Roof Collapses At Queenstown Outlets

Today my wife and I decided to get out of town so we took a ride up to the Queenstown Outlets. When we pulled into the shopping center parking lot we noticed that the parking lots seemed oddly empty. Empty, because about 20 stores were closed (Nike, Michael Kors, Polo...). I was told by one of their security guards that most of the stores in that particular section suffered major roof damage from the Big snow. So much so, that the roof of the Michael Kors store collapsed to the point that you could stand inside and actually touch the ceiling. She said most of the stores will be closed for several months and that the other sections were open and fully operational.

Coins In Ocean City

This is in referencee to Coins in OC..... it was NOT the DEA that went inside COINS.

It was OCPD Narcotics Unit along with some uniformed cops. They did not have their guns out and did have a narcotics related search and seizure warrant for the restaurant. There was evidence located inside the restaurant. The patrons were not ordered out, but obviously when police raided the place they all decided to leave. One of the employees was arrested out of the business.

The "Honey Do" List

As you can clearly see, today is my day of rest, (for once).

That is, from the Blog anyway. The weather is changing for the better and there's lots to catch up on around the Ranch.

I'm not sure what many of you are doing today but I personally am getting things done around here this morning so I can spend the rest of my day at the CAC Fundraiser at Chef Fred's.

There are some great Bands that will be playing and if you'd like to meet me face to face, that's where I'll be.

The event is from 2 PM to 9 PM. See You There!

Fatal House Fire In Millsboro

There was an early morning fatal house fire in Millsboro, Delaware today. More to come.....

WCAC Fundraiser At Chef Fred's TODAY

Click on image to enlarge. http://www.hopeentertainment.org/

A Letter To The Editor

As I read the comments regarding the Henderson suit, I am astounded at mentality of some of the people of Somerset County. Take a long hard look at the state of the economy. Why are we in this mess? We as Americans pay taxes and those we have placed in charge of our money have squandered and wasted it. Each side blames the other. WE are to blame.

Its time to demand accountability, honesty and integrity is restored in America and to begin in our own back yards. Be done with the back scratching and the rules for some, but not for others. The Commissioners of Somerset County work for the people of Somerset County. The people are the Employers. Have you all forgotten that? Hold them accountable for their actions, demand answers to your questions, don’t take any wishy-washy answers. If they rant and rave – let them.

Election time is nearing and any and everything they can do to ensure they continue with the POWER they will do. After election time when they accomplish the feat of being re-elected all will return to business as usual. What is your fear? The only POWER they hold is that which you have given them.

You have done them the honor of entrusting them with your money and the privilege of depending on their honesty and integrity to see that all in Somerset County are treated equally and live by the same rules; not a chosen few. Where is the money going? Are we paying for the luxuries of a few while we struggle to pay our debts and find jobs? What about that personal income tax rate? One of the poorest counties paying one of the highest personal income tax rates is unacceptable.
Worcester County has the lowest rate and the argument for that will be that they have Ocean City.

Okay, who is holding back Somerset; and why? More businesses in Somerset will equal more input into the Somerset County governing. When the businesses are allowed in, they too, as tax payers will have a voice. Can it be that in order to avoid that voice, Somerset is kept smaller and thus more under the control of a few? A change can happen if the citizens of Somerset County stand up. If change were not possible, we would still be under British rule. Minorities stand up and take your place in Somerset County. Don’t be swayed by the promises of sweet deals that will never be fulfilled. Demand that you receive the Equal Opportunity afforded to all. If you are qualified for a position, the color of your skin, the religion you practice and/or your gender are no issue. If you are not qualified, the same rules apply. Demand action, not talk.

If you are tired and don’t want the fight consider this; had our forefathers had that same attitude there would be no United States of America. The freedoms we enjoy today were bought and paid for by the blood of our ancestors, both black and white; who fought for those rights and paid the ultimate price. Are we so foolish and disrespectful of them to disregard the price they paid?

Remember: If you don’t stand up for something, you will fall for anything. This is our backyard and we need to clean it up. Make no mistake you will be met with adversity, but so were our forefathers and I surely pray that the residents of Somerset have some of the tenacity and willfulness of our ancestors. Enough is Enough !!!

Shots Fired at Seaford Bar, One Injured

Location: Maxes Dugout Bar, US 13, south of Seaford, Sussex County, DE

Date of Occurrence: Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 1:10 a.m.

Resume:

Delaware State Police are investigating a shooting that occurred at a Seaford area bar that injured a patron.

Troopers were call to Maxes Dugout Bar located on US 13 south of Seaford for the report of a large fight. As troopers were responding they began receiving reports of shots being fired. When troopers arrived they found a large crowd and damage to several vehicles resulting from gunfire.

Troopers then received reports of a 21 year-old Seaford man who drove himself to Nanticoke Hospital. He was treated and released for a gunshot wound to the left arm. The 21 year-old man reported he was attempting to leave the bar when someone shot out his vehicle’s window.

Troopers are investigating and have collected evidence from the parking lot of the bar.

The bar was previously closed in the fall for underage alcohol violations.

Drug Bust In OC

Joe, I thought this might be of interest.

At around 9:00pm tonight the hotel where my friend works had 10 people come in to have dinner. They had been at Coins (28th St. as I'm sure you know) & were just about to order dinner when the DEA came in with masks on & guns drawn. They ordered everyone out & locked it down. When my friend left to come home a while later, he said there were cop cars surrounding the place. Just thought you might want to check in to this.

Thanks for all the hard work you do to keep us informed & aware.

We're Dropping Blognetnews On Salisbury News

We have enjoyed a partnership with Blognetnews for several years now but we have become convinced their rating figures are no longer accurate.

While this may not mean much to most of you, Salisbury News has grown leaps and bounds over the past two years. However, this year our numbers have skyrocketed both in traffic volume as well as comments.

Considering Blognetnews states their rankings are based on the "most influential political Blogs" in the state, they certainly aren't proving such. There is not a single Blog on Blognetnews that has a higher volume of traffic and or comments than Salisbury News. In fact, some of the top ranked Blogs for this year so far only have some 80 visitors a day with one or two comments per day. Again, how is this "Influential?"

Anyhow, I have stated this all too many times in the past and quite frankly I've seen enough. We produce up to 70 articles per day and offer a far better variety of news and information than any Blog out there. The work that goes into it also takes up far more time than the Blogs only producing one article per day, yet they're ranked higher than those who deliver important news and information in real time.

So today we will remove the Blognetnews rankings and part our ways from them from this point forward. Besides, their rankings do nothing for Salisbury News any more nor did they in the past. We have enjoyed being the #1 Blog in the state of Maryland for the past three years. It's time someone else enjoy that position, even though they will always be #2. ;-)

Oh, don't think that Blognetnews will drop Salisbury News though. We deliver them a TON of traffic and since we allow a RSS Feed, they have the right to continue to carry us.

Could The Remains Found Be Those Of Christine Sheddy

I have spoken to several law enforcement officials today in reference to the case we posted earlier tonight.

My first tip off this morning was when I got a call asking if I had a contact number for the Parents. When I received a second similar call it became pretty clear something was up.

Although no positive identification has been made as of yet, we're fairly confident they have found who they were looking for.

A comment came in earlier saying, "Well they flew to Tenn. to speak with the guy in prison that used to work at River house and was associated with Christine, and then when they get back they find remains. Looks pretty cut and dry." I asked about this with one official and their reply was, MSP Cold Case and Homicide Units do great work.

To become more familiar with this case you can look at several HERE on SBYNews.

We certainly hope we can put this case to rest and I'm sure we'll have some kind of confirmation soon.

Troopers Looking To Identify Subject Of Missing Person Investigation

Location: Bethany Beach Shore Stop, SR 26, Bethany Beach, Sussex County, DE

Date of Occurrence: Wednesday February 10, 2010 at approximately 4 a.m.

Resume:

Troopers are trying to identify a man so that may question him for any information pertaining to the missing person investigation involving Greg Forte.

This subject pictured below was in the Bethany Beach Shore Stop located SR 26 on February 10 around 4 a.m. The man stated he broke down in Fenwick Island and was returning from Walmart. He was described as a white male in his 40's wearing tan coveralls, black jacket and black knit cap.

Troopers are seeking him for questioning with regards to missing person Greg Forte.

Anyone who may have any information concerning the identity of the pictured subject is asked to contact the state police at Troop 4 by dialing (302) 856-5850 ext 208.

Victims Identified In Fiery Crash

Resume:

Delaware State Police have Identified the Two Victims of an Early Morning Crash.

Troopers have identified the driver of the Buick struck early this morning as Erin M. Giles, 26, Wilmington and her passenger Maren Johansen, 25, also of Wilmington. Both women died at the scene after their car burst into flames.

The investigation is still ongoing and no charges have been filed at this time.

TODAY'S TOWN HALL MEETING

Today's meeting featured Worcester and Wicomico County State Delegates Norman Conway and Jim Mathias, Jr. The meeting was held at the Wicomico County library whereby I counted 21 people in attendance.

Keynote speakers included local blogging celebrities, Joe Albero - http://www.sbynews.blogspot.com/, Julie Brewington - http://www.rightcoastconseravtive.blogspot.com/, Michael Swartz - http://www.monoblogue.us/, and GA Harrison - http://www.delmarvadealings.com/.

First off I would like to thank both of the Delegates for holding their joint annual meeting. As I expected - the State of our sagging local economy dominated the agenda for the 1 -1/2 hour session. Delegate Norm Conway stated that as of July 1, 2010 the Board of Estimates had reduced the State budget revenue projections by more than 1 billion dollars. Our current projected budget is now at funding levels not seen since FY 2007 - 13 Billion dollars. Delegate Mathias also went on record as being opposed to a projected increase in the gas tax.

Topics discussed included the following:

1. Maryland's anti-business climate and the current state of our local area businesses - loss of key manufacturing jobs - (auto, housing, agriculture)

2. Poultry industry - chicken house construction and issuance of building permits

3. Education - Governor has not cut and has held the current level on spending

4. High unemployment rate - Statewide rate is at 7.5% and Worcester Co. 16.2% - (State unemployment benefit extensions from 26 weeks to 33 weeks - and then federal kicking-in for an additional 22 weeks)

5. Dramatic unemployment insurance contribution rate increases for Maryland employers to help make-up for depleted reserves.

6. Death penalty legislation

7. Proposed gas tax increases to help fortify the transportation trust fund.

8. Wicomico County Civic Center

9. Maryland's Renewable Energy Policy - or lack thereof

10. CASA - allowing issuance of drivers license for illegal aliens

Highlights of the meeting included considerable discussion surrounding the recent loss of Sarah Foxwell and specifically relating to the positions of these two elected officials regarding the Death Penalty. Both - Conway and Mathias - went on record for being in support of the Death Penalty whereby a hearing is scheduled to be held on the legislative initiative this Tuesday in Annapolis.

Other highlights included in-depth discussion on the Wicomico County Youth and Civic Center's recent land acquisition whereby it was revealed that the County may be contemplating additional land purchases in excess of the recently approved 5 acre acquisition. Additionally, there was considerable discussion regarding State and County land acquisitions for large tracts of land to accomodate the expansion of Salisbury University even despite our sagging economy.

As for myself and being in the renewable energy business - I expressed my concern regarding Maryland's lack of a comprehensive energy policy - specifically solar and wind.

Bottom line - I was really impressed by the degree of conviction, testimony, and political knowledge brought-on by the blogging community. I'll say one thing for these people - they are definately 'engaged' in the political arena.

Delaware State Police Investigating Fiery Crash

Location: DE Rt 7, Limestone Road, north of Arundel Drive, Pike Creek, New Castle County , DE

Date of Occurrence: Saturday, February 20, 2010 at approximately 1:14 a.m.


Resume:

Delaware State Police are investigating a three vehicle crash that resulted in the death of two females.

The crash happened early this morning after 1 o’clock in the morning when a 2001 Buick Century was traveling north on De Rt 7 north of Arundel Drive at the same time a 2009 Toyota Yaris and a 1996 Ford Mustang were traveling south approaching the Buick.

The Mustang sideswiped the Toyota prior to it entering the northbound lanes where it struck the Buick’s left front. After the impact between the two vehicles the Buick burst into flames. The driver and a female passenger were trapped inside and died as a result of the crash.

The driver of the Mustang, a 17 year-old girl from Milltown, was taken to Christiana Hospital with multiple lower leg fractures. The operator of the Toyota was identified as Ihab Ibrahim, 35, of Wilmington was not injured.

Alcohol and speed do not appear to be a factor in the crash. Everyone was wearing seat belts with the exception of the 17 year-old driver.

Both occupants of the Buick were burned beyond recognition and investigators are unable to make a positive identification. The crash is still under investigation.

Human Skeletal Remains Recovered

DATE & TIME: February 19, 2010 at 10:00 Am
Case # CBI# 10-0000116
LOCATION: E. Market Street Snow hill, Worcester County MD
CRIME: Human Skeletal Remains Recovered
VICTIM: Unknown

NARRATIVE:

On February 19, 2010 The Worcester Co. Bureau of Investigation (CBI) which is comprised of criminal investigators from the Maryland State Police, Worcester County Sheriff’s Department and Berlin Police Department, developed information on the location of possible human remains located at East Market Street Snow Hill Maryland.

From information learned, Investigators from CBI, assisted by MSP Homicide Unit and MSP Crime Lab actively pursued the area of interest. After several hours of searching, human skeletal remains were unearthed.

On Friday, February 19, 2010 the Worcester County’s Forensic Investigator for the office of the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office – (OCME) responded to the scene and examined the remains of the deceased. The Forensic Investigator advised the deceased remains would be transported to the OCME’s office for autopsy.

The investigation is continuing.
INVESTIGATING DETECTIVE: Detective Alex Kagan, (WCBI)
Supervisor’s: Sgt. H. Scott Brent, and Sgt. Van Muir (WCBI)

A Comment Absolutely Worthy Of A Post

Joe:

The snow has been removed via efforts from career and volunteer personnel alike. The issue could and should have been taken care of prior to this thread, but it wasn't and that is "our" fault.

As a side note however, the SFD has been inundated with calls and had an extreme call volume both during the recent storms and subsequent days following the storms. At this time, I do not have the exact number and apologize for not having the data to back up my statement, but I have recently been tasked with attempting to compile rough statistics on just that as well as costs to the department in order to make an attempt to recoup some of the capitol outlay from MEMA. I have not yet finished that task as the criteria continue to change from the State and it has been difficult to figure out exactly what they (State) want. I can tell you it has been difficult to keep up with the service need from both a career and volunteer standpoint. The numbers are quite high.

In any event, we have had a couple of days since the call volume dropped and gave the department an opportunity to clear the snow in question. To be honest, I doubt it crossed too many people's minds secondary to the amount of work that has been done recently and the ownership for that is our own.

However, for those who wish to continue to call us "lazy" and say we do nothing but sit around and watch TV all the time and wait for calls...I challenge ANYONE to come work with my shift for a 24 hour operational period and tell me that same thing after doing so. We do take time during any given shift to relax when the opportunity presents, but that is rare. All that "sleep" that some of your commenter's claim we get is most certainly a fallacy. Anyone taking me up on my offer to spend a tour with us will certainly discover that in a hurry.
In fact, I encourage my crew to get some rest between the hours of 7pm and 11pm if they can as I know they will be out running calls throughout the night. I imagine that most civilians would rather have a fresh firefighter or EMS provider taking care of their emergency vs. one who has been working continually for 20 hours. I doubt most folks can fathom exactly what we do unless they've done it themselves.

The career members have certainly worked hard over the last few weeks but so have many of the volunteers. It is true that some certainly work harder than others, but that is on both sides of the coin also and all should not be judged by the actions of a few...

In any event, A/C Bryan Records' shift, along with the help of some volunteer personnel, cleared the snow and the sidewalks are now passable as they should be. We SHOULD be setting the example as stated by some of your viewers and will certainly attempt to do much better in the future to that regard. Despite what some folks on this site may think, we are human also and make mistakes. I assure you that a mistake is what has occurred...an oversight on our part. We certainly aren't perfect and will learn from this mistake.

However, perhaps some of your viewers could make an attempt to come join our ranks and help to be a part of the solution to a perceived problem. That would perhaps give them a better perspective on exactly what we do rather than sit at home and gripe about what we don't.

In any event, the issue has been addresses and we have noted a weakness that will be addressed in the future.

Thanks for the space...

Respectfully,

Jim Gladwell

Editors Note:

Mr. Gladwell,

I applaud you and the rest of the career/volunteer Firefighters for doing what you have done. For what it's worth, before I contacted the Mayor I had my snow blower in my truck and truthfully was going to go up there myself and get it done. With the snow blower I would have been there 20 to 30 minutes and could have saved everyone the manpower. However, I made some phone calls to certain Council Members and they strongly suggested I call the Mayor in fear of possibly getting hurt while doing so. Now, between all of us, if I would have been hurt doing so, that would be my problem, I don't work like others who take advantage of such situations.

Now mind you, you guys/gals aren't Seniors or disabled but I do respect and understand your predicament. I had heard you were quite busy, hence my original offer to just get it done myself. Quite frankly, the Wicomico Public Library STILL has snow and ice outside their facility that hasn't been cleaned up, as of an hour ago. So don't feel singled out as I will produce photos of that as well and yes, I did point this out to the Mayor this morning while we were at a meeting there today.

To ALL of you at the SFD, if you need my services at any time, (I'm not joining the FD but I do encourage others to do so) I'd be more than happy and willing to do so. Thanks for clearing the way. Joe

Involuntary Manslaughter

INCIDENT: Involuntary Manslaughter
DATE: February 20, 2010
LOCATION: 1500 Block S. Division Street, Salisbury, MD 21804

NARRATIVE: On February 20, 2010 at 0223 hours the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office Received a call indicating an individual had been run over at a residence in the 1500 block of S. Division St. Initial responding Deputies located an individual trapped beneath a vehicle and Salisbury Fire and EMS was activated. The individual was transported to PRMC where he was pronounced dead.

The victim and suspect are familiar with each other and had been involved in an argument earlier. Alcohol was a contributing factor as well. As the suspect was attempting to leave the address she believed her vehicle became stuck on snow. She returned to the residence to solicit help and when she returned to the vehicle she discovered the victim beneath her vehicle. A call to 911 was immediately placed and emergency response was initiated.

The victim is identified as Jeremiah Parkhurst W/M 28 YOA of the 1500 Block of S. Division St.

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: Parkhurst, Erin 28 yoa W/F
1500 Block S. Division St.
Salisbury, MD 21804

CHARGES: Involuntary Manslaughter
Homicide by Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated
DWI and other related traffic offenses
DISPOSITION: Held on Bond
INVESTIGATING DETECTIVE TFC Elzey
RELEASTING AUTHORITY Sergeant David Owens
MSP Wicomico Bureau of Investigation
DATE: February 20, 2010 TIME: 1033 hours

Wicomico Bureau of Investigation

How Do You Like Me Now

Federal Aid Programs For Maryland Disaster Recovery

Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Obama’s major disaster declaration issued for Maryland.

Assistance for the State and Affected Local Governments Can Include as Required:

Payment of not less than 75 percent of the eligible costs for removing debris from public areas and for emergency measures taken to save lives and protect property and public health. (Source: FEMA funded, state administered.)
How to Apply for Assistance:

Application procedures for local governments will be explained at a series of federal/state applicant briefings with locations to be announced in the affected area by recovery officials. Approved public repair projects are paid through the state from funding provided by FEMA and other participating federal agencies.
FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

President Declares Major Disaster For Maryland

President Declares Major Disaster For Maryland
Release Date: February 19, 2010
Release Number: HQ-10-015

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Craig Fugate today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for Maryland to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area struck by a severe winter storm and snowstorm during the period of December 18-20, 2009.

Federal funding is available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures in Baltimore, Caroline, Cecil, Harford, Howard, Kent, Montgomery, and Queen Anne’s counties.

Assistance is also available to the state and eligible local governments on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures, including snow assistance, for a continuous 48-hour period during or proximate to the incident period.

Regis Leo Phelan has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Phelan said additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the State and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.