Bayside Community Church In Pocomoke City ~ Their Mission To Help Others

Many people, when planning a trip to a warm tropical destination, select one with quiet clean beaches, great food and spend a few days relaxing.

And then there are those from the Bayside Community Church in Pocomoke City, who after weeks of yard sales, bbq's, and fund raisers opted out from the bikinis, flip flops,  umbrella drinks and basking in the warm sun. Their wardrobe for those few hot tropical days consists of work boots, gloves and in some cases, a tool belt. And let's not forget the muscle power they took along with them on their journey.

Village men help with the demolition of the old church in their village. 

Their mission? To take down and remove a church in a small village located in the Dominican Republic....and rebuild it!



Team A removes the foundation of what was once a church made from tin and sticks in the Dominican Republic

 Team A arrived in the Dominican Republic on March 28th and have been busy working with the village people to remove their old church. Team B leaves within the next couple days to  aid in rebuilding  the church. Both teams will return April 6th.

I can't wait to see what the new church will look like.

You can find Bayside Community Church and more amazing photos of  this mission  on facebook.  These photos from Bayside Community Church facebook page.  Best of luck to each and every one of you.  Stay safe.

TIME MACHINE Preview ... Passing Era Of The Old Eastern Shore Doctors.

The Eastern Shore doctor... "is now typified by a young, aggressive, business-like physician...a cold now a clear-cut matter of business...discovery upon discovery of new drugs...the 'spirit of commercialism' has entered into the sickroom...the Hippocratic oath is now a relic of antiquity...the stupendous field of medical science today in which one man can hope to master little more than one branch..."

These words were not written recently, they're from a newspaper article published more than a century ago... in 1903!
　
It's this Sunday on 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. 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!

Breakfast With The Easter Bunny !

Mudbog Banquet

Reminder to Gumboro/Crisfield Mudbog drivers, crews, etc:

The Awards Banquet for the 2011 racing season will be held Saturday, March 31, 2012  at the Crisfield Elks.  Dinner is at 7:00 PM. 

Awards will be handed out during the evening.

If you have any questions contact Charlie Price

2012 Mudbog Racing Schedule

Gumboro - May 5th


Crisfield - May 27th (Sunday)


Crisfield - July 21st (Night)


Crisfield - Sept. 1st


Gumboro - Oct. 13th

Delmarva Discovery Center - Save The Date

Illinois Congressman Thrown Off House Floor For Wearing Hoodie

WASHINGTON -- Rep. Bobby Rush (D-Ill.) was thrown off the House floor Wednesday after wearing a hoodie and sunglasses in protest of the Trayvon Martin shooting in Florida.

"Racial profiling has to stop," Rush said as he peeled off his suit jacket to reveal a hoodie underneath, at which point he pulled the hood over his head and replaced his glasses with sunglasses. "Just because someone wears a hoodie does not make them a hoodlum."

Rush began citing passages from the Bible about the need "to do justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God" and about being "sent ... to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and to recover the sight to the blind and to set the oppressed free .... I urge all men who hear these words to heed these lessons."

Rep. Gregg Harper (R-Miss.), who was presiding over the chamber at the moment, repeatedly hammered the gavel and tried to interrupt Rush, but he kept talking with a louder voice.

"May God bless Trayvon Martin's soul, his family," Rush shouted. He was still yelling as he was escorted off the floor by the House Sergeant at Arms.

Harper said Rush violated House rules by wearing a hoodie and reminded those in the chamber of the rules.

"Clause 5 of Rule 17 prohibits the wearing of hats in the chamber when the House is in session," Harper said after Rush had been taken out. "The chair finds that the donning of a hood is not consistent with this rule. Members need to remove their hoods or leave the floor."

A request for comment from Rush's office was not immediately returned.

Source:

Bailed Denied Again For Virginia Beach Police Officer

Bradley Colas
 PHOTO Hyunsoo Leo Kim/ Virginia Pilot

By Sarah Hutchins

Virginia-Pilot
Wednesday March 28, 2012
ACCOMACK COUNTY

As a two-hour hearing in Circuit Court came to a close Wednesday, Virginia Beach police Officer Bradley Colas told firefighters he was sorry for what happened earlier this month, when he's accused of attacking rescue workers after a car crash.

Testifying in a white jail jumpsuit, Colas told the firefighters he would do what he could to make things right. His mother, who lives in upstate New York, has offered to move in with her son in Virginia Beach until the case ends. If granted bond, the officer also agreed to see a psychiatrist and give up his weapon.

However, for the second time this month, a judge denied Colas' bond request, citing the need to further understand whether his actions were signs of a psychotic disorder or, as the officer and his attorney argue, a terrible reaction to an antibiotic.

Virginia State Police initially charged Colas with two counts of malicious bodily injury to law enforcement or rescue workers after he crashed his car on the side of Lankford Highway the morning of March 4. He said he was on his way to find Jesus and protect his ex-girlfriend, who he believed was in danger.

During an earlier bond hearing, Colas said he had tried to kill the rescue workers because an antibiotic he was taking caused him to believe they were trying to hurt him.

A psychiatrist hired by his attorney testified at both hearings that the officer's behavior was likely the result of side effects of Biaxin, a brand name for clarithromycin. Colas had been taking the prescription medication to treat a respiratory infection and he said it caused him to hallucinate and suffer from insomnia.

Psychotic reactions to the antibiotic are rare, but documented in medical journals, testified Dr. Thomas Tsao, the psychiatrist retained by Colas' attorney, Moody E. "Sonny" Stallings Jr., to evaluate Colas. Tsao said he believed the officer's behavior was due to the medication. Colas said he is not on medication in jail, and Tsao said the officer has exhibited no further unusual behavior.

A neurologist who treated Colas at Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital after the crash said Wednesday he couldn't make a diagnosis without following up after the officer's hospital discharge.

Colas could have experienced acute drug-induced psychosis, Dr. Robert Paschall said, or the first episode of a more serious psychotic disorder.

"I wanted this patient to go to a psychiatric facility," Paschall told the judge.

During the hearing, family members, a friend and an instructor from the Virginia Beach Police Academy testified to Colas' character and reputation. In a written statement, Colas' parents said they pray for the full recovery of the firefighters who were injured.

"We are confident that as... facts about clarithromy-cin-related manic episodes are brought to light, that Bradley will be fully exonerated...," they wrote.

Colas, who turned 24 Wednesday, testified for a second time to tell a judge what happened.

"To all the firefighters here," he said, turning to a row of men sitting in the back of the room, "I am so sorry you had to go through this nightmare."
"I hope that in time you'll be able to forgive me," Colas said.

In the back of the room, someone nodded.

"This is a most unfortunate situation," Judge W. Revell Lewis III said before delivering his decision. Colas came from a good family and was following his dreams to become a police officer, he said.

"On March 4 here in Accomack County, he snapped."

Like Commonwealth's Attorney Gary Agar, Lewis said he still had concerns about what caused the officer to act violently.

While medical journals acknowledge psychotic side effects to clarithromycin, Lewis said few patients go on to commit criminal acts.

The judge ruled the case will go Monday before a grand jury, which will decide whether Colas should face trial.

Colas remains employed by the Virginia Beach Police Department and will remain in the Accomack County Jail until the case is resolved.

Source;

ANNUAL DINNER MEETING - DON'T FORGET YOUR TICKETS !

Annual Dinner Meeting

Pocomoke Community Center

April 10th at 6 PM

Tickets: $20

Menu Includes:

Beef & Dumplings with Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Turnip Greens, Baked Corn, Pickled Beets, Cornbread, Iced Tea, Coffee, & Dessert

by the Pocomoke Fire Co. Ladies Auxiliary

Thank you for your continued support throughout the years. We sincerely appreciate it and hope that you'll join us on Tuesday evening, April 10th.

Tickets can be purchased at the Mar-Va Box Office or on our website before noon on April 3rd.

If you're unable to attend the new date and have already purchased tickets, please contact the Box Office for your refund.

We apologize for the inconvenience.

Click here to be directed to the location on the Mar-Va Theater website.

SHORE BEEF & BBQ

THURSDAY

LUNCH AND DINNER SPECIALS

THURSDAY LUNCH SPECIAL

Pulled Chicken Sandwich/ w Side

Drink ~ $7.50

THURSDAY DINNER SPECIAL

1/2  Rack Ribs and 1/2 Chicken w/ 2 Sides

$16.95

HOPE TO SEE YOU AT

SHORE BEEF  & BBQ !!

Pocomoke City Mayor and Council Meeting Minutes/ /February 2012

Pocomoke City

Mayor and Council Meeting Minutes

February 6, 2012

The regular meeting of the Pocomoke Mayor and Council was held in the Council Chambers at City Hall on Monday, February 6, 2012. The meeting was called to order at 7:30 P.M.
Present: Mayor Bruce Morrison

Council Members: Rob Clarke, Tracey Cottman,

Diane Downing, Donald L. MalloyCity Manager Russell W. Blake
City Clerk Carol L. Justice
Review MinutesIn a motion (Malloy, Downing passed), to approve the minutes of January 9, 2012.
Review Bills:In a motion (Cottman, Downing passed), the bills presented to be paid. (Copy of bill list attached to original minutes).
Mayor to welcome members of Webelos #1 - Troop 143 Pocomoke City:Scout Leader John Hickman introduced the scouts and adult leaders in the audience. He said that this is the first year of Webelos #1. These boys have come up through the Cub Scouts. They are working on their Webelos badges, which will take two years. One of the requirements of Webelos is a Citizenship Badge. In order to get the badge, they need to see community leaders in action, and we appreciate the Mayor and Council for having us tonight.
Mayor Morrison thanked the troop for coming.


Representatives of the Delmarva Discovery Center to discuss plans for future events and continued support:Brian Garrett, Executive Director of Delmarva Discovery Center, said that the DDC would like to request a loan in the amount of $60,000 to be drawn on as needed, with a deferred payment for one year and repaid within seven (7) years. We would like to have the ability to draw up to $60,000, in order to maintain the current level of service to the schools, and the community and to avoid program reductions at the Center until the summer season. This will also allow the Discovery Center to capitalize on much needed advertising in advance of the tourist season. Mr. Garrett stated that they recognize and appreciate the prior support that the City has provided them, and hope that the City will look favorably on their request. In an effort to improve the cash flow for the upcoming years a new "Ways and Means" committee has been established, to seek new programming to generate funds for the Discovery Center.
Mayor Morrison asked what type of events has the Discovery Center done or will be doing to raise funds for the Center.
Mr. Garrett stated that they just held the Gala on Saturday night, with a live auction which raised over $5,400. We are continuing to grow the school business; it tripled last spring and we are expecting it to be the same this year. We are focusing on increasing tourist visits this summer by advertising more.
Mayor Morrison asked if they were still negotiating with UMES on a possible collaboration.
　
Mr. Garrett answered that the Discovery Center has not given it up, but until there is a new UMES administration they cannot go any further with plans. We also continue to work with the County, the Board of Education and the neighboring counties.
Councilman Malloy asked City Manager Blake if there is enough money in the budget to proceed with this request.
City Manager Blake stated that they could use funds from the contingency account. Very little of that money has been used so far, and we are in the eighth month of the fiscal year.
Mayor Morrison stated that he would like to make installments to the Discovery Center as needed, on a monthly basis.
Councilwoman Cottman stated that at the last meeting it was suggested that the Discovery Center submit monthly expense requirements, and the City would review it and advance loan funds as appropriate.
City Manager Blake stated that we will need a written agreement between the City and Discovery Center and which will state how the money would be disbursed.
In a motion (Malloy, Cottman passed) to provide a loan to the Discovery Center for up to $60,000 to be paid in monthly installments as needed through June 30, 2012. Loan funds to be repaired to City over seven (7) years period, with no payments in first year.
Chip Choquette, representing F.I.R.S.T. Robotics Team 1829, to discuss upcoming competition:Ashley Webb, Team Captain, stated that the Eastern Shore Robotics Team was founded in 2006 by Arcadia High School in Oak Hall, VA. In 2008 the team expanded to include students from Pocomoke High School, Bennett High School, Worcester Technical School and home schooled students. She stated that competing in the FRC (First Robotics Competition) is very expensive. The team has had fundraising events and now is asking the communities for support. She stated that they would be going Richmond to compete and the entry fee is $5,000.
In a motion (Downing, Malloy passed) to donate $1,000 to the Eastern Shore Robotics Team 1829.
Second Reading of Ord. No. 408 to authorize a new franchise agreement with Comcast Cable, Inc. for cable TV, internet and other services:
Mayor Morrison read for the record Ord. #408 a summary of which follows:



An Ordinance to grant a franchise to Comcast of Delmarva, Inc. a Delaware Corporation, its successors and assigns, for the installation, maintenance and operation, within the corporate limits of Pocomoke City, Maryland, as presently constituted and as subsequently enlarged, of a cable communications system, and fixing the duration of such franchise.In a motion (Cottman, Downing passed) to approve Ordinance No. 408 authorizing a new franchise agreement with Comcast of Delmarva for cable TV, internet and other services.


James Jones and others to discuss Save the Youth Program:
Mr. James Jones thanked the Mayor and Council for allowing them to present their plan. We hope that all the information that you need is before you tonight. This is not our Strategic Plan; we hope to have it available to you at the March meeting. We have letters of support. This is just an outline to show you what we do at "Save the Youth". We apologize for not getting back last month but we were not ready. This is an outline as to what we are currently do at this time. Ms. Dennis takes care of the computer lab and all that it entails; they have fourteen reconditioned computers. Our plan is to utilize the upstairs of the Armory building into offices and class rooms. We would like to use the gym by offering sporting events and teams. This will give the young children a safe haven after school.
Mayor Morrison asked how many people were on the "Save the Youth" board.
Mr. Jones stated currently they have seven (7) board members.
Mayor Morrison asked how many kids they are currently serving.
Mr. Jones stated that at this time there are about eighteen (18) kids. At one time there were 70 to 80 youths, but they do not feel comfortable attending in the lower part of the Armory building.
Mayor Morrison asked how many days a week is this available to the kids.
Mr. Jones stated at this time the computer lab is open two days a week. The office is opened Monday –Friday 9:00 A.M to 3:00 P.M.
Councilman Malloy asked if there are any requirements for membership.
Mr. Jones stated that the main requirement for membership is that you are from the community and we are tri-county. The screening that we do is quite simple: that they are healthy, that they want to belong, and we look for the desire to grow and increase both their education and their resources being productive citizens of the community.
Councilman Malloy asked the age limits.
Mr. Jones stated at this time age 5 to 17. He stated that they were not looking to be solely dependent on the City. They are in the process for applying for grant money from the government to assist them to function and to continuing function.
Councilman Clarke asked if there was a dues structure for members to pay.
Mr. Jones stated that they did not in the past but with the program they will have a minimum fee. It will be affordable to all the youth in the community. We have sent letters out to the community to have parents get involved.
Councilman Malloy asked how many paid employees.
Mr. Jones stated that there are no paid employees because they do not have the funds to pay anyone a salary.
Mayor Morrison stated that at this time they are not in a position to make a decision tonight.
Mr. Jones stated that he felt comfortable saying the total Strategic Plan for "Save the Youth’ will be completed before the March meeting, and when the Council has had time to review it, invite them back for more information.
Mayor Morrison stated that once you have your final Strategic Plan completed please send to us to review before next meeting in March. We need for you to understand that the Armory building is very expensive to operate and needs a lot of repairs. That is why we are moving the police to a new building. It is a huge expense for the City.
Bishop Jenkins stated that he and the entire staff wished to thank the wonderful Councilmembers and Mayor for their kindness for all these years. We are 32 years old. Many projects and programs that have started before and after us have closed and we are still going strong. As Rev. Jones referred being down in the basement, it is true that when we were upstairs (in the 1980’s) every Monday night that we met we would have from 70 to 80 people or more. He stated that he had been told by some of the youth that they were not going to participate as long as they were in the basement. It is very difficult down there but we are very dedicated that we won’t quit or stop. We are just praying the best will come out of this. Along with our wonderful staff here our motto is "If I can help somebody as I pass this way, then my living shall not be in vain."
Rev. Jones thanked the Mayor, City Council and City Manager.
Mayor Morrison thanked them for coming.

City Manager to present recommendations for recreation equipment purchases for Cypress Park (POS funds):
City Manager Blake said that the proposed list of improvements at Cypress Park arises because of some remaining funds from prior POS projects at the park. In a meeting last week advised the City of available funds for a brief period of time. The total funds available are just under $28,000. The proposed list includes mostly furniture and equipment. Our bleachers are old, and they are extremely heavy. They would be replaced with aluminum bleachers with galvanized frames. Other items would include benches, bike racks, spring rides, and a water spray area. The funds have to be used at Cypress Park and have to be used for capital items, not for maintenance or repairs. We need to spend it quickly.
Mayor Morrison asked if they could have a little more time to think about it and look at catalogues.
In a motion (Clarke, Cottman passed) to order new equipment pending any City Council request/changes to be made by the end of February.


Discuss recommendation from Downtown Coordinator Angela Manos regarding a consultant to work with downtown businesses and other groups to improve profitability and performance. (Partnership with Downtown Pocomoke Association and Worcester County Tourism Department):
City Manager Blake stated that Shoptalk is a company that travels around the country working with Main Street Communities and other downtown areas to help improve the bottom line of local businesses. Ms. Manos learned about this organization though conversations with both Cambridge and Berlin, which have both used it in the past couple of years with great success. The timing is very critical according to Ms. Manos because Ms. Johnson is almost booked up, but she has a window of opportunity coming up this spring for a couple of days. This would be an investment, because in conjunction with the restaurant downtown and hiring a downtown coordinator and other improvements that will also benefit the downtown. The Downtown Pocomoke Association would contribute up to $600; the county would contribute $1,000. The key is that Ms. Johnson will sit down with six different individual businesses and work with them on how they can improve their profitability. The total cost to the City will be about $4,000.
Councilman Clarke asked if this was an off budget item.
City Manager Blake stated that there are some funds in the Downtown Revolving Loan Fund that can be used for this purpose.
Councilwoman Cottman asked if this is a one day thing and with a return visit to talk to six businesses or how does it work.
City Manager Blake stated that it is a two day program. On the first night there will be a 2-hour presentation, at the MarVa Theater which will be open to all businesses. The six businesses to receive private consultations will be selected based on an application process, with input from the Downtown Pocomoke Association.
Councilwoman Cottman asked if there would be any cost to the business.
City Manager Blake stated that there would not be any cost.
In a motion (Malloy, Clarke, passed) to approve agreement with "Shoptalk" to assist downtown business to improve profitability and performance.


Comments from Council:
Councilman Malloy stated that Classic Collections would like to have a reserved parking space near their store on Clarke Ave.
The Council did not approve their request.

Comments from Audience:
Robert Revels stated that his sister lives on Ninth Street and sewage has been running in the street for the past year. She has been trying to have it repaired, but she doesn’t have the funds to take care of it. Mr. Revels stated that he thought that the City should take a look at it and take care of the problem.
Mayor Morrison stated that it was on private property, and it was not really a City issue. Councilwoman Cottman had been in contact with Ms. Revels and explained the situation.
Councilwoman Cottman stated that she had been trying to find resources to pay for the repairs. She stated that she was working with another agency and they thought they found the community resources that were available, but then the estimate was raised to about $1,400.
Mr. Revels stated that the City is letting the waste run down the street and something should be done about it; it is a health issue.
Councilwoman Cottman stated that she has been working hard trying to find funding available and someone that can come in and repair the sewage line. She will continue to work with Ms. Revels to come to some resolution of the problem.
Mayor Morrison stated that a contractor that was hired to do the job left it and didn’t finish the job. It may be a legal issue as well, because he was paid.
Walter Eskiewicz, 407 Second Street, stated he wanted to make a short comment on the "Save the Youth" program. He stated that his concerns are that the Armory building is old, and the City should consider possible lead and asbestos issues in the building. Secondly, crowd control. Eight to ten children is not bad, but when there are eighty (80) it could be a big problem. Especially because article in the paper quoted Mr. Jones "what would happen when summer comes and the kids don’t have a place to assemble?" He lives on Second Street, within a block of the Armory building. Some area children are just marvelous, others walk around in a daze and others are just awful and disrespectful, especially when it’s a crowd. He is very concerned that without the police there, because the kids without their parents they just act up, they forget their manners, run across lawns, and throw things. His window has been busted out, his truck window shot out. A brick was thrown at his house. He stated that he is concerned when he hears the number of 80 children or more. He stated that he was just thinking about what happened at the YMCA just recently; two 17 year olds are responsible for a shooting. His concerns include health issues within the building itself, also the maintenance of the building. Who is going to be responsible for that? The whole Willow Street area is a fiasco in terms of maintenance of buildings. The former owner of several buildings gave the property to a Church, but the Church is not apparently able to maintain those buildings. He stated that he wanted to have his comments known concerning the Armory building and issues with the crowds. The police will be far away. There were two girls fighting on his lawn; he broke it up and lost his patrons. One girl came back with her uncle who wanted to fight him and the police came just in time. The other girl came back with her mother and apologized. Thank you for your consideration while you are making a decision regarding the building.
Mayor Morrison stated that although the Police Department is moving, they will still be in the area. They are there when they first arrive to work and the rest of the time they are patrolling the streets.
Mayor Morrison stated that he would like to congratulate Councilwoman Cottman and Councilman Clarke and new Councilman-elect Tasker; we won’t need to have an election this year.
City Manager Blake stated that the Tri-County Council is a group of all the elected County Commissioners, all three delegates and our Senator, which meets several times a year. Mr. Hawkins was the representative for all of the municipality in Worcester County. The director of Tri-County council said they would entertain a nomination from Pocomoke City to fill that position on that board.
Councilwoman Cottman asked what time did they meet.
City Manager Blake stated that he would find out and let her know.
Following a motion by Councilman Malloy and seconded by Councilman Clarke, the Council voted to meet in a closed session at 8:52 P.M. in the Council Chambers. Present were Mayor Morrison, Councilman Clarke, Councilman Malloy, Councilwoman Cottman, Councilwoman Downing, City Manager Blake, and City Clerk Carol Justice. Items discussed were cell phone use, and information regarding the new restaurant. The Executive Session was adjourned at 9:13 P.M.

The next scheduled meeting will be March 5, 2012.
　
Approved:___________________
　
　
________________________________
Carol L. Justice
City Clerk:

Mar-VA Theater Academy 2012

SPCA EASTERN SHORE

VA Beach's mobile surgical clinic, The Neuter Scooter, comes to the SPCA Eastern Shore a couple times each month to offer low-cost services to the public.

They will be at the SPCA Wednesday  and Thursday- March 28 & 29.

Appointment is needed for spay/neuter services!

...

NO appointment needed for: vaccinations, microchips ($25.00 includes registration fee), heartworm testing, FIV/FELV testing, heartworm & flea & tick monthly medications.

For these services please arrive between 10am-noon.


For more information contact the SPCA @ 757-787-7385.


The SPCA Eastern Shore is a no-kill shelter located in Onley, Virginia. We provide food, shelter and medical care for cats and dogs on the Eastern Shore as we search for adoptive homes.

Virginia Beach Police Officer Back In Court Today

Beach officer accused of stabbing firefighters will have bond hearing Wednesday.

Bradley Colas, a Virginia Beach police officer accused of stabbing two Accomack County firefighters and then shooting at one of them, will have his last chance to get out of jail before trial on Wednesday.

A judge will hear his bond appeal Wednesday afternoon.

Colas is charged with attempted murder and the use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.

NewsChannel 3 was in court two weeks ago when Colas testified he was having a severe psychotic reaction to a common antibiotic called Biaxin.

The officer told the court that after starting the prescription he developed tormenting hallucinations about demons.

Source:

VA. Gov. Goal: To Make Virginia The "Energy Capital Of the East Coast"

Governor McDonnell Announces Virginia on Track to Install America's First Offshore Wind Energy Turbine

– Virginia Marine Resources Commission Unanimously Approves Eastern Shore Prototype –

Approval Today Advances Governor's Goal to make Virginia "The Energy Capital of the East Coast"

RICHMOND - Governor McDonnell announced today that the Virginia Marine Resources Commission has voted unanimously to approve proposed construction of a 479-foot-tall, five-megawatt wind turbine generator prototype in the lower Chesapeake Bay, three miles off the Eastern Shore town of Cape Charles. The construction of the prototype turbine is scheduled to be completed in late 2013, which would be before other offshore wind energy projects are slated to be built in other parts of the country. The expected design life of the prototype turbine is expected to be 20 years or more. The submarine cable system is expected to last more than 100 years.This prototype is a significant step forward in Governor Bob McDonnell's goal to pursue an "all of the above" energy approach including wind, coal, nuclear, oil, and renewable energy projects making Virginia the energy capital of the East Coast. The project now requires approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and review by the U.S. Coast Guard.

The proposal was submitted by Gamesa Energy USA, which is partnering with Huntingon Ingalls Newport News Shipbuilding, to develop and test new offshore wind technologies that will reduce the cost of wind power.

"This is an important next step in developing all of Virginia's domestic energy resources to help power our nation's economy and puts Virginia at the forefront of clean energy technology development,' said Governor McDonnell. "This step forward holds tremendous potential for jobs and for economic development here in the future. Virginia's unique and efficient permitting process adopted for small energy projects like this one was a critical factor in Gamesa's choice of Virginia as the location for this U.S. wind energy operation, and today we see the fruit of these proactive policies."

The purpose of the project is to advance the demonstration of Gamesa Energy USA, LLC's new offshore WTG technology, the G11X, specifically designed for deployment in offshore wind environments worldwide.

The information collected by the construction and operation of this prototype will help to perfect this new technology for worldwide commercial market deployment by 2015, through testing and validation to ensure optimal performance characteristics and reliability are met.

Although the project is just one single wind turbine generator and is not principally intended as major energy supply source, an added benefit of the prototype will be the production of up to five megawatts of clean, renewable wind power to the local Virginia transmission grid for public use.

The Marine Resources Commission enthusiastically approved the project, which includes the installation of a steel monopile foundation and tower with a maximum blade tip height of 479 feet above mean sea level, stone riprap scour protection around the foundation base, and the installation of 15,219 linear feet of submerged power cable buried a minimum of six feet below the seabed. The cable will connect the wind turbine to the Cape Charles electrical grid through the Bay Coastal Railroad property in Cape Charles Harbor. The wind turbine will be located at N 37º14'37.4", W 76º03'47.3" in approximately 53 feet of water.

It is anticipated that once constructed, the project will have significant positive economic and environmental impacts to Virginia and the local economy. Clean, renewable wind energy will be injected into the transmission grid, which will likely offset some fossil fuel generation and result in improved local air quality.

VMRC's public interest review of the project concluded that it will not impact commercial or recreational marine activities. Rather, the project may enhance recreational fishing on the Eastern Shore because the structure likely will attract fish looking for shade and shelter. The fish, in turn, will attract anglers.

The agency received no objections from the public.

MORE

SHORE BEEF & BBQ

OPEN WEDNESDAY

WEDNESDAY SPECIAL

Pit Beef Sandwich w/ Side

Drink ~ $7.50

STOP BY FOR SOME GREAT BBQ

From Richard Douglas For U.S. Senate - Candidate 2012

Richard Douglas on Sen. Cardin's floor speech re:

Trayvon Martin

U.S. Senate Candidate Richard Douglas offered the following reaction to Sen. Ben Cardin's floor speech today that mentioned the tragic death of Trayvon Martin:

"We haven't heard the Senator make floor speeches about over 200 men and women murdered in Baltimore City and Prince George's county within a one-year period, " said Douglas.  "Trayvon Martin's death is a tragedy, and our prayers are with his family. But let's remember that this is an election year and not forget our people here at home when career politicians seek media attention."

Background:http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/senate/218385-cardin-calls-trayvon-martin-shooting-a-potential-hate-crime-

Delmarva Discovery Center ~ Easter Egg Hunt

SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012

DELMARVA DISCOVERY CENTER

EASTER EGG HUNT

AND

HAVE YOUR PICTURE TAKEN WITH THE

EASTER BUNNY

10:00 a.m.  TIL  12:00 p.m.

From 10:00 a.m.  to 11:00 a.m.

-Children can design an Easter basket to collect eggs.
-Have your face painted!
-Meet an animal that lays eggs!

At 11 AM, the Easter egg hunt begins!
-Ages up to 12. Parents must accompany child.
-Find a ticket for a prize inside special eggs!

 

From Richard Douglas For U.S. Senate- Maryland 2012

Douglas Launches Television Commercial

 

3.27.12

Contact: Jim Pettit

301.704.1363

Bladensburg, MD - US Senate candidate Richard Douglas announced today a television advertising campaign targeted towards Baltimore, the Washington suburbs and Maryland's eastern shore and appearing on Fox News Channel.  The television buy completes a six-figure advertising buy focused on statewide radio, direct mail and voter turnout phone calls as the April 3 primary nears. 

http://youtu.be/oQ14TVQGNAE 

Douglas, the first GOP primary candidate to hit the airwaves March 15, according to the Baltimore Sun, expands on radio advertising with key messages of high gasoline costs and the under-performing economy. 

"These television commercials make a simple point," said Douglas.  "Ben Cardin has been in office nearly half a century, and it's clear he does not understand the consequences of his votes against working families and their ability to find jobs and keep the gas tank full."

The ad, "Cardinomics 101," shows a chalkboard with key votes the incumbent senator took and the resulting policy impact.  The votes include the Keystone XL pipeline, Obama's health care law and the Senator's support for tax and spend policies. 

###

Background Baltimore Sun:

http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2012-03-15/news/bal-douglas-airs-radio-ad-in-md-senate-race-20120315_1_gop-senate-race-ad-airs

Track The Hummingbirds

If you are anxiously awaiting the return of the Ruby Throated hummingbird  for the spring and summer months like alot of us you will enjoy this link.  Now you can   keep track of the  Hummingbird migration.  There is alot of other bird information  you might be interested in on the site too.

http://www.birdfeeders.com/advice/bird-watching/hummingbird-migration

From The Worcester County Sheriff's Office

Couple Arrested For Multiple Burglaries

DATE: March 23, 2012

CBI Case # 11-0291, 11-0292, 12-0028
LOCATION: Worcester County, Maryland
CHARGES: 3 Counts – Burglary 1st Degree
3 Counts – Theft $1,000-$10,000

ACCUSED:
Jennifer Lee Morris W/F 35 yoa
John Docherty W/M 46yoa
Dover, Delaware

NARRATIVE: On November 18, 2011,

John Docherty

the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a burglary on the 10500 block of Bunting Road in Bishopville, Worcester County, Maryland. It was reported that someone had forced entry into the residence and stolen several electronic gaming system and system accessories, as well as a laptop computer, musical instruments, and other items, valuing over $1,000 total. Due to the nature of the offense, the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation was requested to handle the case.

On December 6, 2011, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office received another report of a burglary, this time on the 3700 block of Sand Road, Snow Hill, Worcester County, Maryland. In that case, it was reported that someone had forced entry into the rear door of the residence and stolen several pieces of jewelry, a .38 caliber revolver, and other items, valuing over $1,000 total. Due to the nature of the offense, the WCBI was requested to handle the case.

On February 1, 2012, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office received another report of a third burglary, this time on 7600 block of Greenbriar Swamp Road, Snow Hill, Worcester County, Maryland. In that case, it was reported that a subject attempted to force entry to the residence at the front doors, before breaking out a window in the rear of the residence. It was reported that the subject stole a gaming system and games, LCD television, and laptop computer, valuing over $1,000 total. Due to the nature of the offense, the WCBI was requested to handle the case.

Jennifer Lee Morris

On March 22, 2012, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office received a wanted check from the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office in Coffee County, Tennessee, requesting that they confirm that a .38 caliber revolver that they had recovered had been reported stolen in Worcester County. The revolver was confirmed as having been the same gun that was taken in the Sand Road burglary. Upon making contact with the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office, Detectives learned that the suspects that were in possession of the stolen revolver were John Docherty and Jennifer Morris. John Docherty and Jennifer Morris had previously been identified as persons of interest in the Bunting Road burglary, and Detectives were able to confirm that Docherty and Morris were still in possession of many of the items that had been reported stolen in that burglary.

Upon learning of the involvement of Docherty and Morris in multiple burglaries in Worcester County, Detectives also reviewed additional burglaries that had occurred in the same time frame, and were able to determine that Morris and Docherty were also in possession of several of the items that had been reported stolen in the Greenbriar Swamp Road burglary.

Docherty was placed under arrest by the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office for involvement in crimes in Tennessee, as well as a fugitive warrant from the State of Florida, and was being held in lieu of bond in excess of $600,000 for his charges in Tennessee, as well as the detainer from Florida. Morris was not immediately arrested, and fled the area immediately after being questioned by police.

Arrest warrants are on file for both Docherty and Morris for the crimes in Worcester County, facing three counts each of 1st Degree Burglary and Theft $1,000-$10,000.

From Richard Douglas Candidate For U.S. Senate- Maryland 2012

Douglas to Cardin:
Stop Parroting State Department Talking Points on North Korea, other Hot Spots

3.26.12

Bladensburg, MD - As international foreign policy attention focuses on North Korea, US Senate candidate Richard Douglas today urged Ben Cardin to use his position on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to emphasize working in concert with democracies in West Asia to address the rogue state's nuclear ambitions. 

"The communist bosses in Beijing surely are content with Cardin's famous – or, perhaps, infamous -- desire to work 'in concert' with China on threats like Iran," said Douglas.  "Cardin's compliant attitude toward Beijing probably explains his failure to object when China forcibly returns starving and desperate North Korean refugees to their homeland.  But it does not excuse it." 

For years Communist China has forcibly returned North Korean refugees to their suffering homeland, in blatant violation of the principle of non-refoulment, a foundation stone of international humanitarian law.  Many North Korean refugees have been tortured or killed upon return to their homeland.  


Ben Cardin's continuing failure to speak out against North Koreans attempting to escape their starving prison-nation assists the rogue state in developing weapons capacity at the expense of its own people.

"North Koreans, caught in a crushing vice formed by Pyongyang and Beijing, are the forgotten victims of communist oppression," said Douglas. " Maryland does not need a US Senator who chirps pathetic State Department talking points and calls it 'statesmanship.'" 

 

Car Crash and Gun Shots Fired On Eastern Shore Community College Campus

MELFA: Northampton man dies in car crash after shots fired at E.S. Community College

Written by
Ted Shockley
Staff Writer
MELFA — A Northampton County man was fatally injured in a hit-and-run accident early Sunday morning after shots were fired at a private party held at Eastern Shore Community College.

Orlando Upshur, 22, of Melfa, was pronounced dead at Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital after the crash, which was reported at 1:25 a.m.

Witnesses said Upshur’s vehicle and a 2002 Mercedes-Benz had left the party at the college, but police could neither confirm nor deny they had been there.


The driver of the Mercedes was traveling at “a high rate of speed” and plowed into the back of the 1993 Jeep Cherokee, ejecting Upshur and another occupant, said 1st Sgt. J-P N. Koushel, Eastern Shore Area Commander of the Virginia State Police.


The driver of the Mercedes left the scene, he said.


“We’re pretty confident that we know who the person is,” said Koushel, adding that police were awaiting the results of DNA testing.


“There was a lot of blood in the car.”


Accomack County Sheriff Todd Godwin said his office was called to fighting and gunshots at the college late Saturday evening. No arrests were made because those involved left as officers arrived.


“We did have somebody fire some shots,” he said. “They dispersed as soon as we pulled up.


The crash happened at the intersection of U.S. Route 13 and Phillips Drive, at the Tammy and Johnny’s restaurant intersection.


After being hit, the Jeep overturned along the ditchbank, rolled back into the road and was hit by a 2004 Lexus driven by a Northern Neck man.


The investigation continues by Senior Trooper B. E. Lewis. Units and personnel from Melfa, Onley, Tasley and Onancock responded.

Source:

Sewer Testing Program In Pocomoke

CITY OF POCOMOKE

PUBLIC NOTICE

...

SEWER TESTING PROGRAM

The City of Pocomoke and the Maryland Environmental Service are planning to conduct smoke testing of the sanitary sewer in Pocomoke City during the week of March 26 – March 30.

 A harmless white smoke will be pumped into each manhole to help identify any underground sewer problems. This testing is part of continuing efforts to provide a sound sewer system throughout Pocomoke City.


For more information contact the Sewer Dept. at (410) 957-3311, or City Hall at (410) 957-2521.


Michael Phillips, Superintendent

From: http://cityofpocomoke.com/

*message from PCVFC*

Lazy Sundays In The Country

There seems to always be something new on the back roads on Virginia's Eastern Shore.

I had to look at this tree twice!  How many cats do you see?  If you are missing a cat you might look here.

Here's a different type of pet.

The little black goat tried his best to keep his eyes open.

And goats are popular in this part of the country.  You can  find them anywhere.

Launch From Wallops NASA Set For Tuesday

WALLOPS ISLAND, VA NASA has scheduled the launch of five suborbital sounding rockets from the Wallops Facility in Virginia as part of a study of the upper level jet stream between midnight and 5 a.m., Tuesday, March 27.

The countdown will begin Monday evening March 26. The launch window may be narrowed following a weather briefing Sunday evening, March 25.

The Anomalous Transport Rocket Experiment (ATREX) will gather information needed to better understand the process responsible for the high-altitude jet stream located 60 to 65 miles above the surface of the Earth.

As part the mission, the five rockets will release a chemical tracer that will form milky, white clouds that allow scientists and the public to see the winds in space. These clouds may be visible for up to 20 minutes by residents from South Carolina to southern New Hampshire and Vermont.

Source;

Colas Back In Court On Wednesday

Written by

  Linda Cicoira
Details continue to emerge with respect to the March 4 shooting  (and stabbing) of two  local emergency responders, allegedly by a Virginia Beach police officer.


Accomack General District Court records include State Police Special Agent Perry Freeman’s report that Bradley Scott Colas, 23, of Virginia Beach "fired a round in the direction of … fleeing EMS (Emergency Medical Services) personnel. This bullet struck the pant leg of EMT (Emergency  Medical Technician) Edwin George Taylor.”  Freeman added that Colas testified at his bond hearing “that when he fired his weapon towards the EMS personnel that he intended to kill.”


Charges against Colas include attempted second-degree murder and use of a firearm in a felony. Colas is being represented by former state Sen. Moody E. (Sonny) Stallings Jr. of Virginia Beach and Thomas L. Northam of Accomac.Colas is being held in Accomack Jail without bond.
                
Colas was initially charged with two counts of maliciously causing bodily injury to firefighters Timmy McCready and Edward Taylor
while they were“engaged in the performance of public duties.” Those charges involve stabbing the firefighters.
 

Colas spent several days in Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital under  police guard. Judge Gordon Vincent remanded him to jail despite claims that his alleged illegal actions were caused from a reaction to the  antibiotic Biaxin.

Police say the fire and rescue workers were responding to Colas’ traffic accident when he attacked them.


The Virginia Beach officer allegedly ran his vehicle off the road and struck a tree near Hallwood about a half-mile north of John Taylor Road.  When police arrived at the scene of the accident, Colas was allegedly walking in the road with a firearm in his hand.


Court records show he began working for Virginia Beach Police Department in August.

Source;

**Bradley Colas will be back in court on Wednesday for a bond appeal hearing.***