Tuesday, April 1, 2014

David Craig: Time for new Leadership on Maryland Health Exchange Board


For release: 4.01.14
Contact: Jim Pettit
@jamesmpettit

As the oversight board charged with implementing Obamacare is expected to formally announce ditching the existing website today, Harford County Executive and Maryland candidate for Governor David Craig said much-needed reforms are still missing. Craig called on the Governor to appoint a new chair of the Board and replace others with individuals who have IT, healthcare and insurance-industry experience.

"For starters, the state health secretary needs to be replaced as Chair of the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange Board," said Craig, referring to Joshua Sharfstein. "His responses to the botched roll out of Maryland's exchange have been feeble and his leadership weak, and the Governor needs to take action that acknowledges this serious shortcoming."

The nine-member Exchange Board, which administers the Maryland Health Connection website, is weighted heavily towards government officials and university professors.   
"When an organization is failing, leadership is replaced," said Craig.  "I am deeply troubled that O'Malley believes people aren't the problem here - of course they are.  The health secretary admits he couldn't control the contractors, so how is he going to control the new ones?  The Governor would be doing everyone a favor by appointing an individual with experience in taking over troubled ventures.” 

The state's top elected officials have been dropping hints for nearly a month that Maryland's exchange will switch to Deloitte Consulting in an attempt to replicate the success that Kentucky and Connecticut have had in utilizing a firm that has developed a functioning website.

"I am concerned that this new firm is in the driver's seat because they have a desperate and dysfunctional client," said Craig. "With taxpayers having spent a quarter of a billion dollars already, the state needs a board that has the experience for this complicated undertaking."

Craig also said Administration health care point man and Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown needs to define his role.  

“The Governor recently said that fixing the Maryland exchange is similar to changing a flat tire in addition to other poor analogies that attempt to dumb-down the serious problem of people being denied health care. If that’s how the Governor feels, then he should boot out the Lt. Governor from the backseat and make him assist those changing the tires.”

Craig released a plan at the beginning of this year to avoid the under-performing state health exchange and enable consumers to obtain health insurance through other means.   The plan consists of ending the current emphasis on Maryland Health Connection and instead diverts marketing and outreach resources to promoting direct enrollment options through insurance carriers or utilizing the assistance of Maryland-based insurance brokers.

Soroptimist Of Pocomoke~ 1st Annual Scavenger Hunt

GET THOSE TEAMS TOGETHER!!!
 
 

Voting Window Extended In the Chamber Challenge

There’s still time to participate in the Chamber Challenge and VOTE
for the state’s most small business friendly
Chamber of Commerce.
 
 
Maryland Small Business Week Awards Program, Inc. has extended the voting window through April 15th.
 
 
Chamber Challenge voting starts today! Go to http://www.mdsbwawards.org/nominate-a-business/chamber-challenge.html
and vote for the 
 

REWARD OFFERED FOR INFO LEADING TO ARREST OF WICOMICO CO. FUGITIVE

Edwin L. Fletcher
Maryland State Police


(SALISBURY, MD) – As the search continues for a Wicomico County fugitive wanted in connection with the attempted murder of three police officers, a reward is being offered for information leading to his arrest.

Crime Solvers of the Lower Eastern Shore is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest of Edwin L. Fletcher, 32, of Salisbury, Md. Anyone with information about Fletcher and his current location is urged to contact Crime Solvers at 410-548-1776. Callers may remain anonymous. 

Fletcher is wanted on an arrest warrant charging him with the attempted murder of three police officers who were attempting to arrest him on March 26, 2014 in Salisbury. Police were trying to arrest him on a warrant for drug distribution when the assault occurred.

The search for Fletcher continues within the Lower Eastern Shore. Police throughout Maryland and Delaware have been notified and are on the alert for him. The warrants and wanted information for Fletcher has also been entered into the National Crime Information Center database that notifies police nationwide of his fugitive status. 

VOTE TODAY - Pocomoke City

VOTE TODAY
 


Today Pocomoke City residents in District 3 have the opportunity to vote for the one person they would like to have represent them on the Pocomoke City Mayor and Council.

Those names are:
Kim Jackson
Dale Trotter
J.D. Ervin

Registered, District 3 residents can cast their vote at the
Pocomoke City Library on Market Street
 
Voting hours:
 
7:00AM - 7:00 PM
 
BEST OF LUCK TO ALL OF YOU!  bw
 

Monday, March 31, 2014

A & N Electric Cooperative - BEAT THE PEAK -

 
 
A & N Electric Cooperative
 
BEAT THE PEAK
Tuesday April 1st, 6-8 a.m.
 
Why: We're "beating the peak" tomorrow morning because of the cold! 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.
 
 What To Do During a Fall/Winter "Beat the Peak"

 What Should I do? To lower your energy consumption during the alert period, please turn off any unnecessary lights and delay using appliances like your dishwasher or washing machine. Turning the thermostat down a few degrees can also significantly lower how much energy you are using.

OCPD REMINDING CITIZENS TO PARK THE PHONE WHILE ON THE ROAD

Ocean City Police Department


(March 31, 2014) – The Ocean City Police Department is joining the U.S. Department of Transportation in the effort to stop distracted driving by celebrating Distracted Driving Awareness Month.  The initiative, which takes place during the month of April, reminds citizens to park the phone while on the road.

“Ocean City citizens need to know that we are serious about stopping this dangerous behavior of texting and driving,” commented Chief Ross Buzzuro. “When you text while driving, you take your eyes off the road, hands off the wheel and mind off the task of driving putting yourself and others at risk.”

In 2012, there were 3,328 people killed and 421,000 injured nationwide in distraction-affected crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The University of Michigan’s Transportation Research Institute reports that a quarter of teens nationwide respond to a text message once or more every time they drive. The Institute also reports that 20 percent of teens and 10 percent of parents admit that they have extended multi-message text conversations while driving.

The Ocean City Police Department reminds citizens that One Text Could Wreck It All. When drivers engage in distracted driving behaviors, they are not only a danger to themselves but to other motorists on the road as well.

For more information about distracted driving and to take the pledge to drive phone free, visit www.distraction.gov.

Winter Quarters Municipal Golf Course ~ FREE GOLF WEEKEND

Area golfers:  Play one round of 18 holes
on Saturday OR Sunday...
NO COST !
 

5th Annual Frank Voss Memorial Spaghetti Dinner


Furnace Town Benefit "Barks In the Park"


Hogan Avail on MD Health Exchange, Says stop all work until costs and influence disclosed; bar Brown from involvement


For Release:  March 31, 2014

** AVAILABLE FOR COMMENT ON MARYLAND HEALTH EXCHANGE DECISION **

Hogan:  Stop all work on Anthony Brown Health Exchange until costs, influences, and management failures are made public; Says Lt. Governor Brown should be barred from further involvement.

Annapolis, MD - MAR 31 - Available for comment on the imminent decision by the O’Malley/Brown Administration on whether to abandon the state’s disastrous $125 million Health Benefits Exchange or use Connecticut’s insurance platform is Maryland GOP gubernatorial frontrunner Larry Hogan.

A twenty-five year business veteran, former state cabinet member and founder of Maryland’s largest non-partisan grassroots organization, Hogan today called upon Governor O’Malley to take the following steps to prevent further waste of tax dollars:

1) Delay any decision on whether to abandon the failed $125 million Anthony Brown Health Exchange altogether and use the federal exchange, license Connecticut’s health exchange technology or take a hybrid approach until all the costs and benefits associated with the various options are presented for public review and comment.

2) Disclose all campaign contributions from any vendors involved with the construction, repair or maintenance of the Exchange to the Governor, Lt. Governor, their campaigns, or their campaign committees including the Democratic Governors’ Association while chaired by Martin O’Malley and since he became the DGA’s finance chair.

3) Disclose and make public all communications from any vendors involved with the construction, repair or maintenance of the Exchange with the Administration.

4) Under no circumstances allow Anthony Brown to have any further involvement with Maryland’s health exchange, healthcare services or health insurance policies.

For information and interviews contact

MORE THAN 50 GUNS RECOVERED

03/31/2014
Maryland State Police


MORE THAN 50 GUNS RECOVERED IN POSSIBLE GUNS FOR DRUG MONEY SCHEME IN CECIL CO.

(ELKTON, MD) – Maryland State Police recovered more than 50 guns in a Cecil County home late last week and are investigating further to determine if the guns were part of an illegal fencing operation that supplied money for drugs in exchange for the stolen property.

The accused is identified as Stephen Molitor, 63, of the 200-block of Locust Lane, Elkton, Md. He is charged with illegal transfer of a regulated firearm, illegal possession of a regulated firearm while prohibited, theft over $1,000, possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, two counts of drug possession, and possession of drug paraphernalia. A court commissioner set bail at $50,000, which Molitor later posted.

Also charged is Alyssa Schneider, 24, of the 300-block of Kirk Road, Elkton, Md. She is charged with theft between $1,000 and $10,000. She was released on personal recognizance.

The investigation began on the evening of March 27, 2014, when a victim in the 300-block of Kirk Road, Elkton, called Maryland State Police to report three firearms had been stolen from his residence. The victim told troopers a Smith and Wesson semi-automatic pistol, a Bushmaster M4 rifle, and a Sig Sauer RM 400 rifle had been stolen from a gun locker in his home.

Members of the State Police Criminal Enforcement Division were called in to conduct the investigation. The investigation revealed the victim’s daughter, Alyssa Schneider, had obtained the keys to his gun locker and had taken the firearms. Further investigation determined the guns had been sold to Molitor for $500, which the seller used to buy heroin.

State Police worked throughout the night and obtained a search warrant for Molitor’s home, which was served on the morning of March 28th. Inside, troopers found a total of 53 firearms, including 39 long guns and 14 regulated handguns and rifles. Found among the guns were the three firearms reported stolen by the victim. Troopers also recovered more than 450 oxycodone pills that appeared packaged for street level sales.

Investigators learned Molitor was apparently involved in ‘loaning’ individuals cash for items they would bring to him. He charged interest on the loan and, if the loan was not repaid, he would keep the items. Investigators determined Molitor is not a licensed firearms dealer, nor is he licensed to operate a pawn shop.

State Police investigators immediately began a search to determine if any of the other weapons found are stolen. That search is ongoing. The investigation is continuing.
 

Sunday, March 30, 2014

Elderly Man Found Dead

Mar 29, 2014
Elderly Man Found Dead in Federalsburg Stream

FEDERALSBURG, Md. (WBOC) - The body of an elderly man was found in a stream in Federalsburg Saturday morning. Police have identified the body as 74-year-old David Williams.


Federalsburg Police say around 5:30 Saturday morning, a caregiver and a friend of Williams woke up to find Williams was missing from their home in the 300 block of East Central Avenue. Police say the friend noticed the back door was ajar. Police say she looked around outside for Williams and called 911 to report him missing. Police say the woman told dispatchers she thought she saw Williams' body in the area of a nearby stream.

Police say they found Williams face down in the stream less than a minute after arriving on the scene. Williams was taken to Easton Memorial Hospital. His body was then sent to the medical examiner's office in Baltimore for an autopsy. Police say foul play is not suspected at this time.

Federalsburg Mayor Bill Beall released a statement Saturday afternoon saying, "I am saddened by the loss of Mr. David Williams, one of our truly respected residents here in Federalsburg.

 Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends in their time of sorrow. We, as a community are here to support them and their needs."
Source:

Coast Guard Medevacs Man From Tanker Ship

Coast Guard medevacs man, 54, from tanker ship off NC Coast

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The Coast Guard medevaced a 54-year-old crewmember Sunday from a tanker ship approximately 20 miles southeast of Cape Hatteras, N.C.

The master of the 576-foot Pennsylvania notified Coast Guard Sector North Carolina watchstanders at 9:17 p.m. Saturday stating a crewmember was suffering from chest pain and needed medical attention.

Sector watchstanders launched a crew aboard an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter from Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City, N.C., to assist.

The helicopter crew arrived on scene at approximately 12:30 a.m. Sunday, hoisted the man and took him back to the air station.

The man was transferred to an ambulance crew and taken to Albemarle Hospital in Elizabeth City.

TIME MACHINE ... 1939, 2002, 1975, 1967, 1898, 1953



(Reader-friendly viewing of newspaper archives material)

May, 1939
The Daily Mail (Hagerstown, Md.)

MINISTERS OPPOSE DISPENSARY PLANS

Princess Anne, Md., May 15 (AP).—Thirty-four ministers, all but one of Somerset county's clergymen, signed a lengthy advertisement against the establishment of liquor dispensaries in the county, a proposal to be voted on June 6.

The lone non-signer was the Rev. J. Randolph Field, of the St. Andrews Episcopal church. He had this to say about the ministers' advice on the proposal, which has given Somerset a red-hot controversy:

"I thoroughly respect the opinions of the other ministers  and all men must be accorded the right to their own convictions and beliefs. If the premises of the petition are sound—if, for instance, the liquor business as they say does damn souls—then their argument is very good. For myself, I find other social, moral and religious questions of much more pressing importance."

December, 2002

Outpatient clinics operated by McCready Hospital in Pocomoke City and downtown Crisfield were to be discontinued by the hospital. As part of a cost-saving measure the McCready Board Of Directors announced that its salaried physicians would be transitioning to private practice, with hospital privileges. The outpatient clinic located at the hospital would remain open. It was uncertain if the hospital would continue to operate its Princess Anne clinic.

March, 1975 (Time Machine archive)

Pocomoke City merchants were promoting Pocomoke Spring Festival Days.."Put Pocomoke Power In Your Shopping Dollars." Participants in the campaign included: Scher's...Schoolfield & Ham...Modern Office Supply...Miller's Dress Shop...H. Merrill Walters Insurance...Eastern Shore National Bank...The Adkins Company Of Pocomoke...Vincent Jewelers...Sears...Maryland National Bank.

June, 1967
The Daily Times (Salisbury)

(Excerpts)

Work On Salisbury Mall Slated To Begin Monday

Heavy equipment will swing into action Monday on the site of the $5,000,000 regional shopping center to be known as Salisbury Mall across the street from the Civic Center.

Ground-breaking ceremonies were held on the 75-acre suburban Salisbury building site at midday Friday. First District Congressman Rogers C. B. Morton, former Gov. J. Millard Tawes, Mayor Dallas G. Truitt, City Council President W. Paul Martin Jr., State Sen. Mary L. Nock and a host of other officials took part in the ceremonies.

They helped Scott S. Bair of Westminster, president of Salisbury Mall, wield a gold-plated shovel to signal the start of work on the colonial-type regional shopping center, which will contain 350,000 square feet of merchandising space. It is expected to contain at least 40 stores or other businesses.

A target date for completion of the mall has been set for next April 15.

Officials of the Hecht Co. and Sears, Roebuck — who will have two of the biggest stores in the mall — were on hand for the ceremonies.

August, 1898
(Peninsula Enterprise- Accomac Court House)
(Ad)

Quick Route To Chincoteague Isl.

Passengers bound for Chincoteague Island can stop off at New Church Station from either train and connect with steamboat at Sinnicksen, Va. Time between station and Chincoteague, 2 hours. Fare $1.00.

Steamer will be at Red Hills each Picnic Days.

For special rates for excursions to Wallops Beach and Chincoteague Island, also from Chincoteague Island to Red Hills and Sinnicksen by steamer, address Raymond S. Stant, Sinnicksen, Va.

July, 1953
Salisbury Times
(Ad)

KEEN'S SQUAB RANCH

NOW READY TO SERVE YOU WITH DRESSED SQUABS READY FOR THE PAN. KILL EVERY FRIDAY. LARGEST SQUAB RANCH ON THE EASTERN SHORE. VISITORS WELCOME. BY-PASS ROAD, POCOMOKE CITY MARYLAND. PHONE: POCOMOKE 505-R.

Footnote: The squab ranch was operated by former major league pitcher Vic Keen, who played for the St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Cubs.

 
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!


 

 

 

Saturday, March 29, 2014

Man Charged With Inappropriately Touching Child & Kidnapping

In all the years my husband has been mudbog racing I have  never given a thought towards something like this happening!  I have always feared that children, because of being small in size, would go unnoticed by the driver of the truck and be run over, lost in the woods or even abducted.

These ARE family/community events and bring spectator families and racers with their families together for a day of racing.  Most of us have made close lifetime friendships with many and it would cause great devastation were something like this to occur again.

KUDOS to those who were able to intervene and rescue that child from the monster at Morgan’s Corner in Elizabeth City, N.C.

Too bad they couldn't throw the creep into the bog during the Unlimited Class or X Class races!

Man charged with inappropriately touching child, kidnapping in Pasquotank









A man has been arrested and charged with kidnapping and taking indecent liberties with a child, among other charges, according to Sheriff Randy Cartwright of Pasquotank County.

On Saturday an event was being held at Morgan’s Corner Proving Ground about 8:00 p.m. Two Pasquotank County Sheriff’s Deputies were on assignment there when they observed a confrontation.

Sheriff’s Cartwright says that confrontation was a group of people stopping 43-year-old Edward Imwald Jr. from inappropriately touching a young child.

Officers say that the suspect inappropriately removed the child without permission from the parents and inappropriately touched the child behind a bus that was parked at the event.

The owner of the motocross park, Chris Smith, says while many people were watching trucks mud bogging, others saw Imwald’s every move and intervened.

“It just goes to show the people that attend these types of events are not just rednecks that don’t care about anything but to drink beers,” Smith said. “The people that were attending the event were smart enough and aware enough that they saw something they didn’t like and gave this person, I guess you would say, ‘country justice’ out here in Elizabeth City.”
Edward Imwald Jr.

People at the event intervened, which caught the attention of a deputy.

Imwald was arrested and charged with Simple Assault, Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor, Indecent Liberties with a Minor, and Kidnapping. He is being held on a $22,000 bond.

This case is still under investigation. Anyone with additional information regarding this incident may contact the Sheriff’s Office at 252-338-2191 or the Hotline at 252-335-5555.

Source:

APRIL Is "National Distracted Driving Awareness Month"

FROM:  Somerset County (MD) Sheriff's Office

The Somerset County Sheriff’s Office announces that April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month

 Through the Maryland Department Of Highway Safety, the Sheriff’s Office has received a mini grant that will allow deputies to work overtime enforcing Distractive Driving throughout the county.

 Deputies will be patrolling the counties roadways, focusing on Distractive Driving in an attempt to lower vehicle crashes by enforcing the use of cell phones, texting, eating while driving, and any other distractions within the vehicle that would distract a driver while operating a motor vehicle.

Somerset County Sheriff’s Office

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

Charles Edward Collins, Princess Anne was arrested 2-28-14 for driving on a revoked driver’s license, driving on a suspended driver’s license, and driving without a license. Collins was released on signatures pending court actions.

 Leslie Lynn Benton, Wenona was arrested 3-2-14 for driving on a suspended driver’s license, and a stop lamp violation. Benton was released on signatures pending court actions.

 Shaneka Carlisa Woolridge, Glenn Dale Maryland was arrested 3-2-14 for driving under the influence of alcohol, driving while impaired by alcohol, and driving in violation of license restrictions. Woolridge was released on citations pending court actions. The arrest was the result of a traffic stop conducted by deputies in the area of UMES Blvd, Princess Anne.

 Everett James Williams Sr., Crisfield was arrested 3-5-14 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Williams was held on a $ 500.00 bond.
 
 Danyal Dnote Dashiell, Salisbury was arrested 3-6-14 on a warrant for violation of probation. Dashiell was held on a $ 35,000 bond.
 
 Keshana Shaqcanda Miller, Berlin was arrested 3-9-14 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Miller was released on a $ 1,000 unsecured bond.

 Two female juveniles were arrested on 3-9-14 for fighting in public. During patrols, deputies witnessed a fight in progress in the area of Antioch Ave, Princess Anne between two females. Deputies arrested and charged both females with 2nd degree assault. Both females were later released to parents pending juvenile court actions.

 Terry Alonzo Milbourne Jr., Princess Anne was arrested 3-10-14 on a warrant for violation of probation. Milbourne was held without bond.

Keshana Shaqcanda Miller,  Berlin, arrested 3-9-14 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Miller was released on personal recognizance.

 Richard Nathanial Armstrong,  Salisbury, arrested 3-12-14 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Armstrong was held on a $ 500.00 bond.

 Jeremiah Alexander Irwin,  Ocean City, arrested 3-12-14 on a warrant for violation of probation. Irwin was held without bond.

 Keshawn Lovell Wright,  Charlestown West Virginia, arrested 3-14-14 on a warrant for violation of probation. Wright was held without bond.

 Gabriele Janeen Heath, Westover, arrested 3-14-14 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Heath was held on a $25,000 bond.

Don's Seafood ~ Deer & Beer Night

 
 
 
 
Snow Hill Area Chamber of Commerce

TIME MACINE ... This Sunday's Preview.


1939.. What's the issue? It's opposed by 34 of 35 Somerset County ministers; 2002.. Pocomoke and Crisfield facing loss of outpatient clinics; 1967.. Construction of Salisbury Mall to begin; 1975.. Spring Festival Days in Pocomoke City; 1898.. 2-hour "Quick Route" to Chincoteague Island; 1953.. Pocomoke's squab ranch.
 
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!

“2014 Annual Vietnam Veterans “Welcome Home” Day

Vietnam Veterans “Welcome Home” Day

 
 
 
"Recognized around the country as a moment of reflection, a day of commemoration and a time to pay due respect to Veterans who sacrificed so much during the Vietnam War."
 
 
 
Other links you may like:
 
 
 

Presidential Proclamation -- Vietnam Veterans Day

VIETNAM VETERANS DAY
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
 
On January 12, 1962, United States Army pilots lifted more than 1,000 South Vietnamese service members over jungle and underbrush to capture a National Liberation Front stronghold near Saigon.  Operation Chopper marked America's first combat mission against the Viet Cong, and the beginning of one of our longest and most challenging wars.  Through more than a decade of conflict that tested the fabric of our Nation, the service of our men and women in uniform stood true.  Fifty years after that fateful mission, we honor the more than 3 million Americans who served, we pay tribute to those we have laid to rest, and we reaffirm our dedication to showing a generation of veterans the respect and support of a grateful Nation.
The Vietnam War is a story of service members of different backgrounds, colors, and creeds who came together to complete a daunting mission.  It is a story of Americans from every corner of our Nation who left the warmth of family to serve the country they loved.  It is a story of patriots who braved the line of fire, who cast themselves into harm's way to save a friend, who fought hour after hour, day after day to preserve the liberties we hold dear.  From Ia Drang to Hue, they won every major battle of the war and upheld the highest traditions of our Armed Forces.
Eleven years of combat left their imprint on a generation.  Thousands returned home bearing shrapnel and scars; still more were burdened by the invisible wounds of post-traumatic stress, of Agent Orange, of memories that would never fade.  More than 58,000 laid down their lives in service to our Nation.  Now and forever, their names are etched into two faces of black granite, a lasting memorial to those who bore conflict's greatest cost.

CONTINUE READING...

Worcester County Recreation & Parks ~ ZUMBA GOLD

 
Zumba Gold is the newest Fitness class offered by WCRP. This easy to follow program lets participants move to the beat at their own speed.
 
 It's an invigorating, community-oriented, dance-fitness class that feels fresh, and most of all, exhilarating!
 
 Zumba Gold classes provide modified, low-impact moves for active older adults.
 
 When: Mondays & Fridays April 7 - June 27, 10:00 - 11:00 am Who: Ages 45+
 Where: Worcester County Recreation Center
 Instructor: Lea Cataggio
 Cost: $35/participant
 
 For more information contact Lea Cataggio 410-632-2144 x109

Friday, March 28, 2014

Arrests ~ Worcester County Sheriff's Office

 
 
 
PRESS RELEASE
 

March 27, 2014 at 12:20 am Deputies from the Worcester County Sheriff Office were on patrol in the area of 51st Street and Coastal Highway in Ocean City, when they observed a vehicle traveling with no headlights on. A traffic stop was made. Deputies met with the driver and observed her to be nervous. Deputies requested a K-9 from the Ocean City Police Department.
 

 A Ocean City K-9 Officer conducted a scan of the vehicle which lead to a positive alert. While searching the vehicle Deputies found a large amount of Marijuana, a large amount of Prescription Pills Adderall, Molly (a powder form of MDMA), and other drug related items.
 
The driver was 19 year old Jessica Lynn Gerz of Strasburg, PA, and the passenger was 20 year old Derrick Logan Scamuffa of Strasburg, PA. Both were arrested and charged with a list of drug related charges. Scamuffa was held on $25,000.00 bond at the Worcester County Jail and Gerz was released on Personal Recognizance.
 
March 27, 2014 at approximately 2345 hours, Deputies from the Worcester County Sheriff’s office responded to Elm Street in West Ocean City, Maryland to investigate a malicious destruction of property.
 
During the investigation, a vehicle driven by Selma Elizabeth Kolb (DOB 12-01-1948) of Ocean City, MD pulled into the parking lot at this location. The driver of the vehicle had been acting strangely and deputies approached the vehicle to question the driver.
 
Upon contact with the driver, Deputies detected the strong odor of an alcoholic beverage about the driver’s breath and person. Kolb submitted to field sobriety testing and was subsequently arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

UPDATE On Downtown Pocomoke City Art Stroll

City of Pocomoke

Due to the weather, the Art Stroll will be held inside the Delmarva Discovery Center from 5-8pm this evening.

 This will still be an awesome event w/ local artists & craftsmen, live entertainment, & food, wine & beer!

 

http://downtownpocomoke.com/

Downtown Pocomoke City 4th Friday Art Stroll

Photo BW
From City of Pocomoke

4th Friday Art Stroll tonight in Downtown Pocomoke from 5-8pm.
If it rains the event will be held inside the Delmarva Discovery Center Museum Store.


 Check our facebook page or www.downtownpocomoke.com for that decision later this afternoon.

4th Friday facebook

And there's always room for music!!

“2014 Annual Vietnam Veteran’s Day" ~ March 29th”


3rd Annual Vietnam Era Veterans Welcome Home Day

Saturday March 29th will be the 3nd Annual National Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day.

 An Open House will be held at the Synepuxent Post #166 American Legion located at 2308 Philadelphia Ave. Ocean City, Md. this year The Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #1091 Ocean city, Md. will be a partner in this years event.

The time will be 1300hrs until 1600hrs with a lunch served to Vietnam Era Veterans. A presentation of the POW/MIA Table will be held at 1500hrs by Bill Wolf.

 In 2007 the US Congress and US Senate passed a resolution proclaiming March 29th as the National Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day. Since that time the states of New Hampshire and Connecticut have passed legislation making it official in those two states.

There will be information available from the 50th United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration www.vietnamwar50th.com which is the home base for the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War. The ground work has been laid and Post #166 is a Commemorative Partner with this National Group appointed by the Department of Defense.

 Information concerning the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) will also be available. Post #166 has over 400 members of Vietnam Veterans and they should be recognized. A Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) has been formed and Chapter President Nelson Kelly will be part of this years program.

 WELCOME HOME

 For more information please contact Sarge Garlitz firstsgt166@msn.com cell phone 443-735-1942 anytime.

American Legion Post 166 Ocean City, MD (FACEBOOK)

Thursday, March 27, 2014

VOTE For Pocomoke Area Chamber of Commerce

Voting continues daily through March 31st!!

Only a few days left to cast your vote for
(facebook)
 
 
 

REVISED - ADDITIONAL CHARGES OBTAINED FOR SUSPECT

Maryland State Police Press Release 03/27/2014

REVISED - ADDITIONAL CHARGES OBTAINED FOR SUSPECT IN SALISBURY ASSAULT ON POLICE

(SALISBURY, MD) – As the search continues for the fugitive, police have obtained an additional warrant charging the suspect in connection with the assault on police in Wicomico County last night that occurred while he was fleeing an attempted arrest.

The suspect is identified as Edwin Fletcher, 31, whose last known address was in Salisbury, Md. Early today, police obtained an arrest warrant for Fletcher, charging him with multiple counts of first degree attempted murder, second degree attempted murder, first degree assault, second degree assault and related charges. This warrant is in addition to the felony drug warrant police were attempting to serve on him last night when the assaults occurred.


Further investigation has determined there were two Maryland state troopers and a Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office deputy in the car that was rammed and run over by Fletcher, who was driving a rented Dodge Ram pickup truck. All three police officers were injured. They were treated for their injuries at Peninsula Regional Medical Center and released early today. They are on leave while recovering from their injuries.

The investigation indicates three police officers fired their pistols at the suspect after the lives of the officers in the car were threatened by the actions of Fletcher. They include a state trooper assigned to the State Police Gang Enforcement Unit, a deputy assigned to the Wicomico County Narcotics Task Force, and a Salisbury Police Department officer assigned to the Gang Enforcement Unit. There is no indication Fletcher or the unidentified person with him was struck by police gunfire.

The injured officers and the officers who fired their weapons will be not identified. Each of the officers works undercover. Releasing their identities will jeopardize their personal safety.

The Maryland State Police Homicide Unit investigation into the police involved shooting is continuing. Upon completion, it will be submitted to the Wicomico County State’s Attorney’s Office for review.
 

David Craig and Jeannie Haddaway on House-Passage of State Budget

 
David Craig and Jeannie Haddaway
on House-Passage of State Budget
 
Harford County Executive David Craig and Del. Jeannie Haddaway released the following joint statement upon House-passage of the state budget today:
 
“Maryland’s budget has increased from $29 billion in actual spending in 2007 to $40 billion proposed for fiscal year 2015, a spending increase of 36% over seven years.
 
“We must re-think the proper role of government in Maryland. Are we really better off with 80 tax, fee and toll increases than we were just seven years ago? Are the schools better, are the roads better, and are we better able to obtain health care or keep neighborhoods safer in 2014 compared to 2007? How is it possible that there is still a deficit in the budget after repeated promises that taxes would be the solution? It can only be attributed to mismanagement and lack of leadership.
 
“The results of no leadership are in. Rather than grow government, we will increase people’s take home pay and spur job creation by eventually eliminating the state’s income tax. In order to do that, we need a sound plan to stop ever-increasing spending.
 
"We commend the House Republican caucus for offering an alternative budget that reduces O’Malley’s spending by 3% yet still allows for a 1% increase over last year’s budget. It is a reasonable and responsible approach – especially given the recent revenue write downs.
 
"Unfortunately, the majority party and the state's top elected officials chose pension fund raids and other accounting tricks in a never-ending quest to increase spending and taxes."

Maryland State Police - ADDITIONAL CHARGES OBTAINED FOR SUSPECT

Maryland State Police Press Release
03/27/2014


ADDITIONAL CHARGES OBTAINED FOR SUSPECT IN SALISBURY ASSAULT ON POLICE

(SALISBURY, MD) – As the search continues for the fugitive, police have obtained an additional warrant charging the suspect in connection with the assault on police in Wicomico County last night that occurred while he was fleeing an attempted arrest.

The suspect is identified as Edwin Fletcher, 31, whose last known address was in Salisbury, Md. Early today, police obtained an arrest warrant for Fletcher, charging him with multiple counts of first degree murder, second degree murder, first degree assault, second degree assault and related charges. This warrant is in addition to the felony drug warrant police were attempting to serve on him last night when the assaults occurred.

Further investigation has determined there were two Maryland state troopers and a Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office deputy in the car that was rammed and run over by Fletcher, who was driving a rented Dodge Ram pickup truck. All three police officers were injured. They were treated for their injuries at Peninsula Regional Medical Center and released early today. They are on leave while recovering from their injuries.

The investigation indicates three police officers fired their pistols at the suspect after the lives of the officers in the car were threatened by the actions of Fletcher. They include a state trooper assigned to the State Police Gang Enforcement Unit, a deputy assigned to the Wicomico County Narcotics Task Force, and a Salisbury Police Department officer assigned to the Gang Enforcement Unit. There is no indication Fletcher or the unidentified person with him was struck by police gunfire.

The injured officers and the officers who fired their weapons will be not identified. Each of the officers works undercover. Releasing their identities will jeopardize their personal safety.

The Maryland State Police Homicide Unit investigation into the police involved shooting is continuing. Upon completion, it will be submitted to the Wicomico County State’s Attorney’s Office for review.


Delegate McDermott Stands Up Against Bathroom Bill


'Delegate McDermott Stands Up Against Bathroom Bill'
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
Today the House of Delegates will be debating SB-212 on final reading. The bill would make transgender identified people a special protected class of citizens to allow them full access to any and all public accommodations.  There is great concern that this will create a host of problems for Maryland businesses. There is no real exceptions, and those that exist require similar accommodations be provided if these folks are not allowed in certain areas of an establishment (spas, locker rooms, etc.).
 
“We have issues in Maryland that need to be addressed,” said Delegate Mike McDermott, “and insuring that a teacher can be ‘Sam’ on Monday and ‘Sally’ on Friday is what the democrats choose to make the object of their attentions in the State House. The bill is misguided at best, and destructive at its core.”
 
The Republicans are making an effort to make bathrooms excepted from this bill as well as other private accommodations where people are disrobed or partially disrobed without the need to create another space for transgenders, but no floor amendments were allowed yesterday when the bill was on Second Reader. It is doubtful that the democrats will allow any changes to the bill today.
 
The potential outfall and burdens that will be placed upon our businesses and families cannot be fully appreciated. The failure of the House democrats to allow for us to function as a deliberative body so that this legislation can be properly scrutinized is a great injustice to our citizens.
 
“The fact that we are even debating this issue on the floor of the General Assembly is disturbing; but the probable passage of this legislation should make every Marylander shake the democrats from their seats” said Delegate McDermott.

The vote will occur around noon today.