20071109 Veterans Day and Remembering Vietnam: “The Wall at 25” by the Smithsonian Channel

Veterans Day and Remembering Vietnam: “The Wall at 25” by the Smithsonian Channel

November 9^th, 2007

Paull Young, Smithsonian Channel Community Administrator, has been in touch in reference to my post on “Soundtrack” on November 3rd, 2007: 20071101 Smithsonian Channel: Tribute to Brig. Gen. Paul W. Tibbets:

Hi Kevin,

I saw your post on the Smithsonian Channel and wanted to share this promo for ‘The Men Who Brought Dawn’:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iQ2pyEZefs

The Smithsonian Channel is airing a special block of programming ‘America’s War Stories’ (on Direct TV) featuring both ‘The Men Who Brought Dawn’ and a new documentary ‘Remembering Vietnam – The Wall at 25’ that Jan Scrugg (Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund founder and president) calls “the best documentary about the wall I’ve ever seen”. After reading your post I thought you might like to check it out.

You can view a promo of the show here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJrCN83mb8o

Remembering Vietnam will be streamed live on the Smithsonian Channel website (www.smithsonianchannel.com) concurrent with its High Definition premiere on Veterans Day, Sunday, Nov. 11 at 9pm EST / 6pm PST. You can get all the information about it here.”

A big thank you to Paull Young, the Smithsonian Channel Community Administrator, for being in touch.

For more information on the program, Remembering Vietnam: “The Wall at 25” by the Smithsonian Channel, please read my colleague at The Westminster Eagle’s article in the Wednesday, November 7^th, 2007 edition of the paper, “Documentary recalls a life on 'The Wall' By Heidi Schroeder.”

Please note that unfortunately this link is not a permalink. A permalink will be assigned to the article after the piece is placed in archives. So if you are reading this post several weeks after it is published, please go to The Westminster Eagle, and look for the article in archives.

For more information on Lance Cpl. Muriel Stanley Groomes, a Carroll Countian who was killed in Vietnam on Nov. 2, 1968, please read my column in The Sunday Carroll Eagle, this Sunday, November 11, 2007.

And my Westminster Eagle column for Wednesday November 7^th, 2007 is Jerry Barnes: county state's attorney and veteran : “As Veterans Day fast approaches -- it's this Sunday, Nov. 11 -- it's appropriate to remember that service to our country is a cherished tradition in Carroll County. And so it was that in May 1968, Jerry F. Barnes joined the U.S. Army. Today, we know Mr. Barnes as Carroll County State's Attorney....” [Read full story] [Again - - Please note that unfortunately this link is not a permalink. A permalink will be assigned to the article after the piece is placed in archives. So if you are reading this post several weeks after it is published, please go to The Westminster Eagle, and look for the article in archives.]

Finally, my column in this Sunday’s The Tentacle will also be on Carroll County State’s Attorney Jerry Barnes and the Remembering Vietnam: “The Wall at 25” by the Smithsonian Channel:

“Remembering Vietnam - The Wall at 25,” is the subject of a stunning original Smithsonian Channel Documentary. The program will be simultaneously web-streamed on the Smithsonian Channel Website - www.smithsonianchannel.com with its on-air broadcast to DirecTV subscribers on Channel 267 this evening at 8 p.m. and 11 p.m.

My colleague at The Westminster Eagle, Heidi Schroeder and I were provided an advance copy of the documentary. We had been contacted for research information by Lynn Kessler-Hiltajczuk last summer.

Ms. Kessler-Hiltajczuk is a writer-producer for Alexandria-based LK Productions and served as an independent producer for the program. She was looking for additional information on Lance Cpl. Muriel Stanley Groomes, a Carroll Countian who was killed in Vietnam on Nov. 2, 1968.

Ms. Schroeder writes that in “addition to a history of The Wall's construction and interviews with veterans, the documentary provides a sneak peek into the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Collection, which features over 100,000 items that have been left at The Wall.”

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund founder and president Jan Scruggs calls the program "the best documentary film about the wall I've ever seen." After reviewing it several times, I could not agree more.

[…]

_____

REMEMBERING VIETNAM: THE WALL AT 25

A stirring, surprising and emotional history of a national shrine devoted to remembrance and reflection. The famous “Wall” celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.

Remembering Vietnam: The Wall at 25 goes back in time to tell the story of the memorial through the eyes of those who conceived it, those who were instrumental in pushing it through bureaucratic and political resistance, those intimately involved with its 25-year history, and those it honors. Above all, the documentary tells the story of a place that is more than a memorial – it is a place where old wounds are healed.

Press Release Source: Smithsonian Networks

http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/071031/nyw096.html?.v=101

'Remembering Vietnam - The Wall at 25,' Original Smithsonian Channel(TM) Documentary, to be Streamed on Smithsonian Channel Website on Veterans Day (Sunday, Nov. 11)

Wednesday October 31, 11:00 am ET

NEW YORK, Oct. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- "Remembering Vietnam - The Wall at 25" - - an original documentary about the history of the famous monument in Washington, D.C. -- will be streamed on www.smithsonianchannel.com, the Smithsonian Channel website, concurrent with its premiere on Veterans Day, Sunday, Nov. 11 at 8 pm and 11 pm ET/PT.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund founder and president Jan Scruggs calls it "the best documentary film about the wall I've ever seen."

"We felt this documentary was so powerful that we wanted to make it possible for this moving and important program to be seen by all Americans as we honor the soldiers who have fought for our country this Veterans Day," said Tom Hayden, General Manager, Smithsonian Networks.

The one-hour documentary is produced by filmmaker Lynn Kessler, and is part of a package of original programs to be shown in honor of Veterans Day beginning Friday, November 9 and continuing through Sunday, November 11.

Smithsonian Channel is currently available on DIRECTV's Channel 267.

ABOUT SMITHSONIAN NETWORKS:

Smithsonian Networks (SN) is a joint venture between Showtime Networks Inc. and the Smithsonian Institution. It was formed to create new channels that will showcase scientific, cultural and historical programming largely inspired by the assets of the Smithsonian Institution, the world's largest museum complex. The networks will feature original documentaries, short- subject explorations and innovative and groundbreaking programs highlighting America's historical, cultural and scientific heritage. Visit them on the internet at www.smithsonianchannel.com

---

Source: Smithsonian Networks

20071106 Westminster Road Runners Club: Brown, Baker Bash Competition at Union Mills 8K

Westminster Road Runners Club: Brown, Baker Bash Competition at Union Mills 8K

By Dr. David Herlocker, November 6^th, 2007

Karsten Brown repeated his 2006 win and Ashley Baker won by over five minutes as they dominated the field at the Union Mills 8K, held on November 4.

Karsten pushed his way through the one mile mark in 6:01, fifteen seconds ahead of Westminster High runner Ryan Taylor and thirty seconds ahead of Tom Yinger. All other males by this time were in a different area code.

Not content with such a slow first mile, Karsten ran the rest of the race at a sub 6:00 per mile pace. Reaching the four mile mark in 23:40, he was almost two and a half minutes ahead of Taylor, who led Yinger by twenty seconds.

At the finish line Karsten's margin was over three minutes, and his winning time was twenty-three seconds better than last year's. Taylor finished twenty-three seconds ahead of Yinger (those numbers are correct), with Spencer Hamblen outsprinting first masters runner Bob Leatherman to the finish to finish fourth.

Baker, whose 7:19 time at the one mile mark placed her fourth overall and with a thirty-five second lead over Linda Morris, slowed slightly during the remainder of the race. She was, however, never threatened, finishing seventh overall with a 7:30 per mile pace and a five minute and twenty-one second margin.

Morris finished second as the first masters runner by a very narrow margin over last year's winner Chrissy Pennington. While Pennington's time for this year's race was four minutes and fifteen seconds slower than last year's, the fact that only two months ago she was still carrying young Sadie Pennington is probably a valid reason for the difference. Chrissy vows to do better at the next race, which will be a four mile run at 9:00 am on November 18 at Runnymede Elementary School.

1. Karsten Brown 33 M 29:10

2. Ryan Taylor 15 M 32:30

3. Tom Yinger 37 M 32:53

4. Spencer Hamblen 30 M 36:47

5. Bob Leatherman 55 M 36:49 first 50-59 male

6. Joe Loveland 58 M 37:02 second 50-59 male

7. Ashley Baker 22 F 37:30 first female

8. Klaus Lemke 47 M 38:51 first 40-49 male

9. Scott Kohr 45 M 40:07 second 40-49 male

10. Jim Bullock 64 M 42:30 first 60 and over male

11. Linda Morris 47 F 42:51 second female, first 40-49 female

12. Chrissy Pennington 32 F 42:51 third female

13. Tim Nappal 49 M 44:14 third 40-49 male

14. Gary Baker 54 M 44:38 third 50-59 male

15. Michelle Simpson 49 F 45:41 second 40-49 female

16. Jack Klein 62 M 46:18 second 60 and over male

17. Vicki Borders 50 F 46:58 first 50-59 female

18. Sharon Larrimore 49 F 47:27 third 40-49 female

19. Nancy Myers 38 F 48:34

20. Glenn Smink 58 M 51:28

20071107 State Police Trooper and NCO of the Year Named

State Police Trooper and NCO of the Year Named

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 7, 2007

STATE POLICE TROOPER AND NCO OF THE YEAR NAMED - BOTH TROOPERS WORK IN CARROLL COUNTY

(Pikesville, MD) Outstanding police work above and beyond the call of duty was the order of the day as the awards for the Maryland State Police Trooper of the Year and Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year were announced at ceremonies held today.

Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel Terrence B. Sheridan congratulated Trooper First Class Eric D. Workman, who won 2006 Trooper of the Year honors and Sergeant Robert J. Stryjewski, Jr., who was named the 2006 Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year.

TFC Workman, who was chosen from among 32 Trooper of the Year nominees, is assigned to the Westminster Barracks Criminal Investigation Section. Sergeant Stryjewski supervises the Carroll County Drug Task Force and was one of 28 nominated non-commissioned officers.

“Both Sgt. Stryjewski and TFC Workman have distinguished themselves as dedicated public servants who are committed to serving and protecting the people of Maryland,” Colonel Sheridan said. “I am very proud of them and appreciate their willingness to lead by example. They have upheld the highest standards of the Maryland State Police and the law enforcement profession through their outstanding service.”

In early 2006, TFC Workman developed a robbery questionnaire that was used to capture vital suspect information and has become an important tool for use by State Police investigators. On his own initiative, TFC Workman applied for and obtained grants for video enhancing equipment. This equipment has enabled police in Carroll County to analyze and enhance surveillance photos and video more effectively.

TFC Workman initiated a warrant sweep in Carroll County that involved extensive investigation. His work resulted in 11 hard to find fugitives being apprehended.

In 2006, TFC Workman was assigned an investigation involving a farm which had a notorious reputation for criminal activity and allegations of cruelty to animals and environmental crimes. Efforts by other governmental agencies to deal with the situation had failed for the past 15 years.

TFC Workman coordinated federal, state, and local agencies in a sweeping investigation that resulted in criminal charges for stolen property and numerous charges for animal cruelty and environmental offenses.

His ability to track fugitives is outstanding. In the summer of 2006, a person arrested on a traffic stop escaped custody and a search ensued all that night and the next day, but to no avail. TFC Workman was on leave, but was called back in and within two hours, the suspect was in custody.

Then, after being shot and critically wounded during the service of an arrest warrant in December of 2006, TFC Workman refused to quit. He returned to full duty long before anyone thought he could or should. On his first morning back to duty, he was out serving warrants.

Sgt. Robert J. Stryjewski, Jr., is no stranger to outstanding performance awards. He was the 2001 Maryland State Police Trooper of the Year. He was promoted to corporal in 2002, made sergeant in 2005, and now holds the distinguished honor of the 2006 Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year.

Sgt. Stryjewski led by example during 2006 and helped the Carroll County Drug Task Force significantly increase its enforcement efforts. According to Major Vernon Conaway, head of the State Police Drug Enforcement Command, Sgt. Stryjewski’s leadership and performance in 2006 was exemplary. He said Sgt. Stryjewski led his unit to substantial increases in every area of enforcement. They include:

-a 61 percent increase in the number of investigations initiated;

-a 153 percent increase in the number of drug purchases made;

-a 64 percent increase in the number of search warrants served;

-a 91 percent increase in the number of felony drug arrests made;

-a 974 percent increase in the amount of drug money recovered;

-a 250 percent increase in the amount of motor vehicles seized;

-a 450 percent increase in the number of real estate properties seized;

-a 400 percent increase in the number of firearms recovered;

-a 1000 percent increase in the amount of cocaine seized and dramatic increases in the seizure of other drugs in Carroll County as well.

Those dramatic increases were not because the task force had an “off” year in 2005. The leadership of Sgt. Stryjewski is credited with having a direct impact on those substantial increases.

The Carroll County Drug Task Force includes police officers from the Maryland State Police, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, the Westminster Police, and the Carroll County State’s Attorney’s Office. The task force is charged with identifying, infiltrating, and dismantling drug trafficking operations in Carroll County.

###

CONTACT: Mr. Gregory Shipley

Office of Media Communications & Marketing

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

20071107 News Clips

News Clips

Nov. 7, 2007

STATE NEWS

Panel reworks revenue package
Senate committee cuts top rates and leaves 'loopholes'
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-te.md.session07nov07,0,2970127.story
Top-earning Marylanders and big businesses got a break yesterday when a Senate panel amended Gov. Martin O'Malley's revenue package by reducing top income tax rates and eliminating a measure designed to ensure that multi-state corporations pay taxes. The Budget and Taxation Committee also voted to eliminate some of the breaks the governor had included for lower-income households and against O'Malley's proposal to reduce the state property tax by 3 cents per $100 over the next three years.The panel moved to extend the state sales tax to include co mputer services, landscaping and arcade games, but not to other services recommended by O'Malley. And the governor's plan to tie the gas tax to increases in the cost of construction materials also failed in the committee.
Republicans have objected to the notion that services could be taxed without a full public debate, and the capital's lobbyists are in a panic that their clients could be hit. "This is moving very fast, too fast for the public's good," said Sen. David R. Brinkley, the minority leader from Frederick County. The Senate committee approved O'Malley's proposal to increase Maryland's sales tax rate from 5 percent to 6 percent.
The Senate has taken the lead on considering O'Malley's tax and gambling proposals while the House of Delegates has looked for significant spending cuts. However, members of the House committee that handles tax measures were briefed on the Senate's plans yesterday, and they said they expect to make onl y minor changes.

Senators rebuff loophole closing
O'Malley measure to tax profits sent out of state rejected
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-bz.md.corporate07nov07,0,5916983.story?coll=bal_tab01_layout
As the Maryland General Assembly considered closing a loophole to prevent corporations from entirely avoiding state taxes, Marriott International Inc. warned legislators yesterday that it might "adjust operations" if they alter the tax system.
While the Bethesda-based hotel operator insists that it pays taxes and stopped short of saying that it would move, business and economic development leaders are worried that fewer companies are choosing to call Maryland home. A dozen major Maryland companies have been bought out this year, often becoming bran c hes of companies with headquarters elsewhere.
The state's corporate landscape helps explain why the General Assembly has balked at passing Gov. Martin O'Malley's proposal for "combined reporting," which proponents say would prevent multistate corporations from shifting profits to states with lower or no corporate income tax. A Senate committee rejected the measure yesterday.
More than 20 states have adopted combined reporting, as public outrage has grown over so-called "zero tax" corporations.
But the proposal was rejected yesterday by a Senate committee. While the special session is expected to last at least another week, during which the proposals could be revived, legislative leaders say that's unlikely.

Senate committee approves $1 billion sales tax increase, higher income taxes
http://www.examiner.com/a-1033568~Senate_committee_approves__1_billion_sales_tax_increase__higher_income_taxes.html
Maryland's wealthy taxpayers get whacked a little less, computer services get walloped, car buyers get a tax break on trade-ins, and everybody will pay more on most purchases.
Fitness clubs, massage therapists and property managers will not have to pay sales taxes but smokers will be hit hard by a doubled tax to $2 a pack, as Gov. Martin O'Malley had proposed.Those are among the significant actions the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee took Tuesday on O'Malley's deficit-cutting tax increases. The full Senate will begin debate on the tax increases and the governor's proposed spending cuts today.

Panel Supports Most of O'Malley's Budget Plan
Senate Committee Amends Tax Plans, Backs Vote on Slots
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/11/06/AR2007110602102.html
A Senate budget panel yesterday scaled back Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley's plan to raise taxes for high-income earners and suggested applying the state sales tax to several services that were not in his proposal.
The actions by the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee occurred during an afternoon of deliberations that ended when the panel signed off on most components of the governor's deficit-reduction package, but only after making several significant changes. In a nod to Montgomery County lawmakers, the panel reduced O'Malley's proposed new top income tax rate from 6.5 to 5.5 percent. Lawmakers in Montgomery, which is home to more high-income earners than any other jurisdiction in Maryland, had said that the income tax plan proposed by O'Malley could hurt the county's economic interests.
The panel endorsed O'Malley's plan to raise the state sales tax from 5 to 6 percent but rewrote his proposal to apply the levy to several services that are currently exempt. Under the amended plan, Maryland would start taxing computer services, landscaping work and arcades. Those changes were harshly criticized by Republicans, who alleged that the affected businesses had no chance for input. "They don't even know they're in this bill," said Sen. E.J. Pipkin (R-Queen Anne's). "That's wrong. Democracy is about letting the public have transparency and participating, neither of which took place today."

Many voices, 1 plea: Hands off the cash
Lawmakers urged to forgo spending cuts
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-md.cuts07nov07,0,5849079.story
Some Maryland delegates voiced skepticism yesterday about proposals for cutting at least $500 m illion in projected state spending as part of a comprehensive package to close the $1.7 billion fiscal shortfall expected next year.
And dozens of groups that oppose the proposed cuts - interests ranging from higher education to the film industry - sought to convey the effect of each suggested reduction, whether it be economic hardship, tuition increases or even a possible cure for painful diseases.
Two suggested spending cuts that would save an estimated $90 million drew numerous questions from legislators at yesterday's committee meeting. The first would eliminate a 2 percent cost-of-living increase for state employees, a proposal that would result in reduced salaries for thousands of workers because of mandated increases to pension contributions. The second is the elimination of about 1,000 vacant state positions. It seems like we're robbing Peter to pay Paul here," said Del. Susan L.M. Aumann, a Baltimore County Republican, adding that t he salary reduction could be a severe blow for state workers. "I can't swallow that." Other delegates questioned why the legislature wouldn't tap millions of dollars set aside to fund vacant positions. "It's a slush fund," said Del. Gail H. Bates, a Howard County Republican. When staffers with the Department of Legislative Services, which has compiled the list of possible cuts at the request of lawmakers, said they didn't have precise figures on past hiring, some delegates said they couldn't see making cuts without more information.

Dixon's win makes Baltimore history
Democrat becomes the first woman elected to lead city
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/baltimore_city/bal-te.md.election07nov07,0,1760654.story
Mayor Sheila Dixon decis i vely won her bid to lead Baltimore yesterday as voters gave her an overwhelming, if predictable, victory and made her the first woman elected as the city's mayor. Unofficial returns showed Dixon with a solid lead over Republican Elbert R. Henderson, who did not aggressively campaign for the position and faced devastating odds before he even put his name on the ballot. Democrats have not ceded the mayor's office in four decades. The city's sleepy general election, which came eight weeks after the more contentious September primary, was met with apathy by voters, most of whom did not turn out. In some cases, relatively few voters trickled into polling places in the blustery weather yesterday and found completely open banks of voting machines. It is not clear that Henderson could have won even if he had taken a more aggressive approach. Registered Democrats in Baltimore outnumber Republicans by more than 8 to 1, and the last Republican elected to the office was Theo d ore R. McKeldin in 1963.

Aberdeen mayor loses heated race
Mudslinging marked Harford Co. election
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/harford/bal-md.ha.harford07nov07,0,5995150.story
An antagonistic campaign in Aberdeen climaxed last night with challenger Michael E. Bennett defeating Mayor S. Fred Simmons, ending a productive but contentious two-year term for the insurance salesman. A citizens group that first squared off against Simmons last year in an annexation battle and then set about campaigning against the mayor figured largely in Bennett's victory. Meanwhile in Bel Air, a quieter and friendlier campaign ended with voters returning Terence O. Hanley to the Board of Town Commissioners, and electing Robert J. Reier, who had been appointed last year to fill a vacancy, as well as n ewcomer Edward Hopkins III to the five-member board.

Governor names five to school board panel
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/annearundel/bal-ar.nominations07nov07,0,5541077.story
A Crofton attorney, a former school board member and a retired Millersville school guidance counselor are among the appointments Gov. Martin O'Malley made this week to the new School Board Nominating Commission for Anne Arundel County.
Leopold appointee Anne Arundel County Executive John R. Leopold also named Yevola S. Peters of Annapolis, his special assistant for minority affairs, to the commission. "I wanted to ensure that there'd be diversity on the commission," Leopold said of his appointment. "For the first time in Anne Arundel County, the public has the chance to provide direct input into the selection of school board members," Leopold said. "It's a compromise solution that was elusive for more than two decades."

Senate to take vote on override of gun bill veto
http://www.hometownannapolis.com/cgi-bin/read/2007/11_07-02/OUD
The state Senate has scheduled a vote for Thursday in an attempt to override Governor Martin O'Malley's veto of a bill allowing police agencies to dispose of their own guns by selling them to a manufacturer.
It would be the first O'Malley veto to be tested in a Senate override vote.


EDITORIALS/OP-EDS

A year later: Why Gov. Ehrlich lost
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/opinion / oped/bal-op.ehrlich07nov07,0,7570280.story
This month marks the fifth anniversary of Robert L. Ehrlich Jr.'s election as the state's first Republican governor since Spiro Agnew, and today is the first anniversary of his defeat.
For erstwhile Republican activists like me, these anniversaries prompt reflection and regret. Although our incumbent was popular and charismatic, had a creditable record and raised more money than any governor in Maryland history, the dream of Republican relevance was unsustainable.
But Republicans must persevere. After all, competition heightens accountability and mitigates arrogance among the majority. Republicans need to move forward in their quest for relevancy, and this requires being clear-eyed as to why Mr. Ehrlich lost.
Mr. Ehrlich's communications dollars could have been better spent hammering home the governor's record on jobs, charter schools, the Intercounty Connector, the Chesapeake Bay and other underrepo r ted successes. The campaign also missed an opportunity to energize conservatives by initiating a statewide dialogue about taxation in Maryland.
Unfortunately, the state Republican Party's fate was so tied to Mr. Ehrlich's that his departure relegated it to what it was in 1987: irrelevant, dispirited and bankrupt.
Republicans have no choice but to embrace the lessons of the loss. They need to rebuild the party from scratch, focusing on such fundamentals as candidate recruitment, grass-roots organization and messaging. In other words, they must start over.

Instead of responsible fiscal policy, they give us snack taxes
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/opinion/oped/bal-op.schaller07nov07,0,2733295.column
imagine my visceral unease, figuratively and literally, to news that Maryland legislators are yet again consi d ering a tax on snack foods. Some proposal or another to reinstate the snack tax (it was eliminated in 1996) has reared its head at several other points this decade.I'm hardly averse to higher taxes and rarely find myself in perfect agreement with powerful trade associations such as the Grocery Manufacturers of America and the Snack Food Association. But no state government - certainly not Maryland's, with its huge base of taxable incomes - should fix its structural-deficit problem by imposing highly regressive taxes on food. And yes, that even applies to fattening, high-calorie junk foods.
Consequently, rather than doing either of the two politically responsible things - raising taxes or identifying, by name, major programs to cut - we get budgetary death by a thousand small cuts, coupled with niggling taxes here and there, many of which hit working-class folks disproportionately.

Two Democrats step up for Maryland
http://www.examiner.com/Baltimore-Opinion.html
It looks as if a couple of Maryland Democrats learned a reality lesson in actual economics and democracy. Every citizen should thank Baltimore County Sen. James Brochin for having the courage to act upon his conscience and in the best interests of his constituents.
As long as we have a rare instance of leaders actually showing leadership, six other executives should join Montgomery County's Ike Leggett in opposing Gov. Martin O'Malley's inexplicable raid on taxpayers' pockets.
Brochin said, "I was elected to represent my constituents" in the Towson area, and they've been telling him "NO!" 60-1. Brochin also voted against the "extraordinary session" convened last week because, beyond being unconstitutional, there is no emergency. "Our budget is balanced until July 2008," he pointed out, and t he "structural deficit" for 2009 is less than O'Malley projected to panic lawmakers. Leggett must convince fellow executives to fight tax increases forced down our throats - not to fund essential services, but to pay for accelerated spending increases.
Brochin must convince at least four fellow true Democrats to help democracy work and join 14 Republican senators in spiking this O'Malley fraud upon the people of Maryland.


NATIONAL NEWS

House Clears Streamlined Path to Citizenship for Foreigners in U.S. Military
http://somd.com/news/headlines/2007/6679.shtml
The House passed legislation Tuesday that would make it easier for immigrants serving in the military to become American citizens. "When non-citizens embrace our nation by risking their lives to protect it, the least w e can do is provide a smooth and easy transition to citizenship," said Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Baltimore, who introduced the bill. The bill requires the Department of Homeland Security, where citizenship applications are processed, to accept military applicant fingerprints taken by the Department of Defense during enlistment. The legislation was introduced in the upper chamber by Sen. Barbara Mikulski, D-Md., in 2005 as part of the immigration bill. Although it stalled in the Senate in June, Mikulski was successful last year in having DHS create a dedicated customer service hotline for service members applying for citizenship.

20071107 Letter to the Editor from Colonel Bob Keefer is the Chief Deputy in the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office

Letter to the Editor from Colonel Bob Keefer is the Chief Deputy in the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office

The following is a letter to the editor submitted to “Soundtrack” from Colonel Bob Keefer, the Chief Deputy in the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office

November 8, 2007

Dear Editor:

I am very disturbed and concerned about what our Board of Carroll County Commissioners is trying to do to the Office of the Sheriff and our Citizens most basic rights. I think the Citizens of Carroll County should be concerned too!

Here is the Issue! For the past 170 years, the Citizens of Carroll County have HAD THE RIGHT TO ELECT our chief law enforcement officer – the Sheriff. Currently, the Sheriff’s Office is providing full law enforcement services to the Citizens of Carroll County and is the only nationally accredited law enforcement agency in the County.

Today, the Carroll County Commissioners are trying to take this precious right to vote away from us. The Commissioners are in the process of setting up a police department with a chief they appoint (not one we choose) to do law enforcement and leave the Sheriff with civil process service and court security.

From actual cases in Maryland and other states, here is what will happen. Our opinion (voice) will no longer count, because we will loose our right to vote (choose) our top law enforcement officer, and the cost to the taxpayers will greatly increase.

If this attempt remains unchallenged, Carroll County will end up with three (3) law enforcement agencies (the Sheriff’s Office, the Maryland State Police and a County police force) thus creating triplicate capabilities. Unlike the Sheriff who is directly accountable to all the citizens, the police chief will be accountable only to the Commissioners. And with all this, there is absolutely nothing new that we will receive in services, protection or benefits.

What we will have are MUCH HIGHER TAXES.

The Sheriff’s Office has faithfully served the Citizens for almost two centuries and is now under attack. Purposely placed in the Judicial Branch of Government by the authors of our Constitution, the Sheriff is sworn to enforce all laws equally, fairly and without regard to political affiliation or differences and has allegiance only to the Citizens.

Please preserve your individual right to self determination and write, e-mail, call or meet with the Carroll County Board of Commissioners and insist that the choices on this very important issue be examined in public. Let the public have a say in this vitally important decision either through public hearings or referendum.

This decision will affect our taxes and our public safety for years to come. We deserve to have our voices heard now!

Bob Keefer

Mt. Airy

Colonel Bob Keefer is the Chief Deputy in the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office

Editor’s note: for more information, click on: 20071108 Carroll County Connection Newsletter: Carroll County Board of Commissioners voted Oct. 4, 2007 to form a county police department…

Or:

20071108 Smithsonian Channel: Tribute to Brig. Gen. Paul W. Tibbets and “The Men Who Brought Dawn”

Smithsonian Channel: Tribute to Brig. Gen. Paul W. Tibbets and “The Men Who Brought Dawn”

November 8, 2007

Paull Young, Smithsonian Channel Community Administrator, has been in touch in reference to my post on “Soundtrack” on November 3rd, 2007: 20071101 Smithsonian Channel: Tribute to Brig. Gen. Paul W. Tibbets.

He writes

“I saw your post on the Smithsonian Channel and wanted to share this promo for ‘The Men Who Brought Dawn’:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iQ2pyEZefs

A big thank you goes out to Mr. Young with the Smithsonian Channel Community for calling this to our attention.

For more information please click on: Smithsonian Channel Community or the Smithsonian Channel website (www.smithsonianchannel.com)

####

20071108 Carroll County Connection Newsletter: Carroll County Board of Commissioners voted Oct. 4, 2007 to form a county police department…

Carroll County Connection Newsletter: Carroll County Board of Commissioners voted Oct. 4, 2007 to form a county police department…

Here’s what appeared in the Carroll County Connection Newsletter - November

County to form police force

Posted: November 8, 2007

Carroll County will form a countywide police force in the coming years, unifying law enforcement efforts outside of the county’s eight towns.

The Board of County Commissioners voted Oct. 4 to move away from the Maryland State Police Resident Trooper program and replace it with a county police force, headed by an appointed chief of police.

The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office eventually would revert to serving summons, transporting prisoners and providing courthouse security, which are constitutionally required duties of an elected sheriff.

A transition team will look at how to shift the 67 certified officers from the Sheriff’s Office to a new police force. Chief of Staff Steven Powell will lead the team.

Through the Resident Trooper Program, Carroll County pays for troopers to be assigned local patrols throughout the county. In the most recent budget year, the County paid $4.9 million for 36 troopers and nine investigators. The cost includes a non-negotiable 22 percent administrative fee.

The Westminster Barrack of the Maryland State Police would remain staffed with general troopers, as all 23 barracks across the state are staffed.

While professionalism is high among both the troopers and deputies, a single police agency would be more efficient than the current system.

The cost to operate a county police force is expected to be comparable to current costs after startup expenses.

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For this and other news on current happening in Carroll County government please click here or here: Carroll County Connection Newsletter - November

20071106 New Clips

News Clips

Nov. 6, 2007

STATE NEWS

Senate Panel To Vote On Tax And Slots Plan Today
http://wbal.com/news/story.asp?articleid=65286
It is day nine of the Maryland General Assembly's special session in Annapolis. The full House of Delegates held a brief session this morning, though no votes were taken on any of the governor's proposals to reduce the deficit. Aides to the speaker tell WBAL News, the House is likely to wait until the Senate votes on its version of the governor's tax and slots plan. Senate President Mike Miller says the Senate won't likely send any legislation to the House before Thursday.
The Senate Budget and Taxation Committee is set to vote on O'Malley's proposal to restructure Maryland's income tax structure. Senators have been pondering changes to the governor's plan, after compl aints from Montgomery County officials who say more of their constituents would be likely to pay higher income taxes under the governor's plan. That income tax proposal is generating money to reduce the structural deficit, which was the reason for the special session.
An Eastern Shore Republican on Monday sharply criticized Gov. Martin O'Malley's plan to legalize slot machines in Maryland, saying a slots venue near Ocean City would "cannibalize" local businesses and jeopardize a "goose that lays a golden egg" for the state. Nevertheless, Sen. Lowell Stoltzfus said he didn't think the plan could be stopped. "It's well-greased," Stoltzfus said in an interview after a Senate Budget and Taxation Committee work session on the proposal. "It's going to go."
The Senate Finance Committee holds a hearing this afternoon, on a plan to change eligibility requirements for the state's children's health insurance pro g ram. Republican Alex Mooney wants to lower those requirements, and require certain families to enroll in HMO's to get their health care.

Democrat Brochin to stand with GOP on taxes
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-md.brochin06nov06,0,6630976.story
Democratic leaders in the General Assembly remain confident they will pass Gov. Martin O'Malley's proposed tax increases, but at least one member of their party says he will stand up with Republicans to stop them.
Sen. James Brochin, a conservative Democrat from Towson, said he will participate in any filibuster that Republicans attempt to derail the tax plan. "I'm a Democrat because we stand up for working families and small businesses, and this isn't helping either," he said. "It's raising their taxes. When was the last time a state taxed its way to prosperity?"
Brochin, who has long had a rocky relationship with the Democratic leadership in Annapolis, said he would rather see the end of annual inflation adjustments to education spending, cuts in aid to local governments, elimination of state support for private colleges and other cuts.

Brochin backs taxes filibuster
http://www.washingtontimes.com/article/20071106/METRO/111060071/1004
Sen. James Brochin, Baltimore County Democrat, officially said yesterday he would support a Republican effort to filibuster tax increases. Mr. Brochin said he has received thousands of calls and e-mails from constituents about a slate of tax increases proposed by Gov. Martin O'Malley, a Democrat. He also said his constituents are "60 to 1" opposed to Mr. O'Malley's plans.& n bsp; "If there's a filibuster vote, it will be the tax vote that people are going to look at," said Senate Minority Leader David R. Brinkley, Frederick Republican. Republicans have not officially said they will attempt to block the proposed tax increases through unlimited debate, known as a filibuster, but they have considered such a move. The 14-member Senate Republican caucus would need to find four additional Democrats to join them in a filibuster. Democrats would have to find 29 votes to end such a debate and vote on tax increases.
House Speaker Michael E. Busch, Anne Arundel Democrat, began meeting with delegations from Baltimore and Montgomery and Prince George's counties yesterday to find votes to pass taxes and to put a measure to legalize slot machines on the 2008 ballot.

Miller gives slots a boost
Senate president says he won't block proposal for referendum
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-md.slots06nov06,0,7897980.story
Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller said yesterday that he won't block a proposed referendum on legalizing slot machines, putting the measure closer to approval in the General Assembly than it has been in years. "It's not the best answer, but the governor feels that he needs to go to a referendum to get through the House," Miller said. "If a bill passes the Senate, it will probably contain a referendum." Senate leaders said they expect the framework of O'Malley's bill to clear the Budget and Taxation Committee and make it to the full Senate by the end of the week.
In the Senate, that wil l likely mean O'Malley will need votes from Republicans, who have not taken a unified stand on the governor's slots bill. "The jury is still out," said Sen. David R. Brinkley, the minority leader, from Frederick County.

Currie: Slots will pass
http://www.examiner.com/a-1031193~Currie__Slots_will_pass.html
Several senators raised problems they had with Gov. Martin O'Malley's slot machine proposal during a Budget and Taxation Committee work session Monday. But its chairman, Sen. Ulysses Currie, predicted that once changes are made in the plan, "I think the votes are probably there to pass this."
Sen. Lowell Stoltzfus, a Lower Shore Republican who opposed slots even under Gov. Robert Ehrlich, made clear his disdain for the plan to put slot machines at Ocean D owns racetrack near Ocean City. Stoltzfus wanted to know why slots would be placed near the resort, whose merchants don't want the competition, but not at Rosecroft Raceway in Prince George's County.
Stoltzfus said the hotels of Ocean City already were full in summer, and he suggested that it was large contributions to O'Malley's campaign by the owner of Ocean Downs track that influenced the decision.
Two Western Maryland Republicans, Sens. George Edwards and Donald Munson, peppered Bryce with questions, but told The Examiner they might be willing to support slots with changes in the bill. Edwards was particularly concerned that a separate facility be built for the slots located at the state-financed Rocky Gap Resort in his district, a money-loosing project. He also wanted his low-income district to get some of the Geographic Cost of Education Aid promised to other counties in the slots bill.
To put the constitutional amendment designating slot site s on the 2008 ballot, 29 senators must vote for the bill, a number difficult to achieve without some Republicans.

Montgomery Tax Anxiety Makes Mark In the Senate
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/11/05/AR2007110501672.html
The Maryland Senate is angling to pass a budget package that includes fewer tax increases and more spending reductions than Gov. Martin O'Malley (D) has proposed to close a potential shortfall of at least $1.5 billion, the chamber's leader said yesterday. Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr. (D-Calvert) told reporters that Democrats who control his chamber are interested in accommodating Montgomery County leaders who have said O'Malley's proposed new top income tax bracket could be too onerous. Legislators from Montgomery, home to more high-income earners than any oth e r county, raised concerns about O'Malley's proposed overhaul of the state's income tax brackets. The governor's plan, aimed at making the brackets more progressive, would provide a modest tax break to most households but require the state's top income earners to pay several thousand dollars a year more. Many members of the Montgomery delegation told Busch that they would not support the governor's proposal unless a compromise is reached to reduce O'Malley's proposed 6.5 percent rate for the top bracket, said Del. Brian J. Feldman (D), chairman of the Montgomery House delegation, the state's largest. House Majority Leader Kumar P. Barve (D-Montgomery) said the county's lawmakers will use their clout in both chambers to protect Montgomery's interests. "We're willing to work towards a sensible common ground," he said.
Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett (D) unveiled an alternative plan last week that would tax high-end earners at 5.5 percent. At a hearing last week, th e Maryland Chamber of Commerce said some business owners have said they might relocate their businesses to Northern Virginia from Montgomery if the governor's tax plan becomes law.


EDITORIALS/OP-EDS

Let voters have their say on slots
http://www.hometownannapolis.com/cgi-bin/read/2007/11_05-14/OPN
Just when we thought a consensus on slot machines was taking shape in the legislature, the lawmakers have returned to their old divisive ways. The tide seemed to be turning when Gov. Martin O'Malley, trying to get the legislature to pass the rest of his program to erase an enormous $1.7 billion deficit, agreed to a referendum on the issue. In other words, if the legislators can't make up their minds - particularly on short notice, during a special session - let the voters decide.
N o w, however, many legislators are saying they will oppose a referendum because they don't think the issue belongs in the state constitution.
We disagree. If the state constitution can contain, as it does, sections on Baltimore's off-street parking and residential loans, the legalization of gambling - a serious step that we still oppose - should be there as well.
Otherwise, at the whim of the politicians, the number of slot machines will multiply, new gambling locations will be added without voter consent, and casinos will eventually be approved.
There may be ways to improve this bill and ensure that taxpayers won't be chiseled. But it would be a mistake to miss the opportunity to give voters a chance to determine the fate of slots. We will continue to oppose slots, but we won't oppose giving voters the right to choose.

Foes exercised over sales tax
O'Malley plan to add health clubs, other services is resisted
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/politics/bal-te.md.salestax06nov06,0,941972.story?coll=bal_tab01_layout
enthusiast, has proposed taxing health clubs, tanning salons, saunas, massage parlors and property management. He wants to raise the state sales tax from 5 percent to 6 percent. The added revenue would help close a projected $1.7 billion budget shortfall for the fiscal year that will begin in July. The across-the-board increase would cost residents far more overall, but extending the sales tax to additional services has drawn the most energetic resistance. Some lawmakers say the proposed taxation of health clubs and property management is among the ideas that might not survive the special session called by O'Malley, a Democrat, to address the budget shortfall.
The businesses that would be affected vigorously oppose being subje c ted to sales taxes and argue that the proposals would be unfair to small companies.
The Maryland Association of Realtors has launched a wide-ranging lobbying fight against the property management tax that includes rallies, an advertising campaign and e-mail. The group says Maryland has the nation's seventh-most-expensive rental market and that real estate is already subject to property taxes.Some legislators say the proposals aren't being subjected to enough public scrutiny. "The majority party is ramming this through without public input," said Sen. E.J. Pipkin, an Eastern Shore Republican. "Millions of Marylanders face the potential of paying 6 percent sales tax on goods and services that they don't even know about."

Low turnout, no surprises expected in city elections
http://www.balti m oresun.com/news/local/baltimore_city/bal-md.ci.voters06nov06,0,5862973.story
There have been no television commercials, no debates and only a smattering of yard signs, but Baltimore voters will come out to the polls for today's general election nonetheless - likely to affirm an outcome everyone expects.
In a city where registered Democrats outnumber Republicans more than 8 to 1, the 11 candidates - seven Republicans, two Greens and two write-ins - who have lined up to take on the party in power face an especially daunting task.Lack of interest is expected to keep voter turnout low today and explains why the city's top polling official used one word to describe his office on the eve of the election: "Quiet." "A lot of people don't know there's an election," said Armstead B. Crawley Jones Sr., director of the city's Board of Elections.

Bel Air and Aberdeen voters heading to the polls today
Municipal candida t es make their final push
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/harford/bal-md.ha.elections06nov06,0,6305552.story
With the opening of the polls only hours away, candidates for office in Bel Air and Aberdeen fanned out yesterday in a final effort to win votes. Today, Bel Air will elect three of the five town commissioners, and Aberdeen voters will choose a mayor and the four members of the council. The Aberdeen race has included negative campaigns, and the election was nearly postponed after a rejected candidate sued the city to get on the ballot. Aberdeen's city manager, Douglas Miller, predicted high voter turnout.Twelve miles away, Aberdeen wrestles with growth issues related to military base realignment and questions of development after a failed annexation attempt last year. The city of 15,000 faces financial questions surround i ng Ripken Stadium, property taxes and its water supply.

20071107 Smoking is good for health care

Smoking is good for health care

November 7th, 2007

A huge hat tip to the Pillage Idiot for calling to our attention “Video: Care enough to smoke?” on Hot Air: Flu season's coming

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_LutWBunb4

Meanwhile I wrote a column on S-CHIP some time ago on The Tentacle: October 17, 2007, The Shipwreck Known as SCHIP

In 1997 the Republican controlled Congress enacted the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) - a joint federal and state government initiative that provides low-cost health insurance for children of lower income families.

Specifically targeted were families who cannot afford private health insurance, but do not qualify for Medicaid. Over 6.6 million children were eligible for health insurance under the program.

In his 2008 budget, President George W. Bush proposed to increase SCHIP funding by $5 billion over five years - a 20 percent increase over current levels of funding.

Congress agreed several weeks ago to reauthorize the program with guidelines which would increase the cost $12 billion a year for the next five years - over $60 billion. The expanded coverage would make another four million children eligible, half of which would come from families who already have health insurance.

Funding for the proposal would primarily come from a 61-cent per pack increase in the federal cigarette tax. Of course, Congress understands that this is a relatively "easy" tax increase as there are very few votes in Congress representing tobacco growing states - and cigarette smokers, long since vilified, have essentially no voice.

Read the entire column here: The Shipwreck Known as SCHIP

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