Just off the wire, and non-attribution, have heard that the Somerset County Commissioners have appointed Sam Boston, currently a County Commissioner, to replace the departing County Manager, Dan Powell (another story in itself). Sam put his name in last time for this position and lost in a "competitive" scenario to Powell, however, didn't even resign his Commissioner's position before doing so.. Do not know the County regulations for filling this "Top County Position", but certainly, regulations must require advertising the job and selecting the BEST qualified?
Sam's background was reportedly with the telephone company, where he pulled wire! The County Manager supervises a rather large organization whose budget is over $50 million!, so in essence, Sam was "appointed" to run a $50 million dollar business with a background of what?? It's the "GOOD OLD BOY NETWORK" on display in Somerset County once again. Sam's Commissioner slot will then have to be back filled, wonder what further pearls of wisdom will result from that selection?
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144 comments:
The Governor will "appoint" Ken Ballard to replace him provided background checks are ok
The Simpkins Mafia lives to see another day! HERE HERE!!!
Uhhh I thought this website was SALISBURY news
What's that job pay anyway? Eighty or Ninety Thou? Ching Ching.
Consider this! One of Boston's brother-in-laws is also a commissioner,Rex Simpkins. His other brother-in-law is the County Attorney, Kirk Simpkins. The Simpkins are related to Judge Long. Boston's son works for County Attorney and uncle Kirk Simpkins. Betsy Simpkin's Schrock, cousin of Kirk & Rex is Judge of the Orphans Court. Is this sounding like nepotism or what? Let's face it, Somerset is run by one family and if the public doesn't display some outrage over this situation than nothing will ever change.
Isn't the Roads Manager a cousin or something too?
in response to 624. the "PUBLIC" elects the positions listed! if the "PUBLIC" had a problem with them, why are they elected year after year. could it be that maybe they are good, hard working, honest people???
What do you expect? These are the same commissioners that hired Purnell to be Warden of the Detention center while the county was still facing a lawsuit stemming from Purnell shooting an unarmed man. As I recall they also rehired James L. Henderson while he was under criminal investigation for abuse of inmates at the Detention Center. They look after there own, the law doesn't matter.
Yes, Doug Taylor's mother was a Simpkins. The dynasty is alive!!!
nepotism [(nep-uh-tiz-uhm)]
Favoritism granted to relatives or close friends, without regard to their merit. Nepotism usually takes the form of employing relatives or appointing them to high office.
it is an outrage. the boston/simpkins have so much influence on the county that it's almost criminal. Good ol' boy network will always prevail. Why did Dan Powell really resign? he was a breath of fresh air.
Well, I find it funny that Mr. Powell told everyone, publicly, that his last day would be in May. Guess the good old boys couldn't wait that long to get him out of there.
I, as a former resident of Somerset, never recall seeing a commissioners race where the choices represented the demographics of the county. That counties political quilt is interwoven so tight that you may never see more than two or three degrees of separation between past and present. I think Sam qualifies though, he once was a chicken farmer, and his foresight to get out of that business was a brilliant choice.
Am I at Peakys, Ill have a chicken fryed steak with mashed and gravy with brussell sprouts, please.
I bet they had a picture of him with one of those Pocomoke City Goats!
6:36! absolutely not. Congressmen and senators are usually reelected but not because they are honest hard working people, only because they are the incumbents. Most voters are ignorant and only vote the party. That is why we have 4 democrats and only 1 republican commissioner. Democrats rule in Somerset, you get what you elect.
so no one has answered, are they good for the county or not?
to 6:36, After the last 4 years maybe the remaining 4 comm's will not get re-elected. O'bama said it best, "it's time for change".
Why Ken Ballard? Do we have to be politically correct and have a black on the board?
It is not just that job it is most of the county jobs. It is who you are in Somerset County and if not you should forget about getting a job. Look at all the take home vehicles. I would like to have a car and gas with my job.
Blagojevich must be a Simpkins or a Long or a Boston.
Chute I pull wire. I want that there job me self.
That if a F#&KING JOKE! I remember when he didn't get it before he whined and moaned. That is a total conflict of interest. People running for elected office shouldn't do it for self gain. Sam Boston you are a worthless POS to do something like this. I used to think better of you, but then again you are a Dumbocrat!!
I worked with Sammy Boston at the Telephone Co He did a lot more than just pull wires. Get your facts straight. He is a good person. Good Luck Sammy!!
yes it seems that the simpkins' are in the political spotlight thru relation, but they are all very good and respectable people who hold alot of pride in Somerset County.
Somerset County = northernmost part of Mississippi
The Washington Post
I think Mike McCready should get the job, he is more qualified as a chicken proctologist than Boston is as a pole skinner.
Thank goodness O'malley had the smarts to appoint Paula Price, who is not a "from here", as the new judge. Got to wonder how "long" she will last.
What about his job at the dispensary?
Doesn't Somerset County have anything in their Code to prevent this? This is very unethical and borderline criminal!
Looks like Catlin Road is burning up the airwaves tonite!!!!!!!!!
my understanding is that judge simpkins granddaughter is married to a "Price". could that be another connection?
Ken Ballard is a crook. He owes people money and uses his NAACP background to threaten people. Thank God i got out of slumerset county.....
Not only nepotism within the county government but also the Detention Center "FATHER & SON".
Maybe a special prosecutor needs to be brought in to see all the conflicts of interest & criminal actions.
The people of Somerset County Elected Sam Boston and Rex Simpkins. Rex got beat the first time me ran and worked hard to beat Charles Fisher. Both Charles and Rex are good honest guys. Sam Boston is a great person who the people of Somerset County know and understand. Yes he retired from the phone company, but he also understands county goverment and is honest..The man who resigned is a Lawyer by trade. Sam Boston is a good honest person with a good family and not one person can honestly say that a Boston or Simpkins every abused there power, including the Judge of the Orphans court...Don't think for one minute they always agree with each other..They don't mind disagreeing ..They are all good people and Somerset County should be glad they are willing to serve.
Can somebody say it with me:
SOUR GRAPES?!?!?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!
I understand that this is a blog and not MSM, but your spin on "breaking" this story is overly biased. If you want to know Mr. Boston's qualifications, call him, and then report on it. Don't depict him as a "wire puller". Personally, he's not my favorite person, but I have more respect for him than you have shown him. As to the others you have mentioned, you could do worse than two circuit court judges, four lawyers, three small business owners and however many elected and appointed positions. I guess we all can not live the wonderful fairy tale life you depict in all of your other blog articles in "As the World Turns in Wicomico County and Salibury City."
Anonymous said...
Not only nepotism within the county government but also the Detention Center "FATHER & SON".
Maybe a special prosecutor needs to be brought in to see all the conflicts of interest & criminal actions.
8:57 PM
WHOA!!! Let that prosecuter take care of the City of Salisbury first! Sambo and Boys can wait.
anonymous 9:15,
While we may not be considered MSM by you personally, this Post went up only 3 hours ago and YOU found us. Not only do I find that quite interesting, I also find it interesting that we have allowed every single comment up here without any moderation on this Post and every one has had the opportunity to say their peace.
This comments make 38 comments in a short period of time, so obviously we're doing something right and have gained every one's attention. I challenge you to go to the Daily Times and find any article that has this many comments up after days, let alone 3hours.
Your view is certainly welcome here and I'll hope you find Salisbury News as an alternative source for your news and information down the road. Heck, I already know you do because you're here now. Have a great evening and we look forward to your return and possible reply.
Circuit Court of Maryland
Go Back
Case Information
Court System: Circuit Court for Somerset County - Civil System
Case Number: 19C03009081
Title: William F Gately, et al vs Sam Boston, et al
Case Type: Other CivilFiling Date:06/04/2003
Case Status: Closed/Inactive
Case Disposition: MiscellaneousDisposition Date:02/07/2007
>
>
>
>
Defendant/Respondent Information
(Each Defendant/Respondent is displayed below) Party Type: DefendantParty No.:1
Name: Boston, Sam
Address: 11916 Somerset Avenue
City: Princess AnneState:MDZip Code:21853
Attorney(s) for the Defendant/Respondent
Name: Simpkins, Esq, Kirk G
Practice Name:
Address: 30489 Broad Street
PO Box 550
City: Princess AnneState:MDZip Code:21853
Name: Karp, Esq, Daniel
Practice Name: Karpinski, Colaresi & Karp
Address: 120 East Pratt Street
Suite 1850
City: BaltimoreState:MDZip Code:21202-1605
Go JOE!
Anonymous said...
Ken Ballard is a crook. He owes people money and uses his NAACP background to threaten people. Thank God i got out of slumerset county.....
8:40 PM
You are correct and there are numerous criminal and civil complaints listed in the MJCS for him.
Run as far and as fast as you can from this person.
why don't some of you get off your lazy butts and run for office instead of running of at the mouth just hear yourself yap
No cursing on this Blog. I fixed that last comment but that's it.
Wow! This is an educational blog! I live right next door in wicomico, and knew none of this until now.
Thanks, Joe!
Sam Boston is the KING of the good ole' boys..... so I guess it only suites that he took his rightful place as the leader of Somerset County. He, like the rest of the commissioners, is a MALE CHAUVINISTIC PIG, who does not believe in a woman holding ANY type of power in office; who is a WOMANIZER; and is against ANY effort to make progress in Somerset County. As long as he is in charge, Somerset County will remain the most poverty stricken county in Maryland.. and county residents will remain in the Dark Ages. Until someone makes some serious changes in the county government... GOD help us!!
On the contrary Joe, I read your site daily. Some topics I agree with you, some topics I disagree, most I have no opinion. But in this case, just think you should have dug a little deeper rather than dumping on Mr. Boston and Somerset County. You may be right, you may be wrong, but you need the facts before you make a supposition. It's nice for you to break the story, but you are always banging on the DT for not having the facts straight or the entire story. Goose/Gander situation if you ask me.
I seem to remember Ken Ballard smuggling contraband to the inmates when he was employed by the county at VO TECH or something like that. He was certainly involved in some illegal activity. Sounds like just the kind of guy that might get the job in good old Somerset.
to 9:15, what are Boston's qualifications? Funny, he doesn't have a bio on the Somerset website. Why don't you tell him to come on this blog and tell us why he is so qualified that they don't need to advertise the position.
9:44, I have a feeling that Joe knows more than he stated in his initial report. What he did state is factual.
anonymous 9:44,
I thank you for visiting as well as your suggestions and support. This is how the discussion/debate begins. If you disagree, I certainly welcome that and would LOVE to be proven wrong. I do NOT do soft pieces that make everyone feel good. You'd need to go to the Daily Times for that. In fact, they read our story and have already posted on line their pampered version.
Riddle me this Batman. How many Black people are on the County Council down there? Second, how many Black people have ever been on the County Council? Third, what is the ratio of Blacks versus Whites in your County?
I can assure you, your answer will be not good enough in the end. IMHO, that County is as crooked as the day is long and it's sad I don't have enough time in a day to cover everything down there because I'd have a field day.
Joe, I love SBY News, I agree with most things on here, not all. But what I do like is that fact alone, I don't agree with it all, that is what makes for good debates and real conversation. Kinda like watching the game with a friend who hates your team, I love that. Watching a game with a rival is good stuff....Everone on the same team is boring, to me anyway. Thats what this is, Good Stuff!
I see SBY News branching off, spreading its wings....Princess Anne here we come "P.A.News",
Go have a field day, Joe. Perhaps Somerset needs you.
And....the president of the Somerset County Commissioners, James Ring, has a son-in-law who is a Sergeant at the Somerset County Detention Center and a Soon to be Grandson-in-law who is employed as a county maintenance worker.
Simpkins/Boston is the new Phoebus.
or what's in...Simpkins/Boston/Long
What's out..Phoebus
"Your view is certainly welcome here and I'll hope you find Salisbury News as an alternative source for your news and information down the road. Heck, I already know you do because you're here now. Have a great evening and we look forward to your return and possible reply."
WOW! A kinder and gentler Joe. And they said it couldn't happen but there's your proof.
"Riddle me this Batman. How many Black people are on the County Council down there? Second, how many Black people have ever been on the County Council? Third, what is the ratio of Blacks versus Whites in your County? I can assure you, your answer will be not good enough in the end."
Joe, that's a great point and an insight that definitely does not get talked much about, at least not publicly.
I believe that Mr. Boston exercises good judgement in most cases but I do believe that he should reveal his involvement in the rehiring of James L. Henderson as dog control officer. Henderson was rehired by the commissioners while he (Henderson) was under criminal investigation for numerous offenses. Mr. Henderson is still under investigation by the Justice Department and the FBI for civil rights violations, yet he is still employed by the County. To my knowledge none of the commissioners have ever explained there reasoning for rehiring Mr. Henderson. The commissioners have had access to the police reports that confirmed the allegations against Mr. Henderson were found to be true. If Mr. Boston wants to win the trust of the citizens he needs to remedy this situation. If he in fact voted in favor of the rehiring, I would suggest that he is not the right man for the job.
Your points are valid, but you can't make qualified people run for office, and then you can't make the voters go out and vote. There is a gerrymandered district in Somerset County. The constituents just don't come out and vote. Obama created a passion for people that have never voted to go to the polls. A county election doesn't create that passion, no matter how much the NAACP and civic organizations try to get the population to get out and vote. There's no locked doors on the election facilities and no with-holding of applications to run for the positions. So don't try to turn a rash rant on your part about a person you believe doesn't deserve to be appointed to a position into white/black arguement over the county demographics. At times I think it is you who needs to take the blinders off. As open as you are on line, you have a closed mind at times.
Wow!This post struck more than one nerve.I hate to see Mr.Powell go,local politics need young blood.
I have come to the conclusion over the last two years that nothing that happens in Somerset Co. would surprise me. Here we go again. The past warden "resigns" from ECI, after having being charged by an inmate with abuse, in fact I think it had something to do with the inmate being hit in the head with a television. He is then rewarded by our esteemed commissioners and given the job as the warden at the Detention Center. Again, he has multiple allegations of abuse against him and in fact "resigns" again after negotiations by Mr. Antonelli, to avoid state charges. He tried to be rehired as special investigator for the State's Attorney, his "friend". When that failed the commissioners again rewarded him with another county job, head of animal control, despite supposedly being repramanded while working at ECI for shooting a dog. He was replaced by another individual with tarnished credentials, being cleared by the State's Attorney within 30 minutes, after shooting someone in the back. Another detention center employee was not prosecuted for sexual misconduct and supplying contraband to female inmates. It appears that as long as you are in with the "good ole boys club", you can do what you want in this county. Sam Boston might be the best person in the world for this job, but as long as things are done underhanded, there will always be speculation. If he wanted to persue this position, he should have resigned first as a Commissioner. Someone needs to come in and make a full investigation of this county's appointed and elected officials. Until then all that can be done is try to expose the truth, maybe at some point things will change, but I wouldn't suggest that you hold your breath.
It does run deep down there. I have never seen anything like it. I would not spend a dime in that county ust because it is so corrupt. The nepatism is a disgrace. Joe as usual you are right on the money. I go there when I feel like I want to go back about thirty years in time. It affects all aspects of goverment from the courts to the state police. There is something truly wrong in that county. "If you aint from therrrr, you aint go no chance". I have seen it first hand and it makes you sick. The B/S at the jail, the barrack, the county goverment. They must be proud of what they have preserved. ( total ignorance ) Hell if you have the right last name down there you can get away with murder. Do your homework on the Gunter case. I think he was a MSP troopers son. What a crock. Shoot someone in the head and it is an accident. Look that one up Joe.
Joe:
If you go to Peaky's, best not pay with a credit card if it has your name on it!!!
Unless you want to return home in a pine box.
To 10:16 Sounds like sour grapes.
You forget the grand=daughter who works for the SA with child support.If I'm not mistaken the young man was employed in the maintenance department before dating Ring's grand-daughter. The son=in=law has also been at the detention center for many, many years and all are qualified to hold their positions. That is a lot different than the suspect activity going on with this announcement.
nestifacThanks for the debate Joe. More blogs like this and I'll sign up for an avatar and screen name. Better than being Anon 915 944 n 1034. I'll keep reading.
D
I have reviewed, up to this point, 50+ comments. Some appear to have been written by the same people. People who obviously have an axe to grind with Sam. Perhaps someone who doesn't work for the County anymore who couldn't come to work on time or simply do their job due to lazieness.
Joe, there's more to this negativity than you know. If you'd like to dig into this a little deeper, I think you'll find that the person who fed you this information is simply ticked off at losing her seat on the gravy train.
I wish Sam luck in this appointment and think he'll do a fine job. He has the County's interest at heart, as do the rest of the Simpkins family. I look forward to working for him.
Please sign me,
A Loyal Somerset County Employee
HOW CAN THESES SO CALLED COMMISSIONERS APPOINT THEIR FELLOW COMMISSIONER TO THIS JOB WHEN IT HAS NEVER BEEN POSTED FOR AND THE TAXPAYERS OF THIS COUNTY IS PAYING THEIR SALARIES ALL OF SOMERSET COUNTY SHOULD BE IN AN UPROAR OVER THIS I WILL AGREE IF YOU ARE NOT SOMEHOW INVOLVED WITH THIS FAMILY IT IS NO NEED TO APPLY FOR A COUNTY JOB ALSO CHECK OUT THE COUNTY ROADS SECRETARY INVOLVED WITH THE ROADS DIRECTOR JUST ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF HOW CROOKED THIS COUNTY IS
Ding Ding Ding! Anonymous 6:23 is todays winner! Right on the money! Anyone who works for the County knows who it is. I heard the rodeo was a blast!
To 5:23, You call yourself a Loyal Somerset County Employee, I'm sure that means that you are in with the good ole boys. Joe, has much deeper connections into Somerset Co. than taking info from a disgruntled ex-employee. (I seem to remember crab feasts with certain high ranking officials.) That is not the issue here. At issue is an apparent appointment of a position without the proper posting of position. Inside the doors of the County Complex is a sign informing everyone that they are an EOE. Where is the equal apportunity for anyone else to bid for this position? That is the taxpayer's money that they are spending, thus more than a few people should have a voice in what is going on. If this appointment, is in fact true, precident has certainly been set for the filling of this position, in the past, thus there should be a lot of legal ramifications. It seems like the county doesn't care how many actions are filed against them.
The corruption and nepotism charges are all true. Somerset County is run by good-old-boys who do business behind the scenes and most are related to one another. Mr. Powell was a breath of fresh air and he was treated badly for having the audacity of taking a job away from the machine that wanted Mr. Boston to have the job. They ousted him earlier than he planned to go, too. Shame on all of them!!
Sam was a good telephone man and an intelligent guy. Then again you don't have to have any intelligence to run a county. Look who's running Wicomico
Oh, cmon, Somerset is a small county, with only like 24,000 people. The chances are the somebody's going to be related to somebody. The commissioners picked Dan Powell and look where it got them. He took $80k a year and resigned not two years into the job because of his own political ambitions. Sam will do a fine job. He knows the county and he's served it well as a commissioner. He'll do a good job as county administrator.
o.k. Mr. newly appointed Commissioner - I would like to know why, in these times of everyone watching their spending, you have police officers driving Somerset County police vehicles to their home in Wicomico County? Check it out for yourself on Old Ocean City Road right down from the store on the corner of Parker Road and before you get to Fawn Drive, I don't know the number on the house but the car looks like the Wicomico County Sheriff's cars, it is black and white, but it says Somerset County on the side.
I am a retired Somerset County teacher. Before casting aspersions at Sam Boston or anyone else, one needs to get some facts straight. I taught Longs, Bostons, Simpkinses, Schrocks, etc. Because Somerset is relatively such a small county, there are bound to be lots of personal and professional interrelationships. I don't recall teaching anyone from the aforementioned families who was a slackard. They were all smart enough to marry those of their own abilities; hence, there is the perceiption of nepotism.
I met Sam Boston on a number of occasions through his involvement with PTA. The Bostons are an upstanding family. It was my pleasure to have known them. No doubt Mr. Boston will do a fine job as Executive.
Hey 8:47, If what you say is true about Mr. Powell leaving because he has political aspirations, heaven forbid anyone in Somerset County having political aspirations other than a Simpkins, Boston, Phoebus, or a Long.
What ever Ms. teacher what are you an aunt, cousin, 3rd cousin. The family tree has one longgggggg branch. I agree if you are qualified then fine. I just dont know how an educated person can not see the makor problem with tax dollars being spread among three families. I an sho you gots to get dat one. I would not call it a mafia. I see no Ital. No Irish. Just old southernnn gentleman didnt one of them have a Black baby tied to mast of his boat Hmmmmm. I undastand he even did some adjucatin as one of them ther judges. Stars and barrrs forever in good ole Slummerset county. There are some good folks that actually do have to work for living there. I bet i know who ther are not related to.
8:55- Somerset County Sheriff's Cars are blue and white. Learn how to read. Did you go to school in Somerset County??
c 11:03, what in the world are you saying? Is there a point? It sounds as if you have some issues. And, for the record, I am related to no one in Somerset County! I wrote that I am a retired teacher for the county.
I live in the county and support most things 100%. One thing that I do not understand is how can you appoint someone that acted like a spoiled brat because he did not get the position when Mr. Massey retired. Dan Powell has done a great job and has been belittled by the county commissioners. Sam Boston should have been asked to resign when he slandered several of the commissioners, the same several that put him there now. I am confused, what is wrong with this picture. I strongly urge the people of Somerset County to stand up and be heard. The whole county is going to be run by one family. Those days are over, we need to act now!!!
Another new Post on Somerset County at 2:08 PM TODAY!
I am sorry to see Mr. Powell leave his postion as County Administrator. I can understand why he did. He received no respect from the County Commissioners. When Mr. Massey was the County Administrator he was not treated with disrespect. Mr. Powell deserved the same respect as Mr. Massey. I wonder how Mr. Boston will like when he is disrespected. He deserves what he gets, he needs to be treated as he treated others. I can account for a time when there was an older gentlemen (such as myself) that applied for a job with the Somersert County Roads. His wife was dying of cancer and this position was cutting grass for the county. He did not even get an interview, guess where the job went, to Mr. Boston's brother, who is a retired Posmaster who receives a retirement check. Also this brother was, and I think stil does, work for the Somerset County dispensary. What is wrong with this picture. I think we better wake up and smell the nepotism!!
AMEN to 2:10 p.m. I think you hit the nail on the head. I also heard the same story from a very reliable source that works in the county office. Shame on you, Sam Boston!! If I were Mr. Boston I would say thanks but no thanks to this position. I think he was given the position to smooth things over with the "fab 4". What a joke!!
I don't live in Somerset County but just across the line. Let me get this straight, you didn't get the job the first time, excuse me but they didn't want you then, and now you are going to accept the "interim" position. Are you lapsed in the head???? I hope you read these comments and pay attention. Don't get me wrong, everyone is not liked, but in one day you have accomplished to have 81 comments and 95% of them are negative. Does this tell you anything about yourself????
Come on now, what is wrong with a man who likes the women and his drink. Boston is human, I think:):)Sam Boston needs to remember on thing, what goes around, comes around, eventually.....
What about the local sheriff isn't he related to them all, the good old boy network is alive and well. I heard they burned the crops, poisoned the water supply, and slaughtered the livestock.
I think is a shame for Dan Powell, he is one sharp cookie who needs to think of running for a higher position, Elmore, Simpkins, Stoltfuz, Phobus,McCready,Tyler,Cottman,Ring, Ward,Jones,Ballard all part of the network.
It is a shame the run Dan Powell out. Sam Boston got mad when he got it and resigned from being president I would'nt even apply again.There is a lot of problems in Somerset County and it is the good ole boys. you wouldnt dare run against any of them. Yes as far as the cops taking the cars home it is the Town Cops they mostly all live out of the county. Ocean Pines ect. The take home cars are unbeliveable. Such waste and they say they dont have money for the real important things education ect. Look at some of the saleries of the good ole boys. But this is everywhere. Good luck Dan in whatever you do. its just a shame they got rid of you.
I dont need a pine box cause Im going to the body farm.
Looks like the computer network at Seidel, Baker & Tilghman is on overload!!!! LOL!!!! I'd say 2/3 of these comments have come from there! WOOOT!
Denny
Identify yourselves. Publicly "Anonymous" isn't the way to make your story be heard. The fact that you attack a person without identifying yourself is ridiculous. I am Mr. Boston's nephew and find this whole thing ridiculous. He's overseen Somerset County for the last 6 years. He's lived here all his life. The fact that he was elected to the commissioner and now appointed to the County Administrator position shows that he wants to see Somerset County move forward not backward. He ran for those positions in an attempt to make a difference. To all of you who say the Boston's are a part of a Mafia, whatever, you are really showing your lack of intelligence considering the whole premise makes no sense. So again I say if you want to be heard, say your name don't be "Anonymous".
I wish Dan Powell all the best. He is a great person. I wish all the folks that will be working with Sam Boston, the best of luck. "Mr. Know It All" will certainly tell you how to do things his way. It is his way or no way. He cannot take being second fiddle!!
If you do not live in the county you should not be allowed to take county vehicles home. This should be the first thing on Sam Boston's agenda. Why are we paying for people to drive home (in another county no less)in our county vehicles. Want to save money, start looking and digging and do something about it. You wanted the job so badly now do what is right for the residents of SOMERSET COUNTY.
It is good to see people in Somerset County care about what is happening around them. Now take it to the next step...call your commissioner or go to the commissioners meeting next Tuesday at 2:00 and tell them you won't take the "good old boy anymore". This is our county. We deserve a qualified person in this position.
To 2:10, maybe you should think about the fact that Sam Bostons brother, is not only retired from the postal service but a retired farmer. I say that makes him a pretty good candidate to have a part time grass cutting job. Who knew everyone wanted that job! I give him credit for not wanting to sit around and do nothing rather to do something with his time. I guess 6 years as county comissioner doesn't help your resume either!
If you look at the number of blatantly ignorant comments on here, if that's truly a representation of Somerset County, God help these people. What bunch of dumb arses. Sam Boston or no Sam Boston, I've seen better use of the English language by monkeys at the zoo.
The anon 2:10 comment came straight out of Fairmount City. To a certain former County employee, you've been BLOGGED.
I.T.G.
The issue here is conflict of interest. Mr. Boston is a Commissioner. How in the world can they justify taking someone from their ranks to fill in this position? Aren't there laws against that? If not, by doing such a thing, he and all of the commissioners are opening up cans of worms and should be prepared to pay the consequences. I foresee the perception of such and strongly suggest that the voters take a stand and vote off these people with the next election.They are becoming much too blatant now with their Good Ole Boys Network, and maybe this is what it will take to shape the next election.
The County Administrator serves at the pleasure of the Board of County Commissioners. There is NO law that precludes this as being illegal. Simply put, it's legal. They could appoint Mickey Mouse if they liked. It's their perrogative and not a dang thing anyone can do about it, good ol boy network or not. You don't like it, vote em all out. My guess is they'll be back in come re-election time. You bunch of blowhards ain't gonna do anything about it.
that black and white police car you are talking about belongs to the Princess Anne Police. I happen to know the Officer that lives there. Now everybody quite complaining and use your voice for whatever you think is right. posting it here will not change a thing
Anon 7:25, are you "asserting" beyond your knowledge here? Certainly, the County Administrator serves at the pleasure of the Board of Commissioners, however, County personnel regulations detail a certain job advertisement and subsequent application and selection process. This is the same for an open position in the County Planning and Zoning Office or at the top level, County Administrator. Not following this County procedure is illegal, unethical and demonstrates a true lack of integrity by our elected officials - the Somerset County Board of Commissioners. Pick up your phone Somerset County citizens and call your Commissioner or the County Administrator's office and strongly voice your opposition to this "good old boy" ongoings, in what, 2009?!
Mr. Boston should reveal his involvement in the hiring of James L. Henderson Jr. by the county while Mr. Henderson was under criminal investigation, and why Mr. Henderson is still employed by the county after a police investigation revealed criminal activity by this individule. I believe by this action of the commissioners, Somerset County is facing a potential serious lawsuit. If in fact Mr. Boston voted in favor of hiring Mr. Henderson, he is definately not the man for this job.
Jack Willing, planning and zoning director would have made a great administrator. He just happens to be a lawyer, just like Mr. Powell. He is certainly more qualified than Boston to be administrator. To bad that Mr. Willing didn't even have a chance to apply for the job. Oh, I forgot, he is a republican and I guess that would exclude him from consideration anyway. Too bad.
very interesting 8:05. If in fact what the commissioners did was illegal, whos job is it to enforce the law? Should county attorney Krik Simpkins step in and take action or should the state attorney Kristy Hickman act on this matter? If laws have been broken someone in authority should do there job and remedy the situation. I doubt Kristy Hickman would do anything on her own unless there was a public outcry because she always takes the easy way out and looks the other way if the wrongdoing is in someway related to a county employee or elected official.
I have been reading these comments and I would like to make a few. First of all, why bring up anything about Jim Henderson in all of this. He did a GREAT job as Warden of the Somerset County Detention Center and I hear he is doing a fantastic job for Animal Control. As a professional I had the "pleasure" of visiting the Dention Center on numerous times. I think these comments are from an an employee that was fired and/or an employee that had been reprimanded by Mr. Henderson. So why don't we just Mr. Henderson out of the equation. That is news is worn out. People in the professional community are tired to hearing and reading about it. The real issue here is the way Mr. Boston was appointed to this position? And why would his fellow commissioners put him into that position when the were publicly humiliated by Mr. Boston? There are alot of questions that need to be asked by the residents of Somerset County.
In regards to 8:47. The gentlemen that applied for the job with the Somerset County Roads was more qualified than Mr. Boston's brother for the job. He was physically capable and was on a limited income with a very sick wife. Mr. Boston's brother is receiving I am sure a very healthy retirement check from the USPS. So tell me, who should have had the job!!
4:09 - You could not be more inaccurate in what you say about James Henderson. Did you read the results of the year long police investigation the was conducted by the MSP and posted online for all to read by the Daily Times, that outlined the pattern of abuse this man inflicted on the inmates? Did you read the report written by the Warden of Wicomico county, Douglas Devenyns which revealed many health and safety issues. The fact is Henderson would not have resigned his position had he not been forced to do so or go to jail himself. The significance of this is the fact Boston and the other commissioners knew about Henderson's behavior at the Detention Center and did nothing about it. To make matters worse they rehired him to another county position. As a previous writter has stated, if Boston voted in favor of rehiring Henderson it shows very poor judgement on his part and should exclude him from being county administrator. You may not be as professional as you think you are if you actually visited the detention center and thought that it was a well run facility. Obviously you didn't talk to any of the CO's unless it was one of Hendersons henchmen.
I would dispute what 4:09 has to say about James L. Henderson. I understand that he has had several confrontations with citizens since he has become dog catcher. I believe Mr. Powell has received some complaints over his obnoxious behavior. Hope Mr. Henderson is not allowed to carry a gun. I agree that the commissioners were remiss in there duties when they hired Henderson. If they are not capable of hiring a dog catcher, how can they hire the right person for the job of administrator?
To respond to anon 4:21 since when is being low income or having a sick wife a qualification for a job? I am fairly sure that you would be offended if (while being interviewed for a position) your income level or family member health status were questioned. Also why should you care if Mr. Boston is receiving a retirement check from the USPS? To receive a retirement check one would have to complete the required years of services.
It's the perception of wrongdoing, idot. You don't hire your brother in a situation like this. Elected officials should never hire there relatives, it's just common sense. You must not have any of that if you think this decision was the proper one.
4:21 --- Would you think it OK if the mayor gave his brother a job with the city or if all of the commissioners gave there family members county jobs. I think you would agree that this would be wrong and probable illegal. Hiring relatives is a no no and I also agree Henderson should not have been hired. I've heard that he is still under investigation.
To 5:29 Henderson always shows up to give himself a pat on the back, because he is probably one of a few that will. He was TROUBLE at ECI, TROUBLE at the Detention Center, TROUBLE at the dog pound and, I suspect, will always be TROUBLE. He has negiotiated himself, with the help of attorneys out of positions at ECI and the Detention Center so that he would not face "state" charges. That is why he is now being investigated by the feds. Remember federal statutes are five years. He still has a long time to sweat this one out. I am sure that he is tired of having his sordid actions made public, he probably felt that he was off the hook again, just as in the past, but maybe he has come up against the wrong individuals this time. It is very gratifying to know that he is so tired of having this rehashed over and over, maybe the next time he will keep his fists to himself and stop bending his elbow to his mouth. Until then, I am sure that we can't let the public forget his actions. As long as the Commissioners condone his behavior, they will also remain under scrutiny.
Maybe the Demorcatic State Central Committe could nominate one of the Dize's for Sammy's seat on the board.
I can proudly say that I am fron Wicomico County and from a professional level I had several encounters with Jim Henderson. One, he was fair and honest. Two, I think these negative comments are from an ex-employee who was fired under Mr. Hendersons employ and rightfully so. The family of the inmate that has made these claims should have used their resources on him and maybe he would not be where he is today, again rightfully where he should be. Stop trying to blame everyone else for circumstances that they have brought upon themselves. These are choices they made as adults, crime does not pay!!!!
These people are so absorbed in their own ingorance. Move on with your lives. Parents of the inmate, use your madness to try to help your son when he is released into society so that hopefully he can be a self sufficient citizen and not welching on the system.
The point is that a position was available within the county. A person applied that was more qualified (he had done this for a living before), capable, and unemployed. A person applied for the job who was recently retired from a cushy office position,receiving a hefty retirement check and who just so happens to have a brother who is a county commissioner. Now tell me why both should not have gotten an interview. One got an interview and he was the one who got the job. Fair is fair, don't be so stupid that you can't see that this is nepotism.....
FYI. I normally do not do this but I must come to the defense of Mr. Henderson. I have had to call Mr. Henderson on an occassion and I cannot tell you how professional
he was. He was a tremendous help and was very polite. If someone has complained on Mr. Henderson I am sure it was one of the idiots that has abused their animals by not feeding or housing them properly. People should not have animals that they cannot care for or should not use them for fighting matches. Mr. Henderson is doing a good job in my eyes and there is a definite improvement at the Animal Control office and it is all due to Mr. Henderson!!!!
Reply to 3:24 - You may have had some contact with (Dr.Jekyll Mr. Hyde Henderson) but your impression of him is outlandish. You obviously do not know the dark side of Mr. Henderson. Do you not believe what the year long police investigation of him revealed? You comment about the parents of the inmate that was abused. Excuse me, but there were at least 20 inmates abused by Henderson so I believe that would equate to about 20 sets of parents. The inmates are grown men, no longer under the control of there parents. I doubt that any of the parents would condone the behavior of there child, that got them incarcerated but that is irrelavant for this discussion. Henderson will always be a lightning rod for the county. Status quo is not acceptable and Mr. Boston should remedy the situation if in fact he assumes the administrators position.
tooting your own horn or what?
Crime doesn't pay 3:24? Henderson has committed them for years and is still free as a bird. However I do agree with you and justice will be served.
James L Henderson has killed more animals than any body I know ( deer, dogs, cats etc.) When he worked at the prison, he was investigated by the Md. State police for shooting dogs at the firing range with his buddy Bob Nash (Deceased) The undercover Trooper found the remains of several dogs in and around the range But couldn't get any Good Ole Boys to talk. I had to laugh when he was hired as head of dog control.
To 4:03, I am glad that you think that Henderson is a professional. Let me tell you about my first and only meeting with him. It was a cold Saturday night nearly two years ago, when I learned that my son had been beaten by Henderson and then thrown out of jail. I had to tell Henderson that my son still had time to serve, because you see, I am the one who pressed charges on him. I called the jail to find out why he had been released and it sounded as if they were having a party there. I told them where my son was and when I was on the way, Henderson called to say that he would bring him home. That is when I informed Henderson of the additional time. When I got to Dash In, my son was in the car with Henderson and Henderson got out of the county car that he was driving and came over and learned on the mirror of my van. He reaked of alcohol, was slurring his speech and spitting out tobacco juice from chewing tobacco. All the while he was telling me that he felt like an a$$hole. I thought that I would throw up from the stench. Now is that professionalism or what. And yes, I will sign my name, Mr. Henderson. It's Deborah Cullen
Not surprising at all 10:42. That is just one example of the bizarre behavior of this individule. His subordinates were well aware of it and yes, the commissioners and the States Attorney were very well aware of this mans behavior for years. Boston was involved in the rehiring of this man and that is why he should not be considered for position of county executive.
I have no opinion of Mr. Boston's qualifications but I can state that everything that has been expressed about Mr. Henderson is accurate.
go Simpkins!
It's not about Simpkins, it's about the unscrupulousness of the commissioners. It's time for them to go.
Maybe if Mrs. Cullen had been more involved in her son's younger years (as she tries to be so concerned now) activities he would not be serving time as he so deserves. Discipline starts at home and apparently he received NONE. I can say I am NOT Mr. Henderson, I am from Crisfield (I will remain anonymous, because you know there are alot of crazy people out there who would do anything) and certain people should have been in jail long ago. Parents should not try to cash in on their childrens misfortunes. I need to say no more.....
To 4:55. I couldn't agree with you more. Certain people should have been in jail a long time ago. Henderson probably tops the list. I was totally involved in my son's younger years. Unfortunately, he chose a different path than the one that I had mapped out for him. I did not tolerate his actions towards me, and I certainly don't tolerate the actions of one in authority, who is supposed to know better. I held my son accountable for his actions, as I pressed charges on him several times. Apparently, Henderson does not believe in any kind of accountability. Henderson had bragged to other coworkers that he had had charges filed on him 12 different times, but because of "friends" etc, he chose not to be accountable and they all went away. My post had nothing to do with cashing in on my son's misfortunes, but in fact to give people an example of "professionalism". You would leave people to believe that you are not Henderson, but if not you are posting for him. I am the one that should be worrying about the crazy people out there. In an earlier post 3:24, I assume that you are alluding to "people being absorbed in their own ignorance" and "to move on with our madness". Are these threats, just because you want to cover up all of Hnederson's criminal activity? If I feel that my son has been made to be accountable, then I certainly think that Henderson should accept his shortcomings and become accountable for his actions. What makes me feel good is that there are just a few posts here that are from me, so there must be many other persons out there that know the truth on Henderson. I also realize that his political ambitions have probably been destroyed and that people that live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones. Maybe he should worry more about his child and let me worry about my own. But then I don't condone my son's actions. By the way Joe, my son was home this weekend and enjoyed your blog. DC
I think certain individuals fail to see is that WE live in the Crisfield area and WE know alot more about these circumstances that certain family members want to bring into the picture. You can write all you want about family members being wrongly accused or treated wrongly but it all comes down to one thing, society is a safer place with those family members behind bars. I know that my grandchild is much safer with certain people behind bars. When that certain person is off the streets and not selling drugs to YOUNG kids. It makes me sick to my stomach to know that my community tolerates such behavior from these so called "innocent parties". How innocent were they when they were caught selling and distributing drugs to these kids REPEATEDLY?" I say run them out of town and never allow them back!!! You know who you are.
Hey Joe, I hope everyone doors were locked when certain people were home. I know mine and my Mom's were!!!
Jack Willing would make an outstanding County Admionistrator. He has the common sense as well as the book sense. Excuse me people, but isn't this blog been about the County Administrator position. I am tired of reading about Henderson, the issue at hand here is who is better qualified for the County Administrator position.
To 12:28, I too cannot tolerate drug dealers and I'm not sure who you were alluding to with your comments about repeatedly being caught selling drugs to young kids, but at least I know that it was not my son, because he has never been caught selling drugs. He was too busy using them himself.
The issue here is the cover up of Henderson's abuses and criminal activities for years. When will he be off the streets? At least I have got the Hutspa to identify myself. dc
To bad that Mr. Willing nor anyone else had the opportunity to apply for the job, thanks to the inept commissioners, thats what it is all about.
I vouch for 12:28 pm Have you all thought about moving out of town or even better yet, out of the state. You certainly give the rest of us in the community a bad name.
Exactly 1:41!! That is exactly what it is all about.........Also I looked up in the dictionary the word Hutspa. There was no word listed so I am wordering if this is jail slang???? Just wondering.
To 3:55 I am sure that you are referring to Henderson. Wonder who started his daughter down the wrong path.
I think the word they were aiming for was the Hebrew word, "chutzpah".
No actually I was talking about the Cullens. I live in their area and I think we would be better off without them and probably the like of you too 4:03.
I think you all are pretty low to try to involve Mr. Henderson's daughter. Common trash would be what my grandmother would call you. If you got a gripe with him is one thing but I don't think there is any need to involve his daugter. How would you like for your daughter to be brought up in something that is none of her concern. Yep, white trash is the category you would fall in.
I am sure that you are quite upset with the Cullens. Because you see if it had not been for a Cullen, you would still be torturing the inmates at the detention center and probably be getting ready for a run for the sherriff's position. Now, because of the determination of one Cullen, the whole county knows about your abusive behavior. It would be interesting to see how much money the county would save, if the employees at the dog pound were indeed working instead of blogging on the computer. Maybe the commissioners should check this out. I am sure that since the dog pound is now closed that more responses probably won't surface until tomorrow.
To 4:58 Trying to pass yourself as someone in the know doesn't make you look any better. If you want to malign someone at least do it fairly. Just to prove that this is a false post, the "Cullens" don't even live that close to each other and if you had inside knowledge of the Cullens you would know that.dc
Just an observation....whenever I see SC Animal Control trucks,its always female officers-never see any men.
That's because Henderson is in the office posting untruths on this and other blog sites.
Some people need to definitely get a life or a job!! This is so boring................
A lot of "Credit" has been given to the "Powers that be" in Somerset Co. for allowing James Henderson to escape Prosecution for Abuses and Alleged Abuses in several positions he's held within this County. I offer another Possible reason he seems to be covered in Teflon. His sister is married to a Salisbury Attorney whose Father is a Judge in Wicomico Co.
That would be judge Simpson, just another part of the democratic machine. So much cover-up in this case by those in power it tends to make one sick. In order to prosecute Henderson, many of his so called friends and family would have had to go down with him, thats why it didn't happen. Shame on the prosecutors in this case.
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