LEGISLATIVE UPDATES ~ Mike McDermott

• Special Session Field Notes
• Observations and Reflections on Legislative Activities
• By Delegate Mike McDermott

Legislative Field Notes
By Delegate Mike McDermott
Oct. 17, 2011

Special Session of the General Assembly
Morning Session:
The first matters that were taken up in the Special Session were the bills from the 2011 Regular Session which had been vetoed by the governor. There were 40 such bills to address. We had discussed all of these vetoed bills in our caucus meeting previously. Most were duplicate or cross filed bills which were passed under another file number and represented technical vetoes. Some of the vetoed legislation was reviewed following passage and found to have flaws which were not picked up prior to passage. These bills were vetoed by request of the sponsor. The only bill which we considered opposing was HB-22 which was a bill submitted by Del. Smegiel and passing easily in both chambers before coming to the governor’s desk. This bill simply called for a uniform Circuit Court subpoena process be established in the Maryland Circuit Courts. It was a money saving measure, but it was opposed by many in the judiciary and court clerks across the state. Following debate on the idea of attempting an override of the veto, it was decided by vote that this was not a battle we needed to fight at this time when considering that we needed to focus all of our efforts on redistricting.

All of the vetoed legislation was combined together by consent of the House members and the governor’s veto was sustained on a vote of 125-6.

There were 21 bills which were filed by several members for consideration by the House during the Special Session. Those bills were introduced into the House and were forwarded to the Rules Committee to determine if they will be assigned to a Committee for review. It is doubtful that any will be considered other than the bills addressing redistricting. On initial review, I did not see any bills calling for tax increases…but the session is young. I remain hopeful that we will stay the course and stick to redistricting issues.

Hearing in Judiciary

• Expungement of Records/Shielding of Records-

Del. Anderson/Walstreicher/Carter
Review of HB-878; HB-1342; HB-1279; HB-1255
We heard from the Task Force on legislation which would address the shielding of criminal records under certain circumstances. There is ongoing debate over the way the courts and the legislature should address expanding guidelines for the shielding/expunging of criminal records. Certain automatic expungements were discussed when a person was found not guilty of a charge as opposed to a written request being required. It was also suggested that one’s driving record should be examined for possible automatic expungement following a set period of time. Some of the committee members like to use the word “mistake” as a substitute for “crime”. There was quite a discussion over providing safe guards for businesses as well as those who may deserve a second chance. The committee took a lot of notes and it is clear we will be hearing this again in 2012.

• Maryland Trust Act

Submitted by the Maryland Bankers Association/Committee members
Review of HB-750 (as submitted in 2011)
We heard from a group of bankers and attorneys in Maryland on the need to revise and codify the laws governing Trusts. The general issue concerns the lack of codified law and the desire of the committee to simplify the process and eliminate the need for continually going back to the courts to address issues that could be done outside of the courts by mutual agreement. There was concern that in trying to codify the rules/law, the committee may have modified existing rules. The submitted legislation is 93-pages and will require a thorough review and many additional hearings to address all of the many concerns. After hearing from the committee members, I am not convinced the “Trust Act” will be ready for prime time in January. The technical law questions are extensive.

On the Lawyer’s Mall there were a few press conferences for alternative bills being offered for redistricting. There are three primary bills which people are rallying behind other than the governor’s plan. All three of the bills address the creation of an additional minority district. We expect all of these bills to be heard in committee tomorrow.

On redistricting, there may be an opportunity to work across the aisle with those from certain districts who may feel disenfranchised by the governor’s gerrymandered map. Currently, a map backed by the Fannie Lou Hamer PAC is being sponsored by Del. Hough (R-Frederick) and Sen. Pipkin (R-Upper Shore) in cooperation with the PAC. It is a good map and would create the potential for a third minority congressional district in Maryland. It would also make some of the other districts more competitive for both parties. It is a balanced approach and has bi-partisan support in both chambers.

The same can be said for a map being offered by Sen. Getty (D-Carroll) and Del. Smigiel (R-Cecil). This map also helps create an additional minority district and provides for greater sense of natural, political, and historic boundaries. In essence, it abides by the Maryland Constitution and is bi-partisan on approach.

The third alternative to the governor’s map is referred to as the “Good Government Map” which has been proffered by the Maryland GOP. This is probably the best drawn map, geographically and it lends itself to an additional minority district as well. Sadly, since it is the GOP map, it is not going to get very far.

Tomorrow at noon, a Rally for Good Government will be held on the Lawyer’s Mall in front of the Capitol steps. Special speakers include Ambassador Ellen Sauerbrey, Grover Norquist (American’s for Tax Reform), Sen. Pipkin, Charles Lollar (American’s for Prosperity), Del. Smigiel, as well as myself and others. The people are demanding good government, and all of the speakers will be encouraging Marylanders to press on. We are hoping for a great turnout.

Re-Trial Begins Today For Skylor Harmon

WMDT

SNOW HILL, Md. - An alleged murderer is set to face yet another jury on Tuesday in Worcester County.

Skylor Harmon is accused of gunning down Reginald Handy Jr. in Pocomoke City last year.

Back in June, the jury couldn't come to an agreement on a verdict, leaving the judge with no choice but to declare a mistrial.

Harmon faces first and second degree murder charges.

Source;  http://www.wmdt.com/story/15714348/murder-re-trial-for-skylor-harmon-set-to-begin-tuesday

October Is Adopt-A-Dog Month

Please consider giving a dog a forever home.













A PET'S TEN COMMANDMENTS ~ By Stan Rawlinson

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

WORCESTER COUNTY SCHEDULES ADDITIONAL RABIES CLINICS

If your beloved pets are in need of rabies shots PLEASE take this opportunity to get it done!  PLEASE PROTECT YOUR PETS!

 WORCESTER COUNTY SCHEDULES ADDITIONAL RABIES CLINICS

SNOW HILL – Due to the spike in confirmed cases of rabies in recent weeks in wild animals and a cat, the Worcester County Health Department and Animal Control would like to remind residents of the importance of making sure their pets have current rabies shots. To assist the public in protecting their pets, they have scheduled two rabies clinics in October and two more in November.

Rabies clinics will be held from 5:30-7 p.m.on:

• Wednesday, October 19, Showell Fire Hall, Route 575 and Old Route 113.
• Thursday, October 20, Stockton Fire Hall, Route 12 and Route 366.
• Wednesday, November 2, Worcester County Animal Control on Timmons Road in Snow Hill.
• Wednesday, November 16, Worcester County Animal Control on Timmons Road in Snow Hill.

The cost for a rabies vaccination is $5 per pet for Worcester County residents and $10 per pet fornon-Worcester County residents. Vaccinations are available for dogs, cats and ferrets. Below are requirements for the clinics:

• Worcester County residents must provide proof of residency, i.e. driver’s license, utility bill with address on it, or veterinary records showing address.
• If this is not the pet’s first rabies vaccination, written proof of the previous shot must be provided in order to receive a three-year booster shot. Otherwise, a one-year shot will be given.
• To receive a vaccination, dogs must be on a leash under the control of an adult, and cats and ferrets must be in a carrier or box with air holes.

Although there are several ways to minimize risk from this deadly disease, keeping pets’ required rabies vaccinations current is the best mechanism to prevent the spread of rabies from the wild animal population to the domestic animal population.

For more information on the clinics or to report animal bites or possible rabies exposures to pets from wild animals contact the Worcester County Health Department at 410-352-3234 or410-641-9559. If an incident occurs after normal business hours, contact your local law enforcement or the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office.  

http://www.co.worcester.md.us/Articles/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=905

SHORE BEEF and BBQ ~ Celebrating ONE Year

CONGRATULATIONS RON AND DEE

SHORE BEEF and BBQ

CELEBRATES

ONE YEAR OF BUSINESS !!

Tuesday and Wednesday

 at their Accomac  location

TUESDAY ALL DAY SPECIAL

Pulled bbq chicken sandwich/ w side

Drink ~ $7.50

Stop by for some delicious bbq and congratulate them on a year of making great food.

Be sure to see the facebook page and let them know how you enjoyed their fantastic bbq.

WORCESTER COUNTY - Fake Marijuana Ban Considered

If  you  plan to attend this meeting: Tuesday, October 18, 2011 - 11:00 a.m.  @ 1 W. Market Street, Snow Hill, MD.

Written by

Brian Shane

SNOW HILL -- The public has the opportunity to weigh in on Worcester County's proposed ban on fake marijuana and similar hallucinogens.

The Worcester County Commissioners are scheduled to consider emergency legislation Tuesday that would ban "cannabimimetic agents and hallucinogenic chemical substances" -- a wordy way to describe products popularly known as K2 or Spice.


The meeting begins at 11 a.m., one hour later than the usual start time, because of a scheduled closed session beforehand.


The bill specifically outlaws chemicals that replicate the effects of the main psychoactive compound of marijuana, as well as chemical compounds deemed to be hallucinogenic chemical substances.

Anyone convicted of violating the proposed law could face misdemeanor drug charges bringing, at most, a penalty of six years in jail and a $1,000 fine.


Ocean City in August passed a municipal ban on such hallucinogenic substances, and the commissioners are poised to enact a law that mirrors the resort's. The goal is to prevent spill-over sales into the county.


Such drugs are sold under the guise of being incense. But in area shops, merchants have been known to push each as a substance that will bring the user a high similar to smoking marijuana, according to Chief Bernadette DiPino of the Ocean City Police.


Moreover, fake pot is marketed to young people who are eager to smoke marijuana, but perhaps don't want to break the law just yet, according to Worcester County State's Attorney Beau Oglesby. He wrote a letter to county leaders supporting a ban.


Oglesby said without the county adopting a ban similar to Ocean City's, a child of any age could legally purchase synthetic drugs outside the resort limits.


Representatives from Oglesby's office, the county Sheriff's Office and Ocean City police are all expected to offer testimony to the commissioners as to why products of this nature should be made illegal to possess.

The commissioners gave the green light to the ban at a Sept. 13 work session.


Source;  http://www.delmarvanow.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2011110170304

Grey-Haired Brigade

They like to refer to us as senior citizens, old fogies, geezers and, in some cases, dinosaurs. Some of us are "Baby Boomers" getting ready to retire. Others have been retired for some time. We walk a little slower these days and our eyes and hearing are not what they once were.
 
We have worked hard, raised our children, worshipped our God and grown old together. Yes, we are the ones some refer to as being over the hill, and that is probably true. But before writing us off completely, there are a few things that need to be taken into consideration.
 
In school we studied English, history, math, and science which enabled us to lead America into the technological age. Most of us remember what outhouses were, many of us with firsthand experience. We remember the days of telephone party-lines, 25 cent gasoline, and milk and ice being delivered to our homes. For those of you who don't know what an icebox is, today they are electric and referred to as refrigerators. A few even remember when cars were started with a crank. Yes, we lived those days.
 
We are probably considered old fashioned and out-dated by many. But there are a few things you need to remember before completely writing us off. We won World War II, fought in Korea and Viet Nam. We can quote The Pledge of Allegiance, and know where to place our hand while doing so. We wore the uniform of our country with pride and lost many friends on the battlefield. We didn't fight for the Socialist States of America, we fought for the "Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave."  We wore different uniforms but carried the same flag. We know the words to the Star Spangled Banner, America, and America the Beautiful by heart, and you may even see some tears running down our cheeks as we sing. We have lived what many of you have only read about in history books and we feel no obligation to apologize to anyone for America.
 

Yes, we are old and slow these days but rest assured, we have at least one good fight left in us. We have loved this country, fought for it, and died for it, and now we are going to save it. It is our country and nobody is going to take it away from us.  We took oaths to defend America against all enemies, foreign and domestic, and that is an oath we plan to keep. There are those who want to destroy this land we love but, like our founders, there is no way we are going to remain silent.
 
It was the young and infidels of this nation who elected Obama and the Democratic Congress.
 
You fell for the "Hope and Change" which in reality was nothing but "Hype and Lies." You have tasted socialism and seen evil face to face, and have found you don't like it after all. You make a lot of noise, but most are all too interested in their careers or "Climbing the Social Ladder" to be involved in such mundane things as patriotism and voting. Many of those who fell for the "Great Lie" in 2008 are now having buyer's remorse. With all the education we gave you, you didn't have sense enough to see through the lies and instead drank the 'Kool-Aid.' Now you're paying the price and complaining about it. No jobs, lost mortgages, higher taxes, and less freedom. This is what you voted for and this is what you got. We entrusted you with the Torch of Liberty and you traded it for a paycheck and a fancy house.
 
Well, don't worry youngsters, the Grey Haired Brigade is here, and in 2012 we are going to take back our nation. We may drive a little slower than you would like but we get where we're going, and in 2012 we're going to the polls by the millions. This land does not belong to the man in the White House nor to the likes of Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid. It belongs to "We the People" and "We the People" plan to reclaim our land and our freedom. We hope this time you will do a better job of preserving it and passing it along to our grandchildren. So the next time you have the chance to say the Pledge of  Allegiance, stand up, put your hand over your heart, honor our country,  and thank God for the old geezers of the "Grey-Haired Brigade."
 ~Author, Anon. Grey-Haired Brigade Member

Hat Tip; Kack

Volunteers Needed For "Friends of the Nature Trail"

Do you love Nature and being out in the fresh air?  Then YOU need to be a volunteer for Friends of the Nature Trail.

*VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED*

The Nature Trail Committee is still looking for community sprited people to volunteer to keep the Pocomoke Nature Trail alive and growing.


For many years the nature trail has been growing and it is so very important to keep this project alive and growing in the future.  Here is where the "next generation"  can step in.  Here is YOUR chance to have a role in being one of the Friends of the Nature Trail.


You know, the Pocomoke River is a beauty by boat but it is just as wonderful to see from the nature trail.


Needed for this continuing project are:

Planners

Money Raisers

Schedulers

And of course citizens to help build.

It's a beautiful part of Pocomoke.  Pocomoke belongs to YOU.  Grab a friend or relative or two and become members of the Friends of the Nature Trail.

Here's the number to call.  Pocomoke City Hall/ (410)957-1333

Give them your name and tell them what part you would like to play in keeping the nature trail growing into the future.

Search For Body Of Missing Boy Comes Up Empty

Curtis Lopez

By Derek Valcourt

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (WJZ)– Montgomery County Police spent the day searching the woods for the body of an 11-year-old boy missing ever since his mother was found murdered last week.

Derek Valcourt has details on where police were searching and why.

Police will only say investigative information led them to search two parks in Montgomery County– one in Damascus, the other in Clarksburg.

Teams of police officers, volunteers and even cadaver dogs searched the woods in Damascus Regional Park all Sunday. They’re following the latest lead in the disappearance of 11-year-old William McQuain.

His mother, 51-year-old Jane McQuain, was found beaten and stabbed to death in their Germantown home Wednesday night. The boy’s stepfather, Curtis Lopez, was arrested in North Carolina and charged with the murder. But 11-year-old William McQuain hasn’t been seen in weeks.

“We still have the investigation open that has hope that William will be found alive,” said Capt. Paul Starks of the Montgomery County Police. “However, detectives cannot ignore bona-fide information that is causing them to be here today.”

Police won’t say where that information came from, only that nearly 80 people spent the day searching the hundreds upon hundreds of acres of woods in the two parks for the little boy’s body, finding nothing.

Police may not know yet whether 11-year-old William McQuain is still alive or if his body is in these woods or somewhere else but they say they do expect answers soon.



William McQuain/5'0" tall, 85pounds brown hair, brown eyes
Last seen Sept. 30 at his middle school in Maryland

“Life’s too short to begin with, but an 11-year-old, that’s unacceptable really,” Jim Stegeman said. News of the search heartbreaking to those who live in the neighborhood surrounding Damascus Regional Park.

“The path goes right to our house,” Lori Stegeman explained. “My daughter and I took the dogs out and we were just like heartbroken imagining if we found something, what would we do and how horrible.”

Some of Jane McQuain’s friends also organized their own search of the neighborhood and the woods near her Germantown home.

While the search for young William McQuain continues, so does the criminal case against his stepfather.

Lopez goes before a judge on Monday in North Carolina. At issue– his extradition back to Maryland.

Police say they found nothing significant in their search on Sunday. They may search the parks again on Monday.

Source;  http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2011/10/16/police-search-parks-for-william-mcquain/#comments

Pocomoke City Mayor and Council

Pocomoke to secure mortgage for renovation

Written by

Bill Kerbin

POCOMOKE CITY -- The Pocomoke mayor and council voted to approve an emergency resolution to secure a $1.08 million mortgage from Shore Bank for the acquisition and renovation of the building at 1500 Market St. for the new police department headquarters.

The loan will include $532,500 for the acquisition of the property and $550,000 for the renovations of the building. Last month the council approved the bid by Beauchamp Construction for the renovation work. The bid was for $468,400, which was to be "value engineered" to reduce the costs.

Mayor Bruce Morrison reported that the Delmarva Discovery Center had requested additional help to cover the utilities at the center. Currently the town is giving the center $15,000 per year toward the cost of the utilities. However, according to Brian Garrett, the executive director, the cost for power is approximately $25,000 per year.

The council voted to conditionally approve the increase in the reimbursement but wanted to see the accounts of the center. Councilman Robert Clarke voted against the increase, saying he wanted instead to work on controlling the center's costs.

Audit report

Saying that the financial position of the town had improved, Mike Kleger, vice president of P.K.S., town auditors, reported that they had given Pocomoke City an unqualified opinion, which is the highest opinion that an auditor can give. City Manager Russell W. Blake reported that Mona Van Ess does an "excellent job" in taking care of the town's bookkeeping.

Kleger reported that the town's fund balance had increased $199,450 to a total of $668,275, or 15 percent of the town's operating expenses. The increase would have been even higher if the town had not had to transfer $491,000 to the water and sewer fund and $60,000 to the ambulance fund. The ambulance deficit was an improvement from the previous year, when the town had to transfer $107,000 into the fund.

The council passed a second emergency resolution to apply for a Community Legacy Grant of $148,000 from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. If successful, approximate amounts would be awarded to the following areas: Mar-Va Theater, $15,000; Costen House, $28,000; Delmarva Discovery Center for a generator system, $35,000; and downtown business development incentives, $70,000.

Blake suggested that the downtown business money could be used for business owners to make improvements and to help new businesses locate downtown. He said that maybe it could be used to pay the first few months rent for a new business or maybe for a deferred loan. He added that Angela Manos, the downtown coordinator, could work with the owners to find new businesses that would make a good fit downtown.

Awarding bids

The council voted to award a bid to Hill's Electric for the replacement of three four-inch valves and three six inch valves at the water treatment plant at a cost of $11,836. He said that some of the valves were leaking and needed replacing.

The other bid was for the demolition of the house at 707 Clarke Ave. and was awarded to Harry White at a cost of $10,000.

Under other business, the council voted to give Samaritan Shelter a round of golf for four players including a cart to be used in their Christmas gift basket; to allow the Chamber of Commerce the use of the Winter Quarters Golf Course for its annual tournament on Oct. 21; and to purchase an ad in the Pocomoke High School yearbook.

http://www.delmarvanow.com/article/20111016/NEWS01/110160302/Pocomoke-secure-mortgage-renovation?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|frontpage|p

TIME MACHINE

I'm on vacation but The TIME MACHINE will return with some "new" old stuff on Sunday, 10/23, and a preview a few days before. See you then!

tk for PPE



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. Your name won't be used unless you ask that it be. Send to tkforppe@yahoo.com and watch for it on a future TIME MACHINE posting!

October Is ADOPT-A-DOG Month

"A dog is the only thing on earth

that loves you

more than he loves himself."

 ~Josh Billings~

The Rural Sign Painter

Norfolk Sailor Wins $250,000 in Mega Millions

Wouldn't it be nice if we could all be this lucky?

WTKR-TV

Orvin McLean matched the first five numbers to win the game’s second prize of $250,000.

He came within only one number of hitting the Jackpot, Mega Ball number. His ticket was one of just three nationwide to match five numbers, and the only one in Virginia.

He bought the winning ticket at Omer Art Shell, 1116 Big Bethel Road in Hampton.

The winning numbers for that drawing were 5-15-19-23-38 and the Mega Ball was 19.

He used Easy Pick and allowed the computer to randomly select the numbers on his ticket. Had he matched that final number, he would have won a jackpot estimated at $14 million.

McLean, who is in the U. S. Navy, told Virginia Lottery officials he hopes to buy a house and pay some bills with his winnings.

Source;  http://www.wtkr.com/news/wtkr-norfolk-sailor-wins-250-000-in-mega-millions-20111014,0,44618.story

YARD SALE TODAY

YARD SALE 

&
HEALTH FAIR

 TODAY

HARTLEY HALL NURSING

AND REHAB CENTER

Market Street

Pocomoke City, Maryland

Great bargains at the yard sale!

Bake Sale

Be sure to stop by for some great yard sale finds and pick up some helpful info from the health fair.

Yard sale ~ 8:00 am

Health fair ~ 9:00 am

YARD SALE TODAY ~ SHORE BEEF and BBQ

YARD SALE  TODAY

8:00 am until......

New Church, Virginia

Route 13, South

Just before T's corner

Lots a great items for sale real cheap.

While you're there stay for lunch!

~Look for the pink tables~

Fugitives From October 6 Drug Sweep

"NO REFILL"
I posted this a few weeks ago with the lists of those arrested during this drug sweep.  Unfortunately, law enforcement was not able to nab everyone they wanted so below are photos of the fugitives.  Maybe the public eye can spot these wanted men and help put them behind bars.

Leanna Caplan

EASTERN SHORE, Va. (WAVY) - More than 75 law enforcement officers converged on the Eastern Shore for a drug sweep that resulted in more than $500,000 worth of drugs seized and criminal charges on 43 people.

Law enforcement officers served the indictments, arrest warrants, and the execution of two search warrants on October 6, a news release from Virginia State Police said.

The Eastern Shore Drug Task Force, which consists of the Accomack and Northampton County Sheriff’s Offices and Virginia State Police, worked with the Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Worcester County, Md. Sheriff’s Office.

The investigation began in late 2009 with the DEA. Police said its purpose was to target primarily cocaine distributors on the Eastern Shore.

The initial step of the investigation was dubbed "No Refill," due to the overwhelming number of people that were charged with prescription drugs during this phase of the investigation.

During this phase, more than $5,000 in cash, nine firearms, two pounds of cocaine, more than 169 marijuana plants, 1263 grams of marijuana, five vehicles, seven grams of heroin, and an assortment of prescription drugs were seized.

The following individuals are still fugitives and wanted:

- Princeton Bragg, Pierre Brickhouse, Markee Kellam, Antonio Robinson, Deidron Kelley, and Sheicora Bagwell are all wanted on distribution of a controlled substance.
- Earl Elder is wanted on felony distribution of marijuana.
- Norris Malone is wanted on ABC violations.
- Johnathan Johnson is still a fugitive on federal charges related to cocaine conspiracy charges and gun trafficking charges.

Wanted: (Top row) Sheicora Bagwell, Princeton Bragg, Pierre Brickhouse,

(Middle) Earl Elder,

 Johnathan Johnson, Markee Kellam,

(Bottom) Deidron Kelley, Norris Malone, Antonio Robinson

Police departments in Exmore, Cape Charles, Parksley, Onley, Onancock, and Hallwood assisted with the investigation. Other agencies that assisted include Virginia Marine Police, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries-Law Enforcement Division, Virginia Probation and Parole, and Virginia State Police Melfa barrack.

Source;  http://www.wavy.com/dpp/news/crime/eastern-shore-drug-sweep-nets-arrests

Eastern Shore Virginia Get First Turbine Testing Facility

Representative Scott Rigell

Rigell Applauds Governor McDonnell's Efforts to Bring First U.S. Wind Turbine Test Facility to Virginia's Eastern Shore

Washington, Oct 13 - Collaborative project first of its kind

Washington, DC, October 13 – Representative Scott Rigell (VA-2) commended Governor Bob McDonnell on the announcement of a project to establish a facility for the testing and certification of large offshore and land-based electricity-producing wind turbines on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. The collaborative project, called Poseidon Atlantic, would be the first such test facility in existence, and the initial phase of the project is to be developed in Northampton County.

“I’m thrilled that this project is going forward for the Commonwealth, the country, and particularly for the Eastern Shore of Virginia,” said Rigell, who represents the Eastern Shore, Virginia Beach, and parts of Hampton and Norfolk. “As a nation, we must achieve energy independence, and wind energy technology carries with it extreme potential to address the energy challenges our great country faces today.

“Here in Virginia’s Second Congressional District, we’ve known for some time about the incredible opportunities – and jobs! – that wind energy can create. We are so excited to have this forward-looking project find a home in our district.”

Beyond creating jobs directly on the Eastern Shore, the development of the commercial wind turbine test center in coastal Virginia would capitalize on the unique maritime advantages provided by the Port of Virginia. Hampton Roads is well-positioned to provide marine construction, fabrication and supply-chain support to the offshore wind industry.


The Poseidon Atlantic project is a private-sector initiative developed by the companies Real NewEnergy, Fugro and Ecofys, with the support of the Commonwealth, the Virginia Port Authority (VPA) and the Netherlands government. The proposed facility is intended for full-service testing and certification of existing-and-next generation land-based and offshore wind turbine generators.

Source;  http://rigell.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=264158

News From Pocomoke City ~

POCOMOKE CITY POLICE CHIEF ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT-REPLACEMENT NAMED

NEWS RELEASE

Long- time Pocomoke City Police Chief Juergen D. (J.D.) Ervin has announced his retirement effective November 30, 2011. Prior to assuming his position in Pocomoke City in 1995, Chief Ervin served two years as the Chief of the Elkton, Maryland Police Department and 28 years with the Laurel, Maryland Police Department including 12 years as Deputy Chief.

Chief Ervin is a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia and has served as President of the Maryland Municipal League Chiefs’ Association for the past 30 years. He has been active in several groups including the International Police Chiefs’ Association and the American Legion. He is a Vietnam-era Army veteran who served four years in the military police. In 1970-71 he served as Chief of Police in Pocomoke City.

Some highlights of Chief Ervin’s exceptional career in Pocomoke City have included:

● CALEA (Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies) National Recognition Certification; one of only 2 city police agencies on the Eastern Shore of Maryland to be CALEA-Certified or Recognized;

● Introduction of several youth-related programs including Christmas Party, Back-to-School event, Easter Egg Hunt, and fishing program;

● Two “National Night Out “events in the top 20 Nationwide;

● Receipt of over $1 million in State and Federal grants; and

● Significant reductions in overall crime rates through technology, training, enforcement and citizen engagement.

According to Mayor Bruce A. Morrison, “The City Council and I wish Chief Ervin well in his retirement, which is greatly deserved. He has done an outstanding job for our community for the past 16 years”. “With his previous experience in larger departments, he brought a new level of professionalism to our Police Department.” City Council Vice President Tracey Cottman added, “J.D. has done a great job as our Chief. Although we will miss him, he leaves the Police Department in excellent shape for the future.”

A retirement banquet for Chief Ervin is in the planning stages.

Coincidentally with Chief Ervin’s retirement, City Manager Russell W. Blake also announced the appointment of Captain Kelvin D. Sewell as Chief of Police. According to Blake, “Captain Sewell has been a great addition to the Police Department and has earned his promotion to Chief. His prior experience with the Baltimore Police Department has been very valuable and will continue to benefit the Pocomoke City Police Department in the future.”

Capt. Sewell is married with two children and is a resident of Pocomoke City which is required by City policy. He will take over as Chief of the Pocomoke City Police Department on December 1, 2011.

Mayor Morrison said, “Capt. Sewell has made an excellent impression on elected officials, police employees and the general public. We are glad that we are able to promote someone from within our own department to this important position.”

Councilwoman Cottman added, “Capt. Sewell is a man of character and integrity as well as an exceptionally well-qualified professional to be our Chief of Police. We look forward to working with him for many years to come.”

Good luck to you both.

from the ppe

Pocomoke City Police Chief To Retire

I received word just a few moments ago......

Long time Pocomoke City Police Chief J.D. Ervin has announced  his retirement.

Chief Ervin will retire from his many years as Chief of the Pocomoke City Police Department on November 30, 20ll.

Captain Kelvin D. Sewell will become the new Chief of Pocomoke City  effective December 1, 2011.

More to follow soon....

Those of us at the PPE thank Chief Ervin for all of his great work through  the years and  hope that Chief Ervin enjoys his retirement immensely!

Congratulations  and good luck to Captain Sewell  in your new postion as being the Chief of Police of Pocomoke City.

Birthday Today

~ HAPPY 236TH BIRTHDAY ~

UNITED STATES NAVY !!

TIME MACHINE

I'm on vacation but The TIME MACHINE will return with some "new" old stuff on Sunday, 10/23, and a preview a few days before. See you then!

tk for PPE


　
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. Your name won't be used unless you ask that it be. Send to tkforppe@yahoo.com and watch for it on a future TIME MACHINE posting!

Save The Date For BINGO

Couple Lost In Corn Maze Calls 911 For Help

Connors Farm corn maze
Courtesy of The Maize, the Utah-based company that designed
the maze.

 DANVERS, Mass. -- Getting lost in a corn maze is supposed to be fun. But it turned into a nightmare for a Massachusetts couple who got so lost that they had to be rescued by the police.

It all started late Monday afternoon, when the couple entered a corn maze at Connors Farm in Danvers, Mass., about 23 miles north of Boston.

After about an hour in the maze, darkness began to fall. The couple, who were there with their 3-week-old baby, were unable to find a way out. As the mosquitoes started to descend, they placed a desperate call to 911 asking to be rescued.

The Danvers police released audio of the call.

Here's an edited transcript:Woman in tears: Hi, I just called. I'm still stuck at Connors Farms. I don't see anybody. I'm really scared. It's really dark and we've got a 3-week-old.

Police officer: Your husband is with you?

Woman: Yes. But my baby...

Police officer: A police officer is on the way. Can you put your husband on the phone?

Husband: I see lights over there at the place, but we can't get there, we're smack right in the middle of the corn field.

Woman: I don't know what made us do this, it was daytime when we came in, we thought if we came in someone would come in and find us... We can hear [the police officers]... Oh, my goodness. The mosquitoes are eating us alive, and I never took my daughter out, this is the first time. Never again.

Woman: This is embarrassing.By the end of the seven-minute call, a K-9 unit had found the couple.

Kamille Combs, marketing director for the Utah-based company the Maize, which designed the Connors Farm maze, said the company's average corn maze is 8 to 10 acres and that it takes the average person 45 minutes to complete the maze.

She said the company usually breaks its mazes into three different phases -- "because some people want that ultimate challenge, and others are happy after 20 minutes."

She said she'd never heard of someone needing to be rescued by the police from a corn maze before.Video and more to the story: 

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/nationnow/2011/10/connors-farm-turns-corn-maze-nightmare-into-marketing-bonanza.html

Source;  http://www.wtkr.com/news/ktla-couple-lost-in-corn-maze-calls-911,0,6542369.story

AMBER ALERT

GERMANTOWN, Md. - Maryland State Police have issued an Amber Alert for a missing 11-year-old boy. The alert was issued after the boy's mother was found dead in her bedroom Wednesday night.

Montgomery County Police responded to the 13100 block of Briarcliff Terrace around 8:25 p.m. Wednesday evening as part of a missing person investigation. That's when police say they found the body of 51-year-old Jane McQuain in the bedroom. Officials say there was evidence of trauma to her body.

However, authorities say the whereabouts of Jane McQuain's son, 11-year-old William McQuain, are unknown. William was last in seen at his residence on September 30.



William McQuain

William is described as a light skin black male, approximately 5'0" and 85 lbs. Officials say a vehicle registered to Jane McQuain is also missing and William could be with the vehicle. It is described as a black, 2011 Honda CRV with Maryland tags 5AG9405.

Anyone with information on William McQuain's whereabouts or the location of the missing vehicle should call 911 immediately. Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call the Montgomery County Major Crimes Division at (240) 773-5070.

Those who want to remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward may call Crime Solvers of Montgomery County toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477) or 240-773-TIPS. Crime Solvers is offering a cash reward for information provided to them that leads to the arrest and/or indictment of the person(s) responsible for these crimes. Anonymous tips can also be provided by typing "MCPD" plus the tip on a cell phone or PDA and texting it to 274637 (CRIMES).

http://www.wmdt.com/story/15683793/amber-alert-issued-for-missing-md-boy-following-mothers-death

YARD SALE - Saturday

YARD SALE

and

HEALTH FAIR

HARTLEY HALL NURSING

AND REHAB CENTER

Market Street

Pocomoke City, Maryland

Saturday, October 15, 2011

8:00 AM until 1:00 PM

Health Fair 9:00 until 1:00 PM

Great merchandise for sale including

Mary Kay products      Thirty-one Gifts       and much more!!

Bake Sale too!!

Visit the Health Fair while there- LifeLine, Home Health Care Agencies, Blood Pressure Screening just to name a few.

~SEE YOU THERE~