On April 17, 2008 at approximately 8:35 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to a residence on the four hundred (400) block of Truitt St. for the report of an attempted robbery. Upon arrival, Officers met with a victim who advised that he had been inside of the residence when two (2) suspects knocked on his rear door. The victim opened the door then was confronted by two (2) suspects, the first of which displayed a handgun. The victim alerted his roommate and both the victim and his roommate fled from the residence through the front door. The suspects fled from the rear of the residence. No property was taken, and there were no injuries. The suspects were described as follows:
Suspect # 1: Black male, mid twenties, 6’00” tall, thin to medium build, dark complexion, dread lock style hair, wearing a black t-shirt and jeans.
Suspect #2: Black male, mid twenties, 6’00”tall, thin to medium build, short hair, wearing a light blue t-shirt and jeans.
The suspects were seen leaving the area in a gray 90’s style Nissan Pathfinder.
If anyone has any information concerning this incident they are asked to contact the Salisbury Police at 410-548-3165. CC # 200800013407
DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Monday, April 21, 2008
SALISBURY CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
APRIL 21, 2008
CONFERENCE ROOM 305
GOVERNMENT OFFICE BUILDING
4:30 p.m. Further discussion - rental registration program – Tom Stevenson
5:10 p.m. Flood Mitigation Study – Jim Caldwell
5:35 p.m. City Attorney/Legal
•Additional funding for remainder of FY08
•Establishing a policy for City involvement in litigation
6:15 p.m. FY08 budget
•Status of FY08 budget
•Additional budget funding – sources other than surplus
6:35 p.m. Posting work session minutes on web site
6:55 p.m. General discussion/upcoming agendas
7:00 p.m. Adjourn
CONFERENCE ROOM 305
GOVERNMENT OFFICE BUILDING
4:30 p.m. Further discussion - rental registration program – Tom Stevenson
5:10 p.m. Flood Mitigation Study – Jim Caldwell
5:35 p.m. City Attorney/Legal
•Additional funding for remainder of FY08
•Establishing a policy for City involvement in litigation
6:15 p.m. FY08 budget
•Status of FY08 budget
•Additional budget funding – sources other than surplus
6:35 p.m. Posting work session minutes on web site
6:55 p.m. General discussion/upcoming agendas
7:00 p.m. Adjourn
The Salisbury Hampton Inn, The Best Place In Town To Take A Leak!
Last night was mayhem in Salisbury when many people staying overnight at the Hampton Inn in on Naylor Mill across from Toys-R-Us busted a water valve and the entire place was flooded!
Apparently they had to evacuate everyone last night and they had major flooding. It took the City Public Works Department about 45 minutes to respond and water was steady rolling out and there was nothing the Hampton Inn could do until the City got there.
Apparently they had to evacuate everyone last night and they had major flooding. It took the City Public Works Department about 45 minutes to respond and water was steady rolling out and there was nothing the Hampton Inn could do until the City got there.
Christmas In April, Thanks To The Board Of Education
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Not long ago our Grandson came home from school and said he won a Bike. I looked at him and said, what do you mean you won a Bike? He said, I did really good on my test and I won a Bike.
I asked my Wife what was going on and she said, I don't know, he's been talking about it ever since he got home. The following day he insisted we pick him up from School so he could get his Bike and bring it home. OK, call us stupid, we went up there and to our surprise the little guy actually won a Bike!
I don't know about you but I used to daydream in school about having my very own new Bike but reality set in and there was no way I was getting something like that. Not for Christmas, Easter, nothing!
Now all you have to do is go to school and do well on your test and the Board of Education will hand you a Bike, a Helmet, Knee Pads, you name it! Tell me, what's wrong with this picture?
What's The Difference Between John Jacobs & Jim Caldwell?
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NOTHING! It's business as usual in the Public Works Department Leadership. Several months ago a Jaguar mysteriously died of a ruptured spleen. We were assured a necropsy was being done and we would be told the results of what caused the mysterious death. However, I contacted two Council Members over the weekend and asked what the findings were and they replied, "I don't know."
This animal didn't die from a natural cause. If it had, the Mayor would have announced immediately what had happened. Like I said, more than likely a Zookeeper dropped the guillotine door on the animal and badly injured him. Hopefully we hear something more about this soon so we can make sure the Zoo fixes the defect in that door forever so it never happens again.
Good Eatin This Weekend
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It didn't matter if you went to opening day for Little League in Delmar or if you went to Pork in the Park, the food was out of this world!
I don't know about any of you but I certainly got some sunburn this weekend, fortunately not all too bad. Looking around though, many others did as well.
A Patriotic Albero
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Some of you may have seen this image featured a few months ago in the Daily Times? Nevertheless, this was an Oak Tree in my Father's front yard that became diseased. My Father took it upon himself to cut it down, climbing up into the tree and cutting away, piece by piece, limb by limb.
While doing so, he made a run to Delmar and ran into a couple of guys who were selling some wood art and asked if they'd be interested in doing something with the tree in his front yard. They agreed to look at it and the next thing you know he wanted something patriotic and showed them a photo of a Soldier and asked if they could duplicate it. The photo above is what is left of the tree. I don't know about any of you but that's really cool!
If you'd like the address to go see it, e-mail me at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com and I'll give it to you. It is in Salisbury.
The artist that did this work is:
Covered Bridge Creations
Tommy Winn. 434-738-8207
http://www.3ddriftwoodart.net
Calling All Units, Calling All Units
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While the Sheriff's Department set up their Mobile Command Unit for the Pork in the Park event, some Officers seemed lost when they returned to their base and the Command Unit was gone? It turns out they packed it in and brought the unit back to the Sheriff's Department. I was told the event was pretty easy going on the law enforcement end.
Did you go? Did you enjoy it? Do you have any recommendations for next year? I have one. I believe the County should fine any vendor that packs up early and leaves. I have done Trade Shows for 25+ years and that's exactly what they do if you attempt to leave a Show early. A $1,000.00 fine should keep everyone there till the end. If not, then the County takes in a few more worthy bucks.
Don't miss the Blue Crab Guru on TV !
Whitey Schmidt Delmarva's own Blue Crab Guru, Mr. Whitey Schmidt, can be seen Monday night at 9pm on MPT(local PBS stations). He is a "crab connoisseur " & his seafood recipes have been featured in Southern Living Magazine, The Baltimore Sun, The Washington Post and many other publications. He has also authored 10 cookbooks, which are widely available on-line at Amazon and through Marian Hartnett press. Whitey is a Maryland native and Crisfield resident whose crab recipes are famous worldwide. If you love all things crab in the kitchen, treat yourself and tune in!
Sunday, April 20, 2008
The Return Of Joe Albero
I have taken some off time and am pleased to let everyone know, I'm coming back. Thank You, ALL of you, for the support, phone calls, e-mail, personal contacts and belief that what is presented here is work that must be continued.
As some would believe I have done something wrong, let me assure ALL of you, I have not. My Wife said it best, the only person who should have been arrested was the attorney handling the transaction in question. Not that "I" would never wish that upon him or anyone else, it was not a pleasant experience.
In order to move on and forward, I need to clear the air and get a fresh start here. I want the Salisbury Fire Department and Salisbury Police Department to understand something right up front. I do NOT have an issue with the Firefighters and I do not have a problem with the Police Officers. I have a problem with the leaders of these Departments.
Today I spent the day talking with people in these Departments and today I learned something I wasn't aware of. You see, the comments on a Blog can create the image that they are/were a part of the Post. They are not. However, the final impression over the following day or days can leave that impression and I'd simply ask everyone to recognize that and not point a finger at me personally for the comments.
Everyone here knows I kiss no one's ass and I am not out trying to make friends here. I am simply defending my position to hopefully get those people mentioned to understand my goal is to make things better. Do try to remember who had who's back when it came to raises in BOTH Departments! Do also note that ultimately BOTH Departments did in fact get those raises, I just wish they could have happened sooner.
I believe in the Fire Department and Police Department and I want to see what's best for all involved. However, when a leader doesn't go to the Mayor and DEMAND more Staff and or pay, they're a poor leader, IMO. It shouldn't have to take a Blogger and Citizens to rally together in support to get their attention and in both cases, in these cases that's what it took.
However, $10,000,000.00 for a Fire Station is complete BS and there would be very few that would disagree. As a mater of fact, now the excuse is, it's there, let's all deal with it and move on. I don't disagree but I will say, it should be the very last time this should ever happen again and one way to assure the major spending is over is to remove certain people, (starting with the Mayor) out of Office.
Should we have leaders hiding 5 Fire Trucks in their budget from the taxpayers? Should it be found by a Blogger instead, or should we have more open government leaders and department heads simply stating this is what we need and why? So I exposed it. Does that mean I don't like the Fire Department? NO! It means I'm pissed off because See & Gordy, (IMO) are so out of control it isn't funny. Same goes with a $800,000.00 Fire Boat! You didn't see Chief See or Gordy coming public with this information. Again, it was a Blogger doing so and even after it was exposed they still tried and or are still trying to get this Boat. There are far more NEEDS right now and quite frankly the Fire Department blew their wad on the new Fire Station.
I am not against the Fire Department and IF you are a taxpayer in the City of Salisbury like I am, enough is enough! As for the Police Department, they're kicking a$$! If "I" had a beef with any of them I'd simply refuse to post their Press Releases and keep things quiet. I don't feel any ill will towards any Police Officer, I have a problem with their leader. Come on Folks, the Police Chief is suing me for calling him out on the TRUTH. Then I find myself in Jail for some bullshit charges? It is what it is and I'll face that and deal with it. However, the leader of a large Police Department is quite frankly embarrassing himself in front of all of his Staff because someone stated something about Chief Jack & Coke. Judge Judy said it best Chief, "Sticks and stones may break my bones but name will never hurt me." Grow some thicker skin and cut the crap. My God, we're all adults here.
I will attempt to end my Posts about the Police and Firefighters with, this does not reflect Officers/Firefighters and should only reflect Management. Hopefully that helps people to better understand that is the direction I intended it to be. All that being said, I hope we can start working together to better these Departments and reach goals that are important to the taxpayers. The Anti Albero Bloggers will do their best to tear this post apart, I'm telling you this is the direction "I" want things to go. If we can get there, great. If we cannot, well, we're right back to where we were just a few days ago.
In the mean time, I thank you guys/gals for all that you do. I hope, (just like it happened at the Salisbury Zoo) that the BS Leaders move on elsewhere and a new, more qualified leader comes in and manages each Department better. Time will tell...
As some would believe I have done something wrong, let me assure ALL of you, I have not. My Wife said it best, the only person who should have been arrested was the attorney handling the transaction in question. Not that "I" would never wish that upon him or anyone else, it was not a pleasant experience.
In order to move on and forward, I need to clear the air and get a fresh start here. I want the Salisbury Fire Department and Salisbury Police Department to understand something right up front. I do NOT have an issue with the Firefighters and I do not have a problem with the Police Officers. I have a problem with the leaders of these Departments.
Today I spent the day talking with people in these Departments and today I learned something I wasn't aware of. You see, the comments on a Blog can create the image that they are/were a part of the Post. They are not. However, the final impression over the following day or days can leave that impression and I'd simply ask everyone to recognize that and not point a finger at me personally for the comments.
Everyone here knows I kiss no one's ass and I am not out trying to make friends here. I am simply defending my position to hopefully get those people mentioned to understand my goal is to make things better. Do try to remember who had who's back when it came to raises in BOTH Departments! Do also note that ultimately BOTH Departments did in fact get those raises, I just wish they could have happened sooner.
I believe in the Fire Department and Police Department and I want to see what's best for all involved. However, when a leader doesn't go to the Mayor and DEMAND more Staff and or pay, they're a poor leader, IMO. It shouldn't have to take a Blogger and Citizens to rally together in support to get their attention and in both cases, in these cases that's what it took.
However, $10,000,000.00 for a Fire Station is complete BS and there would be very few that would disagree. As a mater of fact, now the excuse is, it's there, let's all deal with it and move on. I don't disagree but I will say, it should be the very last time this should ever happen again and one way to assure the major spending is over is to remove certain people, (starting with the Mayor) out of Office.
Should we have leaders hiding 5 Fire Trucks in their budget from the taxpayers? Should it be found by a Blogger instead, or should we have more open government leaders and department heads simply stating this is what we need and why? So I exposed it. Does that mean I don't like the Fire Department? NO! It means I'm pissed off because See & Gordy, (IMO) are so out of control it isn't funny. Same goes with a $800,000.00 Fire Boat! You didn't see Chief See or Gordy coming public with this information. Again, it was a Blogger doing so and even after it was exposed they still tried and or are still trying to get this Boat. There are far more NEEDS right now and quite frankly the Fire Department blew their wad on the new Fire Station.
I am not against the Fire Department and IF you are a taxpayer in the City of Salisbury like I am, enough is enough! As for the Police Department, they're kicking a$$! If "I" had a beef with any of them I'd simply refuse to post their Press Releases and keep things quiet. I don't feel any ill will towards any Police Officer, I have a problem with their leader. Come on Folks, the Police Chief is suing me for calling him out on the TRUTH. Then I find myself in Jail for some bullshit charges? It is what it is and I'll face that and deal with it. However, the leader of a large Police Department is quite frankly embarrassing himself in front of all of his Staff because someone stated something about Chief Jack & Coke. Judge Judy said it best Chief, "Sticks and stones may break my bones but name will never hurt me." Grow some thicker skin and cut the crap. My God, we're all adults here.
I will attempt to end my Posts about the Police and Firefighters with, this does not reflect Officers/Firefighters and should only reflect Management. Hopefully that helps people to better understand that is the direction I intended it to be. All that being said, I hope we can start working together to better these Departments and reach goals that are important to the taxpayers. The Anti Albero Bloggers will do their best to tear this post apart, I'm telling you this is the direction "I" want things to go. If we can get there, great. If we cannot, well, we're right back to where we were just a few days ago.
In the mean time, I thank you guys/gals for all that you do. I hope, (just like it happened at the Salisbury Zoo) that the BS Leaders move on elsewhere and a new, more qualified leader comes in and manages each Department better. Time will tell...
Who's The #1 Blogger In The State Of Maryland?
1 Salisbury News 3
2 Politicker MD - Inside Politics for Political Insiders 10
3 Brian Griffiths 11
4 The No BS Zone 15
5 WorcesterRight 6
6 monoblogue 1
7 The Duck Unplugged -
8 Gunpowder Chronicle -
9 Free State Politics 14
10 Charles County Cafe 7
11 Delusional Duck 8
12 Pocomoke Tattler 4
13 Maryland Politics 2
14 Maryland Politics Watch 5
15 Maryland Moment 18
16 Baltimore Reporter -
17 Rockville Central 17
18 The Silver Spring Penguin 20
19 The Dagger -
20 Kevin Dayhoff -
Although the Anti Albero Bloggers have been desperately giving my Site the lowest rating possible, we still emerge the #1 Blogger in the State of Maryland. I wonder if I should take this moment to give advice to Michael? Salisbury News once again it has taken on a life of its own. Thanks Folks!
2 Politicker MD - Inside Politics for Political Insiders 10
3 Brian Griffiths 11
4 The No BS Zone 15
5 WorcesterRight 6
6 monoblogue 1
7 The Duck Unplugged -
8 Gunpowder Chronicle -
9 Free State Politics 14
10 Charles County Cafe 7
11 Delusional Duck 8
12 Pocomoke Tattler 4
13 Maryland Politics 2
14 Maryland Politics Watch 5
15 Maryland Moment 18
16 Baltimore Reporter -
17 Rockville Central 17
18 The Silver Spring Penguin 20
19 The Dagger -
20 Kevin Dayhoff -
Although the Anti Albero Bloggers have been desperately giving my Site the lowest rating possible, we still emerge the #1 Blogger in the State of Maryland. I wonder if I should take this moment to give advice to Michael? Salisbury News once again it has taken on a life of its own. Thanks Folks!
Remarkable Art Exhibit At Salisbury Univ. – Frank A. Warren
This is one of the best exhibits in town for some years now – an American Impressionist with a local connection. The attached photo is: The Swamp Road, c1905, which depicts the road to the Furnace, Snow Hill, Maryland. Oil on canvas. 21 3/8 x 15 1/4 in. with frame.
This is the first public exhibit of his work in 73 years. It has been privately held by his family following his death in 1935.
The exhibit hours are limited – it’s in the student activity building (Guerrieri University Center) – near the entrance facing Dogwood Drive -- until May 28, so don't miss it.
Atrium Gallery -- Monday-Wednesday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
For more photos of Mr. Warren's outstanding work see:
http://www.frankawarren.com/art
A Gannett Publications Must See!
GO HERE to see the 5 year trend on the Stock Market for Gannett Publications. This is certainly worth taking a look at!
Daily Times Awards Show Poor State of Local Coverage
In this morning's Daily Times we see that Gannett's local outpost has gone out and won 35 awards from the Maryland - Delaware - D.C. Press Association. WOW!
Note that there was one award for an article, authored by former reporter Katherine Crowell, about the "short life span of Salisbury City Council members". This piece was more of a feature piece than hard news coverage.
This lends further evidence to the poor state of coverage provided by the Daily Times when it comes to local government and politics, particularly when it comes to Salisbury city government. Of course this was something that we already knew.
Recently reporter Joe Gidjunis left for a more northern clime. What to do? Move city reporter Greg Latshaw over to the county beat, even though he hasn't mastered city coverage yet. Latshaw's replacement: a young lady who appears to follow past Daily Times practice of taking dictation from Salisbury Mayor Barrie Tilghman.
Given the state of city's finances this is just what the taxpayers need. Of course, if Ms. D'Alessandro ever exhibits talent for her job, the can transfer her elsewhere.
cross posted at Delmarva Dealings
Technorati Tags: Maryland, Salisbury, Wicomico, politics, Salisbury politics, Wicomico politics, media, Gannett, Daily Times
Note that there was one award for an article, authored by former reporter Katherine Crowell, about the "short life span of Salisbury City Council members". This piece was more of a feature piece than hard news coverage.
This lends further evidence to the poor state of coverage provided by the Daily Times when it comes to local government and politics, particularly when it comes to Salisbury city government. Of course this was something that we already knew.
Recently reporter Joe Gidjunis left for a more northern clime. What to do? Move city reporter Greg Latshaw over to the county beat, even though he hasn't mastered city coverage yet. Latshaw's replacement: a young lady who appears to follow past Daily Times practice of taking dictation from Salisbury Mayor Barrie Tilghman.
Given the state of city's finances this is just what the taxpayers need. Of course, if Ms. D'Alessandro ever exhibits talent for her job, the can transfer her elsewhere.
cross posted at Delmarva Dealings
Technorati Tags: Maryland, Salisbury, Wicomico, politics, Salisbury politics, Wicomico politics, media, Gannett, Daily Times
Pork In The Park, Something For Everyone
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While some lines were ridiculously forever long, others were so short you could walk right up and get served immediately. The first photo shows a line that had to be at least a half hour long, probably more like an hour long. Sorry but when you have a 7 year old child with you, waiting for food isn't something they came there for. Besides, we walked right over to Station 7 and got some of the finest pork I've ever eaten! Man that place is good!
To the many of you who I met for the very first time, thank you! The support has been unbelievable and the amount of people there willing to confront me and express just how much they love this Blog was overwhelming. We did have one problem but that deserves its own special Post.
Today is the last day of this event so if you haven't been, it's a great time. We sat down last night after a ton of walking and amusement rides and decided to sit under the tent rather than being so close to the Band. Our Grandson said, are we leaving, (when we were getting ready to move)? I said, no, why? He replied, good, because I was going to get mad. This little guy was having a blast, even though his allergies were killing him. Get out there and enjoy this final day Folks.
Food for Thought...
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"Civil disobedience is not our problem. Our problem is civil obedience.
Our problem is that numbers of people all over the world have obeyed the dictates of the leaders of their government and have gone to war, and millions have been killed because of this obedience.
Our problem is that people are obedient all over the world in the face of poverty and starvation and stupidity, and war, and cruelty.
Our problem is that people are obedient while the jails are full of petty thieves, and all the while the grand thieves are running and robbing the country. That's our problem.": Howard Zinn, from 'Failure to Quit'
"Civil disobedience is not our problem. Our problem is civil obedience.
Our problem is that numbers of people all over the world have obeyed the dictates of the leaders of their government and have gone to war, and millions have been killed because of this obedience.
Our problem is that people are obedient all over the world in the face of poverty and starvation and stupidity, and war, and cruelty.
Our problem is that people are obedient while the jails are full of petty thieves, and all the while the grand thieves are running and robbing the country. That's our problem.": Howard Zinn, from 'Failure to Quit'
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Boss Hogg Ain't Dancing Yet
Cletus tried the old frame em up game but it ain't gonna stick.
Politics on the Eastern Shore are about as crooked and corrupt as they get.
Corruption is out in the open and the Boss Hoggers just don't care.
Waylon & Willie and the boyz are ready for the benefit...
Boss Hogg Ain't Dancing yet and his Mare is a baying at the full moon...
Enjoy this Spring weather and tell old Boss Hogg what you really think.
Don't hold nothing back, cause we won't...
Can Catholics Support McCain?
As a conservative and a Catholic, I am troubled by what I am reading in many different publications about our Republican candidate John McCain. 
When he ran for President several years ago, he insulted the Christian Conservative by stating the following..."I recognize and celebrate that our country is founded upon Judeo- Christian values, and I have pledged my life to defend America and all her values, the values that have made us the noblest experiment in history. But political intolerance by any political party is neither a Judeo-Christian nor an American value. The political tactics of division and slander are not our values, they are corrupting influences on religion and politics, and those who practice them in the name of religion or in the name of the Republican Party or in the name of America shame our faith, our party and our country."
I can totally support this statement but...
Last year, when John McCain’s presidential campaign was floundering, it was noted that he was making in-roads with right-wing figures like Armageddon advocate John Hagee, who harbors a not-so-secret desire for the US to start a war with Iran in order to bring about the subsequent return of Jesus Christ.
At the time, there didn’t seem much to worry about because McCain’s campaign appeared dead-in-the-water and though, over the coming months, McCain continued to court Hagee, the pastor appeared content to stick to his rabid theologizing and warnings to the United States.
Hagee cited McCain’s pro-life and pro-Israel stances in his endorsement Wednesday. But the announcement drew instant backlash from the Democratic National Committee, the Catholic League and Catholics United.
Catholic League President Bill Donohue called on McCain to reject Hagee’s support, citing statements in Hagee’s book Jerusalem Countdown that linked Adolf Hitler to the Catholic Church.
“There are plenty of staunch evangelical leaders who are pro-Israel, but are not anti-Catholic. John Hagee is not one of them,” Donohue said in the statement. “He has waged an unrelenting war against the Catholic Church.”
Democrats quoted Hagee as saying the Catholic Church conspired with Nazis against the Jews and that Hurricane Katrina was God’s retribution for homosexual sin, and they recited his demeaning comments about women and flip remarks about slavery.
“Hagee’s hate speech has no place in public discourse, and McCain’s embrace of this figure raises serious questions about John McCain’s character and his willingness to do anything to win,” said Tom McMahon, executive director of the Democratic National Committee.
Donohue made a direct challenge to McCain, saying: “Senator Obama has repudiated the endorsement of Louis Farrakhan, another bigot. McCain should follow suit and retract his embrace of Hagee.”
So much of what I have been reading about certain high profile Evangelical leaders is that they want to lead their churches to be the Church that Christ's Second Coming will recognize as 'the Church without spot or wrinkle' in their lifetimes.
The Bible clearly states that Christ will not return until Solemons Temple is rebuilt. I am only assuming that rebuilt means to rebuild it on it's original foundation. That poses a modern day problem...because sitting on top of it's foundation a huge Muslim Mosque.
So that sounds to me like that Mosque has gotta come down if the Temple is to go back up. Them's fightin words.
However, the support of Isreal by our government to treat the Palestinians so inhumanely, and our Church leaders to get behind these attrocities is unconsienable. These men are teaching an entire generation that we mus assist in the rebuilding of the Temple by supporting Isreal in all that they do.
During one of the three times that I have read Bible cover to cover, I determined very early on that God is incredibly awesome, and He can do whatever He wants (because He's God). And who are we to determine when He is to come back, much less contribute to the war of wars that is spoken about in Revelation. Christ will come back when He wants to...for our religious leaders to push the 'End' upon us is not something I believe God really needs help with.
Courting these men and garnering their support is dangerous, and spiritually manipulative and to call the Catholic Church 'The Whore of Babylon" is just too much. Only ignorance of the Catholic Faith would cause a person to say such things. I know, because I was raised a Southern Baptist Evangelical, and five years ago converted to Catholisism.
Evangelicals and most Protestant denominations are taught that Catholics worship idols, and don't approach the throne of God's grace except through Mary. This is simply not true.
Catholics have statuary representing the Holy Family because it is a visual of how important these people were. If you have any faith at all you must consider that when God decided that He was sending His Son to earth to be a living sacrafice for us, that He didn't pick just anyone to bear His Child. He knew the character of this young woman Mary, and He chose her, He even chose her Mother to raise her to become the woman that she was.
In the early church many many were illiterate and visual aides were essential to tell a story. In the Catholic Church Christ is hanging on the cross, in a Protestant Church He is not. Catholics certainly acknowledge and praise the miracle of His ressurection, but as a cradle Protestant the suffering of Christ and His heineously horrible treatment was not so real in my mind, and full ramifications of what He did for me and everyone else was not felt nor completely appreciated until I found myself on my knees in the sanctuary of the Catholic Church and saw Him hanging there. Then and only then, did I really get what He had done.
I will address the praying to Mary, and then I will close. The Bible says that "to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord". Ok, I am fairly sure that Mary being the mother of Christ had a pretty good chance of making it into the pearly gates. This is where all Protestant confusion lies with this...if I have a problem, that I can't solve I often seek the advise and prayers of a friend. I know the personalities of my different friends and I know their areas of expertise. If I ask them for prayer on my behalf today and they died tomorow does that nulify my request? I don't believe so...if they are the faithfull Christian friend that I have known then why would my inabilty to see them anymore end our friendship. If they are present with the Lord, then don't you think our love continues and they be even more inclined to petition the Lord on my behalf? Mary is the iconic mother figure. She raised her son in a loving home she made sure that he applied himself to work and to study, and when he was condemned by the Jews and was beaten and strapped with a cross on His back and walked to through the streets of Jerusalem she was there every step of the way, weeping in agony for her son, as only a mother could do. She stayed at the cross through the hours until His death and washed His body after He was gone. She partook in the burial and was as equally surprised and rejoiced as all of the other diciples upon His ressurection. As a child we can relate to her, because she was there for Him. As mother we can relate to her because we couldn't bear the pain, and we would do the same thing. As a husband and father we can relate to her because we know and see the pain, and know that she would have traded herself for His life, and we marvel at the bond of the mother and child.
We know who she is, she is the mother we would all want to be, and the mother that we hope we will never have to be. She is easy to ask a prayer from because she knows her Son like no other, and she can petition on our behalf because of that.
Catholics know their prayers are answered by God, of that there is no question. Asking for some extra prayers from a friend is something that is done all of the time.
Quote Of The Day
"THE ONLY THING NEEDED FOR EVIL TO TRIUMPH IS FOR GOOD MEN TO DO NOTHING"
EDMUND BURKE
EDMUND BURKE
Tire Amnesty Day
One of my favorite things to do on a Saturday morning is to go to the landfill. Lol. But things have to get done. When I got there this morning I noticed a LONG line of traffic leading up to the gate across from the scales. I understood completely when I saw the sign "Tire Amnesty Day".
It appears that each person can bring up to ten tires at no cost. They're being loaded into large containers to be shipped off for recycling. The girl at the scales said she understands that they are going to be chipped up and used in making roads. It's good to see things being recycled. Anyway, it's my understanding this is going on until 4:00 p.m. so if you have any old tires laying around.....
It appears that each person can bring up to ten tires at no cost. They're being loaded into large containers to be shipped off for recycling. The girl at the scales said she understands that they are going to be chipped up and used in making roads. It's good to see things being recycled. Anyway, it's my understanding this is going on until 4:00 p.m. so if you have any old tires laying around.....
Later Today
Don't think for a minute I'm not going after the Zoo article in the Daily Times yesterday, because I am!
The USDA came into the Zoo, (Jim Rapp no longer there) and tore them a new one! I tip my hat to the Daily Time for doing that article and exposing many of the things reported.
The most interesting part I find is that the Salisbury City Council has NOT been made aware of the Inspection, they have NOT seen the Report and quite frankly, with Gary Comegys on the Zoo Commission and NEVER actually making a meeting, he has proven his service to that Commission is absolutely USELESS!
Look, everyone knows Gary and I do not see eye to eye but let me say this. I tip my hat to Comegys as well. Public service sucks and brings very little rewards, unless you're in it like a former Council President was.
That being said, you're in over your head Gary and the purpose for your being on the Zoo Commission is to report back to the Council and keep everyone up to speed. You have truly failed in that department and the Zoo is critical at this stage.
There is a new Zoo Director and Lord knows he's got his hands full right now. However, he's not stupid. The man did a walk through at the Zoo just like every other candidate did and he saw how bad things were.
Now it's a matter of getting obviously lady people fired and a new supportive group in there willing to do what it takes to convince this community the Zoo is worthy of investing into. Start at the top. Comegy's needs to be replaced with someone like Terry Cohen. She loves animals and she's got a good stern head on her shoulders. Then you need to get rid of Alessi. The man should be man enough to step down and let some new blood in there but he's a self centered you know what and he'll run with this till the day he dies, if they'll allow.
The Staff has obviously slacked off since Rapp left, proving Gary Muir didn't do his job either. If you want your Zoo back to the way it used to be, you need to get rid of the Staff and hire professionals to do it right. Of course this is all my own personal opinion but to those who want to criticize me, how's it working for you now? Enough said, I'll be back on this issue later.
The USDA came into the Zoo, (Jim Rapp no longer there) and tore them a new one! I tip my hat to the Daily Time for doing that article and exposing many of the things reported.
The most interesting part I find is that the Salisbury City Council has NOT been made aware of the Inspection, they have NOT seen the Report and quite frankly, with Gary Comegys on the Zoo Commission and NEVER actually making a meeting, he has proven his service to that Commission is absolutely USELESS!
Look, everyone knows Gary and I do not see eye to eye but let me say this. I tip my hat to Comegys as well. Public service sucks and brings very little rewards, unless you're in it like a former Council President was.
That being said, you're in over your head Gary and the purpose for your being on the Zoo Commission is to report back to the Council and keep everyone up to speed. You have truly failed in that department and the Zoo is critical at this stage.
There is a new Zoo Director and Lord knows he's got his hands full right now. However, he's not stupid. The man did a walk through at the Zoo just like every other candidate did and he saw how bad things were.
Now it's a matter of getting obviously lady people fired and a new supportive group in there willing to do what it takes to convince this community the Zoo is worthy of investing into. Start at the top. Comegy's needs to be replaced with someone like Terry Cohen. She loves animals and she's got a good stern head on her shoulders. Then you need to get rid of Alessi. The man should be man enough to step down and let some new blood in there but he's a self centered you know what and he'll run with this till the day he dies, if they'll allow.
The Staff has obviously slacked off since Rapp left, proving Gary Muir didn't do his job either. If you want your Zoo back to the way it used to be, you need to get rid of the Staff and hire professionals to do it right. Of course this is all my own personal opinion but to those who want to criticize me, how's it working for you now? Enough said, I'll be back on this issue later.
WANTED
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Do you know who these people are? If so, please contact me directly at, alberobutzo@wmconnect.com . I believe they're connected with the Delmar Fire Department, if that helps anyone.
No Daily Times This Morning
I don't know about all of you but when I went all the way to my mailbox this morning, there was no Daily Times. Am I asking too much to have my paper delivered by 6:30 AM?
When I called in to the paper they asked for my telephone number, address and E-MAIL? What the hell is that, my E-MAIL? I replied, you're kidding me, right? No Sir, do you have an e-mail account? I replied, that's none of your business!
Be careful Ladies & Gentlemen because Gannett will sell that e-mail address so fast it isn't funny! Do NOT give away your e-mail address. If you happen to have your paper, do let me know what's in the news today, OK?
When I called in to the paper they asked for my telephone number, address and E-MAIL? What the hell is that, my E-MAIL? I replied, you're kidding me, right? No Sir, do you have an e-mail account? I replied, that's none of your business!
Be careful Ladies & Gentlemen because Gannett will sell that e-mail address so fast it isn't funny! Do NOT give away your e-mail address. If you happen to have your paper, do let me know what's in the news today, OK?
Friday, April 18, 2008
Pork In The Park
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How could I let down this weekend's Pork In The Park Event? I was there for the ribbon cutting and watch the line to get in get longer and longer by the minute.
Tonight might just be your best night to get out and enjoy? I walked the grounds where they were coking all that food and man did that smell good. Then again, anything smells better than the Detention Center, LOL!
I feel a shell coming off little by little, can you tell?
So We Think We are Hearing the Truth...
If you think the Main Stream Media is giving you information based on truth, then you are sorely mistaken.
Ask yourself this...over the last two decades media sources have been bought up faster than most people are aware of. We hear about the merging of these media giants but are we fully understanding what the implications of those mergings mean?
What it means is that our news is coming from Corporate Giants who want to control what we see, what we hear, what we purchase and ultimately what we believe.
Independant News Sources are becoming few and far between and this trend has frightening implications.
Media depends on advertisers to pay salaries for writers, staff, printing equip. etc. If an advertiser doesn't like what the media sources are saying they pull their advertising and the media looses money. Simple Right?
Well, now let extrapolate this scenario onto the grand scale of say Viacom, or Gannet.
Media Giants need advertising dollars too and they charge a premium for it. Which means they are courting big name advertisers. The bigger the advertiser the bigger the budget and the more and more they are able to cover and purchase.
But what happens when you are a huge media giant and one of your reporters has found a story about a product produced by one of your huge advertisers? Do you run the story?
According to the link that I am including for you to watch on YouTube is exactly what happend.
Monsanto produced a product for the cattle industry to bring a calf to adult hood very quickly thus increasing profits for the beef farmers. However when it showed up in the milk it had soooo much bovine growth hormone in the milk scientist said no we cant use this. Monsanto, said that' not going to happen wer'e selling it and advertising it. When a Fox News Reporter got a hold of this story he went through hell to get he story heard.
Here it is ...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZkDikRLQrw
Take the few minutes and watch this you are never going to believe your media sources again.
Quote of the Day from Pope Pius XI
Justice requires that to lawfully constituted Authority there be given that respect and obedience which is its due; that the laws which are made shall be in wise conformity with the common good; and that, as a matter of conscience all men shall render obedience to these laws.
Pope Pius XI
Pope Pius XI
It's Time For A Vacation
Yesterday was certainly trying but it was a day in which I will soon get over. I can say I now know what it's like for those celebrities surrounded by camera people and even other Bloggers out to capture that Kodak Moment, LOL.
Nevertheless, it is what it is and I have to tip my hat to Charles Jannace and Bill Duvall for their relentless efforts to push the Comptroller into filing such charges. Talk about crazy, the Daily Times has two articles of interest in the Delmarva Section. One is a story about Sarah Dykstra killed by an Off Duty Police Officer. The Officer could receive up to 30 months in prison and a fine of $1,150.00. However, in my case, (you're going to love this) the Daily Times claims I could face up to 10 years in prison. How ironic!
The purpose of this Blog was to open the minds of the many believing the Daily Times was telling real stories when we all knew they were slanted, if they even told them at all. After this last go round, I have to decide just what I'm willing to go through any more and more importantly what my Family must deal with.
A friend of mine, Donna, makes a great point. We seem to be out there doing all of the work for the Citizens of Salisbury and when the time comes for them to step up to the plate and participate, no one shows up. Well, I couldn't agree more.
This kid comes around and says he's going to recall the Mayor, then Smith, then Comegys and rather than everyone coming together to support this young man, everyone challenges his right to do so. Quite frankly, it's sad to watch this Mayor scare the crap out of so many.
That being said, it's time for me to sit back and think about what I want to do. I want to thank all of you for your calls and messages. Once I explained to those close to me what actually happened it becomes very clear why things were done the way they were. Obviously I cannot expose that information until I've had enough time to discuss it with my lawyers.
I will say, it's VERY interesting how the Comptroller never contacted me to ask me anything. I am an American Citizen who has been paying taxes for many years. One would think I'd get the courtesy of our own Government for such before you go and file an arrest warrant for someone and treat them like a criminal. Jesus Christ, even Bush sent back all the Iraq families here in the United States before they ever investigated one of them after 911.
Anyhow, I have some things to think about over the next couple of days. Others will be posting here in the mean time but right now I need to think about what is best for my Family and make a decision as to where this Blog will go.
Nevertheless, it is what it is and I have to tip my hat to Charles Jannace and Bill Duvall for their relentless efforts to push the Comptroller into filing such charges. Talk about crazy, the Daily Times has two articles of interest in the Delmarva Section. One is a story about Sarah Dykstra killed by an Off Duty Police Officer. The Officer could receive up to 30 months in prison and a fine of $1,150.00. However, in my case, (you're going to love this) the Daily Times claims I could face up to 10 years in prison. How ironic!
The purpose of this Blog was to open the minds of the many believing the Daily Times was telling real stories when we all knew they were slanted, if they even told them at all. After this last go round, I have to decide just what I'm willing to go through any more and more importantly what my Family must deal with.
A friend of mine, Donna, makes a great point. We seem to be out there doing all of the work for the Citizens of Salisbury and when the time comes for them to step up to the plate and participate, no one shows up. Well, I couldn't agree more.
This kid comes around and says he's going to recall the Mayor, then Smith, then Comegys and rather than everyone coming together to support this young man, everyone challenges his right to do so. Quite frankly, it's sad to watch this Mayor scare the crap out of so many.
That being said, it's time for me to sit back and think about what I want to do. I want to thank all of you for your calls and messages. Once I explained to those close to me what actually happened it becomes very clear why things were done the way they were. Obviously I cannot expose that information until I've had enough time to discuss it with my lawyers.
I will say, it's VERY interesting how the Comptroller never contacted me to ask me anything. I am an American Citizen who has been paying taxes for many years. One would think I'd get the courtesy of our own Government for such before you go and file an arrest warrant for someone and treat them like a criminal. Jesus Christ, even Bush sent back all the Iraq families here in the United States before they ever investigated one of them after 911.
Anyhow, I have some things to think about over the next couple of days. Others will be posting here in the mean time but right now I need to think about what is best for my Family and make a decision as to where this Blog will go.
Don't Fault Barrie Tilghman
Salisbury government is something. Mayor Barrie Tilghman's bureaucracy grows and grows. Property taxes rise. The only economic development that the city seems able to attract is retail or residential development. Yet, we have learned via the Daily Times that this is not Tilghman's fault. No, it's all because Wicomico County won't write her a BIG CHECK!
Taking a clue from her counterpart down the hall (Wicomico County Executive Rick Pollitt), Tilghman is blaming some amorphous government policy for the fiscal woes of Salisbury. Tilghman seems to think that the city's fiscal plight is because Wicomico County doesn't provide a tax differential. This is similar to Pollitt's now monotonous tactic of tying the county's revenue cap with its fiscal problems.
It should be noted that Tilghman has now changed her rhetoric a bit and has begun calling for a "tax set-off". As we explained in an earlier post, Tilghman wants the county to right a check, not provide needed tax relief to Salisbury taxpayers. It should be noted that our local paper has fallen right in line.
As we have stated time and again, a TAX DIFFERENTIAL is fair. Asking the Wicomico County government to simply write a check (Tilghman's newly named TAX SET-OFF) so that Tilghman may feed her bureaucracy is unjust to all taxpayers AND fiscally irresponsible.
Tilghman has proven time and again that she will spend every nickel that she can snatch, wheedle, or extort from the city's residents. Sure, there are a few residents like SU professor Don Cathcart (spouse of former councilwoman Lynn Cathcart) who have this strange notion that Salisbury residents are not taxed enough. However, I believe that this is merely a sad commentary on Maryland's system of higher education.
What other potential sources of city revenue does Tilghman have in mind? If she has specifics I would be happy to listen. Perhaps Tilghman could simply cut back on the subsidies provided to her developer pals? How about actually enforcing the city's code and fining her slumlord buddies?
I know, who am I kidding?
cross posted at Delmarva Dealings
Technorati Tags: Maryland, Salisbury, Wicomico, politics, Salisbury politics, Wicomico politics, Rick Pollitt, Barrie Tilghman, fiscal policy, taxation
Taking a clue from her counterpart down the hall (Wicomico County Executive Rick Pollitt), Tilghman is blaming some amorphous government policy for the fiscal woes of Salisbury. Tilghman seems to think that the city's fiscal plight is because Wicomico County doesn't provide a tax differential. This is similar to Pollitt's now monotonous tactic of tying the county's revenue cap with its fiscal problems.
It should be noted that Tilghman has now changed her rhetoric a bit and has begun calling for a "tax set-off". As we explained in an earlier post, Tilghman wants the county to right a check, not provide needed tax relief to Salisbury taxpayers. It should be noted that our local paper has fallen right in line.
As we have stated time and again, a TAX DIFFERENTIAL is fair. Asking the Wicomico County government to simply write a check (Tilghman's newly named TAX SET-OFF) so that Tilghman may feed her bureaucracy is unjust to all taxpayers AND fiscally irresponsible.
Tilghman has proven time and again that she will spend every nickel that she can snatch, wheedle, or extort from the city's residents. Sure, there are a few residents like SU professor Don Cathcart (spouse of former councilwoman Lynn Cathcart) who have this strange notion that Salisbury residents are not taxed enough. However, I believe that this is merely a sad commentary on Maryland's system of higher education.
What other potential sources of city revenue does Tilghman have in mind? If she has specifics I would be happy to listen. Perhaps Tilghman could simply cut back on the subsidies provided to her developer pals? How about actually enforcing the city's code and fining her slumlord buddies?
I know, who am I kidding?
cross posted at Delmarva Dealings
Technorati Tags: Maryland, Salisbury, Wicomico, politics, Salisbury politics, Wicomico politics, Rick Pollitt, Barrie Tilghman, fiscal policy, taxation
Courageous Christopher 5k in 1 Month!
There is still plenty of time to register for the Courageous Christopher 5k which the benefits will go towards funding a siezure response dog which will alert adults to an on comming seizure. The race begins at 10 am on Saturday May 17th starting at Asbury Church on Camden. Race day registration starts at 8:30 am. The price tag for the dog is $11,000.
Following the 5k will be a pig roast and entertainment. All those who wish to participate with a dog or a stroller are highly encouraged.
Awards for the top 3 overall and top three men and women will be awarded. T-shirts will be given out to the first 200 registrants.
You can pick up an entry form at many area businessess or register online at http://www.courageouschristopher.com/
Following the 5k will be a pig roast and entertainment. All those who wish to participate with a dog or a stroller are highly encouraged.
Awards for the top 3 overall and top three men and women will be awarded. T-shirts will be given out to the first 200 registrants.
You can pick up an entry form at many area businessess or register online at http://www.courageouschristopher.com/
Barren Creek Christian Academy Fundraiser
Barren Creek, a small Christian School in Mardela Springs will be holding a car wash and bake sale Saturday April 26th at Peninsula Total Car Care on 309 E. Carrol Street. The fundraiser will benefit the students of the academy to help pay for new playground equipment.
Contact Leslie Ashley @ 410-376-0032 for more information.
Contact Leslie Ashley @ 410-376-0032 for more information.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Dead Fish In River
Joe,
I crossed the Upper Ferry twice today. The attendant mentioned that dead fish have been floating down the river all day. He showed me some large rockfish. I guess that the dog and cat pee in Salisbury is responsible for the fish kill. (just ask the mare) I'm sure that sewer spills in Salisbury have nothing to do with it. I would not eat anything from the Wicomico River.
farm boy
I crossed the Upper Ferry twice today. The attendant mentioned that dead fish have been floating down the river all day. He showed me some large rockfish. I guess that the dog and cat pee in Salisbury is responsible for the fish kill. (just ask the mare) I'm sure that sewer spills in Salisbury have nothing to do with it. I would not eat anything from the Wicomico River.
farm boy
Senator Harris calls for repeal of gas tax
Annapolis –Today, State Senator Andy Harris (R-7) called for a Special Session to suspend the Maryland gas tax from Memorial Day until Labor Day.
Currently, Marylanders pay 23.5¢ in state tax per gallon of gas. When combined with the federal gas tax, each Marylander pays 41.9¢ in taxes per gallon. Diesel is even higher, costing 48.7¢ per gallon in combined federal and state taxes.
With gas prices skyrocketing at alarming rates, the burden of these taxes intensifies. Analysts predict gas prices may top $4.00 a gallon this summer, while diesel is already over $4.00 per gallon!
The sole purpose of the one day Special Session will be to suspend the gas tax from Memorial Day until Labor Day. “If General Assembly took three weeks to raise taxes, we can come back one day to provide temporary gas tax relief to Maryland’s already over-taxed citizens,” said Senator Harris. “Motorists are crying out for tax relief.”
Senator McCain is calling for the suspension of the 18 cents federal gas tax from Memorial Day to Labor Day. “Combining federal and state gas tax relief will provide meaningful help for Maryland families,” Senator Harris added.
Now that the additional increase in sales tax is used to fund transportation projects, Maryland can afford to alleviate the suffering of Maryland motorists.
Currently, Marylanders pay 23.5¢ in state tax per gallon of gas. When combined with the federal gas tax, each Marylander pays 41.9¢ in taxes per gallon. Diesel is even higher, costing 48.7¢ per gallon in combined federal and state taxes.
With gas prices skyrocketing at alarming rates, the burden of these taxes intensifies. Analysts predict gas prices may top $4.00 a gallon this summer, while diesel is already over $4.00 per gallon!
The sole purpose of the one day Special Session will be to suspend the gas tax from Memorial Day until Labor Day. “If General Assembly took three weeks to raise taxes, we can come back one day to provide temporary gas tax relief to Maryland’s already over-taxed citizens,” said Senator Harris. “Motorists are crying out for tax relief.”
Senator McCain is calling for the suspension of the 18 cents federal gas tax from Memorial Day to Labor Day. “Combining federal and state gas tax relief will provide meaningful help for Maryland families,” Senator Harris added.
Now that the additional increase in sales tax is used to fund transportation projects, Maryland can afford to alleviate the suffering of Maryland motorists.
Wounded Warrior Project Benefit Next Friday!
The Monkey Barrel Bar and Grille will be hosting a Fundraiser benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project on Friday April 25 with 6 bands! Proceeds from the cover charge, specials, and donations will all go directly to the Project.
The Wounded Warrior Project gives financial aid to families in their time of need with rehabilitation, housing, food, child care, and transportation. Care packs for both the wounded soldiers and for their families which includes essential care items for families in transit and comfort items for the soldiers. Other programs include a Sports Project which fosters an athletic spirit to help regain their physical strength and mentality and an Outdoors Project which gets wounded Vets out to participate in nature.
WWP also has long term avenues for Vets with Peer Mentoring, Internships, and Warriors to Work which are available to all.
Doors open at 4 pm and cover is free before 7 pm, $5 with college ID and $7 without college ID. Again all cover charges goes to the Benefit. Food and drink specials will be going on all night including $8 dollar pizzas and $2.00 Coors Lights and Rails as well as a few surprises which the Owners always have.
Bands include Adam and Johnny; Pressing Strings; Skitzo Calypso; Stolen Element; and Poison Orchid.
The Monkey Barrel has a great history helping out local and national charities on a regular basis. The week before SU's Relay for Life they will be dedicating a whole week towards raising money for Relay for Life and helping to raise awareness on the fight against cancer.
For more information on The Wounded Warrior Project visit their site at -https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/
The Wounded Warrior Project gives financial aid to families in their time of need with rehabilitation, housing, food, child care, and transportation. Care packs for both the wounded soldiers and for their families which includes essential care items for families in transit and comfort items for the soldiers. Other programs include a Sports Project which fosters an athletic spirit to help regain their physical strength and mentality and an Outdoors Project which gets wounded Vets out to participate in nature.
WWP also has long term avenues for Vets with Peer Mentoring, Internships, and Warriors to Work which are available to all.
Doors open at 4 pm and cover is free before 7 pm, $5 with college ID and $7 without college ID. Again all cover charges goes to the Benefit. Food and drink specials will be going on all night including $8 dollar pizzas and $2.00 Coors Lights and Rails as well as a few surprises which the Owners always have.
Bands include Adam and Johnny; Pressing Strings; Skitzo Calypso; Stolen Element; and Poison Orchid.
The Monkey Barrel has a great history helping out local and national charities on a regular basis. The week before SU's Relay for Life they will be dedicating a whole week towards raising money for Relay for Life and helping to raise awareness on the fight against cancer.
For more information on The Wounded Warrior Project visit their site at -https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/
Barrie Tilghman's Budget Bait and Switch
Getting back into town I see that little has changed in the land of Barrie. Salisbury Mayor Barrie Tilghman is using the same old tricks and Gannett's Daily Times continues to accommodate her.
The taxpayers of Salisbury need to wake up to the fact that the groundwork has been laid for large tax and service fee increases. Tilghman revealed this pending scandal in Tuesday's budget address, she simply used a lot of smoke and mirrors.
The reason? Tilghman is coming up for re-election and wants to con the voters of Salisbury into another four years of economic malaise and economic subsidies to her friends. Hiking taxes and fees before an election simply won't do if Barrie OR her hand-picked replacement are to remain in power.
Remember back to a year ago. In addition to her unnecessary tax increase to feed her bureaucracy, Tilghman demanded a 10% increase in water and sewer rates. Fortunately for the ratepayers of Barrieland, Councilwoman Debbie Campbell and newly sworn-in Councilwoman Terry Cohen called the administration's bluff and embarrassed fellow council members Gary Comegys, Shanie Shields and Louise "I'll Sell My Soul for a Gavel" Smith into backing away from an increase immediately after those same three members (comprising Tilghman's "council leadership") attacked the average homeowner with a double digit property tax increase.
This year there is no proposed rate increase. Instead, Tilghman plans on funding deficits in the Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund by dipping into the surplus - to the tune of over $4 million. If a double digit increase was so necessary last year, why is it suddenly OK to dip into the surplus in consecutive years?
The answer is a simple one. No politician likes to raise taxes (or water rates) right before an election. Tilghman is counting on the voters forgetting about last year's tax increase. History has proven her right to date. We will have to see if Salisbury voters remain so forgetful, and forgiving.
cross posted at Delmarva Dealings
Technorati Tags: Maryland, Salisbury, politics, Salisbury politics, fiscal policy, taxation, Barrie Tilghman, Debbie Campbell, Terry Cohen, Gary Comegys, Louise Smith, Shanie Shields
The taxpayers of Salisbury need to wake up to the fact that the groundwork has been laid for large tax and service fee increases. Tilghman revealed this pending scandal in Tuesday's budget address, she simply used a lot of smoke and mirrors.
The reason? Tilghman is coming up for re-election and wants to con the voters of Salisbury into another four years of economic malaise and economic subsidies to her friends. Hiking taxes and fees before an election simply won't do if Barrie OR her hand-picked replacement are to remain in power.
Remember back to a year ago. In addition to her unnecessary tax increase to feed her bureaucracy, Tilghman demanded a 10% increase in water and sewer rates. Fortunately for the ratepayers of Barrieland, Councilwoman Debbie Campbell and newly sworn-in Councilwoman Terry Cohen called the administration's bluff and embarrassed fellow council members Gary Comegys, Shanie Shields and Louise "I'll Sell My Soul for a Gavel" Smith into backing away from an increase immediately after those same three members (comprising Tilghman's "council leadership") attacked the average homeowner with a double digit property tax increase.
This year there is no proposed rate increase. Instead, Tilghman plans on funding deficits in the Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund by dipping into the surplus - to the tune of over $4 million. If a double digit increase was so necessary last year, why is it suddenly OK to dip into the surplus in consecutive years?
The answer is a simple one. No politician likes to raise taxes (or water rates) right before an election. Tilghman is counting on the voters forgetting about last year's tax increase. History has proven her right to date. We will have to see if Salisbury voters remain so forgetful, and forgiving.
cross posted at Delmarva Dealings
Technorati Tags: Maryland, Salisbury, politics, Salisbury politics, fiscal policy, taxation, Barrie Tilghman, Debbie Campbell, Terry Cohen, Gary Comegys, Louise Smith, Shanie Shields
The Daily Times Is Playing Games With You
Oh, they're slick alright. One minute the new Fire Station is a $10,000,000.00 project. Then when that's not popular any more they change it to an $8,000,000.00 project. As if that's not bad enough, then they stand there and tell you that they saved the taxpayers money by staying 3% under budget.
OK Idiots, 3% of what figure? Oh, I know, it's 3% of the $10,000,000.00 price tag, now isn't that convenient! Today they announced they saved the taxpayers $300,000.00, "despite many features being added to the project."
OK, let's talk about those many features. Flat screen tv's. Special phone systems and computer systems. Furnishings for each and every room and office. The list goes on and on.
HOWEVER, what's NOT mentioned is yet another MAJOR SCAM by Chief See and Deputy Chief Gordy!!! As SOME of you know, the Salisbury Fire Department has ordered a new Ladder Truck at the cost of $1,200,000.00! Somewhere along the way they have mentioned another Fire Truck they want to order. Now, let me explain something to ALL of you. Remember when I did that walk through in the new Fire Station and Gordy stated they were getting ALL brand new equipment? He wasn't lying!
The Salisbury Fire Department will be ordering 5 Brand New Fire Trucks, not just a Ladder Truck! These guys just can't stop spending Folks! It is so out of control it isn't funny! The word on the street is they are doing so because one of the manufacturers has filed Chapter 11 and they're afraid they won't be able to get parts quickly, SO THEY MUST BUY ALL BRAND NEW EQUIPMENT!
Talk about a crock of sh!t! I had been speaking to other Fire Departments about this issue and they assured me that not only would they fully expect someone to buy out this company should they go completely belly up, they'll be manufacturing parts at a premium and loving life when they do so.
Other Fire Departments were telling me that when all these other companies are ordering $500,000.00 Trucks, they're ordering the same truck at a cost of $300,000.00 instead! Why, because they aren't ordering ANY bells and whistles because times are tight right now and that's just the way it is.
Other municipalities have a separate fund for ordering such vehicles and have millions saved into that account in which they never tap into. The account was set up to make sure the funds were always there should they need a new piece of equipment. Isn't that a noble idea?
In the end it's all about "FEATURES," right Chief? It's also about how the Daily Times brings you what the GOB wants you to hear and NOT the actual facts. Did the Daily Times know about the 5 new Fire Trucks? Nope! Will they ever say anything about it? NOPE!
So will your taxes be going up? YES! Are YOU going to stop these people from spending? NOPE!
OK Idiots, 3% of what figure? Oh, I know, it's 3% of the $10,000,000.00 price tag, now isn't that convenient! Today they announced they saved the taxpayers $300,000.00, "despite many features being added to the project."
OK, let's talk about those many features. Flat screen tv's. Special phone systems and computer systems. Furnishings for each and every room and office. The list goes on and on.
HOWEVER, what's NOT mentioned is yet another MAJOR SCAM by Chief See and Deputy Chief Gordy!!! As SOME of you know, the Salisbury Fire Department has ordered a new Ladder Truck at the cost of $1,200,000.00! Somewhere along the way they have mentioned another Fire Truck they want to order. Now, let me explain something to ALL of you. Remember when I did that walk through in the new Fire Station and Gordy stated they were getting ALL brand new equipment? He wasn't lying!
The Salisbury Fire Department will be ordering 5 Brand New Fire Trucks, not just a Ladder Truck! These guys just can't stop spending Folks! It is so out of control it isn't funny! The word on the street is they are doing so because one of the manufacturers has filed Chapter 11 and they're afraid they won't be able to get parts quickly, SO THEY MUST BUY ALL BRAND NEW EQUIPMENT!
Talk about a crock of sh!t! I had been speaking to other Fire Departments about this issue and they assured me that not only would they fully expect someone to buy out this company should they go completely belly up, they'll be manufacturing parts at a premium and loving life when they do so.
Other Fire Departments were telling me that when all these other companies are ordering $500,000.00 Trucks, they're ordering the same truck at a cost of $300,000.00 instead! Why, because they aren't ordering ANY bells and whistles because times are tight right now and that's just the way it is.
Other municipalities have a separate fund for ordering such vehicles and have millions saved into that account in which they never tap into. The account was set up to make sure the funds were always there should they need a new piece of equipment. Isn't that a noble idea?
In the end it's all about "FEATURES," right Chief? It's also about how the Daily Times brings you what the GOB wants you to hear and NOT the actual facts. Did the Daily Times know about the 5 new Fire Trucks? Nope! Will they ever say anything about it? NOPE!
So will your taxes be going up? YES! Are YOU going to stop these people from spending? NOPE!
An Extremely Rare Scene At Thrashers
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OK, how many of you can actually admit they have been to Thrashers and didn't see a line? I lived in Ocean City for many years and this was a scene I had never witnessed.
Nevertheless, they're open, the boardwalk is open with many of their Shops open as well. With temperatures like we're supposed to experience this weekend, Ocean City could be a hopping place to be, after visiting Pork in the Park!
Downtown Water Main Vavle Blows
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On Monday night there was no water and services in the GOB based on this valve bursting. Many of these pipes were put into place in the 1930's and this is part of the infrastructure the Mayor was talking about getting old in her recent Press Conference.
It's not often I agree with the Mayor but how can you argue the fact that things are getting old and one can only expect the worst down the road and or in the near future.
It's kind of like the Salisbury Zoo. Many of the animals there are aging and they too will start dying off and their inventory will drop dramatically in the next few years.
So what does this mean for all of you? It means, someone is going to have to pay for it! Let me also add, just what has the Mayor done for the City of Salisbury to drive more people into the City and want to live here? You see, that's what it's going to take. So since there's only 25% of you that are eligible to vote, (since 75% of the properties are rentals) it's easier to make the entire City rentals, remove the voters and raise taxes. Then no one will care, no one will vote and the Mayor will have their way any time they want it. Salisbury becomes one big business, the rental business.
In the mean time, anyone who thinks they're threatening this Mayor about moving, she couldn't care less. The more of you that move, the easier it is to stay in Office.
In the mean time, pray accidents like this don't happen too often because the Mayor will use this against the taxpayers like there's no tomorrow. Then contact the proper authorities about them holding meetings in a building illegally. No water and sewer, no meetings.
OCVFC PRESS RELEASE
The Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company (OCVFC) and the Mayor & City Council have reached a tentative agreement regarding the future of fire service. This agreement is scheduled to be ratified Monday April 21, whereby the Mayor & City Council will appoint current OCVFC Chief, Chris Larmore, to the position of Fire Chief overseeing the OCVFC, the career paramedic firefighters, and the Fire Marshall's office. OCVFC members were given the details of this proposed agreement at their regular business meeting, and voted unanimously to support the direction and recommendations contained therein. The OCVFC, its administrative leadership, and Chief Larmore enthusiastically look forward to establishing an outstanding relationship with the Mayor & City Council, City Manager Dennis Dare, the career paramedic firefighters, and the Fire Marshall's office to build a world class combination department to serve our citizens and visitors.
Complaints about paint at two schools
Two people have expressed concerns this week about the conditions of our schools AND potential health issues these conditions could bring about for our children. There are in fact two separate situations which currently exist at two different schools that bring about these concerns. Both relate to paint. They are as follows:
1) Some time ago this person was picking up their daughter from Fruitland Primary on South Division Street and people were power washing the breeze way in front of the school. Yellow paint was blowing all over the place. They asked one of the COUNTY workers if they were going to sweep up the paint chips and they indicated they would. According to this person, it's been more a month and the water puddles and grassy area in front of the school are saturated with big and little chips of this yellow paint. The grass has been cut twice and the paint chips are still there. It is not known to this person whether or not it is lead based paint but are still concerned that it is not good for it to just be sitting around were little kids can pick it up. Let alone how bad it is for the birds and animals that may ingest it.
2) I was contacted by a friend who recently attended a chorus concert which was held in the gymnasium at the East Salisbury School. He advised that when he entered the gym he noticed the the condition of the paint on the walls was absolutely unacceptable. He stated that the paint was peeling off of the walls in approx. one square foot sections in one area and took pictures with his camera phone so that everyone could see what he was concerned about. Someone once said a picture paints a thousand words so here you go.
The concerns of the person making the first complaint revolved around health and the environment. The second person was more particularly pissed at the way the schools are being permitted to deteriorate. Both, in my opinion, are valid.
Although I haven't made any inquiries to the schools about the aforementioned issues, I intend to do so. It's not my intent to point the finger of blame at anyone but I will be contacting Tom Field to get some answers.
I would like to make a few points at this time.
I don't know the ages of these two buildings but I do know that some school buildings in Wicomico County are quite old.
It was common practice to use lead based paint on the interior of buildings constructed prior to 1950.
It was common practice to use lead based paint on the exterior of buildings constructed prior to 1978.
Lead paint in good condition is NOT a hazard - it is the degradation (such as chipping, peeling, and exposing it to a situation likely to cause friction and subsequently turning it to dust) of lead paint that is the hazard.
While children age 6 and under, as well as pregnant women, are at the highest risk of developing health problems, anyone at any age can become lead poisoned. Lead is a heavy metal which, when ingested, remains in the blood at detectable levels for about 45 days. After that it migrates to the bone marrow where it has a half life of about 30 years. Although lead poisoning symptoms are very similar to symptoms of the flu, permanent severe damage can occur to the central nervous system.
Short of a chemical test of the paint Or an x-ray fluorescent test, one must operate under the presumption that the paint used on buildings built within the parameters listed above, contains lead.
The laws relating to lead paint and the requirements by law to comply with the Lead Paint Risk Reduction Standard apply to rental properties and daycare facilities. I'm not sure if these laws apply to schools.....but that's not important. If a school contains lead paint and the paint is chipping and peeling, a lead hazard to the students exists. As long as that hazard exists, there is a risk that a child could become lead poisoned. One would think that any risk such as this (which is easily remedied) would be eliminated.
The people left behind....
Rhonda ParksThe human remains discovered recently in a Somerset County yard have not been positively identified however it is speculated that it may be Rhonda Parks, who has been missing since 2006. I just cannot imagine the agony her loved ones must be enduring, just waiting to see if indeed she has been located.I don't know what would be worse-having someone confirm your daughter is deceased or not knowing anything at all. As long as a body is not found, you can always hang on to some hope that they are still alive. Yet at the same time, knowing what happened to them, and being able to give them a proper Christian burial would be a sad comfort. I am keeping the Parks family in my prayers and at the same time, I wanted to give a mention to some of the other people who are still missing in Somserset County, so that no one forgets they are still out there somewhere, dead or alive, and their families deserve closure so that they can heal.
James Clark CreightonJames Clark Creighton-missing since December 2000-last seen near Bowland Hill on the outskirts of Princess Anne. DOB 9/19/1958 Mr.Creighton has AIDS, a history of drug abuse and has surgical pins in right foot. At the time of his disappearance he was working a steady job and taking Ambien, a sleep medication.He is 6'2 and was 190 lbs when last seen. Foul play is suspected and he may have been taken by force. Contact Wicomico County Combined Task Force Sgt. George Nelson 443-260-3734 with info.
Stuart GarrisonStuart Raymond Garrison-missing since May 2002-last seen leaving his home on Box Iron Rd in Crisfield, MD,walking on foot. DOB 1960 Mr. Garrison was unemployed and involved in the drug trade at one time but was cleaning up when he vanished.He is 5'9 and was 110 lbs when last seen. Foul play is suspected. contact MSP at 410-290-0050 x 130 with info.
Thomas BorumThomas Wilson Borum-missing since January 2000-last seen near Route 13 and Mt. Vernon Rd. intersection just shortly after being discovered missing from his room at nearby Manokin Manor nursing home at 2am. DOB 1913 Mr. Borum was last seen wearing only pajamas and is presumed dead due to exposure but no remains have ever been found and he was declared legally dead later in 2000. He was 5'9 and weighed 151 lbs when last seen. Remains unsolved. Contact Princess Anne Police Department 410-651-1822 with info.
Jacob Webster
Jacob Wesley Webster-missing since June 2006 from Princess Anne, MD. DOB 1/27/1940 Mr.Webster has a limp and a brace on his right leg.He is 5'8 and weighed 190 lbs when last seen.Contact MSP at 410-651-3101 with info.
Gordon Nelson Sr.
Gordon Lee Nelson Sr.-missing since October 2007 from Crisfield,MD.DOB 12/24/1949 No other details.Contact Sgt. Luedtke at the Crisfield Police Department, at 410-968-1323 with info.
I hope I did not leave anyone out-I used what sources were available and if I left someone off the list please let me know.Let's keep the loved ones left behind in our thoughts and remember if you have ANY information about either of these missing persons it is your duty as a human to report it.
SPD Press Release
On April 14, 2008 at approximately 4:21 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to the Macy’s Department Store at the Centre at Salisbury for the report of a suspicious subject. Upon arrival, the officer learned from a victim that the below listed suspect had been observed by the victim hiding himself in the store dressing room and observing another victim while the victim tried on clothes. The suspect was then detained by store employees and mall security.
ARRESTED: Lester Cruz-Contreras, 20 years of age Cambridge, Maryland
CHARGES:
Visual Surveillance in a private place
Visual Surveillance without consent
Disorderly conduct
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200800013002
ARRESTED: Lester Cruz-Contreras, 20 years of age Cambridge, Maryland
CHARGES:
Visual Surveillance in a private place
Visual Surveillance without consent
Disorderly conduct
DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200800013002
Pork In The Park Updates
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Salisbury Maryland’s Annual Pork in the Park Festival is Right around the Corner!
Top performers to compete in this Kansas City Barbecue Society Sanctioned Festival
(Salisbury, MD) Wicomico County is looking forward to welcoming you to the fifth annual Pork in the Park Bar-B-Que and Beer Festival to be held at Winterplace Park in Salisbury, MD on April 18-20, 2008. This event has grown in leaps and bounds and now hosts over 84 BBQ competitor teams. Many very accomplished teams will be filling up the rooster, and we are excited to host the 2007 overall top ranked team—Cool Smoke.
Based out of Richmond Virginia, Cool Smoke is fairly new to the world of barbecue competition, having entered their first competition in 2004. Teammate Tuffy Stone, owner of the upscale catering company Sharper Palate (Richmond, VA) was drawn to barbeque and later competition when searching for a new culinary challenge. When recalling his first attempts cooking with a wood burning pit, Stone reminisces, “It was a humbling and exciting experience. Learning to cook with nothing but a wood fire is one of the greatest learning challenges I have faced in the kitchen.”
Stone partnered with Kendall Lamp and George Stone to create Cool Smoke and the trio began on the BBQ circuit at the 2004 KCBS contest in Lynchburg, VA. We are pleased to welcome Cool Smoke back to Pork in the Park, and excited to see how they and the other competitors will perform in this year’s competition.
The festival is three days of great events with entertainment for the whole family. Each competitor team will spend the weekend slicing, seasoning and sizzling chicken, pork and beef in hopes that their cooking earns them a portion of the $17,000 in cash prizes and invaluable bragging rights. Their fate lies in the hand of a team of professionally trained, Kansas City Barbeque Society professional judges. Judging is done in many categories including whole hog, beef, chicken, pork, ribs, anything butt and a special Perdue chicken category.
As part of one of the nation’s largest festivals of this kind, attendees will enjoy live blues entertainment, a variety of cold beverages, motorcycle and classic car displays, arts and crafts. Scrumptious barbecue—some of it cooked by competitors themselves—and other festival food will be available for sale. Additionally, a selection of amusement rides will be on hand for kids.
The festival is open from 4pm to 10pm on Friday, 10am to 10pm on Saturday and 11am to 5pm on Sunday. The Pork in the Park National Bar-B-Que Cook-Off is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society and sponsored by Wicomico County Recreation, Parks and Tourism as well as Delmarva Power, Clear Channel Outdoor, Clear Channel Radio, Comcast Spotlight, Farmer’s Bank of Willards, French’s, Harley Davidson of Ocean City, Holt Paper Company, Pepsi, Perdue, Saturn of Salisbury and WMDT 47.
For more information and a complete entertainment line-up please visit www.PorkinthePark.org or call 410-548-4914.
“Electrical Inspection Program” Goes Belly-Up
Miracles really do never cease, even if they don’t happen every day.
Buried in Barrie Tilghman’s just released “Mayor’s Budget Message” is the following: “This budget reflects my recommendation to the City Council that we do not pursue assumption of the Electrical Inspection Program within the City limits.” That comment appears on page viii.
Recall that before Councilwoman Campbell became involved in this potential fiasco last fall, the Mayor’s minions had scheduled a meeting to tell electrical contractors that they would have to use City personnel for inspections and how the system would work. What nobody told them, but they soon realized, was that the Mayor had devised the scheme to raise City revenue.
It’s uncertain whether any significant sum would be generated, but the system would have caused havoc or worse and forced electrical contractors and the public to rely on City bureaucrats, not a pleasant scenario.
And, once again, it’s well deserved kudos to Debbie Campbell from all concerned, except the administration of the City of Salisbury.
Buried in Barrie Tilghman’s just released “Mayor’s Budget Message” is the following: “This budget reflects my recommendation to the City Council that we do not pursue assumption of the Electrical Inspection Program within the City limits.” That comment appears on page viii.
Recall that before Councilwoman Campbell became involved in this potential fiasco last fall, the Mayor’s minions had scheduled a meeting to tell electrical contractors that they would have to use City personnel for inspections and how the system would work. What nobody told them, but they soon realized, was that the Mayor had devised the scheme to raise City revenue.
It’s uncertain whether any significant sum would be generated, but the system would have caused havoc or worse and forced electrical contractors and the public to rely on City bureaucrats, not a pleasant scenario.
And, once again, it’s well deserved kudos to Debbie Campbell from all concerned, except the administration of the City of Salisbury.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Special Tax Breaks From Annapolis
Somerset County
Senate Bill 468/House Bill 591 (both passed) authorize Somerset County to grant a
property tax credit for real property that is not eligible for the homestead property tax credit and for which the current year’s taxable assessment exceeds the prior year’s taxable assessment by more than 20 percent.
Worcester County
Legislation was introduced to allow Worcester County and Ocean City to provide
property tax credits for amusement parks in Ocean City. Senate Bill 999/House Bill 1572 (both passed) authorize Worcester County or a municipality in Worcester County to grant, by law, a property tax credit for
•real property known as the Ocean City Amusement and Fishing Pier; and
•real property consisting of at least 30 acres located in Ocean City on or west of Route 528 and used exclusively for the operation of an amusement park.
Senate Bill 816/House Bill 1151 (both passed) authorize Worcester County or a municipality in Worcester County to grant, by law, a property tax credit for real property used as an historically operated amusement park.
Senate Bill 468/House Bill 591 (both passed) authorize Somerset County to grant a
property tax credit for real property that is not eligible for the homestead property tax credit and for which the current year’s taxable assessment exceeds the prior year’s taxable assessment by more than 20 percent.
Worcester County
Legislation was introduced to allow Worcester County and Ocean City to provide
property tax credits for amusement parks in Ocean City. Senate Bill 999/House Bill 1572 (both passed) authorize Worcester County or a municipality in Worcester County to grant, by law, a property tax credit for
•real property known as the Ocean City Amusement and Fishing Pier; and
•real property consisting of at least 30 acres located in Ocean City on or west of Route 528 and used exclusively for the operation of an amusement park.
Senate Bill 816/House Bill 1151 (both passed) authorize Worcester County or a municipality in Worcester County to grant, by law, a property tax credit for real property used as an historically operated amusement park.
Read My Lips.... NO NEW TAXES, (NOT)
Municipal Corporation Hotel Rental Tax
Most counties have been authorized by State law to impose a hotel rental tax. Authorized rates vary by county, from as low as 3 percent in Frederick County to as high as 8 percent in Allegany and Baltimore counties. Harford County does not impose a hotel rental tax. Senate Bill 131 (passed) authorizes municipal corporations to impose a hotel rental tax under specified circumstances, at a rate not to exceed 2 percent. The tax may not be imposed by a municipal corporation that has a current hotel rental tax revenue sharing agreement with the county it is located in, is located in a county that does not impose a hotel rental tax, or is located in a county that distributes at least 50 percent of hotel rental taxes collected to promote tourism in the county. The bill requires that a municipal corporation imposing the tax distribute to a convention and visitors bureau in the county where the municipal corporation is located at least the same percentage of the hotel rental tax collected that the county distributes to the convention and visitors bureau from any county hotel rental tax.
Most counties have been authorized by State law to impose a hotel rental tax. Authorized rates vary by county, from as low as 3 percent in Frederick County to as high as 8 percent in Allegany and Baltimore counties. Harford County does not impose a hotel rental tax. Senate Bill 131 (passed) authorizes municipal corporations to impose a hotel rental tax under specified circumstances, at a rate not to exceed 2 percent. The tax may not be imposed by a municipal corporation that has a current hotel rental tax revenue sharing agreement with the county it is located in, is located in a county that does not impose a hotel rental tax, or is located in a county that distributes at least 50 percent of hotel rental taxes collected to promote tourism in the county. The bill requires that a municipal corporation imposing the tax distribute to a convention and visitors bureau in the county where the municipal corporation is located at least the same percentage of the hotel rental tax collected that the county distributes to the convention and visitors bureau from any county hotel rental tax.
OC Responds To New Fire Chief Position
Here are the facts, directly from a councilman, written by a career firefighter/paramedic, and proud union member. Many are not happy with the process that has brought us to this point and the selection of the fire chief. However, we are committed to working with the new chief, and the parties involved to move forward, and continue to provide the service we have for nearly 50 years. The new city recognized fire chief is the current volunteer fire chief Chris Laramore. This selection was made because they felt he would be the best person to facilitate the change, and lead everyone through the natural progression of a combined service. He will not be compensated, however he will be held accountable for his performance, as well as that of his three respective departments. We have worked with this chief previously, and although not our choice or perfect candidate, have found him to be fair and reasonable. Regarding the comment that we can just sue, we have no pending lawsuits, nor have we been to arbitration, or even grievance, and have in fact worked diligently to resolve any concerns with the town in a fair and equitable fashion. I can say personally, and I hope on behalf of our entire division, congratulations to the chief, we will do our best to make this a successful operation. It has, and will be, our main focus to provide the best medical, fire and rescue service to the pubic we are sworn to protect.
Who Ya Gonna Call? Banking Regulators!
People are already commenting, what's the use of calling any of the local "powers that be" about the shafting the Camden neighborhood is about to get over 1004-1006 Camden by SunTrust's V.P. Rod Flowers and his partners in Captains Investments, Mitchell David and Tim Jones.
I still say call, because if they DON'T hear from you, then they can OFFICIALLY say they didn't hear that anyone was unhappy about this. Despite the fact, of course, that the neighbors packed the house the last couple of times this came up for consideration. You know, just like the Westsiders packed the city council house Monday night, but Westside Manor was pulled from the agenda. Funny how things keep getting pulled from agendas when the house is going to be packed. Then these things find their ways back onto agendas on short notice so citizens can't respond.
But here's another place you can call: the BANKING REGULATORS of SunTrust Bank. They are the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta. And they'll be happy to look into your inquiry as to whether or not it's proper for a bank officer to be involved in investment activities that are not good for a neighborhood. Go to this link:
http://federalreserveconsumerhelp.gov/complaintinfo.cfm?info=1
Read the instructions, then click the link to fill out a complaint. You can just ask:
"Is it appropriate for a bank officer of SunTrust Bank -- in this case Rod Flowers, a vice president and branch manager in the mortgage division in Salisbury, MD -- to be involved in behaviors that damage neighborhoods zoned for single-family use. Take 1004 Camden Ave., Salisbury, MD 21801, and Captain Investments, for example, in which Mr. Flowers is a partner. Please investigate the propriety of these circumstances. Thank you."
Or give them whatever details you like! It's my understanding that banking regulators take stuff like this seriously. The way I look at it is, what have you got to lose if you do but a few minutes of time? If you don't, what you've got to lose is your neighborhoods.
For those of you who like the old-fashioned way, the phone and address are:
Federal Reserve
Bank of Atlanta
1000 Peachtree Street NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 498-8500
Like I said, "Who Ya Gonna Call?"
I still say call, because if they DON'T hear from you, then they can OFFICIALLY say they didn't hear that anyone was unhappy about this. Despite the fact, of course, that the neighbors packed the house the last couple of times this came up for consideration. You know, just like the Westsiders packed the city council house Monday night, but Westside Manor was pulled from the agenda. Funny how things keep getting pulled from agendas when the house is going to be packed. Then these things find their ways back onto agendas on short notice so citizens can't respond.
But here's another place you can call: the BANKING REGULATORS of SunTrust Bank. They are the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta. And they'll be happy to look into your inquiry as to whether or not it's proper for a bank officer to be involved in investment activities that are not good for a neighborhood. Go to this link:
http://federalreserveconsumerhelp.gov/complaintinfo.cfm?info=1
Read the instructions, then click the link to fill out a complaint. You can just ask:
"Is it appropriate for a bank officer of SunTrust Bank -- in this case Rod Flowers, a vice president and branch manager in the mortgage division in Salisbury, MD -- to be involved in behaviors that damage neighborhoods zoned for single-family use. Take 1004 Camden Ave., Salisbury, MD 21801, and Captain Investments, for example, in which Mr. Flowers is a partner. Please investigate the propriety of these circumstances. Thank you."
Or give them whatever details you like! It's my understanding that banking regulators take stuff like this seriously. The way I look at it is, what have you got to lose if you do but a few minutes of time? If you don't, what you've got to lose is your neighborhoods.
For those of you who like the old-fashioned way, the phone and address are:
Federal Reserve
Bank of Atlanta
1000 Peachtree Street NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 498-8500
Like I said, "Who Ya Gonna Call?"
Homestead Property Tax Credit Eligibility
Homestead Property Tax Credit Eligibility – Repeal of Application Requirement (NOT)
Chapters 564 and 565 of 2007 require homeowners, beginning in January 2008, to file a
specified application with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) to qualify for the homestead property tax credit. Specifically, Chapters 564 and 565 prohibit SDAT from authorizing the credit, and the State, county, and municipal governments are prohibited from granting the credit unless the application is filed •within 180 days following the date a dwelling is transferred for consideration to new ownership, for a dwelling that is transferred to new
ownership after December 31, 2007; or •on or before December 31, 2012, for a dwelling that was last transferred to new ownership on or before December 31, 2007.
Beginning January 2008, the first homestead tax credit applications were sent out to
Maryland homeowners with the annual assessment notices. In order to verify eligibility, this application requires homeowners to include their Social Security number on the application. As a governmental tax agency, SDAT has legal authority to possess federal tax information, including Social Security numbers for all Maryland residents. While SDAT is legally entitled to possess this information, there are several safeguards in place to ensure that this information is used legally and remains confidential.
However, after complaints were voiced by homeowners regarding the use of Social
Security numbers and the timeframe of the application process, legislation was introduced to either repeal or modify the application requirement enacted by Chapters 564 and 565. Senate Bill 239/House Bill 1256 (both failed) were introduced as emergency legislation and would have repealed Chapters 564 and 565 of 2007 so that homeowners would not be required to file an application with SDAT to qualify for the homestead property tax credit.
Chapters 564 and 565 of 2007 require homeowners, beginning in January 2008, to file a
specified application with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) to qualify for the homestead property tax credit. Specifically, Chapters 564 and 565 prohibit SDAT from authorizing the credit, and the State, county, and municipal governments are prohibited from granting the credit unless the application is filed •within 180 days following the date a dwelling is transferred for consideration to new ownership, for a dwelling that is transferred to new
ownership after December 31, 2007; or •on or before December 31, 2012, for a dwelling that was last transferred to new ownership on or before December 31, 2007.
Beginning January 2008, the first homestead tax credit applications were sent out to
Maryland homeowners with the annual assessment notices. In order to verify eligibility, this application requires homeowners to include their Social Security number on the application. As a governmental tax agency, SDAT has legal authority to possess federal tax information, including Social Security numbers for all Maryland residents. While SDAT is legally entitled to possess this information, there are several safeguards in place to ensure that this information is used legally and remains confidential.
However, after complaints were voiced by homeowners regarding the use of Social
Security numbers and the timeframe of the application process, legislation was introduced to either repeal or modify the application requirement enacted by Chapters 564 and 565. Senate Bill 239/House Bill 1256 (both failed) were introduced as emergency legislation and would have repealed Chapters 564 and 565 of 2007 so that homeowners would not be required to file an application with SDAT to qualify for the homestead property tax credit.
SU Students Reach Out To Community
The Salisbury University Student Government Association is now sponsoring a Big Event in the Salisbury community on Saturday, April 19, 2008. The Big Event will be a one day community service project for the citizens residing around the Salisbury University campus.
What is the Big Event?
Created in 1982, the Big Event started as a one day community service project at Texas A&M University. It was a way for the students to say “thank you” to the surrounding towns for their support to the university.
How do you get involved?
Contact: Salisbury University
Student Activities Office (GUC 125)
Student Government Association
1101 Camden Avenue
Salisbury, MD 21801
Call 410-548-4757
Or Email sgavpofua@salisbury.edu
Homepage: www.salisbury.edu/campusgov/sga
What is the Big Event?
Created in 1982, the Big Event started as a one day community service project at Texas A&M University. It was a way for the students to say “thank you” to the surrounding towns for their support to the university.
How do you get involved?
Contact: Salisbury University
Student Activities Office (GUC 125)
Student Government Association
1101 Camden Avenue
Salisbury, MD 21801
Call 410-548-4757
Or Email sgavpofua@salisbury.edu
Homepage: www.salisbury.edu/campusgov/sga
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