Friday, June 15, 1984

• With temperatures in the 90s for the ninth consecutive day, crop experts were predicting a disastrous corn and soybean harvest as the young plant were withering in the fields. The Maryland Farm Bureau said Lower Shore crops were “in serious jeopardy” and that rain and cooler weather were needed immediately.
• A probe of “an inordinate number of deaths” at River Walk Manor nursing home has been completed and the results have been listed as “inconclusive.” Between May and April of this year, 18 residents of the nursing home died. Nursing home owner Edwin J. Winship called the death rate a “statistical fluke.” Dr. Thomas Gross, the state investigator, said reports that an employee in the kitchen spread flu virus to patients was doubtful and could not be proven.
• While drinking with friends in a shaded area near the Wicomico River boat ramp, 34-year-old William Wolfe Hupke Jr. of Wicomico Street said he wanted to “cool off” before heading home, and then jumped into the river and drowned. Witness William W. Hudson said Hupke took off his shirt and swam easily to the center of the river, but then after a few minutes began waving his arms and yelling for help. The Salisbury Underwater Recovery Unit found the body. Police said Hupke had just completed his shift at the Perdue plant.
• Four Wicomico students were selected to attend Boys State, sponsored by the American Legion at Fort Meade, Md. Selected were Garrett Sheller of James M. Bennett High School, Jim Mooney of Mardela High School, Mike Wutoh of Wicomico Senior High School and Tim Hannon, also of Bennett.
• Kathy Renshaw, daughter of Mr. & Mrs, Denton Renshaw of Salisbury, was named valedictorian of the 1984 Class of Wicomico Senior High School. Rodney Davis, son of Mr. & Mrs. Robert Davis of Salisbury, was named salutatorian. Both students will attend Salisbury State College.