Month: August 2006

For Wicomico County Sheriff

Tonight will be the first of my endorsements for the primary election season. I chose to begin with the Sheriff’s race because it seems to have the highest amount of interest and the largest number of candidates. This means an earlier endorsement may do the most good.

To be honest, in almost all cases I would support the winners of the Republican primary in the general election, although I can think of a couple exceptions off the top of my head if certain scenarios and matchups played out. However, in this case as well as other contested races I’m going to endorse a winner from both parties. If that primary race turns out in a different manner, I’ll revisit the endorsement prior to the November election.

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I’m going to begin with the Democratic primary contenders. All three have longstanding ties with the current Sheriff’s Department, and two of the three have the WCSD as their present employer. In my opinion, all three have strengths but all three also have what I consider glaring weaknesses based on comments they’ve made in the various forums. Kirk Daugherty spoke of acquiring “CSI technology” which is a nice idea but what I’d like to know is how useful that would be in our county where the crimes aren’t generally that convoluted to figure out. Most homicides here stem from the drug trade. Ken Pusey told us that grants to get technology “don’t cost taxpayers a thing” when the reality is that, unless it’s a private institution giving the grant, anything from the government does have a price. It’s just not directly taken out of our pockets, in general it’s diluted to pay for the bureaucrats who have to be sucked up to in order to get a grant. Meanwhile, Robin Roberts spoke glowingly of having a “diverse” department. Can’t we just have the best and brightest officers and not worry about how much pigment they have or whether they carry a “Y” chromosome?

To me, the race on the Democrat side is between the two in the WCSD right now. Kirk Daugherty has ran a good campaign, but I think the two currently in the department are the two who are most qualified to continue on. On balance, though, I believe the Democrat nomination should go to Robin Roberts. While Ken Pusey does have some good ideas regarding manpower and “special ops” units, I think his promise to “clean up” the department could impact morale in the coming months. Roberts wants to focus attention on recruiting by having good role models in the WCSD and soliciting citizen input, which may help somewhat in gathering intelligence about what’s going on down on the streets. He also wants to rework the WCSD to form “interdiction units” and reopen the substations still closed.

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This brings us to the Republican side. Unlike the Democrat side, most of the candidates are currently outside of the WCSD. Only Doris Schonbrunner is inside the department, she’s currently second-in-command under retiring Sheriff Hunter Nelms.

It’s my feeling that Wayne Lowe and Chris South have certainly made good points in this race; South seems to have a good attitude toward making the WCSD more user-friendly, while Lowe makes a very good case for himself based on achieving an end result of prosecuting criminals. Certainly there are elements of both mens’ platforms that would be useful for the next Sheriff to adopt and bring into their term.

Being more involved with the local GOP than with the Democrats, I obviously can get the pulse of those whose business it is to know these things and the conventional wisdom (such that we have) is that it’s become a two-person race between Mike Lewis and Doris Schonbrunner, with Lewis having a slight advantage. Mike Lewis certainly is good at creating enthusiasm for his work whenever he speaks.

Lewis is a wonderful teacher. I sat in last month’s WCRC meeting and was fascinated by Mike’s presentation. I’m not a cop but I learned a lot about traffic stops and drug interdiction from just 20 or 30 minutes listening to him speak. Had Hunter Nelms decided to run for another term, I’m certain Mike Lewis would be starting a second career traveling the country and even internationally as a teacher and expert on drug interdiction. It almost seems like a waste having him as a county sheriff when he could do a great job and touch many more people with a career path like he was contemplating.

But, for reasons unknown to me, Hunter Nelms decided it was time to turn over the badge to another. Now, if there wasn’t another person who was qualified to assume the Sheriff’s duties I’d certainly have no problem with Mike Lewis as our next Sheriff, despite the lost opportunity of having an expert interdictor and outstanding teacher making a difference nationally in combatting the scourge of drugs.

Fortunately we do have just such a qualified person ready and willing to assume the role of our next Sheriff. Her name is Doris Schonbrunner. Just as Lewis worked and studied to become the expert in his field, Doris Schonbrunner has worked and studied to become Sheriff. She’s made her way through the ranks and has mastered the administrative side that the job truly entails. Being Sheriff is akin to being a CEO of a company and degrees in Criminal Justice and Human Resource Management along with Masters’ work in Public Administration hold her in good stead for that side of the job, while graduating from the FBI National Academy works well for the criminal side.

I’m sure some will say, “but Mike Lewis is going to get the criminals off the street.” Mike Lewis isn’t going to do this by himself, it’s going to be those officers out doing the patrol work who are on the front lines. I think Doris has a good idea where she proposes to evaluate the lower echelon officers’ strengths and interests and pair them up with more senior officers in a mentorship program. I’m somewhat familiar with the concept because intern architects now have to participate in a similar style of mentorship in order to qualify for their architectural examination.

In sum, let’s keep the people on the Republican side doing what they can do best. Chris South by all accounts is doing a fine job for US Air, Wayne Lowe is doing wonderful work in the State’s Attorney office, and Mike Lewis is outstanding in his chosen field of drug interdiction and enforcement. With her experience and education, I have no doubt that Doris Schonbrunner is going to make a great Sheriff and a worthy successor to Hunter Nelms, so I endorse her for this post with the strongest enthusiasm.

Election Calendar – August 21 thru September 3

As faithful readers of monoblogue have already discovered, I’m back in town. I actually have some thoughts to share on my trip to Pennsylvania and Ohio, perhaps this week I’ll compile them and the pictures for a post. But for now it’s a return to the Election Calendar, which this goround covers the span of time up to Labor Day weekend.

First and foremost, Tuesday the 22nd is the final day to register to vote for this year’s primary. After that you’re SOL.

I still have no more info on Jim Corwin‘s plans to be at a “Wicomico Crab Feast” on August 27.

Like last time, District 38B contenders Bonnie Luna, Jack Lord, and Sonny Bloxom all have events on their respective calendars. They still tend to conglomerate at a few events:

August 23-26: Great Pocomoke Fair (Lord, Luna).
August 26: Mardel Republican Club Crab Feast (Lord, Bloxom).

Luna also has a candidate forum in Snow Hill on her calendar for August 29th, I’d be reasonably certain that the other 38B contenders would be there too seeing as it’s a Worcester-based event.

Still upcoming as well are two events featuring Sonny Bloxom; the dedication of the Jordan Daycare Center on August 24th at 3:00 p.m. and Wor-Wic’s Annual Steak Out on August 25th. I believe both of these are at the Berlin Wor-Wic campus, hopefully Sonny will read this and correct me if I’m mistaken. And indeed he did, both events are at the Salisbury campus.

And I cannot forget that it’s that time of the month – the regular meeting of the Wicomico County Republican Club occurs on Monday, August 28 at the Chamber of Commerce building (144 E. Main in Salisbury.) We’ll begin the schmoozing at 7:00 p.m. and get to hear from Bonnie Luna (her again) about 7:30 or so. I’m sure almost every Republican that’s on the Wicomico County ballot will be there. (Oh, and the person doing the club’s website needs to see monoblogue for additional links I have that they don’t.)

Also upcoming is a fundraiser for County Executive candidate BJ Corbin on August 31st, 6-9 p.m. This $50 event will be held at the Old Mill Crab House along Route 54 at Waller Road just west of Delmar.

You know, I honestly wish I’d get more input from Democrats, Greens, Libertarians, etc. on what they’re doing. It’s not like I don’t look for their stuff but obviously I get more news from the GOP side. Love to know how the other sides live as well.

Finally, Bill Reddish of WICO came through for me again and submitted his interview schedule for the next few days. All of these take place in the half-hour from 7:30 to 8:00 a.m.

August 21: Mark Bowen (incumbent Democrat Clerk of the Courts)
August 22: Rich Colburn (incumbent Republican District 37 Senator)
August 23: Hilary Spence (Democrat candidate for District 37 Senator)
August 24: James Adkins (Democrat candidate in House of Delegates District 37B)

By the way, Colburn and Adkins have already answered my Ten Questions, Hilary Spence should now have a copy. I think a few candidates may have blocked my original e-mail because I attached the TQ as a file instead of placing it in the body of the e-mail. Lesson learned.

Next week’s Election Calendar will be the final one for the primary season. I’ll take a couple weeks off from it and resume things the Sunday after the primary since we’ll have eliminated the pretenders from the contenders at that time. That’ll be the day after we in the GOP eliminate a few dozen crabs because our WCRC Crab Feast is the 16th at Schumaker Pond. (But any D’s, Greens, Libertarians, etc. are welcome to join in.)

Tossing the bull around

Some of the rejects that will be saved for next year's contest.

All right, they were buffalo chips. Not the nicest thing to hold but held relatively harmless by a squirt of antibacterial soap and a good hand washing. I was one of the participants in this year’s Buffalo Chip Toss at the Wicomico County Farm and Home Show. There were about 30 politicians who participated; mostly local but we did get U.S. Senate hopeful George English as a lone statewide candidate.

The man behind monoblogue with a sample.

I probably should have thrown this one, instead I used a smaller model.

Ready to fling as best I can.

I’d have to say the “average” toss was about 60 feet, mine was a little under that at 55′-5″. By the way, the man clapping behind me is Clerk of the Courts candidate James Gillespie. I point this out because I swear that guy is everywhere I go. I even ran into him coming out of a workout in the fitness room at the apartment complex where I live (for now).

For the record, the winning toss was thrown by incumbent Clerk of the Court Mark Bowen, who threw his about 85 feet. Sheriff candidate Mike Lewis was second and County Executive hopeful BJ Corbin was third, all of them were over 80 feet. So I was well short of the money. But – being the lone Central Committeeman to participate from either party and as far as I’m aware the only candidate blogger to participate (Robin Roberts didn’t attend), I suppose I can claim the title belt in those two divisions. And I need to thank the nice lady (whose name I didn’t get) that took the pictures of me, whoever she is.

After the festivities I went inside to check out our party’s booth at the fair. Most of the signs I helped put up from working the booth Thursday are still there, only a couple additions have been made. I’ll be back over there to take them down shortly!

This year's edition of the Wicomico Republican Party's booth at the Farm and Home Show.

As you can see, several candidates and supporters are there manning the booth after the contest. From left to right, the gentleman that is half cut off with his back to the camera is Central Committeeman Blan Harcum, then it’s Jeremy Schonbrunner, the son of Sheriff candidate Doris Schonbrunner (in the red and white top), her husband Alan, County Council at-large hopeful Sheryl Peters (back to camera, red hair), current Sheriff Hunter Nelms, and on the far right with the cane, County Council at-large aspirant Lucy Graf. I wanted to see her throw a buffalo chip, but she declined to. By the way, the banner in the back is brand new and I helped with creating the tagline (“Preserving Our Values, Building Our Future”) at a recent Central Committee meeting.

Everything you wanted to know (and more) about our Republican slate.

Of course, most of the candidates had items there for public inspection. Certainly among the most eye-catching was Addie Eckardt’s hot pink signs and literature.

County Executive candidate Ron Alessi had his own space.

I found it sort of interesting that Ron Alessi decided he needed his own space. There are only two political entities at the Farm and Home Show, and you’ve now seen both of them. I notice a few other candidates with their items sitting at the Alessi booth, but no volunteers. Alessi was a participant in the chip toss, and I beat him as far as distance goes – of course I think I have about 20 years or so on him so it wasn’t quite a fair fight.

There’s one thing I noticed about this event though – the attendance isn’t what you’d expect for something that’s basically our equivalent to a county fair. It has the judging of the agricultural and artistic entities that one expects to see at a county fair (next year I may mount up and enter some of my photography) but it doesn’t have the midway and games that a typical fair has. Being that the show is held at Winterplace Park, obviously there’s room for it so I wonder why this is.

However, today I had fun out there in the lighthearted event that is the Buffalo Chip Toss, even though I didn’t win and was among the bottom-feeders of the group. There’s always next year!

Ten questions for…Richard Colburn

Today I get to read and write what the District 37 Senator wrote to me. As with all of these that come to me via snail mail, I’m going to do this verbatim so if there were spelling or grammatical errors in the answers, they’re going on monoblogue.

Question #1:

Some of you participated in the recent special session to modify the large rate hikes that were to be enacted by Baltimore Gas & Electric. However, our electrical rates from the local Eastern Shore suppliers went unchanged.. With that in mind, would you be more in favor of a total repeal of the 1999 deregulation laws, or do you believe the concept is sound and only needs a few guardrails and rate safeguards?

The Special Session did not address the interests of Eastern Shore residents. Experience has taught us that deregulation has not benefited the consumer in the State of Maryland. However, with that in mind, we should move carefully in regards to totally repealing the 1999 deregulation laws.

Question #2:

In the last two sessions of the General Assembly, the issue of health insurance and who pays for it has taken center stage. (Examples: the Fair Share Health Care Act and its proposed expansion with last year’s HB1510, which was sponsored by Delegate Hubbard and defeated in committee.) Recently the state of Massachusetts adopted legislation effective in 2007 mandating all residents secure coverage under some public or private health insurance plan or face a financial penalty. Do you see this concept as an idea Maryland should adopt?

My major concern with the Massachusetts law is that I do not think government should mandate health care for everyone. However, despite the fact that I have not had the opportunity to thoroughly study the Mass law, I do see positive aspects. In regards to Massachusetts, the state acts as a conduit, or a large clearinghouse. As a result, there is a large clearinghouse with the insurance companies, so there are more people buying into the plans, it makes insurance more available, and keeps insurance costs down. In other words, the individual basically owns his/her insurance plan, and they pay a portion while the employer pays the rest. That in turn makes it easier for the employer to buy the employee’s health insurance. For instance, a cheap insurance policy would be more likely covered by the employer. Having said all of this, I want to emphasize that Maryland still needs meaningful, real tort reform to help keep insurance costs down, and the matter was not addressed during the 2004 Christmas Special Session as it should have been.

Question #3:

Within our area, Somerset County traditionally has among the highest unemployment rates in the state of Maryland. In every election, well-paying jobs and how to secure them is an issue. If you are elected to the General Assembly, what policies would you favor commencing or retaining in an attempt to create or lure good-paying jobs for the Eastern Shore?

First off, I would sight my experience in helping to create a good economic development program for the town of Federalsburg. Economic development flourishes when elected and community leaders work in harmony toward a pro-business atmosphere. In addition, we need to lessen, not increase, mandated costs to businesses on the Eastern Shore. There is a program called One Maryland, which covers counties like Somerset, Dorchester, and Caroline Counties. I helped sponsor and push this legislation through the General Assembly and I believe it is a good program and should be retained. The program is designed to provide incentives for large industries in these counties in order to also bring more jobs to the area.

Question #4:

This year a state takeover of several failing Baltimore City Schools was thwarted by the General Assembly overriding an earlier veto of a bill Governor Ehrlich rejected. A few states, though, are attempting to remove themselves from the federal “No Child Left Behind” regulations for various reasons, even at the risk of losing federal dollars. Do you support the federal NCLB mandates or do you feel the state could and should go without the additional restrictions (and funding)?

Maryland can ill afford to forego federal dollars by removing schools from the “No Child Left Behind” regulations. I continue to urge my constituents to do as we have done which is to urge federal representatives to address federal “No Child Left Behind” regulations making them more reasonable. The current regulations cause the teachers to spend an inordinate amount of time and resources preparing the children to pass tests in order to graduate instead of getting back to the basics of reading, writing, and arithmetic.

Question #5:

In the 2006 General Assembly, the Blackwater development in Cambridge became a contentious issue which led to legislation that was eventually defeated. However, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation has continued to apply pressure to legislators and encourage voters to speak out on what they perceive as a threat to bay water quality. On the other hand, the city of Cambridge sees Blackwater as a needed shot in the arm for its economy and tax base. Where do you see yourself on this issue and related development matters?

Regarding Blackwater, I am a strong believer in private property rights. Also, a project that is 3 years old and $10 million dollars into the process should not be thwarted. When it comes to related development matters, I favor managed growth. Growth should be limited to regions already set aside for it in the comprehensive plan. The comprehensive plan should not be easily amended simply to accommodate a large development.

Question #6:

The last two sessions of the General Assembly have seen an inordinate amount of time spent dealing with personnel matters and political appointments. Some have claimed this as a usurpation of power properly belonging to the executive branch (governor’s office) but others see this as a proper extension of the duties of the General Assembly. In your opinion, has the General Assembly gone too far or does the Governor still wield too much power when it comes to personnel decisions?

The General Assembly has gone too far. Thousands and thousands of dollars have been spent already regarding this issue. This is a waste of time and a waste of taxpayers’ dollars. The Governor is the Chief Executive of the State and consequently should be able to work with individuals with like-minded philosophies. My question is what exactly do my Democratic counterparts not understand about the definition of an at-will employee?

Question #7:

For the Eastern Shore, transportation can sometimes be tricky because of Bay Bridge traffic and traveling to and from the beach on a summer weekend can be a real headache. Solutions advocated range from another Bay Bridge to a ferry service to a light rail system, and as always people want the existing highways improved. What transportation improvements do you feel are a priority for the Eastern Shore, and how would you pay for them?

One of the transportation improvements that are a priority for the Eastern Shore is the complete dualization of MD Route 404. According to AAA, this highway is one of the most dangerous stretches of highway in America. Therefore, dualization would make it safer for everyone, including local traffic and Western Shore traffic. Also dualization of Route 404 would increase utilization of that highway, thus, lessening traffic through Easton, Cambridge, and Salisbury. A new Dover Bridge is also desperately needed since it links Southern Caroline and the northern portion of Dorchester County to Easton Memorial Hospital. These improvements would be paid for through the gas tax. I would support an increase in funds for transportation by implementing a dedicated sales tax in those areas that have the full benefits of a mass transit system. We cannot afford to continue funding mass transit transportation costs through the gas tax, which should strictly be used for construction and maintenance of highways and bridges. Mass transit needs a dedicated funding source.

Question #8:

Drugs and gangs are a growing problem on the Eastern Shore. The local authorities do their best but we’re a long way from fighting the problem successfully. In what ways do you think the General Assembly can best address this crime issue, and what tools do you see working best?

The most significant tools that will help fight drugs and gangs are sufficient funding and community cooperation. First, funding will help train officers and provide programs for education and public outreach. Cooperation is needed from schools, social services agencies, and community residents to identify problems and to report them to police. Crime prevention methods should be employed and police presence should increase in areas that are known for drug dealing and gang activity.

Question #9:

This year, you will be the first in the history of the General Assembly to be nominated and elected through the use of early voting. Proponents have stated that early voting is beneficial for turnout, but others claim the new regulations will encourage fraud and have petitioned to place the issue on the ballot as a referendum. In addition, these same laws have made absentee ballots available upon request with no reason needed. With that in mind, are you in favor of repealing the early voting laws, and why?

No one has ever given me in over twenty-eight years of politics, a reason why they were unable to make it to the polls on Election Day. The early voting laws passed recently by the Maryland General Assembly do not require proper voter identification. Therefore, early voting laws should be repealed. The citizens of Maryland deserve competent, credible, and nonpartisan elections. A fair and safe election is the bedrock of our American Democracy.

Question #10:

It is almost a certainty at this early date that either Governor Ehrlich will be reelected or Baltimore mayor Martin O’Malley will take over the governor’s chair early next year. If you are elected to the General Assembly and the representative of the opposite party (i.e. a Democrat would be working with Governor Ehrlich, a Republican would be working with Mayor O’Malley) wins election, with what issues do you see being able to find common ground with the governor?

The issues that will be common ground for all parties are growth, education, and the general welfare of all of Maryland citizens. We must always try to not let partisan views interfere with the general welfare of Marylanders. Governor Ehrlich is the fourth Governor I have had the opportunity to work with. If Martin O’Malley is elected, and I am re-elected, he will be the fifth Governor I will have worked with. I have always tried to have a good working relationship with every Governor since it benefits my constituents on the Eastern Shore. However, I always draw a line when a Governor decides to implement policies, pushes legislation, etc. that would be detrimental to the Eastern Shore and its residents (i.e. Governor Glendenning).

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Of all the responses I have received, it’s quite possible that Senator Colburn’s is the one that matches most closely with my personal views (with a few exceptions here and there). My wrists are a bit tired from typing all that (monoblogue needs a real computer table I guess) but it was fun to read and write that at the same time.

Having said that, though, I’m glad that my next two featured folks (Lih Young for U.S. Senate on Tuesday and Addie Eckardt for House District 37B on Wednesday) chose to e-mail their responses, it makes life a LOT easier for me. I guess next week is Ladies Week then, particularly if I get a response from Jeannie Haddaway (District 37B), Bonnie Luna (District 38B), Hilary Spence (Senate District 37), or Moonyene Jackson-Amis (also Senate District 37) for Saturday. There’s also another woman in the U.S. Senate race by the name of Teresa Scaldaferri.

Also, my fellow Maryland Bloggers Alliance member Bruce Godfrey of Crablaw’s Maryland Weekly was kind enough to spread the word about my Ten Questions. So thanks to him for that. He’s sort of the Alan Colmes of the MBA but we like him anyway, he presents some interesting points of view we don’t always consider.

Ten questions for…George English

Surprise, surprise, surprise. I’m not Gomer Pyle, but I was shocked to have not one, but TWO responses to my U.S. Senate Ten Questions awaiting me upon my arrival back on the Eastern Shore after a fun and relatively relaxing vacation.

However, today’s is a little different. Mr. English chose only to answer Question #10 regarding Presidential candidates – as far as the rest he’s deferred to his website. I can give the Democrat a couple points for economy of effort but the idea behind TQ is to get specific answers to compare and contrast. Since returning I’ve been working on compiling the “debate” posts, which are going to be LONG, so much so that I’m dividing them into three separate dates. At the moment (subject to change) the dates will be September 1st, 6th, and 8th. With no original answers to Questions 1 through 9, he’s going to miss out on that portion of the campaign.

But here is George’s answer to Question #10. I’m actually just going to place the bulk of his e-mail response here, aside from greeting and close:

Question #10:

This question should present you with the shortest answer. Given that in 2008 either you will be seeking re-election to the House and hoping for some coattails at the top of the ticket, or preparing to work with a new President (for the Senators), if you had a short list of 3 to 5 names you’d like to see seek the job, who would they be? Please note that they do not have to be candidates who are considered to be running for the post at this time.

My apologies for the belated response, but I been kept busy filling our questionnaires, etc and other campaign activities. My campaign website contains 24 issue mini-papers that would answer most of the questions that you have asked below. If your readers would access my website, they could click on the titles of any of the issue papers of interest plus an extensive biographical summary directly from the home page. These issue papers range from one to three pages in length and are quite comprehensive despite their brevity. (Editor’s note: I have a link to his campaign in the right-hand column.) Tell your readers to use the URL search windows on their computers to locate my website if their browsers cannot find it.

Regarding my choice for President, my first choice would be Representative Dennis Kucinich, whom I have seen and heard during the 2004 campaign and my second chioce would be Senator Russ Feingold. Mr. Kucinich spoke about about his first job working for a newspaper in Ohio during the Vietnam War. He had to visit the homes of the parents of sons who had been recently killed in Vietnam to borrow photos that would be used in the deceaseds’ obituaries. Many of these homes were very modest and their dead sons obviously had been the center of their parents lives. Mr. Kucinich recalled how palpably he felt their soul-wrenching grieving and how devastating their loss was when he spoke with them. That is why he was one of the few members of Congress to resist the stampede to war in iraq and made the issue the highlight of his unsuccessful campaign for President. I hope that he runs again for President and that the citizens of this country will now listen to him and recognize how courageous he was and still is by his steadfast opposition to the war. Mr. Feingold impresses me with he personal integrity, a virtue which I find seriously lacking in most members of the Congress. Their fixation with “Political Correctness” has morphed into “Political Cowardice”. The interminable morass this country now finds itself mired in the Middle East is the direct result of their moral weakness.

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I suppose this sets a record for the shortest response. I did sneak a peek at my next U.S. Senate response upcoming on Tuesday because it was sent to me as an an attachment to the e-mail and she may have the longest ones. Her name is Lih Young and she’s running as a Democrat as well.

Tomorrow I’m going back to the Maryland General Assembly race for Rich Colburn’s responses. I didn’t get any new responses over the few days I was away so at the moment I have no one in next Wednesday’s slot (hint hint). While there may be some who discourage participation, I’m ready for more responses from those who truly want to answer the questions voters want to know about and who disdain “politics as usual.”

Late edit: Just after I finished this I checked my e-mail and what should I find but TQ responses from District 37B incumbent Addie Eckardt. So she will have Wednesday’s TQ slot.

Shorebird of the week 8-17-2006

Jon Tucker of the Shorebirds makes the throw to first during a recent game.

A 5′-7″ and 170 pound scrappy and speedy sparkplug, Jon Tucker is this week’s Shorebird of the Week. He would’ve made it to monoblogue a little bit earlier but the Orioles decided for a time that the Frederick Keys needed his services more than Delmarva did. I think even the Shorebirds were surprised they got him back, as they assigned the #6 uniform Jon was wearing to Blake Davis. So Tucker wears #5 now, as he did in this photo.

The small stature probably affected his prospects according to the scouts, as Tucker wasn’t drafted until the 20th round two years ago, despite being from a major college program (University of Florida.) The Orioles did take a chance on him and he’s done a pretty good job holding down second base for Delmarva, hitting .256 in 57 games here. Tucker even has a little bit of power, as 17 of his 51 hits this season here are extra-base hits (11 doubles, 3 triples, and 3 home runs.) Better still for a guy who’s generally been a leadoff hitter, Tucker has 36 walks compared to 35 strikeouts.

Jon fared all right in Frederick, hitting .250 in 18 games, but the power stroke wasn’t there as he managed just 2 doubles out of 15 hits. After a month in Frederick, Tucker was sent back down and picked things back up like he never left, with the exception of the new uniform.

It’s apparent that the time Tucker spent in extended spring training did him good (he didn’t join the Shorebirds until May 10.) With only a couple weeks left in the season, it looks like Tucker should end up with about 250 at-bats in Delmarva – this should be a good indicator of whether he’ll stay here in 2007 or make the jump full time to Frederick.

Vacation, all I ever wanted

This will be it for about a week as I hit the road. I realized tonight I hit a milestone yesterday and didn’t notice. The Ten Questions with James Adkins was post number 200 for monoblogue, this is post 202.

So like I said last night, my adoring fans can take a little time and go back down memory lane. One thing I’ve noticed about my posts of late is that my site has gone from 80% opinion and 20% reporting to the complete opposite of 80% reporting and 20% opinion. I know after the election’s over I’ll return to a closer ratio but probably not 80/20. I think a good mix for me would be about 2/3 opinion and 1/3 reporting.

But I encourage folks to read the back posts while I’m away. Between this and ttown’s right wing conspiracy I’m over 300 posts in about 16 months. That’s a lot of writing, so a week away will do me some good.

I look forward to my return, which will be next week’s SotW. Have a good week.

Shorebird of the week 8-10-2006

Shorebirds outfielder Jarod Rine peers over to get the sign from his third base coach.

This week I’m picking outfielder Jarod Rine as my SotW. One of the newest Shorebirds, Rine struggled with Frederick during the first half of the season (.213/2/21 in 70 games) but has picked things up a bit during this stop in Delmarva, hitting .231 (12 for 52) in 15 games here. Better still, he’s 8 for his last 27, which is a solid .296 clip.

So Rine is getting back into a little bit of a groove as he tries to get his pro career back in order. The 9th round pick in 2003 (out of West Virginia) needs to resurrect a good batting stroke as his time in the organization is becoming limited by his advanced age (he’ll turn 25 in November.)

It’s odd that he wasn’t here last season for me to recall him, so he must have been in Frederick (or above) all last season. This really had to come as a shock, as I’m sure being sent down generally is for any ballplayer. Hopefully a month in Delmarva will turn things around for him and allow him to rejoin the Keys before the season is done.

Ten questions for…James Adkins

The Democrat challenger and former Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs gets his turn in the monoblogue spotlight this week, and beyond. He gets the luck of the draw as I’ll take a blogging vacation for a week after I do the Shorebird of the Week post tomorrow. There won’t be another Ten Questions until a week from Saturday UNLESS I get a last-minute U.S. Senate response, in which case that would be Friday the 18th.

But here is what James sent back to me for his answers. Enjoy, it’s got to last you for about 10 days!

Question #1:

Some of you participated in the recent special session to modify the large rate hikes that were to be enacted by Baltimore Gas & Electric. However, our electrical rates from the local Eastern Shore suppliers went unchanged. With that in mind, would you be more in favor of a total repeal of the 1999 deregulation laws, or do you believe the concept is sound and only needs a few guardrails and rate safeguards?

I, like many other Maryland consumers, have yet to see the benefit of deregulation. The restructuring that took place in the late 90’s has failed to provide the consumer with the desired results. Unfortunately, the Public Service Commission may have also failed to represent the consumer as well as it could have. This is a very complicated matter and will have to reviewed and addressed in 2007 and beyond to ensure that whatever is done protects the consumer and strikes a balance between what is fair for the consumer and what is fair for the providers of electricity.

Question #2:

In the last two sessions of the General Assembly, the issue of health insurance and who pays for it has taken center stage. (Examples: the Fair Share Health Care Act and its proposed expansion with last year’s HB1510, which was sponsored by Delegate Hubbard and defeated in committee.) Recently the state of Massachusetts adopted legislation effective in 2007 mandating all residents secure coverage under some public or private health insurance plan or face a financial penalty. Do you see this concept as an idea Maryland should adopt?

There is a lot more to the bill than just mandating residents secure coverage. I believe businesses will have to pay $295/year for each individual that they employ but do not provide coverage for, if they have 11 or more employees. The program will also require Massachusetts to subsidize the coverage of many of its residents who cannot afford to pay for insurance. Others, who can afford health insurance but do not obtain it, could face significant fines. The devil is in the details on this one, but we will have to continue to watch for lessons learned from this intiative

Question #3:

Within our area, Somerset County traditionally has among the highest unemployment rates in the state of Maryland. In every election, well-paying jobs and how to secure them is an issue. If you are elected to the General Assembly, what policies would you favor commencing or retaining in an attempt to create or lure good-paying jobs for the Eastern Shore?

This is a multifaceted issue. We must ensure the workforce is educated and trained to fill good-paying jobs. This means that we must ensure our schools are preparing their students for life after school. Good-paying jobs also means higher technology in some cases and we must ensure the Eastern Shore is “wired” so that new businesses, which require higher connectivity, can plug into the global market. More public-private partnerships will have to be established while taking advantage of our higher education resources here on the Shore to entice business to locate here.

Question #4:

This year a state takeover of several failing Baltimore City Schools was thwarted by the General Assembly overriding an earlier veto of a bill Governor Ehrlich rejected. A few states, though, are attempting to remove themselves from the federal “No Child Left Behind” regulations for various reasons, even at the risk of losing federal dollars. Do you support the federal NCLB mandates or do you feel the state could and should go without the additional restrictions (and funding)?

I would have to look at the numbers and whether or not Maryland could stand to lose the funding. Right now, NCLB is placing an ever increasing burden on our school systems. The real question is whether or not our students are graduating with more knowledge and are better prepared to enter the workplace and adulthood due to NCLB. Only time will tell, but “bright ideas” from Washington and even from Annapolis may not be as effective as the appropriate resourcing of good ideas by those who have to implement policies.

Question #5:

In the 2006 General Assembly, the Blackwater development in Cambridge became a contentious issue which led to legislation that was eventually defeated. However, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation has continued to apply pressure to legislators and encouraged voters to speak out on what they perceive as a threat to bay water quality. On the other hand, the city of Cambridge sees Blackwater as a needed shot in the arm for its economy and tax base. Where do you see yourself on this issue and related development matters?

I don’t think we should use housing construction alone as the answer to strengthening the Eastern Shore’s economy. We need a full spectrum of employment here on the Shore and must look over the horizon to see what the Shore will look like in the next 50 years. It is a difficult balancing act to recruit the businesses and then make sure that we can provide the employees to run the businesses. The Eastern Shore needs to be able to plug into the high technology located in places like Montgomery County. Unless we can provide this type of opportunity here on the Shore, we will continue to build houses here and people will continue to drive across the Bay Bridge for work there just adding to the congestion on our roadways. Just think what our roads will be like in the future, if we don’t solve this problem. Finally, we have only one chance to get this right. We have to get a handle on growth here on the Shore or we will lose our way of life.

Question #6:

The last two sessions of the General Assembly have seen an inordinate amount of time spent dealing with personnel matters and political appointments. Some have claimed this as a usurpation of power properly belonging to the executive branch (governor’s office) but others see this as a proper extension of the duties of the General Assembly. In your opinion, has the General Assembly gone too far or does the Governor still wield too much power when it comes to personnel decisions?

Maybe the answer is yes and no to both questions. The Governor was operating under expanded “at will” authority provided during the previous administration and authorized by the General Assembly. We can’t keep changing the rules depending on which party is in power. A governor needs the flexibility to have key positions filled by those who support and will implement his or her vision for operations of the executive branch. However, the chief executive and his staff must use good judgment and fairness when implementing policy.

Question #7:

For the Eastern Shore, transportation can sometimes be tricky because of Bay Bridge traffic and traveling to and from the beach on a summer weekend can be a real headache. Solutions advocated range from another Bay Bridge to a ferry service to a light rail system, and as always people want the existing highways improved. What transportation improvements do you feel are a priority for the Eastern Shore, and how would you pay for them?

The immediate priority is to leverage state and federal funding to correct transportation problems that directly impact on driver safety. No doubt someone in the State Highway Administration already knows where these areas are. Long term we have to visualize what type of transportation network will be needed in our future. How are we going to deal with commuters? How are we going to deal with the ever increasing traffic to Ocean City and other weekend destinations? These are questions that need to be addressed. We probably should start planning now for mass transportation entities that will be essential to preserving our quality of life in the over the next fifty years.

Question #8:

Drugs and gangs are a growing problem on the Eastern Shore. The local authorities do their best but we’re a long way from fighting the problem successfully. In what ways do you think the General Assembly can best address this crime issue, and what tools do you see working best?

As the Eastern Shore grows and changes, we will have to deal more and more with the problems that jurisdictions on the Western Shore have been dealing with for years. The General Assembly needs to listen to local law enforcement agencies as well as the Maryland State Police to see what legislative tools are needed to help them deal with the problem. And like everything else, the state will have to apply resources/funding to help deal with these issues as the local level.

Question #9:

This year, you will be the first in the history of the General Assembly to be nominated and elected through the use of early voting. Proponents have stated that early voting is beneficial for turnout, but others claim the new regulations will encourage fraud and have petitioned to place the issue on the ballot as a referendum. In addition, these same laws have made absentee ballots available upon request with no reason needed. With that in mind, are you in favor of repealing the early voting laws, and why?

Until it becomes obvious that there is a problem with fraud, I support the law. The more the population is engaged in the political process, the better our democracy will be. The key is to make sure that the process is fair to all and that it does not favor one party or another. It is being used successfully in other states. Early voting may need some tweaking here in Maryland, but let’s see how it goes before we decide to throw the baby out with the bathwater.

Question #10:

It is almost a certainty at this early date that either Governor Ehrlich will be reelected or Baltimore mayor Martin O’Malley will take over the governor’s chair early next year. If you are elected to the General Assembly and the representative of the opposite party (i.e. a Democrat would be working with Governor Ehrlich, a Republican would be working with Mayor O’Malley) wins election, with what issues do you see being able to find common ground with the governor?

We have to talk about Maryland’s future. Where do we want Maryland to be in twenty or thirty years and beyond? Our focus needs to be on accomplishing things that are important to Marylanders and the future of this great state. No matter who gets elected, both parties will have to reach across the aisle with the intent to work for a better and brighter future for Maryland. We have to get beyond party politics.

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Of all the answers I’ve gotten from Democrats, those are among the best. I recall at the NAACP forum Adkins came across as more forward-thinking than most. Honestly, that’s an asset a politician needs to have and more politicians need to show, rather than thinking about what will get them through the next election. I myself like to believe that I’m thinking about the next generation, it’s not like mine’s going to have that great of an impact now. It’s too settled into its ways.

What’s interesting about his race is that should he win the primary, he likely gets to face two incumbent members of the General Assembly who are over a generation apart. That would make for an interesting debate.

Speaking of debate, when I come back next week I’ll need to start setting those posts up. In the meantime, I encourage you to sample all of monoblogue and visit or revisit some of my earlier posts. It’s a bit like the “best of” shows entertainers do when they are away.

But I’m planning on being back and back at this in about a week or so after SotW tomorrow. I’ll probably go into my break with SotW and come back with next week’s.

Election Calendar – August 7 thru August 27

All right, now I have a few minutes before the storm hits here to attempt to update the Election Calendar.

This time I have more events, including some who have a large number.

Democrat candidate for U.S. Congress Jim Corwin and U.S. Senate candidate Josh Rales are among those planning to being amongst the crowds at the Seafood Feast-I-Val in Cambridge on August 12th. Corwin also has plans to be at a “Wicomico Crab Feast” on August 27. But that was all the info I had.

District 38B contenders Bonnie Luna, Jack Lord, and Sonny Bloxom all have several events on their respective calendars. They all tend to conglomerate at a few events:

August 11-12: Worcester County Fair (all three).
August 17-19: Wicomico County Farm and Home Show (Lord, Luna).
August 23-26: Great Pocomoke Fair (Lord, Luna).
August 26: Mardel Republican Club Crab Feast (Lord, Bloxom).

Luna will also be at the “Concert on the Lawn” in Berlin on August 13th, several “House Parties” over the next three weeks, and she’s holding a fundraiser with Governor Ehrlich on August 17th at 6:30 p.m. For information on that, the number to call is (410) 749-1736.

In addition to the above, Jack Lord will be at the Lions Club Crab Feast in Ocean City on the 23rd. You know, I always thought the political circuit was the rubber chicken circuit, but I guess on the Eastern Shore it’s rubber crab.

Now I’m assuming that the former event is part of Bloxom’s duties as a Worcester County Commissioner, but he’s going to be at the dedication of the Jordan Daycare Center on August 24th at 3:00 p.m. and Wor-Wic’s Annual Steak Out on August 25th. (I’m guessing these are both at the Berlin Wor-Wic campus, his calendar doesn’t specify between the two campuses.)

As for Bill Reddish’s radio show…I didn’t get an update either through my e-mail or by listening. So as the thunder rolls, I will give you the two dates I have, tomorrow and Wednesday:

August 8:: District 38B candidate Jack Lord.
August 9: District 38B incumbent Norm Conway.

Two more dates:

August 10: The last District 38B candidate, Bonnie Luna.
August 11: District 37B incumbent Addie Eckardt.

Remember, there will not be a Election Calendar next Sunday as I will be out of town. The man behind monoblogue takes a long-awaited vacation! I’ll be back for another dose August 20th.

Breaking political news

For the second time this year, a local Democat politician has died.

I just read on Crisfield Girl’s blog that District 38A candidate and onetime officeholder Tony Bruce has passed away from a heart attack massive stroke, according to the Daily Times. I’ll accept this since she has no reason to make such a thing up, however, I see no coverage of this yet on the local news sites. (As of Sunday night, it’s in the Daily Times for tomorrow.)

First and foremost, my condolences go out to his family.

As far as political impact, it means that Patrick Armstrong gets to face Page Elmore in the general election for District 38A since Bruce, Elmore, and Armstrong were the only three who filed.

I’m certain funeral arrangements are being made as I type for the well-known Princess Anne attorney.

Ten questions for…Sonny Bloxom

Today I return to the Maryland General Assembly races by looking at District 38B Republican hopeful Sonny Bloxom. By luck of the draw and his relatively quick response he’s up today, a day after appearing on Bill Reddish’s WICO-AM radio program and also a day after my post on the NAACP state candidate forum.

Following are the longtime Worcester County commissioner’s answers to the Ten Questions:

Question #1:

Some of you participated in the recent special session to modify the large rate hikes that were to be enacted by Baltimore Gas & Electric. However, our electrical rates from the local Eastern Shore suppliers went unchanged. With that in mind, would you be more in favor of a total repeal of the 1999 deregulation laws, or do you believe the concept is sound and only needs a few guardrails and rate safeguards?

I believe that the concept is sound but was poorly executed by the General Assembly (ie. artificially capping rates below market for such a long period). I think that some safeguards can be put into law, such as what costs are allowable to calculate the appropriate rates, which will make deregulation work.

Question #2:

In the last two sessions of the General Assembly, the issue of health insurance and who pays for it has taken center stage. (Examples: the Fair Share Health Care Act and its proposed expansion with last year’s HB1510, which was sponsored by Delegate Hubbard and defeated in committee.) Recently the state of Massachusetts adopted legislation effective in 2007 mandating all residents secure coverage under some public or private health insurance plan or face a financial penalty. Do you see this concept as an idea Maryland should adopt?

Absolutely not! This would be the epitome of “big brother government” and smacks of socialism.

Question #3:

Within our area, Somerset County traditionally has among the highest unemployment rates in the state of Maryland. In every election, well-paying jobs and how to secure them is an issue. If you are elected to the General Assembly, what policies would you favor commencing or retaining in an attempt to create or lure good-paying jobs for the Eastern Shore?

We need to support high-speed broadband coverage for the entire shore; upgrade natural gas pipelines; need to market the region to potential new businesses and entrepreneurs.

Question #4:

This year a state takeover of several failing Baltimore City Schools was thwarted by the General Assembly overriding an earlier veto of a bill Governor Ehrlich rejected. A few states, though, are attempting to remove themselves from the federal “No Child Left Behind” regulations for various reasons, even at the risk of losing federal dollars. Do you support the federal NCLB mandates or do you feel the state could and should go without the additional restrictions (and funding)?

I support the federal NCLB mandates and would urge the state to seek modifications to it where appropriate for our state needs.

Question #5:

In the 2006 General Assembly, the Blackwater development in Cambridge became a contentious issue which led to legislation that was eventually defeated. However, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation has continued to apply pressure to legislators and encouraged voters to speak out on what they perceive as a threat to bay water quality. On the other hand, the city of Cambridge sees Blackwater as a needed shot in the arm for its economy and tax base. Where do you see yourself on this issue and related development matters?

The state needs to be more involved in land use issues, especially where their interest is greatest (ie. bay water quality, sensitive habitats, and road/transportation systems).

Question #6:

The last two sessions of the General Assembly have seen an inordinate amount of time spent dealing with personnel matters and political appointments. Some have claimed this as a usurpation of power properly belonging to the executive branch (governor’s office) but others see this as a proper extension of the duties of the General Assembly. In your opinion, has the General Assembly gone too far or does the Governor still wield too much power when it comes to personnel decisions?

The General Assembly has gone too far only because we have a Repulican Governor. They would never have done this with a Democratic Governor. They have a legitimate role to play but should do it for the right motives not for politics. Also, they need to remember they are the legislative branch of government and not the executive.

Question #7:

For the Eastern Shore, transportation can sometimes be tricky because of Bay Bridge traffic and traveling to and from the beach on a summer weekend can be a real headache. Solutions advocated range from another Bay Bridge to a ferry service to a light rail system, and as always people want the existing highways improved. What transportation improvements do you feel are a priority for the Eastern Shore, and how would you pay for them?

We need to dualize certain highways that have increased traffic on them and have become dangerous, such as US 113, 404 and 589. Also, we need to go ahead and build the overpass at US113 and Rt. 12 and the one for Rt. 50 and 589. The state can afford to do it, they just need to stop putting so much of the highway user revenues into the mass transit on the western shore.

Question #8:

Drugs and gangs are a growing problem on the Eastern Shore. The local authorities do their best but we’re a long way from fighting the problem successfully. In what ways do you think the General Assembly can best address this crime issue, and what tools do you see working best?

The Maryland State Police could be part of a local task force to fight gangs just like they are now doing with illegal drugs.

Question #9:

This year, you will be the first in the history of the General Assembly to be nominated and elected through the use of early voting. Proponents have stated that early voting is beneficial for turnout, but others claim the new regulations will encourage fraud and have petitioned to place the issue on the ballot as a referendum. In addition, these same laws have made absentee ballots available upon request with no reason needed. With that in mind, are you in favor of repealing the early voting laws, and why?

Early voting laws should be amended to require you to vote in your home county and to require a photo ID.

Question #10:

It is almost a certainty at this early date that either Governor Ehrlich will be reelected or Baltimore mayor Martin O’Malley will take over the governor’s chair early next year. If you are elected to the General Assembly and the representative of the opposite party (i.e. a Democrat would be working with Governor Ehrlich, a Republican would be working with Mayor O’Malley) wins election, with what issues do you see being able to find common ground with the governor?

I would have to wait and see what O’Malley would propose, but based on his liberal past and his arrogant attitude (he is just like Parris Glendening except he has a backup band!), I think it would be difficult to find common ground, other than on economic development issues.

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Sonny, tell us what you REALLY think on that last question, will you? I got a chuckle out of that so there’s extra humor points for this response. I think in doing this that it’s also become a quick glance at the personality of the respondent – some are quite effusive with what they say (like I am) and others are short, sweet, and to the point. It’s going to make for interesting posts as the primary draws closer.

Next on the legislative agenda is District 37B candidate James Adkins, his answers will appear Wednesday. After that, I’m taking a break for my vacation and will return to the General Assembly hopeful Ten Questions on Saturday, August 19 (two weeks from today) with Sen. Rich Colburn. Now, I have 16 other possible candidates for these seats so I think I’m going to have to start “stacking” posts beginning on the 19th in order to make this work out in time for the primary election.

My tentative plan for the Ten Questions is as follows:

August 8, 11, 18, 22, 25, 29, and September 1 will be reserved for any U.S. Senate candidates who respond. The final submission date for them is August 31.

As for the Maryland General Assembly, I have posts set for August 9 and 19. After the 19th, I’ll post their responses (stacking if necessary) on August 23, 26, 30, and September 2. The deadline for submission is September 1.

Beginning on Tuesday, September 5 I will do what I call the “debate” format…each of the Ten Questions will be reposted with all candidate responses placed within – so one can read the question and see all responses. I’ll probably begin compiling these much sooner so all I have to do is clip in the later answers. Most likely I’ll post two questions per day per race which will take up the dates of September 5 thru 9.

In the meantime, I’ll begin to do candidate endorsements for various other races that didn’t get the TQ treatment, so look forward to heavy posting in the latter stages of the primary race.

On September 13, I wrap up the primaries and probably take a few days off! It’s an ambitious schedule I’m trying to get through but I think with some planning and prior work I can do it. Then I can get back to more commentary and less reporting for awhile, although I’ll still be heavily into the election mode until November.