A Message From A & N Electric Cooperative ~ SCAM ALERT

3/14/2014

A & N Electric Cooperative

SCAM ALERT

Electric cooperatives in Virginia are reporting fraudulent activity by people knocking on members’ doors and by telephone calls.

 If someone appears at your door claiming to represent A & N Electric Cooperative without proper identification, call us at 757-787-9750 or 1-800-431-2632 to verify the visit. Our office is open from 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. on weekdays.

 

 

 Never let anyone into your home unless you have scheduled an appointment or unless the person has proper identification. The ANEC logo should appear on shirts and vehicles. If you suspect someone is impersonating an ANEC employee, do not let them into your home and call the police immediately.

 If you receive a phone call from a person representing themselves as an A & N Electric Cooperative (ANEC) employee and you suspect it is a scam, hang up. Do not give the caller any personal information. Be especially protective of your social security number, bank and credit card numbers, and driver’s license number. ANEC requests members pay their electric bills in person or by mail to the Tasley office, or on-line from our web site at www.anec.com.

 Legitimate companies will not call or email you asking for your account number or password, so keep your account information to yourself. Generally, if a call is initiated from ANEC regarding a past due bill a prerecorded message is used asking the member to simply contact our office. You should also not assume that you can trust caller ID to let you know where a caller is located. Because scammers may use Internet calling technology, the area code you see may not reflect where they really are. Write down the person's name, then hang up and call ANEC's main line number at 757-787-9750 or 1-800-431-2632.

 Co-op members should be aware and know that these phone calls or door-to-door visits are not valid. Finally, please warn neighbors, friends and relatives who may be susceptible to these types of scams.

 Headquartered in Tasley, A&N Electric Cooperative is a member-owned electric-distribution utility that serves more than 35,000 homes, farms and businesses in Accomack and Northampton Counties in Virginia and Somerset County, Maryland as the primary electric utility for all of Virginia’s Eastern Shore. For more information, visit www.anec.com.

On April 8 No More Upgrades For Microsoft's XP

Microsoft decision leaves hackers waiting breathlessly

Although consumers have known it’s been coming for some time, the end now is looming – on April 8 – for company support, upgrades and work on Microsoft’s XP operating system.

 

No big deal, you say, you’ve already upgraded your laptop.

 

 

But computer security professionals still are calling it an “XPocalypse” because many complex networks at laboratories are based on XP. And the vast majority of Automated Teller Machines are running XP. And point of service machines, which are the devices you use when you swipe your credit or debit card to make purchases, are XP.

And medical records on XP systems may be exposed through data breaches that could run afoul of HIPAA regulations requiring those be kept secret.

Oh, and utility operators will face new security challenges when XP support ends because XP workstations are used widely in supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems and certain versions of utility software are certified to run on one, maybe two versions of an operating system, analysts say.

It’s all because Windows XP, which was introduced in 2001, is being abandoned.

The company made the same threat several years ago, but at that time customers rebelled. Several of the then “Big 8″ accounting firms, led by Arthur Andersen and Arthur Young & Company, threatened to switch to a competing system, Linux, for their business needs. These companies had tens of thousands of machines running XP and they were not about to buy a new Microsoft operating system no one liked to replace it. Linux could be purchased at a fraction of the cost, if not free.

Continue Reading....

State Police DUI Patrols Deployed This Weekend

03/14/2014
STATE POLICE DUI PATROLS TO BE DEPLOYED IN EVERY COUNTY THIS WEEKEND


(Pikesville, MD) -- Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel Marcus L. Brown has ordered the deployment of additional State Police DUI enforcement efforts in each county beginning today to coincide with the increase in drinking and driving that occurs as a result of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

“Unfortunately, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations increase the number of drunk drivers on our roads and the risk of highway tragedies resulting from drunken driving crashes,” Colonel Brown said. “We want everyone to enjoy the celebrations, but act responsibly. Be certain you make plans ahead of time to arrange for a sober driver to transport you, whether that is a friend, cab driver, or transit driver. Stick to those plans. If you do not, a very sober state trooper or local police officer will quite possibly be driving you from the scene of your arrest.” 

During previous St. Patrick’s Day weekends, DUI arrests by state troopers have doubled what they are on a normal day. Troopers and local law enforcement officers will be working together throughout the state to strictly enforce Maryland’s drunk driving laws.

Lt. Colonel Jerry Jones, Chief of the Field Operations Bureau, reports that most enforcement will occur this weekend through special patrols of troopers working areas known to have high numbers of DUI arrests or crashes, also known as saturation patrols. Troopers will also be staffing four sobriety checkpoints.

“Each of our 22 barrack commanders is deploying special patrols focused entirely on identifying and arresting drunk drivers,” Colonel Jones said. “Our goal is to find a drunk driver before he or she causes a crash that ends in tragedy.”

The State Police Impaired Driving Effort, known as the S.P.I.D.R.E. Team, will also be on patrol throughout the weekend. This team, funded by the Maryland Highway Safety Office, consists of the best drunk driving enforcement troopers in the State Police. They will also be focusing their patrols on areas known to have a potential for a high number of drunk drivers.

In Maryland, a first offense for driving under the influence could result in a fine of up to $1,000 and a sentence of up to one year in jail. In addition, the violation would mean 12 points on the offender’s driver’s license and a license revocation for six months. Driver’s licenses are confiscated by police from those refusing to take a blood alcohol test and from those whose test result is .08 or higher.

Those planning to drink alcoholic beverages are urged to make plans to get home safely before they begin drinking. Options include arranging for a sober driver, to whom you gave your keys, to drive you home; use a taxi; call a friend or family member to pick you up; or use public transportation.

State troopers are urging motorists to contact police if they see a driver who might be operating under the influence. Troopers and allied law enforcement will make every attempt to locate the driver and take the appropriate enforcement action.

Many of the additional troopers deployed by State Police will be on overtime and funded through a DUI enforcement grant from the Maryland Highway Safety Office. All troopers on regular patrol duty will also be on the alert for drunk drivers.   

Delmarva Discovery Center ~ Wear Green, Save Green Special.

Delmarva Discovery Center

 

Any Backyard Birder Can Become A Bluebird Landlord

My Bluebirds
Photo/BW

Bluebirds are highly desirable backyard residents with their attractive plumage, insectivorous diets and melodious songs, and with the right bluebird house positioned properly to attract tenants, any backyard birder can become a bluebird landlord.

Why Bluebirds Need Houses

All bluebirds are cavity-nesting species, and they need safe, secure locations to raise their broods. Unfortunately, they are not prone to assertive behavior, and more aggressive species can easily drive bluebirds out of prime nesting spaces. European starlings and house sparrows, both invasive species, are particularly apt to usurp nesting cavities, evicting and even injuring or killing bluebirds in the process. Bluebirds may also be subject to brood parasitism from brown-headed cowbirds, and young cowbird chicks can smother bluebird hatchlings and keep them from getting sufficient food and care. Continuing development, particularly in the eastern bluebird's range, has removed many natural cavities these birds need for successful nests, making proper bird houses even more critical.

My Bluebird
Photo BW

Tips for Bluebird Houses

Bluebirds can be wary and may take a few seasons to become accustomed to a house and choose it for a nesting site. If no bluebirds are showing an interest in your house…

• Leave the house unpainted or choose a light tan, natural shade. Do not paint the interior or on the entrance rim, where paint chips could endanger hatchlings.
   
• Provide grass clippings, pine needles, small twigs and similar nesting materials nearby for easy nest construction.
   
• Remove any perches that could serve as handholds for opportunistic predators. If desired, carve a few striations beneath the entrance hole to provide a better grip for talons.
   
• Avoid nearby insecticide use and consider offering mealworms or suet (crumbles, shreds or other small chunks) for adults to use as a quick, easy food source for a hungry brood.
   
• Clean the bird house after each brood to encourage the adults to raise an additional brood in the same location, which will further cement their attachment to the site.
   
• Make the habitat more attractive to bluebirds with a nearby bird bath large enough to accommodate several guests.

While it may take some time before bluebirds begin to use a specific house, they can be loyal residents and will return year after year to raise new families in the same bird house, making it a rewarding and enjoyable experience to become a bluebird landlord.

BUILD A BLUE BIRD HOUSE & MORE ON BLUEBIRDS

After School Dodge Ball ~ Worcester County Recreation & Parks

 Back By Popular Demand

After School Dodgeball  !!!

 

Participants will play a variety of traditional and non-traditional dodgeball games throughout the session.

 

 Transportation is provided for Snow Hill Middle School students,

 Contact Aaron Sweet for more information, 410-632-2144 x106

Investigations Into Copper Wiring Thefts

March 13, 2014
Worcester County Sheriff's Office

The Worcester County Sheriff's Office and the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation are currently investigating a rash of irrigation thefts involving copper wiring.

The investigation began on January 31,2014 and is continuing.
The thefts consist of stealing the power cables that run on top of the irrigation units.

Investigators are asking for the public's assistance in identifying potential suspects and asking for the public to be aware of these thefts and report anything unusual in their area.

 At this time, Crime Solvers of the Lower Eastern Shore is offering up to $1000.00 for information leading to the apprehension of suspects. Your tips can remain anonymous. They can be contacted at 410-548-1776.

You can also contact the Sheriff's Office at 410-632-1111 or your local police agency with information.

Worcester County Sheriff's Office (Facebook)

Delegate Mike McDermott - Jim Mathias Votes for O'Malley Budget

 

March 13, 2014

Jim Mathias Votes Again for O’Malley’s Budget

 

ANNAPOLIS -- Today, Senator Jim Mathias (D – Somerset, Wicomico & Worcester Counties) voted for Governor Martin O’Malley’s $39 billon budget (Senate bill 170). The budget includes a $1.5 billion increase in state spending over the previous year.

 

“Voting for O’Malley’s reckless budgets is not conservative leadership. This amounts to nothing more than surrendering to the tax-and-spend liberals that dominate the State Senate,” said Delegate Mike McDermott (R – Worcester & Wicomico Counties).

 

The budget includes over $72 million in funding for Obamacare in Maryland, including the failed healthcare exchange.

 

In addition, this budget steals $400 million from the state employee pension system over the next two years to fund O’Malley’s out of control spending.

 

This budget continues to steal highway user revenue from our county and city governments, which for decades was always a dedicated source of funding for local roads. This makes it more difficult for lower shore counties and cities to even maintain their roads let alone to conduct paving projects.

 

Senator Mathias has a long history of voting for Governor Martin O’Malley’s budgets. He has supported and voted for every budget proposed by Governor O’Malley and has included over $10 billion in increased state spending since they both took office.

 

Senator Mathias also voted against a pro business amendment that would have reduced state spending by a meager 1%, as well as a pro life amendment that would have eliminated $10 million in embryonic stem cell research funding.

 

Delegate McDermott concluded, “Once again, Jim Mathias had a chance to stand up for taxpayers on the Eastern Shore against Martin O’Malley and the liberals who rule the General Assembly. Instead, he chose to stay in his seat”.

 

 

Delegate Mike McDermott - Smart Meter Opt Out Notice

March 11, 2014

 

Delegate McDermott Questions Public Service Commission and Delmarva Power on Smart Meter Installation 

 

(ANNAPOLIS) As power companies across the nation are implementing “smart” meter systems in an attempt to better manage their customers’ energy usage, Maryland power customers are raising concerns about the safety of these new meters.  According to Delegate Michael McDermott (R - Worcester & Wicomico), power companies are installing the meters without sufficiently notifying their customers of program “opt out” options.

 

“I understand that the Public Service Commission posted a notice on their website informing customers of the opt out option, but that action really is insufficient. I have been receiving calls from constituents who do not want these smart meters and were never aware of the option to opt out or found out when it was too late. Expecting people to be suitably notified while browsing the Commission’s website is unrealistic - there needed to be further notice,” Delegate McDermott stated.

Additionally, Delegate McDermott expressed concern over Delmarva Power’s handling of the issue. While Delmarva Power has stated that they have given their customers notice, Delegate McDermott believes that the power company did not do its due diligence when notifying their customers of their ability to opt out of the smart meters.

“It is my understanding that the company posted a note on their website giving the customer’s notice to opt out, while the notices sent to their customers merely talked about the pending installation of the smart meters,” Delegate McDermott said. “While that measure may seem adequate to their company, sufficient notice was not personally given to Delmarva Power customers.”

“The notification process has been wholly inadequate and further action needs to be taken by both the Public Service Commission and Delmarva Power,” Delegate McDermott added. “The fact that customers have to pay $75 to opt out of something they were given insufficient notice about is completely absurd. While I do not approve of the opt out fee, if the commission is going to charge it, they have to make it their duty to adequately inform Maryland customers of all available options.”

“At the end of the day, I do not agree with how the customers were notified of their ability to opt out of smart meters. More importantly, I do not agree with customers being charged to reject something that they do not want,” Delegate McDermott concluded.

Delegate Glen Glass (R - Harford & Cecil) has sponsored HB-332 which would eliminate opt out fees. The bill is awaiting a vote in the House of Delegates.

Delegate McDermott is awaiting a response from both the Public Service Commission and Delmarva Power. A website (marylandsmartmeterawareness.org) has been established to provide assistance to those wishing to opt out of smart meter installation. Forms and addresses are available on the site.

Suspect On The Loose In Talbot County - CAPTURED

Brooks S. Perry
CAPTURED

Maryland State Police Press Release

 SUSPECT WHO SHOT AT TROOPERS IN TALBOT CO. CAPTURED

(EASTON, MD) – The suspect wanted for shooting at pursuing troopers early this morning in Talbot County has been captured without incident.

The accused, identified as Brooks S. Perry, 28, of Milford, Delaware, was arrested by members of the Maryland State Police Special Tactical Assault Team Element, shortly after 1:30 p.m. today. He was found in an area of high marsh grass along Glebe Creek Road. STATE Team troopers used a bullhorn to inform him he was surrounded. Moments later, Perry walked out of the marsh grass with his hands up and was arrested.

Perry, who was wearing a coat, was determined to be in good condition. He had no injuries other than some scratches and was only complaining of being cold.

Troopers transported Perry to the Easton Barrack for processing. He was also provided food. State Police Homicide Unit investigators have served a warrant charging him with two counts each of attempted first degree murder, attempted second degree murder, first degree assault, second degree assault, reckless endangerment, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony/violent crime, and one count of fraudulent personal identification to avoid prosecution. He is also charged with multiple traffic charges including fleeing and eluding, and driving on a revoked and suspended license. He will be transported to the Talbot County Detention Center for his initial appearance before a court commissioner.

Perry was found in a marsh/swamp area along Glebe Creek Road, within five miles of where the shooting occurred. Dozens of police officers, troopers, deputies, and agents from the Maryland State Police, Natural Resources Police, the FBI, Talbot County Sheriff’s Office, Centreville Police, Easton Police, Ridgely Police, Cambridge Police, Anne Arundel County Police, Caroline County Sheriff’s Office, Queen Anne’s County Sheriff’s Office and others had maintained a continual search in an area west of Easton and south of Rt. 50 since the incident occurred.

Significant assistance was provided by Talbot County Emergency Services. This included issuing notification to residents in the area through the Connect CTY system. A citizen on Goldsborough Neck Road who had received that call saw a male meeting the description knock on the door of her home shortly before 8:00 a.m. today. She did not open the door, but did call 911. Police immediately moved their search to that area.

While on the Goldsborough Neck Road perimeter, a citizen called 911 and then drove to find a trooper to report he saw a person meeting the suspect’s description in the area of Glebe Creek Road. At least two other citizens assisted police by directing them to the area where they had also seen the suspect.

The police perimeter moved to the area along Glebe Creek Road, while tactical troopers made plans to approach the area the suspect was believed to be hiding in. A State Police helicopter confirmed a heat source in the location through an infra-red camera. State Police Aviation Command crews had maintained an aerial presence assisting police on the ground since shortly after the shooting occurred last night.

Troopers from the Special Tactical Assault Team Element then took over and approached the location. They used a bullhorn and the suspect surrendered peacefully.

A gun used by the suspect has not been recovered at this time. State Police crime scene technicians and investigators will continue to search for evidence.

The investigation is continuing.

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview

 
1984.. Presidential candidate visits Princess Anne; 1934.. Swarming mosquitoes plague Eastern Shore; 1900.. Lower Eastern Shore telephone service to expand; 1888.. Verdict returned in poisoning charge against 19-year-old Crisfield woman; 1881.. High egg prices; 2005.. It's official, Pocomoke City receives designation.

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


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

Virginia Beach Police Officer Jailed In Accomack County Is Suing Drug Company

Virginia Beach Police Officer
Bradley Colas

Virginia Beach police officer sues drug company over psychotic outburst

A Virginia Beach police officer who was jailed for three months after stabbing two Accomack County firefighters and shooting at a third says there should have been warning labels on an antibiotic that briefly turned him psychotic.

A lawyer for Officer Bradley Colas recently filed a federal lawsuit seeking more than $75,000 from Abbvie, Inc. and Abbot Laboratories. The suit contents the drug maker knew that, in some cases, its popular antibiotic Biaxin has triggered psychotic episodes. But the lawyer says there were no warnings on the prescription.

In March, 2012, Colas started taking Biaxin for bronchitis. The lawsuit says after a few doses, Colas began to believe he was a prophet with special religious powers. The suit says his doctor and pharmacist told him to keep taking the pills because they’d never heard of any problems with the drug.

Eventually, Colas convinced himself he had to meet Jesus in Philadelphia and rescue a former girlfriend. He also believed the number four had some evil significance.

The lawsuit says Colas thought if he had enough faith, he could drive to Philadelphia with his eyes shut and he nearly ran off the road several times. In Accomack County, he crashed and called 911.

The lawsuit says the responding firefighters’ helmets “had the number four on them and that their fire engine was Engine Forty-Four.” Colas thought they were demons. He stabbed two and shot at a third “with the bullet striking the man’s pant leg.”

The firefighters fought back. One gashed Colas’ head with a fire helmet, and the other cut his arm with a clipboard. The firefighters retreated. Colas then “hopped on the side of the fire truck and asked for a ride to Philadelphia. (He) fell off the truck as it pulled away and the truck nearly ran over (him),” the lawsuit says.

When police arrived, a trooper mistook the badge in Colas’ hand as a gun. They arrested Colas as the rookie officer “congratulated the police on a “great felony stop.” The suit says Colas talked so much about Jesus and his mission the police told him to “shut up.”

Once off the drug in the Accomack County jail, Colas got better. Prosecutors eventually dropped the charges and Colas returned to his Virginia Beach police job. Through a police spokesman, Colas declined to talk about the lawsuit.

The drug company has not responded.

Source/Video

SUSPECT SOUGHT IN TALBOT COUNTY BY STATE POLICE

MSP Photo
Brooks S. Perry

MARYLAND STATE POLICE PRESS RELEASE

SUSPECT WHO SHOT AT PURSUING TROOPERS SOUGHT IN TALBOT CO.

(EASTON, MD) – State and local police are searching this morning for a suspect who fled a traffic stop in Talbot County late last night and shot at troopers who were pursuing him on foot....


The suspect is identified as Brooks S. Perry, 28, whose last known address was Milford, Delaware. A temporary felony warrant has been issued for Perry. He is also wanted in Delaware on traffic charges, where his driver’s license is currently suspended and revoked.

At about 11:30 p.m. yesterday, a patrol trooper from the Maryland State Police Easton Barrack saw a dark colored Hyundai speeding on Rt. 404 approaching Rt. 50. The driver turned eastbound onto Rt. 50 and pulled to the shoulder. The trooper contacted the driver, later identified as Perry, who gave him a false name and said he had no identification. During contact with the driver, the trooper noted signs indicating he was possibly driving under the influence. The trooper had the driver remain in his car and called for backup, due to his suspicious actions, which included asking the trooper if he was going to call for backup.

Before backup arrived, the driver accelerated and fled from the traffic stop. A pursuit of about seven miles occurred east on Rt. 50 during which troopers deployed stop sticks twice. The driver pulled to the side of the road on eastbound Rt. 50 east of Hiners Lane and fled on foot across westbound Rt. 50 and onto the grounds of a golf course.

Four state troopers pursued the suspect on foot. During the foot pursuit, the suspect climbed a chain link fence. When he reached the top of the fence, he pulled a gun and fired toward the troopers. In fear for his life and the lives of his fellow troopers, Corporal Joshua Resh, a road patrol supervisor assigned to the Easton Barrack, fired his State Police issued pistol at the suspect. The suspect climbed down the other side of the fence and fled the area on foot.

No state troopers were hit by the suspect’s gunfire. State Police have found no evidence that the suspect was struck by gunfire.

State Police and allied law enforcement officers established a perimeter and began a search of the area. K-9 units and a State Police helicopter responded to the area to assist. The search is continuing this morning.

A reverse 911 call was placed to residents in the area to inform them of the incident. Rt. 50 was closed for several hours due to the search and crime scene processing.

Corporal Resh will be placed on administrative leave, which is procedure in police involved shootings. The investigation is being conducted by the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit, which is also procedure in police involved shootings, as is an administrative investigation by the Internal Affairs Unit.

Police departments assisting include the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office, Talbot County Sheriff’s Office, Centreville Police Department, Ridgely Police Department, Cambridge Police Department, Easton Police Department, and State Police from the Easton Barrack, Criminal Enforcement Division Centreville, Crash Team., Special Operations Division, and the Aviation Command.

Anyone with information about Perry is urged to contact 911, or call the Maryland State Police at the Easton Barrack at 410-819-4747.

The investigation is continuing. 

Maryland State Police (LIKE on Facebook)

2014 Youth Recreation Softball

Don’t forget to register for the Youth Recreational Softball Program. Pocomoke, Snow Hill, and Berlin teams are being formed now, and practices are being scheduled.

 

 

Who: Girls grades 2-8

 When: Pigtails - Tuesdays, starting March 25
 Ponytails - Wednesdays, starting March 26

 Cost: Only $25/participant until registration deadline (March 17th)

Volunteer coaches are always needed as well!

 Contact Kelly Rados 410-632-2144 x102 for more information

Northampton County Sheriffs Department /

Northampton County Arrests for February 2014
David Doughty, Sheriff

LeShaun T. Anderson, 28, Jamesville was arrested on February 2, 2014 for felony extortion. He has been released on bond.

Nehshawae N. James, 36, Birdsnest was arrested on February 6, 2014 for felony conspire to extort money. She was released on bond.

Caleb R. Parks, 20,Harrisonburg was arrested on February 10, 2014 for felony sexual battery, two counts felony intentionally impede respiration of another, and felony object sexual penetration by force. He is being held in the Eastern Shore Regional Jail on no bond.

The Northampton County Sheriffs Department also responded to:
 5 capiases
 8 misdemeanor assault and batteries
 1 misdemeanor vandalism
 2 misdemeanors for contributing to the delinquency of a minor
 1 misdemeanor for using a computer to distribute obscene or indecent material
 1 summons for DWI
 1 summons for assault and battery
 2 warrants for extradition
 10 emergency protective orders
 1 preliminary protective order 
 1 protective order
 1 emergency custody order
 1 temporary detention order
 2 summons for a dog at large
 2 summons for no vaccination of a cat or dog
 2 summons for a unlicensed dog
 1 juvenile detention order
 1 juvenile petition

Pocomoke City Police / Most Recent Arrests

 

Pocomoke City Police

Press Release

 

Today's date, March 12, 2014 Pocomoke City Police executed two Outstanding Warrants for Failure to Appear on Francis T. Crippen Jr., age 33 of Pocomoke City. Crippen was processed and taken before the Worcester County Commissioner.

 

 

 On March 11, 2014 at approximately 9 pm Pocomoke City Police Officers executed a Parole Retake Warrant issued on Tremaine D. Giddens, age 36 of Bellehaven Virginia. Giddens was transported to Eastern Correctional Institute.

Fundraiser for the Pocomoke Senior Center March 13 2014

David Craig Rallies Political Support for Urgent Need to Export Natural Gas from Maryland

David Craig Rallies Political Support for Urgent Need to Export Natural Gas from Maryland

 

Simmering Cove Point LNG controversy takes on greater importance in light of world events

 

Harford County Executive and Maryland Governor Candidate David Craig called on incumbent Governor Martin O’Malley to push the Obama Administration to complete a final regulatory review to enable a facility in southern Maryland to export liquefied natural gas.  The issue takes on greater urgency as the Ukraine and several European countries seek long-term solutions to reduce dependence on Russian energy exports.

“Now is not the time for dithering and red tape,” said Craig.  “Maryland is on the verge of being only the second state in the country to export liquefied natural gas and our proximity to the Marcellus Shale, and the Atlantic Ocean and existing infrastructure gives us a competitive advantage that nobody else has.  Maryland can attract thousands of energy sector jobs and help assert U.S. influence in the crisis in the Ukraine.  But we must act now.”

Ambassadors to the U.S. from Hungary, Poland and the Czech and Slovak republics wrote House Speaker John Boehner last week that U.S. "natural gas would be much welcome in Central and Eastern Europe, and Congressional action to expedite [liquefied natural gas] exports to America's allies would come at a critically important time for the region."

The U.S. Department of Energy has approved just six export licenses for LNG projects, including Cove Point, since 2011.  Dominion Resources-owned Cove Point, in Lusby, MD, is one of about 20 U.S. projects that want to export LNG. Of those, only one, in Louisiana, has full federal permitting.

Delays in Maryland are coming on multiple fronts.  Political support among the O’Malley-Brown Administration is non-existent. Gubernatorial candidate and legislator Heather Mizeur is leading the charge in outright opposition to the project, while Lt. Gov. and front-runner candidate Anthony Brown promotes “environmental justice,” a left-wing social movement that attempts to stifle energy exploration wherever politically-favored constituencies may object   The other democratic gubernatorial candidate, the current Attorney General, is opposed to timely approval of the project.  Apart from general statements about the importance of developing jobs and traditional forms of energy, GOP primary candidates for Governor have heretofore not yet articulated positions on the issue. 

Meanwhile, environmental groups are lobbying in force against the Cove Point project, including one which is also involved in fighting the Keystone – XL pipeline in the Midwest.

Absent political leadership, it is federal regulators that have direct control over what happens next. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is deciding whether to require an exhaustive Environmental Impact Statement which could derail or delay the project for years. 

“Instead of picking winners and losers and subsidizing the most expensive options such as wind energy, we should be taking advantage of our existing resources and diversifying in a way that is meaningful to our economy and to job creation," said Del. Jeannie Haddaway, who is running for Lt. Governor on the ticket with Craig.   “The choice is clear, the opportunity is now.” 

There are pockets of political support among key members of the state legislature and Maryland’s lone GOP Congressman. 

Rep. Andy Harris a long-time natural gas “fracking” proponent, said as the energy boom took hold of neighboring states in recent years,"we could be a part of the Marcellus Shale natural gas boom sweeping across many of our neighboring states."

Craig will elaborate further on the Cove Point permitting issue and other important energy concerns, including state efforts to indefinitely delay natural gas extraction through fracking at a Baltimore Sun Newsmaker forum this evening at 7 P.M.

 

“We need to fight for this just as aggressively as our opponents are fighting against it,” said Craig. “Now is the time to unite around the issues of jobs, energy independence and restoring the positive influence of America in world affairs."

“Checkpoint Strikeforce” TO BE CONDUCTED

 

POCOMOKE CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

PRESS RELEASE

 

 

Checkpoint Strikeforce
March 15, 2014

 

The Pocomoke City Police Department will conduct a sobriety checkpoint on March 15, 2014.  The operation will be conducted with the national campaign “Checkpoint Strikeforce”.  The goal is to reduce the number of drunk and drugged drivers on Worcester County roadways during the St. Patrick’s holiday weekend.

 Chief Kelvin Sewell and the Pocomoke City Police Department would like to wish all a safe and sober St. Patrick’s Day.

 

 

 

      
         Kelvin D. Sewell
         Chief of Police

Space Station Crew Returns to Earth, Lands Safely in Kazakhstan

Three crew members from the International Space Station returned to Earth Monday after 166 days in space, during which they made 2,656 orbits around the planet and traveled almost 70.5 million miles

Expedition 38 crew members Michael Hopkins of NASA, and Oleg Kotov and Sergey Ryazanskiy of the Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos) touched down southeast of the remote town of Dzhezkazgan, Kazakhstan, at about 11:24 p.m. EDT (9:24 a.m., March 11, in Dzhezkazgan).

During Expedition 38, the crew members participated in a variety of research, including protein crystal growth studies and biological studies of plant seedling growth to technology demonstrations that are helping to improve our understanding of how liquid moves in microgravity. They conducted student experiments that observed celestial events in space. One of several key research focus areas during Expedition 38 was human health management for long duration space travel, as NASA and Roscosmos prepare for two crew members to spend one year aboard the space station in 2015.

During their time aboard the orbiting laboratory, the three men were there to welcome three visiting cargo spacecraft. Two Russian Progress crafts docked to the station, bringing tons of supplies. In January, Orbital Sciences Corp.'s Cygnus spacecraft loaded with cargo and experiments flew to the space station as part of the Orbital-1 cargo resupply mission. This was the company's first of at least eight cargo delivery flights through 2016 to the station under NASA's Commercial Resupply Services contract.

Kotov, Ryazanskiy and Hopkins were on hand as Mastracchio, Mikhail Tyurin of Roscosmos and Koichi Wakata of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency arrived on Nov. 7, 2013, bearing the Olympic torch used to light the Olympic flame at Fisht Stadium in Sochi, Russia, which marked the start of the 2014 Winter Games in February.

Hopkins and fellow Expedition 38 NASA astronaut Rick Mastracchio ventured outside the confines of the space station during two spacewalks in December to replace a suspect ammonia pump that is part of the station's equipment cooling system. On the Russian side, Kotov and Ryazanskiy conducted three spacewalks. The first trip outside was to install and replace experiments and hardware attached to the exterior of the Russian segment and display the Olympic torch. The other two walks were to install a pair of cameras on the hull of the station's Zvezda Service Module that are part of a Canadian commercial endeavor with Roscosmos designed to downlink Earth-observation imagery to Internet-based subscribers.

Hopkins, who is a life-long enthusiast of exercise and weight training, participated last month with four fitness professionals and athletes in a Google+ Hangout from space where the astronaut discussed the importance of exercise in a weightless environment. He demonstrated one of the many pieces of fitness equipment aboard the station that crew use during their daily 2-hour workouts.

The space station is more than a scientific research platform. It also serves as a test bed for technology demonstrations. During the past several months, the Expedition 38 crew members used the Synchronized Position Hold, Engage, Reorient, Experimental Satellites (SPHERES) for a number of investigations. These included demonstrating and testing techniques related to micro electromagnetic formation flight and wireless inductive power transfer; examining how liquids move around inside containers in microgravity, which affects computer simulations of liquid rocket fuel behavior and increases the safety and efficiency of future rockets; and demonstrating and testing enhanced technologies and techniques related to visual inspection and navigation. The crew members helped launch several miniature satellites, referred to as CubeSats, from the Japanese Experiment module. CubeSats are testing technologies ranging from Earth observation to smartphone technology to satellite attitude control in affordable small satellites that are within reach of most universities and even high- and middle- school students.

Ryazanskiy, Kotov and Hopkins also we aboard the orbital outpost when the Obama Administration announced in January NASA planned to extend the operational life of the International Space Station until at least 2024.

Hopkins and Ryazanskiy each now have 166 days in space after completing their first missions in space. Kotov now has spent 526 days in space on three flights.

Expedition 39 now is operating aboard the station. Koichi Wakata of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, is in command of the orbiting laboratory. He is the first Japanese astronaut to hold this position. Wakata and his crewmates, Flight Engineers Mastracchio and Mikhail Tyurin of Roscosmos, will tend to the station as a three-person crew until the arrival in two weeks of three new crewmates: NASA astronaut Steve Swanson and Russian cosmonauts Alexander Skvortsov and Oleg Artemyev. Swanson, Skvortsov and Artemyev are scheduled to launch from Kazakhstan March 25.

For more information on the International Space Station and its crews, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/station

A MESSAGE FROM CHIEF KELVIN SEWELL – ST PATRICKS DAY 2014

A MESSAGE FROM CHIEF KELVIN SEWELL –

POCOMOKE CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

 

ST PATRICKS DAY 2014

 

 

IF Drinking Alcohol
 Be responsible.

 

 Choose a designated driver. Decide who's going to be doing the driving before you go out, and make sure that person doesn't drink any alcoholic beverages.

 

 Call a taxi. Sometimes even the designated driver slips. If nobody in your group is sober, take alternate transportation. Cab, bus, OR call a family member/friend – anything's better than getting in the car with a drunk driver.

 

 Hide keys. Don't be afraid to take someone's car keys. If the person gets angry, it's probably proof you're doing the right thing.

Pocomoke City Police Department LIKE on Facebook

Mar-Va Theater Auditions ~ "Little Shop of Horrors"

 

Spring/Summer Production Open Auditions

 

After much research and deliberation, the *NEW* Mar-Va Players have decided on Little Shop of Horrors. Open auditions will take place on:

 

Saturday, March 15, 2014 from 2 - 4 PM
Sunday, March 16, 2014 from 5 -7 PM

 

 

Callbacks will be held:
Tuesday, March 18, 2014 from 6:30 - 8:30 PM 

 

All audition & cast information are available at: http://marvatheater.com/marvaproductions.html. 

 

To join the Mar-Va Players Facebook page, click {here}.

No. 1 Ranking For Hopkins School of Education

Photo/BW

U.S. News and World Report ranked the Johns Hopkins University's School of Education No. 1 in the nation for graduate education programs, above two state programs better known as teaching schools: University of Maryland, College Park at No. 26 and Towson University at No. 116.

The annual rankings of graduate schools in various disciplines is being released, and it gives the education program at Hopkins the top billing for the first time, up from second place last year. The graduate program was started in 2007 and serves 1,600 full- and part-time students in the doctoral and master's degree programs.

"I am thrilled that our new ranking reflects the quality of our efforts in teaching, research, and the development of evidence-based models of instruction," David W. Andrews, dean of the School of Education, said in a news release. "We will continue our commitment to be part of the innovative solutions to the educational challenges in this country and take a leadership role in the discovery and dissemination of new knowledge affecting education."

Hopkins stayed in third place for research-oriented medical schools, while the University of Maryland was 34th. Hopkins' medical school was ranked No. 1 in internal medicine. In the category of medical schools focused on primary care, Hopkins was ranked 26th and Maryland 40th.

CONTINUE READING...

Benefit ~ Ride For Awareness

Women Supporting Women

 

HELP SUPPORT A GREAT CAUSE

 Call Mary at 410-213-1177 for more information

BINGO! To Benefit The Mar-va Theater

 CASH BINGO!!

 

To benefit

The Mar-va Theater

 

Friday, March 14

 & Friday, March 28

 

Captain's Cove Community Room
3370 Captain's Corridor

 

 

$20 per book

$10 per additional book

$1 per dabber Food & Baked Goods will be available for purchase to benefit Union United Methodist Church of Greenbackville. 

Doors Open: 6 PM

Bingo Begins: 7 PM

Somerset County Sheriff’s Office Arrests

Somerset County (MD) Sheriff's Office

 

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

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

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

 Everett James Williams Sr. - Crisfield was arrested 3-5-14 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Williams was held on a $ 500.00 bond.

Danyal Dnote Dashiell - Salisbury was arrested 3-6-14 on a warrant for violation of probation. Dashiell was held on a $ 35,000 bond.

Keshana Shaqcanda Miller - Berlin was arrested 3-9-14 on a warrant for failing to appear in court. Miller was released on a $ 1,000 unsecured bond.


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

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

Field Notes By Delegate Mike McDermott

 

Observations and Reflections on Legislative Activities

By Delegate Michael A. McDermott

 

Week 9 March 3-7, 2014

 

Monday Evening Session:

Bills on First Reader

Tuesday Morning Session:

Bills on First Reader

Third Reading Calendar (House Bills) #15

HB 240
Third Reading Passed (80-56)

HB 740
Third Reading Passed (95-41)

 

Special Order Calendar HB 401 Third Reading Passed (131-6)

HB-240 is a bill which will place mandates on local government as it relates to recycling numbers when it comes to waste disposal. This centralized approach is going to cost Marylanders when county governments will have to change policies to meet set goals by the state. Interestingly enough, it was also highly opposed by many environmental groups who objected to some of the burning standards attached to the bill. While most republicans voted no, we were also joined by several democrats. Sadly, the bill was not defeated.

HB-740 involves another infusion of state money into cyber security efforts to encourage more of these companies to come to Maryland. This is truly crony capitalism in that it favors and promotes one type of business over every other business in the state. In fact, this is one sector of our economy that is growing and thriving on its own and does not need additional incentives. The vote was along party lines with the republicans voting against this type of favoritism.

Tuesday Afternoon Judiciary Committee Hearings:

There were 30 bills addressing various firearm regulations. They were set up in 9 groupings: Crimes-4 bills; Handgun Permits-7 bills; Assault Weapons and Detachable Magazines-4 bills; Purchase of Firearms-4 bills; Handgun Qualifications Licenses-2bills; Handgun Safety Measures-2 bills; Disqualifiers for Ownership/Possession-2 bills; Bow Hunting-2 bills; Miscellaneous-3 bills.

HB 36     Del Smigiel    Public Safety - Handgun Permit - Applicant Qualifications  HB 42     Del Cardin     Public Safety - Firearms - Application Approval Before Sale, Rental, or Transfer  HB 60     Del Smigiel    Repeal of the Firearm Safety Act of 2013 (Jointly assigned to JUD and HGO)  HB 62     Del Smigiel  Rgltd Frarms-Lic Issued by Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, or West Virginia - Reciprocity  HB 90     Del Simmons    Regulated Firearms - Disqualifying Crime -Domestically Related Crime  HB 94     Del Arora     Crim Law - Prohib on Manufacture of Detachable Magazine or Firearm Receiver - 3-D Printing  HB 115    Del Conaway    Task Force to Study Firearms and Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) Devices  HB 122    Del K. Kelly   Public Safety - Assault Weapons and Detachable Magazines - Possession or Transport by Nonresident  HB 215    Del Cluster    Public Safety - Handgun Permits - Renewal Period for Retired Law Enforcement Officer  HB 262    Del Beitzel,   Bow Hunting - Possession of Handguns for  et al          Protection  HB 286    Del Valentino Criminal Law - Use of Handgun in Crime of Violence Smith, et al   or Felony - Statute of Limitations  HB 521    Del Haddaway      Firearms - Handgun Permit Requirements - Handgun Riccio         Qualification License Holders  HB 623    Del Simmons   Public Safety - Crim Justice Information System - Integration With Md Automated Firearms System  HB 659    Del Szeliga    Public Safety - Regulated Firearms - Transport Through State  HB 712    Del Smigiel    Crimes - Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Crime - Diminution Credits and Sentencing  HB 713    Del Smigiel    Public Safety - Handgun Safety Devices - External Safety Locks  HB 715    Del Smigiel       Public Safety - Handgun Identification Requirements - Repeal  HB 716    Del Smigiel    Public Safety - Handgun Qualification License - Qualified Handgun Instructors and Permit Holders  HB 717    Del Smigiel    Public Safety - Firearms Safety Training - Demonstration Component  HB 719    Del Smigiel    Public Safety - Firearms - Probation Before Judgment  HB 720    Del Smigiel    Public Safety - Handgun Permits - Training Requirement  HB 800    Del K. Kelly, Public Safety - Handgun Permits - Training  et al          Requirement for Renewal Applications  HB 818    Del Smigiel    Regulated Firearms - Lic'd Dealer or Secon Seller - Natl Instant Crim Bkgd (NICS) Check  HB 919    Del K. Kelly   Public Safety - Transport of Weapons on School Property - Retired Law Enforcement Officer  HB 934    Del Smigiel    Firearms - Application for Prchs and Reqd Registr- Use of Term "Voluntary" Registrant Prohibited  HB 995    Del Dwyer      Firearms Freedom Act  HB 997    Del Beitzel    Criminal Law - Competition Shooting and Match Shooting - Firearms Exemption  HB 1005   Del Bromwell   Firearms - Handgun Permit Requirements - Retired Military  HB 1199   Del Clippinger Possession of Loaded Handgun or Regulated Firearm - Enhanced Penalties  HB 1356   Del Glass      Bow Hunting - Possession of Handguns for Protection

The hearings began at 1pm and continued until 11:30pm. There are clearly some issues that need to be addressed in Maryland which some of the bills spoke to today. The first is the issue of Maryland becoming a “shall issue” state when it comes to Conceal Carry laws. The “good and substantial” reason applied by the Superintendent of the State Police severely limits the issuance of any permits. It has left many to consider going to an “Open Carry” with their rifles and shotguns (which has been verified as legal by Attorney General Gansler). Many expressed their frustration with the state and their thoughts of moving to Open Carry if the state does not allow for greater permitting of residents.

 

There were a couple of bills designed to strengthen punishment on offenders who utilize a firearm in the commission of their crimes. We also listened to bills that would eliminate “good time” styled credits for prisoners who are serving a sentence involving a gun crime.

 

We also heard about several bills to modify last year’s SB-281 regarding training requirements and other needed modifications. It is apparent that the State Police have adapted some of the components of the bill in a way that was never intended by the General Assembly. Some of these include clear amendment changes that I offered in committee and on the floor in shaping this bill. The current training requirements are a good example and some of these bills sought to move the state back to the original intent expressed last year.HB-623 bears watching this year. The bill would require the MSP to link their gun database with the Criminal Justice Information System database. Due to some of the changes in law over the years, it is estimated that upwards of over 100,000 gun owners in Maryland may unknowingly be disqualified from possessing certain firearms. The bill calls for an expansion of the MSP to provide personnel for the purposes of tracking down these owners and seizing their firearms. The bill remains in committee at this time.

Wednesday Morning Session:

First Reading of Senate Bills Introduced

Bills on Second Reader

 

 

HB 295 Floor Committee Amendment { 123291/1 Adopted Floor Committee Amendment {703028/1 Adopted Floor Amendment (Delegate Davis) {403525/1 Adopted Floor Amendment (Delegate Bromwell) {583927/1 Rejected (45-87) Floor Amendment (Delegate George) {223625/1 Rejected (43-91) Floor Amendment (Delegate McDermott) {423829/4 Rejected (47-89) Floor Amendment (Delegate Fisher) {763626/1 Rejected (45-88) Floor Amendment (Delegate Boteler) {603523/1 Rejected (46-88) Floor Amendment (Delegate Krebs) {343720/1 Rejected (47-83) Floor Amendment (Delegate McDonough) {583621/1 Rejected (42-90) Floor Amendment (Delegate McDonough) {183927/1 Rejected (45-83) Floor Amendment (Delegate Bates) {363222/1 Rejected (46-89) Floor Amendment (Delegate Parrott) {703723/1 Rejected (43-87) Floor Amendment (Delegate Hogan) {773521/1 Rejected (44-84) Floor Amendment (Delegate Mizeur) {343920/1 Rejected (8-124) Floor Amendment (Delegate Ready) {433426/1 Rejected (43-89) Floor Amendment (Delegate McMillan) {463721/1 Rejected Second Reading Passed with Amendments This is the Minimum Wage Bill.(Press Release) It will raise the wage to $10.10 over the next two years and is one of the signature bills for the O’Malley administration this year.    Today, there were a series of amendments offered on the bill. They all attempted to address the concerns of businesses across the state. It became clear that the Six Flags Theme Park in Prince Georges County was exempted from this bill and for the same reasons (seasonal employment), I sought to exempt similar workers in Ocean City. There was a strong debate on the issue and the exchange is a great example of how the sausage is made in the Maryland General Assembly. Here is a link for you to listen. Ultimately, my amendment was defeated, as was the case with all of the floor amendments offered. The bill now goes onto Third Reader on Friday morning.

Wednesday Afternoon Judiciary Hearings:

HB-635 would allow a health care provider to offer an apology to a patient or grieving family member and not withhold these types of statements for fear of being sued and held liable for inferred guilt due to an offered apology. Sadly, this is a needed bill.

HB-809 would remove protections from liability for local government in cases where an injury and claim arise out of the use of an artificial turf field which is owned and maintained by a government entity.

HB-930would alter the amount of damages that could be sought for non-economic damages in civil cases. The new limit would be $500,000. We heard from some folks who were severely injured and the current limits did not cover their needs.

HB-996 would make certain written records of health care officials accessible and usable for civil suit purposes. Currently, some of these types of records are shielded.

HB-1009 this is similar to HB-930 relating to catastrophic injuries.

HB-1221 provides for the methods for acquiring information from internet source providers when a tortuous complaint is being alleged from an anonymous source.

HB-1271 would address notifications on lead paint.

HB-1302 would void and eliminate certain requirements for civil claims contained within certain contracts. In particular it would eliminate the requirement for a party to pay for attorney fees associated under certain actions.

HB-1344 would establish a task force to study the prevention of sexual child abuse. I don’t think we need to fund a study, but we could use more money for law enforcement and victim services.

 

Thursday Afternoon Judiciary Hearings:

HB 29      Del Gutierrez Maryland Law Enforcement Trust Act  HB 539    Del Rosenberg Task Force to Study the Implementation and Use of                  Body Cameras by Law Enforcement Officers  HB 633    Del Conaway    Baltimore City - Law Enforcement Officers - Video Cameras  HB 785    Del George     Drones - Unauthorized Surveillance  HB 847    Del Rosenberg, Criminal Procedure - Government Drone Use - et al  Limitations  HB 912    Del Smigiel,   Courts - Electronic Communications - Privacy et al  HB 1003  Del McDonough Crim Procedure - Individual With Immigration                  Detainer (Md Law Enforc and Public Saf Trust Act)  HB 1074  Del Smigiel    Fourth Amendment Protection Act  HB 1126  Del Haddaway   Criminal Law - Synthetic Marijuana - Prohibition Riccio  HB 1161  Del Waldstreicher, et al        Criminal Procedure - Electronic DeviceLocation                                      Information - Warrant              HB 1188   Del Carter     Law Enforcement Officers - Alcohol and Drug Testing - Required  HB 1200   Del  Pena-Melnyk,           Public Safety - Eyewitness Identification - Procedures              HB 1202   Del Riccio   Crim Law - Distrib of Faked Controlled Dangerous Substance -                 Substantially Similar Chemical Struc  HB 1234   Del Swain      Criminal Law - Drug Paraphernalia - Penalties  HB 1316   Del Swain      Crms - Sale of Drg Paraphernalia to a Mnr - L  Law Authorzng                              Bsns Lic Revoc for Subq Violation

There was much discussion and debate on the issues pertaining to electronic surveillance as they relate to the protections under the 4th Amendment which were the subject of several bills today. One in particular seeks to address the use of drones by the government.  Many of the bills sought to provide guidance for emerging technology being utilized by the government. I do not believe we will see any of these bills come out this year unless it is in the form of an issue study.

We also has a couple of immigration bills that address any contact that law enforcement has with illegal aliens. HB-29 would make significant changes to the manner and dealings that law enforcement has with illegal aliens they encounter.  In fact, it would make the entire state of Maryland a sanctuary state for illegal aliens. I would prefer to see these issues addressed locally based upon area needs and community desires. The idea of not allowing local law enforcement to not communicate with Immigration authorities is absurd. The bill has a lot of amendments and appears on a fast track for passage so it is one to be watched.

 

Delegate Pat McDonough offered an alternative bill to HB-29 which is HB-1003. This bill seeks to further enhance law enforcement efforts ongoing in Maryland as the public safety sector seeks to deal with illegal aliens.

 

There were a couple of bills that would require law enforcement officers to wear body cameras while on duty. If a local department wants to fund this and implement it as policy, by all means do it-but to mandate the entire state to do so is over the top.

 

There were also a couple of CDS bills to address synthetic marijuana and paraphernalia items. I do not sense that any of these bills will move in the committee.

CONTINUE READING....