Attention

The opinions expressed by columnists are their own and do not represent our advertisers

Tuesday, June 02, 2009

Breaking News Story Tomorrow Morning

Salisbury News will break yet another Big Story at 9:05 AM tomorrow morning. Mind you, we have informed the rest of the MSM, (besides the Daily Times) about this story as we felt it was important enough for the public to know. We have told everyone we will not post the story until 9:05 but Salisbury News will be the only source with the evidence to back up the story. It will continue to develop throughout the day and or days to come as it is somewhat complex.

See you at 9:05. I should add, things might be a bit slow tomorrow morning after this story breaks as we'll be at the ethics board meeting at 10:00 AM. We have been told the only charges are now against Terry Cohen and NOT Debbie Campbell, as it should have been from the beginning.

High School Teacher Arrested For Rape 1st


Teacher Arrested for Rape 1st

Location of Incident: 28000 block Evans Lane Dagsboro, Sussex County

Date and Time of Occurrence: Arrest Date June 2, 2009 at or about 15:00 hours

Defendant: John O. Thompson, 26, Dagsboro

Delaware State Police have arrested an Indian River School District High School teacher for having a sexual relationship with a 10th grade student.

Troopers arrested Thompson today at Sussex Central High after state police received information from the school administration. Two students had came forward earlier in the week and told administrators that they were aware that Thompson had a sexual relation with a student. The administrators advised the trooper who was assigned to the school as the school resource officer. State Police Major Crime Detectives from Troop 4 in Georgetown were notified after the allegations became more apparent.

Detectives executed a search warrant at Thompson’s residence and on his vehicle. Evidence obtained linked Thompson to the inappropriate relationship he had with the student. The sexual assault occurred at Thompson’s residence and evidence also indicated inappropriate contact took place while the victim and Thompson were in his car. Troopers believe this sexual assault took place while the two were driving in the Long Neck area sometime during the month of May.

Thompson was charged by troopers for 1 count of Rape in the 1st degree and 1 count of Unlawful Sexual Contact also in the 1st degree. He was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 2 in Lewes. Bail was set at $5,500 secured for his appearance in the Court of Common Pleas for Sussex County for a preliminary hearing.

New Castle Airport Loses Their Roof In Storm

While some want to rag on me about the storm warning post I put up earlier, the damage is unbelievable just north of us so far. 10,000 homes are without power and the New Castle Airport lost their roof from the storm.

In fact, we posted our article and the Daily Times followed with their own storm warning article, yet they conveniently left off the time stamp?

Severe Thunderstorm Watch For Wicomico County, MD


Issued by The National Weather Service
Wakefield, VA
2:17 pm EDT, Tue., Jun. 2, 2009

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH 322 REMAINS VALID UNTIL 8 PM EDT THIS EVENING FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS

IN MARYLAND THIS WATCH INCLUDES 4 COUNTIES

IN THE LOWER EASTERN SHORE OF MARYLAND

DORCHESTER SOMERSET WICOMICO WORCESTER

IN VIRGINIA THIS WATCH INCLUDES 5 COUNTIES

IN EAST CENTRAL VIRGINIA

LANCASTER NORTHUMBERLAND RICHMOND WESTMORELAND

IN THE EASTERN SHORE OF VIRGINIA

ACCOMACK

THIS INCLUDES THE CITIES OF... AVALON... BEANES CORNER... BERLIN... BROWNS STORE... BURGESS... BYRDTON... CALLAO... CAMBRIDGE... CHINCOTEAGUE... COLONIAL BEACH... CRISFIELD... DODLYT... EDEN... KILMARNOCK... MOUNT VERNON... OCEAN CITY... OCEAN PINES... ONANCOCK... POCOMOKE CITY... PRINCESS ANNE... SALISBURY... WARSAW... WEST OCEAN CITY AND WHITE STONE.

TRAFFIC ALERT - Sussex County Paving Job Funded Through Recovery Act

DelDOT Generating Jobs with Infrastructure Investment

Milford -- The Department of Transportation announces a pavement rehabilitation contract was awarded to Mumford & Miller Concrete, Inc., and will mill existing pavement, patch and apply hot-mix overlay material, as well as install curb ramps on South Walnut Street from the City of Milford Limits to N.W. Front Street. The contractor was the lowest of six bidders, submitting a bid of $908,710.59.

Another location, Shawnee Road from Blacksmith Shop Road to Fitzgerald Road will also be repaved under this contract.

The construction will begin at both locations on Monday June 8 and will end on Friday, July 31, pending weather. The work hours will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Motorists should expect intermittent lane closures and flaggers will be on site.

Projects such as these will immediately put people to work in order to create jobs and boost our local economy, while ultimately improving the long term condition of the road system. These contracts are part of $26.3 million in funding for pavement and rehabilitation contracts to be completed statewide.

Single Vehicle Fatal Motor Vehicle Crash


Location of Incident: Eastbound SR 16, Beach Hwy 1/10 mile east of Oakley Road, CR 610, 3 miles east of Ellendale.

Date and Time of Occurrence: Monday, June 1, 2009 on or about 22:17 hours

Victim: Deborah D. Johnson, 51, of Ellendale

State Troopers assigned to the Crash Reconstruction Unit are investigating a crash that claimed the life of a 51 year-old Ellendale woman.

The crash occurred yesterday on Beach Hwy when Johnson was operating a 2001 Chrysler Town & Country minivan eastbound. For unknown reasons the minivan crossed into the opposing lane and ran off the westbound edge of the roadway striking a tree head-on. The crash caused the engine in the van to separate and land 30 feet past the point of impact. The vehicle then bounced back into the westbound lanes of Beach Hwy where it came to rest.

Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene. Alcohol is not suspected in the crash and seatbelts were not used.

A family dog was also found in the vehicle deceased. The crash is still under investigation.

Released Tuesday June 2, 2009 at 13:45 hours

Fruitland Police Department Press Release


INCIDENT: Strong Armed Robbery
DATE & TIME: Monday, June 1st, 2009 at 1040 a.m.
LOCATION: 100 Block of South Brown Street, Fruitland, Md.
SUSPECT #1: B/M, 5’6” to 5’8”, thin build, wearing dark colored pants and shirt
SUSPECT #2: Unknown
SUS. VEHICLE: Red or Maroon, Ford or Mercury, smaller model with Delaware reg.

NARRATIVE:
On the above date and time, the victim, an 82 year old female, returned to her residence after having been to Apple Drugs and the Fruitland Food Lion grocery store. Upon arriving at her home she drove her vehicle to the rear of her residence and parked by a shed. She was in the process of getting the grocery items from her vehicle to carry into the house and had several bags in her arms and her purse hanging from her right wrist when she felt her purse being pulled from her wrist. She observed suspect #1 run away with her purse toward the roadway and get into the passenger side of the above described vehicle which was parked in front of a neighbor’s driveway. The vehicle then left the area in the direction of E. Main Street, Fruitland.

Anyone having any knowledge or information is encouraged to contact the Fruitland Police Department.

Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Press Release

Incident: Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
Date of Incident: 31 May 2009
Location: Old Ocean City Road at Rounds Road, Pittsville, MD
Suspect: Donald Ryan Williams, 41, Willards, MD


Narrative: On 31 May 2009 at 3:26 AM, a deputy on patrol observed a vehicle travelling west bound in the east bound lanes of Old Ocean City Road in the area of Rounds Rd in Pittsville, MD. Upon stopping the vehicle which was found to be operated by Donald Williams of Willards, MD, the deputy determined that Williams was under the influence of alcohol. After an investigation into the DUI, Williams was placed under arrest.
Williams was released upon the signing of Maryland Uniform traffic citations.
Charges: Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol



Incident: Burglary
Date of Incident: 20 May 2009
Location: 800 block of State Street, Sharptown, MD
Suspect: Juvenile, 17 YOA, Sharptown, MD


Narrative: On 20 May 2009, the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation into a residential burglary that occurred in the 800 block of State Street in Sharptown, MD. During that investigation it was learned that an individual, unknown at the time of report, had entered a residence and taken property belonging to the homeowner. That property consisted of a shotgun, fishing poles and reels, hunting type apparel and miscellaneous hunting equipment.
On 27 May 2009, the investigating deputy discovered the stolen property in the possession of a 17 YOA juvenile from Sharptown, MD. During the subsequent investigation it was determined that the juvenile was the one who entered the victim’s residence and stole the property. The juvenile was placed under arrest and transported to the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office. Upon contacting the Department of Juvenile Services, the deputy was instructed to release the juvenile to a relative pending formal court action.

Charges: Burglary 1st Degree
Theft over $500.00



Incident: Fugitive Arrest
Date of Incident: 22 May 2009
Location: Comal County, Texas
Suspect: Orlando Capellan Garcia, 26, Salisbury, MD


Narrative: In September 2006, Orlando Garcia was released on $25,000 bond from the Wicomico County Detention Center pending being a trial in the Wicomico County Circuit Court for First Degree Assault. In January 2007, Garcia failed to appear and became a fugitive from justice. In May 2009, Garcia was located and arrested in Comal County, Texas. Deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office travelled to Texas on May 22, 2009 and extradited Garcia back to Wicomico County.


Upon reaching the Wicomico County Detention Center, Garcia was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Garcia was held without bond in the Detention Center by the Commissioner.
Charges: Assault 1st Degree



The Following individuals were arrested by the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office on Arrest Warrants 25 May – 31 May 2009
Arrest Warrants
Leondrus Devon Higgins, 22, Salisbury, MD; Handgun on Person / Handgun in Vehicle, held $30,000.00 bond
Jennifer Kate Nolan, 26, Columbia, MD; Obtain CDS by Fraud / Forgery of Prescription, held $3,500.00 bond.
Connie B. Scott, 40, Salisbury, MD; CDS Possession, held $10,000.00
Fred Steven Evans, 30, Stevensville, MD; Theft over $500.00, held $50,000.00 bond
Brian Rose, 23, Salisbury, MD; Assault on a County D.O.C. employee, held $25,000.00 bond.
David Shanton, 54, Salisbury, MD; Assault on a County D.O.C. employee, held $25,000.00 bond.
Moraima Ramos-Rodriquez, 29, Salisbury, MD; Escape 2nd degree, held without bond.
Dean Allen Martin, 31, Parsonsburg, MD; Assault 2nd, held $3,000.00 bond.
Failure to Appear Bench Warrant
Kimberly M. Behrman, 32, Salisbury, MD; FTA – Trespassing on Private Property, held $1,000.00 bond
Orlando C. Garcia, 26, Salisbury, MD; FTA – Assault 1st Degree, held without bond.
Craig Isaiah Hudson, 19, Delmar, DE; FTA for a VOP hearing, CDS Distribution, held without bond.
William Marion Jones, 40, Snow Hill, MD; FTA MDOP over $500, held $12,500.00 bond.
Kevin Lindele Parker, 24, Salisbury, MD; FTA – Conspiracy to Robbery, held without bond.
Kevin Lindele parker, 24, Salisbury, MD; FTA – Illegal Possession of a Regulated Firearm, held without bond.
Michael Allen Peterson, 39, Salisbury, MD; FTA – Driving while suspended, held $354.00 bond
Roshelle Lynn Russell, 20, Salisbury, MD; FTA – Theft under $500.00, held $25,000.00 bond.
Jermaine Valdez Smith, 18, Salisbury, MD, FTA – Driving while Suspended, held $1,000.00 bond.
Mark Dean Willey, 37, Federalsburg, MD, FTA – Assault 2nd degree, held $10,000.00 bond.
Mark Dean Willey, 37, Federalsburg, MD, FTA – Assault 2nd degree, held $10,000.00 bond.
Mark Dean Willey, 37, Federalsburg, MD, FTA – Violation of Protective order, held $10,000.00.
Jose Carmelo Vasquez, 22, Savage, NM, FTA – Driving while suspended, released on Personal Recognizance
Carlton Laverne Johnson, 54, Salisbury, MD, FTA – CDS Possession, held $3,500.00 bond.
Violation of Probation Bench Warrant
Jermaine Rodney Burke, 25, Salisbury, MD; VOP – Sex Offense Third Degree, held $25,000.00 bond
Julia Alisha Stanley, 43, Salisbury, MD, VOP – Prostitution, held $5,000.00
Tyree Antron Taylor, 18, Mardela Springs, MD; VOP – Assault 2nd degree / Resist Arrest held $ 15,000.00
Clyde Dwight Tull, 42, Salisbury, MD; VOP – Distribution CDS, held without bond.
Circuit Court Juvenile Attachment
Juvenile, 15, Salisbury, MD; FTA Body Attachment, Held Lower Shore Children’s Center
Juvenile, 18, Salisbury, MD; FTA Body Attachment, Held Lower Shore Children’s Center (Offense occurred as Juvenile)
Juvenile, 16, Salisbury, MD; FTA Body Attachment, Held Lower Shore Children’s center
Fugitive from Another State
Louis Williams, 47, Seaford, DE; Fugitive from DE, Deadly Weapon charges / Disorderly Conduct, held without bond pending extradition to DE.
Circuit Court Indictment
Kenneth Stuart Cropper, 31, Salisbury, MD; CDS Distribution, held $50,000.00 bond
Robert Lee Morgan, 31, Delmar, DE; CDS Distribution, held without bond

Truck? What Truck? Oh, THIS Truck!

Well, you've all heard and wondered about it, so here it is, the 2000 Ford Ranger Supercab, half-ton load capacity pickup truck with about 50,000 miles on it that the City put up on the auction block last month but removed (but almost not, because somebody didn't have a straight story) after some loud public outcry.

Now, a little history.

Remember when the ex-mayor (yeah, Joe, I like the "ex" part, too - a lot!) wanted to change the city's electrical inspections from private contractors to a city department? A department that she could totally have in her pocket and inspections that could be done (or not done) at her whim? And how the screams from the builders, the public and the inspectors could be heard across the county? Well, she gave up on that plan when it was exposed as yet another Barrie boondoggle and control freak exercise, but get this: she had the truck, ready for her inspector, before the plan was even on the ground.
After Barrie's electrical inspector plan was nixed and the dust settled, the truck was given to Neighborhood Services and Code Compliance, where somebody beat the living crap out of it, giving it something in the neighborhood of $3-4,000 worth of body and paint damage, according to city sources. How he/she did this by doing nothing more than staying on city streets doing inspections and carrying an occasional piece of equipment in the back is beyond me, but that's another story (and one that should be told.)
Rather than have the repairs made to a truck that was otherwise mechanically sound and of relatively low mileage and to give it to, say, Public Works, where a serviceable vehicle was needed for its recycling division, Barrie decided to declare it surplus and buy Public Works a new ¾ ton pickup and the new inspector hire at NSCC a new SUV. Savings to the taxpayers? Less than zero. A lot less. Where the $20, 000+ truck you see here could have been used by Public Works or NSCC (fixed or not), and the cost of one vehicle saved, two new vehicles were instead purchased for about $50,000. What to do with the used truck, worth a maximum of probably only about $4,000 cash on the block, but with a remaining vehicle life worth an easy $20,000 if kept in service, should have been a no-brainer. But arithmetic is evidently difficult for some in the administration. (I could name names, but you probably already know them. Hint: one of them does it for a living.)

So, where is the truck now? Well, as you drive north on Lake Street, there's a big fenced-in area on the left. There it sits.
Who's going to get it? Who knows? If it sits there long, though, it's only a matter of time until some enterprising individual jumps the fence and parts it out, starting with the tires and rims.

And who was it that took the power washer (or paint scraper) to the sides to remove the City seals and department I.D.s? Nice job. You went right through the paint job on the other side. Another $500 worth of paint work to fix.

My call? Don't bother doing any body work that is only cosmetic; just fix what will get worse by exposure to the elements. It doesn't have to be pretty. Then take a couple of cans of spray paint (primer then enamel) and cover the scratches. Leave the city seals the way they are and stencil (remember stencils?) along the side of the truck “This Vehicle Is Recycled, Courtesy of The Mayor of Salisbury and Citizens for Saving Tax Dollars” or something like it. Or, better yet, have a contest: best homegrown design that can be applied with a brush or spray can wins free trash pickup for a year. Get some kids involved and turn it into a community effort and something fun. Don't forget to tell the story of the truck along the way. We should own up to and learn from our mistakes.
And then, hire an experienced fleet manager, somebody who regularly inspects each one of the City's vehicles, keeps maintenance logs, schedules maintenance and repairs, and who reports his/her findings to the Mayor and department heads, all of whom should ensure that some measure of accountability is enforced for each and every person who drives a City vehicle. The era of the beating up and sabotaging of our vehicles (are you listening, SFD?) so that new ones have to be purchased is coming to a close.

Have You Purchased Your Fight Tickets Yet?



One thing is for sure, Fernando Guerrero has given back to his community like there's no tomorrow. Charity Events, visits to local Schools and Hospitals, he's constantly giving back as a positive role model and he's more dedicated to his sport than anyone in his class.

That being said, on June 19th Fernando Guerrero will once again bring his talents here in Salisbury to the Civic Center along with several other great fighters for a price you just can't beat. $15.00 gets you in the door for 6 boxing matches and to be completely honest with you, I'm truly worried for Fernando this go around.

Brian "The Assassin" Norman has a 17-8 record, 5 KO's. He has fought for title fights and has experience Fernando has yet to match.

While we have the opportunity to support one of our own, take advantage of this event and buy your tickets now. While I don't want to see Fernando beat in his Home Town, Brian Norman is a challenge you'll not see here at home again. Not any time soon anyway.

GO HERE to purchase your tickets on line.

Major Loss Incurred By Non-Profit Group In Storage Bin Theft


Date and Time of Occurrence: Sunday, May 31st – June 1, 2009

Suspect(s): Unknown

Resume: Sometime overnight, from Sunday into Monday, an unknown suspect(s) responded to 128 Quigley Boulevard in New Castle. At this location, the non-profit group, the New Castle County Football League, maintained a storage bin. The storage bin contained a variety of items related to the league including the following: football pads, helmets, uniforms, training tools and other mechanical equipment. Also, cheerleading uniforms and related equipment were inside.

By an unknown means, but most likely a roll-back tow truck, the suspect(s) stole the storage bin in its entirety. In all, the NCCFL incurred a loss of well over $10,000.00. In the course of doing so, a box truck adjacent to the storage bin was damaged.

The storage bin was metal, blue in color and displayed “A-1 Rental” on the side. It measured 20’ x 8’ in length and width.

Investigators from the State Police are asking anyone who may have seen this storage bin on the road in the night in question, they call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.

I Wonder How The Daily Times Missed What Shanie Shields Really Said?


Although Shanie Shields clearly stated the City could use the old building for a new City Hall, somehow the Daily Times missed her statement completely. How convenient!

"Councilwoman Shanie Shields said the location would not only retain its appeal to current pedestrian traffic but attract new users from communities off Route 13 along Church and Division streets and in Newtown."

Library Answers?

It seems to me, if the Library was serious about relocating and wanted to do it smart, why on God's Green Earth haven't they considered the old Feldman's Building? The price is right, for starters.

Then there's the visibility factor. They went on and on last night about being located where they can be seen. Well, there's not a better visibility location in ALL of Salisbury. Riverside Drive, Camden, Carroll Street, Market Street, Fitzwater, Rt 50, you name it, this location would be ideal!

Parking is not an issue and to me the biggest plus about this location, well, there are several but one of the biggest is you'd be tearing down buildings that just need to go anyway. So who are these consultants that didn't consider this location? You can steal this building right now as I know the owner is dying to get out of his mortgage there.

Think of the positive impact it would have on keeping all that traffic in the Plaza area. If coffee shops opened and other businesses that could grow because of the Library traffic, it's a win/win. Now I know some of you are going to say, oh sure Joe, you own a building there and you'd benefit from such a project. Maybe so, I don't know. However, my thought was more towards a location that would be positive for the Downtown area. Keeping the Library Downtown IS the ANCHOR Business the Plaza so desperately needs.

Anyhow, expand on this if you'd like but I see nothing but positive results from this location versus any other at this point. Tear down Feldman's and build a 5 story building right there and even consider additional parking below if necessary.

Again, I don't think anyone is going to see the Library get any commitment from the County or the City right now because funding just isn't there. HOWEVER, there's a Grant for $750,000.00 on the table right now to purchase land and I personally think this is the location they should consider before it goes away.

Talk About A Reality Check!

Did Urban Salisbury Really Pull It Off Last Night?











Well, even Gary Comegys was praising everyone at Urban Salisbury, even though he ragged on them for doing NOTHING all these years. Nevertheless, there was a consensus by the majority of Council to move forward with their plan in order for Urban Salisbury to meet a deadline of mid June to file for a grant for the drawing stage of this project.

That being said, as a Downtown property owner myself, I still have several concerns and hope we as the biggest investors will also have a say in this plan. I don't know about all of you but I want to see a complete face lift. What I mean by that is, I want all the flower beds removed. I want all the trees removed and replaced. Just because someone comes forward with preliminary drawings and plans doesn't make this project good. It simply makes it different.

Many wanted to see the Plaza either closed down or at least designed with diagonal parking all the way through the Plaza. This is the very LAST TIME anyone is going to possibly INVEST into a concept idea and quite frankly they have never once called me or contacted me, (as a property owner) as to what they plan on doing.

Instead, they used this Master Plan as a sort of hostage package, either they get the financial support to carry them through and stay alive or they weren't going to turn over the plan. Again, I'm NOT saying what they have proposed isn't a good idea or concept but quite frankly, while many seemed to be impressed last night, I'd like to know just what in the hell impressed everyone? So they're going to reverse the traffic. Instead of going east to west on the Plaza, now they're going to go the other way, west to east, WOO HOO!

I'm not even going to waste my time on all their plans as they refused to offer me a hard copy of their work, making it that much more suspicious. The face lift will cost a little more than $5,000,000.00, a far better investment than let's say the new Fire Station. In this case, at least people would be more interested in investing into the buildings Downtown knowing the future of what is to become in a few years. The return on jobs, taxes and positive cash flow is quite interesting and IMHO, it's putting good money after good money. I would have been happier with the Fire Station if they had a community hall where they could raise money for certain charitable events and or even money through weddings and so forth to cover some of the overhead of the new station. However, the management clearly stated they're professional Fire Fighters, not cooks and waiters. I know, it's too beneath them to GIVE BACK.

Anyhow, I'm undecided on this new proposal. I believe I am a stock holder in this real estate and quite frankly I know very little about this project/plan. As a stronger investor than just the every day taxpayer in Salisbury, (no disrespect) I want to know more. If I'm sold on the idea and its future I'll be happy to come back and express it in another Post. Until then, it's a bunch of drawings with some simple ideas but it also offers HOPE and I like the energy of it.

TOM STEVENSON, WHERE ARE YOU (not at the old “Salisbury Mall”)?






These photos, shot over the past weekend, show weeds much worse than in many residential neighborhoods, where Barrie would often approve citations for having only a few blades of grass in the sidewalks. Those hot-shot boyz from Baltimore – Natelson & Dzaman -- must think that being a “friend of Barrie-Bubba” is still the key to the City of Salisbury. Just look at the crop of weeds on the remaining paved surface and the area inside the falling down soil fence, not to mention the mini-mountain with a thicket and overgrown vegetation.

Caption This Photo


STOP SPENDING MONEY!!!!!!






I was so flabbergasted last night when Tom Hehman came forward with yet another plan to rebuild a new Library. However, it wasn't until Shanie Shields opened her mouth and let out the multi million dollar words of just why this project must move forward. We Need A New City Hall and the old Library is perfect!

Old Barrie Tilghman is still in Office Ladies & Gentlemen and the ONLY reason this project is going forward with ANY support whatsoever is because Barrie Tilghman wanted this years ago and they'll stop at nothing to make it happen.

As many of you know, my Father In Law Art Goetz was the Director of the Wicomico County Library System for many years until he retired. He still to this day says that building has at least another 50 years life to it and if they simply removed the regional library from downstairs they could easily continue to operate in that building for many more years to come.

Gary, Louise and Shanie still talked about the Library in Rockville where they have parking below and a small indoor Mall on the first floor. THIS IS SALISBURY, NOT ROCKVILLE!

When will the spending end? They're talking about taking away the parking lot used for the Court House and perhaps building a basement parking lot and Gary Comegys said the City may want to retain the deed to the parking lot below the Library project. Debbie Campbell said, if you move the Library away from the heart of the City, (where it's now located) you're placing the draw away from the Downtown Plaza Shopping. Tom stated that he felt there are other shops like the antique mall at the west end of Downtown, so he felt it wouldn't hurt business as much as Debbie thought. I beg to differ Tom. Do some research and you'll very quickly find antique shops are failing all around the United States. Expect that one to fold some time in the near future too.

Then there's the highly successful Flea Market held there every weekend, GONE! Traffic congestion added to Rt. 13. Man, there's so many problems with this idea I don't even know where to start. That being said, let's leave it up to all of you to voice your opinions.

I have been watching some of the comments coming in and the Tilghman people are already throwing out how wonderful an idea it is on yesterday's Post. Give it a rest people, WE CAN'T AFFORD IT! OK, let's just get very real right now. IF they move forward with this project, there's no question, your taxes in Wicomico County AND Salisbury will once again go up. It's time to start acting far more responsible financially and STOP trying to make legacy's out of a few people instead.

Is the building they're in too small? NO! As a Country we are hurting everywhere we turn. This is so irresponsible it isn't funny. CONSERVE right now for once and wait until we start seeing some light in our future. You want to build something, think about a new Civic Center that can draw some revenue into the County. These $14,000,000.00 Fire Palaces and Grand Libraries bring NOTHING back to the Taxpayers funding these facilities. Oh, and don't even think of coming back at me about the resource a Library brings to the community. WE ALREADY HAVE ONE AND IT WORKS JUST FINE!

OK, now it's your turn. Let's hear what YOU have to say.

I Guess It's All About Who You Know?






There has been much talk lately about Urban Salisbury donating some $5,000.00 to a local Church who purchased the old City Hall giving them money to work on the exterior of their newly purchased building.

Mind you, the building recently had a face lift and was completely renovated, but for some reason, (no one knows why) they chose the old City Hall to receive these funds. I stated a week ago that I really had a problem with this and when I had the time I'd come back with some pictures of the old Court House, a building that truly needs the financial help and even more so a serious face lift.

As you can see from the photos above, the building is in true disrepair and with funds being so tight in the County and the City, it's going to be difficult finding the funds to make one of the greatest and most historic buildings back to where it needs to be. This is a major focal point in Downtown Salisbury and quite frankly there's a night and day difference between the old City Hall and the old Court House. The funds should have been given to this building, let alone several others that could use the help.

Anyhow, I told Two Sentz I'd take the time to produce a few photos showing why I felt this way and I hope this proves to everyone that I'm right. The old City Hall can certainly wait a few more years before anyone throws money their way.

Salisbury Police Department Press Release


On May 28, 2009 at approximately 10:12 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a request to assist the management of the Chesapeake Inn with an eviction from a room.
The officers responded to the room and made contact with the tenants, who are listed below. While meeting with the suspects the officers observed suspected controlled dangerous substances throughout the room. The substances were seized and the suspects were placed under arrest.

ARRESTED #1: Rochelle Lynn Russell, 20 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland

ARRESTED #2: Joy Ellen Cabral, 28 years of age
Fruitland, Maryland

CHARGES (both): Possession of “crack”/cocaine with int. to dist.
Possession of “crack”/cocaine
Possession of cocaine
Possession of marijuana
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 200900018423


On May 29, 2009 at approximately 6:53 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to the Giant Pharmacy for the report of a fraudulent prescription. Upon arrival the officers met with a pharmacist who advised that the below listed suspect had presented a fraudulent prescription to be filled. The pharmacist made a check with the physician and confirmed that the prescription was fraudulent. The suspect was placed under arrest.

ARRESTED: Jemma Taraze Tinley, 24 years of age
Seaford, Delaware

CHARGES : Obtaining CDS by forgery
Obtaining CDS by uttering
Possession of CDS with int. to distribute (2 cts)
Obtaining a CDS
Obtaining a CDS by fraud
Possession of CDS
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 200900018566


On May 29, 2009 at approximately 10:30 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police were contacted by a victim in reference to a robbery that occurred near his residence on N. Division St. Upon meeting with the victim, the victim advised that while walking near his residence he was approached by several suspects that physically robbed him and took an amount of U.S. currency. Officers checked the area and located the below listed suspects who were positively identified by the victim.

ARRESTED #1: Kevin Lamont White, 33 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland

ARRESTED #2: Wayne Lorenzo Ayers, 24 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES (both): Robbery
Conspiracy to commit robbery
Second degree assault
Conspiracy to commit assault
Theft (over $ 500)
Conspiracy to commit theft

DISPOSITION: Both released to Central Booking
CC # 200900018604


On May 29, 2009 at approximately 11:03 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police were on routine patrol in the area of Waverly Drive and Middle Boulevard and stopped a vehicle operated by below listed suspect # 1 for traffic violations. As the stop was conducted, the officers observed suspected marijuana in the front area of the vehicle. The suspected marijuana was seized and both suspects were placed under arrest.

ARRESTED #1: Justin John Rubino, 18 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland

ARRESTED #2: James Gregory Meadows, 18 years of age
Eden, Maryland

CHARGES (both): Possession of marijuana
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 200900018614

Colonel’s Camp Barnes Chili Bike Run


Colonel’s Camp Barnes Chili Bike Run Set for Sunday the 7th

State of Delaware

Registration on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Camp Barnes History: In 1947, the Delaware Association of Chiefs’ of Police, an organization which was composed of active law enforcement and correctional officers, accepted the challenge to undertake a project to combat juvenile delinquency in the First State. A committee was appointed to investigate the problems confronting youth. The committee’s resulting recommendations led to the establishment of Camp Barnes for the recreation of deserving youth from throughout the state.

Camp Barnes, located on Miller’s Creek, a tributary of Little Assawoman Bay, has since served the needs of thousands of children from throughout Delaware. Camp Barnes was originally designed to provide the children who were unable to attend summer camp an opportunity to experience life at a summer youth camp. Camp Barnes has remained basically unchanged, providing Delaware children with these outdoor experiences for over 60 years.

The summer camp is an overnight residential camp run by the Delaware State Police and is open to children between the ages of 10 and 13 at no cost to the camper or family. Camp Barnes accommodates 60 campers per week for six weeks. The camp is in session from early July through August. All children are eligible to attend regardless of family income.

One of the many positive aspects of Camp Barnes summer camp is the innovative use of adventure based outdoor learning experiences. Camp Barnes has on its grounds an extensive outdoor initiative course with 17 different initiative and team building elements. Some of the many activities campers participate in throughout the week include swimming in an Olympic size pool, kayaking in Miller’s Creek, arts and crafts, nature walks, and talent shows. Campers also enjoy a scaled down version of the Olympics and State Police demonstrations by the K-9 unit.

Camp Barnes has a staff of 12 counselors, two cooks, and one kitchen assistant and a nurse. Counselors are required to submit to a criminal background check as well as an interview. There is also a State Trooper on grounds at all times when the camp is in session.

How the public can get involved: This Sunday, an exciting fundraising initiative will again be held to benefit Camp Barnes and the children who attend. The Colonel’ Camp Barnes Chili Bike Run will commence on June the 7th. Registration is from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the following locations:
Smyrna Rest Area on Route 13, just north of Smyrna
Harley Davidson of Seaford, on Route 13 in Seaford

This event is a police escorted ride through many parts of Delaware’s scenic landscape. The event is open to the public and all citizens are invited to attend. The flyer for this event is below.

DSP News Release:


On June 7th, 2009 the Colonel’s Camp Barnes Chili Bike Run will take place. Bikers can register at two locations, at the Smyrna rest area in lower New Castle County and the second location at the Harley-Davidson of Seaford in western Sussex County. Registration will take place between 9 am and 10 pm. This event was previously scheduled in May however due to inclement weather was postponed until this Sunday. After registration the riders will make their way through Kent and Sussex counties until they reach the camp located in southern Sussex County where chili will be served to each participate. T-shirts will be given to the first 250 participates.

Registration fee is $25 per rider and all proceeds go to support the operation of Camp Barnes. Camp Barnes is a camp run by the state police and is free to teens that may not be able to afford a week long camping program. The camp is totally support by donations and events such as the Camp Barnes Golf Tournament and the Colonel’s Chili Bike Run.

Donations may also be made to the camp at any of the two registration locations.

Contact person: Brenda Unruh 302-739-3711

Beware Of This Virus

The newest virus circulating is the UPS/Fed Ex Delivery Failure. You will receive an email from UPS/Fed Ex Service along with a packet number.. It will say that they were unable to deliver a package sent to you on such-and-such a date. It then asks you to print out the invoice copy attached. DON'T TRY TO PRINT THIS. IT LAUNCHES THE VIRUS! Pass this warning on to all your PC operators at work and home. This virus has caused Millions of dollars in damage in the past few days.

Snopes confirms that it is real.

http://www.snopes.com/computer/virus/ups.asp

Young Con Anthem

41 Days Into It, Here's Where Things Stand

After the new Mayor of Salisbury rolled up his sleeves he got down to business once again. Young, perhaps. Smart, absolutely. Energetic, like you've never seen before. Optimistic, he'll have it no other way!

On June 23rd Mayor Ireton would like to invite ALL of you to a Mayor's Open House. What makes this Open House so different from any other the City has ever seen, how about a KIDS FRIENDLY Open House. That's right, bring the kids and don't use them as an excuse as to why you can't take the time to get to know your government officials better.

There's been a $51,000,000.00 Budget passed through the City Council by the former Mayor and quite frankly, Mayor Ireton isn't quite sure if he's going to pass it or not. He said, if and when I do sign it, I want to start on the 2011 Budget the day after we've signed it.

As far as the Council Health Care, it's staying. No more leases. The City is going to purchase everything from here on out. As things stand right now, once they make this change it will save the City at least $180,000.00 in interest alone.

There's going to be a new set of assessments next year. That being said, you can expect the City Revenue to go down because your taxes should go down. Mayor Ireton still believes you can give raises and cut taxes at the same time, it's been done in the past.

There's lots to be said about Neighborhood Services Code & Compliance but I'll save that for another Post. Oh, if ANYONE is interested, the Paddle Boat Business in the City Park is for sale. If no one buys it, the service will be closed down this summer. If anyone is seriously interested contact me and I'll get you through to the current owner.

The Sonic Boom In Fruitland


The new Sonic in Fruitland is packing them in like there's no tomorrow. To me, this is a fun and exciting new business brought to our area and my hope is that they continue to stay this successful for many years to come. I'll be stopping in to try out their food and report back to everyone referencing the service and quality. I'm sure many of you have tried it, what did you think?

45 Lessons Life Taught Me

Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio

"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written.

My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:


1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone...

4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first pay cheque.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion, today is special.

22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In fiv e years, will this matter?'

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood.

38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

42. The best is yet to come.

43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

44. Yield.

45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."

God Bless The U.S.M.C.

An Oldie But A Goody

Recently, I was diagnosed with A.A.A.D.D. -
Age Activated Attention Deficit Disorder.
This is how it manifests:

I decide to water my garden.
As I turn on the hose in the driveway,
I look over at my car and decide it needs washing.

As I start toward the garage,
I notice mail on the porch table that
I brought up from the mail box earlier.

I decide to go through the mail before I wash the car.

I lay my car keys on the table,
Put the junk mail in the garbage can under the table,
And notice that the can is full.

So, I decide to put the bills back
On the table and take out the garbage first.

But then I think,
Since I'm going to be near the mailbox
When I take out the garbage anyway,
I may as well pay the bills first.

I take my check book off the table,
And see that there is only one check left.

My extra checks are in my desk in the study,
So I go inside the house to my desk where
I find the can of Pepsi I'd been drinking

I'm going to look for my checks,
But first I need to push the Pepsi aside
So that I don't accidentally knock it over.

The Pepsi is getting warm,
And I decide to put it in the refrigerator to keep it cold.

As I head toward the kitchen with the Pepsi,
A vase of flowers on the counter
Catches my eye--they need water.

I put the Pepsi on the counter and
Discover my reading glasses that
I've been searching for all morning.

I decide I better put them back on my desk,
But first I'm going to water the flowers.

I set the glasses back down on the counter,
Fill a container with water and suddenly spot the TV remote.
Someone left it on the kitchen table.

I realize that tonight when we go to watch TV,
I'll be looking for the remote,
But I won't remember that it's on the kitchen table,
So I decide to put it back in the den where it belongs,
But first I'll water the flowers.

I pour some water in the flowers,
But quite a bit of it spills on the floor.

So, I set the remote back on the table,
Get some towels and wipe up the spill.

Then, I head down the hall trying to
Remember what I was planning to do.

At the end of the day:
The car isn't washed
The bills aren't paid

There is a warm can of Pepsi sitting on the counter
The flowers don't have enough water,
There is still only 1 check in my check book,
I can't find the remote,
I can't find my glasses,
And I don't remember what I did with the car keys.
Then, when I try to figure out why nothing got done today,
I'm really baffled because I know I was busy all damn day,
And I'm really tired.

I realize this is a serious problem,
And I'll try to get some help for it,
But first I'll check my e-mail...

Wicomico County Board Of Education Awards & Recognitions Night

Final Wicomico County Board of Education Awards & Recognitions Night for 2008-09 Set for 7 p.m. TONIGHT, June 2, at Wicomico High Auditorium

The Wicomico County Board of Education's final Awards & Recognitions Night of the 2008-09 school year will take place at 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 2, at Wicomico High School Auditorium. Many outstanding students, teachers, community partners and schools are on the program for recognition.

The public is invited 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 a full list of honorees will be posted at the Board's web site (www.wcboe.org) following the event.

June 2, 2009
Wicomico County Board of Education's
Awards & Recognitions Night
Wicomico High School Auditorium
7 p.m.
Award announcer: Dr. John Fredericksen, Superintendent of Schools
Masters of ceremonies: Board of Education Vice President Mark Thompson and Susan Hitch

2009 Wicomico County Board of Education Retirees
2009 Parent Involvement Matters Award Winner
Wicomico County Mentoring Project 10-Year Mentors
2008-09 Superintendent’s Art Collection Artists
Alley Oop Comic Strip Artists

Link for Literature Challenge Awards
Pemberton’s Stock Market Challenge Awards
Outstanding Safety Patrol Award
Maryland Green School Award
Math 24 Game Awards
First In Math (Math 24 Online) Awards

Kids Helping Kids Awards
Eagle Scout Recognitions
Wicomico County’s Top Reading Rally Team
2009 Optimist Oratorical Contest Awards
2009 Letters About Literature Award
Poetry.com Editor’s Choice Award

Wicomico County’s Destination Imagiation Teams Recognition
U. S. Coast Guard Academy Appointment
Team America Rocketry Challenge
Bayside Scholar Athlete Recognition
Maryland General Assembly Page Program Appointees
JMB’s It’s Academic Team

AP Scholars
Williamsburg Musicale Festival Award
Apple Blossom Festival Award
Career Day Essay Contest Winners

Recognition of STEM Supporters
McDonald’s McEducator Awards
Giant Teachers of the Month
Wicomico County Outstanding Educational Leadership Awards