WCSO Press Releases

Incident: Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
Date: 29 May 2008
Location: 1500 Block of Emerson Avenue, Salisbury, MD
Suspects:
1. Carolyn D. Jenkins, 49, Salisbury, MD
2. Laurie A. Adkins, 32, Essington, PA

On 29 May 2008, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office was sent to the parking lot of the Knights of Columbus Council Hall located on Emerson Avenue for a suspicious vehicle parked in the parking lot. Upon arrival, the deputy observed a vehicle with PA registration occupied by two female subjects. After speaking with the two subjects, the deputy further investigated the circumstances around their presence in the lot and discovered them both to in possession of crack cocaine smoking devices. Also one of the women, Laurie Adkins, was found to have crack cocaine in her possession.

Both subjects were arrested and transported to the Central Booking Unit at the Wicomico County Detention Center where they were processed and charged with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance on Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. After an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner, both subjects were released on Personal Recognizance

Incident: Assault
Date: 29 May 2008
Location: 30000 Block of Johnson Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: Ralph Wayne Jones, Sr., 47, Salisbury, MD

On 27 May 2008, a deputy responded to a residence in the 30000 block of Johnson Road in Salisbury, MD for a report of an assault. Upon arrival, the deputy located a victim who claimed to have been involved in an argument with Ralph Jones who during the argument held a sword to the victim’s throat and threatened to chop the victim up. Jones was unable to be found by the deputy who then obtained a warrant for Jones’ arrest. The warrant charged Jones with Assault 2nd Degree, Reckless Endangerment and a Dangerous Weapon Charge.

On 28 May 2008, Jones was arrested on the outstanding warrant and transported to the Central Booking Unit at the Wicomico County Detention Center. After being processed Jones was taken for an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner, after which Jones was held on $20,000.00 bond in the Detention Center.


Incident: Assault
Date: 31 May 2008
Location: 2700 Block of Old Ocean City Rd, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: Herman Walter Schevel, 54, Salisbury, MD

On 31 May 2008, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to an address on Old Ocean City Road to investigate an assault. Upon arrival, the deputy met with a victim who claimed to have been assaulted by Herman W. Schevel. During the course of the investigation, it was alleged that the assailant threw the victim to the ground and banged the victims head repeatedly on the floor. At the conclusion of the investigation, the assailant Schevel was arrested.

Schevel was transported to the Central Booking Unit at the Wicomico County Detention Center where Schevel was processed and charged with second degree assault. After an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner, Schevel was held on $10,000.00 bond

An Open Question

Last spring started a project to improve the quality of City Park. Rocks were put along the shoreline as well as plants along the banks. Both made the area look better, especially the rocks. City park is one of my favorite places in the area as it is home for fishermen, families, runners, tennis players, walkers, picnics, and so on. You can head through the trails at the top of the park, the area from the baseball field to the Schumaker Pond's spillway and feel like you are not in a city.

My questions, and if this question has already been posted on here in the past let me know, are when will work on improving the park start up again? What has been budgeted and planned out?

It is just looking like things might be laying a little fallow and some maintenance needs to be done on controlling the plants on the shore line. I just would like to start a little discussion on this. I would like to see how nice this area can get for everyone to enjoy.

What's everyone's thoughts on this?

As you can tell from the pics both sides are getting a bit overgrown limiting access to the water for fishermen.

An Afternoon At City Park

City park was busy today as I walked around fishing. I only caught a few fish, but saw some nice size carp which roam from the zoo to the spillway. You can catch carp many ways including chumming with canned corn with a hook of corn and a host of stinky baits you would use for catfish can also be used. Despite their size they spook easily and can be selective eaters outside of their natural scavenging forage.

The bass are starting to hold along the banks. If the water is clear enough you can sight fish along the banks looking for their beds. The trick is getting them to bite. I spent 25 minutes trying to coax a 4lb to hit. Wouldn't strike. It is a game of patience and some days you get them to bite other days you wont. Last spring I caught and saw others catch 5lb bass regularly through the park area.

The best fisherman was the blue heron in the bottom two pictures who caught a fish and brought to the bank to eat. I watched the heron for 10 minutes as it strutted around its catch pecking at so it could eat. I just missed getting a pic of it coming out of the water with it.

Lot's of friends and families were out at the zoo, Ben's Red Swings, Picnic Island, and up and down the river fishing. This family was pulling up catfish, bluegill, perch, and sunfish all day long and the kids were having a blast.

Guess Who's No Longer Driving?

Mr. John Wade has been seen being chauffeured around Princess Anne today. His Wife is now behind the wheel as Mr. Wade obviously does not have a Maryland or New Jersey Drivers License.

Mr. Wade asked the local Princess Anne Barber Shop, (that mainly serves the African American Clientele) to post his campaign sign in the window and they have refused to allow it. Instead, rumor has it they instead called Mr. Frank White and asked him to deliver one of his instead.

Nevertheless, if the local Police Department needs proof that Mr. Wade was in fact driving this vehicle, pictures don't lie.

Wicomico Remembers TODAY AT 10:00 AM

To Honor Those who Made the Supreme Sacrifice

Salisbury, MD –

What: Memorial Day Ceremony

When: Saturday, May 31 at 10:00am

Where: Wicomico County War Veterans Memorial (located outside the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center). Rain location will be the WY&CC’s Midway Room.

Details: All are encouraged to attend this rain or shine event, which is free and open to the public. As part of the ceremony, there will be a lowering of the colors, ringing of the Red Knights Memorial Bell, branch prayers, reading of names and a volley of arms by the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Department.

Ed. Note: In 2002, a group of veterans from all branches of the military came together to honor and preserve the memory of Wicomico County’s fallen heroes. As a result, the Wicomico County War Veterans Memorial was erected at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center, which is itself a living war memorial to all veterans. Flags from each service branch, along with a United States, Maryland, Wicomico County and the POW-MIA flag now proudly fly over a brick wall displaying bronze plagues with the 187 names of Wicomico County’s fallen veterans from World War II and beyond.

Question of the Day, Sat 5/31

What's the last thing you bought online? Were you happy with your purchase? Do you buy frequently from websites like Ebay, Overstock, etc.? Where do you find your best deals online?

A Letter To The Daily Times

A Reader of Salisbury News sent me the following:

"I called last week and spoke with a gentleman in Customer Service concerning not receiving my papers. The situation has not gotten any better and delivery is very sporadic. I would appreciate a reply as to how I can be guaranteed a paper delivery everyday. There is never an issue taking that payment from my acct once a month. I was also told I would be receiving a credit and have yet to see one. If I do not see results within the next week I will be cancelling my subscription and also passing along my experience to anyone considering purchasing "The Daily Times." Thanks for your immediate attention and response to this matter."

TGM Audit Report Gor Dochester County

http://docogonet.com/index.php?mact=News,cntnt01,detail,0&cntnt01articleid=302&cntnt01returnid=77

How does this stack up to trice’s audit presentation for salisbury?

Audit Presentation

Tom Trice, Certified Public Accountant for Trice, Geary & Myers, introduced Roy Geiser, Accountant, and presented the Council with an overview of the audit for the year that ended on June 30, 2007. Mr. Trice stated that the County’s assets exceeded its liabilities by $51.7 million of which $13.2 million may be used to meet the County’s ongoing obligations to citizens and creditors. He explained that the County’s overall financial position had improved since the prior fiscal year with total net assets increasing by $3.1 million or 6.4% and that the contributing factors for this increase were a $2.5 million increase in investment in capital assets, net of related debt and a $0.7 million increase in restricted net assets. Mr. Trice stated that as of the close of FY07, the County’s governmental funds reported combined ending fund balances were $15.1 million, a decrease of $1.0 million from the prior year’s ending fund balance and that out of the total ending fund balances, $10.9 million was unreserved and therefore available for spending at the County’s discretion. He explained that the unreserved fund balance for the General Fund was $4.3 million and that the County’s long term debt decreased by $2.6 million during FY07 due to the County having no major debt issuances during the fiscal year and the treatment of $2.5 million in general obligation bonds.

Mr. Trice expressed his belief that more personnel were needed for the Finance Department based on an increased workload and the risk based auditing requirements that were recently implemented.

In response to a question from Councilman Nichols as to the status of the County’s debt service, Mr. Spears noted that the debt service had decreased from FY06.

Councilwoman Elzey questioned what would happen if new procedures were not implemented to take into account the new risk based auditing requirements. Mr. Spears stated that he anticipated that the procedures would be in place before the new audit commences.

Based on a question from Councilwoman Elzey as to whether or not there was reduction in yearend journal entries, Mr. Spears noted that those entries were drastically reduced to 13 for FY07 and would be reduced even further for FY08.

In response to a question from Councilman Newcomb as to how the County rated on a scale of one to ten, Mr. Trice noted that the County’s financial results were satisfactory but that there were still some administrative challenges County staff faced in grants accounting and administration.

Based on a question from Wendell Foxwell, a resident of Dorchester County, as to whether or not the County has set aside reserve funds, Mr. Spears explained that the County sets aside 5% of the General Fund Operating Budget each year and that any fund balance remaining at the end of each year is set aside and used for capital expenditures in subsequent years. He noted that the fund balance at the end of 2007 was $1.8 million and that those funds would be used in FY09 for capital projects to reduce the issuance of debt for capital needs.

The Council thanked Mr. Trice for his presentation.

The Council discussed an Audit Engagement Letter with Trice, Geary, Myers for professional auditing services for one year at a cost not to exceed $70,000 including providing assistance to the County with documentation of risk base auditing at the cost of $15,000 and agreed to execute the letter. The Council acknowledged that the fee for the auditing services will be at the standard hourly rates plus out-of-pocket costs, including report reproduction, typing, postage, travel, copies, telephone and that if the audit time schedule could not be adhered to by the County, the County would have the following options: 1) that services would not be provided during the period of December 1, 2008 through April 15, 2009 and the fee for the services will remain at a cost not to exceed $70,000 or 2) Trice Geary and Myers will continue to work during the period of December 1, 2008 through April 15, 2009 but will bill at standard hourly rates and would not be subject to requirement that the fee will not exceed $70,000. The Council further acknowledged that if audit is not completed by December 1, 2008, a new agreement will be presented for the Council’s review and consideration.

On Your Side Blog Offers The Following Article About Stuart Leer

Salisbury v. Leer Case Available Here

Since Stuart Leer spoke during public comment Monday night (May 27) as a property owner who had gone through legal cases with the City, many constituents have asked us about the case and its costs. The case originally concerned whether Mr. Leer had reconstructed a porch in compliance with the City's Historic District requirements.

Mr. Leer was cited for performing work not approved by the Historic District Commission. In response, he appeared before the Commission and was denied approval for the porch reconstruction, already far in progress. Representing himself, Mr. Leer appealed to the Circuit Court in Wicomico County, where he won his case based on the bias of the Commission. The City then appealed the Circuit Court's decision to the Court of Special Appeals in Annapolis. Again representing himself, Mr. Leer won that case.

The "unreported" opinion of the Court of Special Appeals (special appeals cases often are not published, but can be obtained by request) is found on the website at right under Documents of Interest, below our pictures. The cost of legal expenses to the taxpayers of Salisbury breaks down as follows:

Historic District Commission Hearing $0.00 (city legal counsel was not present)
Circuit Court - Wicomico County $6,351.00
Court of Special Appeals - Annapolis $11,849.75
Total $18,200.75

We hope this information and the downloadable PDF file of the opinion transcript helps answer the many questions we have received. Citizens will find other portions of the May 27 meeting instructive concerning budget matters and other aspects of city government.

The audio of the May 27 council meeting is available on the city website now and will be available on our website later today. The PAC14 taping of that same city council meeting will likely replay Monday, June 2, at 6 p.m. PAC14 now carries streaming video of its programming.

GO HERE to see their official article.

Disclaimer
The views expressed in this newsletter are those of Councilwomen Campbell and Cohen solely and do not necessarily represent those of other council members.

SPD Press Releases

On May 29, 2008 at approximately 9:51 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department Community Action Team were in the area of Railroad Avenue when one of the officers observed what the officer believed to be a controlled dangerous substance transaction. The suspect involved in the transaction, listed below, was stopped and was found to be in possession of a quantity of suspected crack/cocaine and a quantity of suspected methadone.

ARRESTED: Anthony Wayne Lloyd, 47 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES:
Possession of cocaine
Possession of methadone
Possession of cds/paraphernalia

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200800018929

On May 30, 2008 at approximately 2:15 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department executed a traffic stop on a vehicle operated by the below listed suspect for traffic violations in the area of Light Street and Maryland Avenue. Immediately upon making the stop, the suspect exited the vehicle. The suspect became combative with the officer and caused a disturbance in the neighborhood. As the officers attempted to quiet the suspect the suspect assaulted the officers and then was taken into custody.

ARRESTED: Juvenile, 17 years of age Fruitland, Maryland

CHARGES:
Assault of a police officer
Second degree assault
Disobeying a lawful order
Three (3) traffic violations

DISPOSITION: Released to Parent CC # 200800018945

Ray Lewis & Wicomico County Make Today's USA Today!

GO HERE to see the USA Today page.

Friday, May 30
Salisbury - Five people were indicted by a Wicomico County grand jury in the alleged theft of about $450,000 worth of diesel fuel, tires and other supplies from the county landfill. Those charged include former landfill superintendent Kenneth Townsend and former landfill official Paul Tomaszewski. Others include area contractor Ray Lewis, Benjamin Merritt and suspended landfill worker George Ennis.

John Wade Part II

If you're running for Office, don't you have to be in good standings with the State? Between this information and the Tax Lean Sale on his property, how can this guy be running for Office? GO HERE and type in John Wade! You can make it easier if you click on Somerset County too. This guy is just loaded with foreclosure information and the whole nine yards. Princess Anne Residents better realize what they're getting into when they vote on Tuesday.

Case Information
Court System: DISTRICT COURT FOR SOMERSET COUNTY - CIVIL SYSTEM
Case Number: 020200000152007Claim Type:CONTRACT
District/Location Codes: 02 / 02Filing Date:07/31/2006Case Status:BANKRUPTCY
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Complaint, Judgment, and Related Persons Information

(Each Complaint, Hearing, Judgment is listed separately, along with each Related Person)

Complaint Information
Complaint No: 001(TIDEWATER LAND SURVEYORS) Vs:(WADE, JOHN )
Type: REGULAR CLAIM
Complaint Status: BANKRUPTCY
Status Date: 11/26/2007Filing Date:07/31/2006Amount$785Last Activity Date:11/26/2007
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Related Person Information
Name: WADE, JOHN
Connection to Complaint: DEFENDANT
Address: 12034 SOMERSET AVENUE
City: PRINCESS ANNEState:MDZip Code:21853
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name: TIDEWATER LAND SURVEYORS
Connection to Complaint: PLAINTIFF
Address: 507 COURT LANE
City: CAMBRIDGEState:MDZip Code:21613
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Click on the GO HERE link to see more.

A Man That Wants To Make Laws Is Breaking The Law?

John Wade





Just when you though things in Salisbury were all screwed up, along comes the Wade Family from Princess Anne!

Election Day is this coming Tuesday in Princess Anne and I have to tell you Folks, this is getting damn confusing. Today I had an interview with Mr. John Wade who is the husband of Mrs. Wade who was recently rejected from the Election Board as she was not considered a resident of Princess Anne for one calendar year.

So here comes the husband, John Wade who jumps in as a Write In Candidate. However, just who is this John Wade anyway? Well, he allegedly has a residence on Sommerset Ave in Princess Anne but I also hear they have a residence on Executive Drive in Delmar, MD. Then I have also been told he may have a residence in the state of New Jersey, hence the tags on this vehicle above?

So I started digging even deeper and I learned that John Wade is not only on the Planning & Zoning Board in Princess Anne, he's also been appointed to the Maryland State Liquor Board for Sommerset County by your beloved Governor O'Malley!

So I picked up the phone and called John and I asked him directly, do you have a Maryland Drivers License? "I have a Maryland ID." OK John, I understand that but do you have a Maryland Driver's License? "No, I have a Maryland ID." So I then asked, well you're driving a car with New Jersey Tags, is your Driver's License from New Jersey? "NO." So I said, then what State is your Driver's License in? He replied, "Joe, I'm NOT going to get into that."

I checked in the state of MD, DE, VA, NJ, NC, SC & FL and he is not registered with a License from any one of those states. So, then I checked into the tags on this vehicle he's been allegedly known to be driving for years now and the vehicle is registered to a Pearlie Kilgore, yet the Inspection Sticker is registered to someone else, (illegal?) Alton Thomas. When I checked with the State of NJ on the inspection sticker they told me that the date, "3-08" on the sticket was the expiration date. (illegal?)

I just don't get it. During our interview he said the main reason he was running for Office was because he wants to see "open government." So when I asked the man just what state his drivers license was in, "I'm not going to get into that." Seems to me, (I'm sorry to say) this is the LAST guy I'd be voting for and if "I" were on the Election Board, I'd be backstepping REALLY FAST to find out just who this man is?

If I was the Governor of Maryland I'd also be moving as fast as humanly possible before the MSM gets their hands on this story and find out just who this man really is and where his true residence is located. He may live on Sommerset Ave but the final blow is, his home is getting ready to go up for auction for a Tax Lean Sale because the Town he's running for Office in, he's chosen not to pay his own taxes there either!

If Princess Anne votes for this guy, well, they're dumber than the Citizens of Salisbury for voting for Barrie Tilghman and or Bubba!

WCBI UPDATE REPORT ON BEATING DEATH OF MICHAEL HARRY MITCHELL AGE 19

During the early morning hours of May 29th 2008, several individuals were in the Decatur Farms subdivision area of
Berlin when they were approached by another group of individuals in a vehicle. An altercation broke out between the two groups of people. During the assault, Michael Harry Mitchell (w/m, 19 years old, of

Henry Road Berlin, MD) was struck by a blunt object and died as a result of the injuries he sustained. The suspects fled the scene in their vehicle.

The following suspects have been arrested with the above incident:

· Eric Ronald Hewitt W/M Age 19 Ocean City, MD

o Charged with 2^nd Degree Assault

o Held on $75,000 Bond

· Fernando Angelo Musiani W/M Age 19
Berlin, MD

o Charged with 1^st Degree Murder, 1^st Degree Assault and 2^nd Degree Assault

o Held without Bond

· Dominic Richard Canale W/M Age 21 Ocean City, MD

o Charged with 1^st Degree Murder, 1^st Degree Assault and 2^nd Degree Assault

o Bond is pending Hearing at District Court Commissioner Office

OC Offshore Powerboats

Yesterday, Miss Geico ran from Annapolis to Baltimore, Maryland in 10 Minutes and 13 Seconds. It was a great day for the run with calm water and very little wind. The boat ran great and was smooth and calm on the water.

The Mayor Presents The Larson's Once Again! I Present The Bogarts

The Larsons Family, A Continuing Drama

Pat and Mary Larsons, still enjoying their early retirement in the city they chose to call home, continued their volunteer work through the winter months. Improvements to their historic home, school events, and family obligations occupied the family during the cold days of winter. Their son, Drew, while involved in the Skate Park fundraising efforts, became acquainted with a rockclimbing enthusiast. After much encouragement, Drew convinced his parents, along with his sister, Kate, to take a
rock-climbing course from local instructors in an indoor training area. The Larsons were hooked. Their newfound hobby led them on several weekend trips to the mountains of Maryland, Virginia and Pennsylvania. Finding new climbing areas within reasonable driving distance became increasingly difficult, and the Larsons began to ponder the possibility of an indoor climbing business in Salisbury. While researching their options, the Larsons discovered that many grain silos in the Midwest had been converted into rock-climbing arenas. Not aware of any available grain silos in the area, Mary’s eyes looked up and realized the opportunity presenting itself, towering over the Downtown landscape. “The old water standpipe is tall enough and is certainly
visible enough to draw climbers’ interest,” Mary suggests. “It could be a win-win for
Downtown Salisbury…a climbing arena to draw out-of-town enthusiasts to the area, an adaptive re-use of a maintenance liability with little or no cost to the City, and a
really great entertainment opportunity for the local residents. And what a view from
the top, I’ll bet!”

Meanwhile, the Bogart Family have been experiencing hardship in their Salisbury household. Mr. Bogart just lost his job after working for the City for 20 years as an IT person for the Fire Department. Even though Mr. Bogart could sit at the computer daily and serve in a position he loves, the City chose to force Mr. Bogart into retirement because he injured himself on a failed piece of equipment.

Mrs. Bogart is now working as much overtime as she can because retirement certainly isn't enough for the Bogart Family to survive on, especially after their recent 14% tax increase and water and sewer rates unexpectedly going through the roof. The Bogart's also LOST their Families health insurance plan because it cost too much to take on the plan provided by the City.

Today, the Bogart's received a letter in the mail that their homeowners insurance and auto insurance rates were going to increase due to the high rate of crime in Salisbury. It seems the Bogart's are in a lose/lose situation in a City they devoted their lives to.

As for the Silo, kiss my a$$! Trying to do something for the community at this point and time is simply too late Mayor Tilghman. You will leave Office with a legacy of Developer Reimbursements and taxing the Citizens until they could no longer afford to live here. You will leave this Office knowing you have absolutely screwed ANY and ALL employees who dedicated their lives to serving the City of Salisbury and were injured on the job, mainly the departments they worked in!

Salisbury's Cavalier Attitude to Taxpayers' Money

Looking at the front page of this morning's Daily Times the average Salisbury taxpayer might believe that the Salisbury City Council, even Mayor Barrie Tilghman's RUBBER STAMP majority of Louise Smith, Gary Comegys and Shanie Shields, is looking out for the average citizen. This would be a mistake.

Spooning out a few cups from Tilghman's bureaucratic swamp while the voters are drowning amounts to little more than political posturing for the RUBBER STAMP. In any case, their specific cuts are meaningless.

Thanks to the determination of Smith, Comegys and Shields to make the city council as irrelevant as possible, cutting funds for a specific item have no force in law. Their "Program budget" allows Tilghman to spend appropriated funds however she wishes, as long as she stays within the very broad guidelines of the RUBBER STAMP's parody of a budget ordinance.

Possibly the most distressing point to come from these budget discussions is the cavalier attitude taken by the Tilghman administration and her RUBBER STAMP when dealing with taxpayers' money. When the suggestion was made to put the city's liability and P&C insurance out to competitive bid the response was positively Swiftian. Despite the possibility of saving $100,000+ of the taxpayers' money, the RUBBER STAMP and city Finance Director Pam Oland decided that there was no point to research a savings since the price had only risen by $5,000!

I have a question for Pam and Barrie's RUBBER STAMP. How much does the increase have to be before you decide to save the taxpayers some money?

cross posted at Delmarva Dealings

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Cohen & Campbell Hold Budget Meeting

Council women Terry Cohen and Debbie Campbell held their own Budget Meeting Wednesday evening with concerned citizens at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Salisbury.

While the meeting was well attended, the topics were absolutely mind boggling. Are YOU aware that YOU the taxpayer are fronting $40.00 incorporated into your taxes for each and every City Employee to hold a summer picnic? NO, I'm NOT talking about a Christmas Party, that's a whole other issue. I need to expand on this. $40.00 per person! FOR A FREAKIN PICNIC? You could go to Crisfield and eat all you can eat crabs and whatever for $40.00 a person!

Were you aware that Travelers Insurance came to the City and told them that they could easily save the City 20% on their Insurance Bill and Pick and the Mayor refused to hear them out? Oh, wait till you hear why! Before I give you that, the City's liability insurance just went up 77%!!!!!! That's right. The Insurance for the City recently was $51,000.00. It just went up to $254,856.00 OK, who's the President of LGIT? Do you even know what LGIT is? That's the Insurance Company the City buys their Insurance through. Your MAYOR is the President of LGIT!!!!!!!

You know those 5 Fire Trucks that are being purchased? Remember how the Fire Department claimed they were replacing the American LaFrance units because they filed Chapter 11? Well, they're back in business and reorganized. No problem with parts or service, none whatsoever. Nevertheless, the two LaFrance vehicles See & Gordy want to replace, GUESS HOW NEW THEY ARE?????? They're so new that they still OWE money on the financing and they're already replacing them!

OK, here's something no one thought about. Now you're at the new Fire Station 16, an alarm goes off for a fire out by Sam's Club. What route do you take? Everyone spent all that time worrying about how to get Downtown but have YOU traveled Isabella Street lately? Now think about traveling that street with all the new concrete barriers everywhere and a Fire Truck up your a$$! How do you get out of the way? How does several cars heading towards Rt. 13 get out of the way? They Cant!

Did you know the Mayor dropped ALL funding for Creek Watchers?

Want to know more??? Get Involved!

I did get an opportunity to express my thoughts and I stated that I felt the Council should push for a Line Item Budget once every 4 years. We ALL know they're not going to go for this every year. So compromise and make it once every 4 years. What do you think?

UPDATE:

"Mr. Albero -

I wanted to correct my error in citing a 77% increase. The calculation was
a function of the way that the figures were presented in the budget. At
yesterday's meeting, Ms. Oland explained that the increase is 1%. However,
the total amount for non-health insurance lines is in excess of $503,000
rather than $254,856. A 10% savings would be $50,000, and a 20% savings
$100,000. If savings are possible why wouldn't we shop for the best rate
for the services that we need? The same applies to other services like
banking. Yesterday, the council agreed to put some of the services out for
bid during the first and second quarters of FY09.

Thank you for allowing me to correct my error. I apologize for any
confusion that was created by the calculation.

Debbie Campbell"

A Letter To The Editor

Joe,

Just wanted to introduce myself.

I'm originally from Salisbury, and my family still lives there. My brother works for the city and was sometimes amazed at what I would tell him about your blog, and the information on it. He's an avid reader now also.

I appreciate that I can find out whats going on there, being so far away. Thank you for your honesty and integrity, thank you for keeping the citizens informed of the mare's, and her cronies, dishonesty, and thank you for keeping your finger on the pulse of Salisbury.

We all appreciate it.

Have a great weekend!

Question of the Day, Fri 5/30

Laws are just horrendous sometimes.

How may people will be breaking the law this weekend?
What laws do you think should be written?

Here's a few that I had to laugh at:
Maryland:
Ocean City, MD - illegal to eat while swimming.
Ocean City, MD - illegal for men to go topless on the boardwalk.
Maryland law - illegal for oral sex to be given or received anywhere.
Halethrope, MD - illegal to kiss for more than 1 second.
Baltimore, MD - illegal to mistreat oysters.
Delaware:
Lewes, DE - illegal to wear pants that are firm-fitting around the waist.
Rehobeth Beach, DE - illegal to change clothes inside a vehicle.
Rehobeth Beach, DE - illegal to pretend to sleep on a bench on the boardwalk.
Rehobeth Beach, DE - illegal to change into or out of a bathing suit in a public restroom.
Rehobeth Beach, DE - illegal to serve alcohol in night clubs if dancing is occurring.

Berlin Murder -- Arrests Made

Worcester County Bureau of Investigation has arrested the following people in connection with the death of Michael Mitchell:

Eric Ronald Hewitt, 19 of Ocean City (2nd degree assault, held on 75K bond)
Angelo Fernando Musiani, 19 of Berlin (1st degree murder, 1st degree assault, 2nd degree assault, held without bond)
Domonic Richard Canale, 21 of Ocean City(1st degree murder, 1st degree assault, 2nd degree assault, bond pending)

According to MD Case search, a couple of these guys have been in trouble before, maybe still be on probation.

My 9 year old daughter heard me talking to my husband about it. "The cops should take them and beat them with a baseball bat." I couldn't agree with her more.

Another One Bites The Dust

Weijia Jiang is leaving WBOC today. Weijia has taken a position with WJZ TV in Baltimore. It's always nice to hear good reporters are going off to bigger and better places. Best of luck to you Weijia and thanks for being a part of our lives every day.

The Hidden Bonus in Wicomico's Budget

On Tuesday, the Wicomico County Council will vote whether to approve County Executive Rick Pollitt's supplemental budget for Fiscal Year 2009. This budget will be slightly different from Pollitt's proposed budget. The Council decided to cut $646,000 from education and suggested that the cut be applied to roads ($300,000), contingency ($206,000) and fire companies ($140,000). Pollitt has agreed to apply the cuts per council's recommendation.

Also in budget is the establishment of a county legal department. Ed Baker will continue as County Attorney, but will now be a full time employee of Wicomico County.

In principle, this is a good move on the part of Pollitt and the County Council. While Baker has provided excellent service, we all know that there can be serious problems with contracting out the job of a county or city attorney. Just look at Salisbury.

There is, however, one little surprise in the creation of the legal department. Mr. Baker, while not becoming a full time county employee until FY 2009, will have his pension benefits be based on a RETROACTIVE date of service of 1989!

Pollitt's office explains:

According to IRS rules, Mr. Baker should have been in the plan all along sine he is regarded(by the IRS) as an employee not as a contractor.

As far as I know, Baker is a member of the law firm of Seidel, Baker & Tilghman. Was the county taking out federal and state income tax withholding from checks sent to Baker's firm? Was the county deducting half of the FICA and Medicare taxes (and paying the other half)? Was her receiving other benefits from the county?

Now I don't begrudge Mr. Baker anything. I have nothing but the greatest respect for him. I also don't know what the estimated cost of this retroactively enhanced pension is. That is not the point! We need a little truth in advertising here.

If this was a deal negotiated between Baker and Pollitt, and Pollitt feels that keeping Baker as the County Attorney is in the best interest of taxpayers, fine. But that is not the reasoning given for this decision.

We are not talking about some exotic compensation package for a Fortune 500 CEO. We're discussing the pay and benefits of a COUNTY EMPLOYEE. The taxpayer needs to come first!

While I feel that keeping Baker IS a good thing, I hope that a majority of the Wicomico County Council votes down the budget because of this. If my good friend Rick Pollitt thinks that he caught a bunch of flak over handing out bonuses to key employees last year, wait until the public gets a load of this.

cross posted at Delmarva Dealings

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SPD Press Releases

On May 25, 2008 at approximately 12:35 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department were in the area of S. Salisbury Boulevard and South Boulevard when the officer was alerted to a subject that had broken into a vehicle. The officer checked the vehicle and found that a suspect had entered the vehicle and left property in the vehicle. The witness gave the officer a description of the suspect and the officer located the suspect behind the Super Giant Food Store. The suspect admitted to making entry into the vehicle and was arrested. A search of the suspect’s person, incident to arrest, revealed property that the suspect had just stolen from the Super Giant Store and a pipe containing suspected crack/cocaine.

ARRESTED: Julius Zorro Parson, 50 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES:
Rogue and vagabond
Tampering with a motor vehicle
Theft (under $ 100)
Possession of cocaine
Possession of cds/paraphernalia

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200800018415

On May 28, 2008 at approximately 8:45 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department were contacted by a witness in reference to a possible burglary in progress. Officers were advised by the witness that a suspect was seen breaking into a vehicle on E. Vine Street and then attempting to break into the adjacent residence. Officers responded to the area and apprehended the below listed suspect on the victim’s property.

ARRESTED: Craig Raymond Holloway, 53 years of age No fixed address

CHARGES:
Attempted burglary
Rogue and vagabond

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200800018792

On May 28, 2008 at approximately 3:10 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to the Sam’s Club Store in reference to two (2) shoplifters. Upon arrival, the officers were advised that employees of the store had observed the below listed suspects take property from the store without making payment. Additionally, in a search incident to arrest, below listed suspect # 1 was found to be in possession of a quantity of suspected heroin.

ARRESTED #1: Destiny Dawn Lenz, 21 years of age Pittsville, Maryland

CHARGES:
Possession of heroin
Possession of cds/paraphernalia
Theft (Under $ 100)

ARRESTED #2: Donald Wayne Haddock, 29 years of age Willards, Maryland

CHARGES: Theft (Under $100)

DISPOSITION: Both suspects released to Central Booking CC # 200800018759

WWE Raw Presents Summerslam Tour

Live Wrestling Returns to the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center

(Salisbury, MD) WWE Raw is bringing its Summerslam Tour to the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center on Sunday, August 10 at 5:00pm. WWE Raw’s Summerslam Tour features Triple H, John Cena, Randy Orton, Jeff Hardy and many more.

Tickets for this event go on sale this Saturday, May 31 at 10:00am and range from $20-$60 plus applicable taxes and fees. Tickets can be purchased online at www.WicomicoCivicCenter.org, by phone at 410-548-4911 or in person at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center Box Office. The Box Office will open for the

on-sale this Saturday from 10:00am to 2:00pm. Normal Box Office hours will resume after Saturday and are Monday-Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm.

Be the first to know about other events coming to the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center by signing up for the Press Pass at www.wicomicociviccenter.org.

*WWE reserves the right to change the wrestling card with no notice to the venue.

Mugs

Ray Lewis

Kenneth Townsend

A Hebron Comment Worthy Of A Post

"OK I have had enough of all the critics out there. Yes the people cooking food at the Hebron Carnival, drink not all of them but some. Why shouldn't they be able to have a drink if they want after all they are donating their free time to cook in a hot and humid kitchen...The Bingo assistants should have the same courtesy. These volunteers for the most part are not the firemen/women that would be operating equipment. They are family and friends of fire dept. members. Lest we forget that while the carnival is operating another fire station usually comes and does stand by for Hebron/Sharptown. I am so sick of all the hypocrites out there. Yes I understand all organizations are suffering for membership because of people like you anonymous. Everyone is scared to crap sideways for fear of being sued! What a society we are creating for the next generation. I feel sorry for the children of tomorrow who are going to have nothing to do but be tethered to Mommy and Daddy because they might be exposed to "LIFE"
DAWN P."

Tim Spies On Bill Reddish Show Tomorrow Morning

Mr. Tim Spies will be on the Bill Reddish Show, Friday morning at 7:40 AM.
That's WICO on 1320 AM.

IMO, Tim is a very knowledgeable citizen in the know on many issues. I'll certainly be listening in to this interview, that's for sure.

Happy 80th Birthday Art Goetz!!!!!!!

To one of my dearest friends on this earth and a man I respect more than anyone else I know, Happy 80th Birthday Art Goetz, Mr. Marine! Art is a HUGE Shorebirds Fan and served our Country several times in the United States Marine Corps.

WCSO Press Release

Incident: Vehicle Pursuit
Date: 29 May 2008
Location: East Naylor Mill Road
Suspects: Calvin Kinzer Reid, Jr., 20 YOA, Snow Hill, MD

On 29 May 2008, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office Aggressive Criminal Enforcement Team attempted to stop a vehicle operated by Calvin Kinzer Reid for a traffic violation on Zion Road in Salisbury, MD. Instead of stopping for the deputy, Reid attempted to elude the deputy by fleeing on East Naylor Mill Road behind the Centre at Salisbury at a high rate of speed. Reid cut through the Centre at Salisbury and led the deputy around Ring Road that encircles the mall before heading back out towards North Salisbury Blvd. Reid ran the light and headed northbound before turning into the Salisbury Mobile Home Park. The vehicle pursuit terminated when Reid collided with a parked pick-up truck at the end of Dove Street at which point Reid attempted to flee on foot. Deputies converged on the area and caught Reid as he attempted to run back towards East Naylor Mill Rd.

Reid was transported to the Central Booking Unit at the Wicomico County Detention Center where he was processed and charged with Attempting to Flee and Elude in both a vehicle and on foot along with leaving the scene of a Property Damage Accident. After an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner, Reid was held on $10,000.00 bond.

The Mayor Is Right, People Are Listening

While Salisbury News grows each and every day, people are hearing about us and the sometimes unbelievable information we've been able to provide. Google can be a great way to come up with finding your way to Salisbury News but what I find most days is that the majority of our traffic comes from right here on the Eastern Shore.

Anyhow, you're right Mayor. People are listening. How's it working for you?

Everyone Posts Bond Except Ken Townsend

Last I heard, Ken Townsend turned himself in but was still in the Detention Center trying to figure out a way he was going to post Bond for $250,000.00.

Lord knows how so many others were able to come up with the funding for their bond but it is what it is. There's some speculation out there that allegedly Ray Lewis may have sprung the others out right away.

DON'T MISS Fernando Guerrero TONIGHT on PAC 14

PAC 14 7:31:18pm ONE ON ONE - with guest professional boxer Fernando Guerrero and manager Hal Chernoff.

The show can also be seen Saturday at 3:00 PM as well as 10:00 PM. It will air again on Sunday at 3:00 PM.

Salisbury Police Department Press Release

On May 27, 2008 at approximately 10:27 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to the Shell Gasoline Station on Snow Hill Road for the report of a robbery. Upon arrival, the Officers were advised by the store owner that two (2) suspects had entered the store and confronted him. The victim advised that one (1) suspect produced a handgun and forced the owner to open the cash register. Once open, both suspects removed the U.S. Currency from the cash register before fleeing from the store. There were no injuries. The suspects were described as:

1. White male, 5’10”, 150 lbs., medium build, wearing a white shirt over a blue shirt, grey pants, black and white shoes, and a blue baseball style hat with a mask partially covering his face.

2. White male, 5’06”, 140 lbs, thin build, wearing a black long sleeve shirt, blue jeans, white shoes, and a tan bandanna over his face.

If anyone has any information concerning this incident, they are asked to contact the Salisbury Police Department at 410-548-3165. CC # 200800018686

1:44 PM WCBI Press Release on Berlin Murder

On today’s date during the early morning hours, several individuals were in the Decatur Farms subdivision area of Berlin when they were approached by another group of individuals in a vehicle. An altercation broke out between the two groups of people. During the assault, Michael Harry Mitchell (w/m, 19 years old, of Henry Road Berlin, MD) was struck by a blunt object and died as a result of the injuries he sustained. The suspects fled the scene in their vehicle.



Some suspects and persons of interest have been identified by detectives of the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation working with the Berlin Police Department. Efforts to locate those subjects are ongoing at the present time.

Anyone with additional information regarding this matter is encouraged to contact the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation at 410-352-3476 and speak with D/Cpl. Mumford.

Worcester County Bureau of Investigation
13070 St. Martins Neck Rd
Post Office Box 199
Bishopville, Maryland 21813
#410-352-3476

Update On OC Fire Department

Good morning Joe,

This posting was accurate. The final memorandum was approved by a 7-0 vote at the work session this week. The Career Firefighters Association's President and Vice President, along with Deputy Chiefs Cropper and Barton, from the OCVFC and Fire/EMS division respectively, did sit unified with me to witness and support this milestone step to enable many great people to work together in the future to build a world class combination fire service. Please do not hesitate to contact me for any additional information, or when I can be of further assistance in the future.

Chris Laramore
Fire Chief

WCSO Press Release

Incident: Theft of Gas
Date of Incident: 27 May 2008
Location: 800 Block of Snow Hill Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: unknown

Narrative: On 27 May 2008, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office investigated the theft of gas from vehicles parked on the property of Eastern Shore Distributing on Snow Hill Road. Investigation revealed that three vehicles belonging to Eastern Shore Distributing that were left on the lot had their gas tanks punctured and their fuel drained. It is estimated that at least fifty gallons of gasoline was drained and carried away. At this time there are no suspects, but the Sheriff’s Office is investigating the case. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to contact the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office at 410-548-4890 or Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776.

Update on Berlin Murder

19 year old Michael Mitchell Jr. of Henry Rd. in Berlin was found beaten to death.Found at Decatur Farms. He was attending a graduation party with students from Stephen Decatur High School. His father works for Worcester County landfill. Good family.More to come....

Update as of 12 noon:
Allegedly, the person who killed Michael was a local businessman's son. It was over a girl. The alleged killer rode by Michael while he was walking from one party to another. Words were exchanged. Then the killer got out of his vehicle with a bat and struck Michael in the head.I have more info including names, but I choose not to release it at this time.Justice will be served.

OC Geico Offshore Powerboat Race

The Geico Offshore Powerboat Races will be returning to the shores of Ocean City once again this summer, bringing with it big crowds, fast boats, and an exciting weekend of racing.

The event will move into town on Friday, May 30 as the powerboats set up shop in the West Ocean City. The event kicks off on Saturday, May 31, when the boats will be on display at Sunset Marina. For no charge, spectators will get the chance to view wet and dry pits. Crews will also be on hand, giving spectators a chance to speak with the men behind the scenes.

Sunday will be the official race day with two races, the first one at 12:30 p.m. and the second at 2 p.m., right off the shores of the resort beaches. The racecourse extends from 4th Street to 42nd Street, close enough for beachgoers to view, but far enough for the safety of swimmers. Spectators can watch from just about anywhere along that stretch of beach, but Geico, along with the public address system, will be anchored at the Commander Hotel on 14th Street, where most of the on land action will occur.

OC Air Show

US Coast Guard Search & Rescue Demo Just Added to the Line UpThe US Air Force F-15, F-16 and the US Army Golden Knights will headline this year's inaugural event! Performers include:
USAF F-16 Viper Demo Team
USAF F-15 Eagle Demo Team
Heritage Flight (F-15, F-16, P-51 Mustang)
US Army Golden Knights Parachute Team
The Firebirds
Rob Holland MX-2
USAF Reserve Bi-plane
USCG Search & Rescue Demo
Embry Riddle Mono-plane
The Yak Attack
GEICO Skytypers
C-17/C-5 Flyover
NASA P-3 Flyover

Schedule of Events:
Monday, June 9, 2008:
10:00 am Media Day and Public Open House Ocean City Municipal Airport
1:00 pm Air Show Preview Show Center Beach - 16th Street
6:00 pm Performer Welcome Party - Open to the Public Micky FIns - West OC
Tuesday, June 10, 2008:
9:00 am Display Village Opens 16th & 17th Streets from Baltimore Ave to the Boardwalk
10:00 am Show Center Beach and Hospitality Chalets Open 15th-17th Street & Beach
11:00 am OC Air Show Warm Up - Special Demo by the Kite Loft 7th-25th Streets & Beach
12:00 n OC Air Show 7th to 25th Streets on the Beach
4:00 pm Air Show Happy Hour - Shenanigan's
7:00 pm Air Show Performer Party - Open to the Public Castaways - 64th Street
Wednesday, June 11, 2008:
9:00 am Display Village Opens 16th & 17th Streets from Balt Ave to the Boardwalk
10:00 am Show Center Beach and Hospitality Chalets Open 15th-17th Street & Beach
11:00 am OC Air Show Warm Up - Special Demo by the Kite Loft 7th-25th Streets & Beach
12:00 n OC Air Show 7th to 25th Streets on the Beach
4:00 pm Air Show Happy Hour - Shenanigan's
7:00 pm Finale Party - Open to the Public Macky's Bayside Bar & Grill - 53rd St & Bay

Children's Pet Fair

July 19, 2008 - Children's Pet Fair
Calling All Four-Legged Friends to the

Children’s Pet Fair at the Wicomico County Youth & Civic Center

(Salisbury, MD) Four-legged friends and other furry creatures are invited to the WY&CC on Saturday, July 19 for a Children’s Pet Fair. Children 18 and under are encouraged to enter their dogs, cats and other miscellaneous pets into the Pet Fair, which will begin at 10:00am. Trophies and ribbons will be awarded to the top pets in each of the three categories (dogs, cats and miscellaneous).

Brought to you by Wicomico County Recreation, Parks and Tourism and sponsored in part by Salisbury Super Pet, the event is free and open to the public. Pets must be in good health and up to date with all shots. Participants can register in advance or find out more information by contacting Kelly O’Brien at 410-548-4900 ext. 108 or emailing kobrien@wicomicocounty.org . Registrations will also be accepted the day of the event.

If you would like to learn about other upcoming programs, classes and events offered by Wicomico County Recreation, Parks and Tourism, sign up for Recreation email alerts at www.wicomicorecandparks.org

###
Wicomico Recreation, Parks & Tourism Department
500 Glen Avenue , Salisbury, MD21804
http://www.wicomicorecandparks.org/
http://www.wicomicotourism.org/
www.wicomicociviccenter.org

Update on Murder in Berlin

19 year old Michael Mitchell Jr. of Henry Rd. in Berlin was found beaten to death.
Found at Decatur Farms. He was attending a graduation party with students from Stephen Decatur High School. His father works for Worcester County landfill. Good family.
More to come....

Update as of 12 noon:
Allegedly, the person who killed Michael was a local businessman's son. It was over a girl. The alleged killer rode by Michael while he was walking from one party to another. Words were exchanged. Then the killer got out of his vehicle with a bat and struck Michael in the head.

I have more info including names, but I choose not to release it at this time.
Justice will be served.

Louise Smith - Next on "Issues and Answers"

Tuesday's Salisbury City Council meeting was long and, at times, boring. However Councilwoman Louise Smith made it worth waiting 'til the end by her closing performance.

To set this up we all need to remember that Louise only allows questions to be answered IF it is to her advantage. In other words, IF she thinks that the answer will make her or Salisbury Mayor Barrie Tilghman look good. In all other cases the response is: "We'll get back to you".

Tuesday night Tim Spies stepped up to the podium. Tim recounted that he had appeared before council on April 14th to ask for some information regarding the TIF bonds sold by the city to subsidize the Old Mall project. The response: "We'll get back to you."

Unfortunately for Smith, et al, Spies is no dummy. He demanded to know WHEN they "would get back to him". He was told that he would receive information within two weeks.

On Tuesday Spies stood before council again and wanted to know WHEN he would receive a response. He recounted what had occurred since April 14th.

On April 22nd a letter was sent to Spies from ace Tilghman sycophant (and titular Asst. City Administrator) Lore Chambers to the effect that this was very complicated information and difficult to put together. It would take a few more weeks. Tim took his seat; but don't think that the show was over.

A few moments later, former City Council President Bob Caldwell rose to the podium. HE wanted to know WHEN an answer to Tim's questions would be received. Since Chambers was sitting right there, she should be able to provide an answer. NOW the Louise Smith Comedy of Errors began.

Chambers couldn't or (more likely) wouldn't answer the question. Smith decided that it was now the time to give Bob, and the public, a lesson in the Barrieland protocol of answering public questions (I paraphrase):

Smith -
Answering these questions is a VERY COMPLICATED MATTER. All questions are posted on the city's web site (She was then corrected that THIS question was not posted on the web). Then we address many of these questions on Issues and Answers.

Caldwell-
What is Issues and Answers?

Smith -
This is my highly rated TV show on PAC14 (she and pal Eleanor Mulligan watch most episodes). I discuss issues facing the city and answer questions from the public.

Caldwell -
I didn't ask if this was going to be on TV. I simply want to know WHEN will we be given an answer to a question asked over a month ago. If we had filed a Freedom of Information request we would have received an answer weeks ago. I just thought that only certain members of council (Councilwomen Debbie Campbell and Terry Cohen) had to file FOIA's to get information.

Smith -
We'll get back to you on that.


Let's not forget that back in December Councilman Gary Comegys attacked Campbell's remarks that "the city couldn't balance its own checkbook" by claiming that the Finance Department could deliver the balance on any account within a day. If this were true, Spies and Caldwell would have received their information weeks ago. Who's lying Gary, you or Louise and Lore?

cross posted on Delmarva Dealings

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Murder In Berlin

Last night, Berlin MSP was reporting a murder in the new Decatur Farms. There were around 50 people at AGH Hospital crying and the MSP were called in to assist with and offer extra security. More to come.......

WCSO Press Releases

Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 28 May 2008
Location: N. Delano Avenue at Ocean Gateway, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: unknown

Narrative: On 28 May 2008 at approximately 8:00 PM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported assault that occurred on North Delano Avenue near Ocean Gateway in Salisbury, MD. Deputies located a male victim who told them he was accosted by 9 – 10 unknown males who pushed the victim down in the roadway and then began to punch and kick the victim. The victim was transported to PRMC via ambulance for treatment of contusions and lacerations. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to contact the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office at 410-548-4891 or Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776.

Incident: Entry into Motor Vehicles
Date of Incident: 28 May 2008
Location: 100 Block of Hall Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: unknown

Narrative: On 28 May 2008 at approximately 8:00 AM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of someone entering a victim’s unlocked vehicle in the 100 Block of Hall Drive in Salisbury, MD. While on scene, the investigating deputy located a total of three victims who all stated that an unknown suspect entered their vehicles and moved items around but did not take anything. All of the vehicles were left unattended in the victim’s driveways and were all left unlocked. Anyone with information regarding this crime is asked to contact the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office at 410-548-4891 or Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776.

Sheriff Mike Lewis would like to remind everyone to please remove valuables from their vehicles and secure their vehicles while not being used.

INDICTMENTS HANDED DOWN ON WICOMICO COUNTY LANDFILL CASE

The Wicomico County Grand Jury has handed down indictments on five individuals who were allegedly involved in the theft of about $450,000 worth of diesel fuel, tires and other supplies over a more-than-two-year period beginning in 2005.

All five individuals are charged with 1 count of theft scheme over $500 and 4 counts of conspiracy to commit theft scheme over $500. Those charged are: Kenneth L. Townsend, Ray Allen Lewis, Paul E. Tomaszewski, George Randall Ennis and Benjamin Franklin Merritt III. Bail is set at $250,000 for Townsend, Lewis and Tomaszewski. Bail is set at $50,000 for Ennis and Merritt. Townsend and Tomaszewski are former Wicomico County employees. Both were fired from their positions at the landfill in February. Ennis remains as an employee though he has been suspended without pay since February.

According to the Wicomico County State’s Attorney, the Grand Jury is interested in other individuals allegedly involved in the thefts and there may be more indictments.

Wicomico County Executive Richard M. Pollitt, Jr., said that his initial position on any county employee found guilty of theft has not changed saying that “They will be fired and prosecuted to the full extent of the law.” Mr. Pollitt added that the Certified Fraud Examiner hired in March will soon be giving him a complete report on his findings about the thefts at the landfill.

THANK YOU, “STU” LEER

Mr. Leer’s presentation during public comment at the recent meeting of the Salisbury City Council is just what the doctor ordered to remedy the ridiculous mess called the Historic District Commission. But his more significant public service is the r discussion of his conversation in which Barrie Tilghman vowed to get even with him because he had supported her opponent in an election.

Mr. Leer is certainly not the only person that Barrie has pledged and then proceeded to attack and harm by her official conduct. Unfortunately, most not desire – or cannot afford – to stand up against her conduct in public or, as Mr. Leer has done on several occasions, in court. It takes courage and, usually, money to do that.

Thanks, again, Mr. Leer, for putting the spotlight where is belongs.

Question of the Day, Thur 5/29

What ring tone do you have on your cellphone right now?
Who is your cell phone provider? Are you happy with your provider?

Hebron Fire Department

"Joe,

recently i was at the Hebron carnival and could not believe what i saw. I know several members there and while the carnivval was going on. Members were drinking beer out of pepsi cups. Some of the people in the french fry stand were just loud and obnoxious and reaked of alcohol. The kicker to this story is this. The fire whistle started blowing and the ones drinking took right off to answer the call which i heard was a structure fire in mardella. Is this the kind of stuff the fire departments are being criticized for? I am told that on any night you can walk behind the french fry stand and see them outside just having a party right in front of everyone with beer cans flying. I have lost a lot of respect for the people there and dont think my kids should be around the people drinking. Are the people running the rides doing the same as the ones in the french fry stand? I thought maybe you could look into this matter and let everyone know what really goes on up there. I wont give my name out, but i can assure you this is the gods honest truth...Also rumor has it they have their buddies from other fire departments up there drinking up a storm and riding the fire trucks.. Just please look into this matter for the sake of the community and kids at that carnival."

Bond Set For Ray Lewis At $250,000.00

Bond was set by the Circuit Court for Ray Lewis at $250,000.00.

The 250K on Lewis will insure that Wicomico County has the resources along with the United States Marshall’s Service to track him down and bring him back for trial from wherever he might try to go, in the entire world. That is, IF he chose to run!

Obama's message for the Spanish speaking

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1185304443/bctid1569823378

Obama's message to his Spanish speaking followers. Does McCain or Clinton have one of these?

TX Firefighter Fired for Fast Food Run

Food run costs Austin firefighter his job

Published: May 28, 2008 at 10:42 AM

AUSTIN, Texas, May 28 (UPI) -- The Austin, Texas, fire chief says he was shocked that one of his firefighters decided to grab a burger before heading out to an emergency call.Firefighter Michael Pooler was fired for a January incident in which he ran over to a fast-food stand next to his fire station before answering a call for help from a woman suffering respiratory distress."Immediate response to 911 calls is the very essence of what it means to be an Austin firefighter. ... Because of his selfish and highly unprofessional actions, he has no right to remain an Austin firefighter," Chief Jim Evans said in a memo released Tuesday.The Austin American-Statesman said the response to the call was delayed by about two minutes and the call was actually canceled after paramedics arrived ahead of Pooler's fire truck.The newspaper said three other members of the truck crew did not leave without Pooler due to rules requiring four firefighters on each run.A spokesman for the 12-year firefighter said an appeal to his dismissal would be pursued.
© 2008 United Press International
-----------------------------------------------------------------
How do you think the local firefighters here would measure up?

Alcohol Study

A recent study found that the average American walks about 900 miles in a year.

Another study found Americans drink, on average, 22 gallons of alcohol a year.

That means, on average, Americans get about 41 m iles to the gallon.

Kind of makes you proud to be American.

A Comment Worth Posting

The list of those suffering retaliation at the hands of the mayor
continues to grow. To date I know of the following:

Coulbourne Dykes, Chief of Police
Bob Eaton, City Solicitor
Brenda Cox, Filed recall petition
Stuart Leer, Didn't support the mayor in her first bid for election
Sharon Lloyd, Supported 4-2 legislation
Carolyn Hall, Campaigned for mayor against BPT
Rachel Polk, Opposed BPT while on council, assaulted by the mayors daughter
Von Siggers, Opposed BPT while on council
Jennifer Albero, Exposure of Salisbury Zoo Animal Deaths, 3 herniated disks in her back on the job. Fired after 18 years of service!

The list goes on. Anyone that can add to this please do. It will be
interesting to see just how many people have suffered at the hands of
Barrie Parsons Tilghman.

Council Vice President Gary Comegys Flat Out Lied Last Night

If you didn't get the chance to watch PAC 14 last night, at the very end I got up there and asked the Council Vice President, Gary Comegys, if he in fact parked in a Handicap Zone over this past weekend? He replied, "NO."

Ladies & Gentlemen, this is a flat out lie. I tried asking my question a couple of different ways to make sure he clearly understood me and he completely denied his doing so.

That being said, AFTER the meeting ended I flat out walked up to the Council Table and said, you know Gary, I have at least two Police Officers that would testify that you had in fact parked in a Handicap Zone and they had to come find you to make you move your vehicle. He said, "I was only there 10 minutes." He then said that once an Officer asked him to move, he relocated his vehicle.

Well, at that point even Louise Smith looked over, (she was sitting right there) and had that "I can't believe you just lied" look on her face. Gary went on to explain how Michael Day had called him for some help and he drove up there to the Flea Market and "I was only there 10 minutes" came out again. The Officers learned it was Councilman Comegys vehicle and they searched him out because they were absolutely going to tow the vehicles parked in that Handicap Zone. The Officers also allegedly told him they were going to tow his vehicle if he didn't move it.

After the meeting we had all gone downstairs the the parking lot at the GOB. I was talking to Louise about it and she admitted she was very disappointed in what she had just sen and heard.

Ladies & Gentlemen, The Vice President of the City Council LIED to everyone there and everyone watching PAC 14. He admitted it after the meeting was over but never said he was sorry and in fact still tried to deny it in his own way.

After I asked him the question and he LIED, he sat back in his chair and mumbled, I was on the curb. OK Gary, no matter what was asked, you know as well as I, (and now the rest of the world) that you were in fact parked, "at the curb" in a Handicap Zone. I even mentioned it being a loading and unloading area, the Police had to SEARCH YOU OUT at the Flea Market and CONFRONT YOU to get you to move your vehicle.

In fact, there was a Handicap Person on a Bus trying to unload off the Bus AT THE CURB where there is a Handicap Zone. For a Council Vice President to sit there and flat out lie, (knowing where I was going with my question) will simple show the people that YOU are NOT at all trustworthy and that you will in fact lie or twist things to get out of looking bad or whatever reason you chose to not tell the truth.

Remember this when this guy goes to run for Mayor. Mr. Comegys needs to hold a Press Conference and admit that he lied to the Public and come clean. I will simply end with this. Several Police Officers watched PAC 14 last night and have already expressed their disbelief in what they saw.

I wouldn't trust this man as far as I could throw him.

I did not have an inappropriate relationship with Monica Lewinsky. Remember that Folks? That's when Clinton too got on public TV and made that statement. Maybe that's what makes it OK for Comegys?