(CBS) Employing an unusual but not untested tactic in defense against drunk driving charges, a Missouri man was acquitted by a jury of his DUI charges after testifying that he got drunk after crashing his car to keep warm, not before.
Thomas Drummond told the court he had been out with friends the night of the accident, reports The Southeast Missourian. While navigating icy conditions he missed a turn on an unfamiliar road, then attempted to turn around and drove into a culvert, he testified.
Drummond said he wasn't intoxicated when he drove into the culvert but was two hours later when emergency workers and authorities arrived, the Missourian reports.
"It was the day before the Super Bowl and he had just done some shopping," Defense Attorney Stephen Wilson said Monday. "It was 32 degrees or colder out and he had brandy in the car, so he kept warm."
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Dad Charged with Kidnapping of 3 Missing Sons
MORENCI, Mich. — The father of three missing Michigan boys has been charged with three counts of parental kidnapping, police said Tuesday.
Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks said John Skelton was arrested by FBI agents after he was released Tuesday from a medical facility in Lucas County, Ohio.
Earlier Tuesday, Weeks warned that the search for the boys is unlikely to end in a "positive outcome."
Tanner Skelton, 5, and his brothers Alexander, 7, and Andrew, 9, were last seen Thursday in the backyard of their father's southern Michigan home and authorities have said they believe they are in danger.
Tim Spies To Run For Salisbury City Council
Tim Spies; City of Salisbury resident will be filing his candidacy for City Council on Friday at 11:30 am on December 3rd, 2010 at the Government Office Building on North Division Street in Salisbury, MD.
How Much Vitamin D Do You Need?
For years, vitamin D and calcium supplements have been touted as contributors to strong bones and teeth. Research has indicated that vitamin D, specifically, may even help ward off such maladies as heart disease, flu and certain cancers.Now, a new report from a major health body suggests that most Americans may have been getting the vitamin D and calcium they have needed all along, without supplements.
This morning, the Institute of Medicine, an independent, nonprofit organization connected to the National Academy of Science, released a report containing new dietary recommendations for vitamin D and calcium.
Sussex County Businessman Convicted Of Theft In Land Sale Scheme
James Tennefoss, a Sussex County business owner, was convicted [August 12th] of two counts of felony Theft related to his sale of two Sussex County properties. During both sales, Tennefoss stated under oath that the properties were free of mortgages or liens, despite his use of both as collateral in securing loans which he later stopped paying. After a three day trial the jury agreed with the prosecution that his false representations were acts of criminal Theft.
“Attorney General Biden is committed to acting to protect Delaware’s property owners and others whose homes and hard-earned investments are threatened by fraud,” stated Timothy Mullaney, Sr., Director of Attorney General Biden’s Fraud and Consumer Protection Division. “We want to recognize the hard work of our prosecution team in trying this case.”
On January 7, 2005, Tennefoss (age 59, of Bridgeville) sold a ten acre property near Bridgeville to Brenda and Preston Brasure. During the sale, he signed an owner’s affidavit stating there were no mortgages, liens, or other encumbrances on the property. However, he had used the property in 2001 to secure a mortgage on a $56,000 loan he obtained from Louis Holloway of Nanticoke, MD.
On December 4, 2006, Tennefoss sold a one acre property adjacent to Route 113 in Georgetown to Alejandro Soto. Again, during the sale, he signed an owner’s affidavit stating there were no mortgages, liens, or other encumbrances on the property. However, he had used the property in 2000 to secure a mortgage on a $41,500 loan he obtained in 1999 from Mr. Holloway.
These properties were sold by Tennefoss through companies in which he served as owner and president. At closing of the Bridgeville property Tennefoss’s corporation, Jim Lee, Inc., received a check for more than $223,000. At closing of the Georgetown property Tennefoss’s corporation, Southern Delaware Developers, Inc., received a check for more than $28,000. According to testimony from real estate attorneys, neither settlement would have gone through had he disclosed the mortgages on the properties.
In January, 2009, Tennefoss stopped making payments on the loans that were secured by the two properties. As a result, the lender, Mr. Holloway, initiated foreclosure proceedings against both properties and their new owners. In both cases, the buyers had title insurance, and the title insurance companies are involved in the foreclosure litigation, which remains ongoing.
Tennefoss was indicted on both charges of felony Theft earlier this year, and this week’s trial was held before Sussex County Superior Court President Judge James T. Vaughn Jr. A pre-sentence investigation was ordered and sentencing has not yet been scheduled. The case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorneys General Richard Hubbard and Ian McConnel.
-submitted release from Delaware Department of Justice
(Source)
[Tennefoss was the owner of Jimmy's Grill-- Editor]
“Attorney General Biden is committed to acting to protect Delaware’s property owners and others whose homes and hard-earned investments are threatened by fraud,” stated Timothy Mullaney, Sr., Director of Attorney General Biden’s Fraud and Consumer Protection Division. “We want to recognize the hard work of our prosecution team in trying this case.”
On January 7, 2005, Tennefoss (age 59, of Bridgeville) sold a ten acre property near Bridgeville to Brenda and Preston Brasure. During the sale, he signed an owner’s affidavit stating there were no mortgages, liens, or other encumbrances on the property. However, he had used the property in 2001 to secure a mortgage on a $56,000 loan he obtained from Louis Holloway of Nanticoke, MD.
On December 4, 2006, Tennefoss sold a one acre property adjacent to Route 113 in Georgetown to Alejandro Soto. Again, during the sale, he signed an owner’s affidavit stating there were no mortgages, liens, or other encumbrances on the property. However, he had used the property in 2000 to secure a mortgage on a $41,500 loan he obtained in 1999 from Mr. Holloway.
These properties were sold by Tennefoss through companies in which he served as owner and president. At closing of the Bridgeville property Tennefoss’s corporation, Jim Lee, Inc., received a check for more than $223,000. At closing of the Georgetown property Tennefoss’s corporation, Southern Delaware Developers, Inc., received a check for more than $28,000. According to testimony from real estate attorneys, neither settlement would have gone through had he disclosed the mortgages on the properties.
In January, 2009, Tennefoss stopped making payments on the loans that were secured by the two properties. As a result, the lender, Mr. Holloway, initiated foreclosure proceedings against both properties and their new owners. In both cases, the buyers had title insurance, and the title insurance companies are involved in the foreclosure litigation, which remains ongoing.
Tennefoss was indicted on both charges of felony Theft earlier this year, and this week’s trial was held before Sussex County Superior Court President Judge James T. Vaughn Jr. A pre-sentence investigation was ordered and sentencing has not yet been scheduled. The case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorneys General Richard Hubbard and Ian McConnel.
-submitted release from Delaware Department of Justice
(Source)
[Tennefoss was the owner of Jimmy's Grill-- Editor]
Muir Boda Announces Candidacy For Salisbury City Council
The City of Salisbury stands at a crossroads in her rich and storied history. There are tough choices that lie ahead and they need to be made now. Continually putting off issues has brought us to this point, where gangs are controlling our streets, businesses refuse to come to Salisbury and personality issues hang over us like a dark cloud.
On one hand we can continue down the path we have been steadily going for years. Economic stagnation, rising crime rates, gang problems and an assault on property rights which is fueled by name calling, personal vendettas and an outright refusal of elected officials willing to address the issues that this city faces. We have alienated the business community, neighborhoods and our law enforcement community. Leadership and responsibility have been sucked up into the black hole of gridlock, making our government ineffective on major issues.
On the other hand we have a choice of electing leaders who are willing to put aside personal differences and egos to help move our city forward. We need leaders to reach out to our disenfranchised neighborhoods, embrace our business community and encourage everyone to join together and resist the gang violence and crime that is destroying our city.
I believe a three pronged approach to reducing crime is needed from a City standpoint. Strengthening economic opportunity, providing law enforcement with the tools they need to succeed and challenging our faith based community to step up and support our civic organizations in reaching out to those who need and are crying for help. All of these are intertwined and cannot fully succeed without the other.
The economic situation we face is dire and we need to make changes now. We need to create an environment that is conducive to business and it begins with a welcoming attitude. We need to approach our business community with an attitude of – what can we do for you? One way I believe we can help businesses, is by creating a streamlined process into one office for purposes of doing business in the city. This will reduce confusion and set clear expectations and fix a process that currently drives business away.
There are many more issues that we face and I believe they should be approached with common sense, integrity and a servant’s heart. Public servants are just that, servants. Not Lords or masters, they are here to serve the citizens, taxpayers and all who enter into our boundaries for peaceful purposes.
We have much work to do and I believe it is our duty to pass on this great city better than we received her. We are obligated to make her stronger, safer and more beautiful for the generations to come after us. Leaving her deep in debt, rundown from violence and with less opportunity is not only wrong but I believe immoral.
Join me as we work to restore dignity and pride in Salisbury. We must return civility to our debates and respect to the council chamber. That is where we must begin, that is where I intend to begin.
Muir Boda
Candidate for Salisbury City Council
Jimmy's Grill In Salisbury Closes Their Doors
One individual told me they actually saw a rat running across the floor and into the kitchen.
All I can tell you is, their doors are closed.
Delegate Rudy Cane & The Working Man
Rudy Cane respects the working man so much that he parks in the courtesy spots
reserved for contractors at Home Depot.
Hard To Believe!
Joe,
I had to stop for a minute to take the time to send you this link. It seems as though we can burn an American flag but if you burn a Quran and put it on facebook you will be arrested. I can see why so many people are calling for revolution.
http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=720_1291057205
I had to stop for a minute to take the time to send you this link. It seems as though we can burn an American flag but if you burn a Quran and put it on facebook you will be arrested. I can see why so many people are calling for revolution.
http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=720_1291057205
Another Revenue Source Bites The Dust, And You Won't Read About It In The Daily Times!
The Board of Ed, though still crying of not enough money for the kiddies, has found money laying around to buy a house at 1203 Robert Street. The purchase price is said to be under $100,000 and the property is between the Wicomico Early Learning center and East Salisbury Elementary.
At the November meeting, board members voted to acquire the property unanimously. Board members Marvin Blye and Robin Holloway were absent. Nothing about negotiating property was on the published agenda for the Open or Closed session and the County Council was not aware of the board's plan.
Well, folks, Here's another piece of real estate that comes off the property tax rolls for both city and county government. More county and city revenue gone, and yet the Board of Ed is still out spending like there's no end.
At the November meeting, board members voted to acquire the property unanimously. Board members Marvin Blye and Robin Holloway were absent. Nothing about negotiating property was on the published agenda for the Open or Closed session and the County Council was not aware of the board's plan.
Well, folks, Here's another piece of real estate that comes off the property tax rolls for both city and county government. More county and city revenue gone, and yet the Board of Ed is still out spending like there's no end.
Critter Getters
Critter Getters and all of the Bugs will be at the Wall -Mart in Fruitland TODAY from 10am to 11am and again 2pm to 3pm Then also appearing at Salisbury Sam’s Club on December 15,2010 from 10am to 5pm We encourage all to come out and Say Hi to all the Critter Getters Bugs and support a wonderful cause
How We'll Know If GM Is Really Fixed
Six metrics investors should watch to determine the success or failure of postbankruptcy General Motors
General Motors (GM) is back. Right?
Having survived its tumble into bankruptcy and clawed its way back to the stock market, GM is unquestionably in its best shape in decades. Debt has been drastically reduced, labor costs cut sharply, and new management put in charge that has little attachment to the old culture. But GM has been on top of the auto industry as recently as 2000—when it earned $4.5 billion, more than any other car company—and somehow managed to nearly lose it all. So what exactly would tell investors the new GM is on a path to long-lasting success, especially of the sort that would allow U.S. taxpayers and new shareholders to cash out at a profit?
Businessweek.com posed that question to one of the key architects of the new GM, as well as other auto industry insiders, investors, and analysts. Here are the six key metrics they pointed to.
GO HERE to read more.
General Motors (GM) is back. Right?
Having survived its tumble into bankruptcy and clawed its way back to the stock market, GM is unquestionably in its best shape in decades. Debt has been drastically reduced, labor costs cut sharply, and new management put in charge that has little attachment to the old culture. But GM has been on top of the auto industry as recently as 2000—when it earned $4.5 billion, more than any other car company—and somehow managed to nearly lose it all. So what exactly would tell investors the new GM is on a path to long-lasting success, especially of the sort that would allow U.S. taxpayers and new shareholders to cash out at a profit?
Businessweek.com posed that question to one of the key architects of the new GM, as well as other auto industry insiders, investors, and analysts. Here are the six key metrics they pointed to.
GO HERE to read more.
POLLITT TO BE SWORN IN FOR SECOND TERM ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2010
Richard M. Pollitt, Jr., will take the oath of office for the second time as Wicomico County Executive at noon on Tuesday, December 7th. In 2006, Mr. Pollitt was elected as Wicomico County’s first executive joining six other county executives in Maryland. The ceremony will be in Courtroom 5 (formerly known as the Ceremonial Courtroom) in the historic Wicomico County Courthouse at the corner of Main and Division Streets in downtown Salisbury.
Couple Faces Charges Of Hiding 5 Children From Society
State authorities discovered five children in south central Pennsylvania huddled in a condemned house without heat, running water or anything that could reveal their identities.
The children -- ranging in age from 2 to 13 -- have no birth certificates, no record of immunizations and no school records, having been largely kept away from society for several years, York County police Lt. Tim Utley said.
"You always have the occasion when people are living in poor conditions, but this was extreme," Utley said. "They're going to have to be assimilated into what's not considered normal for them."
The parents, Louann Bowers and Sinhue Johnson, were arrested over the summer, when the children were found.
They have been charged with five felony counts of child endangerment and are awaiting a court appearance Friday
GO HERE to read more from CNN.
Last Unemployment Check Is In The Mail
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Although the deadline to file for extended unemployment insurance is officially Nov. 30, many jobless have already filed their last claim for benefits.
And since lawmakers aren't moving to extend the deadline anytime soon, many more unemployed Americans will run out of their extended federal benefits in coming weeks. About 2 million people are expected to stop receiving checks in December.
GO HERE to read more.
And since lawmakers aren't moving to extend the deadline anytime soon, many more unemployed Americans will run out of their extended federal benefits in coming weeks. About 2 million people are expected to stop receiving checks in December.
GO HERE to read more.
Preakness Future In Doubt After Racing Vote
LAUREL, Md. (AP) - The future of the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of horse racing's Triple Crown, was in doubt Monday after the state racing commission rejected plans for a much shorter live racing schedule at Maryland's two tracks.
The commission, which turned down the plan by an 8-0 vote, told representatives of MI Developments and Penn National Gaming, partners in operating the Maryland Jockey Club, that its plan for 17 days of live thoroughbred racing at Laurel Park in January followed by 30 live days at Pimlico Race Course in April and May was unacceptable. The two venues are currently on track for 146 days of live racing this year.
The lack of an agreement for the future threatens racetrack employees, all off-track wagering in the state and the future of the Preakness, a Baltimore tradition that was set for May 21 at Pimlico.
Live racing is scheduled to conclude on Dec. 18 with simulcasting of out-of-state races continuing through the end of the year.
GO HERE to read more.
The commission, which turned down the plan by an 8-0 vote, told representatives of MI Developments and Penn National Gaming, partners in operating the Maryland Jockey Club, that its plan for 17 days of live thoroughbred racing at Laurel Park in January followed by 30 live days at Pimlico Race Course in April and May was unacceptable. The two venues are currently on track for 146 days of live racing this year.
The lack of an agreement for the future threatens racetrack employees, all off-track wagering in the state and the future of the Preakness, a Baltimore tradition that was set for May 21 at Pimlico.
Live racing is scheduled to conclude on Dec. 18 with simulcasting of out-of-state races continuing through the end of the year.
GO HERE to read more.
Senate Shuns GOP Push To Nix Pet Projects
Majority of Dems, some Republicans vote to keep earmarks
WASHINGTON — The Senate Tuesday rejected a GOP bid to ban the practice of larding spending bills with earmarks — those pet projects that lawmakers love to send home to their states.
Most Democrats and a handful of Republicans combined to defeat the effort, which would have effectively forbidden the Senate from considering legislation containing earmarks like road and bridge projects, community development funding, grants to local police departments and special-interest tax breaks.
GO HERE to read more.
WASHINGTON — The Senate Tuesday rejected a GOP bid to ban the practice of larding spending bills with earmarks — those pet projects that lawmakers love to send home to their states.
Most Democrats and a handful of Republicans combined to defeat the effort, which would have effectively forbidden the Senate from considering legislation containing earmarks like road and bridge projects, community development funding, grants to local police departments and special-interest tax breaks.
GO HERE to read more.
Bargain Shopping? Visit Uncle Sam's Really Odd Online Warehouse
If you missed out on Cyber Monday, there's still lots of time to get a great discount at Crazy Uncle Sam's Online Retail Outlet, where the discounts are as big as the tax code is complicated.
Thanks to several websites sponsored or sanctioned directly by the U.S. government, consumers can help drive down the debt by taking advantage of great prices on government surplus -- including everything from old NASA tape recorders to an aircraft service truck to a 4,000-square-foot office complex in Burma.
That's right, it's a fire sale -- and everything in the U.S. government's warehouses must go, go, go!
GO HERE to see more.
Thanks to several websites sponsored or sanctioned directly by the U.S. government, consumers can help drive down the debt by taking advantage of great prices on government surplus -- including everything from old NASA tape recorders to an aircraft service truck to a 4,000-square-foot office complex in Burma.
That's right, it's a fire sale -- and everything in the U.S. government's warehouses must go, go, go!
GO HERE to see more.
SEARCH OVER FOR EASTERN SHORE TEEN WHO SHOT AT TROOPER
(SALISBURY, MD) – The search for an Eastern Shore teenager who fired multiple shots at a Maryland state trooper four days ago ended this morning when the fugitive turned himself in to police in Salisbury.
The accused is identified as Wyatt A. Young, 18, of the 26000-block of Meadow Land Lane, Hebron, Md. Maryland State Police and investigators from the Wicomico County Bureau of Investigation are serving a warrant this morning that charges him with attempted first degree murder, attempted second degree murder, first degree assault, second degree assault, reckless endangerment, illegal possession of a handgun in a vehicle, illegal possession of a handgun, and use of a handgun in the commission of a felony. After processing, Young will be taken for an initial bond hearing before a court commissioner later this morning.
At about 7:00 a.m. today, Young walked into the Salisbury Police Department with his mother and identified himself to police. He was taken into custody without incident.
At about 1:15 a.m. on November 26, 2010, a Maryland state trooper assigned to the Salisbury Barrack was traveling in the 7500-block of Longfield Drive near Hebron, Md., when he saw a vehicle parked in the grass along the shoulder of the road. The trooper was in uniform and in a marked patrol car.
The trooper was facing the front of the Honda when he pulled up to check on it. The trooper shone his patrol car spotlight on the Honda and saw someone lying across the front seat. The person, later identified as Young, sat up and pointed what appeared to be a handgun at the trooper. Young fired at the trooper through the driver’s side window, causing the Honda’s window to shatter. Young is believed to have fired at least two more times at the trooper, before speeding away from the scene. Neither the trooper nor his patrol car was hit by the gunfire.
An intense search by police in Maryland and Delaware has been underway for the last four days. Young had last been seen in Delaware where he fled from a traffic stop. Agencies involved in the search included the Wicomico County Bureau of Investigation, the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office, Maryland State Police Salisbury Barrack, Maryland State Police State Apprehension Team, Delaware State Police, and local police departments. The Wicomico County State’s Attorney’s Office worked with the investigative team and was consulted regarding criminal charges.
The investigation is continuing. Additional criminal charges are pending against Young in Maryland and Delaware.
D.C. Voting Rights Dead Again
They blew it again.
Two years ago, with a Democrat elected president by a wide margin and solid majorities for that party in both the Senate and the House, full congressional voting rights for the District of Columbia seemed like a sure thing. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton said at the time, “I really can’t think of a scenario by which we could fail.”
After two decades of disappointment, Norton should have known better. Given the opportunity to screw up D.C. voting rights, the Democrats always do. Statehood seemed on track during the Carter Administration, but never happened. Bill Clinton, who also enjoyed congressional majorities when he was elected, put the matter on hold while he worked on other issues, only to see both houses go Republican in 1994. Barack Obama has given the issue little more than lip service, as he has grappled with more prominent national issues.
GO HERE to read more.
Two years ago, with a Democrat elected president by a wide margin and solid majorities for that party in both the Senate and the House, full congressional voting rights for the District of Columbia seemed like a sure thing. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton said at the time, “I really can’t think of a scenario by which we could fail.”
After two decades of disappointment, Norton should have known better. Given the opportunity to screw up D.C. voting rights, the Democrats always do. Statehood seemed on track during the Carter Administration, but never happened. Bill Clinton, who also enjoyed congressional majorities when he was elected, put the matter on hold while he worked on other issues, only to see both houses go Republican in 1994. Barack Obama has given the issue little more than lip service, as he has grappled with more prominent national issues.
GO HERE to read more.
PUBLIC NOTICE
SPECIAL MEETING
In accordance with §SC2-4 of the Salisbury City Charter, a majority of the City Council have called for a Special Meeting to be held on Monday, December 6, 2010, for consideration of overriding Mayor Ireton’s veto of Ordinance No. 2124 (establishing a fee structure for the Planning and Zoning Commission, the Salisbury Board of Zoning Appeals, and the Mayor and City Council relative to advertising fees for certain public hearings).
The special meeting will be held at 4:30 p.m. in Conference Room 306 of the City/County Government Office Building (125 N. Division Street).
In accordance with §SC2-4 of the Salisbury City Charter, a majority of the City Council have called for a Special Meeting to be held on Monday, December 6, 2010, for consideration of overriding Mayor Ireton’s veto of Ordinance No. 2124 (establishing a fee structure for the Planning and Zoning Commission, the Salisbury Board of Zoning Appeals, and the Mayor and City Council relative to advertising fees for certain public hearings).
The special meeting will be held at 4:30 p.m. in Conference Room 306 of the City/County Government Office Building (125 N. Division Street).
DGA TO INTRODUCE NEWLY ELECTED GOVERNORS, 2011 LEADERSHIP TEAM
Washington D.C. (November 30, 2010) -- A month after the Democratic Governors Association defied expectations in the 2010 cycle, the DGA will introduce its newly elected governors and announce its new leadership team for 2011.
During the events on Dec. 1, more than a dozen governors and governors-elect will be on hand to discuss the 2010 elections, the challenges and opportunities for Democrats, and how we continue to move our nation forward in a fiscally responsible way to create jobs and put Americans back to work. Following the luncheon, the DGA will announce the new leadership team that will advance the mission of Democratic governors across the nation.
A list of attendees is below.
Please RSVP as soon as possible; some events have only limited space and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. All events will be held at the St. Regis, 923 16th and K Streets, NW.
Candidate and Strategist Luncheon
· WHAT: National political strategists will provide an overview of what we learned from 2010, the party's path forward and new governors will be introduced. Members of the media are invited to attend.
· WHEN: 12 to 1:30 p.m.
· WHERE: Astor Ballroom, lobby level
Press Conference
· WHAT: DGA leadership will announce the organization's 2011 chair, vice chair and other positions, as well as take questions from members of the media.
· WHEN: 1:30 p.m.
· WHERE: Chandelier Room, lobby level
Governors and Governors-Elect
Gov. Jack Markell, DGA Chair * State of Delaware
Gov. Martin O'Malley, DGA Vice-Chair * State of Maryland
Gov.-Elect Neil Abercrombie * State of Hawaii
Gov. Steve Beshear * Commonwealth of Kentucky
Gov. Chet Culver * State of Iowa
Sen. Mark Dayton * State of Minnesota (pending recount)
Gov.-Elect John Kitzhaber * State of Oregon
Gov.-Elect Dan Malloy * State of Connecticut
Gov. Bev Perdue * State of North Carolina
Gov.-Elect Peter Shumlin * State of Vermont
Gov. Ted Strickland * State of Ohio
Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin * State of West Virginia
(This list is subject to additions and changes.)
During the events on Dec. 1, more than a dozen governors and governors-elect will be on hand to discuss the 2010 elections, the challenges and opportunities for Democrats, and how we continue to move our nation forward in a fiscally responsible way to create jobs and put Americans back to work. Following the luncheon, the DGA will announce the new leadership team that will advance the mission of Democratic governors across the nation.
A list of attendees is below.
Please RSVP as soon as possible; some events have only limited space and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. All events will be held at the St. Regis, 923 16th and K Streets, NW.
Candidate and Strategist Luncheon
· WHAT: National political strategists will provide an overview of what we learned from 2010, the party's path forward and new governors will be introduced. Members of the media are invited to attend.
· WHEN: 12 to 1:30 p.m.
· WHERE: Astor Ballroom, lobby level
Press Conference
· WHAT: DGA leadership will announce the organization's 2011 chair, vice chair and other positions, as well as take questions from members of the media.
· WHEN: 1:30 p.m.
· WHERE: Chandelier Room, lobby level
Governors and Governors-Elect
Gov. Jack Markell, DGA Chair * State of Delaware
Gov. Martin O'Malley, DGA Vice-Chair * State of Maryland
Gov.-Elect Neil Abercrombie * State of Hawaii
Gov. Steve Beshear * Commonwealth of Kentucky
Gov. Chet Culver * State of Iowa
Sen. Mark Dayton * State of Minnesota (pending recount)
Gov.-Elect John Kitzhaber * State of Oregon
Gov.-Elect Dan Malloy * State of Connecticut
Gov. Bev Perdue * State of North Carolina
Gov.-Elect Peter Shumlin * State of Vermont
Gov. Ted Strickland * State of Ohio
Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin * State of West Virginia
(This list is subject to additions and changes.)
Public Hearing
Towing Companies showed up in full force last night hoping to get a chance to express their opinions on the towing ordinance in the City of Salisbury. The main statement, "If it ain't broke, why fix it."I sat and listened to each and every representative explain how they're losing money. In some cases they expressed how they go uncompensated for 30 to 40% of the calls. If there's an insurance company, there's no problem, many said. However, if there's not an insurance company involved there's a very good chance they're going to lose out. One or two companies complained about the $200.00 fee to go on an overturned tractor trailer call, it's not enough.
One woman owner, (Holly Morgan) complained about the hours they must be available, 8 to 6. She complained about how it was a hardship on her Family to get the kids off to school and be at the Office by 8 AM. While I thought the complaint was somewhat bogus, she is right by stating 8 to 6 was NOT normal business hours. 9 to 5 would be more like it but according to the rules they have to go by they could get pulled off the rotation for 6 months if they don't comply.
Mind you, I have yet to hear of a board who monitors these rules. Also, one company stated, what about the companies who are single owner businesses. How can we be at the Office if we're on a call. Technically they could be pulled from the rotation as well if they don't comply.
Another thing that caught my interest was the insurance rates some of these companies pay. For the big rigs, they pay around $10,000.00 a MONTH for insurance. Being told they can only collect $200.00 for an overturned tractor trailer just doesn't cut it.
Now, there's another side to this whole thing in which I expressed my personal opinion last night. I agreed that the single owner with four different companies was out of line. However, it seems to me there are plenty of Towing Companies in Salisbury, (at least 14) if they don't like the rates, don't get on the rotation. If everyone decides it's not worth it, then I could see the administration/legislators making changes.
I also expressed how far too many people stood up complaining about losses. Look, every business has losses. It's not the City's problem when they provide opportunity. Again, I look at this as if I was one of the owners. If the bad overwhelms the good, get off the rotation. The City COULD get their own fleet of Tow Trucks and say, Game Over.
There were some other legitimate complaints though. One of the rules states each driver must have 5 years experience. That's ridiculous. DOT has their own set of rules and every company complies with those regulations. Why should the City force an expansion of the DOT rules. One owner stated he got into the business one year ago. He served in the Armed Forces for 20 1/2 years and has complied with DOT, why does he have to answer to the City.
Then there was the rule from the City that each company must have a maximum of a $100.00 deductible on their insurance policies. Now come on, that's ridiculous. As long as each company has the minimum insurance policy the City requires, why the heck are they subjected to a $100.00 maximum deductible?
Another thing many do not realize is the damage and expense these companies go through, especially during a major snow storm. While the City rang their phones off the hook for days last winter, these trucks had a very difficult time getting to the locations/emergency routes. They're not snow plows, they're tow trucks. When you're getting $85.00 per tow in these kind of conditions, it doesn't seem quite worth it. Especially when the City makes such demands, 8 to 6, someone has to be in the Office, 3 strikes against you and you're off the rotation for 6 months.
I do sympathize with some of the conditions. Not every tow is an easy tow. You know, like when someone calls to have their vehicle towed to their mechanic because it broke down, that's easy. However, in many cases its a bad accident where the roadway needs to be cleared of debris, (which is done by the towing company) for $85.00. A vehicle goes into a ditch. You don't just yank it out. One example of the vehicle that want off the Bypass and landed upside down on the R/R Tracks. That took at least three hours. You can't pay a driver and tow a vehicle in that condition for $85.00.
So some of their complaints are legitimate but as I said earlier, you take the good with the bad. If the City is willing to make some changes in their ordinance, good for the Towing Companies. If they choose to leave it where it is, then the Towing Companies need to reconsider, is it worth doing business with the City.
WCSO Press Release
Incident: Threats and Harassment
Date of Incident: 26 November 2010
Location: 31600 block of Old Ocean City Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Denise C. Carter, 42, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 26 November 2010 at 3:39 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of repeated annoying phone calls. Upon meeting with the complainant, the deputy learned that Denise Carter had placed seven phone calls to the complainant who did not answer the phone. The deputy listened to voice messages left by Carter where she threatened to either burn down the complainant’s house or blow it up. The deputy believed that Carter sounded intoxicated on the messages.
The deputy obtained a warrant charging Carter with making the threatening phone calls. Upon being placed under arrest, Carter was transported to the Central Booking Unit and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner detained Carter in the Detention Center in lieu of $7,500 bond.
Charges: Telephone misuse
Harassment
Wicomico County Sheriff"s Office Press Releases
Incident: Possession of CDS
Date of Incident: 25 November 2010
Location: Hearn Lane
Suspect: Dionte L. Kirkland, 24, Princess Anne, MD
Narrative: On 25 November 2010 at 1:35AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office ran an MVA check on the registration of a vehicle later found to be operated by Dionte Kirkland and discovered that the registration had been suspended for an insurance violation. Upon stopping the vehicle, the deputy also discovered that Kirkland’s driver’s license was also suspended and that Kirkland was knowingly driving anyway. The deputy placed Kirkland under arrest and subsequently located two baggies of marijuana in the center console of Kirkland’s vehicle.
The deputy transported Kirkland to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner released Kirkland on Personal Recognizance.
Charges: Possession of Marijuana
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 24 November 2010
Location: 1400 block of Flamingo Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Demetrious A. Parker, 34, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 24 November 2010 at 10:20 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported assault in the 1400 block of Flamingo Lane. Upon arrival, the deputy met with a female who advised that her husband had choked and punched her. While speaking with the victim, her husband drove by in a vehicle and continued past the residence without stopping. The deputy went after the husband, Demetrius Parker, but Parker drove through the neighborhood without stopping for the deputy. The deputy followed Demetrius back to the residence at which point Demetrius refused to exit the vehicle or open the door. The original victim, Demetrius wife, opened the vehicle for the deputy with a separate key, but Demetrius still refused to come out of the vehicle, requiring the deputy to remove him.
Demetrius was taken into custody and transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Demetrius was detained on $25,000.00 bond in the Detention Center.
Charges: Assault 1st Degree
Assault 2nd Degree
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 25 November 2010
Location: 700 block of West Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Eric Lamar Byrd, 23, Pocomoke, MD
Narrative: On 25 November 2010 at 11:36 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported altercation in the 700 block of West Road in Salisbury. Upon arrival, the deputy met with a female victim, visibly upset and holding her abdomen. The victim advised she was sitting in a vehicle with her boyfriend, Eric Lamar Byrd, when they were discussing relationship issues. During the discussion, a physical confrontation began when Byrd began striking the victim. The victim managed to get out of the vehicle but the assault continued. At one point, Byrd allegedly bit the victim on her lower abdomen before fleeing the area on foot.
While speaking with the victim, the deputy observed signs of physical injury on her that corroborated her account. The deputy then obtained a warrant for the arrest of Byrd who was located the following day and taken to the Central Booking Unit for processing and an initial appearance in front of the District Court Commissioner. After that appearance, the Commissioner released Byrd on Personal Recognizance.
Charges: Assault 2nd Degree
Incident: Possession of Marijuana
Date of Incident: 26 November 2010
Location: Nutters Cross Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Tyler L. Prichard, 20, Centerville, MD
Narrative: On 26 November 2010 at 8:42 AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle for speeding. Upon making contact with the operator, Tyler Prichard, the deputy detected the odor of marijuana emanating from with Prichard’s vehicle. The deputy searched the vehicle and located a jar holding marijuana in the center console. Further search revealed additional marijuana in the glove box and two smoking devices in the car.
The deputy placed Prichard under arrest and transported him to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner released Prichard on Personal Recognizance.
Charges: Possession of Marijuana
Date of Incident: 25 November 2010
Location: Hearn Lane
Suspect: Dionte L. Kirkland, 24, Princess Anne, MD
Narrative: On 25 November 2010 at 1:35AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office ran an MVA check on the registration of a vehicle later found to be operated by Dionte Kirkland and discovered that the registration had been suspended for an insurance violation. Upon stopping the vehicle, the deputy also discovered that Kirkland’s driver’s license was also suspended and that Kirkland was knowingly driving anyway. The deputy placed Kirkland under arrest and subsequently located two baggies of marijuana in the center console of Kirkland’s vehicle.
The deputy transported Kirkland to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner released Kirkland on Personal Recognizance.
Charges: Possession of Marijuana
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 24 November 2010
Location: 1400 block of Flamingo Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Demetrious A. Parker, 34, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 24 November 2010 at 10:20 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported assault in the 1400 block of Flamingo Lane. Upon arrival, the deputy met with a female who advised that her husband had choked and punched her. While speaking with the victim, her husband drove by in a vehicle and continued past the residence without stopping. The deputy went after the husband, Demetrius Parker, but Parker drove through the neighborhood without stopping for the deputy. The deputy followed Demetrius back to the residence at which point Demetrius refused to exit the vehicle or open the door. The original victim, Demetrius wife, opened the vehicle for the deputy with a separate key, but Demetrius still refused to come out of the vehicle, requiring the deputy to remove him.
Demetrius was taken into custody and transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Demetrius was detained on $25,000.00 bond in the Detention Center.
Charges: Assault 1st Degree
Assault 2nd Degree
Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 25 November 2010
Location: 700 block of West Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Eric Lamar Byrd, 23, Pocomoke, MD
Narrative: On 25 November 2010 at 11:36 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported altercation in the 700 block of West Road in Salisbury. Upon arrival, the deputy met with a female victim, visibly upset and holding her abdomen. The victim advised she was sitting in a vehicle with her boyfriend, Eric Lamar Byrd, when they were discussing relationship issues. During the discussion, a physical confrontation began when Byrd began striking the victim. The victim managed to get out of the vehicle but the assault continued. At one point, Byrd allegedly bit the victim on her lower abdomen before fleeing the area on foot.
While speaking with the victim, the deputy observed signs of physical injury on her that corroborated her account. The deputy then obtained a warrant for the arrest of Byrd who was located the following day and taken to the Central Booking Unit for processing and an initial appearance in front of the District Court Commissioner. After that appearance, the Commissioner released Byrd on Personal Recognizance.
Charges: Assault 2nd Degree
Incident: Possession of Marijuana
Date of Incident: 26 November 2010
Location: Nutters Cross Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Tyler L. Prichard, 20, Centerville, MD
Narrative: On 26 November 2010 at 8:42 AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle for speeding. Upon making contact with the operator, Tyler Prichard, the deputy detected the odor of marijuana emanating from with Prichard’s vehicle. The deputy searched the vehicle and located a jar holding marijuana in the center console. Further search revealed additional marijuana in the glove box and two smoking devices in the car.
The deputy placed Prichard under arrest and transported him to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner released Prichard on Personal Recognizance.
Charges: Possession of Marijuana
Democrats Want To Hand $44 Billion To Illegals
Provisions in Dream Act qualify undocumented for fed money
Want to know how the lame ducks in Congress plan to "cut" federal spending – which seemed to be a dominating theme of the 2010 elections? They're proposing a plan to take upwards of $44 billion a year from taxpayers and hand it over to illegal aliens who are in the United States so they can go to college.
The plan is called the Dream Act, for Development, Relief and Education of Alien Minors, and its critics know it as an amnesty program for illegal aliens. Its supporters say anyone who doesn't want to spend the money on college subsidies for illegal aliens is "racist."
But policy experts are warning the act is truly transformative and in the end, among other things, would authorize federal loans to literally millions of newly qualified applicants and provide a preference for the children of illegal aliens in state college admissions.
GO HERE to read more.
Want to know how the lame ducks in Congress plan to "cut" federal spending – which seemed to be a dominating theme of the 2010 elections? They're proposing a plan to take upwards of $44 billion a year from taxpayers and hand it over to illegal aliens who are in the United States so they can go to college.
The plan is called the Dream Act, for Development, Relief and Education of Alien Minors, and its critics know it as an amnesty program for illegal aliens. Its supporters say anyone who doesn't want to spend the money on college subsidies for illegal aliens is "racist."
But policy experts are warning the act is truly transformative and in the end, among other things, would authorize federal loans to literally millions of newly qualified applicants and provide a preference for the children of illegal aliens in state college admissions.
GO HERE to read more.
Union Drops Health Coverage For Workers’ Children
One of the largest union-administered health-insurance funds in New York is dropping coverage for the children of more than 30,000 low-wage home attendants, union officials said. The union blamed financial problems it said were caused by the state’s health department and new national health-insurance requirements.
The fund is administered by 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, an affiliate of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
Union officials said the state compelled the fund to start buying coverage from a third party, which increased premiums by 60%. State health officials denied forcing the union fund to make the switch, saying the fund had been struggling financially even before the switch to third-party coverage.
The fund informed its members late last month that their dependents will no longer be covered as of Jan. 1, 2011. Currently about 6,000 children are covered by the benefit fund, some until age 23.
More from WSJ
The fund is administered by 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, an affiliate of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
Union officials said the state compelled the fund to start buying coverage from a third party, which increased premiums by 60%. State health officials denied forcing the union fund to make the switch, saying the fund had been struggling financially even before the switch to third-party coverage.
The fund informed its members late last month that their dependents will no longer be covered as of Jan. 1, 2011. Currently about 6,000 children are covered by the benefit fund, some until age 23.
More from WSJ
Stewart, Cuccinelli Exchange Fire Over Immigration Policy
Prince William County Board of Supervisors Chairman Corey Stewart fired back at Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli over illegal immigration on Monday, saying that nobody -- not even the pope -- is going to stop his efforts to expand a hard-line immigration policy across the state.
Stewart is pushing to expand to the rest of Virginia a Prince William law that mandates immigration checks for everyone arrested.
But Cuccinelli said in a legal analysis that a number of provisions in Stewart's draft plan are redundant or unconstitutional, drawing a sharp rebuke from Stewart Monday.
"I've run up against a lot of opposition on illegal immigration from pro-amnesty and other liberal groups," Stewart said. "I never expected to be attacked from the rear by another conservative like Ken Cuccinelli."
The showdown over illegal immigration is pitting two like-minded conservatives against each other over the hot-button issue once again boiling over in Virginia. Prince William was one of the first communities to adopt a tough law-enforcement approach similar to one passed in Arizona, and nearby jurisdictions such as Arlington and Fairfax counties have also had to square the potential minefield of balancing law enforcement, civil liberties and police-community relations.
Still, Stewart was adamant about expanding the Prince William approach statewide."Whether it's Cuccinelli or the pope, I'm not backing down on illegal immigration," Stewart said.
Furthermore, Stewart said, Cuccinelli's analysis is moot as it did not specifically review the Prince William policy he is now advocating.
"Our policy has been in effect for more than two years and has withstood all legal scrutiny," he said.
Read more at the Washington Examiner
Stewart is pushing to expand to the rest of Virginia a Prince William law that mandates immigration checks for everyone arrested.
But Cuccinelli said in a legal analysis that a number of provisions in Stewart's draft plan are redundant or unconstitutional, drawing a sharp rebuke from Stewart Monday.
"I've run up against a lot of opposition on illegal immigration from pro-amnesty and other liberal groups," Stewart said. "I never expected to be attacked from the rear by another conservative like Ken Cuccinelli."
The showdown over illegal immigration is pitting two like-minded conservatives against each other over the hot-button issue once again boiling over in Virginia. Prince William was one of the first communities to adopt a tough law-enforcement approach similar to one passed in Arizona, and nearby jurisdictions such as Arlington and Fairfax counties have also had to square the potential minefield of balancing law enforcement, civil liberties and police-community relations.
Still, Stewart was adamant about expanding the Prince William approach statewide."Whether it's Cuccinelli or the pope, I'm not backing down on illegal immigration," Stewart said.
Furthermore, Stewart said, Cuccinelli's analysis is moot as it did not specifically review the Prince William policy he is now advocating.
"Our policy has been in effect for more than two years and has withstood all legal scrutiny," he said.
Read more at the Washington Examiner
Michael Under The Microscope
A member of the Republican National Committee's top panel will call for an investigation of RNC Chairman Michael S. Steele's spending, warning that "cronyism" dried up big-donor fundraising this year and now is jeopardizing major-donor fundraising for the 2012 GOP presidential nominating convention in Tampa, Fla.
Oregon RNC member Solomon Yue will call on the group's executive committee to freeze hiring and spending and review all RNC contracts.
"We know the RNC's big donors left us in this election cycle because Steele pocketed speaking fees and book royalties, and because he hired aides and friends - and paid them two to three times more than market value," Mr. Yue, an executive committee member and a founder of the Republican National Conservative Caucus, told The Washington Times.
"Steele has wasted donors' dollars on spending that had nothing to do with electing our House and Senate candidates on Nov. 2," he said.
Mr. Yue's call raised the 21-month-old insurgency within the Steele-led RNC to a new level of acrimony.
The controversy escalated amid revelations that Mr. Steele's longtime personal assistant Belinda Cook; her son, Lee Cook; and her sister, Betina Barcus, had rented a house in Tampa and spent hundreds of thousands of dollars negotiating and planning for the 2012 GOP convention - 25 months before the event.
Mr. Yue cited a Nov. 18 report in The Washington Times that Mr. Steele hired Mrs. Cook as "liaison" to the host city committee for the convention. The Times reported that Mr. Steele signed a contract awarding Mrs. Cook $15,000 a month plus a $25,000 "signing" bonus. The paper also reported that Mr. Steele put Mrs. Cook and a team of operatives in Tampa six months earlier than previous regimes.
RNC spending for Tampa through September exceeded $636,800 - or 18 times the total spent in a comparable period four years ago, based on data available on the Federal Election Commission website, The Washington Post reported on Saturday.
More from the Washington Times
Oregon RNC member Solomon Yue will call on the group's executive committee to freeze hiring and spending and review all RNC contracts.
"We know the RNC's big donors left us in this election cycle because Steele pocketed speaking fees and book royalties, and because he hired aides and friends - and paid them two to three times more than market value," Mr. Yue, an executive committee member and a founder of the Republican National Conservative Caucus, told The Washington Times.
"Steele has wasted donors' dollars on spending that had nothing to do with electing our House and Senate candidates on Nov. 2," he said.
Mr. Yue's call raised the 21-month-old insurgency within the Steele-led RNC to a new level of acrimony.
The controversy escalated amid revelations that Mr. Steele's longtime personal assistant Belinda Cook; her son, Lee Cook; and her sister, Betina Barcus, had rented a house in Tampa and spent hundreds of thousands of dollars negotiating and planning for the 2012 GOP convention - 25 months before the event.
Mr. Yue cited a Nov. 18 report in The Washington Times that Mr. Steele hired Mrs. Cook as "liaison" to the host city committee for the convention. The Times reported that Mr. Steele signed a contract awarding Mrs. Cook $15,000 a month plus a $25,000 "signing" bonus. The paper also reported that Mr. Steele put Mrs. Cook and a team of operatives in Tampa six months earlier than previous regimes.
RNC spending for Tampa through September exceeded $636,800 - or 18 times the total spent in a comparable period four years ago, based on data available on the Federal Election Commission website, The Washington Post reported on Saturday.
More from the Washington Times
Education Secretary, Republicans Support Bill Giving Legal Status To Illegals Who Go To College
Education Secretary Arne Duncan joined some Republican activists Monday and said he would be pressing lawmakers to support the DREAM Act, a bill that would provide legal status to illegal aliens who go to college paying in-state tuition, during the lame duck session of Congress.
Stressing that in a “knowledge-based economy” there is “no job out there” for someone with a high school diploma only, Duncan said that some students with a 3.5 grade point average are unable to attend college because of their immigration status.
“We have to educate our way to a better economy,” Duncan told reporters in a conference call sponsored by Conservatives for Comprehensive Immigration Reform.
“A lot of young people are desperately trying for a better life, desperately trying to serve their community,” Duncan added. “I want to do everything in my power to help them do that.”
More
Stressing that in a “knowledge-based economy” there is “no job out there” for someone with a high school diploma only, Duncan said that some students with a 3.5 grade point average are unable to attend college because of their immigration status.
“We have to educate our way to a better economy,” Duncan told reporters in a conference call sponsored by Conservatives for Comprehensive Immigration Reform.
“A lot of young people are desperately trying for a better life, desperately trying to serve their community,” Duncan added. “I want to do everything in my power to help them do that.”
More
Sheriff Joe Decks The Jail With Carols, Despite Suits
Do you hear what the inmates hear? Well, you do if your favorite radio station started playing Christmas music 24/7 last week, making it among the hundreds across the country that got the jump on Sheriff Joe Arpaio.
But not by much — nobody gets a jump on the self-designated toughest sheriff in the country when it comes to the holiday spirit — just as nobody eclipses his record against illegal immigrants. Wayward travelers don’t bother him around this time of year, if, for instance, they’re three kings on a mission.
Arpaio started playing the carols 12 hours a day for his jail’s inmates Monday, even though his holiday rockin’ around the Christmas tree has prompted six lawsuits in the past, according to The Washington Times.
Over the years, the sheriff has fended off six lawsuits from inmates who just don't seem to get the holiday spirit. To them, he says: You will hear what I play.
Among the songs his 8,000 or so inmates have started hearing are “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Frosty the Snowman,” and “Feliz Navidad.” Other tunes to be cued up, recognizing ethnic variations on the holidays, include "A Christmas Kwanzaa Solstice," "Over the Skies of Israel," "Ramadan," "Llego a La Ciudad," "Let it Snow," and "Rodolpho El Reno de la Nariz Rojita," the Times reported.
There's more here
But not by much — nobody gets a jump on the self-designated toughest sheriff in the country when it comes to the holiday spirit — just as nobody eclipses his record against illegal immigrants. Wayward travelers don’t bother him around this time of year, if, for instance, they’re three kings on a mission.
Arpaio started playing the carols 12 hours a day for his jail’s inmates Monday, even though his holiday rockin’ around the Christmas tree has prompted six lawsuits in the past, according to The Washington Times.
Over the years, the sheriff has fended off six lawsuits from inmates who just don't seem to get the holiday spirit. To them, he says: You will hear what I play.
Among the songs his 8,000 or so inmates have started hearing are “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Frosty the Snowman,” and “Feliz Navidad.” Other tunes to be cued up, recognizing ethnic variations on the holidays, include "A Christmas Kwanzaa Solstice," "Over the Skies of Israel," "Ramadan," "Llego a La Ciudad," "Let it Snow," and "Rodolpho El Reno de la Nariz Rojita," the Times reported.
There's more here
Uncle Steny: Freeze Military Pay, Too
Outgoing House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, says President Barack Obama’s move Monday to freeze the pay of civilian federal employees should apply to military personnel as well. To be sure, military and civilian personnel serving in Afghanistan, Iraq, and other life-threatening spots should be exempt, he says, according to The Hill.
An inclusion of the military would boost the savings and add “an element of fairness,” Hoyer says.
An inclusion of the military would boost the savings and add “an element of fairness,” Hoyer says.
Prager: Choose Happiness
"The liberal world came up with the idea of giving trophies to kids who lose; they don't want their children feeling bad. Conservatives, on the other hand, teach their kids how to lose well.
They are less worried about their children feeling bad.
A couple of years ago, I gave a speech on happiness to the students and faculty of a prestigious high school in the Los Angeles area. The subject was the need to act happy even when one isn't feeling happy -- because it is unfair to others to inflict our bad moods on them and because we will never be happy if we allow our feelings to dictate our happiness.
From what I experienced that day and learned later, liberal students and faculty generally loathed my speech; conservative students generally loved it (there was no conservative faculty to speak of).
Why? Because conservatives are far more likely to be comfortable with the idea that feelings are not as important as behavior. Those who know that feelings must not govern us, but that we must govern our feelings, are far more likely to be happy people.
The upshot of all this? There is an amazingly simple way to defeat the left: Raise children who are grateful to be American, who don't complain, who can handle losing and who are guided by values, not feelings."
Dennis Prager
They are less worried about their children feeling bad.
A couple of years ago, I gave a speech on happiness to the students and faculty of a prestigious high school in the Los Angeles area. The subject was the need to act happy even when one isn't feeling happy -- because it is unfair to others to inflict our bad moods on them and because we will never be happy if we allow our feelings to dictate our happiness.
From what I experienced that day and learned later, liberal students and faculty generally loathed my speech; conservative students generally loved it (there was no conservative faculty to speak of).
Why? Because conservatives are far more likely to be comfortable with the idea that feelings are not as important as behavior. Those who know that feelings must not govern us, but that we must govern our feelings, are far more likely to be happy people.
The upshot of all this? There is an amazingly simple way to defeat the left: Raise children who are grateful to be American, who don't complain, who can handle losing and who are guided by values, not feelings."
Dennis Prager
Cooper Needs A Home
Joe,
I know you post notices for people who have lost their pets or have puppies or kittens they are looking to find homes for. I am wondering if you can post this for me,as I am hoping to find Cooper a home.
Cooper's family moved from the area a short time ago and he was taken in by a friend in the interim. The current situation is not working out. Cooper is a very sweet dog and needs to be in a home where he gets lots of attention and affection. Not to mention a big yard would be ideal, as this young dog (1 1/2 yrs) has lots of energy and loves to run.
I know you post notices for people who have lost their pets or have puppies or kittens they are looking to find homes for. I am wondering if you can post this for me,as I am hoping to find Cooper a home.
Cooper's family moved from the area a short time ago and he was taken in by a friend in the interim. The current situation is not working out. Cooper is a very sweet dog and needs to be in a home where he gets lots of attention and affection. Not to mention a big yard would be ideal, as this young dog (1 1/2 yrs) has lots of energy and loves to run.
If you or anyone you know might be interested, please call me after 5p @ 443-614-1509.
Thanks,
Kim
Kim
Wicomo County Sheriff's Office Press Release
Incident: Possession of CDS with the Intent to Distribute / Resisting Arrest
Date of Incident: 24 November 2010
Location: 1600 block of Waconia Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Terrance D. Hayman, 40, Salisbury, MD
Date of Incident: 24 November 2010
Location: 1600 block of Waconia Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Terrance D. Hayman, 40, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 24 November 2010 at 4:06 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office attempted to stop a Toyota Camry with New Jersey registration for speeding on West Road. Instead of stopping, the operator sped away from the deputy and turned into a residential community off of West Road, onto Waconia Drive. The deputy observed that the Toyota Camry drove into a drive way and headed around the rear of one of the residences at which point the three occupants all exited the vehicle and began running away on foot. The deputy managed to catch one of the suspects, Terrance Hayman. While the deputy had been chasing Hayman, the deputy observed what he thought was Hayman attempting to ingest CDS in an effort to hide it from the deputy. Upon attempting to take Hayman into custody, he actively resisted arrest, requiring a physical struggle with the deputy who eventually managed to subdue him.
The deputy recovered a baggie dropped by Hayman that still had obvious Cocaine reside in it.
Also found in the car Hayman ran from were additional baggies of what was recognized as Cocaine, in an amount and manner of packaging indicative of distribution.
Hayman was transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, the Commissioner detained Hayman on $100,000.00 bond.
Charges: Possession of CDS with the Intent to Distribute
Resisting Arrest
Charges: Possession of CDS with the Intent to Distribute
Resisting Arrest
Wicomico County Sheriff"s Office Press Release
Incident: Harboring a Fugitive
Date of Incident: 28 November 2010
Location: 121 E. Naylor Mill Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: 1. Natasha M. Bivens, 21, Salisbury, MD
2. Madalene M. Bivens, 49, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 28 November 2010 at 2:21 PM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Hampton Inn on East Naylor Mill Road due to tip that a wanted fugitive, Brandon Bivens, was staying there. Law Enforcement had been searching for Bivens who was wanted on two Circuit Court Violation of Probation Warrants stemming from a CDS distribution case. Law Enforcement has been searching for Bivens since February 2010, during which time regular contact was made with family members. Upon arrival at the Hampton Inn on 28 November, deputies located Brandon in the indoor swimming pool area and took him into custody. The deputies on scene discovered that Brandon was staying at the hotel at a room rented there for him by his mother, Madalene Bivens.
Upon going to the room in the Hampton Inn assigned to Brandon, the deputies located Madalene Bivens along with a sister, Natasha Bivens. Both Natasha and Madalene were both fully aware that Brandon was wanted on a violation of probation charge in a felony drug case.
Natasha and Madalene were both placed under arrest and transported to the Central Booking Unit where they were processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner, who released both on Personal Recognizance.
Brandon was held in the Detention Center on two separated $25,000.00 bonds for two violation of probation warrants.
Charges: Harboring a Felon
Date of Incident: 28 November 2010
Location: 121 E. Naylor Mill Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: 1. Natasha M. Bivens, 21, Salisbury, MD
2. Madalene M. Bivens, 49, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 28 November 2010 at 2:21 PM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Hampton Inn on East Naylor Mill Road due to tip that a wanted fugitive, Brandon Bivens, was staying there. Law Enforcement had been searching for Bivens who was wanted on two Circuit Court Violation of Probation Warrants stemming from a CDS distribution case. Law Enforcement has been searching for Bivens since February 2010, during which time regular contact was made with family members. Upon arrival at the Hampton Inn on 28 November, deputies located Brandon in the indoor swimming pool area and took him into custody. The deputies on scene discovered that Brandon was staying at the hotel at a room rented there for him by his mother, Madalene Bivens.
Upon going to the room in the Hampton Inn assigned to Brandon, the deputies located Madalene Bivens along with a sister, Natasha Bivens. Both Natasha and Madalene were both fully aware that Brandon was wanted on a violation of probation charge in a felony drug case.
Natasha and Madalene were both placed under arrest and transported to the Central Booking Unit where they were processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner, who released both on Personal Recognizance.
Brandon was held in the Detention Center on two separated $25,000.00 bonds for two violation of probation warrants.
Charges: Harboring a Felon
Trooper’s Arrest Suspect’s For First Degree Assault
DATE & TIME: 11/29/2010 at 1717 hours C.C. CARD NUMBER: 10-54-010511
LOCATION: Hillside Drive, Salisbury, MD 21804
BRIEF RESUME:
On the above date, time, and location, troopers from the Maryland State Police Salisbury Barrack were dispatched to the report of a fight involving a possible weapon. Upon arrival, troopers were advised that a white female, later identified as Kimburley Ann Dukes, had stabbed the victim with a pocket knife in the upper left thigh. Dukes then fled the scene in a vehicle with three other females. Through investigation, trooper’s located the individuals and apprehended three of the suspects in the 100 block of Delaware Avenue, Salisbury, MD. Dukes, Humphress, and Guzman were arrested and transported to the Wicomico County Detention Center to go before a District Court Commissioner.
Arrested:
Kimburley Ann Dukes, W/F age 29 of Princess Anne, Maryland
Mary Louise Humphress, W/F age 28 of Salisbury, Maryland
Tiffany Lynn Guzman, W/F age 18 of Princess Anne, Maryland
The suspects were charged with: Assault First Degree, Accessory to Assault First Degree, Assault Second Degree, and Malicious Destruction of Property.
LOCATION: Hillside Drive, Salisbury, MD 21804
BRIEF RESUME:
On the above date, time, and location, troopers from the Maryland State Police Salisbury Barrack were dispatched to the report of a fight involving a possible weapon. Upon arrival, troopers were advised that a white female, later identified as Kimburley Ann Dukes, had stabbed the victim with a pocket knife in the upper left thigh. Dukes then fled the scene in a vehicle with three other females. Through investigation, trooper’s located the individuals and apprehended three of the suspects in the 100 block of Delaware Avenue, Salisbury, MD. Dukes, Humphress, and Guzman were arrested and transported to the Wicomico County Detention Center to go before a District Court Commissioner.
Arrested:
Kimburley Ann Dukes, W/F age 29 of Princess Anne, Maryland
Mary Louise Humphress, W/F age 28 of Salisbury, Maryland
Tiffany Lynn Guzman, W/F age 18 of Princess Anne, Maryland
The suspects were charged with: Assault First Degree, Accessory to Assault First Degree, Assault Second Degree, and Malicious Destruction of Property.
Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Press Release
Incident: Traffic Crash
Date: November 29, 20/10
Location: 1015 Beaglin Park Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: 17 Year Old Female, Parkside High School Student
Narrative: On November 11/29, 2010 at/10 @ 0730 hrs, the School Resource Deputy assigned to Parkside High School observed a 1998 Nissan Van accelerate rapidly and drive into the covered walkway located in front of Parkside High School’s main entrance. The crash damaged an exterior breezeway. As a result, a breezeway support was destroyed and the vehicle came to rest between two adjacent breezeway supports. The School Resource Deputy responded to the vehicle and made contact with the driver who was identified as a 17 years of age, female student at Parkside High School. The driver was transported to PRMC for minor injuries. There were no pedestrians on the walkway at the time of the crash. The Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office conducted a crash investigation and it was determined that the driver stepped on the accelerator instead of the brake pedal. The operator of the vehicle was issued two citations.
Charges: Failure to control speed to avoid collision and negligent driving. The operator of the vehicle was issued two citations.
Date: November 29, 20/10
Location: 1015 Beaglin Park Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: 17 Year Old Female, Parkside High School Student
Narrative: On November 11/29, 2010 at/10 @ 0730 hrs, the School Resource Deputy assigned to Parkside High School observed a 1998 Nissan Van accelerate rapidly and drive into the covered walkway located in front of Parkside High School’s main entrance. The crash damaged an exterior breezeway. As a result, a breezeway support was destroyed and the vehicle came to rest between two adjacent breezeway supports. The School Resource Deputy responded to the vehicle and made contact with the driver who was identified as a 17 years of age, female student at Parkside High School. The driver was transported to PRMC for minor injuries. There were no pedestrians on the walkway at the time of the crash. The Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office conducted a crash investigation and it was determined that the driver stepped on the accelerator instead of the brake pedal. The operator of the vehicle was issued two citations.
Charges: Failure to control speed to avoid collision and negligent driving. The operator of the vehicle was issued two citations.
RSC Update
Last May, House Republicans pushed for a federal pay freeze as one of the very first YouCut initiatives to get a vote on the House floor. As with every other YouCut spending target, Democrats ensured that it died a quiet death. But today, President Obama belatedly followed our lead and called for a two-year pay freeze for federal civilian employees.
The pay freeze is one item on a miles-long list of spending cuts necessary to get back on the path to a balanced budget. Unfortunately, Democrats show no signs of making a real commitment to reduce spending. Consider that Congress will vote this week on an ultra short-term bill to fund the federal government. Why? Because Democrats hope that gives them time to push through one last, final spending bill – a massive, trillion-dollar omnibus package – before they lose total control over the budget.
Enacting a massive omnibus spending bill just a month before the newly-elected Congress takes over is a slap in the face to American voters. Spending cuts are already long overdue. Let’s not delay any longer.
Sincerely,
Congressman Tom PriceChairman, Republican Study Committee
The pay freeze is one item on a miles-long list of spending cuts necessary to get back on the path to a balanced budget. Unfortunately, Democrats show no signs of making a real commitment to reduce spending. Consider that Congress will vote this week on an ultra short-term bill to fund the federal government. Why? Because Democrats hope that gives them time to push through one last, final spending bill – a massive, trillion-dollar omnibus package – before they lose total control over the budget.
Enacting a massive omnibus spending bill just a month before the newly-elected Congress takes over is a slap in the face to American voters. Spending cuts are already long overdue. Let’s not delay any longer.
Sincerely,
Congressman Tom PriceChairman, Republican Study Committee
Sugar Gliders
Joe,
There are some guys selling sugar gliders in the mall, calling them "sugar babies" or some such.
The animals are apparently well-cared for and cuter than a box of puppies. But here are some words of warning for those who might think they want one for their kids or for themselves, thinking that they're just as easy to take care of as a dog or cat:
http://www.sugarglider.com/gliderpedia/index.asp?YourNewPetPurchasedFromAMillBreeder
http://www.sugarglider.com/gliderpedia/index.asp?HandoutTemplates
I don't want to see these guys' business be hurt, but I also don't want to see sugar gliders in the animal shelter or, worse yet, know that some were "set free" when the weather was good.
http://www.sugarglider.com/gliderpedia/index.asp?YourNewPetPurchasedFromAMillBreeder
http://www.sugarglider.com/gliderpedia/index.asp?HandoutTemplates
I don't want to see these guys' business be hurt, but I also don't want to see sugar gliders in the animal shelter or, worse yet, know that some were "set free" when the weather was good.
City In Michigan Ask State For Permission To Declare Bankruptcy
The City of Hamtramck, Michigan has asked the State for permission to file bankruptcy. City Manager, Bill Cooper, says;
Cooper said;
"I'm going to run out of money by January 31, 2011, Bankruptcy would allow the city wants to stave off creditors and force its unions to consider concessions."
Many Michigan municipalities are under severe financial pressure following a crippling recession that has seen tax revenues plummet. The Detroit Public Schools considered bankruptcy last year but opted against it.
http://sayitaintsoalready.com/2010/11/16/michigan-city-seeks-permission-to-file-bankruptcy/
No folks - we are not making this stuff up. Here at SBYNews we are giving the public a 'bird's eye view' of what is actually happening in America.
Cooper said;
"I'm going to run out of money by January 31, 2011, Bankruptcy would allow the city wants to stave off creditors and force its unions to consider concessions."
Many Michigan municipalities are under severe financial pressure following a crippling recession that has seen tax revenues plummet. The Detroit Public Schools considered bankruptcy last year but opted against it.
http://sayitaintsoalready.com/2010/11/16/michigan-city-seeks-permission-to-file-bankruptcy/
No folks - we are not making this stuff up. Here at SBYNews we are giving the public a 'bird's eye view' of what is actually happening in America.
Hoyer: Military Should Also See Pay Freeze
The second-ranking House Democrat said Monday that President Obama’s move to freeze the pay of civilian federal employees should also be extended to military personnel.
Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) said including the military would have increased savings and add “an element of fairness." He made the comments in a statement about he president’s announcement of a two-year pay freeze.
GO HERE to read more.
Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) said including the military would have increased savings and add “an element of fairness." He made the comments in a statement about he president’s announcement of a two-year pay freeze.
GO HERE to read more.
Wis. Students Kept Gunman Talking, Laughing While Held Hostage For Hours
'Somehow, we as a society need to rein in the types of things that are going on with our children,' former teacher says
MARINETTE, Wis. — Trapped in their classroom with a student gunman, a group of terrified Wisconsin high schoolers worked desperately to keep their captor calm by chatting and laughing with him about hunting and fishing.
The 15-year-old gunman eventually shot himself as police stormed the room at Marinette High School hours later Monday evening, but his 23 hostages emerged unharmed .
Student hostage Zach Campbell said the gunman seemed depressed, but he didn't think he meant them his classmates any harm.
"I don't know why he did that," Campbell said. Six of his good friends were in the class, Campbell added.
Authorities also said they did not know what might have motivated the boy. Police said he fired three shots before they broke down the door, but it was unclear what he was trying to hit.
GO HERE to read more.
MARINETTE, Wis. — Trapped in their classroom with a student gunman, a group of terrified Wisconsin high schoolers worked desperately to keep their captor calm by chatting and laughing with him about hunting and fishing.
The 15-year-old gunman eventually shot himself as police stormed the room at Marinette High School hours later Monday evening, but his 23 hostages emerged unharmed .
Student hostage Zach Campbell said the gunman seemed depressed, but he didn't think he meant them his classmates any harm.
"I don't know why he did that," Campbell said. Six of his good friends were in the class, Campbell added.
Authorities also said they did not know what might have motivated the boy. Police said he fired three shots before they broke down the door, but it was unclear what he was trying to hit.
GO HERE to read more.
Parole And Probation Division Doesn’t Keep Track Of DUI Interlock Program, Audit Finds
The ignition interlock program – designed to keep convicted drunk drivers off the road when intoxicated – was not adequately monitored by the Division of Parole and Probation, state auditors found in a report released Monday. Judges were often not notified when drivers failed the tests.
GO HERE to read more.
GO HERE to read more.
Pension Commission Will Vote On Cutting Benefits, COLAs
The commission studying changes to state pensions and retiree benefits will vote in two weeks on whether to recommend that the General Assembly and governor raise the retirement age, trim the cost of health insurance benefits, and eliminate cost-of-living increases for at least five years.
Casper Taylor Jr., the former speaker of the House of Delegates who heads the Public Employees’ and Retirees’ Benefit Sustainability Commission, said the goal is not just to make the pensions more sustainable in the long term, but to save $400 million to $500 million in the next fiscal year.
Taylor told the commission he also favors shifting 40% of the cost of teachers pensions to the county governments, rather than the 50-50 cost sharing passed by the state Senate last year.
GO HERE to read more.
Casper Taylor Jr., the former speaker of the House of Delegates who heads the Public Employees’ and Retirees’ Benefit Sustainability Commission, said the goal is not just to make the pensions more sustainable in the long term, but to save $400 million to $500 million in the next fiscal year.
Taylor told the commission he also favors shifting 40% of the cost of teachers pensions to the county governments, rather than the 50-50 cost sharing passed by the state Senate last year.
GO HERE to read more.
Ex-Admissions Officer at For-Profit College Testifies About School’s Tactics
In a recent court filing, a former admissions officer at a for-profit college in Utah testified that the school instructed recruiters to make prospective students “feel hopeless [1]” and gave the recruiters financial incentives for meeting enrollment goals, according to the Deseret News.
The document, filed in federal court in Salt Lake City, is part of a lawsuit by three students accusing recruiters at Everest College of lying to them about program costs and whether their credits from other schools would transfer. The Deseret News highlighted details from the affidavit by former school employee Shayler White:
In the declaration, Shayler White said he worked for Everest College from December 2009 until September 2010, when he was laid off for failing to meet enrollment quotas. He said admissions workers could receive a $5,000 salary bump for enrolling 36 students in six months. They were instructed to use "power words" like "career," "professional" and "successful" to sway potential recruits, White said.
"The tactics also included questions designed at putting down the prospective student, making them feel hopeless, bad about their current situation and stuck at a dead end, in order to make enrolling in school look like the best solution to the problem," he wrote.
GO HERE to read more.
The document, filed in federal court in Salt Lake City, is part of a lawsuit by three students accusing recruiters at Everest College of lying to them about program costs and whether their credits from other schools would transfer. The Deseret News highlighted details from the affidavit by former school employee Shayler White:
In the declaration, Shayler White said he worked for Everest College from December 2009 until September 2010, when he was laid off for failing to meet enrollment quotas. He said admissions workers could receive a $5,000 salary bump for enrolling 36 students in six months. They were instructed to use "power words" like "career," "professional" and "successful" to sway potential recruits, White said.
"The tactics also included questions designed at putting down the prospective student, making them feel hopeless, bad about their current situation and stuck at a dead end, in order to make enrolling in school look like the best solution to the problem," he wrote.
GO HERE to read more.
Dream Home Is Actually A Meth House
A young couple thought they got a great deal, $190,000 for a two-story house in the historic district of Bristol Borough, PA with a yard and plenty of space. After they moved in, the headaches, sore throats and difficulty breathing started. Three weeks later, one of their new neighbors told them something the seller had neglected to mention: their new home used to be a meth house.
More Here
More Here
2010 Most Fascinating People Revealed
Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com
Barbara Walters has revealed eight of her 10 'Most Fascinating People' for 2010 but not everyone is on board with her choices.
DelDOT Accepting Brick Orders For The Delaware Highway Memorial Garden
Smyrna -- As the holidays draw near, many people begin to think of friends or family that have been lost in traffic fatalities. They seek ways to celebrate those lives during this joyous season. The Delaware Highway Memorial Garden provides an appropriate way to do just that.
The garden, which is located on the grounds of the Smyrna Rest Area, was dedicated in 2007, and contains over 600 engraved bricks. Each one representing a precious life lost on a Delaware roadway. To honor the memories of all those who have perished on our roadways, DelDOT wants to again encourage the public to order a personalized brick in memory of a loved one. Orders are accepted on a year-round basis, however, bricks ordered between November 22 and December 22, 2010 will be ordered before the end of the year. Placement in the garden is expected to occur in early 2011.
There is no cost for the brick, and the death must have occurred on a Delaware roadway. Brick orders are verified through the Delaware State Police and/or the Office of Vital Statistics. Only one personalized brick per deceased individual is permitted.
One of the goals of the Memorial Garden is to educate the public that roadside memorials are illegal under Delaware's Clear Zone Safety Law, and at times pose a safety hazard to motorists. By ordering an engraved brick, the garden provides a personal, safe, and maintenance-free way to remember a loved one.
The garden provides families of lost loved ones the opportunity to enjoy the peacefulness of the garden as they remember their lives together and move forward toward healing.
In addition, DelDOT notes that the garden serves as a daily reminder to everyone to drive safely. The Memorial Garden is just one of the ways DelDOT is increasing awareness and education in an effort to keep Delaware motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists safe.
DelDOT invites the public to visit the 11,000 square foot garden located on the grounds of the Smyrna Rest Area at 5500 DuPont Highway in Smyrna, Delaware. The garden contains a creative blend of native trees, shrubs and flowering plants. A concrete pathway outlined with personalized bricks gives the garden significant meaning and character. Also benches are placed throughout the garden for visitors' use. The garden is open 365 days a year.
For those interested in ordering a free brick, please contact DelDOT Public Relations at 302-760-2080 or (in-state) 800-652-5600 or go online to www.deldot.gov and click on Community Programs and Services and then Delaware Highway Memorial Garden.
The garden, which is located on the grounds of the Smyrna Rest Area, was dedicated in 2007, and contains over 600 engraved bricks. Each one representing a precious life lost on a Delaware roadway. To honor the memories of all those who have perished on our roadways, DelDOT wants to again encourage the public to order a personalized brick in memory of a loved one. Orders are accepted on a year-round basis, however, bricks ordered between November 22 and December 22, 2010 will be ordered before the end of the year. Placement in the garden is expected to occur in early 2011.
There is no cost for the brick, and the death must have occurred on a Delaware roadway. Brick orders are verified through the Delaware State Police and/or the Office of Vital Statistics. Only one personalized brick per deceased individual is permitted.
One of the goals of the Memorial Garden is to educate the public that roadside memorials are illegal under Delaware's Clear Zone Safety Law, and at times pose a safety hazard to motorists. By ordering an engraved brick, the garden provides a personal, safe, and maintenance-free way to remember a loved one.
The garden provides families of lost loved ones the opportunity to enjoy the peacefulness of the garden as they remember their lives together and move forward toward healing.
In addition, DelDOT notes that the garden serves as a daily reminder to everyone to drive safely. The Memorial Garden is just one of the ways DelDOT is increasing awareness and education in an effort to keep Delaware motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists safe.
DelDOT invites the public to visit the 11,000 square foot garden located on the grounds of the Smyrna Rest Area at 5500 DuPont Highway in Smyrna, Delaware. The garden contains a creative blend of native trees, shrubs and flowering plants. A concrete pathway outlined with personalized bricks gives the garden significant meaning and character. Also benches are placed throughout the garden for visitors' use. The garden is open 365 days a year.
For those interested in ordering a free brick, please contact DelDOT Public Relations at 302-760-2080 or (in-state) 800-652-5600 or go online to www.deldot.gov and click on Community Programs and Services and then Delaware Highway Memorial Garden.
Mardela Middle & High School Warrior Marching Band & Bandfront, Salisbury Middle Band
Tuesday, Nov. 30, 6:30 p.m.
Fruitland Tree Lighting
Fruitland City Hall
Fruitland Primary School second graders will sing and the James M. Bennett High School Band will play at the Fruitland City Hall Tree Lighting on Tuesday, Nov. 30, at 6:30 p.m. 410-677-5171.
Fruitland Tree Lighting
Fruitland City Hall
Fruitland Primary School second graders will sing and the James M. Bennett High School Band will play at the Fruitland City Hall Tree Lighting on Tuesday, Nov. 30, at 6:30 p.m. 410-677-5171.
This Week In Wicomico Schools
Highlighted Event This Week in Wicomico Schools (Event Rescheduled)Please note: The event below will be rescheduled for sometime in January.
Tuesday. Nov. 30
U.S. Department of Education Visit to Judy Center
Judy Center Partnership at the Wicomico Early Learning Center
An Early Learning Program analyst from the U.S. Department of Education will visit Wicomico County Judy Center classrooms Tuesday, Nov. 30, to observe best practices, particularly in the area of language acquisition and how students from all backgrounds (including English Language Learners and students needing special education services) are included in instruction. The Maryland State Department of Education recommended Wicomico County’s Judy Center for the visit, which could lead to being highlighted online and/or on video as a high quality instructional program that could serve as a model for other schools and programs nationwide. Throughout the day, the USDE analyst will visit Judy Center classrooms at the Wicomico Early Learning Center and Pemberton and Beaver Run elementary schools, and will visit a Judy Center community Partner, the TenderHeart Child Care in Salisbury.
Tuesday. Nov. 30
U.S. Department of Education Visit to Judy Center
Judy Center Partnership at the Wicomico Early Learning Center
An Early Learning Program analyst from the U.S. Department of Education will visit Wicomico County Judy Center classrooms Tuesday, Nov. 30, to observe best practices, particularly in the area of language acquisition and how students from all backgrounds (including English Language Learners and students needing special education services) are included in instruction. The Maryland State Department of Education recommended Wicomico County’s Judy Center for the visit, which could lead to being highlighted online and/or on video as a high quality instructional program that could serve as a model for other schools and programs nationwide. Throughout the day, the USDE analyst will visit Judy Center classrooms at the Wicomico Early Learning Center and Pemberton and Beaver Run elementary schools, and will visit a Judy Center community Partner, the TenderHeart Child Care in Salisbury.
Coming Up Soon On The Wicomico School Calendar
Dec. 6-10
One Man Band Curtis Blues and The History of Acoustic Delta Blues: The Roots of Rock and Hip Hop
Wicomico elementary and middle schools
Blues preservationist and one man band Curtis Blues is a talented musician and educator whose performances keep the tradition of acoustic Delta blues alive, and demonstrate for students the roots of modern rock and hip hop music. Curtis has been playing Delta blues since he was 14 years old, when he was exposed to some of the last living Delta blues masters at folk festivals. Curtis has recorded two critically acclaimed CDs and performs at blues festivals and schools in an effort to pass this precious music down to the next generation. This show demonstrates the origins of modern popular rock, country, and hip hop music from the Mississippi Delta in the 1920's to 1940's. Tracing rhythms from work songs, Curtis invites students to help demonstrate infectious blues rhythms. Curtis Blues plays a one-string Diddley Bow, a handmade box guitar, and an African gourd banjo, as well as 1928 style metal resonator guitars and wood guitars along with his harmonica, foot drum, and cymbals. By taking his instruments into the audience for a closer look, this presentation makes African American and musical history come alive for students.
Tuesday, Dec. 7
Interact Story Theatre Performance
Willards Elementary School
Willards Elementary School will welcome Interact Story Theatre on Tuesday, Dec. 7, for a day that will begin with an 8:45 a.m. performance of “Two-Tone Tale.” Following the performance they will do a performance "talk-back" where students will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn about what happens behind the scenes. Throughout the day on Dec. 7, students will participate in either an "Extension Workshop" or a "Story Can Theatre Workshop," depending on the grade level. These performance and workshops are part of Willards Elementary’s Artist-in-Residence grant awarded by the Maryland State Arts Council. 410-677-5819.
Friday, Dec. 10
Heroes Night
Fruitland Schools
The Fruitland Schools PTA will host a Heroes Night for students and families on Friday, Dec. 10, to honor and remember the heroes of 9/11 and to meet the heroes who serve in the community every day. Heroes Night will begin in the cafeteria from 5:30-6:30 p.m., and continue in the gym from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Guests will include Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis, longtime State’s Attorney Davis Ruark, Fruitland Police Chief Mike Phillips, Ernest Leatherbury of the Maryland State Police, the Fruitland Volunteer Fire Department, and a man who reported to the Pentagon to help on the day after 9/11. Other guests for the program who have a connection to 9/11 or are in public service are being sought. There will be a roll of paper on hand for all Fruitland students to sign; the paper roll will be mailed to the active duty troops. If you would like to participate in the Fruitland School PTA Heroes Night on Dec. 10, please contact coordinator Sheila Nichols at 410-334-6450, 443-735-2058, or nichols1011@verizon.net.
Saturday, Dec. 11, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
LEGO Competitions and Workshops, FIRST LEGO LEAGUE Tournament
Salisbury Middle School
Saturday, Dec. 11, from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. will be a time for LEGOS and robotics at Salisbury Middle School. With their own LEGO blocks and building on site, children ages 4-6 can build a house for their favorite cartoon character, while students ages 7-9 and 10-12 can transform their LEGO blocks into a future hospital for Salisbury. No charge to participate but advance registration is required. Wicomico County 4-H will sponsor WeDo workshops on robotics for children ages 5-11; there will be two sessions on introduction to simple robotics, one from 9:30-10:30 a.m. and the second from 11 a.m.-noon. The Eastern Shore Regional FIRST LEGO LEAGUE Tournament will also be held at Salisbury Middle School that day, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The FIRST LEGO LEAGUE Tournament is for registered teams only. To register for any of these events or for more information, please contact Gretchen Boggs at gboggs@wcboe.org or 410-677-5149, X4634.
Monday, Dec. 13
WELC Students Visit SU for Holiday Stories
Salisbury University
Pre-Kindergarten Three and Four Year Olds from the Wicomico Early Learning Center will visit Salisbury University to attend a performance of a variety of holiday stories performed by students in Dr. Patricia Dean’s Early Childhood undergraduate classes. The performance will be at 1:00 p.m. 410-677-5900.
Tuesday, Dec. 14
Holiday Hop for Prek Students and Families
Wicomico County Library
Pre-Kindergarten Three and Four Year Olds and Salisbury II Head Start are invited to attend the Judy Center sponsored partner event at the Wicomico County Library at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 14. Students will sing and dance with Miss Rosie and participate in interactive stories told by Miss Barb. Students and parents/guardians will be served apple cider, holiday cookies and candy canes. Each child in attendance will receive a free book to take home. 410-677-5900.
Wednesday, Dec. 15
Holidays Around the World
Wicomico Early Learning Center
Pre-Kindergarten Three and Four Year Olds and Salisbury II Head Start will participate in the Holidays Around the World Parent/Child Event beginning at 9:45 a.m. at the Wicomico Early Learning Center. Students will travel to stations located throughout the school to participate in science, reading, math, art, social studies and cooking activities. Families are invited to attend with their child. This activity is a Judy Center funded event. 410-677-5900.
Friday, Dec. 17
3rd annual Operation SPEAK Oratorical Competition for Fifth-Graders from Prince Street, Pinehurst and Glen Avenue Schools
At Prince Street Elementary School
Prince Street Elementary will host the 3rd annual Operation SPEAK (Stimulate, Prepare & Encourage Articulate Kids) Oratorical Competition at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 17. There will be fifth-grade students from three Title I school competing - Pinehurst, Glen Avenue and Prince Street. This program encourages 5th-grade students to compete first with students from their own school in writing, memorizing, and reciting a speech. Three students from each school will participate in the contest on Dec. 17. Each student will have two to four minutes to present a prepared speech on either this quote from John Crudele: “Kids Spell Love T-I-M-E,” or Jesse Jackson’s quote, “Your children need your presence more than your presents.” Winners will be eligible for trophies and monetary awards. This year’s Operation SPEAK Oratorical Competition is supported by a grant from the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore. For information please contact Tana Ellis at 410-677-5813 or tellis@wcboe.org.
Saturday, Jan. 15
STEM Saturday
Salisbury Middle School
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) Saturday classes will be offered throughout the 2010-11 school year for students in grades 4/5 and 6/7/8. The next STEM Saturday will be held at Salisbury Middle School from 10 a.m.-noon on Saturday, Jan. 15, with students in grades 4-5 exploring Green Keepers: Going Green to Preserve Our World, and middle schoolers working on The Bug Detective. The elementary offerings are new to the STEM Saturdays schedule this year. Anyone interested in attending a STEM Saturday event must pre-register, and early registration is recommended as the courses fill up early. STEM Saturdays will also be held Feb. 12, The Magic of Chemistry (elementary) and Out of Sight: Bringing Astronomy Down to Earth (middle), both at Salisbury Middle; March 12, Flying Wild: Bird Science and Conservation (elementary) at Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art; Fossils of the Chesapeake: A Hands-On Exploration (middle) at Parkside High; and April 9, The Bug Detective (elementary) and The Science Behind Winning (middle), both at Salisbury Middle. For a detailed schedule and registration form, visit http://www.wcboe.org/news/510. For information contact Gretchen Boggs at 410-677-5149 or gboggs@wcboe.org
One Man Band Curtis Blues and The History of Acoustic Delta Blues: The Roots of Rock and Hip Hop
Wicomico elementary and middle schools
Blues preservationist and one man band Curtis Blues is a talented musician and educator whose performances keep the tradition of acoustic Delta blues alive, and demonstrate for students the roots of modern rock and hip hop music. Curtis has been playing Delta blues since he was 14 years old, when he was exposed to some of the last living Delta blues masters at folk festivals. Curtis has recorded two critically acclaimed CDs and performs at blues festivals and schools in an effort to pass this precious music down to the next generation. This show demonstrates the origins of modern popular rock, country, and hip hop music from the Mississippi Delta in the 1920's to 1940's. Tracing rhythms from work songs, Curtis invites students to help demonstrate infectious blues rhythms. Curtis Blues plays a one-string Diddley Bow, a handmade box guitar, and an African gourd banjo, as well as 1928 style metal resonator guitars and wood guitars along with his harmonica, foot drum, and cymbals. By taking his instruments into the audience for a closer look, this presentation makes African American and musical history come alive for students.
Tuesday, Dec. 7
Interact Story Theatre Performance
Willards Elementary School
Willards Elementary School will welcome Interact Story Theatre on Tuesday, Dec. 7, for a day that will begin with an 8:45 a.m. performance of “Two-Tone Tale.” Following the performance they will do a performance "talk-back" where students will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn about what happens behind the scenes. Throughout the day on Dec. 7, students will participate in either an "Extension Workshop" or a "Story Can Theatre Workshop," depending on the grade level. These performance and workshops are part of Willards Elementary’s Artist-in-Residence grant awarded by the Maryland State Arts Council. 410-677-5819.
Friday, Dec. 10
Heroes Night
Fruitland Schools
The Fruitland Schools PTA will host a Heroes Night for students and families on Friday, Dec. 10, to honor and remember the heroes of 9/11 and to meet the heroes who serve in the community every day. Heroes Night will begin in the cafeteria from 5:30-6:30 p.m., and continue in the gym from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Guests will include Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis, longtime State’s Attorney Davis Ruark, Fruitland Police Chief Mike Phillips, Ernest Leatherbury of the Maryland State Police, the Fruitland Volunteer Fire Department, and a man who reported to the Pentagon to help on the day after 9/11. Other guests for the program who have a connection to 9/11 or are in public service are being sought. There will be a roll of paper on hand for all Fruitland students to sign; the paper roll will be mailed to the active duty troops. If you would like to participate in the Fruitland School PTA Heroes Night on Dec. 10, please contact coordinator Sheila Nichols at 410-334-6450, 443-735-2058, or nichols1011@verizon.net.
Saturday, Dec. 11, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
LEGO Competitions and Workshops, FIRST LEGO LEAGUE Tournament
Salisbury Middle School
Saturday, Dec. 11, from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. will be a time for LEGOS and robotics at Salisbury Middle School. With their own LEGO blocks and building on site, children ages 4-6 can build a house for their favorite cartoon character, while students ages 7-9 and 10-12 can transform their LEGO blocks into a future hospital for Salisbury. No charge to participate but advance registration is required. Wicomico County 4-H will sponsor WeDo workshops on robotics for children ages 5-11; there will be two sessions on introduction to simple robotics, one from 9:30-10:30 a.m. and the second from 11 a.m.-noon. The Eastern Shore Regional FIRST LEGO LEAGUE Tournament will also be held at Salisbury Middle School that day, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The FIRST LEGO LEAGUE Tournament is for registered teams only. To register for any of these events or for more information, please contact Gretchen Boggs at gboggs@wcboe.org or 410-677-5149, X4634.
Monday, Dec. 13
WELC Students Visit SU for Holiday Stories
Salisbury University
Pre-Kindergarten Three and Four Year Olds from the Wicomico Early Learning Center will visit Salisbury University to attend a performance of a variety of holiday stories performed by students in Dr. Patricia Dean’s Early Childhood undergraduate classes. The performance will be at 1:00 p.m. 410-677-5900.
Tuesday, Dec. 14
Holiday Hop for Prek Students and Families
Wicomico County Library
Pre-Kindergarten Three and Four Year Olds and Salisbury II Head Start are invited to attend the Judy Center sponsored partner event at the Wicomico County Library at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 14. Students will sing and dance with Miss Rosie and participate in interactive stories told by Miss Barb. Students and parents/guardians will be served apple cider, holiday cookies and candy canes. Each child in attendance will receive a free book to take home. 410-677-5900.
Wednesday, Dec. 15
Holidays Around the World
Wicomico Early Learning Center
Pre-Kindergarten Three and Four Year Olds and Salisbury II Head Start will participate in the Holidays Around the World Parent/Child Event beginning at 9:45 a.m. at the Wicomico Early Learning Center. Students will travel to stations located throughout the school to participate in science, reading, math, art, social studies and cooking activities. Families are invited to attend with their child. This activity is a Judy Center funded event. 410-677-5900.
Friday, Dec. 17
3rd annual Operation SPEAK Oratorical Competition for Fifth-Graders from Prince Street, Pinehurst and Glen Avenue Schools
At Prince Street Elementary School
Prince Street Elementary will host the 3rd annual Operation SPEAK (Stimulate, Prepare & Encourage Articulate Kids) Oratorical Competition at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 17. There will be fifth-grade students from three Title I school competing - Pinehurst, Glen Avenue and Prince Street. This program encourages 5th-grade students to compete first with students from their own school in writing, memorizing, and reciting a speech. Three students from each school will participate in the contest on Dec. 17. Each student will have two to four minutes to present a prepared speech on either this quote from John Crudele: “Kids Spell Love T-I-M-E,” or Jesse Jackson’s quote, “Your children need your presence more than your presents.” Winners will be eligible for trophies and monetary awards. This year’s Operation SPEAK Oratorical Competition is supported by a grant from the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore. For information please contact Tana Ellis at 410-677-5813 or tellis@wcboe.org.
Saturday, Jan. 15
STEM Saturday
Salisbury Middle School
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) Saturday classes will be offered throughout the 2010-11 school year for students in grades 4/5 and 6/7/8. The next STEM Saturday will be held at Salisbury Middle School from 10 a.m.-noon on Saturday, Jan. 15, with students in grades 4-5 exploring Green Keepers: Going Green to Preserve Our World, and middle schoolers working on The Bug Detective. The elementary offerings are new to the STEM Saturdays schedule this year. Anyone interested in attending a STEM Saturday event must pre-register, and early registration is recommended as the courses fill up early. STEM Saturdays will also be held Feb. 12, The Magic of Chemistry (elementary) and Out of Sight: Bringing Astronomy Down to Earth (middle), both at Salisbury Middle; March 12, Flying Wild: Bird Science and Conservation (elementary) at Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art; Fossils of the Chesapeake: A Hands-On Exploration (middle) at Parkside High; and April 9, The Bug Detective (elementary) and The Science Behind Winning (middle), both at Salisbury Middle. For a detailed schedule and registration form, visit http://www.wcboe.org/news/510. For information contact Gretchen Boggs at 410-677-5149 or gboggs@wcboe.org
Opportunities To Support Our Students And Schools
Poinsettias Available
A+ Garden Centre at Parkside High School
New varieties of poinsettias are longer-lasting and can be enjoyed throughout the holidays, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. The A+ Garden Centre at Parkside High School has poinsettias in red, plus some white, pink and marble. Sizes available: 6.5" -- 1 plant pinched per pot for $5; 8" -- 2 plants pinched per pot for $10; 10" -- 3 plants pinched per pot for $15, 2 red & 1 white per pot. 410-341-8746 [internal calls to x2580].
Saturday, Dec. 4
Clippers Against Cancer Game-a-thon
James M. Bennett High School
Mark your calendar for the Dec. 4 Clippers Game-a-thon, which will raise funds for the Brooke Mulford Foundation to help local children with cancer and their families. The James M. Bennett High School Student Government Association will host the 1st annual Clippers Against Cancer Game-a-thon from noon to midnight Saturday, Dec. 4, in the JMB cafeteria and gym. JMB is currently accepting team applications to participate in the event. Anyone interested may contact Heather Martin (hmartin@wcboe.org or 410-677-5141. Each team will host a game or activity for the full twelve hour period. Each team will be provided with a table which can be used for their game or activity. (Similar to Relay for Life) Applications are due by Nov. 23. All schools are invited to have a team which may consist of 5-10 people, with a captain age 21 or older. Each participant must raise an initial donation of $20 to participate. Initial contributions are due with team applications on Nov. 23. The Game-a-thon will be a full day of live music, food, raffles, a Wii station and a Kids Corner with crafts and activities for children. We would like students of all ages to participate as Brooke Mulford and her friends will have their own team and the Mulfords would love to have children there to play with Brooke. 410-677-5141.
Saturday, Dec. 4 and Sunday, Dec. 5
“Nutcracker,” presented by the Eastern Shore Ballet Theatre
Wicomico High Auditorium
The Eastern Shore Ballet Theatre’s 20th season of the “Nutcracker” will be on stage at the Wicomico High School Auditorium Dec. 4 and 5, with many dancers from Wicomico County Public Schools in the cast. Many Wicomico schools will take students to see special school performances of “Nutcracker” on Friday, Dec. 3. Public performances will be Saturday, Dec. 4, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 5, at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 adults, $10 students and seniors. Call 410-742-3316 for tickets, or purchase tickets at PNC Bank, Bank of Delmarva, the office of the Salisbury Wicomico Arts Council, and Dance Wear Etc. Visit www.esbt.org for more information.
Saturday, Dec. 11
Fund-raiser for Mardela Middle and High 8th-Grade Class
Sonic, Fruitland
The 8th-Grade Class of Mardela Middle and High School will host a fund-raiser at Sonic in Fruitland from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11. Ten percent of total net sales during that time will benefit the 8th-Grade Class. Come for food and fun, including a moon bounce and mascots. 410-677-5142.
Sunday, Dec. 12
Bookfair to Benefit STEM Academies
Barnes & Noble, Salisbury
The Wicomico County STEM Academies will be hosting a Barnes & Noble Bookfair with displays and projects on Sunday, Dec. 12 , 1-5 p.m. at the Barnes & Noble bookstore in Salisbury. Any purchases made in the store that day that reference the STEM Bookfair # 10319630 will have a percentage of the sales go to support STEM activities at Bennett Middle School and Salisbury Middle School. Starbucks Cafe purchases also apply. You can visit the B&N site to find out more about the various STEM activities scheduled to occur from 1-4 p.m. A Nook, compliments of Mt. Hermon Discount HealthMart Pharmacy and Pittsville Pharmacy, will be raffled off that day. You do not need to be present to win and the winner will be announced on Monday, Dec. 13. Tickets are $1 each and will be available at the Bookfair as well as at various events and activities prior to the Bookfair, or from Gretchen Boggs (SMS), Teresa McCain (BMS), and various committee members.
Available Now
Panera Bread and Bagel Coupons
Benefitting the Wicomico County STEM Program
Strips of Panera coupons are now on sale for $10, with half the cost of each coupon strip going to support the activities of the STEM Program in Wicomico County Public Schools. The coupon strips are either for all bagels, or for a mix of bagels, bread and other baked goods. These coupons strips are a great deal and would be a terrific gift for people on your holiday list. Buy your Panera coupons at a STEM event, or contact Gretchen Boggs at gboggs@wcboe.org or 410-677-5149, X4634.
Basket Raffle
Mardela High School Class of 2016
The Mardela High School Class of 2016 is selling tickets for its 2nd annual Basket Raffle. The “basket” contains gift certificates and gift cards from many local restaurants and businesses for goods and services, a Longaberger basket, a hunting trip, original watercolor by a local artist, home décor products, bath and beauty supplies, and much much more. The entire contents are included in the basket raffle and are valued at more than $4,000. Tickets are only $5 each. The drawing will take place on Dec. 17. For information please call 443-736-7948, or check with the school at 410-677-5142.
Commemorative JMB T-Shirts
The Junior Class of James M. Bennett High School is selling T-shirts commemorating the new Bennett. The shirts are $15 for sizes small-XL and $17 for sizes XXLarge and XXXLarge. Please email Erin Davis (esdavis@wcboe.org) or Kathy Elliott (kelliott@wcboe.org) if you are interested. Checks payable to JMB can be mailed to the school at 300 E. College Ave., Salisbury MD 21801, or dropped off at the school. Call 410-677-5141 for information.
A+ Garden Centre at Parkside High School
New varieties of poinsettias are longer-lasting and can be enjoyed throughout the holidays, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. The A+ Garden Centre at Parkside High School has poinsettias in red, plus some white, pink and marble. Sizes available: 6.5" -- 1 plant pinched per pot for $5; 8" -- 2 plants pinched per pot for $10; 10" -- 3 plants pinched per pot for $15, 2 red & 1 white per pot. 410-341-8746 [internal calls to x2580].
Saturday, Dec. 4
Clippers Against Cancer Game-a-thon
James M. Bennett High School
Mark your calendar for the Dec. 4 Clippers Game-a-thon, which will raise funds for the Brooke Mulford Foundation to help local children with cancer and their families. The James M. Bennett High School Student Government Association will host the 1st annual Clippers Against Cancer Game-a-thon from noon to midnight Saturday, Dec. 4, in the JMB cafeteria and gym. JMB is currently accepting team applications to participate in the event. Anyone interested may contact Heather Martin (hmartin@wcboe.org or 410-677-5141. Each team will host a game or activity for the full twelve hour period. Each team will be provided with a table which can be used for their game or activity. (Similar to Relay for Life) Applications are due by Nov. 23. All schools are invited to have a team which may consist of 5-10 people, with a captain age 21 or older. Each participant must raise an initial donation of $20 to participate. Initial contributions are due with team applications on Nov. 23. The Game-a-thon will be a full day of live music, food, raffles, a Wii station and a Kids Corner with crafts and activities for children. We would like students of all ages to participate as Brooke Mulford and her friends will have their own team and the Mulfords would love to have children there to play with Brooke. 410-677-5141.
Saturday, Dec. 4 and Sunday, Dec. 5
“Nutcracker,” presented by the Eastern Shore Ballet Theatre
Wicomico High Auditorium
The Eastern Shore Ballet Theatre’s 20th season of the “Nutcracker” will be on stage at the Wicomico High School Auditorium Dec. 4 and 5, with many dancers from Wicomico County Public Schools in the cast. Many Wicomico schools will take students to see special school performances of “Nutcracker” on Friday, Dec. 3. Public performances will be Saturday, Dec. 4, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 5, at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 adults, $10 students and seniors. Call 410-742-3316 for tickets, or purchase tickets at PNC Bank, Bank of Delmarva, the office of the Salisbury Wicomico Arts Council, and Dance Wear Etc. Visit www.esbt.org for more information.
Saturday, Dec. 11
Fund-raiser for Mardela Middle and High 8th-Grade Class
Sonic, Fruitland
The 8th-Grade Class of Mardela Middle and High School will host a fund-raiser at Sonic in Fruitland from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11. Ten percent of total net sales during that time will benefit the 8th-Grade Class. Come for food and fun, including a moon bounce and mascots. 410-677-5142.
Sunday, Dec. 12
Bookfair to Benefit STEM Academies
Barnes & Noble, Salisbury
The Wicomico County STEM Academies will be hosting a Barnes & Noble Bookfair with displays and projects on Sunday, Dec. 12 , 1-5 p.m. at the Barnes & Noble bookstore in Salisbury. Any purchases made in the store that day that reference the STEM Bookfair # 10319630 will have a percentage of the sales go to support STEM activities at Bennett Middle School and Salisbury Middle School. Starbucks Cafe purchases also apply. You can visit the B&N site to find out more about the various STEM activities scheduled to occur from 1-4 p.m. A Nook, compliments of Mt. Hermon Discount HealthMart Pharmacy and Pittsville Pharmacy, will be raffled off that day. You do not need to be present to win and the winner will be announced on Monday, Dec. 13. Tickets are $1 each and will be available at the Bookfair as well as at various events and activities prior to the Bookfair, or from Gretchen Boggs (SMS), Teresa McCain (BMS), and various committee members.
Available Now
Panera Bread and Bagel Coupons
Benefitting the Wicomico County STEM Program
Strips of Panera coupons are now on sale for $10, with half the cost of each coupon strip going to support the activities of the STEM Program in Wicomico County Public Schools. The coupon strips are either for all bagels, or for a mix of bagels, bread and other baked goods. These coupons strips are a great deal and would be a terrific gift for people on your holiday list. Buy your Panera coupons at a STEM event, or contact Gretchen Boggs at gboggs@wcboe.org or 410-677-5149, X4634.
Basket Raffle
Mardela High School Class of 2016
The Mardela High School Class of 2016 is selling tickets for its 2nd annual Basket Raffle. The “basket” contains gift certificates and gift cards from many local restaurants and businesses for goods and services, a Longaberger basket, a hunting trip, original watercolor by a local artist, home décor products, bath and beauty supplies, and much much more. The entire contents are included in the basket raffle and are valued at more than $4,000. Tickets are only $5 each. The drawing will take place on Dec. 17. For information please call 443-736-7948, or check with the school at 410-677-5142.
Commemorative JMB T-Shirts
The Junior Class of James M. Bennett High School is selling T-shirts commemorating the new Bennett. The shirts are $15 for sizes small-XL and $17 for sizes XXLarge and XXXLarge. Please email Erin Davis (esdavis@wcboe.org) or Kathy Elliott (kelliott@wcboe.org) if you are interested. Checks payable to JMB can be mailed to the school at 300 E. College Ave., Salisbury MD 21801, or dropped off at the school. Call 410-677-5141 for information.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Found Dog #2 UPDATE OWNER FOUND
Hi Joe,
This dog appeared at my front door yesterday and I need help finding his owners. He’s a young, well trained pitbull mix and I know there is someone missing this guy tonight. He has been taught all sorts of tricks and his coat and nails look professionally done. He was found west of Fenwick Island, Delaware, just off of Rt. 54 about a mile from Harris Teeter. My contact info is patty@mchsi.com or 410-726-2130. I’m keeping him at my house until his owner is found.
Thanks for helping to get the word out about this lost dog. I’m hopeful someone out there recognizes him.
Patty
The Salvation Army Red Kettle Schedule UPDATE!
Click on images to enlarge.If you can fill in any slots please call 410-749-7464.
The pink slots were filled today. There were more but they were on the 14th and do not show up on these charts. THANK YOU!