Throwback Thursday
at the Mar-Va Theater
GONE WITH THE WIND
7 PM
Tickets $5
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Throwback Thursday At the Mar-Va Theater
Legislative Updates By Delegate Mike McDermott
Press Release
February 12, 2013
‘The Intersection of US 113 and MD 12
Will Finally Receive a Traffic Signal’
(Annapolis) -- “The Maryland Department of Transportation has finally recognized the dire need for a traffic signal at the US 113 MD 12 intersection. Snow Hill residents and travelers can now rest assure that their travels through that area will be much safer.
Delegate McDermott received a letter today from the Maryland Department of Transportation stating its plans of installing a traffic signal at the intersection of Us 113 and MD 12 by mid-summer.
Delegate McDermott received a letter today from the Maryland Department of Transportation stating its plans of installing a traffic signal at the intersection of Us 113 and MD 12 by mid-summer.
This letter was in response to Delegate McDermott’s letter urging the Secretary of the Maryland Department of Transportation to take action to remedy the large amount of car accidents occurring at the intersection.
As Delegate McDermott explained in his letter, “For countless years, the citizens of Worcester County and the travelers passing through our area have dealt with the treacherous two lane sections of US Rt. 113. Perhaps the worst area of this terrible section of the highway is located at the intersection of Rt. 12 in Snow Hill. The fatalities and serious injury accidents are astounding.”
As Delegate McDermott explained in his letter, “For countless years, the citizens of Worcester County and the travelers passing through our area have dealt with the treacherous two lane sections of US Rt. 113. Perhaps the worst area of this terrible section of the highway is located at the intersection of Rt. 12 in Snow Hill. The fatalities and serious injury accidents are astounding.”
Riverside Grill Specials
WEDNESDAY
FEBRUARY 13, 2013
-Cheesy Broccoli Soup w/ ½ shrimp salad sandwich or side salad 6.99
-NC Pulled Pork BBQ w/ cole slaw and hush puppies 6.99
-Pittsburgh Salad (marinated flank steak, fries, iceberg lettuce, cheddar, cucumbers, tomatoes and red onions) 8.99
-Buffalo Shrimp Platter w/ carrots, celery, and cole slaw 8.99
-NC Pulled Pork BBQ w/ cole slaw and hush puppies 6.99
-Pittsburgh Salad (marinated flank steak, fries, iceberg lettuce, cheddar, cucumbers, tomatoes and red onions) 8.99
-Buffalo Shrimp Platter w/ carrots, celery, and cole slaw 8.99
Happy Hour 4-7 w/ $1 off appetizer
@ 8 pm:
$5 crab dip
$5 cosmos
$2 house wine
& Coors light drafts
Mar-Va Theater This Weekend
3 SHOWINGS THIS WEEKEND !!
Friday, February 15th ~ 7PM
Saturday, February 16th ~ 7PM
2:00 Show ~Sunday, February 17th
Tickets $5.00
LifeStryle Balance/ A "Life Saving" Program
Worcester County Health Department Sponsors
“Life Saving” Program in Collaboration with
the Lower Shore YMCA in Pocomoke
Snow Hill, Md. -- Get fit, lose weight, and improve your health in group sessions lead by certified lifestyle coaches beginning
March 4 in Pocomoke.
The Lifestyle Balance Program is proven to reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases, assist in weight loss and maintenance of a healthy body weight, and decrease the risk for heart disease and stroke.
Since the program’s inception at the Worcester County Health Department in July 2009, participants have lost a combined total of more than 2,000 pounds and noticed an improvement in blood pressure, body fat and cholesterol levels as a result of program participation.
When asked about the effectiveness of the program, recent participants stated, “I am so thankful for this program. I truly believe it helped to save my life”; and “This program has improved my health significantly, I feel.”
The Lifestyle Balance Program, taught by CDC National Diabetes Prevention Program trained instructors including a certified exercise physiologist, certified nutritionist, and a health educator, will be offered from 4:45-5:45 p.m. for 16 weeks beginning March 4 at the Lower Shore Family YMCA, Rte. 113 in Pocomoke.
The program will meet once a month for six months following conclusion of the initial 16 week core education program. Each session will include an education component and participation in physical activity. All participants receive their own personal lifestyle change coach who will assist them with goal setting, progress, and overcoming barriers. Program participants also receive incentives such as step counters, resistance bands, exercise videos, cook books, and more.
There is a $48 fee for the program for non-members and a $20 fee for members of the Lower Shore Family YMCA. This fee covers the 16 week program and allows non-members access to exercise equipment and classes at the YMCA for the duration of the Lifestyle Balance program. Program fees are payable to the Lower Shore YMCA. To learn more about the program or to enroll, please call 410-632-0056.
SUSPECT ARRESTED FOR MURDER OF FREDERICK CO. MAN
(NEW YORK, NY) – An Anne Arundel County man was
arrested early this morning at a New York airport after a warrant was issued
charging him with the murder of a Frederick County man whose body was found in
the trunk of his car late last year.
The suspect is identified as Michael A. Stahlnecker, 51, of the 1700-block of Fallsway Drive, Crofton, Md. He is charged on a warrant from the District Court of Maryland for Anne Arundel County with first degree murder, second degree murder, first degree assault, second degree assault, reckless endangerment, and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony/violent crime.
Stahlnecker was arrested shortly before 6:00 a.m. today by New York/New Jersey Port Authority Police, special agents from ICE Homeland Security Investigations, and the US Marshals Service, as he prepared to board a flight at the JFK International Airport. Investigators from the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit, the State Apprehension Team, and the Frederick County Narcotics Task Force were with federal agents and Port Authority Police when the arrest was made. Stahlnecker is currently held on a fugitive warrant in New York pending extradition proceedings to return him to Maryland.
The victim is identified as John P. Ryan, 37, of Frederick, Md. His body was found in his 2007 Lexus in a parking lot in the 15000-block of Somerville Drive, Derwood, Md., on the afternoon of December 3, 2012. Police had been searching for Ryan since his wife reported him missing to the Frederick Police Department on November 29, 2012.
Since the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit became involved with this investigation, investigators have worked closely with the Frederick County Narcotics Task Force. Task force investigators had initiated an investigation in the summer of 2012 into allegations that Ryan and associates were involved in the importation and distribution of marijuana. Stahlnecker was identified as a close associate of Ryan’s in this operation.
State Police homicide investigators believe Ryan had a meeting scheduled with Stahlnecker on the morning of November 28, 2012, at a warehouse leased by the suspect in the 3300-block of Laurel Fort Meade Road, Laurel, Md. A search warrant served at the address resulted in the recovery of Ryan’s blood near the rear loading dock and on the bristles of a broom outside the rear of the business.
The suspect is identified as Michael A. Stahlnecker, 51, of the 1700-block of Fallsway Drive, Crofton, Md. He is charged on a warrant from the District Court of Maryland for Anne Arundel County with first degree murder, second degree murder, first degree assault, second degree assault, reckless endangerment, and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony/violent crime.
Stahlnecker was arrested shortly before 6:00 a.m. today by New York/New Jersey Port Authority Police, special agents from ICE Homeland Security Investigations, and the US Marshals Service, as he prepared to board a flight at the JFK International Airport. Investigators from the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit, the State Apprehension Team, and the Frederick County Narcotics Task Force were with federal agents and Port Authority Police when the arrest was made. Stahlnecker is currently held on a fugitive warrant in New York pending extradition proceedings to return him to Maryland.
The victim is identified as John P. Ryan, 37, of Frederick, Md. His body was found in his 2007 Lexus in a parking lot in the 15000-block of Somerville Drive, Derwood, Md., on the afternoon of December 3, 2012. Police had been searching for Ryan since his wife reported him missing to the Frederick Police Department on November 29, 2012.
Since the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit became involved with this investigation, investigators have worked closely with the Frederick County Narcotics Task Force. Task force investigators had initiated an investigation in the summer of 2012 into allegations that Ryan and associates were involved in the importation and distribution of marijuana. Stahlnecker was identified as a close associate of Ryan’s in this operation.
State Police homicide investigators believe Ryan had a meeting scheduled with Stahlnecker on the morning of November 28, 2012, at a warehouse leased by the suspect in the 3300-block of Laurel Fort Meade Road, Laurel, Md. A search warrant served at the address resulted in the recovery of Ryan’s blood near the rear loading dock and on the bristles of a broom outside the rear of the business.
Investigators believe evidence indicates Ryan was shot at the
warehouse location and then driven in his car to the address in Montgomery
County where his body was found in the trunk. A motive has not been confirmed at
this time, however investigators determined Stahlnecker owed large amounts of
money to several persons.
The investigation is continuing.
The investigation is continuing.
Maryland State Police
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Tuesday Specials Riverside Grill
Tuesday
February 12, 2013
-Turkey and Wild Rice Soup w/ 1/2 roast beef sandwich or side salad 5.99
-Meatloaf w/ mashed potatoes and green beans 6.99
-Apple-Cranberry Salad 7.99
-Crab Melt: Grilled rye bread w/ our creamy crab dip and cheddar cheese. Served w/ fries 9.99
-Meatloaf w/ mashed potatoes and green beans 6.99
-Apple-Cranberry Salad 7.99
-Crab Melt: Grilled rye bread w/ our creamy crab dip and cheddar cheese. Served w/ fries 9.99
@ 4 pm: 99 cent kids meals
Happy Hour 4-7 w/ drink and appetizer discounts
@ 8 pm: 50 cent wings
**Riverside Grill is now accepting applications for full or part time help:
servers
bartenders
cooks
Experience is preferred, but not necessary.
Please do Not come in during a meal time (11 am-2pm, or 6-8pm) to turn in your application!**
Fire In Northampton County Being Investigated
IF the Exmore fire is determined to be an arson fire by investigators, this will be the first arson fire outside Accomack County since the spree began in early November of 2012.
INVESTIGATION CONTINUING INTO 2012 STATE PRISON INMATE MURDER
(CUMBERLAND, MD) – Maryland State Police are
continuing the investigation into the murder of an inmate who died from injuries
sustained in an assault late last year at a state prison in Allegany County.
The victim is identified as Jerod Pridget, 19, who was an inmate at the Western Correctional Institution. Pridget was assaulted in his cell on November 26, 2012. He was pronounced dead at the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center on November 28, 2012.
A suspect has been identified and is an inmate at the same correctional facility. Charges against him are pending a presentation to an Allegany County Grand Jury. He will be identified publicly when charges are filed.
The investigation into the initial assault on Pridget was conducted by the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services Internal Investigations Unit. After the victim’s death and autopsy results concluding the manner of death was homicide, the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit continued the investigation, with continued assistance from the Internal Investigations Unit.
The investigation indicates that shortly before noon on November 26, 2012, an inmate contacted correctional officers and said his cell mate, identified as Pridget, had ‘an accident.’ Correctional officers responded to the cell and found Pridget unresponsive, with what appeared to be injuries to his head.
Medical staff at the hospital provided emergency care and Pridget was transported to Western Maryland Health System in Cumberland. On November 27, 2012, he was transferred to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center, where he was pronounced dead a day later.
Forensic evidence was collected from the victim’s cell the day of the assault by Maryland State Police crime scene technicians, whose assistance had been requested by Internal Investigation Unit investigators. The examination of that evidence at the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division laboratory is continuing. An autopsy by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore determined Pridget died from blunt force trauma.
The victim is identified as Jerod Pridget, 19, who was an inmate at the Western Correctional Institution. Pridget was assaulted in his cell on November 26, 2012. He was pronounced dead at the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center on November 28, 2012.
A suspect has been identified and is an inmate at the same correctional facility. Charges against him are pending a presentation to an Allegany County Grand Jury. He will be identified publicly when charges are filed.
The investigation into the initial assault on Pridget was conducted by the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services Internal Investigations Unit. After the victim’s death and autopsy results concluding the manner of death was homicide, the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit continued the investigation, with continued assistance from the Internal Investigations Unit.
The investigation indicates that shortly before noon on November 26, 2012, an inmate contacted correctional officers and said his cell mate, identified as Pridget, had ‘an accident.’ Correctional officers responded to the cell and found Pridget unresponsive, with what appeared to be injuries to his head.
Medical staff at the hospital provided emergency care and Pridget was transported to Western Maryland Health System in Cumberland. On November 27, 2012, he was transferred to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center, where he was pronounced dead a day later.
Forensic evidence was collected from the victim’s cell the day of the assault by Maryland State Police crime scene technicians, whose assistance had been requested by Internal Investigation Unit investigators. The examination of that evidence at the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division laboratory is continuing. An autopsy by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore determined Pridget died from blunt force trauma.
Maryland State Police
Riverside Grill ~ Valentine's Day Specials
Drinks: -Chocolate Covered Cherry-tini $5-1/2 price bottle of wine w/ 2 meal purchase (not valid w/ burger discount)
Food: -Cream of Crab Soup
-Hand Cut 10 oz Ribeye Steak 16.99
-Fresh Maryland Single or Double Crab Cake Platters 15.99, 24.99
-Surf N Turf- 10 oz rib eye and a crab cake 24.99
-Seafood Platter- clam strips, fried shrimp, choice of a crab cake or fish 18.99
-Ale-Batter Fried Shrimp Platter 9.99
-Caribbean Platter- Jerk chicken and island style fish 16.99
Appetizer: Oysters Riverside 9.99
Red Velvet
Strawberry
Chocolate Smith Island Cakes
Chocolate Decadence Pie
Twin Fires For Accomack On Monday Night
A third fire occurred earlier Tuesday morning in Northampton County. No word on whether this fire can be linked to the other fires in Accomack County.**
Fire #47
Monday- February 11, 2013 9:20 pm
Abandoned structure fire- 19241 Quinby Bridge Road
When fire units arrived the back of the abandoned structure was fully involved.
Fire #48
Monday- February 11, 2013 9:36 pm
Fire units were called to a another structure fire on Rose Cottage and Seaside Road. Fireman arrived on the second scene to find the structure fully involved and almost burned to the ground.
According to WESR, Melfa, Wachapreague Tasley, Onley, Onancock and Parksley responded. Multiple units responded but three engines and two tankers were retained at the scene. The other units returned to their stations.
Virginia State Police are investigating twin fires and ask the public if you have information to please call.
Information that leads to an arrest and conviction could result in an award of up to $5,000 from the Virginia Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators (http://www.vaiaai.com).
Additional numbers to reach the Virginia State Police Chesapeake Headquarters are toll-free at 1-800-582-8350 or at (757) 424-6820; the Accomack County Sheriffs Office can also be contacted at (757) 787-1131.
Monday, February 11, 2013
NASA Wallops Island Antares Engine Test Scheduled for February 12
The window for
the engine test, or hot fire, is 6- 9 p.m. EST.
The test will fire the Antares' dual AJ26 rocket engines, which will generate a combined total thrust of 680,000 lbs., for about 30 seconds while the first stage of the test rocket will be held down on the pad. The hot fire will demonstrate the readiness of the rocket's first stage and launch pad fueling systems to support upcoming flights.
The test will be visible and audible in the Wallops Island local area. Given the broad window and non-operational nature of the test, no live webcast or formal public viewing is planned. NASA's Wallops Flight Facility will provide range support for the hot fire, including communications, data collection, range safety and area clearance.
The test is a key milestone leading up to the first flight of the Antares rocket, which is preliminary scheduled for about four to six weeks following the completion of the engine test.
The test will fire the Antares' dual AJ26 rocket engines, which will generate a combined total thrust of 680,000 lbs., for about 30 seconds while the first stage of the test rocket will be held down on the pad. The hot fire will demonstrate the readiness of the rocket's first stage and launch pad fueling systems to support upcoming flights.
The test will be visible and audible in the Wallops Island local area. Given the broad window and non-operational nature of the test, no live webcast or formal public viewing is planned. NASA's Wallops Flight Facility will provide range support for the hot fire, including communications, data collection, range safety and area clearance.
The test is a key milestone leading up to the first flight of the Antares rocket, which is preliminary scheduled for about four to six weeks following the completion of the engine test.
 |
| NASA Photo |
Orbital is building and testing its new rocket and Cygnus cargo spacecraft under NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services (COTS) program. NASA initiatives like COTS are helping develop a robust U.S. commercial space transportation industry with the goal of achieving safe, reliable and cost-effective transportation to and from the International Space Station and low-Earth orbit.
A demonstration flight of Antares and Cygnus to the space station is planned for later this year. Following the successful completion of the COTS demonstration mission to the station, Orbital will begin regular cargo resupply flights to the orbiting laboratory through NASA's Commercial Resupply Services contract.
The launch pad is the first of its kind constructed in the United States in decades. Preparations at the pad for the hot fire test were enabled through partnership between the Spaceport, Orbital and NASA, including representatives from Wallops; NASA's Stennis Space Center in Bay St. Louis, Miss.; NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida; NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Hunstville, Ala.; and NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston.
For more information about Orbital Sciences Corp. and the Antares rocket, visit:
Sunday Evening Fire - Old Bait and Tackle Shop in Parksley
Old bait and tackle shop on Lankford Highway in Parksley
Fire units, along with the Virginia State Police BCI units, responded. It was reported flames were shooting out from the back of the building. Fire was found shortly after it had begun so there was little damage to the structure and there were no injuries.
The fire is currently under investigation, and believed to be arson.
This is the second fire that occurred over the weekend. On Saturday night fire was started in a storage shed that was NOT abandoned and was currently being used to store thousands of dollars worth of equipment and possessions.
Sunday evenings fire brings the total to 46 fires in Accomack County since November 12, 2013.
PLEASE REMEMBER:
Information that leads to an arrest and conviction could result in an award of up to $5,000 from the Virginia Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators (http://www.vaiaai.com).
Additional numbers to reach the Virginia State Police Chesapeake Headquarters are toll-free at 1-800-582-8350 or at (757) 424-6820; the Accomack County Sheriffs Office can also be contacted at (757) 787-1131
Legislative Updates By Delegate Mike McDermott
Field Notes - Week 5
Observations and Reflections on Legislative Activities
Week 5 Feb.4-Feb. 8, 2013
Monday Evening:
I drove over to Quiet Water Park to make a presentation to two outstanding Worcester County residents who were being awarded the 2012 Sportsmanship Award through the Maryland Dept. of Parks and Recreation. The state recognized Stephen Decatur Middle School student athlete Sarah Mitrecic and Coach Stan Parker for their commitment to sportsmanship and their pursuit of excellence.
Tuesday Morning Session:HB-75 passed this morning allowing for a change in reporting deadlines for certain utility companies. We also adopted HS-0001 which was a rebuke of certain actions taken by Delegate William “Tony” McConkey during 2012 and to accept the report of the House Ethics Committee and the recommended actions. Delegate McConkey apologized to the House members for his conduct, but also offered some defense of his actions. I voted to censure the delegate and accept the report judging his actions as wholly inappropriate. (Full Report)
Tuesday Judiciary Committee Hearings:HB-262, HB-267, HB-482, HB-483 all address synthetic cannabinoids and the distribution of faked controlled substances. The legislation seeks to outlaw all aspects of synthetic marijuana and provide the judiciary with the ability to take certain notice as the drug compounds are adjusted by the drug dealers to skirt the law. This particular drug is being sold as “bath salts” and “popery” mixes which are laced with a chemical compound designed to mimic the marijuana high.HB-338 updates the limit on felony theft to requiring a value of over $1000.00 to bring the various laws governing theft and robbery in sync with one another.HB-202 seeks to address the malicious destruction of property, specifically transit vehicles. I do not see the need for this bill when felony MDOP already exists.HB-382 would require defendants to pay into the Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund. It would expand the requirement by allowing these fees to reflect the current practice of funds being received for PBJ cases.HB-180 would provide an affirmative defense for caregivers of those individuals who acquire or provide marijuana for medical purposes to patients.HB-183 would modify the composition of the state Correctional Training Commission. It would require the Commission membership to also consist of members from within the ranks of Correctional Officers. We heard from representatives of the corrections employees who feel the strong need to have a voice at the commission level. I suggested an ex-officio status for two committee members who would be appointed from within the ranks.HB-254 would allow a local jail facility to detain individuals on Arrest documents when a District Court Commissioner is otherwise not available for a Preliminary Hearing. As written, this bill would only affect Allegany County. It is a good idea and I will be trying to see if other counties can be added to the bill.HB-311 would require a parent or care giver to report a child as missing within 24-hours and 5-hours to notify authorities upon the death of a minor child once the condition becomes known. This was crafted to address some of the issues arising from the Casey Anthony case in Florida where a child’s disappearance went unreported.HB-250 would require the victims in criminal cases being given priority in receiving compensation from a defendant before the state receives their penalties or fees. It puts victims first and gives priority for restitution.HB-219 seeks to limit the use of “No-Knock” Search Warrants without prior notification being given to local authorities. The bill would require that the Sheriff of a jurisdiction would need to be notified prior to the execution of a “No-Knock” Warrant. These are warrants that are issued which do not require the police to “knock and announce” their presence prior to executing a warrant.HB-377
Monday Evening:
I drove over to Quiet Water Park to make a presentation to two outstanding Worcester County residents who were being awarded the 2012 Sportsmanship Award through the Maryland Dept. of Parks and Recreation. The state recognized Stephen Decatur Middle School student athlete Sarah Mitrecic and Coach Stan Parker for their commitment to sportsmanship and their pursuit of excellence.
Tuesday Morning Session:HB-75 passed this morning allowing for a change in reporting deadlines for certain utility companies. We also adopted HS-0001 which was a rebuke of certain actions taken by Delegate William “Tony” McConkey during 2012 and to accept the report of the House Ethics Committee and the recommended actions. Delegate McConkey apologized to the House members for his conduct, but also offered some defense of his actions. I voted to censure the delegate and accept the report judging his actions as wholly inappropriate. (Full Report)
Tuesday Judiciary Committee Hearings:HB-262, HB-267, HB-482, HB-483 all address synthetic cannabinoids and the distribution of faked controlled substances. The legislation seeks to outlaw all aspects of synthetic marijuana and provide the judiciary with the ability to take certain notice as the drug compounds are adjusted by the drug dealers to skirt the law. This particular drug is being sold as “bath salts” and “popery” mixes which are laced with a chemical compound designed to mimic the marijuana high.HB-338 updates the limit on felony theft to requiring a value of over $1000.00 to bring the various laws governing theft and robbery in sync with one another.HB-202 seeks to address the malicious destruction of property, specifically transit vehicles. I do not see the need for this bill when felony MDOP already exists.HB-382 would require defendants to pay into the Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund. It would expand the requirement by allowing these fees to reflect the current practice of funds being received for PBJ cases.HB-180 would provide an affirmative defense for caregivers of those individuals who acquire or provide marijuana for medical purposes to patients.HB-183 would modify the composition of the state Correctional Training Commission. It would require the Commission membership to also consist of members from within the ranks of Correctional Officers. We heard from representatives of the corrections employees who feel the strong need to have a voice at the commission level. I suggested an ex-officio status for two committee members who would be appointed from within the ranks.HB-254 would allow a local jail facility to detain individuals on Arrest documents when a District Court Commissioner is otherwise not available for a Preliminary Hearing. As written, this bill would only affect Allegany County. It is a good idea and I will be trying to see if other counties can be added to the bill.HB-311 would require a parent or care giver to report a child as missing within 24-hours and 5-hours to notify authorities upon the death of a minor child once the condition becomes known. This was crafted to address some of the issues arising from the Casey Anthony case in Florida where a child’s disappearance went unreported.HB-250 would require the victims in criminal cases being given priority in receiving compensation from a defendant before the state receives their penalties or fees. It puts victims first and gives priority for restitution.HB-219 seeks to limit the use of “No-Knock” Search Warrants without prior notification being given to local authorities. The bill would require that the Sheriff of a jurisdiction would need to be notified prior to the execution of a “No-Knock” Warrant. These are warrants that are issued which do not require the police to “knock and announce” their presence prior to executing a warrant.HB-377
seeks to codify the procedure for using GPS tracking technology in criminal investigations. This bill would require law enforcement to secure a court order in order to capture this information.
Wednesday Morning Session:
Several House of Delegates Awards were presented this morning. The Speaker’s Medallion was presented to John M. Colmers from John Hopkins. The Thomas Kennedy Award was presented to the late Delegates Howard P. Rawlings and Jean B. Cryor. The Caspor R. Taylor Jr. Founders Award was presented to Delegate Veronica L. Turner (Prince Georges Co.).
Wednesday Morning Session:
Several House of Delegates Awards were presented this morning. The Speaker’s Medallion was presented to John M. Colmers from John Hopkins. The Thomas Kennedy Award was presented to the late Delegates Howard P. Rawlings and Jean B. Cryor. The Caspor R. Taylor Jr. Founders Award was presented to Delegate Veronica L. Turner (Prince Georges Co.).
Wednesday 2nd Amendment Rally on the Mall:
Photo: Here I am with Delegate Smigiel and Delegate Norman waiting to get started.
Thousands turned out for a pro-gun rally on the mall conducted at noon. It tied in with the first hearing in the Senate of SB-281, the O’Malley-Brown Gun Bill. While thousands attended the rally, thousands more signed up to speak in the Senate. Just before we began speaking to the crowd, a beautiful American Bald Eagle circled overhead…not a familiar site in downtown Annapolis to be sure, but an incredible omen for those attending. I’m quite sure that for every thousand that attended, there were another 10,000 that wanted to be there to raise their collective voice against this bill.
Surely there are areas where we could work to make things better for gun owners and our communities, but much of the bill is cosmetic. Banning one type or class of firearm over another is not going to get the job done and is a fool’s errand. Portions of the bill address mental health issues, which we could focus on this year, but much of the bill misses the target. I spoke to the folks as did many other lawmakers and grass roots organizers and it was wonderful to see such a passionate response. I tell you, it made those senators take notice. If we, as citizens, responded more passionately about the other areas of life that come under attack by our elected officials, our Maryland would be a much better place to live and raise a family.
Wednesday Judiciary Committee Hearings:
HB-129 would create a task force committee to study the implementation of a right to civil counsel in Maryland. The principal would be to create a mechanism for providing legal counsel for civil litigants so lower income citizens could have assistance in cases involving basic needs and services. This type of bill will be hamstrung by funding issues, but the concept should be studied.
HB-130 addresses the issue of awarding attorney fees and expenses by the courts. The advocates testified that many cases do not move forward since they are not monetary based and the attorney would have difficulty taking such a case due to the financial implications. This bill would allow a Maryland judge to allow for the awarding of attorney fees in such cases is deemed appropriate by the court. There is some degree of confusion as to what courts this might apply.
HB-186 would create a Law Enforcement Training and Technology Fund by assessing a $5.00 fee on court costs for traffic violations. The money collected would be distributed to the counties through the Governor’s Office of Crime Control. This fund exists within the governor’s budget, but has never been funded.
(In Ways and Means testifying with Delegate Fisher on HB-106)
Bill Hearing on HB-106 (Repeal SB-236):
This afternoon I had my hearing on the repeal of last year’s Sustainable Growth-Septic Bill, HB-106. What a great turnout from the shore and the rest of Maryland. The testimony took a couple of hours and I heard from some of the folks on the committee who supported the governor’s bill last year that may be having a change of heart after listening to the folks today. While we had many come up for the 2nd Amendment rally on the mall today, a significant number came to testify to repeal a bill that is a jobs killer and a taking of land rights and value with no compensation to the owner. It truly represents a great land grab by the governor and I was proud to stand with Delegate Fisher (R-St. Mary’s) and make a passionate plea for them to move forward with a full repeal of this legislation. I want to thank all those who took the time to travel from all over this great state to speak out on this very important subject.
Photo: Presenting in Ways and Means with Delegate Fisher.
(Click here to see testimony-start time was 3:19 pm)
Bill Hearing on HB-188 (Generator Tax Credit):
My hearing on HB-188 was conducted before the Ways and Means Committee this afternoon. The bill allows for a tax credit of up to $7000.00 for gas stations who install emergency power generation equipment. The credit would be provided against their State Corporate Income Tax liability. I showed a prepared video of the problems encountered following Hurricane Sandy. The members asked several thoughtful questions and I believe the bill may have a chance at moving forward.
(Click here to see testimony-start time is 3:09pm)
Thursday Morning Session:
We had a good debate this morning over HB-89 which would create a surcharge tax on natural gas consumers in Maryland of up to $2.00 per month. It was said that this would “protect” consumers by putting a cap on the amount that can be charged for replacement projects on underground pipe. It was argued that these fees area already factored into utility rates by the Public Service Commission and they have the ability to include these increases in the rates at anytime they feel it is warranted. Originally, I liked the idea of a cap being in place and supported the concept. In the end, there were too many unanswered questions and potential outcomes that moved me to be unfavorable on the bill.
Thursday Special Committee on SB-281 (Gun Bill):
We heard from the State Superintendent of Public Schools and her staff regarding school safety. As one might expect, their position and approach tended to be very academic. They do not like the idea of introducing any firearms into the security equation as an option. They do not like the idea of electronic control devices either. In fact, they did not even like the idea of off-duty or retired police having the ability to carry firearms on their campuses. They want to spend the money on locking doors and training people how to respond. This is alright, but we know that the only thing that stops a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun. Their failure to embrace this notion is disturbing.
Thursday Judiciary Hearings:
HB-257 seeks a change to the makeup of the local St. Mary’s Adult Protective Services Board. Currently the law requires a psychologist be one of the members and the board has had trouble keeping this particular position filled.
HB-277 would change the manner of hearings conducted before the judiciary in cases involving children in need of assistance. It would add a new review hearing to be conducted within 6-months of a child being brought into the system. This would be a minor extension of the hearing schedule already being conducted.
HB-278 would require the notification at least 10-days prior to any hearing involving a child be made to a foster parent, caregiver, or pre-adoptive parent. This is in response to a federal mandate requiring these actions to bring Maryland into compliance with federal law. It is requested by the Maryland Judiciary.
HB-200 would make strangulation a First Degree Assault as opposed to a Second Degree Assault. There was testimony that this issue needs to be addressed to deal with domestic violence assaults. Since Second Degree Assault already carries a 10-year penalty, the committee seemed reluctant to increase the penalty for any degree of strangulation or choking as the full penalty is rarely being applied.
HB-178 is a bill that would strengthen the Dangerous Dog Law. It covers issues surrounding registration with Animal Control and dog owner liability when it comes to protecting the public from dog bites and attacks. The committee is attempting to address the Dangerous Dog Law in light of recent court decisions which make Pit Bulls, by definition, a “dangerous breed”. I believe a bill one bill will come out of the committee to address this issue.
HB-618 would place a strict liability standard on all dogs which are considered to be “running at large”. This is the bill which was favored by the Judiciary Committee during one of the Special Sessions in 2012.
Judiciary Voting Session:
The following bills were approved by the committee:
HB-12; HB-116
Friday Eastern Shore Delegation Meeting:
We heard from Sec. of Agriculture Buddy Hance today and generally it was discouraging. Former Ag Secretaries always found a kindred spirit in the Eastern Shore Delegation, but that is not true for Sec. Hance. While previous Ag Secretaries often fought against the Governor’s proposals tried to minimize the damage for the farming communities, Sec. Hance seems to accept the environmental push down of fees and over regulation as unavoidable and offers rarely a whimper of objection. Much of this was pointed out by Sen. Pipkin. Sen. Mathias defended the governor and the administration. I’m quite sure our previous Ag Secretaries from the shore would have already resigned in protest of the administration’s actions. The fact that Sec. Hance feet remain fixed speaks volumes.
We also heard from the Delmarva Poultry Industry (DPI) representatives who painted a very bleak picture of their industries status in Maryland. New House construction is not even close to meeting a sustainability number for the industry. Folks are still reporting 1-2 year wait times and delays for permit approvals. We heard from the banking side of industry which highlighted the damage to borrowing power done by last year’s Septic Bill (SB-236). When you contrast our decline with our neighboring states progress, it appears very unlikely that we can recover. The industry is expanding in Delaware at the same rate it is contracting in Maryland.
The Mayor’s Association was in town for meetings and we had Mayor Gee Williams from Berlin and Mayor Bruce Morrison along with his wife Laura in attendance at the meeting. I also had the privilege of being shadowed by Jack Fager who came with his mom Michelle from Ocean City to see Maryland government in action.
Gumboro~Crisfield Mudbog Race Schedule for 2013
2013 RACING SCHEDULE
GUMBORO~CRISFIELD MUDBOG
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Apparent Homicide of State Prison Inmate Under Investigation
STATE PRISON INMATE DEATH UNDER INVESTIGATION
(CUMBERLAND, MD) – Maryland State Police and
Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services investigators are
continuing their investigation into the apparent homicide of an inmate that
occurred early this morning at a state prison in Allegany County.
The victim is identified as Ricky Bailey, 51, who was an inmate at the North Branch Correctional Institution. According to prison officials, Bailey was serving a sentence of life without parole.
A suspect has been identified and is an inmate at the same correctional facility. Charges against him are pending. He will be identified publicly when charges are filed.
Maryland State Police Homicide Unit investigators were summoned to the North Branch Correctional Institution by prison officials this morning to conduct the investigation. They are being assisted by investigators from the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services Internal Investigations Unit.
The preliminary investigation indicates that shortly after 4:00 a.m. today, inmates in the housing unit were having breakfast delivered to their cells. An inmate told correctional officers that his cell mate needed to be removed from the cell. Officers entered the cell and found Bailey seated at the rear of the cell, leaning on the lower bunk.
Officers determined Bailey was unresponsive and appeared to have sustained injuries to his head, neck and extremities. Prison medical staff responded and began resuscitation efforts. An ambulance was summoned and responded to the prison from Cumberland. Bailey was pronounced deceased at the scene.
State Police crime scene technicians responded to the scene and processed the cell for evidence. Investigators are continuing to interview correctional officers and inmates. A specific cause of death is not known at this time. The victim’s body will be transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore for an autopsy to determine a cause and manner of death.
The investigation is continuing.
The victim is identified as Ricky Bailey, 51, who was an inmate at the North Branch Correctional Institution. According to prison officials, Bailey was serving a sentence of life without parole.
A suspect has been identified and is an inmate at the same correctional facility. Charges against him are pending. He will be identified publicly when charges are filed.
Maryland State Police Homicide Unit investigators were summoned to the North Branch Correctional Institution by prison officials this morning to conduct the investigation. They are being assisted by investigators from the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services Internal Investigations Unit.
The preliminary investigation indicates that shortly after 4:00 a.m. today, inmates in the housing unit were having breakfast delivered to their cells. An inmate told correctional officers that his cell mate needed to be removed from the cell. Officers entered the cell and found Bailey seated at the rear of the cell, leaning on the lower bunk.
Officers determined Bailey was unresponsive and appeared to have sustained injuries to his head, neck and extremities. Prison medical staff responded and began resuscitation efforts. An ambulance was summoned and responded to the prison from Cumberland. Bailey was pronounced deceased at the scene.
State Police crime scene technicians responded to the scene and processed the cell for evidence. Investigators are continuing to interview correctional officers and inmates. A specific cause of death is not known at this time. The victim’s body will be transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore for an autopsy to determine a cause and manner of death.
The investigation is continuing.
Maryland State Police
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