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Thursday, April 30, 2009

Helicopter-Gate . . . .Saga Continues

A private investigator has recently been assigned by the DLA - Defense Logistics Agency - to investigate the procurement procedure and where-a-bouts of the mysterious missing helicopter that was donated to the Somerset County Sheriffs Department.

The Daily Times editor, Greg Bassett, reported on WQMR radio that the helicopter had been seen being transported via rollback from one abandoned chicken house in Somerset County to yet another abandoned chicken house in Wicomico County. The surplus military helicopter was obtained by the Somerset County Sheriffs Department through a grant request with the assistance of Greg Bassett's wife.

The tri-county council rejected the operational request from the Sheriff's Department after the helicopter was obtained citing high operational cost for the program.

The helicopter was also spotted being stored in Sam Goldman's hangar at the Salisbury-Ocean City airport before being transported to an abandoned chicken house in Somerset County. Moreover, the helicopter was sited several times being flown around Wicomico County. It has a military camouflage paint job.

Law Day Event

Local Bar Association to Host Law Day Event tomorrow, Friday May 1, 2009.

A Legacy of Liberty - Celebrating Lincoln's Bicentennial.

In celebration of the bicentennial of Abraham Lincoln's birthday in 1809, the Women's Bar Association- Lower Eastern Shore, in conjunction with the Circuit Court and District Court of Maryland for Wicomico County will sponsor a Law Day Program. Law Day is a national day set aside to observe how the law and the legal process have contributed to the freedoms that we have as American citizens.

As part of the local observation of Law Day, area attorneys and judges have volunteered to host a Law Day program for middle and high school students selected from Salisbury, Wicomico and Bennett Middle Schools and Wicomico High School. The students will have the opportunity to tour the District and Circuit Courts, observe court cases, and discuss Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, with attorneys leading the discussion.

"It's important for young people to realize the effect Abraham Lincoln had on our nation and our constitutional democracy," said Assistant State's Attorney, Franzella Hayward Starkey, one of the coordinators of the Law Day Program. "We are excited to provide the youth of our community with this program in which we will explore the Law Day theme, "A Legacy of Liberty," says Starkey.

The Law Day event is an annual event that is hosted by members of the Wicomico County legal community. Please see the next page for the agenda and note the times where cameras are prohibited.

For more information contact: Carolyn Widdowson or Fran Starkey 410 – 548 – 4880

The Law Day Agenda for Friday, May 1, 2009 is as follows:

8:45 - 9:00 - Gathering in the Jury Assembly Room

9:15 - 9:30 - A view of the Jury Orientation film

9:30 - 10:30 - District Court tour and Observation of cases
**Cameras not Permitted in the Courtroom**

10:30 - 11:30 - Observation of Circuit Court cases
**Cameras not Permitted in the Courtroom**

11:30 - 11:45 - Questions and Answers

11:45 - 12:30 - Lunch

12:30 - 1:15 - A discussion of Lincoln's Legacy in the Jury Conference Room

1:15 - 2:00 - Observation of Drug Court
**Cameras not Permitted in the Courtroom**

2:00 - Questions and Answer Session

2:15 - 2:30 - Dismissal

Former Youth Rehab Counselor Charged With Unlawful Sexual Assault

Montevilla Anderson

Former Youth Rehab Counselor Charged with Unlawful Sexual Assault of Ferris School Client

Location of Incident: Ferris School, Snowden Cottage, 1825 Faulkland Road, Wilmington, Delaware, New Castle County

Date and Time of Occurrence: March 17th, 2009, at approximately 4:30 a.m.

Suspect(s): Montevilla G. Anderson, 48, of Vandever Avenue in Wilmington, Delaware

Resume: Shortly after 1:00 p.m. this afternoon, detectives from Troop 2 arrested Mr. Montevilla G. Anderson for allegedly grabbing the genitals of a 14-year-old client (a juvenile committed to this institution) of Ferris School.

In this case, which occurred on March 17th, the client was sleeping in his assigned room when Anderson entered his room and grabbed the victim’s genitals. This woke the victim, and upon being confronted, Anderson fled the room.

Mr. Anderson responded to Troop 2 today where he cooperated with investigators. He was subsequently charged with a single count of Unlawful Sexual Contact in the 1st degree (felony). A computer check also revealed he was wanted on five other active capiases. This subject was arraigned, issued a $2,500.00 unsecured bond and released from custody.

Mr. Anderson has strong ties to the community and has been involved in a variety of groups and clubs as an instructor and facilitator. Anyone who believes they too have been victimized by Mr. Anderson is asked to call Troop 2 detectives at 302.834-2630 ext. 224.

Swine Flu

Joe,

I am writing because I want to try to educate a few very insensitive, obnoxious individuals. I work for a chicken plant. Do you know how many times I have been questioned today about why our Hispanic population is being allowed to work today? My response is always the same. Do you have any knowledge of them traveling to Mexico in the past few weeks? The answer is always NO!! Just because you are Hispanic doesn't mean that you have the flu. If, however, an individual has been to Mexico then there is reason for concern. You CANNOT get the swine flu from a person just because they are Hispanic. I swear the ignorance of some people sometimes is overwhelming.

Thanks for your help.

Rick Hoppes Is You New Acting Fire Chief

Fire Chief David See is going to be retiring effective June 30, 2009. However, he has decided to take some of his accumulated leave and so today will be his last actual day on duty. Mayor Ireton has named Deputy Chief Rick Hoppes as Acting Fire Chief effective tomorrow, Friday, May 1, 2009.

FORD SEAFOOD IS NOW SELLING CRABS!

We will be at Goose Creek in Princess Anne today from 2pm-8pm, Friday, Sat and Sun. With the weather people are advised to call 443-669-7234 to check on hours.They can also call that number for deliveries or general info.

All my customers have been loving my crabs and they keep sending friends and family. Every order by the bushel or dozen is hand picked for size and quality. Only the biggest and best crabs are sold. The best part is I have something for every budget. I have huge females for $10 a dozen or 3 dozen for $25. People love them and 3 dozen feeds a family cheap! But I also have premium jumbo crabs, 7"+ jumbos that no one else has. They are absolutely beautiful. These crabs aren't cheap, $50 a dozen or $100 a half bushel but they are unmatched. I 100% guarantee everything I sell. I sell crabs to restaurants and markerts in Baltimore and my prices here are the way below retail elsewhere (although my prices on Jumbos are high these crabs can be $100 dozen in the city).

Blackberry Phone Lost Or Stolen At GOB


A Blackberry was lost or stolen at or near the Government Office Building (GOB) on Tuesday afternoon at about 2:30. Someone made an outgoing call from the cell phone to a number at the GOB at 3:50 that same afternoon. This may have been an attempt to return the phone by redialing a number that originated a call in an attempt to assist in locating the missing phone. Since the phone has not been returned or reported found, service has been turned off. If you have found the phone please call 410-548-3140 to make arrangements to return it to its owner.”

Where Will Big Brother End Up Next?



Remember this camera next to my Office at 300 W. Main Street?

All of a sudden the camera has been removed from the Taylor's building, across from my Office. Mind you, I haven't been back to 300 W. Main Street since the beginning of this past winter. Now you tell me, it was there when I was going in and out of my Office on a daily basis and the SPD could see who was coming and going every day. Then I chose not to go there any more and it disappears?
It would appear they also installed one on the Library, perhaps for the Salisbury Festival. Nevertheless, I personally find this very suspicious now that the Mayor is gone and a new Mayor is in Office.

DOES THE AG. DISTRICT DOWNZONING MAKE SENSE TO YOU?


Anyone who heard the environmental lobby perform at the public hearing this week on the proposed bill to prohibit “cluster subdivisions in Wicomico County surely cringed in fear of unbridled development and the end of farming in the County before someone has succeeded Barack Obama as the President. I sure did while listening to alarmists like King Burnett and John Grout, and that condition continued until I heard the historical data that the Planning Office recently presented to the County Council after the hearing about the total amount of these subdivisions and other residential development in the rural areas.

During the 11 years since cluster subdivisions were authorized (to limit the extent of development) there have been a grand total of 12 such subdivisions approved in rural areas that contain 263 lots on 972 acres, and most of that acreage is permanently preserved open space that is not part of the lots. That rate -- on average of about 1 subdivision and 24 new lots each year – will not come close to depleting farm land in Wicomico County, and actually preserves most of the subdivided land, separate from the homes and lots, for agricultural usage together with any areas that are significant in terms of the environment.

In fact the Planning Office’s data shows that more land has been subdivided for the conventional “large lot” subdivisions, such as “The Plantations” -- the one with the long white fence on the south side of Route 50 near Hebron – which has 42 lots on 641 acres. The same number of lots could have been developed on about one-quarter of that acreage if it were platted as a cluster subdivision, and at least half of that lesser acreage would be preserved open space for farming separate from the lots. Altogether, during the 11-year period, the conventional subdivisions such as The Plantations have consumed 1053 acres in rural areas to create just 75 lots – about 14 acres per lot as compared to 3.7 acres (including the preserved open space) in the cluster subdivisions, in which the average developed area is less than 2 acres per lot.

So, why would we want to do away with cluster subdivisions to preserve land for farming and open space??? Maybe the four members of the County Council who are sponsoring the legislation will explain why that makes sense before they vote next week. Those Council members are: John Cannon, Wm. McCain, Sheree Sample-Hughes and David MacLeod, and their telephone numbers and e-mail addresses are listed at: http://www.wicomicocounty.org/council/council.html

Key Events In Wicomico Schools This Week

Friday:

Reception for students with artwork in the Wicomico County Elementary & Secondary Student Art Show, and the students' families, 7 p.m. at the Wicomico County Public Library. The 31st annual Wicomico County Elementary & Secondary Student Art Show, featuring more than 1,000 works from students in every Wicomico school, is on display at the Wicomico Public Library in Salisbury through May 3. Art teachers have elected 20 to 50 pieces per school, including paintings, drawings, photographs and sculpture, to represent the creative efforts of Wicomico students. The artwork will be displayed in the lobby and throughout the children's side of the library. The exhibit is available for viewing during library hours: 10 a.m.- 9 p.m. Monday to Wednesday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday to Saturday, and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. For information about the Wicomico County Student Art Show, please call Gary Beauchamp, supervisor of fine and performing arts, at 410-677-4573.


Parkside High School will host a mock crash at 9 a.m. Friday for the seniors of Parkside and James M. Bennett High School, as the two schools prepare for their proms. The mock crash, which illustrates for students what happens when a student drinks and drives, will take place at the basketball courts behind Parkside. A number of law enforcement agencies, fire and rescue personnel, and a funeral home will be involved in staging the mock crash, after which an assembly will be held in the auditorium. Parkside's prom will be on Friday night at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and JMB's prom will be held at Salisbury University May 23. (Wicomico High, whose prom is Saturday, hosted a mock crash before homecoming last fall for students of Wi-Hi and Mardela High.)

Sunday

Derek Wu, a senior at James M. Bennett High School, will give a piano recital at 1:30 p.m. Sunday in the Great Hall of Holloway Hall at Salisbury University. The recital is free and open to the public, but attendees are asked to bring canned goods to support the Maryland Food Bank and/or donations to support the Salisbury/Wicomico Youth Leadership Academy. In addition to being a senior at JMB and the student member of the Maryland State Board of Education, Derek is an award-winning pianist who has studied at the Peabody Institute.

Before & After



The spirit is high for a change Downtown and the Plaza is really starting to take shape.

Salisbury Kennel Club Yard Sale

INDOOR YARD SALE
Clean Out Your Attic
MAY 9

7:00 A.M. UNTIL 1:00 P.M.
Sponsored by
SALISBURY MARYLAND KENNEL CLUB

31663 WINTERPLACE PARKWAY AT NEW TRAINING CENTER
Setup will be allowed Friday night between 8:00 and 9:30 p.m.
$15.00 FOR 6’ X 12’ SPACE
OR
$25.00 FOR 12’ X 12’ SPACE
BRING YOUR OWN TABLE
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL: 410-430-6113

ADMISSION FREE

Smith, Comegys & Shields


During Budget Session Meetings the Three stooges had lunch at this local restaurant this week. For what it's worth, I could see them hooking up at the Salisbury Festival and deciding to grab a bite to eat together but when you're in the middle of your Budget Session, well, it's just not an ethical thing to do. Some might say it's a quorum and they should know better. I had been hoping these three would start seeing that the taxpayers want change. Maybe I'm wrong, maybe they said absolutely nothing at all about business while they were out together. What do you think?

JESI SIMPSON FUNDRAISER

COME OUT TO JACKS MARKET ON ROUTE 50 IN HEBRON MARYLAND SUNDAY MAY 3RD STARTS AT 11:00 AND PICK UP A CHICKEN BBQ PLATTER THAT WILL INCLUDE ½ CHICKEN, BAKED BEANS, CHIPS, ROLL AND A SODA FOR $8.00

ALL MONIES RAISED WILL GO TO JESI SIMPSON AND HIS FAMILY. FOR SOME OF YOU THAT ARE NOT AWARE, JESI IS A 15 YEAR OLD PARKSIDE STUDENT WHO WAS RECENTLY DIAGNOSED WITH LEUKEMIA. JESI IS CURRENTLY UNDERGOING HIS 2ND ROUND OF CHEMO AT JOHNS HOPKINS. JESI AND HIS FAMILY NEED HELP WITH MEDICAL EXPENSES AND YOUR SUPPORT. TICKETS ARE CURRENTLY ARE ON SALE AT RIVERSIDE AND MILFORD STREET PHARMACIES. DONATIONS ARE ACCEPTABLE AS WELL. AT BOTH LOCATIONS AS WELL WE WILL CONTINUE TO SELL OLD TOWNE CANDLES AND BAKED GOODS. THANK YOU FOR EVERYONE WHO HAS REACHED OUT THUS FAR; KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK. COME OUT AND SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR JESI SIMPSON AND HIS FAMILY.

Blogging Rules Of Etiquette

OPINION Blog

Thick skin is probably the number one requirement for anyone who gets into politics. But with the blogging community bringing everyone into the daily political discussion, a lot of folks with thinner skin and easily hurt feelings are finding themselves offended by the harsh rhetoric that now passes for political banter these days. This blog is no exception. I'm shocked at how easily readers fly off the handle or launch into angry tirades, often about racial issues, when they could easily tone it down.

But it's not just here. I was accused recently of resorting to "racist journalism" because I posted an item on a Latino site in which I used the phrase "illegal immigrant." On another site, I've seen tennis players -- tennis players! -- deploy the race card because they're upset about a team from an East Dallas public court dominating a bunch of rich private clubs from the north in USTA league competition. A news story about legislation to punish people who run over pedestrians somehow prompted an angry discussion of illegal immigrants. This trend is exacerbated by politicians like John Wiley Price labeling as racists those who oppose a city-funded convention center hotel.

Continue reading:

There's gotta be a better way of communicating, especially considering the growing popularity of blogs. Should blogs start using a tighter censorship policy to enforce a more civil discourse (something short of Frontburner's all-out ban on reader comments, which Rod posted an item about last week)? If not, what's the best solution to keep blog discussions on topic, tasteful and respectful? I don't mean that we can't criticize one another, but I don't understand why it has to get so nasty.

Here's what I would suggest:

1. If a reader strays from the topic of discussion, the comment doesn't get posted.
2. If the blog topic is about race, then readers as well as blog moderators must be extra-vigilant about postings. We can all agree to disagree, and we can all accept fair criticism. But when the criticism turns offensive, crude or too broadly sweeping in its characterizations, then it's time to take the comment down.
3. Unnecessary labeling of a commenter -- "That's typical of you right-wing fascists," or "Exactly what I'd expect of a socialist liberal like you," when it's not directly related to the topic of discussion deserves to be removed from the blog.
4. Ask people to abide by a simple rule: If you wouldn't talk to your parents, children or your clergy-person this way, then it probably doesn't belong on a blog where it'll be read by total strangers. Keep it respectful.

Does this amount to censorship? Maybe so. First and foremost, I'm asking people to self-censor. Be your own editor, in other words. If we don't start to abide by some common rules of decorum, then this and other blogs are going to start driving away more readers than we attract.

Editors Notes: I like this way of thinking. Your opinion is important and I'd like to hear your thoughts on these rules.

Say Goodbye To Chief See

While I caught a glimpse of him yesterday in what may be his final meeting, Chief See's last day on the job is today. He will use up vacation time and sick leave until his formal retirement but today is the last day he'll be in his Office. I hear Gordy is right behind him after receiving pressure from his spouse.

Oh, on another note. I hear a congratulations is in order for Chief Webster. It has been reported he has finally asked his partner to get married. Congratulations Chief.

Getting back to Chief See, don't let it hit you in the A$$ too hard on your way out the door today. You won't be missed by this Blogger and the Citizens will feel an instant relief from their wallets once you're gone.

The Chief will spend his remaining days at the Delmar Fire Department as a Volunteer.

The Empire has been CRUSHED!

Hand Washing


Hand washing: An easy way to prevent infection
Hand washing is a simple habit that can help keep you healthy. Learn the benefits of good hand hygiene, when to wash your hands and how to clean them properly.

Hand washing is a simple habit, something most people do without thinking. Yet hand washing, when done properly, is one of the best ways to avoid getting sick. This simple habit requires only soap and warm water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer — a cleanser that doesn't require water. Do you know the benefits of good hand hygiene and when and how to wash your hands properly?
The dangers of not washing your hands
Despite the proven health benefits of hand washing, many people don't practice this habit as often as they should — even after using the toilet. Throughout the day you accumulate germs on your hands from a variety of sources, such as direct contact with people, contaminated surfaces, foods, even animals and animal waste. If you don't wash your hands frequently enough, you can infect yourself with these germs by touching your eyes, nose or mouth. And you can spread these germs to others by touching them or by touching surfaces that they also touch, such as doorknobs.

Infectious diseases that are commonly spread through hand-to-hand contact include the common cold, flu and several gastrointestinal disorders, such as infectious diarrhea. While most people will get over a cold, the flu can be much more serious. Some people with the flu, particularly older adults and people with chronic medical problems, can develop pneumonia. The combination of the flu and pneumonia, in fact, is the eighth-leading cause of death among Americans.

Inadequate hand hygiene also contributes to food-related illnesses, such as salmonella and E. coli infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as many as 76 million Americans get a food-borne illness each year. Of these, about 5,000 die as a result of their illness. Others experience the annoying signs and symptoms of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Proper hand-washing techniques
Good hand-washing techniques include washing your hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Antimicrobial wipes or towelettes are just as effective as soap and water in cleaning your hands but aren't as good as alcohol-based sanitizers.

Antibacterial soaps have become increasingly popular in recent years. However, these soaps are no more effective at killing germs than is regular soap. Using antibacterial soaps may lead to the development of bacteria that are resistant to the products' antimicrobial agents — making it even harder to kill these germs in the future. In general, regular soap is fine. The combination of scrubbing your hands with soap — antibacterial or not — and rinsing them with water loosens and removes bacteria from your hands.

Proper hand washing with soap and water
Follow these instructions for washing with soap and water:

Wet your hands with warm, running water and apply liquid soap or use clean bar soap. Lather well. Rub your hands vigorously together for at least 15 to 20 seconds.
Scrub all surfaces, including the backs of your hands, wrists, between your fingers and under your fingernails.
Rinse well.
Dry your hands with a clean or disposable towel.
Use a towel to turn off the faucet.
Proper use of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers — which don't require water — are an excellent alternative to hand washing, particularly when soap and water aren't available. They're actually more effective than soap and water in killing bacteria and viruses that cause disease. Commercially prepared hand sanitizers contain ingredients that help prevent skin dryness. Using these products can result in less skin dryness and irritation than hand washing.

Not all hand sanitizers are created equal, though. Some "waterless" hand sanitizers don't contain alcohol. Use only the alcohol-based products. The CDC recommends choosing products that contain at least 60 percent alcohol.

To use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer:

Apply about 1/2 teaspoon of the product to the palm of your hand.
Rub your hands together, covering all surfaces of your hands, until they're dry.
If your hands are visibly dirty, however, wash with soap and water, if available, rather than a sanitizer.

When should you wash your hands?
Although it's impossible to keep your bare hands germ-free, there are times when it's critical to wash your hands to limit the transfer of bacteria, viruses and other microbes.

Always wash your hands:

After using the toilet
After changing a diaper — wash the diaper-wearer's hands, too
After touching animals or animal waste
Before and after preparing food, especially before and immediately after handling raw meat, poultry or fish
Before eating
After blowing your nose
After coughing or sneezing into your hands
Before and after treating wounds or cuts
Before and after touching a sick or injured person
After handling garbage
Before inserting or removing contact lenses
When using public restrooms, such as those in airports, train stations, bus stations and restaurants
Kids need clean hands, too
You can help your children avoid getting sick by insisting that they wash their hands properly and frequently. To get kids into the habit, teach by example. Wash your hands with your children and supervise their hand washing. Place hand-washing reminders at children's eye level, such as a chart by the bathroom sink for children to mark every time they wash their hands. Make sure the sink is low enough for children to use, or that it has a stool underneath so that children can reach it. Tell your children to wash their hands for as long as it takes them to sing their ABCs, "Row, Row, Row Your Boat" or the "Happy Birthday" song. This works especially well with younger children, who may rush when washing their hands.

Older children and adolescents also can use alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Younger children can use them, too — with an adult's help. Just make sure the sanitizer has completely dried before your child touches anything. This will avoid ingestion of alcohol from hand-to-mouth contact. Store the container safely away after use.

Hand washing is especially important for children who attend child care. Children younger than 3 years in child care are at greater risk of respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases, which can easily spread to family members and others in the community.

To protect your child's health, be sure your child care provider promotes sound hygiene, including frequent hand washing or use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Ask whether the children are required to wash their hands several times a day — not just before meals. Note, too, whether diapering areas are cleaned after each use and whether eating and diapering areas are well separated.

A simple way to stay healthy
Hand washing doesn't take much time or effort, but it offers great rewards in terms of preventing illness. Adopting this simple habit can play a major role in protecting your health.

Computer Science Fundraiser

My name is Jordan Wharton. I am studying computer science at Wor-Wic Community College. I am a member of Phi Beta Lambda which is the college’s business club. I have competed in my field of study at the state level and the national level. In the past I have placed ninth in the nation two years in a row. I have placed first in Maryland and this year we are scheduled to attend the national competition in Anaheim, CA. Due to the lack of funds we have be forced to find money from other sources. This money can be tax deductible because it will be donated to a local college fund for PBL. We need to raise approximately $2,500.00 to cover registration, lodging and air fare. We have raised only a fraction of what is needed. Your donation would be greatly appreciated. If you have questions, please contact me for more information.


Jordan Wharton
jwharton@zoobiesoft.com

State Police Probe Wednesday Bank Robbery


Location of Incident: Artisan’s Bank, 4901 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, Delaware, New Castle County

Date and Time of Occurrence: Wednesday, April 29, 2009, at approximately 2:41 p.m.

Suspect(s): White male, 20-25 years old, 5-4 to 5-8, average build, red facial hair, wearing a tan colored sweatshirt, white t-shirt underneath, dark pants and black baseball cap.

Resume: Yesterday afternoon, Troopers were dispatched to the Artisan’s Bank on Kirkwood Highway for the report of a robbery. This location is just west of Limestone Road.

This investigation revealed that at approximately 2:41 p.m., a white male suspect entered the bank and approached a teller. He produced a demand note and the teller complied by turning over an undisclosed amount of cash.

After the heist, the robber fled the bank on foot and into the development of Limestone Acres.

The following surveillance pictures were obtained late last evening and are now available for dissemination. Anyone who may recognize this subject is asked to call investigators at 302-834-2630 ext. 6 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.

Chrysler Appears Headed for Bankruptcy


DETROIT (AP) -- Talks between Chrysler LLC's lenders and the Treasury Department to reduce the automaker's $6.9 billion in secured debt and keep it out of bankruptcy protection have disintegrated, a person familiar with the talks said early Thursday.
The company's fate was in the hands of about 40 hedge funds that hold about 30 percent of its debt. Although four banks holding 70 percent of the debt had agreed to erase it for $2 billion, the hedge funds were holding out for a better deal.
After allowing talks to continue late into the night Wednesday, Treasury finally ended negotiations after the hedge funds were unable to come to an agreement, the person said, asking not to be identified because the talks were private.
The deal's failure means Chrysler will seek bankruptcy protection unless something can be worked out before the government's 11:59 p.m. EDT deadline.
(From The Washinton Times)

Incredible Images Of Waves

These incredible images of waves were taken by the #1 photographer of surf: Clark Little.? He has dedicated his life to photographing the waves and has published a selection of the the best images of his career.? He captures magical moments inside the "tube", as surfers say.









REMINDER: 5th Annual Crab Feast

REMINDER:
This Sunday is the 5th Annual Crab Feast!
Honoring Delegate Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio, Delegate Addie Eckardt and Senator Richard Colburn!


Sunday, May 3, 2009
1:30 pm - 3:30 pm
American Legion Post #91
Cambridge, Maryland

FOOD!
In honor of the two oldest and greatest economies in Maryland (seafood and agriculture), we invite you to enjoy all-you-can-eat steamed crabs, chicken
and more!

MUSIC!
Boogie down to live music by
"Bird Dog and the Road Kings"!

RSVP TODAY!
This is a popular event, so rsvp today! The cost is $50/person.

Directions to the American Legion

From Points West: Head East on Route 50 toward Cambridge. Make a left-hand u-turn at the first light after crossing the Choptank River Bridge. The American Legion will be on the right-hand side.

From Points East: Head West on Route 50 toward Cambridge. The American Legion will be on the right-hand side just before you cross the Choptank River Bridge.

RSVP by Email: jeannie_haddaway@hotmail.com
RSVP by Phone: Call Barbara at (410) 745-2513

Maryland River Named 4th Most Endangered in the Nation

Jim Long photo


Mattawoman Creek, one of the most productive tributaries to the Chesapeake Bay is in danger. Charles County officials have requested permits to construct a four lane, 6.5 mile highway, the Cross County Connector - extension, that would plow across the full width of the sensitive Mattawoman Creek watershed.
Where do things stand?
Before the highway can be built, Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) must decide by June 1st whether or not to issue a permit. According to the Southern Maryland Newspaper, MDE has "indicated that they are prepared to deny the permit." (http://www.somdnews.com/stories/04222009/indytop94347_32253.shtml)
Mattawoman Creek is so threatened by this road, that it has been recognized by American Rivers as the FOURTH MOST ENDANGERED RIVER IN THE COUNTRY!
WE as a state can stand up for Mattawoman Creek and urge MDE to deny a permit to build the Cross County Connector. If Maryland is for cleaning up the Chesapeake Bay, let's be sure not to pollute one of the remaining healthy tributaries.
ACT NOW: Please, email Secretary Shari Wilson today at stwilson@mde.state.md.us (or call 410-537-3084) and share this message (in your own words is best):
Subject: Deny wetland permits for the Cross County Connector extension. Save Mattawoman Creek.
"Please deny permits for the proposed Cross County Connector extension in Charles County which threatens the Mattawoman Creek. The Mattawoman Creek is the healthiest fish nursery in the Chesapeake Bay because it is protected by surrounding forests and wetlands. This highway proposal would destroy the Mattawoman Creek by increasing traffic, development, and pavement in its watershed. Finally, if transportation is really needed, let's build smarter, with public transportation like a light rail link to Waldorf."
Your nameYour address (especially town and zip code!)
Be sure to give your town and zip code when writing! The Secretary needs to understand both the breadth of concern (if you are nonlocal) and the depth of local opposition (if you are local).
So that we can keep track of the amount of pressure MDE is getting on this issue, PLEASE LET US KNOW WHEN YOU CALL OR EMAIL MDE. Hopefully, come June 1st we'll all have something to celebrate! Please see below opportunities to join us at Mattawoman Creek for a canoe trip, hike, or invasive plant removal to see with your own eyes just how wonderful a place it is.
Hope to see you at the creek!
Alana Wase
Conservation Program Coordinator
Sierra Club, Maryland Chapter
Visit this site: http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/bal-te.md.mattawoman07apr07,0,3072403.story, print out the newspaper article and mail in a copy to Governor O'Malley (Office of the Governor, State House, 100 State Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401) with the same message, urging that Maryland deliver its promise on cleaning up the Bay and therefore, DENYING a permit to destroy non-tidal wetlands.
***Want to see the Mattawoman Creek for yourself? Join us at one of these upcoming outings:
Mattawoman Creek Canoe/Kayak Trip Saturday May 2nd at 9am to attend, you MUST RSVP for more details visit: http://www.maryland.sierraclub.org/events/e103.asp
Chapman Forest Invasive Removal Sunday May 3rd at 10am http://maryland.sierraclub.org/action/p0005.asp#Calender
Mattawoman Wildland Family Walk Saturday May 16th at 1pm, you MUST RSVP for more details visit: http://www.maryland.sierraclub.org/events/e100.asp
***For more information about the Mattawoman Watershed: http://mattawomanwatershedsociety.org

More on Mattawoman Creek's status and importance Here, here.

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

BREAKING NEWS

ARMED ROBBERY

The Exxon on Rt. 12 & Nutters was just robbed by two black males in a white sedan 5 minutes ago. The Maryland State Police and the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office are swarming the area, including the Bypass. More to come.....

GUERRERO TO FIGHT AGAIN IN SALISBURY



In their very last Press Conference in the old Main Street Gym, Trainer Hal Chernoff and undefeated Boxer Fernando Guerrero announced their next fight at the Wicomico County Youth & Civic Center on June 19th.

This event will not be shown on ESPN or Showtime. Instead, Fernando Guerrero will be the Main Event of the night along with 6 other bouts. Tickets will start at $15.00 and go up to $100.00. We're told they will go on sale this coming Monday and more so than ever before, I believe tickets will be sold much faster because you can't sit at home and watch the fights on TV.

Other fighters so far on the card will be Mark Davis who is 12-0 with 4 KO's, Shawn Porter, 7-0 with 6 KO's. Farah Ennis, 10-0 with 5 KO's and Dominic Wade, 2-0 with 2 KO's.

Fernando Guerrero deserves to be the Main Event and he has earned it. No doubt, mark your calendars and get your tickets early because this will be another Sell Out. They could have taken this fight to another state with ESPN but Hal & Fernando want to keep it right here at home. Let's show our support and drive ESPN & Showtime desperate to want Fernando as their main event from here on out. In the very least, we'll be able to watch this young man grow and when it comes time for a Title Fight, guess what, there's a great chance it will be right here in Salisbury Maryland.

Today's Wildlife Photos At The Albero Ranch






Today we experienced the birth of 6 new Geese. Our little guy will be quite excited that they hatched while he was away at school. The male Goose has been fending him off from fishing the Pond these past few weeks letting him know this was now their turf, for now. The cats have been running around looking at these little guys all afternoon but the male Goose keeps scaring the crap out of them, so I'm sure they'll keep their distance. Heck, he's even tried bullying the horses but they won't take any of his crap. The ducks are nesting as well, so we'll have to see what they bring this year too.

Sherwood Ford Vehicle Breaks Wind






If you haven't been out and about today, the winds are so strong they're even bringing down light poles.

Granted, these poles should be designed to stand up to such winds but when you start hanging flags and string them up from one pole to the next, this is bound to happen.

The vehicle seen above took some very serious damage from the pole crashing down on its roof and I'm sure the City/County people will have to see if the base of these fixtures are in fact stable enough to continue to host all these flags.

Yard Sales & Help Wanted Ads

Don't Forget!!!

Get your free ad to us before Thursday at 3pm for Friday morning's post.

It's FREE!!!

Please email your info to me, SunnyInOC, at atlanticjw@aol.com. Please type "Yard Sale" or "Help Wanted" in the subject of your email.

Felton Man Sought After Assaulting Elderly Homeowner

Felton – The Delaware State Police are seeking the public’s assistance in locating a 23-year-old Felton man wanted in connection with an assault of a 78-year-old Felton resident early this morning.

Troopers responded a home on Jennifer Lane in Felton after 911 was called reporting an intruder had entered the home of the 78-year-old man and assaulted him. Detectives learned that at approximately 2:00 am this morning the homeowner was awoken after a dog began barking. He was concerned and began checking his home when he went into the Florida room attached to the rear of his residence.

The man observed an intruder hiding behind a chair and confronted him. The male suspect then attacked the victim with his hands causing cuts, bruises and abrasions to the legs, hands and face of the victim. The intruder then fled the area.

As police continued investigating, they learned the victim had been receiving several hang-up phone calls recently raising suspicion as to who committed this act of violence. Troopers also learned the victim’s granddaughter recently began staying with him. Troopers were able to secure the telephone number that repeatedly was calling and hanging up and discovered it was registered to Michael A. Zimmer Jr., 23 of Felton.

Police learned Zimmer was the ex-boyfriend of the victim’s granddaughter and obtained a photograph of him. The victim observed the photo and immediately identified Zimmer as the attacker. The granddaughter was not home when the incident occurred.

DSP has obtained arrest warrants for Zimmer for Burglary 1st degree, Assault 2nd degree and Harassment. Anyone who has information on his whereabouts sis urged to call 911, Troop 3 at 302.697.4455 or Crime Stoppers at 1.800.TIP.3333. Tips may also be forwarded to law enforcement through tip lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-333 3 or on line at www.tipsubmit.com.

Border Patrol

I don't care who you are, that's funny!

Salisbury Police Department Provides No Press Releases

It has been nine long days since the Salisbury Police Department has produced any Press Releases on line. Their website had gone down one day last week but all in all the last time they produced anything on their Site was Monday the 20th.

This is in the very least a disservice to the Citizens of Salisbury, especially with crime being as high as it is here in Salisbury. We know they are putting some things out there for certain people but they refuse to post anything on their website.

So much for open government. Hey, I know, maybe there's been no crime and things are really turning around here in Salisbury. Any thoughts?

A Letter To The Editor

"interesting story i would like to share with you. i received a text from my child this morning. he was already at wicomico senior high school and informed me that another student was wearing a ms-13 shirt. im positive that gang attire is not allowed in school and i take great offense to this. i called the b.o.e. and spoke with grace ellis.she confirmed gang clothing was not allowed. she didnt seem very concerned about it and began questioning me on how i had this information. we all know cell phones are not allowed in school but every kid has one so of course my child sent me a text. i told grace ellis i had received a message from my child and she started laughing. i saw nothing comical about any of this and our conversation didnt last much longer. is this how the wicomico county "bored" of education handles the influx of gangs into our public school system? i am very concerned at this point"

Millville Woman Arrested In Check-Kiting Scheme

Millville – The Delaware State Police have arrested a 46-year-old Millville woman for 108 fraudulent related charges after she was involved in a check-kiting scheme that has resulted in over $14,000 taken from a local bank.

The investigation began after authorities with the Wilmington Trust Bank in Millville contacted state police after discovering irregularities in personal and business checking accounts opened in July and August of ’08 by Wanda M. Wendell of Millville.

Detectives learned that Ms. Wendell had opened these accounts and deposited several checks into them from another account she held at the Chevy Chase Bank. However, the Chevy Chase account had insufficient funds to cover balance of the deposited checks.

Additionally, detectives learned that Ms. Wendell had deposited several of the insufficient fund checks from the Chevy Chase account into the automated teller machine at the Wilmington Trust, thus giving her next day availability to withdraw money from the Wilmington Trust account. Ms. Wendell would then withdraw the money before the bank realized the check was returned for insufficient funding.

On other occasions, she would write a check out for cash from the Chevy Chase account to the Wilmington Trust account and receive the monies instantly, again before the bank gained knowledge of the insufficient funds. Ms. Wendell was responsible for completing over eighty fraudulent transactions between July and October in 2008 netting a total loss of $14,013.14 to Wilmington Trust Bank.

Detectives also learned that Ms. Wendell deposited approximately $4,700 of legitimate funds into these accounts during the same period in an effort to conceal the fraud. By doing this, she was attempting to deceive the banks by creating the impression the insufficient funding in her accounts were oversights and not deliberate actions.

During the investigation, detectives discovered Ms. Wendell’s actions were intentional and she was arrested yesterday for 18 felony counts of Theft by False Pretense, 4 felony counts of issuing a Bad Check, 90 misdemeanor counts of Theft by False Pretense and 21 misdemeanor counts of Issuing a Bad Check. She was released on a $62,500 unsecured bail.

THIS EXPLAINS A LOT ABOUT HEBRON'S WALLER LANDING

This is verrrrrrrrrrry interesting. Jamie Rostocki, the point man on Waller Landing, is on this website: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrostocki and states that HE "wrote all zoning codes and design restrictions for neighborhood {i.e. Waller Landing}"

What the heck??????? Everyone was told Hebron paid their TWO attorneys and two consultants to do that? Looks like Hebron just rubber-stamped what the developer put before them for Waller?

The photo of Rostocki on this site is pretty good--he should try wearing that to the Hebron meetings--what did he wear to the last Hebron meeting? A tee shirt with a naked woman and very sexually suggestive words on the back...................disrespectful AND tacky.

So......let's see what we know: Waller Landing was advertised for tax sale last year for failure to pay Hebron and County taxes and paid up just before the tax sale; the LLC was forfeited by State Dept. of Assessments and Taxation; when the LLC reinstated, the Resident Agent for the LLC was not correct and now we learn that Rostocki says HE wrote the zoning codes and design restrictions for the project. Sweet!! Hebron, wake up!

Timely First Amendment Quote

"The dominant purpose of the First Amendment was to prohibit the widespread practice
of government suppression of embarrassing information."
-- Justice William O. Douglas
(1898-1980), U. S. Supreme Court Justice

Maryland Lags in Flu Vaccine Stockpile - Not Enough To Go Around?

Think Maryland's ready for the Swine Flu? Guess again. With nearly 400,000 people under the age of five and over 660,000 over the age of 65, the highest at-risk populations for complications leading to death by flu, and only 476,000 doses to go around for a population of over 5 million statewide, Maryland seems to be coming up short in preparedness. Hope they can beg, borrow or buy more in a hurry if it's needed.

"Maryland's stock of antiviral medications is 38 percent lower per capita than supplies in Virginia and 24 percent below the District's stockpile -- statistics that mirror the findings of a nonprofit agency that said last year that Maryland was tied for last in the nation in readiness for a health emergency.

According to figures released earlier this week, Maryland will have a supply of about 476,000 doses of antiviral medication available in the coming days to withstand what some health officials fear could be a widespread outbreak of swine flu. That supply works out to a course of treatment for one out of about every 11.8 state residents...."

MORE from the Washington Times

Letter from a local farmer regarding downzoning

First, I want to begin by reminding you of the permanence of development and the loss of farm land. Developed lands can never be reclaimed for agricultural use.

Secondly, I want to try to clarify what you are really trying decide with this legislation. I hope you keep this perspective in mind while reviewing the comments you heard tonight and are making your decision on how you will vote.

Some people are trying to confuse the issue by saying it is about property values and property rights. The concern for property values is understandable but not supported by the evidence; and I am not talking about special interest funded studies, I am talking about the facts as they are on the Eastern Shore, which is the best evidence we can have. The members of this council know that other shore counties that have down zoned did not see a significant, prolonged drop in land values. Land values in those counties remain consistent with those in neighboring counties with higher density allowances. So this issue is not about the loss of property values.

The issue is also not about property rights. The options and rights of the farmer and developer stay the same. The farmer can still either farm his land or sell it to the highest bidder and the developer can still build as many houses on the land as the law allows. This is not a property rights issue because, honestly, no one has the right to do with or develop their land however they wish. Every piece of land in this county, in this country, is subject to zoning. Every property owner faces guidelines on what they can and can’t do with their land.

But you, as the county government, do have the right to decide how the land in this county will be used. That is what this issue is really about, not property values or property rights, but land use, as all zoning issues are. There is competition between the agricultural industry and the development industry for land in Wicomico County. Land is a limited resource and both industries want to use as much of it as possible. What you as a council are really trying to decide is what industry, agriculture or development, should be using the majority of the agricultural land in this county, in other words, which is the best use. It is my belief, along with I think the majority of county residents, that the agricultural industry and farmers should be the ones using the majority of the agricultural lands in our county. The development industry is an important sector of our economy, but its use of farmland should not take precedence over use by the industry that has always provided this county’s economy with a solid foundation. Agriculture is our number one industry and has the potential, as an industry, to be more sustainable and stable in the long run. The recent housing bubble and bust should be a warning against basing our county’s economy and land use policies on the development industry.

The 50/50 split of a parcel under the current law between use by the farmer and the developer does not leave enough land for the farmer to keep their business efficient and profitable. No wonder so many farmers see selling more land as the only option for making ends meet. What they really need is to keep more of their land in production so their businesses can remain profitable and growing. The fairest way for the farmer and developer to share the land is to eliminate the density bonus which will ensure that the large majority of a parcel will remain open to agricultural use.

If for some unfortunate reason you decide as a council that you do not have the will to do what is right and the support the agricultural industry by passing this measure, than I urge you to please begin work immediately on a TDR program for this county or some other measure, although voting yes May 5th will be the best and most immediate action you can take, so that growth can be directed away from the agricultural zones and into the urban core. Because the fact of the matter is we have to start doing something now to stop excess development on our farmlands and preserve our county’s number one industry before it is too late.

In closing, I would like to ask you to please see this, as all zoning issues are, as a land use issue and to see that agriculture is the best land use in our agricultural zones because it is necessary for our number one industry to survive. It will also preserve the character and lifestyle of this county that we all love and want to preserve. Also, one can’t be reminded enough of the permanence of development; once farmland is developed it will never return to farmland. If we don’t reduce density in these areas now we will be facing these same issues, or worse, in 5yrs time and there will be no going back, we cannot create more farmland to replace what has been lost.

I live and work full-time on a farm here in Wicomico County so my future, as a farmer, will be directly affected by this legislation either way. I would feel much more secure about that future if this bill passes, which is why I am asking you as my elected representatives to please VOTE YES!

First 100 Days: Ten Ways to Pray for President Obama

On January 20, the presidency of Barack Obama was a blank canvas upon which millions of Americans projected their hopes and fears. Now, 100 days later, issues such as the economy, foreign affairs and military activity are beginning to define this presidency. As we pause to measure the decisions of this president–or any American leader–let us not neglect the highest honor and responsibility given to each member of the community of faith.

The following are ways we can pray for our president:

1. Pray that God will continually honor him with great wisdom amidst the difficult decisions that he faces each day.

2. Pray for God to protect him and our nation from harm.

3. Pray that his decisions will always reflect a courage that goes beyond polls and politics.

4. Pray that he will be blessed in his role as husband and father.

5. Pray that he will be refreshed in his physical body.

6. Pray for First Lady Michelle Obama and their two daughters, that they will experience great joy in this new chapter of their lives.

7. Pray that he will be encouraged and filled with the “peace that passes all understanding.”

8. Pray for his staff, that they will serve him well and be a strength to him.

9. Pray that he will be humble but fearless in seeking and fulfilling God’s will.

10. Pray that he will build bridges to unite a nation.

The Scriptures command us to pray for “all who are in authority that we may live a quiet and peaceful life.” Let us dedicate ourselves to taking the next 100 days to strengthen our President in prayer.

By so doing, we call forth God’s blessings upon our nation.

from Fox News

Camden Neighborhood Association Meeting

Camden Neighborhood Association
April 2009 Meeting
Thursday April 30th - 7:15 pm
Bethany Lutheran Church
(corner of Camden & South Blvds)

Guest Speaker: Sergeant Steve Schweikert,
Salisbury Police Department

ARREST MADE FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE AT FREDERICK COUNTY DAYCARE HOME


(Frederick, MD) – Maryland State Police have arrested the husband of a licensed Frederick County daycare provider after an investigation revealed allegations that he sexually abused one of the children in his home.


The accused is identified as Robert W. Fry, 67, of the 4300-block of Ballenger Creek Pike, Frederick, Md. He is charged with the sexual abuse of a minor, third degree sex offense, and second degree assault.

The victim is a four-year-old child. The victim is not being identified due to the nature of this crime.

The investigation began on April 14, 2009, when an investigator from the Maryland State Police Frederick Barracks Criminal Investigation Section responded to a call from the victim’s mother. The mother stated her child had made disclosures over the preceding weekend that alleged sexual abuse had occurred while the victim was in daycare at the home of the accused.

State Police contacted Child Protective Services and a cooperative investigation was conducted. Information developed during the investigation alleges that the offenses occurred on one day during the period of March 25 through April 12, 2009. The investigation revealed the offenses occurred while the child was in daycare in the home of the accused.

Troopers learned the wife of the accused is a licensed daycare provider. On the same day the investigation was initiated, contact was made with officials from the Daycare Administration. An official from that agency responded to the daycare home and placed an emergency suspension on the operator’s license. The official also remained in the home until the other children were picked up by parents.

Based on information developed in the investigation, State Police requested and obtained an arrest warrant for the accused from the Frederick County District Court Commissioner’s Office. The warrant was served on the accused at his home yesterday. He was arrested without incident. He was taken to the Frederick County Detention Center for processing.

Although there is no indication at this time of other victims, the investigation is continuing. Anyone who may have information related to this investigation should contact State Police investigators at 301-600-4150.

Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Press Release


In Wicomico County, there is an average of 585 total crashes per year involving Young Drivers (ages 16-21). There is an average of 3 fatalities and 407 injuries per year for Young Drivers as well.*

To combat these statistics, the Wicomico Highway Safety Task Force is hosting a “Mock Crash” at Parkside High School and seniors from Bennett High School will also be attending. This event is scheduled for May 1, 2009 and will begin at 8:30 am and will show the effects of drinking and driving and of not wearing a seat belt.

In a “Mock Crash” two cars are placed as if they have crashed and local agencies such as the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office, Salisbury City Police, Salisbury Fire Dept and MSP Aviation respond as if the crash is real. Students will get to see what really happens at a crash scene. They will even see a crash victim taken away in a hearse.

Immediately following the crash, there will be an assembly in the auditorium where Sheriff Mike Lewis and other local people will speak about how crashes have impacted their lives.

There are 4 proms this weekend alone. The hope is that this demonstration will have an impact on the students who watch it and the ones who hear about it from their friends.

For more information contact,
Karen Waggoner
Community Traffic Safety Program Safety Coordinator


* Maryland Highway Safety Office