DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Saturday, November 20, 2010
19 Senators Who Voted To Censor The Internet This Morning
19 Senators who voted to censor the internet this morning:
- Patrick J. Leahy — Vermont
- Herb Kohl — Wisconsin
- Jeff Sessions — Alabama
- Dianne Feinstein — California
- Orrin G. Hatch — Utah
- Russ Feingold — Wisconsin
- Chuck Grassley — Iowa
- Arlen Specter — Pennsylvania
- Jon Kyl — Arizona
- Chuck Schumer — New York
- Lindsey Graham — South Carolina
- Dick Durbin — Illinois
- John Cornyn — Texas
- Benjamin L. Cardin — Maryland
- Tom Coburn — Oklahoma
- Sheldon Whitehouse — Rhode Island
- Amy Klobuchar — Minnesota
- Al Franken — Minnesota
- Chris Coons — Delaware
What Your Not Hearing About The Old Fire Station 16
Again, BEFORE the former Mayor Tilghman and City Council created legislation to keep Joe Albero from purchasing Station 16, I offered $250,000.00 CASH for that building. Gary Comegys, (V.P. of the City Council) went on the record stating he refused to allow me to purchase that building.
When you buy or sell a piece of property, you do expect them to use comps, right? After all, the old Station 16 was appraised at $750,000.00 to $850,000.00.
YOU start doing the math.
Salisbury Police Press Releases
On November 19, 2010 at approximately 9:07 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to Romeo’s Pizza on South Salisbury Boulevard for the report of the robbery of a delivery driver. Upon arrival the officers met with the victim who advised that he had been making a food delivery on the two hundred (200) block of Clay Street. As the victim exited his vehicle, he was approached by a single suspect (#1) who grabbed and took the delivery food from the victim. As the victim attempted to confront the suspect, two (2) additional suspects approached the victim from behind. One of the two additional suspects produced a handgun and struck the victim in the back of his head. The second additional victim also produced a handgun and threatened the victim, taking the victim’s U.S. currency. The three suspects then fled from the scene on foot. The victim then reentered his vehicle and returned to the business. The victim refused medical attention and the suspects were described as:
Black male, wearing all black clothing and a black hooded sweatshirt.
Black male, wearing all black clothing and a black hooded sweatshirt
Black male, wearing all black clothing
Suspects # 2 and # 3 were in possession of dark semi-automatic type handguns.
This investigation is continuing, and if anyone has any information pertaining to this incident that are asked to contact the Salisbury Police Department at 410-548-3165 or to contact Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776. Information may be left anonymously.
CC # 201000045746
On November 19, 2010 at approximately 7:18 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Safe Streets Unit were on routine patrol in the area of East Isabella Street and conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle operated by the below listed suspect for traffic violations. As the vehicle was stopped, the suspect fled from the vehicle on foot. The officers pursued the suspect and were able to take the suspect into custody. A records check of the suspect revealed that he was driving on a suspended drivers license and a check of the vehicle revealed a quantity of suspected marijuana in the center console.
ARRESTED: Deangelo Demetrius Sheppard, 33 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Possession of marijuana
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia
Driving on a suspended license
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000045735
On November 19, 2010 at approximately 8:54 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the area of the Toys R Us Store for the report of a purse snatching. Upon arrival the officers met with an employee of the business who had witnessed a suspect assault and take the purse of a customer in the parking lot. The officers met with the victim who advised that she had walked to her vehicle and was attempting to get in when she was sprayed with a substance causing her to temporarily lose her sight. While the victim struggled to regain her vision, an unknown suspect took the victim’s pocketbook and fled from the parking lot on foot. The store employee was able to follow the suspect to the area of the Days Inn where he was able to recover the pocketbook and gave the officers a description of the suspect. Additional officers responded to the Days Inn and were able to locate the suspect in one of the rooms. The suspect was positively identified by the witness and was taken into custody. The officers located and recovered the pepper spray utilized by the suspect during the assault. Salisbury Emergency Medical Services responded and treated the victim.
ARRESTED: Dasia Antwanisha Banks, 22 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Robbery
Armed Robbery
Second degree assault
Reckless endangerment
Theft (under $ 100)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000045743
Black male, wearing all black clothing and a black hooded sweatshirt.
Black male, wearing all black clothing and a black hooded sweatshirt
Black male, wearing all black clothing
Suspects # 2 and # 3 were in possession of dark semi-automatic type handguns.
This investigation is continuing, and if anyone has any information pertaining to this incident that are asked to contact the Salisbury Police Department at 410-548-3165 or to contact Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776. Information may be left anonymously.
CC # 201000045746
On November 19, 2010 at approximately 7:18 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Safe Streets Unit were on routine patrol in the area of East Isabella Street and conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle operated by the below listed suspect for traffic violations. As the vehicle was stopped, the suspect fled from the vehicle on foot. The officers pursued the suspect and were able to take the suspect into custody. A records check of the suspect revealed that he was driving on a suspended drivers license and a check of the vehicle revealed a quantity of suspected marijuana in the center console.
ARRESTED: Deangelo Demetrius Sheppard, 33 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Possession of marijuana
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia
Driving on a suspended license
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000045735
On November 19, 2010 at approximately 8:54 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the area of the Toys R Us Store for the report of a purse snatching. Upon arrival the officers met with an employee of the business who had witnessed a suspect assault and take the purse of a customer in the parking lot. The officers met with the victim who advised that she had walked to her vehicle and was attempting to get in when she was sprayed with a substance causing her to temporarily lose her sight. While the victim struggled to regain her vision, an unknown suspect took the victim’s pocketbook and fled from the parking lot on foot. The store employee was able to follow the suspect to the area of the Days Inn where he was able to recover the pocketbook and gave the officers a description of the suspect. Additional officers responded to the Days Inn and were able to locate the suspect in one of the rooms. The suspect was positively identified by the witness and was taken into custody. The officers located and recovered the pepper spray utilized by the suspect during the assault. Salisbury Emergency Medical Services responded and treated the victim.
ARRESTED: Dasia Antwanisha Banks, 22 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: Robbery
Armed Robbery
Second degree assault
Reckless endangerment
Theft (under $ 100)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000045743
Senate Approves $4.6B For Black Farmers, Indians
The Senate has approved almost $4.6 billion to settle long-standing claims brought by American Indians and black farmers against the government.
The money has been held up for months in the Senate as Democrats and Republicans squabbled over how to pay for it. The two class action lawsuits were filed over a decade ago.
The settlements include almost $1.2 billion for black farmers who say they suffered discrimination at the hands of the Agriculture Department. Also, $3.4 billion would go to Indian landowners who claim they were swindled out of royalties by the Interior Department. The legislation was approved in the Senate by voice vote Friday and sent to the House.
The legislation also includes a one-year extension of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, which gives grants to states to provide cash assistance and other services to the poor, and several American Indian water rights settlements in Arizona, Montana and New Mexico sought by Sen. Jon Kyl, R-Ariz.
In the Indian case, at least 300,000 Native Americans claim they were swindled out of royalties overseen by the Interior Department since 1887 for things like oil, gas, grazing and timber. The plaintiffs would share the settlement.
The Indian plaintiffs originally said they were owed $100 billion, but signaled they were willing to settle for less as the trial wore on. After more than 3,600 court filings and 80 court decisions, the two sides finally reached a settlement in December.
For the black farmers, it is the second round of funding from a class-action lawsuit originally settled in 1999 over allegations of widespread discrimination by local Agriculture Department offices in awarding loans and other aid. It is known as the Pigford case, named after Timothy Pigford, a black farmer from North Carolina who was an original plaintiff.
The government already has paid out more than $1 billion to about 16,000 farmers, with most getting payments of about $50,000. The new money is intended for people — some estimates say 70,000 or 80,000 — who were denied earlier payments because they missed deadlines for filing. The amount of money each would get depends on how many claims are successfully filed.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said passage "marks a major milestone in USDA's efforts to turn the page on a sad chapter in our history."
Last month, the Agriculture Department offered American Indian farmers who say they were denied farm loans a $680 million settlement. Hispanic and women farmers also have cases pending against the department. More on this
The money has been held up for months in the Senate as Democrats and Republicans squabbled over how to pay for it. The two class action lawsuits were filed over a decade ago.
The settlements include almost $1.2 billion for black farmers who say they suffered discrimination at the hands of the Agriculture Department. Also, $3.4 billion would go to Indian landowners who claim they were swindled out of royalties by the Interior Department. The legislation was approved in the Senate by voice vote Friday and sent to the House.
The legislation also includes a one-year extension of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, which gives grants to states to provide cash assistance and other services to the poor, and several American Indian water rights settlements in Arizona, Montana and New Mexico sought by Sen. Jon Kyl, R-Ariz.
In the Indian case, at least 300,000 Native Americans claim they were swindled out of royalties overseen by the Interior Department since 1887 for things like oil, gas, grazing and timber. The plaintiffs would share the settlement.
The Indian plaintiffs originally said they were owed $100 billion, but signaled they were willing to settle for less as the trial wore on. After more than 3,600 court filings and 80 court decisions, the two sides finally reached a settlement in December.
For the black farmers, it is the second round of funding from a class-action lawsuit originally settled in 1999 over allegations of widespread discrimination by local Agriculture Department offices in awarding loans and other aid. It is known as the Pigford case, named after Timothy Pigford, a black farmer from North Carolina who was an original plaintiff.
The government already has paid out more than $1 billion to about 16,000 farmers, with most getting payments of about $50,000. The new money is intended for people — some estimates say 70,000 or 80,000 — who were denied earlier payments because they missed deadlines for filing. The amount of money each would get depends on how many claims are successfully filed.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said passage "marks a major milestone in USDA's efforts to turn the page on a sad chapter in our history."
Last month, the Agriculture Department offered American Indian farmers who say they were denied farm loans a $680 million settlement. Hispanic and women farmers also have cases pending against the department. More on this
Critics Slam Obama Administration For 'Hiding' Massive Saudi Arms Deal
The Obama administration has quietly forged ahead with its proposal to sell $60 billion worth of fighter jets and attack helicopters to Saudi Arabia unhampered by Congress, despite questions raised in legislative inquiries and in an internal congressional report about the wisdom of the deal.
The massive arms deal would be the single largest sale of weapons to a foreign nation in the history of the U.S., outfitting Saudi Arabia with a fully modernized, potent new air force.
"Our six-decade-long security relationship with Saudi Arabia is a primary security pillar in the region," Defense Sec. Robert M. Gates and Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton wrote in a Nov. 16 letter to congress. "This package continues that tradition."
But some critics are questioning the deal, and the stealthy effort by the Obama administration to avoid a more probing congressional review by notifying Congress last month, just as members were headed home for the November elections. Congress had 30 days to raise objections -- a review period that concludes Saturday. With most members leaving Washington today, any significant effort to block the deal appears dead for now, officials said.
"I do not think there will be any action" to hold up the sale, Rep. Howard Berman, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, told Bloomberg News Thursday.
Rep. Anthony Weiner, a New York Democrat, submitted a resolution this week to try and block the deal, and was among those who objected to the way the administration approached the required congressional review.
"Hiding this in a recess announcement is a sign of how unpopular it is," he said. "It's bad policy that now is further tainted by shameful process." More here
The massive arms deal would be the single largest sale of weapons to a foreign nation in the history of the U.S., outfitting Saudi Arabia with a fully modernized, potent new air force.
"Our six-decade-long security relationship with Saudi Arabia is a primary security pillar in the region," Defense Sec. Robert M. Gates and Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton wrote in a Nov. 16 letter to congress. "This package continues that tradition."
But some critics are questioning the deal, and the stealthy effort by the Obama administration to avoid a more probing congressional review by notifying Congress last month, just as members were headed home for the November elections. Congress had 30 days to raise objections -- a review period that concludes Saturday. With most members leaving Washington today, any significant effort to block the deal appears dead for now, officials said.
"I do not think there will be any action" to hold up the sale, Rep. Howard Berman, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, told Bloomberg News Thursday.
Rep. Anthony Weiner, a New York Democrat, submitted a resolution this week to try and block the deal, and was among those who objected to the way the administration approached the required congressional review.
"Hiding this in a recess announcement is a sign of how unpopular it is," he said. "It's bad policy that now is further tainted by shameful process." More here
Air Force Bombs Gaza Tunnels
The IDF retaliated again for phosphorous shells; mortars were fired at Negev communities earlier Friday.
The Air Force bombed smuggling tunnels in the southern Gaza Strip Friday night, and direct hits were identified, the IDF said in a statement. No injuries were reported.
"The strike was carried out in response to the rockets and mortar shells fired at the western Negev over the past day," the statement said, adding that the army was holding Hamas responsible for the attacks
Palestinian sources reported that the Air Force bombed two targets in the Gaza Strip Friday afternoon, after four phosphorous bombs were launched into Israel along with three mortar shells.
The sources say six people were injured in the strikes – including two women and a child. An unoccupied building in Deir al-Balah collapsed upon being hit, and two other strikes took place in the southern Gaza town of Khan Younis. Sources say one of the targets there was an Islamic Jihad training facility. More from Ynet
The Air Force bombed smuggling tunnels in the southern Gaza Strip Friday night, and direct hits were identified, the IDF said in a statement. No injuries were reported.
"The strike was carried out in response to the rockets and mortar shells fired at the western Negev over the past day," the statement said, adding that the army was holding Hamas responsible for the attacks
Palestinian sources reported that the Air Force bombed two targets in the Gaza Strip Friday afternoon, after four phosphorous bombs were launched into Israel along with three mortar shells.
The sources say six people were injured in the strikes – including two women and a child. An unoccupied building in Deir al-Balah collapsed upon being hit, and two other strikes took place in the southern Gaza town of Khan Younis. Sources say one of the targets there was an Islamic Jihad training facility. More from Ynet
Waters Accuses Ethics Of Having Weak Case After Postponing Her Trial
Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) accused the ethics committee of having a weak case that is unraveling after the panel abruptly canceled her upcoming public trial.
“The committee’s decision to cancel the hearing and put it off indefinitely demonstrates that the committee does not have a strong case and would not be able to prove any violation has occurred,” she said in a lengthy statement reacting to Friday’s announcement.
The House ethics committee announced Friday it has delayed indefinitely Waters's trial because the panel had discovered new evidence in the case.
It is unclear from the committee's statement whether the trial will move forward and what evidence was discovered.
According to a joint statement from committee chairwoman Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.) and ranking member Jo Bonner (R-Ala.), the case is being referred back to the subcommittee investigating the matter. Waters's trial was set to begin on Nov. 29.
"The committee voted to recommit the matter regarding Representative Maxine Waters to the investigative subcommittee due to materials discovered that may have had an effect on the investigative subcommittee's transmittal to the committee," they wrote. "As a result, the adjudicatory subcommittee no longer has jurisdiction over this matter and the adjudicatory hearing previously scheduled for November 29, 2010 will not be held." More here
“The committee’s decision to cancel the hearing and put it off indefinitely demonstrates that the committee does not have a strong case and would not be able to prove any violation has occurred,” she said in a lengthy statement reacting to Friday’s announcement.
The House ethics committee announced Friday it has delayed indefinitely Waters's trial because the panel had discovered new evidence in the case.
It is unclear from the committee's statement whether the trial will move forward and what evidence was discovered.
According to a joint statement from committee chairwoman Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.) and ranking member Jo Bonner (R-Ala.), the case is being referred back to the subcommittee investigating the matter. Waters's trial was set to begin on Nov. 29.
"The committee voted to recommit the matter regarding Representative Maxine Waters to the investigative subcommittee due to materials discovered that may have had an effect on the investigative subcommittee's transmittal to the committee," they wrote. "As a result, the adjudicatory subcommittee no longer has jurisdiction over this matter and the adjudicatory hearing previously scheduled for November 29, 2010 will not be held." More here
HISTORICAL COMMENTS BY GEORGE CHEVALLIER
Swimming Holes
The era of the old swimming hole is long past. There were many in and around Salisbury that are no longer. The main spot was the City Park by the bandstand. The water was only four feet deep and always nice and refreshing. They even had a lifeguard. The Red Cross gave swimming lessons there, and, in the summer there was always a gang of children playing there. The end came when they built the zoo. This was in the mid-1950’s. The claim that the animal effluent traveling downstream polluted the water and made the water unsafe for the children caused the powers-that-be to ban all swimming. It has remained that way ever since. I never could understand what all the fuss was since we only had two monkeys in the zoo in those days. The ducks and geese were always there since this was their natural habitat.
Another favorite spot for those in the North Division Street area was Johnson’s Lake. The lake, enhanced by the concrete dam built as only one of two WPA projects (the City Park being the other), drew large crowds in the summer. They also held boat races on Johnson’s Lake. I remember watching them, and it was thrilling. The boats were called “pancakes”, because of their flat profile. They only held one person, the driver, and could fairly fly. Nowadays, Johnson’s Lake doesn’t even have swimming as a recreation. If you want to swim, you have to join the YMCA or the Elks Club, or have access to the College pool. Opened in 1960 was Canal Park. They had a large pool, and the annual membership fee was only $35. It is also now only a memory.
Another venue was the City Park down by Picnic Island. The water above the dam, just beyond the right field fence of the Little League field, was available to the more adventuresome. I remember watching some larger boys swim there as I played at the ball park.
There was also Schumaker Pond that could refresh a body during the long, hot summer. It is a lengthy body of water that is the easterly origin of the Wicomico River. There are many parts of Schumaker. The most easterly part makes for a nice canoe or kayak jaunt. There is a park there now, but swimming is not one of the recreations. Moving west, Schumaker becomes Beaver Dam Creek, running past and through the zoo. As it continues along, it runs through the City Park past the bandstand. From there, it empties into the Wicomico River.
North of Salisbury was Leonard’s Mill Pond. A swimming area was established to the west of Route 13 at one time. That has all gone by the wayside in lieu of the Wicomico County Tourism building being the only attraction at this location. Years ago, on the other side of the highway, before Chestnut Hill development was there, there was a house there from which you could rent canoes.
I remember paddling a canoe with another boy way back in the woods. On our way back, the wind shifted and we had a hard time making it back. Ah, memories!
Cup Of Coffee
A group of alumni, highly established in their careers, were talking at a reunion and decided to go visit their old university professor, now retired. During their visit, the conversation soon turned into complaints about stress in their work and lives. Offering his guests coffee, the professor went to the kitchen and returned with a large pot of coffee and an assortment of cups -- porcelain, plastic, glass, crystal, some plain-looking, some expensive, some exquisite --telling them to help themselves to the coffee. When all the alumni had a cup of coffee in hand, the professor said, "Notice that all the nice-looking, expensive cups were taken up, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones. While it is normal for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress. Be assured that the cup itself adds no quality to the coffee. In most cases, it is just more expensive, and, in some cases, even hides what we drink. What all of you really wanted was coffee, not the cup, but you consciously went for the best cups, and then you began eyeing each other's cups. Now consider this: Life is the coffee; your job, money, and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain life. The type of cup one has does not define, nor change, the quality of life a person lives. Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the coffee God has provided us."God makes the coffee, man chooses the cups. The happiest people don't have the best of everything. They just make the best of everything. Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Enjoy your coffee & your day!!!
STATE POLICE ARREST BOWIE MAN FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY
(Bowie, MD) – Members of the Maryland State Police Computer Crimes Unit have arrested a Bowie man in connection with the distribution and possession of child pornography.
Alvin Rashad Sanders, 31, of the 2000 block of War Admiral Court in Bowie was arrested today and charged with eleven counts of distributing and possessing child pornography. If convicted of the charges, Sanders faces up to 80 years in prison.
In June, a trooper assigned to the Maryland Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force began the investigation after identifying a computer on the Internet that was offering pornographic videos of children for others to download. Troopers were able to trace the computer back to Sanders. A search warrant for his residence was subsequently executed,leading investigators to seize computers and several devices capable of storing digital data.
Investigators examined the computers and recovered files depicting children involved in various sexual activities. An arrest warrant was subsequently obtained charging Sanders with eleven counts of possessing and distributing child pornography.
Sanders turned himself in to investigators this morning. He was processed and turned over to the Prince George’s County Detention Center where he will see a Court Commissioner for a bond hearing.
The Maryland Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force is comprised of police agencies from around the state. Its primary mission is to protect children from computer-facilitated sexual exploitation. The Task Force works cooperatively with law enforcement agencies and prosecutors to provide resources to combat these crimes. Additionally, the Task Force provides community awareness campaigns helping to prevent the spread of these crimes through education.
Food Drive
Blind Industries and Services of Maryland Seeks Help from the Community to Reach Food Drive Goal
Salisbury, MD – Blind Industries and Services of Maryland’s (BISM) Fabric Cutting facility in Salisbury is wrapping up its year-long food drive with a final push in the month of November. Since last November, the BISM Fabric Cutting employees have collected over 3,200 food items for the non-profit Joseph House of the Little Sisters of Jesus & Mary in Salisbury. We are now asking the entire Eastern Shore community to help us reach our goal of over 3,500 food items for the year. Non-perishable food items can be dropped off at BISM Fabric Cutting between 6:30 am and 2:30 pm Monday-Friday. We are located at 1303 Old Ocean City Road, Salisbury, MD 21804. If you have any questions about the food drive or would like to set up a time for food drop-off, please call Andrew Larmore at 410-749-4305. The Joseph House provides emergency and on-going assistance for Eastern Shore families in need. The Joseph House has a dining room where they serve hot lunch as well as a food pantry for those most in need of food. The Little Sisters of Jesus & Mary have recently fallen on hard times and had to close the Joseph House by the Sea, a retail store formerly located in Ocean City. Last March, BISM received a letter from the Little Sisters of Jesus and Mary. The following is a portion of the letter: “We deeply appreciate your generous donation of the abundance of food to help those in need. The outpouring of love and generosity that we have received from your employees has been awesome. There are so many that go to bed hungry at night. The only meal some of them receive is given to them at our center.” The Fabric Cutting plant has been in operation for about 13 years and is one of two BISM facilities in Salisbury. There are approximately 35 employees at the location, many of whom are blind or visually impaired, and our primary business is cutting fabric for military uniforms. We currently are cutting fabric for the redesigned Outer Tactical Vest (OTV), a bulletproof vest that is now easier to remove for medics in the field. We also are cutting the fabric for trousers and coats for the newly designed Army Combat Uniform (ACU). Interested media outlets can contact Rob Ennamorato at 410-737-2615 to arrange a media interview at BISM’s Fabric Cutting facility.
To learn more about Blind Industries and Services of Maryland, please visit http://www.bism.org/.
Salisbury, MD – Blind Industries and Services of Maryland’s (BISM) Fabric Cutting facility in Salisbury is wrapping up its year-long food drive with a final push in the month of November. Since last November, the BISM Fabric Cutting employees have collected over 3,200 food items for the non-profit Joseph House of the Little Sisters of Jesus & Mary in Salisbury. We are now asking the entire Eastern Shore community to help us reach our goal of over 3,500 food items for the year. Non-perishable food items can be dropped off at BISM Fabric Cutting between 6:30 am and 2:30 pm Monday-Friday. We are located at 1303 Old Ocean City Road, Salisbury, MD 21804. If you have any questions about the food drive or would like to set up a time for food drop-off, please call Andrew Larmore at 410-749-4305. The Joseph House provides emergency and on-going assistance for Eastern Shore families in need. The Joseph House has a dining room where they serve hot lunch as well as a food pantry for those most in need of food. The Little Sisters of Jesus & Mary have recently fallen on hard times and had to close the Joseph House by the Sea, a retail store formerly located in Ocean City. Last March, BISM received a letter from the Little Sisters of Jesus and Mary. The following is a portion of the letter: “We deeply appreciate your generous donation of the abundance of food to help those in need. The outpouring of love and generosity that we have received from your employees has been awesome. There are so many that go to bed hungry at night. The only meal some of them receive is given to them at our center.” The Fabric Cutting plant has been in operation for about 13 years and is one of two BISM facilities in Salisbury. There are approximately 35 employees at the location, many of whom are blind or visually impaired, and our primary business is cutting fabric for military uniforms. We currently are cutting fabric for the redesigned Outer Tactical Vest (OTV), a bulletproof vest that is now easier to remove for medics in the field. We also are cutting the fabric for trousers and coats for the newly designed Army Combat Uniform (ACU). Interested media outlets can contact Rob Ennamorato at 410-737-2615 to arrange a media interview at BISM’s Fabric Cutting facility.
To learn more about Blind Industries and Services of Maryland, please visit http://www.bism.org/.
Reminder Of Weekend Events In Wicomico Schools
Saturday, Nov. 20
Runnin Green 5K Run/Walk to benefit Parkside PTA programs
YMCA, Salisbury
The Parkside High School PTA will put on a Runnin Green 5K Run/Walk starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 20, to raise money for Parkside PTA programs. Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m. The 5K (a little more than 3 miles) will begin and end behind the YMCA. Runners will compete for overall first and second place and awards for first and second place in several age categories. Any age can participate. Parkside staff and athletic teams will compete for bragging rights and a trophy for the school trophy case. Registration is $20 which includes T-shirt, awards and refreshments. Applications are available at Parkside High School. 410-677-5143.
Saturday, Nov. 20 and Sunday, Nov. 21
Magi Fund’s 17th Annual Choral Festival
Wicomico High Auditorium
About 30 students from Wicomico County Public Schools will perform in the Magi Children’s Choir that will sing along with The National Christian Choir for the 17th Annual Magi Choral Festival. Shows will be at Wicomico High School Auditorium at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 20, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 21. Admission is $15 plus a canned good. Tickets are available now at The Gospel Shop in Salisbury and all Lower Shore branches of First Shore Federal Savings & Loan. Proceeds from the Magi Choral Festival benefit the Christian Shelter and Joseph House Center. 410-749-1633.
Saturday, Nov. 20
Annual Longaberger Basket and Vera Bradley Bag Ultimate Bingo
James M. Bennett High School
James M. Bennett High School will hold its Annual Longaberger Basket and Vera Bradley Bag Ultimate Bingo Nov. 20 to benefit the JMB student athletic teams. The event will be in the JMB Cafeteria. Doors and kitchen will open at 5 p.m. and games will begin at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $20; must be 18 or older to play. In addition to 20 games of regular Bingo (you win, you pick your prize; each prize contains gift certificates from local businesses and there will be all-new Vera Bradley bags), there will be a Chinese and Silent Auction, 50/50 raffle, door prizes, concessions for sale, and the JMB Treasure Chest. JMB is also remembering others during the holiday season and asks attendees to bring canned or nonperishable items; for each item brought, the person will receive a special raffle ticket towards a chance at winning a special prize. All items donated will be given to the Maryland Food Bank. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact Terry Blagus at 443-614-0875 or 410-677-5125 or tblagus@wcboe.org, or Kathy Elliott at 410-430-9172 or kelliott@wcboe.org.
Sunday, Nov. 21
Applebee’s Flapjack Fundraiser Breakfast in Seaford Benefitting the Mardela High School Wrestling Program
Support the Wrestling Program at Mardela High School at an all-you-can-eat Applebee’s Pancake Fund-raiser Breakfast in Seaford from 8 -10 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 21. Tickets are $5 per person for all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage and beverage (coffee, orange juice, soda and tea). The breakfast will be served at the Seaford Applebee’s. For tickets please see Coach Johnson or a wrestler, or contact the school office at 410-677-5142.
Fruitland Police Department Press Release
Incident: Attempted Murder
Date & Time: Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 8:30 p.m.
Location: Fruitland, Maryland
Accused #1 Taronte M. DuPont b/m dob: 09-01-1994
Church Street, Fruitland, Maryland
Charges: Armed Robbery
Robbery
Conspiracy to commit armed robbery
Distribution of a counterfeit controlled dangerous substance
Theft less than $1000.00
Accused #2 Tremayne A. Nelson b/m dob: 12-11-1994
Parsonage Street, Fruitland, Maryland
Charges: Armed Robbery
Robbery
Conspiracy to commit armed robbery
Distrubution of a counterfeit controlled dangerous substance
Theft less than $1000.00
Accused #3 Kajuan D. Warrington b/m dob: 03-23-1994
Charges: Attempted Murder 1st Degree
Attempted Murder 2nd Degree
Assault 1st Degree
Assault 2nd Degree
Armed Robbery
Robbery
Theft less than $1000.00
Reckless endangerment
Resume:
On Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 at approximately 8:30 p.m. while on routine patrol, Fruitland officers observed a male subject lying in the intersection of N. Dulany Avenue and Leslie Street, Fruitland, Maryland. A red Baha motor scooter was observed approximately 50 feet south of the subject lying on its’ side in the grass off the roadway. Officers made contact with the subject lying in the roadway and found him to be bleeding profusely from a large cut near his right eye. The subject was wearing a helmet. Emergency Medical Services were called and the subject was transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center. The victim subsequently was transferred to Shock Trauma in Baltimore, Md. due to the severity of his injuries being multiple fractures to his face and bleeding from his head.
While on the scene, officers were approached by a witness who advised that the injured subject had been struck with a bottle while riding his scooter. Examination of the scene revealed two broken bottles in the area, a partially full open bottle of beer and a large broken concrete block/brick. The block/brick had what appeared to be fresh, wet blood on it and several additional items were located which indicated a struggle had taken place.During the course of the investigation, it was discovered that the victim had purchased $50.00 of crack cocaine from three subjects in a group near the intersection of Anderson Street and Church Street, Fruitland ,Maryland. While traveling away from the intersection, the victim realized that the substance he had purchased was counterfeit. The victim then proceeded back to the area and at the intersection of N. Dulany Avenue and Leslie Street was struck in the face with a piece of broken concrete resulting in the injuries sustained. In addition to selling the victim counterfeit CDS and smashing a concrete brick into his face, the victim’s cell phone and U.S. currency he had in his possession was stolen.
Investigation revealed the aboved named subjects were involved in the assault and robbery of the victim and due to the severity of the charges were charged as adults. The investigation is continuing.
Date & Time: Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 8:30 p.m.
Location: Fruitland, Maryland
Accused #1 Taronte M. DuPont b/m dob: 09-01-1994
Church Street, Fruitland, Maryland
Charges: Armed Robbery
Robbery
Conspiracy to commit armed robbery
Distribution of a counterfeit controlled dangerous substance
Theft less than $1000.00
Accused #2 Tremayne A. Nelson b/m dob: 12-11-1994
Parsonage Street, Fruitland, Maryland
Charges: Armed Robbery
Robbery
Conspiracy to commit armed robbery
Distrubution of a counterfeit controlled dangerous substance
Theft less than $1000.00
Accused #3 Kajuan D. Warrington b/m dob: 03-23-1994
Charges: Attempted Murder 1st Degree
Attempted Murder 2nd Degree
Assault 1st Degree
Assault 2nd Degree
Armed Robbery
Robbery
Theft less than $1000.00
Reckless endangerment
Resume:
On Wednesday, November 10th, 2010 at approximately 8:30 p.m. while on routine patrol, Fruitland officers observed a male subject lying in the intersection of N. Dulany Avenue and Leslie Street, Fruitland, Maryland. A red Baha motor scooter was observed approximately 50 feet south of the subject lying on its’ side in the grass off the roadway. Officers made contact with the subject lying in the roadway and found him to be bleeding profusely from a large cut near his right eye. The subject was wearing a helmet. Emergency Medical Services were called and the subject was transported to Peninsula Regional Medical Center. The victim subsequently was transferred to Shock Trauma in Baltimore, Md. due to the severity of his injuries being multiple fractures to his face and bleeding from his head.
While on the scene, officers were approached by a witness who advised that the injured subject had been struck with a bottle while riding his scooter. Examination of the scene revealed two broken bottles in the area, a partially full open bottle of beer and a large broken concrete block/brick. The block/brick had what appeared to be fresh, wet blood on it and several additional items were located which indicated a struggle had taken place.During the course of the investigation, it was discovered that the victim had purchased $50.00 of crack cocaine from three subjects in a group near the intersection of Anderson Street and Church Street, Fruitland ,Maryland. While traveling away from the intersection, the victim realized that the substance he had purchased was counterfeit. The victim then proceeded back to the area and at the intersection of N. Dulany Avenue and Leslie Street was struck in the face with a piece of broken concrete resulting in the injuries sustained. In addition to selling the victim counterfeit CDS and smashing a concrete brick into his face, the victim’s cell phone and U.S. currency he had in his possession was stolen.
Investigation revealed the aboved named subjects were involved in the assault and robbery of the victim and due to the severity of the charges were charged as adults. The investigation is continuing.
Salisbury Police Department Press Releases
On November 17, 2010 at approximately 3:15 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Walmart Department Store on North Salisbury Boulevard for the report of a shoplifter. Upon arrival the officers met with store security who advised the officers that store employees had observed the below listed suspect attempt to take clothing from the store without making payment. The suspect was stopped and the property was recovered.
ARRESTED: Sherri Lynette Smith, 20 years of age
Berlin, Maryland
CHARGES: Theft (under $ 1000)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000045446
On November 18, 2010 at approximately 3:49 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the area of Chelsea Court for the report of an assault. Upon arrival the officers met with an adult male who advised that he had been involved in a domestic type argument with the below listed suspect inside of a residence in the area. The suspect then left the residence, followed by the victim, and entered her vehicle. The victim advised that the suspect drove her vehicle at him, striking him and knocking him onto the hood of the vehicle. The suspect then rapidly reversed the vehicle throwing the victim from the vehicle onto the ground and injuring his left arm. The victim did not require medical attention.
ARRESTED: Kristen April Bullion, 27 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: First degree assault
Second degree assault
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000045565
On November 18, 2010 at approximately 4:00 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Giant Food Store on South Salisbury Boulevard for the report of a shoplifter fleeing from the store. The officers responded and found the suspect attempting to leave the area in a vehicle. While attempting to leave the area, the suspect was involved in a motor vehicle accident in the parking lot. Store security advised the officers that employees of the store had observed the suspect taking seafood from the store without making any attempts at payment. The property was recovered and there were no injuries as a result of the accident.
ARRESTED: Ryan Caleb McCool, 28 years of age
Elkton, Maryland
CHARGES: Theft (under $ 100)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
201000045571
ARRESTED: Sherri Lynette Smith, 20 years of age
Berlin, Maryland
CHARGES: Theft (under $ 1000)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000045446
On November 18, 2010 at approximately 3:49 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the area of Chelsea Court for the report of an assault. Upon arrival the officers met with an adult male who advised that he had been involved in a domestic type argument with the below listed suspect inside of a residence in the area. The suspect then left the residence, followed by the victim, and entered her vehicle. The victim advised that the suspect drove her vehicle at him, striking him and knocking him onto the hood of the vehicle. The suspect then rapidly reversed the vehicle throwing the victim from the vehicle onto the ground and injuring his left arm. The victim did not require medical attention.
ARRESTED: Kristen April Bullion, 27 years of age
Salisbury, Maryland
CHARGES: First degree assault
Second degree assault
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
CC # 201000045565
On November 18, 2010 at approximately 4:00 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police received a call to respond to the Giant Food Store on South Salisbury Boulevard for the report of a shoplifter fleeing from the store. The officers responded and found the suspect attempting to leave the area in a vehicle. While attempting to leave the area, the suspect was involved in a motor vehicle accident in the parking lot. Store security advised the officers that employees of the store had observed the suspect taking seafood from the store without making any attempts at payment. The property was recovered and there were no injuries as a result of the accident.
ARRESTED: Ryan Caleb McCool, 28 years of age
Elkton, Maryland
CHARGES: Theft (under $ 100)
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking
201000045571
Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Press Release
On November 18, 2010 during the evening hours, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Enforcement Team along with members of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Canine Division and Patrol Division conducted an aggressive criminal enforcement initiative in the Pocomoke, Worcester County, Maryland area. During this initiative canine teams were deployed along with CET and Patrol personnel in various apartment complexes in the Pocomoke area. These apartment complexes were targeted due to the recent intelligence information that was being received by members of CET regarding to various controlled dangerous substance violations taking place in the parking lot areas. Intelligence was also received that individuals were utilizing their vehicles in these apartment complexes in order to facilitate their criminal activity, specifically controlled dangerous substances. As a result these canine deployments two vehicles were searched and a small amount was recovered. Members of CET made contact with numerous individuals in these apartment complexes who exited their apartments to observe what was taking place. During these contacts several individuals indicated to members of CET their appreciation for the law enforcement presence and enforcement. At the conclusion of deploying canine teams in these apartment complexes, members of the CET, Canine, and Patrol saturated the high crime areas of Pocomoke.
At approximately 2110 hours, DFC. Wells of CET, and DFC. Rhode of the Patrol Division, observed a vehicle traveling on Young Street at which time DFC. Rhode conducted a traffic stop for an equipment violation. As DFC. Rhode exited his patrol vehicle he contacted the operator who was identified as Derrick Smith of Pocomoke, Maryland. DFC. Rhode advised Mr. Smith the reason for the traffic stop and requested his license and registration. As DFC. Rhode returned to his vehicle conduct a drivers license and warrants check, DFC. Wells and DFC. Trader arrived on the scene and observed the front seat passenger and a rear passenger making furtive movements. The front seat passenger was identified as Jarrell Roberts and the rear passenger was identified as Roderick Collier. DFC. Ramey arrived on the scene in order to conduct a canine scan. As Jarrell Roberts exited the front passenger seat, DFC. Trader conducted a pat down for officer safety at which time he located a gallon size plastic freezer bag hidden in the front of Mr. Roberts’s pants. This freezer bag was later found to contain twenty (20) individually wrapped clear plastic bags of marijuana, an electronic digital scale containing marijuana residue along with additional packaging materials which would indicate an intent to distribute. Mr. Roberts was placed under arrest. During this arrest, Mr. Roberts resisted and assaulted DFC. Rhode. A pat down of all remaining occupants was conducted. DFC. Ramey conducted a canine scan at which time her drug detection canine gave a positive alert on this vehicle for the presence of a controlled dangerous substance in this vehicle. During this canine scan, Roderick Collier shouted to DFC. Trader and DFC. Rhode, that the marijuana found on Mr. Roberts belonged to him. Due to this statement and the positive alert of a canine scan, Mr. Collier was placed under arrest as well. DFC. Wells conducted a thorough search of Mr. Collier at which time DFC. Wells found a clear plastic sandwich bag containing marijuana hidden in the front of Mr. Collier’s pants. This clear plastic sandwich bag was later found to contain seventeen (17) individually wrapped clear plastic bags of suspected marijuana. Mr. Collier was also found to be in possession of an electronic digital scale containing suspected marijuana and cocaine residue as well. Both Mr. Collier and Mr. Roberts were transported to the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office for processing. While in processing, Mr. Roberts and Mr. Collier were unruly and uncooperative. Mr. Roberts was secured in a cell and he began to kick the cell door and window. As Mr. Collier was being prepared to be placed into another cell and he began to resist and pull away from law enforcement personnel. Mr. Collier made various threatening statements indicating he was going to attempt to physically assault law enforcement officers, who were present, if he was un-handcuffed. Mr. Collier continued to pull away from law enforcement in an effort to avoid being properly searched before being placed into a cell.
The total amount of marijuana seized in this investigation was approximately 107.9 along with two (2) scales and small amount of U.S. Currency. These arrests were also made within a school zone as well. These individuals were charged with the following offenses:
Jarrell Roberts:
Possession of Marijuana
Possession with the intent to distribute marijuana
Possession with the intent to distribute marijuana / school zone
Resisting Arrest
Possession of paraphernalia
Assault of law enforcement
Roderick Collier:
Possession of Marijuana
Possession of Cocaine
Possession with the intent to distribute marijuana
Possession with the intent to distribute marijuana / school zone
Resisting Arrest
Possession of paraphernalia
The Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office Reminds Everyone To Drive With Caution AsTthe Holiday Season Begins
The Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office wants to remind everyone to Drive with Caution as the Holiday Season Begins. The heavily-traveled Thanksgiving weekend* is one of the most dangerous and deadliest times of the year on America’s roadways due to low seat belt use. Deputies will be making an extra effort to look for travelers that are not buckled.
The Holiday Season also can bring on Aggressive Driving as people shop and prepare for activities. The Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with Salisbury Police Department will be watching for Speeding, Tailgating, Running Red Lights, and Making frequent lane changes in heavily traveled shopping areas.
The Holidays are also the time for parties and drinking. The Sheriff’s Office will be patrolling all over Wicomico County looking for Impaired Drivers. There will be Sobriety Checkpoints and Saturation Patrols throughout the Holiday Season.
So please, Buckle Up, Slow Down and Be Alert so that you arrive to your destination safely, and Never Ever Drink and Drive.
Don’t Become a Holiday Memory, Drive Safely.
The Holiday Season also can bring on Aggressive Driving as people shop and prepare for activities. The Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with Salisbury Police Department will be watching for Speeding, Tailgating, Running Red Lights, and Making frequent lane changes in heavily traveled shopping areas.
The Holidays are also the time for parties and drinking. The Sheriff’s Office will be patrolling all over Wicomico County looking for Impaired Drivers. There will be Sobriety Checkpoints and Saturation Patrols throughout the Holiday Season.
So please, Buckle Up, Slow Down and Be Alert so that you arrive to your destination safely, and Never Ever Drink and Drive.
Don’t Become a Holiday Memory, Drive Safely.
GOVERNOR O'MALLEY ANNOUNCES MORE THAN 1,000 MARYLANDERS HIRED OFF UNEMPLOYMENT ROLLS
GOVERNOR O'MALLEY ANNOUNCES MORE THAN 1,000 MARYLANDERS
HIRED OFF UNEMPLOYMENT ROLLS THROUGH JOBS TAX CREDIT
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Martin O’Malley announced that Maryland’s Job Creation and Recovery Tax has helped put more than 1,000 unemployed Marylanders back to work since March, with 586 businesses taking advantage of the program to date. The tax credit, which Governor O’Malley spearheaded and was passed as emergency legislation earlier this year, offers a $5,000 tax credit for each employee that a business hires off the unemployment rolls, capped at $250,000 per business. The program runs through December 31, 2010 and the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation is continuing to accept applications at http://www.dllr.maryland.gov/.
Earlier this month, Middle River Aircraft Systems in Baltimore hired Lloyd Coates with the help of the tax credit, making Mr. Coates the 1000th unemployed Marylander hired through the program.
“The Job Creation and Recovery Tax Credit is playing an integral role in moving Maryland’s economy forward, helping 1,000 Marylanders return to the workforce in recent months. These are moms and dads with families to feed that are now beginning to get back on their feet as Maryland emerges from this national recession stronger and more quickly than other states,” said Governor O’Malley. “This program is one of many tools our Administration is using to help save, create and retain jobs and improve the conditions in Maryland that allow businesses – small, medium and large – to create and save jobs in our State.”
“The State of Maryland has always been supportive of our business and our employees,” said Sagar Patel, president, Mechanical Systems for GE Aviation. “We are pleased to see the 1000th employee in Maryland hired to help growth in the State and are happy to see that they were an employee at GE’s Middle River Aircraft Systems.”
To date, the credit has been used throughout Maryland, with Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard and Montgomery counties and Baltimore City businesses hiring a large percentage of the unemployed workers. Companies that have hired more than a dozen workers through the program include Coastal Sunbelt Produce in Savage; NATELCO Corp in Capitol Heights; Dixie Construction in Churchville; Harvard Custom Manufacturing in Salisbury and Citicorp Credit Services in Hagerstown.
“Working with our partners at the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, we are continuing to educate our businesses around the State on the ease of applying for the tax credit,” said Christian S. Johansson, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development. “This program is helping to lessen the burden on our Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund by nearly $6.5 million, which in turn increases its solvency and helps mitigate any potential increases to businesses.”
“This landmark hire represents just one of 1,000 people that the tax credit has helped to re-enter the workforce, improve their lives and support their families,” said Alexander M. Sanchez, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation. “For employers that still want to claim the credit, we can help reach potential qualifying employees through our local One Stop Career Centers and provide guidance on how to screen for qualified employees during the hiring process.”
Businesses looking to hire unemployed Marylanders can work with their local One-Stop Career Centers, where they can obtain information about the tax credit program and identify qualifying prospective employees. A list of One-Stops is available at www.dllr.maryland.gov/county/.
In the past year, the O’Malley-Brown Administration has implemented an aggressive agenda of new and expanded programs to create jobs, retain jobs and improve the conditions that allow businesses large and small to create and save jobs, including:
· Expanding the Small Business Loan Guaranty program to increase access to credit;
· Creating InvestMaryland, an administrative and legislative proposal designed to support the growth of the state’s knowledge based industries by stimulating investment in the Maryland Venture Fund; and
· Modernizing the State’s unemployment insurance trust fund, and maintaining its solvency by leveraging federal funds.
GOVERNOR O’MALLEY APPOINTS STATE PROSECUTOR
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor O’Malley announced the appointment of Emmet C. Davitt as State Prosecutor.
“I am pleased to appoint Emmet Davitt to be the next State Prosecutor,” said Governor O’Malley. “Mr. Davitt is known for his sound judgment, his integrity, and his broad experience in working with law enforcement and grand juries in prosecuting cases across the state.”
Mr. Davitt is currently the Deputy General Counsel for the Public Service Commission of Maryland. He spent much of his career an Assistant Attorney General in the Maryland Attorney General’s Office. For seven years, Mr. Davitt led the Office’s Insurance Fraud Unit, and during that period, he investigated and prosecuted criminal fraud cases in fourteen Maryland counties. As an Assistant Attorney General in the Criminal Appeals Division, Mr. Davitt argued cases on behalf of the State in the state’s two highest courts. In addition, Mr. Davitt spent several years prosecuting felony narcotics cases in the Baltimore State’s Attorney’s Office.
Mr. Davitt received his B.A. from the University of Virginia and J.D. from the University Of Maryland School Of Law. He served as a law clerk to Chief Judge Robert C. Murphy of the Court of Appeals of Maryland and Judge Paul E. Alpert of the Court of Special Appeals of Maryland.
Mr. Davitt will be replacing current State Prosecutor Robert Rohrbaugh, who did not seek reappointment.
The Governor selected Mr. Davitt from a list to sent to him by the State Prosecutor Selection and Disabilities Commission, a seven-person commission created by law, comprised of the Attorney General and appointees of the President of the Senate, Speaker of the House, Maryland State Bar Association, and Maryland State’s Attorneys’ Association.