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BREAKING NEWS: Crimea votes to secede from Ukraine, official says

With more than half of the ballots counted, election official says 95 percent of Crimean voters approve reuniting with Russia in referendum denounced by the United States and the Ukrainian government.

From Fox News

WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM THIS EVENING TO 5 PM EDT MONDAY

WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM THIS EVENING TO 5 PM EDT MONDAY,

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN WAKEFIELD HAS ISSUED A WINTER STORM WARNING FOR SNOW AND SLEET,WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM THIS EVENING TO 5 PM EDT MONDAY. THE WINTER STORM WATCH IS NO
LONGER IN EFFECT.

AREAS AFFECTED: THE LOWER MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE.

HAZARDS: SNOW AND SLEET.

ACCUMULATIONS: 3 TO 6 INCHES OF SNOW AND SLEET.

TEMPERATURES: UPPER 20S TO LOWER 30S.

WINDS: NORTHEAST 15 TO 25 MPH WITH GUSTS TO 35 MPH.

TIMING: TONIGHT THROUGH MONDAY AFTERNOON. THE HEAVIEST SNOW IS EXPECTED TONIGHT INTO EARLY MONDAY MORNING.

IMPACTS: ROADS WILL BECOME SNOW COVERED AND SLIPPERY. TRAVEL WILL BE DANGEROUS,ESPECIALLY SUNDAY NIGHT THROUGH THE MORNING RUSH ON MONDAY.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS,

A WINTER STORM WARNING MEANS SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW, SLEET,AND ICE ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. STRONG WINDS ARE ALSO POSSIBLE. THIS WILL MAKE TRAVEL VERY HAZARDOUS OR IMPOSSIBLE

Tomorrow Starts Something New On Salisbury News

Starting Monday morning Salisbury News will be delivering news and information 24 hours a day Monday through Friday. 

Over the years we have grown so out of control, I noticed on Friday and Saturdays when we published news 24 hours, our traffic in the middle of the night skyrocketed.

This means people working the night shift and or are up late or very early in the morning came to see what we had available. 

That being said, you'll see articles every hour starting at 1 AM. Most hours you'll see articles every 1/2 hour and even every 15 minutes. Not for nothing Folks but this puts a lot more pressure on what we do but I think it will be worth it in the end. 

Thanks again for visiting Salisbury News and we hope you'll like the new format. 

SFD Calls For Service 3-15-14

• Saturday March, 15 2014 @ 22:28:29Nature: Medical AssistAddress: 710 Priscilla St Salisbury, MD 21801
• Saturday March, 15 2014 @ 22:28:17Nature: Unresponsive PatientCity: Salisbury
• Saturday March, 15 2014 @ 19:24:27Nature: Pi AccidentCity: Salisbury
• Saturday March, 15 2014 @ 18:37:40Nature: Sick SubjectCity: Salisbury
• Saturday March, 15 2014 @ 16:40:59Nature: Abdominal PainCity: Salisbury
• Saturday March, 15 2014 @ 15:03:09Nature: Difficulty BreathingCity: Salisbury
• Saturday March, 15 2014 @ 14:40:02Nature: Difficulty BreathingCity: Salisbury
• Saturday March, 15 2014 @ 14:40:00Nature: Difficulty BreathingCity: Salisbury
• Saturday March, 15 2014 @ 14:04:40Nature: Diabetic DifficultyCity: Salisbury
• Saturday March, 15 2014 @ 13:48:30Nature: Difficulty BreathingCity: Salisbury

The Week In Review

The posts below with today's date were the most popular posts for last week.

BREAKING NEWS: Department of Legislative Services Issues Scathing Audit Report For Wicomico County Public School System - Numerous Infractions Cited

The Maryland Department of Legislative Services just released its latest audit for the Wicomico County Public School System.  The last time the school system was audited was in 2008.

First off - there are so many infractions I don't hardly know where to begin.  But here are some of the highlights:

• WCPS Credit Card Purchases totaled $162,000 from local fast food or restaurant merchants over a 2 year period.   However, the State standard prohibits purchases from restaurants and gift cards.

• Gift card purchases - 250 potential gift cards totaling $27,000 (Gift cards are prohibited by State policy as they are difficult to control). 

• School employees being arbitrarily promoted skipping incremental pay grades - i.e. 25 increases in which the methodology was not used, resulting in additional annual wages totaling approximately $69,000.  One employees salary went from $28,957 to $37,908 which is $8,951 more than required under the method specified in the agreement.

• School bus contractors padding mileage resulting in overpayment of services.  Then - even after discovering the abuse, the overpayment was deducted from future earnings.  The WCPS - 'did not always ensure the accuracy of bus contractor reported time and mileage information . . .'

• Food Services - Operations revenues exceeded expenses by $508,000, while revenue transfers were conducted from the general fund.  This was not just limited to a 1 year occurrence - but several times.

• Schools lacked procedures and controls to ensure the propriety of payments for certain employee and retiree health care costs.

• Lacking internal controls in several financial areas - specifically in regards to ensure that payroll transactions processed were proper. 

• WCPS self-insured medical plan was not included in the OLA audit - although payments to the administrator totaled 25.8 million in plan year 2012, including a 1.4 million fee paid for the administrator.

I could go on and on - even so far as critiquing the bidding practices for contractural work like A&E services.  You have to see it to believe it - here is the link to the actual OLA Audit Report - (click onto Link to see Audit).

Article by SBYnews Executive Editing Staff

We cannot encourage you enough to take the time to READ the entire document. What I will say is, the audit was very well drafted and NOT difficult at all to follow. You simply have to take the time to read it. Once you do, you will probably see the largest amount of comments we've ever seen, (should everyone actually read it). The Board of Education is OUT OF CONTROL. Remember Ladies & Gentlemen, the BOE is the largest portion of the tax payers budget.

Weekend Warrior Project

Whenever you want to do something you know your not supposed to do, do it on the weekend when no one is around.

That's what happened in this case when the owner of this building removed the "historic" windows out of the building and replaced them with new ones.

No permits were visible and nothing was displayed from the Historic Society before, during or after the windows were installed. 

The Owner, John Robinson, is a close friend of the Mayor and a big contributor to his campaign. 

Prettyman Brings Raises Back To The Table

Just as we expected, Stevie Prettyman has formally asked Council President Matt Holloway to bring the recently rejected pay raises back to the table Tuesday night and Holloway has agreed to do so. 

Here's the catch. Gail Bartkovich will be on a plane when the Council Meeting takes place, so the vote will be overturned and everyone will get their raises.

Nice going away present Stevie. 

Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. John Flamos

Moments ago the final documents were signed and the Flamos Family are now the new owners of 300 W. Main Street.

This is very exciting news for those who are excited about the revitalization of Downtown Salisbury.

Coming Soon, a new Wine Bar / Restaurant. It's been their dream to create a unique environment unlike anything Salisbury has ever seen and I'm personally very excited for them. 

Construction will start in the very near future and within a few months you should see a whole new environment on that corner.

I'd like to thank Joey Gilkerson for doing an incredible job listing and selling the property. This young man truly has his act together and it was a pleasure doing business with him. 

The Timing Couldn't Be Better To Have This Discussion About Mayor Ireton And The BOE

There are around ten to twelve people working for the Board of Education who have a very special deal worked out, Ireton is one of them.

You see, these are people who only work Part Time, yet they get Full Time Benefits. Ireton rarely works at all, gets 1/2 pay but gets Full Time Insurance, credit for Full Time Retirement and holds a Part Time job working as Mayor of Salisbury. Did I mention he's enjoyed these benefits for almost six years now.

Again, this is yet another area in which the recent AUDIT somehow didn't pick up on, I wonder why? I say that because even when an Auditor can't pick up on certain and hidden gems like this, how can we expect the Board to know what's going on, full scale wise?

There are some within the BOE who are outraged that Jim Ireton and another Bakers Dozen are using the taxpayers for a free ride with barely any work at all. Let Jim Ireton deny this publicly and I'll deliver someone who isn't afraid to go public with their evidence. 

Mr. Fredericksen needs to be held accountable for the numerous people we are paying for no real work while they also enjoy full time benefits. 

Just the facts people.

WICOMICO COUNTY EDUCATORS BULLIED BY MSEA

MSEA THREATENS LOCAL UNION FOR CONTROL

In a move to lower union dues, improve representation of its members and regain local control over their economic future and the education of our children, Wicomico County Education Association (WCEA) has begun the process to terminate its affiliation with Maryland State Education Association (MSEA).

“MSEA hasn’t adequately given our members the representation they have been paying for. WCEA sends $537,000 this year to MSEA in dues and our members deserve significantly better services,” said WCEA President Kelly Stephenson. “We have seen more MSEA representatives in this town in the past few weeks than we have seen in 8 years!”

“WCEA members have been bombarded with email blasts, visits from MSEA staff and threatened with legal action, when all the members want is to meet the needs of our students based on this community’s values and principles, not the agenda of Annapolis,” stated Stephenson.

WCEA is the exclusive bargaining representative that negotiates with the Wicomico County Board of Education on behalf of the certificated and classified employees; contract negotiations are presently underway.

Finally, WCEAwill continue efforts to collaborate with others to advocate for improvements in public education, but WCEA members deserve better service, lower dues, and full local control of their futures.

WICOMICO COUNTY EDUCATORS BULLIED BY MSEA

What would you do for $537,000?

Wicomico County Education Association (WCEA) began the process to keep that amount of money from going to Maryland State Education Association (MSEA) each year by taking back local control of its union and future relationship with Wicomico County Schools. But, MSEA is fighting back with every tactic exhibited by a playground bully, including misrepresentations, threats and badgering WCEA members.

“MSEA hasn’t adequately given our members the representation they have been paying for. WCEA sends $537,000 this year to MSEA in dues and our members deserve significantly better services,” said WCEA President Kelly Stephenson. “We have seen more MSEA representatives in this town in the past few weeks than we have seen in 8 years!”

“MSEA Representative Assembly today will vote on two more dues increase for its members over the next two years and WCEA members are saying enough! No longer can we keep sending money to Annapolis that could be used to our members to meet their own family’s needs,” stated Stephenson.

WCEA is the exclusive bargaining representative that negotiates with the Wicomico County Board of Education on behalf of the certified and classified employees.

WBOC Pampers Board Of Education Story Last Night

Man, were you watching Salisbury News on Channel 16 last night, OR WHAT?

Remember the old saying, "a day late and a dollar short"? Well, how about "Days late and many dollars short" instead!

Heck, I think we published the Sheriff Lewis video close to a WEEK ago and of course the Board of Education story WBOC conveniently left out the $160,000.00 worth of lunches Fredericksen spent in the last two years. 

Nevertheless, it was a Salisbury News Wrap Up of the week on WBOC last night. Have they no shame?  Do they really believe people weren't watching and thinking, hey, I saw all this a WEEK ago on Salisbury News. 

Could you just imagine if we had the money and staff that they do, what we could really do here on the Shore. Hey, even without all their money we are days ahead of the local media and that goes to show you the most important thing. People now trust Salisbury News more with their news and information than they do with the rest of the local media.

I just love how WBOC pounds their chest with "Delmarva's News Leader" crap. Oh, just as a REMINDER, WBOC still refuses to report the Airport "Draper One Approach" story. Must be based on the gravy deal they're getting parking their helicopter there. 

Deputy: ‘Oh God, Forgive Me!’

Officer weeps after shooting 70-year-old man with cane

(THE STATE) YORK COUNTY, SC — The York County Sheriff’s deputy who shot a 70-year-old man reaching for his cane during a traffic stop last month wept and begged God to forgive him after he fired about six shots at the man, according to the deputy’s dash cam video released Wednesday afternoon.

During a news conference at the York County Detention Center, Sheriff Bruce Bryant said deputies reviewed video of the incident “time and time and time again” and feel that Deputy Terrance Knox did nothing wrong when he fired his service weapon during a traffic stop on U.S. 321 in Clover at about 7:30 p.m. Feb. 25. He also said he does not believe the victim, Bobby Canipe of Lincolnton, N.C., did anything “intentionally” wrong when he stepped out his car and began walking toward Knox while grabbing his walking cane.

Still, Bryant said he plans to speak with the state General Assembly and state Sheriff’s Association and push for legislation requiring state and even federal highway officials to add instructions in driver’s manuals on what to do when motorists are stopped by police officers.

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Citizen's Letter To Wicomico County Council President Regarding Forensic Audit of BOE

Dear Council President,

It's one experience to sit as the Council President and take administration action on resolutions introduced by Council Administrator Creamer and quite another experience to sit in that same chair and direct action for others to take for the good of all the citizens of the County.  What I am asking is that you take direct action in two different areas for the good of everyone in Wicomico County.  The first area involves the financial security of our county.  I ask that you have a forensic audit of the BOE conducted to find out exactly what has gone wrong financially, who was responsible and see if there was any misconduct that could impact on the county.

Second, I understand that one of our council personnel is upset and wants to bring up the issue of pay raises again. As a leader I am sure you already recognize that this is now a past issue and we can't continually bring issues up again and again just because someone gets upset. Also as a leader and businessman you know that there is no way the county should be voting on any issues that  involve spending revenues when we have had solid reports that show we have a severely declining revenue source. This is simply bad business. I'm sure our bond rating agencies would have a very bad impression of the way we do business here in Wicomico County considering what has just transpired. Any increase in expenditures should definitely be tabled until after all budget hearings are over with and we know exactly where we stand. Being Council President and acting as a leader for the county can be two totally different positions. I hope you choose the right one.

John Palmer, Delmar, Md.

Chamber President Wants To Work To Create 200 - 300 Local Entrepreneurs

That's a BIG goal! One thing I will say, there's certainly enough available commercial space to house them.

However, I have to wonder if the Chamber President Brad Gillis is going about this properly. 

You see, the Eastern Shore is a very specialty marketplace and must be treated as such. 

The Chamber is concentrating on local college graduates to stick around and open businesses, something we've heard for many years now, yet it is rarely accomplished. 

After student loans, the majority of graduates face the reality of having to start paying back those loans. Sorry Folks but that's NOT going to happen sticking around Salisbury, (for the majority, that is). 

I'm learning more each day to be patient with our younger generation leaders. Like everyone else, I want to believe in their enthusiasm but in the end I'm a realist with many years of background and experience in business.  

I have my own finances to support opening a business locally but would I, no. Not on a small scale anyway. Why, because I'm not interested in opening a business just to create jobs for others while taking a massive financial risk in the hopes I'll see a proper return on my investment. I'd rather be smarter and invest on the other side of the Bay Bridge where there is no recession or depression. I'd rather pay a much higher rent where I know there's a future and security in jobs and a good financial return on my investment. 

That's why I said earlier that the Eastern Shore is a specialty marketplace. More specifically Salisbury and Wicomico County, I should add. The trick is, just what kind of business can you open up here and do well. I've been thinking about that for the past 12 years and I truly and honestly can't think of one. Not one that will assure me, (or almost assure me) of a decent financial return. 

That brings me to the following. Just what is the Chamber suggesting are such viable business ideas in which they feel we should retain 200 to 300 entrepreneurs? I hear the talk but I do not hear the answers. I want to show my support and I'd love to play a part of such enthusiasm but as a realist, I just can't see it at the moment. 

There are lines 50 people deep outside the Opportunity Shop before they open their doors. They're only open two days a week and sell clothes for 50 cents. God Bless them for what they do and offer to this community but honestly Folks, can you think of another private entity in Salisbury that can draw crowds in which you can actually make such a decent living you can retire on it one day?

I'm all ears. 

JUST IN: Senate Passes Marijuana Decriminalization Bill

The Maryland Senate has passed a measure making marijuana possession a civil offense.

The body approved Sen. Robert Zirkin’s bill 36-8 on Friday after relatively little debate.

In their final push to get it passed, Zirkin and Sen. Christopher Shank argued states with similar laws have not seen surges in teens’ marijuana use. About 18 other states impose fines instead of criminal charges.

More

Salisbury Council Asked To Help Fund Fireworks

SALISBURY — Red, White and Boom organizers in Salisbury are requesting that the City Council return to a former practice of financially supporting Independence Day fireworks in the city.

The event is looking for a $10,000 donation and whether the city supplies the full amount, several council members want to see some kind of concession made.

At the very least, Council President Jake Day feels that “a nominal amount” of money needs to come from the city to help fund the fireworks.

“I think it’s an opportunity to fix what’s pretty embarrassing, that we don’t support our own fireworks in the city of Salisbury,” he said.

The fireworks show has become popular in the city despite being in its infancy.

More

Smart Meter Debate Intensifies At Resort Meeting; Delmarva Power Officials Defend Smart Meters

OCEAN CITY — Residents got a broad overview on several issues related to Delmarva Power’s installation of smart meters in the resort and across the region during an at times testy meeting on Wednesday.

Delmarva Power last fall began installing smart meters at residences and business throughout Ocean City and across the Lower Shore. The smart meters are part of a larger initiative to upgrade the utility’s electricity distribution system while allowing consumers to better manage energy use and streamline billing.

Almost from the beginning, however, the installation of smart meters has raised serious concerns in the community, from health worries over the potentially harmful effects of the radio frequency they transmit to security and privacy issues. Also at issue are the costs associated with the new meters and an opt-out provision for those who prefer to keep their traditional analog meters.

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A Comment Worthy Of A Post 3-14-14

Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "New Director For Worcester Humane Society":

To the new JoeAlbero of March 14, 2014 at 10:06 AM

I am so glad you decided to chime into Contributor's article on Linda Luna.

In no way did I realize you felt this way about our Police Officers or Firefighters or Linda, In no way did I guess there could be another side to a story.

All the years of reading this blog with all its vile comments from you and and your viewers, this is certainly not the image I gleamed. So glad you now have changed your ways.. What light bulb went off that caused you to wake up to these facts?

First of all, this is EXACTLY what so many people have been trying to express to the "nay sayers' for years. YOU have to get to know ME personally to know who and what I'm about. My heart is always in the right place. Thousands of people learned that when I campaigned door to door for the Mayoral election.

Just because I don't like seeing Fire Trucks out and about buying groceries does NOT mean I dislike Firefighters. Just because I disagree with Sheriff Mike Lewis on certain issues does NOT mean I dislike Mike or Police Officers.

For far too long I have been targeted as a bad guy because I disagree with certain LEADERS. I have that right. I simply have a venue in which tens of thousands of people come to each and every day. I'm NOT saying ANYTHING different than the majority of you are thinking anyway. I simply put my name on the line and for that I am easily criticized.

Don't feel bad for me, I know what I got myself into and I stand behind everything we do here. Look, I like Martin O'Malley, as a Father, a Husband and as a Person. He's a great guy. I can say the same about Mike Lewis, Rick Pollitt, Stevie Prettyman, (not as a husband) Tom Stevenson and Rick Hoppes. I simply do NOT agree with their politics at times. The same can be said about Linda Lugo. 

I think, in the end, people tend to dislike me because I have the stones to put things out there that NO ONE else would dare. In the end, the FACT that we receive so many hits per day proves that love me or hate me, we do things no one else will do and YOU have every opportunity to voice your opinion, agree or disagree. 

In closing, I've NOT changed at all, (as you suggest). You are just getting to know me better, is all. 

Lobster-Eating Food Stamp Recipient Refuses Hannity's Job Help

The saga of a surfing, lobster-eating food stamp recipient continued on "Hannity" as the 29-year-old refused Sean's assistance in finding a paying job.

You may remember Jason Greenslate from his interview with Bill O'Reilly's producer Jesse Watters. Greenslate was first captured on camera by Fox News while purchasing lobster with taxpayer-funded food stamps.

Wearing sunglasses and smoking an electronic cigarette on set, Greenslate told Hannity that he hasn't worked in a year for pay, but that he considers his band practice his job.

Hannity pointed out that Greenslate rides around in a Cadillac Escalade and frequents strip clubs, all while receiving government assistance and not working at a job that actually pays.
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Sheila Jackson Lee Has No Idea Which Century America Was Founded

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Wicomico County Taxpayers Have A History Of Double Dipping Legislators & The Board Of Education

The Maryland Legislative Audit should be brought back to investigate BOE employee double-dipping.  Delegate Norman Conway has been getting away with it for years.  With the advent of the electronic media - we have captured a transcript of his salary for FY - 2000 verses FY - 2004.
Remember folks, he has also been serving as a Delegate on the Maryland General Assembly and was also collecting from that entity.  Now - this helps to understand why Wicomico doesn't have an elected school board.

FY - 2000 Salary - Norman Conway $63,126 + $7,014
FY - 2004 Salary - Norman Conway $77,920

 

New Director For Worcester Humane Society

WEST OCEAN CITY — Ending months of uncertainty and speculation, the Worcester County Humane Society this week announced it has named a new director.

Worcester County Humane Society members have tapped Linda Lugo to fill the post left vacant by the departure of longtime director Kenille Davies late last year. Lugo brings a wide range of animal shelter experience to the position. She started her career in 1994 as a kennel attendant for the Wicomico Animal Shelter before ascending to the position of director, which she held for the last 10 years. Lugo said this week she is excited about her new position with the Worcester County Humane Society.

“I am over-the-top-of-moon, child at Christmas excited,” she said. “There are a lot of amazing WCHS staff and volunteers. I can’t wait to work with them and plan on hitting the ground running.”

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LAW ENFORCEMENT ARGUES AGAINST MARIJUANA DECRIMINALIZATION, LEGALIZATION

ANNAPOLIS – Dozens of uniformed law enforcement officials from around Maryland showed up at the state capital on Thursday to push back against advancing efforts by some legislators to loosen the state’s marijuana laws.

“We as legislators, we as law enforcement officers, we have a duty and a responsibility to protect our children,” Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis said at a hearing before the House Judiciary Committee.

Lewis and other opponents also voiced concerns about the dangers surrounding marijuana earlier in the day during a press conference, which at one point erupted into an angry debate between one speaker, substance abuse consultant Mike Gimbel, and a handful of marijuana reform supporters who were gathered outside the committee room where the hearing was held.
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What's The Best Job To Have In Wicomico County, Being A Thief!

Time and time again, year after year, taxpayers of Wicomico County have been victims of THEFT and have barely seen any real relief.

IF is wasn't for this recent State Audit, YOU would have NEVER known that a Bus Driver Contractor was stealing from you. 

Now, IF this was YOUR business and someone falsified documents in order to steal from your company, would you immediately fire them? The obvious answer is, absolutely, yes. 

However, NOT in Wicomico County. We saw the County Executive relieve a dozen or so admitted thieves from the County Landfill fiasco not only NOT go to jail, they retained their jobs. 

Now we're seeing the very same with the Board of Education. WHERE IS STATES ATTORNEY MATT MACIARELLO WHEN YOU NEED HIM? Know that Matt could NOT have known this because it was never reported. 

Oh hey, I forgot to mention the Liquor Dispensary. Is there any other department in the County I may have forgotten about? The County Council gets a free lunch every meeting and so does the Zoo Commission. They admittedly steal that money right out of the cash boxes where people make donations to feed the animals, not the Zoo Commission. 

Jim Mathias Votes Again For O’Malley’s Budget

ANNAPOLIS -- Senator Jim Mathias (D – Somerset, Wicomico & Worcester Counties) voted for Governor Martin O’Malley’s $39 billon budget (Senate bill 170). The budget includes a $1.5 billion increase in state spending over the previous year.

“Voting for O’Malley’s reckless budgets is not conservative leadership. This amounts to nothing more than surrendering to the tax-and-spend liberals that dominate the State Senate,” said Delegate Mike McDermott (R – Worcester & Wicomico Counties).

The budget includes over $72 million in funding for Obamacare in Maryland, including the failed healthcare exchange.

In addition, this budget steals $400 million from the state employee pension system over the next two years to fund O’Malley’s out of control spending.

This budget continues to steal highway user revenue from our county and city governments, which for decades was always a dedicated source of funding for local roads. This makes it more difficult for lower shore counties and cities to even maintain their roads let alone to conduct paving projects.

Senator Mathias has a long history of voting for Governor Martin O’Malley’s budgets. He has supported and voted for every budget proposed by Governor O’Malley and has included over $10 billion in increased state spending since they both took office.

Senator Mathias also voted against a pro business amendment that would have reduced state spending by a meager 1%, as well as a pro life amendment that would have eliminated $10 million in embryonic stem cell research funding.

Delegate McDermott concluded, “Once again, Jim Mathias had a chance to stand up for taxpayers on the Eastern Shore against Martin O’Malley and the liberals who rule the General Assembly. Instead, he chose to stay in his seat”.

Main Street Delmar Closed Due To Building Collapsing

Line Road, (Rt. 54) running through both Delmar Maryland and Delaware has been closed due to the structural integrity of the building immediately to the left of this photo. 

The South East wall of the building collapsed Wednesday afternoon. A structural engineer was brought in and recommended they close the road down. 

It is expected the road will be closed until Monday evening, (at the earliest) around 5:00 PM. 

Suspect In Custody

Eastern Shore Fire/EMS/Police Breaking News

**********SUSPECT in CUSTODY**********
Easton MD
The suspect involved in the police chase with shots being exchanged between IDOT and MSP has been apprehended. This is a reminder to the criminals that your actions will be accounted for. You can run but you can't hide! 
Great Job to all. Everyone Goes Home.

Did You Know This?

SOCIAL SECURITY becomes "FEDERAL BENEFIT PAYMENT"

Have you noticed, the Social Security check is now referred
to as a "Federal Benefit Payment"?

It's a fact. I was talking to my Father last night about this and he confirmed it. 

BENEFIT??? 

Let's hear what YOU have to say about this.

Many Local Non Profit's Breaking The Law

Salisbury News came to learn this morning that ALL of the Basket Bingo Events and Fundraisers that includes auctioning wine or liquor in the Basket, (without a temporary liquor licence) is against the law. It is illegal to auction off liquor of any kind.

You can GO HERE to see the laws and regulations.  It's actually quite interesting because a LOT of local organizations have been doing this, (including the Board of Education) but were probably not privy to the actual laws on this matter. 

Know now, you have been educated and ALL of the organizations using this practice need to stop doing so immediately, unless you buy the proper permits and follow the rules. 

Wicomico Economic Data Chart - UPDATE

As most of our readers know, SBYnews tries to keep our daily visitors informed on the inner workings of our Government.

The spreadsheet below - includes pertinent economic data as it relates to our local economy.  We have custom developed these spreadsheets so as to help our readers to stay informed.  Below are listed some highlights that reflect on our local economy;

1.  Dwindling Sales Tax Collections - despite a 1% increase in the State's sales tax rate - (5% to 6%)

2.  Declining number of taxable State Income Tax returns yet the population is increasing 

3.  Declining Per Capita Net Taxable Incomes

You make the determination for yourself - are you better off today than you were before Obama was elected?  The facts speak for the themselves - READ ON

Article by Beezer - SBYnews Contributor 

Obama To Reportedly Order Expansion Of Overtime Pay For Millions Of Workers

President Obama will reportedly order the Labor Department to change its rules this week by requiring overtime pay for millions of workers currently classified as "executive or professional" employees.

The New York Times, citing White House officials briefed on the announcement, reported that Obama would announce the rule changes on Thursday.

The new regulations to the 1938 Fair Labor Standards Act would mandate that businesses provide overtime pay for those who work jobs as varied as fast-food restaurant manager, loan officer, and computer technician. Currently, businesses are prohibited from denying overtime to a salaried worker making less than $455 per week. The rules that President Obama is proposing would increase that salary threshold, though it was not clear by how much.

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George Zimmerman’s Parents Sue Roseanne Barr For Tweeting Their Home Address

She claimed to be seeking justice, and that’s exactly what 2012 presidential nominee* Roseanne Barr is now getting. Only in this case, the long arm of the law may be coming upside her head.

According to the Orlando Sentinel Barr has been named in a lawsuit filed by the parents of George Zimmerman, who say they were forced to flee their Lake Mary, Fla., home in the middle of the night and were unable to return after the comedienne posted their address on Twitter.

Robert Zimmerman Sr. and Gladys Zimmerman filed suit Monday in state circuit court, accusing Barr of trying to incite “a lynch mob to descend” and carry out “vigilante justice.”

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State Of The City Address

Let me start out with this, something I didn't know until this morning. Did you know the Wicomico Regional Library has moved or is moving to the Tri County Council Building on Rt. 50? Well, (I'm told) it either has moved or is currently moving, yet I've not heard a word about it. 

Last night the Mayor and Council President held their State of the City Address. They discussed the recent progress of the City and as I found it very unusual for Jim Ireton to invite Jake Day to join him, (never done before) one can only believe Jim NEEDS Jake Day to move his political agenda forward. 

One of their main topics was the Downtown Parking Lots. 

I have it by a very reliable inside source that you will NOT see a Council Majority Vote on the sale of those Parking Lots UNLESS they provide the same, (if not more) parking spaces currently there or it will NOT be sold. I have also been assured that the parking lot next to the Library will also NOT be sold if the new owners do not agree to make spaces available for Library visitors.

Now, if that does work out, I personally will support the sale of those Parking Lots. I, like you, do NOT want to see County Executive Rick Pollitt use the lack of parking spaces as a tool to build a new Library. 

As for the rest of the State of the City Address, Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah. Clap, clap, clap, bow. SHOW ME THE JOBS! I don't care who you are, until we see INDUSTRY/MANUFACTURING jobs come to Salisbury, THERE IS NO REVITALIZATION. 

Back when I owned my manufacturing company I used to tell all my sales staff, IT ISN'T A SALE UNTIL I SEE THE PURCHASE ORDER. Well Mayor Jim Ireton, here's what I think of your progress. 

DR. BEN CARSON AGAINST GUN REGISTRATION: WE 'SHOULD BE REALLY CONCERNED' ABOUT MARTIAL LAW

On Monday at The New York Meeting, Dr. Ben Carson said he does not believe in gun registration because America's massive debt could transform the nation into a third-world country in which martial law may be imposed.

Carson, the retired neurosurgeon who has been getting buzz in conservative circles, said that he changed his mind and was against gun registration because of the "sinister internal forces" that could surface in that scenario. He said he "used to think they needed to be registered, but if you register them they just come and find you and take your guns."

"If we were only concerned about external forces, then we would be okay," he said. "But there are some pretty sinister internal forces."

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RON PAGANO: YIKES -- DID YOU TELL THE DAILY TIMES ABOUT THIS STUFF?

Did the Daily Times fail to mention it in that recent article about you or is there another Ronald Anthony Pagano on the loose?

In either case, we can inform Wicomico County voters SBYNEWS if you care to – that’s what we do on this blog – so, just call to discuss or e-mail the details.

Because of the face amount of the federal “1040" tax lien – $1,051,586.57 – it smells like the result of failure to file and pay income tax for a number of years, including the penalty for that as well as interest.

If the “Ronald A. Pagano” named in the lien notice is someone else with that name or an imposter, we will post your proof of that situation if you have any and send it along with your social security card with the last 4 numbers shown. And even if you have no proof, we will post whatever you want to say about the matter provided you send the copy of your SS card.

Mr. Pagano, if you’re the one being liened for failure to pay taxes, your political pal Pretl probably can’t help you. Better call Lois Lerner. No, make that the O-man in DC – we hear that he knows how to get the IRS to do things.

PS – how difficult is it to get a One Million Dollar federal tax lien these days?

Tom Stevenson New City Administrator For City Of Salisbury

In a Closed Session meeting last night Tom Stevenson was voted in as the new City Administrator for the City of Salisbury. 

Dianne Feinstein: CIA Spied On Senate Intelligence Committee

Senate Intelligence Committee Chairwoman Dianne Feinstein accused the CIA of spying on her panel's computers, a possible illegal act she says has prompted a Justice Department investigation.

The California Democrat said the CIA had searched -- without her knowledge or consent -- a stand-alone computer network established for the committee in its investigation of allegations of CIA abuse in a George W. Bush-era detention and interrogation program.

Feinstein, in a dramatic speech on the Senate floor Tuesday, said she has "grave concerns" that the search violated separation of powers principles guaranteed in the Constitution.

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Delegate McDermott Questions Public Service Commission And Delmarva Power On Smart Meter Installation

(ANNAPOLIS) As power companies across the nation are implementing “smart” meter systems in an attempt to better manage their customers’ energy usage, Maryland power customers are raising concerns about the safety of these new meters. According to Delegate Michael McDermott (R - Worcester & Wicomico), power companies are installing the meters without sufficiently notifying their customers of program “opt out” options.

“I understand that the Public Service Commission posted a notice on their website informing customers of the opt out option, but that action really is insufficient. I have been receiving calls from constituents who do not want these smart meters and were never aware of the option to opt out or found out when it was too late. Expecting people to be suitably notified while browsing the Commission’s website is unrealistic - there needed to be further notice,” Delegate McDermott stated.

Shift in Religious Tide; Picture = 1000 Words

You and I may never see the full shift, but certainly our grand kids will. And God help them!

Is This What You Want?

IRAN 1970

IRAN 2012

AFGHANISTAN  

EGYPT ( Cairo University ) 1959

 

EGYPT ( Cairo University ) 2012 

NETHERLANDS ( Amsterdam ) 1980

  NETHERLANDS ( Amsterdam ) 2012

 

AMERICA IS NEXT ... and some people still CHOSE TO LEAVE THEIR HEAD IN THE SAND?!?!? 

A Letter To The Editor: SPEED CAMERA HORROR STORY

On 8/29/2013 my wife was issued a “camera” speeding ticket in Fruitland. I promptly mailed a check. On 11/25/2013 I received a past due notice. I called the phone number listed and someone named “Shawna” verified that the check had been received. Today I received a “vehicle flagging notice’' demanding payment plus various charges in order to renew my licenses. I called the specified number and customer service does not answer. I called Fruitland Police who advised me they have NO connection with the speed enforcement system other than receiving a share of the money. What can I do next?? How can this non-government organization have such governmental power? How can they operate with such autonomy? The first opportunity I can move out of the state of Maryland I am gone.

Eric Holder: Felons Should Regain Voting Rights, Says It’s Unfair To Blacks

Felons who have served their sentences shouldn’t be blocked from voting by state laws that disproportionately affect minorities, Attorney General Eric Holder said.

“These restrictions are not only unnecessary and unjust, they are also counterproductive,” Holder said in remarks today in Washington. “These laws deserve to be not only reconsidered but repealed.”

Holder’s push for restoring voting rights of felons is the latest change he’s seeking in long-standing criminal justice policies that he has said do nothing to make Americans safer and have steep costs.
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