DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
A Letter To Proctor & Gamble
Dear Mr. Thatcher,
I have been a loyal user of your 'Always' maxi pads for over 20 years and I appreciate many of their features. Why, without the LeakGuard Core or Dri-Weave absorbency, I'd probably never go horseback riding or salsa dancing, and I'd certainly steer clear of running up and down the beach in tight, white shorts. But my favorite feature has to be your revolutionary Flexi-Wings. Kudos on being the only company smart enough to realize how crucial it is that maxi pads be aerodynamic. I can't tell you how safe and secure I feel each month knowing there's a little F-16 in my pants.
Have you ever had a menstrual period, Mr. Thatcher? Ever suffered from 'the curse'? I'm guessing you haven't. Well, my time of the month is starting right now. As I type, I can already feel hormonal forces violently surging through my body. Just a few minutes from now, my body will adjust and I'll be transformed into what my husband likes to call 'an inbred hillbilly with knife skills.' Isn't the human body amazing?
As Brand Manager in the Feminine-Hygiene Division, you've no doubt seen quite a bit of research on what exactly happens during your customer's monthly visits from 'Aunt Flo'. Therefore, you must know about the bloating, puffiness, and cramping we endure, and about our intense mood swings, crying jags, and out-of-control behavior. You surely realize it's a tough time for most women.. In fact, only last week, my friend Jennifer fought the violent urge to shove her boyfriend's testicles into a George Foreman Grill just because he told her he thought Grey's Anatomy was written by drunken chimps. Crazy!
The point is, sir, you of all people must realize that America is just crawling with homicidal maniacs in Capri pants... Which brings me to the reason for my letter. Last month, while in the throes of cramping so painful I wanted to reach inside my body and yank out my uterus, I opened an Always maxi-pad, and there, printed on the adhesive backing, were these words: 'Have a Happy Period.'
Are you f-orever kidding me? What I mean is, does any part of your tiny middle-manager brain really think happiness - actual smiling, laughing happiness, is possible during a menstrual period? Did anything mentioned above sound the least bit pleasurable? Well, did it, James? FYI, unless you're some kind of sick S&M freak, there will never be anything 'happy' about a day in which you have to jack yourself up on Motrin and Kahlua and lock yourself in your house just so you don't march down to the local Walgreen's armed with a hunting rifle and a sketchy plan to end your life in a blaze of glory.
For the love of God, pull your head out, man! If you have to slap a moronic message on a maxi pad, wouldn't it make more sense to say something that's actually pertinent, like 'Put down the Hammer' or 'Vehicular Manslaughter is Wrong', or are you just picking on us?
Sir, please inform your Accounting Department that, effective immediately, there will be an $8 drop in monthly profits, for I have chosen to take my maxi-pad business elsewhere. And though I will certainly miss your Flex-Wings, I will not for one minute miss your brand of condescending bullcrap. And that's a promise I will keep.
Always. . .
Wendi Aarons
Austin, T X
I have been a loyal user of your 'Always' maxi pads for over 20 years and I appreciate many of their features. Why, without the LeakGuard Core or Dri-Weave absorbency, I'd probably never go horseback riding or salsa dancing, and I'd certainly steer clear of running up and down the beach in tight, white shorts. But my favorite feature has to be your revolutionary Flexi-Wings. Kudos on being the only company smart enough to realize how crucial it is that maxi pads be aerodynamic. I can't tell you how safe and secure I feel each month knowing there's a little F-16 in my pants.
Have you ever had a menstrual period, Mr. Thatcher? Ever suffered from 'the curse'? I'm guessing you haven't. Well, my time of the month is starting right now. As I type, I can already feel hormonal forces violently surging through my body. Just a few minutes from now, my body will adjust and I'll be transformed into what my husband likes to call 'an inbred hillbilly with knife skills.' Isn't the human body amazing?
As Brand Manager in the Feminine-Hygiene Division, you've no doubt seen quite a bit of research on what exactly happens during your customer's monthly visits from 'Aunt Flo'. Therefore, you must know about the bloating, puffiness, and cramping we endure, and about our intense mood swings, crying jags, and out-of-control behavior. You surely realize it's a tough time for most women.. In fact, only last week, my friend Jennifer fought the violent urge to shove her boyfriend's testicles into a George Foreman Grill just because he told her he thought Grey's Anatomy was written by drunken chimps. Crazy!
The point is, sir, you of all people must realize that America is just crawling with homicidal maniacs in Capri pants... Which brings me to the reason for my letter. Last month, while in the throes of cramping so painful I wanted to reach inside my body and yank out my uterus, I opened an Always maxi-pad, and there, printed on the adhesive backing, were these words: 'Have a Happy Period.'
Are you f-orever kidding me? What I mean is, does any part of your tiny middle-manager brain really think happiness - actual smiling, laughing happiness, is possible during a menstrual period? Did anything mentioned above sound the least bit pleasurable? Well, did it, James? FYI, unless you're some kind of sick S&M freak, there will never be anything 'happy' about a day in which you have to jack yourself up on Motrin and Kahlua and lock yourself in your house just so you don't march down to the local Walgreen's armed with a hunting rifle and a sketchy plan to end your life in a blaze of glory.
For the love of God, pull your head out, man! If you have to slap a moronic message on a maxi pad, wouldn't it make more sense to say something that's actually pertinent, like 'Put down the Hammer' or 'Vehicular Manslaughter is Wrong', or are you just picking on us?
Sir, please inform your Accounting Department that, effective immediately, there will be an $8 drop in monthly profits, for I have chosen to take my maxi-pad business elsewhere. And though I will certainly miss your Flex-Wings, I will not for one minute miss your brand of condescending bullcrap. And that's a promise I will keep.
Always. . .
Wendi Aarons
Austin, T X
Key Events This Week In Wicomico County Public Schools
Highlights from the Listing of Events posted at www.wcboe.org, under View All/Past News:
Tuesday:
African-American Female Summit III - For female students from throughout Wicomico County, at the Richard A. Henson Center on the campus of UMES, 8:45 a.m.-2 p.m. Goals for Summit III focus on closing the minority achievement gap, improving student behavior, helping the participants set attainable goals for their future, and helping build stronger relationships with family, peers, and school staff. A number of break-out sessions have been planned to address the above mentioned goals. Presenters include Amber Watson of WMDT and Brie Jackson of WBOC. The day will start with each participant receiving a personal data snapshot listing their grades for each marking term this year, the number of conduct referrals/discipline actions for the year, their attendance to date, and their GPA. We have found this to be a useful tool to give the students an opportunity to analyze their progress and determine if it is leading them toward their stated goals.
Wednesday:
8-10 a.m., Wicomico High - Wicomico High School Army JROTC Formal Inspection. This inspection will be conducted by inspectors coming from 4th Brigade Headquarters (Eastern Region), US Army Cadet Command located at Ft. Bragg, NC. This inspection occurs once every three years. It will begin with a battalion formation of all cadets. Inspectors will then visit JROTC classes during the day and receive a staff briefing conducted by senior cadets. There will also be a demonstration of Wi-Hi JROTC Drill Team and also the Color Guard. The Wi-Hi JROTC program consists of cadets from all four Wicomico County high schools. Parents, staff, friends and the community are invited to observe the Battalion Formation and drill demonstrations beginning at 8 a.m. and concluding at 10 a.m. Call Wi-Hi at 410-677-5146 for information.
African-American Male Summit III - For male students from throughout Wicomico County, at the Richard A. Henson Center on the campus of UMES, 8:45 a.m.-2 p.m. Goals for Summit III focus on closing the minority achievement gap, improving student behavior, helping the participants set attainable goals for their future, and helping build stronger relationships with family, peers, and school staff. A number of break-out sessions have been planned to address the above mentioned goals. Presenters include Earl Holland of The Daily Times. The day will start with each participant receiving a personal data snapshot listing their grades for each marking term this year, the number of conduct referrals/discipline actions for the year, their attendance to date, and their GPA. We have found this to be a useful tool to give the students an opportunity to analyze their progress and determine if it is leading them toward their stated
goals.
WCCPTA - Wicomico County Council of PTAs Awards Banquet, 6 p.m., Parkside High School. 410-546-5615
Friday:
Reception for students with artwork in the Wicomico County Elementary & Secondary Student Art Show, and the students' families, 7 p.m. at the Wicomico County Public Library. The 31st annual Wicomico County Elementary & Secondary Student Art Show, featuring more than 1,000 works from students in every Wicomico school, is on display at the Wicomico Public Library in Salisbury through May 3. Art teachers have elected 20 to 50 pieces per school, including paintings, drawings, photographs and sculpture, to represent the creative efforts of Wicomico students. The artwork will be displayed in the lobby and throughout the children's side of the library. The exhibit is available for viewing during library hours: 10 a.m.- 9 p.m. Monday to Wednesday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday to Saturday, and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. For information about the Wicomico County Student Art Show, please call Gary Beauchamp, supervisor of fine and performing arts, at 410-677-4573.
Tuesday:
African-American Female Summit III - For female students from throughout Wicomico County, at the Richard A. Henson Center on the campus of UMES, 8:45 a.m.-2 p.m. Goals for Summit III focus on closing the minority achievement gap, improving student behavior, helping the participants set attainable goals for their future, and helping build stronger relationships with family, peers, and school staff. A number of break-out sessions have been planned to address the above mentioned goals. Presenters include Amber Watson of WMDT and Brie Jackson of WBOC. The day will start with each participant receiving a personal data snapshot listing their grades for each marking term this year, the number of conduct referrals/discipline actions for the year, their attendance to date, and their GPA. We have found this to be a useful tool to give the students an opportunity to analyze their progress and determine if it is leading them toward their stated goals.
Wednesday:
8-10 a.m., Wicomico High - Wicomico High School Army JROTC Formal Inspection. This inspection will be conducted by inspectors coming from 4th Brigade Headquarters (Eastern Region), US Army Cadet Command located at Ft. Bragg, NC. This inspection occurs once every three years. It will begin with a battalion formation of all cadets. Inspectors will then visit JROTC classes during the day and receive a staff briefing conducted by senior cadets. There will also be a demonstration of Wi-Hi JROTC Drill Team and also the Color Guard. The Wi-Hi JROTC program consists of cadets from all four Wicomico County high schools. Parents, staff, friends and the community are invited to observe the Battalion Formation and drill demonstrations beginning at 8 a.m. and concluding at 10 a.m. Call Wi-Hi at 410-677-5146 for information.
African-American Male Summit III - For male students from throughout Wicomico County, at the Richard A. Henson Center on the campus of UMES, 8:45 a.m.-2 p.m. Goals for Summit III focus on closing the minority achievement gap, improving student behavior, helping the participants set attainable goals for their future, and helping build stronger relationships with family, peers, and school staff. A number of break-out sessions have been planned to address the above mentioned goals. Presenters include Earl Holland of The Daily Times. The day will start with each participant receiving a personal data snapshot listing their grades for each marking term this year, the number of conduct referrals/discipline actions for the year, their attendance to date, and their GPA. We have found this to be a useful tool to give the students an opportunity to analyze their progress and determine if it is leading them toward their stated
goals.
WCCPTA - Wicomico County Council of PTAs Awards Banquet, 6 p.m., Parkside High School. 410-546-5615
Friday:
Reception for students with artwork in the Wicomico County Elementary & Secondary Student Art Show, and the students' families, 7 p.m. at the Wicomico County Public Library. The 31st annual Wicomico County Elementary & Secondary Student Art Show, featuring more than 1,000 works from students in every Wicomico school, is on display at the Wicomico Public Library in Salisbury through May 3. Art teachers have elected 20 to 50 pieces per school, including paintings, drawings, photographs and sculpture, to represent the creative efforts of Wicomico students. The artwork will be displayed in the lobby and throughout the children's side of the library. The exhibit is available for viewing during library hours: 10 a.m.- 9 p.m. Monday to Wednesday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday to Saturday, and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. For information about the Wicomico County Student Art Show, please call Gary Beauchamp, supervisor of fine and performing arts, at 410-677-4573.
3rd Annual Wicomico County Math 24 Game Tournament
Student Mathletes Gear Up for the 3rd Annual Wicomico County Math 24 Game Tournament 6 p.m. Thursday, May 21, at SU Commons
The math game is on in Wicomico County elementary and middle schools, which for the next several weeks will engage students in challenging tests of their mathematics skills through math 24 Game play, with generous support from sponsor M&T Bank.
In preparation for the 3rd annual Wicomico County Math 24 Game Tournament May 21, schools are holding classroom-level and then school-level contests to select grade-level winners to represent the school. Each elementary school will send to the county tournament one student for each grade (first grade through fifth grade) in its school, for 55 elementary contestants. Middle schools will send 30 students -- two students per grade from sixth through eighth -- to create a competitive field.
Grade-level champions from 22 Wicomico elementary and middle schools will compete starting at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 21, in the third annual Wicomico County Math 24 Game Tournament. The night’s play in The Commons at Salisbury University will determine the best 24 Game player in the county for each grade level. The tournament is free and open to the public.
Sponsor M&T Bank has made a $4,500 donation to enable Wicomico County Schools to put on the third annual countywide Math 24 Game Tournament. The money helps provide prizes for participants and supports the purchase of Math 24 Game materials. Those materials include sets of Math 24 Game cards that are now available for use at all Wicomico Public Library locations, including the main library in Salisbury, the Centre at Salisbury branch, and library branches in Pittsville and Bivalve.
"By having the 24 Game in multiple library locations, the cards are more accessible for parent and student use," said Jason Miller, who with Michael Collins coordinates Wicomico County's Math 24 Game program. "We're grateful to M&T Bank and the Wicomico Public Library for their partnership in support of this math program."
To win at the Math 24 Game, students must excel in two areas: rapid reflexes and automaticity, or automatically knowing math facts. In a game, a proctor sets down one 24 Game card at a time, and the first student to press a fingertip to the card has the opportunity to solve the problem. “It excites students. It motivates them to do better in the classroom,” said co-coordinator Michael Collins. “We have students who stay in at recess to play the game.”
New this year: First-graders through fourth-graders who believe they know the right answer will click in using the Eggspert response system, a handheld clicker wired to a console with colored lights. A light will show which player clicked first. “That’s being used because without it, we couldn't always tell which student touched the card first because the responses came so quickly,” Miller said.
At the intermediate level, grades 3 - 8, students will be challenged by having to provide the final solution first, then outline the steps necessary to reach that final solution. If they use a different process to reach 24 than they gave in their final solution, they’ll receive a penalty. Also, fifth-graders will be using the Double Digits Version in order to increase the difficulty of the game.
The math game is on in Wicomico County elementary and middle schools, which for the next several weeks will engage students in challenging tests of their mathematics skills through math 24 Game play, with generous support from sponsor M&T Bank.
In preparation for the 3rd annual Wicomico County Math 24 Game Tournament May 21, schools are holding classroom-level and then school-level contests to select grade-level winners to represent the school. Each elementary school will send to the county tournament one student for each grade (first grade through fifth grade) in its school, for 55 elementary contestants. Middle schools will send 30 students -- two students per grade from sixth through eighth -- to create a competitive field.
Grade-level champions from 22 Wicomico elementary and middle schools will compete starting at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 21, in the third annual Wicomico County Math 24 Game Tournament. The night’s play in The Commons at Salisbury University will determine the best 24 Game player in the county for each grade level. The tournament is free and open to the public.
Sponsor M&T Bank has made a $4,500 donation to enable Wicomico County Schools to put on the third annual countywide Math 24 Game Tournament. The money helps provide prizes for participants and supports the purchase of Math 24 Game materials. Those materials include sets of Math 24 Game cards that are now available for use at all Wicomico Public Library locations, including the main library in Salisbury, the Centre at Salisbury branch, and library branches in Pittsville and Bivalve.
"By having the 24 Game in multiple library locations, the cards are more accessible for parent and student use," said Jason Miller, who with Michael Collins coordinates Wicomico County's Math 24 Game program. "We're grateful to M&T Bank and the Wicomico Public Library for their partnership in support of this math program."
To win at the Math 24 Game, students must excel in two areas: rapid reflexes and automaticity, or automatically knowing math facts. In a game, a proctor sets down one 24 Game card at a time, and the first student to press a fingertip to the card has the opportunity to solve the problem. “It excites students. It motivates them to do better in the classroom,” said co-coordinator Michael Collins. “We have students who stay in at recess to play the game.”
New this year: First-graders through fourth-graders who believe they know the right answer will click in using the Eggspert response system, a handheld clicker wired to a console with colored lights. A light will show which player clicked first. “That’s being used because without it, we couldn't always tell which student touched the card first because the responses came so quickly,” Miller said.
At the intermediate level, grades 3 - 8, students will be challenged by having to provide the final solution first, then outline the steps necessary to reach that final solution. If they use a different process to reach 24 than they gave in their final solution, they’ll receive a penalty. Also, fifth-graders will be using the Double Digits Version in order to increase the difficulty of the game.
WBI Press Release: Attempted Murder
INCIDENT: First Degree Assault/ Attempted Murder DATE: April 28, 2009
LOCATION: 7400 Esham Road, Parsonsburg, MD NARRATIVE: On April 28, 2009 at 1637 hours the Maryland State Police Salisbury Barrack received a call from PRMC indicating they had the victim of a gunshot wound in the ER. Uniform Troopers responded and confirmed. Members of WBI responded and assumed the investigation. The incident took place in a body shop located in the 7400 block of Esham Road, Parsonsburg, MD. The victim was working in the shop when the two suspects entered and a confrontation ensued. The victim was beat about his head and neck and shot in his lower back. He was transported to PRMC by private vehicle. He was treated at PRMC and will be kept over night. No motive is known at this time.
Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Wicomico Bureau of Investigation at 410-548-4898 or Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776 SUSPECTS: Two AA males one taller and thicker than the other. The larger had darker skin. They were traveling in a early 90’s model 4 door Subaru.
INVESTIGATING DETECTIVE TFC Peters
RELEASTING AUTHORITY Sergeant David Owens
MSP Wicomico Bureau of Investigation
DATE: April 28, 2009 TIME: 2253 hours
Maryland Appeal Rules
Maryland Rules:
Rule 7-102. Modes of appeal.
(a) De novo.- Except as provided in section (b) of this Rule, an appeal shall be tried de novo in all civil and criminal actions.
(b) On the record.- An appeal shall be heard on the record made in the District Court in the following cases:
(1) a civil action in which the amount in controversy exceeds $5,000 exclusive of interest, costs, and attorney's fees if attorney's fees are recoverable by law or contract;
Team America Rocketry Challenge
Two Wicomico High School Teams to Compete in Final Round of the Team America Rocketry Challenge
Two teams from Wicomico High School are among the top 100 student rocketry teams in the country that will compete next month in the final round of competition of the 2009 Team America Rocketry Challenge.
The seventh annual TARC -- the world's largest rocket contest -- will take place May 16 at Great Meadow in The Plains, Va. The final competition gives middle and high school students a chance to earn part of a total prize package of $60,000 in scholarships and other prizes.
Wicomico High School’s TARC Team 1 rocket is called B N S (for its paint job of black ‘n’ silver). Team members are Lyndsey Buck, senior, Alex Seo, senior, Andrew Seo, sophomore, Kaleb Barrett, freshman, and Sean Atkinson, senior.
TARC Team 2’s rocket is named Epic, and is painted in the school colors of blue and yellow. Team members are Scott Kephart, sophomore, Victoria Wright, freshman, Brandon Hudson, freshman, Hannah Silbert, freshman, and Natasha Maldonado, freshman.
Faculty advisor for the TARC teams is Janice Austin, Wicomico High School math teacher.
The list of finalists is available at www.rocketcontest.org. A total of 653 teams from 45 states and the District of Columbia took part in the qualifying rounds of competition.
Teams design, build and launch model rockets with a raw-egg payload that must return to the ground unbroken. This year's contest goals are an altitude of 750 feet and a flight time of 45 seconds. The rockets must transport the egg laid horizontally to mimic the position of an astronaut.
AIA co-sponsors the event with the National Association of Rocketry in conjunction with NASA, the Defense Department, the American Association of Physics teachers and 34 AIA member companies. The goal of the contest is to bolster student interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics -- STEM -- education in an effort to attract young people to aerospace careers.
Two AIA companies provide premium prizes. Raytheon will once again provide a fully paid trip for the winning team to the International Paris Air Show in June. And Lockheed Martin will provide $5,000 scholarships to each of the top three teams. NASA also invites top teams to participate in advanced rocketry programs.
For more information about TARC, visit www.rocketcontest.org.
Two teams from Wicomico High School are among the top 100 student rocketry teams in the country that will compete next month in the final round of competition of the 2009 Team America Rocketry Challenge.
The seventh annual TARC -- the world's largest rocket contest -- will take place May 16 at Great Meadow in The Plains, Va. The final competition gives middle and high school students a chance to earn part of a total prize package of $60,000 in scholarships and other prizes.
Wicomico High School’s TARC Team 1 rocket is called B N S (for its paint job of black ‘n’ silver). Team members are Lyndsey Buck, senior, Alex Seo, senior, Andrew Seo, sophomore, Kaleb Barrett, freshman, and Sean Atkinson, senior.
TARC Team 2’s rocket is named Epic, and is painted in the school colors of blue and yellow. Team members are Scott Kephart, sophomore, Victoria Wright, freshman, Brandon Hudson, freshman, Hannah Silbert, freshman, and Natasha Maldonado, freshman.
Faculty advisor for the TARC teams is Janice Austin, Wicomico High School math teacher.
The list of finalists is available at www.rocketcontest.org. A total of 653 teams from 45 states and the District of Columbia took part in the qualifying rounds of competition.
Teams design, build and launch model rockets with a raw-egg payload that must return to the ground unbroken. This year's contest goals are an altitude of 750 feet and a flight time of 45 seconds. The rockets must transport the egg laid horizontally to mimic the position of an astronaut.
AIA co-sponsors the event with the National Association of Rocketry in conjunction with NASA, the Defense Department, the American Association of Physics teachers and 34 AIA member companies. The goal of the contest is to bolster student interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics -- STEM -- education in an effort to attract young people to aerospace careers.
Two AIA companies provide premium prizes. Raytheon will once again provide a fully paid trip for the winning team to the International Paris Air Show in June. And Lockheed Martin will provide $5,000 scholarships to each of the top three teams. NASA also invites top teams to participate in advanced rocketry programs.
For more information about TARC, visit www.rocketcontest.org.
A Little Morning Fun - Pick The Perp!
As any good cop can tell you, sometimes you can tell the book by its cover.
TRAFFIC ALERT - Signing And Striping Improvements Near I-95 Toll Plaza
Short-Term Improvements in Anticipation of Recovery Project
Newark -- The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) advises motorists who use the I-95 Toll Plaza that signing and striping improvements approaching the plaza will occur Wednesday, April 29, 2009, through June 2009. Traffic will be maintained throughout the project, however, single lane closures during off-peak hours should be expected. Most work will take place at night from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., but could also occur from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Byers Electrical Construction, based in Bear, will be performing this work at an estimated cost of $190,000. This project will focus on improving signing and striping approaching the I-95 Toll Plaza in the northbound and southbound directions. By improving signing and striping, drivers' awareness of which lanes they should use will improve. This will additionally improve lane utilization. Much of the backup on northbound I-95 before the toll plaza is because most drivers use the main five toll lanes but not the five additional satellite lanes to the right. In other words, sometimes while traffic is backing up to go through the main five lanes, none of the satellite toll lanes are being used.
DelDOT's expectation is that the improved signs and striping will more clearly communicate and encourage cash customers to use the right-hand satellite lanes and for E-ZPass customers to use the left-hand main lanes. Signs will be revised and simplified and the lanes will be more clearly designated for E-ZPass and cash customers.
Work will be paused over Memorial Day weekend. During much of the peak traffic on summer weekends and holidays, traffic exceeds more than 130,000 vehicles per day.
This initial project is in anticipation of the $43 million worth of improvements funded through the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The ARRA, commonly referred to as the "economic stimulus," will add two "highway speed E-ZPass lanes" in the northbound and southbound directions through the toll plaza, making it consistent with the two highly effective plazas on Route 1 in Dover and at Biddles Corner south of the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal. In Newark, there will be seven lanes northbound and southbound that will accept cash and E-ZPass, for a total of nine toll lanes in each direction. In addition, DelDOT will improve toll collectors' access and safety to the plazas. This project is expected to begin construction in 2010.
Newark -- The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) advises motorists who use the I-95 Toll Plaza that signing and striping improvements approaching the plaza will occur Wednesday, April 29, 2009, through June 2009. Traffic will be maintained throughout the project, however, single lane closures during off-peak hours should be expected. Most work will take place at night from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., but could also occur from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Byers Electrical Construction, based in Bear, will be performing this work at an estimated cost of $190,000. This project will focus on improving signing and striping approaching the I-95 Toll Plaza in the northbound and southbound directions. By improving signing and striping, drivers' awareness of which lanes they should use will improve. This will additionally improve lane utilization. Much of the backup on northbound I-95 before the toll plaza is because most drivers use the main five toll lanes but not the five additional satellite lanes to the right. In other words, sometimes while traffic is backing up to go through the main five lanes, none of the satellite toll lanes are being used.
DelDOT's expectation is that the improved signs and striping will more clearly communicate and encourage cash customers to use the right-hand satellite lanes and for E-ZPass customers to use the left-hand main lanes. Signs will be revised and simplified and the lanes will be more clearly designated for E-ZPass and cash customers.
Work will be paused over Memorial Day weekend. During much of the peak traffic on summer weekends and holidays, traffic exceeds more than 130,000 vehicles per day.
This initial project is in anticipation of the $43 million worth of improvements funded through the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The ARRA, commonly referred to as the "economic stimulus," will add two "highway speed E-ZPass lanes" in the northbound and southbound directions through the toll plaza, making it consistent with the two highly effective plazas on Route 1 in Dover and at Biddles Corner south of the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal. In Newark, there will be seven lanes northbound and southbound that will accept cash and E-ZPass, for a total of nine toll lanes in each direction. In addition, DelDOT will improve toll collectors' access and safety to the plazas. This project is expected to begin construction in 2010.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Woodland Ferry Resumes Service Temporarily
Seaford -- The Department of Transportation announces that the Woodland Ferry resumed service today, Tuesday, April 28, and will operate with some restrictions during severe high and low tides during daylight hours.
It is important to note that at some point in the next few months, DelDOT will need to interrupt ferry operations to allow for George & Lynch to make some modifications to the Bethel dock which will improve access for vehicles boarding and exiting the vessel. This work will resolve the issue of loading/unloading vehicles during high tides. It is projected that the ferry will be closed for a three week period to allow for this work.
Since its closure in late December 2008 due to various issues, DelDOT has been working with Chesapeake Shipbuilding and George & Lynch to make needed repairs to ensure the vessel operates properly and safely. In addition, a recent U.S. Coast Guard inspection occurred to ensure compliance with maritime operating procedures.
While the long term closure was needed to address hydraulic and thruster issues, DelDOT capitalized on the opportunity to make other improvements while the vessel was docked such as adding rubber rollers mounted on the side of the vessel to reduce the damage to the timbers during the docking process, as well as adjusting the cable system.
Safety being our top priority, DelDOT greatly appreciates the public's patience during the time the vessel has been down.
It is important to note that at some point in the next few months, DelDOT will need to interrupt ferry operations to allow for George & Lynch to make some modifications to the Bethel dock which will improve access for vehicles boarding and exiting the vessel. This work will resolve the issue of loading/unloading vehicles during high tides. It is projected that the ferry will be closed for a three week period to allow for this work.
Since its closure in late December 2008 due to various issues, DelDOT has been working with Chesapeake Shipbuilding and George & Lynch to make needed repairs to ensure the vessel operates properly and safely. In addition, a recent U.S. Coast Guard inspection occurred to ensure compliance with maritime operating procedures.
While the long term closure was needed to address hydraulic and thruster issues, DelDOT capitalized on the opportunity to make other improvements while the vessel was docked such as adding rubber rollers mounted on the side of the vessel to reduce the damage to the timbers during the docking process, as well as adjusting the cable system.
Safety being our top priority, DelDOT greatly appreciates the public's patience during the time the vessel has been down.
The Diagnosis Is In - Barrie Shot In The Foot
Sporting an attorney on each arm and husband in tow, wearing a soft blue jacket in contrast to her usual power yellow or power red choices, former Salisbury mayor Barrie Parsons Tilghman left District Court this afternoon with a decidedly bad taste in her mouth, the same mouth that has for over three years vehemently and loudly responded to critics regarding her administration's plethora of perceived shortfalls and less than above board politics.
Choosing to call several press conferences during her last term to protest any and all criticisms of her policies, appointments and actions as Salisbury's mayor, she shot herself in the proverbial foot. Instead of accomplishing what she hoped would be a general shunning of bloggers and others not firmly held in her corner, Tilghman actually brought more notice to their causes than to her own, and public attention to her own shortcomings in a way that she most likely never anticipated, souring her chances to continue on as a closet advisor under the administration of her hand-picked successor, Gary Comegys, whose recent losing mayoral campaign, with her tacit approval, stooped to the lowest levels of innuendo, lying and questionable behavior.
Beginning with the knee-jerk reactions to Albero's investigations regarding the illegal dumping, illegal storage of partially treated sewage and illegal discharge and overflow of waste to the Wicomico River from the WWTP site, which included, of all things, a request to the FAA to declare the air space over the WWTP site a “no-fly zone”, Tilghman's war against the bloggers was a losing one from the start, but she persisted.
Calling the FBI to investigate her baseless and paranoid allegations of computer hacking by pioneer Salisbury political blog author Bill Duvall, Tilghman continued to embarrass herself, her office and the City.
Banning Albero from the Salisbury Zoo after his decidedly heavy-handed views on the management of the zoo, which included allegations of toxic runoff to the zoo's waters (proved true), dozens (if not hundreds) of undocumented animal deaths (apparently true), grossly increasing taxpayer burden (a tripling of its budget) and a severely downward spiraling of fund raising efforts, Tilghman continued to draw attention to Albero's blog assertions and what could be seen as her own lack of good stewardship. While she later announced the resignation of several zoo employees, including the director, stating that they were leaving for greener pastures, it was suspected by many that the departures were the result of a quiet yet grand housecleaning.
As post after post brought up the issues of questionable practices and wasteful spending within her very closely managed administration, she reacted by further limiting the information flow to the public by making herself her own public information officer. As comment after comment to those blog posts brought up more and more questions regarding her suitability for office, Tilghman reacted again and again to stem the bleeding, calling news conferences, taking guest editorial space in the Daily Times and even going as far as making defamatory comments about those who didn't see things her way.
But it was a losing battle.
Now, as the judge's verdict sinks in, Barrie Tilghman will lick her wounds, joining her friends who are still stinging and wondering what the future holds for them after their failed attempts to place their goofy puppet in the mayor's office. Will there be an appeal to today's decision? What would the point be? Will we see her attempt to reinvent herself? Probably, although it will never be as a cooperative member of any group. She's had a big taste of being in charge and won't be satisfied with anything less. Will she recover from this shot in the foot? Not soon, as her wound has turned gangrenous, threatening the very legacy that she sought to create for herself.
Meanwhile, Salisbury's wounds, many of them festering for eleven and more years, will have a better chance to heal. Today's court decision was a start, bringing at least a small amount of relief from the pain.
We put our faith in the new mayor and hope that the doctor is in.
Blogger Fights City Hall And Wins
I have been home for about two hours and I'm sitting here in front of my computer thinking, what do I say?
I know I'd like to thank my Attorney Bruce Bright for coming into Court today completely educated on this entire case, as if he was Joe Albero. You don't find many professionals out there who truly put their all into cases like this but Bruce knew what was at stake and he really did his homework.
I'd like to add that I had fully charged my cell phone last night and by the time I got out of Court and finally got to my phone there were only two bars left on it. I had received so many text messages and other messages that they had actually wore my battery down that much. I then had 186 e-mail messages since I left this morning and rather than my trying to respond to each of you, THANK YOU! Your support has been overwhelming.
Today's victory was not a win for Joe Albero. It was a win for every citizen who has been harassed, fired, bullied and humiliated. It was for ALL of the Bloggers who have been threatened by frivolous lawsuits and scare tactics in an attempt to take away our Freedom of Speech.
I wish Barrie Tilghman all the very best wishes in her retirement. I look forward to the new leadership within Jim Ireton and the news from last night involving Urban Salisbury and those who attended/packed that meeting was very refreshing.
We've all been vindicated and it's time to move forward. More later, I have to go to a Press Conference.
I know I'd like to thank my Attorney Bruce Bright for coming into Court today completely educated on this entire case, as if he was Joe Albero. You don't find many professionals out there who truly put their all into cases like this but Bruce knew what was at stake and he really did his homework.
I'd like to add that I had fully charged my cell phone last night and by the time I got out of Court and finally got to my phone there were only two bars left on it. I had received so many text messages and other messages that they had actually wore my battery down that much. I then had 186 e-mail messages since I left this morning and rather than my trying to respond to each of you, THANK YOU! Your support has been overwhelming.
Today's victory was not a win for Joe Albero. It was a win for every citizen who has been harassed, fired, bullied and humiliated. It was for ALL of the Bloggers who have been threatened by frivolous lawsuits and scare tactics in an attempt to take away our Freedom of Speech.
I wish Barrie Tilghman all the very best wishes in her retirement. I look forward to the new leadership within Jim Ireton and the news from last night involving Urban Salisbury and those who attended/packed that meeting was very refreshing.
We've all been vindicated and it's time to move forward. More later, I have to go to a Press Conference.
Tilghman v Albero - Bloggers Win!
As former Salisbury Mayor Barrie Tilghman slinked from the courthouse, one point was made clear - the days of tin pot despots bullying the media are over. Unfortunately, there are a few issues still outstanding.
Tilghman's two year old lawsuit against Salisbury News publisher Joe Albero is over. District Court Judge Daniel Mumford listened patiently for over two hours as Tilghman's crack team of lawyers argued that Albero had defamed the sainted ex-mayor. Tilghman's chief attorney, William McAllister of Miles & Stockbridge made some very convincing arguments. Ultimately, the Judge Mumford sided with the law and ruled that if Tilghman "couldn't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen".
In all fairness to Tilghman, I was mortified at some of the blog comments put into evidence. This speaks to our overall low level of civil discourse. However, should bloggers be held accountable for the poor choice of words used by their commenters? According to the federal Online Decency Act, the answer is no.
Oddly, the actual posts upon which Tilghman based her lawsuit were not particularly harsh. One post by Albero merely stated that Tilghman's lawsuit was a poor example of "your tax dollars at work". Given Tilghman's repeated admissions during her time as mayor that she was on duty 24 / 7, that statement could be interpreted in too many ways to be of consequence. The other "damning" post was a question posed by Albero regarding the possible use of public works personnel in building a deck at Tilghman's home. Given that Tilghman has been the multiple recipient of the Daily Times practice of bundling a false statement in quotes and presenting it as fact, she really didn't have much to complain about.
We'll have more tomorrow, including a discussion of whether Albero really will get a life. In the meantime, all of us who express our opinion publicly should thank Albero for standing up to the dowager Queen of Barrieland.
Tilghman's two year old lawsuit against Salisbury News publisher Joe Albero is over. District Court Judge Daniel Mumford listened patiently for over two hours as Tilghman's crack team of lawyers argued that Albero had defamed the sainted ex-mayor. Tilghman's chief attorney, William McAllister of Miles & Stockbridge made some very convincing arguments. Ultimately, the Judge Mumford sided with the law and ruled that if Tilghman "couldn't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen".
In all fairness to Tilghman, I was mortified at some of the blog comments put into evidence. This speaks to our overall low level of civil discourse. However, should bloggers be held accountable for the poor choice of words used by their commenters? According to the federal Online Decency Act, the answer is no.
Oddly, the actual posts upon which Tilghman based her lawsuit were not particularly harsh. One post by Albero merely stated that Tilghman's lawsuit was a poor example of "your tax dollars at work". Given Tilghman's repeated admissions during her time as mayor that she was on duty 24 / 7, that statement could be interpreted in too many ways to be of consequence. The other "damning" post was a question posed by Albero regarding the possible use of public works personnel in building a deck at Tilghman's home. Given that Tilghman has been the multiple recipient of the Daily Times practice of bundling a false statement in quotes and presenting it as fact, she really didn't have much to complain about.
We'll have more tomorrow, including a discussion of whether Albero really will get a life. In the meantime, all of us who express our opinion publicly should thank Albero for standing up to the dowager Queen of Barrieland.
A Message to Readers
If you are wondering why your comments aren't getting posted, it's because Joe is going head to head w/ Barrie in court today and no one is there to moderate comments. Hang in there, we should all know something soon.
The Winds of Change - Urban Salisbury & The Citizens Prevail
Jim Ireton, like all good leaders, hit the ground running. No sooner was he sworn in as mayor he announced a Mayors Roundtable meeting to be held the following night with Urban Salisbury on the agenda. The room was packed with 100 or more people. When is the last time any meeting of the city had that many in attendance? Jim Ireton gave Urban Salisbury the opportunity to present their plans for the future of the downtown area. This presentation had previously been suppressed by council president, Louise Smith. Council Vice President, Gary Comegys said previously that he didn't want to fund Urban Salisbury any longer because they hadn't done anything in the past. How would he know what they have been doing, he never asked them and the council would not give them the opportunity to make their presentation.
An investment by the city, in the amount of $55,000 will produce a return of $438,085. Is anyone out there making $7.97 on a $1 investment, anywhere? The breakdown of this return is as follows:
Facade Grants $109,000
Volunteer Hours $50,400
Special Projects $104,500
Park 'n Flea $154,000
Special Events $5,700
Memberships & Donations $14,485
It makes it hard to say no to these numbers, yet the former mayor, Louise Smith and Gary Comegys wouldn't even allow them on the agenda to be heard. Instead the former mayor puts a line in the budget for a $25,000 part time position to be given to Michael Day. When has Michael Day or anyone else given the city a return on their money? Lore Chambers sits in her office applying for awards for a city that in all honesty is not deserving of awards or recognition. Not at this time.
James Gillespie said it best when he said "the city has no identity." How is Salisbury identified? High crime? No jobs? This is not how we want our city identified, not by any means. Then Brad Gillis made a good point about marketing Disneyland before it's built. This is exactly what Lore Chambers is doing. She is marketing something that simply is not there. We're not even close to being marketable. All the awards, recognition and designations in the world will not make Salisbury what it was, what it can be or what it should be. Once people visit our city they will learn the truth and wonder, like we all do, how in the world did Salisbury win these awards? There is nothing notable here other than the zoo.
There are only two council members, Debbie Campbell and Terry Cohen, that have always voiced their support for this organization, the other three were prepared to cast their infamous 3-2 vote. What they weren't prepared for was the number of people showing up and taking a stand. The council chambers was filled to capacity, people were standing around the room, there was, at one time 25 or more people in the hall, all seats in the hall were filled, people were standing along the walls and windows. This was the greatest public display I have ever seen put forth in Salisbury.
The pressure was on the Scheme Team tonight and they knew it. The handwriting is clearly on the wall. The people voted for change and they want it. Had they voted against Urban Salisbury tonight, I am willing to bet there would have been a petition to recall filed.
I read on the Daily Times forum "The winds of change are blowing a gale", I believe they are right.
An investment by the city, in the amount of $55,000 will produce a return of $438,085. Is anyone out there making $7.97 on a $1 investment, anywhere? The breakdown of this return is as follows:
Facade Grants $109,000
Volunteer Hours $50,400
Special Projects $104,500
Park 'n Flea $154,000
Special Events $5,700
Memberships & Donations $14,485
It makes it hard to say no to these numbers, yet the former mayor, Louise Smith and Gary Comegys wouldn't even allow them on the agenda to be heard. Instead the former mayor puts a line in the budget for a $25,000 part time position to be given to Michael Day. When has Michael Day or anyone else given the city a return on their money? Lore Chambers sits in her office applying for awards for a city that in all honesty is not deserving of awards or recognition. Not at this time.
James Gillespie said it best when he said "the city has no identity." How is Salisbury identified? High crime? No jobs? This is not how we want our city identified, not by any means. Then Brad Gillis made a good point about marketing Disneyland before it's built. This is exactly what Lore Chambers is doing. She is marketing something that simply is not there. We're not even close to being marketable. All the awards, recognition and designations in the world will not make Salisbury what it was, what it can be or what it should be. Once people visit our city they will learn the truth and wonder, like we all do, how in the world did Salisbury win these awards? There is nothing notable here other than the zoo.
There are only two council members, Debbie Campbell and Terry Cohen, that have always voiced their support for this organization, the other three were prepared to cast their infamous 3-2 vote. What they weren't prepared for was the number of people showing up and taking a stand. The council chambers was filled to capacity, people were standing around the room, there was, at one time 25 or more people in the hall, all seats in the hall were filled, people were standing along the walls and windows. This was the greatest public display I have ever seen put forth in Salisbury.
The pressure was on the Scheme Team tonight and they knew it. The handwriting is clearly on the wall. The people voted for change and they want it. Had they voted against Urban Salisbury tonight, I am willing to bet there would have been a petition to recall filed.
I read on the Daily Times forum "The winds of change are blowing a gale", I believe they are right.
A Message To The Editor
Hey Joe!
Watched most of the City Council meeting on PAC 14. I was happy to see that all four council members approved the Urban Salisbury portion of the meeting. I'm sure you were a huge part of this. If it hadn't been for your blog along with the letter from Mayor Ireton (on your blog) many of us (including myself) wouldn't of thought to email the council members. I emailed everyone of them and made phone calls. Urban Salisbury is one project I support 100% even if I don't live in Salisbury. I remember what Downtown once was and hope it'll one day return. It will never be what it once was at it's best BUT with lots of hard work it can be something to be proud of.
Once again, thanks for your hard work for Urban Salisbury!
Watched most of the City Council meeting on PAC 14. I was happy to see that all four council members approved the Urban Salisbury portion of the meeting. I'm sure you were a huge part of this. If it hadn't been for your blog along with the letter from Mayor Ireton (on your blog) many of us (including myself) wouldn't of thought to email the council members. I emailed everyone of them and made phone calls. Urban Salisbury is one project I support 100% even if I don't live in Salisbury. I remember what Downtown once was and hope it'll one day return. It will never be what it once was at it's best BUT with lots of hard work it can be something to be proud of.
Once again, thanks for your hard work for Urban Salisbury!
Can Mayor Jim Ireton Help?
"Okay, I am glad Tilghman is out of office, this has been a long time coming for someone who sold the City out. Now what? My concern is this, The City Police have been promised and shafted and promised again for better pay and equipment.Now we have a new Mayor, and already, Tilghman has stuck it to the City Police again by not submitting even as much as a cost of living increase for the next year. We have been patient the entire time, waiting for the counsel to come through, even after they promised us the "Two year pay increase". Then they lied and said they came through for us. How, oh, they gave Cpl's and above a nice increase, but forgot about the officer out there on the street. Now in this time of economic crisis, here we are again, no one in our corner, being forced to accept with the statement "just be glad you have a job". When does anyone look out for the little guy.
We're the one out there at 4:30 am patrolling while everyone sleeps safely under our watch. We're the one in the rain guiding traffic, when the traffic lights are out so everyone can get to work safely. We're the one coming to your house trying to provide some sense of stability in your life when someone has taken something from you. Yet, where is the city for us?
People always complain about the level of work that they are getting from the police. Well, consider this, the police have been neglected so much for the past ten years by Tilghman, what would you expect. Try this tomorrow, kick someone in the gut for the period of a week, talk down to them, blame them for all that is wrong, take money from them, and lie to them about how you are GOING to take care of them in the future. Then try to bring yourself to the point and ask for the best work of them and see what you get. We voted for Jim, now we are asking for his help to put this thing back together."
Soldier Subdued By Stun Gun Killed Florida Deputies
By MELISSA NELSON
Associated Press Writer
NICEVILLE, Fla. --
Two deputies from a troubled sheriff's office in Florida had no warning a confrontation with a National Guard soldier accused of beating his wife would turn deadly, the sheriff said.
Deputies Burt Lopez and Warren "Skip" York used a stun gun to subdue Joshua Cartwright, but he was able to start shooting at them from the ground. Both Lopez and York died.
"Within seconds he sat up and began firing a weapon that came out of nowhere, it was somewhere on his body we assume," Okaloosa County's Interim Sheriff Ed Spooner told more than 300 sheriff's office employees who gathered Sunday night to pray and hear an explanation of the shootings.
Cartwright was killed in a shootout at a roadblock after a car chase into a neighboring county. The deputies had gone to a shooting range to arrest him after his wife sought treatment for domestic abuse injures at an area hospital.
Spooner said the deputies had no information to make them think Cartwright would turn his weapons on them.
"This went from zero to 100 in a matter of minutes. In three minutes it turned from a passive discussion to a shooting, it was one heck of a mess," the sheriff said.
READ MORE HERE.
Associated Press Writer
NICEVILLE, Fla. --
Two deputies from a troubled sheriff's office in Florida had no warning a confrontation with a National Guard soldier accused of beating his wife would turn deadly, the sheriff said.
Deputies Burt Lopez and Warren "Skip" York used a stun gun to subdue Joshua Cartwright, but he was able to start shooting at them from the ground. Both Lopez and York died.
"Within seconds he sat up and began firing a weapon that came out of nowhere, it was somewhere on his body we assume," Okaloosa County's Interim Sheriff Ed Spooner told more than 300 sheriff's office employees who gathered Sunday night to pray and hear an explanation of the shootings.
Cartwright was killed in a shootout at a roadblock after a car chase into a neighboring county. The deputies had gone to a shooting range to arrest him after his wife sought treatment for domestic abuse injures at an area hospital.
Spooner said the deputies had no information to make them think Cartwright would turn his weapons on them.
"This went from zero to 100 in a matter of minutes. In three minutes it turned from a passive discussion to a shooting, it was one heck of a mess," the sheriff said.
READ MORE HERE.
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