Delegate Nancy Stocksdale weighs-in on the 7 questions on the Maryland election ballot

Delegate Nancy Stocksdale weighs-in on the 7 questions on the Maryland election ballot

Carroll County Delegate Nancy Stocksdale wrote in an e-mail on November 1, 2012 http://kevindayhoffwestgov-net.blogspot.com/2012/11/delegate-nancy-stocksdale-weighs-in-on.html

For more information go to: http://www.scribd.com/doc/111528702/The-sample-ballot-for-the-November-6-2012-presidential-election-in-Carroll-County-Maryland or http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2012/10/the-sample-ballot-for-november-6-2012.html

Labels: Carroll Co Govt, Diversity Gay Lesbian Civil Unions, Elections 2012, Elections 2012 presidential, Elections and voting, MD Issues Early Voting, MD issues Gambling, MD Issues Slots, MD st govt

Many have asked my opinion on the ballot questions. There are so many conflicting TV ads and even mailings from "Republican Leaders" which have confused the issues.

This is how I voted and the reason why:

Against Question 1.   If passed, this would require candidates for the ORPHANS COURT JUDGES in Prince Georges County to be lawyers. I believe lawyers can run for these offices and if citizens elect them, they can serve, but I don't believe other citizens should be discriminated against.

Against Question 2  This is the same as question 1 except it applies to Baltimore County.

For  Question 3   This amendment removes elected officials from office upon the conviction of a felony rather than waiting until the sentencing. As the law is now, the elected official can appeal and appeal and stay in office.

Against  Question 4     This law permits illegal immigrants to pay in-state tuition at our state supported colleges and universities. I believe that if children were brought here illegally, they should follow the procedures to become legal. Federal Law prohibits employers from hiring illegal people so after the taxpayers pay to educate them, they are not legally allowed to work.

Against  Question 5 The Congressional Redistricting Map just does not make sense. It has been gerrymandered so that no one can be fairly represented in Congress. For example, what does Ocean City have in common with Taneytown or what does Garrett County have in common with Montgomery County?

Against Question 6   This law redefines MARRIAGE as we know it. In recent years, same-sex couples have been given many of the rights they have requested such as hospital visitation rights. They have been offered "Civil Unions," but they want the term "Marriage" changed. This has far reaching ramifications such as changing the school curriculum and dangerous consequences for ministers who preach from the Bible. Although they argue that ministers would not be affected if they did not want to perform a wedding ceremony for a same-sex couple, look what has happened to the Catholic hospitals and doctors who now must perform abortions and provide birth control.

Against Question 7 This law expands gambling in Maryland. This is a bad bill for the citizens in Maryland.

1. The schools are funded by a formula called "The Thornton Formula" and this determines how much money each school system should receive. The money from gaming will go into the EDUCATION TRUST FUND. This will free up general fund money which is normally spent on education to be used for other things. Just as money has been taken out of THE TRANSPORTATION TRUST FUND, money will be taken out of the EDUCATION TRUST FUND for other things.

2. Last year several bills were introduced to "lock" the transportation trust fund so the money would only be used for transportation purposes. These bills failed. That fund was raided for many other uses. I don't Trust money in these trust funds to go for their intended use.

3. The "Republican Leaders" Michael Steel and Audrey Scott, from whom you have received mailings live in Prince Georges County and the law is written so that the local jurisdiction where the casino is located will receive a large percentage of the tax revenue. That is the reason they are in favor of this bill.

4. In May, a Special Session was held to raise your taxes and this gaming bill lowers the taxes for the casino owners.

5. SCHOOLS WILL NOT RECEIVE ANY MORE MONEY THAT THE THIRNTON FORMULA REQUIRES. EVEN THE TEACHERS KNOW THESE STATEMEENTS IN THE AS ARE NOT TRUE. I HAVE BEEN ON THE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE LONG ENOUGH TO SEE ALL THE SPECIAL FUNDS RAIDED AT ONE TIME OR ANOTHER. THEY PROMISE TO "PAY BACK" BUT DON'T. Please vote against this bill and let the legislature come back in a regular session where all interested parties have an opportunity to have input.

[20121101 sdosm Stocksdales view of 7 questions]

The sample ballot for the November 6, 2012 presidential election in Carroll County Maryland

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The sample ballot for the November 6, 2012 presidential election in Carroll County Maryland

October 18, 2012

Attached please find a sample ballot for the November 6, 2012 presidential election in Carroll County Maryland, including the seven questions…

election, voting, ballot, Carroll County, Maryland, 

http://www.scribd.com/doc/111528702/The-sample-ballot-for-the-November-6-2012-presidential-election-in-Carroll-County-Maryland

The sample ballot for the November 6, 2012 presidential election in Carroll County Maryland
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The Capital Gazette: Judge kills Anne Arundel slots referendum

Judge kills Anne Arundel slots referendum

Opponents of a proposed slots casino at a suburban Maryland mall lost a legal battle when a judge ruled their effort to block the gaming site through a public vote on the matter was not legal.

see more

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This week in The Tentacle

This week in The Tentacle

Wednesday, November 5, 2008
It’s the Congress, Stupid!
Kevin E. Dayhoff
When historians look back on the 670-day, $2.5 billion 2008 presidential campaign, the observations, analysis, second-guessing, and finger pointing will fill volumes. In the end, it was once again, “the economy, stupid” that ruled the day.


A Tale of Two Campaigns
Tom McLaughlin
This election, I was proud to be a part of two Democratic congressional campaigns. The First District in Maryland, mostly on the Eastern Shore, was where I lived while in Ocean City. I moved to the Sixth District when I relocated to Middletown.


Tuesday, November 4, 2008
The Long, Messy Campaign
Roy Meachum
Today arrives as Boxing Day for Christmas and Ash Wednesday for Mardi Gras. Take your pick. The presidential campaign for all intents and purposes ended yesterday. The number of voters who might be persuaded by last minute exhortations is certainly miniscule.


Local Issues ARE Important, Too
Farrell Keough
What an interesting time slot to post a column. Today we engage in one of our most auspicious rights – the ability to vote for our representatives. Good luck!


Monday, November 3, 2008
The Big Non-Surprise
Richard B. Weldon Jr.
Former Secretary of State and highly decorated U.S. Army Gen. Colin Powell, a registered Republican, rocked the political establishment recently. On NBC's Meet the Press, General Powell revealed that he is abandoning his political party and endorsing Sen. Barack Obama, for President of The United States.


Predicting The Result
Steven R. Berryman
I have no crystal ball, but considering the events upcoming on Election Day, I feel compelled to prognosticate aloud. John McCain and Sarah Palin will be your next president and vice president of the United States of America. And here’s why:


It’s Your Choice – Part 3
Bill Brosius
We’ve seen the Reverend Wright rant “God damn America” on TV; seen his contempt for and hatred of America, and of whites. He preached: “America is a country run by rich white men.” You could not more succinctly combine racism, contempt of those hard workers who accumulate wealth, and socialism in fewer words.


Friday, October 31, 2008
Taking Race for Congress Seriously
Roy Meachum
A Frederick businessman – and fellow Democrat – this week told me a story about the former mayor. Failing to be heard with orders that city workers should not show up at his place, buy sandwiches and drive away, Jennifer Dougherty proceeded to patrol his parking lot.


Welfare Checks and Military Disintegration
Joe Charlebois
Ninety-five percent of taxpayers won't see tax increases, astounding! Ninety-five percent of Americans will receive a tax cut, amazing! Only 60% of Americans pay income taxes. What?


Just Say “NO” to Slots
Kevin E. Dayhoff
There are two constitutional questions on the ballot next Tuesday. I will be voting “NO” on both. Question 2 will amend the state constitution to allow slots. Question 1 would amend the Maryland Constitution to allow early voting in Maryland.


It’s Your Choice – Part 2
Bill Brosius
Senator Obama’s formative childhood years were unsettling and disruptive. (Words in quotes in this section are copied from “Dreams From My Father,” written by Senator Obama).


Making My Selection…
Derek Shackelford
There are currently six candidates vying for the President of the United States. Two of the candidates have garnered much of the national media attention and are a part of the two primary political parties.


Thursday, October 30, 2008
Another Round of Greatness…
Tony Soltero
Eight years ago, America was finishing up one of the best decades in the nation's history. We were at peace – after waging a successful war of liberation in the Balkans, a war in which no Americans lost their lives in combat.


My Choice and Why
Patricia A. Kelly
I was asked some time ago to contribute a column on a political candidate and why he or she should be chosen. The request was to make it positive, without the “why not to vote for” usually associated with political arguments.


It’s Your Choice – Part 1
Bill Brosius
Illinois Senator Barack Obama is a convincing, charming, silver-tongued man; few are better orators. He quickly gains the confidence of trusting people who cannot believe that he would obfuscate, and thus befuddle those who do not dig deeply into his jargon to clarify meaning.


Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Vote “NO” on Early Voting
Kevin E. Dayhoff
On Election Day November 4, there are two statewide questions on the ballot to amend the Maryland constitutional. I will be voting NO on both questions.


To Thine Own Self Be True
Tom McLaughlin
I am a Democrat and support Jennifer Dougherty and Barack Obama. I would support the Democratic ticket if the devil himself were on it. I am sure there are Republicans who feel the same way.


Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Election Worry
Roy Meachum
Readers may recall I take a certain pride in making up my mind well in advance about election personalities and issues. Not always, helas! This resolution on slot machines remains unresolved for me. I suspect I'm not alone. Please allow me to point out personal problems.


Unqualified To Be President – Part 2
Maude Franceschina
In yesterday’s column, I recited a litany of reasons Sen. Barack Obama is unqualified to be President of The United States. Today I’ll expand on that.

http://www.thetentacle.com/
20081105 This week in The Tentacle

Just Say “NO” to Slots

Just Say “NO” to Slots

by Kevin E. Dayhoff October 31, 2008 The Tentacle

There are two constitutional questions on the ballot next Tuesday. I will be voting “NO” on both. Question 2 will amend the state constitution to allow slots. Question 1 would amend the Maryland Constitution to allow early voting in Maryland.

In an earlier column I explained why I feel strongly that early voting in Maryland is not such a hot idea.

Question 2 is not nearly so black and white. I have a good number of well-intentioned and thoughtful friends and colleagues who are voting for slots, and almost an equal number of people who are just as responsible and well informed and are voting against slots.

After a great deal of thought, study, and research, I will be voting “NO.”

[…]

Maryland state government already has a pathological spending addiction and the current slots referendum only fuels the problem.

And there’s the rub. I cannot say it better than The Cecil Whig: “The people (who) are now trying to sell you slots are the same people (who) passed the largest tax increase in Maryland's history and said that it would solve our fiscal problems. They are the same people who said that there wouldn't be a BG&E rate hike…

[…]

20060000 OMalley BGE Ad

[…]

“If you believe the General Assembly will use the revenue generated from slots wisely, to lower taxes and control further spending, then we recommend you vote for it.

“But if you are concerned that legislators will waste the revenue from slots and citizens will not benefit with tax decreases and spending will again outpace tax revenues, then we recommend you vote against the referendum.”

[…]

Read the entire column here: Just Say “NO” to Slots

20081031 The Tentacle: Just Say NO to Slots

Vote Against Question 2!

Vote Against Question 2! BY Anthony J. O’Donnell – House of Delegates Republican Leader and Christopher B. Shank – House of Delegates Republican Whip

October 29, 2008

Over the last few months, the citizens of this state have been bombarded with a variety of myths regarding the slots constitutional amendment. There have been radio and television ads that warn ominously of tax hikes and cuts to education and public safety if slots are not authorized. This fear-mongering ad campaign is financed by a handful of individuals who will make a tremendous amount of money if this plan moves forward. Members of the Democratic leadership have made not-so-subtle threats to unions, community organizations, and other interest groups bullying them into supporting the amendment. Those voicing opposition to the amendment have been demonized. Even if you are in favor of slots coming to Maryland, when you push past the layers of rhetoric and look at this constitutional amendment in its entirety, it is clear that this is not the way slots should be authorized in this state. The House Republican Caucus opposes the slots constitutional amendment because it is a bad deal for the citizens of Maryland and does nothing to address the root causes of our fiscal problems. The House Republican Caucus has a slots plan ready to introduce that does not require a constitutional amendment and allows market forces and local input, rather than political favors and back room deals, to determine the locations.

The first myth that needs to be addressed is that Question 2 is a referendum on slots. Maryland does not have a provision for referenda. Question 2 is not an up or down vote on slots and voting against it does not prevent the authorization of slots in the future. Question 2 is an amendment to Maryland’s Constitution, the primary governing document of the State. This amendment not only authorizes slot machines but authorizes them in specific locations throughout the state. The locations and beneficiaries of the proposed slots plan were decided in a back-room closed process, with no consideration for market forces or the concerns of local governments. Once authorized, any changes to the slots program will require a constitutional amendment. There will be no way to address unforeseen problems that require changes, such as a problem with a particular location, until an election year when the citizens can vote to approve the changes. There is no need to authorize slot machines with a constitutional amendment and failure of this amendment does not mean that the General Assembly cannot come back in January and authorize a slot machine plan that benefits all of Maryland.

The second myth that needs to be addressed is that if the constitutional amendment fails, the only option will be more taxes and draconian cuts to deal with the $1 billion deficit we face in FY 2010. Another myth is that education funding will be enhanced or jeopardized depending on the passage or failure of this amendment. The truth is the constitutional amendment does not bring in significant revenues until 2012. The revenues that will be dedicated to education will be used to supplant monies already spent on education, not to increase overall education spending. The message being sold to the citizens by the Democratic leadership is slots OR taxes – the fact of the matter is, the economic situation, the current deficit, and the unwillingness of the majority to restrain spending will lead to slots AND taxes. In contrast, our slots plan will generate an immediate $850 million in upfront revenue in FY 10 that will fill a significant portion of the structural deficit. Our plan will bring in more revenue overall than the constitutional amendment. The House Republican slots plan, in combination with our budget proposal will not only eliminate any need for tax increases, but will allow for a repeal of the historic tax increase passed in 2007.

What the citizens of Maryland need to know is that this constitutional amendment is a bad deal for the taxpayers. It gives away slots licenses well below their market value to a handful of wealthy, politically well-connected individuals. In these tough economic times, and in the wake of the largest tax increase in Maryland’s history, that is grossly inappropriate and should not stand. The constitutional amendment will do nothing to address the $1 billion deficit and will not prevent new taxes. It allows the Democratic leadership in Annapolis to continue to recklessly spend money with no control or accountability. The taxpayers of Maryland do not have that luxury and neither should their elected leaders. It is time for the citizens of Maryland to say NO to Martin O’Malley, Mike Miller, and Mike Busch. No unjust enrichment for political patrons, no more reckless spending, no more threats, no more fear. The best option for our citizens is to vote AGAINST Question 2!

20081029 Vote Against Question 2

Washington Post editorial says No to slots … and so do I

Washington Post editorial says No to slots … and so do I

Sunday, October 19, 2008 – October 27, 2008

Hat Tip: Delusional Duck Maryland Southern Maryland

The Washington Post published an editorial on Sunday, October 19, 2008 that argued “No” to slots in the upcoming referendum to be held in Maryland on November 4th, 2008.

I think this is how I will be voting also. In spite of personal reservations about slots; I believe that I could’ve supported some of the formulations offering slots in Maryland under the previous administration.

At least I could’ve closed my eyes, held my breath, pinched my nose, and pushed the green button.

I happen to be old enough to remember slots and members of my family viewed them as harmless entertainment – and by and large, it was just that.

I never saw the ills that slots created for society and yet as I grew older I began to see that slots are a huge potential for harm to the fabric of the community.

Earlier proposals had more benefits than harms. I liked the revenue for agriculture and education and I certainly liked the jobs creation.

However, the current proposal is not very attractive in that there is not enough upside to the proposal to overcome the downside.

Overlooking for the moment that it places slots in the Maryland constitution where it does not belong; it appears that little of the revenue will go to help agriculture, or more specifically, the horse industry; way too little goes to education and too much goes to the general revenue fund coffers of Maryland state government.

Maryland state government already has a pathological spending addiction and the current legislation only fuels the problem as opposed to what a dedicated fund for ag and education would provide.

And there’s the rub.

Anyway, the Washington Post says: No on Maryland Slots:

Voters should oppose a referendum that would bring the machines -- and a host of maladies -- back to the state.

Sunday, October 19, 2008; B06

ON JULY 1, 1968, the last slot machines were wheeled out of the taverns and diners that dotted a stretch of Southern Maryland known as Little Vegas. Maryland banned the machines because they fostered crime and corruption and drained money from the poor. In the 40 years since, the lever on the side of the machine has given way to a button on the front, but the scourges ushered in by slots are the same.

Supporters of a Nov. 4 referendum that would restore slots to Maryland paper over these memories with dollar bills. Slots, they promise, will plug Maryland's $430 million budget gap, revive the faltering horse-racing industry and inject needed cash into schools. Marylanders shouldn't fall for this neon mirage.

[…]

Maryland had the good sense to rid itself of the machines 40 years ago, and voters should continue to resist the glow of slot machines and the false promise of pain-free revenue they represent.

[…]

Read the entire editorial here: No on Maryland Slots

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/10/18/AR2008101801534.html

20081019 Washington Post editorial says No to slots

Baltimore Sun Sells Out Maryland On Slots

Baltimore Sun Sells Out Maryland On Slots

www.MarylandersUnited.com

For Immediate Release: Contact: Bridgett Frey

October 17, 2008 Phone: 202-510-0632

Baltimore Sun Sells Out Maryland On Slots

Buckles to Pressure and Reverses Decade Long Opposition to Slots

Baltimore, MD – Slots opponents today accused the Baltimore Sun, the state's largest newspaper, of buckling to corporate pressure and selling out Maryland on slots in its editorial endorsement of the November gambling referendum.

Their support of Question 2 is a complete turnaround on an issue the paper has consistently opposed for decades, having written more than 75 editorials opposing slots over the past 10 years alone – and comes at the end of a week in which the University of Maryland, Baltimore County released a report showing that the costs of slots could, in all likely hood, offset the benefits, and the legislature's nonpartisan research staff concluded that even with slots the state faces a structural deficit through fiscal year 2014 and beyond.

Slots are not only not the cure pro-gambling advocates claim, they're more of the problem.

"The decision by the Baltimore Sun today to endorse the slots referendum represents the kind of reversal of course that raises more questions than it answers. It is frankly a slap in the face to the voters of Maryland and an abdication of its editorial integrity," said Scott Arceneaux, Senior Advisor of Marylanders United to Stop Slots.

"The board's endorsement of Question 2 does not represent what is best for Maryland - it represents the gambling industry's penetration not just into Annapolis, but into the editorial boardroom of the largest paper in the state."

The Sun has written over 75 anti-slots editorials in the last 10 years. For example, the Baltimore Sun's editorial board has said:

"Unrestricted slot-machine gambling is an invitation to corruption and addiction. Putting video poker in neighborhood stores can destroy families and do infinite harm to a community's sense of value. It is an evil that government should not tolerate - in South Carolina, in Maryland or anywhere else." [Baltimore Sun, 10/17/99]

"Like most things that are too good to be true, the gambling prophecy is a false one, laden with potential disappointments and - worse - real financial and social costs that proponents conveniently ignore" and "You simply can't gamble your way to fiscal heath" [Baltimore Sun, 12/17/02].

Described slots as "a robbing of Peter to pay Paul that would disproportionately cannibalize and cut jobs at nearby restaurants and retailers." [Baltimore Sun, 2/26/04]

"Once again, Maryland school children get to witness their future held hostage to gambling." [Baltimore Sun, 08/27/06]

"The constitutional amendment doesn't require more money to be spent on education this year, next year or any year slots revenue might be available. A governor could just as easily redirect general fund money that would ordinarily be spent on education for other purposes and thus make the impact of slots revenue on schools meaningless." [Baltimore Sun, 08/20/08]

"Even if approved, slots won't be riding to the rescue" of the state's budget crisis. [Baltimore Sun, 10/12/08]

On Tuesday, the University of Maryland, Baltimore County released as report which found that the pro-slots campaign has grossly overestimated the revenue from slots, with the actual dollars for the state probably coming in at closer to half that projected, or $333 million, and an amount half of that the gambling industry has "guaranteed" voters for education. The report also found that the social costs, which have been systematically ignored by Annapolis insiders and the gambling industry desperate to pass slots, will be astronomical and have not been factored in to state's estimates. All told, the costs to the state could be as high was $627.5 million – exceeding the potential benefits. And finally, the UMBC study found that slots could easily create almost 100,000 new pathological and problem gamblers in the state of Maryland, and money spent on slots will simply be a substitution of dollars from other purchases, which will have a negative impact on the business community, and mean less sales tax revenue for the government and less lottery revenue.

"The Baltimore Sun should now be called the Chicago Sun since it appears the editorial decisions are being made by corporate suits in Illinois, the Tribune Company, and not by the independent editorial board here in Maryland," said Arceneaux.

"What is particularly troubling about this endorsement is that it comes on the heels of UMBC and the Department of Legislative Services making clear that slots will not solve Maryland's budget problems; in fact, slots will only make them worse.

Readers have a right to know if this is a Tribune Company corporate decision from Chicago or a decision made by a real independent editorial board, that has been consistent for 10 years, in Baltimore? The history of the Sun on this issue and the circumstances demand answers."

In a briefing to legislators earlier this week, the General Assembly's Department of Legislative Services reported that even if slots are approved in November, Maryland will still have a structural deficit of around $1 billion in fiscal year 2014, when the slots program will be fully operational.

Marylanders United to Stop Slots is a broad-based coalition of community, business and labor leaders, clergy, Republicans, Democrats and citizens from across Maryland. The coalition is undertaking an ambitious grassroots campaign to stop a large-scale commercial gambling referendum in November that would amend Maryland's Constitution, while doing nothing to cut taxes and ease the financial burden working families are experiencing. For more information visit www.marylandersunited.com.

###

20081017 Baltimore Sun Sells Out Maryland On Slots

Red Maryland is against the Slots Amendment

Red Maryland is against the Slots Amendment

Sunday, September 28, 2008

We've done endorsements in the past, and we are here with another Red Maryland endorsement. Surprising no one I'm sure, Red Maryland is against the Slots Amendment and encourages you to vote no.

More: Red Maryland contributors explain their positions:

20080928 Red Maryland is against the Slots Amendment

http://redmaryland.blogspot.com/2008/09/red-maryland-is-against-slots-amendment.html

No Slots Bishop Schol

No Slots Bishop Schol

September 20, 2008

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hY1Dl0qUGJY



20080920 No Slots Bishop Schol

The OC Dispatch: Slots Called 'Even Bet' With Two Months To Go

The OC Dispatch: Slots Called 'Even Bet' With Two Months To Go

By Shawn J. Soper, News Editor

Originally published September 5, 2008

OCEAN CITY – Despite strong rhetoric from an organized and vocal anti-slots contingent in the local area and across Maryland, the November referendum on the gaming machines appears to be an “even bet” with just under two months remaining before the election, resort business leaders heard this week.

The resort’s Economic Development Committee (EDC) this week hosted its bi-annual legislative summit, inviting its representatives in Annapolis including Sen. Lowell Stoltzfus and Delegates Norm Conway and Page Elmore, along with Ocean City Chamber of Commerce lobbyist Dennis Rasmussen to Ocean City for a frank discussion of important upcoming issues. Conspicuously absent was Delegate Jim Mathias, who is in Louisiana to assist with disaster relief efforts there in the wake of Hurricane Gustav.

Inevitably, the discussion at the meeting on Wednesday turned to the November referendum on slots, and the generally anti-slots local business community was not likely pleased when the race was handicapped. For years, certain segments of the Ocean City business community including the EDC and the chamber, along with the town’s elected officials, have made it known in no uncertain terms they are opposed to slots.

[…]


Voters across Maryland will likely settle the slots issue once and for all in November when they head to the polls to cast their ballots on a referendum question calling for an amendment to the state’s constitution to allow 15,000 of the gaming devices at five locations including Ocean Downs in Worcester County. The wording in the ballot question has been formally challenged because of the notion it unfairly paints a rosy picture of the benefits of slots without pointing out its potential downfalls, according to Stoltzfus.

“This issue is obviously very important to Ocean City,” he said. “The first thing to start with is the ballot language and it’s being challenged. It’s deliberately misleading and it’s wrong.”

Stoltzfus told EDC members on Wednesday the slots-for-schools premise is misleading because much of the revenue generated from the gaming machines will not go where it is supposed to go despite the language in the bill.

“The ballot language extols the virtues of the revenues going to education, but the reality is most of it is going into the general fund. The revenue will be swallowed up in the general fund and it could go to anything. The same thing happened to a large extent with the lottery.”

Read the entire article here: Slots Called 'Even Bet' With Two Months To Go

http://www.mdcoastdispatch.com/article.php?cid=30&id=4239

20080905 The OC Dispatch: Slots Called ‘Even Bet’ With Two Months To Go

EAGLE EXTRA: Slots Constitutional Amendment

EAGLE EXTRA: Slots Constitutional Amendment

http://www.explorecarroll.com/news/529/eagle%20extra:%20slots/

Posted 8/13/08

Explore Carroll – The website for the Westminster, Eldersburg, and Sunday Carroll Eagle has published the text of the legislation approved to create referendum on Slot Machines in Maryland

The following is the text of the legislation that was approved to create the referendum on Slot Machines in Maryland.

The measure is an Amendment to the State Constitution, and will face voters on the November ballot.

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT
By: Administration

AN ACT concerning

Video Lottery Terminals Authorization and Limitations

FOR the purpose of adding a new article to the Maryland Constitution to authorize video lottery terminal gaming in the State for the primary purpose of providing funds for public education; limiting the number of licenses that the State may issue to operate video lottery terminals; limiting the number of locations at which video lottery terminal facilities may be located; limiting the number of video lottery terminals that may be authorized in the State; providing that the statutory addition or expansion of forms of commercial gaming by the General Assembly is prohibited except as provided by this Act; defining a certain term; and submitting this amendment to the qualified voters of the State of Maryland for their adoption or rejection.

BY proposing an addition to the Maryland Constitution

New Article XIX Video Lottery Terminals

Find the entire text here: Slots Constitutional Amendment

20080813 EAGLE EXTRA Slots Constitutional Amendment

20071028 NPR: Backlash Against Slot Machines in W.Va. and other news from Appalachia

NPR: Backlash Against Slot Machines in W.Va. – and other news items from Appalachia…

http://www.npr.org/search.php?text=slots

Oct-28-2007, All Things Considered

...at race tracks and other locations. Tomorrow, Maryland state legislature takes up the governor's proposal to legalize slots. It's also a big issue in the current governor's race in Kentucky....

Backlash Against Slot Machines in W.Va.

by Scott Finn

All Things Considered, October 28, 2007

West Virginia is one of a handful of states that allows slot machines and other forms of video gambling in neighborhood bars, as well as at racetracks. But while other states, such as Maryland and Kentucky, are considering expanding their gambling options, many West Virginians are now having second thoughts. Some find themselves torn between their socially conservative beliefs and the state's need for jobs.

Finn reports for West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

Inside Appalachia – Listen hear.

Host: Beth Vorhees

Saturdays at 6 am - Sundays at 6 pm on radio

This hour-long weekly radio news magazine is devoted to topics of interest in the southern Appalachian region - shared issues, shared culture and shared history - with a new perspective.

_____

WV: Table Games by Keri Brown

In West Virginia, gamblers at three of the state's four racetracks will be able to play poker 24 hours a day. The state Lottery Commission approved all day gambling this week. Also, this week, the tracks that can offer casino style table games were given the go-ahead to open their poker rooms after a test of dealers and the regulatory processes. Players used play money and played for charity.

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KY NewsBeshear Profile by Tony McVeigh, KPR

The governor’s race pits a republican incumbent against a democrat with a long political history.

Gov. Debate by Stu Johnson, WEKU

The two candidates for governor got their first shot before a statewide television audience this week on KY Educational Television.

Casino Gambling by Charles Compton, WEKU

Both the governor and the state horse industry say next week's election is a referendum of expanded gaming.

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PA: Wind Farms

By Lisa Ann Pinkerton, Allegheny Front

By the end of 2008, PA will have 10 wind farms generating electricity. These farms are built without any state regulations. Instead, wind companies and the state work together to find what they consider to be appropriate sites. PA officials say this voluntary agreement, as it’s called, is a flexible set of rules that can change as the state's knowledge of wind farms grows. But critics say the agreement does more to protect companies than the environment.

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WV: Bridge Day By Anna Sale

This weekend in October means its Bridge Day in Fayette County, WV. It’s the day each year when for six hours, it’s legal to parachute off the New River Gorge Bridge. As many as 200,000 spectators will watch. And organizers say despite a jumper fatality last year, participation this year was expected to be about the same.

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WV: Banned Books By Scott Finn

Two critically-acclaimed novels by southern writer Pat Conroy were suspended from a Nitro High School Advanced Placement Literature Class. The parents of two students complained about graphic scenes of sex and violence in the novels "Beach Music" and "The Prince of Tides." The Kanawha Co. school board is trying to decide whether to ban the books, or allow them to remain as part of the curriculum.

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WV: The Confederate Battle Flag By Beth Vorhees

Historic tradition or an emblem of racism? John Coski says the confederate flag means different things to different people. This week, Dr. Coski presented a lecture in WV on his book “The Confederate Battle Flag: America’s Most Embattled Emblem" as part of the 2007 Civil War Scholars Lecture Series at WV State University. We spoke to Dr. Coski earlier this week about his book and the controversial symbol of the American south.

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PLUS: KY: Stereotypes ... WV: Mine safety & apple crop ... NPR news ... more

20071025 Counties association favors slots by James Drew Baltimore Sun

Counties association favors slots

Qualified support based on program of compensation

From Friday's Sun - baltimoresun.com

By James Drew, Sun reporter, October 25, 2007

The Maryland Association of Counties offered qualified backing Thursday for Gov. Martin O'Malley's call to legalize slot machine gambling, saying it "could be an acceptable long-term state revenue source, were such a program responsibly crafted."

"A responsible slots program must provide continuing fair and full compensation to the host subdivisions for impact expenses and respect local land use authority," according to a statement distributed at a news conference at the State House.

[…]

The Democratic governor's package includes an increase in the state sales tax from 5 cents to 6 cents, extending the tax to cover more services, changing the income tax structure so that high earners pay more and low- and middle-income filers pay less, an increase in the corporate income tax rate from 7 percent to 8 percent, closing corporate loop holes and a property tax reduction.

The governor also backs legalizing slot machine gambling, but he has signaled he might back a referendum on that proposal.

… two days after O'Malley released a 20-page report, called the "Cost of Delay" budget, that outlines cuts of $850 million to local jurisdictions and $800 million to state agencies and programs.

Republicans referred to the governor's move as a scare tactic and noted that Democratic legislative leaders released a similar list of doomsday cuts over the summer in arguing for new revenue measures.

MACo officials said that if the state chooses spending cuts over tax increases, the burden of balancing the budget would be shifted to local governments, which would be forced to consider their own cuts and property tax increases.

[…]

Writing for the Baltimore Sun, Mr. Drew has written a quick and easy snapshot of the issues swirling much of the Maryland General Assembly Special Session which has begun today, October 29th, 2007. It is well worth the time it takes to give it a quick read. Find it here: Counties association favors slots.

20071023 Dan Gainor Watch

Dan Gainor Watch

October 23^rd, 2007 – Dan Gainor in The Examiner

Dan Gainor: Brewing up a contest to mock tax tricks

23 hrs ago - Trick or treat?

OK, in Gov. Martin O’Malley’s Maryland, we only get one choice — more than $1 billion in new taxes. That’s not exactly a treat. Two days before Halloween, the governor will knock on every door in the state demanding goodies.

[…]

Since the governor is holding his session at such an ironic time, let’s take advantage of it. I want you, the readers of this column, to come up with suggestions for the right costume O’Malley should wear presiding over such an epic abuse of power during Halloween.

I’ve used a lot of metaphors for our good governor during the past year. Jesse James was my favorite. Forrest Gump got me an e-mail complaint from the state Democratic Party. And I personally saw the governor in what I think was a War of 1812 officer’s costume at a Ravens charity event a couple of years ago.

So you have to do better than those. The idea should be fun and humorous, and tweak the nose of a man leading his state down the path to tax suicide. No overly mean comments will be allowed. (I get to make all of those.) Send your entries to gainorcolumn@gmail.com. Deadline is Saturday at the witching hour — midnight.

[…]

Read the entire column here: Dan Gainor: Brewing up a contest to mock tax tricks

Dan Gainor: Commuters need to question MARC

7 days ago - On your MARC. Get set. Go. See you in 28 years.

Dan Gainor: Gov. O’Malley can’t get a handle on state’s slots issue

14 days ago - Pull the handle and watch the pictures fly by in a blur of excitement — bars, cherries, oranges and more. As the lights flash, you scream for a winner. Then the rows of images begin to slow.

Dan Gainor: Finding a Realtor who really moves you

21 days ago - When we get married, the people who stand by us are called the best man or maid of honor — respectful titles and well deserved. When we go house hunting, we call those people Realtor or agent.

Dan Gainor: The James gang approach to taxes

28 days ago - There’s a new Brad Pitt film out called “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford.” It should star Gov. Martin O’Malley, because he’s robbing us blind.

Dan Gainor: Finally, money none of us really wants

35 days ago - Coin of the realm is a phrase that conjures up pirates and “pieces of eight.”

Dan Gainor: Today shouldn’t be like any other day

42 days ago - Six years, and the horrifying images are still seared in our brains.

Dan Gainor: Region’s politicians hooked on speed

49 days ago - I have a quick confession.

Dan Gainor: Workers still laboring to do their best

55 days ago - It’s my own personal Labor Day tradition to remind people and businesses that talented, skilled employees are the best asset of any company. This is my last column before the holiday, so I wanted to pay tribute to the men and women who keep this and every business going.

Dan Gainor: Poorly called strike at Camden Yards

63 days ago - The great labor battles are written in large type across American history — the Haymarket riots, the railroad strike of 1877 — even the battles between miners and mine owners in Harlan County, Ky.

Dan Gainor: Downside of the serve-less industry

70 days ago - You’ve heard it before.

Gainor: Survey says we want less government

77 days ago - I have stunning survey results: Most people would rather someone else pay their taxes.

Dan Gainor: House-hunter to homeowner

83 days ago - Deciding to buy a house is one thing. Actually finding one is another.

Dan Gainor: Eight is enough for Baltimore

91 days ago - When the singer Prince decided to change his name to a funky little drawing, he became a symbol.

Dan Gainor: It’s not time to chew the fat — let’s cut it

98 days ago - It’s time to tighten the old belt.

Dan Gainor: O’Malley explores the nuclear option

105 days ago - No nukes? Maybe no more.

Dan Gainor: A song of freedom with many verses

112 days ago - I’ve got a song in my heart.

Dan Gainor: The economy is on fast-forward

119 days ago - Call it the tale of the tape. In it, we find a lesson about the U.S. economy you seldom see taught. Not too long ago, I was at the York Road Best Buy looking for a tape recorder so I could write and drive simultaneously. Those who know me well know this is good because I seldom actually shut up.

Dan Gainor: Losing birds drag down attendance

125 days ago - Remember when the word “Orioles” was followed by the word “magic”?

Dan Gainor: A good idea can be your ‘secret’ weapon

126 days ago - I’ve got The Secret.

Dan Gainor: This isn’t your land anymore

133 days ago - “This land is your land, this land is my land.”

Dan Gainor: The conspiracy of lower gas prices

140 days ago - Gas man.

Dan Gainor: Business must play ball with base plan

147 days ago - When you first hear the term BRAC, you aren’t sure if it’s the sound you make after too many crabs and too much beer or one of the Cartoon Network’s oddball characters. (That one’s Brak.)

Dan Gainor: Legislators ready to gas up taxes

154 days ago - Gas prices have continued to climb.

Dan Gainor: Where’s there’s smoke, there’s stupidity

161 days ago - It appears likely that as of Feb. 1, 2008, Marylanders will no longer be allowed to smoke in bars and restaurants. Democratic Gov. Martin O’Malley appears poised to sign the bill as early as this week and join legislators by making an ash out of himself.

Dan Gainor: There’s no place like home

168 days ago - The online world gives you the ability to find exactly what you want in a relationship. You can pick age, size and appearance without ever leaving your home.

Dan Gainor: Tanks for the memories of cheap gas

Dan Gainor: Imagine a Baltimore without cars

Dan Gainor: We are not at the end, my friend

Dan Gainor: Politicians out of control

Readers should believe it’s been a great year for the paper

Dan Gainor: ‘People’s lawyer’ a threat to business

Dan Gainor: Subprime problems could be prime reason to buy

Dan Gainor: Solution to tax woes rises like dough

Dan Gainor: There ought to be a law

Dan Gainor: Seat hikes prove Ravens have what counts

Dan Gainor: Wide screen is not box-office silver

Gov. O’Malley can’t see forest for treats

Love of profit is at the holiday’s heart

Homeowners should reconsider adjustable rate mortgages

20071009 Dan Gainor: Gov. O'Malley can't get a handle on state's slots issue

Gov. O'Malley can't get a handle on state's slots issue

Oct 9, 2007 by Dan Gainor, The Examiner

http://www.examiner.com/a-978936~Dan_Gainor__Gov__O_Malley_can_t_get_a_handle_on_state_s_slots_issue.html

Gov. Martin O'Malley. He's using the state's $1.7 billion deficit to try and rework our entire tax structure - and spend a couple hundred million extra. Rather than push for true belt-tightening in government (Does anybody even know what that means?), O'Malley pulled together a hate-the-rich package that raises almost every tax you can imagine and encourages wealthy people to move out of state.

The "plan" is a classic smoke-filled-room result. Now O'Malley expects the legislature and the abused public to acquiesce. And he wants it done in a special session just prior to the regular session to minimize debate.

The GOP makes it clear it only approved slots because Republican Gov. Bob Ehrlich asked nicely and didn't spend like a teen with her dad's credit card. GOP members say they especially oppose a special session because it's designed to raise taxes. Duh. Of course it is. Everything O'Malley does now is designed to raise taxes.

Read the entire commentary here: Gov. O'Malley can't get a handle on state's slots issue

20040212 Democrat Franchot: The Ultimate Hypocrite On Slots

Democrat Franchot: The Ultimate Hypocrite On Slots

N E W S R E L E A S E

http://www.mdgop.org/News/News.cfm?ID=1013&c=3

Related:

1998 HB678 Fiscal Note St Lottery Commission Video Lottery Terminals

1998 HB678 St Lottery Commission Video Lottery Terminals

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 12, 2004

Contact: Deborah Martinez 410-269-0113

DEMOCRAT FRANCHOT: THE ULTIMATE HYPOCRITE ON SLOTS

Following News that Anti-Slots Lobbying Firm Worked to Join Pro-Slots Effort,

Evidence Now Shows Lead Anti-Slots Leader Was Once a Fervent Slots Supporter

ANNAPOLIS – As the so called anti-slots movement gears up this year, one of its top leaders, Delegate Peter Franchot (D-Montgomery County), is proving yet again that the fight to halt slots is nothing more than another tactic in the other side’s “Stick it to Ehrlich” campaign, said Republican State Party Chairman John M. Kane.

Just three years ago, when his party’s Governor was in office, Peter Franchot helped lead a “Public Education-Funding” bill in the House of Delegates to allow licensed operators to run slot machines. Now, Franchot has made a complete flip-flop to become Maryland’s most ardent opponent of any slots plan that would help fund education in the state.

“Today he says slots is out of the question, calling it a ‘new game’ in Annapolis, and promising to not end his fight until ‘this obsession with slot machines comes to an end’,” Chairman Kane said. “Well considering his past work to legalize slots, the only new game he seems to be playing is “Stick it to Ehrlich,” and in the process he’s sticking it to all the kids who are in grades K-12. In all apparent reality, Franchot is pro-slots, anti-Ehrlich, and not big enough to admit it.”

Kane also pointed out that top representatives of the anti-slots lobbying firm that Franchot’s coalition hired to run the anti-slots campaign were in the Maryland Republican office three weeks ago working to take on the pro-slots campaign.

“The simple fact that top officers for the ‘anti-slots’ lobbying firm Mr. Franchot’s coalition recently hired were in my office last month to, in essence, ask for $100,000 in blackmail so they wouldn’t help Franchot and his people launch an anti-slots campaign, proves the anti-slots movement is a scam. Even more importantly, it proves that neither the anti-slots coalition nor Mr. Franchot has any credibility.”

Franchot was one of 15 Delegates in the 2001 legislative session to sponsor House Bill 1170, a Constitutional Amendment designed to fund public education through the use of video lottery terminals in licensed establishments with a provision that would prohibit the growth of casino gambling.

###

http://www.mdgop.org/

Background Information:

Obtain a Copy of Slots Bill Franchot Sponsored at http://mlis.state.md.us/1998rs/billfile/hb0678.htm