Governor O'Malley In Trouble -- Could Lose Big!

Budget deficit, faltering state economy, numerous other issues:

"In Maryland, Democrats have gotten us to this point, and I'm convinced there's going to be this throw-the-bums-out mentality. I would be worried if I were an incumbent," -- Doug Duncan, former County Executive of Montgomery County who dropped out of the 2006 Democratic gubernatorial primary.

The words of a party insider democrat.

The State of Maryland is in a mess. A very big mess. Baltimore city, is in an even bigger mess. Baltimore city's mess is part of the legacy of eight years of Martin O'Malley's rule. Now Mr. O'Malley is Governor, and quite honestly, if he runs the state the way he ran Baltimore, we will not survive.

You know things are bad when even a long time Maryland democrat stalwart like Doug Duncan is starting to get worried. The days of Baltimore city and Maryland voters automatically voting democrat may be coming to an end. Remember, a year ago, when Bush's approval rating was down in the dumps, democrat Maryland gave Governor O'Malley and even lower rating than Bush.

Something to think about

Related:
The Governor Hates Me! -- Original Video

FLASHBACK: Majority Democrat Maryland Rates O'Malley Lower Than Bush

Baltimore State Of The City -- Reality Check Version -- What's Up Baltimore from MacArthur Media

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Baltimore Spectator On Twitter

Get updates and random musings from the mind of MacArthur. Baltimore crime, grime and politics with a sprinkling of nonsense thrown in for good measure on twitter.com/baltospectator

VICTORY! Cab Rate Rollback Denied! **EXCLUSIVE STORY**

BREAKING: Police To Reconsider "Secret Police" Policy

O'Malley Snubs Black Leaders -- Media Avoids Story

Baltimore Reporters Need To Grow A Set!

Frederick Bealefeld's Police State -- Baltimore's Chinese Democracy 2009

Mayor Dixon vs. Rawlings-Blake

UPDATED: Fire At Rosewood State Hospital - Video Posted

SPECTATOR RADIO -- TONIGHT 9:00 PM

BREAKING: Downtown Hotel Evacuated!

Early Election Campaign?

Governor O'Malley In Trouble?

The Baltimore Spectator On Twitter

Keep up with the latest on Baltimore crime, grime and politics with a sprinkling of nonsense thrown in for good measure. Get updates the minute their posted on twitter.com/baltospectator

VICTORY! Cab Rate Rollback Denied! **EXCLUSIVE STORY**

COWARD! PSC Spokesperson Hang Up On Live Radio

BREAKING NEWS: Downtown Baltimore Shutdown By Protesters

Travelling Teen Sex Show! -- Bare Naked Ladies

BREAKING NEWS: Downtown Baltimore Shutdown By Protesters

BREAKING NEWS: Baltimore Examiners Launch InvestigativeVoice.com -- **EXCLUSIVE**

The Governor Hates Me! -- Original Video

The Governor Hates Me! -- Martin O'Malley, Governor Of Maryland from MacArthur Media

LIMITED TIME: Baltimore Examiner Returns

Watch this video:

Baltimore State of The City -- Reality Check Version a pre-production trailer from the upcoming Baltimore city documentary Do You Still B E L I E V E ?

Talk About It: Baltimore Examiner Shuts Down -- What's Up Baltimore Radio Show

Hosted by A.F. James MacArthur,Managing Editor
Tuesday 17 February, 6:00 PM
CALL IN (347) 215-6958

TELL A FRIEND!

LISTEN LIVE, CLICK PLAYER BELOW


Will also discuss, Mayor Sheila Dixon, and all things, crime, grime and politics in Baltimore
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

See the trailer to the documentary they don't want made:

Baltimore State of The City -- Reality Check Version a pre-production trailer from the upcoming Baltimore city documentary Do You Still B E L I E V E ?

Early Election Campaign?

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Related:

The Governor Hates Me! -- Original Video

Governor O'Malley In Trouble -- Could Lose Big!

Baltimore State Of The City -- Reality Check Version -- What's Up Baltimore from MacArthur Media on Vimeo.

VICTORY! Cab Rate Rollback Denied! **EXCLUSIVE STORY**

Sometimes you cover the news, other times you make the news. Pictured left is A.F. James MacArthur, Managing Editor of the Baltimore Spectator, gesturing at the Public Service Commission headquarters, while leading an angry, but civil protest of over 1000 taxi cabs.

In a move viewed as a major victory, a judge has issued a stay to the taxi meter rate decrease, originally scheduled to take effect tomorrow, 1 March. Late Friday afternoon, Judge Stewart Berger issued an injunction blocking the Maryland Public Service Commission from going forward with the decrease, pending a future hearing.

Attorney Ben Alston delivered the news to a packed house of frustrated drivers last night at a meeting convened by NAACP President Marvin "Doc" Cheatham. Acknowledging the early victory, Cheatham reminded the drivers they still faced a long, rough road in seeking to persuade the public to support their cause as they move forward seeking permanent blocking and reversal of the rate rollback.

At a time when overall operating costs continue to escalate, many drivers feel the move by the Governor O'Malley appointed commission to be out of touch with reality. Drivers complain of severely unfair and exploitative treatment by local cab companies, also citing that with current rates, they already struggled to earn a living. Many drivers feel that with the new rates being 25% lower, they would literally be starved out of existence.


As this story develops, you can trust The Baltimore Spectator to keep you informed.

Related:

Taxi Protest -- What Really Happened

Over 1000 cabs took to the streets in a wild, heated protest, paralyzing Baltimore's downtown during morning rush hour for more than 90 minutes.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
After hearing repeated complaints from numerous drivers about the severity and hardship the rate decrease would cause to them and their families, A.F. James MacArthur, along with several others decided to help. In less than 24 hours of organization, over 1000 cabs showed up. Now with several major labor unions and the NAACP backing the fight, the drivers of Baltimore expect eventually total victory in gaining fair treatment and fair pay.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Baltimore Spectator On Twitter

Get updates and random musings from the mind of MacArthur. Baltimore crime, grime and politics with a sprinkling of nonsense thrown in for good measure on twitter.com/baltospectator

Fugitive Friday

“The fact is there are hundreds and hundreds of dangerous wanted people out there and we need help getting them off the street and programs like this encourage people to get involved and make their own community safer.” -- Baltimore City Police Commissioner Fred Bealefeld

Popular Stories

21 March -- Chimp Attack - Latest Update -- Prior Warning Existed

BACK TO NORMAL: 4 Shot On Baltimore Street

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Govt. Goons Caught Spying On The Spectator

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Traveling Teen Sex Show! -- Bare Naked Ladies

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Downtown Baltimore Shutdown By Protesters

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DERELICT; Your government at work. Seems like folks in the O'Malley administration are starting to take their arrogance to new lows.

COWARD! PSC Spokesperson Refuse To Speak

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Just this morning someone from Great Britain logged onto this story. The initial story is now over a week old, but we continue to get a bizarre level of fascination, with hits from all around the world, on the story of Travis, the kill ape attack monkey!

Travis The Killer Chimp Compilation

Monkey: Chimp Attack Victim Speaks Out!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A.F. James MacArthur On Larry Young Morning Show!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Governor Hates Me! -- Original Video

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Baltimore Taxi Protest -- What The Media Didn't Show You! from MacArthur Media

Downtown Baltimore was shutdown during morning rush hour on 25 February. Over 1000 cab drivers united in protest against a Maryland state mandated 25% taxi meter rate reduction. To the cab drivers who are already struggling, this could literally mean bankruptcy and severe and undue suffering and hardship at the hands of the Maryland Public Service Commission.

This protest was a major disruptive event, the largest protest of it's kind in recent city history, yet strangely, the media hardly spoke about it. The organizers were interviewed by the networks, but the footage was never aired.

Could it be they don't want you to see how powerful organized labor can be? Since the PSC seems to be unwilling to relent on this massive pay cut, the cab drivers are already planing a second, much larger event.

A.F. James MacArthur reporting

INACCURATE MEDIA: LARGEST CIVIL DISOBEDIENCE IN RECENT HISTORY, YET MAINSTREAM MEDIA BARELY MENTION

Taxis STRIKE; Downtown Baltimore Shutdown By Protesters

A few weeks ago, an online poll conducted by The Baltimore Spectator showed a great majority of you out there do not feel the local Baltimore mainstream media has accurate coverage. In the story above, having actually been there at the event, I can assure you their minimizing blurb coverage does not give you nearly the feel of what truly occurred.

In keeping with our mission of "Truth To The Masses" we will continue to put together the real facts, including video coverage of one of the larges acts of civil disobedience in recent Baltimore history.

Unless you were stuck in standstill traffic downtown trying to get to work yesterday, you probably have no idea that 1000 cabs totally shutdown the main part of Downtown Baltimore during rush hour.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Taxi Protest -- What Really Happened

BREAKING NEWS: Cab Rate Rollback Denied!

As promised, a more accurate and real look and feel, of what actually took place on 25 February, in downtown Baltimore, when over 1000 cabbies got pissed off at the government. Although the camera is a bit shaky at times, pay attention to the following;

• Notice traffic at a virtual stand still

• People crowded in the middle of the street

• Police present, but overwhelmed by protesters

• Efforts to reopen traffic lanes ineffective

The taxi drivers are very upset and irate at the Maryland Public Service Commission 25% pay cut on the taxi meters. Many feel that this could mean certain bankruptcy and at a minimum, severe and undue hardship and suffering.

If you have a heart, please watch this video, then take action and call, write, email your local elected representatives and ask them to urge Governor Martin O'Malley and the PSC to repeal the taxi rate rollback.

Baltimore Taxi Protest -- What The Media Didn't Show You! from MacArthur Media

Downtown Baltimore was shutdown during morning rush hour on 25 February. Over 1000 cab drivers united in protest against a Maryland state mandated 25% taxi meter rate reduction. To the cab drivers who are already struggling, this could literally mean bankruptcy and severe and undue suffering and hardship at the hands of the Maryland Public Service Commission.

This protest was a major disruptive event, the largest protest of it's kind in recent city history, yet strangely, the media hardly spoke about it. The organizers were interviewed by the networks, but the footage was never aired.

Could it be they don't want you to see how powerful organized labor can be? Since the PSC seems to be unwilling to relent on this massive pay cut, the cab drivers are already planing a second, much larger event.

A.F. James MacArthur reporting

BACK TO NORMAL: 4 Shot On Baltimore Street

After a mostly quiet week without any reported shootings or murders since last weekend, things seem to be getting back on track. Remember when I interviewed Police Commissioner Fred Bealefeld (see interview video) he said non-fatal shootings have decreased. Let's see how long that lasts. We're now at 36 murders versus 23 this time last year.

Every year, hundreds of people get shot and killed in Baltimore, hundreds more get shot, but manage to live. Either way you look at it, that's still a whole lot of people getting shot in Charm City.

This is Bodymore, Murderland.

DC GUN BAN VOTED DOWN; Obama Assault Weapon Ban Nixed

The 32 year old restrictions on gun ownership by private, law abiding citizens, have been voted down and by the Senate. Many, including constitutional scholars and professors have long thought the DC gun ban to be utterly unconstitutional. There has been no evidence to show it had any impact on reducing violence. On the contrary, Washington, DC has been among the most violent cities in the nation.

Incidentally, other cities with high violent crime rate also have had long held heavy restrictions on gun ownership. Doesn't seem to be working, especially when the bad guys somehow seem to keep being able to get guns.

In typical fashion, showing they just don't get it The Brady Campaign Responds.

Photos They Don't Want You To See

The rioting in Greece has been largely ignored in our media. Below is a gallery of pictures the mainstream media does not want you to see. For that matter, most governments don't want you to see it either. The power of the people when they can't take it anymore is one that cannot be opposed. How do you think America was formed?

MEDIA BLACKOUT: Greece Torn Apart By Protesters, US Media Ignore

"There are more of us than there are of you."

Photos They Don't Want You To See

Flights cancelled as Greek air traffic controllers strike

One-day strike disrupts Greek hospitals, airlines

Greek police clash with youths in central Athens

Greek strike to halt flights, affect public services

Greek protests continue to pressurise government

Greek strikers demand billions, like banks

So apparently Baltimore media isn't the only one who decides to give minimal coverage of a major event. Much of Greece has been left a virtual wasteland as weeks of back to back protests continue. The country (where my first name APOLLOS comes from --Yasu! Tikannes), has been in utter chaos and disarray, but yet, you turn on the TV, and perhaps only see a passing mention. When a major developed nation has been pushed to the brink of civil war, with borders, airports and commerce completely shutdown, to me this is newsworthy.

Now I am well aware the powers the be, do not want to promote or publicize how much power we the people truly have. They do not like to be reminded of this one simple fact, there are more of us than there are of you. Truly, it doesn't take much.

A few people absolutely unified in a common cause and a common goal serve as inspiration and motivation to the masses and can easily shutdown any city, serve notice on uncaring ineffective leaders and overthrow any government. This my friends is a fact they do not want you to know.

BREAKING NEWS: Govt. Goons Caught Spying On The Spectator

To the Maryland State Police, or whatever agency sent the gentleman who were shadowing me today. Let it be known that we are aware of your activities and quite frankly it's offensive and disturbing. It's a sad day in America, when a law abiding citizen, who chooses to speak his mind and expresses himself, is viewed as some sort of threat, worthy of law enforcement monitoring.

I have consulted with my attorneys and the NAACP. The ACLU is also being contacted. If the spying effort does not immediately cease, severe legal civil repercussions will follow. Taxpayer resources should not be spent on law enforcement, in observing law abiding citizens.

By the way, the blue jeans and casual clothes was a nice touch. But let me tell you, it takes one to know one. You can dress up or dress down anyway you want, but as long as I see you, I know who you are.

A.F. James MacArthur
Citizen & Patriot

A.F. James MacArthur On Larry Young Morning Show!

BREAKING NEWS: Cab Rate Rollback Denied!

Thank You Larry Young Morning Show and WOLB 1010AM

Talk radio continues to reach the hearts and minds of the masses. Norris and Young morning radio shows discuss taxi meter decrease.

Although the mainstream did a poor job of covering the issue, talk radio is taking notice. This morning, both the Ed Norris Show, and the Larry Young Morning Show spoke on the issue of the taxi meter rate decrease. A.F. James MacArthur was an in studio guest on this mornings Larry Young Morning Show.

For an issue affecting the livelihood and jobs of a couple thousand people in Baltimore, you would think our local mainstream media would have given better coverage. No wonder so many people are turning to alternative "New Media" outlets such as The Baltimore Spectator to stay in their community.

Much like the politicians that are supposed to be representative of the people, the mainstream media have shown they have long forgotten their purpose for being, and continue to do a disservice to the citizens. So much time is given to questionable stories, but when you have an issue that hits right here in the community, you have the typical ignorance.

My conclusion. Politicians, along with the media are clearly arrogant and elitist and they feel they, and they alone, know what's best for the mere common folk.

Related;

Downtown Baltimore Shutdown By Protesters

COWARD! PSC Spokesperson Refuse To Speak

The Governor Hates Me! -- Original Video

Travelling Teen Sex Show! -- Bare Naked Ladies

$600 A Session

A woman was selling sex with a teenage girl in Maryland and Virginia. Deborah Frock, 39 of Westminster Maryland must be a really interesting person. At least federal prosecutors seem to think so. She was indicted for accepting cash, as much as $600 from men to have sex with an un-named 17 year old girl.

SICK: Couple Starved Son To Death, Convicted

Child looked like "a Holocaust victim." -- emergency room doctor

John Griffin and Susan Griffin killed their son. The two 39 year olds were convicted in court for starving their two year old boy, Andrew, to death. Both were charged with second degree murder and child abuse resulting in death. The counts carry up to 30 years in prison.

John Griffin testified Tuesday that he was too busy with his job to notice anything was wrong with his son.

The trial, per the Griffin's request, was decided by Baltimore County Circuit Judge Timothy Martin as opposed to a jury trial.

Death penalty anyone? Governor O'Malley, do these two cretins deserve to breath another breath, when lil Andrew is now 6 feet under?

Stabbed In The Butt

Bizarre! Father Stabs Son In The Rear

Sometimes the news out of Baltimore just leaves you short of words to describe the depravity and pure evil that seems to permeate this place.

What kind of father gets into an argument with his son, at church no less, over wearing a hat in the sanctuary, then goes out to his car, gets a knife, and stabs lil junior in the butt?

When ever I think about moving away from Baltimore, I realize staying here provides me a never ending stream of crazy and ridiculous stories, enabling me to be a prolific provider of written quips and opinion.

COWARD! PSC Spokesperson Refuse To Speak

BREAKING NEWS: Cab Rate Rollback Denied!

Agency SPOKESperson, refuses to speak to media

So much for transparency in government. When called on live radio today, Maryland Public Service Commission spokesperson LaWanda Edwards hung up the phone after a reporter asked her a question. In a move that was both rude and shocking, the person whose job it is to talk to the media, decided, without explanation, that she would not.

Reporter, activist and talk show host Larry Wallace, aka Larry "The Celebrity" cab driver had just finished identifying himself and advised Edwards she was on the radio. Edwards then asked him for the purpose of his call. After stating he wanted to ask a few questions about the controversial taxi meter rate decrease (see Taxi drivers protest), without a word, Edwards was gone.

This issue is of great concern. At a time of growing distrust and suspicion of government, spokespeople refusing to talk to the media raises serious red flags. What do they get paid to do? If they are unable to do their jobs, why are they being paid a good salary with money from the taxpayers? Behavior like this is not acceptable, and should not be tolerated, from ANY civil servant, taxpayer paid, government employee.

As the executive producer for the radio show, Taxi Talk on WOLB 1010 AM, I am demanding an explanation and a response from the officials of the Public Service Commission. Civil servants are supposed to serve, but we now live in an era, where apparently, the only one served are themselves.

Shame on LaWanda Edwards for her cold, callous, uncaring and rude treatment, on live radio, of a member of the media.



Related;

Downtown Baltimore Shutdown By Protesters

The Governor Hates Me! -- Original Video

BREAKING NEWS: Downtown Baltimore Shutdown By Protesters

BREAKING NEWS: Cab Rate Rollback Denied!

PSC spokesperson, LaWanda Edwards hangs up phone on live radio,

Video: Governor O'Malley Does Not Like Me!

In this raw video, you get more of a feel of what the protest was really like, compared to the footage aired by the networks. Notice the traffic is not moving. Hear the loudness of the cars honking together.


Baltimore Taxi Protest -- What The Media Didn't Show You! from MacArthur Media


UPDATE: Several Cab Drivers Arrested at protest . . .developing

WBAL TV Coverage

WJZ TV Coverage -- REMOVED FROM THEIR SITE

Cab Drivers Protest 25% Pay Cut


Downtown Baltimore was shutdown during morning rush hour on 25 February. Over 1000 cab drivers united in protest against a Maryland state mandated 25% taxi meter rate reduction. To the cab drivers who are already struggling, this could literally mean bankruptcy and severe and undue suffering and hardship at the hands of the Maryland Public Service Commission.

This protest was a major disruptive event, the largest protest of it's kind in recent city history, yet strangely, the media hardly spoke about it. The organizers were interviewed by the networks, but the footage was never aired.

Could it be they don't want you to see how powerful organized labor can be? Since the PSC seems to be unwilling to relent on this massive pay cut, the cab drivers are already planing a second, much larger event.

A.F. James MacArthur reporting
In a massive protest staged by over 1000 taxi cabs, downtown Baltimore saw all traffic come to a grinding halt. A horde of angry drivers protested the state mandated 25% reduction in the taxi meter rate. St. Paul street, a main artery into downtown Baltimore was totally shutdown for several hours this morning as motorists tempers flared.

Several drivers were threatened with arrest, at which point, the drivers en mass, put their cars in park in the middle of the street and walked away, adding to the gridlock. Police units were called in , including the helicopter as traffic backed up causing a ripple effect throughout downtown.

Radio talk show host and cab driver Larry Wallace said; "If you don't stand for something, you will fall for anything." Wallace also added "I just want to thank all the drivers who came out, I think we really made an impact."

The event drew the attention of local mainstream media, with several reporters and camera men on scene.

developing...

-- Larry Wallace aka Larry "The Celebrity" Cab Driver hosts a daily talk radio show, "Taxi Talk" at 3:00 AM on news talker WOLB 1010 AM



RELATED:

Baltimore Sun coverage

Cab Drivers To Protest City Hall, Public Service Commission

Cab Drivers To Protest City Hall, Public Service Commission

UPDATED: 12:00 Noon;

BREAKING NEWS: Downtown Baltimore Shutdown By Protesters

Video: Governor O'Malley Does Not Like Me!

UPDATED: Protest scheduled for 9:00 AM TODAY! -- Baltimore Spectator will have full coverage...developing.


In a move that seems out of touch with reality, the Maryland Public Service Commission has lowered the taxi meter rate for Baltimore. Hardworking, blue collar cabbies will now experience a 25% pay cut in their take home pay. Just what is needed in a shrinking economy. Has anyone in government taken a 25% pay cut?

Why should a group, described by Mayor Dixon as "ambassadors" of the city be asked to do the same job they've always done, for less pay?

Speaking with numerous cab drivers, they've pled for help from Mayor Sheila Dixon, NAACP president Marvin "Doc" Cheatam and others. The drivers say they work long hours everyday to make a living and support their family, and now it seems as if the government has turned their backs on them.



The Sun has coverage

developing...

Delivery Driver Carjacked!

Baltimore's daily paper reports on one of the latest victims of violence, in the onging Battle of Baltimore.

Days Later: Baltimore Sun Columnist Echoes Spectator

Mayor Dixon deserves level of respect pending trial outcome

They say imitation is the most sincere form of flattery. President Obama's disrespect of Mayor Sheila Dixon really upset me. Several days after my impassioned plea for Mayor Sheila Dixon to be treated with respect (see original piece), The Baltimore Sun's Dan Rodricks decides to follow suit. Thing about it...a readers email was posted and not his own words.

Mr. Rodricks, are you taking ques from a "mere blogger?"

Back in the Corps we used to say, lead, follow, or get the hell out the way!



Related stories;

BRAVE NEW WORLD: DOJ Officials Visit Baltimore Spectator

TV New Coverage of Obama's Diss

AGAIN: Dixon Dissed By President Obama

Questionable Kratovil -- People Deserve Better Government

FLIP FLOP!

Kratovil was one of 11 Democrats who initially voted against the stimulus bill, but he later joined four other Democrats who switched to vote for the final version negotiated with the Senate.

“It’s been a conservative-to-moderate district for 10 years,” Kratovil has now set the stage for a Republican challenger to paint him as a “big spender.” -- Michael J.G. Cain, professor of political science, St. Mary’s College, southern Maryland.

Tamed Tiger

Frank Kratovil, named among most vulnerable congressional democrats.

Mini editorial blasts Kratovil, others. -- No fear, mine is also coming soon.

The new stimulus bill passed without any of our Maryland congressional officials even reading or understanding what was in the bill. It is a blatant dereliction of duty and responsibility of its members. Read more of Lawrence Chester's opinion piece.

Global Warming Scam?

Al Gore modifies message after inaccuracies pointed out.

Monkey: Chimp Attack Victim Speaks Out!

21 March -- Latest Update -- Prior Warning Existed

UPDATE -- MARCH 4 -- Conn. Chimp Attack Update -- Victim Could Die

Man Who's Face Was Ripped Off Describes Horror - Video coverage

"It's so shocking ... especially a face injury. I had mine peeled to one side — my nose, my mouth, my teeth, my tongue."

A Southern California man who was attacked by a chimpanzee four years ago in Kern County was forced to relive his horror when a similar attack happened to a 55-year-old Connecticut woman earlier this week.

Travis Attack Victim Brother Put In Charge

Friend describes Travis Attack Victim


Also see:

Last One: No More Monkey Posts. . .

Congressman Frank Kratovil, Coward?

Editorial.

Developing . . .

Twitter Nation -- Even Congress Is Doing It!

Not with it? You should be. Keep up with the latest on Baltimore crime, grime and politics with a sprinkling of nonsense thrown in for good measure. Follow The Baltimore Spectator on Twitter

BREAKING NEWS: City Facing $1 Billion Dollar Gap

On the first day of launching, brand new Baltimore news site, Investigative Voice, breaks a major story. -- Raising alarm bells over a $1 billion gap between benefits owed to retired police and firefighters and the money to pay for it, an actuary representing the fire and police unions said the city must contribute more money now to close a precipitous funding gap caused by the market meltdown -- or face dire consequences.

It's Official: Baltimore Sun Blasted In Launch Of New Voice

0908 EST -- Baltimore, MD

Nearly four hours after The Baltimore Spectator broke the story in an exclusive report, Investigative Voice, the first Baltimore website exclusively dedicated to hard hitting investigative journalism was officially launched this morning on The Ed Norris Show. Co-founder Stephen Janis spoke about the importance of having an alternative voice in media asking questions and looking at issues often ignored.

Norris spoke of a slanted and agenda driven local stalwart, The Baltimore Sun. Lamenting that in just one week since the demise of The Baltimore Examiner, the Sun has already taken off on a clearly biased path. As Baltimore's only remaining daily paper, the Sun has no counterpart in the market to aid in maintaining integrity.

Janis added that in this, the digital age allowing free access and choice, there is now a second voice back in town. Citing the lack of overhead from having to print physical newpapers, Janis said "in the long term, this is gonna work."



Also see:

BREAKING NEWS: Baltimore Examiners Launch 'Investigative Voice"-- **EXCLUSIVE**

BREAKING NEWS: Baltimore Examiners Launch 'Investigative Voice"-- **EXCLUSIVE**

Updated 0530

Baltimore Examiner investigative reporters launch independent site, web address no longer a mystery

The Baltimore Spectator has learned that the rumored and much anticipated return of former Baltimore Examiner reporters has arrived. The site, now live, is a joint collaborative effort headed by Stephen Janis, former senior investigative reporter for the Examiner. Beat writer Luke Broadwater and editor Regina Holmes round out the trio.

Initially contacted to confirm early rumors, Janis stated the three felt their work was a sincere benefit and service to the community and therefore should continue despite the shutting down of their former employer.

Janis and Broadwater have both won numerous awards for their hard hitting, in depth coverage of a side of Baltimore many would rather conceal.

The Baltimore Spectator has obtained, in advance, the heavily guarded web address and now reveals it (BEFORE the official announcement), as an exclusive to our readers. The site has a neat, clean, modern layout with several stories and photos posted.

Official announcement and launch is scheduled to take place this morning on The Ed Norris Show, heard on Baltimore's 105.7 The Fan.


BUT YOU HEARD IT HEAR FIRST!

Visit The New Investigative Voice




developing . . .

Are You Friends With Ed Norris?

Arresting Officer A No Show, While District court judge questions legitimacy of The Baltimore Spectator

By A.F. James MacArthur, Managing Editor

When the case was called, like anyone else, I was a bit nervous. Going to court can be a stressful event as it is. But when the judge opened her mouth, and the first words from the bench to me were; "Are you friends with Ed Norris?" Shrugging my shoulders and looking at the ground, I had no idea how to answer this. Where was the Judge going with this?

Looking up, Judge Halee Weinstein cracked a smile and said; "you don't have to answer that." Sigh, what a relief. Being a fan of the controversial former Police Commissioner, turned talk show host, in this town, where so much is built upon guilt by association, you gotta really be careful or you could easily wind up being put away.

Being in court for a case so foolish it should have never even gotten to court. I was already pissed off and on edge.

A company car assigned to me was wrongfully impounded by Baltimore Police. With company check in hand, I went to Pulaski Highway.

If you've ever been to the impound, you know that this single location represents everything wrong with Baltimore City government. Inefficient staff. Poor customer service. Dilapidated facilities. Plus jacked up fees for service makes one feel he's just been violated after leaving. Many cases of impounded cars are clouded with fraud and criminal wrong doing. City employees, including cops, and unscrupulous private tow operators participate in a theft and payola scam.

With a background in criminal investigations and intelligence, I decided, since I must go to this awful place, why not do a quick piece on the customer service experience. My story has already been told, (see video), but I will quickly summarize.

While recording my story for later airing (see video), impound lot staff responded with hostility. I was quickly arrested and charged with trespassing. Officer Michael Maurice of the Baltimore Police Department, an officer with a long history of questionable arrests and disciplinary actions against him, even added to his report that I had no legitimate business there. Never mind the impounded car I came to retrieve, or the fact that I was a reporter, protected by the First Amendment, doing a story.

This piece of work never bothered to show up. In open court the prosecutor told the judge he left numerous messages for Maurice, but never heard back. CASE DISMISSED! Another innocent black man, arrested without cause in Baltimore City.

Spending time in that despicable place called Central Booking; the inhumane, callous, dehumanizing treatment received there, is enough to turn anyone into a domestic terrorist. To destroy a municipality that is crushingly oppressive, lacking concern for civil rights and true American justice is an option. Or, start a citizen/activist journalist revolution, cast a bright spotlight on the darkness of local government, and make sure they know their being watched!

Take a guess which one I picked.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

After note; Judge Weinstein asked the State's Attorney if he verified whether or not I was an actual reporter. Never mind just one week ago, I was interviewing Mayor Sheila Dixon, why didn't she ask her? What about my interviewing Police Commissioner Bealefeld? Hey judge, in China, you need government approval and special permission to be a journalist. Look at the flag lately? This ain't China!

Multimedia journalist, A.F. James MacArthur produces and appears on a daily talk radio show, writes for several news websites under various pen names, and appears in regular video special reports and commentary.

#1 On AOL! Baltimore Spectator Beats Establishment Media

UPDATE -- MARCH 4 -- Conn. Chimp Attack Update -- Victim Could Die


The little blog that could

We beat NBC New York!

Thank you readers for making us number one! More people came to this site for news on Travis The Killer Chimp, than any other source. Click this link to see our position in the search listing.

Our compilation on the monkey attack continues to be the most popular page drawing readers from around the globe.

JUSTICE IS SERVED!

The Governor Hates Me! -- Original Video

After much anticipation, I present to you my satire on Governor Martin O'Malley. Help support free speech, and transperancy in government. Share this video with everyone you know.





The Governor Hates Me! -- Martin O'Malley, Governor Of Maryland from MacArthur Media

At first, I never had any problems with Martin O'Malley. That is, until one day after a brief run in at the gym. From that day forward, everything changed. Martin O'Malley, who was then Mayor of Baltimore, now Governor of Maryland really doesn't like me. He gives me the most evil stare I've ever gotten every time he sees me. Wish we could work things out. Kinda sucks having your Governor hate you.

We're #1 -- Dubious Distinctions

We should all be so proud;

• Baltimore is the Most Crime Violent of the 25 largest US cities (www.FBI.gov)

• Baltimore continues to have the Highest Violent Crime Rate among the 20 benchmark metro areas with a rate of 1,026 crimes per 100,000 population (www.gbc.org)

• Mayor O'Malley proclaimed Baltimore the Juvenile Murder Capital of America (WBAL, 9/2002)

• Baltimore ranked #1 in Out-of Wedlock Teen births nationwide (Annie E. Casey Foundation)

• Baltimore rated DEAD LAST in Money Magazine's Popularity Contest (12/2002)

• Baltimore is the Heroin Capital of the country (Baltimore SUN, others)

Watch this video:

Baltimore State of The City -- Reality Check Version a pre-production trailer from the upcoming Baltimore city documentary Do You Still B E L I E V E ?

HIGHway: Driver Caught With 1,400 Pounds of Pot

CRAZY: Man Shoots TV Over Digital Conversion

For No Good Reason!

Just Because!

Happy Birthday Johns Hopkins University

Love the motto;

Veritas vos liberabit
(The truth shall make you free)

Read more about one of Baltimore's finest, most prestigious, world renown universities. GO BLUEJAYS!

Baltimore Cop Challenges Name Withholding Policy

DOUBLED HITTER SUNDAY: Southwest Baltimore Checks In

NEVER STOPS: Man Stabbed To Death, East Baltimore

LIMITED TIME: Baltimore Examiner Returns

On this, the first Sunday without the Baltimore Examiner. As a service to readers of The Baltimore Spectator, we present to you The Examiner. It's the only place left to view the Examiner online. Hurry take a peek, this is guaranteed not to be up for long. Be sure to click on the "archives" link and you'll be able to go way, way back. Really, gonna miss this newspaper.

Check out The Baltimore Examiner







Related;

BREAKING NEWS: Baltimore Examiners Launch InvestigativeVoice.com

CENSORSHIP: Baltimore Sun Bans The Baltimore Spectator

Nasty Nestor Muses On The Loss OF The Examiner

Whistler Blower: Examiner Publishers Visit The Spectator,Learn Of New Project

JAMMED: Examiners Returning Nearly Crashes Site

Power Of The Web: Examiner To Resume!

Sun Still Shining; Baltimore Sun Remains Last One Standing

FLASH: Baltimore Examiner Prints Final Edition

UPDATED: Arrest Imminent In Chandra Levy Murder

'We really came down with a break.' - D.C. Police Chief Cathy L. Lanier

Former Congressman Gary Condit must be shaking in his boots.

In a case that has been opened for eight years, with not even so much as a suspect being named, we now hear from DC's daily, that Metropolitan Police expect to make an arrest within days. The Baltimore Spectator is reaching out to his old friends down with the DC police to try to get some inside info.

Sources with knowledge of the investigation reveal police plan to arrest Ingmar Guandique. The 27-year-old Salvadoran immigrant attacked two women at knifepoint in Rock Creek Park around the time of Levy's disappearance in May 2001.

FLASHBACK: Chandra Levy Timeline

Aw Shucks: Gary Condit Responds

Record Cocaine Bust Remains Shrouded In Mystery

Who, what, when, where, how? These are the typical facts a good reporter begins with, but in the case of the record setting 91 pounds of cocaine seized by Baltimore Police, very litttle is known. At this point, police are being extremely vague in details, only saying it occurred, "somewhere in Baltimore."

Several experts and residents alike are already casting a suspicious eye on the validity and truthfulness of the bust. Some even going as far suggesting the whole thing is part of an elaborate hoax to gain Commissioner Bealefeld and the Baltimore Police Department, much needed political points. At a time when the department has been under fire from many sides including City Hall, one has to wonder?

With no location, and no name of the lone individual present in the house with the $3 million dollars worth of coke, and $11,000 cash, this case is just plain ole strange. When pressed for details on the case, Commissioner Bealefeld says, "We have some ideas and frankly we're being very coy because we have some good ideas about where we're going next."




You Should Also read:

THE WIRE: Man Convicted For Smuggling Cocaine & Heroin

BREAKING NEWS: Largest Cocaine Bust In Baltimore

Cocaine Bust, 14 Pounds Seized At Airport

Fear & Loathing In Baltimore: Drug Overdose Deaths Down

DEPRESSION: MD Tax Revenue Down 8.3.%

• Individual income tax revenue fell 12 percent last month.

• A 73 percent decline in corporate income taxes also contributed to the overall dip

Although this story came out last week, I don't hear much being made of it. To me it's a big deal, but I guess we shouldn't be worried, the Obama stimulus is gonna save us.

BGE Re-Regulation -- Baltimore Delegates Jill Carter, Pat McDonough Fight For Change

Since deregulation, electricity rates for residents in Maryland have gone up 85%. Of course, no word from the most honorable Governor Martin O'Malley on relief for the citizens of Maryland. Maybe he plans to stimulate us instead.

Several elected representatives have pushed to have the power company re-regulated after sky high utility bills continue to spark complaints from around the state.

I am continually impressed by these two delegates. Unlike so many politicians, they keep it real. Some folks get elected, and it seems in a short while, they totally lose touch with the people who voted them in. Seeking only to secure the next election, or the next higher position in politics.

Also see:

AGAIN: BGE Seeks Rate Increase

Depression: BGE Parent CEO Taking Pay Cut

MORE BGE: Regulators Approve Constellation Sale