TROOPERS ON SCENE OF CARROLL COUNTY BARRICADE

(Westminster, MD) – Maryland State Police have established a perimeter and are attempting to contact a Carroll County man who is refusing to come out of his house after telling troopers this morning in a phone call that he was going to harm himself.

A positive identification of the man who called has not been made at this time. He is believed to be a 45-year old man in possession of multiple loaded firearms inside of the residence.

Maryland State Police have surrounded a single-family home in the 600-block of Glen Drive, in Westminster, Md. Troopers have not been able to determine at this time if anyone is in the house with the suicidal man.

Shortly before 9:30 a.m. today, troopers at the Westminster Barracks received a call from a man at that address who said he was going to shoot himself. The man closed the interior blinds to the home when troopers arrived on the scene.

Responding troopers established a perimeter around the house. Due to the statement of the man in the house about his possession and use of a firearm and the proximity of the house to other homes, troopers quickly notified nearby residences to evacuate until the situation is resolved. Area schools have also been notified of this incident, but none are in close proximity to the home to be in danger. Detours around the area have been established by troopers.

The Maryland State Police Special Tactical Assault Team Element (STATE) has responded to the scene, as have negotiators from the Hostage Recovery Team, and a representative from the Carroll County State’s Attorney’s Office. State Police negotiators have attempted to make contact with the man, but have been unable to do so.

No shots have been fired by the suspect or by police since troopers first arrived on the scene. Troopers are urging the man to surrender and resolve this situation peacefully.

BARRICADE IN CARROLL COUNTY HAS ENDED

(Westminster, MD) – Maryland State Police found one person deceased after entering a Carroll County home this afternoon where they had been since this morning after receiving a phone call from a man who threatened to harm himself.

The deceased has been identified as Carl Michael Byczkowski, 45, of the 600-block Glen Drive, Westminster, Maryland. He sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the scene by a forensic examiner. Byczkowski will be taken to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore for an autopsy.

Shortly before 9:30 a.m. today, troopers at the Westminster Barracks surrounded a single-family home in the 600-block of Glen Drive, in Westminster, Maryland, after receiving a call from a man at that address who said he was going to shoot himself. The man closed the interior blinds to the home when troopers arrived on the scene.

Responding troopers established a perimeter around the house. Due to the statement of the man in the house about his possession and use of a firearm and the proximity of the house to other homes, troopers quickly notified nearby residences to evacuate until the situation was resolved. Area schools were also notified of the incident, but none were in close proximity to the home to be in danger. Detours around the area were established by troopers.

The Maryland State Police Special Tactical Assault Team Element (STATE), negotiators from the Hostage Recovery Team, and a representative from the Carroll County State’s Attorney’s Office responded to the home. Throughout the day, troopers attempted to make contact with Byczkowski, but never received a response.

At about 2:00 p.m. STATE Team members made a tactical entry into the single family home where they found Byczkowski deceased. No one else was in the home

Shanie Up By One Vote, No Change

It looks like Shanie Shields has won the District 1 seat and will remain Salisbury Councilwoman.

I'd like to personally congratulate Shanie for her win and thank Cynthia Polk for running. The two of them ran good clean campaigns and both can hold their heads high by doing so.

Clearly your vote counts in local elections. I spoke to Shanie about this last night and she said no matter what happens, it will be her personal goal to express to her District just how important it is for people to vote. People have died to offer you this freedom and all too often Americans take it for granted.

Shanie also informed me that it is her goal to create a Website where she can update it regularly, (not a Blog, she said) to keep her District better informed. Onward and upward Folks.

Two Beagles Found In Delmar

Joe,

We found two large beagles yesterday evening just north of Delmar on Bistate Blvd. They are very friendly and appear to be hunting dogs. They had rabies tags from Wicomico County Humane Society and we got contact information for their previous owner from 2006. The owner is listed as Daria Brumley but the contact info is not up to date. We currently have them but cannot keep them for very long and hope that their owners come to take them home soon. I can be reached at 302.296.8036 if anyone knows who they belong to.

Thanks,
Donna

UPDATE:

Their owner just picked them up and they are on their way back home. Just wanted to let you know I received 4 or 5 calls within 30 minutes from people who know the owner and it is truly amazing how quickly we were able to get them back home. What a great service you provide our community!

Thanks,
Donna

REWARD

State Troopers Probe Equipment Theft, Reward Offered

Location of Incident: Newly constructed baseball field in the vicinity of Route 72 and Route 1, Bear, Delaware, New Castle County

Date and Time of Occurrence: Sometime overnight from Friday (April 17th) to Saturday (April 18th)

Suspect(s): Unknown

Resume: The Delaware State Police is investigating the theft of a piece of construction equipment, a Kubota Tractor, from a newly constructed baseball field located in the area of Route 72 and Route 1.

The theft occurred sometime overnight this past weekend- Friday into Saturday. The tractor is described as red in color with a tri-point hitch and “Christiana Excavating” on the side.

The owners of the equipment, Christiana Excavating, are offering a reward for the return of the stolen tractor.

Tips for this case can be provided by calling Troop 2 at 302-834-2630 ext. 603 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.

How Many Bullets Does It Take To Bring One Man Down?

It has been reported that it took 39 rounds of ammunition to bring down Charles A. Williams, 34, of the 27000-block of Log Cabin Road, Salisbury, Md. early this morning. Each weapon holds 13 rounds, times three Officers. It's been reported that each Officer emptied their clip.

It was also reported that someone was at the SPD that same evening claiming this same gentleman was missing. The word on the street is that this man was mentally unstable.

IMHO, while 39 rounds may seem excessive to some, I personally believe Police Officers have to do what they feel is necessary. It's my understanding one of the Officers is a veteran and the other two are newer Officers. I'm a bit puzzled how a 4th Officer that showed up removed the knife from Charles Williams hand? Nevertheless, the homeowner is safe and four Police Officers will live to see another day.

Hopefully this send a message out there loud and clear, you want to screw with Salisbury and break into homes, this could be your final move in life as well.

OH, MY, MY, MY! Is Barrie Tilghman Trying To Scam The Taxpayers?

In the Post just below this one I question why they had cancelled the Work Session today and guess what, I now know why and I must inform you that Barrie Tilghman has been up to playing dirty pool and set herself up with fortunes after leaving the Mayor's Office. I mean, why stick around when you can leave and make millions off of every one's misfortunes, right?

If you click on the above memo you'll quickly see just why there's a slick involvement between the Dunn Family and Barrie Tilghman. Had this been in the works for all these years with this property and perhaps many others? Could this be why their original property was so favorably annexed at Sassafras Meadows? Check out the article I wrote on September 7, 2006 HERE. Look at my words in the very last paragraph!

Barrie had tried creating a non profit group way back when called a "CDC" Community Development Corporation whereas she wanted to use taxpayer money, file for grants, buy up these properties and resell them. It was reported she wanted to do this after she retired.

Could THIS be the very reason why NOTHING has happened with the old Fire Station 16? Is this another pet project for the former Mayor Tilghman?

The second image is a quote from Barrie Tilghman this past Sunday's Daily Times. It becomes VERY clear that Barrie has never given up on her quest to create a "CDC" and she'll do so by buying everything below the City's actual cost.

Taxpayers Beware, Barrie Tilghman knows where all of the deals are and it would appear she's going to use it to her advantage. Once again, investigative reporting and news you won't find in the Daily Times.

Preston Loses GMC Franchises

Preston Buick Pontiac GMC of Cambridge has lost their GM Franchises and is now Carnet of Cambridge. Another local dealership bailing out!!

City Council Work Session Cancelled Today

The City Council had planned on meeting at 4:30 today for a Work Session but Debbie Campbell is out of town on business, Terry Cohen left today on a family emergency and there's a good chance Shanie couldn't be there either. Therefore, the Work Session has been cancelled.

I believe one of the topics at hand was the old property that Mike Dunn's Father had purchased from the City with a partner and as they were given numerous chances and extensions to comply with the City, they have not done so and now they want the City to buy it back from them.

Think about that for a second Folks. They bought it for a song and a dance and they can't even unload it to ANYONE for a few bucks more than they paid for it? If I were the City I would simply say, you failed, you didn't comply, we're TAKING it back. Not Gary Comegys! He wants to help is Buddy Mike Dunn help his Father get back at least what they have invested and for me personally I'm glad they dropped this meeting, allowing us more time to research just what's up.

We'll keep you posted.

WICOMICO COUNTY EXECUTIVE PRESENTS FY 2010 BUDGET PROPOSAL TO COUNTY COUNCIL

WICOMICO EXECUTIVE PROPOSES $122.5 MILLION OPERATING BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2010…NO NEW OR INCREASED TAXES REQUESTED… FURLOUGHS SCHEDULED FOR FIRST TIME

Wicomico County Executive Richard M. Pollitt, Jr. submitted his Fiscal Year 2010 Operating Budget to the Wicomico County Council today. The budget is $122,538,919, which is about $7 Million under the current FY 2009 operating budget of $129,535,922. New Operating Revenue for FY 2010 is estimated to be $117,970,218, and the difference between anticipated revenue and expenditures was achieved by a series of spending cuts combined with the use of a portion of the county’s “carryforward” and “rainy day” funds and from a loan from the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund.

“Crafting this year’s budget has been a challenge.” said Pollitt. “The County has been hit with almost $6 Million in cuts from the State of Maryland. In addition, revenue from personal property taxes has dropped sharply, as has interest income on investments,” continued the county’s first executive, “but we have not forgotten our priorities to fund education and public health and safety.”

At the beginning of the budget process, Pollitt ordered all department heads to reduce their operating budgets by 10%. In addition to the economies realized by that, the executive ordered further cuts and saving measures.

Maintenance of Effort Waiver – Board of Education $2,000,000.00

50% Funding of Pension Plan $1,337,582.00

Zero Funding of postretirement benefits (OPEB) $1,431,684.00

Anticipated Savings from Refinancing of Bonds $700,000.00

Reduction of Wor-Wic Appropriation $561,056.00

4 Employee Furlough Days (no county layoffs in over 30 years) $333,402.00

2. The funding that “fills the gap” between estimated operating revenue and budgeted operating revenue includes:

Use of “Rainy Day” Fund $472,700.00

Use of “Carryforward” Fund $4,096,001.00

Loan from Solid Waste Enterprise Fund $1,000,000.00

Pollitt explained that the funds taken from the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund are considered to be a loan that will be paid back, with interest. The money in the Fund is to be used to build new cells at Newland Park as needed. According to Public Works officials, a new cell is not planned for the near future.

“Of all of our county departments, Roads has been hit the hardest,” said Pollitt. “Almost all Roads revenue comes from the Maryland State Highway Users Fund. Last year, Roads received about $6 Million. This year, it will be about $3.4 Million,” explained Pollitt. “We expect that this drastic cut will dramatically curtail our paving operations. One redeeming factor in the situation is that we expect to receive $1.8 Million in Federal Stimulus Funds and, while this has many restrictions, we anticipate making good use of the money to keep our roads safe. ”

“As I have mentioned, Wicomico County enjoys an excellent rating with the three major Wall Street bond ratings firms. The steps we are taking in this year’s budget follow our consistently conservative financial management practices. I have sought professional advice and have been assured that the use of a portion of our rainy day fund and a limited use of our fund balance are responsible and acceptable actions that are well within the expectations of Wall Street. This is of the utmost importance in ensuring a good bond rating when we sell our bonds in the Fall,” concluded Pollitt.

Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Press Releases

Incident: Violation of a Protective Order
Date of Incident: 18 April 2009
Location: 33000 block of Shavox Road, Parsonsburg, MD
Suspect: John Richard Taylor, 31, Parsonsburg, MD

Narrative: On 18 April 2009 at 1:51 AM, deputies responded to a residence in the 33000 block of Shavox road in Parsonsburg for a reported Violation of an Interim Protective Order. Deputies had been to the same residence earlier in the evening for an argument between residents there which resulted in John Taylor being barred from the residence pursuant to an Interim Protective Order granted by a District Court Commissioner. When the deputies returned for the subsequent visit, they learned that Taylor had returned to the residence after being served with the order in defiance of the order. Upon the arrival of the deputy, Taylor had already left the residence.

The investigating deputy obtained a warrant for Taylor’s arrest and he was found several hours later and apprehended. Taylor was transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Taylor was released by the Commissioner on Personal Recognizance.

Charges: Violation of a Protective Order

The Following individuals were arrested by the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office on Arrest Warrants 13 April – 19 April 2009

Arrest Warrants
Barbara A. Baines, 40, Salisbury, MD; Failure to Comply with Peace Order, Released on Personal Recognizance
Hannah E. Jones, 19, Salisbury, MD; Assault 2nd Degree, $25,000 bond
Enrique A. Ware, 18, Salisbury, MD, CDS Distribution, $25,000 bond
Paris L. Johnson, 46, Mardela Springs, MD; Assault 2nd, Released on Personal Recognizance

Failure to Appear Bench Warrant
Jonathan L. DiPaola, 25, Salisbury, MD; FTA – Possession of Marijuana, held $5,000.00 bond.
Sebastian J. Shakra, 53, Eden, MD; FTA – Tobacco Products Minors, $200.00 bond
Billie Jo Stephenson, 28, Hebron, MD; FTA – Appeal Hearing on Theft Charge, Disposition unavailable
Jason E. Long, 35, Laurel DE; FTA – Disorderly Conduct - $5,000.00 bond
David C. Hill, 34, Salisbury, MD; FTA – MDOP over $500, Held without Bond
Kim T. Rooks, 43, Salisbury, MD; FTA – Contempt Hearing, $1,000.00 bond
Ronriquez Morris, 37, Selbyville, DE; FTA Theft under $500, $3,500 bond.
Michael A. Earl, 25, Princess Anne, MD, FTA Drive Suspended, $1,000.00 bond


Violation of Probation Bench Warrant
James Anthony Haynes, 23, Salisbury, MD; VOP – Possession of Marijuana, held $10,000.00
Lenord Pompilus, 19, Salisbury, MD; VOP – Assault 2nd degree / Reckless Endangerment, $1,000.00 bond.
Robert L. Lecates, 27, Salisbury, MD; VOP – Theft Scheme over $500, $10,000.00 bond
Manuel K. Diaz, 43, Salisbury, MD; VOP – CDS Possession, $25,000.00 bond
Trea M. Watkins, 29, Salisbury, MD; VOP – Possession of Marijuana, released on Personal Recognizance

Circuit Court Indictment
Joseph E. Parker, Jr., 60, Salisbury, MD; Forgery / Uttering, held $50,000.00 bond
Latoya R. Robinson, 27, Fruitland, MD; CDS Distribution, $50,000.00 bond

Circuit Court Juvenile Attachment
Juvenile, 17 YOA, Delmar, MD; Failure to Appear Attachments, held Lower Shore Children’s Center
Juvenile, 13 YOA, Delmar, MD; Failure to Appear Attachment, held Lower Shore Children’s Center

Fugitive from Another State
Rhonda Lee Doering, 43, Parsonsburg, MD; Fugitive from Delaware, Felony Theft, Held without bond pending extradition to Delaware

Mayor Ireton's Inauguration Speech Last Night

On May 29, 1909 – one hundred years ago next month, at 2:30 PM on a typical spring day “the dam at South Division Street crumpled with a loud roar” and the millions of gallons of water in the 40 acre Lake Humphreys and the 60 acres of wetlands beyond the present Snow Hill Road carried away everything in its path. Since 1741 – almost 170 years – the dam built by William Venables, with a special grant from the Colonial Assembly in Annapolis, had been an important landmark and Salisbury’s first claim to an industrial operation. The county road crossing the dam was the dividing line since 1742 between Somerset and Worcester Counties until Wicomico County was formed in 1867. Lake Humphreys was at the headwaters of the east prong of the Wicomico River, extending from the South Division Street dam by the library, eastward to the railroad bridge and continued into the present day city park and zoo and ended near the Elks Club golf course. And now it was gone.

When the Humphreys family decided to not rebuild the dam the future of Salisbury underwent momentous change. There followed the expected debate between the city and county boards over whose responsibility it was to rebuild and repair the damages. After a prolonged delay (almost 2 years) it was decided that the county commissioners would take the burden and would enter into their first incursion into public works.

That event 100 years ago changed the face of our city, eventually creating the downtown as we know it today. Increasingly I reach back into history to find clues to the current condition that we find Salisbury in today. I believe that we have reached a critical moment in our history, much like 2:30 PM on May 29, 1909. We have reached a critical moment like in Spring 1888 when the legislature created our form of government “The Mayor and Council of Salisbury.” Then on April 16, 1888, the first Mayor of Salisbury, the Hon. A.G. Toadvine was sworn into office. Historian Cooper notes that “no accounts or opposition to this change in civil life were to be found – which was rather unusual for a town that has been noted at times for its highly vocal discord on most any issue.”

As I embark on this journey, one that started for me on February 14, 1970 here in Salisbury I will take what I have learned from history, what I have learned from you, the citizens, and what I know to be true and right into work every day here at City Hall. Looking back on the campaign of 2008/2009, I set a remarkably high bar for myself and for those who volunteered for me. Pledging to take on the special interests and make our neighborhoods pristine again, admitting we have a crime problem and pledging to begin to make Salisbury the Safest City in Maryland, and pledging to clean up our Wicomico River and make it swimmable and fishable in 10 years did not appear in some play book that we adopted. These plans and promises were engineered on the back porches and living rooms of homes right here in Salisbury, written and rewritten by neighbors and friends with expert science and statistics. These solutions came from us, for us and by us. I didn’t just prevail on April 7th, Salisbury did.

I sit here tonight with the 5 member city council, the council I pledged during the campaign, and I pledge to tonight – to run our city with…equally. Our municipal revitalization depends on our ability to govern together. I say that again…Our municipal revitalization depends on our ability to govern together.
So thank you Salisbury for this opportunity, for this chance to see a vision through that you have been building in me since that 1970 birth at the corner of Hazel and Camden Avenues.

I will take these words from Lincoln’s second inaugural address as I become the 26th Mayor of Salisbury as I move from this place this evening… “With malice toward none, with charity for all, ...let us strive on to finish the work we are in, ...to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves.” Thank you

BOE Close To Acquiring Property For Bennett Middle School

The Wicomico County Board of Education is close to completing its evaluation of two properties as sites for the relocated Bennett Middle School, and the school system hopes to acquire one of the two properties for the project in the near future, the Board of Education and Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Fredericksen announced Tuesday, April 21.

Earlier this year, the Board signed six-month purchase options on two properties in the Bennett Middle attendance areas, and since then the school system has been evaluating each property for suitability. Both sites have been under serious consideration and review for many factors including drainage, layout for school buildings and associated facilities, road access, availability of utilities, area around the parcel, and environmental factors. The evaluation process is being done in cooperation with the state, which has a clearinghouse for evaluating potential school sites.

Wicomico County has already sold capital bonds to make available funds to the Board of Education for the acquisition of the final selected property.

One property is in the city of Fruitland, located along the north side of South Division Street between Route 13 and South Camden Avenue. It is approximately 35 acres.

The second property is located in the City of Salisbury on the southwest side of Snow Hill Road, on the northwest side of Toadvine Road. It is also approximately 35 acres.

Wicomico County residents can comment on the site selection process for the relocation of Bennett Middle School by e-mailing comments to comments@wcboe.org or mailing them to Wicomico County Board of Education, c/o Donna Anderson, PO Box 1538, Salisbury, Md., 21802. Comments may also be made during the public comment portion of monthly Board meetings (the next regular meeting is scheduled for May 12), or during the next Superintendent's Open Door Session, 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, April 22, at the Superintendent's Office.

The acquisition of property for relocating Bennett Middle School is a key part of the current construction of a replacement James M. Bennett High School. Right now, James M. Bennett High and Bennett Middle are located on the same site with a shared auditorium. A 2005 feasibility study approved by the state recommended the replacement of James M. Bennett High on the existing site in conjunction with the relocation and replacement of Bennett Middle.

When the replacement James M. Bennett High opens, the existing James M. Bennett High will be demolished, but full development of the Bennett site for the high school will not be possible until a relocated Bennett Middle opens and the existing Bennett Middle is torn down.

The preliminary construction schedule for the replacement of Bennett Middle School has construction beginning in 2011, with occupancy of the relocated Bennett Middle and demolition of the existing Bennett Middle in 2014. Wicomico County is currently seeking state planning approval for the Bennett Middle School project.

There's More To This Photo Than Meets The Eye

I'd like you to click on this image to enlarge it. Then look to the left behind Mr. Bowen and you'll see a woman in a white jacket, just to our right of the young man, (his left). That person happens to be Debbie Campbell's Mom who is in a wheel chair. She is standing because Jim Ireton is like a Son to the Campbell Family and my hat is tipped to you Mam.

Mayor Ireton, I Do Swear

What an exciting evening! The room wasn't just packed, there were at least 30 more people standing outside because there was no room for them to get in as they had reached capacity.

Mr. Ireton entered the room and the crowd went nuts. There was a long standing ovation, forcing Barrie Tilghman, Gary Comegys and other Council Members to rise to their feet and concur.

Mr. Ireton was sworn in and the Mayor went right to work taking care of business. Unfortunately they voted Louise Smith back in as Council President and Gary Comegys as Vice President. Each of them having to back it up with their own 2nd motion. Shanie stayed quiet.

Mayor Ireton carried himself exactly as I had expected and showed off his vibrant sense of humor along the way. This is truly going to be a pleasure but don't think there's not going to be major fireworks along the way.

Congratulations Mayor Ireton but most of all, thank you for serving.

Lady Campbell Sworn In

Councilwoman Debbie Campbell was also sworn in last night while the crowd roared with excitement and a standing ovation.

Lady Campbell sets the bar when it comes to the definition of Public Servant. She is a fantastic Council Member, an unbelievable Mother, a fantastic Wife and clearly a lovely Daughter.

FOUR MORE YEARS!

WICOMICO COUNTY CONCERNED LANDOWNERS

Currently, special interest groups are dictating how Wicomico County citizens should use our land, with no investment of their own. The Wicomico County Council has scheduled a public hearing on April 27, 2009 at the Wicomico County Youth and Civic Center for legislative bill 2009-5. This bill would change the zoning law and repeal the “1 lot per 3 acres cluster” provision and replace it with a “1lot for 15 acres” provision. This down zoning will negatively affect the equity of land in rural Wicomico County.

The County Council and County Executive need to hear from every landowner impacted, as to how this will affect the value of your land. Any business associated with construction that may be effected by this down zoning of agricultural land, (i.e. surveyors, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, etc.) should also be represented at this meeting to let the Council know how this legislation will affect your business.

This is a property rights issue. Together we can make a difference.

On Thursday, April 23 at 9 a.m., there will be a rally on the front steps of the Wicomico/Salisbury Government Office Building steps. The TRACTORCADE—a parade of tractors and commercial vehicles will travel downtown Salisbury to show support for our position. County Executive Richard M. Pollitt, Jr. will accept petitions and make remarks concerning this issue.

Dunkin Donuts Special

Today at Dunkin Donuts you can get a small Iced Coffee for 50 cents.

Have a great day all you coffee drinkers.

Salisbury News Reaches Out For Your Help

Dearest Friends,

I was wondering if I may take a moment of your time. I do not want to take advantage of our friendship and if that appears to be the case I do apologize. It’s not my intent, however, as a concerned parent one must do what they feel is necessary and in the best interest of their child. As some of you may already know, my son is seriously ill with Monophasic Spindle Cell Sarcoma of the Synovial Type, and is engaged in a fight for his life. His treatments have been lengthy and expensive. His prognosis is “Poor and Guarded,” however, we refuse to give up or give in. He is currently on Chemotherapy round #4 (Tunnel Cancer Center, Lewes, Delaware) and has already been through major surgery. I know you don’t know all the specifics, however, he was caught uninsured just prior to diagnosis and he now finds himself in dire straights trying to take care of himself, as well as his medical-related expenses. He is unable to work having lost his license from seizures (MD law) and he presently cannot walk (without the assistance of a Walker) because of the surgery and treatments. The State of Delaware in their infinite wisdom decided that he was not eligible for disability (remind me to send them a thank you note) although he is truly unemployable at this time. We have appealed this decision and with his doctor’s promise of ample documentation, as well as legal counsel, we are confident that we will win the appeal. Unfortunately, the appeal hearing is not scheduled until June (another thank you note to the State of Delaware Congressional’s is forthcoming.)

I have started a Charitable Gift Account under the name of “Friends of Tracy Gibb” and with help from some associates (Buff Toulon, Poipu Ocean View Resorts (aka Poipu Kapili) and Rick Turton, Pacific Leisures) have been able to establish a support website on his behalf. This purpose of this website is to generate funds that are directly deposited into a medical trust fund that is tapped for his medical expenses, only. I have established the necessary Tax ID number, IRS registration and applied for 401(c)(3) status, etc. I would now like to distribute/market his support website to help generate funds for his medical-related expenses.

The URL for the website is: http://www.friendsoftracygibb.com

Any and all assistance you can render would be extremely appreciated. If any of you has an idea of how I could professionally and appropriately market his support site better, please feel free to share that information with me. I am blazing new territory having never found myself in a position that warranted such action previously. May God bless you all.

Regards,

Tracy

Dear Gibb Family, HELP IS ON THE WAY. JOE

Folks, this is the Son of a Salisbury Firefighter. Remember, 2009 is about GIVING BACK! Never forget where you came from.

Dave Suiter, "On The Road Again"

Hi Folks,

Left Moab,UT early Monday heading west. Made it to Fallon,NV., a 640 mile run. Tuesday it's on to Carson City, Tahoe and Sacramento.

Temps varied widely in Nevada. 70 to 80 on the high desert to 34 through some mountain passes.

Pics are as follows;

Sunrise over Arches National Park just north of Moab.

SanRafael Swell western Utah was settled in 1880s. Can't imagine scratching out a life here.

Little town of Scipio,UT

Entering the Great Basin. Flat for 100 miles.

Looking west towards Fallon.

Range looking south west of Austin,NV. Sign going into town says "Welcome to the Most Friendly Town on the Most Lonesome Road in America. At one time on US50 I went 60 miles without seeing signs of life except for a few cars going east. When they say "No Service for 130 miles", believe it.

Dry Lake west of Fallon at Salt Wells. About 10 miles long.

More tomorrow,

Dave

Barrie Tilghman Leaves Louise Smith Hanging

As you can see from the photo above, Barrie Tilghman walked right past Louise Smith while Louise offered her hand but Barrie refused to acknowledge her. She shook John Pick's hand, Gary Comegys hand and then went right past Louise and Debbie and gave Shanie a hug.

Louise was not too please about this clear sign of disrespect but that's Barrie Tilghman for you. I'm confident Louise disagreed with something Barrie was demanding and just like that she'll turn on you like a light switch just as many of us have experienced in the past.

All I could think of at this moment was, don't let the door hit you in the ask too hard before you leave!

A Thing Of Beauty

Preston, MD Man Caught after Robbing Lewes Store

Preston, MD Man Caught after Robbing Lewes Store – Implicated in Several Robberies throughout Delaware and Maryland

Lewes – The Delaware State Police have arrested a 33-year-old Preston, MD man for a robbery he committed early this morning at the Happy Harry’s located on Savannah road in Lewes. Subsequent his arrest, he was found to have committed several additional robberies in Sussex County and Easton, MD.

The arrest was made after troopers responded to the Happy Harry’s this morning at approximately 5:44 am after 911 was called reporting a male wearing a mask, sweatshirt and jeans entered the store armed with a black handgun and robbed the pharmacist of prescription medication. During the course of the robbery, the suspect - later identified as Randall L. Patrick, 33 of Preston, MD – pointed the weapon at an employee and threatened to shoot her.

After complying with the demands of Patrick and giving him Oxycontin pills, he fled the area in a 1997 white Plymouth mini-van. Employees were able to get the Maryland registration on the vehicle and supply that to the 911 operators who shared that with troopers who were searching the area for the suspect vehicle.

A patrol trooper assigned to Troop 7 located the min-van on New Road in the area of Nassau Road and attempted a traffic stop. The vehicle, which matched the description of the suspect vehicle and displayed the same registration provided by the witnesses, failed to stop for police and fled northbound on Coastal Hwy. Additional troopers were able to deploy stop sticks on the roadway just south of State Route 16. The min-van drove over them causing Mr. Patrick to pull over and surrender to police.

As detectives continued with the investigation, they learned that Patrick was responsible for committing several additional robberies of Happy Harry’s and Walgreens. DSP detectives have positively linked him to two additional robberies at the same location in Lewes on March 6, 2009 and July 15, 2008, the Seaford Walgreens on December 28, 2008 and two Happy Harry’s robberies in Easton, MD on May 30, 2008 and February 15, 2009.

As a result of the arrest, DSP has arrested Patrick for the three robberies that occurred within Lewes. As such, he was charged with 3 counts of Robbery 1st Degree, 6 counts of Aggravated Menacing, 9 counts of Possession of a Firearm During Commission of a Felony and 3 counts of Wearing a Disguise During Commission of a Felony.

Patrick will also be arrested and charged with the robbery of the Walgreen’s, located at 22898 Sussex Hwy, Seaford on December 28, 2008. In that case, he will be charged with Robbery 1st degree, Possession of a Weapon during Commission of a Felony, three counts of Aggravated Menacing and Wearing a Disguise during Commission of a Felony.

Maryland authorities are working with DSP detectives and will be responsible for filing charges for the crimes committed within their jurisdictions. Bail information is not readily available. It will be disseminated when known.

Mr. Patrick was committed to the Sussex Correctional Institute in lieu of a $455,000.00 cash only bail.

Caption This Photo

Click on image to enlarge.

Wanna Go For A Ride Little Girl?

A little 10-year-old girl was walking home, alone, from school one day, when a big man on a black motorcycle pulls up beside her.

After following along for a while, turns to her and asks, "Hey there little girl, do you want to go for a ride?"

"NO!" says the little girl as she keeps on walking.

The motorcyclist again pulls up beside her and asks, "Hey little girl, I will give you $10 if you hop on the back."

"NO!" says the little girl as she hurries down the street..

The motorcyclist pulls up beside the little girl again and says, “Okay kid, my last offer!

I'll give you 20 Bucks and a big bag of candy if you will just hop on the back of my bike and we go for a ride."

Finally, the little girl stops and turns towards him and screams out.............

"Look Dad. You're the one who bought the Honda instead of the Harley, YOU RIDE IT!"

It's No Wonder They Call Her "Lady Campbell"

One citizen walked up to the Council table and handed Lady Campbell a single rose while another in the audience handed her a dozen roses.

It has become very clear, CHANGE is what Salisbury wanted and CHANGE is what they received. From gentlemen offering the gift of flowers to policy change and open government.

Not for nothing Folks but one can only wonder, who will be the next Dirty Dozen? While the shoe is now on the other foot, your answer to that question will be quite interesting. Let's just see if ALL of the ones I'm thinking of can prove they actually wanted civility in our local government, OR control but lost it?

Barrie Tilghman Bids Farewell

It's hard to determine Barrie Tilghman's abrupt move to leave the Council Chambers after a brief speech. I was thinking about it last night and decided that with her mentality, spite and bully tactics, this was right in line with what I had expected.

Spending time with Jim Ireton in her Office this past week wasn't good enough to stick around and truly wish him the best but then again it was Mayor Ireton's time to shine and I'm glad she chose to leave.

Chief Webster was present in the hallway long enough to be seen by Mayor Ireton but then bolted out of there and never went into the Council Chambers. Perhaps he waited for Barrie to leave the the two went out to watch the rest of how things should have been at Market Street Inn?

I also felt the Chief was once again very disrespectful but he's picked his battle and will soon enough see what his decisions will bring him in his future. Mayor Ireton is very serious about crime and clearly the Chief is more interested in numbers the way he perceives them.

Me personally, I'd like to see someone like Mr. Ernie Leathaberry, (sp?) from the Maryland State Police come in here and make things right. I know Ernie is happy where he's at but to think we could possible have three former State Police Officers running things from Fruitland with Mike Philips, Mike Lewis with the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office and Ernie running the SPD, crime would drop faster than the Stock Market and you talk about change! These three men would work hand in hand and turn Salisbury around in no time.

Anyhow, "that's all I have to say about that." Forest Gump

ARMED SUSPECT FATALLY WOUNDED BY POLICE IN SALISBURY

(Salisbury, MD) – An armed suspect was fatally wounded after he ignored police commands and approached police officers who had responded to a burglary in progress call in Salisbury late last night.

The suspect is identified as Charles A. Williams, 34, of the 27000-block of Log Cabin Road, Salisbury, Md. He was pronounced dead at the Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury.

The preliminary investigation by the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit indicates that shortly before midnight on April 20, 2009, officers from the Salisbury Police Department were dispatched to a single-family home in the 700-block of South Park Drive, Salisbury, for the report of a burglary in progress. The 9-1-1 call, transferred to the Salisbury Police Department, was received from a woman who reported she had been asleep and alone in her house when she heard a noise downstairs. When she went down to investigate, she was confronted by a man in her kitchen.

The victim ran back upstairs to call 9-1-1 and remained there until after police arrived and the situation was over. The victim was not physically harmed during the incident. She is not being identified at this time.

Within two minutes of the 9-1-1 call, three uniformed officers from the Salisbury Police Department arrived at the residence in marked police patrol cars. The three officers confronted Williams in front of the residence and immediately saw he was armed with a 13-inch butcher knife with an eight inch blade.

The officers repeatedly ordered Williams to drop the knife, but he refused to do so. Still armed with the knife, Williams moved toward the officers in a threatening manner. In fear for their lives, the three officers fired their issued .45 caliber Glock pistols at Williams. A fourth uniformed officer who arrived, disarmed Williams and secured the butcher knife.

Police called for an ambulance and provided emergency care to Williams. He was transported by ambulance to the Peninsula Regional Medical Center. His body will be transported to the Office of the State Medical Examiner in Baltimore for an autopsy.

The scene was processed by technicians from the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division. Evidence indicates Williams gained access to the home by breaking a window in the residence.

Salisbury Police Chief Allan J. Webster Sr. responded to the scene, as did a member of the Wicomico County State’s Attorney’s Office. Chief Webster contacted the Maryland State Police and requested the police involved shooting be investigated by the Homicide Unit. The Homicide Unit investigates police involved shootings for the Maryland State Police and allied police departments that request their assistance. Members of the Wicomico Bureau of Investigation are assisting the Homicide Unit with the investigation.

Chief Webster has placed the three police officers on administrative duty, which is routine, pending the outcome of the investigation. He is not releasing the names of the officers involved in the shooting at this time.

Fun At The Water Park

Sharp Water Helps Salisbury Fundraisers

Sharp Water provides hydration and support to charity walk/run events 100’s of cases of bottle water donated

SALISBURY, MD – In these times of economic downturn and people’s hardships on the rise in the community, Sharp Water’s mission is to make life easier for local residents. Throughout various charity events, Sharp Water continues to support Maryland and Delaware non-profit organizations and individuals.

“We get great pleasure from being involved in the community and are committed to reaching out and helping those with hardships. Our donations of bottled water to these events benefit not only those we give to, but creates a climate of goodwill knowing we at Sharp Water are contributing to our neighbors in need,” said DJ Shannahan, owner of Sharp Water in Salisbury.

The “Beat it With Brooke” walk-a-thon, held Jan. 25 at the Market Street Inn, raised $17,000 for the Brooke Mulford Foundation. Over 500 walkers participated in the event. Sharp Water in Salisbury donated free bottled water for all walkers.
Brooke, age 5, is the daughter of Rob and Amy Mulford, owners of Market Street Inn. She was diagnosed with Stage 4 Neuroblastoma in early January. All proceeds from the walkathon go directly to pay medical bills for the Mulford family.

“It went fabulously, we raised $17,000 just with the walkers,” said Tina Tomczak, a friend of the Mulford family and one of the organizers of the walk-a-thon.
Sharp Water recently donated cases of bottled water to this event:

The 10th Annual St. Paddy’s Day 5K Run & 2 Mile Walk held March 14, at the Salisbury Elks Lodge. This walk/run benefitted the Alzheimer’s respite care facility at MAC, Inc.

Sharp Water pledges to donate cases of bottled water to the following events:
The Ben Layton Memorial 5K Run/2K Walk is Saturday, April 25 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Salisbury City Park, Zoo, 755 S. Park Drive.

The second annual Courageous Christopher 5K Walk/Run & Stroller Strut will be May 15 at the Asbury United Methodist Church Camden Ave, with proceeds going toward building a handicapped integrative playground - The Everybody PlaySpace at Pinehurst Elementary School. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. Competitive 5K walk/run begins at 10 a.m. and the recreational 5K walk/run also begins at 10 a.m.

Sharp Water of Salisbury will be a sponsor of Healthy U’s Celebration of Health, on May 30th. The day offers activities such as a 5K run/walk, an entertainment stage, informative and interactive booths, and additional activities all beginning at 9 a.m. and continuing until 2 p.m. Saturday, October 10th, Sharp Water will provide bottled water for the Memory Walk to benefit The Alzheimer’s Association. They expect approximately 250 walkers. For more information contact: Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Maryland Chapter, Damian Magarelli at 209 C Milford Street, Salisbury, MD 21804, or call 410-543-1163

Sharp Water, owned by D.J. and Cindy Shannahan, provides homes and businesses with EcoWater water treatment and purification products and services. Sharp Water was recently honored as the Top Dealer in the Nation in a medium market, the top Dealer in the Southeast Region, and the Top Volume Commercial Dealer in their market. In 2008 Sharp Water was one of EcoWater’s most awarded dealerships. Sharp Water has offices in Salisbury and Dover, Del. EcoWater Systems is the world’s largest manufacturer of automatic water treatment equipment. For more information, visit their new website at http://www.sharpwater.com/ or call 1-800-439-3853.

Shotgun Golf

Hidden Camera Shoplifter

Wynn's Commercial

Seaford Heritage Weekend

Delaware – Where North & South Meet
Battles & living history encampment
Civil War era music - Wagon rides

SEAFORD, DEL. – Great cannon balls! Visiting the past has never been so much fun and enlightening! Look history right in the eye during Seaford Heritage Weekend at the Living History Area on the grounds of the historic Ross Plantation, home of Delaware Governor William Henry Harrison Ross, during Memorial Day weekend, May 22-23-24.
Sponsored by the Greater Seaford Chamber of Commerce, attendees can witness battles, cannon firing, a blacksmith, chair caning, a living history encampment and much more from Civil War life.

Mingle with Union and Confederate soldiers and sutlers, offering general store wares such as foods, clothing and other items of the era. Seek out food vendors offering local favorites.
Take a tour of historic Ross Mansion, run by the Seaford Historical Society, see period-style artisans, stop by the Historical Vintage Car Show, attend Sunday morning church services and hear period style entertainment.
Schedule (subject to change):

Friday, May 22
6 pm – 9 pm, Setting up camp and preparing for Saturday battles
6 pm – 9 pm, Little Miss Pageants with Sandy Mirchell
Grotto’s Pizza, Bubba BBQ and Mystic Flavors will be available for your dinner selections

Saturday, May 23
7 am – 9 am, Vendors/Demonstrators/Exhibitors set up
9 am – 3 pm, Historical Vintage Car Show along main road to mansion
10 am – 10:45 am, Opening Ceremonies, Main Tent
10:30 am – 12:30 pm, tours of mansion & museum [fee]
2 pm – 3 pm, skirmish with cannon

Day long activities: Blacksmith, soap making, quilting, Nanticoke River Arts, chair caning, rushing, wagon rides, Old Sutler John, Barrancus Mercantile, Eve of Bumperville, crafters, exhibitors, and food vendors.

Sunday, May 24
9 am, Civil War era church service
10 am – 12:30 pm, Gospel music - Main Tent
1:30 pm - 3:30 pm, tours mansion & museum [fee]
1 pm, Diamond State Base Ball Club vs 2nd Delaware Infantry in an 1866-style base ball game on the front lawn of the plantation

Other entertainment includes the Camptown Shakers, Paddy and the Hostages Irish music, and the Banjo Man strolling the grounds.

The Civil War Living History Area is again dedicated to the memory of John "Buck" Owings of Delmar, a re-enactor who died in 2007. The John "Buck" Owings Living History area will feature displays and demonstrations of everyday life in the 1860's. The Governor Ross Plantation is at 1101 North Pine Street Extended, Seaford, Delaware.
For more information, contact event chair, Terry Ayers at 410-829-7060 or email Terrywayers@msn.com." And a map of the grounds is available online at http://www.seafordchamber.com/" and click on events.

Great Orators Of The Democratic Party

'One man with courage makes a majority.'
- Andrew Jackson

'The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.'
- Franklin D. Roosevelt

'The buck stops here.'
- Harry S. Truman

'Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.'
- John F. Kennedy


And for today's Democrats....


'It depends what your definition of 'IS' is?''
- Bill Clinton

'That Obama - I would like to cut his NUTS off.'
- Jesse Jackson

'Those rumors are false ...... I believe in the sanctity of marriage.'
- John Edwards

'I invented the Internet'
- Al Gore

'The next Person that tells me I'm not religious, I'm going to shove my rosary beads up their ASS.'
- Joe Biden

' America is--is no longer, uh, what it--it, uh, could be, uh what it was once was...uh, and I say to myself, 'uh, I don't want that future, uh, uh for my children.'
- Barack Obama

'I have campaigned in all 57 states.
- Barack Obama

'You don't need God anymore, you have us democrats.'
- Nancy Pelosi (said back in 2006)

'Paying taxes is voluntary.'
- Sen. Harry Reid

'Bill is the greatest husband and father I know. No one is more faithful, true, and honest than he.'
- Hillary Clinton (said back in 1998)

Sewing Machine Frenzy In Red Mercury Hoax

RIYADH (Reuters) – Saudi police are investigating the origins of a hoax that had hundreds of people believing that old sewing machines may bring fortune because they contained an elusive, and probably mythical, substance known as red mercury.

Saudi newspapers on Tuesday published pictures of Saudis proudly posing next to old sewing machines awaiting prospective buyers at traditional markets. The English-language Saudi Gazette newspaper said some buyers were willing to pay up to 200,000 riyals ($50,000) for an old Singer sewing machine proven to contain red mercury.

Mobile phones are supposedly employed as instruments to prove the existence of the phony substance. Popular belief in the Middle East has it that it can help uncover hidden gold treasures, though there are other theories which say it can be used to create a nuclear bomb. "If the line cuts off when the telephone is placed close to the needle ... that proves the existence of the substance," Saudi Gazette said.

Al-Eqtisadiah newspaper said "poverty provided a fertile ground for the red mercury rumor to spread in Saudi society, especially the middle class."

"We have to find out who started this hoax. We cannot be 100 percent sure of getting in the short-term to the person or persons who started this," an interior ministry spokesman said. "People hope to make profit. This is no different to cases of citizens who put their money in untrustworthy schemes," he added. Thousands of Saudi citizens have lost their life savings to financial scams consisting mainly of operations to raise money for real estate projects.

Ted Nugent On Gun Control

Board Of Education Awards & Recognitions Night, TONIGHT

Board of Education Awards & Recognitions Night 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 21, at Salisbury Middle School

The Wicomico County Board of Education's spring Awards & Recognitions Night will take place at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 21, at Salisbury Middle School. Many outstanding students, teachers, community partners, schools and Central Office departments are on the program for recognition.

Please feel free to join the Board for this wonderful evening. Coverage of this event will be part of the school system's "Working Together for Children" cable show on PAC 14 in May, and you will receive a full list of honorees following the event.

April 21, 2009
Wicomico County Board of Education's
Awards & Recognitions Night
Salisbury Middle School
7 p.m.
Award announcer: Dr. John Fredericksen, Superintendent of Schools
Masters of ceremonies: Board of Education members Dr. Tyrone Chase and Ron Willey

Recognition of Athletic Achievement
2009-2010 Wicomico Teacher of the Year
2008-09 Maryland Elementary School Counselor of the Year
2009 Outstanding Career Music Teacher

WMDT Teachers Who Make a Difference
National Board Certified Teacher
Recognition of WCCPTA Collaborative Partnership

Safety on the Job Poster Contest Winners and Sponsors
2009 Carson Scholar
Bookworms over Broadway Reading Competition Winner
Glen Avenue Elementary Outstanding Scout

Maryland Geography Bee Participants
ESRC Young Authors Contest/High School Young Authors Contest
State Young Authors Contest Winners
Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation National Finalist

Maryland Service Stars
Maryland 2A State Champion Boys Soccer Team and Coaches
2008-09 Math League Winners
Prudential's Spirit of Community Award Recipient

High School Scholar Award
Stephen Decatur Academic Invitational Winner
Maryland SkillsUSA Contest Winners
Maryland FBLA Winner/National Qualifier

United Way Campaign Recognition
Maryland School Performance Recognition Program
Blue Apple Award for Top Health Education Program
2008-09 Second Quarter Recycling Contest Winner

I Strongly Suggest YOU View This Wicomico County Farmer Video/Commercial

GO HERE to view their Website.