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Sunday, December 08, 2013

Delmar Middle & High School To Close Half Day Friday

I received word recently that the Delmar Middle & High School will be closing 1/2 day on Friday so the Students and Teachers, (or so they claim) can attend a funeral of a former Teacher who hasn't been involved in the school for more than 12 years. 

Look, with all due respect, this is ridiculous. The school is completely ignoring the reality of thousands of parents who will be subjected to leaving work early. Including STUDENTS as part of their excuse so they too can attend is also ridiculous. Do tell me what current students knew this person who hasn't been around the school for the past 12 years.

I'm sorry but this liberal kind of leadership has gone way too far. Maybe we can view the funeral on WBOC or the Daily Times. After all, this is yet another well respected person from within our community. 

I mean NO disrespect toward this individual or their Family. I'm sure they are honored with the Board of Educations gesture. My concern is the hardship this brings upon thousands of Families. 

Its also pretty sad that so many students have been attending Delmar High School for 12 years now. 

101 comments:

Anonymous said...

That's why dumb kids are getting dumber. Oh, I forgot, they are becoming dumbocrap voters.

Anonymous said...

Jeez no need to be an ass.

Anonymous said...

Where's the mayor stand on this? Parents expect a full days work out of these day care providers.

Anonymous said...

Ridiculous. I agree with you.

Anonymous said...

This is the second time they have closed the school for a funeral this year.

Anonymous said...


Think they should change the manual to provide that if an ex-employee dies on or before Thursday, and is buried on Saturday, then students and staff may have a half day off on Saturday to attend services.

/sarc off

Next they'll be fielding grievances from survivors of other deceased ex and current employees who are not honored in like fashion. Very slippery slope!

Would have been super to grant liberal leave to colleagues and administrators to attend.

Anonymous said...

Joe:
I have been reading your blog now for years and while I don't always agree, I have always told others that I respect you and I like what you do. Some how and some way you always seem to get information that others don't get. With that being said, you really haven't looked into this situation before spouting off your opinion. My name is Craig Yingling and I work at Delmar Middle and High. I am sure I will get trashed on here but I am not afraid to stand behind my name. This death effects probably more staff than students but will effect this community greatly. I won't put the name out there without talking to the family, but both the husband and wife worked in the school. They both come from large families that still have kids, grandkids, nieces and nephews in the schools. Both were great leaders for the kids, coaches and volunteers of their time. The fact that the school closes isn't about taking the time off, it is about having a lack of proper supervision in the building if staff attends the service. It is also about extending the community support, showing respect, and tying this wonderful little town together. You and others are quick to judge the school, the fire department, and others that drive community spirit but it is what makes this town unique. I am not from here but love how this town comes together. I was there the other night when the Pop Warner team was paraded through town. All the people standing on street corners, front porches flipping lights on and off, waving from cars, and gathering at food lion weren't parents of those kids. They were people of this community. The school football team honored a military service veteran this fall by having him be an honoray captain and flip the coin during pregame. That gentleman comes to every practice and every game for at least the last 5 years. He has no relatives within the school. He attends all sporting events home and away for several teams. That is community support and I wish you would have run a story on him. I understand that many are inconvenienced as I am a parent myself, but please don't use your position and the power of your voice to take away from the celebration of this great man's life, from the celebration for his family and extended family and the contributions they have made, and by all means don't crush the community spirit in this wonderful little town.

Anonymous said...

Wow Craig, what an eloquent tribute to the man and the great little town of Delmar! I hope to meet you in person at the service and shake your hand.

JoeAlbero said...

Craig, thank you for publishing your name, I truly admire and respect that.

My point to the Post is the hardship on the thousands of parents subjected to having to tell their employer they have to leave early.

I have understood from the moment I heard about this man that he was an incredible person and well liked in Delmar.

To me, he has already left an incredible legacy and I'm confident even he would understand the hardship this places on many.

What I have written is my OPINION. I have spoken to many people before I even considered drafting this article and they too agree with how I feel. They too are either parents or grandparents who will have to take time off work.

In life we cannot attend every World Series, every Super Bowl, every wedding, every birth, birthday or every funeral, it's life.

I know in my Family if ALL of us cannot attend we will send at least ONE person from my Family to represent the entire Family, it's life.

I just couldn't imagine my Brothers shutting down their businesses or my Sister who is a Principal of a school shutting down her school.

I'll not change my mind on this matter. While unfortunate, life does go on with all due respect. To interrupt thousands of Families and possibly create the hardship of even some being fired over this is just too over the top for me.

Anonymous said...

I disagree with "thousands of families" being impacted by having to take off work. The majority of the students at DMSHS are old enough to go home alone. Of the few "hundred" that cannot go home alone, many of them have older siblings that will be going home with them. I think having a hundred (or less) parents have to take off a half day of work or make other arrangements is worth it for the community to show its respect to Mr. and Mrs. Budd for all of the time they have given to positively impact the "thousands" of students in our community over the years. This is a great opportunity for us to teach our children to show respect for all of the people that give of their own time in order to better the lives of the children in our community. Mr. and Mrs. Budd have given immeasurable amounts of time to our children (current and past) over the years. How can we not honor them with a simple half day.

Anonymous said...

Can I ask you when the students had off for another funeral this year? I know it was a possibility earlier this year for a former teacher, but the funeral was held on a Saturday and school was held as normal. Did I miss something else?

JoeAlbero said...

anonymous 5:23, from what I recall, (and I may stand corrected) they were supposed to close the school for a teacher who had passed away with cancer but the Family changed the arrangements to Saturday to handle the large volume of staff and students planning on attending.

Anonymous said...

My son attends Delmar and I have to say that I see nothing wrong with this. I was born and lived in a big city and never have I seen such wonderful people as here. The entire community is so close, like nothing I experienced where I came from. Please embrace this as the world is a much better place here. Do not lose respect for those who have been so loved. Th kids will not be too hurt by losing a few hours on a Friday. Compassion and respect are a valuable lesson often overlooked. God Bless!

Anonymous said...

over 2/3 s of teachers requested off
That is why hey must close!
CONTRACT ALLOWS THEM TO BE OFF!
God you are stirring us stuff you know nothing about!

Anonymous said...

The Delmar town mentality has changed dramatically since I lived and went to school there.Now they pull together.Then it seemed like it was each person for themselves.Of course that was 25 or so years ago,but the difference is amazing.

Anonymous said...

People in Delmar like to claim they are community oriented but almost no one goes to council meetings and no one wants to run for mayor.

Anonymous said...

have the upmost respect for the budds.linda was like a mother to my daughter and taught her so many things in life while growing up in teaching and coaching. god bless their family thru these hard times.

Anonymous said...

Yes, 8:28, you are correct. No one attends meetings unless they want something. My guess is that they are satisfied with the job being done. Of course, residents dont know what goes on unless people like Joe tell them.

Anonymous said...

No, the school did not close for another funeral nor was there a plan to do so for Ms. Stuearts service. It was held at the school on a Saturday.

Anonymous said...

8:28 there's a little more to a community than running for mayor or attending council meetings.

Anonymous said...

Some have no luxury to take time off work. It is asking a lot.

Why not have the burial on a weekend if so many are requesting to attend and this is so important to the communmity? Can they be more flexible?

Anonymous said...

Common sense is have the ceremony on Saturday.

Anonymous said...

Joe not sure how many people you talked to. Of those many people you talked to did any of them have knowledge of the situation? Pretty clear that many of the staff at DMHS are going to take off so put your self in the shoes of all parties involved. So does the school readily have replacements for 2.3rds of its staff. So what decision did the board of education have tell its employees no you cant go to a funeral? So now you have 2/3rds of your staff disgruntled and moral very low which in turn effects the KIDS. Or the board jumps on the side of its employees and allows everyone to get what they want a 1/2 day for everyone. Your other option was no day at all. Sad to me you have made such an uneducated blog.

It seems to me the Board has taken your advice In life we cannot attend every World Series, every Super Bowl, every wedding, every birth, birthday or every funeral, it's life so with all these life events your really blogging about a half day of school. Your really blogging about 3.5 hours. REALLY 3.5 hours.WOW

Anonymous said...

The family had no idea when the funeral was scheduled that school would close half day or perhaps it would have been scheduled on Saturday. This story could have easily been flipped into a positive about what a legacy this man will leave in delmar. No need to run such negativity when a grieving family is going to be reading it.

Melissa Smith ... Delmar said...

If you are not from Delmar then you have know idea what you are talking about.The Budds are wonderful people who have been involved in Delmar school district for more then 12 years....as friends , teachers , counselor,and coach.Delmar is a close community and take care of each other and for you to comment on something you know nothing about i s just sad. You should be ashamed...

Anonymous said...

I agree that it is ridiculous to close the school. If the family wants students and staff to attend, change it to a Saturday/Sunday! I knew the man, he was a good man, but I can't take off work to attend and now I have to make arrangements for my 12 yr old since he, along with many others, have no idea who this man was and will not be attending.

Unknown said...

I am very sorry that you sir do not understand. No one expects you to.. clearly your not from Delmar because if you ask any parent, student, teacher, or Alumni there would be no question as to how they feel. I would say 90% of these people already had plans to take off work and pull there children out of school to attend. So no one is inconvenienced by the closing of the school. We honor our own to the fullest. Bleeding ORANGE and BLUE for life.. Beth Dayton

Anonymous said...

Yeah....lets just see if the family can arrange the burial around school. Id think it would be hugely tacky to ask the family to do that. This family, if you know them, is too humble to probably even realize the number of lives Mr. Budd impacted.

Anonymous said...

How sad. "Common sense" is to have the ceremony on Saturday. Oh, I'm sorry, common sense doesn't generally prevail when making the final arrangements for your loved one. While I do agree that some parents might find this school closing a "hardship", I heartily disagree that anything should be changed. How about a fog delay? How DARE there be fog when people have to go to work in the morning? You mean to tell me that there are parents that go in late because of fog?! Snow? Any of the above? Oh yes, I understand that fog and snow are generally "natural" things that happen without plan and cannot be helped. Oh wait, so is death. An inevitable part of life, also which cannot be planned or anticipated. Please have some empathy for the family and all of those affected (clearly a vast majority of those in Delmar and surrounding areas) by the loss of such an incredible individual.

Pat Shockley said...

I have lived in Delmar all my life and I have had the pleasure of of being taught by Mr Budd and my children th pleasure of Mrs.Budd as a coach. Trust me is is a pleasure knowing this two people. Delmar residents stick together thru thick and thin, good and bad. We support this family like supported us and our children. If this is the thing you can find to write about take up another hobby, cause I am sure there are more stressing matters.

Anonymous said...

Your 12 year old? Really? Tell the kid to fix a pb & j, do homework, turn on tv and chill. Loosen the apron strings a little.

Anonymous said...

I agree with you Joe. A school should not be closed for a funeral. The family should schedule it for a Saturday, have it at the school if they wish. But, don't effect those who might not want to be effected. Are they going to close down for every funeral in Delmar? Of course not. Aren't those people just as important to their family and friends. Of course they are.

F. Baker said...

Are you jealous the only thing that will close when your dumb a** dies is your little blog? With all do respect of course

JoeAlbero said...

And YOU people wonder why the local media only tells you fluff stories.

IF you had any education you'd realize that people have different opinions about matters.

Some of you have actually been on Facebook talking about harming me. What a bunch of a$$holes.

Grow up people. Learn to agree to disagree and guess what, you might actually make some friends throughout the rest of your life. Or are you the kind of people your always right?

Anonymous said...

Very well said..my family has been on the recieving end of this support and I am grateful to have raised my children in this town, and this school and this kind of support

Anonymous said...

Pretty clear that the people you talked to about this have no idea of the overwhelming support Delmar gives to each other. While I can understand your feeling about the difficulty of making alternate arrangements for your child, this is certainly one of those occasions that people shouldn't mind doing it. Someone said would they close down for everyone. Mr. Budd wasn't "everyone". He was an educator, coach, mentor and counselor at that school for over 30 years. You tend to have an impact on thousands of lives when you are anywhere for that long, especially when you work in the same town you live. I applaud the school board for making this decision!

Anonymous said...

Yeah really, are they going to close the school for every "great educator, coach" etc. No. And yeah Delmar wasn't always a "close knit" little community. If you weren't with the "in" crowd with half your family working at the school, you were on your own.

Anonymous said...

You mean these perfect little Delmar community members are threatening harm?! WHAT?! That perfect little town full of perfect people? No way! (end sarcasm)

Anonymous said...

I have to say. Well said Craig. I too am not from Delmar however my kids were born and raised here and they have grown up with this person and their family. This family has been their for everyone and they deserve to show their respects to him.

Anonymous said...

Yes, 8:40, Delmar is the perfect community, with the perfect school and perfect people. But didn't you hear people say that we stick by each other. "F" with one of us, you "F" with all of us. Oh, and 8:36, don't be a hater because we didn't accept you. You sort of have to want to be accepted. Just saying.

JoeAlbero said...

Well, IF so many people adored this individual, (as so many claim) how many of you are taking off work today to attend? I haven't heard ONE single commenter make mention of that. Very interesting.

Anonymous said...

Half of them don't work, just sayin

Anonymous said...

"Oh, and 8:36, don't be a hater because we didn't accept you"
WOW- that's enough said right there about those perfect Delmar people!

Anonymous said...

Here we go with this " We stick together" BS - People get sick of hearing that from Delmar people

Anonymous said...

That's the problem. Delmar people think they are perfect. Good job Joe for calling out the stupid decision to close a school half a day. Aren't there substitute teachers available for this type of situation?

Tammy (ZivaDiva2010) said...

There are several people taking off work today to attend the services. I am one of them! It is a shame that people are turning the memorial of a respected member of this community into a circus. The Budd family didn't plan the service thinking "Oh tons of people are going to want to attend can we see how much of an impact we can have on the town." No they didn't they planned it for their family to say good-bye to a loved one. Knock off this insanity and treat a family with respect! It doesn't matter if you agree or not a wonderful man lost a battle with a long-term illness and his family need to be treated with respect and concern.

Anonymous said...

Exactly how many substitutes do you think the Delmar school district keeps on hand for this type of thing? And, considering that most of the subs are part of the community and also wished to go to the service, how many do you think would have accepted the job? I'm sorry that people think the wrong thing was done. I don't like hearing some of these things from Delmar residents either. You are making people think we are trashy rednecks. No one can dispute, however, that we do "stick together". I apologize if some of you are tired of hearing it. I realize if you are not a part of it, it would be difficult to comprehend. But don't hate us because you don't understand. Many people who grow up in Delmar tend to stay and raise their own kids here. They graduate and come back to work in the high school where they graduated. Maybe the town wasn't as closely knit years ago. But as children and grandchildren have been born here and are choosing to stay, you have generations now living in the only place they have ever known. They give back to the community just as this gentleman did. I didn't grow up here, but I am now "one of them", and I couldn't be happier.

JoeAlbero said...

To the individual making multiple threatening comments toward me, my Grandson and our Family, grow up. Do you know the definition of insanity? Your comments will always be rejected and never see the light of day. Yet you keep sending them in "anonymously" of course because your a big man, right.

I have been very respectful towards the individual who passed away as well as his Family. I have attacked no one. I have simply shared my own opinion on this matter and I still, (no matter what you say) feel what the Board of Education decided on this matter is over the top wrong.

We, (as taxpayers) PAY enough money to educate our children. In case you hadn't noticed, (especially in Delaware) Teachers get ENOUGH days off for professional days and so forth. They are off at least 2 months out of the year as well.

So quit your belly aching and threats and leave a CHILD alone.

You want to taker off work as an individual for a Family member for a funeral, so be it. In the mean time, (especially as a taxpayer and a Blogger) I have every right to voice my opinion, agree or disagree.

Leave the CHILD out of it.

Anonymous said...

If someone is making threatening comments to Joe, please refrain because that is not right and that is not who we are. The blogspot is his right of freedom of speech, all though I do disagree with his opinions on this matter. I think the post was a little untimely considering it has to do with a death. I feel like after the funeral would of been in better taste. Obviously you knew posting this wasn't going to change the outcome. You should of just waited until after the fact. With that being said I hope you can at least see how tight knit of a community that we, yes even you Joe, reside in.

JoeAlbero said...

Beth, I missed your comment, sorry. I do not moderate most of the comments here. So there is someone who stated they would be taking off work, my mistake.

How people have turned this around is beyond me. I believed I explained my position in a comment a few minutes ago. These Teachers are paid to do a job and are expected to go to work. In today's society, rather than knowing you have to go to work, many feel they can take off for whatever reason.

Send a card, flowers, a representative and if you can take off work by all means attend. Shutting down a huge local institution is simply over the top in my humble opinion.

So hate me or dislike me simply because I share my opinion. Your welcome to say so in comments. However, attacking my Wife and Grandson through threats and harm is just over the top. Especially anonymously.

Anonymous said...

We've Got It Pretty Well Figured Out In Delmar. Great People, No Crime, Great Athletics, And One Of The Highest Rated Academic Programs In The State. Keep Your Opinions To Yourself On Subjects You Have No Clue About. Corey Goff

Anonymous said...

I am willing to bet that anyone posting that it is a ridiculous decision to close the school, doesn't have children that attend this school. Better yet, if you do, and have such a problem with it... please feel free to take your child/children and attend a different school. If you don't go to Delmar then please stay where you are and come no where near this town. We wouldn't want you. To Some having posted its crazy that so many people want to attend a school that makes ridiculous decisions such as this, The reason so many people come here is because parents want their children taught by people like the Mr & Mrs of the family your talking about. We don't ask them to come, they see the difference between this school and many others. Many on here are posting on something & about people you know nothing about. You have it wrong when you say "Delmar People think their Perfect", we do not, but we know this town is PERFECT because the town is full of great people like that great family surrounding this post. At the end of it all, the decision to close the school was to a fact that 2/3 of teachers and staff had requested off. Do you think there are enough subs to cover this? no way. The teachers forced the hand of the administration and school board (most of which will be a the funeral as well). What should they do? Tell teachers they cant take off? Its a simple fact that if they were to continue with school there is not enough staff remaining to support the amount of students (that is of course if NONE of the students attended the funeral themselves, which they will). I've never met you joe but if i did, the conversation would be a great one...

-Squatch

JoeAlbero said...

Corey, Without any doubt Delmar has many great things going for it. However, if you believe that crime is low in Delmar, your mistaken.

There are many drug dealers in Delmar. There is an incredible volume of pedophiles who reside in Delmar.

Crime appears low because you have a Police Chief who is not proactive at all.

I feel for the Police Officers who are trained to do a job but are held back because their boss doesn't want real numbers exposed.

So Corey, I do have a clue as to what is going on in Delmar. Delmar has issues but no one can doubt the other things you mentioned.

Anonymous said...

Yes, Delmar does have one of the highest rated academic programs in the state. And they maintain this even with occasional half days off for unusal circumstances? How do they do it? With the dedication and hard work of good quality teachers like this man was!

Anonymous said...

I agree with Joe on this topic. If you have the leave then take it. The school should not be shut down.

Anonymous said...

for those that think its easy to find the staff for 2/3 of teachers taking off.... please quit your job and come run a school... im sure the parents have been waiting for someone just like you to arrive! and evidently you'd be GREAT! those that say teachers dont do anything then please go and be a teacher so that my child can start getting a education, bc it seems like you have exactly what a great teacher should have! and for anyone that doesn't want to run a school, and doesn't want to teach, but still feel the school should be open.......... please contact the governor and tell him that you really really think that 2/3 of teachers shouldn't be allowed to requested off at any given time... and please include your name when you contact him...... that way he knows exactly who he is laughing at.......

Anonymous said...

As stated, 10:11, they all have the leave to take it. But who would cover for them? Maybe you'd like to volunteer your time?

Anonymous said...

Mr. Albero, my name is Penny Glasgow and yes I am from Delmar and so proud of it! I am so proud that our high school has decided to pay respect to this educator. All one has to do is look at the accomplishments of this school and they will see that we respect our educators to the end. That being said, you are entitled to your opinion and while I disagree with you completely I will respect your opinion. See that is one of then things we are taught in Delmar.....RESPECT!!! Closing the school so teachers and students can pay their respects is a pretty good lesson plan if you ask me.

Anonymous said...

Right Squatch! Wicomico County schools shut down for nothing and no one. They can take their kids there. Oh wait a minute...people complain about them too! I'd say that if this is the only thing people have to say bad about the school district, then they must be doing something right!

JoeAlbero said...

Penny, Thank You for your comment.

Anonymous said...

Agreed...I am a graduate of this school and know the teacher who passed. If you have not lived in this community you cant understand the support we give to each other. We are a family no matter what so that's why the school is closing early today. And I'm positive it will be standing room only at that service.

Anonymous said...

Where were you when they closed the school for the WHOLE DAY because they won the state championship? Now that was ridiculous. Closing 1/2 day on a Friday so the staff can attend a funeral of a retired co-worker is in no way, shape or form ridiculous. There are not enough Subs available to cover for staff. There is not enough funds to cover the subs wages. They are closing 1/2 day so the kids will still go to every class just shortened. They aren't hurting anyone by doing this. I personally did not attend Delmar but both of my kids graduated from there but never had Mr. Budd. I went to laurel and while I didn't have Mrs. Budd, I was attending school there while she was employed in Laurel. Question is why isn't Laurel closing so the staff can show respect to an x employee and her family? Ans: Because Laurel doesn't work that way. Only in a town like Delmar will you see support for their own. If you are a transplant you will never get accepted as one of their own. Much like many small towns across America!

JoeAlbero said...

anomymous 11:59, So that is what makes Delmar so special over Laurel, I see. Thanks for finally waking me up to see the light.

Let me see, does Delmar shut the school down when a hero Firefighter who actually SERVES the Town unconditionally and NOT getting paid for that service passes away????

After all, I do know that the BOE holds the highest respect for ALL of the Volunteers within the DFD for what they provide to the schools and community.

Just wondering, since my eyes are so wide open now.

I'll sit back and wait a few days for your, (and others) response.

Anonymous said...

That is not true, 11:59. I am not from Delmar, though not many people know that. I was obviously accepted just fine if people are still asking what year I graduated from Delmar in. The difference between people who are accepted, and those who are not, is how you choose to embrace the Delmar "way of life". You can constantly degrade the school, the youth programs, complain about noise from the athletic escorts, OR you can get out and go to the football games, volunteer for community programs and the school, and walk around talking to your neighbors and helping them in time of need. I suppose it all boils down to what you want out of your community. You are only going to get out of it, what you put in.

JoeAlbero said...

anonymous 12:10, let's be more specific. I have been in Delmar for about 10 years now. I know there is a massive difference between the Maryland and Delaware sides.

For instance, the Delmar side has a Mayor in office simply because NO ONE would run, so he simply filled the position.

So I'm really not getting what you said. I can also tell you for years many Council seats sat empty because NO ONE would sign up.

So please enlighten me if you'd be so kind.

Anonymous said...

Dag Joe you are really putting these people in their place. You make excellent points. I'm going to keep an tabs on their replies.

Anonymous said...

Joe, I fail to see the comparison. This gentleman was not only a paid employee, but also spent countless hours of his own time in helping people of the community. The people that he worked with and worked for want to celebrate his life. Again, I believe that you are missing the point that there is no possible way to find enough people to fill the absenses of the teachers and staff who want to attend. If the Fire Department had a death there, they would call other stations to cover for them while they mourned the loss of a fellow fire fighter. That has been done countless times. Nothing has been ever said about that. Of course, I guess it was because no one was "inconvenienced" by their deaths and subsequent service. And truth be told, if there were enough of the staff at the high school who wanted to be a part of the grieving process, I am almost sure they would close the school. It's really comparing apples to oranges in this case.

Anonymous said...

Its true. If these people from Delmar gave a crap about their community they would be fighting over a mayor and councel instead of begging. I believe the comments bragging about how tight a community this is are lies.

Anonymous said...

Anon 12:10 We tried to embrace Delmar way of life, my husband volunteered his time coaching little league, was shoved out because he didn't play by their rules and made it about the kids learning and having fun! My daughter was a cheerleader so I did go to every home game and some away games. My son was good at sports and was diagnosed with epilepsy but was then treated like he was a lepper. So you can see why I would have such strong animosity towards the town who touts they are all family. Well they are if you are born and raised there or you have money and/or power. I have seen the community come together for some people and not others in the same situations.

Anonymous said...

Joe...i know it sounds like I'm talking out of both sides of my mouth. As far as your blog goes...it's YOUR blog and are like all of us entitled to your opinion, this is america after all. It's all political in Delmar from little league all the way up the chain. It is all who you know and who you are that counts. As far as the schools closing, i agree with them for the financial burden it would put on them to hire subs for a 1/2 day because that is my tax money being used. I wasn't in the meeting when they made the decision but I can bet it was more about not paying for subs then it was anything else.

Anonymous said...

Joe, This is 12:10. My response was for for 11:59's comment:

"If you are a transplant you will never get accepted as one of their own. Much like many small towns across America!"

And yes, there are huge differences between the two towns as far as politics. But I would think/hope that as far as humanitarians, bith sides are on the same page.

And, just to add, it is indeed sad that Delaware takes what they can get as far as mayor and council is concerned, but who really wants to put themselves out there knowing that there are people like you who will rip them to shreds just for serving.

JoeAlbero said...

anonymous 12:29, Forgive me if I come off stern here. I am a retired businessman who employed thousands of people. IF my employees ALL required me to shut my business down for a funeral, honestly, I'd fire them all.

The Teachers are under contract to do a job. I can assure you, not ALL of these Teachers worked at the high School 12 years ago.

Where does it end?

Using the excuse of substitutes is RIDICULOUS, with all due respect. As I stated way earlier, send representatives like Dr. Ring to represent ALL of the Teachers.

I know this is not what many of you want to hear and I also know my opinion is not well liked by some, if not many. I'm cool with that. However, the students and parents have the right to a FULL education. This pansy, we all have to be there crap is for the birds. Again, with all due respect.

What feeling you are expressing here is wonderful. Do I believe the masses in Delmar love and respect this man, absolutely. It simply should have been handled differently by the BOE and as I stated, this is time you can NEVER replace. Once it is gone you can NEVER get it back.

IF so many liberals actually believe it was all about the students and followed their own protocol, well, this would not be happening today.

I'll add, the school canceled an event today because the teachers are taking off. It's just plain wrong.

Anonymous said...

12:10 again. I'm sorry you feel that way 12:24 and 12:29. My children were also involved in organizations and I never felt those things were political. I never felt that me or my children counted for little. I cannot say why I was "accepted" so readily, I just know that I was. I didn't know a soul when I came here, so the theory about "who you know" doesn't hold for me.

JoeAlbero said...

anonymous 12:31, I have proven over the years that when and if you do what the majority want within the best interest of the community I will praise them to no end. Many of those titles were named give credit where credit is due. I have no problem swallowing pride and if I'm wrong I'll admit it publicly.

When you get in the political arena you know what your facing. While many could never handle such a job, (again, with all due respect) those people in office expect it.

Are you suggesting the media shut their mouths on the Jake Day issue recently? Are we to shut up when the Delmar DE Mayor screws up? Are we supposed to keep quiet about crime and risk the safety of the public instead?

A big enough person will admit to their mistakes or go down fighting and I respect that too. It's called agreeing to disagree.

Anonymous said...

Joe, that begs the question...aren't teachers given pto in their contracts? So if 80% of them use their PTO today, who would be left to teach the kids? Pay a sub, who will, btw, do nothing but babysit. I'm guessing it's all in the way you look at it. I'm looking at it only on a financial basis. I don't have kids in the school anymore, so really doesn't matter to me whether they close or not. I already don't like paying tax for school when I have no kids that go there anymore, but that is something that always has been and always will be that can't be fought. It's also another blog topic! LOL OH and like i originally said they CLOSED FOR A WHOLE DAY JUST FOR WINNING A FOOTBALL TITLE! Now THAT was RIDICULOUS!! So if they can do that, then i don't see the big deal of closing a 1/2 day for a funeral.

Anonymous said...

It's the personal things about someone I don't agree with airing. I am all for transparancy. The people have a right to know. But some things are better left unsaid. That's all I'm saying.

JoeAlbero said...

anonymous 12:54, OK, I'll bite, Do tell me the personal things that have been said about Delmar?

Anonymous said...

You've been in Delmar for 10 years??? Thought you lived in Salisbury isn't that how you ran for Mayor?? Or did you falsify your records?

JoeAlbero said...

anonymous 1:25, Should I be more specific to satisfy your needs Jonathan?

OK, I've owned property in Delmar for 10 years. I also own property in Willards for 10 years, Ocean City for 13 years, Pittsville for 10 years, Salisbury for 8 years, shall I go on???

Anonymous said...

You make a great point about the funeral of a volunteer fire fighter. They wouldn't shut the school down. This has become a big topic of discussion today and every single person discussing it agrees with Joe. No we are not from Delmar.

Anonymous said...

Exactly the point 2:21. If you were from Delmar, you may feel differently. As it stands, we really don't care what you think.

Anonymous said...

The Maryland side of Delmar is much better then the Delaware side.

Anonymous said...

i think it's a very nice gesture to close the school however, in my humble opinion, maybe instead of closing the school they could have offered an excused absence to anyone who did attend or want to attend the service. public schools are not privately funded with the ability to open and close at will. it sounds like this person was quite a pillar of the community and it's possible that many substitutes or maybe aides that weren't close to this person could have covered classes for a couple hours while the teachers that wanted or needed to go attended. there are many ways to come together as a community.

Anonymous said...

Why would you say Maryland is better than Delaware?

Anonymous said...

Joe,
Doesn't your son/grandson attend Delmar Middle School using your Delmar,DE residence address? Did you have to take off time from your negative space to watch him? Is that why you oppose?

If so, that means you have to physically reside in Delmar in order for that to occur...at least you are supposed to.

Anonymous said...

Well, I hope everyone is happy today. Not only does the family get to mourn their loss, they also get to feel guilt for causing a controversy on a blog. Truly, I respect your opinion, I really do, but this was a little over the top. Those people concerned, yourself included Mr. Albero, were all notified of the Delmar School Board's decision and the position on this matter. You had the same opportunity as everyone else to call the school to voice your opinion and concerns and ask that their decision be reconsidered. There was no purpose in this post other than to draw attention to this matter and create controversy. The excuse that you wanted to let people know doesn't apply here since those that NEEDED to know did.

Anonymous said...

Thank you 3:30. Finally a voice of reason.

Anonymous said...

It's Weird That Some People On Here Don't Think Delmar Is A Great Town/School Yet It's Expensive As Hell To Find A House In The Delmar School District And It Takes An Act Of God To Get In Through School Of Choice Now. Explain That

Gary B said...

I am from Springfield Illinois and went to Griffin high school, an all boys Catholic school, and in 1970, we had a similar thing happen. A past major player and community leader passed, and 2/3 of the school wanted to attend during the week (more affordable) funeral.
So, without full staff, there was an Assembly in the gym with educational and entertaining movies designed to inspire the students.

Waaaaaay outside the "box".

I doubt anyone could imagine that today, though.

Anonymous said...

Joe... anybody making threats... post their "data", and they will be taken care of.

Anonymous said...

JoeAlbero said...
Well, IF so many people adored this individual, (as so many claim) how many of you are taking off work today to attend? I haven't heard ONE single commenter make mention of that. Very interesting.

December 6, 2013 at 8:47 AM

I was thinking the same thing Joe. Good point.

Anonymous said...

If honoring this man is so important then plan a celebration of life ceremony somewhere to involve the friends & family on their own time. Closing down school is not necessary and i agree if the school could of had a afternoon with a movieave a TV, computers for practice and other educational activities to fill the day. he

Fog delay is a safety issue for one extremist previous poster.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous said...
We've Got It Pretty Well Figured Out In Delmar. Great People, No Crime, Great Athletics, And One Of The Highest Rated Academic Programs In The State. Keep Your Opinions To Yourself On Subjects You Have No Clue About. Corey Goff

December 6, 2013 at 9:57 AM

If you were educated at the highest rated academic program in the state I feel sorry for you because you have the poorest grammar in the state. Who taught you to capitalize every word in your paragraph?

Anonymous said...

Post their data and they will be taken care if? So laughable and predictable.

Anonymous said...

Anon 6:57. I Stated My Name Jackass. Its Corey Goff. And My Phone Is Capitalizing All The Words On Its On For Some Unknown Reason, But Thank You For Your Useless Comment On The Subject.

Ree Colinson said...

There are too many real problems in this world than to spend so much time being critical of closing school for half a day so the school community could pay respect to a much deserving family.

So many (or perhaps only a few multi repeaters)have been down right mean and others have commented so far off subject its unreal.

From knowledge, loved ones do not and should not be required to plan burials thinking "the day has to suit everyone in attendance". For you ignorant folks who think the family used poor judgement by having the service on Friday your opinion does not count.

Instead of a grieving family being overwhelmed from the love, support and respect shown them by their community, they will now remember this day for "the trashing and hateful comments written on a blog". Sad as they deserve much better.

Anonymous said...

A few things. Living in Delmar is great, but sometimes we come off wrong in the surrounding community by the way we present what it means to live here. We have a lot of pride in our town and the heart of it all is our children. Most people would probably say our school, but if you've ever been to a little league game or other non-school event then you know it isn't just our schools, but the kids who we celebrate and support.


We really aren't trying to be arrogant when we talk about Delmar. We just feel very lucky to be a part of such a community. If you live elsewhere and love it there then I am sincerely happy for you. If you live elsewhere and are interested in moving to a community like Delmar then I welcome you to join us. Call Pam Price.

See you at the Christmas Parade today at 2pm!

Merry Christmas!

Anonymous said...

More like when there is poor planning it causes multiple issues, disturbs many and reveals where improvements need to be. No doubt this will happen again somewhere in our county when a beloved teacher passes.

JoeAlbero said...

Well, that being said 12:47, make a commitment NOW. If a Teacher passes away, funerals are to be held on Saturday. ANY Teacher or Family that chooses to hold it on a week day will understand UP FRONT not to expect co workers and or students to attend.

Unknown said...

Hello Joe I think the school did the right thing to close and show their respect. Closing a couple hours early in my opinion was not that big a deal. I have three grandsons there and they understood it was for a good reason.It showed a true life lesson of respect and honor. From a past Delmar student Heidi Coleman Glasgow Thanks for letting me share my opinion.

Anonymous said...

I'm with 6:57. Your comment is whack 8:17! You sure is special.