TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview

1913..(new article) Investigation widens into the mysterious death of a young Salisbury woman found in her office chair; 1888.. Pocomoke City's Brass Band; 1971.. Orioles player to speak at Pocomoke Little League meeting; 1929.. Parksley thrives; 1888.. Fact or legend?- The mysterious visit of a Woman In Black.



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!

PCPD ANNUAL EASTER EGG HUNT

Bring your own bag or Easter basket

Today ~ 12 NOON

 

 

Habitat for Humanity Collects For Local Fire Departments

Habitat for Humanity Photo

On Saturday, March 23rd, the Board of Directors of the Eastern Shore of Virginia Habitat for Humanity, met for a board retreat. A strategic plan for the next three years was agreed on and a restructuring of committees and goals was accomplished.

During the discussion of the needs of the Eastern Shore, the topic of the Accomack arsonist came up, and the tireless service given by the volunteer firefighters across the Shore. Board members decided to bring supplies to be given to the firefighters to our board meeting the following Monday.

At the Board Meeting, the items were brought in and covered the entire conference table in the meeting room. Two of the board members, who live in Virginia Beach, brought this donation up at their church on Sunday, and Virginia Beach Christian Church contributed over $500 for this effort. Gas cards as well as supplies were brought in for the collection. The Board is pleased to make this donation to our loyal firefighters.

From now until May 1, 2013, the ESVA Habitat ReStore will have a box available for anyone to make a donation to these brave, hard working volunteers. The ReStore will also give 10% discount to any volunteer firefighter who shops at the store until May 1, 2013.

The ReStore is located at 3271 Main Street, Exmore and is open Wednesday through Friday from 10am-5pm and Saturday from 9am-2pm. Suggested supplies include dish soap, bottled water, Gator Aid, Protein Bars, coffee, cream, sugar and paper products. The ReStore can be reached at 757 442-3500 for more information.

Source:

Statement Re: Shooting Suspect Wounded By Troopers After Stanpff

3/29/2013
STATEMENT RE: SHOOTING SUSPECT WOUNDED BY TROOPERS AFTER STANDOFF


This statement is issued regarding the condition of the suspect involved in the shooting incident that occurred on March 29, 2013 in Rawlings, Maryland.
The suspect identified as Samuel E. George, 53, of the 15000-block of Meadow Dale Drive, Rawlings, Maryland has died from the gunshot wounds sustained during a standoff with troopers. He was pronounced dead this afternoon at the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center.
The criminal investigation is being conducted by the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit, which conducts criminal investigations in to all shootings involving Maryland state troopers. Homicide Unit investigators are being assisted by investigators from C3I and the Allegany County Sheriff’s Office as well as crime scene technicians from the Maryland State Police Forensic Science Division. State Police investigators have conducted interviews with persons who witnessed the incident. Evidence collected from the scene will be reviewed and analyzed to corroborate witness statements. All victims involved are currently cooperating with investigators.
The Allegany County State’s Attorney responded to the scene and has been continually updated on the active investigation. The Maryland State Police Internal Affairs Unit is also conducted an investigation into the police involved shooting, which is procedure.


Sgt. Marc Black
Spokesman
Maryland State Police

Chincoteague 34th Annual Easter Decoy & Art Festival

34th Annual Easter Decoy & Art Festival

 

Chincoteague Combined School
 4586 Main St.
 Chincoteague Island, Virginia

Friday, March 29  Noon to 6:00 p.m.

 Saturday, March 30     9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

 

Local and national carvers and artists of all kinds exhibit and sell their works.

 

*New in 2013 will be a silent auction of

 "Pre-Loved Treasures". 
 Items that once held a warm spot in someone's heart will be auctioned off to new homes to be loved "a second time around!

 

Jenny Somers of "Bayside Arts" will be there with her fine exhibits of painting, other talents....and eggs!

 

If you mention Facebook to Jenny she will give you a 10% discount off your purchase.

Delmarva Discovery Center ~ Critter Corner This Saturday

The Delmarva Discovery Center will be closed on Easter, March 31, 2013.

 Please come join them on
Saturday March 30th at 1 PM for this weeks -

Critter Corner:

Things That Go PEEP In the Night:

a frog call program and craft!

Up close and personal with a local bullfrog.

SHOOTING SUSPECT WOUNDED BY TROOPERS AFTER STANDOFF IN ALLEGANY CO.

(RAWLINGS, MD) – An Allegany County man who shot and wounded his brother and shot at his father is undergoing treatment in a Baltimore hospital after being shot and wounded last night by state troopers when he repeatedly ignored commands to surrender and approached police with a loaded handgun.

The suspect is identified as Samuel E. George, 53, of the 15000-block of Meadow Dale Drive, Rawlings, Md. He is being treated at Johns Hopkins Hospital for two gunshot wounds.

About 10:30 p.m. yesterday, a 911 call was received at the Maryland State Police Cumberland Barrack from the suspect’s wife, who reported George was firing shots and destroying their mobile home. He was also apparently threatening to kill himself in front of his wife.

According to the preliminary investigation by the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit, George then walked to the home of his father and brother in the 15000-block of Holly Avenue. At that location, he confronted a family friend, Julius D. Shaffer, 20, and pointed his .22 caliber revolver at him. George reportedly pulled the trigger, but the gun did not fire. Samuel George then pointed the revolver at the head of his brother, Jason E. George, 33, and pulled the trigger, but again, the gun did not fire.

The investigation indicates Samuel George then went back to his residence where he presumably reloaded his gun. He returned to his father’s mobile home. His father, Edward George, 75, was standing on the porch urging his son to put the gun down. The suspect then allegedly fired a shot in the direction of his father, but did not wound him.
According to witnesses, Samuel George again approached Shaffer and Jason George. He fired one round at his brother that is said to have grazed his brother’s leg. Jason George and Shaffer took cover and the suspect continued to fire more rounds.

State troopers and deputies from the Allegany County Sheriff’s Office arrived on the scene and confronted Samuel George at the intersection of Holly Avenue and Meadow Dale Drive, at which time he fired his weapon in the air.

State Police Sergeant Jason Crowe immediately began giving verbal commands, ordering George to put the gun down and surrender. George said the only way he would put the gun down was if police shot him. He repeatedly said he wanted police to shoot him.

Samuel George began walking down Meadow Dale Drive toward the Rawlings Volunteer Fire Department. Troopers and deputies followed him, while taking cover and continuing to order him to drop the weapon and surrender. As they approached the fire department, troopers and deputies took cover behind trees at a nearby residence.

The suspect continued to ignore commands to surrender. He showed police that the hammer on his revolver was cocked before beginning to walk toward the tree Sgt. Crowe and another trooper had taken cover behind. Police again urged him to surrender and he refused.

In fear for their lives and the lives of fellow police officers, Sgt. Crowe and Senior Trooper Eric Derham each fired at the suspect with their department issued .12 gauge shotguns. The suspect was incapacitated and troopers immediately approached and removed the revolver from his hand.

Senior Trooper Derham provided immediate emergency care to George for wounds in his upper and lower torso. Maryland State Police helicopter Trooper 5 had responded to the scene while the situation was ongoing. The helicopter immediately landed and the on-board flight paramedic provided medical care before the suspect was transported by Trooper 5 to Western Maryland Regional Medical Center. Assistance was also provided by Rawlings Volunteer Fire Department personnel.

No troopers or deputies were injured during the incident. Samuel George was later transported by ambulance to the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. Criminal charges against him are pending.

Jason George refused medical treatment for his wound.

Investigators from the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit, C3I, and the Allegany County Sheriff’s Office remain on the scene.

State Police Forensic Sciences Division crime scene technicians are processing the scene for evidence. The Allegany County State’s Attorney responded to the scene and will continue to be briefed as the investigation continues. The Maryland State Police Internal Affairs Unit is also conducted an investigation into the police involved shooting, which is procedure.

Sgt. Jason Crowe is a 13-year veteran of the Maryland State Police. Senior Trooper Eric Derham is a 22-year veteran of the Maryland State Police. Both troopers are assigned to the Cumberland Barrack. As is procedure in police-involved shootings, both troopers have been placed on routine administrative leave while the preliminary investigation continues.

 

Submitted by:

Maryland State Police

First Friday Pizza Night - Starting a New Tradition

Starting a  NEW tradition ........

FIRST FRIDAY PIZZA NIGHT

AT STATION 1

(New Church Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company)

 

 

 

Mark your calendar now to start a new tradition

Accomack County Dept. of Public Safety - News Release On Arson Fires

The Accomack County Department of Public Safety has produced a news release on the rash of arson fires that has plagued Accomack County since November. In the release dated March 27, the department released statistics on the fires.
 
Since November, suspicious fires have destroyed 74 vacant structures. Fire response has increased 126.9% since the beginning of the arson spree. On average 20 firefighters respond to each reported structure fire and remain on scene an average of 2.5 hours which totals to over 3700 hours that have been worked, responding to these crimes over the past four and a half months.
 
According to the release, crews continue to use defensive tactics, dousing flames from the exterior of the structures, as a risk reduction strategy. There have been no injuries to date and equipment damage has been reported minor. 
 Local firefighters have received offers of assistance from across the States of Virginia, Maryland and Delaware.
 
Law enforcement continues to ask for public assistance. Call the tip line at 757-655-1437 if you have any information that might help. There's a reward being offered of up to $25,000 for information leading to the capture and conviction of the person or persons involved in the arson fires.
 
Contact Billie Jean Miles if you need assistance at the Accomack County Department of Public Safety at (757) 789-3610 or (757) 824-4274.
 
Accomack County Department of Public Safety - http://www.acdps.net/

Accomack County ~ Abandoned Structure Fire

Virginia State Police and local fire departments were called to a fire in Greenbackville, Va. around 6:00 PM Thursday evening.  It has been determined that this fire was accidental and NOT arson.

76

Thursday, March 28, 2013 / 11:00 PM
Abandoned Structure Fire

In the area of 36670 Seaside Drive
Belle Haven, Virginia (near Blue Crab Circle)

Units arrive to find the two story structure fully involved. The structure was located in thick underbrush and was brought under control by 11:25 P.M.

Painter, Exmore, Wachapreague,  Nassawadox  responded.  There were no injuries.

Police are asking anyone who has information that might lead to the capture and conviction of the person or persons involved in this or any of the other arson fires to call the tip line at the Accomack County Sheriff's Department at 757-655-1437.

A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the arsonist.

Accomack County is under a burn ban until further notice. All uncontained burning has been suspended with the exception of Chincoteague and Assateague Islands. The only exceptions are burning in a container and attended camp fires. 

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview.

　
1913..(new article) Investigation widens into the mysterious death of a young Salisbury woman found in her office chair; 1888.. Pocomoke City's Brass Band; 1971.. Orioles player to speak at Pocomoke Little League meeting; 1929.. Parksley thrives; 1888.. Fact or legend?- The mysterious visit of a Woman In Black.



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!

Yard Sale/Fund Raiser Items Needed

 

Calling all friends of the Julia Purnell Museum: Start cleaning out those closets!

 

Julia Purnell Museum

 

Yard Sale Fund-Raiser

Saturday

 April 27, 2013

 at the museum

 

 

 

Start cleaning out those closets! 

 

 

Call us (410-632-0515) to arrange a time to drop things off.

(No clothes, please)

Apparent Inmate Homicide Under Investigation In Hagerstown

3/27/2013

(HAGERSTOWN, MD) -- Maryland State Police homicide investigators are investigating the apparent murder of an inmate late last night at a state prison in Washington County.

The victim is not being identified at this time because despite efforts, his family has not yet been located and notified. He was a 22-year-old inmate at the Maryland Correctional Institution Hagerstown, or MCI-H. According to state prison officials, he had been incarcerated since 2011 and was serving a four-year sentence for first degree burglary.

The preliminary investigation by the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit indicates that at about 10:30 p.m. yesterday, a correctional officer in a dormitory area of the prison was preparing to conduct an inmate count when he noticed the victim standing near a bunk bed with blood on him. The officer immediately summoned assistance from correctional officers and medical staff.

The victim collapsed and was provided immediate emergency care by officers and responding medical staff. The victim was bleeding from at least one wound on his upper body. He was taken to the prison dispensary where emergency personnel from the Boonsboro Ambulance and Rescue Services responded and transported him to the Meritus Medical Center.

The victim was pronounced dead at the hospital shortly after 11:30 p.m. yesterday. His body will be transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore for an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death.

Maryland State Police investigators from the Homicide Unit and Criminal Enforcement Division and Forensic Sciences Division crime scene technicians responded to the scene after being contacted by prison officials. They remain at the prison this morning processing the scene for evidence and interviewing inmates and correctional staff. They are being assisted by investigators for the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services Internal Investigations Unit.

Multiple inmates were in the dormitory area when the officer observed the injured inmate. All inmates have been removed from the area while the scene is processed.

The suspect or suspects responsible for this apparent crime have not been identified at this time. The investigation is continuing.

 

Submitted:

MD. State Police

OCPD Seizes Marijuana Plants & Production Equipment

On March 26, at approximately 6:00 p.m., Ocean City Police Narcotics Unit and Patrol Officers served a Search and Seizure Warrant on 311 Sunset Drive, in reference to the illegal distribution and manufacturing of controlled dangerous substances.

During the on-scene investigation detectives discovered approximately 104 individual Marijuana plants being grown in the unit. Investigators identified the primary suspect at the scene as Christopher Scott Smith, 39, of Ocean City. Ocean City Police seized various items of evidence including numerous pieces of equipment used in the production and growing of Marijuana plants.


Smith was arrested and charged with:
-          Manufacturing of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Marijuana)-          Possession of Marijuana
-          Possession with intent to distribute Marijuana.

Smith is being held by the Ocean City Police Department pending an initial appearance before an Ocean City District Court Commissioner.

Submitted:  Ocean City Police Dept.

SHORE BANK ACCEPTING DONATIONS FOR ACCOMACK COUNTY FIRE COMPANIES

W. Thomas Mears, Shore Bank President and Chief Executive Officer announced that an account has been established with Shore Bank to accept donations to support our local fire and rescue companies.

To help kick off the Fund Drive, Shore Bank has made the initial contribution of $1,000.

 Mears said, "The past five months have severely strained local resources and our fire companies need our support now more than ever. We hope that by reaching out to our community for help, we can support our local volunteers." Monetary donations can be made at any Shore Bank branch or mailed to: Shore Bank, c/o Accomack Firefighters Assistance Fund, PO Box 920, Onley, Virginia 23418. Please make checks payable to: Accomack Firefighters Assistance Fund.

 In addition, the Shore Bank Exmore, Onley and Chincoteague branches will be accepting donation items needed by the local fire and rescue companies. Items such as Gatorade, coffee, creamer, sugar and dish soap, sweeteners,  regular cups, coffee cups, protein  granola bars, paper products are needed. These types of items can be taken to any Shore Bank branch Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.


Shore Bank is full service community bank with seven conveniently located branches from Cape Charles, Virginia to Salisbury, Maryland. Shore Bank also has Loan Production offices in West Ocean City and Rehoboth, Delaware.

Here are some other drop-off locations:

• Pocomoke Animal Hospital, Pocomoke, MD
• Contours, Exmore
• Tangled Salon, Exmore
• Cycle Creations Highway Market, New Church
• Arcadia Nursing & Rehab ~ Quail Run, Nelsonia
• Martha’s Kitchen, Saxis
• H.W. Drummonds, Greenbush
• Attitudes Fitness, Onancock
• Walmart, Onley
• A.J’s Meat Barn, Cheriton
• Dockside Properties, Chincoteague
• Chris’ Bait and Tackle, Capeville
• Cape Charles Rescue Squad

Good Friday Services

GOOD FRIDAYMarch 29, 2013
This Friday the Pocomoke Ministerial Association will have a Service of the Seven Last Words of Christ at the Abundant Life Apostolic Church on Front Street at noon.

Spring Break For Accomack County Schools

Accomack County Public Schools will have a two-hour early dismissal today, March 28, 2013.

 Schools will be closed from Friday March 29 through Friday April 5 in observance of Spring Break.

 Classes will resume on Monday, April 8.

Pocomoke City Vol. Fire Co. To Hold Community Dinner

The Pocomoke City Vol. Fire Co.  will have their
Community Dinner
 on Sunday, April 7, 2013

 

 12 noon til 4 p.m.
 Prepared by the Ladies Aux. and
Served Family Style by the Firemen at
The Community Center
 (next to the fire station)
 All you Can Eat!
~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

Menu includes:
Chicken & Dumplings <> Roast Beef
 Mashed Potatoes <> Turnip Greens
 Baked Corn <> Pickled Beets <> Cornbread <> Rolls
 Coffee - Tea - Water <> Assorted Cakes ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

Tickets: In Pocomoke - First Shore Federal,
 PNC Bank, Taylor Bank, Enchanted Florist,
 Country Blossoms. Oak Hall - T's Corner. ~~~~~~~~~~~~

Adluts $18 <> 4 to 12 yrs $10 <> under 4 free ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Please come out and support
 The Pocomoke City Vol. Fire Co.  

Legislative Updatates From Delegate Mike McDermott

 

 

An Update on The O’Malley-Brown Gun Bill: The “Eye Wall” Takes Shape

 

Mar. 27th, 2013

The O’Malley-Brown Gun Bill: The “Eye Wall” Takes Shape

By Delegate Mike McDermott

 

The “eye wall” on the O’Malley-Brown Gun Bill (SB-281) has finally taken shape and, as I have flown through the rhetoric during committee meetings in the past weeks, I believe we are looking at a Cat 5. A “Ban List” of what the governor has designated as “bad guns” has remained alive and well despite indications that our committee was moving toward a more reasonable “features list”. It seems quite clear that the 45 semi-automatic rifles that are currently considered legal, regulated firearms will, overnight, become illegal and banned forever in Maryland. It also seems likely that the current “Handgun Roster Board” that must give its seal of approval on handguns will now be tasked with overseeing rifles based upon a set of suggested language and features to be interpreted going forward by the board and applied to any semi-automatic rifle being sold in state.

So, the deer rifle you hunt with this year could find itself on the Banned List next year depending on the interpretation of a board of bureaucrats appointed by our gun loathing governor. Of course, all this is in the name of public safety in a state where no one has been murdered with one of these “bad guns.”

Going forward, registration is alive and well as is mandatory licensing. After October 1st this year, Marylanders who want to purchase a regulated firearm will need to submit to fingerprinting and an extensive background check by the State Police. There will be a fee associated with this process that will total anywhere from $100 to $400 depending on the final posture of the legislation. This will be the prerequisite to the additional background check that must be conducted every time you apply to purchase one of these firearms.

Further, it is now likely that the magazine restrictions will remain in the bill limiting capacity to no more than 10-rounds. This could have a devastating effect on firearm sales in Maryland as most manufacturers will not retool to suit the needs of a minor market like the State of Maryland. Of course, this could result in a de facto gun ban sure to bring a grin to the face of every liberal and progressive who will gleefully cast a green vote against the 2nd Amendment on any day of the week.

It also seems evident that the mental health aspects of the bill will include a possession ban for anyone who voluntarily commits themselves for treatment options. This truly presents an obstacle for folks who will now be forced to choose between treatment and their firearm rights. For many this is simply unthinkable and they could forego certain treatment options.

Whether or not the House has “71” votes (141 members) to pass, Hurricane Martin’s gun bill remains to be seen. What is clear is the tragic departure from the principles of good leadership we have left in our rear view mirror. No longer do our state leaders attempt to build consensus to insure that a decent level of ownership and buy-in has taken place before they move significant legislation. It all boils down to a mere 71 by hook or by crook, and that identifies division not unity. Getting to 71 does not require much effort so long as you are willing to break a few arms or lean hard on certain projects. To glance up at the board and see the magic “71” should hardly be seen as victory, rather it should be viewed as the symbolic, jaded view that has come to define “leadership” in Annapolis.

Marylanders Take Back Your State!

"A Minute With Mike" ~ Message From Delegate Mike McDermott

A Minute with Mike: An Update on The O'Malley-Brown Gun Bill: The "Eye Wall....

Published on Mar 27, 2013           

"A Minute with Mike" is an approximately one minute vlog (video blog) where Delegate Mike McDermott, who proudly represents the people of District 38B in the Maryland General Assembly, speaks on various topics in Maryland Legislature.

In this vlog, Delegate Mike McDermott gives you an update on The O'Malley-Brown Gun Bill that is going to soon be voted on in the Maryland General Assembly. McDermott is against this Gun Bill and any other bill which limits your Second Amendment rights.

 

 

If you would like to connect with me, please follow the links below:

Website: www.delegatemcdermott.com

 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/electmikemcdermott

 

Twitter: www.twitter.com/Del_McDermott

 

Subscribe to Email List: https://www.facebook.com/ElectMikeMcD...

Accomack County Arson Rumor Mill

No arrest has been made in the arson investigation, says Virginia State Police

Virginia State Police Sgt. Michelle Anaya stated Wednesday afternoon that the social media posts made suggesting there has been an arrest in the Accomack County arsons  are entirely untrue.

Anaya went on to say that all local media will be provided with information when an arrest is made in the case.

Arson In Cambridge, Maryland

Another community hit with arsons....

WBOC
By Karen Campbell

Three Fires in Cambridge Ruled Arson

CAMBRIDGE, Md. - Deputy State Fire Marshals say someone intentionally set multiple fires that in Cambridge.
Investigators say three dwelling fires have been ruled arson.
The first fire happened on March 20 at 617 High Street and involved a vacant two story single family home. The fire broke out  at 11:44 p.m. Damages to the structure are estimated at $90,000.

The additional two fires that happened on March 26 involved vacant two story single family homes located at 601 Cross Street with estimated damages of $15,000, and 523 Cedar Street with estimated damages of $20,000.Those fires broke out at 8:10 p.m. and 8:19 p.m. respectively.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal encourages anyone with information to contact the office.

 

 Callers can contact the Lower Eastern Shore Regional Office of the State Fire Marshal at 410-713-3780 or the Arson Hotline at 1-800-492-7529.

Pocomoke Spring Open Golf Tournament

Big fun on a little course!

 

 

Join us to support

 POCOMOKE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

 in promoting local businesses.

Entry fee $50 per individual, $200 team.

 

Cart and lunch included. 

 1st Prize- "A Day at The Bay Club" Four rounds of golf, including carts and lunch at The Bay Club in Berlin!

 

2nd prize-  Four rounds of golf, including carts, at Rum Pointe Seaside Links in Berlin.

 

3rd Prize - Four rounds of golf at The Peninsula Golf & Country Club in Longneck.

Silent auction with restaurant certificates, rounds of golf from Bear Trap Dunes, Nutters Crossing & Great Hope and other great items. Also door prizes & a 50/50 drawing.

 

Come out and show your support!

To get involved contact Jennifer at pocomokechamber@gmail.com

or 410-957-1919.

 

 

 

THROWBACK THURSDAY At the Mar-Va Theater

Throwback Thursday movies seem to draw a crowd of young and old alike! 

 

Even the digitally remastered version of the Wizard of Oz (with better sound and NO visible strings on the flying monkeys) drew a large crowd.

 

This Thursday is another popular movie:

 

 

 

Thursday, March 28th

7 PM

Tickets: $5

 

www.marvatheater.com

Good Friday and Easter Morning Services In Pocomoke City

GOOD FRIDAY

March 29, 2013

This Friday the Pocomoke Ministerial Association will have a Service of the Seven Last Words of Christ at the Abundant Life Apostolic Church on Front Street at noon.

 

 

Pitts Creek and Beaver Dam Presbyterian Churches will be joining Salem and Bethany Methodist Churches on the dock behind Salem at 6:30 am this Sunday for an Easter Sunrise Service.

 

 

 

 

Accomack County Board Budget Hearing

By Wesley Edwards

Opening the meeting Chairman Donald Hart explained that the Board of Supervisors was there to listen to the public comments about the 2013-2014 proposed budget.

Mike Mason financial officer for the county put up a slide presentation explaining that this budget was $6 million dollars less than last year due to the funding last year for the closing of the southern landfill. His highlights of the 500 page 2013-2014 budget were:

1. No tax increase.
2. Local sales tax collection was up due to new retail sales.
3. $1.3 million in new capital expenditures.
4. $290,000 for additional space for the sheriff's building.
5. A 3% raise for all county employees
6. $772,000 additional dollars put in the rainy day fund bring the total to 10.6% with a long term goal of 16%.

Mr. Winter Cullen of Painter told the story of an accident he and his wife were in 8 years ago and that he had only the Bloxom fire department to thank for saving her life and maybe his leg. He and nine other people asked the board to fund a full time EMS person for the Bloxom fire department in this budget process.

Harry Rush of Onancock speaking along with five others asked the board for additional funding of five thousand more dollars bringing the total to $15,000 for the Collation Against Domestic Violence.

Paul Mulley of Parksley thanked all the fire departments and EMS people up and down the shore for all of their hard work. He then went on to say he had seen a vacuum truck like the $175,000 one now in the budget operate on Bear Town road and it did not work suggesting that it be removed from the budget. He felt the inmates managed by the Sheriff's department were a much better way to deal with litter and at far less cost.

With no other speakers the meeting was adjourned until April 9, when a final vote on this budget is expected.

Source;

13-year-old Asks for Donations for Eastern Shore Firefighters

13-year-old asks For Donations for Eastern Shore firefighters Instead of Birthday Gifts

Instead of getting gifts on her birthday, this young girl asked her friends for donations for firefighters on the Eastern Shore who have been on the hunt for a serial arsonist.

Here is what happened....

Update: A little girl did something extraordinary on her birthday! Instead of getting gifts, she asked her friends to bring donations for firefighters on the Eastern Shore. Donations poured in after our story aired. Crews will now take the donations over to the Eastern Shore. 






http://wtkr.com/2013/03/21/volunteer-rescue-squad-takes-action-for-eastern-shore-volunteer-firefighters/





Virginia Beach, Va. – A volunteer rescue squad in Virginia Beach took action to help volunteer firefighters in Accomack County who have battled more than 70 arson fires since last November.

Their good deed encouraged people to join them in their efforts including a 13-year-old girl who asked for donations instead of gifts for her birthday!

These fires have been taxing the weary volunteer firefighters who respond, draining them both financially and physically.

“We think it’s crazy that it’s going on and they need as much help as they can get,” says John Burkard, a volunteer EMT with the Ocean Park Volunteer Rescue Squad.

“Those guys over there certainly have their hands full, and they definitely need all the help they can get,” says fellow volunteer EMT Brian Lowe.

To help out, the Ocean Park Volunteer Rescue Squad organized a supply drive to collect some of the most needed items to keep the firefighters going.

They needed things like snacks, powdered protein, dish soap to clean fire hoses, bottled water and Gatorade. Plenty of people showed up to donate.

After donations poured in, crews have now started to take the items over to the Eastern Shore.

Source:

**NOTE:  Those donations were delivered to the Eastern Shore on Tuesday.**

Commercial Vehicle Safety Enforcement Effort Launched

COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SAFETY ENFORCEMENT EFFORT LAUNCHED IN AND AROUND BALTIMORE

(BALTIMORE, MD) -- Maryland State Police commercial vehicle enforcement personnel have launched a multiple-day initiative in and around Baltimore focusing on ensuring the safe equipment and operation of buses, trucks, and other commercial vehicles operating in the area.

Today, tomorrow, and on unannounced days in the near future, Maryland State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division inspection teams will be working fixed and roving locations in Baltimore and on major roads leading to and through the city.

 

Teams of troopers and inspectors will be looking for commercial vehicles committing traffic violations and in violation of state and federal safety regulations. A special focus will be made on commercial vehicles transporting passengers. Inspections will be conducted of vehicle equipment, driver’s log books, hazardous materials documentation, and other areas that impact safe operation.
“Spring brings an increase in people traveling by commercial and personal vehicles,” Captain Bill Dofflemyer, Commander of the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division said. “This initiative targets the enforcement and compliance of state and federal regulations in an effort to improve safety for all motorists

on roads in and around Baltimore by reducing crashes involving commercial vehicles.”

State Police have established three temporary inspection sites that are located at M&T Bank Stadium, Fairfield Road and Northbridge Avenue, and Holabird Avenue and Broening Highway. Roving crews will be working interstates leading into the city from the north and south.

Submitted:

MD. State Police

"The Accomack County Arsons" CANCELED

Tomorrow's night meeting at Onancock Fire House has abruptly been canceled.

Here is the statement WBOC provided the Accomack County citizens with. 

 

 

This is what was stated just before the WBOC broadcast:

 

 "WE BEGIN TONIGHT -- WITH NEWS REGARDING OUR ACCOMACK COUNTY ARSON SPECIAL.

 

For days -- we have talked about holding a live town hall special from the Onancock Volunteer Fire Department. We've invited all of you to be with us. However -- just before our 6 pm broadcast -- WBOC was informed by the Accomack County Emergency Services Director, Jeff Terwilliger, that he does not see the value of us holding a town hall event in their county.

We invited a panel of guests to the Onancock Fire Hall -- including Virginia State Police, Accomack County agencies, elected officials and the Virginia Governor's office... All of them declined to participate. Because of that lack of participation -- we've been informed we cannot use the fire hall.


We understand this is an ongoing investigation, our hope was to raise public awareness and provide answers to your questions regarding this incredible string of arsons. The people who can answer those questions are not talking.


In its place -- tomorrow night -- WBOC will dedicate our entire 7:00pm broadcast to the Accomack arsons. The WBOC news team has spent significant time producing in-depth reports -- that we still want you to see.


We want to apologize to you, because we wanted you to be with us at this town hall event... but we still invite you to watch us tomorrow night at 7 -- as we examine the Accomack County arsons.

 

 

 

Citizens are encouraged to attend.
 
WBOC as we hold a live town hall meeting

"The Accomack County Arsons"

 

Wednesday, March 27, at 7 p.m.

 

Onancock Volunteer Fire Department

9 Pine St.

Onancock, Virginia

 

The hour long special will discuss the seventy plus fires that have burned in  Accomack County  and meet some residents that have been impacted.

 

A panel of experts will also be on hand to talk about what is being done to keep the citizens safe.

There have been over 70 arsons in the Accomack County area since November 12, 2012.

Somerset County Vacant Home Fire Ruled As Arson

By Leanne Murray
WMDT
EDEN, Md. - A vacant structure fire in Somerset County is being investigated as arson. Maryland State Fire Marshal says the fire, that was discovered by a neighbor, broke out around 10:20 PM on Monday, in a vacant two story home on Flower Hill Church Road, in Eden.

The blaze took 20 firefighters around 30 minutes to control. Damages are estimated at $2,000. Officials say that the fire started on the front porch, and was caused by arson.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact the Salisbury Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office at 410-713-3780.

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Fire Departments Respond To Shed Fire

75
Tuesday  March 26, 2013/1:10 AM
In the area of 16731 Metompkin Road, just south of Nelsonia Road in
Nelsonia Virginia

Units responded to a structure fire in grading shed. Flames were showing when units arrived and the building was completely destroyed.  Onancock, Parksley, Bloxom, Tasley, Atlantic and New Church fire departments responded and remained on the scene until after 4:00 a.m. this morning.

There were no injuries- just a lot of exhausted personnel.

 Police are asking anyone who has information that might lead to the capture and conviction of the person or persons involved in this or any of the other arson fires to call the tip line at the Accomack County Sheriff's Department at 757-655-1437.

A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the arsonist.

VA. Governor Seeks Changes On Texting and Drones

BY OLYMPIA MEOLA AND MICHAEL MARTZ Richmond Times-Dispatch

 Gov. Bob McDonnell is seeking changes to legislation cracking down on texting while driving and to a measure placing a moratorium on drones as part of a series of actions on legislation to meet a midnight deadline.

As his deadline to act on legislation approved in the 2013 General Assembly drew nigh, some of the weightiest issues remained, including amendments to the state budget, language on Medicaid reform and expansion, and the massive transportation funding package.

McDonnell is expected to tweak the provisions of the transportation funding bill - particularly as they relate to revenues for regional initiatives - and the budget language for Medicaid reform and expansion, according to legislators who asked not to be identified.

Also before him were measures to require Virginia voters to present photo IDs at the polls and an effort to allow a statewide school division to seize control of academically struggling schools.

On texting while driving, McDonnell's office said he supports making the action a primary offense, meaning a law enforcement officer could pull over a motorist for that alone, but wants to reduce the proposed penalties "to bring them more in line" with penalties for violations such as driving under the influence and reckless driving.

Under current law, texting while driving is a secondary offense, which means a motorist can be fined only if pulled over for another reason. A motorist can be fined $20 for a first violation and $50 for subsequent offenses.

As House Bill 1907 passed the legislature, violation of the law would bring a fine of $250 for a first violation and $500 for a second or subsequent violation.

The bill also imposes a mandatory minimum $500 fine for anyone convicted of reckless driving if the person was texting at the time of the reckless-driving offense.

McDonnell has said for months that he thinks the current "blanket laws" on reckless driving and aggressive driving implicitly cover a variety of conduct, such as texting while driving.

McDonnell also is seeking to amend legislation that would place a moratorium on the use of drones.

The amendments "would allow the use of this technology for certain law enforcement operations such as the search or rescue of missing persons or in cases involving imminent danger to any person," the governor's office said.

"This will allow law enforcement officials to use this developing technology to protect public safety while respecting individual rights of citizens and their expectation of privacy."

The amendments also seek to clarify that the legislation does not apply to institutions of higher education or other entities engaged in research and development of drone and related technology.

Del. C. Todd Gilbert, R-Shenandoah, who introduced one of the bills to impose a two-year moratorium on drone use, said Monday night that "at a glance ... none of this sounds objectionable, but I have to take a look at the precise language."

READ MORE....

REPTILES FESTIVAL 2013 ~ Delmarva Discovery

Medical Marijuana Measure Passes In the MD. House of Delegates

Maryland's House of Delegates passed a medical marijuana measure 108-28 Monday.

The measure, which will now go to the Senate, would create a state commission to oversee medical marijuana programs at academic medical research centers that want to participate. It would not be up and running in Maryland until at least the 2016 fiscal year.

More from GlobalPost: Marijuana as medicine: medical miracle or public health catastrophe?

"It may take several years for a program to get up and running, and federal policy presents a substantial obstacle to a law like this one ever being fully implemented," said Dan Riffle, deputy director of government relations for the Marijuana Policy Project. "Still, this bill gives us hope that patients could have safe, reliable access through programs that bear the imprimatur of some of the country's most respected medical institutions."

Eighteen other states and the District of Columbia currently allow the use of marijuana for medical purposes. Physician and Baltimore Democrat Del. Dan Morhaim, who sponsored the bill, described Maryland's potential program as the most controlled in the country.

Gov. Martin O'Malley's administration previously opposed the bill, but reversed course in recent weeks and now supports it.

Several years ago California was the first state to approve medical marijuana.

 

http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/regions/americas/united-states/130325/maryland-house-delegates-passes-medical-marijuana-measure

 

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