack: Sports in Carroll County, Sports in Carroll County Football, Sports in Carroll County Football Westminster High School

20051207 Carroll Public Schools’ Extracurricular Activities teaches values

Update: See also: 20070912 Westminster Eagle: Carroll County High School Football Results and Schedule

And:

20070912 Westminster Eagle: Eagles top Owls to gain early edge in county

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20070907 Francis Scott Key vs Westminster High Video Clip 1

20070907 Francis Scott Key vs Westminster High Game Clip 2

20070907 Francis Scott Key vs Westminster High Game Clip 3

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Kevin Dayhoff September 7^th, 2007 www.kevindayhoff.net

20070907 Francis Scott Key vs Westminster High Game Video Clips

20070912 Westminster Eagle: Carroll County High School Football Results and Schedule

Westminster Eagle: Carroll County High School Football Results and Schedule

High School Football Results & Schedule

Westminster Eagle

For the latest in Carroll County Sports coverage, read Steve Jones in the Westminster Eagle

Related on Soundtrack: Sports in Carroll County, Sports in Carroll County Football, Sports in Carroll County Football Westminster High School

09/12/07

Friday, September 7, 2007

Century 35, South Hagerstown 20

Francis Scott Key 14, Westminster 9

Middletown 53, Liberty 36

North Carroll 32, Joppatowne 17

South Carroll 26, Williamsport 6

Winters Mill 13, Walkersville 7

Friday, September 14, 2007

Century at Walkersville (7 p.m.)

Frederick at Winters Mill (7 p.m.)

Liberty at Brunswick (7 p.m.)

North Carroll at Francis Scott Key (7 p.m.)

Westminster at South Carroll (7 p.m.)

Winters Mill 13, Walkersville 7

Game of the Week

North Carroll at Francis Scott Key

Friday, 7 p.m.

Both teams won their season openers last week. Francis Scott Key used a second-half rally to edge Westminster, 14-9, while North Carroll powered over Joppatowne by a 32-17 score. It will be a battle between North Carroll's explosive offense and the Eagles' stout defense. With one county victory in hand, Francis Scott Key can take a solid lead in the Carroll race with a win over the visiting Panthers.

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20070912 News Clips

News Clips

Sept. 12, 2007

STATE NEWS

A Dixon victory

Rawlings-Blake defeats Sarbanes in Democratic race for City Council president amid low turnout

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/elections/bal-te.md.ci.elect12sep12,0,5780061.story?coll=bal_tab01_layout

Sheila Dixon, the hard-driving West Baltimore politician who became the city's first female mayor, easily defeated Keiffer J. Mitchell Jr., a scion of one of the nation's prominent civil rights families, in a low-turnout Democratic mayoral primary yesterday. In the race for City Council president, Stephanie C. Rawlings-Blake, the incumbent, beat Michael Sarbanes in a contest that pitted the children of two respected political leaders against each other.

"I have never been more honored in my life than I am right now at this very moment," Dixon, 53, told jubilant supporters at a Canton victory party last night. "I am your humble servant and will work tirelessly on your behalf."

Disillusion with City Hall has many voting by not voting

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/bal-marbella0912,0,962030.column?coll=bal_tab01_layout

Howard Hamlin wouldn't cross the street to vote yesterday. Literally. "I've given up because of so many disappointments," Hamlin said. "They say one thing and do another." I guess you could say Hamlin, a tractor-trailer driver, voted by not voting. Most of the city, in fact, voted against voting yesterday, with election officials reporting one of the lowest turnouts for a mayoral contest in years - about 28 percent, or close to 83,000 voters. It i sn't for lack of issues - people so often cite the two main ones that I've started to think of them as one word, crimeandschools. It wasn't for lack of candidates, many of whom offered plans and even, in some cases, generated personal enthusiasm.

But for the most part, there seems to be a disconnect: People know what the problems are - they've certainly been around long enough - and yet they've stopped believing the solutions are going to come from City Hall.

Arundel executive's dinner party raises money, eyebrows

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/annearundel/bal-md.ar.leopold12sep12,0,2587257.story

Many of the guests were developers with multimillion-dollar projects planned in Anne Arundel County. The price of admission was the state maximum for a campaign contribution: $4,000. And the host at Monday night's exclusive dinner at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront was County Executive John R. Leopold, who was swept into office pledging that developers would no longer be allowed "to drive public policy in the county." John G. Gary, a Republican who served as county executive from 1994 to 1998, said he doesn't "see anything wrong" with Leopold's fundraising because it's a fact of life in politics.

Talks on ash upset panel

Lack of updates by state and BBSS frustrates council

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/annearundel/bal-ar.ash12sep12,0,6955144.story

Anne Arundel County Council members expressed frustration yesterday that they know little about negotiations between the state's environmental agency and the operator of a fly-ash dump site to clean up contaminated wat er in Gambrills.

Without updates from either the Maryland Department of the Environment or the dump operator, BBSS Inc., the council members said it's difficult for them to make an informed decision on a bill to ban the further dumping of coal ash, a byproduct of coal-fired power plants.

"If we are going to have a bill on such an important subject, it would be nice to have MDE here," said County Council Chairman Ronald C. Dillon Jr.

Councilwoman Cathleen M. Vitale said she had some "fundamental questions." "There are discussions between MDE and Constellation, and we have no sense about what those negotiations are," said Vitale, a Severna Park Republican. "I feel like we are doing this in a hole."

BGE demands GOP stop mailing spoof statements

http://www.examiner.com/a-929978~BGE_demands_GOP_stop_mailing_spoof_sta tements.html

The parent company of Baltimore Gas and Electric is demanding Baltimore County's Republican central committee stop mailing spoof billing statements that mock the company and the governor.

"It is obvious that the party is using the mark and the BGE [overall appearance] to draw attention to its mailing and to deceive recipients about the identity of the mailing's author," Constellation attorney Steven Tiller wrote in a letter to party Chairman Chris Cavey this week.

Constellation is threatening a lawsuit if the party does not stop distributing the mailing and is demanding the names and addresses of all recipients.

Cavey said the committee has already complied with Constellation's request and said the committee never intended "anything malicious."

Lawyers: Panhandling law unfairly targets homeless

http://www.examiner.com/a-929962~Lawyers__Panhandling_law_unfairly_targets_homeless.html

An Anne Arundel County plan to fine roadside panhandlers $500 unfairly targets the poor, say homeless and free-speech advocates. "They are making it a crime to be poor and homeless," said Mary Slicher, executive director of Project for People Lacking Adequate Shelter and Employment. The ACLU, noting politicians can still campaign on Anne Arundel streets, raised concerns about this apparent double standard. "If it's unconstitutional to prevent politicians from asking for money, it's unconstitutional to ban poor people from asking for money," said David Rocah, staff attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union.

Rocah dismissed Anne Arundel County Executive John R. Leopold's argument that the panhandling ban was to save solicitors from getting hurt in traffic. "If it's safe for politicians, it's safe for other people," Rocah said.

Tax Is Deemed Legal but Unwise

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/11/AR2007091102028.html

A special tax designed to repay developers for roads, green space and other amenities at Clarksburg Town Center is legal but could lead to overpaying developers who may be able to seek repayment more than once for the same project, a Montgomery County report said yesterday.

Taxpayers might be asked to pay twice for some amenities because developers who have been reimbursed for projects are allowed to try to include them in the special taxing district, known as a development district. Council staff members said yesterday that no developer has been paid twice.

Development Ban Lifted, With Caveats

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/11/AR2007091102045.html

City leaders in Annapolis, where many residents have long complained that growth is changing the face of the historic community, voted this week to lift a moratorium on major development and limit growth to areas with adequate public infrastructure and services.

Monday's action came more than a year after the City Council decided, in July 2006, to impose the moratorium until a so-called adequate public facilities ordinance could be adopted. The ordinance requires that, if necessary, developers add or upgrade public infrastructure, including water and sewer, storm water, recreational and maintenance facilities.

Alderman David H. Cordle Sr. (R-Ward 5), who helped introduce the bill Sept. 11, 2006, said, "It's time to stop dragging our feet with it." Cordle noted that by addressing traffic in the adequate pu blic facilities ordinance, the city might effectively cede authority to the state and county, which oversee many of the roadways in Annapolis.

"We would lose every bit of power we have," Cordle said.

Ehrlich Not Ready to Stop Lambasting Democrats

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/11/AR2007091102049.html

Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. is nearly nine months removed from the governor's mansion, but he is still seeking money from supporters to counter the "liberals" in Annapolis.

In a solicitation sent last week, Maryland's former Republican governor -- who has been coy about his political future -- asks for donations of $120 to help pay for newsletters and other communications "needed to tell the truth about Annapolis."

Most of Ehrlich's firepower is directed at plans to close part of a looming $1.5 billion state budget shortfall with tax increases. "The liberals in Annapolis are talking about holding a special session of the legislature this fall -- when they think no one will be paying attention -- to push their tax hikes through," Ehrlich writes.

If Ehrlich does not seek a grudge match with O'Malley in 2010, he has the option of running for the U.S. Senate seat now held by Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski (D-Md.).

EDITORIALS/OP[EDS

Patience and politics

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/opinion/editorial/bal-ed.feud12sep12,0,6013527.story

Gov. Martin O'Malley reignited his public clash with state schools Superintendent Nancy S. Grasmick last week, suggesting that he will soon be looking for her replacement. But for all Mr. O'Malley's wishful thinking, and whatever one may think about some of Ms. Grasmick's actions, she does not serve at the pleasure of the governor - nor should she.

Ms. Grasmick is one of the longest-serving superintendents in the state and the nation, and she enjoys a wide reputation for raising standards and pushing accountability.

Her bosses are the 12 members of the Maryland State Board of Education, and her latest four-year contract runs until June 30, 2008.

The long view
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/opinion/editorial/bal-ed.cityracesf12sep12,0,7096646.story

As mayor, Sheila Dixon should be looking forward now. She can afford to stop taking it "one day at a time"; her first-pl ace finish in yesterday's Democratic primary gave her that.

And while Ms. Dixon does have a Republican challenger, the last time voters elected a mayor from the GOP was 1963 and Birmingham was erupting, political bosses ruled City Hall, and Ms. Dixon was 10 years old.

The issues most on Baltimore voters' minds today - crime, schools, housing - are complex problems that deserve urgent attention, but also sound thinking and comprehensive solutions that involve every strata of the city

State's suburbs nurture diversity

Region saw 38% rise in immigrants in 6 years, census figures show
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/bal-te.md.census12sep12,0,3210232.story?coll=bal_tab01_layout

Marylanders are increasingly diverse and better educated and endure commutes more grueling than those in nearly any ot her state in the nation, according to figures released today by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Immigrants are fueling population growth even in places not previously known for having ethnic enclaves.

"It's partially a spillover from the Washington metro area," said Audrey Singer, an immigration fellow at the Brookings Institution in Washington, adding that relative affordability makes the Baltimore area attractive to new arrivals.

Unlike decades past, immigrants are bypassing cities for the suburbs, said Singer, who noted that the immigrant population of the Baltimore suburbs doubled in the 1990s.

Don't drink the tax Kool-Aid

http://www.examiner.com/a-929947~Editorial__Don_t_drink_the_tax_Kool_Aid.html

The tax code favors the rich?

That's Gov. Martin O'Malley and certain Democratic state legislators' deceptive potion as they canvas state media declaring the need to raise taxes on everyone in the form of higher state income and sales taxes to finance the $1.5 billion "structural" deficit.

Legislators consistently spend more of our money than we have, and extra money to play with provides no incentive to cut waste.

Until they address the core reason for the "structural" deficit, all tax debate should be canceled.

Now more than ever, we need the ICC

http://www.gazette.net/stories/091207/montedi201234_32360.shtml

There's a new kink in the contorted battle over a vital highway, the Intercounty Connector between Interstate 270 in Gaithersburg and I-95 in Laurel.

A raft load of political leaders in neighboring Prince George's County are throwing their support behind a federal lawsuit filed by environmental groups and homeowners to block the thoroughfare's construction, parts of which are already under way.

In addition to flagging worries that the ICC will decimate the environment, and that the lengthy review and approval process ignored fresh studies on air and water pollution, the politicians also are fretting the $2 billion-plus price tag of the toll road is imprudent as Maryland stares down a budget crisis.

Political dialogue on taxes needed

Necessary opposition ideas are missing from state battle

http://www.delmarvanow.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070912/OPINION01/709120395

Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley is towering high on the tax hike bully pulpit, and no one seems to want to step up and challenge him with any alternatives to raising a slew of state levies.

The two-party system in Maryland might be at its weakest point ever. The absence of Republicans in the tax hike battles means that O'Malley only has to convince his Democratic counterparts that more taxes are needed.

Their resistance, at least so far, can only be described as passive at best. The point here isn't that Republicans are needed to keep taxes from being raised; the point is that an opposition party which offers counterpoint ideas is needed to ensure some checks and balances.

All we're hearing now is the sound of one hand clapping. Political dialogue is needed -- quickly.

NATIONAL NEWS

District 1 candidate field builds

7 have filed, 3 are considering -- and there's still months to go in Congressional race

http://www.delmarvanow.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070912/NEWS01/709120360/1002

With exactly five months until Maryland's 1st Congressional District voters cast their primary ballot Feb. 12, seven candidates have stated their intentions to run, and three more could make an announcement soon.

A race this crowded hasn't been seen on the Eastern Shore since 1996 when 12 challengers -- seven Democrats and five Republicans -- filed to remove U.S. Rep. Wayne Gilchrest, R-Md., from office after his third term. Gilchrest took 65 percent of vote in the primary, and defeated Steven R. Eastaugh in the general election by 50,000 votes. Despite the increased competition, Gilchrest has not altered a single campaign strategy.

"He feels that if he does a good job, and explains why he votes the way he does, then people can make an intelligent decision and re-elect him," said Tony Caligiuri, Gilchrest's spokesperson. "Honest to God, he does not have campaign strategy sessions about these kinds of things.

"Gilchrest reported more than $350,000 in cash on hand in last quarterly filing. His key challenger, state Sen. Andy Harris, R-7-Baltimore County, earned about $175,000 for his war chest. Harris's campaign has scheduled a major fundraiser Oct. 18 with former Republican Gov. Robert Ehrlich.

Fighting for BRAC dollars

Brown: Minority business issues still need attention

http://www.gazette.net/stories/091207/busimlo204731_32356.sh tml

The Pentagon's Base Realignment and Closure program is expected to create a multibillion-dollar contracting pie in Maryland in the coming years. For one thing, the BRAC program does not contain specific minority contracting goals, officials said during a meeting Sept. 5 in Silver Spring coordinated by the Maryland?District of Columbia Minority Supplier Development Council.

The state's goal is to award 25 percent of contracts to minority- and women-owned companies. That figure was 22 percent last fiscal year, up from 15.6 percent in 2003, according to a state report. Brown said he will ''engage the federal delegation" - including Sens. Barbara Mikulski and Benjamin Cardin - to make sure the process allows minority businesses a fair opportunity to win BRAC-related contracts.

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