October 2, 2010
Maryland's First Slots Casino Opens in Perryville
PERRYVILLE - Maryland's first slots casino informally opened on Monday, and customers have found it rather quickly. Officials with the parent company, Penn National Gaming, said average attendance for the first three days was 7,000 people per day.
Voters in Maryland approved slot casinos nearly two years ago, and the $98 million facility in Perryville is now open with 1,500 machines. Some of those slot machines look suspiciously like table gambling, which is legal and being offered in Delaware and in West Virginia. A roulette slot machine features a spinning electronic wheel and a spinning and bouncing electronic ball. Patrons can sidle-up to what looks like a gaming table for cards and play "three card poker" or blackjack against a virtual dealer on an electronic screen. The cards are displayed on electronic screens on the flat parts of the table.
A smiling Gov. Martin O'Malley told a gathered crowd that the new Maryland casino is there to, "[prevent] dollars that used to fly across the border from leaving. Instead, [those dollars] are staying here." Under the terms of the licensing agreement, 67% of the profit from each slot machine goes to the state, with half that revenue going to an education trust fund.
Voters in Maryland approved slot casinos nearly two years ago, and the $98 million facility in Perryville is now open with 1,500 machines. Some of those slot machines look suspiciously like table gambling, which is legal and being offered in Delaware and in West Virginia. A roulette slot machine features a spinning electronic wheel and a spinning and bouncing electronic ball. Patrons can sidle-up to what looks like a gaming table for cards and play "three card poker" or blackjack against a virtual dealer on an electronic screen. The cards are displayed on electronic screens on the flat parts of the table.
A smiling Gov. Martin O'Malley told a gathered crowd that the new Maryland casino is there to, "[prevent] dollars that used to fly across the border from leaving. Instead, [those dollars] are staying here." Under the terms of the licensing agreement, 67% of the profit from each slot machine goes to the state, with half that revenue going to an education trust fund.
October 1, 2010
Vovak supports Republican Gov. Schwarzenegger's decision to sign Senate bill 1149, decriminalizing marijuana
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MARYLAND -- Daniel Vovak, a member-elect (at-large) of the Montgomery County Republican Central Committee supports Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's decision yesterday to decriminalize marijuana when he signed California Senate bill 1449. Schwarzenegger's decision places the Republican Party as the leader in the marijuana movement. Further, it means that elected leaders in America's largest State believe that having less than an ounce of marijuana is no more unethical than driving over the speed limit.
"When I ran for Montgomery County Executive, Montgomery County's Republican leaders chastised me for taking a position on marijuana similar to Governor Schwarzenegger," said Vovak, who has never experimented with marijuana and lost the Republican primary to a lifelong Democrat. "Now Montgomery County will not benefit financially from California's movement, which is sad, since our county badly needs the funding. Maryland will never become competitive for Republicans until Montgomery County Republicans support and unite around leaders capable of making tough decisions, rather than followers."
It should also be noted that Maryland Republican Governor Bob Ehrlich sponsored the States' Rights to Medical Marijuana Act.
Contact Vovak at 202-367-4835 or DanielVovak@gmail.com.
"When I ran for Montgomery County Executive, Montgomery County's Republican leaders chastised me for taking a position on marijuana similar to Governor Schwarzenegger," said Vovak, who has never experimented with marijuana and lost the Republican primary to a lifelong Democrat. "Now Montgomery County will not benefit financially from California's movement, which is sad, since our county badly needs the funding. Maryland will never become competitive for Republicans until Montgomery County Republicans support and unite around leaders capable of making tough decisions, rather than followers."
It should also be noted that Maryland Republican Governor Bob Ehrlich sponsored the States' Rights to Medical Marijuana Act.
Contact Vovak at 202-367-4835 or DanielVovak@gmail.com.
A rock n' roll fundraiser for Maria Pena-Faustino for delegate in 39
A “ROCK AND ROLL PARTY” fundraiser for Maria Pena-Faustino Featuring Gus Alzona’s Trademark
Sunday, October 10, 2010. 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Hard Times Café of Bethesda. 4920 Delray Ave. Bethesda MD 20814. 301-951-3300
No cover charge. Free metered parking right across the street in the public garage. Full bar, appetizers and dinner menu items available for purchase. Large screen televisions (muted sound) will display current sports games. Free admission. Attendees are encouraged to make “free will” political contributions of $20 or more directly to the candidates, though we are sure they would appreciate any and all amounts received up to the legal limit of $4,000 per election cycle. Please RSVP to Gus Alzona at 1-202-288-8011 or email AugustusAlzona@gmail.com
Free Potter Violin Company Strings Clinic
What: Violin, viola, cello and double bass players are invited to an interactive Strings Clinic offered by The Potter Violin Company and two other partners at the University of Maryland. Strings professionals will present on the history, physical materials and methods used to make bowed stringed instruments. Other presentation highlights include slow motion videography of how strings vibrate and interact with a bow as well as common instrumental problems solved by strings and helpful tips for improving the performance and durability of stringed instruments. Following the presentation, there will be a question and answer session and the opportunity to share individual experiences. Attendees will receive a FREE personal string consultation with the experts, as well as a free set of strings to evaluate.
When: Saturday, Oct. 9, at 2 p.m.
Where: Leah M. Smith Lecture Hall, Room 2200 Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center University of Maryland College Park, MD 20742
Cost: FREE, no registration required
Contact: 1-800-317-9452
Web site: http://www.pottersviolins.com
When: Saturday, Oct. 9, at 2 p.m.
Where: Leah M. Smith Lecture Hall, Room 2200 Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center University of Maryland College Park, MD 20742
Cost: FREE, no registration required
Contact: 1-800-317-9452
Web site: http://www.pottersviolins.com
Longest-serving member of MOCO Central committee, George Sauer, dies
Today, Montgomery County Daily received a comment from Debbie Hargreaves (of Texas) in a previous entry about George Sauer, stating that he had died. I then called Wilma Sauer and she confirmed that the sad fact was true. Wilma was in good spirits since she had lived a life filled with love with George, though her concerns now were mostly about her family. She told me that there will be a memorial service at Seven Locks Baptist Church in Potomac. However, first there have to be arrangements made with her children, which include long trips from California and England.
Debbie Hargreaves' comment is the following:
"Thank you for giving him a special award. Sadly, he lost his battle with cancer last night, Wednesday, September 29, 2010. George Sauer was a fine man. He was also my Uncle. I will miss his wonderful voice and his intelligent wit."
Debbie Hargreaves
I will keep all of you posted as more decisions are made, so we can all give our last respects. Wilma Sauer's phone number is 301-762-7260.
O'Malley, Ehrlich agree to Oct. 11 debate on WJZ
After weeks of wrangling, Maryland's two leading gubernatorial candidates have agreed to at least one televised debate: Gov. Martin O'Malley (D) and former governor Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. (R) will square off Oct. 11 on WJZ, the CBS affiliate in Baltimore. The hourlong encounter, to be moderated by WJZ anchor Denise Koch, will be taped that morning before a small studio audience and will air at 7 p.m., according to representatives from both campaigns. The candidates have agreed to cover five to six major topics, with each answering a question and allowing Koch the opportunity for follow-up.
Spokesmen for both Ehrlich and O'Malley said they remain in discussions about other debate proposals from several organizations, including The Washington Post. In their 2006 race, O'Malley and Ehrlich debated twice -- both on the same day. Oct. 11 could have a similar feel. Both candidates are planning to participate in a forum that afternoon hosted by the Maryland Disabilities Forum at a hotel near Baltimore-Washington International Marshall Airport. Technically, the forum, which will focus on disabilities issues, is not a debate. SOURCE: Washington Post
Spokesmen for both Ehrlich and O'Malley said they remain in discussions about other debate proposals from several organizations, including The Washington Post. In their 2006 race, O'Malley and Ehrlich debated twice -- both on the same day. Oct. 11 could have a similar feel. Both candidates are planning to participate in a forum that afternoon hosted by the Maryland Disabilities Forum at a hotel near Baltimore-Washington International Marshall Airport. Technically, the forum, which will focus on disabilities issues, is not a debate. SOURCE: Washington Post
September 30, 2010
Franchot Recovers Hundreds of Thousands in Child Support Payments
Annapolis, MD. (September 30, 2010) – Reaffirming his goal to use modern technology for the benefit of Maryland taxpayers, Comptroller Peter Franchot announced today his office will be paying more than 1,200 delinquent child support accounts from the agency’s unclaimed property fund. The payments are made possible by using the agency’s computers to cross-reference state files; files provided thanks to House Bill 963, sponsored by Delegate Galen Clagett.
The legislation allows the Comptroller’s office to regularly cross check its Unclaimed Property accounts with the Department of Human Resources file of delinquent child support payers. When matches are found, the Comptroller’s Office directs those funds to DHR, who then makes sure they get to the children and the families who are owed the money.
“I commend Delegate Clagett for his leadership and for his persistence in fighting for this bill,” said Comptroller Franchot. “As we have the technology to run these matches, my agency runs delinquent tax payers through multiple databases on a regular basis and it only makes sense that we do the same with delinquent child support payments. This law helps ensure that the families who are counting on these funds to help make ends meet get what they are owed.”
Comptroller Franchot testified in support of Delegate Clagett’s bill during the 2009 and 2010 Session. During a test run after the bill’s first introduction, the Comptroller’s Office found over 1,600 matching accounts totaling more than $670,000. The Comptroller was very pleased to see the bi-partisan support that led to the bill’s passage this past session.
“We are very happy to have gotten this important bill through after 2 years of hard work,” said Delegate Clagett. “I am delighted that it is working and helping to get money back into the hands of the children and families who so desperately need it.”
In preparing the first remittance for the interception of unclaimed property accounts to offset delinquent Child Support payments, the Comptroller’s office is sending money to 1,281 accounts totaling $458,403.00. The amount being transferred will be significantly lower in future years due to the fact that this is a clean up on all unclaimed property records. Future payments will only match against current owner accounts. Financial institutions, utility and insurance companies and other corporations are required to report to the Comptroller any bank accounts, security deposits, wages, insurances benefits and contents of safe deposit boxes that have been unclaimed after three years. Funds remain the property of the owners or their legitimate heirs and can be claimed anytime. There is no statue of limitations. The agency has records on approximately 800,000 accounts worth more than $900 million.
The legislation allows the Comptroller’s office to regularly cross check its Unclaimed Property accounts with the Department of Human Resources file of delinquent child support payers. When matches are found, the Comptroller’s Office directs those funds to DHR, who then makes sure they get to the children and the families who are owed the money.
“I commend Delegate Clagett for his leadership and for his persistence in fighting for this bill,” said Comptroller Franchot. “As we have the technology to run these matches, my agency runs delinquent tax payers through multiple databases on a regular basis and it only makes sense that we do the same with delinquent child support payments. This law helps ensure that the families who are counting on these funds to help make ends meet get what they are owed.”
Comptroller Franchot testified in support of Delegate Clagett’s bill during the 2009 and 2010 Session. During a test run after the bill’s first introduction, the Comptroller’s Office found over 1,600 matching accounts totaling more than $670,000. The Comptroller was very pleased to see the bi-partisan support that led to the bill’s passage this past session.
“We are very happy to have gotten this important bill through after 2 years of hard work,” said Delegate Clagett. “I am delighted that it is working and helping to get money back into the hands of the children and families who so desperately need it.”
In preparing the first remittance for the interception of unclaimed property accounts to offset delinquent Child Support payments, the Comptroller’s office is sending money to 1,281 accounts totaling $458,403.00. The amount being transferred will be significantly lower in future years due to the fact that this is a clean up on all unclaimed property records. Future payments will only match against current owner accounts. Financial institutions, utility and insurance companies and other corporations are required to report to the Comptroller any bank accounts, security deposits, wages, insurances benefits and contents of safe deposit boxes that have been unclaimed after three years. Funds remain the property of the owners or their legitimate heirs and can be claimed anytime. There is no statue of limitations. The agency has records on approximately 800,000 accounts worth more than $900 million.
Montgomery, Md., man, wounded by officer, gets 18 months for assault
A Montgomery County man who assaulted a police officer during an altercation in which the man was shot five times was sentenced Tuesday to 18 months in jail. Ingham "Andre" DeFreitas, 32, also faces five years of probation as a result of his encounter last year with a police officer in the Darnestown area.
The case proved contentious to the end. Prosecutors said DeFreitas had himself to blame for what occurred. A defense attorney said the officer's conduct underscored the department's failure to provide proper training in the use of force. In handing down the sentence, Circuit Court Judge Michael J. Algeo leaned toward the prosecution. "This is not about police brutality or police conduct," he said. "This is about Mr. DeFreitas, who was convicted by a jury of assault in the second degree."
Algeo also pointed to DeFreitas's criminal history - including auto theft and drug convictions - and recent drug tests indicating that he had repeatedly smoked marijuana. "That speaks volumes to me," Algeo said.
DeFreitas, who was not armed during the encounter 12 months ago, still has one arm in a sling. Before bailiffs led him out of court, they tried to handcuff him, but his hand appeared to go limp when part of the sling was removed. SOURCE: Washington Post
The case proved contentious to the end. Prosecutors said DeFreitas had himself to blame for what occurred. A defense attorney said the officer's conduct underscored the department's failure to provide proper training in the use of force. In handing down the sentence, Circuit Court Judge Michael J. Algeo leaned toward the prosecution. "This is not about police brutality or police conduct," he said. "This is about Mr. DeFreitas, who was convicted by a jury of assault in the second degree."
Algeo also pointed to DeFreitas's criminal history - including auto theft and drug convictions - and recent drug tests indicating that he had repeatedly smoked marijuana. "That speaks volumes to me," Algeo said.
DeFreitas, who was not armed during the encounter 12 months ago, still has one arm in a sling. Before bailiffs led him out of court, they tried to handcuff him, but his hand appeared to go limp when part of the sling was removed. SOURCE: Washington Post
Chipotle coming to Kensington
John Kelly, columnist for the Washington Post, and fellow MoCo resident, reports today that Chipotle will be arriving soon at the Kensington Shopping Center. Kelly contrasts the national chain with family-owned Continental Pizza, located in the same shopping center on Connecticut Avenue. Continental’s owners worry that the pizzeria may face stiff competition from the burrito purveyor.
It seems to us that burritos and pizza are different food that can peacefully coexist in the same small shopping center, particularly given the present dearth of eateries in Kensington. It is not as if Continental was the sole restaurant in the shopping center; there is already a Chinese restaurant (Hong Kong Kensington) too.
What do you think? Is Chipotle good for Kensington or the death knell for Continental?
P.S.: The strangest part of this story appears to be that the impetus for Chipotle’s arrival in Kensington was, in some part, due to a Facebook campaign spearheaded by state Delegate Al Carr. Other than Betty White appearing on SNL, this has to be the only time that sending out a demand to the Facebook universe has led to actual concrete action. SOURCE: What's Up Wheaton
It seems to us that burritos and pizza are different food that can peacefully coexist in the same small shopping center, particularly given the present dearth of eateries in Kensington. It is not as if Continental was the sole restaurant in the shopping center; there is already a Chinese restaurant (Hong Kong Kensington) too.
What do you think? Is Chipotle good for Kensington or the death knell for Continental?
P.S.: The strangest part of this story appears to be that the impetus for Chipotle’s arrival in Kensington was, in some part, due to a Facebook campaign spearheaded by state Delegate Al Carr. Other than Betty White appearing on SNL, this has to be the only time that sending out a demand to the Facebook universe has led to actual concrete action. SOURCE: What's Up Wheaton
Community Events
Blessing of the Animals - Saturday, October 23 at 10 am. Celebrate the companions that bring joy to our lives with a short outdoor service of blessing. Rain or shine at the church entrance. For the safety of all, please leash/contain pets. The Lutheran Church of St Andrew, 15300 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD. www.mystandrew.org
Model Train Show & Fair - Saturday November 13, 9am-4pm and Sunday November 14, 12 noon-4pm. Come enjoy an extensive mini-landscape of operating model trains! Crafts & train items for sale; breakfast & lunch available. Activities & gifts for kids! Suggested donation - $4 per person, 12 & under FREE! The Lutheran Church of St Andrew, 15300 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD. www.mystandrew.org
Hearts & Holly Craft Bazaar - Saturday, November 20, 9am-2pm. Handmade treats & treasures, artisan crafts, homemade jams, jellies & savories, quilts and textile arts, ornaments and unique wood pieces, Grandma's Attic (vintage items) and Santa's Workshop (gift shopping for kids). BBQ lunch served 11-1. Your holiday spirit starts here! The Lutheran Church of St Andrew, 15300 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring MD. www.mystandrew.org
Model Train Show & Fair - Saturday November 13, 9am-4pm and Sunday November 14, 12 noon-4pm. Come enjoy an extensive mini-landscape of operating model trains! Crafts & train items for sale; breakfast & lunch available. Activities & gifts for kids! Suggested donation - $4 per person, 12 & under FREE! The Lutheran Church of St Andrew, 15300 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD. www.mystandrew.org
Hearts & Holly Craft Bazaar - Saturday, November 20, 9am-2pm. Handmade treats & treasures, artisan crafts, homemade jams, jellies & savories, quilts and textile arts, ornaments and unique wood pieces, Grandma's Attic (vintage items) and Santa's Workshop (gift shopping for kids). BBQ lunch served 11-1. Your holiday spirit starts here! The Lutheran Church of St Andrew, 15300 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring MD. www.mystandrew.org
September 29, 2010
Statement from Mike Phillips (Candidate MD-08) about Ehrlich poll
Statement from Mike Phillips (Candidate in Maryland's 8th Congressional District) about Ehrlich poll:
The Washington Post released a poll today that characterized former Governor Bob Ehrlich trailing the incumbent Governor O'Malley by 11 percentage points in the race for the Governor's seat in Annapolis. Given the small number of Republicans polled this would make sense. Given the large number of Democrats polled (relative to Republicans), the results make sense. However, what doesn't make sense is the lack of mental gymnastics going on down at the Post.
This is the best news I have had all week! Since the Post can't do math worth printing, it is no wonder their numbers and their conclusions about the Governor's race don't add up. With so few Republicans in the polling numbers and so many non-registered voters in the mix, we could easily extrapolate a blowout in favor of Ehrlich if the Post would only drop the illegal aliens from the poll and use a realistic distribution of voters from around the state instead of manipulating the voter pool to generate the outcome they needed to print the story. The Post even added this disclaimer to each question, "This is a non-scientific user poll. Results are not statistically valid and cannot be assumed to reflect the views of Washington Post users as a group or the general population." What a waste of good print space. Shame on the Post!
Mike Philips,
Candidate for Congress MD 8th District against Rep. Chris van Hollen
703-856-2811
mike@mikephilipsforcongress.com
www.mike4us.com
Bus Accident on I-270 in Bethesda, Maryland off fly way
BETHESDA, Md. - A commuter bus plunged off a highway Wednesday outside the nation's capital, killing one person and injuring at least a dozen, including children, authorities said. Parents and children were aboard the bus that fell 45 feet off a skyramp of the Capital Beltway and landed below along Interstate 270 in Bethesda, said Maryland State Police Sgt. Michael Brennan. The crash occurred about 4 p.m. as the afternoon rush hour started to build, creating a massive traffic jam northwest of Washington.
Television footage showed crews in yellow jackets and helmets walking up ladders and crawling into the holed-out windows of the bus. Rescuers spread out tarp on the roadway where a woman lay with a brace around her neck and held a compress to her head. Police dogs were searching the area in case people were ejected from the bus. Some children also sat in the triage areas surrounded by backpacks, including a girl with a white bandage wrapped around her head. A firefighter could be seen carrying a child in his arms, while others were taken away on stretchers.
Authorities had to extricate several people from the "limousine-style tour bus," said Montgomery County fire department Assistant Chief Scott Graham. Graham said 12 people were taken to area hospitals. Two had critical, life-threatening injuries, two others were critically hurt but should survive and the rest had minor injuries. SOURCE: FOX
Television footage showed crews in yellow jackets and helmets walking up ladders and crawling into the holed-out windows of the bus. Rescuers spread out tarp on the roadway where a woman lay with a brace around her neck and held a compress to her head. Police dogs were searching the area in case people were ejected from the bus. Some children also sat in the triage areas surrounded by backpacks, including a girl with a white bandage wrapped around her head. A firefighter could be seen carrying a child in his arms, while others were taken away on stretchers.
Authorities had to extricate several people from the "limousine-style tour bus," said Montgomery County fire department Assistant Chief Scott Graham. Graham said 12 people were taken to area hospitals. Two had critical, life-threatening injuries, two others were critically hurt but should survive and the rest had minor injuries. SOURCE: FOX
Vovak questions Wash. Post poll with Ehrlich losing 52-41
BETHESDA, MARYLAND – Daniel Vovak, an at-large member-elect of the Montgomery County Republican Central Committee has questioned the results of the latest poll of the rematch of former Governor Bob Ehrlich and Governor Martin O'Malley. Vovak, a former journalist who has built his career on being media-friendly, has made a rare decision to question the validity of The Washington Post poll, conducted by The Washington Post, long known to have integrity as a news organization.
Vovak said, "As most of you already know, today The Washington Post released a poll that states that Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley is defeating former Governor Bob Ehrlich 52-41 among likely voters. However, there are a few points in this poll that really must be questioned. The foremost point is that 1,448 adults were interviewed, though only 1,196 were registered voters. Why would non-voters be considered as having validity in this poll unless The Washington Post is begging for blatant voter fraud? Further, the poll claims that Ehrlich attracts a mere 27% of Montgomery County voters. There is no way imaginable that that number is true using November reality!"
Vovak encourages other media outlets to also poll the race, believing that no other poll will equal the same results in Montgomery County.
Vovak added, "Yesterday I volunteered at Ehrlich headquarters again and the flow of volunteers literally never ended and I was there for over two hours. Plus, there isn't a doubt in my mind that Katja Bullock [who is managing Ehrlich's Montgomery County headquarters] would agree with me in saying that those numbers for Ehrlich in Montgomery County are just bogus."
Montgomery County is Maryland's largest county for registered voters and is also the number one county in Maryland for registered Republicans.
Contact Vovak at 202-367-4835 or DanielVovak@gmail.com.
Vovak said, "As most of you already know, today The Washington Post released a poll that states that Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley is defeating former Governor Bob Ehrlich 52-41 among likely voters. However, there are a few points in this poll that really must be questioned. The foremost point is that 1,448 adults were interviewed, though only 1,196 were registered voters. Why would non-voters be considered as having validity in this poll unless The Washington Post is begging for blatant voter fraud? Further, the poll claims that Ehrlich attracts a mere 27% of Montgomery County voters. There is no way imaginable that that number is true using November reality!"
Vovak encourages other media outlets to also poll the race, believing that no other poll will equal the same results in Montgomery County.
Vovak added, "Yesterday I volunteered at Ehrlich headquarters again and the flow of volunteers literally never ended and I was there for over two hours. Plus, there isn't a doubt in my mind that Katja Bullock [who is managing Ehrlich's Montgomery County headquarters] would agree with me in saying that those numbers for Ehrlich in Montgomery County are just bogus."
Montgomery County is Maryland's largest county for registered voters and is also the number one county in Maryland for registered Republicans.
Contact Vovak at 202-367-4835 or DanielVovak@gmail.com.
High court orders ambulance fee referendum placed on ballot
Maryland's highest court has reversed a lower court decision and ordered that a referendum on a Montgomery County ambulance fee be placed on the Nov. 2 ballot. Thousands of signatures, and thus the referendum, had been rejected under an interpretation of state law that critics said brought about absurd results because it excluded people based on the way they signed their names. A Montgomery Circuit Court judge had ruled that elections officials acted properly and that the ambulance referendum not be put on the ballot.
But after oral arguments Wednesday, the Court of Appeals reversed that decision and sent the case back to the Montgomery court "with directions to enter judgment in favor of Appellants and an order that a referendum on the validity [of the ambulance fee legislation] be placed on the ballot at the General Election to be held on November 2, 2010." Opponents of the ambulance fee called it a stunning victory. SOURCE: Washington Post
But after oral arguments Wednesday, the Court of Appeals reversed that decision and sent the case back to the Montgomery court "with directions to enter judgment in favor of Appellants and an order that a referendum on the validity [of the ambulance fee legislation] be placed on the ballot at the General Election to be held on November 2, 2010." Opponents of the ambulance fee called it a stunning victory. SOURCE: Washington Post
O'Malley Has Significant Lead in Washington Post poll
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP)- A Washington Post poll shows Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley has a significant lead over former Republican Gov. Robert Ehrlich. The poll published Wednesday says 52 percent of those most likely to vote support O'Malley, while 41 percent say they support Ehrlich. The poll found that Ehrlich has the support of almost every Republican voter in the state as well as wide support among independents. But the newspaper reports that Ehrlich is failing to draw the cross-party support that enabled him to win in 2002. The Post polled 1,448 randomly selected adults, including 1,196 adults and 730 voters likely to cast ballots. The margin of error is plus or minus 3.5 percentage points among registered voters and plus or minus 4 percentage points for likely voters. The poll was conducted Sept. 22 to 26. SOURCE: WBOC
1 Dead in Shooting Near Funeral on U Street in Northwest DC
WASHINGTON - FOX 5 has learned that 21-year-old Jamal Coates was killed after a shooting and subsequent car crash near a funeral for a young woman who was recently shot to death. A cousin of Coates said he had attended the funeral of 21-year-old Ashley McCrae, who was shot Sept. 18 in southeast D.C. McRae was found shot in her car in the 2700 black of Bruce Place. She died later at the hospital.
Late Tuesday night, three people were taken into custody in handcuffs and questioned by investigators. Police have also towed away a tan-colored Buick Regal and removed several guns from a Northwest home at Girard St. in Northwest. The shooting broke out about 12:30 p.m. Tuesday near the Walker Memorial Baptist Church at 2020 13th Street NW. Two others were injured during the shooting.
Late Tuesday night, three people were taken into custody in handcuffs and questioned by investigators. Police have also towed away a tan-colored Buick Regal and removed several guns from a Northwest home at Girard St. in Northwest. The shooting broke out about 12:30 p.m. Tuesday near the Walker Memorial Baptist Church at 2020 13th Street NW. Two others were injured during the shooting.
Ehrlich, GOP supporters accuse O'Malley of cover-up in agency e-mails
Former Maryland governor Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. (R) and his supporters tried on Tuesday to use a batch of government e-mails released this week to portray his rival, Gov. Martin O'Malley (D), as more concerned with politics than job creation. Ehrlich's campaign dropped a second round of documents that show O'Malley's administration scrambling to cope with the fallout from an economic report that was inadvertently posted last month on a state Web site. The e-mails, which The Post obtained and authenticated, do not provide much new information, but offer a rare look at the inner workings of O'Malley's administration, including candid exchanges from top aides who were clearly concerned about public perception and how the internal report ended up in the hands of Ehrlich's campaign.
The report, which described the state's economy as having "stalled" during July, was posted Aug. 20 and taken down a few hours later. The message was at odds with the positive news O'Malley's administration intended to emphasize. Secretary of Labor, Licensing and Regulation Alexander M. Sanchez has said that the report was mistakenly posted and that he ordered it pulled from the site.
Republican Party Chairman Audrey E. Scott called Tuesday for Sanchez to resign. In a letter to O'Malley, Scott said the e-mails show that the "culture of the department encourages employees to deceive the taxpayers for political gain."
O'Malley spokesman Shaun Adamec said the governor stands by Sanchez, and that the administration is "focused on job creation, and that's why Maryland continues to create jobs at more than twice the rate of the rest of the nation." In the hours after the administration realized the mistake, the e-mails show the back-and-forth between labor department officials and the governor's office as they worked late on a Friday night to ensure that the errant report was pulled from the site and that the proper one was posted in its place. SOURCE: Washington Post
The report, which described the state's economy as having "stalled" during July, was posted Aug. 20 and taken down a few hours later. The message was at odds with the positive news O'Malley's administration intended to emphasize. Secretary of Labor, Licensing and Regulation Alexander M. Sanchez has said that the report was mistakenly posted and that he ordered it pulled from the site.
Republican Party Chairman Audrey E. Scott called Tuesday for Sanchez to resign. In a letter to O'Malley, Scott said the e-mails show that the "culture of the department encourages employees to deceive the taxpayers for political gain."
O'Malley spokesman Shaun Adamec said the governor stands by Sanchez, and that the administration is "focused on job creation, and that's why Maryland continues to create jobs at more than twice the rate of the rest of the nation." In the hours after the administration realized the mistake, the e-mails show the back-and-forth between labor department officials and the governor's office as they worked late on a Friday night to ensure that the errant report was pulled from the site and that the proper one was posted in its place. SOURCE: Washington Post
September 28, 2010
Woman Sexually Assaulted in Germantown
GERMANTOWN, Md. - Police say a 21-year-old woman flagged them down at a Germantown 7-Eleven store around 3:30 a.m. on Sunday. She told investigators she was hanging out with friends nearby, and then decided to walk to the store to meet another friend. That is when she was attacked.
"As she was approaching High Point Drive, an unknown man approached her from behind, grabbed her and dragged her to a wooded area," said Lucille Baur of Montgomery County Police.
The suspect sexually assaulted the victim and then ran away. However, the victim did not get a good look at the attacker.
"We have a limited suspect description at this time. [We have an] unconfirmed race of this male attacker believed to be in his 20 or 30s. She describes him as short with a medium build," said Baur.
It's disturbing news to some who live in this community.
"As she was approaching High Point Drive, an unknown man approached her from behind, grabbed her and dragged her to a wooded area," said Lucille Baur of Montgomery County Police.
The suspect sexually assaulted the victim and then ran away. However, the victim did not get a good look at the attacker.
"We have a limited suspect description at this time. [We have an] unconfirmed race of this male attacker believed to be in his 20 or 30s. She describes him as short with a medium build," said Baur.
It's disturbing news to some who live in this community.
Md. Man Charged With Slaying Other Mental Patient
ROCKVILLE, Md. - On a medium-security wing at a state mental hospital, El Soundani El-Wahhabi befriended the woman in the room three doors down who, like him, was committed there after a murder trial. He's now accused of killing her. Video shows the two chatting in a common area on Saturday night, and him later entering her room for a few minutes not long before their bed check, according to court documents released Monday. Inside the room, El-Wahhabi told police that he kissed the woman, then put a string around her neck and pulled it tight.
El-Wahhabi, also known as Saladin Taylor, told police in the interview that he and 45-year-old Susan Sachs struggled until she stopped breathing, the documents state. He has been charged with first- and second-degree murder and is being held at the Howard County Detention Center, according to Lt. Col. William M. Pallozzi of the Maryland State Police. Sachs and El-Wahhabi were described as friends in interviews with police, according to court documents. Later, after Sachs went to her room for the night, the video shows El-Wahhabi entering her room before 11 p.m., then leaving minutes later and stopping at the bathroom on the way to his room.
Sachs' roommate at the Clifton T. Perkins State hospital in Jessup did not notice anything amiss when she entered their room late about a half hour later, police said. But in the morning, the roommate alerted the head nurse, who found Sachs face down in her bed with a long shoe lace around her neck. SOURCE: FOX DC
El-Wahhabi, also known as Saladin Taylor, told police in the interview that he and 45-year-old Susan Sachs struggled until she stopped breathing, the documents state. He has been charged with first- and second-degree murder and is being held at the Howard County Detention Center, according to Lt. Col. William M. Pallozzi of the Maryland State Police. Sachs and El-Wahhabi were described as friends in interviews with police, according to court documents. Later, after Sachs went to her room for the night, the video shows El-Wahhabi entering her room before 11 p.m., then leaving minutes later and stopping at the bathroom on the way to his room.
Sachs' roommate at the Clifton T. Perkins State hospital in Jessup did not notice anything amiss when she entered their room late about a half hour later, police said. But in the morning, the roommate alerted the head nurse, who found Sachs face down in her bed with a long shoe lace around her neck. SOURCE: FOX DC
Silver Spring Hit and Run Victim in Coma
SILVER SPRING, Md. - The family of a 22-year-old Silver Spring woman says she is fighting for her life after a car struck her along the 8700 block of Carroll Avenue Saturday evening. Danielle Elizabeth Alay is the name provided to FOX 5 by her brother Oscar Alay.
"Our mother and the whole family are so sad. She's in a coma," Alay said.
Montgomery County Police told reporters a passenger side view mirror recovered at the scene indicates the striking car may be a dark-colored sedan.
"Our mother and the whole family are so sad. She's in a coma," Alay said.
Montgomery County Police told reporters a passenger side view mirror recovered at the scene indicates the striking car may be a dark-colored sedan.
Takoma Park votes to allow restaurants, but not stores, to sell carry-out alcohol
Takoma Park officials finally made a decision on the city’s century-old ban on alcohol sales. The city council voted Monday night to request a change in its laws so that restaurants may sell carry-out beer and wine. Sit-down restaurants, such as Roscoe’s Pizzeria, won out, but the rules barring retail businesses from selling beer and wine will remain unchanged. The Takoma Park Silver Spring Co-Op, which had expressed interest in selling organic wines and beers, won’t be able to do so any time soon. And entrepreneurs hoping to open upscale beer and wine stores similar to Silver Spring’s Fenwick Beer and Wine, whose owners originally intended to open in Takoma Park, will have to continue to look elsewhere. SOURCE: TBD
Argy completes peer review with stamp of excellence
McLean, VA — September 22, 2010 — Argy, Wiltse & Robinson, P.C. (Argy), a rapidly-growing certified public accounting and business advisory firm, is pleased to announce that it has successfully completed its recent peer review with no deficiencies. Argy has received peer review reports with only the highest possible grade since its inception in 1991 - a level of quality achieved by only a small percentage of CPA firms.
The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) requires all certified public accounting firms to undergo a thorough review of their attest services and systems of quality control by another registered firm. In this case, a team from a very large national firm performed the peer review. The peer review was conducted by reviewing a sample of attest engagements performed by Argy, as well as reviewing its controls to ascertain that the firm is in compliance with industry standards.
“We are proud of the fact that Argy has completed another successful peer review with the highest possible grade since the firm’s inception,” said Paul Argy, Argy’s President and CEO. “We strive to be the best and accomplish the highest level of quality in every aspect of our business.”
Peer reviews are conducted every three years. Argy will undergo its next review in 2013.
The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) requires all certified public accounting firms to undergo a thorough review of their attest services and systems of quality control by another registered firm. In this case, a team from a very large national firm performed the peer review. The peer review was conducted by reviewing a sample of attest engagements performed by Argy, as well as reviewing its controls to ascertain that the firm is in compliance with industry standards.
“We are proud of the fact that Argy has completed another successful peer review with the highest possible grade since the firm’s inception,” said Paul Argy, Argy’s President and CEO. “We strive to be the best and accomplish the highest level of quality in every aspect of our business.”
Peer reviews are conducted every three years. Argy will undergo its next review in 2013.
County County District 2 and 4 debates on October 8 at 7 PM
GOCA And The Olney Chamber of Commerce are sponsoring a debate between the Candidates seeking office on the Montgomery County Council District 2 and District 4. As we all are aware, Olney is divided between these 2 county council districts. This debate will feature the Candidates running for Montgomery County Council District 2 - Democratic Candidate Craig L. Rice and Republican Candidate Robin Ficker AND Council District 4 Democratic Incumbent Nancy Navarro and Republican Candidate David Horner. The debate will be focused on the many important issues facing Olney and this will be a great opportunity for the Olney community to see and hear these candidates state their views about the issues that matter to us. Information regarding the candidates can be found on the home page of the GOCA website at www.goca.org. In the event you can't attend, please send your questions to any of the GOCA Officers or Virginia Mauk at olneycoc@aol.com. The GOCA Officers can be contacted by clicking the contact tab that appears on the home page at www.goca.org. This event will start promptly at 7:00PM in the Community Room of the Buffington RE/MAX Building at 3300 Olney Sandy Spring Road in Olney. This lively debate is open to the entire Olney community and we look forward to seeing you on October 8th!
September 27, 2010
Hoyer says Colbert was 'embarrassment'; Pelosi says he was 'great'
House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md) was neither humored nor pleased with Stephen Colbert's recent testimony before the House Judiciary committee's subcommittee on immigration, calling it an embarrassment for the Comedy Central host.
"I think his testimony was not appropriate," said Hoyer, during an appearance on "Fox News Sunday." "I think it was an embarrassment for Mr. Colbert more than the House."
"You asked me, Chris [Wallace] whether the testimony was appropriate," he added. "I think it was not appropriate."
Colbert appeared before the committee on Friday in his trademark unaware, archconservative character to discuss his 10-hour volunteer work as a migrant farm worker. Almost immediately, lawmakers were piqued by the performance, with some cheering him on and others shaking their head in disbelief. Committee chair John Conyers (D-Mich) asked Colbert to leave the room. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), meanwhile, said she thought the performance was "great" and "appropriate."
"He's an American, right?" said Pelosi. "He came before the committee. He has a point of view. He can bring attention to an important issue like immigration. I think it's great."
The matter seemed settled there. But preceding Hoyer on "Fox News Sunday," House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio) twice attacked Democrats for calling a comedian to Congress at a time when they should be passing jobs bills. Perhaps spooked by the charge or merely reflecting his own viewpoint, Hoyer largely agreed.
"What he had to say was not the way it should have been said. If he had a position on the issues he should have given those [positions]," he said. SOURCE: Huffington Post
Redskins Fall to the Rams 30-16
ST. LOUIS - Conventional wisdom says as Steven Jackson goes, so go the St. Louis Rams. The supporting cast made believers of the Washington Redskins. The Rams ended a 14-game home losing streak with a 30-16 victory on Sunday by showing surprising depth. The go-ahead touchdown came on a run by Jackson's backup, and a defense minus both starting safeties consistently made Washington (1-2) settle for field goals.
"I'll bet a lot of people would have written us off," center Jason Brown said. "`Oh, Steven Jackson is carrying the Rams' offense on his back.' Well, you still have to have faith the rest of the players can rally around and fill that void."
The Rams (1-2) won for only the second time in the last 29 games and were confident afterward it wasn't a fluke.
"Hopefully, it's one of many," middle linebacker James Laurinaitis said. "I think that's kind of the message that we want to send, that it's not just an awesome celebration because we won one."
Unsung Kenneth Darby scored his first career touchdown on a 12-yard run for a 21-16 third-quarter lead, kick-starting the Rams to their first home victory since beating the Cowboys 34-14 on Oct. 10, 2008. That game was Jim Haslett's debut as interim head coach. Haslett is now the Redskins' defensive coordinator, and his unit surrendered the Rams' best point total in two seasons under Steve Spagnuolo.
"Needless to say, a very, very gratifying win," Spagnuolo said. "When you can rise above some adverse situations, it's even better. We lose some of our best players and other players stepped in there."
Little went as planned for the Redskins, who lost their punter during pre-game warmups. Josh Bidwell felt something pop in his hip and kicker Graham Gano, the stand-in punter, had his first attempt blocked by Dominique Curry. Bidwell was able to hold on field goal attempts, however.
"That doesn't happen very often," Redskins coach Mike Shanahan said. "Something popped. We're not sure what it is." SOURCE: FOX
"I'll bet a lot of people would have written us off," center Jason Brown said. "`Oh, Steven Jackson is carrying the Rams' offense on his back.' Well, you still have to have faith the rest of the players can rally around and fill that void."
The Rams (1-2) won for only the second time in the last 29 games and were confident afterward it wasn't a fluke.
"Hopefully, it's one of many," middle linebacker James Laurinaitis said. "I think that's kind of the message that we want to send, that it's not just an awesome celebration because we won one."
Unsung Kenneth Darby scored his first career touchdown on a 12-yard run for a 21-16 third-quarter lead, kick-starting the Rams to their first home victory since beating the Cowboys 34-14 on Oct. 10, 2008. That game was Jim Haslett's debut as interim head coach. Haslett is now the Redskins' defensive coordinator, and his unit surrendered the Rams' best point total in two seasons under Steve Spagnuolo.
"Needless to say, a very, very gratifying win," Spagnuolo said. "When you can rise above some adverse situations, it's even better. We lose some of our best players and other players stepped in there."
Little went as planned for the Redskins, who lost their punter during pre-game warmups. Josh Bidwell felt something pop in his hip and kicker Graham Gano, the stand-in punter, had his first attempt blocked by Dominique Curry. Bidwell was able to hold on field goal attempts, however.
"That doesn't happen very often," Redskins coach Mike Shanahan said. "Something popped. We're not sure what it is." SOURCE: FOX
Bank Robber Strikes in Burtonsville
An armed man robbed a Suntrust Bank in Burtonsville, Md., on Saturday. He was carrying a gun. Montgomery County Police Major Crimes detectives and the FBI are investigating the robbery, which took place at about 9:41 a.m. yesterday. A man in his early to mid-20s entered the Suntrust Bank location at 3901 National Drive. He was wearing a gray sweater, black hoodie, and black pants and shoes. He sported a black bandana over his face and brandished a gun. SOURCE: NBC
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