Here is the latest edition of the Crossroads Chronicle from the City of Salisbury
http://www.ci.salisbury.md.us/Portals/0/Press/NewsletterFall09FINAL.pdf
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Monday, October 26, 2009
GOVERNOR O’MALLEY ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL FUNDING TO SUPPORT NEW POLICE OFFICERS, 35K FOR SALISBURY
Today, Governor Martin O’Malley followed through on a commitment to support federally funded additional police officers with funding for equipment, uniforms, and other needs not covered by federal grants the allowed for the hiring of 112 police officers throughout Maryland. In July, Governor O’Malley joined Vice President Biden to announce $23 million in COPS program grants to create 112 police officer positions in Maryland. Governor O’Malley has directed additional funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to help communities purchase radios, bullet-proof vests, computers, and other essential equipment to support each newly hired officer. Maryland is the first state in the nation to provide matching funds for equipment purchase, and will provide up to $10,000 per officer.
“We saw the value of COPS program first hand in the City of Baltimore where we worked with law enforcement and the people of our City to take our streets and neighborhoods back for our families and, together, achieved a 40 percent reduction in violent crime,” said Governor O’Malley, noting that a contributing factor to the success in Baltimore City was a $24 million COPS grant allowing the hiring of 200 additional police officers. “There is no greater or more solemn obligation we have as public servants than the protection of our citizens. Thanks to the leadership of President Obama and our federal delegation, local law enforcement agencies have an unprecedented opportunity to create or save jobs that directly impact the safety of our neighborhoods, and we’re pleased to have the opportunity to relieve the burden of the cost of additional equipment from those local agencies.”
Today, Governor O’Malley announced the first three supporting grants to Baltimore ($448,000), Cambridge ($15,000), and Salisbury ($35,000). Additional grants will be distributed as the application process through the Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention is completed for each jurisdiction.
As Chairwoman of the Senate Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Mikulski included $1 billion in the federal checkbook for the COPS Hiring Recovery Program in the economic recovery bill. This funding not only prevented layoffs of police officers nationwide; it made it possible for states, like Maryland, to hire additional officers.
“Law enforcement agencies work around the clock to keep our communities safe. We have a responsibility to ensure they are not walking a thin blue line. Our cops need a full team to combat violence, protect families, and fight the crime that's destroying neighborhoods,” Senator Mikulski said. “I was proud to include $1 billion in the federal checkbook for the COPS hiring program. This funding means more cops on the beat from Prince George's to Princess Anne, patrolling our streets and protecting our families.”
The federal Recovery Act provides $1 billion in grant funding to the Department of Justice for the COPS Hiring Recovery Program. The COPS office received applications from 7,272 law enforcement agencies requesting more than 39,000 officer positions nationwide. COPS grants provide 100 percent funding for three years of entry-level salaries and benefits, and are awarded to localities and/or police departments to hire or rehire additional career law enforcement officers.
Following the passage of President Obama’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the O’Malley-Brown Administration moved swiftly to capture more than $26 million in additional federal funding to put state-of-the-art law enforcement and information sharing technologies into the hands of our police at every level across our State. The O’Malley-Brown Administration is expanding the use of smart law enforcement technology across Maryland, including advanced fingerprinting technology, eliminating backlogs and expanding our DNA database, tracking and monitoring repeat violent offenders, and increased drug treatment funding. The O’Malley Brown Administration is putting families first by making public safety a top priority, with 66 fewer lives lost to homicides in 2008 when compared to 2007, and 40 fewer homicides this year when compared to the same period in 2008.
“We saw the value of COPS program first hand in the City of Baltimore where we worked with law enforcement and the people of our City to take our streets and neighborhoods back for our families and, together, achieved a 40 percent reduction in violent crime,” said Governor O’Malley, noting that a contributing factor to the success in Baltimore City was a $24 million COPS grant allowing the hiring of 200 additional police officers. “There is no greater or more solemn obligation we have as public servants than the protection of our citizens. Thanks to the leadership of President Obama and our federal delegation, local law enforcement agencies have an unprecedented opportunity to create or save jobs that directly impact the safety of our neighborhoods, and we’re pleased to have the opportunity to relieve the burden of the cost of additional equipment from those local agencies.”
Today, Governor O’Malley announced the first three supporting grants to Baltimore ($448,000), Cambridge ($15,000), and Salisbury ($35,000). Additional grants will be distributed as the application process through the Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention is completed for each jurisdiction.
As Chairwoman of the Senate Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Mikulski included $1 billion in the federal checkbook for the COPS Hiring Recovery Program in the economic recovery bill. This funding not only prevented layoffs of police officers nationwide; it made it possible for states, like Maryland, to hire additional officers.
“Law enforcement agencies work around the clock to keep our communities safe. We have a responsibility to ensure they are not walking a thin blue line. Our cops need a full team to combat violence, protect families, and fight the crime that's destroying neighborhoods,” Senator Mikulski said. “I was proud to include $1 billion in the federal checkbook for the COPS hiring program. This funding means more cops on the beat from Prince George's to Princess Anne, patrolling our streets and protecting our families.”
The federal Recovery Act provides $1 billion in grant funding to the Department of Justice for the COPS Hiring Recovery Program. The COPS office received applications from 7,272 law enforcement agencies requesting more than 39,000 officer positions nationwide. COPS grants provide 100 percent funding for three years of entry-level salaries and benefits, and are awarded to localities and/or police departments to hire or rehire additional career law enforcement officers.
Following the passage of President Obama’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the O’Malley-Brown Administration moved swiftly to capture more than $26 million in additional federal funding to put state-of-the-art law enforcement and information sharing technologies into the hands of our police at every level across our State. The O’Malley-Brown Administration is expanding the use of smart law enforcement technology across Maryland, including advanced fingerprinting technology, eliminating backlogs and expanding our DNA database, tracking and monitoring repeat violent offenders, and increased drug treatment funding. The O’Malley Brown Administration is putting families first by making public safety a top priority, with 66 fewer lives lost to homicides in 2008 when compared to 2007, and 40 fewer homicides this year when compared to the same period in 2008.
2nd Annual Convention of the Wicomico Neighborhood Congress
2nd Annual Convention of the Wicomico Neighborhood Congress
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
At Salisbury University – Guerrieri Center
Nanticoke Room – 6:15 PM Registration
Meeting 6:30-8:30
Guest Speakers to Include:
- County Executive Rick Pollitt
- Wicomico County Sheriffs Department
- First Sergeant Tim Robinson
- Margaret Enloe - Chesapeake Bay Foundation
- Michael A. Pretl – Experienced Non-profit Attorney
Topics to include:
- Public Safety & Crime
- Neighborhood Crime Watch
- Water Quality in our Lakes & Steams
- Rain Gardens & Rain Barrels
- Establishing a Neighborhood Association/HOA
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
At Salisbury University – Guerrieri Center
Nanticoke Room – 6:15 PM Registration
Meeting 6:30-8:30
Guest Speakers to Include:
- County Executive Rick Pollitt
- Wicomico County Sheriffs Department
- First Sergeant Tim Robinson
- Margaret Enloe - Chesapeake Bay Foundation
- Michael A. Pretl – Experienced Non-profit Attorney
Topics to include:
- Public Safety & Crime
- Neighborhood Crime Watch
- Water Quality in our Lakes & Steams
- Rain Gardens & Rain Barrels
- Establishing a Neighborhood Association/HOA
NAACP ANNOUNCES PROGRAM FOR NOVEMBER MEETING
Mary Ashanti, President of Wicomico County NAACP announced today that the topic for the November meeting will be the Revenue Cap in Wicomico County. Ms. Ashanti said that the presenters will be James V. Fineran, Wicomico County Public Information Officer and Patricia B. Petersen, Wicomico County Director of Finance. The meeting will be held on November 19th at 7:00P.M., First Baptist Church, Corner of Delaware and 528
Booth Street, Salisbury, MD.
According to Ms. Ashanti, the presenters will describe the history of the Revenue Cap, how it works and the affect that it has had on the county’s income derived from property taxes. Also, she said that the presenters will comment on how the Cap could be changed or modified if needed.
This event is open to all members of the public. For more information, call 410-543-4187.
Booth Street, Salisbury, MD.
According to Ms. Ashanti, the presenters will describe the history of the Revenue Cap, how it works and the affect that it has had on the county’s income derived from property taxes. Also, she said that the presenters will comment on how the Cap could be changed or modified if needed.
This event is open to all members of the public. For more information, call 410-543-4187.
A Message from the Governor
It’s been a little more than a year since we first launched our Marylanders Plant Trees program, and now that summer has quickly turned into fall – there is no better time to plant a tree than today.
Families from Western Maryland to the Eastern Shore, and all points in between have already joined together to plant 22,000 trees to create that greener, more sustainable future for our children and future generations. But we need your help to reach our goal to plant 50,000 trees by 2010.
Will you help us meet our goal and plant a tree today?
Fall is an ideal time to plant a tree for the future – giving newly planted trees the chance to firmly take root throughout the winter, making them stronger and more resilient come spring.
To make it easy for everyone to plant a tree, we’re offering $25 coupons for the purchase of native trees costing $50 or more at more than 70 participating nurseries. And now everyone in Maryland has the opportunity to join in, simply visit us online at www.green.maryland.gov and TREE-Mendous Maryland can plant one for you through their Gift of Trees program.
We all know that planting trees benefits us all by creating a greener, more beautiful environment. But planting a tree also has the added benefit of improving the quality of the air we breathe and the water we drink – and those benefits only grow larger over time with our trees, and multiply as we plant more and more trees across our great state.
Finally, please don’t forget to register your newly planted tree. Our Department of Natural Resources will be holding drawings every month where you can win overnight stays at beautiful Rocky Gap Resort, yacht tours of the Chesapeake Bay, locally-grown Christmas trees and State Park passes. And when you register a tree, you can add your tree to our interactive website, where you can calculate the environmental benefits of your new tree.
There is no better time to plant a tree than right now. By planting one tree, every Marylander can help keep Maryland Smart, Green & Growing.
Please join us at www.green.maryland.gov
Martin O'Malley
Governor
Families from Western Maryland to the Eastern Shore, and all points in between have already joined together to plant 22,000 trees to create that greener, more sustainable future for our children and future generations. But we need your help to reach our goal to plant 50,000 trees by 2010.
Will you help us meet our goal and plant a tree today?
Fall is an ideal time to plant a tree for the future – giving newly planted trees the chance to firmly take root throughout the winter, making them stronger and more resilient come spring.
To make it easy for everyone to plant a tree, we’re offering $25 coupons for the purchase of native trees costing $50 or more at more than 70 participating nurseries. And now everyone in Maryland has the opportunity to join in, simply visit us online at www.green.maryland.gov and TREE-Mendous Maryland can plant one for you through their Gift of Trees program.
We all know that planting trees benefits us all by creating a greener, more beautiful environment. But planting a tree also has the added benefit of improving the quality of the air we breathe and the water we drink – and those benefits only grow larger over time with our trees, and multiply as we plant more and more trees across our great state.
Finally, please don’t forget to register your newly planted tree. Our Department of Natural Resources will be holding drawings every month where you can win overnight stays at beautiful Rocky Gap Resort, yacht tours of the Chesapeake Bay, locally-grown Christmas trees and State Park passes. And when you register a tree, you can add your tree to our interactive website, where you can calculate the environmental benefits of your new tree.
There is no better time to plant a tree than right now. By planting one tree, every Marylander can help keep Maryland Smart, Green & Growing.
Please join us at www.green.maryland.gov
Martin O'Malley
Governor
Senator Cardin Holds Press Conference to Announce New Bay Bill
Dear Friends,
For decades people have talked about cleaning up one of America’s most cherished and celebrated bodies of water – the Chesapeake Bay. On October 21, I introduced the Chesapeake Clean Water and Ecosystem Restoration Act, S. 1816, landmark legislation that will back up that talk with tough, new requirements and a major new federal investment in a clean bay.
Today, 17 million people live in its watershed, which encompasses seven jurisdictions – Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia, Pennsylvania, Delaware, West Virginia and New York. The Bay’s tributaries -- the Susquehanna, Severn and James rivers -- are home to three state capitals, and the nation’s capital is nestled between two others, the Potomac and Anacostia.
While the Bay has been called a “national treasure” by American presidents ranging from Ronald Reagan to Barack Obama, it’s a watershed that is in serious trouble. By every scientific measure, the ecological health of the Chesapeake is poor. The Bay and its tributaries have been harmed from too much urban and suburban development, too many impervious surfaces and too much runoff from farm lands. At the same time, we also have experienced an astounding loss of 100 acres of forest lands every day in the watershed. All of this has led to excess nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment pouring into the Bay in recent decades.
I am determined to restore the Chesapeake Bay for future generations. I am leading that effort in Congress and that’s why I recently introduced S. 1816 to make that a reality. My bill would give states strong, new tools to clean up the Bay’s watershed, and, for the first time, sets a firm deadline of 2025 for all restoration efforts to be in place. It also would authorize nearly $2 billion, including a new $1.5 billion grants program to control urban/suburban polluted stormwater, a serious contributor to pollution in the Bay and one that has only gotten worse over time.
To help farmers implement new conservation practices, my bill would ensure that at least 20 percent of the states’ implementation grants would be devoted to helping farmers and foresters reduce farm runoff and to help reforest the watershed. Finally, my measure would codify President Obama’s Chesapeake Bay Executive Order, which was issued in September and requires federal action plans across all federal departments to restore the Bay.
We can restore the Bay to health, but only if we establish a comprehensive plan that is based on a strong federal, state, local and community partnership – a partnership that has the tools and resources to get the job done. This is our legacy to future generations and it is a legacy that I believe people who live in the Bay’s watershed want and support. It is time for us to join together and return the Bay to its former glory – a pristine natural resource that can sustain the ecosystem we all treasure.
Best wishes.
Ben
For decades people have talked about cleaning up one of America’s most cherished and celebrated bodies of water – the Chesapeake Bay. On October 21, I introduced the Chesapeake Clean Water and Ecosystem Restoration Act, S. 1816, landmark legislation that will back up that talk with tough, new requirements and a major new federal investment in a clean bay.
Today, 17 million people live in its watershed, which encompasses seven jurisdictions – Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia, Pennsylvania, Delaware, West Virginia and New York. The Bay’s tributaries -- the Susquehanna, Severn and James rivers -- are home to three state capitals, and the nation’s capital is nestled between two others, the Potomac and Anacostia.
While the Bay has been called a “national treasure” by American presidents ranging from Ronald Reagan to Barack Obama, it’s a watershed that is in serious trouble. By every scientific measure, the ecological health of the Chesapeake is poor. The Bay and its tributaries have been harmed from too much urban and suburban development, too many impervious surfaces and too much runoff from farm lands. At the same time, we also have experienced an astounding loss of 100 acres of forest lands every day in the watershed. All of this has led to excess nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment pouring into the Bay in recent decades.
I am determined to restore the Chesapeake Bay for future generations. I am leading that effort in Congress and that’s why I recently introduced S. 1816 to make that a reality. My bill would give states strong, new tools to clean up the Bay’s watershed, and, for the first time, sets a firm deadline of 2025 for all restoration efforts to be in place. It also would authorize nearly $2 billion, including a new $1.5 billion grants program to control urban/suburban polluted stormwater, a serious contributor to pollution in the Bay and one that has only gotten worse over time.
To help farmers implement new conservation practices, my bill would ensure that at least 20 percent of the states’ implementation grants would be devoted to helping farmers and foresters reduce farm runoff and to help reforest the watershed. Finally, my measure would codify President Obama’s Chesapeake Bay Executive Order, which was issued in September and requires federal action plans across all federal departments to restore the Bay.
We can restore the Bay to health, but only if we establish a comprehensive plan that is based on a strong federal, state, local and community partnership – a partnership that has the tools and resources to get the job done. This is our legacy to future generations and it is a legacy that I believe people who live in the Bay’s watershed want and support. It is time for us to join together and return the Bay to its former glory – a pristine natural resource that can sustain the ecosystem we all treasure.
Best wishes.
Ben
Kratovil Introduces Legislation to Cut Taxes On Small Businesses Owners Seeking to Reinvest in Their Companies
Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Frank Kratovil introduced HR 3898, the Small Business Property Reimbursement Act. The legislation will extend a key tax deduction for small business owners that invest in new equipment for their businesses. Specifically, Kratovil’s bill will extend a provision of the tax code that allows small businesses to expense up to $250,000 of the total cost of qualified assets purchased for business purposes. If Kratovil’s extension does not pass, this deduction will decrease to $125,000 at the end of this year.
Rep. Kratovil’s bill would extend an enhanced Sec. 179 of the Internal Revenue Code through 2010 representing a significant tax subsidy for business investment. “Instead of bailing out giant corporations, we ought to focus on strengthening the small businesses that support our local economies and drive economic growth,” said Rep. Kratovil. “My bill provides much needed tax relief that will allow small business owners to re-invest and create new jobs.”
The higher expensing allowance is designed to increase business investment by augmenting the cash flow of firms that rely heavily on retained earnings to finance their investments. Expensing can increase a firm’s cash flow in the short run because it allows the firm to deduct the full cost of qualified assets in the tax year the firm places them into service. The legislation also serves to simplify the tax code by allowing an immediate deduction, instead of depreciation deductions over a specified recovery period.
Kratovil’s bill has drawn praise from a number of small business advocacy organizations, including the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) and the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB). “The expanded expensing provision helps smaller manufacturers by lowering the after-tax cost of investing in new equipment and generating new orders from customers,” according to Dorothy Coleman, NAM Vice President of Tax and Domestic Economic Policy. “Extending this incentive through 2010 will enhance the effectiveness of the provision to spur desperately needed business investment and job creation.”
“We appreciate Representative Kratovil's efforts in introducing HR 3898. This legislation will provide small businesses with incentives and certainty to make new investments in their business. This is especially important in the current economic environment where small business hiring, capital spending and earnings are at record lows," said Brad Close, NFIB Vice President for Federal Public Policy. “If Congress wants to encourage small business owners to start investing in capital spending, then it is critical that they extend section 179 expensing limits. HR 3898 provides the kinds of tools and incentives that small businesses need to expand and grow their businesses. Small businesses are the engine of our economy, generating seven out of ten new jobs and leading our economy out of past recessions. The NFIB thanks Representative Kratovil for standing up for small business owners, our nation's job creators," said Close.
HR 3898 is the second small business tax incentive bill introduced by Kratovil since taking office in January. Earlier this year, he joined with Rep. Chris Lee (R-NY) to introduce H.R. 1552, the Small Business Formation and Job Creation Act, which would increase the maximum deduction for business start-up expenses to promote the creation of new start-up small businesses. Kratovil has also voted in favor of the Small Business Research and Innovation Act, legislation designed to create new jobs and boost the economy by supporting small business innovation in research and technology. Rep. Kratovil offered an amendment to the legislation that raises the award ceilings for veteran-owned small businesses and creates new incentives for the formation of technology-based companies to compete for defense and homeland security related contracts awards, allowing veterans to capitalize on their service experience.
Rep. Kratovil’s bill would extend an enhanced Sec. 179 of the Internal Revenue Code through 2010 representing a significant tax subsidy for business investment. “Instead of bailing out giant corporations, we ought to focus on strengthening the small businesses that support our local economies and drive economic growth,” said Rep. Kratovil. “My bill provides much needed tax relief that will allow small business owners to re-invest and create new jobs.”
The higher expensing allowance is designed to increase business investment by augmenting the cash flow of firms that rely heavily on retained earnings to finance their investments. Expensing can increase a firm’s cash flow in the short run because it allows the firm to deduct the full cost of qualified assets in the tax year the firm places them into service. The legislation also serves to simplify the tax code by allowing an immediate deduction, instead of depreciation deductions over a specified recovery period.
Kratovil’s bill has drawn praise from a number of small business advocacy organizations, including the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) and the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB). “The expanded expensing provision helps smaller manufacturers by lowering the after-tax cost of investing in new equipment and generating new orders from customers,” according to Dorothy Coleman, NAM Vice President of Tax and Domestic Economic Policy. “Extending this incentive through 2010 will enhance the effectiveness of the provision to spur desperately needed business investment and job creation.”
“We appreciate Representative Kratovil's efforts in introducing HR 3898. This legislation will provide small businesses with incentives and certainty to make new investments in their business. This is especially important in the current economic environment where small business hiring, capital spending and earnings are at record lows," said Brad Close, NFIB Vice President for Federal Public Policy. “If Congress wants to encourage small business owners to start investing in capital spending, then it is critical that they extend section 179 expensing limits. HR 3898 provides the kinds of tools and incentives that small businesses need to expand and grow their businesses. Small businesses are the engine of our economy, generating seven out of ten new jobs and leading our economy out of past recessions. The NFIB thanks Representative Kratovil for standing up for small business owners, our nation's job creators," said Close.
HR 3898 is the second small business tax incentive bill introduced by Kratovil since taking office in January. Earlier this year, he joined with Rep. Chris Lee (R-NY) to introduce H.R. 1552, the Small Business Formation and Job Creation Act, which would increase the maximum deduction for business start-up expenses to promote the creation of new start-up small businesses. Kratovil has also voted in favor of the Small Business Research and Innovation Act, legislation designed to create new jobs and boost the economy by supporting small business innovation in research and technology. Rep. Kratovil offered an amendment to the legislation that raises the award ceilings for veteran-owned small businesses and creates new incentives for the formation of technology-based companies to compete for defense and homeland security related contracts awards, allowing veterans to capitalize on their service experience.
WET e-news
Help Create a Vision for the Future of the Nanticoke River Watershed
The Nanticoke Watershed Alliance is kicking off a project to create a vision for the future of the Nanticoke watershed, developed through input from members of the community. The group is inviting residents of Wicomico County to participate in an evening listening session to discuss what they treasure in the Nanticoke area, why they love where they live, and what they hope the Nanticoke watershed will look like in the future.
When: Tuesday, Oct. 27, 6:30–8:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:00)
Where: Wicomico County Public Library, downtown Salisbury branch (RSVPs requested to adequately prepare seating and snacks)
More information or to RSVP: Contact Megan Ward at meganward@nanticokeriver.org or (410) 873-3045
Wicomico County Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Day
When: Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Where: Newland Park Landfill, 6948 Brick Kiln Road, Salisbury (map)
Who: Residents of Wicomico County (driver’s license required to demonstrate county residency)—no businesses or farms
Items accepted include: Gasoline, Gas/Oil mixes, Fuels, Acids, Cleaners, Solvents, Automotive fluids, Bleach, Ammonia, Batteries (all types), Household Smoke Detectors, Asbestos, Pool Chemicals, Dark Room Chemicals, Household and Lawn & Garden Pesticides, Insecticides & Herbicides, Compressed Gas Propane Cylinders (30 gal and under), Painting Products: Oil based paints, Paint Thinner, Turpentine, Wood Preservatives, Wood Strippers, etc. (Dispose of solidified LATEX paint with trash - to solidify add dirt, mulch, kitty litter, etc.).
Items not accepted include: Explosives, Ammunition (contact Fire Marshall, 410-543-6573). Medical Waste, Radioactive Materials
No Materials from Business, Industrial, or Commercial Farm Sources
More information: Call 410-548-4935 or go to http://www.wicomicocounty.org/ and click on Public Works Info (left side of page) and then click on Hazardous Waste Day under Solid Waste & Recycling (right side of page).
Nassawango Preserve Fun Days
When and where: Sundays, Nov. 1 and Dec. 13, times and locations TBA
What: Activities may include walks on Nature Conservancy property or canoe/kayak trips.
Sponsor: The Nature Conservancy
More information: Contact George Parker (chair of the Stewardship Committee) at 757-709-1966 or gvparker@esva.net, or Joe Fehrer (land manager) at jfehrer@tnc.org.
Birding Trip to Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, VA
When and where: Sunday, Nov. 15. Meet at 7:30 a.m. in the parking lot of the Ward Museum, 909 South Schumaker Drive, Salisbury
Sponsor: Tri-County Bird Club
Further information: contact Jean and Larry Fry (trip leaders) at 410-208-4169.
The Nanticoke Watershed Alliance is kicking off a project to create a vision for the future of the Nanticoke watershed, developed through input from members of the community. The group is inviting residents of Wicomico County to participate in an evening listening session to discuss what they treasure in the Nanticoke area, why they love where they live, and what they hope the Nanticoke watershed will look like in the future.
When: Tuesday, Oct. 27, 6:30–8:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:00)
Where: Wicomico County Public Library, downtown Salisbury branch (RSVPs requested to adequately prepare seating and snacks)
More information or to RSVP: Contact Megan Ward at meganward@nanticokeriver.org or (410) 873-3045
Wicomico County Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Day
When: Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Where: Newland Park Landfill, 6948 Brick Kiln Road, Salisbury (map)
Who: Residents of Wicomico County (driver’s license required to demonstrate county residency)—no businesses or farms
Items accepted include: Gasoline, Gas/Oil mixes, Fuels, Acids, Cleaners, Solvents, Automotive fluids, Bleach, Ammonia, Batteries (all types), Household Smoke Detectors, Asbestos, Pool Chemicals, Dark Room Chemicals, Household and Lawn & Garden Pesticides, Insecticides & Herbicides, Compressed Gas Propane Cylinders (30 gal and under), Painting Products: Oil based paints, Paint Thinner, Turpentine, Wood Preservatives, Wood Strippers, etc. (Dispose of solidified LATEX paint with trash - to solidify add dirt, mulch, kitty litter, etc.).
Items not accepted include: Explosives, Ammunition (contact Fire Marshall, 410-543-6573). Medical Waste, Radioactive Materials
No Materials from Business, Industrial, or Commercial Farm Sources
More information: Call 410-548-4935 or go to http://www.wicomicocounty.org/ and click on Public Works Info (left side of page) and then click on Hazardous Waste Day under Solid Waste & Recycling (right side of page).
Nassawango Preserve Fun Days
When and where: Sundays, Nov. 1 and Dec. 13, times and locations TBA
What: Activities may include walks on Nature Conservancy property or canoe/kayak trips.
Sponsor: The Nature Conservancy
More information: Contact George Parker (chair of the Stewardship Committee) at 757-709-1966 or gvparker@esva.net, or Joe Fehrer (land manager) at jfehrer@tnc.org.
Birding Trip to Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, VA
When and where: Sunday, Nov. 15. Meet at 7:30 a.m. in the parking lot of the Ward Museum, 909 South Schumaker Drive, Salisbury
Sponsor: Tri-County Bird Club
Further information: contact Jean and Larry Fry (trip leaders) at 410-208-4169.
Friday, October 23, 2009
A Message from the Governor: Strengthening our Schools
Yesterday, I was proud to join all 24 public school superintendents from across our State as they gathered in Annapolis to discuss the state of education in Maryland, and how we can build upon the successes and historic investments we've made as One Maryland for our public schools. And this past weekend, I had the opportunity to address more than 700 teachers from the Maryland State Education Association, who gathered at their annual convention in Ocean City.
We are very fortunate in Maryland to have such a talented, committed group of professional educators, who aren't content with simply running in place and defending our number one ranking in America for our public schools. They want, as all of us do, to be competitive globally and we can do that by protecting those priorities we share even when it is difficult to do so.
In the past three years, the O'Malley-Brown Administration has fully funded the Thornton Bridge to Excellence Plan – the first administration to do so – and invested $1 billion over a three-year period in school construction, a first in Maryland's history. In an effort to build upon the system's number one national ranking, we've set ambitious goals for ourselves and for our students, including increasing college and career readiness, improving student achievement, and increasing the number of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math college graduates.We've set the bar high for our students, and they're responding. Graduation rates are up. Standardized test scores are up virtually across the board. And we're closing the achievement gap that has historically existed between minority students and their white counterparts. Our high school students are now out-pacing their counterparts nationwide on advanced placement exams, and Maryland now ranks first in the nation in its achievement on those rigorous exams.
I could not be more proud of our students and the dedicated professionals in our public schools. Join me in congratulating them in their achievement, and committing as One Maryland to do everything we can to protect our shared priorities, even in tough times.
Martin O'Malley
Governor
We are very fortunate in Maryland to have such a talented, committed group of professional educators, who aren't content with simply running in place and defending our number one ranking in America for our public schools. They want, as all of us do, to be competitive globally and we can do that by protecting those priorities we share even when it is difficult to do so.
In the past three years, the O'Malley-Brown Administration has fully funded the Thornton Bridge to Excellence Plan – the first administration to do so – and invested $1 billion over a three-year period in school construction, a first in Maryland's history. In an effort to build upon the system's number one national ranking, we've set ambitious goals for ourselves and for our students, including increasing college and career readiness, improving student achievement, and increasing the number of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math college graduates.We've set the bar high for our students, and they're responding. Graduation rates are up. Standardized test scores are up virtually across the board. And we're closing the achievement gap that has historically existed between minority students and their white counterparts. Our high school students are now out-pacing their counterparts nationwide on advanced placement exams, and Maryland now ranks first in the nation in its achievement on those rigorous exams.
I could not be more proud of our students and the dedicated professionals in our public schools. Join me in congratulating them in their achievement, and committing as One Maryland to do everything we can to protect our shared priorities, even in tough times.
Martin O'Malley
Governor
A Message from the Governor
A Message from Governor O'Malley
Dear Friends,
I wanted to share with you the video from last night’s monthly program on MPT, "Ask the Governor." The program gives us the opportunity to continue our ongoing dialogue directly with the people of our State, and last night, in response to some of those questions, we talked about the state of our budget during these tough economic times, statewide economic development, transportation planning and investments in infrastructure, among others. I hope you will take a few minutes to watch and share with your friends.
Watch the video.
"Ask the Governor" airs on the third Wednesday of each month at 7:00pm. You can email your questions at any time.to askthegovernor@mpt.org, or call live during the show at 1-800-926-0629.
Visit the show’s website to learn more and for a schedule of each broadcast.
Martin O'Malley
Governor
Dear Friends,
I wanted to share with you the video from last night’s monthly program on MPT, "Ask the Governor." The program gives us the opportunity to continue our ongoing dialogue directly with the people of our State, and last night, in response to some of those questions, we talked about the state of our budget during these tough economic times, statewide economic development, transportation planning and investments in infrastructure, among others. I hope you will take a few minutes to watch and share with your friends.
Watch the video.
"Ask the Governor" airs on the third Wednesday of each month at 7:00pm. You can email your questions at any time.to askthegovernor@mpt.org, or call live during the show at 1-800-926-0629.
Visit the show’s website to learn more and for a schedule of each broadcast.
Martin O'Malley
Governor
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Party with Congressman Frank Kratovil At the Pumpkin Patch!
Bring the Whole Family for a Party with
Congressman Frank Kratovil
At the Pumpkin Patch!
October 24, 2009
2:00 to 5:00 pm
Co-Hosts:
John & Leigh Melton
Tony & Hope Harrington
QA County State's Attorney Lance Richardson
Live Eastern Shore Bluegrass Band!
Pig roast with all the trimmings
Face painting and tons of activities for the kids!
Location: Councell Farms
11773 Old Skipton Road ~ Cordova, MD 21625
(Rt. 50, 5 miles north of Easton)
Councell Farms features a Barnyard Jump,
Obstacle Course, Pumpkin Slingers, Corn Maze, and much more!
Suggested Contribution:
$50 Individual $100 Family $500 Sponsor $1000 Host
Please RSVP Lynn at 410-279-0711 or LCaligiuri@Kratovil.com.
Tickets are available online with a credit card at Kratovil.com.
Please note Pumpkin Patch in the comments.
Please make checks payable to Kratovil for Congress.
No tickets will be mailed - Reservations will be held at the gate.
Please RSVP right away - space is limited!
Congressman Frank Kratovil
At the Pumpkin Patch!
October 24, 2009
2:00 to 5:00 pm
Co-Hosts:
John & Leigh Melton
Tony & Hope Harrington
QA County State's Attorney Lance Richardson
Live Eastern Shore Bluegrass Band!
Pig roast with all the trimmings
Face painting and tons of activities for the kids!
Location: Councell Farms
11773 Old Skipton Road ~ Cordova, MD 21625
(Rt. 50, 5 miles north of Easton)
Councell Farms features a Barnyard Jump,
Obstacle Course, Pumpkin Slingers, Corn Maze, and much more!
Suggested Contribution:
$50 Individual $100 Family $500 Sponsor $1000 Host
Please RSVP Lynn at 410-279-0711 or LCaligiuri@Kratovil.com.
Tickets are available online with a credit card at Kratovil.com.
Please note Pumpkin Patch in the comments.
Please make checks payable to Kratovil for Congress.
No tickets will be mailed - Reservations will be held at the gate.
Please RSVP right away - space is limited!
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