Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge - SAFETY A TOP PRIORITY

PLUNGE SAFETY A TOP PRIORITY - LIST OF PLUNGER PREP TIPS

Maryland State Police

(ANNAPOLIS, MD) -- The organizing team of the Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics is reminding all those participating in or visiting the event tomorrow that their safety is a top priority and it is vital to heed safety precautions.

  Conditions for tomorrow's 18th annual Plunge are not the coldest they have been, but the medical support team, headed by the Johns Hopkins Department of Emergency Medicine, is advising those participating and visiting to use common sense and adhere to safety tips. All persons attending the Plunge are reminded to dress warmly and stay warm until it is time to take their quick dip into the Bay. The Plunge announcer will be instructing participants to change into swim attire in the heated changing tents no sooner than 15 minutes before the 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. plunges. Plungers should keep skin exposure to a minimum. Some show up at the venue in their swim attire in the morning. This is NOT recommended, due to the cold temperatures and wind expected tomorrow.

In addition to dressing warmly, everyone is encouraged to visit one of the many heated tents throughout the venue that will be open and warm all day. These include the Carnival Funfest tent, the Rams Head Ice Lodge, the 98 Rock Hot Spot, and the Astro Family Fun Zone.
Other components of the Plunge medical team include professionals from the Anne Arundel County Fire Department and Maryland State Police tactical medics, as well as personnel from several volunteer fire companies. Medical teams will be roving throughout the venue to assist anyone in need of medical attention and will be on the lookout for persons not heeding our advice to stay covered and warm. A red and white striped medical tent will also be staffed with professionals and is located at the entrance to the event venue.
Other advice for plungers includes making sure shoes are worn for the plunge. Old athletic shoes are the best. Flip flops are not recommended.

There is no requirement regarding how 'wet' you get when you plunge. It is fine if you only get your ankles wet. No one is measuring how far you go in. If you have signed up, but would prefer not to plunge, that is fine too. If you have raised the minimum of $75, you will get your plunge sweatshirt and know you have supported a very worthwhile cause, whether or not you plunged.

The Plunge team is recommending that no one go all the way under. One absolute is that there should be NO DIVING! The water is much too shallow and any type of headfirst dive could be very dangerous.
There is snow throughout the Plunge venue. Those attending are urged to use caution and refrain from running.

The medical team is also reminding participants that cold weather and alcohol do not mix well. Alcohol is prohibited in the venue except at three specific locations. Officials will be verifying IDs and monitoring individuals to attempt to ensure excessive alcohol use does not occur. Police will be patrolling all areas of the venue and issuing citations or making arrests for alcohol use and or disorderly conduct.

Persons who think they may need medical attention are urged to visit the medical tent, or to contact any of the dozens of state troopers, police officers, or security personnel who will be in uniform and patrolling throughout the venue. Each will have communication with the State Police Command Post, which will dispatch assistance immediately.

Additional tips and advice can be found by visiting the Plunge website at www.plungemd.com.

  Pledges can still be made to sponsor plungers registered on the website. 

Worcester County Library ~ Pocomoke City Branch

Tot Time
 January 30, 2014 - 10:30 am

Pocomoke Branch

A variety of fun and educational activities for children 3 to 5 years old.

Registration is necessary.
 Call 410-957-0878 to sign up.

 

Are Too Many Sodas Harmful ?

Consumer Reports: Too many sodas contain potential carcinogen

(CNN) -- A chemical found in many sodas may be dangerous to your health, Consumer Reports says. And no, it's not sugar (this time).

The golden-brown color of many soft drinks comes with a dose of the chemical 4-methylimidazole, or 4-MeI. On U.S. product labels it appears simply as "caramel coloring."

 

Those who say the chemical may possibly cause cancer include the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer and the state of California, which now limits manufacturers to 29 micrograms of exposure for the average consumer per day.

 

Foods exceeding that limit have to carry a warning label that reads: "WARNING: This product contains a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer."

 

But when Consumer Reports purchased sodas in California and had them analyzed by a lab, it found that one 12-ounce serving of Pepsi One or Malta Goya exceeded the levels permitted without a warning label.

 

READ MORE ...

Police Seeking Man Who Exposed Himself

Police are looking for a man in the Exmore, Virginia who exposed himself to a woman in one of the town's businesses.

Local police are seeking a black man who is between 5' 9" to 5" 10", small build who rides a bicycle. 

Anyone with any information should contact the Police Department at 442- 5405 or the Northampton County Sheriff's Department at 678-0458.

Virginia Symphony To Perform

Hear "Symphony at the Cinema" by the Virginia Symphony, conducted by Benjamin Rous, on Friday, January 31st at 8:00 PM at Nandua High School in Onley.

Presented by The Arts Council of the Eastern Shore and PNC Bank, the orchestra will perform compositions by classical and contemporary masters including selections from "Amadeus," "Empire of the Sun," "Apocolypse Now" and more.

Tickets are available online at www.acesva.org and at the Book Bin, Marsh Jewelers, Rayfields Pharmacies and H&H Pharmacies. Tickets are $24 online and at the outlets and $26 at the door.

All student tickets are $5. Tickets and information are available at www.acesva.org or 757-302-0366.

Worcester County Canned Food Drive

Worcester County seeks public participation with food drive

 Worcester County Volunteer Services and Liquor Control are hosting a canned food drive for the Maryland Food Bank (MFB) from Jan. 31 through Feb. 7.

All county employees and the public are invited to participate.

Canned food items can be deposited in specially-marked Maryland Food Bank barrels at these participating locations:

• Worcester County Jail in Snow Hill

• Worcester County Branch Libraries: Ocean City, Ocean Pines, Berlin, Snow Hill and Pocomoke

• All Department of Liquor Control (DLC) Shore Spirit Retail Liquor Store locations

• Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill

• Central Landfill storage building in Newark

• Cape Isle of White Offices in Bishopville

~ UPDATED ~ Virginia Closings and Cancellations / Friday

Virginia Closings and Cancellations / Friday January 24, 2014 

Lighthouse Ministries Thrift Store closed today, will open Saturday at 10:00 AM.

Accomack County Public Schools closed Friday, 12 month employees report 2 hours late.

Holly Grove Christian School 2 hours late Friday.

Broadwater Academy will be closed Friday.

Northampton County Schools will be closed Friday, 12 month employees report 2 hours late.

More Closings and Delays / Virginia

Closings and  Delays / Virginia

Broadwater Academy will be closed Friday.

Accomack County Public Schools closed Friday. 12 month employees report 2 hours late.

Grace UMC dinner tonight is still on at 5:30 PM.

Northampton Fire and Rescue in Nassawadox will have BINGO tonight.

Scholastic Bowl at Surry canceled

Boy's Basketball game Broadwater at Northampton postponed


Today's Boys basketball game Northampton vs. Nandua have been postponed till Monday January 27. JV will play at 5:30. Varsity will play at 7:00. Northampton girls will play at Nandua same times.

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview

　
1977.. Article notes many Pocomoke City accomplishments during previous year; 1944.. Milk price dispute halts deliveries in Pocomoke City; 2001.. Gasoline prices grab the public's attention, exceed $1.60 a gallon in some Maryland locations; 1897..New veterans group seeks membership of ex-Confederate soldiers on Eastern Shore; 1873.. Large summer hotel considered for Synepuxent Beach (pre- Ocean City).

Although you may not find all of these items in a history book, they are a part of our local history and you can read more about it this Sunday right here at The Pocomoke Public Eye! 

Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers.. such as a big snow storm, a favorite school teacher, a local happening, something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about? It can be just a line or two, or more if you wish. Send to tkforppe@yahoo.com and watch for it on a future TIME MACHINE posting!　

MD House of Correction Dismantled

MD  House of  Correction

Crane Begins to Dismantle MD House of Correction
Ongoing Inmate Deconstruction Project is Largest of its Kind in America

TOWSON, MD (January 17, 2014)---A landmark deconstruction event began in earnest today, when the contractor working with inmates to take down the Maryland House of Correction began using heavy equipment to remove large chunks of the building. The 45-ton crane arrived on the work site in three trucks and was assembled on site. Media were invited out to record the crane’s first work, and what will likely be the public’s last glimpse of the historic prison in its intact state.

Begun by former DPSCS Secretary Gary Maynard—who returned to witness today’s historic moment--- the House of Correction deconstruction is the most unique and largest inmate labor project in America. More than 120 inmates have been trained in hazardous materials abatement and other skills, as inmates themselves help to deconstruct the prison, which opened its doors in 1879 and closed after a spate of fatal violence in 2007.

While it was Maynard’s vision that led to this project, it was made possible through a collaboration of multiple state agencies, foundations and the building trades. A $150,000 grant from the Abell Foundation paid for the inmate training. The Department of Labor Licensing and Regulation developed the curriculum and brought together the building trades needed to help with the pre-apprenticeship certification inmate completing the program receive.

The House deconstruction is the single largest Public Safety Works (PSW) effort ever undertaken by DPSCS. PSW is the Department’s signature inmate restorative justice program, which features three to four hundred inmates on any given day performing meaningful (and often skilled labor) jobs to pay society back. These have included the restoration of historic cemeteries and battlefields, the “planting” of tens of millions of oyster spat and trees, the construction of handicap-accessible curbs, and the rebuilding of flooded and storm-damaged towns, playgrounds, and parks.

“This moment is the culmination of a tremendous effort,” said DPSCS Secretary Gregg Hershberger. '‘Nowhere else in America are inmates involved in so meaningful a project.”

Added former Secretary Gary Maynard, whose idea led to the deconstruction: “Maryland is a leader in many correctional areas, and this project shows what can be done when good people work together in an effort to save taxpayers and teach inmates at the same time. I want to thank our partners at DLLR, the Abell Foundation and the MD Historic Trust for making all of this happen.”

Closed by Governor Martin O’Malley and Secretary Maynard in March of 2007 after the murder of Correctional Officer David McGuinn and several other fatal and near-fatal incidents of violence, the House of Correction was one of the nation’s oldest maximum-security prisons still in use. Its 28-inch-thick walls, narrow catwalks, and long, multi-tiered wings were unique in all of America---but the antiquated design contributed to the violence.

READ MORE.....

Former Virginia Governor & Wife Indicted on Public Corruption and Related Charges

Former Virginia Governor and Former First Lady Indicted on Public Corruption and Related Charges

"An indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty."

January 21, 2014
RICHMOND—A federal grand today returned a 14-count indictment against former Virginia Governor Robert F. McDonnell and former First Lady Maureen G. McDonnell for allegedly participating in a scheme to violate federal public corruption laws.

Dana J. Boente, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Mythili Raman, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Jeffrey C. Mazanec, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office; Richard Weber, Chief of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI); and Colonel W. Steven Flaherty, Virginia State Police Superintendent, made the announcement.

The indictment, returned in the Eastern District of Virginia, charges Robert McDonnell and Maureen McDonnell, both 59 and of Glen Allen, Virginia, with one count of conspiracy to commit honest-services wire fraud; three counts of honest-services wire fraud; one count of conspiracy to obtain property under color of official right; six counts of obtaining property under color of official right; and one count of making false statements to a federal credit union. Robert McDonnell is also charged with an additional count of making a false statement to a financial institution, and Maureen McDonnell is charged with one count of obstruction of an official proceeding.

“I thank the Assistant U.S. Attorneys, FBI, Virginia State Police, and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation for their exceptional efforts in the investigation of this case,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Boente. “We will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute public corruption.”

“Today’s charges represent the Justice Department’s continued commitment to rooting out public corruption at all levels of government,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Raman. “Ensuring that elected officials uphold the public’s trust is one of our most critical responsibilities.”

“One of the most important investigative responsibilities with which the FBI is tasked is ensuring that the integrity of our elected public officials has not been compromised,” said FBI SAC Mazanec. “The Richmond Division of the FBI and our law enforcement partners have diligently worked this lengthy, detailed, and sensitive matter. I want to thank all those who have worked very hard and with great care on this investigation.”

“The state police and FBI agents assigned to this case have devoted an extensive amount of time and effort to this matter,” said Colonel Flaherty. “They are to be commended for their professionalism, objectivity, and dedication to duty in conducting this highly complex and sensitive investigation.”

“Public officials hold positions of trust and must accept the transparency and accountability that our laws require and their constituents expect,” said IRS-CI Chief Weber. “IRS-CI stands committed to investigating those officials. This case should serve as a strong warning to those who might consider similar behavior. No one is above the law, and everyone is accountable for their misdeeds.”

According to the indictment, from April 2011 through March 2013, the McDonnells participated in a scheme to use the former governor’s official position to enrich themselves and their family members by soliciting and obtaining payments, loans, gifts, and other things of value from Star Scientific, a Virginia-based corporation, and “JW,” then Star Scientific’s chief executive officer. The McDonnells obtained the things of value in exchange for the former governor performing official actions on an as-needed basis to legitimize, promote, and obtain research studies for Star’s products, including the dietary supplement Anatabloc®.

CONTINUE READING....

Candidate for Pocomoke City Council District 3 Launches Campaign Website

Kim Jackson, Candidate for Pocomoke City Council District 3, launches campaign website

Jackson says she will use the page to keep the public up to date on any campaign news.  The candidate hopes it will allow people to get to know her even better, and understand her position on current issues.  You will also find links to Facebook and Twitter.

"Social media is an amazing tool.  It enables me to be far more accessible, literally giving people a direct link to ask questions".

Jackson closed by saying, "I hope people will take advantage of these platforms.  I am looking forward to hearing from them".

Campaign Website
www.vote4kimjackson.org

**UPDATED - Closings and Delays / Virginia

 

Closings and Delays

For Thursday, January 23, 2014

 

**UPDATED

**The Accomack County School Board Meeting scheduled for tonight, January 23, 2014 at 7:30 p.m. in the Board of Supervisors Chambers is being canceled. The rescheduled meeting will be determined at a later date.

**The ES Literacy Council's Annual Celebration is canceled and will be held March 18.



Shore Christian Academy in Exmore CLOSED

 

FMC Dialysis Office in Nassawadox will open two hours late Thursday morning. Patients, please do not show up until 7:00 AM.

Perdue will have a normal day and night shift Thursday

 

Broadwater Academy CLOSED

 

ANPDC,the Regional Housing Authority and the Virginia Housing alliance will be closed Thursday and will re open Friday

 

Onley Pre School will open two hours late Thursday

 

Bellcroft School or Miss Jean's in Accomac and Volney Hall in Eastville will be OPEN as usual Thursday.

 

Accomack County Schools will be CLOSED

 

Northampton County Public School CLOSED

TOPS Meeting & Weigh-in at Zion's Church in Parksley has been cancelled for Thursday.

Accomack County Government Offices will open at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday with liberal leave in effect.

A&N Electric Cooperative ~ BEAT THE PEAK

Announcement From A & N Electric

Due to the extremely cold temperatures recently A&N Electric Cooperative has announced a
"Beat the Peak" on Thursday, January 23
 6:00 a.m. until 8:00 a.m.
 During times of peak energy use your co-op pays a premium price for energy. By reducing how much energy you are using in your home, you can lower your co-op's energy costs, these savings are passed onto you.

YOU can lower your energy consumption during these "alert periods" by lowering your thermostat a few degrees, turn off unnecessary lights, avoid using the dish washer, washing machine or dryer. 

Virginia DOT Reports On Road Conditions

According to Chris Isdell at the Accomack County VDOT, all roads on the Eastern Shore are "passable", i.e. they are not closed.

Route 13 is now 95% cleared. Primary roads have been 50% cleared by VDOT and secondary roads, which include back roads and necks, have been 15% cleared.

Temperatures will drop back down into the teens tonight and any wet roadways will refreeze, which is likely to re-create hazardous roadways Thursday morning. Isdell said VDOT crews will be out in force Wednesday evening to try and keep the roads clear.


Isdell said he was hopeful that temperatures would increase Thursday enough to help melt the snow on the road. However, temperatures are only forecast to be in the low 30s for a high Thursday, the low 20s for a high Friday, and will finally rise into the 40s on Saturday.
WESR

 

Worcester County Sheriff's Office Announces the Passing of K-9 Dino.

K-9 Dino
Worcester County Sheriff's Office

Sheriff Mason and his entire staff are saddened to announce the passing of K-9 Dino.

 K-9 Dino began suffering a medical condition in early 2013 which started to impact his breathing and performance.

K-9 Dino was retired by his handler, Cpl.... Bethany Ramey this past summer.

K-9 Dino was integral part of the CET team and Road Patrol during his time with us. K-9 Dino located numerous narcotics, U.S. Currency and was dual trained as a tracking dog as well. 

All of our thoughts are with his handler and her family and the entire K-9 Unit.

 There is no greater bond than what a K-9 Handler and their partner have.

The loss is great and felt for a long time. All of us at the Sheriff's Office feel the loss today.

###########
Note:  It was announced in October 2013 that K-9 Dino would be retiring. 

So sorry for your loss. bw
Retirement of K-9 Dino From Worcester County Sheriff's Dept.

Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell and Wife Indicted On Federal Corruption Charges

RICHMOND, Va. (WAVY/AP) - Former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell and his wife have been indicted on federal corruption charges.

Peter Carr, a spokesman for the U.S. Justice Department, says McDonnell and his wife, Maureen, were indicted Tuesday. The 14-count indictment includes conspiracy, wire fraud and other charges.

Document: McDonnell Indictment

The indictment shows the McDonnells’ scheming, using businessman Jonnie Williams’ private jet and receiving more than $135 thousand in loans and gifts from him as well as more than $7 thousand in golf outings and thousands more for his daughter's wedding. In exchange, the indictment alleges McDonnell arranged meetings for Williams, but in the end, McDonnell says Williams got nothing from his administration.

In a news conference Tuesday evening, Bob McDonnell addressed the public about the charges filed against him, claiming federal authorities are “stretching the law to its breaking point.”
“Law is clearly on our side,” he said. “ … I did nothing illegal.”

VIDEO: McDonnell's full news conference

McDonnell left office earlier this month after four years in the governor's office. A federal investigation overshadowed the final months of the only term as governor he is allowed under Virginia law. Authorities began looking into gifts the once-rising star of the Republican Party and his family received from a political donor and Richmond-area businessman.

In July, McDonnell apologized and said he had returned more than $120,000 in loans and other gifts from Johnnie Williams, the CEO of pharmaceutical company Star Scientific.

WAVY News 10's Andy Fox sat down with former Gov. McDonnell in December and pressed him about the possible indictments. He asked McDonnell if he was confident he wouldn't be indicted.

"I can't. I can only say that I'm focused on what I can control,"

McDonnell said. "Other people that are doing these reviews are doing them on their own timeframe."

VIDEO: Andy Fox's full exit interview with McDonnell

The time is here and so is the 14-count indictment, which includes charges of wire fraud, obtaining property under color of official right, and one count making false statements to a federal credit union.

The indictment paints a picture of the McDonnell family constantly with hands out to Jonnie Williams. The worst offender appears to be McDonnell's wife, Maureen, who sent an email to a senior McDonnell staffer demanding an inaugural clothing budget.

"Bob is screaming about the thousands I'm charging up in credit card debt. We are broke ... unconscionable amount in credit card debt ... this inaugural is killing us,” Mrs. McDonnell wrote in the email.

READ MORE....

Somerset County (MD) Sheriff's Office ~ Recent Arrests

RECENT ARRESTS ~ Somerset County (MD) Sheriff's Office

 Jessie Lamont Copes Jr. - Salisbury, arrested 1-6-14 on a warrant for violation of probation. Copes was later returned to the Somerset County Detention Center, and held without bond.

 George Barton Crocket  - Crisfield, arrested 1-6-14 on warrants through Wicomico and Worcester Counties. Crocket was later released on an unsecured bond.

 Ronald Lee Hall Jr. - Crisfield, arrested 1-6-14 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Hall was later held on a $1,000 bond.

 Chad Michael Bozman -  Crisfield, arrested 1-10-14 on two warrants for violation of probation. Bozman was later held without bond.

 Kristen Marie Ott  -  Westover, arrested 1-13-14 on a warrant for violation of probation. Ott was held on a $20,000 bond.

 Alonzo Darryl Johnson Jr.  - Westover, arrested 1-15-14 on a warrant for contempt of court. Johnson was held on a $25,000 bond.

 Ralph Maurice Taylor Jr.  - Princess Anne, arrested 1-16-14 on a warrant for violation of probation. Taylor was later returned to the Somerset County Detention Center and held without bond.

UPDATE......CLOSED TODAY ~ POCOMOKE CITY

Market Street Boutique
CLOSED - Will re-open on Thursday at 10:00AM conditions permitting.

Delmarva Discovery Center
The Delmarva Discovery Center and Delmarva Discovery Center Museum Store will be CLOSED today.

Heart N Home

Heart ~n~ Home will be closed today, Wednesday, January 22, 2014 due to the snow storm.
 
Will reopen Thursday, January 23rd.

Enchanted Florist~ Pocomoke
Closed

Riverside Grill ~ Pocomoke
Closed

UPDATE: VA. CLOSINGS

Please NOTE this is NOT a complete listing of closures in the Virginia area.  Check with your local NEWS.

Accomack County Government Offices: Closed Today
 
Accomack County Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court: Closed Today

Accomack County Public Schools: Closed Today
 
Accomack General District Court: Closed Today

Northampton County Public Schools (VA) Closed

Northampton County Circuit Court (VA): Closed
 
Northampton County General District Court (VA): Closed Today
 
Eastern Shore Community College: Closed

Eastern Shore Community Services Board: Closed Today
 
Star Transit: Delayed Opening Until 10:00 AM

Tyson Foods, Temperanceville: No First Shift. Night shift will report on time Wednesday. Maintenance Call your Supervisor.
Broadwater Academy: Closed Today

Virginia/ Closings and cancellations for Tuesday January 21, 2014

Virginia CANCELLATIONS
01/21/2014
Market Street United Methodist Church: Terrific Tuesday Dinner will be Wednesday at 5:45 Pm. Trustee meeting is cancelled. Kids Alive program is cancelled.

Annual celebration of the E.S. Literacy Council cancelled will be held Thursday at ESCC.

Accomac Parks and Recreation's Basketball games cancelled for tonight.

Basketball games for girls and boys between Northampton and Chincoteague cancelled tonight.

The Una Familiar tutoring at Melfa UMC scheduled for Wednesday evening has been cancelled however this Sunday evening outing to the YMCA will still go on as planned.

Shore Christian Academy will have a regular dismissal but no after school activities and no school Wednesday.

ESCC closing at 4 PM Tuesday.

Knights of Columbus Social at 6:30 today is cancelled.
Northampton and Accomack County Public School's will close today at 1:00 PM.

Central Baptist Academy will close today at 12:30 PM and will remain closed Wednesday.

Head Start in both counties will close at 1:00 PM.

Holly Grove Christian Academy is closed.

No limits ES is closed.

All branches of NMA Federal Credit Union will be closed Wednesday, January 22nd.

Choir practice is canceled tonight for St. Thomas United Methodist Church in Clam.

Due to the approaching inclement weather, the Eastern Shore Public Service Authority meeting, scheduled for tonight (January 21, 2014) at 7:00 p.m. in the County Administration Building in Eastville, has been cancelled. The meeting will now be held next Tuesday, January 28th, commencing at 7:00 p.m. in the second floor conference room of the County Administrators office, 16404 Courthouse Road, Eastville, VA 23347
Broadway Baptist Church in Cashville has canceled its business meeting tonight.

Melfa Town Council meeting is canceled tonight.

ESO Art Center, Belle Haven, closing at 4PM today.

St. Paul on the Shore Day Care closing at 5 PM.

Northampton County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court will be closed Wednesday. Please contact the office on Friday 757-678-1025 for new court dates.

The regular Accomack County School Board meeting has been moved to Thursday night at 7:30 PM at the Accomack Board of Supervisors Chambers.

Grace United Methodist Women's meeting is cancelled tonight.
FMC Dialysis Clinic in Nassawadox will open 2 hours late Wednesday morning. Patients do not report until 7 AM.

Accomack-Northampton Planning District Commission meeting schedule for Tuesday night has been canceled, as well as the VIrginia Housing Alliance Meeting scheduled for Wednesday night.

Accomack JDR Court closed Wednesday.

Tea Party meeting at Little Italy Restaurant Wednesday canceled.
Attitudes Fitness Wednesday classes are canceled.

Take Care Of Those Animals!!!

REMEMBER:  If YOU are COLD- THEY are COLD also!!

 

This includes ANY household pet!

If YOU don't want to be outside they don't want to be either!

It's  just plain CRUEL!

Worcester County Recreation & Parks ~ Closing

Worcester County Recreation and Parks evening activities are cancelled for Tuesday January 21st.

The recreation center will be closing at 4:30 p.m

Announcement Rally Tonight POSTPONED - Rescheduled for 7pm, Wednesday, January 29.

Dear Pokomoke --

Given the extreme weather conditions today, we have postponed our announcement rally scheduled at 6pm tonight in Annapolis. The rescheduled date for our announcement rally will be 7pm Wednesday, January 29, 2014 at Mike's Crab House.

We have already started our work to change Maryland for the better so an extreme snowstorm will not slow our efforts. However, our primary concern today is your safety. Due to extreme winter storm warnings we strongly advise you to stay home and stay off the roads.

Please stay safe during this weather event and we hope you will be able to join us at our rescheduled rally on Wednesday, January 29, 2014 at 7:00pm.

Sincerely,

The Larry Hogan for Governor Campaign
(855) 23-HOGAN
-=-=-
Hogan for Governor · 2635 Riva Rd, Suite 100, Annapolis, MD 21401, United States

HOGAN ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY FOR GOVERNOR Postpones Evening Rally Due to Extreme Winter Weather

ANNAPOLIS – Today Larry Hogan announced his candidacy to become Maryland’s next governor:

“An overwhelming majority of Marylanders, regardless of party, feel that we are way off track, heading in the wrong direction, and that new leadership is needed in Annapolis. And one thing is clear: we can’t change Maryland without changing governors. So after serious reflection, I have decided to answer the call, and step up to this challenge.”

“The establishment in Annapolis has just been expecting another coronation in November. But today, regardless of the weather, we're putting them on notice that we're going to give them the toughest fight of their lives.”

Hogan planned to make his announcement this evening before an overflow crowd of more than 500 enthusiastic supporters from all across Maryland. However, facing what forecasters are describing as ‘the largest storm in three years’ and an expectation of up to ten inches of snow in the Annapolis area, the Hogan for Governor campaign has postponed this evening’s announcement rally, and rescheduled it for Wednesday, January 29, 2014 at 7PM.

“While our initial intention was to continue despite the weather, as we monitored the situation overnight, it became clear this was going to be a significant weather event," Hogan continued, “we've postponed today’s event, but no amount of snow is going to stop our grassroots army of 75,000 fed-up Republicans, Democrats, and Independents from bringing real change to Maryland.”

“We have already started our work to change Maryland for the better,” said Hogan, “but our primary concern today is the safety of Marylanders. Due to extreme winter storm warnings we are strongly advising our supporters to stay home and stay off the roads.”

A business owner for over 25 years, Larry Hogan has helped attract hundreds of businesses and thousands of jobs to Maryland. He took time away from his successful business to serve as a Cabinet Secretary in the Ehrlich Administration, and founded the state’s largest non-partisan grassroots organization, Change Maryland, focused on bringing fiscal responsibility and common sense policies to Annapolis.

###

Adam Schmidt (443) 221-4450 office (410) 897-7050 mobile aschmidt@hoganforgovernor.com

Hannah Marr (443) 221-4450 office (443) 935-3684 mobile hmarr@hoganforgovernor.com

@Hogan4Governor | www.HoganforGovernor.com | fb.com/ChangeMaryland
Authority: Larry Hogan for Governor, John C. Wobensmith, Treasurer

LEGO ® @ the Library Contest / Pocomoke Branch

LEGO ® Contest

Registration required by January 22, 2014

For more information and for rules and regulations, contact the Pocomoke Branch at 410-957-0878.

 For 5 -12 year old children.

Maryland State Police 18th Annual Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics

From: Maryland State Police
BEARS HEADED TO THE BEACH - PLUNGE COUNTDOWN IS ON!

(ANNAPOLIS, MD) – The temperatures are down, but the tents are up as final preparations are being made for Maryland’s largest and most unusual outdoor winter events set to occur this Friday and Saturday at Sandy Point State Park.

The 18th Annual Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics will be the main event of 2014 Plungefest this weekend, as thousands of warm-hearted people brave the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Their “plunges” will raise money to support year-round sports training and competition provided free to children and adults with intellectual disabilities. 

Governor Martin O’Malley is set to complete a perfect record of plunging every year since he has been in office. He will be joined by Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel Marcus Brown, Natural Resources Police Superintendent Colonel George Johnson, Anne Arundel County Executive Laura Neuman, and many others as they take a quick dip in the Bay for a great cause.

Plungefest Weekend will begin Friday morning as more than 40 Super Plungers begin their quest to plunge once an hour for 24 hours. At noon Friday, more than 400 police officers are expected to hit the beach in the Police Plunge. Friday afternoon, polar bears from multiple area businesses will participate in the Corporate Plunge. 

Sandy Point State Park will open at 8:00 a.m. Saturday to begin welcoming the more than 10,000 who are expected to plunge in the main events, along with their families, friends and a lot of spectators. A kid’s plunge will be held on the beach at 11:00 a.m. The MSP Polar Bear Plunge will occur at 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Those interested in registering to plunge, sponsoring a plunger, or learning more about the events are urged to visit www.plungemd.com. Potential plungers can also register on-site the day of the plunge. Plungers are asked to raise a minimum of $75 for Special Olympics. They will receive an official Plunge sweatshirt, will qualify for other great prizes, and will know they have helped thousands of Marylanders with intellectual disabilities realize their full potential. 

Plungefest is free and open to the public. The Carnival Funfest tent will be filled with a 40-ton sand sculpture, along with vendors selling food and other products. The Rams Head Live tent will feature live music all day long. The 98Rock Hot Spot tent will also have music and an assortment of vendors. There will be a variety of other sights to see and locations to visit throughout the Plungefest venue.

Plungers and spectators are urged to use the free Polar Express shuttle service, which is available at Navy-Marine Corps Stadium, Anne Arundel Community College, and Kent Island High School. There will be no general parking at Sandy Point. All those parking at the park must have a pass issued by Special Olympics.

Alcohol is not permitted in the venue except in three specific areas. Security will be in place to ensure the alcohol restrictions are adhered to. Plungefest is hosted by the Maryland Park Service. All visiting the park are urged to respect the venue and help preserve the park by obeying all rules and respecting this great natural resource.

Plungefest is produced by Special Olympics Maryland with assistance from a team of law enforcement agencies, business sponsors, and committed citizens. The event is part of the Maryland Law Enforcement Torch Run, which coordinates year-round events to support Special Olympics. Special Olympics is the adopted charity of law enforcement worldwide. Law Enforcement Torch Run programs exist and support Special Olympics in all 50 states and 45 foreign countries.  

A More Effective Way To Treat Ice/Snow Covered Roads

Did you know?



Beet juice is becoming a very popular as a  snow/ice fighting tool. Beet juice is organic, reduces corrosion, melts to very low temperatures and reduces the amount of material needed for each application on those slippery roads many travel before, during and after any snow storm.

The concoction of beet juice and salt is kinder to concrete and metal and is being used in a number of states, cities and counties.

Valentine Cabaret! At the MarVa Theater

 

 Menu:

 Course One Braised Pork on Sweet Potato Biscuit w/ Chipotle Aioli
 *wine TBD

 

 Course Two
 Sliced Beef Tenderloin & Crab Cake w/ Red Wine Reduction, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Sautéed Green Beans
 *wine TBD

 

 Finale
 Bread Pudding w/ Golden Raisins, Walnuts and Warm Vanilla Sauce
 *wine TBD

RSVP by January 31st

UPDATE: WINTER STORM WARNING / Virginia

EARLY CLOSINGS:
Accomack County Public Schools Closing at 1:00pm

Northampton Co. Schools (VA) Closing at 1:00pm  / All evening activities canceled

Photo BW
Snow Storm February 6, 2010

Winter Storm Warnings issued for Eastern Shore

Issued At: Tuesday, 21 Jan 2014, 4:02 AM EST
 Expires At: Wednesday, 22 Jan 2014, 12:00 AM EST

GLOUCESTER-MATHEWS-ACCOMACK-NORTHAMPTON VA- INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...CHINCOTEAGUE...WALLOPS ISLAND...MELFA... EASTVILLE

WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 1 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO MIDNIGHT EST TONIGHT

 * AREAS AFFECTED: PORTIONS OF THE MIDDLE PENINSULA AND THE VIRGINIA EASTERN SHORE.
 * HAZARDS: SNOW AND GUSTY WINDS.

 * ACCUMULATIONS: 3 TO 6 INCHES. * WINDS: NORTH WINDS WILL AVERAGE 15 TO 25 MPH...WITH GUSTS TO AROUND 30 TO 40 MPH BY LATE TUESDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH THE EVENING.

 TEMPERATURES FALLING TO NEAR FREEZING BY LATE TUESDAY AFTERNOON...THEN BELOW FREEZING TUESDAY EVENING.

* TIMING: RAIN BECOMING MIXED WITH AND CHANGING TO SNOW IN THE MID AND LATE AFTERNOON HOURS TUESDAY. THE SNOW WILL POTENTIALLY BE HEAVY AT TIMES TUESDAY EVENING.

* IMPACTS: ACCUMULATING SNOWFALL AND STRONG WINDS COULD CAUSE HAZARDOUS TRAVEL ACROSS THE AREA LATE TUESDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH THE EVENING.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... A WINTER STORM WARNING FOR HEAVY SNOW MEANS SEVERE WINTER WEATHER CONDITIONS ARE EXPECTED.

 SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW ARE FORECAST THAT WILL MAKE TRAVEL DANGEROUS. ONLY TRAVEL IN AN EMERGENCY.

IF YOU MUST TRAVEL...KEEP AN EXTRA FLASHLIGHT... FOOD...AND WATER IN YOUR VEHICLE IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED....

Winter Storm Watch/ Virginia

Areas affected: Accomack, VA; Gloucester, VA; James City, VA; Mathews, VA; Middlesex, VA; Northampton, VA; Williamsburg City, VA
 
URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
 NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WAKEFIELD VA
 1011 AM EST MON JAN 20 2014
 VAZ084-086-090-099-100-202315-
/O.EXA.KAKQ.WS.A.0001.140121T1100Z-140122T0500Z/

GLOUCESTER-MATHEWS-JAMES CITY-ACCOMACK-NORTHAMPTON VA-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...WILLIAMSBURG...CHINCOTEAGUE...
 WALLOPS ISLAND...MELFA...EASTVILLE
 1011 AM EST MON JAN 20 2014

...WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM TUESDAY MORNING THROUGH
 TUESDAY EVENING...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN WAKEFIELD HAS ISSUED A WINTER
 STORM WATCH...WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM TUESDAY MORNING THROUGH
 TUESDAY EVENING.

* AREAS AFFECTED: PORTIONS OF EASTERN VIRGINIA...AND THE VIRGINIA
 EASTERN SHORE.
 * HAZARDS: SNOW. 

 * ACCUMULATIONS: SNOWFALL ACCUMULATIONS OF 3 TO 5 INCHES OF SNOW
 ARE POSSIBLE ACROSS THE WATCH AREA.

 * WINDS: NORTH WINDS WILL AVERAGE 10 TO 20 MPH...WITH GUSTS TO
 AROUND 30 MPH EXPECTED TUESDAY AFTERNOON AND EVENING.

 * TIMING: LIGHT SNOW WILL BEGIN BY LATE MORNING ON TUESDAY...
 CONTINUING THROUGH TUESDAY EVENING.

THE PERIOD OF HEAVIEST
 SNOWFALL IS EXPECTED TUESDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH THE EVENING.

 * IMPACTS: ACCUMULATING SNOWFALL COULD CAUSE PERIODS OF HAZARDOUS
 TRAVEL ACROSS THE AREA TUESDAY AFTERNOON AND EVENING.

 PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
 A WINTER STORM WATCH MEANS THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR SIGNIFICANT
 SNOW ACCUMULATIONS THAT MAY IMPACT TRAVEL.

Expiring: 01/22/2014 12:00am

Larry Hogan to Announce Candidacy for Governor

Larry Hogan, a business owner for over 25 years, has helped attract hundreds of businesses and thousands of jobs to Maryland. Hogan took time away from his successful business to serve as a Cabinet Secretary in the Ehrlich Administration. He founded the state’s largest non-partisan grassroots organization focused on bringing fiscal responsibility and common sense to Annapolis. Hogan has led citizen referendums to lower taxes and reform government. He has spent a lifetime fighting to change Maryland for the better.

Larry Hogan will announce his candidacy for Governor 6PM Tuesday January 21, 2014 at Mike’s Crab House in Riva, Maryland.

Mike's Crab House, 303 Riva Road, Annapolis (Riva), MD 21140

Accomack County Circuit Court Cases

Accomack County Circuit Court Cases
Thursday, January16, 2014

Richard Christian - charged with possession of cocaine and intent to distribute. The distribution charge was dropped due to lack of evidence. Mr. Christian was found on June 6, 2013 in possession. Christian pled guilty to the possession charge. Judge Glen a Tyler continued this case for presentence report.

Upsher Ayers - charged with possession and two counts of distribution for a third offense. These charges stem from incidents on May 1, 2012 and December 1, 2012. Ms. Sherry Mapp Ayres attorney made a motion to withdraw from these cases stating that a paid family attorney would be handling this case. Judge Tyler granted the motion and entered a not guilty plea on all charges. Ayres was returned to jail awaiting a new trial date.


Michael Bowman - charged with driving under the influence- third offense within five years- and driving on a suspended license. Bowman was observed by a local police officer driving a moped with the officer knowing that he had two prior convictions and should not have been driving on November 14, 2012. Bowman  pled guilty. Bowman's  attorney asked that he remain out on bond to await sentencing. Judge Tyler denied this motion sending the defendant to jail to await sentencing.

Antonio Palmer - charged with larceny. This charge was reduced from grand larceny to petit larceny primarily because the victim had recently died. This offense occurred on February 27, 2013 when a metal table and a disc plow were stolen by Mr. Palmer and his brother. The Sheriffs Department at located both items and returned them to the rightful owner therefore no restitution was rendered. Judge Tyler accepted a plea agreement sentencing the defendant to 12 years with all but time served suspended.

Warner Byrd Sr. - charged with possession of cocaine and marijuana. He was convicted on February 14, 2013 and had a long record. However,  Byrd also had an excellent employer recommendation. Byrd was sentenced to three years on  cocaine charges  with all but 30 days suspended with possible work release and 30 additional days all suspended for the marijuana charge with a $500 fine. Additionally, his drivers license was suspended for six months plus court costs.

 Keyon Townsend - tried on two counts of distribution of heroin. The two pending charges stem from an arrest on January 7 and January 8 in the Horntown area. Townsend was found guilty on both charges in this case was continued for a pre-sentence report. Townsend was remanded to jail to await sentencing.

County Drug Task Forces Now Led By Local Police.....

County Drug Task Forces Now Led By
 Local Police, Not Troopers

January 17, 2014

ANNAPOLIS – Maryland State Police have transferred the administration of county-wide drug task forces to local police, but some lawmakers are concerned about the impact on local law enforcement.

Maryland State Police representatives discussed the change Friday with members of the Eastern Shore delegation and Caroline County officials.

The reorganization, implemented in March 2013, allows the state police to operate on a regional level in order to pursue drug suppliers that are located across county lines.

The decision was department-wide and divided the state into five regions of operation. It was implemented in an attempt to create more effective task forces, said Maryland State Police spokeswoman Elena Russo.

“We are not taking troopers out of those counties [on the Eastern Shore],” said Col. Marcus Brown, Superintendent of Maryland State Police. “We are making a more strategic movement in those counties.”

That strategic movement may not physically relocate state troopers, but some are concerned that it may still harm the effectiveness of local police.

“I don’t think that this is necessarily in the best interest to the local law enforcement,” said Delegate Michael A. McDermott, R-Wicomico. “I don’t think the state has enough personnel to carry out their mission, so they’re redefining their mission.”

Reorganizing the state police’s drug task forces allows the officials to cut off “the head of the octopus,” Brown said.

However, while the state police will have more rein to pursue intercounty and interstate drug traffickers, it will require local police to invest more resources, which some counties may not have.

“We will maintain it somehow, in some way,” said Caroline County Sheriff Randy Bounds. “We will continue to conduct drug investigations.”

The new structure was implemented so quickly that the local agencies need time to gather additional personnel, said McDermott.

Both the county and state police are short on resources.


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