Salvation Army Bell Ringing UPDATE

Sams Club Update
North Walmart Retail Entrance Update
North Walmart Grocery Entrance Update

Here it is folks, updated as of 6:00pm Thursday night. Please call the Salvation Army at 410-749-7771 ext. 100 or contact Joe via email at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or via phone 410-430-5349.

Come on folks, not many slots left, lets fill them all.

THANK YOU, to all that are giving of themselves.

Wicomico County Humane Society was wrong

As many of you may know, some time ago our daughter had a bad experience with the Wicomico County Humane Society as it related to the way it carried out its contractural obligations to enforce Wicomico County animal control law. Her dog escaped several times and after being picked by the Humane Society three times they refused to return the dog to her unless she found another place that she could keep it. My problem was that in my interpretation of the Wicomico County Code I couldn't find anything authorizing the Wicomico County Humane Society to deny anyone their property (dog, cat, whatever) short of the dog being deemed dangerous and deadly pursuant to the provisions in the Annotated Code of Maryland - and that simply didn't apply in this case due to the fact that it had never bitten anyone.

When I posted it originally several people spoke up about incidents in which the same types of things had happened to them. We also heard from people who stated this like....."your not a responsible pet owner - you shouldn't own a dog" and all kinds of comments that which really had nothing to do with the issue at hand. The real issue was that an organization acting on behalf of the Govt. was taking property belonging to citizens and keeping it WITHOUT THE AUTHORITY TO DO SO AND WITHOUT DUE PROCESS!

I asked for a meeting with my Councilman and the County Executive to address my concerns. The meeting did in fact take place. Present were the County Executive, two members of the County Council, and the County Atty. I expressed my concern and asked the County Atty for a legal opinion relating to the legality of the Wicomico County Humane Society's common practice of taking possession of pets and releasing them only after their demands were met. I was told that they would look into the matter and get back with me on the issue.

After a substantial period of time without a response I attempted many times to contact the County Atty without receiving either a call back or a response to the question at hand.

BUT.....FINALLY after about six months of calling and calling....of leaving message after message....of speaking with Rick Pollitt and having him tell me numerous times that he would have Ed Baker call me without result..........I got an answer. Today, December 4, in the year of Our Lord, 2008 I got a response. (Just kidding - I know they're busy)

Today I was contact by an Assistant County Atty who advised me that their official position is that the Wicomico County Humane Society acted outside of their authority. That the Wicomico County Humane Society could make suggestions as to what measures may be taken to help keep a dog confined but they must release the dog to its owner without condition. They can issue a citation but they CANNOT keep a dog from it's rightful owner.

This is important. We can't stand idly by and permit our rights to be trampled by anyone. This is a private organization responsible for a form of law enforcement. There are issues that still remain. With whom do you file a complaint should this happen again? Who are their bosses? Some "board of directors" the members of which are unknown to anyone? They do not operate under the authority of any elected official and are not employed by the County. Therefore they are so insulated that they are almost untouchable unless some takes the time to meet with the person who controls the purse strings......the County Executive. If I hadn't taken the time to meet with him the dog would likely have been euthanized.

Also important - The Assistant County Atty did in fact contact Linda Lugo and advised her that she has no authority to keep animals from their rightful owner. Lugo stated that she understood and that she was doing what she thought was in the best interest of the dog. SO WHAT?!? You can't make up laws you THINK should exist! I can't imagine the lawsuits that could come from this now that it is clear that the Humane Society was acting outside of it's authority. Now that the law is clear, I have this to say:

Linda Lugo you and your employees play a vital role as a Humane Society when you take stray animals and find them homes. However, when you take the responsibility of enforcing law, you are taking a position of public trust. That being the case, you are expected to work within the parameters of the law doing so with pride and integrity. You cannot make up the rules as you go along. The ends can never justify the means. Learn what the laws are and work within them. Until you do, you will never build the level of public trust you will need to do the best job you can for the people who pay your salary....and that should be your goal.

Here We Go Again!!!!!!

"Joe,

Thanks for listing the free lab/rott puppies.... we had a really good response and they are all taken.

Thanks again!"

The article we put up earlier today clearly had a fantastic response. Thanks to many of you, AGAIN, these Puppies have all received new homes. That's Influential Michael.

10 Children Arrested Yesterday In Wicomico County

Ten Children were arrested yesterday for their participation in a fire in a Salisbury CHOICES Alternative School. The children had their hands in a fire that caused some $20,000.00 in a Temporary Classroom. Most do not realize that this School is loaded with Children who have had issues with other Schools and were transferred there instead.

Who Do You Use for Propane?

Last May, my propane company decided to come to my house and fill up my propane tank. I had an automatic refill agreement with Aero and only use gas for a fireplace. You can understand then why I was a little miffed when, after allowing my tank to run dry in mid February, they came at the beginning of summer to give me propane for gas logs. And we all know how high the price was then.

Needless to say, Aero is no longer my gas provider. I have done some inquiring to other companies trying to find out what is the best price and options for me. A couple companies will run me a line to my grill at no charge, other companies will only do this if you are "a friend of a good ole boy". Anyone will run this line for a steep price. If it was easy for me to handle the portable tanks, I would keep it as is, but this really takes a toll on me.

What I would like to have for now is a line run to my deck with 2 outlets for my grill and fryer. I need an above ground tank installed and filled with propane at an affordable price. I don't want automatic delivery, instead I'll call when I'm in need. I thought the increase in the amount of gas I used in cooking would offset any charge for the installation, but I guess I was wrong.

I would appreciate all your feedback. I'm not interested in what your buddy at company A does for you. That will only work for you. I also would like to hear what companies to stay away from (like AERO). As most of you know, I am a disabled vet on a very fixed income. Just like everyone going through hardships, I need to watch every penny. Thanks in advance for your advice. I'll let everyone know who I chose when when I'm up and running again.

Update On Willards Fire

Fire Chief Dale White just made contact with me and wanted the following information out to the Public so things are accurate.

The 5 year old Child has been transported to Shock Trauma in Baltimore and the Mother has gone to Baltimore with that Child to be with the Child. She did not go there to be treated. The Father is in ICU at PRMC.

Funds have been set up to help this Family in desperate need right now through:
Choptank Electric
The Farmers Bank of Willards
Any Calvin B. Taylor Bank
C/O Zentmyer-Willis

There will be an "After The Fire Program" tonight in the immediate area checking Fire Detectors, installing them & replacing batteries where necessary.

Stress Councilors arrived at the Willards Fire Department to work with Staff there.

Again, our thoughts and prayers are with the Family and the Fire Department.

A Plea From Bryan Records SFD

This is indeed a tragic event. Let this be a reminder to everyone to have a working smoke detector. I stress the word working. That means a battery inside or hardwired.

Local fire departments give away hundreds of free detectors each year. There is no excuse for anyone not to have one. When you get home tonight, please check to make sure your smoke detector works and that you have one. You can obtain the phone number for your local fire station from the phone book. If it is not listed contact 410-548-4920 and the dispatch center will provide their number to you.



In light of the tragedy in Willards this morning, I felt this comment worthy of a post, I hope Bryan doesn't mind.

Another SU Robbery

Dear Campus Community,

At approximately 4 a.m. today two Salisbury University students near
Severn Hall were approached by three suspects displaying a weapon and
demanding money. Because these students made detailed observations of
their assailants and promptly reported the incident to University Police
on the campus emergency telephone system, University officers were able
to react immediately. A speedy apprehension was made by the Fruitland
Police assisted by the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office.

Safety is Salisbury University’s paramount concern. University
Police has been working collaboratively with area police agencies to
increase the safety of our students and the local community. We ask
that you exercise caution when moving on and near campus both in daytime
and in evening hours. University Police offers an escort service at
night for students who feel particularly uncomfortable walking alone.
Students may access the Escort Service by calling ext. 3-6222.

We want to praise the students, University Police and their colleagues
in area agencies for their excellent work on this incident.

Dr. Ellen J. Neufeldt
Vice President of Student Affairs
Salisbury University
1101 Camden Avenue
Salisbury, MD 21801
410-543-6080

Vice President Of WBOC, Craig Jahelka Wants To Clear The Air Waves

Good Morning Joe,

I’m in California this morning on business and haven’t been checking your blog as frequently as I do when I’m at home. Therefore I just now noticed the posting from someone who erroneously claims WBOC is misleading people with our informational campaign regarding satellite. I’d like the opportunity to set the record straight for your loyal readers. Neither DirecTV nor Dish Network will uplink the local Salisbury stations. That means folks can’t get WMDT, WBOC or FOX 21 on satellite. So satellite customers will also need a rooftop antenna to pick us up and to get the local information we provide each day. There’s a lot of confusion regarding this issue, and that’s why we’re taking the time to educate folks with an on-air campaign. Your previous writer erroneously claims the satellite companies will carry local programming. That’s just not true. It is illegal (against federal law) for satellite companies which do not offer local stations to import an out-of-market station to people who can receive our free over-the-air signals unless the local station grants a waiver. A ‘waiver’ is a request for us to waive our rights to distribute CBS network programming in our area. If it is determined via a signal strength test that a home on Delmarva cannot receive our free over the air signal, we grant a waiver to that home, and the satellite company then provides that home a feed of the CBS station from New York City. The previous post erroneously accuses us of misleading people and asks us to tell the truth. Our informational campaign is factual. I hear every week from people who’ve chosen to purchase satellite service and only then discover they can’t get local channels and can’t understand why they don’t see ABC or CBS programming. This is a result of national advertising campaigns that claim local channels are available. While they are in most areas, they’re not available on satellite here on Delmarva. Your Salisbury TV stations have invested millions of dollars to provide a high definition broadcast signal to our family, friends and neighbors here on Delmarva. We will continue to invest in technology, people and products to serve the public trust. And we will continue to urge the satellite companies to carry our signal. Until the satellite companies step up to the plate, consumers who choose to write monthly checks to them can still watch us, absolutely FREE, and in high definition, with a rooftop antenna.

Warm Regards to you and your family.

And Merry Christmas Joe.

Craig Jahelka

VP/General Manager

WBOC-TV/FOX 21


Thanks for clearing the air Craig. Enjoy the West Coast and a Merry Christmas to you and your Family as well. Joe

Chief Webster Passed Up His Opportunity

As Joe stands outside of Sams Club ringing the bell for the Salvation Army this morning, Chief Webster drove by checking him out. When Joe saw the Chief he tried to flag him down to ask him to join him. Our Chief of Police would have nothing to do with the bell ringing or Joe. He just drove right by him. Now some might say he didn't see him, that would be untrue. Chief Webster looked right at Joe as he was flagging him down and chose to ignore him. What if Joe had been in need of help? What a shame Chief Webster won't put things behind him in the spirit of Christmas and be willing to work to help others. Chiefy, your true colors are showing.

Update on Willards Fire

The family that was in the fire early this morning is family members of my best friend, Sally, that is battling for her life with brain cancer. This morning's news was a shock to the whole family. Lacy and David were very hard-working to make ends meet for their 2 small children.

I have just been informed that their 5 year old son, Devon, has just been transported to Johns Hopkins University by helicopter. The father, David Zentmyer, remains in intensive care at PRMC. The mother, Lacy Willis, was also transported to Johns Hopkins, but it's unclear if she was a patient or transported to be there for her son. As stated in a prior posting, their youngest son, Andrew, perished in the fire.

It's a little too soon to find out yet, but as soon as I can, I will find out what the family may need, whether it be clothing, food, shelter, etc. I will post any information as soon as possible. I know our small community will coming together and help during this tragic event. I'm sure Lacy and David will need help getting through Christmas for their surviving son.

Initial conversations with the family states that the family could not afford heat in the trailer and were using kerosene heaters. The fire started in a child's bedroom. It is unclear how the fire started.

I'm already receiving emails and phone calls with readers ready to help. Here's one I'd like to share:
I just read your posting on Joe's blog, regarding the family in Willards. If you have any way of finding out what size clothing the little boy wears, I may be able to help out. My nephew is 5.5 and has just grown out of alot of his clothes. Most of it hardly worn because I only have him every other weekend. I was going to donate it to a clothes closet, but I would rather help this family directly if I can. There are no words to express my thoughts for this family in their time of need. I may also be able to provide toys as well. I make my nephew and my daughter get rid of several toys before Christmas.

Salisbury Police Department Press Releases

On December 1, 2008 at approximately 8:39 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to the Peninsula Regional Medical Center to meet with the victim of an armed robbery. Upon arrival the officers met with the victim who had been robbed of U.S. Currency at gunpoint. The victim advised that he had just removed U.S. Currency from an ATM located at Rt. 50 and Phillip Morris Drive and was approached by two (2) suspects who were in possession of long guns. The suspects struck the victim in the head with one of the weapons and took the currency that he had just received from the ATM. The suspects then fled from the area on foot. The victim received treatment for the injury and was released from PRMC. The suspects were described as:

Suspect # 1: black male, wearing dark clothing and a ski type mask
Suspect # 2: black male, wearing dark clothing and a ski type mask

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Salisbury Police Department at 410-548-3165. CC # 200800043982

On December 1, 2008 at approximately 5:17 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to the Walmart Department Store for the report of two (2) shoplifters in custody. Upon arrival, the officers were advised that store security had observed the below listed suspects attempt to take merchandise and food items from the store without making any attempts at payment. The items were recovered and returned to the store.

ARRESTED #1: Tawanna Nicole Walker, 36 years of age Salisbury, Maryland
ARRESTED #2: Shemika Nicole Myers, 34 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES (Both): Theft (under $ 500)

DISPOSITION: Both released to Central Booking CC # 200800043958

On December 2, 2008 at approximately 12:34 am, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to a residence on the seven hundred block of E. Church Street for the report of a domestic assault. Upon arrival, the officers met with a female victim who advised that during an argument the below listed suspect had struck her and injured her. The victim did not require medical attention.

ARRESTED: Riley (nmn) Goodwine, 30 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES: Second degree assault

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200800044000

On December 2, 2008 at approximately 1:30 pm, Officers of the Salisbury Police Department received a call to respond to a residence on the eight hundred (800) block of E. Church St. for the report of a stabbing. Upon arrival the officers met with a male victim who advised that he had been stabbed by a female known to him, listed below, during an argument. The below listed suspect and the victim share the residence. The victim sustained a stab wound to the upper left chest and was transported to the Peninsula Regional Medical Center for treatment. The victim advised the officers that he and the suspect had been involved in a long argument that turned into a physical altercation. During the altercation the suspect obtained a kitchen type knife and stabbed the suspect. The victim was treated and released from the hospital.

ARRESTED: Tia Shawnta Rainer, 22 years of age Salisbury, Maryland

CHARGES: Second degree assault

DISPOSITION: Released to Central Booking CC # 200800044057

Salvation Army Bell Ringing UPDATE

Sams Club Update
North Walmart Retail Entrance Update
North Walmart Grocery Entrance Update
Click images to enlarge

Come on Folks, help us fill these slots still open. The Heating & A/C Companies are now challenging one and other and they are filling up the open slots. How about Insurance Companies? Bankers? Lawyers? Fuel Companies!

Look at the schedule at the WalMart location for the 18th & 19th. WalMart has teamed up with us and took the entire day and night to cover these two days. Now THAT was COOL!

Come on Folks, this is a great cause and it will do your heart some good volunteering, even if it's only an hour. I will have an update early this evening and I hope to add your company name to the list.

Thank You!

Joe

Worcester BOE Gives County Commissioners the Finger!

While all other county departments are expected to trim their budgets for the coming fiscal year, the Worcester County Board of Education has told the Worcester County Commissioners that they just can't trim a dime.  In true "IT'S FOR THE CHILDREN" fashion, the BOE claims that it will be students that suffer.

Sure they will.  While enrollment has actually declined in the past six years, the BOE has ADDED 111 new teacher positions and 81 staff positions.  Could the BOE cut some of those administrative jobs?  Of course not.  They'll probably be whining about not giving them raises.

The true agenda unfolds.  Adding to the public payroll is far more important than educating kids.  I only hope that the Worcester Commissions possess the moral courage to knock the bureaucrats down a peg or two.

cross posted at Delmarva Dealings

2 Year Old Baby Dies In House Fire Last Night

A home in Willards caught on fire last night with a family of four inside. The adults got out and one child but I'm sadly informed that the two year old made it within a few feet of the front door and didn't make it out.

To ALL of the Firefighters on the scene and especially the Family, may God be with all of you to comfort each and every individual touched by this event. It's a sad day in Willards today Folks. Keep everyone in your prayers today because this put a hurting on all of them.

Back to the Drawing Board on Salisbury Take-Home Vehicles

As the Salisbury City Council meets again this week for a work session, one item to be discussed is take home cars for city employees.  Wait!  Didn't they take care of that weeks ago?

In true Barrie Comegys style the public has been snookered again.  At their last legislative session the council was supposed to enact a policy that would have eliminated 11 take home vehicles.  The dynamic duo of Mayor Barrie Tilghman and Councilman Barrie Comegys would have none of that.  Instead, a useless resolution was put before council that would have established a "policy" but would not save the city any money.

As Councilwoman Louise Smith was pontificating on how many cars could be eliminated, it was Councilwoman Debbie Campbell who asked the $64,000 question - ARE ANY TAKE-HOME CARS ELIMINATED IN THIS MEASURE?

The answer, of course, was NO!

As Comegys appears to be courting the civil service vote by providing cars at taxpayer expense, don't be surprised to see another toothless bill come from today's meeting.  It's Salisbury - taxpayers come last in the pecking order.

FREE Puppies

FREE to a GOOD home. These are Lab/Rott puppies. They have seen the vet and are healthy. If you know a good loving family who would love to have one of these cute puppies. Let me know.

Thanks!

Jennifer
mail to: jennifer@ocfishing.com

I'LL BE HOME FOR XMAS, LIKE IT OR NOT

In a post yesterday, the term “Xmas” was used in its normal and traditional sense, but the anti-Albero crowd lost no time in bearing false witness, claiming in their comments to the post that I was being disrespectful of Christ, and even accusing me of engaging in anti-Christian satanism by using that term. Those morons have no knowledge of the matter as several other commentators pointed out, including this one (who does not mince any words):

Hey "satanism" buffoons:

Read this and go stake yourselves in unison –

"Xmas" and "X-mas" are common abbreviations of the word "Christmas". They are
sometimes pronounced "eksmas", but they, and variants such as "Xtemass", originated as handwriting abbreviations for the pronunciation "Christmas". The "-mas" part came from the Latin-derived Old English word for "mass".

The word "Christ" and its compounds, including "Christmas", have been abbreviated for at least the past 1,000 years, long before the modern "Xmas" was commonly used. "Christ" was often written as "XP" or "Xt"; there are references in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle as far back as AD 1021. This X and P arose as the uppercase forms of the Greek letters ÷ and ñ), used in ancient abbreviations for ×ñéóôïò (Greek for "Christ"), and are still widely seen in many Eastern Orthodox icons depicting Jesus Christ. The labarum, an amalgamation of the two Greek letters rendered as ☧, is a symbol often used to represent Christ in Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox Christian Churches."

And see this discussion:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/magazine/4097755.stm

If my accusers want real knowledge about satanism, perhaps Barrie could tutor them.

Holy E-Mail

One day God was looking down at Earth and saw all of the rascally behavior that was going on. So he called one of His angels and sent the angel to Earth for a time. When he returned, he told God, 'Yes, it is bad on Earth; 95% are misbehaving and only 5% are not. God thought for a moment and said, 'Maybe I had better send down a second angel to get anothe r opinion.'

So God called another angel and sent him to Earth for a time.

When the angel returned he went to God and said, 'Yes, it's true. The Earth is in decline; 95% are misbehaving, but 5% are being good.'

God was not pleased. So He decided to e-mail the 5% that were good, because he wanted to encourage them, and give them a little something to help them keep going.

Do you know what the e-mail said?







Okay, I was just wondering, because I didn't get one either.

Bishopville Vol. Fire Department - Carryout

Single Fried Oyster Sandwich's - Combos w/Fries
Wings - Reg or Hot - Combos w/Fries
Homemade Ham & Bean Soup

December 5th - Friday from 5 pm till

Bishopville Volunteer Fire Department
10709 Bishopville Rd - Main Street
Bishopville, MD 21813

To benefit our building fund

Questions: 410.352.5757 or fdemsbishopville@mchsi.com

The #1 Taxi In Salisbury To Hire

OK, scratch and rub your eyes again, blink, now open them again. That's right, FREE TAXI! ONLY on Salisbury News. My guess is, this guy's business just went through the roof!

CAN GANNETT GET ANYTHING RIGHT?

The Gannett website contains a discussion of the Daily Times that --
unbelievably -- is posted on it for the purpose of attracting new employees.

Let's hope that they don't mail their application to the Salisbury address
given: 115 E. Carroll Street. The Daily Times has vacated that property, which
Gannett sold to the hospital a couple weeks ago, but its address and a picture
of the building there still appear on Gannett's website as the location of the
Daily Times.

And under the heading "About Salisbury" it lists the population as 163,180.
Most significantly, it states there are 275 employees at the Daily Times, but
there are now less than that after what happened earlier this year and again
yesterday.

Here's the link to that webpage:

http://www.gannett.com/about/map/ataglance/salis.htm

And here's a link to an interesting aspect of the workforce reduction plan
adopted by Gannett last summer, which was apparently leaked by the top
management at the Daily Times:

http://gannettblog.blogspot.com/search/label/Salisbury

The Little Angel OnTthe Top Of The Christmas Tree!

One particular Christmas season a long time ago, Santa was getting ready for his annual trip but there were problems everywhere. Four of his elves got sick, and the trainee elves did not produce the toys as fast as the regular ones so Santa was beginning to feel the pressure of being behind schedule. Then Mrs. Claus told Santa that her Mom was coming to visit; this stressed Santa even more.

When he went to harness the reindeer, he found that three of them were about to give birth and two had jumped the fence and were out at heaven knows where. More stress.

Then when he began to load the sleigh one of the boards cracked and the toy bag fell to the ground and scattered the toys. So, frustrated, Santa went into the house for a cup of coffee and a shot of whiskey. When he went to the cupboard, he discovered that the elves had hid the liquor and there was nothing to drink.

In his frustration, he accidentally dropped the coffeepot and it broke into hundreds of little pieces all over the kitchen floor. He went to get the broom and found that mice had eaten the straw it was made of. Just then the doorbell rang and Santa cussed on his way to the door. He opened the door and there was a little angel with a great big Christmas tree.

The angel said, very cheerfully, "Merry Christmas Santa. Isn't it just a lovely day? I have a beautiful tree for you. Isn't it just a lovely tree? Where would you like me to stick it?

Thus began the tradition of the little angel on top of the tree.

Idiot Sightings

IDIOT SIGHTING:
We had to have the garage door repaired. The Sears repairman told us that one of
our problems was that we did not have a 'large' enough motor on the opener. I
thought for a minute, and said that we had the largest one Sears made at that
time, a 1/2 horsepower. He shook his head and said, 'Lady, you need a 1/4
horsepower.' I responded that 1/2 was larger than 1/4. He said, 'NO, it's not.'
Four is larger than two..'

We haven't used Sears repair since.

IDIOT SIGHTING
My daughter and I went through the McDonald's take-out window and I gave the
clerk a $5 bill. Our total was $4.25, so I also handed her a quarter. She said,
'you gave me too much money.' I said, 'Yes I know, but this way you can just give me a dollar
bill back.' She sighed and went to get the manager who asked me to repeat my
request. I did so, and he handed me back the quarter, and said 'We're sorry but
they could not do that kind of thing.' The clerk then proceeded to give me back
$1 and 75 cents in change.

Do not confuse the clerks at McD's.

IDIOT SIGHTING:
I live in a semi rural area. We recently had a new neighbor call the local
township administrative office to request the removal of the DEER CROSSING sign
on our road. The reason: 'Too many deer are being hit by cars out here! I
don't think this is a good place for them to be crossing anymore.'

From Kingman , KS .



IDIOT SIGHTING IN FOOD SERVICE:
My daughter went to a local Taco Bell and ordered a taco. She asked the person
behind the counter for 'minimal lettuce.' He said he was sorry, but they only
had iceburg lettuce..

From Kansas City



IDIOT SIGHTING:
I was at the airport, checking in at the gate when an airport employee asked, 'Has anyone put anything
in your baggage wit hout your knowledge?' To which I replied, 'If it was without
my knowledge, how would I know?' He smiled knowingly and nodded,
'That's why we ask.'

Happened in Birmingham , Ala.



IDIOT SIGHTING:
The stoplight on the corner buzzes when it's safe to cross the street. I was
crossing with an intellec tually challenged coworker of mine. She asked if I
knew what the buzzer was for. I explained that it signals blind people when the
light is red. Appalled, she responded, 'What on earth are blind people doing
driving?!'

She was a probation officer in Wichita , KS



IDIOT SIGHTING:
At a good-bye luncheon fo r an old and dear coworker (she was leaving the
company due to 'downsizing' ) our manager commented cheerfully, 'This is fun. We
should do this more often.' Not another word was spoken. We all just looked at
each other with that deer-in-the-headlights stare.

This w as a lunch at Texas Instruments.


IDIOT SIGHTING :
I work with an individual who plugged her power strip back into itself and for
the sake of her life, couldn't understand why her system would not turn on.

A deputy with the Dallas County Sheriffs office, no less.



IDIOT SIGHTING:
When my husband and I arrived at an automobile dealership to pick up our car, we
were told the keys had been locked in it. We went to the service department and
found a mechanic working feverishly to unlock the drivers side door. As I
watched from the passenger side, I instinctively tried the door handle and
discovered that it was unlocked. 'Hey,' I announced to the technician, 'its
open!' His reply, 'I know. I already got that side.'

This was at the Ford dealership in Canton , Mississippi

Public Servant Sunday

Hi, Joe!

I just wanted to let you know that my church will be hosting "Public Servant Sunday" on December 14! The purpose is to give thanks to those whom serve our community by serving them a delicious breakfast! I think that this is a wonderful idea and I was hoping that you could help us to spread the word. Police Officers, Fire Fighters, Elected Officials...anyone who serves! We, of course, would love to have you there as well. It will begin at 9:30 am-Parkside High School. Breakfast is from 9:30-10:30 and a special church service will follow.

The invitation can be found by clicking this link:
http://www.souldiscovery.com/publicservant/index.shtml

I hope that things are going well for you! Keep up the good work!

Sincerely,

Heather Molnar

Channel 16 & 21

"Joe,

I am sure most everyone has seen two different spots on WBOC claiming that satellite companies wont carry our local broadcasts. One spot in particular suggests that a weather personality on channel 16 & 21 attempted to calm and reassure local kids of impending dangerous weather. This service was only availible to households with external antennas or cable subscribers. It further states that children who watch TV broadcasts via satellite dishes would not benefit from this service. If this local service is desired, it forces Direct-TV and other satellite customers to purchase and use an outside antenna to receive these local signals. This is misdirected information. The satellite companies will carry local programming! Our local stations have prohibited the use of our local signals for satellite redistribution because major networks i.e. CBS,ABC are carried by close major markets as well. Meaning if you would watch CBS on a dish and chose the Baltimore affiliate instead of the local affiliate, you would be watching advertisement's from another locale.Translation, why should local advertisers spend their dollars for advertising that will not have a local captive audience? These statements made by WBOC are misleading at best! Tell the truth WBOC!"

Wicomico County Sheriff's Department Press Releases

Incident: Possession of Marijuana and Theft
Date of Incident: 1 November 2008
Location: 500 block of Loblolly Lane, Salisbury, MD
Suspect:
1. Michael J. Espejo, 21, Salisbury, MD
2. Ryan J. McHugh, 20, Salisbury, MD
3. Ryan W. Crim, 20, Salisbury, MD
4. Daniel J. Backman, 20, Salisbury, MD
5. Mark Isenstadt, 20, Salisbury, MD

Narrative: On 1 November 2008, the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation into the theft of street signs in the Loblolly Lane area in Salisbury, MD. During the course of the investigation, a deputy located a cache of street signs in plain view on the porch of a residence in the 500 block of Loblolly Lane. While investigating the theft of these signs, the deputies entered the residence and located marijuana along with several large marijuana smoking devices. The residents of the house were identified as the five listed above.

At the conclusion of the investigation, McHugh, Crim, Backman, Isenstadt, and Espejo were arrested on 24 November 2008 and transported to the Central Booking Unit where they were processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. McHugh, Crim, Backman, and Espejo were detained in the Detention Center by the Commissioner in lieu of $10,000.00 bail. Isenstadt was released on Personal Recognizance.

Charges: Possession of Marijuana

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Theft under $500.00

Theft Scheme

Note: Michael Espejo was charged with Theft under $500 and Theft Scheme only.

Incident: Hit and Run Accident
Date of Incident: *30 November 2008
Location: 12100 block of Laurel Road, Sharptown, MD
Suspect: Catie Elizabeth Cowgill Jordan, 19, Seaford, DE

Narrative: On 30 November 2008 at 1:30 AM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office investigated a Hit and Run accident that occurred in the 12100 block of Laurel Road just outside of the town of Sharptown. During the investigation, the deputy learned that a vehicle left the roadway on Laurel Road, struck the front porch of a house and continued westbound on Laurel Road until the vehicle became disabled just west of the residence struck. The deputy located the vehicle with extensive front end damage, disabled and unattended on the side of the road. During the investigation, the deputy managed to identify and locate the driver, Catie Jordan, and she was charged with leaving the scene of a property damage accident.

Jordan was charged on a Maryland Uniform Traffic Citation and released on her signature.

Charges: *Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Failure to Control Speed to Avoid an Accident

Incident: Assault 1st Degree
Date of Incident: *30 November 2008 Location: 100 block of Newport Circle, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Jordden William Synclair Barkley, 24, Salisbury, MD

Narrative: On 30 November 2008 at 11:41 AM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence in the 100 block of Newport Circle for a reported altercation where the aggressor was alleged to be armed with a knife. Upon arrival, deputies located both Jordden Barkley and another subject, later identified as the victim. Investigation revealed that both Barkley and the victim, who was five months pregnant, had been involved in a verbal altercation when Barkley chased the victim into another room and pushed the victim into a wall. The victim ran into a bedroom where Barkley chased the victim, grabbed the victim and dragged the victim back into the living room where Barkley slammed the victim on the floor. At this point, the victim stated that Barkley pulled out a knife and held the knife against the victim’s stomach and threatened to cut the baby out of the victim.

Barkley was arrested and taken to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Barkley was detained in the Detention Center by the Commissioner of $35,000.00 bond.

Charges: Assault 1st Degree

Assault 2nd Degree

Reckless Endangerment

Carry a dangerous weapon with the intent to cause injury

Incident: Possession of Marijuana
Date of Incident: 2 December 2008
Location: Sandpiper Ct and Flamingo Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: 1. Samuel Curtis Russ, 19, Salisbury, MD
2. 17 YOA male juvenile, Salisbury, MD

Narrative: *On 2 December 2008 at 8:00PM, a deputy from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of suspicious subjects standing around a vehicle on a dead end street. Upon the deputy’s arrival, a subject later identified as Samuel Russ, fled from the area into the woods. With the assistance of other deputies, Russ was located and found to be wanted on an outstanding warrant for Violation of Probation. A search of the area where Russ was hiding revealed a baggie containing marijuana. Additionally, a juvenile male who was with Russ at the location where he fled from, was also discovered to be holding a bag containing marijuana.

Russ was arrested and transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Russ was released by the Commissioner on Personal Recognizance on the marijuana charge, however was held on $10,000 pre-set bond on the Violation of Probation Warrant

The 17 YOA male juvenile was released to a parent at the Sheriff’s Office.

Charges: Possession of Marijuana

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Incident: Arson, Disturbing School Operations
Date of Incident: 12-03-2008
Location: Choice, Adventist Drive Salisbury MD.

Narrative: On December 3, 2008 at approximately 12:55 p.m., deputies of the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a fire in the portable building at Choices on Adventist Drive, Salisbury MD. The Salisbury City Fire Department responded to extinguish the fire and clear the building of any smoke. All students were evacuated from the building and no injuries were reported from the fire. The Maryland State Fire Marshall’s Office is investigating the fire at Choices.

Several students at Choices became disorderly and were asked to refrain from disturbing the school process during the fire. Sheriff’s deputies requested additional patrol units and MSP to help control the area and monitor student activity. Seven students refused to comply with the deputy’s request to stop acting disorderly and were subsequently charged. A sheriff’s deputy was assaulted while arresting 1 juvenile. Eventually, 10 students were charged with the following:

1) Writ of attachment for a 15 y.o.a. juvenile male

2) Writ of attachment for a 17 y.o.a. juvenile male

3) Juvenile referral for a 15 y.o.a. juvenile male Disturbing School Operations-Released to School

4) Juvenile referral for a 15 y.o.a. juvenile male Disturbing School Operations-Released to School

5) Juvenile referral for a 15 y.o.a. juvenile male Disturbing School Operations-Released to School

6) Juvenile referral for a 15 y.o.a. juvenile male Disturbing School Operations-Released to School

7) Juvenile referral for a 14 y.o.a. juvenile male Disturbing School Operations-Released to School

8) Juvenile referral for a 16 y.o.a. juvenile male Disturbing School Operations-Released to School

9) Juvenile referral for 16 y.o.a. juvenile male Disturbing School Operations-Released to Parent

10) Juvenile referral for a 15 y.o.a. juvenile male Assault, Resisting Arrest, Disturbing School Operations-released to Parent

Releasing Authority: Lieutenant Babe Wilson Date: December 3, 2008

Can A Child Get Justice?

This link - http://www.slate.com/id/2205851 - is to a more detailed report on what happened yesterday in this incredible case that should never have seen the light of day. The following is from the AP:

WASHINGTON (AP) — A Massachusetts girl's awful experience on a school bus is at the heart of a case argued in the Supreme Court Tuesday over limits on lawsuits about sex discrimination in education.

The 5-year-old kindergarten student in Hyannis, Mass., told her parents that in 2000 a third-grade boy repeatedly made her lift her dress, pull down her underwear and spread her legs.

Local police and the school system investigated, but found insufficient evidence to bring criminal charges or definitively sort out the story, according to court records. The district refused to assign the boy to another bus or put a monitor on the bus, records show.

Upset with the school district's response, parents Lisa and Robert Fitzgerald sued the district in federal court under both Title IX, which bars sex discrimination at schools that receive federal money, and a provision of a Civil War era, anti-discrimination law that was designed to enforce the 14th Amendment's equal protection clause.

The issue for the court is whether Title IX, enacted in 1972, rules out suits under the older provision.

A federal judge ruled that the Fitzgeralds could not sue under the older law because Congress had subsequently passed Title IX. The Fitzgeralds also lost on their Title IX claims. The Boston-based 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the ruling.

The justices appeared skeptical of the idea that Congress, in legislation expanding protection from discrimination, would cut back on the ability to sue for violations of constitutional rights. But they also wondered whether the Fitzgeralds ultimately would win their lawsuit.

"But in this case, as we get down to what this case is about, we have a determination by a court that the school district acted reasonably in relation to these complaints," Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg said.

Justice John Paul Stevens said, "You may still lose the lawsuit even if you win here."

Charles Rothfeld, representing the parents, agreed that the Fitzgeralds might lose, but said their constitutional claims should at least be heard in court.

Among the advantages of pursuing a lawsuit under both provisions is that the older one allows claims to be made against individuals, while Title IX is restricted to institutions. Plaintiffs also can be awarded punitive damages under the older law, but not under Title IX.

A decision is expected by late spring.

The case is Fitzgerald v. Barnstable School Committee, 07-1125.
Copyright © 2008 The Associated Press. All rights

DEMAND DESTRUCTION HITS WICOMICO COUNTY

Not only does high gas prices effect peoples driving habits. . . but so does higher sales taxes effect peoples spending to.

Wicomico County Sales Tax Collection Totals
FY 2003 (08/02 - 07/03) $55,487,221
FY 2004 (08/03 - 07/04) $60,701,335
FY 2005 (08/04 - 07/05) $68,168,174
FY 2006 (08/05 - 07/06) $76,160,447
FY 2007 (08/06 - 07/07) $76,254,189
FY 2008 (08/07 - 07/08) $75,832,624 *

*Amount reflects 20% increase in sales tax rate from 5% to 6%

Theoretically speaking, you should reduce FY 2008 sales tax collection totals- $75,892,624 - by a factor of .8333 - (5% divided by 6% - sales tax rate increase) - to reflect the true decrease in sales transactions for Wicomico County. Thus the true indicator in sales tax collections for Wicomico County shows a net collection amount for FY 2008 to be $63,193,853.33 or a decline of $12,698,770.67 in sales tax collections for Wicomico County upon factoring-in the 20% increase in sales tax rate.

Bottom line - the citizens in Wicomico County purchased substantially less during fiscal year 2008 in comparison to previous years.

This is referred to in economic terms as Demand Destruction.

Look out Delaware - here they come.

Breaking News

The Salisbury Daily Times has LAID OFF 12 Employees so far today. More to come........

PAC-14 - The Prettyman Proposal

After lunch yesterday afternoon the Wicomico County Council finally got around to the reason I bothered to show up - a discussion of PAC-14.  The conversation started off with a brief discussion of a proposal for a 4-4-1 board structure (4 members appointed by the county, 4 by Salisbury, and one joint appointment).  The conversations then moved to a "compromise" of having 3 members appointed by the county, 3 by the city and 3 by the "community" (or "membership).

One problem with the 3-3-3 structure was when to allow the "membership" to have board seats.  Should it be right away?  Should it be after they reached a certain number of members?  Should it be after the "membership" showed the ability to raise a certain amount of funds to aid in the operation of PAC-14?  There didn't seem to be a real consensus as to when that should occur.

At this point Councilwoman Stevie Prettyman (R-2) spoke up.  She wanted to offer a different solution for people to think about:

Set a PEG fee and let that provide the funding for PAC-14.  Government could then get totally out of PAC-14.

She was clear that she wasn't advocating for any particular solution, but that the council should at least think about it.

Admittedly, this was not the solution that I was looking for.  I happened to be more in agreement with a form of the 3-3-3 proposal.  However, Prettyman's proposal is not only intriguing - it has merit.

Read More ...

Salvation Army Morning Update

Sams Club Update
North Walmart Retail Entrance Update
North Walmart Grocery Entrance
Click images to enlarge

Thankfully, the blanks are being filled. There are still many more that need a committment. Please, if you have an hour in your day that you can contribute, do so, you won't be sorry. We'll keep everyone updated to the availability of time slots volunteers are needed. THANK YOU, to all that are stepping forward to help this organization in its efforts to raise funds in order to help those in need.

XMAS GIFT FROM BARRIE & BUBBA & MORE COMING

Every Salisbury property owner will soon be receiving the initial sewer and water bill at the higher rates needed to raise funds to pay the costs of the system. Recall the budget game that Barrie played last Spring – no recommendation for the rates – so that she could say that the Council decided on its own to raise them. Bubba Comegys went along with her scam, but Debbie Campbell and Terry Cohen demanded that Barrie present the full budget details.

As a result, Barrie was forced to disclose that it is necessary to raise the sewer and water rates by more than 50% (over several years) to meet the expenses. In June, the initial and lesser rate increase (step 1) was adopted when the budget was passed. And more recently Barrie has disclosed that even more money will be needed, and proposed raising it by increasing the impact fee on new construction and development. But there's a big problem: not much growth is underway or being planned, so guess who must pay even higher water and sewer charges than were originally presented.

Thus, we can look forward to even greater sewer and water fees, beginning next year – the higher bill you get this fall is but the first phase of the huge increase that will be coming.

Be sure to say Merry Christmas to Barrie and Bubba, early and often.

A Wonderful Story

Last week I did a story about the Christmas Boat Parade and we received what I thought was a fantastic comment and it went as follows.

"Bryan Fykes said...
I just wanted to pop on here and Thank you, Joe, for telling us about this. We hadn't heard about it anywhere else, and my kids went nuts when they saw all of the boats.

and to 10:54- jealous much? I don't own a firetruck, but I love to see them decorated in holiday parades. I don't have a big house, but I love to see lots of lights on a really big house... exactly because I can't do it myself. It gives me a goal when my 2 year old son says he wants to ride on the big boats someday. I will work my fingers to the bone to do that for him if I have to. You see show-offs, I see the American dream. I see the possibilities and it gives me hope. And I need that hope this Christmas, since neither my wife or I have a job. So if I was like you I would say to you "quit flaunting in my face that you CAN pay your bills." learn to see the possibilities, not wallow in self pity.

Bryan Fykes"

That being said, one very dear friend of mine who was in the Boat Parade saw this message and immediately called me. He said, Joe, do you know this Bryan Fykes? I remembered the name but couldn't put two and two together. Once this friend reminded me it was someone who had made a comment I instantly recalled the comment as it touched me as well as many others as well.

Nevertheless, he asked me if there was any way I could contact him. I asked why it was so important and he said, I want to take Bryan and his Son out on my boat and fulfill his dream. My response was, you know this doesn't surprise me about you but that's one hell of an offer and a unbelievable thing to do.

As busy as things have been it slipped my mind today but as a higher power would have it, I received a call tonight that just blew me away! The person calling said they wanted to fill in a spot at Sam's Club and ring the bell and she gave me her first name but I couldn't hear the last name. So I asked, what was your last name again? FYKES. I said, is your Husband the guy that wrote that wonderful comment on the Boat Parade? She said, that's the one. Talk about unbelievable.

I proceeded to tell her why this was so important and she just couldn't believe what I had told her. Arrangements are being made to make sure Bryan and his Son get out for the experience of his lifetime. All because they wanted to donate their time for the Salvation Army.

My friend will read this Post and let me know if he wants his name known but I know him well enough to know, he's not about all that. He told me that if he was in Bryan's shoes, he'd want his Son to experience the same and he certainly has NOT forgotten where he came from. Great things are happening right here on Salisbury News.More importantly, I've got the greatest friends on earth!

I Just Can't Help Myself

Desperate for hits and attention, Michael learned that he was getting the majority of visitors to his Site because people were Googling "White House Christmas Cards" and his Site would pop up because he did an article about it some time ago.

Since he learned that, he just put up another Post titled, "2008 White House Christmas Card." Sorry Folks, that just cracked me up to no end. That's not how you get Influential Michael! Oh, that's right, he never got it in the first place. Happy Blogging.

I had to come back and add this because I started cracking up realizing that now whenever someone Googles White House Christmas Card, because we have so many more visitors, they'll now come here instead/first. I didn't mean to do that Michael but it is what it is. ROTFLMAO.

To ALL The So Called Men Out There

Ladies & Gentlemen, I'd like you to meet Kitty. Kitty was born and raised here on the Eastern Shore and God Bless Her, she's 88 years old. Kitty has been involved with the Salvation Army since she was 10 YEARS OLD!

Her beloved Husband passed away in 2006 but was very involved with the Salvation Army, it was his favorite charity.

So tell me Guys, are you willing to stand out in the cold for a couple of hours to give others a break? Or shall I call Kitty and ask her to come out and Volunteer?

We Need People to fill those open spots. If you can only do a couple of hours at a time, that's a BIG help! Many of the elderly are filling in most of the schedule and I want some of the younger generation out there sticking it out for a great cause.

We have been fortunate enough to have several companies come on board and even challenge the competition. You join up, we'll post your information and you can believe one thing, there are thousands of people coming here each and every day and you WILL be rewarded for Volunteering. It's the best form of FREE advertising you can get.

If you have the time, please contact the Salvation Army at 410-749-7771 ext. 100 and let them know you read it here on Salisbury News and they'll make sure they update the schedule with your company name on it. If you'd like to e-mail me with the time, date and company information please do so at, alberobutzo@wmconnect.com . I won't get to it until tonight though, I'll be out ringing the bell all day today.

Kitty, God Bless You.

It Isn't Just Men That Are Pedophiles

GO HERE to see the females listed.

HOW NOT TO "SHARE THE WEALTH"

Today (Dec. 2) the new Capitol Visitors Center opened in Washington DC. The facility required the removal from the site of more than 60,000 truckloads of soil. The total cost is immense, as are the budget overruns, which put Barrie Tilghman to shame. The following commentary is from Marc Fisher's blog, "Raw Fisher".

Even before the huge cost overruns and mind-numbing construction delays, even before we learned that a giant holding pen for tourists was going to cost more than Washington's new baseball stadium, the idea of funneling visitors away from the glorious outdoor view of the Capitol and into a marble-clad tunnel only fed my cynicism about big federal projects.

Four years and a stunning $400 million in extra costs later, the center -- a vast underground network of tunnels, meeting rooms, exhibition halls, eateries and security barriers -- opens today.

As a public works project and an expenditure of the taxpayers' money, the Visitor Center is an obscenity. The watchdog group Citizens Against Government Waste called it "among the most wasteful examples of botched construction projects ever promulgated by the federal government." The center is going to cost us more than $620 million.

A Coment Worthy Of A Post

Jedadiah Cross Said...........

"Here is a great example of a real leader. Mike Lewis rings the bell with Joe Albero for all to see. You wont see Chief See and Webster doing this. They are told by the Mayor to stay away and not to speak. Puppets of the Mayor and disliked by many. I applaud Mike Lewis for being a real man and showing a good example by ringing with Joe. This is one time where the two stooges could polish their image and choose not to. If they would drop their guard for a few minutes, they would probably learn to get along. Its a step in the right direction at least. Thank you Joe and Mike for making a difference in our community."

To Chief See & or Chief Webster. I will be at WalMart from 1:00 TO 6:00 pm today if you'd like to join me? I truly welcome the opportunity in the spirit of the Holidays. Joe Albero

ALL Puppies Were Adopted On Saturday!!!!!

"Hey Joe,

ALL the puppies were adopted on Saturday! And so were a couple of adult dogs, kittens and adult cats...incredibly busy day but so great! It is what we work so hard for. Thanks for your help.

Linda"

YOU PEOPLE ROCK!!!!!!!

A Desperate PAC 14 E-Mail

Subject: Urgent Call to Friends of Pac 14
From: "MIchael Goodson"
Date: Tue, December 2, 2008 10:30 am

..As a Friend of PAC 14 we want to thank you for your continued support.

As you know there has been a great deal of conversation in regard to PAC 14 lately. As PAC members you have already stated your desire for PAC 14 to be fully funded and have a Community Media Center from which to serve the community.

In this regard, we have created a survey from which we can qualify and clarify
the sentiments of our supporters and their desires related to PAC 14. Please
take a moment as soon as you receive this to please go to
http://pac14.epetitions.net and fill out this very important survey.

Sincerely,

PAC 14

I strongly suggest EVERYONE get on there and tell them how ALL of you really feel.

15th Annual CAT COUNTRY “Feed-A-Friend Marathon” Helps Feed Area Needy

(Salisbury, MD) – With the need to re-stock the rapidly depleting shelves of area food banks and food pantries greater than ever this year, the CAT COUNTRY “Feed-A-Friend Marathon” returns for its 15th year of collecting cans and non-perishable food items to benefit Delmarva’s needy residents.

Since 1994, the CAT COUNTRY “Feed-A-Friend Marathon” has raised almost 400,000 cans of food for families in need in Maryland and Delaware. The tradition continues in 2008 when the “Feed-A-Friend Marathon” begins Wednesday December 3rd at 3:00pm and continues through Friday December 5th at 5:00pm.

“Throughout the broadcast, listeners will be directed to sponsor locations where they can drop off canned goods and other non-perishable food items to help the less fortunate,” said General Manager Joe Beail. Beail added, “with recent newspaper articles and television stories highlighting the increased need for help, this year’s event couldn’t have come at a better time to really make a difference for Delmarva’s needy.”

Among the food pantries and food banks that will benefit from this year’s “Feed-A-Friend Marathon” are:

-- Dagsboro Church of God
-- 7 th Day Adventist Church in Millsboro
-- Christian Storehouse of Millsboro
-- Georgetown Wesleyan Church
-- Cape Henlopen Food Basket in Lewes
-- and Salisbury Outreach Services in Salisbury.

During this year’s event representatives from these organizations will take to the airwaves to discuss the need for help this year and how your donation will help their organization.

Several area businesses will sponsor a drop-off box for this year’s “Feed-A-Friend Marathon” – they include:

-- The Bank of Delmarva, with locations in Delmar, four locations in Salisbury, Rehoboth,
Dagsboro, Seaford, Laurel and Ocean City.
-- The Hen House in Laurel
-- Suburban Propane in Millsboro and Fruitland
-- Hocker’s SuperCenter in Clarksville and G&E Supermarket in Ocean View
-- Grand Rental Station in Rehoboth
-- Tull Ramey Limited and Century 21 Tull Ramey in Seaford

For more details visit www.catcountryradio.com. 97.5 & 105.9 CAT COUNTRY is a Delmarva Broadcasting Company station.

MARDELA SPRINGS VOL FIRE CO CHICKEN & SHRIMP DINNER

Mardela Springs Volunteer Fire Co.

Chicken & Shrimp Dinner

Saturday December 6, 2008

Cost $20 per person

All you can eat

Sides, Beverage and Beer included in Ticket

At the Firehouse

100 Station Street

Mardela Springs Maryland 21837

Time 6 pm to 8 pm

All proceeds benefit
Mardela Springs Volunteer Fire Co.

For Tickets call

Wallace 410-749-5820

Jim 410-546-9769

Phil 410-546-4951

Or the Firehouse

410-749-5997

John Cannon Dives in Bed With Dems ...

... Ego Far More Important Than Principle or Party

It was my understanding that when this new county council came to office in 2006 that the Republican majority had agreed to rotate the presidency and vice presidency of the county council.  This is fairly standard among local governing bodies.

After one year as President of the Wicomico County Council, John Cannon refused to step aside.  Rather than make a big deal, his GOP "colleagues" didn't make a fuss.  However, this year there was evidently a decision to make a change.

Outgoing council VP Stevie Prettyman (R-2) nominated Councilman Joe Holloway (R-5).  What did John Cannon (? - At Large) do?  He nominated Councilman Bill McCain (D - At Large).  McCain, whose legendary intellectual acumen has led some to believe he is the bastard child of Salisbury Councilwoman Louise Smith, was elected 4 - 3 with Cannon finally showing his true stripes.  This vote is particularly telling given that Holloway is probably the most fiscally conservative member of the council while McCain is the most profligate spender in the crowd.

Read More ...

I Warned You About this Months Ago, and You Thought I Was Nuts...

Pentagon to Detail Troops to Bolster Domestic Security

By Spencer S. Hsu and Ann Scott Tyson

Washington Post Staff Writers
Monday, December 1, 2008; Page A01

The U.S. military expects to have 20,000 uniformed troops inside the United States by 2011 trained to help state and local officials respond to a nuclear terrorist attack or other domestic catastrophe, according to Pentagon officials.

The long-planned shift in the Defense Department's role in homeland security was recently backed with funding and troop commitments after years of prodding by Congress and outside experts, defense analysts said.

There are critics of the change, in the military and among civil liberties groups and libertarians who express concern that the new homeland emphasis threatens to strain the military and possibly undermine the Posse Comitatus Act, a 130-year-old federal law restricting the military's role in domestic law enforcement.

Read More

Fools Call It A Recession. I Call It A Depression!

Ladies & Gentlemen, this was the parking lot at the Salisbury Mall at 6:30 PM last night. When I went inside to meet some friends it was a ghost town! There is absolutely NO WAY during this time of the year that ANYONE can deny that things are REALLY BAD!

Sure, there's probably lots of cars in the parking lot on weekends but where's the one hour long lines like there used to be this time of year? Money has dried up and the fools who are buying on credit will probably be relieved by yet another Bailout. However, it won't go to YOU. It will go to the Credit Card Companies financing you, like they deserve it!

Pinch those pennies people because the pictures don't lie. Make this a very small Christmas because it's about to get a whole lot worse!

See Dancing With The Stars With Wicomico County

(Salisbury, MD) Join Wicomico Recreation as it travels by bus to Washington DC’s Verizon Center for a special Dancing with the Stars on Thursday, January 29.

The hit television show is hitting the road this winter and bringing an entirely new cast of celebrities and professional dancers with it. The fourth Dancing with the Stars tour features an entirely new ensemble of the most popular and exciting competitors from the hit ABC show, including celebrities Lance Bass, Toni Braxton, Maurice Greene and Marlett Matlin.

The Wicomico Recreation Bus Trip will depart from the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center on Thursday, January 29 at 3:30pm. The price is $114 per person. Price includes transportation, show ticket and driver tip. Registrations are being accepted at the WY&CC Box Office (open Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm) and online at www.WicomicoRecandParks.org.

For more information please call 410-548-4900 ext. 113 or email kmcinturff@wicomicocounty.org.

Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Press Releases

Incident: Theft
Date of Incident: 25 November 2008
Location: 6800 block of Cherry Walk Road, Quantico, MD
Suspect: Gregory Lee Newcomb, 29, Salisbury, MD

Narrative: On 25 November 2008 at 9:50 AM, a deputy from the WCSO responded to a business in the 6800 block of Cherry Walk Road and met with a victim in reference to a theft committed by an employee. According the victim, an employee by the name of Gregory Newcomb, stole power-tools from the business and sold them at a pawn shop in Salisbury. During the investigation, the deputy met with Newcomb and confirmed these events.

Newcomb was arrested and transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Newcomb was released by the Commissioner on Personal Recognizance.*

Charges: Theft over $500 (2 counts)

Theft under $500

Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 26 November 2008
Location: 1000 block of Delaware Avenue, Salisbury, MD
Suspect:
1. Jeffrey Alan Wiggs, 39, Salisbury, MD
2. Cindy L. Ebert, 46, Salisbury, MD

Narrative: On 26 November 2008 at 7:39 PM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence in the 1000 block of Delaware Avenue for a reported altercation between Jeffrey Wiggs and Cindy Ebert. During the investigation it was determined that both Wiggs and Ebert were in a mutual physical altercation and both had injuries consistent with their accounts.

Both Wiggs and Ebert were placed under arrest and transported to the Central Booking Unit at the Wicomico County Detention Center where they were processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance both Wiggs and Ebert were detained in the Detention Center by the Commissioner; Wiggs in lieu of $10,000.00 bond and Ebert in lieu of $5,000.00 bond.

Charges: Assault 2nd Degree

Incident: Assault
Date of Incident: 26 November 2008
Location: 6100 block of Steve Street, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Edmond Francis Cormier Jr., 51, Salisbury, MD

Narrative: On 26 November 2008 at 6:43 PM, a deputy from the WCSO responded to a residence in the 6100 block of Steve Street for a reported altercation involving the residents. Upon arrival, the deputy learned that Edmond Cormier was in an argument with another resident when Cormier broke off a piece of a wooden banister and brandished it as a weapon. The investigation revealed that Cormier began chasing the victim while swinging the wooden banister and eventually managed to strike the victim in the back.

Cormier was placed under arrest and transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Cormier was detained by the Commissioner in the Detention Center in lieu of $10,000.00 bond.

Charges: Assault 2nd Degree

Incident: Rogue and Vagabond
Date of Incident: 28 November 2008
Location: 7400 block of Maple Street, Pittsville, MD
Suspect: Donzel Haywood Henry, 44, Berlin, MD

Narrative: On 28 November 2008 at 12:46 AM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a complaint of an individual who was seen entering vehicles in the Pittsville area. Upon arrival, the deputies located an individual matching the description provided by the complainant, later identified as Donzel Henry of Berlin, MD. During the investigation, the deputies confirmed that Henry was the same individual seen by the complainant entering the vehicles. The deputies managed to locate the owner of the vehicles entered by Henry who confirmed that someone had in fact entered his vehicles.

Henry was arrested and transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Henry was detained in the Detention Center by the Commissioner in lieu of $5,000.00 bond.

Anyone with any information about any other incidents of this nature or those that believe they may have been a victim is asked to contact the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office at 410-548-4891

Charges: *Rogue and vagabond

Possession of Burglar’s Tools

Incident: Burglary
Date of Incident: 28 November 2008
Location: 20400 block of Nanticoke Road, Nanticoke, MD
Suspect: Frank Peter Gavern 3rd , Nanticoke, MD

Narrative: *On 28 November 2008 at 3:16 PM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence in the 20400 block of Nanticoke Road in Nanticoke, MD. Upon arrival, they met with a complainant who advised that Frank Gavern had just been witnessed kicking open the front door of a residence. Upon the deputies’ arrival, they located Gavern inside the residence and observed him to be visibly intoxicated. During the course of the investigation, the deputies spoke with the homeowner, who was out of town, via telephone and learned that Gavern had been threatening to kill the homeowner and was not supposed to be inside the residence.

Gavern was arrested and transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Gavern was detained in the Detention Center by the Commissioner in lieu of $15,000.00 bond.

Charges:
Burglary 1st Degree

Burglary 2nd Degree

Malicious Destruction of Property

Incident: Disorderly Conduct
Date of Incident: 29 November 2008
Location: 700 block of N. Westover Drive, Salisbury, MD
Suspect: Dominic Rashad Russell, 23, Salisbury, MD

Narrative: On 29 November 2008 at 10:38 PM, deputies from the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office were investigating an altercation at a residence in the 700 block of N. Westover Drive when Russell exited the residence yelling loudly and belligerently. A deputy on the scene attempted to warn Russell about his demeanor when Russell replied back with a statement which made the deputy believe that Russell was not interested in heeding the warning. Russell continued walking down the street yelling loud and profane comments about law enforcement to the level where residents began looking out of windows to see who was causing the commotion.

Russell was arrested and transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Russell was released by the Commissioner on Personal Recognizance.

Charges: Disorderly Conduct

Failure to Obey a Lawful Order

MERRY CHRISTMAS -- YOU'RE FIRED -- BY GANNETT

As Gannett's mass layoff spreads, tally passes 600; Second big wave to slam
papers on Wednesday; Thousands more employees are still vulnerable.

Gannett launched what is likely the biggest mass layoff in newspaper industry
history yesterday, slashing 655 jobs by early this morning, in an increasingly
desperate bid to return the troubled 102-year-old publisher to prosperity. The
final tally could run into the thousands.

Source: http://gannettblog.blogspot.com/2008/12/breaking-gannett-launches-mass-
layoff.html

Request -- please post info on any layoffs at the Daily Times this year.

Educators Holiday Celebration At The Fountains!

Come experience the holidays in the Grand Ballroom at The Fountains!


12/18 - Thursday - 6PM
Educator's Holiday Celebration Dinner
This dinner is open to anyone working in the education field - The Board of Education, teachers, principals, PTA, custodians, cafeteria employees and all other staff - present or retired. This festive evening features served holiday dinner, cash bar and entertainment . Reserve tables for your whole school or just a few. Friends and family welcome too. Tickets are $25 reservations are required.

410-749-5445

Happy Holidays!

The New State Cake

The other night at our Parade Party, a friend invited me to go to the Library with her the following day to watch a Smith Island Cake Demonstration. I told her I wasn't sure that I wanted to go. The next morning my daughter reminded me about it and I agreed to go. I called my friend and couldn't get a hold of her, and thought she was probably on her way there.

My daughter and I walked to the Library and were pleasantly surprised at the turnout. Thirty five folks turned out for today's demonstration! Unfortunately, my friend was not there, and boy did she miss out.

Shortly after arriving we were introduced to Dana Evans, owner of Classic Cakes in Salisbury.

Dana began to tell us the history of Smith Island Cakes. She said that no one that she knows is sure of the origin and who actually made the first super thin multi-layered cake. But she does know that she has been making them all of her life, as was her mother, her grandmother, and her great grandmother.

Some poking around on the internet verifies what Dana say's that no one really knows the origin. Some believe that it was brought over by the original settlers from Whales, some say it's just always been here.

Dana believes that the reason that there are so many layers is because life moves slower on the Island, therefore the women had more time to bake more layers.

I like Dana's reason.

Dana allowed us all to ask her questions and she happily answered them as she assembeled one of her popular Banana Walnut Cakes.

Many of the spectators questions were recipe oriented and she good naturedly answered them with guarded precision to not allow any secrets to get out.

Dana with the help of the Heritage Foundation petitioned the Maryland State Legislator last year to make the Smith Island Cake, Marylands State Cake .

She said that she submitted 430 slices of the Traditional Flavor (yellow cake with chocolate fudge icing) to the State House on the day that the bill was submitted for a vote. (If only all bill submissions could be accompanied by a slice of cake)

She told the story of a woman name Frances Kitchen who was a Smith Island resident who people often assume created the cake because she wrote two cook books and include her version of the cake in her second book. But, Dana said that her grandmother was older than Mrs Kitchen and she had always made them. Mrs. Kitchen has long since passed away, so the mystery continues.

Six years ago Dana and her family left the Island to open her business in Salisbury two weeks before Easter. Having no idea how popular the cake was and how many people knew about it, she was overwhelmed with business for the holiday and it has only grown from there. She said that she never imagined that she would have the business that she has today.

Classic Cakes makes cakes for several restaurants in the area including Ocean City. They also provide Brides an unusual alternative to a traditional white wedding cake.

Dana works with daughter and thirteen other employees. She has fined tuned the business to an assembly line style of production and says that they can assemble one of these delicious masterpieces in just three minutes . Watching this demonstration makes this almost hard to believe. While she did work steadily the entire time she was speaking her skilled hands were able to execute the final product of divinty with perfection.

Classic Cakes is located at 1305 S. Division Street in Salisbury or you can call them at 410-860-5300.

They have a great web site where you too can watch a demonstration of how they make these wonderful cakes at www.classicsmithislandcakes.com

According to Dana, the bakery stays swamped with orders but are usually able to fill the orders very quickly. If you are interested in having one of her creations for the holidays she recommends placing your order by December 23, as she will be closing on the 24th at noon.

This is a great story of woman who took her homespun skills and changed the world around her for the better, and in the process brought recognition to a beautiful tradition from a traditional community that could have easily been lost in our 'Instant' society.

Congratulations Dana, you are an inspiration!