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Scroll down to see news briefs from around the state of Delaware and Sussex County. Click here for current news briefs. Friday 1st August, 2003 State Receives Highest Bond Ratings The State of Delaware received the highest possible ratings for its anticipated sale of general obligation bonds on August 6, 2003, according to Gov. Ruth Ann Minner. Delaware has maintained the highest possible rating with all three nationally recognized bond rating agencies since the spring of 2000. Delaware is one of only seven states currently holding these top ratings. Several states have recently been downgraded. "The fact that Delaware is one of only seven states to hold the highest rating from all three rating agencies speaks volumes," Gov. Minner said. "The reaffirmation of the state's AAA bond rating from these impartial experts validates the strong financial leadership the General Assembly and my administration have shown during these tough economic times. These top ratings will save us money with lower interest rates." Senator Nancy W. Cook, co-chair of the Joint Finance Committee, participated in the July 17 presentations that were used by the rating agencies to determine their evaluation. "Given the financial difficulties other states have had balancing their budgets, Wall Street was very complimentary of the bipartisanship demonstrated in Delaware," Cook said. "In particular, they praised everything from the budget process from the independent revenue forecasting by the Delaware Economic Financial Advisory Council (DEFAC) to the ability of implementing cost cutting measures without drastically cutting citizen services. This is rare in other states." Secretary of Finance David W. Singleton noted that representatives of two of the rating agencies had visited Delaware this spring to attend DEFAC meetings. "Both of them told me their visits gave them even greater respect for the thoroughness and independence of DEFAC," Singleton said. More than 81% of the proceeds from this $120 million dollar sale will be dedicated to capital improvement investments in public schools and higher education institutions. Other projects benefiting from this sale include the Delaware City Library, Blades Marina and farmland preservation initiatives across the state. Wednesday 30th July, 2003 Another Fish Kill in Torquay Canal The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control is investigating another fish kill in Torquay Canal near Rehoboth Bay, the agency announced on Wednesday, July 30, 2003. DNREC said perhaps 50,000 dead juvenile menhaden measuring approximately 3 1/2 inches long were observed dead in the canal on Wednesday morning. No lesions were noted on the dead fish. DNREC was notified of the fish kill at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday by a resident of the area, who said he noticed brown-colored water at the canal yesterday and dead crabs in pots. According to Roy Miller, Fisheries administrator, a powerful odor was reported emanating from the water this morning, indicating high levels of hydrogen sulfide. Only a few live menhaden were observed at approximately 11 a.m. Dissolved oxygen levels at the surface toward the back of the canal were 0.53 parts per million and 0.56 parts per million at the bottom, both nearly lethal levels. Crabs were seen on the pilings, apparently trying to escape the water. Dr. George Luther, a scientist at the University of Delaware College of Marine Studies is conducting tests on hydrogen sulfide and reported elevated levels of hydrogen sulfide in Torquay Canal the middle of July. He also reported a dissolved oxygen deficit as well in Torquay Canal and Bald Eagle Creek today. Torquay Canal is a dug out lagoon that is an extension of Bald Eagle Creek, which empties into Rehoboth Bay, west of Rehoboth Beach. This is the third reported fish kill in the Inland Bays area this summer. The first occurred Thursday, July 17 at Love Creek, located just east of Bald Eagle Creek. The second was at Torquay Canal Monday, July 21 and involved approximately 6,000 juvenile menhaden. Both areas are marked by poor circulation and multi-species, non-toxic alga blooms. Miller said today's fish kill was likely caused again by low levels of oxygen and high levels of hydrogen sulfide related to the canal's poor circulation and weather conditions, which promote heavy levels of plant growth. "We have no reason to suspect that the kill was caused by any toxin emitted by the microscopic plants," said Miller. Tuesday 22nd July, 2003 Security Department Reorganized Delaware Gov. Ruth Ann Minner said the reorganized Department of Safety and Homeland Security will do a better job protecting Delawareans from and preparing for terrorism than the previous Department of Public Safety was able to. "The war on terrorism that our country has waged across the world for the past two years has been matched by defense against terrorism here at home," said Minner on Tuesday, July 22, 2003. "At the federal, state and local level, we have had to rethink the way we protect our citizens. We have had to look at our states, cities and towns the way a lone terrorist would." Gov. Minner said the Department of Safety and Homeland Security (formerly the Department of Public Safety) can better focus on safety issues because divisions responsible for motor vehicle and driver licensing, as well as boiler inspections, have been moved to other departments. "One of the assets of this reorganized department is focus -– focus on keeping the people, property and resources of our state safe," the Governor said. "We have added positions to the department related to bioterrorism, as that is one of the new threats that we face and for which we must prepare." Also on Tuesday, Gov. Minner signed Executive Order No. 46, creating the Delaware Homeland Security Council. The new council brings together state officials from safety, health, emergency preparedness, and the National Guard, along with representatives of the fire service, local police and the federal government, to advise the Department of Safety and Homeland Security on "the prevention, detection, preparation for, protection against, response to, and recovery from terrorist threats or attacks". Safety and Homeland Security Secretary James Ford Jr. said the department will be revamped to focus on its new core mission. Fish Kill at Torquay Canal A second fish kill has been discovered around the Rehoboth Bay, according to the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. DNREC said on Monday, July 21, 2003, that the kill in Torquay Canal near Rehoboth Bay killed approximately 6,000 juvenile menhaden measuring 3 to 5 inches in length. The kill is believed to have resulted from low dissolved oxygen and/or excessive hydrogen sulfide. Torquay Canal is a dug-out lagoon that extends from Bald Eagle Creek into Rehoboth Bay. "Torquay Canal was the scene of several, much larger fish kills in the summer of 2000," said DNREC Fisheries Administrator Roy Miller. "It is a deep narrow canal with poor circulation that make it susceptible to low levels of oxygen and high levels of hydrogen sulfide in these weather conditions." Miller said a stiff breeze may have caused a turnover or circulation that brought water laden with hydrogen sulfide to the surface. Dr. George Luther, a scientist at the University of Delaware College of Marine Studies, reported to Miller that he noticed elevated levels of hydrogen sulfide in the canal last week. This is the second reported fish kill in the inland bays this summer. The first occurred on Thursday, July 17, at Love Creek, just east of Bald Eagle Creek. Friday 18th July, 2003 Atkins Proposes Bill Requiring Web Filters in Libraries, Schools State Rep. John Atkins (R-Millsboro) says he plans to work a bill mandating that all schools and public libraries in Delaware install software on their Internet-accessible computers to shield children from obscene material. "No one would dream of putting pornography on the shelves of the children's section of the library, but that's exactly what we're doing when we give kids unrestricted access to the Internet," Rep. Atkins said. House Bill 296 would require that any school or public library receiving government funding install Internet filters on the computers available to the public. The "filters" are actually special software designed to block access to Internet sites containing obscene, harmful or pornographic material. The definitions of what constitutes such material are either specified in the Delaware Code (Title 11, Section 1364) or in the text of HB 296. "This is common-sense legislation in my opinion," Atkins said. "While the Internet provides an unprecedented opportunity for children to explore the world, it's also a window into the darker side of our nature. Children are not prepared to peer through that window, so it's up to us to draw the shades." The U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled (June 23) that the government can require public libraries to equip their computers with screening software. The 6-3 ruling by the High Court confirmed the legitimacy of the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA). The law, enacted by Congress in 2000, calls for the use of the filters as a condition of receiving federal funding. H.B. 296 would apply to any Delaware school or library receiving state, county, municipal or school district funding. HB 296 was introduced in the closing days of the recently concluded 2003 legislative session. Currently, it is pending action in the House Education Committee. Thus far, 25 of the State House's 41 members have indicated their support for the bill. The measure has three prime sponsors in the Senate: Sens. Bob Venables (D-Laurel), George Bunting (D-Bethany Beach) and Gary Simpson (R-Milford). Thursday 10th July, 2003 State Lauded for Financial Reporting Delaware Secretary of Finance David W. Singleton announced Wednesday that the State of Delaware has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2002. The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting. This was the 8th year in which Delaware has been recognized by the GFOA. Secretary Singleton along with Trisha Neeley, Director of the Division of Accounting, thanked Rebecca A. Surguy and David C. Walls for their dedication and leadership in qualifying the state for the award. An impartial panel judged Delaware’s comprehensive annual financial report. Winning government entities were evaluated on the high standards of the program including demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story. The GFOA is a nonprofit professional association serving approximately 14,000 government finance professionals. Sunday 6th July, 2003 Minner Signs Bills for Disabled, Seniors Governor Ruth Ann Minner signed two bills on Thursday to help senior citizens and members of the disabled community. House Bill 168, sponsored by Sen. David Sokola and Rep. Bob Gilligan, increases the penalties for those convicted of consumer fraud when the victim is a senior citizen or disabled person. The legislation enables senior citizens and disabled persons to receive in damages three times the amount they have been defrauded. "One of the goals I had when I began this session of the General Assembly was to better protect some of the more vulnerable members of our society from becoming the victims of consumer fraud," Gov. Minner said. Dick Johnson of the Delaware AARP, said his organization appreciated the support in protecting Delaware’s senior citizens. "This will deter those who defraud senior citizens, who are among those who can least afford it," Johnson said. House Bill 172, sponsored by Rep. Deborah Hudson and Sen. Margaret Rose Henry, requires counties and municipalities to adopt regulations governing signage on parking spaces reserved for people with disabilities. This legislation was designed to address concerns from the disabled community that parking spaces reserved for them be clearly marked. Wednesday 2nd July, 2003 Funding Slated for Milford Fire Victims Recent funding moves by the state will result in money to help downtown Milford's fire victims as well as public service programs and facilities serving people throughout Sussex County. State Rep. V. George Carey (R-Milford) and State Sen. Gary Simpson (R-Milford) met recently with Minner administration officials to discuss state aid to help rebuild Milford businesses destroyed in a 10-alarm fire that struck the downtown area on May 30th. "The upshot was that the Delaware Economic Development Office is cutting a $25,000 check to the Downtown Milford, Inc. for an engineering study of the burned area to assess the damage and plan for demolition and reconstruction," Rep. Carey said. "In addition, DEDO will also be offering $1 million in no-interest loans so property owners can move ahead now instead of having to wait for insurance awards," Rep. Carey said. "The governor deserves a good deal of credit for reaching out to Sen. Simpson and I to help Milford when it needed it most." The recently enacted state Bond Bill will also benefit programs and facilities that serve Sussex Countians every day. Rep. Carey is a member of the committee of legislators that crafts the annual capital spending plan. "We got $844,000 to get air conditioning installed in a facility that helps autistic children," Rep. Carey said. "The Sussex Consortium is run by the Cape Henlopen School District. They have a difficult task that was made even tougher when the hot weather arrived. This funding will ensure that they'll be able to better concentrate on helping the children in their care." The expansion and modernization of the Division of Motor Vehicles inspection lanes in Georgetown is fully funded in the bill. "We earmarked $12.6 million for this project that I have been pushing for years. I'm really excited to know that Sussex County will soon have a state-of-the-art facility that promises improved, faster customer service." The Bond Bill includes $1.4 million for renovation and repair of the Jason Building on DelTech's Owens Campus. "One very significant aspect of the Bond Bill is that it contains $500,000 for the design and planning of a new 150-bed Delaware Veterans Home," Rep. Carey said. "Getting this in the bill was critical because it commits the General Assembly to pushing this needed facility forward." Other funding in the bill impacting the area: $3.5 million for farmland preservation, $2.35 million for the Conservation Cost Sharing Program and money to replace the roof of the Milford Museum. State Applies to Refurbish IR Marina The Delaware Division of Parks and Recreation has submitted an application to refurbish the Indian River Marina at Delaware Seashore State Park, according to DNREC. The application for the controversial project at the state marina on the north side of the Indian River Inlet includes: * Replacement of the existing docks with new floating docks to create 288 wetslips; * Construction of a drystack storage building to accommodate 174 vessels; * Maintenance dredging of 65,000 cubic yards of material from the marina basin to obtain a depth of -7 feet at mean low water; * Upgrading the fuel dock facility, reconstruction and upgrade of the boat ramp and travel lift areas; * Construction of 925 linear feet of sheetpile bulkhead and 1,130 linear feet of stone rip-rap; * Construction of additional parking, an; * Installation of stormwater management improvements. Monday 30th June, 2003 Hocker Pleased With Funding for SE Sussex Millions of dollars in state funding will be soon heading to southeast Sussex County to pay for schools and other public works projects, State Rep. Gerald Hocker (R-Ocean View) said on Friday, June 27, 2003. The financing is part of the omnibus Bond Bill that was signed into law by Gov. Minner on Thursday. "I'm thrilled that we were so successful in getting money for so many worthwhile local projects, especially given the slow economy," said Rep. Hocker. The Indian River School District is getting $6.6 million in the funding bill. Nearly $4.1 million of that appropriation is earmarked to finance two high school projects: the new 1,000-student Indian River High School and the new Sussex Central High School that will accommodate 1,500 students. Both schools are slated to open in September 2004. The bulk of the remaining funds will be used for renovations at various IR facilities including Lord Baltimore Elementary School, Sussex Central Middle School and the current high school buildings. Rep. Hocker noted the bill also contains funding for several downstate projects that had seemingly stalled in recent years. "There's $100,000 in the bill to build the new Ocean View Leisure CHEER Center," Rep. Hocker said. "Ground was broken for this facility years ago, but until now this project hadn't gotten the attention it deserved at the state level. This money, combined with that from local fundraising efforts, should finally make this facility a reality." The Assawoman Canal dredging project is getting $90,000 under the measure. The project, which recently received a permit from the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, would create a 35-foot wide channel to a low-tide depth of three-feet. The project still needs approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. "I'm hopeful the Corps will approve this project," Rep. Hocker said. "I believe it will not only improve water quality along the nearly four-mile canal, it will also improve recreational opportunities by linking the Little Assawoman and Indian River bays." Rep. Hocker says the Bond Bill also contains $500,000 for planning and designing a new 150-bed Delaware Veterans Home, $142,600 for the Selbyville Library, $1 million for beach restoration, and $6.2 million for greenways, storm water management and drainage projects. Friday 20th June, 2003 Bond Bill Package Pleases Atkins State Rep. John Atkins (R-Millsboro) says today's approval of a major spending bill by state legislators will mean significant benefits for Sussex County residents. State lawmakers responsible for fashioning the Bond Bill, which contains funding for major construction and community projects, approved the omnibus bill earlier today. The bill will be passed by the General Assembly within the next two weeks. "Despite this being a very challenging year, we were still able to get considerable dollars to help a wide variety of services, programs and facilities that serve thousands of Sussex Countians everyday," Rep. Atkins said. "The Gumboro Community Center will be getting $75,000 in the Bond Bill and another $25,000 has been earmarked to help the Oak Orchard-Riverdale Boys and Girls Club," Rep. Atkins said. The Town of Millsboro will also be benefiting from the appropriation, getting $50,000 for work at the William B. Atkins Memorial Park. "I was glad to get $9,000 for the Gumboro Fire Company to reimburse them for the purchase of thermal imaging equipment," Rep. Atkins said. "That equipment is life-saving technology that allows fire fighters to see in a smoke-filled room. Gumboro had been one of only two fire companies in the state that had not yet been reimbursed for the cost." The Bond Bill Committee also approved $500,000 in funding for a new 150-bed Delaware Veterans Home. "I joined with Rep. Hocker and Rep. Booth in pushing to get this money added to the bill," Rep. Atkins said. "Delaware is one of only two states in the country without a vets home. Getting this funding was vital, because it not only moves the project forward but also commits the General Assembly to devote additional resources in the future. We're going to make this happen." Other big-ticket items in the Bond Bill that will help Sussex include $5 million for construction in the Indian River School District, $3.5 million for Farmland Preservation, and over $140,000 for the Selbyville Library. $500K Approved for Veterans Home The on-going effort to bring a Veterans Home to the First State took another significant step forward today. State legislators responsible for fashioning the Bond Bill -- one of the state's major spending bills -- agreed today to include $500,000 in the omnibus measure for the project. The Bond Bill, often referred to as the "bricks and mortar" bill because it contains funding for the state's major construction projects, will be approved by the General Assembly within the next two weeks. The money will be used for the design and planning of the home. The General Assembly had earlier funded a study by the University of Delaware that confirmed a 150-bed Delaware Veterans Home would be well utilized. Delaware is the only state in the Lower 48 without such a facility. "This project wouldn't be moving forward without the dedication of some of the General Assembly's newest members," Rep. Dick Cathcart (R-Middletown), the chair of the House of Representatives Veterans Affairs Committee. "Reps. John Atkins (R-Millsboro), Joe Booth (R-Georgetown) and Gerald Hocker (R-Ocean View) all lobbied hard for this project. They all represent Sussex County, which has a high number of retirees, many of which are former military servicemen and women." According to the U.S. Veterans Administration, there are over 84,000 veterans in Delaware. The project, which will cost an estimated $27 million dollars to build, would likely offer a mix of services including traditional nursing home care and adult day care. The federal government may pay for as much as 65 percent of the project's cost. Reward Grows in Eagles' Nest Destruction Pledges from environmental organizations, Delaware businesses and individuals have boosted the possible reward money to more than $13,500 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons who cut down a tree bearing a bald eagle nest at Possum Point, Millsboro. The more than $10,000 in private pledges are in addition to the initial $1,000 reward offered by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and $2,500 reward from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The pledges are being coordinated by Debbie Heaton, conservation director of the Delaware Chapter of the Sierra Club. "People across the state are concerned and saddened by the destruction of the eagles' nest and want to help in some way," Heaton said."Their pledges may increase the reward to the point that someone will come forward with the critical information to aid enforcement agents." DNREC Secretary John A. Hughes has directed the Division of Fish and Wildlife enforcement agents to spare no energy in pursuing and apprehending the guilty person or persons. According to Lloyd Alexander, acting director of DNREC's Division of Fish and Wildlife, the bald eagle nest in the cut loblolly pine was known to have been harboring two fledgings in May. The Division of Fish and Wildlife and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are cooperating in a joint investigation. Enforcement agents are conducting interviews, and collection of evidence by federal and state agents at the site -- considered a crime scene -- is nearly completed. The bald eagle is on the federal Threatened Species List and the state's Endangered Species List. According to Alexander, the bald eagle has been coming back in recent years but is still very much at risk from lost of habitat. Individuals, organizations and businesses interested in making pledges can do so by calling Debbie Heaton, Sierra Club, (302) 425-4911, or DNREC's Enforcement Office in Millsboro, (302) 856-5644. Thursday 19th June, 2003 Gov. Minner Approves Revenue Package Governor Ruth Ann Minner approved new revenue measures that include higher taxes for corporations and cigarette sales on Thursday, June 19, 2003. Gov. Minner said the $145 million in additional revenue that will come from corporate taxes and fees, cigarette sales and slot machine casinos solves the structural budget problem the state faced due to declining revenues and increasing costs. "No one in state government is happy about making people and business pay more, but the alternative was to do the kind of things other states have done, like lay off teachers or police officers or eliminate health care for poor families," Gov. Minner said. "This package, along with the cuts in government we have made over the past two years, should preserve the essential services Delawareans need and deserve for the next several years. The Governor signed into law measures that will: raise taxes and fees assessed on the half-million corporations that make Delaware their home on paper, generating $99.7 million; raise the tax on cigarettes from 24 to 55 cents per pack, generating $28.9 million; and allow additional machines, additional hours of operation and other enhancements for Delaware's three slot casinos, generating $15.9 million. Gov. Minner had originally proposed a revenue package that included less of an increase in corporate taxes and fees and less of an increase to the cigarette tax. Wednesday 18th June, 2003 Rep. Hocker Reveals Survey Results State Representative Gerald W. Hocker (R-Ocean View) today announced the results of his first survey of the 38th District. Approximately 1,800 constituents responded to the questionnaire mailed this spring. Residents responded in the following manner: * 61% say that the blood alcohol level necessary for determining if someone is driving under the influence should be reduced from .1 to .08. * 58% believe the annual increase in the state budget should be limited to the annual rate of inflation, as determined by the federal government. * 77% support a proposal allowing the state to take more of a share from the proceeds of Delaware’s three casinos in order to offset the state’s budget shortfall. * 62% believe the state should remain in control of the Indian River Marina, but use private funds, rather than state funds, to revitalize it. * 54% say the state should do more to help charter schools manage their finances and understand their legal obligations as public schools. * 72% believe the state should limit punitive damage awards (those awards which go beyond compensating for actual harm suffered) in medical malpractice lawsuits. * 52% say they do not support the current ban on smoking under the Clean Indoor Air Act. According to Rep. Hocker, "I am thrilled at the number of people who responded to my first survey since being elected last November. Having 1,800 constituents express their opinions on legislative and district matters is helpful as I consider some very important issues in Dover." Thursday 12th June, 2003 Vandals Destroy Bald Eagle Nest A bald eagle nest at Possum Point, Millsboro that was home to two fledglings in early May has been cut down in an act of environmental vandalism. The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the vandals. "I cannot understand what could possibly make a person want to destroy a bald eagle nest," Governor Ruth Ann Minner said. "I was shocked to learn about this cruel and senseless act and I have instructed DNREC to investigate this incident and locate the person responsible." DNREC Secretary John A. Hughes has directed Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Agents to spare no energy in pursuing and apprehending the vandals. "This is clearly intentional, indefensible and arguably premeditated," said DNREC Secretary John A. Hughes. "I can't remember anyone in Delaware ever committing an intentional and malicious attack on a national bird. I consider this an unprecedented act of environmental desecration." The Division of Fish and Wildlife and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will cooperate in a joint investigation. The Division is collecting evidence and considers the site a crime scene. The bald eagle is on the federal Threatened Species List and the state's Endangered Species List. According to Division of Fish and Wildlife Acting Director Lloyd Alexander, the bald eagle has been coming back in recent years but is still very much at risk from lost of habitat. New Superintendent to Help Trap Pond Celebrate John R. McMillon has been named superintendent of Trap Pond State Park, the first in Delaware's state park system. McMillon has been superintendent of Holts Land and Fenwick Island state parks for the past 14 years. He has been with the Division of Parks and Recreation since 1967, when he started as a seasonal labor foreman at Delaware Seashore State Park. He has also served as park manager at Cape Henlopen State Park and superintendent at Killens Pond State Park. McMillon will be on hand to greet visitors during "Celebrate Trap Pond Day" at the park on Saturday, June 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature live music by Arte Flamenco, displays and environmental activities. To raise money for park projects, the Trap Pond Partners will be selling baked goods, as well as hamburgers and hot dogs. For more information, call the park at (302) 875-5163. Monday 9th June, 2003 Elevated Bacteria Levels Recorded at Slaughter Beach The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control has announced that several "marginally high" bacteria results were recorded for the week of June 2 at Slaughter Beach. This advisory is in effect until further notice. However, DNREC estimates that it will end on June 11, pending subsequent sampling, and rainfall below recent sustained levels. DNREC's advisory also notes that chances of incurring a water-borne illness are increased if your head is submerged. For more information, call (302) 739-4590. Friday 6th June, 2003 Booth Co-Sponsors Substitute Teacher Bill State Rep. Joseph W. Booth (R-Georgetown) co-introduced legislation aimed at increasing Delaware's pool of available qualified substitute teachers on Thursday, June 5,2003. Booth introduced House Bill 207 along with Rep. Deborah D. Hudson (R-Fairthorne) and Senator Charles L. Copeland (R-West Farms). The legislation would require Professional Employees of the Department of Education (DOE) to substitute teach in a local Delaware school district for a minimum of 10 days each school year. Rep. Booth, a co-sponsor of the legislation, said, "As a former member of the Indian River School Board, I think this bill will go a long way toward keeping the Department in tune with what it is happening at the local level. Department employees will get a first hand account of what our teachers face everyday. Both teachers and DOE employees work closely together on many education-related issues, and this bill will help strengthen that partnership." Rep. Hudson, sponsor of the bill, said, "In Delaware, it is very difficult sometimes to find substitute teachers, which not only are competent but also available on a particular day to fill-in on often short notice. My legislation solves that problem by allowing Department of Education employees to be available to substitute teach for just 10 days a year." House Bill 207 was introduced in the House of Representatives today. Wednesday 4th June, 2003 37th District Survey Results Released State Rep. Joseph W. Booth (R-Georgetown) has released the results of the 2003 Survey for the 37th District. The survey, which asked residents about their opinions on issues involving education, health care and public safety, was the first one conducted by Booth, who was elected last November. Of the 650 people who responded to the survey, nearly three quarters of the respondents said they would oppose establishing sports betting in Delaware. When asked if the state should limit the use of corporal punishment in public schools, those who participated were split evenly (50 percent to 50 percent) on the question. More than 60 percent also said they would support a proposal allowing the state to take over all the construction costs of new schools or major additions, if it meant lower local school taxes would result by reducing the need for major capital referendums. Nearly 75 percent of those surveyed said they believe the state should undertake the funding of a State Veterans Home. On the issue of public safety, more than three-quarters of the respondents said they think Delaware should use more non-traditional forms of confinement, including “monitored home confinement” for only non-violent offenders, to reduce Delaware’s prison population and the costs associated with it. The survey was mailed to residents in the 37th District, not at taxpayers’ expense. For a complete copy of the results, contact Booth at 856-9637. Thursday 29th May, 2003 State Creates 'Technology Court' Governor Ruth Ann Minner signed her "technology court" legislation into law on Thursday, May 29, 2003, granting the Delaware Court of Chancery jurisdiction over corporate disputes involving technology and allowing the court to mediate many types of complex business disputes. The legislation, part of Gov. Minner's legislative agenda for 2003, strengthens the Delaware Court of Chancery's place as a venue for corporate litigation and will likely have an economic impact on Delaware due to additional corporate litigation taking place in Wilmington. "The proposal for a technology court brings together two of the mainstays of Delaware's economy -- technology development and the expert and efficient dispute resolution provided by Delaware's courts," Gov. Minner said. "This law also permits parties to consent to mediation instead of litigation. Business leaders repeatedly have told us that mediation is many times preferable to litigation." Senate Bill 58, sponsored by state Sen. Thurman Adams of Bridgeville and state Rep. Wayne Smith, was endorsed by Delaware's judiciary. It extends the jurisdiction of the world-renowned Court of Chancery to "technology disputes," defined in the law as involving the purchase or lease of computer hardware; the development, use, licensing or transfer of computer software; information, biological, pharmaceutical, agricultural or other technology of a complex or scientific nature that has commercial value, or the intellectual property rights pertaining thereto; the creation or operation of Internet web sites; and rights or electronic access to electronic, digital, or similar information. The legislation also extends to the Court of Chancery the ability to settle corporate litigation through mediation rather than litigation, provided all parties involved agree. This will allow the court to apply its well-honed expertise in complex business disputes to mediations. "This mediation option will provide a new type of service to Delaware businesses, at a time when businesses are more interested than ever in cost-effective and confidential methods to resolve litigable controversies consensually," Delaware Court of Chancery Chancellor William B. Chandler said. The signing ceremony for S.B. 58 was held in courtroom 12B of the newly constructed New Castle County Courthouse in Wilmington. During the ceremony, Professor Fred Lederer of the William & Mary Law School spoke about the ramifications of the legislation via videoconference from London, demonstrating the Court of Chancery's ability to utilize technology in its proceedings. The ceremony was also webcast and can be replayed online at live17.law.wm.edu/delawarecourts/index.asp on the Internet. The creation of the technology court was a recommendation last year of the Governor's Strategic Economic Council, a group of business and government leaders convened to advise Gov. Minner on economic development. Library PC Systems to be Upgraded Governor Ruth Ann Minner has announced that all computers in Delaware public libraries will be state-of-the-art by the end of the year. Standing in front of a shipment of new library computers on Wednesday, May 28, 2003, Gov. Minner said the initiative will make Delaware a leader in allowing all of its citizens free and equal access to the internet. This spring, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation donated 88 computers to libraries in Kent County, Sussex County, Wilmington, and Newark that met the Gates Foundation's income and poverty guidelines. On Wednesday, Gov. Minner announced the purchase of 144 additional "Gates Computers" for libraries in Kent County, Sussex County, and Wilmington under a matching grant program developed by the State Library. The Governor on Wednesday also announced a $100,000 matching grant to New Castle County to support its purchase of replacement computers. Earlier this year, under the leadership of County Executive Tom Gordon, New Castle County began replacing every computer in its library system. "Libraries have become the bridge over the digital divide, ensuring that all citizens have access to high-speed internet, e-commerce and other services. Yet, too many of our libraries are using obsolete computers," Gov. Minner said. "These purchases and donations -- which result from a combination of state, county, local library and charitable resources -- will mean that every library computer in Delaware will be state-of-the-art by the end of this year. That is truly remarkable and must make Delaware a leader in the country when it comes to library technology." The Gates Foundation has been providing computers to libraries around the country since 1997. The Gates Computers feature a full suite of multi-lingual productivity tools including word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation, website design, email, photo editing, and publishing software. The machines also feature educational software tools such as an online updateable encyclopedia and the Magic School Bus learning series. Gov. Minner on Wednesday also announced two other advances in Delaware library technology: * A project to increase the availability of assistive technology services for library users with disabilities. Special computer equipment will be used to magnify text, convert text to Braille, and even convert text and hyperlinks into a computer-generated voice. This demonstration project will help public libraries, library patrons, and caregivers to determine which devices will be most effective in meeting the needs of their communities and their customers. * The start of a real-time online reference service where students or others can get answers from a Delaware reference librarian. "Answer Online" is currently in its pilot phase and is available seven days a week from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. It can be accessed through the State Library’s website at www.lib.de.us. The three initiatives announced Wednesday are part of the Statewide Library Technology Plan called for by the Governor in 2001 and completed in October 2002. Wednesday 28th May, 2003 Manufactured Housing Bill Signed Governor Ruth Ann Minner on Tuesday signed House Bill 2, which will offer consumer protection for manufactured housing community residents when the owner of a community decides to change the use of the land. The bill also will create a fund to help relocate any manufactured housing residents who are living in parks sold to new owners. "This is a bill that will bring stability and peace of mind to thousands of manufactured home owners throughout our state," Gov. Minner said. Gov. Minner also recognized Sen. George Bunting, who has championed the manufactured homeowners issue for years in the General Assembly, as well as Rep. Donna Stone, who sponsored H.B. 2. "House Bill 2 is creating a better balance between landlord and tenant with landlords able to make land use changes in a shorter time and a relocation fund or safety net for tenants," Sen. Bunting said. The legislation was crafted by manufactured home owners and park owners who sat down to work through difficult issues that resulted in a consensus bill. Gov. Minner gave special credit to Ed Speraw, president of the Delaware Manufactured Homeowners Association, and Jerome Heisler of Reybold Homes, who led the negotiations. Members of the Delaware AARP lobbied for passage of the bill, in large part because of the number of people over 50 who live in manufactured housing. MIA Memorial Unveiled in Dover A new memorial for 17 Delawareans listed as missing in action from the Vietnam and Korean wars was dedicated in Dover on Tuesday, May 27, 2003. Governor Ruth Ann Minner helped dedicate the memorial at the intersection of Loockerman Street and Legislative Avenue. "It is important that we pay special tribute to those who left Delaware to fight for their country and never made it back home," Gov. Minner said. "This memorial is proof that they will never be forgotten." The names and ranks of those on the 10-foot high, granite obelisk appear as they do on the official registry in the Department of Defense. At the base of the memorial are the official seals of the five branches of the military that participated in the Korean and Vietnam wars. Three flags -- representing Delaware, the United States and MIA/POWs -- will fly 24 hours a day from the memorial grounds. Representatives Bill Oberle and Wayne Smith were instrumental in acquiring funding for the memorial. Tuesday 27th May, 2003 South Bethany Elects 3 to Council South Bethany voters elected three council members -- Richard Ronan, Lloyd Hughes and Bonnie Lambertson --- in the Saturday, May 24 town election. Ronan was the top vote-getter with 296 votes, followed by Hughes with 291 votes and Lambertson with 128 votes. They topped a field of five vying for the three seats, defeating incumbent Tim Manley, who received 221 votes and challenger George Morabito, who received 128 votes. Ronan is the senior member of the current council, with six years' experience. He has been active in he town's beautification efforts. Hughes, who served on the council previously for 10 years, has been active in water-related issues in South Bethany, including the health of the town's canals and the maintenance of the town's beaches. Lambertson, a first-time council member, was a leader several yearts ago of efforts to prevent Grotto Pizza from opening a restaurant in South Bethany's York Beach Mall. The council will hold a reorganization meeting on Saturday, May 31. Wednesday 21st May, 2003 Seaford Museum Opens June 1 The new Seaford Museum will open to the public on Sunday, June 1, 2003, at 2 p.m. The museum includes exhibits life in the days of Native Americans, slavery, wars, and the agricultural and industrial development of the country. It also fefatures state of the art air management and fiber optic lighting that provides optimum preservation conditions for artifacts and documents. Seaford Historical Society members will hold a preview reception at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 31. Guided tours will be available on May 31 and June 1 from 2-4 p.m. Admission is $3 per person. Historical Society members may tour free of charge. Tuesday 20th May, 2003 IRHS Class of '78 Reunion in Sept. The Indian River High School Class of 1978 will hold its 25th annual reunion on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2003, at the Holiday Inn Express in Bethany Beach. A Social Hour from 6-7 p.m. will be followed by dinner at 7 p.m., pictures at 8:30 p.m. and dancing from 9 p.m. to midnight. Music will be provided by Sky Brady. A buffet including chicken, roast beef and crab imperial will be served by Doyle's Restaurant. The event will be BYOB. Tickets ar $35 per person. Photos are $10 per person. There will also be a 50/50 drawing and a Chinese Auction. Rooms at the Holiday Inn are available for $135 including a Continental Breakfast. For tickets, more information, or to donate items to the Chinese Auction or to alert the reunion organizers to classmates who haven't received reunion information, contact Janine Wharton Betts at 302-732-9686, Tammy Banks Hudson at 302-934-6545, Ruth Ann Burbage Marvel at 302-732-3518, or Gayle Tietmeyer King at 302-933-0774. Friday 9th May, 2003 Carter Named State Finance Director Secretary of Finance David W. Singleton announced Friday that Patrick Carter will start Monday as the Director of Revenue for the State of Delaware. He replaces William Remington who left in January of this year to take a position with the United States Department of Treasury and is on assignment in the Ukraine. Carter returns to the Department of Finance where he previously served as the Deputy Director and Acting Director of Revenue during the period of 1994 to 2001. Carter has spent the last year overseas as a Project Cost Control Engineer. Prior to 1994, he worked as a Senior Financial Analyst for J.P. Morgan & Company based in Wilmington and a Senior Auditor for Coopers & Lybrand of Philadelphia. David Sullivan served as acting director after Remington left the division. David Sullivan will return to his position as Deputy Director of Revenue. Friday 2nd May, 2003 Sussex Residents Honored by DNREC A number of Sussex County residents were honored during the annual Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control employee awards ceremony on Tuesday, April 22, 2003. Steve Schilly of Rehoboth Beach and an employee in the Parks and Recreation division received the 2002 Secretary's Diversity Award. Richard Turner of Lewes, an employee in Skilled Labor and Trade Professionals, was honored with a Division of Soil & Water Conservation Merit Award. Becki Polk of Milford and Mike Cook of Bridgeville received Air & Waste Management Merit Awards. Polk is a technical professional and Cook is an enforcement agent. Dave Ptak of Milford and the Skilled Labor and Trades department was honored with a Fish and Wildlife Merit Award. Dennis Murphy of Milford was named the Office of the Secretary Employee of the Year and James O'Neill of Milford and Michael Chambers of Lewes received Parks & Recreation Merit Awards. O'Neill works in Administration/Management and Chambers in Skilled Labor and Trades Professionals. The top honor, Employee of the Year, was awarded to Dover resident Glen Stubbolo, volunteer corrdinator for the Division of Parks and Recreation. Tuesday 8th April, 2003 Sussex EMS Attends National Conference Paramedics from Sussex County EMS attened the 20th annual EMS Today Conference in Philadelphia on Thursday, March 20, 2003. The 17 paramedica attended several educational sessions including the latest advances in patient care and technology, staff development, management, incident command, terrorism, hazardous materials, and mass casualty incidents. Sussex County EMS Director Glenn Luedtke delivered a presentation on the ethical decisions in EMS care, "Doing the Right Thing -- Ethical Decision-Making in the Field." SB Police Arrest Armed Suspect South Bethany Police arrested an armed suspect during a traffic stop on Monday, April 7, 2003. Police said that just before 11:30 a.m. Monday, they stopped a pickup truck on Route 1 after a registration check revealed an outstanding warrant for the registered owner. Police said they then contacted the driver, identified as Abelardo Trejo Martinez, 20, of Newark, identified him as a suspect with the warrant, ordered him from the truck, and took him into custody. During a search of the truck, officers said they found a loaded semiautomatic handgun in the center console next to the driver's seat and a total of 52 rounds of ammunition. Police arrested and charged Martinez with carrying a concealed deadly weapon, driving with a suspended license, and related traffic charges. Martinez was transported to Justice of the Peace Court 3 on the gun charge and warrant. He was committed to Sussex Correctional Institute on $1,300 bail. Friday 28th March, 2003 Sussex Groups Awarded Tourism Grants The Delaware Tourism Office hsa awarded grants to eight Sussex County organizations to support their projects, which range from television advertising to tourism brochures. The eight organizations are among 14 statewide to receive either a matching grant or a direct grant. A total of more than $144,000 was awarded. DTO marketing grants fund projects that will increase the economic impact of tourism by helping to generate overnight stays and increased regional visitation during traditional slower periods. The grants are funded by the tourism office's public accommodations tax allocation. Grant recipients are chosen by a panel of members of the Governor's Tourism Board, the House Committee on Tourism, and the Delaware Tourism Office. Sussex recipients are: * Southern Delaware Tourism, $14,157 to expand its cooperative television advertising program, designed to encourage visits during spring and fall; * The Rehoboth Beach Film Society, $9,300 to help fund a joint initiative with the Association of Delaware Shore Inns and Bed and Breakfasts to attract visitors during the Rehoboth Beach Film Festival and the society's spring preview events; * Rehoboth Beach Main Street, $10,000 for the development and placement of a television commercial on stations in Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C.; * The Greater Millsboro Chamber of Commerce, $4,100 to create a brochure to promote local facilities that can accommodate events, meetings and conventions; * The Greater Seaford Chamber of Commerce, $3,800 to create a comprehensive visitor's guide and $5,000 to create a photo library for advertising and marketing projects. Both projects are part of the Chamber's "Enhance That Hometown Feeling" campaign. * The Lewes Historical Society, $4,000 for the creation of a brochure for a new group tour package incorporating historic attractions, inns, bed and breakfasts and restaurants, designed to increase visitation during winter, spring and fall; * The Milton Development Corp., $$3,000 to develop a brochure promoting the Fourth Annual Broadkill River Canoe and Kayak Race, to be held Aug. 23, raising funds for the revitalization of the Historic Milton Theatre; and * Rehoboth Beach Main Street, $5,000 to create a coupon book offering discounts at more than 150 downtown businesses. State Hunting Seasons Set Dates for the fall hunting seasons have been set by the Delawware Division of Fish and Wildlife. The seasons are as follows: * Rabbit and quail, Nov. 24 to Feb. 16. * Pheasant, Nov. 24 to Jan. 16. * Archery deer season, Sept. 1 to Jan. 31. * Shotgun season for whitetail deer, Nov. 14-22 and Jan 17-24. * Blackpowder season, Oct. 11-18 and Jan. 26-31. * Special youth deer hunt, Nov. 1. * Antlerless deer season, Dec. 13-20. Wednesday 26th March, 2003 Spanutius Retains Post in O.V. Incumbent Wade Spanutius will retain his seat on the Ocean View Town Council after no one filed to run against him. Spanutius will serve his third three-year term on the council. His District 4 seat was the only seat up for election this year. Wednesday 19th March, 2003 IRSD Cash Transfer Referendum Passes The Indian River School District referendum on March 18, 2003 was overwhelmingly approved by district voters. The ballot measure seeking the transfer of $2.5 million in surplus debt service funding to the current expense account was approved by a margin of 2,179 to 174. Once transferred, the funds will be used for athletic fields and other construction-related expenses at the new Indian River and Sussex Central high schools. Thursday 27th February, 2003 Fugitive Arrested in South Bethany South Bethany police arrested a fugitive wanted in Florida for violating his probation during a traffic stop on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2003. Police stopped a car on Ocean Highway for an equipment violation, and a computer check of the car’s license plate revealed an outstanding Delaware warrant for the registered owner, Thomas R. Yates, 36, of Milford. Police ran a license and warrant check on the driver and discovered that he was a violent offender wanted in the state of Florida for violation of probation. South Bethany Police, with the assistance of Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island Police, conducted a felony traffic stop on the highway, taking both the driver and passenger in custody without incident. Officers on scene learned that the driver had an additional warrant for his arrest in Delaware and did not have a valid driver’s license. South Bethany Police charged Yates, 36 with being a fugitive from another state, driving without a license and equipment violations. He was transported to JP Court 3 on the warrants from both states. Yates pleaded guilty to the traffic charges and was held on $10,000 bail pending extradition proceedings to Florida. The passenger was not charged with any crime and was released. The northbound lanes of Ocean Highway in Bethany Beach were closed for approximately 15 minutes while police took the men into custody. Friday 21st February, 2003 Munitions Found in South Bethany Cleanup crews working on Ocean Drive in South Bethany found a live World War II-era phosphorous flare in the 200 block of the street on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2003. South Bethany police said the crews found a rectangular object, approximately one and one-half feet in length with military markings and a warning to notify police and military officials of its finding. South Bethany police identified the object as hazardhous and called the Delaware State Police Explosive Ordinance Disposal Unit and established a three-block perimeter around the area with the assistance of the Bethany Beach and Ocean View police departments. The EOD determined that the object was a live World War II-era phosophorous flare used by the military and that it was safe for transport. It was then taken by the EOD to Dover Air Force Base, where it is to be evaluated and destroyed if necessary. South Bethany police said work crews were delayed for approximately 2 hours while on-scene operations were conducted. South Bethany Police ask that individuals finding suspicious objects on the beach not touch or move the objects. Individuals finding such objects should contact police immediately. Wednesday 19th February, 2003 SB Police Make Arrests South Bethany police have arrested one adult and 10 juveniles in connection with a suspected burglary and trespassing in a home in the town. According to a release from the police department, two South Bethany police officers on patrol shortly after 11 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2003, observed a number of suspicious vehicles in the area of York Beach Mall and York Road. Further investigations led the officers to a home in the 300 block of York Road, where officers observed a number of juveniles on two separate properties. The juveniles fled into a nearby home and shut off the lights, the release said. The officers, believing a burglary may be in progress, checked the house and discovered an opendoor. Once inside, police said they found a number of juveniles barricaded in a locked room. A further search revealed a male suspect disposing of marijuana in a locked bathroom, police said. Police said the juveniles had allegedly burglarized the home and were using it for a party. Police then arrested the adult and 10 juveniles. The juveniles, with Dagsboro, Frankford, Ocean View and Selbyville addresses, were each charged with criminal trespass and released to their parents pending a future arraignment at family court. The adult, John A. Speziale, 20, of Ocean View, was also charged with criminal trespass pending a future arraignment at Justice of the Peace Court 1. Police said they did seize a small amount of drug paraphenalia that had not been destroyed. Friday 7th February, 2003 Man Charged with Shooting Construction Worker An Ocean View area man was arrested on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2003 for allegedly shooting a 19-year-old Virginia man who was working at a construction site. The incident occurred at approximately 8:14 a.m. on CR 262 (Parker House Road), two miles south of Ocean View. Delaware State Police said Richard C. Bennett, 55, of Hickory Street, Shady Dell Park, was angered by noise coming from the construction site and apparently armed himself with a scoped 50-caliber muzzle-loading rifle and exited his residence. Police said Bennett then went to the edge of his property, pointed the rifle in the direction of the victim, who was working on the roof of the residence, and fired the weapon once. The round traveled approximately 54 yards, through three pieces of wood, and struck the victim in the right thigh. The round caused a contusion on the victim's thigh but it did not penetrate the skin. The victim refused medical treatment. After firing the rifle, Police said Bennett fled behind his residence. A short time later Bennett emerged and walked over to the construction site. Bennett then began yelling obscenities at the workers, police said. Police arrived at the scene shortly after this and Bennett was taken into custody without further incident. Two other construction workers were in the area of the victim when the shot was fired, however they were not injured. Bennett was charged with attempted murder in the first degree, three counts of possessing a firearm during the commission of a felony, two counts of aggravated menacing, two counts of reckless endangering in the first degree, and disorderly conduct. Bennett was committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution in default of $52,100 secured bond. Hudson Early Childhood Honoree The Early Childhood Advisory Committee at Delaware Tech in Georgetown recently named Paula Hudson of Millsboro as the 2002 recipient of the Dorothy Oliver Award for Excellence Among Early Childhood Professionals. Hudson is a student in the Owens Campus Early Childhood Education program and works at the PACTT Child Care Center at Sussex Technical High School. "Ms. Hudson is an outstanding representative of the best in our profession, and truly deserving of this award," noted Donna Curtis, chair of the Honoring Excellence committee. The award was established five years ago to recognize excellence in the field of early childhood education. It was named in honor of the late Dorothy Oliver, who was a legendary champion for children in Sussex County and Delaware. Thursday 6th February, 2003 State Tops in Revenue System A 50-state study by Governing magazine has rated Delaware as the top state for having a fair, adequate and well-run revenue system. The year-long study gave Delaware a rating of four out of four stars for "management of system" and "adequacy of revenue." Delaware received three out of four stars for "fairness to taxpayers." No other state received four stars in more than one category and no other state received as many total stars as Delaware. "All in all, this is a carefully managed fiscal enterprise," the magazine’s February 2003 issue said in its assessment of Delaware. The magazine noted that Delaware has survived the economic downturn of the last two years better than most states because of its sound fiscal practices. "This survey should give Delawareans confidence that we continue to run our government fairly and effectively, even in tough times," Gov. Minner said. Tagline: The Governing study can be found online at http://www.governing.com/gpp/2003/gp3intro.htm State Awards Parks and Rec Grants Several coastal Sussex towns received funds from the Delaware Division of Parks and Recreation's Land and Water Trust Fund Grant Program in 2002. The division announced the recipients this week. They include: • $153,000 to Bethany Beach for the Natter Property trails project and $96,600 for parking and other park improvements in Natter Park, off Route 26 next to Grotto Pizza. • Ocean View, Milton, Millsboro and Fenwick Island all received grants ranging from $5,800 to $40,000 for various park improvements. • Lewes received $50,000 to continue planning for its Canalfront Park. Of the state's 54 municipalities, 32 received grants through the program, which allows them to leverage state funds with those they contribute themselves. Each funded project must be sponsored by a city, county or park district. A total of $1.5 million in grants was given out this year. Fatal Fire in Long Neck LONG NECK -- An unidentified Long Neck area man died in a fire in his home on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2003. Sussex County Emergency Medical Services said the fire in the home on Route 24 east of Route 299 began at about 1:30 p.m. One male victim was found in bed by firefighters. Victim identification is pending medical examiner examination. Other agencies assisting in the blaze were the Mid-Sussex Rescue Squad, the Lewes Fire Department, the Millsboro Fire Department, and the Georgetown Fire Department. Tuesday 4th February, 2003 Junior Duck Stamp Contest The deadline for the 2003 Junior Duck Stamp Contest has been set for Saturday, March 15, 2003. Entries must be submitted at the Division of Fish and Wildlife's Aquatic Resource Education Center at 4876 Hay Point Landing Rd., Smyrna, DE 19977. The judging will start at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 19, at the Delaware Agricultural Museum on Route 13 in Dover. The Junior Duck Stamp Program targets youths in grades K-12 in private and public schools. Paintings or drawings of Delaware's waterfowl species may be submitted. For more information, contact Trina Cale-Rosario at 302-653-2882 or trina.rosario@state.de.us. |
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