Over the last 48 hours, (or so) there has been much said about Stephanie and Billy Burke.
Mayor McDermott was recorded on the steps of City Hall in what I truly feel was a personal conversation between three people. I have spoken to all three involved and I personally feel confident this was the case. As the Burke's were leaving one office inside City Hall, Mayor McDermott was walking out of another Office and they simply ran right into one and other. The Mayor said he had received Billy's e-mail and wanted to discuss it, would you join me in my Office? Stephanie stated his Office was being used, it's a beautiful day, let's go outside and talk, so they did. (Billy had stated to me they were in the building with the tape recorder because he had been told three different stories about absentee ballots and he went in to record the Clerk to have evidence. I asked Billy if the Clerk knew she was being recorded and he replied, "no".)
Their conversation with the Mayor, (IMHO) was one that was intended to be inside but the Daughter of one of the people working for City Hall was using the room to do her homework. So the intent, (as all parties understood) would have been private. As they were walking out the front door, Billy Burke reached into his pocket and hit record on his tape recorder. In my personal opinion, this was extremely out of line and I personally expressed this to Billy not only last week when he brought it up to me, well before any search warrant was brought forth. Billy fully expected this to happen and asked me to be prepared to bail him out. I was upset the day he mentioned it and I became even more upset after he was arrested and continued to use the Court of Public Opinion as his defense on the Blogs. I expressed that any good lawyer would have immediately told him to shut up and not say a word but they came to Salisbury News, the Daily Times and other places to express their disbelief that this had happened to them.
Billy called me the morning after he was arrested upset because I didn't have his back, yet I had already expressed almost a week earlier that I felt he was completely out of line. Look, I'm extremely up front and honest with people. Many may not like my being so forward but after I said my peace and even if I'm upset, that doesn't mean I don't have your back.
My problem started just as soon as Billy & Stephanie showed no remorse whatsoever and in fact pleaded to everyone to stand behind them as this was all about a conspiracy. No, that's not the case at all. In fact, the arrest warrant was issued well before the election and Mayor McDermott asked that they hold off the arrest until AFTER the election so no one could say they were treated unfairly.
In a conversation today with the Burke's, Stephanie asked me if it was me making comments on Story Chat and I replied, yes. She didn't say anything more so I simply stated that I felt what they had done was illegal and wrong and I also felt they were trying their case in the Court of Public Opinion. You may gain a strong following but when you get into a Court Room and a Judge sees there's been no remorse, you're making their case for them. Stephanie tried to explain to me how things went but I interrupted her and told her that I had already had this conversation last week with Billy and I know what had happened. I also expressed again that I felt what they had done was not only wrong, it was unethical to say the least.
The fact that the recording still remained on the Website was yet another major concern to me and it seemed like they were in a hurry at that point to end the telephone conversation so they could access their Site and remove it.
Look, I like Stephanie and Billy Burke. They have been friends for years. I didn't appreciate Billy sending me the e-mail the night of his arrest with links to those audio recordings in which I removed from his message. If I had posted those links I would have been just as liable as the Burke's and that just wasn't proper or right. Nevertheless, this was not my battle and I was offended that Billy would try to bring Salisbury News smack dab in the middle of it.
I personally feel that anyone with a good head on their shoulders would forever lose trust in Billy Burke, not knowing if they are being recorded or not. I expressed this with Billy & Stephanie in today's conversation. This is something I would NEVER do. I repeated that they had not put up the entire recording, just what they wanted others to hear and to me that was underhanded and unethical. I also expressed that Soldiers had died for our Freedom of Speech and that I felt that had abused their privilege.
Now I'm saying all of this to all of you so that you know, it doesn't matter who you are, if you break the law, you are accountable. This doesn't mean I won't back you or support you. However, I do NOT want others to believe that "I" would EVER do anything like this. Some may not like my style, my writing skills or the lack thereof, my personality or whatever. However, I am a straight shooter and I tell it like it is. I am not bailing on Billy & Stephanie Burke but I will say this, they need to shut up, (as I expressed to them very clearly today) and STOP making any comments anywhere. They need to go to Mayor McDermott and apologize and express that this will never happen again. Regardless of where this case goes, that's the honorable thing to do. They need to do so with a neutral witness so neither party can pass more blame on one and other and to confirm it was done.
Billy & Stephanie Burke need to shake the Mayor's hand and ask for forgiveness, not just say you're sorry. Mind you, this is how "I" feel. If they are truly sorry for their mistake, don't wait for a Court Date. Do it NOW.
All that being said, I have a few other things to express to everyone. Today I removed my links to several Blogs. We have stated we are on a new course and I'm sticking to my promise. I have removed the Burke's Blog, Michael Schwartz Blog, Outraged Dick's Blog and Jonathan Taylor's Blog.
It will take some time to heal the friendship we once shared with the Burke's and their actions from this point forward will assure whether or not we'll return to their Site. Jon and Dick are a given, I will not return there. Michael is yet another story and I'll keep that brief. I have spoken to several people in the Republican Party who share my disbelief in some of Michael's recent Posts. Several of us have agreed, we're done with Michael on a couple of levels. We'll not return to his Site and we'll also not welcome him to our homes, parties and special events any longer. I'm not going to pick on Michael, I'm just going to cut him off and be done with him.
Salisbury News has been evolving in the right direction the past couple of years and the only time we fall off the wagon is when we're distracted by some of the Anti Albero Blogs. The way I see it from this point forward is, they have a very long way to go to come anywhere near catching up to where Salisbury News is today. By ignoring them and moving forward, we can concentrate on what we want to do and not get side tracked by allowing statements like Michael recently made saying if you want Police Reports and local things to do then go to Salisbury News. You know what Folks, we provide a service. I'm not offended by such a statement, especially coming from a guy who averages 84 hits a day. Michael is living in a very unusual world thinking a guy with absolutely no influence and or visitors can pass off advice to someone getting hits in the millions. So we'll simply say goodbye to some and hopefully if they turn things around and deliver positive news and information we'll return one day and congratulate them for providing a service to you as well.
Onward and upward, they say. See you tomorrow.
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Saturday, April 11, 2009
New Castle Man Arrested On Weapons Charges
Wilmington – The Delaware State Police have arrested a 19 year old New Castle man for weapons offenses after he reportedly threatened another man with a gun earlier today.
Troopers began the investigation after a friend of Luis O. Marquez-Dejesus, 28 of Wilmington called 911 reporting that Marquez-Dejesus was operating a vehicle on Maryland Avenue and he was being followed by Josue Hermida-Rivera, 19 of New Castle who just threatened him with a gun.
Troopers also learned that both subjects were involved in an altercation yesterday when Marquez-Dejesus broke a window to Hermida-Rivera’s vehicle. During this altercation both persons threatened to kill each other. That incident, which was not reported to police, resulted in today’s retaliation by Hermida-Rivera.
Earlier today, Marquez-Dejesus was driving on Maryland Avenue when Hermida-Rivera began following him in his vehicle. Marquez-Dejesus called a relative and told them that he was being followed by Hermida-Rivera and that Hermida-Rivera was in possession of a handgun. That family member called 911.
A general broadcast on the blue Ford Explorer that Hermida-Rivera was driving was put out to area officers when a Newport Police Officer located all parties in Banning Park. Upon seeing the police, Hermida-Rivera immediately left the area and drove onto Middleboro Road and onto S. DuPont Road where he was stopped by Newport Police.
A subsequent investigation did not find a weapon in the Ford Explorer as reported to police. However, investigators noted that the passenger side window was down at the time of the stop and that it was raining steadily. While the investigation was underway, additional officers from Newport PD retraced the path driven by Hermida-Rivera from Banning Park to the location of the traffic stop. A Newport officer located a loaded 9 MM Glock handgun on the edge of Middleboro Road. Officers noted the weapon was relatively dry although it had been raining steadily in the area indicating that the gun had not been there very long.
As result of the investigation, Hermida-Rivera was arrested for Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony and Aggravated Menacing. Marquez-Dejesus was also arrested for Criminal Mischief and Terrorist Threatening. Bail information was not readily available.
Note – mug shots are currently not available.
Troopers began the investigation after a friend of Luis O. Marquez-Dejesus, 28 of Wilmington called 911 reporting that Marquez-Dejesus was operating a vehicle on Maryland Avenue and he was being followed by Josue Hermida-Rivera, 19 of New Castle who just threatened him with a gun.
Troopers also learned that both subjects were involved in an altercation yesterday when Marquez-Dejesus broke a window to Hermida-Rivera’s vehicle. During this altercation both persons threatened to kill each other. That incident, which was not reported to police, resulted in today’s retaliation by Hermida-Rivera.
Earlier today, Marquez-Dejesus was driving on Maryland Avenue when Hermida-Rivera began following him in his vehicle. Marquez-Dejesus called a relative and told them that he was being followed by Hermida-Rivera and that Hermida-Rivera was in possession of a handgun. That family member called 911.
A general broadcast on the blue Ford Explorer that Hermida-Rivera was driving was put out to area officers when a Newport Police Officer located all parties in Banning Park. Upon seeing the police, Hermida-Rivera immediately left the area and drove onto Middleboro Road and onto S. DuPont Road where he was stopped by Newport Police.
A subsequent investigation did not find a weapon in the Ford Explorer as reported to police. However, investigators noted that the passenger side window was down at the time of the stop and that it was raining steadily. While the investigation was underway, additional officers from Newport PD retraced the path driven by Hermida-Rivera from Banning Park to the location of the traffic stop. A Newport officer located a loaded 9 MM Glock handgun on the edge of Middleboro Road. Officers noted the weapon was relatively dry although it had been raining steadily in the area indicating that the gun had not been there very long.
As result of the investigation, Hermida-Rivera was arrested for Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony and Aggravated Menacing. Marquez-Dejesus was also arrested for Criminal Mischief and Terrorist Threatening. Bail information was not readily available.
Note – mug shots are currently not available.
Hebron Fire Department Prepares For Yearly Amusement Rides
Today the Hebron Fire Department was preparing their Amusement Rides for yet another season. If you've never been, this is a great time and a very inexpensive way to entertain your Family on a regular basis. Hopefully someone can comment on this Post as to when they'll open it and close it for the season.
Egg Hunt A Success Despite Weather
Jim Ireton presided over this year's Johnson's Lake Neighborhood Annual Easter Egg Hunt in his first official engagement as mayor-elect. Despite the drizzle, which got heavy at times, the event was well attended by at least 30 kids who didn't even seem to notice the rain.
Susan Carey, neighborhood association president, had put together a well planned event that included fun for both children and adults with an egg hunt, egg races, and egg painting. Five special eggs (four gold and one silver) were hidden across the two yard area and those who found them received an extra special prize. There were also prizes for the race and for the best decorated baskets.
It was nice to see WBOC(their story will run at 7pm) and a reporter for the Daily Times there. Conspicuously absent was WMDT. If they would put TwoSentz in their blogroll, they might be a little more on top of these things. Though I know he is busy, next year I hope to see the Easter Bunny in attendance.
Happy Easter.
Why Did Jesus Fold The Napkin?
Why did Jesus fold the linen burial cloth after His resurrection? I never
noticed this.......
John 20:7 tells us that the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus,
was not thrown aside like the grave clothes. The Bible takes an entire
verse to tell us that the napkin was neatly folded and was placed at the
head of that stony coffin.
Early that Sunday morning, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that
the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. She ran and found Simon
Peter, and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, "They have taken
the Lord's body and I don't know where they have taken Him!".
Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to see. The other disciple
outran Peter and got there first. He stooped and looked in and saw the
linen cloth lying there, but he didn't go in. Then Simon Peter arrived and
went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the napkin
that had covered Jesus face was folded up and lying to one side.
Is that important? Absolutely!
Is that really significant? Yes!
In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to
understand a little bit about the Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded
napkin had to do with the Master and Servant, and every Jewish boy knew this
tradition.
When the Servant set the dinner table for the Master, he made sure it was
exactly the way the Master wanted it.. The table was furnished perfectly,
and then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the Master had
finished eating. The Servant would not dare touch that table until the
Master was finished.
If the Master were done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his
fingers, his mouth, and clean his beard and would wad up that napkin and
toss it onto the table. The servant would then know to clear the table. For
in those days, the wadded napkin meant, "I'm finished".
I did not know this....
If the Master got up from the table, and folded his napkin beside his plate,
the servant would not dare touch the table, because....
The folded napkin meant, "I'm coming back!".
He is coming back!
During this Holy season, I pray that you are blessed with peace and joy in
the knowledge that He IS coming back someday.
noticed this.......
John 20:7 tells us that the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus,
was not thrown aside like the grave clothes. The Bible takes an entire
verse to tell us that the napkin was neatly folded and was placed at the
head of that stony coffin.
Early that Sunday morning, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that
the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. She ran and found Simon
Peter, and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, "They have taken
the Lord's body and I don't know where they have taken Him!".
Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to see. The other disciple
outran Peter and got there first. He stooped and looked in and saw the
linen cloth lying there, but he didn't go in. Then Simon Peter arrived and
went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the napkin
that had covered Jesus face was folded up and lying to one side.
Is that important? Absolutely!
Is that really significant? Yes!
In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to
understand a little bit about the Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded
napkin had to do with the Master and Servant, and every Jewish boy knew this
tradition.
When the Servant set the dinner table for the Master, he made sure it was
exactly the way the Master wanted it.. The table was furnished perfectly,
and then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the Master had
finished eating. The Servant would not dare touch that table until the
Master was finished.
If the Master were done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his
fingers, his mouth, and clean his beard and would wad up that napkin and
toss it onto the table. The servant would then know to clear the table. For
in those days, the wadded napkin meant, "I'm finished".
I did not know this....
If the Master got up from the table, and folded his napkin beside his plate,
the servant would not dare touch the table, because....
The folded napkin meant, "I'm coming back!".
He is coming back!
During this Holy season, I pray that you are blessed with peace and joy in
the knowledge that He IS coming back someday.
Delaware State Troopers Probe Early Morning Robbery At Dover Convenience Store
Dover – The Delaware State Police are currently investigating an armed robbery of a Shore Stop located at 1491 S. Governors Avenue that occurred this morning at approximately 6:13 am.
Investigators discovered two black males, 18 – 20 yrs of age; 5’10, 140 -150 lbs, wearing black hoodies and blue jeans entered the store and confronted the 37 year old clerk. One suspect armed with a handgun demanded money and cartons of cigarettes. The clerk complied and gave the pair an undisclosed amount of money and cigarettes.
The suspects fled the store on foot while the clerk called 911. Surveillance video of the incident has been obtained and when photographs of the culprits become available they will be released. Anyone with information regarding this crime is urged to call detectives at 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.
Investigators discovered two black males, 18 – 20 yrs of age; 5’10, 140 -150 lbs, wearing black hoodies and blue jeans entered the store and confronted the 37 year old clerk. One suspect armed with a handgun demanded money and cartons of cigarettes. The clerk complied and gave the pair an undisclosed amount of money and cigarettes.
The suspects fled the store on foot while the clerk called 911. Surveillance video of the incident has been obtained and when photographs of the culprits become available they will be released. Anyone with information regarding this crime is urged to call detectives at 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.
Troopers Probe Wilmington Area Assault
Wilmington – The Delaware State Police are currently investigating the assault of a 49 year old Wilmington man after he was found behind a Dunkin Donuts located at 1327 McKennans Church Road.
Police were called to the area early yesterday morning at approximately 6:00 am after a concerned citizen called 911 reporting a suspicious person was located behind the store sitting alongside a chain link fence.
When troopers contacted the man, it was readily apparent he had been severely assaulted and was suffering from a significant head injury. Medical personnel were summonsed and the victim was admitted to Christiana Hospital where he was diagnosed with multiple facial and skull fractures. Investigators were informed by the victim that he was assaulted by 3 subjects, two white males and a black male Thursday evening, April 9, between 8 and 9 pm.
Troopers canvassing the area located the victim’s cellular telephone and a sweatshirt belonging to the victim in an alley way that separates the Dunkin Donuts from Total Wine and Spirits. Additionally, they discovered areas with blood on the ground. This is the area where investigators believe the assault occurred.
The suspects have been describes as: a black male, 20 – 25 yrs of age, 5’06”,150 lbs, wearing a red shirt, tan shorts and white knee high socks; white male, 20 -25 yrs of age, 6’2”, 175 lbs, wearing a green shirt and tan shorts; and a white male, 6’, 180 lbs, wearing a camouflage fatigues.
Anyone with information on this crime is urged to call police at Troop # 6 at 302.633.5000 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.
Note: no video surveillance has been located that captured any evidence regarding this crime.
SWARTZ & POLLITT DEBATE SALARY CUTS AND TAX REVENUE CAP
Although it lacks the drama of the Lincoln-Douglas debates, this dialogue that took place recently is interesting.
Pollitt-Swartz.mp3
Pollitt-Swartz.mp3
BEST LETTER OF 2009 SALISBURY ELECTION
Ireton, Campbell will move city in a better direction
Erick Sahler's editorial cartoon from the 2005 Salisbury election accurately portrayed Mike Dunn and Gary Comegys as children on a playground refusing to "play" with Debbie Campbell. For four long years, Campbell's political opponents have tried to paint her as negative.
One of the most positive things a person can do is right a wrong or identify a problem and work to fix it. That is what Campbell does, with integrity and dignity.
The Daily Times incorrectly reported that Campbell's opponent, Muir Boda, was not aligned with anyone. Boda clearly stated at the NAACP candidate forum that he supported Comegys for mayor. Mayor Barrie Parsons Tilghman also endorsed Comegys.
After nearly six long years of voting almost 100 percent of the time with Tilghman's wishes, this city can't afford another four years of the same.
Comegys voted for a double-digit tax increase before he looked at the budget. He and Tilghman said it was needed for the police. Yet the amount of that increase -- $1.9 million -- went back to surplus, even after the police received raises. Comegys kept quiet about the problems with the wastewater treatment plant while "celebrating" its success, just as Tilghman did.
Bob Caldwell was my first choice in the primary, but Jim Ireton is honest and will not hide city problems from the public.
Vote for Ireton and Campbell. Both have the energy and the integrity to move this city in a much better direction.
George Chevallier
Salisbury
A Reader Would Like Some Help
I am looking for suggestions for fun things to do with my 4 and 5 year old that is within a couple of hours from here and not too expensive. I took them to the Washington Zoo and they had a blast. any suggestions of where I can look or places that I could go would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
NEW YORK DAILY NEWS 4/11/09
"Thrilla in Manila," the latest look at the 1975 boxing match between heavyweights Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, manages the near-impossible feat of finding a fresh angle on one of the most documented fights in history.
That new angle, primarily, is Frazier. Where sportswriters and historians have covered the match as an epic sporting event, which it was, and cultural historians have focused on Ali with his magnetic personality, Frazier has often been the silent element.
He hasn't been disrespected as much as ignored - when, as this John Dower production proves, there's a whole lot he still wants to say about this fight in particular and Ali in general.
Like Ali, Frazier is in his 60s now. Unlike Ali, who has been rendered largely silent by Parkinson's, Frazier still seems mostly functional. His legs move more slowly and his speech is a little thicker - a legacy, no doubt, of 20 or 30 years getting hit repeatedly in the head.
But he speaks articulately, and his frequent smiles provide a striking contrast to his continuing resentment of how Ali treated him while promoting their three landmark fights.
"Thrilla in Manila" documents that rivalry and this third fight at length, with strong commentary from boxing experts. But what makes this one different is Frazier.
Before all three fights, Ali portrayed himself as a champion of freedom and black people while calling Frazier a tool of whites, hardly a man at all. Throw in a fistful of traditional Ali insults about his opponent being stupid and ugly, and Frazier feels even now that he was disrespected and belittled by a man with whom, in the ring, he had proven himself an equal.
The film notes Frazier was also among the few who stood by Ali earlier when he had his title vacated for refusing military induction. So there was also a sense of betrayal.
After the Manila fight, which Ali won when Frazier's corner would not let him answer the bell for the 15th round, Ali stopped the attacks. Years later, he apologized.
Too late, says Frazier, who suggests Ali's current physical debilitation is part of the Lord's punishment and that there remains much more for which, come Judgment Day, Ali will have to answer.
Today, while Ali lives comfortably and is honored by many who once considered him a traitor, Frazier lives in a small apartment over the gym he still runs in a rough part of Philadelphia.
He doesn't look unhappy, though, and it's only when he talks about Ali that he sounds like there's unfinished business.
"Thrilla in Manila" paints a vivid portrait of a memorable fight and a sympathetic picture of the one of the fight game's class acts.
Meet The Candidates TODAY In Hebron
At 10:00 AM this morning you can go out and meet the candidates running for Office in Hebron. This may be your only chance, so don't miss it. I have more to come later about Waller Landing.Sulphur Springs Mayor Resigns
SULPHUR SPRINGS -- Mayor Quinton Hoffer resigned at a special meeting Tuesday evening after City Council members called for him to step down last week.
"I feel that I have served this community to the best of my ability and that my heart was right," Hoffer said, reading from a prepared statement. He noted the city's accomplishments during his three-year term, including a new library and new grants for the city.
He left City Hall after receiving a round of applause from the roughly 20-person audience, shaking hands on his way out the door.
The council appointed Alderman Bobby Simon to fill the rest of Hoffer's term, which ends in 2010.
The council did not fill Simon's position.
Simon said he wants the city to follow all of its ordinances more closely.
He said one of his top priorities will be to "clean up the city" by dealing with vicious dogs and abandoned cars. Hoffer has been at odds with the council since the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality proposed a consent administrative order that listed several problems at the city's wastewater treatment plant.
The order, which would be a voluntary agreement between the city and the environmental department, cited violations of effluent limits, lack of backup power and improper testing techniques, among other problems.
The wastewater treatment plant has been operating without a permit since Jan. 31. Discharging without a permit is a violation of the federal Clean Water Act, and is punishable by fines of up to $10,000 per day.
Hoffer said at a Feb. 6 meeting that the city had hired James Boston, a wastewater treatment operator for Decatur, to help with the plant and to fill out the permit application. Boston said Monday that he was not hired to fill out the permit, although he thought he was going to help city staff with the process.
"I guess we all kind of lost track of it," he said.
Alderwoman Martha Kreder said in an interview before the meeting that Hoffer did not keep the City Council informed about what's happening in the city.
Her biggest problem with Hoffer was the expired permit, she said.
"That is gross incompetence," she said.
Mo Shafii, assistant chief of the environmental plant, said last week that several of the plant's problems had been fixed.
The city is working on a list to tell the environmental department what problems it has fixed and how it plans to fix remaining problems.
Shafii said last week that he did not know what the penalty would be for the expired permit.
"I feel that I have served this community to the best of my ability and that my heart was right," Hoffer said, reading from a prepared statement. He noted the city's accomplishments during his three-year term, including a new library and new grants for the city.
He left City Hall after receiving a round of applause from the roughly 20-person audience, shaking hands on his way out the door.
The council appointed Alderman Bobby Simon to fill the rest of Hoffer's term, which ends in 2010.
The council did not fill Simon's position.
Simon said he wants the city to follow all of its ordinances more closely.
He said one of his top priorities will be to "clean up the city" by dealing with vicious dogs and abandoned cars. Hoffer has been at odds with the council since the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality proposed a consent administrative order that listed several problems at the city's wastewater treatment plant.
The order, which would be a voluntary agreement between the city and the environmental department, cited violations of effluent limits, lack of backup power and improper testing techniques, among other problems.
The wastewater treatment plant has been operating without a permit since Jan. 31. Discharging without a permit is a violation of the federal Clean Water Act, and is punishable by fines of up to $10,000 per day.
Hoffer said at a Feb. 6 meeting that the city had hired James Boston, a wastewater treatment operator for Decatur, to help with the plant and to fill out the permit application. Boston said Monday that he was not hired to fill out the permit, although he thought he was going to help city staff with the process.
"I guess we all kind of lost track of it," he said.
Alderwoman Martha Kreder said in an interview before the meeting that Hoffer did not keep the City Council informed about what's happening in the city.
Her biggest problem with Hoffer was the expired permit, she said.
"That is gross incompetence," she said.
Mo Shafii, assistant chief of the environmental plant, said last week that several of the plant's problems had been fixed.
The city is working on a list to tell the environmental department what problems it has fixed and how it plans to fix remaining problems.
Shafii said last week that he did not know what the penalty would be for the expired permit.
Eagleville Mayor Resigns
The Mayor of Eagleville has decided to step down from his post. Mayor Nolan S. Barham, Sr. has been Eagleville’s Mayor since 1994. During a past council meeting in, one councilman asked that Barham elaborate on accusations of misconduct. A former city employee was recently accused of theft. Instead of explaining any accusations of misconduct, Barham resigned.
Racine Mayor Resigns
RACINE, Wis. -- When former Racine Mayor Gary Becker returns from sex-addiction treatment in Pennsylvania later this month, he wants permission to leave the county for more therapy.
Becker is charged with eight felonies, including child enticement. He remains free on a $10,000 cash bond.
He was restricted from leaving the county, but a judge allowed him to seek treatment in Pennsylvania more than a month ago.
In a motion filed Friday, attorney Patrick Cafferty said Becker wants permission to seek more treatment in Brookfield. A hearing on that motion is scheduled for Tuesday.
Brookfield is in Milwaukee County, about 40 miles northwest of Racine. That's where the 51-year-old was arrested in January as he allegedly planned to meet who he thought was a 14-year-old girl.
Becker is charged with eight felonies, including child enticement. He remains free on a $10,000 cash bond.
He was restricted from leaving the county, but a judge allowed him to seek treatment in Pennsylvania more than a month ago.
In a motion filed Friday, attorney Patrick Cafferty said Becker wants permission to seek more treatment in Brookfield. A hearing on that motion is scheduled for Tuesday.
Brookfield is in Milwaukee County, about 40 miles northwest of Racine. That's where the 51-year-old was arrested in January as he allegedly planned to meet who he thought was a 14-year-old girl.
Mayor Resigns, Claims Abduction By Satan Worshippers
CENTERTON, Ark. -- The mayor of an Arkansas town resigned on Wednesday, claiming he was abducted and brainwashed by Satan worshippers nearly three decades ago.Centerton Mayor Ken Williams said he has been living under an assumed name for nearly 30 years. He had been mayor since 2001.Williams told authorities he was born Don LaRose and that in the mid-1970s, he was a preacher in Indiana. He said he was abducted and brainwashed into forgetting all about his life as Don LaRose.It was a double-life he had never acknowledged, Williams said, because he didn't even realize it existed until he had recently taken a truth-serum injection.As Williams regained his memory, he said, he realized that he had a wife and two kids but that he had decided to leave and take on a new identity to protect them."I had no choice. The choice was to watch my family killed before my eyes or go with these people, and I chose instead to run," Williams said.He wouldn't explain from who he was running, saying only that he had been brainwashed."I had multiple shock treatments," Williams said. "It took five years to get my memory back."Williams said he took his current identity in 1980 when he moved to Centerton. His full name -- Bruce Kent Williams -- was taken from a man who died in a car crash back in 1958, he said."What happened in 1980 -- whether it was right or wrong -- I did it under the threat of my family and for my own survival," he said.The information went public, Williams said, because he runs a Web site about Don LaRose and his disappearance. LaRose's former family found the Web site and started inquiring about its author. They found the site registered to a Ken Williams and went from there.Williams said his current wife is standing by him and the two of them want to continue living in Centerton. He said he plans to continue living as Ken Williams.Also, his resignation was signed with two names, he said.According to police, Williams is under no investigation for any wrongdoing.
Mayor Resigns; Alderman Might Too
PETERSBURG - Mayor John Cowden resigned at the close of a contentious meeting Monday when residents complained to the town board and one alderman told a woman to "shut up" and made an obscene gesture toward a man.
Conflicts have grown as Alderman Brad Dillenback has been asking financial and procedural questions and, according to resident Cheryl Payne, Dillenback "pushes buttons," but the close friend of recently-ousted Alderman Anthony Nichols scolded Alderman Phillip McMillian.
"You're out of line," Payne told McMillian after he raised his middle finger to a man in the audience, Jimmy Gouge, described by Dillenback as a "friend," who was seated next to Lincoln County Commissioner Grady Reabis.
Cowden resigned "not because of anything tonight," he said after the meeting. His reasons include focusing more on work at Calsonic in Shelbyville, his son's purchase of a house that needs painting and two other house-painting tasks.
The resignation and gesture were only two of several notable developments during a two-hour meeting that included:
* Complaints from women about Police Chief Larry Hardin patrolling in an unmarked car with a blue light allegedly placed on the dashboard contrary to directions of the Board of Mayor and Aldermen.
* Claims by residents that their analysis of town financial records "don't add up." One woman reading a statement to the board about that, Rita Cowen, was told by McMillian to "shut up."
* Decisions to delay: Paying a Fayetteville-based accounting firm for audits conducted on the results of revenue and spending plans after an annual budget expired, and; Hiring a Lewisburg attorney who's made himself available to serve the town that faces legal questions about ousting an alderman and appointing a man who lives beyond the town line.
* Scheduling a 7 p.m. meeting on Monday next week to deal with various matters of unfinished business.
Cowden turned in his keys to Town Hall as he announced, "At this time I think I'm going to step down and resign."
In a 40-minute telephone interview Thursday morning McMillian recalled that Cowden has resigned before and returned to the board. Some officials contend Cowden's resignation must come with a letter saying so and the board must vote to accept it, McMillian said. However, the alderman said Cowden's decision is probably final and there's nothing the board can do about it.
Cowden made his decision on Monday while at work, the now-former mayor said.
"It's been good to work with you," he told the board. "We've got several people who would like to be on the board."
Cowden has served a total of 15 years on the town board, he said. Those years were in different segments since he was appointed once and elected three times. He had about a year and a half left in his last four-year term.
Like Brentwood, members of Petersburg's board run for membership on the board, which then elects one of the members to serve as mayor. The candidate who received the most votes from the at-large city election is typically the individual who is selected as mayor.
Alderman James Owen, who was absent Monday since he's experienced heart trouble, is the town's vice mayor and was therefore seen as Cowden's immediate successor. Cowden noted that Owen has had surgery, "but he'll be back." Another prospective candidate for mayor might be Alderman Kenneth Boles, although Boles left Monday's meeting as the board's discussion with more than two dozen residents reached a crescendo.
Alderman Ricky Wright, the man appointed by the board to succeed Nichols, is seen by McMillian as Cowden's possible successor, according to McMillan's analysis of sentiment among aldermen who don't want to be mayor themselves and who would oppose promoting Dillenback to mayor.
That and appointment of another alderman aren't the only changes in store for Petersburg's Board.
"I'm going to vote on the new mayor and then I'll resign, but ... Dillenback won't get my vote," McMillian said, citing his own health reasons for his decision to resign.
His wife has encouraged his resignation because of a stroke he suffered in December 2007, McMillian said, offering that health condition and possible mini-strokes in recent months as a reason for not remembering exactly why he made the obscene gesture at Gouge.
"Since I've had a stroke, I've had trouble over my temperament," McMillian said. "But it's no excuse for giving a bird. He had to have done something."
McMillian remembers "smirks" from the audience and other behavior, he said, recalling another official telling him to ignore the taunts.
The seating arrangement for aldermen might be changed so McMillian would have his back to the audience, the alderman said. He might change places with the police chief who sits next to Town Recorder Dawn Forlines.
That way he "might not take the meat that's thrown out" to bait the board, McMillian said. However, the mayor "has absolute control over people running their mouths," and Cowden has been described as "too nice a man" for the position in Petersburg, so that led to the obscene gesture.
"As soon as it happened, I said to myself, 'You idiot. Why'd you do that?' I've had darkness take over my temper," McMillian said.
He said he's "asked for help in our prayer meeting because I don't want to be a person like that.
"I took that job to help the town," McMillian said. "We brought it out of bankruptcy."
Cowden has said the town has money in the bank to pay bills. In her prepared remarks, Cowen, the woman who stood up and defended Dillenback and was told to "shut up," explained that Dillenback is not accusing anyone of stealing.
Cowen's statement shows her calculations indicate a deficit in the town's budget, but she stated, "I have not finished with the rest of our funds yet."
As she asked the town board to examine its financial records, some officials replied they have done so at a special meeting with the auditor.
Meanwhile, the meeting set for Monday night was scheduled to give Alderman Wright time to finish his review of the town's financial records. Problems revealed by a state audit of a fiscal year some two years ago were resolved, according to Cowden, however Dillenback again said on Thursday that he concludes that the city treasury is "in the red."
Conflicts have grown as Alderman Brad Dillenback has been asking financial and procedural questions and, according to resident Cheryl Payne, Dillenback "pushes buttons," but the close friend of recently-ousted Alderman Anthony Nichols scolded Alderman Phillip McMillian.
"You're out of line," Payne told McMillian after he raised his middle finger to a man in the audience, Jimmy Gouge, described by Dillenback as a "friend," who was seated next to Lincoln County Commissioner Grady Reabis.
Cowden resigned "not because of anything tonight," he said after the meeting. His reasons include focusing more on work at Calsonic in Shelbyville, his son's purchase of a house that needs painting and two other house-painting tasks.
The resignation and gesture were only two of several notable developments during a two-hour meeting that included:
* Complaints from women about Police Chief Larry Hardin patrolling in an unmarked car with a blue light allegedly placed on the dashboard contrary to directions of the Board of Mayor and Aldermen.
* Claims by residents that their analysis of town financial records "don't add up." One woman reading a statement to the board about that, Rita Cowen, was told by McMillian to "shut up."
* Decisions to delay: Paying a Fayetteville-based accounting firm for audits conducted on the results of revenue and spending plans after an annual budget expired, and; Hiring a Lewisburg attorney who's made himself available to serve the town that faces legal questions about ousting an alderman and appointing a man who lives beyond the town line.
* Scheduling a 7 p.m. meeting on Monday next week to deal with various matters of unfinished business.
Cowden turned in his keys to Town Hall as he announced, "At this time I think I'm going to step down and resign."
In a 40-minute telephone interview Thursday morning McMillian recalled that Cowden has resigned before and returned to the board. Some officials contend Cowden's resignation must come with a letter saying so and the board must vote to accept it, McMillian said. However, the alderman said Cowden's decision is probably final and there's nothing the board can do about it.
Cowden made his decision on Monday while at work, the now-former mayor said.
"It's been good to work with you," he told the board. "We've got several people who would like to be on the board."
Cowden has served a total of 15 years on the town board, he said. Those years were in different segments since he was appointed once and elected three times. He had about a year and a half left in his last four-year term.
Like Brentwood, members of Petersburg's board run for membership on the board, which then elects one of the members to serve as mayor. The candidate who received the most votes from the at-large city election is typically the individual who is selected as mayor.
Alderman James Owen, who was absent Monday since he's experienced heart trouble, is the town's vice mayor and was therefore seen as Cowden's immediate successor. Cowden noted that Owen has had surgery, "but he'll be back." Another prospective candidate for mayor might be Alderman Kenneth Boles, although Boles left Monday's meeting as the board's discussion with more than two dozen residents reached a crescendo.
Alderman Ricky Wright, the man appointed by the board to succeed Nichols, is seen by McMillian as Cowden's possible successor, according to McMillan's analysis of sentiment among aldermen who don't want to be mayor themselves and who would oppose promoting Dillenback to mayor.
That and appointment of another alderman aren't the only changes in store for Petersburg's Board.
"I'm going to vote on the new mayor and then I'll resign, but ... Dillenback won't get my vote," McMillian said, citing his own health reasons for his decision to resign.
His wife has encouraged his resignation because of a stroke he suffered in December 2007, McMillian said, offering that health condition and possible mini-strokes in recent months as a reason for not remembering exactly why he made the obscene gesture at Gouge.
"Since I've had a stroke, I've had trouble over my temperament," McMillian said. "But it's no excuse for giving a bird. He had to have done something."
McMillian remembers "smirks" from the audience and other behavior, he said, recalling another official telling him to ignore the taunts.
The seating arrangement for aldermen might be changed so McMillian would have his back to the audience, the alderman said. He might change places with the police chief who sits next to Town Recorder Dawn Forlines.
That way he "might not take the meat that's thrown out" to bait the board, McMillian said. However, the mayor "has absolute control over people running their mouths," and Cowden has been described as "too nice a man" for the position in Petersburg, so that led to the obscene gesture.
"As soon as it happened, I said to myself, 'You idiot. Why'd you do that?' I've had darkness take over my temper," McMillian said.
He said he's "asked for help in our prayer meeting because I don't want to be a person like that.
"I took that job to help the town," McMillian said. "We brought it out of bankruptcy."
Cowden has said the town has money in the bank to pay bills. In her prepared remarks, Cowen, the woman who stood up and defended Dillenback and was told to "shut up," explained that Dillenback is not accusing anyone of stealing.
Cowen's statement shows her calculations indicate a deficit in the town's budget, but she stated, "I have not finished with the rest of our funds yet."
As she asked the town board to examine its financial records, some officials replied they have done so at a special meeting with the auditor.
Meanwhile, the meeting set for Monday night was scheduled to give Alderman Wright time to finish his review of the town's financial records. Problems revealed by a state audit of a fiscal year some two years ago were resolved, according to Cowden, however Dillenback again said on Thursday that he concludes that the city treasury is "in the red."
POSTVILLE MAYOR RESIGNS
Robert Penrod resigns after city employees draft letter critical of mayor. Resignation, given orally, not official until put in writing.
Postville's mayor Robert Penrod walked out of a city council meeting tonight after orally resigning.
Penrod has been under increasing criticism from city employees, who drafted and circulated a letter late last week critical of the mayor's conduct of his office.
City council member Ginger Medberry confirmed Penrod's resignation when I spoke with her a few moments ago.
The resignation is not official until the mayor puts drafts a letter and delivers it to council members.
City council member Ross Malcom is the mayor pro tem.
Already upset about the letter, the mayor resigned when questioned about out of pocket spending.
Penrod purchased a Blackberry to save on cellphone minutes. The limit on out of pocket spending is $500. The Blackberry cost $600. The council refused to approve the extra $100.
At that point, the mayor angrily resigned.
The mayor has also been under criticism from activists trying to help Postville after the Agriprocessors collapse who charge he was slow to respond to the housing and utlity crises, and to have unresponsive to the needs of hungry former Agriprocessors workers.
Postville's mayor Robert Penrod walked out of a city council meeting tonight after orally resigning.
Penrod has been under increasing criticism from city employees, who drafted and circulated a letter late last week critical of the mayor's conduct of his office.
City council member Ginger Medberry confirmed Penrod's resignation when I spoke with her a few moments ago.
The resignation is not official until the mayor puts drafts a letter and delivers it to council members.
City council member Ross Malcom is the mayor pro tem.
Already upset about the letter, the mayor resigned when questioned about out of pocket spending.
Penrod purchased a Blackberry to save on cellphone minutes. The limit on out of pocket spending is $500. The Blackberry cost $600. The council refused to approve the extra $100.
At that point, the mayor angrily resigned.
The mayor has also been under criticism from activists trying to help Postville after the Agriprocessors collapse who charge he was slow to respond to the housing and utlity crises, and to have unresponsive to the needs of hungry former Agriprocessors workers.
PROFOUND PROPHETIC STATEMENT
“YOU CANNOT LEGISLATE THE POOR INTO FREEDOM BY LEGISLATING THE WEALTHY OUT OF FREEDOM. WHAT ONE PERSON RECEIVES WITHOUT WORKING FOR, ANOTHER
PERSON MUST WORK FOR WITHOUT RECEIVING. THE GOVERNMENT CANNOT GIVE TO ANYBODY ANYTHING THAT THE GOVERNMENT DOES NOT FIRST TAKE FROM SOMEBODY
ELSE. WHEN HALF OF THE PEOPLE GET THE IDEA THAT THEY DO NOT HAVE TO WORK BECAUSE THE OTHER HALF IS GOING TO TAKE CARE OF THEM, AND WHEN THE OTHER HALF GETS THE IDEA THAT IT DOES NO GOOD TO WORK BECAUSE SOMEBODY ELSE IS GOING TO GET WHAT THEY WORK FOR, THAT MY DEAR FRIEND, IS ABOUT THE END OF ANY NATION.
YOU CANNOT MULTIPLY WEALTH BY DIVIDING IT.”
DR. ADRIAN ROGERS, 1931-2005
PERSON MUST WORK FOR WITHOUT RECEIVING. THE GOVERNMENT CANNOT GIVE TO ANYBODY ANYTHING THAT THE GOVERNMENT DOES NOT FIRST TAKE FROM SOMEBODY
ELSE. WHEN HALF OF THE PEOPLE GET THE IDEA THAT THEY DO NOT HAVE TO WORK BECAUSE THE OTHER HALF IS GOING TO TAKE CARE OF THEM, AND WHEN THE OTHER HALF GETS THE IDEA THAT IT DOES NO GOOD TO WORK BECAUSE SOMEBODY ELSE IS GOING TO GET WHAT THEY WORK FOR, THAT MY DEAR FRIEND, IS ABOUT THE END OF ANY NATION.
YOU CANNOT MULTIPLY WEALTH BY DIVIDING IT.”
DR. ADRIAN ROGERS, 1931-2005
Dave Suiter To Go Cross Country At 70 Years Old
Head out on the highway. Lookin' for adventure and whatever comes my way.The words from Easy Rider and quite fitting.
Hi Joe,
Will be 70 in June so this will be my last big trip on my Honda ST1300 motorcycle.
My plan follows;
Leave home 12 April and head west on US#50 to the west coast. 50 now ends in Sacramento.
No set schedule. Going solo!!
Will stay on 50 except when I get into Utah. Plan 3/4 days around Moab to visit Arches, LaSal Mountains, Canyonlands, Goose Neck, Monument Valley, up 95 and 24 through Hanksville to 50 again. Google earth has several pictures of this area and one on 24 that looks like the Forrest Gump shot where he suddenly stopped his running.
Plan a couple days in Sacramento to visit John Sutter fort and mill. Our name in Switzerland was spelled SUTTER and SUTER. Where Sutter came from in Germany is a few KM from where my family came from in Switzerland. We have never found documentation to relate us but great grandfather said that we are related/cousins.
From Sacremento, north along 1 and 101 to Redwoods, Eugene, OR and up to Portland.
Then ride east along Olympia Gorge.
From there, it's all east. No set places to stop .
So that's about it. May be gone 4-6 weeks!!??
Do you want any pics that I take along the way??
Later,
Dave
Lewes Man Arrested In Drug Investigation
Lewes– The Delaware State Police have arrested a 62 year old Lewes man for several drug offenses after undercover officers concluded an investigation into the illegal distribution of marijuana.
The investigation was launched after several residents within the Whispering Pines Mobile Home Park community expressed concern over the possible illegal transaction of drugs occurring from a home on Siham Road in Lewes. As detectives conducted the investigation they identified Michael F. Gilbert, 62 of the 31000 block of Siham Road as the homeowner who was involved in the illegal distribution of marijuana.
Subsequent the investigation, this morning at approximately 6:00 am, troopers executed a search warrant at the residence. Gilbert was contacted and three separate packages of marijuana were located in the residence totaling approximately 25.2 grams. Detectives also located within the residence drug paraphernalia consisting of rolling papers and a scale.
As a result of the investigation, Gilbert was charged with Possession with Intent to Deliver Marijuana, Maintaining a Dwelling for the Keeping of Controlled Substances, 3 counts of Drug Paraphernalia and Criminal Nuisance. He was remanded to the Sussex Correctional Institute in lieu of a $2500.00 secured bail.
The investigation was launched after several residents within the Whispering Pines Mobile Home Park community expressed concern over the possible illegal transaction of drugs occurring from a home on Siham Road in Lewes. As detectives conducted the investigation they identified Michael F. Gilbert, 62 of the 31000 block of Siham Road as the homeowner who was involved in the illegal distribution of marijuana.
Subsequent the investigation, this morning at approximately 6:00 am, troopers executed a search warrant at the residence. Gilbert was contacted and three separate packages of marijuana were located in the residence totaling approximately 25.2 grams. Detectives also located within the residence drug paraphernalia consisting of rolling papers and a scale.
As a result of the investigation, Gilbert was charged with Possession with Intent to Deliver Marijuana, Maintaining a Dwelling for the Keeping of Controlled Substances, 3 counts of Drug Paraphernalia and Criminal Nuisance. He was remanded to the Sussex Correctional Institute in lieu of a $2500.00 secured bail.
Michael F. Gilbert
Word To The Wise
The good news is that Salisbury City Council Vice President Gary Comegys did not win the mayoral elecion. The bad news is that his term is not up until 2011....darn. Now a message to Mayor-elect Jim Ireton, do not tick off the blogs. Not only do not tick off the blogs, but do not mess with the newspapers, radio or television. They are all media. Your predecessor did not get this and quickly became a national laughing stock in her wanning days. Although I do Mayor Barrie Tilghman credit in not naming anyone specific like for City Council Chairman Mike Dunn did walking out the door.
The don't mess with the media rule applies to blogs, especially on the eastern shore where different outlets are spread throughout three states. In addition, there is only one major newspaper and two television stations that is covering this vast region. In other words, a small market, even though the WBOC-TV (Channel 16) NewsPlex puts anything on this side of the bay to shame and we have three network owned stations between DC and Baltimore.
As we have seen over the past couple of years, the Eastern Shore blogosphere has exploded with some blogs, such as this one, earning journalistic integrity. Blogging in ngeneral has became chic with mainstream outlets adding blogs to their site. Within the past year, The Daily Times, The Washington Post and The Baltimore Sun have added blogs to their site. Now that the blogosphere has evolved, it is real easy to point out which ones are trying to offer credible stories and commentary. It's a pretty safe bet that sites that spend a fair amount of time attacking other sites are not a good source of news.
My favorite sites to laugh at from the shore are those who spend time attacking Salisbury News, but that is because when they cannot come up with anything else to say, they fall on the fact that Joe lives in Delaware and I've been to his office in downtown Salisbury last year. I should also point out the fact that one does not have to be based in a city to cover their news. WJLA-TV is licensed to Washington, but their studios and offices are across the river (and up the street from my day job) in Rosslyn, Virginia. WMAR-TV is licensed to Baltimore, but their offices are just outside of the city in Towson. In addition, other markets like Salisbury have similar set-ups when it comes to their media outlets.
Back to my main point, which is more of a warning to Mayor-elect Jim Ireton. Please treat the media better than your predecessor. Please show them common courtesy. There is a difference between constructive criticism and personal attacks. Tilghman thought the former was the latter. I assure, if you were they Mayor of DC or Baltimore, the criticism, if any, will be worse....so says history.
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