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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, ST. MARY'S TODAY,
P. O. Box 689, California, Maryland 20619,
or E-Mail to staff@stmarystoday.com
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views are welcome, please be to the point but write often. Your name must be
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GMHS: Blatant Favoritism and Bad Coaching Marks Football Program
Letter
to the Editor
Imperfect Captain of 'Perfect Day' Says He and His Imperfect Crew Not to Blame for Boat's
Sinking..
.this is the guy who had to be rescued twice...
Letter to the Editor
Dyson Has Always
Been Fighting for Veterans
Letter to the Editor
Gass Gives Support to
Dugan,
School Board Candidates
To The Editor:
Some things to consider before voting on March 2nd
Based on my careful observation of the three candidates running for
Circuit Court Judge, I highly recommend Bryan Dugan for this very important
service to our community. Bryan will do an outstanding job of fairly and
impartially presiding over the cases that come before his bench. His clear
understanding and application of the U.S. Constitution and the laws of
Maryland will serve him well as our next Circuit Court Judge. Bryan Dugan
is and will continue to be a great asset to our community.
After careful consideration of all nine candidates for the Board of
Education, I have three recommendations for you to consider when you vote
on March 2nd. Each of the candidates I am recommending are parents of
public school students, have been actively involved in their children's
education and have a strong desire to improve how our school system is
currently being operated. I believe that each of these candidates will
bring unique abilities to the next Board of Education that will allow for
more thoughtful consideration of the issues that will come before them
during the next four years.
Each of the candidates I am recommending is committed to providing an open line of
communication with the community. Their desire to allow parents, teachers and any
other concerned citizens greater access and input into the decision making process will be
critical to improving the education of our children.
Their willingness to hear from all members of our community
before making decisions will be a refreshing contrast to the approach
demonstrated by the majority of the members on the current board (most
notably Cathy Allen and Steve Kracinovich) and its administrator.
Each of the candidates I am recommending for your consideration are
committed to supporting excellence in the classroom and will hold the
administration accountable for insuring that excellence is attained in an
efficient and cost effective manner.
With confidence, I would encourage you to vote for Judy Hinaman
(Leonardtown-Hollywood District), Tessa Lowe (At-Large) and Mary Washington (Lexington
Park District).
If you are still sitting on the fence as to whether to vote for Karen
Abrams to continue as a Circuit Court Judge in St. Mary's County for the
next fifteen year, I would like to refresh your memory regarding Karen
Abrams role in the "May God Bless Our Country" public schools debacle
following the tragic events of September 11th.
As you may recall following the attack on America on September 11, 2001, a
poster bearing the phrases "May God Bless Our Country" and "Proud to be an
American" was wrongfully banned from display in our public schools by the
St. Mary's County Board of Education.
It was determined by the legal counsel for the Board of Education that
this poster violated the "separation of church and state" and thus could
not be posted or distributed in our public schools. Many members of the
community thought that this decision was extremely unpatriotic, while
others felt that this decision unfairly discriminated against people of
faith (Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, etc).
This decision by the Board of Education and its legal counsel was
challenged and ultimately changed. It was determined that the board of
education under the advisement of its legal counsel had misinterpreted the
laws relating to this issue. The legal counsel for the public schools was
Karen Abrams, who is now seeking to keep her appointment (by former
Governor Glendening) as a Circuit Court Judge.
May God continue to bless our community!
Joe Gass
May God Bless Our Community
Leonardtown, Maryland
Abrams Deserves Your Support
To the Editor:
On Tuesday, March 2nd, the voters of St. Mary's County have a clear choice in selecting
our next Circuit Court Judge. While it is arguable that all three candidates have
the basic qualifications for the position, my choice for Circuit Court Judge is
Karen Abrams. Judge Abrams, who is now a presiding justice serving on the bench, has
been steadfast in sentencing repeat offenders and violent criminals to long prison
sentences yet also enjoys a stellar reputation for being fair, impartial and respectful to
all those who come before her.
Judge Abrams has an exemplary track record and is known to all for being honest and
thorough in her rulings. Most importantly, she has earned the respect of her peers
who serve on the bench and those who work within the county legal system. I would
urge that your readers, whether Republican or Democrat, to vote for Karen on March 2nd and
return our first women judge
to the bench.
James Davis
Leonardtown
Abrams Advise Was Against God Bless
America
To The Editor:
As you may recall following the attack on America on September 11, 2001, a poster
bearing the phrases "May God Bless Our Country" and "Proud to be an
American" was wrongfully banned from display in our public schools by the St.
Mary’s County Board of Education.
It was determined by the legal counsel for the Board of Education that this poster
violated the "separation of church and state" and thus could not be posted or
distributed in the public schools. Many members of the community thought that this
decision was unpatriotic, while others felt that this decision discriminated against
people of faith.
This decision by the Board of Education and its legal counsel was challenged and
ultimately overturned. It was determined that the board under the advisement of its legal
counsel had misinterpreted the laws relating to this issue.
The legal counsel for the public schools on this matter was none other then, Karen
Abrams, who is now running to keep her appointment as a Circuit Court Judge.
Do we want to retain a person as Circuit Court Judge who was unable to correctly
interpret the Constitutional and statutory rights of Maryland citizens?
Edward J. Stapanon, Jr.
Lexington Park
Sheriff Zylak Disavows Fritz
Campaign Use of Photo with Deputy
To the Editor:
It has recently come to my attention that Mr. Richard Fritz, a candidate for
Circuit Court Judge, has used a picture of a St. Mary’s County Deputy, in uniform,
beside a marked patrol car in his campaign brochure. It is against Sheriff’s Office
policy for deputies to use their position in the agency to endorse political candidates.
Mr. Fritz never obtained permission from me, as the Sheriff, or from the deputy who
is pictured to use the image (uniform and vehicle) of the Sheriff’s Office to further
his political campaign. I told the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office, after I was
sworn in, that the politics were over and we must move on with our mission of protecting
the citizens of St. Mary’s County. When Mr. Fritz published his brochure with this
picture, it just made it that much more difficult to remove politics from the
Sheriff’s Office.
The Sheriff must work with whichever candidate is elected to the position of
Circuit Court Judge as well as the State’s Attorney. I felt compelled to publicly
address this situation by stating that the picture in no way means that I am supporting
Mr. Fritz for Circuit Court Judge. I wish each candidate the best of luck.
David D. Zylak
Sheriff
St. Mary’s County
Steven and Jessica's Racing
Was Just Kids Trying to Have Fun
To the Editor:
The picture of Steven Stewart's car wreck is hard to look
at especially given the severity of the accident. But no amount of blaming
or finger pointing will bring back Danny but if we stop the Blame Game and allow
the police and other investigators time to work through all possible factors and cause's
instead of leaping to any and all conclusions that speed was the only factor then what
kind of person does that make us.
I know what Steven and Jessica both did was wrong on many levels but they were also
just being a couple of kids trying to have fun and so was Danny. Its even reported that
Danny was hanging out the window encouraging Jessie to Speed up.
I am still in high school myself and I don't know a single kid who has not raced or
in some way contributed to a race. Its true that Steven and Jessie were Irresponsible but
even my parents can't tell me that they never raced at one point or another I am not
saying that everyone has but more than a majority has. Its not like Steven had
intended for something like this to happen. I've heard of some of the things that
Steven has done since the accident and I too was blown away to the point of disbelief. But
when people say that Steven goes on as if nothing happened that's not true. How could
anyone person know other than him the feeling of guilt and sadness that he feels. I am not
writing to take sides because there's no side to take and I don't want anyone to think
that I am criticizing them or this paper but I do think that its time to stop playing
judge and jury and wait to see what will happen as far as charges that are actually filed
and then put into court.
Mel Peterson
Mechanicsville
Reader Defends Speed Demon Killer
To the
Editor:
I would like to begin this letter by first expressing my deepest sympathies to the family
of Danny Gatton. What happened to Danny was a tragedy, and an unthinkable experience
no one should have to endure. However, I would like to say that I believe your paper
has been giving entirely too much attention to this situation for several reasons.
Your continued attention to this story is not only slanderous to the teenage driver, but
does nothing more than continue to pour salt into the wounds of Danny's family. They
have grieved enough! Don't you think there is some point where you should call it
quits? All though Danny's family will never be able to continue life as normal,
perhaps they can begin to pick up the pieces. As long as you continue to make this
story headline news this is less easily accomplished.
By now, St. Mary's County is aware of what has happened in this tragedy. I prefer
not to comment on it, because that may give you the satisfaction of degrading yet another
innocent human being. I was not in the car; I am not an investigator and therefore
am not able to provide an educated guess as to what took place. The police are doing
their job and proper repercussions will take place. It is not up to you or I to
persecute the young driver.
Recently you have printed another story concerning "the Speed Demon Killer" as
you so fondly refer to him. It was concerning a burglary at a restaurant. I
strongly recommend that before you go printing "news" that you have all of the
facts. It is your responsibility as a reporter to report, not gossip. Yes you
do have freedom of speech that is entitled to you according to the first amendment,
however there are laws protecting people from slanderous accusations made by people who
exercise this right.
You are so quick to print smut about Steven and his family but you failed to report that
there, at this point, is no legal evidence supporting the incrimination that you so
irresponsibly printed. You also failed to report that this woman, who ran to you,
first attempted to blackmail Steven's family before running with her tail between her legs
to your paper. This action, to me, would show that your paper is nothing but place
of questionable integrity that is willing to print anything as long as it sells papers.
You also failed to print that Steven's family is the one that brought this matter
to the attention of the police. If your informant was so hell bent on prosecuting
this young man, shouldn't she have gone to the police before coming to you?
So let's see, within the last 1 1/2 months you have called Steven a Speed Demon Killer, a
Burglar, and have dragged his family through the mud as well as provided a constant public
reminder to the pain that Danny's family suffered on July 28th.
I also wanted to comment on your negligent ability to conceal the name of a minor. There
are also laws protecting people from this bigotry. I would say that it looks as
though someone has violated this teens civil rights on many levels. I wouldn't be
surprised if his family sought legal representation. I think that before you report
incidents such as these that you be well informed of the situation and present the facts
as they are, not as you see them. Opinions belong in the Editorial
section.
Julie Drewry
Mechanicsville
(Editor's Note: There are no laws preventing minors from being named in
newspapers but this is just the beginning of your ignorance and the end is not in sight.
Steven needs to be shown the inside of a jail cell, as an adult, and hopefully he will
soon be appropriately charged with killing his passenger. The damage and injury he
caused to the innocent motorist coming south as he raced the Corvette north on Rt. 235 is
critical and the man faces many surgeries in the future to put his life back together
because two ignorant pals of yours decided to turn our highway into a race track.
The victim of the burglary reports to us that Steven has now confessed that he and three
other youths stole $2500 worth of liquor and beer from the restaurant. One of
Steven's fellow burglars has already had his parents pay a part of the cost of the stolen
booze. While Steven was in "mourning" for his pal, he and the others broke
into Capt. D-Rays and partied hard with the liquor, sold some to their friends. This
newspaper will continue to advocate that teen drivers be taken off our highways at the
slightest infraction and that the Redneck Roulette being carried out by your stupid pals
be brought to a screeching halt before any other lives are snuffed out.)
Ignorance of Defender of
Speed Demon Killer is Amazing
To the Editor:
Once again, I feel compelled to reply to an letter to the editor regarding "Defending
Speed Demon" written by Julie Drewry. Does Julie feel she should be
commended for offering her sympathies to Danny Gatton's family?? She sounds as
remorseful as the "Speed Demon" a.k.a Steven Stewart. Unfortunately, the
only reason justice will be served is because of ST. MARY'S TODAY's continuing support to
ensure the truth comes out and the irresponsible teenager's receive just punishment.
We do reside in the U.S.A. and freedom of speech is one of our rights in case you
are not aware.
I might be wrong and stand to be corrected if I am. I have come to the conclusion
that she must be related to Jessica Vallandingham. Even though her
letter is well written her ignorance about this senseless tragedy amazes me. You
said "They have grieved enough!"
Julie: you also say "that what happened to Danny was a tragedy and an unthinkable
experience nonone should have to
endure" that is true but these so called tragedies will continue to happen until the
so called Speed Demon and his accomplice are made to take responsibility for their
actions. Parents expect to outlive their children and I cannot believe that
you think you have the right to speak for Danny's
family and friends as far as grieving is concerned. Have you ever lost a loved one?
When is grieving ever enough?
That is one thoughtless comment.
Danny had just tuned sixteen and was taken away forever on July 28, 2002. I can't
speak for Elaine, Bobby and Judy or Bobby Jr. but I have no problem contributing my two
cents. I do not believe you can begin to pick the pieces up until justice is served.
Steven and Jessica both broke the law and should be held accountable. It is
horrifying to see a young adult show no remorse for a death he caused.
Obviously he needs to be dealt with a 17 year old with a previous Breaking & Entering,
reckless driving which killed an innocent young man, that was supposed to be his friend,
and one more Breaking & Entering from a local restaurant. Sounds like he is on
the path of destruction. However that is not my problem. I hope the headlines
and continued attention to this awful event will ensure that the "Speed Demon"
is not invincible. By the way, Jessica implicated herself by writing the original
letter where she claimed to be an onlooking bystander. You are also right when
saying you weren't in
the car that is exactly how Jessica implicated herself. She wrote in her editorial
that Danny never asked to get out of the car, insinuating it was his fault and had no
remorse for the other gentleman involved that could have also been killed.
If you preferred not to comment about the pending investigation you should not have voiced
your opinion to the editor. I believe you are insinuating that another innocent
human being might be degraded because of the publicity??? I don't understand why you
call them innocent?? I do like your choice of wording - DEGRADED - Reduced far below
ordinary standards of civilized life and conduct.
I was brought up by my parents who taught me when you do something wrong you accepted the
responsibility for the wrong you have done. I hope I have instilled this moral in
my child.
Julie, look the word NONCHALANTLY up, that is exactly how Steven and Jessica have regarded
their actions.
Sandy Embach
Mechanicsville
Parents Should Not Buy
Hot Rod Cars for Kids
To the Editor:
I think what needs to be addressed here is parents buying their kids cars
like that. All parents want their kids to have the best of the best. If they even stopped
to think of how they would drive a car like that when they were 16, they would reconsider
buying one for their children. All kids can tell their parents they will be responsible
and not drive reckless, but when they get to a stoplight and are next to a Mustang or a
Corvette or any fast car they are going to want to give that car a run for their money. I
know, I have been that driver or passenger.
I am thankful everyday that my parents knew me well enough to say no to me when I wanted
the new Camaro at Bell Motors for my 16th birthday. Instead they bought me a pickup.
I know the dangers of speed when you drive crazy. I saw my school mates
killed when they raced and crashed on the way home from Patuxent High School, His father
had bought him a new yellow mustang.
I am 21 now and I bought my first new car. I bought a Camaro. You have more respect for
your car and the way you drive it when you have to pay for it.
I think parents should not buy kids fast cars like that. Eventually the time will come
when they can buy it for themselves, if they still want it.
Elizabeth Pepper
Great Mills
Liberty Homes Quality Lacking; Action Lacking Until Reader Complained
To the Editor,
The Property:
I own a new town home in Great Mills, MD right off Chancellors Run Road. My Platt is
for Parcel B, Phase III -A, Hickory Hills Book 40 Page 48 and Book 48 Page 3, Lot 159.
Lot 159 measures 93' deep and 29' wide. My town home is 18' wide, which
leaves 11' of grass along the side of my house that belongs to me. This is a
three-story structure with the basement being 9' below the side yard and the back yard is
3+' below the established Drainage Easement. I closed on this house DECEMBER 11,
2001 with out the final grading and sod being down. At the onset, I was concerned
about how GUY CURLEY would grade this 9' level. Emails were flowing about this
issue. My concern was for the water in my yard and possibly my basement. It
turns out that my major concerns should have be personal injury by the standing water as
it progressed through the two units below me and the propagation of the West Nile Virus
(standing water killed the sod, grew mold and mosquito larva).
MY ACTIONS:
Using my Platt as a reference point, I contacted the Maryland Department of Environment
(MDE), St Mary's County Soil and Conservation (SCD), St Mary's County Planning and Zoning
(P&Z), Maryland Department of Inspectors Associated (MDIA) and St Mary's County
Environmental Health Departments (EHD). MDE and SCD came out on MAY 9, 2002 and both
presented me and GUY CURLEY with letters stating that my yard was not to code. P&Z
came out and said they had no enforcement power but could try and get GUY CURLEY to fix
the drainage. Mr. Knight (P&Z) said that a grading code was not established
until APRIL 2002 (4 months after I closed). Rob Waters of (P&Z) said that I
should have had a lawyer who knew codes to help me with the purchase in St Mary's County.
MDIA said that they didn't care about the water (I thought that would be an issue
due to my lack of being able to use this area--livability), as did EHD.
Since there was NO ENFORCEMENT at any of the above levels, I presented this to St Mary's
County Board of Commissioners (BOCC) on JULY 9, 2002. I was counseled after this
BOCC meeting to call George Eichsen at Public Works (PW), so I did.
REACTIONS:
PW provided a report for an inspection that Michael Mattingly apparently wasn't a
participant in as neither was I (I was not notified). This report stated that my
front yard was to code and of course GUY CURLEY couldn't build according to the
established MDE Plan because he decided to build a walk out basement. This report
did say the GUY CURLEY was "to submit a
revised grading plan".
I was notified that Nokleby Surveyor's would be out on JULY 22, 2002 to "shoot the
grades. They did the grading--I watched them. Until yesterday, GUY CURLEY had
not informed me of any plans nor a timetable regarding the regarding of my yard. Not
until after I sent yet another e-mail to everyone, and adding Senator Roy Dyson and St
Mary's TODAY, did I hear from GUY CURLEY.
THE PLAN:
The long and the short of it is that GUY CURLEY is responsible for the corrective action
(MAY6, 2002 email). Late yesterday GUY CURLEY said that he would notify me several
(I asked for 5 business days) days in advance of when he would do the repairs. I
anticipate hearing that they will be completed by mid-SEPTEMBER.
This is not the only issue with this builder and minimum County Codes but it is the
biggest issue.
EXPERIENCE:
I have followed the suggestions from SCD, as seen in my photos. The water is still
there. Adam Knight said that I needed to know HOW to fix the problem so that I could
tell Guy Curley HOW to fix it. I am NOT a CIVIL ENGINEER..... I called Dave Adams
from Adams Excavation and had Ralph from FOD and the Trading Post out to get some ideas.
They all say the grading is improper. The retaining wall should be as high as
the highest point of land or the soil two (2) foot below the top of wall. They also
suggested that there should be French drains in my side yard and then in my back yard to
carry the water under the walking path that is within the Easement for
Drainage. This, they each said, should be carried out throughout all the
backyards to remove the water problem.
When I called Adam Knight to get an update, I spoke to Rob Waters and he told me
that there was nothing they could do for me because I closed on the house (121102) and
that my MISTAKE was in not having a lawyer. So, in St Mary's County, I need a lawyer
who knows the building codes to protect me?
I was so astounded that Planning and Zoning, Rob Waters, would say such a thing.
What happened to integrity? I believed that I was protected and had recourse in this
order, Guy Curley-Builder, inspectors, the county, and the
warranty company.
WOW, was I surprised when I learned that a grading code was not established until APRIL
2002. So prior to this code, St Mary's County didn't care that the property was
livable? So prior to the code, St Mary's County didn't
care that there was standing water right outside my back door? Didn't St Mary's
County care that there was standing water anywhere on my property?
This is the time for the West Nile virus--I care! So should my county. Even my
Health Department, Kim Engman, said he didn't care that I had
mosquitoes because I could spend my own money and fix the problem. WOW!!!!
MINIMUM CODE:
BEWARE of buying multi-family homes in St Mary's County because the PARTY WALL/Common
Wall/Fire Wall's minimum code is only 2x6' studs, R11 insulation
and 1 Hour FIRE RATED Sheetrock (1/2" thick). SO THERE IS NO SOUND PROOFING
not SAFETY FEATURE (like concrete wall/bars/wiring) to keep you safe from intruders
between units. SCARY!!!!!! Where is the concrete Fire Wall between units?
I then asked why privately owned multi-family dwellings do not have this same thing?
Minimum code on multi-family privately owned units is 1 hour rated sheet rock, R-11
insulation and 2x6" studs. This does not provide any soundproofing, no security
between walls (a sheet rock saw/file cuts between
all four of the units with no resistance so there is no safety), and no real fire
protection. Rob Waters answered "the owner doesn't want to loose all
the units because of one fire". WAKE UP!!!!! Does this mean that
homeowner's don't mind loosing their home if their neighbor has a fire? I
think NOT!
I would like the St Mary's County Commissioners to review and present a reason why my
$145,000 town home isn't worth a concrete wall between units.
This would provide safety, security, fire protection and soundproofing. I currently
have none of these things.
I would like the St Mary's County Commissioners to tell me why a commercial investment is
of more value than mine is. I have emails from my builder-Guy Curley regarding
soundproofing, which was discussed at length, since my last place of residency was Pegg's
View. I didn't know that my new home would have NO SOUND PROOFING and that we (next
door to each other) can hear each other's TV, radios, coughing, cooking, telephone's,
cabinets opening and
closing and telephone/bedroom conversations.
Seems that private dwellings SHOULD HAVE EQUAL OR BETTER common walls than
commercial units. At least at Pegg's View I could rid myself of noise with $1,200
worth of window covers. It is, $10,000 to NOW sound proof my home.
St Mary's County residents deserve better homes than mine. St Mary's County
residents deserve the opportunity to know that what is promised is not
enforceable unless in writing and even though I have GUY CURLEY saying he is responsible
in MAY 6, 2002 email, the only way I got any action was to write Public Works, Senator
Dyson and St Mary's TODAY.
Christie McDonald
45577 Knockeyon Lane
California
Recklessness Reason
for Danny's Death
To the Editor;
I feel compelled as a family member and close friend
of Daniel Gatton to voice my opinion in response to
Jessica Vallandingham's recent letter.
The past few weeks have been an emotional and
confusing time. Life is not always pretty or fair and
that is why we as the public have a responsibility to
one another to be cautious and careful. The fact is
this accident could have been prevented. If the
driver of the camaro was not so reckless, Danny Gatton
could still be alive.
There is no possible way to rationalize the amount of
immaturity involved in excessive speeding. Regardless
of any other factor, speeding was the main
contributing cause of this accident. Due to Steven's
irresponsible disregard for human life, his actions
have claimed a young innocent victim. No one is
saying accidents are intentional, but recklessness is
responsible for Danny's death.
Danny Gatton will be forever loved and always missed.
Shannon Otto
In reply to
Jessica Vallandingham's letter:
To the editor:
Jessica, How dare you have the nerve to say that Danny never asked to get out of the
vehicle!
How do you know? The only thing Steven Stewart remembers about the accident is
putting the petal to the metal and of course the fact that he was racing a Corvette.
The CAMARO WAS DRIVEN RECKLESSLY on many occasions and numerous families on
Sandgates road have complained about Steven's burnout's. My child was one of Danny's
pallbearers and is also close to Steven Stewart.
However, he was not allowed to get in a vehicle Steven was driving because I have seen him
driving too fast. You claim to be Steven's friend if you truly are, you would know
his driving habits. You sound awfully immature to make the statement that
"Maybe he was a little careless, but not at fault entirely." I know
he did not intend to kill Danny Gatton and it was an accident but he should be held
accountable for his actions because he was racing, speeding and driving recklessly.
The Gatton's and Danny's mother
Elaine Colbert have been through hell because of this senseless tragedy, my prayers
continue to be with them.
Sandy Embach
Teen Driver Who Killed
Pal Was A Little Careless but Gatton
Never Asked to Get Out
To the Editor;
As a reader of the ST. MARY'S TODAY, I am extremely upset at the title of
this past week's accident. As an on looking bystander of this crash I was completely
heartbroken by your lack of feeling. I have never looked at this paper as being factual
but now have even less respect for you and your staff. This poor young man who is already
dealing with enough on his shoulders does not need to read "Speed Demon Death
16-year-old killed by reckless pal". The driver of the Camaro did not kill Danny
Gatton. Danny willingly entered the car and never asked to stop or get out.
I am having much grief dealing with the death of my friend. I can't even imagine how his
mother feels and send out my deepest regrets, but I can't begin to feel what the driver
feels.
When I began to read the article I was filled with rage. The hot rod car you so
relentlessly spoke of was not driven recklessly. There are many more contributing factors
you never even happened to mention such as the boat that may or not have had tail lights,
which may or may not have even been on the trailer correctly, the darkness, the wet grass
and of course speed.
Then you mention the occupant of the Ford Taurus whose life was placed in jeopardy. When
is your life not placed in jeopardy? There are people driving without licenses, driving
under the influence, driving vehicles without proper brakes and many other possible
jeopardizing instances. Again you repeat that he is a speeding and reckless driver, which
as his friend, I strongly disagree. Maybe he was a little careless, but not at fault
entirely.
This crude embellishment of the truth has me dumbfounded as to what the public deems as
entertainment. This is a horrifying accident that you turned into what you believe is
entertaining.
Jessica Vallandingham
Mechanicsville
(Editor's Note: Your confusion about what is logical and excusable in this matter is
astounding and some careful consideration from an adult may lead you to understand these
basic facts: you cannot be "a little careless" when driving at high speeds
on our highways, as this action at the wheel of a car is deadly careless and reckless, as
shown by your friend killing Danny Gatton on Rt. 235 on July 28th. A Camaro is
a hot rod car and that is why young drivers want them and they want to go fast in them.
Danny Gatton's alleged failure to ask to be let out the car is not giving his
permission for his pal to kill him. This crash was not an accident but a direct
result of reckless speeding. If you have been reading this newspaper in the past you
would know that teens have been strongly urged to go slow and parents of teen drivers have
been urged to crack down on their kids in addition to supporting laws restricting teen
drivers until they are 18.
DNR
Should Be Held Accountable
To The Editor:
As a Displaced Maryland resident, I am always excited when I see Maryland making National
news. Unfortunately the news lately has not been of great accomplishments and
celebrations, but of tragedy.
The tornado that ripped through my hometown was my first source of grief for the suffering
of my fellow Marylanders. More recently, the story of the infamous snakehead in Crofton
has been my latest source of discomfort. Unlike the tornado, we can place blame for the
"Frankenfish." Although some responsibility falls upon the individual who
released the fish, the greater responsibility lies with the decision makers who chose to
ignore the actions of other states by banning these creatures.
As citizens we need to begin to question the actions and call for accountability with the
state agencies making the decisions that ultimately effect the environment of our state. I
believe that we as Marylanders need to begin a new stage of xenophobia, and question the
immigration policy in the state. I am not referring to people, but the flow of non-native
species that are making their way into our state. I am outraged when I hear about the
policies emerging from the Department of Natural Resources dealing with non-native and
intrusive species. An example of the bureaucratic bundling of this department is the issue
of the nutria on the Eastern shore. This invasive species is devouring countless acres of
pristine marshlands, and the Department of Natural Resources response is creating
pointless multiyear studies to examine eradication different techniques. Again, Maryland
should examine what other states have been doing to combat these situations. We need to
develop a sense of urgency, as exhibited with the effort to stop the snakeheads from
reaching the Patuxent River. I call upon my fellow Maryland residents to call for an end
of the reactionary positioning of the DNR, and force the agency to be proactive and
progressive in protecting our natural resources.
Michael Torreyson,
Arizona State University,
Tempe, AZ
Bill Mattingly Unworthy of Public Trust
To the Editor:
The announcement in the June 26th edition of The Enterprise of Bill
Mattingly's candidacy for the school board should be viewed as a matter of great concern
to the public.
The Enterprise's article, "Mattingly files for school board
seat," omitted some very important background information. For example, the article
stated, "For the past 15 years he has worked for Waste Management of Southern
Maryland." That is untrue. During the majority of the last 15 years he worked as the
manager of St. Mary's Disposal, a company that was convicted of defrauding the Federal
Government and was fined over $3 million. For undisclosed reasons, Mattingly was not
indicted and tried despite his managerial role in that company. Why?
The article further stated that Mattingly previously served as a police
officer for approximately 10 years in both St. Mary's and Charles counties. For
undisclosed reasons, Mattingly left these positions. Why?
I have had the totally unpleasant public experience of knowing and dealing
with Bill Mattingly. I consider him to be completely unworthy of being elected to any
position of public trust.
Mary V. Broadhurst
California, MD
Choose Dan Morris as Sheriff to
Straighten out Problems
To the Editor:
A Mechanicsville resident recently advocated that it was time for St.
Mary’s County law enforcement to be restructured to form a police department. The
creation of a new law enforcement entity, if done adequately, would require a tremendous
capital investment. The residents of this County don’t need and will not stand for
the additional tax burden that would be required to sustain such an initiative.
I strongly disagree with the formation of a new police department. The
County has indeed grown and has a need for more professional and responsive law
enforcement. The men and women currently staffing the Saint Mary’s County
Sheriff’s Department can meet these demands with the right leadership.
You don’t have to go very far to the north of the County to see that
Police Departments are not the answer; in fact, they have their own unique problems. In
fact, Calvert County facing this same issue last year found that most residents were not
in favor of this option.
We do need a strong, professional elected Sheriff. A Sheriff elected by
the people, and accountable to the people of St. Mary’s County, and not
selected by other County political leaders. I have faith that the people of St.
Mary’s County can see through the so-called "political chaos" and choose a
law enforcement professional, with the experience and leadership qualities to lead our
Sheriff’s Department in the right direction.
We, the residents of this fine County demand a professional Sheriff’s
Department that is responsive to our needs. Internal politics must be eliminated and
external political influence must be minimized. This would require a candidate like Dan
Morris, who is from outside of the Department, who shows strong leadership qualities, and
has extensive and varied experience in law enforcement. He is the only candidate that has
no ties or obligations to the current staff and can overcome the current infighting and
provide professional law enforcement that we can all feel secure with and be proud of.
Robert C. McKay
St. Inigoes
High Cost
of Housing
To the Editor:
Why don't you look into the high cost of housing in St. Marys County. I am
a single mother with a disability and can't work at this time. I am looking for a home and
there isnt anything decent in St.Marys County under $1000 a month that will allow me to
have my pets and my children. Where do these people work in this county that would allow
them to afford these prices. All the low income places have a 5 year waiting list. I am
frustrated and depressed that I may end up living in my car!
Hope Phipps
Hollywood, Md
At a Time
when help is needed
To The Editor:
There was a time when heroes were only in comic books and on
television.
Now our heroes are all around us and in many type’s of uniforms
such as a Fire Fighter and Emergency Medical Technicians. These heroes go in harm’s
way without regard for their safety, but for the compassion of their fellow man they step
up to the challenge. Facing searing heat from flames trying to engulf a household full of
memories and family belongings. Freeing injured family members from a mangled car involved
in a serious auto accident. Answering countless alarms of business’s with the hope of
it just being a false alarm, but if a true fire exists that our volunteer’s will
"Do whatever it takes" to stop the fire. Stopping the advancing flames
from destroying woodland’s and scaring our community. Plowing through snow during
winter month’s to assist in answering the call for help. To have our EMT’s
respond to a person’s home or business to find a person who is not breathing.
Possibly suffering a heart attack. EMT’s and fire fighters arrive and utilize their
training to help revive and save this person. Who is here today and everyday to tell his
story of life after death? Lest we not forget, the ultimate sacrifice that our brave men
and woman have given on September 11th, 2001. The sacrifice was to help their
community in anyway possible. Now the time is at hand for you our community to come to the
assistance of our volunteer’s. We need your help, and here is how you can assist. Go
by one of your volunteer organizations and ask how you can become a member. We as a
community depend on our volunteer’s to protect our life and our property. "At
a time when help is needed will you be able to help"
Tod E. Jackson
Bay District Volunteer Fire Department
Republican Tells Why He Is
Running for
Open Register of Wills Post
To the Editor:
This letter is to announce that on June 14, 2002, I filed the necessary
paperwork to place my name on the ballot for the Republican nomination for Register of
Wills of St. Mary's County. In order to file to run for the position, I first had to
resign my position as treasurer of the Larry Jarboe for Commissioner campaign.
One of the hardest things I have had to do recently is step down from Larry's campaign.
When I first floated the idea of running for Register of Wills by Larry, he could not have
been more supportive. I have left my position as his campaign treasurer, but not as his
friend or supporter. Thank you Larry for the opportunity to serve on your campaign and the
many great things you have shared with me.
Now, I would like to present my plan for making the Register of Wills office proactive in
the areas that the office serves the community. It is my goal to provide the public with
more knowledge in the areas that the office oversees. We are in an age where people now
have more accumulated wealth be it in actual dollars or physical possessions. It is
important that people understand how to protect those assets so that their heirs are able
to receive them unencumbered. Having researched what other Register of Wills aound the
state do, I began seeing a trend towards educating the community about the process. To
reach my goal of better community education,
I will bring members of different professions together to provide knowledge and stress the
importance of the process of estate planning through regular seminars.
These professionals will be from the legal, insurance, banking, investment, and tax
preparation communities.
My current profession is that of a banker. In my 15 years of banking exerience, I have
dealt with many issues in regards to estate accounts. The biggest and toughest issue I
have had to deal with is after a loved one has passed away and the family comes to the
bank to settle the accounts. In most cases, there is a great void of knowledge as to what
process to follow and how to navigate the system.
As the elected official of the Register of Wills office, I will expand on the great job
now being done by the office and be the front person on the issue of public awareness and
educating the citizens of the county how to protect what they have worked so hard to
accumulate over a lifetime. It is important to have our government agencies taking the
next step into the new century with an eye toward working for the people and making them
aware of how to protect and preserve what they own.
I will make myself available to any and all groups that would like to meet me, you can
reach me by phone at 301-769-2609 or email at: electpowell@aol.com. I look forward to
meeting as many of the citizens of our county as possible over the next few months and
serving you in the capacity of Register of Wills.
Before I close, it is important to remind the citizens about some upcoming deadlines.
1. July 1, 2002, the last day to file as a candidate for election.
2. August 20, 2002, the last day to register to vote in the primary.
3. September 10, 2002, Primary Election
4. November 5, 2002, General Election.
Sean Powell,
Avenue
Repubican Candidate,
Register of Wills for St. Mary's County
The
Glendening-Townsend Spending Spree
To the Editor:
Since assuming the reins of State government in 1995, the Glendening-Townsend team has increased
state spending by 61.9 percent while increasing a broad variety of direct and indirect
taxes, a new study from the Maryland Taxpayers Association shows.
State spending has grown from $13.5 billion in 1995 when Glendening-Townsend took office
to $21.8 billion for the current fiscal year, data compiled by MTA from government budget
documents shows. Meanwhile, this year alone, the state legislature approved nearly $1
billion in stealth tax increases.
"If Gov. Glendening and Lt. Gov. Townsend had succeeded with their initial plans,
spending would have been even higher this year," said MTA president Kenneth R.
Timmerman. "But thanks to MTA's efforts and pressure from responsible legislators,
our spendthrift Executive failed in their effort to rescind a long-promised 2 percent cut
in the state income tax rate. This required the General Assembly to do the responsible
thing and trim some $400 million from a budget overloaded with pork and wasteful
spending."
The government spending spree since 1995 has added tens of thousands of new state
employees, scores of new government agencies, and tens of thousands of new state laws and
regulations that cover every aspect of the personal and economic activities of
Marylanders. It has raised the cost of doing business in Maryland for corporations, made
building schools an estimated 15-20% more expensive thanks to union giveaways, and ground
reconstruction of the Wilson Bridge to a halt.
"This type of government intrusiveness is bad for Maryland families," Timmerman
said. "As we saw just recently, when drug giant Eli Lilly chose to locate its new
$425 million insulin factory in northern Virginia instead of Maryland, the overbearing
climate of government regulation and high taxes is driving jobs out of our state."
"MTA urges voters this November to elect candidates who have pledged not to increase
the size of State government or to increase state spending beyond inflation plus
population growth."
Kenneth R. Timmerman
President, Maryland Taxpayers Association
www.mdtaxes.org
Unpatriotic Maryland Public
Schools
To the Editor:
Since 9/11/01 I have seen a tremendous outpouring of patriotism, flag
waving, heard more people singing God Bless America and actually standing for the National
Anthem and seen more red white and blue displayed in every conceivable way imaginable. It
is a shame that it took such a horrible act of terrorism to bring us back to our patriotic
senses.
I personally have always held a great respect for the freedom that I
enjoy, for I know that it comes at a great price and personal sacrifice. I have always
felt pride while sitting on the shores of Lynnhaven Bay watching the regal navy ships as
they sailed out of Norfolk harbor towards the open sea or the Thunderbirds as they soared
overhead at the air show. Having lived just outside Andrews Air Force Base for 44 years I
would always tell my children as the planes roared out "listen to that, that’s
the sound of freedom". Those are the same words I used to comfort my teenage daughter
following 9/11 as the military jets screamed out of Patuxent Naval Air Base after her
secure world was shattered. As long as she could hear those jets, everything was ok - the
sound of freedom.
As a parent to five children I have always taught them to honor and
respect those who have served this nation through service in the military. I worked hard
to instill love and pride of country, how too properly handle and respect the American
flag, to stand and cover their heart during the National Anthem and the Pledge of
Allegiance. However, this has been no easy feat, for at every turn I have been thwarted by
none other than the public school system. As a parent it is my responsibly to know what
the schools are teaching my children. As an education reform researcher I make it my
business to dig deep into the State Learning Outcomes, High School Core Learning Goals,
and State Content Standards decreed by the Maryland State Department of Education. I
don’t like what I have found. I have a rather thick file of what I call "Funky
Homework Assignments". These "assignments" do nothing to teach my children
the history of this great republic and the sacrifice of those who fell to protect its
precious freedoms, but they do demand that my children "question" the validity
of this nation, its leaders and it’s military. This is what is referred to in
education circles as "Critical Thinking". Some examples would include:
Government in America (Houghton Mifflin Company) Primary Source Worksheet 16, chapter 8,
section 2, textbook pages 230-235 - "The Star-Spangled Banner". "Francis
Scott Key began writing "The Star-Spangled Banner" while watching the
bombardment of Fort McHenry aboard a British ship in Baltimore harbor. The attack lasted
for 25 hours, ending on the morning of September 14, 1814. The next day Key finished his
poem, which was later set to the music of an old English song. In 1931 Congress officially
made it our National Anthem. Read the three stanzas of the poem reprinted below. On a
separate sheet of paper, answer the questions that follow." "1. Recognizing
emotional factors. The third verse is often omitted from ‘The Star-Spangled
Banner’ out of courtesy toward the British. Why do you think this is so?"
"2. Making a judgment. Should ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ be our National
Anthem"? "Many people prefer the more peaceful ‘America the
Beautiful’." "Do you think that ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ is an
appropriate reflection of our national character"? "Explain." I
shouldn’t have to detail that there are right and wrong responses to these questions,
and according to the learning outcomes/state content standards [Valuing Self and Others],
it is considered offensive to those of other nationalities to proudly wave the American
flag and sing such a powerful national anthem. Therefore, the state has decided to steer
Maryland’s children away from such misguided notions through curriculum such as this.
Another sad example comes from a class promoted as U. S. History, and is
anything but. The textbook for this class is entitled "The Americans" published
by McDougal Littell (also a Houghton Mifflin Company). It is the worst textbook on U. S.
History that I have ever read. It is widely used across the state, and yes right here in
Calvert County high schools. Personally I believe a better description of this class would
be "Politically Correct U.S. Pop Culture". I became very familiar with this
politically correct, biased textbook and curriculum when my high school senior son had an
extremely difficult time with this class. It seemed that he just plain hated the course.
After careful examination, I now understand why. This course went against everything that
I had ever taught him regarding patriotism. For him, enduring that class was akin to being
slapped in the face everyday. It took some "creative" manipulation to get my son
through this "graduation requirement" course with his love of country and my
sanity intact. We struggled daily with assignments such as: "The Americans",
1998 McDougal Littell - The United States in World War II Chapter 25 Section 1
Skillbuilder Practice - "Analyzing Bias". "During World War II, many
companies used their advertisements not only to sell their products but also to encourage
patriotism and support for the American way of life. Read this text of a 1944 Life
magazine ad created by a sporting goods company. Then fill in the chart with evidence of
bias towards the American way of life (see Skillbuilder Handbook, p. 1047). Exactly what
is the objective of this lesson and dozens of others just like it? My son felt so strongly
against what he was required to provide as "correct" answers so he could pass
the class that he wrote disclaimers at the bottom of the assignments telling the teacher
that he didn’t believe a word of it. At the end of a very tumultuous school year even
my son’s teacher admitted to me that he hated this course, but was required to teach
it anyway - without questioning the intent.
We baby boomers are the last generation to have direct contact with those
brave souls who fought in World War II and the Korean War, and that generation is fading
fast. We heard first hand what they went through to maintain our liberties, and I have
tried to pass this on to my children. What if these lousy textbooks and associated sappy
curricula are the only sources of information today’s young people are ever exposed
to? I shudder to think of the consequences. There is a foul stench rising from the bowels
of the MSDE at 200 West Baltimore Street and it is polluting the minds our unsuspecting
children with "their" politically correct, warped sense of globalism! Our
veterans and military personnel deserve much better than this.
Patricia Brady Dennis
Chesapeake Beach
Tax Cap
Makes More Sense
To the Editor:
An editorial opinion in the Enterprise newspaper indicated the St. Mary's
County Commissioners are about to offer a property tax break to seniors over 70 years of
age, not knowing "how the logistics of this will work" or "how much such a
tax break will cost the county treasury." Why? A "quick fix" ... because
"its an election year."
Although the guess is this might mean $50,000 in tax relief for a relative
handful of senior citizens over 70 years of age, the Editor says "It is, however, not
a bad way to begin."
As a candidate for County Commissioner and a "Taxpayer Advocate,"
I believe there is a better way. A common focus of my platform is to "hold the
line" on taxes. Let's not grant a $50,000 (or some other number) tax relief to a
handful of seniors over 70. At this particular juncture, I believe a "tax cap"
is a more reasonable first step. Place a tax cap on the primary residence of seniors over 65
years of age. Doing so would broaden the benefit to a larger group of the County's senior
citizens. AND, it would not reduce revenue one cent below that now being collected.
Let's "hold the line" for our seniors while we begin to take a "fresh"
look at improving the quality of life in Saint Mary's for all of its people.
Dennis Jack Hubscher, Candidate (R)
County Commissioner
Hollywood - Leonardtown
Opposed to Teaching
Homosexuality in Schools
To The Editor:
Let it go on record that I vehemently oppose the proposed changes
made by State Superintendent of Schools, Nancy S. Grasmick, to the Maryland State
Annotated Code Section 13A.04.05 to mandate the teaching of homosexuality as an acceptable
alternative lifestyle to students in kindergarten through grade 12 in the Maryland public
schools systems. I further oppose Ms. Grasmick’s and the MSDE’s vile attempt to
force these proposed changes onto the local school districts, against the will of the
parents and taxpayers.
Patricia Brady Dennis
Chesapeake Beach,
Cartoon Raised Point about St.
Mary's Board
To The Editor:
The cartoon recently which recently appeared in the ST. MARY'S TODAY and provoked the
question -- did you get your money's worth from these folks over the last four years???
Think about it for a minute or two. During the past few years, the Commissioners raised
your income taxes, your property taxes, and more than doubled your impact fees. SAINT
MARY'S NOW HAS THE HIGHEST INCOME TAX IN MARYLAND! That's a fact. And, your recordation
taxes and county debt increased more than 20% over a two-year period. Say, this is YOUR
MONEY!
Where has the money gone? It's not in some sock or "rainy day" fund -- that's
also been tapped! Ask the County Commissioners who spent it. I can tell you
that personal services for the non-Education part of the budget went up more than 50% over
the past four years, from $24 to $37 millions, according to the
budgets -- while staffing increased less than 2%.
So, have you got your MONEY'S WORTH these past four years? I'll come back to this question
in a minute. BUT, if you don't think you've gotten your money's worth -- should the County
Commissioners REFUND part of their salary? What do you think? SHOULD THE COMMISSIONERS
"GIVE IT BACK !!!" YOU be the judge --
it's your money. Let them know how you feel when you see them. I'll leave you with one
thought on this subject. Ted Williams, "The Greatest Hitter Ever,"
died a short time ago. An honorable man, Ted Williams self-imposed a $35,000 pay cut on
himself in his final year as a player because he was dismayed by a
poor season -- he only hit .316 that year! This was a significant pay cut -- 28% --
because he didn't think he gave the public what it deserved. So, what do YOU think --
should the Commissioners GIVE IT BACK? Let them know what you think.
In order to attack taxes you need the guts to attack unnecessary spending. WHY
is it that practically every politician would have you believe this is impossible!
Obviously, the current Commissioners would like you to believe so. Few candidates will
publicly talk about fat in the budget. It's time to
get off the sidelines and become more accountable for each tax dollar. IF ELECTED, I'LL
GET THE FAT OUT OF THE BUDGET -- I PROMISE.
... "WE CAN DO BETTER"
DENNIS JACK HUBSCHER
Hollywood
Arm Our Pilots Now:
Air Piracy Is Not Going Away
To the Editor:
In order to immediately restore faith in our nation's air travel industry, it is time that
the FAA Administrator and air carrier certificate holders authorize the immediate carriage
of sidearms by all commercial airline pilots in the United States. Existing regulations
permit such carriage (See Title
14, Chapter 1, Subchapter F, Part 108), and training should commence
immediately.
Long term, firearm safety courses could become permanent fixtures of commercial airline
pilot training. Carriage of such weapons should be mandatory, as it is for police
officers, Secret Service details, and sky marshals.
Critics will argue that an insane airline pilot might shoot someone.
Think about it. A maniacal pilot can manipulate the controls to crash into any target he
wants at anytime, so why don't we trust him with a firearm? Others may argue that an armed
pilot could have his weapon taken from him and used to commit the very act of air piracy
that the carriage of such weapons would be designed to prevent, but I ask you, if you had
been a passenger on board the American and United flights that crashed in Washington,
D.C., New York City and Pennsylvania, would you have wanted your pilots to at least have
had a fighting chance?
Of course you would.
If national policy dictates it, the technology now exists for handguns to be
"imprinted" with the identity of the owner, so that the pilot is the only one
capable of discharging the weapon.
Over-penetration in a pressurized cabin is another significant issue. To combat this, many
ammunition manufacturers produce a specialized frangible aluminum or plastic bullet that
is designed to break up quickly on impact with solid objects. Since selected frangible
rounds turn to dust with no ricochet and shoot more accurately then plated or jacketed
bullets, pilots can safely put down hijackers in close quarters without penetrating our
pressurized cabins.
Every time you board a plane, you put your faith and trust in that pilot. So why not trust
him to protect the cockpit from hijackers? Although sky marshals have been used in
passenger cabins in the past, they cannot absolutely protect the last layer of defense in
any aircraft -- the pilots in the cockpit. In addition, who would protect cargo pilots who
fly widebody aircraft all over the world if we were to simply rely on sky marshals? And as
we have learned from the incidents at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, it doesn't
matter who or what is on board a large airliner, the end result is the same.
Here are some other long term solutions for a comprehensive security net that must
be constructed:
Bulkheads must be redesigned in future aircraft production to preclude
any forced entry -- either by mechanical or explosive penetration.
Cockpit doors must be redesigned to replicate a bank vault in design.
Solid steel pins should seal the door on all sides. Crews must be trained that the cockpit
door will not be opened under ANY circumstances, up to and including the execution of
hostages in the cabin. Bathrooms should be installed in the cockpit, and food can be
served to the crews prior to departure and ovens installed in the cockpit for convenience.
Armed air marshals should be stationed between the cockpit and the
passengers, or aft of the cockpit entry door on cargo carriers. Utilization of air
marshals should be redefined from now on. They should be deployed to protect the pilots in
the cockpit and the citizens on the ground, rather than the passengers in the cabin.
Therefore, all cargo carriers should utilize air marshals as well.
Professional personnel earning professional wages must be used at
airport security checkpoints. Extensive training in interdiction techniques and new
technologies are inevitable, but low-paid, uneducated security personnel should be a thing
of the past.
Deployment of better and more pervasive bomb sniffing technology can be
accomplished on short order throughout our nation's airports, and sniffing of every bag,
both checked and carryon, as well as every box shipped via cargo carriers, should be
mandatory. Manual searches of every carryon bag should be accomplished.
Cease and desist all attempts by the Federal government to
"harmonize" FAA pilot licensure requirements and procedures with those of
foreign governments. American citizens should be the only ones certificated to carry
passengers and cargo within our territory. Furthermore, government attempts to ease
existing Cabotage Laws, laws which protect American air and maritime commerce for reasons
of safety, economics, national defense and labor, should be abandoned. Combined with
recent events is the Egypt Air incident, which should tell Americans who they want
piloting U.S. routes.
A national commitment to change the way aircraft are constructed should be
made. Existing fleets of aircraft should be retrofitted within a defined time period, such
as 24-months.
But the last layer in our defensive shield should always be the armed pilots who sit at
the flight controls. Identification of airline pilots authorized to carry weapons can be
accomplished through fingerprint and retinal scanning technology and their access
controlled at selected entry points.
It's in all of our best interests to take immediate steps to protect our national commerce
and transportation system. Granted, investment in an aviation security revolution is
expensive, but what is the cost of terrorist attacks on U.S. targets? What price do you
put on the other national security targets that would make the World Trade Center pale in
comparison?
We should immediately jettison our liberal anti-gun notions when it comes to the
protection of thousands of people's lives. Let's commit our American ingenuity to
revolutionizing our aircraft and airport security measures. Failure to do so will exact a
continuing drain on our nation's resources, economy and most importantly, our humanity.
Capt. Mark Estabrook
Captain Mark Estabrook is the editor of AirlinePilots.com. He has served in the United
States Air Force as an E3 AWACS aircraft commander with duty in the Persian Gulf region
during the Iran-Iraq war. He received a Master of Public Administration degree from the
University of Oklahoma in 1987. Mark Estabrook currently serves as an Airbus captain at
FedEx.
CONTACT INFO:
AirlinePilots.com
Captain Mark Estabrook
PO Box 1021
Cordova, TN 38088
USA
Phone: 901-382-9040
webmaster@airlinepilots.com
http://www.airlinepilots.com
Attorney General Should Take Action Against Fritz, Voorhaar, Deputies for Attempt to
Silence Newspaper
To The Editor:
Mr. J. Joseph Curran, Jr.
Attorney General of the State of Maryland
Dear Mr. Curran:
On behalf of the Maryland/Delaware/District of Columbia
Press Association ("MDDC"), I write to bring to your attention a matter that
raises an important issue of public concern.
MDDC is a nonprofit organization that represents all of
the daily newspapers and nearly all of the non-dailies in Maryland, Delaware and the
District of Columbia. Of MDDC's 145 newspaper members, 115 are located in Maryland. St.
Mary's Today is a member of MDDC.
You may already be aware of the underlying events,
which occurred in St. Mary's County during the night before election day last November. It
is my understanding that the events are basically undisputed, at least to the extent
needed to trigger MDDC's concern. (For your information, I enclose a relevant article from
the June 13 Washington Post).
The election day edition of St. Mary's Today contained
a negative story about Richard Fritz, then a candidate for St. Mary's County State's
Attorney. Mr. Fritz' candidacy was supported by some of the sheriff's deputies. During the
night, off-duty deputies went to stores and newsracks and, they say, bought all available
copies of the newspaper, so they could not be sold to the public on election day.
The deputies took this action because of their concern
about the outcome of the State's Attorney's race and in order to influence that outcome in
favor of Mr. Fritz. Sheriff Richard Voorhaar has stated in a newspaper interview that he
had no problems with what the deputies did. Similarly, I understand that Mr. Fritz has
said in a radio interview that he knew in advance that sheriff's deputies intended to
remove these newspapers and said that he thought it was a "good idea."
St. Mary's Today pursued the matter with your office,
which, I believe, is currently investigating it in connection with the newspaper theft
section of the Maryland Code (Art. 27, S345). The newspaper also contacted the U.S.
Attorney's office, which is looking into possible federal civil rights violations.
MDDC's concern is about the issue raised by the St.
Mary's events - i.e. the role of law enforcement personnel in silencing a newspaper
on the eve of an election, in order to influence the outcome of that election. Does their
conduct constitute willful or knowing obtaining or exertion of unauthorized control over
newspapers, so as to fall under the state newspaper theft law? Did their conduct deprive
St. Mary's Today of its First Amendment rights "under color of state law," so as
to fall under federal civil rights laws?
The fact that the deputies were off duty and not in
uniform does not dispose of this latter question. St. Mary's is a small community, and if
the deputies were known to store clerks, were the clerks inappropriately, if implicitly,
pressured into selling all their newspapers?
MDDC's purpose is not to answer these questions, nor to
address the merits of the story that appeared in St. Mary's Today. Rather, it is to
emphasize the importance of the questions and the need for them to be taken very
seriously.
In that regard, it is important to emphasize that
underlying the local and federal legal issues and extending beyond them is the question of
the propriety of the deputies' actions. As noted above, Mr. Fritz, the Sheriff and the
deputies see no problem.
MDDC disagrees. Of course law enforcement personnel are
free to buy newspapers, but a concerted effort to remove a relatively large number of
newspapers from public dissemination is another matter.
The problem is that in the circumstances in St. Mary's
County, there was a deliberate effort by the deputies to silence a newspaper and thereby
cause the election of a State's Attorney more in line with their own law enforcement
views. Even if the deputies' conduct were not illegal, it should not be exonerated. As a
policy matter, their conduct was an abuse of their power as law enforcement officers, and
a reflection of their disregard of core principles of free speech and press that the
government should protect.
Thus, MDDC requests that, apart from any legal action
you might bring, you communicate to the Sheriff, Mr. Fritz, the deputies and the public,
that their behavior was unacceptable. Our fear is that if you do not do so, these law
enforcement officers will feel free to repeat their behavior, and it will set an example
for other law enforcement officers who are heavily invested in the outcome of Maryland
elections.
Carol D. Melamed
President, MDDC Press Association
Vice President, Government Affairs,
The Washington Post
Letters to
the Editor
send via e-mail staff@stmarystoday.com ,
or write to:
Letters To The Editor
ST. MARY'S TODAY,
P.O. Box 689
California, Maryland.
20619.
Your views are important, but you must sign your name,
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