COUNTY EXECUTIVE ORDERS FIRST ROUND OF FIRINGS AT LANDFILL

Wicomico County Executive Richard M. Pollitt, Jr., ordered today that two employees of the county’s Solid Waste Division be terminated effective immediately. Pollitt said that he based this decision on documentation of theft received from the Wicomico County State’s Attorney and on the recommendation of the Wicomico County Attorney.

The terminated employee’s activities came to light during a criminal and forensic audit investigation following the exposure of extensive thefts of fuel and supplies from the county landfill. The thefts were made public on February 23, 2008, following a series of arrests.

Mr. Pollitt commented, “Since the so-called ‘Landfill Scandal’ broke, I have promised the citizens of this county that I shall not tolerate the employment of thieves at the county landfill or at any other facility in Wicomico County. While legal evidence-gathering does not always move quickly, the facts are now in on the activities of these two individuals and they are no longer employed by Wicomico County. I have the names of other landfill employees who are suspected of stealing from the citizens of Wicomico County. As soon as I am satisfied that one or all of them are guilty of stealing from the landfill, I shall take the same action.”

The Public Information Act prohibits the county from revealing the names of or any personnel information on the terminated landfill workers

Baltimore Examiner Closing Down is the Daily Times Next???

Today we just received a press release that the Baltimore Examiner is closing down because they cannot find a buyer. Two years ago newspapers of any type were being bought up in what was sometimes bidding wars by the giant conglomerates such as Gannet, parent company of the local Salisbury Daily Times.

The quality of what is called 'news' has dropped considerably with the buyouts of so many local papers. Here in Pocomoke City we used to have a local paper called the Worcester County Messenger that covered local news and events.

Apparently Gannett Corporation liked the editorial style of the Worcester County Messenger where they would give letters to the editor that were negative about City Manager Boss Hogg Russ Blake, to him prior to publication. Boss Hogg often had written a 'rebuttal' to a letter to the editor that was published in the very same issue. At least it was local news that nobody thought could get any worse, that is until Gannett took over the operation and drove the publication right into the ground.

According to the press release:
The Baltimore Examiner, a free daily newspaper launched two years to challenge the stalwart Baltimore Sun, will shut down next month after failing to find a buyer, according to Denver-based owner Clarity Media Group. The final issue of the tabloid, which has a longer-running sister publication in DC, will be published on Feb. 15, according to The Sun. Ryan McKibben, the CEO of Clarity, said that his company had hoped that the paper's proximity to DC would help create revenue synergies between the two markets. "Unfortunately, those additional revenues did not materialize to the levels we had projected," McKibben said.

About 90 employees will be affected, The Sun said. The Baltimore Examiner launched in April 2006, more than a year after its Washington counterpart. Clarity, which is owned by billionaire investor Philip Anschutz, had plans to eventually launch editions of the paper in up to 60 markets.

More information is available on the Examiners website by clicking here.

In Memory of Anitra Pirkle...

Joe,

We have Anitra Pirkle’s donation page ready.

Anitra’s Aunt (Joyce Lewis, Vice Principal at Fruitland Intermediate) has established a separate account at BB&T, attached it to PayPal and given me the email address. I posted a request on one of your threads asking for a web developer out there to step up and build a page. BoniBlue (one of your regulars) has created a free site at http://mysite.verizon.net/res11wu0y/ We are working on getting a url for her. Your readers and everyone else can now make a donation online. Please do what you can (I know I don’t even have to ask) to expose her story and invite the public to help her family.

Thanks Joe, and be sure to thank BoniBlue!

Kindest regards,

Eric Morris

Anitra Yolanda Pirkle, 26, passed away Thursday, Jan. 22, 2009.

She was born Sept. 25, 1983, to the late Walter and Ann Pirkle in Columbus, Ga.

She is a graduate of Wicomico High School and she received her associates degree I in accounting from Wor-Wic Community College. She was employed with Royal Farms at the age of 17 and worked her way up to be the youngest manager with the company.

She then joined the Verzion family in 2008. She enjoyed shopping, dancing and reading books of any sort. Her favorite color was orange. On Sunday, Jan. 18, 2009, she received the right hand of fellowship at New Dimensions Church in Salisbury. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Anitra was a special person and mentor whose sprit touched everyone with whom she came in contact.

She is survived her mother, Ann E. Pirkle of Edgewood, Md.; sisters, Lashawn Pirkle of Salisbury, Annora Pirkle and Kahdya Pirkle of Edgewood; a niece, Nevaeh Watkins; grandparents, George and Elizabeth Jester of Salisbury; four aunts; one uncle and a host of cousins.

A funeral service will be held at noon Saturday at the Family Worship Center, and a viewing will be held from 5-8 p.m. Friday at Bennie Smith Funeral Home in Salisbury. Interment will be private.

Arrangements are being handled by Bennie Smith Funeral Home.

WOW! POWERFUL AND A MUST SEE!

Our friend Spice sent me this link and I strongly recommend everyone take a few minutes out of their busy schedule and watch this video and become

Iraqi Town Erects Giant Bronze Shoe Sculpture

A huge bronze shoe sculpture has been erected in the Iraqi town of Tikrit in tribute to the journalist who grabbed instant fame when threw his shoes at former U.S. president George W. Bush last year.

The shoe, in which a tree has been planted, stands three meters high (about 10 feet) and sits atop a white pedestal in the hometown of executed Iraqi president Saddam Hussein.

A rose bush is growing next to the monument which was erected in the gardens of an Iraqi foundation that cares for children whose parents have died in the violence that has caused havoc in Iraq since the March 2003 U.S.-led invasion.

A poem praising Iraqi journalist Muntazer al-Zaidi has also been written on a board and stands at the foot of the monument, the work of Iraqi artist Laith al-Ameri.

"This is a gift for the family of Muntazer al-Zaidi, a hero, whose act helped Iraqi people feel proud," a member of the children's foundation told a crowd of 400 people gathered for the unveiling of the work of art.

Zaidi was arrested after his act and charged with "aggression against a foreign head of state during an official visit." He faces up to 15 years in jail if convicted.

Life on Mars?

New information has surfaced as to the location of the Anti-Albero bloggers.....MARS!

This makes perfect sense now. How else could anyone explain the crazy things they publish? Have fun in outer space guys!!

PETA Ad Banned From The Super Bowl

NBC has informed PETA that their Super Bowl ad was too sexy and rejected. GO HERE to see some of the other Ads rejected by the Network Hosts in previous years.

United States Army To Recall 16,000 Sets Of Body Armor Amid Safety Concerns

The United States Army will take thousands of sets of body armor out of service after the Pentagon’s inspector general reportedly said they were not properly tested and could put lives in danger, FOX News confirmed.

The decision comes after an audit by the office of Defense Department Acting Inspector General Gordon Heddell that concluded bullet-shielding ceramic plates in the armor failed testing.

Though the Army disagreed with the findings, Army Secretary Pete Geren announced the recall of 16,000 sets of the ceramic body armor plates amid fears they may jeopardize the lives of American soldiers abroad, The Washington Times reported.

Now it may just be me but why totally recall this body armor so our soldiers don’t have anything to protect them makes no sense to me. Common sense says find a replacement before you take it completely away

Source: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,484932,00.html

Salisbury Police Department Press Releases

On January 25, 2009 at approximately 1:05 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department were on routine patrol in the area of the Chesapeake Inn and observed below listed suspect # 1 entering one of the rooms. The officers had information that management had prohibited suspect # 1 from being on the hotel property. This information was confirmed and the officers responded to the room to advise suspect # 1 that she was trespassing. As the suspect opened the door to the room, the officers observed a quantity of suspected “crack”/cocaine resting on a table, in plain view. Suspect # 1 and below listed suspect # 2, who was also in the room, were taken into custody.

ARRESTED #1: Elaine Mae Henderson, 25 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES:
Possession of cocaine
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia
Trespassing

ARRESTED #2: Brian Lamont Williams, 37 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES:
Possession of cocaine
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia

DISPOSITION: Both released to Central Booking CC # 200900002722

On January 27, 2009 at approximately 9:39 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to the Food Lion Store on Nanticoke Road for the report of a shoplifter. Upon arrival, the officers were advised that store personnel had observed the below listed suspect take food items from the store without making payment. The food items were recovered from the suspect.

ARRESTED: Bobby Ronald Goodwine, 41 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES: Theft (under $ 100)

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200900002951

On January 27, 2009 at approximately 6:50 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to a residence on the one hundred (100) block of Center Street for the report of CDS activity at the residence. Upon arrival the officers made contact at the front door with below listed suspect # 1. The officers immediately detected the scent of burning suspected marijuana emanating from within the residence. Suspect # 1 then fled from the residence and was apprehended after a substantial foot chase. As suspect # 1 was caught, he became combative and assaulted the arresting officers. A search of suspect # 1, incident to arrest, revealed a quantity of suspected cocaine in his pocket. When suspect # 1 fled from the residence, below listed suspect # 2 grabbed one (1) of the officers and attempted to intervene in the foot chase. Suspect # 2 was subsequently placed under arrest and initially gave the officers false identification. Once suspect # 2’s true identity was learned, it was found that suspect # 2 was wanted on an outstanding Worcester County Circuit Court Bench Warrant. The bench warrant was for violation of probation and was served.

ARRESTED #1: Phillip Scott Bailey, 30 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES:
Possession of cocaine
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia
Resisting arrest
Obstructing and hinder an investigation
Failure to obey a lawful order
Reckless endangerment (2 counts)

ARRESTED #2: Holly Anne Sterling, 32 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES:
Assault on a police officer
Obstructing and hindering an investigation
False statement to a police officer
Worcester Co. Circuit Court Bench Warrant:
Violation of Probation

DISPOSITION: Both released to Central Booking CC # 200900003005/200900003014

New Marking Period Begins Wednesday, Jan. 28, In Wicomico Schools

The second marking period ended for Wicomico students last Friday, so when students report to school today (after a two-hour delayed opening for weather conditions), they will begin building knowledge and earning grades for the third marking period. Some students, particularly in the secondary schools, will also have new classes as the year passes its midpoint.

Here are some key dates during the third marking period:

Evening High School spring semester classes begin, Feb. 2 (last date to enroll is Feb. 5)
Report cards from the second marking term distributed, Feb. 3
Presidents' Day (schools and Central Office closed), Feb. 16
Deadline to sign up for the April 4 administration of the ACT, Feb 27 (see the high school guidance office)
Professional Day (schools closed for students, open for teachers), March 2
Registration for prekindergarten and kindergarten for the 2009-2010 school year, March 13
SAT I & II administration, March 14 (students must sign up by Feb. 10; see the high school guidance office)
Maryland School Assessment (MSA) Reading testing for grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, March 17-18
Maryland School Assessment (MSA) Math testing for grades 6, 7, 8, March 17-18
Maryland School Assessment (MSA) Math testing for grades 3, 4 and 5, March 24-25
End of 3rd marking period, March 27

Looking ahead on the assessment calendar:

Maryland School Assessment (MSA) Science testing will occur between April 22-May 12 for students in grades 5 and 8

Makeup testing for seniors who have not met the state's High School Assessment (HSA) requirement for graduation, April 20-23 (the regular spring HSA testing period for students completing an HSA-tested course in Algebra/Data Analysis, English 10, Government or Biology will be May 18-21)

Advanced Placement tests for students enrolled in AP classes who choose to take the end-of-course test for a score that could earn the student college credit, May 4-15

The Shopping Center That Collapsed In Princess Anne Yesterday

Here's a photo and video clip of the Shopping Center that completely collapsed in Princess Anne Yesterday. Thank God no one was injured but here's the end result.

Biggest Day EVER!

Yesterday Salisbury News experienced our biggest day we've ever had. This time we were about 800 visitors higher than our last biggest day but only around 20 visitors shy of what we have always felt was a milestone number. I know it doesn't mean much for you buy to only be 20 visitors short just kills me. I was looking at the reports last night up until about 11:00 and thought, we're going to make it. BUMMER! Oh well, at least we have a goal to shoot for now.

Folks, we can't thank you enough for the e-mail messages and the phone calls of support. I'm glad so many feel we're moving in the right direction and that so many new people have come on board with Salisbury News. It is a lot of work for all of us but we love what we do and your suggestions can only make us better.

One of the main questions people have been asking lately is, will we be charging to visit Salisbury News? The answer to that question is, absolutely NOT! While we're considering doing some advertising, we will NOT be charging YOU to visit the sight at all. Salisbury News will continue to be FREE for everyone with the exception to advertisers.

Thanks for all the support and man, I want those 20 additional visitors soon! I can taste it. LOL More FREE Fernando Guerrero Tickets coming SOON!

In Addition, there were 535 comments to yesterdays posts as well. This doesn't include comments that went to the day before or other posts. It was simply a HUGE day.

SUPPORT BARRIE & GARY – GET SOME “ECONOMIC STIMULUS”

"Pictures recently posted here show a Comegys’ yard sign at the corner of the lot on the north side of Isabella Street, just east of the railroad tracks along Mill Street, that is improved with a home built about 10 years ago which can be seen in the background. The RR-crossing and “no trucks” signs are also shown. Not shown is the remains of a brick retaining-privacy wall that runs along the Isabella Street, farther to the east, located on the lot and not in the public right-of-way. Sections of the wall are in poor condition, and parts of it were removed not long ago, apparently by the owner.

During the past several City of Salisbury elections, I seem to recall signs present on this lot for Barrie and her various puppets, including Comegys. Several months ago the City Council approved the use of City funds to repair or replace (or both) part or all of the wall on this lot. The primary support was by Comegys as well as Smith and Shields. The funds are apparently being borrowed by the City for the purpose of installing a sidewalk along the public right-of-way.

Salisbury folks are so doggone lucky – not everyone can live in such an “All-American” city! And the primary election for the office of mayor will be held on March 3rd."

Illegal Drag Racing

Illegal Drag Racing You know how I feel about Drag Racing, I find this very disturbing. A friend of mine who works for the Los Angeles Police Department received the attached photo of a drag race that went horribly bad. It's kind of disturbing to look at but it serves as a reminder of what can happen when drag races occur.

Please scroll down for the photo ………

The Stand Skatepark in Pittsville

Hey Joe, thought you might want to post this on the blog to get the word out to the skateboarders in the area

I got a card in the mail today about a skatepark that may be opening in pittsville. There will be a meeting held at the Tabernacle on Morris Rd in Pittsville on Monday Feb. 2nd at 7:00 pm. They will be discussing their plans for the skatepark, building a street team to raise interest in the park, will show where the park will be (the surface has been re-topped)

This has largely come from the fact that the town has outlawed skateboarding on city streets. Hopefully they will get a big turnout, from both parents and kids alike, as they want the kids involved as well. And I am sure they will welcome skaters from all areas of the county as well as surrounding counties. LET THEM SKATE!!

Any questions should be e-mailed to A.J.sherkinlaw@gmail.com

The Daily Times, (Gannette) Is Desperate & Struggling To Survive

"Got something new in the mail today. It's an advertising/recruitment special. A whole page in the Daily Times, in a prominate location, full color for $466.00. It would normaly run $2700.00 It sounds like a good deal BUT who is going to read it....?"

MEDICAL DEFINITIONS FOR REDNECKS

Click on image to enlarge.

Stimulus Package

http://www.cbo.gov/ftpdocs/99xx/doc9968/hr1.pdf

"Joe,

Above is a link from the budget office with a cost estimate and breakdown of the stimulus package.

Just so everyone can see it.

Also note that all republicans and 11 democrats voted against it

Here are the democrats that opposed it

Griffith, Peterson, Boyd, Bright, Kanjorski, Kratovil, Cooper, Taylor, Ellsworth, Minnick, and Shuler

Note that Kratovil was among them.

Just thought people may want to know."

Monday Nights City Council Meeting

One reason I strongly encourage Citizens to actually attend City Council Meetings is for the following reason. You see, Monday night Lynn Cathcart was one of the first people to arrive. Bob Taylor was one of the last.

However, when it came to speaking, it seems Louise Smith has a convenient system set up with those in which she'd like to have the most impact, speaking last. Even though Lynn was there first, Louise Smith asked Bob Taylor to speak first, then conveniently allowed Lynn to speak last, attacking Bloggers and never once using her gavel to strike her down when she attacked others, only when it's her, Comegys or the Mayor.

Being there allows you to see these kind of things in which you won't pick up on PAC 14.

Anyhow, I just found that quite interesting and wanted to hear your thoughts on the matter.

My Letter To Senator Mikulski to ask her to Vote NO on the Presidents Stimulus Package

Below is the letter which I sent to Senator Barbara Mikulski's Office this evening. Please write her and let her know how you feel. The Package is in the hands of Senate now and she has a strong voice.

Click Here To Send Senator Mikulski Your Own Letter

Dear Senator Mikulski,

It is with much grief and hopelessness that I am writing to you this evening after watching today's news and seeing that the House has passed our Presidents stimulus package.

I appeal to you as a daughter of parents and grandparents of the great depression to vote NO on this package.

Please take time to remember the stories of your parents and grandparents about the hyper-inflation that they experienced and, remember that throwing money at the problem didn't work. And as most economist of our day agree served but to only prolong one of America's most agonizing periods.

We need to stop the spending and stop the spending now, and let the cards fall where they may.
Allowing the first bailout package to be passed with zero oversight from Hank Paulson is likened to the fox guarding the hen house. I certainly don't think that Mr. Paulson is of ill-intent, but as the former CEO of one of the banks that was bailed I find, as do many Americans do to be absolutely appalling, as we believe he must have known something about what was going on.

Yes there will be much 'letting of blood' so to speak, but every trade organizations is filing into Washington this very moment with their hand out wanting a piece of this 'crumbling pie'.

I am especially troubled with ACORN who is under so very much suspicion and actual ongoing investigation on many different fronts including voter fraud, would even be considered for a handout.

Hearing Mr. Gieger talk about contracts for rebuilding of our infrastructure was even more troubling, when he stated... "White, middle class construction workers need not apply".

Dear Senator our infrastructure was built by highly skilled craftsmen, of masons and iron workers. My own Grandfather lost his eye building the Chesapeake Bay Bridge when a younger less experienced worker accidently shot him in eye with a hot rivet from a rivet gun.

My Grandfather never sued for workers compensation, nor did he go on disability. In fact, after his empty socket healed, he obtained a glass eye and went back to work. He walked the 'I' beams of some of our Eastern Seaboards highest buildings, and bridge spans all with one eye. He has never been a burden to society but instead an asset even with what would in today's world be written off immediately as a handicap, and another employer being sued.

Instead now, society is a burden to him. For all that he has saved; half has been lost over the last year, and his retirement dollar shrinks monthly through inflation.

He has forewarned me of this day my entire life, and tonight I ask you to remember the proud men and women who would rather work, than accept a hand out.

Printing more money will only serve to put us further into the abyss of debt that we even now do not know how to repay and devalue it to levels we haven't seen since the Great Depression.

You know as well as I do that so much of this stimulus money will only end up in pockets of people who are lobbying for the money but not actually doing the work.

Please Senator, stand up to your colleagues in the Senate and tell them why this won't work.

Additionally, if any of this bill does pass, please insist that the steel and concrete that we use to rebuild our bridges and roads is American Steel and not Chinese. Real economic stimulus will come from American companies being able to fill American needs with American Products made by American Workers.

You remember the prosperity in Baltimore when Bethlehem Steel was open. Let's pay back our loans to China with money that we have earned instead of buying their junk.

Sincerely,

wymzie
District Resident
Registered Voter

Could The Gordy's Be On A Roll?

Now that the Kratovil Signs are gone they have been replaced with Comegys Signs. I wonder what the gas prices at Sam's Club are today? ;-)

Who Will Be The Winner, Old School Or New School?

Painting on Porcelain Tiles

Painting on Porcelain Tiles

The Worcester County Arts Council is pleased to offer a Painting on Porcelain Tiles Classes on Tuesdays, March 24, March 31, and April 7 from 10 am – 12 noon at the WCAC’s Arts & Education Center located at 6 Jefferson Street in Berlin, MD.

Instructor, Jayne Collinge, will demonstrate the techniques required to transfer a design onto a blank porcelain tile and apply paint to add color and depth. Participants will choose to paint from the following designs: fruit, flower, beach scene or a seascape to be transfer on the piece of porcelain tile. The piece will then be fired in Jayne’s kiln and set in frame to be used either as a wall hanging or a trivet.

Step-by-step demonstrations and a relaxing style promises you a fun learning experience in an encouraging and supporting atmosphere. No previous experience necessary.

The cost for each class is $25.00 or $60.00 for all three classes. All supplies are included. Members of the WCAC Arts Council receive 10% discount upon registration.

Jayne Collinge has been teaching porcelain art since 1973 and has won many awards for her work. She has ornaments in the Smithsonian’s permanent collection and has been commissioned to custom paint pieces for many that include Barbara Bush and Hillary Clinton.

Space is limited, so please call the Arts Council to register 410-641-0809.

Registration deadline is March 18, 2009.

Get Ready For The Monster Truck Show To Roll Into Salisbury

(Salisbury, MD) Checkered Flag Productions and the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center presents the Monster Truck Winter Nationals. This event marks the 20th anniversary of the Monster Truck Winter Nationals. The entire family will love the car crushing and engine-revving action. The infamous Tranasaurus will also be joining the Monster Trucks. Watch in awe as this giant mangles cars and breathes fire.

You can save money and time waiting in line by ordering tickets before the show in advance. Tickets for the Friday, January 30 and Saturday, January 31 7:30pm performance are $17.75 plus fees for adults and $10 plus fees for children 12 and under when purchased in advance. Seats to the Saturday, January 31 matinee (2:00pm) are $15 plus fees for adults and $10 plus fees for children 12 and under when purchased in advance. The Saturday matinee will also feature a free race car driving experience in the AMP Stockcar Racing Simulator.

Tickets are on sale now online at www.wicomicociviccenter.org, at the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center Box Office (M-F 8-5 PM), or can be charged by phone at 410-548-4911. Join us for an event that the entire family is sure to love.

Crown Hosting Brooke Day

Hey Joe,

I know there's already been a lot of Brooke Fundraisers but the Crown is also hosting a Brooke Day this Sat. 1/31

30%of Laser Tag sales will go to Brooke and The Fast Break Cafe will donate 10%.

The laser tag is open 10am to 11pm.
Games starting every 20 minutes.
7 per game, 2 games for 13 or 3 games for 18.
(Must be 7years and up)

We have pics and info on Crown website http://www.crownsportscenter.com/ or call at 410-860-1234

You can also go to http://www.brookemulford.com/ for more information about her condition.

Brooke was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma.

Brooke has been one of our Lil Kickers for the past 3 years.

Thank you in advance.

See you Saturday.

Adam Manning - Director of Lil Kickers

Child-Proof Drawer

Chili Cook-Off

If you can read this whole story without laughing then there's no hope for you. I was crying by the end. Note: Please take time to read this slowly. If you pay attention to the first two judges, the reaction of the third judge is even better. For those of you who have lived in Texas , you know how true this is. They actually have a Chili Cook-off about the time Halloween comes around. It takes up a major portion of a parking lot at the San Antonio City Park . Judge #3 was an inexperienced Chili taster named Frank, who was visiting from Springfield , IL .

Frank: "Recently, I was honored to be selected as a judge at a chili cook-off. The original person called in sick at the last moment and I happened to be standing there at the judge's table asking for directions to the Coors Light truck, when the call came in. I was assured by the other two judges (Native Texans) that the chili wouldn't be all that spicy and, besides, they told me I could have free beer during the tasting, so I accepted".

Here are the scorecard notes from the event:

CHILI # 1 - MIKE'S MANIAC MONSTER CHILI...

Judge # 1 -- A little too heavy on the tomato. Amusing kick.

Judge # 2 -- Nice, smooth tomato flavor. Very mild.

Judge # 3 (Frank) -- Holy sh@t, what the hell is this stuff? You could remove dried paint from your driveway. Took me two beers to put the flames out. I hope that's the worst one. These Texans are crazy.

CHILI # 2 - AUSTIN 'S AFTERBURNER CHILI...

Judge # 1 -- Smoky, with a hint of pork. Slight jalapeno tang.

Judge # 2 -- Exciting BBQ flavor, needs more peppers to be taken seriously.

Judge # 3 -- Keep this out of the reach of children. I'm not sure what I'm supposed to taste besides pain. I had to waive off two people who wanted to give me the Heimlich maneuver. They had to rush in more beer when they saw the look on my face.

CHILI # 3 - FRED'S FAMOUS BURN DOWN THE BARN CHILI...

Judge # 1 -- Excellent firehouse chili. Great kick.

Judge # 2 -- A bit salty, good use of peppers.

Judge # 3 -- Call the EPA. I've located a uranium spill. My nose feels like I have been snorting Drano. Everyone knows the routine by now. Get me more beer before I ignite. Barmaid pounded me on the back, now my backbone is in the front part of my chest. I'm getting sh@t-faced from all of the beer.

CHILI # 4 - BUBBA'S BLACK MAGIC...

Judge # 1 -- Black bean chili with almost no spice. Disappointing.

Judge # 2 -- Hint of lime in the black beans. Good side dish for fish or other mild foods, not much of a chili.

Judge # 3 -- I felt something scraping across my tongue, but was unable to taste it. Is it possible to burn out taste buds? Sally, the beer maid, was standing behind me with fresh refills. That 300-LB woman is starting to look HOT...just like this nuclear waste I'm eating! Is chili an aphrodisiac?

CHILI # 5 LISA'S LEGAL LIP REMOVER...

Judge # 1 -- Meaty, strong chili. Cayenne peppers freshly ground, adding considerable kick. Very impressive.

Judge # 2 -- Chili using shredded beef, could use more tomato. Must admit the cayenne peppers make a strong statement.

Judge # 3 -- My ears are ringing, sweat is pouring off my forehead and I can no longer focus my eyes. I farted and four people behind me needed paramedics. The contestant seemed offended when I told her that her chili had given me brain damage. Sally saved my tongue from bleeding by pouring beer directly on it from the pitcher. I wonder if I'm burning my lips off. It really pisses me off that the other judges asked me to stop screaming. Screw those rednecks.

CHILI # 6 - VERA'S VERY VEGETARIAN VARIETY...

Judge # 1 -- Thin yet bold vegetarian vari ety chili. Good balance of spices and peppers.

Judge # 2 -- The best yet. Aggressive use of peppers, onions, and garlic. Superb.

Judge # 3 -- My intestines are now a straight pipe filled with gaseous, sulfuric flames. I sh@t on myself when I farted and I'm worried it will eat through the chair. No one seems inclined to stand behind me except that Sally. Can't feel my lips anymore. I need to wipe my arse with a snow cone.

CHILI # 7 - SUSAN'S SCREAMING SENSATION CHILI.

Judge # 1 -- A mediocre chili with too much reliance on canned peppers.

Judge # 2 -- Ho hum, tastes as if the chef literally threw in a can of chili peppers at the last moment. **I should take note that I am worried about Judge # 3. He appears to be in a bit of distress as he is cursing uncontrollably.

Judge # 3 -- You could put a grenade in my mouth, pull the pin, and I wouldn't feel a thing. I've lost sight in one eye, and the world sounds like it is made of rushing water. My shirt is covered with chili, which slid unnoticed out of my mouth. My pants are full of lava to match my shirt. At least during the autopsy, they'll know what killed me. I've decided to stop breathing it's too painful. Screw it; I'm not getting any oxygen anyway. If I need air, I'll just suck it in through the 4-inch hole in my stomach.

CHILI # 8 - BIG TOM'S TOENAIL CURLING CHILI...

Judge # 1 -- The perfect ending, this is a nice blend chili. Not too bold but spicy enough to declare its existence.

Judge # 2 -- This final entry is a good, balanced chili. Neither mild nor hot. Sorry to see that most of it was lost when Judge #3 farted, passed out, fell over and pulled the chili pot down on top of himself. Not sure if he's going to make it. Poor feller, wonder how he'd have reacted to really hot chili?

Judge # 3 - No Report

The Gift Of Giving Is A Beautiful Thing

Joe.

Just a note to let you know that the Kids Of Honor program is up and running again for this show.

Again ED Supply and Frank Hanna called me to to contrbute. So we have contacted Kids Of Honor and the program took off again. In these econimic times and the outpour of generosity for Rob's little girl Brook I was really thrown by these people that really believe so strongly about helping these young kids, while at the same time understanding that the success of this show is very important to the economy of this area.

I think they know the huge impact this can have in the future if a title fight is on the line. Please post a little something about this if you can Joe.

Thanks, Hal

Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk

Make the right play to save your life and others.

Wicomico County, Sheriff Mike Lewis announced today that he is joining forces with the National Football League (NFL), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and other State and local highway safety and law enforcement officials to remind everyone to act responsibly by designating a sober driver if they plan on drinking alcohol on Super Bowl Sunday.

“We want to pass our safety message to everyone who will be drinking this weekend, real Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk,” said Sheriff Lewis. “Please call the right play for the big game and pass your keys to a designated driver before the Super Bowl party begins. Getting caught driving while impaired will earn you a costly penalty from local law enforcement and may even result in a turnover of your driving privileges.”

Super Bowl Sunday is one of America’s biggest and most entertaining national sporting events as friends and families gather to socialize and watch the big game. Yet, it has also become one of the Nation’s most dangerous days on the roadways due to impaired driving.

In 2007, fatalities in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes accounted for 32 percent of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities. On Super Bowl Sunday (12:01 a.m. Sunday to 5:59 a.m. Monday), 48 percent of the fatalities occurred in crashes where a driver or motorcycle rider had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of .08 or higher.

Designating a sober driver should be on the top of everyone’s Super Bowl party list.

If you are hosting a Super Bowl party:

Make sure all of your guests designate their sober drivers in advance, or help arrange ride-sharing with other sober drivers.

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Serve lots of food and include lots of non-alcoholic beverages at the party.

Stop serving alcohol at the end of the third quarter of the game and begin serving coffee and dessert.

Keep the numbers for local cab companies handy, and take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving while impaired.

If you are attending a Super Bowl party or watching at a sports bar or restaurant:

Designate your sober driver before the party begins and give that person your car keys.

Avoid drinking too much alcohol too fast. Pace yourself—eat enough food, take breaks, and alternate with non-alcoholic drinks.
If you don’t have a designated driver, ask a sober friend for a ride home; call a cab, friend, or family member to come and get you; or just stay where you are and sleep it off until you are sober.

Never let a friend leave your sight if you think they are about to drive while impaired. Remember, Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk.
Always buckle up – it’s still your best defense against other impaired drivers.


For more information, please visit http://www.StopImpairedDriving.org

Where Does Time Go?

Max Baer, Jr. Became famous playing Jethro Bodine Clampett on the '60s TV series "The Beverly Hillbillies."

The 70-year-old resurfaced at an event in Vegas

Donna Douglas became famous for playing Elly May Clampett on the '60s TV series "The Beverly Hillbillies."

The 75-year-old today.

Mike Lookinland from "Brady Bunch:

The 47-year-old today.

Cindy Williams became famous for playing Shotz Brewery employee Shirley Feeney, in the '70s sitcom "Laverne & Shirley."

The 60-year-old actress turned up at a holiday party for her new Broadway show "The Drowsy Chaperone"

Bobby Sherman's first single "Little Woman" went gold in 1969.

Now Bobby Sherman is 65 and fightin' crime.

For 11 seasons, Loretta Swit played Maj. Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan On the hit series "M*A*S*H."

The 70-year-old blond bombshell turned up at a charity event in L.A.

First Time Sex

A girl asks her boyfriend to come over Friday night to meet, and have dinner with her parents..

Since this is such a big event, the girl announces to her boyfriend that after dinner, she would like to go out and make love for the first time. The boy is ecstatic, but he has never had sex before, so he takes a trip to the pharmacist to
get some condoms. He tells the pharmacist it's his first time and the pharmacist helps the boy for about an hour. He tells the boy everything there is to know about
condoms and sex. At the register, the pharmacist asks the boy how many condoms he'd like to buy, a 3-pack, 10-pack, or family pack. The boy insists on the family pack because he thinks he will be rather busy, it being his first time and all.

That night, the boy shows up at the girl's parents house and meets his girlfriend at the door. 'Oh, I'm so excited for you to meet my parents, come on in!' The boy goes inside and is taken to the dinner table where the girl's parents are seated. The boy
quickly offers to say grace and bows his head.

A minute passes, and the boy is still deep in prayer, with his head down.

10 minutes pass, and still no movement from the boy.

Finally, after 20 minutes with his head down, the girlfriend leans over and whispers to the boyfriend, 'I had no idea you were this religious.'

The boy turns, and whispers back, 'I had no idea your father was a pharmacist.'