A Perfect Example From The Daily Times Today

Or was it yesterday, or the day before, or the day before that? I'll have to look into MY archives and see just what date we posted the same articles but the Daily Times is so far behind it isn't funny.

Someone just made this comment seconds ago, "for the last two are three weeks when I read the news on delmarvanow.com. it gets really redundant lately or I'm reading it elsewhere first whatever, it sure seems to take less and less time at that site and I've been reading there for years."

Well if you think that's bad, the Daily Times is supposed to be serving YOU the citizens. When the majority of their clients are citizens of Salisbury and the crime continues to go through the roof, do they report it? NO, absolutely not! Do you know why they don't report it? Because Salisbury News reports it first and the Daily Times, (IMO) refuses to re post ANY SPD Press Releases because I have it up first, usually. The way they figure it is, if the SPD doesn't get their information printed in the Times they'll get ticked off and tell the SPD that if they don't give them the information ahead of time, (before the Blog) they're NOT going to print it.

I have heard through the grapevine that Chief Webster gets upset because the Daily Times is given their Press Releases, yet they never print it. OK, why? Why is it when the Daily Times wrote an article in favor of my Wife years ago announcing hundreds of animal deaths at the Zoo, the Mayor and ENTIRE City Council stormed into the Daily Times screaming and yelling, cursing like a Sailor demanding they never produce another article like that again, yet they have NO INTEREST in Public Safety? Does it make any sense to you?

Then I look at the paper recently and I see Rehoboth Beach news, Pocomoke, every surrounding area except Salisbury for news, why? Because Salisbury News is kicking their a$$ and they can't keep up. Oh, do tell me Folks, do you want news from Rehoboth, because I have no interest in covering that far away so it's not going to happen. However, the Daily Times is seeing a massive decrease in Salisbury sales yet they must be picking up on sales in Rehoboth?

Oh well, if you want your news two days later, go to the Daily Times.

This Is Why Pedestrians Get Killed

Just a few short steps further at the traffic light is a pedestrian cross walk. I know the Salisbury Police Department can't be bothered with small stuff like this right now but you know what, a few tickets and the word will get around so fast it isn't funny.

I consider Rt. 13 far more dangerous than Coastal Highway, seriously. Why in God's name would someone with a child in a stroller take such a risk, unless they don't give a sh!t? Unless they're possibly babysitting? Is this YOUR child? Do YOU know this woman?

Speeding Ticket

Top this for a speeding ticket

Two California Highway Patrol Officers were conducting speeding enforcement on I-15, just north of the Marine Corps Air Station at Miramar One of the officers was using a hand held radar device to check speeding vehicles approaching the crest of a hill.

The officers were suddenly surprised when the radar gun began reading 300 miles per hour. The officer attempted to reset the radar gun, but it would not reset and then turned off.

Just then a deafening roar over the treetops revealed that the radar had in fact locked on to a USMC F/A-18 Hornet which was engaged in a low flying exercise near the location.

Back at the CHIPs Headquarters the Patrol Captain fired off a complaint to the USMC Base Commander The reply came back in true USMC style: Thank you for your letter. We can now complete the file on this inc ident. You may be interested to know that the tactical computer in the Hornet had detected the presence of, and subsequently locked on to, your hostile radar equipment and automatically sent a jamming signal back to it, which is why it shut down.

Furthermore, an Air-to-Ground missile aboard the fully armed aircraft had also automatically locked on to your equipment location.

Fortunately, the Marine Pilot flying the Hornet recognized the situation for what it was, quickly responded to the missile system alert status and was able to override the automated defense system before the missile was launched to destroy the hostile radar position.

Sgt; The pilot also suggests you cover your mouths when cussing at them, since the video systems on these jets are very high tech. Sergeant Johnson, the officer holding the radar gun, should get his dentist to check his left rear molar. It appears the filling is loose. Also, the snap is broken on his holster.

Thank you for your concern.

Semper Fi.

Fruitland Police Press Release

On 07/02/08, officers responded to Walmart regarding a reported theft of DVDs and CDs. Further investigation and search incident to arrest led to
the arrest of one female suspect for theft and controlled dangerous substance charges.

Charged:
1) Stephanie Dawn Meredith, 21 yoa, Fruitland, MD

Charges:
Theft
Possession of CDS
Possession of Paraphenalia
Disposition: Released to Central Booking
Case #: 08-1757

Incident: Domestic Dispute

On 07/02/08, while at Walmart for the above theft complaint,
officers observed two individuals involved in a domestic dispute in the
parking lot. Both were involved in a verbal argument causing a loud
disturbance on the premises and were warned repeatedly to leave the
area. The female suspect was then observed assaulting the male and was
restrained by officers. Subsequently, both individuals were arrested and
charged.

Charged:
1) Melinda Tyler, 21 yoa, Crisfield, MD
2) Bernard Johnson 44 yoa, Crisfield, MD

Charges:
Assault
Disorderly Conduct
Disturbance of the Peace
Resisting Arrest

Disposition: Released to Central Booking

Delmar Police Department Press Release

*Incident: Possession of Stolen Property**
*Date of Incident: 1 July 2008*
*Location: 300 Block of E. Elizabeth St, Delmar, MD*
*Suspects: *
*1. Dustin Lovely, 19, Delmar, MD*
*2. Joseph Waltemeyer, 19, Delmar, MD**

On July 1, 2008 at approximately 10:30 am, Officers of the Delmar Police
Department responded to a residence in the 300 Block of E. Elizabeth
Street, Delmar, Maryland in reference to ongoing Burglary investigation.
Officers learned suspected stolen property was possibly located at the
residence and were given consent to search. The search reveled approx.
$26,000 worth of property that had been reported stolen from Delmar, and
surrounding areas. Two suspects were arrested in conjunction with
property and are identified as Dustin Lovely and Joseph Waltemeyer, both
of Delmar. Investigation is on ongoing.

Both Waltemeyer and Lovely were transported to the Central Booking Unit
at the Wicomico County Detention Center where they were both processed.
Waltemeyer and Lovely were charged with theft over $500, (possession of
stolen property). Waltemeyer and Lovely are being held on $25,000 bond
each.

STOP!

This photo was taken on Mt. Hermon Road near the new Peninsula Medical Center. Nothing like having that stop sign hit you at the very last second, eh? Were you in on this one too Mr. Comegys?

A Comment Worthy Of A Post

"Does anyone ever READ what Joe post? He didn't call SPD pussies..He said pull together as a TEAM. They can't fire the TEAM and not violate your LEBOR. Joe is pulling for you, the public will pull for you, but you have to pull TOGETHER. Yes, Joe will stir the pot, hence the nature of a having a blog. SPD; stop letting the political end splitting you guys apart, as it is their plan. By keeping you torn at each other, you will continue to be easy picken's. A unified GROUP is much harder to defeat. You have to get your heart off your sleeve. If you guys dont do this, you will still be where you are now. YOU have to start the fight & the FOP will help. You can't sit on you rear and expect them to do it for you. I just may know something about this. Yes, Joe is biased, he will back you!! He can say the things a P.O. can not. Hint, Hint.."

A Must Read Book or Grand Dad You Will Think More of Me

One of the greatest books I have ever read was "A Soldier's Story" by Omar N. Bradley. Bradley was a US General in WWII who served under Patton in Africa and Scicily and then became the top US General in European Theatres after D-Day; he was Field Marshall Montgomerery of Britain's counterpart.

Based on "Brad's" memoirs, General Bradley detailed his rise to the top and his active role to end the greatest threat of mankind. Besides practical insights into running a war such as maneuvering or the need for maintaining supply lines, Bradley went far beyond. Bradley was a soldiers soldier; down to earth with those on the front line yet in touch with the demands of being a General accountable to the World and its' leaders. Brad never once took war for what it was less or more than.

The most basic insight and most commendable to Omar Bradley's philosophy as a leader was that he was not political. Brad understood that he was a soldier who had the charge to win a war and not shape anything beyond that realm. Within that charge was the fact that he realized that soldiers lives were needed to be lost to achieve victory, though he was prudent and practical in his decisions. Omar Bradley was not one to send his troops across open ground against all odds needlessly.

Managing a war for Bradley was not just an art, but a realization that everything was at stake. Balancing every single angle was his daily duty and he performed admirably, yet he un-wavered in destroying the enemy. He was crucial to winning the war and now is hollowed in Arlington National Cemetery.

Bradley never took war or his mission for what it was less than. If it was nothing more than securing a small area he would have performed his task in the same way. The mission was important enough to lay down his and his men's lives. The sheer understanding of his duty, through his exemplification of that duty through his leadership, empowered his men to fight with the utmost vigor to win a war; to win over evil.

In today's age everything is so political that we, as citizens, forget at times that it takes the same commitment as General Bradley and his troops to get things done. By all means if one dissents against a war or engagement it is their right to do so. I believe whole heatedly that the right to do so ought not impede or hinder the ability of our armed forces to be successful in the field and send our boys home. Lives will be lost, but having sound leaders managing our troops should be an assurance that things will get done in the best possible manner.

I think that if Bradley, as if how Patton acted (that is an argument all its own), was such a Prima Donna and political as Montgomery was, things would have turned out much different. After all both Patton and Monty raced to Messina to close off the gap on the Germans in Sicily for glory/politics. Bradley just wanted to end the war for the sake of everyone as the ability as a leader. To win, period, there was no substitution besides ending the Third Reich for him.

Shouldn't that be the idea everyone should have; to win the war? That's what the military is there to do.

By far please read this book...

Question of the Day, Wed 7/2 - Did You Know?

Today's brought to you by Melissa Malone:

FREECYCLE - DID YOU KNOW?

Did you know that there is a website out there called Freecycle that you can get things for free. Just go to Freecycle.org and sign up in your area or surrounding area. Sussexcountyfreecycle, worcestercounty freecycle, salisbury freecycle. You sign up and can receive emails daily from everyone offering to give something away that they have for free. You may also request things that you may be looking for. The reason for freecycle is to try to eliminate things going to the landfills. We received a 13" color tv with vcr for free to put in our camper. Works great!! We have also given away all leftover items from our yard sales. The rule is that you CAN NOT collect things from freecycle and sell them. You can only give them away.

WCLCB - Dispensary Changes Not Feasible?

Without a doubt, Bill Clinton's greatest legacy will be his affect on rhetoric. Ignore every fact placed in front of you and stick to your message. A letter to the editor in Tuesday's Daily Times from former Wicomico County Councilman Victor Laws ignores every fact and sticks to the WCLCB's message - we must keep the dispensaries open.

According to Laws the County simply cannot afford to put retail and wholesale liquor sales where they belong - in the private sector. Mr. Laws contends that there is no method of replacing the revenue which would be lost by closing the antiquated dispensary system. Mr. Laws attempts to persuade readers that the only new revenue would come from the opening of four retail liquor stores.

It's ironic that on one hand the WCLCB is trying to tell voters that there would be a liquor store on every corner and then have Laws trying to persuade us that only four stores would open. Actually, Laws is closer to the truth as to the number of stores that would open.

Laws' logic fails when it comes to the source of revenues to replace the dispensary. Bar and club owners have voluntarily come forward and publicly stated that they would be happy to pay increased licensing fees in order to rid themselves of the dispensary system.

So far, the failed rhetoric of the WCLCB has been:

• We owe jobs to dispensary employees
• Wicomico County can't replace the lost revenue
• Only the dispensaries enforce the liquor laws
• There will be a liquor store on every corner
• FREE Money

Eventually these guys might come up with an argument that holds water.

cross posted at Delmarva Dealings
Technorati Tags: Maryland, Wicomico, politics, Wicomico politics, WCLCB, Liquor Control Board

Salisbury Zoo Commission Meeting Canceled

The Zoo Commission has canceled their regularly scheduled monthly meeting on July 16th.

The next meeting will be held on August 20, 2008.

WELCOME HOME FROM IRAQ

MCPO (Master Chief) USN Charles McGahagin arrives SBY Airport at 7:34 PM 4 July, Flight 4593. He has served one year in Iraq.

Can you spare a few minutes to join us in welcoming him back home? The time could change so do keep an eye out for any updates. If you have never been to one of these, DON'T MISS IT! It's a great time and it sure does feel good!

Salisbury Police Department Press Release

On June 30, 2008 at approximately 10:37 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to the Royal Farms Store on South Division St. for the report of a robbery. Upon arrival, the officers were advised that two (2) suspects had entered the store and had indicated to the employees that the suspects were in possession of a handgun. No handgun was displayed. The suspect took an amount of U.S. Currency from the store, then fled from the store in a vehicle. A description of the vehicle was broadcast to responding officers and the vehicle, occupied, was located a short distance from the store. Property of the Royal Farms store was located within the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

ARRESTED #1: David Kaleni Tyler, 48 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
ARRESTED #2: Angela Michelle Walker, 38 years of age No fixed address

CHARGES (both):
Robbery
Theft (over $500)
Malicious destruction of property (over $500)
Second degree assault (2 counts)

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200800022960

GANNETT AGAIN SPIRALING DOWNWARD . . . .BREAKING NEW LOWS

Gannett Corporation, The Daily Time parent company, is sliding, yet again, in dramatic fashion today. . . . setting yet another 52 week new low.

The stock tumbled another $1/sh. and is now setting yet another 52 week low record at $20.34/Share.

Read for yourself, go to this link:
http://finance.yahoo.com/q?s=GCI

More Bridge Troubles For Firefighters

At 11:00 last night a Paramedic Untit trying to answer a call and was delayed because the Bridge was up again. The photo above was taken over the weekend.

Motivational Poster of the Day

What do you think the motivational text should say?

Editors note;

The text references the 1969 fire on the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland Ohio and Cleveland was known as the "mistake on the lake".

A Comment Worthy Of A Post

"Joe, Im afraid you are way off base here brother.

"Any money spent by the WCLCB that is not for LEGITIMATE expenses is money that rightfully belongs to the Wicomico taxpayer."

You just dont seem to get it. WCLCB is a state agencey. Since you work neither for the WCLCB nor the state, how can you say what is a "Legitimate" expense. Answer: you cant. You know who that money belongs to? The state. I guess you'd rather see 400K going to Fredrick P. Weiner Distibutors out of Baltimore and a handfull of liquior store owners. "But prices will come down if we increase competition"... Thats a crock of shit too. They are already rock bottom. They will, in fact, go up due to liscensing fees and restrictions and delivery charges passed on from the distributor. Or perhaps you'd prefer to put a larger tax burden on the citizens and assess larger fees upon business owners. Who does that help? No one, thats who.

This is basically FREE money from the state. What do we have to do to get it? Absolutely nothing...except enjoy clean, safe, well run liquior stores. Would you rather have ramshackle little dumps w/ vagrants hanging outside popping up all around the county? That would be terrible, I think we can all agree on that. Let me stress again, this is FREE money to the County. Privatize and it goes away. Get over yourself on this one Joe, you're way off base and have better things to worry about.

Thats my two cents.
(No Im not Stuart Haemel, just a concerned County Resident)"

Dear Two Cents,

Let me start by stating I did not write the article, GA Harrison did. Secondly, although I hear your argument and appreciate your opinion, why couldn't you simply put a name to it? One of the problems surrounding Salisbury and Wicomico County is accountability, hence the need for a name to obtain credibility. Far too often anonymous people make statements in which there's a lot of talk but it doesn't necessarily mean it's at all true. Hence the scare tactic of your comment. I'll leave the rest up to those commenting here to prove my point. Thanks for sharing. Joe

Obama Plans to Disarm America

Please click on the link below on a 51 second video of Obama stating his plans to disarm America:

http://www.macsmind.com/wordpress/2008/02/27/obama-plans-to-disarm-america

Here are a few comments that were linked to this video:

"How can you vote for any of them? I can’t. And they are all part of the worst congress I’ve ever seen."

"Does John McCain have political suicidal tendencies? Today, with his slam against fellow sailors, he comes out against the SwiftVets who served as honorably as he did and ten times more honorably that McCain’s good buddy, John (the [F]ench poodle) Kerry.I have repeatedly pointed out McCain’s terrible treatment of the fa miles of American POWs left behind in Vietnam. I have pointed out how he bullied, harassed and insulted those family members who want answers to the whereabouts of their loved one beside the standard “That’s classified” that they were getting from Washington. Now McCain, who seems to have no problem not defending those who served with honor and distinction, slams them. Seems you McCain cannot prevent the “real” McCain from shining through due to his own arrogance and his feeling of being “entitled” to the office of president.I was almost convinced to vote for this Democrat dressed up in Republican clothing. So let’s take a look:
He won’t defend our POWs.
He won’t defend fellow veterans.
He will defend illegal immigrants.
WE ARE SCREWED."

"Here, you can see the racist black separatist they call Barack Hussein Obama tell us that he will do all that he can as soon as he can to weaken America. Only a fool would believe that “negotiating” with our enemies while weakening our defense systems is an intelligent thing to do. In the entire history of the world, the only time man has ever had peace was when man had a strong defense, period, and then it only was enough if man realized and acknowledged his position with relation to God. This is a part of the human condition that we cannot change. "

"The Buraq (Arabic: البُراق al-buraaq, meaning lightning; Turkish: Burak), is according to Islamic tradition a creature from the heavens that carried Muhammad from Mecca to heaven and back during the Isra and Miraj (Night Journey), which is the title of one of the chapters of the Koran.
[edit] Description An excerpt from a Sahih Muslim hadith (supplemental tradition to the Koran) describes a buraq:“I was brought by the Buraq, which is an animal white and long, larger than a donkey but smaller than a mule, who would place its hoof at a distance equal to the range of vision.”In other words Barack Hussein Muhammed Obama is a creature somewhere between a donkey and a mule (in the Bible they called it an ‘ass’)and is named also after the founder of the Muslims. Why are the country’s leaders afraid to tell it like it is? !!!"

"I have heard people pulling the race card for the last couple weeks. I’m here to tell you, It is not his skin color, and to me it is not even his religion. It’s the fact that
1. He will not honor America or the flag during the star spangled banner. I don’t care what your religion states about worshipping a false idol yadda yadda yadda. Putting your hand over your heart is a sign of respect and endearment NOT WORSHIP! We don’t kneel to the flag or pray to it. So why is it he can’t put his hand over his heart?
2. It’s one thing to end a war and bring our boys and girls home. It’s quite another to disarm an entire country! Remembering 9/11 makes me realize that we need to be well armed. I can’t believe anyone could think the terrorists would say something like, “Awww they gave up their military and left their country completely vulnerable. Ok lets leave them alone!” Quite the contrary! The more the disarm us, the more appealing America looks to them.
3. And last but not least, his track record as a senator is non committal at best.
These are just MY 3 reasons that I will not vote for Obama. Not to mention the fact that he didn't feel our votes showed be counted during the primaries.
So instead of pulling out the old race card, open your eyes and your mind. Realize that when this many democrats, BOTH white and black, turn their back on the democratic candidate… it’s a sure fire sign that there is definitely a problem with the candidate!"

"I’d like to try and put to rest the misconception on the part of the Left that ‘if we just keep our noses out of other countries’ business they will not hate us or harm us’.
Complete and total HOGWASH! Ask Poland if they ever stuck their noses into Germany’s business. Ask Kuwait if they ever gave Iraq reason to attack them. Ask many in the former Communist bloc whether or not they asked to be subjugated to Russian rule or did anything to provoke Russia to enslave them. Get a clue folks. Portions of mankind has always and always will desire to rule over the rest and Mr. Obama may very well be one of these types. I don’t like to just sling mud randomly and I will not accuse any here because I cannot say with certainty what is in a person’s heart and mind. However, I have never been able to reconcile myself as to why any sane human being (in America or any other Nation) would no opt for a strong defense given the propensity for evil that man has always displayed. Mr. Obama should answer Rose’s question above before he undertakes to weaken America’s military. If he will agree to dismiss all military (the Secret Service is a branch of the military) security for himself 100% of the time, then I might, repeat MIGHT, reconsider my opinion … NOT!!!! Somebody’d probably kill him inside of a month. Even John Kerry wasn’t that big of a maroon!!! Mr. Obama, I highly recommend that you keep our military as strong as possible. Unless, of course, you’re actually running for office as a puppet candidate for Iran or North Korea or any of the other regimes who would love to gain political and military control over America."

Great Article

July 01, 2008

Does Patriotism Matter?By Thomas Sowell

The Fourth of July is a patriotic holiday but patriotism has long been viewed with suspicion or disdain by many of the intelligentsia. As far back as 1793, prominent British writer William Godwin called patriotism "high-sounding nonsense."

Internationalism has long been a competitor with patriotism, especially among the intelligentsia. H.G. Wells advocated replacing the idea of duty to one's country with "the idea of cosmopolitan duty."

Perhaps nowhere was patriotism so downplayed or deplored than among intellectuals in the Western democracies in the two decades after the horrors of the First World War, fought under various nations' banners of patriotism.

In France, after the First World War, the teachers' unions launched a systematic purge of textbooks, in order to promote internationalism and pacifism.

Books that depicted the courage and self-sacrifice of soldiers who had defended France against the German invaders were called "bellicose" books to be banished from the schools.
Textbook publishers caved in to the power of the teachers' unions, rather than lose a large market for their books. History books were sharply revised to conform to internationalism and pacifism.

The once epic story of the French soldiers' heroic defense against the German invaders at Verdun, despite the massive casualties suffered by the French, was now transformed into a story of horrible suffering by all soldiers at Verdun-- French and German alike.
In short, soldiers once depicted as national heroes were now depicted as victims-- and just like victims in other nations' armies.

Children were bombarded with stories on the horrors of war. In some schools, children whose fathers had been killed during the war were asked to speak to the class and many of these children-- as well as some of their classmates and teachers-- broke down in tears.
In Britain, Winston Churchill warned that a country "cannot avoid war by dilating upon its horrors." In France, Marshal Philippe Petain, the victor at Verdun, warned in 1934 that teachers were trying to "raise our sons in ignorance of or in contempt of the fatherland."
But they were voices drowned out by the pacifist and internationalist rhetoric of the 1920s and 1930s.

Did it matter? Does patriotism matter?

France, where pacifism and internationalism were strongest, became a classic example of how much it can matter.

During the First World War, France fought on against the German invaders for four long years, despite having more of its soldiers killed than all the American soldiers killed in all the wars in the history of the United States, put together.

But during the Second World War, France collapsed after just six weeks of fighting and surrendered to Nazi Germany. At the bitter moment of defeat the head of the French teachers' union was told, "You are partially responsible for the defeat."

Charles de Gaulle, Francois Mauriac, and other Frenchmen blamed a lack of national will or general moral decay, for the sudden and humiliating collapse of France in 1940.
At the outset of the invasion, both German and French generals assessed French military forces as more likely to gain victory, and virtually no one expected France to collapse like a house of cards -- except Adolf Hitler, who had studied French society instead of French military forces.
Did patriotism matter? It mattered more than superior French tanks and planes.
Most Americans today are unaware of how much our schools have followed in the footsteps of the French schools of the 1920s and 1930s, or how much our intellectuals have become citizens of the world instead of American patriots.

Our media are busy verbally transforming American combat troops from heroes into victims, just as the French intelligentsia did-- with the added twist of calling this "supporting the troops."
Will that matter? Time will tell.

Copyright 2008, Creators Syndicate Inc.

The Chief Of The Delmar Police Department Has What We Call, BALLS!

OK, it's been a while since I created a title to a Post like the one above but you know what, it's the truth!

Unlike the pansy Police Chiefy Webster of Salisbury, the Delmar Police Chief not only attends meetings to support his Staff, he FIGHTS for their rights and he stands up to TWO Mayors, not just one! Chief Saylor sat in last nights meeting for hours like the rest of us and watched in amazement as the Council's from both Maryland and Delaware went into an Executive Session, (closed meeting) to discuss their options with Collective Bargaining.

OK, for starters I believe they broke the law in not just ONE State last night, they broke the Open Meetings Act law in TWO States! You can't go into an executive session over ballot issues that was already decided upon by a Judge! Well, it's Delmar, so they did it anyway. I tried to tell them they were probably making a big mistake doing so but they argued the point and did it anyway.

Nevertheless, they came out of their session calling for a vote and it passed, 3-2 in favor of a Special Election on Tuesday August 27th, 2008. They could have actually held it off for another year and a half but by popular demand the Maryland side voted and passed it.

This is the third time the Citizens have brought petitions on Collective Bargaining to the Table/Council and this time it finally stuck. The current Mayor has been in his seat for some 20 years now and he has simply overstayed his welcome. When a Mayor starts screwing Public Safety, playing with open meeting acts and making decisions for the Citizens opposite of what the Citizens have voted for, it's time for his/her ass to go!

Keep in mind now Folks, the Police Officers have been walking a mighty fine line for years because of this issue and the Mayor constantly doing anything and everything possible to stop if from going through, that takes balls and let me assure you, with very little pay!

Let this show as a sign to ALL the Salisbury Police Officers to follow as they too need to unite and STOP acting like pussies, afraid of the Administration, grow a set and stand up to their leaders and demand their already promised pay increases for starters. No, I'm not ragging on the SPD. I'm challenging them to stand up like men and fight as a TEAM!

Chief Saylor, my hat is tipped to you and THANK YOU for showing your STAFF wisdom and leadership! Sometimes you have to take risks to succeed, Saylor did so as well as ALL of the Police Officers who kept up the fight for what is right. These guys/gals get paid peanuts, seriously!

Now the Citizens of Delmar Delaware and Maryland need to get off their tails and finish what they had started. Oh, by the way, THANK YOU for supporting Public Safety. It's great to see the political system work in the right direction today.

The final 3 or 4 photos shows everyone coming out of their so called Executive Session. IMHO, this should be challenged.

Suspects Nabbed?

Robbery Royal Farms by old Skateland.

The Police have a Chevy Blazer stopped, 2 suspects fled from truck. 6 foot black male and a 5'6 black male masked..get this, there getaway vehicle ran out of gas on Toadvine thats how they finally got them. I think they are involved in all the robberies down there. Trooper 4 and Canines are in woods between Toadvine and Robins Aveneue at 12:09 am. They did get 2 suspects in the Blazer.

Another Armed Robbery In Salisbury

There was another armed robbery in City limits. Dykes road and So. Division St. Royal
Farm store. Occurred approx. 9:30 pm 6/30/08. They had a State Police helicopter all over the place. I don't think that anyone was hurt and the crook[s] got away. Just
another example of growth pays for growth. Subsidized housing etc. If I've said it once I've said it a thousand times, if you want to be a crook, do it in the City of Salisbury. The odds of you getting caught are slim to none. No disrespect top the Officers. Just figure out the odds. They've been fully Staffed at 84 Officers since 1984 and they've grown how much? I don't even need Bubba Math to screw that answer up!

Excel Swimming Pool Water

Dear Mr. Albero,

Excel Family Inc. is and has been a local family owned and operated company for fifteen years now. We are members of the Fruitland chamber of commerce, Camp ESPA, and many other local charitable events and organizations. I have striven over the many years of being in business to be as good to the community as they have been to us. With help from our loyal customers over the years we have been able to bring an excellent service to the community. Our business is based on family values, hard work, and giving back when able.

Understanding the concern from the community that has been brought to my attention I would like to clarify the situation regarding my pool water delivery trucks. The location of the hydrant that was chosen is very much in plain view from Northwood Dr. directly across from a well known business. The location of the hydrant that I chose was based on a couple factors. I felt that this is a seldom used road that is visible from many directions for the safety of my drivers and other motorist. I also feel that this location would not interfere with traffic in anyway. This hydrant prior to our approval from the city of Salisbury was overgrown with weeds and barely visible for any type of emergency use. I have been using this hydrant with a meter, back flow preventer, and valve provided by the city onl y after a lengthy application process. This is my third season using this location and have never had any problems in the past. We are in the system with Salisbury Police, Wicomico Sheriff Department, Maryland State Police, and Salisbury Water Department.

We use the water purchased from the city at the rate of almost ten dollars per every thousand gallons for many different uses. We pay a premium price for the ability to use the hydrant, meter and privilege that we have. My drivers are not allowed to open, close, or adjust the hydrant in any way. There is a valve and special fitting attached to the meter that only matches to our hoses. We are not permitted to lock or remove the meter for if there is an emergency it is available. We deliver swimming pool water at our own risk that the water may not meet the standards that we set. We understand the possibility of water being cloudy or not exactly chemically treated for different uses. A couple fire suppression companies use our service to fill and test water towers for rural school d istricts as well as new construction. We supply water to many local businesses in emergency situations such as a dry well or contaminated tap water or whatever situation arises. We also provide our water carrying capability to local fire departments and municipalities in any emergency situation. For the ones that remember West Sides natural cover fire 2007 and Crab Island fire in Somerset County 2004 just for example we where there. We are on the call list in many towns and counties 24/7 in case of any emergency situation. At no time have we ever asked for compensation during these and many other situations that we have been called on.

The ability to connect to a hydrant has been a privilege that many different towns extend to our company because of the strong and honorable history Excel has proven to have in the many years of being a local family owned and operated business. We have the ability to purchase water just about every where we go on the shore based on our reputation, honesty, and prompt payment.

I encourage anyone with any doubt how we conduct ourselves please stop by and talk to any one of my employees or myself when you see us out and about. Feel free to call me anytime @ 410-749-9933 with any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,
Steve Brown
P.S. On a separate note I would like to thank Mr. Albero for his time on the phone and consideration in this matter. I have striven very hard and many years to build this reputable business.

Quote of the Day

"So long as the people do not care to exercise their freedom, those who wish to tyrannize will do so; for tyrants are active and ardent, and will devote themselves in the name of any number of gods, religious and otherwise, to put shackles upon sleeping men" : Voltaire.

Maryland Tax Records Are Scoured for SCHIP-Eligible

Health officials in Maryland are working with state Comptroller Peter Franchot to identify children eligible for, but not enrolled in, the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). The comptroller's office will use state income tax records to locate families whose incomes qualify their children for enrollment.

The heads of eligible households will then be notified by letter that SCHIP coverage is available to their children.

The initiative comes as the result of a bill, known as the "Kids First Act," passed in April by the Maryland House of Delegates in an effort to encourage more working-poor families to enroll their children in the state health insurance program.

'A Waste of Resources'

Under early forms of the bill, eligible parents who did not enroll their children in the state program or seek an alternate form of coverage would have been disqualified from claiming a child deduction on their state income tax. That mandate was stripped from the bill in committee.

Analysts are criticizing the initiative, calling it a waste of resources. John R. Graham, director of health care studies at the Pacific Research Institute in San Francisco, said, "Parents who have children eligible for SCHIP are responsible for getting their children the help they need. Most of these letters will be ignored by the recipients.

"It will have no impact whatsoever," Graham said.

The program is a larger version of one implemented by a Maryland county last October. Howard County officials seeking to help identify and obtain coverage for nearly 20,000 uninsured residents asked Franchot for assistance in locating those who were eligible for the state program. Franchot agreed to assist the county and subsequently offered to do the same for the rest of the state.

'Misuse of Tax Records'

Twila Brase, president of the Minnesota-based Citizens' Council on Health Care, also strongly criticized the plan. She says the Maryland government is planning to go on "a fishing expedition" through the confidential tax records of its citizens. She notes tax records "are for paying taxes, not for targeting citizens with government marketing programs.

"Most people already know there are government programs," Brase said. "Clearly, many people don't want to join them."

Brase said people choose not to sign up for various reasons, including the burden of applying, the stigma associated with taking a government handout, and the requirement that they share very personal data with the government.

Brase says the person who doesn't sign up for a government program has a right not to. "There's no crime here, but a person's tax record could eventually become a tool to penalize citizens for failing to sign up for government health care, or refusing to buy health insurance when a state agency declares their income sufficient to pay for it," she said.

'Target Reasons,' Not Individuals

"The public wants consent before anyone takes a look," Brase said, citing a Gallup poll from 2000, "Public Attitudes Toward Medical Privacy." The poll of a random sampling of 1,000 people showed 95 percent of Americans believe consent should be required before personal financial information is disclosed.

Privacy concerns have not stopped some organizations from endorsing the program. "I think it's a great idea," said Vincent DeMarco, president of the Maryland Citizens' Health Initiative. "Using the comptroller's facilities is wonderful."

Brase disagreed, saying, "The people of Maryland need to stand up and oppose the government's planned intrusion into their tax records.

"If the government wants more people insured," Brase added, "they need to target the reasons people aren't signing up, not the people who conscientiously pay their taxes."

Rather than expend resources to move more people into government-run health care, Graham said, it would be "better for the state to support low-income individuals' premiums for private health insurance that they can keep whether or not they have a job."

Question of the Day, Tue 7/1

Today is National Joke Day.

Give me your best joke.

WCLCB - Did You Know? Part II

Yesterday's post on the current shenanigans of the Wicomico County Liquor Control Board motivated me to visit their website. What did I find? More political advertising at the expense of Wicomico County taxpayers!

What greets you upon entering the WCLCB website?

Fact
By law, Wicomico County is paid quarterly all profit, after all expenses, from the sale of products in the dispensaries.

OR

The Board's projected contribution to Wicomico County for 2008 will be $400,000. In addition, Wicomico County receives a portion of the sales tax collected from sales of products.

While there's nothing horrible about this, we need to ask a question. Was this little ditty up on the website BEFORE the current discussion about abolishing the dispensary system?

The rest of the front page tells us all about the serving the citizens of Wicomico County and reducing their tax burden. Sounds like another political advertisement again; and guess who paid for it?

Click the "About Us" link. More pablum telling us about all of the money flowing into the coffers of the Wicomico County government. I particularly love the part about the growth in contributions to the taxpayer. Of course they alway leave out the fact that the 2003 contribution was over $508,000. I wonder why?

Here's the bottom line folks. I don't mind the WCLCB tooting their own horn a little. BUT... they are not the ones paying for nespaper ads, or fancy postcards, or websites. YOU ARE!

If someone from the WCLCB says that you're not, that is a complete fabrication.

REMEMBER
Any money spent by the WCLCB that is not for LEGITIMATE expenses is money that rightfully belongs to the Wicomico taxpayer. Were those changes in the website legitimate expenses to sell liquor? How about those full page newspaper ads? The postcards?

The WCLCB will continue to dip into your pocket until our legislators have the moral courage to go to Annapolis and abolish it!

cross posted at Delmarva Dealings

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Salisbury Classified Ads

I will continue to remind everyone about the Classified Ads we're featuring every Saturday. Now look, this is very time consuming and it is also a FREE service from Salisbury News. I have already created a separate Site for just the Classified Ads but this week, (I believe) I'll run them on a Post right here on the regular Site. We'll provide a link in the future to the other Site so it won't clog up this Site.

I can't believe so many came in today and what's really cool is that these are really good quality items for sale. So if you have something for sale and want to get rid of it, give this a shot or go to the Daily Times and pay out the big bucks to do the same with perhaps less responses.

Remember, send your ad to, alberobutzo@wmconnect.com and be sure to put your e-mail address and or your telephone number.

Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Press Release

Incident: Possession of Cocaine With the Intent to Distribute
Date of Incident: 29 June 2008
Location: Salisbury Blvd. at Naylor Street, Salisbury, MD
Suspects:
1. Darius A. Deal, 20, Salisbury, MD
2. Billie Sue Jones, 41, Salisbury, MD

Narrative: On 29 June 2008 at 11:30 PM, a deputy on patrol observed what he recognized as an illicit drug transaction in the parking lot of the Chevron Station on Salisbury Blvd at Naylor Street and drove into the parking lot. After detaining the suspected seller, identified as Darius A. Deal, the deputy located what he recognized as marijuana packaged in two individual baggies in Deal’s pants pocket. After searching the vehicle of the suspected buyer, later identified as Billie Sue Jones, the deputy located a baggie of what he recognized as suspected cocaine. It was believed by the deputy that Deal had just either sold the cocaine or was in the process of selling the cocaine when interrupted by the deputy. After arrest, Deal was also discovered to have an additional baggie of cocaine on Deal’s person.

Both Deal and Jones were arrested and transported to the Central Booking Unit at the Wicomico County Detention Center where they were both processed. Deal was charged with Possession of both Marijuana and Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute both. Jones was charged with the Possession of Cocaine only. After an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner, Deal was held on $100,000.00 bond while Jones was held on $50,000.00 bond.

Delmar Police Collective Bargaining Will Move Forward

In a more detailed Post tomorrow I'll go over tonight's meeting. In the mean time, there will be a special election on Collective Bargaining for the Delmar Police Department, like it or not Mayor.

More Proof The Blog Works

Sunny & Joe.....Thanks for this forum, it helped answer my questions about getting the three package deal from Comcast, TV, high speed internet and Phone as well.

I got details today I'll save close to $500 a year and still have the same phone number. To the person that stated "when they called to extend their same package, and was told it wasn't allowed." I was told that you MUST call and request the extra 2 year extension, and you must call before your present method of payment expires.

Hope that helps answer your question, but if it were me I'd call and raise hell, last time I did that and they wanted to argue, I asked them "Do you want me to come to see you in person to get this straight? LoL Got what I wanted!

Wicomico County Sheriff's Department Press Releases

Incident: Violation of a Protective Order
Date of Incident: 28 June 2008
Location: 1300 Block of Jersey Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: Tyler Andre Lockwood, 25, Salisbury, MD

Narrative: On 28 June 2008, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence in the 1300 block of Jersey Road to investigate the Violation of a Protective Order. Upon arrival, the deputies met with the complainant who advised that Tyler Andre Lockwood came to the complainant’s residence in violation of a Protective order. The complainant advised that Lockwood demanded entry into the residence, but entry was denied by the complainant. Lockwood was gone when the deputies arrived but he was located in close proximity to the residence. After an investigation, Lockwood was arrested.

Lockwood was transported to the Central Booking Unit at the Wicomico County Detention Center where Lockwood was processed and charged with Violation of a Protective Order. After an initial appearance in front of a District Court Commissioner, Lockwood was released on Personal Recognizance.

Incident: Theft over $500
Date of Incident: 29 June 2008
Location: 32000 Block of Old Ocean City Road, Parsonsburg, MD
Suspects:
1. Juan Hernandez Cuatacuatl, 19, Salisbury, MD
2. Silverio Ramirez Perez, 26, Salisbury, MD
Narrative: On 29 June 2008 at 0215 AM, the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office was contacted about a theft in progress. A witness called in, reporting that two subjects, later identified as Cuatacuatl and Perez, were observed taking a riding mower from a front yard in the 3200 block of Old Ocean City Road. The witness advised that the two subjects were last seen westbound on Old Ocean City Road, towing the riding mower with a pick-up truck. Deputies responded to the area and located Perez steering the mower while being towed in the pick-up truck operated by Cuatacuatl. After an investigation, both were arrested and charged with felony theft. The mower was returned to the victim.

Both subjects were arrested and transported to the Central Booking Unit at the Wicomico County Detention Center where they were processed and charged with Theft over $500. Both subjects were taken in front of the District Court Commissioner for an initial appearance and were both held in the Wicomico County Detention Center on $7,500.00 bond.

Incident: Possession of Marijuana
Date of Incident: 29 June 2008
Location: Salisbury Blvd. S/OF North Point Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: Michael S. Travis, 25, Salisbury, MD

Narrative: On 29 June 2008 at 5:20 PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle on Salisbury Blvd. for erratic driving. Upon contacting Travis, the deputy discovered that Travis did not hold a Driver’s License. Further investigation revealed that Travis had both marijuana and a smoking device in his possession.

Travis was arrested and transported to the Central Booking Unit at the Wicomico County Detention Center where he was processed and charged with Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. After an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner, Travis was held in the Wicomico County Detention Center on $7,500.00 bond.

Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 28 June 2008
Location: 5000 Block of White Marlin Drive, Eden, MD
Suspects:
1. Chris Edward Ross, 33, Eden, MD
2. Melissa Joanna Plank, 25, Eden, MD

Narrative: On 28 June 2008 at 4:45 PM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported altercation between two subjects in the 5000 block of White Marlin Drive in Eden. Upon arrival, deputies met with both Chris Ross and Melissa Plank and determined that they had been involved in a physical altercation with each other. During the investigation it was alleged that Ross was struck in the head with a lap top computer. At the conclusion of the investigation, both Ross and Plank were arrested and charged with Assault.

Both Ross and Plank were transported to the Central Booking Unit at the Wicomico County Detention Center where they were processed and charged with Assault Second Degree. Plank was also charged with the additional charged of Assault 1st Degree. After an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner, Ross was held on $15,000.00 bond while Plank was held on $30,000.00 bond.

Incident: DUI / False Statement
Date of Incident: 28 June 2008
Location: 27000 block of Nanticoke Road, Salisbury, MD
Suspects: Fernando Mendez Hernandez, 20, Salisbury, MD

Narrative: On 28 June 2008 at 0245 AM, a Deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office clocked a vehicle operated by Fernando Hernandez on radar exceeding the posted speed limit on Nanticoke Road in the area of Oxbridge Drive. When the deputy attempted to stop Hernandez’s vehicle, he continued southbound and sped up. Hernandez turned off road and pulled behind a residence in the 27000 block of Nanticoke Road at which point the deputy made contact with him and discovered Hernandez to be under the influence of alcohol. When the deputy attempted to identify Hernandez, he presented himself under a different name and kept providing different dates of birth. It took the deputy three hours to positively identify who Hernandez was. Once Hernandez was properly identified, he was taken to Central Booking.

Once at Central Booking, Hernandez was processed and charged with the DUI along with providing a false identity to Police after Arrest. After an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner, Hernandez was held in the Detention Center on $20,000.00 bond.

Salisbury Police Department Press Releases

On June 27, 2008 at approximately 8:43 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department arrested the below listed suspect pursuant to an arrest warrant charging the suspect with drug violations. On March 25, 2008 the suspect sold an undercover police officer an amount of suspected crack/cocaine that was tested and found to be fake. As a result, Salisbury Officers obtained an arrest warrant for the suspect charging the suspect with the distribution of fake CDS.

ARRESTED: Qymaine Christopher Kenney, 18 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES:
Distribution of fake CDS
Possession of fake CDS with the intent to distribute
Possession of fake CDS believed to be CDS

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC# 200800010418

On June 29, 2008 at approximately 1:10 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department were on routine patrol when they observed the below listed suspect, who was known to them, and known to be wanted on an outstanding warrant. The suspect was arrested pursuant to the active warrant, and a search incident to arrest revealed a quantity of suspected crack/cocaine and CDS paraphernalia.

ARRESTED: Alexander Dwight Stevens, 27 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES:
Outstanding warrant:
Malicious destruction of property
Reckless endangerment (2 counts)
Intimidating/influencing a juror
Possession of cocaine with the intent to distribute
Possession of cocaine
Possession of CDS/paraphernalia

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200800019832, 200800022763

The Daily Times Continues To Plummet

The Daily Times parent corportion - (Gannett Corporation) -continues to plummet again today. The stock trading set yet another new low of $21.52 breaking a previous low of $21.60. Check it out for yourself at:
http://finance.yahoo.com/q?s=GCI

Landis Ban Upheld

US Cyclist Floyd Landis who won the 2006 Tour de France lost his appeal on doping charges. Landis will be stripped of his title as well as he will have a 2 year ban which will end in 2009.

Laboratory practices and the treatment of athletes in the Court of Arbitration for Sport were key points in the long standing battle.

Full story here.

I was out of town for a bit, have some more posts up later.

Collective Bargaining In Delmar

The Town of Delmar will be holding a special meeting this evening at 7:00 PM at their Town Hall on Collective Bargaining.

I had heard the Mayor was playing games with this once again but we'll see what happens this evening.

The Marine

ONE SUNNY DAY IN 2009, AN OLD MAN APPROACHED THE WHITE HOUSE FROM ACROSS PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE, WHERE HE'D BEEN SITTING ON A PARK BENCH.

He spoke to the Marine standing guard and said, I would like to go in and meet with President Barack Obama.

The Marine replied, Sir, Mr. Obama is not President and doesn't reside here.

The old man said, Okay,and walked away. The following day, the same man approached the White House and said to the same Marine, I would like to go in and meet with President Barack Obama.

The Marine again told the man, Sir, as I said yesterday, Mr. Obama is not President and doesn't reside here. The man thanked him and again walked away.

The third day, the same man approache d the White House and spoke to the very same Marine, saying I would like to go in and meet with President Barack Obama.

The Marine, understandably agitated at this point, looked at the man and said, Sir, this is the third day in a row you have been here asking to speak to Mr. Obama. I've told you already several times that Mr. Obama is not the President and doesn't reside here. Don't you understand?

The old man answered, Oh, I understand you fine. I just love hearing your answer!

The Marine snapped to attention, saluted, and said, See you tomorrow, Sir!

Tim Chaney Writes A Letter To The Editor

* Note: Highlights are my opinion only and were not in the paper.

6/29/2008 Tim Chaney

Breaking News from the local paper:

The new plant is scheduled to come on line in September and Pick said the transition is almost over, but it will continue to intensify as the final stages of the process occur.

Stevens said. The effluent that was spilled during the two malfunctions last week were only one step away from being clean. (Yet the bacterial level is still at a point where the river is closed, longer than usual).

But for now, the river remains closed from Salisbury to the Upper Ferry.

"The only thing they were missing was disinfection, that was very clear water," Stevens said.

Dennis DiCintio, director of environmental health, said although results of samples taken Thursday show the bacterial levels are lower then the samples taken Tuesday, the levels are not yet below the established guidelines.

After several rains and a couple very high tides, the bacterium is still at a dangerous level.

Once again, will the city be fined and punish taxpayer's for the negligence of city officials?

Pick said shortly after the spills, the bacteria level were back to safe levels but a heavy rain, which brought runoff into the river, spiked bacteria levels back up and required the river remained closed for an additional period of time.

Pick's last statement proves the citizens were right about the six foot drainage pipe to be discharged in the river across from the Market Street Inn, it does need to be treated. If the new treatment plant will be ready to go online in September, don't you think it's time someone starts to be trained how to operate the plant? As quoted, "Greg Stevens, Chief of Salisbury's water division, said plant operators have had the instruction in new procedures but have had little hands-on training." Stevens also on TV 47 was quoted "more spills are likely in the future even after the plant is fully operational." THAT really makes us feel a lot more comfortable?

Classified Ads Should Be Quite Interesting!

It didn't take long for several people to jump on board with their Classified Ads. The Post will go up at 6:30 AM on Saturday so if you want to participate, send in your ads as early as possible. Joe

Kratovil Goes After Special Interest Money

While the story in this morning's Daily Times might be filed under "Better Late Than Never", we have to appreciate a few nuggets provided by Gannett's local outpost. We all know that 1st District Democrat congressional candidate Frank Kratovil has been targeted by the DCCC. This means money and other support. What I found interesting was where he's earning his money from.

To kick off the new relationship with the people who will rule over Kratovil IF he is elected, the DCCC put together a little soirée hosted by Patton Boggs. Patton Boggs is one of Washington's largest lobbying shops.

I find it interesting that Kratovil criticizes his opponent, Maryland Sen. Andy Harris (R-7) for taking money from the Club for Growth. However, the Club for Growth's money comes from small contributions given by citizens like me who support lower taxes and less economic regulation.

The money that Kratovil will be raising through the DCCC will be large contributions from lobbyists and special interest groups that want big government contracts or want a larger government to affect greater control over our lives.

I'm sure Frank will be telling us that he's a man of the people.

cross posted at Delmarva Dealings and Red Maryland

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Another Hit From Wicomico Surf

As much as I appreciate the efforts of this artist, I hope he doesn't hold his breath waiting for HONEST answers from the current administration or the council majority.

Keep those hits coming. Click the following highlighted "I Need To Know" to listen to the song. I Need To Know

I Need To Know
by Wicomico Surf

I don’t want to bother you

I got a question or two

Hate to bother you now but

It’s what I pay you for anyhow

I don’t like what I see

I don’t like what’s happen’n to you and me

And I think I should be heard

And I want a BLACK AND WHITE ANSWER

I know I will listen

But don’t throw up your screen of defenses

I Need To Know
How It’s Spent Where It went
What did it Show

Hate to bother you right now

It’s public comment I won’t shout

Don’t point you finger at me

Cause this is the reason I’m free

I WANT A CLEAR ANSWER

From what I ask

If you don’t like it you can go “mow the grass”

And I don’t care your opinion of me

I’m a payer of taxes you see

Come On Bike Week!

Now that I've picked up my Harley Fat Boy in Ocean City, I'm ready to roll! I have missed my old Road King and with gas rising like it has been, I'm ready to beat the system once again! Are you doing anything to cut back on gas? I know Donna just sold her big SUV. Here's a good question. Are the Car Dealers screwing people who own large trucks or SUV's when they trade them? Are they telling you there's no resale value after they stuck it to you when you bought it? Are they offering below Blue Book trade-in value?

No Power As Of 8:01 AM This Morning!

Parts of Salisbury is shut down! No street lights, no power! Many believe the run off from the WWTP has finally taken its toll on the underground power lines, LOL.

Today's FULL Page Ad In The Daily Times

I found this to be quite interesting. They claim to have the cheapest prices on cigarettes, yet they're paying thousands of dollars for a full page ad? Do you actually believe YOU'RE not paying for that ad in the long run?

Nevertheless, are you people actually spending that much money today on a pack of cigarettes? If this is the "cheapest price" on a pack of cigarettes, how much are YOU paying elsewhere?

The more I think about it the more I realize just how much our own Government has screwed us. A pack of cigarettes only a few years ago was $2.00 a pack. I know, I know, we all remember when they were .25 & .50 cents a pack but let's get real here. Once you're addicted and can't quit, the Government knew just what to go after and tax through the ying yang. Same for liquor, electricity and now gasoline. You do know what's going to be next, right? CHOCOLATE!!!!! Start running for the hills ladies!

Another Letter To The Editor

I just read your post regarding the HIV testing program in the Bronx. With our current economic status and health care crisis more and more individuals are having to turn to the non-traditional means for their preventive health care such as HIV testing. As a pharmacist and testicular cancer survivor I am well aware of the need for regular doctor appointments and preventive health screenings. Unfortunately, many individuals are just not able to undergo these screenings.

To increase peoples access to preventive screenings I have created what is virtually an online health fair. I would be very excited for you to take a look at my site and perhaps keep it in mind for future reference. I have also included a recent press release to give you a better insight to our company.

Thank You for Your Consideration,

Michael Craycraft R.Ph.
President
Home Health Screening, LLC
(561) 703-1788
mcraycraft@homehealthscreening.com
www.homehealthscreening.com

YOUR PERSONAL 24/7 HEALTH FAIR IS NOW AVAILABLE

Deerfield Beach, FL - June 25, 2008 -- With rising health care costs and the increasing numbers of uninsured and under-insured, many Americans are turning to health fairs for their preventive health care needs. However, if you don't have the time to attend your local health fair then what options do you have? Home Health Screening, LLC has solved that problem by creating an online version of a health fair.

Home Health Screening's website (www.homehealthscreening.com) features FDA-approved home diagnostic testing kits to screen for a variety of conditions including high cholesterol, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, thyroid conditions, HIV, hepatitis C and hemoglobin A1c for diabetic patients. The site also features a re-usable pad to aid women with their monthly self breast exams. The kits contain all of the supplies needed for the consumer to collect a small sample of blood from a finger-stick and then mail the sample into the laboratories for analysis.

"Ideally patients would see their primary care physician for their preventive health care needs," said Michael Craycraft R.Ph., President of Home Health Screening, "However, a 2005 study, which looked at 2003 data, estimated that sixty-one million, or 35 percent of Americans were un- or under-insured. These same individuals were less likely to have access to the preventive care that can end up being a life saver. Our company allows those individuals to test themselves, for a variety of conditions, in the privacy of their own home. For others, the tests may be used as add-ons. Perhaps someone would like to test their cholesterol every 3 months instead of the yearly test they receive in the physician's office. Most of the testing kits are also eligible for reimbursement under flexible health care spending accounts which helps add to their affordability."

The benefits of preventive screenings has been a topic of conversation for several decades. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has been publishing it's Guide to Clinical Services since 1989 as a way to highlight their recommendations for preventive health care services. This month they updated their recommendations for cholesterol screenings. They now recommend that all men age 35 and older be screened for high cholesterol. In addition, men and women that are at high risk for coronary heart disease should begin cholesterol screenings at 20 years of age. These recommendations highlight the importance of early detection of potentially fatal diseases.

"Our ability to treat diseases has greatly evolved," said Mr. Craycraft, "Take HIV for example, with the highly active anti-viral medications now available people are living a longtime with HIV as a chronic disease. Unfortunately, according to the CDC, around 25 percent of those infected aren't aware that they have the disease and the disease is allowed to fester until symptoms finally present themselves. This same scenario occurs with other diseases such as high cholesterol and cancers. By doing preventive screenings we can catch early warning signs for potential problems down the road."

About Home Health Screening, LLC
Home Health Screening is a pharmacist-owned and operated company that focuses on health screenings, preventive health and wellness. They feature confidential FDA-approved home diagnostic kits to help individuals identify early warning signs of major diseases. www.homehealthscreening.com

Question of the Day, Mon 6/30

Today's brought to you by Melissa Malone:

The Merchant is Being ripped off too? - DID YOU KNOW?

Credit card companies are now maneuvering where they are getting there fees and the consumer is paying more for their merchandise. Have you seen in the news where the gas stations are now giving discounts for people paying cash and charging more for credit cards?

Want to know why?

Well, credit card companies make offers to get consumers to apply for their cards. Like lower interest rates, rewards, frequent flyer miles, cash back...etc... But the merchant is paying the price. Every time you use your credit card the location that you use it at gets charged a processing fee (percentage of the sale from the credit card company.) But now, they have changed the way the fees are paid by the merchant. If you swipe the card and it is a regular, no reward, no extra card the merchant is charged about 1.9% of the total sale. (Very few of these cards left in the world)If it is a rewards card, frequent flyer, cash back lower interest rate, the merchant is getting charged about 2.3% of the sale. (For every gallon of gas the merchant is charged an additional .10)

Who do you think is paying for that? If it is a commercial card and a customer is calling a payment in and not swiping the card the merchant is getting charged about 3.1% of the sale. So the credit card companies are making their money from the consumer and the merchant and the merchant has no other recourse but to raise his pricing to the consumer. Guess the consumer just can't win as well as the merchant.

Put your foot down and save some money. Get rid of your credit cards. Could you?

Letter To The Editor

Joe,

last week I was riding along down in a industrial park and saw an excel swimming pool water truck, go up to an out of the way fire hydrant and just start filling his truck...I thought this seemed fishy so I called the police to check it out, while I was waiting for the police I called the number on side of truck and asked where they get there pool water from, and the lady said all over the place...Willards, Salisbury, we just go up to fire hydrants and fill up.

The only thing I heard on scanner was that dispatch had asked the company to send them the agreement from the City on there using the hydrant. How does the City keep track of how much water they are using, especially with the water rate increase. It just seemed odd and thought I would mention it to you.

It's an excellent question and one very much worth looking into. I did make mention of it to the TWO City Council Members I know would be happy to look into it for all of us. The rest will simply say, "We'll get back to you on that." LMAO! I'll keep you posted......

Classified Ads

Saturday is usually the slowest day on the Blog so I'm considering putting up Classified Ads for Saturdays should people send in their complete ad so all I have to do is copy it and paste it to the entire Post.

You can e-mail me the item you want listed and I'm not going to run forever long ads on items. Get to the point and give an e-mail address so people can contact you directly. If you'd like to add a telephone number that would be cool too.

I'll see how it works for a few weeks and go from there. E-mail me your information at, alberobutzo@wmconnect.com Oh, unlike the Daily Times, our ads will be FREE!

Heat Stroke Sunday At Winter Place Park

To decrease your chances of heat stroke:

*Stay indoors in air-conditioned areas when possible.
*Drink plenty of water before starting an outdoor activity. Drink extra water all day. Drink less tea, coffee, and alcoholic beverages, which can lead to dehydration.

*Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothes.

*Schedule vigorous outdoor activities for cooler times of the day.

*Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat or using an umbrella.

*Increase the time you spend in daily outdoor activities slowly and gradually.

*Don't spend time outdoors during the hottest hours of the day.

*During an outdoor activity, take frequent breaks and drink water or other fluids every 15 to 20 minutes, even if you don't feel thirsty. If you have clear, pale urine, you are probably drinking enough fluids.

*If you have a chronic medical problem, ask your doctor about drinking extra fluids and about your medicines.

If you are with someone with heat stroke-related symptoms, cool the person rapidly. Remove his or her clothes, then help cool the person with cold, wet sheets or a cool bath. Arrange for transportation to the nearest hospital -- this is an emergency.

Quotes of the Day...Today you Get Two

"If you think of yourselves as helpless and ineffectual, it is certain that you will create a despotic government to be your master. The wise despot, therefore, maintains among his subjects a popular sense that they are helpless and ineffectual." : Frank Herbert

=
"When I tell the truth, it is not for the sake of convincing those who do not know it, but for the sake of defending those that do." : William Blake

A Liquor Dispensary Exclusive From Salisbury News

Oh, I think I'll just let this one speak for itself and await the comments. Click on the image to enlarge it.

WCLCB - Did You Know? Part I

Did you know that the Wicomico County Liquor Control Board is using YOUR tax dollars to print some of prettiest, most expensive political ads you've seen recently?




The picture just doesn't do it justice. We also might want to ask who did the lovely print job. It couldn't have possibly been WCLCB chairman Stewart Haemel, could it?

If it was, I have to say that he does fine work.

Of course it doesn't really matter that most of the "information" on their little ad either distorts the truth or is an outright falsehood:

The Staff of Wicomico Wines & Spirits (Liquor Dispensaries) are not County employees and do not cost Wicomico County residents anything.
While technically correct, remember that all profits are supposed to go to the county. Therefore, staffing most certainly does affect the taxpayer.

The Liquor Dispensary System, stores and wholesale distributorship, was established by State Law and is directed by an independent Board, to benefit Wicomico County residents.
A warm and fuzzy statement that is so subjective as to defy debate. However, if the board was so concerned about benefiting the taxpayers of Wicomico County why have they refused to provide financial information until threatened with legal action?

Wicomico taxpayers benefit this year from a $400,000 contribution from the dispensaries, an increase of 60% from 2004.
I'm quite sure that they will get over the $400,000 mark this year. Of course they've been trying to make the public think that it has been at least a $400,000 contribution EVERY year. That is simply not true. What the current board really doesn't want the public to know is that contributions to the county taxpayer have DROPPED over 37% during the tenure of this Board!

This contribution is profit from operation of the stores and wholesale distributorship.
True, but the WCLCB again distorts the facts to make themselves look good. If they were actually concerned for the taxpayers of Wicomico County rather than WCLCB staff and board members the contributions back to the county taxpayers would be greater than they are. The postcard pictured above is just one example. Do we believe that the printing was done for free? What about newspaper ads attacking county council members? All of these "expenses" are paid for with money that rightfully belongs to you and I.

Existing locations and well staffed stores create a safe environment.
Possibly. Of course it also discriminates against some soul who lives in Bivalve, Mardela or Willards and has to drive all the way to Salisbury to pick up his bottle of Jack.

Hours of operation help reduce drunk driving & crime, and honor religious observance.
Prove it Ron! The stores stay open late on weekends, as would a privately owned store. If the WCLCB is inferring that privately owned stores would be 24/7 liquor marts / drug dens they are just lying to save their cushy posts. As for religious observance, I wasn't aware that the WCLCB was an arm of the Church!

The staff is trained to identify and confiscate false IDs and prevent underage drinking.
And how many times have Wicomico dispensaries been busted for selling to underage kids? In all fairness, the WCLCB staff certainly aren't trying to violate the law. I've personally witnessed them turning away young people who may have been legal, but didn't have proper ID. I've also witnessed the staff of privately run liquor stores do the same thing. At least with privately owned stores there is a huge financial incentive to obey the law.

REMEMBER
Any money spent by the WCLCB that is not for LEGITIMATE expenses is money that rightfully belongs to the Wicomico taxpayer. Look at that picture again and ask yourself -

How did you enjoy having your pocket picked by the likes of Stew Haemel, Ron Alessi and Cecilia Dennis?

cross posted at Delmarva Dealings

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