Astro-Adventures Planetarium Show ~ Delmarva Discovery Center

LAST  SHOWING!

 SHOW BEGINS ON SUNDAY@ 2:00

 

 SUNDAY, March 9, visit the stars at the Delmarva Discovery Center  to see the Astro-Adventures planetarium show. 

 

Learn about the constellations and how the sky changes each season in a 12' tall and 20' wide inflatable ...planetarium. 

 

 

The Rescheduled POCOMOKE CITY MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEETING Will Meet This Monday Night

A G E N D A

POCOMOKE CITY MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEETING

7:30 PM, Monday, March 10, 2014

City Hall

 

1.         Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance.

 

2.         Review and approval of minutes from meeting of

February  3, 2014.

 

3.         Review and approval of bills to be paid.

 

4.         Presentation of Special Recognition Plaque to Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker for his leadership     efforts in the original construction and the recent extension of the Cypress Park Nature   Trail.

 

5.         Authorize Mayor to sign proclamations:
            a.         Girl Scout Week (Mar. 9-15, 2014)
            b.         Arbor Day (Apr.2, 2014)
            c.         Golden Teacher Appreciation Proclamation (Elva Burns, Lewis Connelly, Harold Curry, Winifred Dutton, Jessie Cottman Smith)

6.         Discuss request from Great Pocomoke Fair Committee for One-Day Beer Permit during    Truck and Tractor Pull event June 28, 2014.

7.         Mayor Morrison to discuss proposal to purchase artificial Christmas tree for downtown area.

8.         Authorize application to Worcester County Liquor Control Board for permission to sell beer and wine at Fourth Friday events in the downtown area in 2014.
          
 9.         Discuss proposed lease agreement for Eastern Shore Communications to utilize space on   the City's Seventh Street water tower for a new antenna.

10.       Set date for grand opening of new golf course clubhouse building.

Comments from the Audience.

Mayor and Council Items.

Adjourn to Executive Session to discuss personnel, real estate, and legal matters as permitted under the provisions of Sec. 10-508 (A), (1), (7), (8) of the State Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland and perform executive actions.

AGENDAS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE UNTIL THE TIME OF CONVENING.

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview

1990.. Delmarva Toll Road envisioned; 1932.. Lindbergh baby search spreads to Eastern Shore area; 1941.. First ever- - fishing history made at Ocean City; 1905.. Automobile travels from Accomac to Princess Anne; 1958.. 85-cents lunch special; 1894.. Onancock town council considers issues of the day.

Although you may not find 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!

Cow Statue Has Been Located and Returned

Clara Belle, the life- size cow statue taken from the property of   Chesapeake Bay Farms  on Whitesburg Road in Pocomoke City has been located by the Worcester County Sherriff's Department.

It has been reported that the fiberglass Holstein cow,  taken sometime during the night of Wednesday, March 5 or early Thursday a.m.,  was located in a relatives flower bed just a short distance from the creamery.

Clara Belle, missing her necklace and Hawaiian lei,  has been returned to her owners and will undergo some restoration to be made as good as new once again.

The life size-cow is a landmark and makes it easier for those who do not know the area locate the business.

First Friday of the Month ~ Pizza Night!

Pizza Night!

 

 

NEW CHURCH VOL. AND RESCUE COMPANY

 

5:00pm - 8:00pm

Large pepperoni or cheese pizza for $12

Photo/BW

 

No need to call ahead or even get out of your car...

just come by and get it!!!!

 

Proceeds benefit the New Church Vol. Fire & Rescue Co.

Homeland Security Department Officer Testifies In Local Court

New Church man sent to jail for gang activity 

By Wesley Edwards
In Accomack County Circuit Court Thursday Ceonta Kellam of New Church was sent to jail for probation violation.

Kellam originally pled guilty in 2010 to armed robbery, gang participation, attempted robbery, burglary, and grand larceny and was sentenced to 40 years with all the time suspended under the condition that he complete the youth offender program.

 Kellam signed a plea agreement that included no gang participation in his future. He completed the youth offender program and some four years later he was arrested when he relocated without notifying the probation department of his new address.

Upon his arrest officer Dennis Davie of the Homeland Security Department seized Kellam's cell phone which included pictures that connected him to the Blood gang that he had confessed to being a member of in the original charges.

Officer Davie explained to the court that the Chicago Bulls red and white uniform along with a hand sign in the cell phone picture was a symbol of the Blood gang. Mr. Davey continued his expertise as a gang investigator explaining further that the Bulls shirt was really the dress code for the Blood United Live Longer gang and this picture being the home screen of Mr. Kellam's  phone sent a clear signal that Kellam was an active member of the gang.

 Judge Lewis referring to the original plea agreement explained to Kellam that this was a connection to a gang and therefore he had violated his plea agreement and he was going to reinstate the 36 years and seven month remaining sentence suspending all but 12 months.

Judge Lewis also denied a motion for work release during these 12 months.

SOURCE:

Candidate For District 3 Pocomoke City Council, Kim Jackson To Speak at Pocomoke Senior Center

Kim Jackson ~ "Bringing A New Perspective To Pocomoke"

 

http://www.vote4kimjackson.org/

Visit her website:  http://www.vote4kimjackson.org/

Like her page on Facebook: Kim Jackson For Pocomoke City Council, District 3

 Or give her a call:  443-735-VOTE (8683)

Pocomoke Election Day is April 1st!

Theft Of Life Size Cow Replica Being Investigated

Worcester County Sheriff's Office  is currently investigating a theft of a life size replica cow from Chesapeake Bay Farms located on Whitesburg Road, Pocomoke, Maryland.

The owners are offering a reward for the return of the cow.

Anyone with information is asked to contact us at 410-632-1111.

The cows on display are a big part of the business and both children and adults enjoy them all year round.

If you have any information, it is requested you contact the Sheriff's Office our your local police department.

 The replica is not light in weight and is large. Your tips can remain anonymous.

The business would certainly appreciate the safe return of one of their mascots.

Spring Activities ~ Worcester County Recreation and Parks

 

 

 

Follow links for many other programs being offered beginning in April. Activities for all ages.

Worcester County Recreation & Parks

 

2014 Spring Programs

Delmarva Discovery Center ~ Be A Volunteer

DONATE time. ENRICH your community. VOLUNTEER.

 

Delmarva Discovery Center

 

 

Do you have a few hours a week that you would like to spend giving back to your community?

The Delmarva Discovery Center has numerous volunteer opportunities available. Whether you are interested in history, ecology, educational programming, greeting our visitors, or becoming a docent. We would love to have you join our team!


 Contact Megan at 410-957-9933 ext. 102, to find out the many ways you can volunteer.

REWARD Offered For Safe Return Of Cow

The large  cow statue from the property of Chesapeake Bay Farms on Whitesburg Road in Pocomoke City, MD. has been stolen.

There is a reward if returned safely.

Chesapeake Bay Farms is a local ice cream/dairy store.

Go to: Chesapeake Bay Farms on Facebook.

 

 

Delegate Mike McDermott ~ PRESS RELEASE

“Delegate McDermott Attempts to Exempt Ocean City from Minimum Wage Requirements”

 

 

(ANNAPOLIS)  Yesterday, Delegate Mike McDermott (R-Worcester& Wicomico Counties) stood up on the House Floor for seasonal businesses in Ocean City. Delegate McDermott introduced an amendment to exempt seasonal businesses in Ocean City from the new minimum wage requirements currently being discussed in the House.

House Bill 295, entitled the “Maryland Minimum Wage Act of 2014,” increases the minimum wage in Maryland to $10.10 by 2016. State law currently sets minimum wage at $7.25. While amusement parks, like Six Flags in Prince George’s County, would be exempt from the raise, businesses in Ocean City, who are known for hiring seasonal high school and college workers, would be forced to adhere to the new raise.

“Prince George’s County wisely decided that locally this is what they needed to do,” Delegate McDermott argued. “Everyone across the state is dealing with their own issues and everyone is dealing with their own different unemployment  rates.” Delegate McDermott’s argument holds that the counties, who are dealing with their own individual unemployment rates, should be able to decide what their own minimum wage is.  “They should be able to decide for themselves whether it’s higher or whether it’s lower” Delegate McDermott continued.

Delegate McDermott argues that this action would hurt small businesses and ultimately take jobs away from the beach. “We struggle right now keeping these jobs available for these kids… The lower shore is not recovering; the unemployment rate is still soaring… Our Ocean City businesses will lose out to competition in Delaware with Bethany and Rehoboth Beaches and to competition in Virginia and North Carolina,” Delegate McDermott argue d. “Ocean City is our world class resort and this state’s premier destination…The revenue from Ocean City paves a lot of roads in Baltimore City; the revenue from Ocean City does a lot for the state of Maryland,” McDermott concluded.

“The amendment that applies to Prince George’s County also holds true for Worcester, Wicomico, Somerset, and all of Maryland’s counties,” Delegate McDermott continued. The Prince George’s County amendment was created to address “seasonal, young workers, May to October - that’s the beach...If you can see it for a sector like Six Flags, or Jolly Rogers… if you can capture a vision for how [minimum wage] impacts that industry… Can you not see how that impacts an entire region like Ocean City?” asked Delegate McDermott. “I am telling you that you are driving up costs for business [which will drive up the costs for everyone else]...  This is about creating an atmosphere where people can still afford to come and the employers can still afford to keep people there” McDermott continued. 

Delegate McDermott had an exchange with the Floor Leader on th e amendment.  “So are you saying if we pass this amendment then you [Delegate McDermott] can vote for the bill?” asked Chairman Davis. “I’ll tell you what Mr. Chair, I am not going to make commitments on you doing the right thing… I shouldn’t have to vote one way or the other for you to do the right thing,” responded Delegate McDermott. “This is about doing the right thing.  Apparently Mr. Chair you agree that it’s the right thing in some instances [but not in others]....If you can see it for one [industry] you would be blind in one eye to not see it in another.  We are not race horses here with blinders on - we have to take the blinders off and look at the bigger picture to see what’s impacted...I certainly can’t vote for a bill that favors one [industry] over another,” concluded McDermott.

To listen to the floor debate on Delegate McDermott’s amendment, click here.  The amendment ultimately failed by a vote of 47-89.


Learn More »        

AMBER ALERT ~ For Maryland Child

Caitlyn Marie Virts

Worcester County Sheriff's Office (Facebook)

Urgent! Amber Alert/Baltimore County:

The Maryland State Police at the request of Baltimore County Police Department have issued a Maryland Child AMBER Alert for Caitlyn Marie Virts.

CHILD: Caitlyn Marie Virts is further described as being 5 feet 0 inches and 80 pounds. The child was last seen wearing Unknown. Child may be wearing glasses.
 
LOCATION: The child was last observed at approximately 7 am in the area of Dundalk, MD. The child is believed to have been abducted by the suspect.

Timothy Howard Virts

SUSPECT: Timothy Howard Virts is described as being6 feet 3 inches tall and 280 pounds. The suspect may be wearing Unknown.

 VEHICLE: A possible suspect vehicle is a black 1999 Dodge Durango bearing MD registration: 5AJ4458.

 Anyone with information is asked to immediately call 911 or Baltimore County Police Department at 410-887-7320.

Do not take action which could endanger your safety or further endanger the abducted child.

Pocomoke City Police Department ~ Arrest Report/Press Release

Pocomoke Police Department

1500 Market Street

Pocomoke, Maryland   21851

410-957-1600

 

Kelvin D. Sewell, Police Chief

 

February 1, 2014 – February 28, 2014

 

2-1-14   Guy Marshall, age 51 of Pocomoke was arrested by the 
Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with disorderly
conduct and failure to obey lawful order.

2-1-14    Shannon Broadwater, age 19 of Pocomoke was arrested by the   Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with less than $100.

2-3-13    Youvonda Hatney, age 45 of Pocomoke was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Credit Card Scam $1,000.00 - $10,000.00.

2-4-14    Deborah Daniels, age 60 of Painter, VA was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a warrant thru New Jersey on Welfare Fraud.

2-5-14    Michael Morris, age 36 of Crisfield, MD was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and Theft $1,000.00 – less
than $10,000.00 and a Theft Scheme $1,000.00 less than $10,000.00.

2-6-14    Justine Brown, age 50 of Pocomoke was arrested by the   Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than  $100.00.

2--8-14    Walter Suplick, age 43 of Pocomoke was arrested by the   Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with a DUI.
 
2-10-14    John Grabowski, age 19 of Accomac, VA was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with two
counts of Dangerous Weapon/Conceal, CDS Possession – Marijuana, and  CDS Possession: Paraphernalia.

2-13-14    Honiss Cane, age 42 of Pocomoke was arrested by the   Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Assault – 2nd  Degree and Reckless Endangerment.

2-13-14    Bill Robbins, age 26 of Princess Anne, MD was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant  thru  Pocomoke City Police Department for a felony sex offense.

2-13-14    Richard Truitt, age 34 of Hebron, MD was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant thru Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office for a FTA, Theft Scheme less  than $1,000.00, and Theft.

2-13-14    Frederick Hall, age 53 of Pocomoke was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant thru Worcester County Sheriff’s Office for a FTA.

2-16-14    Richard Truitt, age 26 of Hebron, MD was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft $1,000.00 less than $10,000.00.

2-16-14    Michael Woods, age 27 of Eden, MD was arrested by the   Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft $1,000.00 less than $10,000.00.

2-16-14    Lamar Oliver, age 42 of Pocomoke was arrested by the 
Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Violating an Exparte/Protective Order.

 2-17-14    David Anderson, age 29 of Pocomoke was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a warrant thru Somerset County Sheriff’s Office for a Sex Offense 4th Degree and  for  CDS: Possession – Marijuana.
   
2-18-14    Myisha Dunson, age 26 of Pocomoke was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged Malicious 
Destruction of Property.

2-19-14    William Grain, age 29 of Greenbackville, VA was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged for Theft less than  $100.00.

2-20-14    Mansour Shabaik, age 63 of Jamaica, NY was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Transportation  of Unstamped Cigarettes. 

2-20-14    August Jackson, age 35 of Pocomoke was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant thru Pocomoke City Police Department for a FTA.

2-20-14    Susan Clayton, age 68 of New Church, VA was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than $100.00.

2-20-14    Lorraine Tull, age 52 of Pocomoke was arrested by the 
Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Disorderly
Conduct.

2-21-14 Bonnie Anderson-Chandler, age 53 of Pocomoke was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant Thru Pocomoke City Police Department for a FTA.

 2-22-14    Jefferey Wright, age 28 of Pocomoke was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Willfully   Disobeying Lawful Order and Direction of a Police Officer,  Disorderly Conduct, and Resisting and interfering with arrest.

2-24-14    Randolph Lucas, age 32 of Wilmington, DE was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant thru Delaware for Violation of Probation.

2-22-14    Dion Cooper, age 21 of Pocomoke was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than $100.00.

2-22-14    Mieashia Kellam, age 22 of Pocomoke was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than $100.00.

2-23-14    Victor Dana, age 33 of Pocomoke was arrested by the
Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Assault in the 2nd Degree.

2-24-14    Davonte Purnell, age 22 of Pocomoke was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged for a Retake 
Warrant, Assault – 2nd Degree, and for Resisting and Interfering with arrest.

2-24-14    Darius Cotton, age 20 of Pocomoke was arrested by the
Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant thru Pocomoke City Police Department for Burglary.

2-25-14    Robert Suchting, age 27 of Pocomoke was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant thru Pocomoke for CDS.

2-25-14    Jeffrey Forrest, age 60 of Pocomoke was arrested by the  Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Trespassing.

 2-26-14    Jeffery Young, age 21 of Pocomoke was arrested by the
 Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant thru  Pocomoke City Police Department for Assault, Theft, and Robbery.

2-28-14    Alisha Hermann, age 24 of Punta Gorda, FL was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than  $100.00.

OTHER ARRESTS:
 A Pocomoke juvenile, age 17 was arrested for Theft less than $100.

A Pocomoke juvenile, age 17 was arrested for Theft less than $500.

 Fifteen (15) additional arrests were made for various traffic violations during the month of February 2014.

 

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview

  1990.. Delmarva Toll Road envisioned; 1932.. Lindbergh baby search spreads to Eastern Shore area; 1941.. First ever- - fishing history made at Ocean City; 1905.. Automobile travels from Accomac to Princess Anne; 1958.. 85-cents lunch special; 1894.. Onancock town council considers issues of the day.

Although you may not find 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!

VOTE Once A Day ~ Chamber Challenge

HAVE YOU VOTED?

 

Don't forget to vote daily for the Pocomoke Area Chamber of Commerce at http://www.mdsbwawards.org/nominate-a-business/chamber-challenge.html

 

Somerset County (MD) Sheriff's Office Recent Arrests

Somerset County (MD) Sheriff's Office

 Brandon Chase Taylor - Crisfield was arrested 2-20-14 on a warrant for violation of probation. Taylor was released after posting a $10,000 bond.

Charles Edward Collins - Mt. Vernon was arrested 2-24-14 on theft, and trespassing charges.

 Deputies investigated a theft of an outside HVAC unit from the property of the Westover Scrap Metals business. Employees of the business reported that a Charles Collins had scrapped a similar HVAC unit several days later. During the investigation, Collins admitted to stealing the HVAC unit after waiting for employees to leave for the day.

Collins was later released on personal recognizance.

Avery Tavarus Neal - Crisfield was arrested 2-24-14 where he was served a criminal Circuit Court indictment for possession with the intent to distribute CDS, possession of CDS, not marijuana, and possession with the intent to distribute CDS within 1000 feet of a school zone. Neal was released back into the custody of the Department Of Corrections.

 Michael Christopher Ward Jr. - Crisfield was served with a criminal summons for theft less than $100.00. Ward was released on signature pending court actions.


 Juvenile arrested for disturbing school functions at Washington High School on 2-26-14. Deputies responded to the school regarding a disruptive male juvenile student. The juvenile was arrested, and later released to parents.

Have You Seen This Family Pet?

STILL MISSING !!!

 

$300 REWARD Offered!

 

Family is still looking for Turbo. 

 

 

Missing since Sunday evening of February 23, 2014 in the Oak Hall, Virginia/Route 13 area.

 

PLEASE- if you have seen Turbo or know where he is call  757- 894- 4241.

 

Turbo is very friendly and could still be wearing his collar.

 

His family misses him very much

 

Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin Sewell and Lt. Lynell Green Hold Com- Stat Meeting

 

Pocomoke City Police Department

  POCOMOKE CITY POLICE
 BI-WEEKLY COM STAT MEETING
 March 5, 2014

Pocomoke Police Dept. Photo

 

 

Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin Sewell and Lt. Lynell Green hold their biweekly Com Stat meeting to discuss the Officers performance and City wide crimes.

 

During the past two weeks the Pocomoke City Police Officers issued 79 citations, 77 warnings and completed 24 Arrest.

 

The Pocomoke City Police Officers seized approximately $4,000 in cash from a traffic stop involving untaxed cigarettes.

 

POCOMOKE CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT - Facebook

 

 

GREAT JOB POCOMOKE POLICE DEPT.!!!!

FBI- National Consumer Protection Week 2014

March 2-8 marks the 16th annual National Consumer Protection Week, a Federal Trade Commission-led education initiative. The FBI is on board this week—and all year long—offering tips and guidelines to help you, as we say on FBI.gov, “Be Crime Smart.”

Getting informed and taking a few basic steps may well keep you from becoming a victim of crime and fraud. This website has a wealth of material to help you do just that...everything from information on protecting your kids, computer, and workplace to a list of types of fraud schemes and e-scams and even how to report this type of criminal activity.

Please take the time to learn more about these topics so you can remain a crime-smart, educated consumer.

Resources:

• National Consumer Protection Week Website
• Scams & Safety
• Frauds from A to Z
• Common Fraud Schemes
• E-Scams & Warnings

FBI.gov Homepage

Asteroid Will Safely Pass Closer Than Moon Wednesday

Image Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

As happens about 20 times a year with current detection capabilities, a known asteroid will safely pass Earth Wednesday closer than the distance from Earth to the moon.

This asteroid, 2014 DX110, is estimated to be about 100 feet (30 meters) across. Its closest approach to Earth will be at about 217,000 miles (about 350,000 kilometers) from Earth at about 1 p.m. PST (4 p.m. EST) on March 5.  The average distance between Earth and its moon is about 239,000 miles (385,000 kilometers).

NASA detects, tracks and characterizes asteroids and comets using both ground- and space-based telescopes. The Near-Earth Object Observations Program, commonly called "Spaceguard," discovers these objects, characterizes a subset of them and identifies their close approaches to determine if any could be potentially hazardous to our planet.

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif., manages the Near-Earth Object Program Office for NASA's Science Mission Directorate in Washington. JPL is a division of the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena.

More information about asteroids and near-Earth objects is at: http://www.nasa.gov/asteroid.

NASA.gov

Great Pocomoke Fair SPRING BINGO

Great Pocomoke Fair  (Facebook)

COMING UP!

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

Only the first 150 play.

 Save $5 with advance ticket purchase.

 

 

 

SPRING BINGO, MARCH 28TH Coach & Longaberger prizes!

 Special raffles, 50/50, great food at the concession.

Doors open at 5:30; Games begin at 7:00.

Limited seating to first 150 persons.

Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door.

 Bring 4 canned goods for donation to the Samaritan Shelter of Pocomoke and receive a free special game card.

 Reserve tables of 6 or more players.

 Call 410.422.9195 or 443.614.4456 or 443.783.8197

for info or tickets.

Delmarva Discovery Center ~ Astro-Adventure

 

DELMARVA DISCOVERY CENTER ~ Facebook

 

This SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, March 8 & 9, visit the stars at the Delmarva Discovery Center during our Astro-Adventures planetarium show. Learn about the constellations and how the sky changes each season in a 12' tall and 20' wide inflatable ...planetarium.

One show each day at 1:00 pm. Arrive early and sign in at the front desk. Each show is limited to 25 patrons.

Note: During the program, you will be sitting on the floor inside of the planetarium.

SAVE THE DATE! First Annual "Romp In the Swamp"

EPA Stops Illegal Import of Vehicles That Fail to Meet Pollution Standards

March 4, 2014

WASHINGTON –
A Chinese powersports company and its related U.S. distributor have agreed to recall and replace fuel tanks that will better control gasoline vapors in approximately 1,000 vehicles and take other steps to control pollution stemming from the illegal import of over 12,000 recreational vehicles and highway motorcycles. These motor vehicles were manufactured in China and imported without the required certification indicating that emissions would meet federal standards.

CFMOTO Powersports, Inc., (a successor to CFMOTO America, Inc.) based in Plymouth, Minn., and Zhejiang CFMOTO Power Co., Ltd., and Chunfeng Holding Group Co., Ltd., both based in China, will pay a combined civil penalty of $725,000.

“Enforcing emission standards is a critical way we protect clean air for all Americans,” said Cynthia Giles, Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “The upgrades and changes required by today’s settlement will help reduce harmful air pollution that can cause respiratory illnesses, aggravate asthma and lead to smog.

In the settlement, approved today by the Agency’s Environmental Appeals Board, EPA alleges that over 12,000 highway motorcycles and recreational vehicles imported by the companies between 2007 and 2013 were not certified by EPA, as required by the Clean Air Act (CAA), to meet applicable federal emission standards. Of these, EPA found that 993 vehicles had fuel tanks that did not operate properly to control evaporative emissions, or gasoline vapors, and that approximately 1,400 vehicles were imported without proper emission control information labels.

In addition to the penalty, the companies must institute a Recall and Fuel Tank Replacement Program to replace all uncertified fuel tanks with certified ones to prevent any excess gasoline vapors. The companies must also correct the emission control information labels for those vehicles that are still within the control of the companies.

EPA discovered the alleged violations through joint inspections conducted with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Bureau of Customs and Border Protection and through a review of importation documents and other information provided by the companies.

Federal emissions standards for highway motorcycles and recreational vehicles have been in effect since 1977 and 2006, respectively. The CAA prohibits any vehicle or engine from being imported and sold in the United States unless it is covered by an EPA-issued certificate of conformity indicating that the vehicle or engine meets required emission standards

Recreational vehicle and highway motorcycles emit carbon monoxide, a gas that is poisonous at high levels in the air even to healthy people and is especially dangerous to people with heart disease. These vehicles also emit hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides, which contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, or smog. Exposure to even low levels of ozone can cause respiratory problems, and repeated exposure can aggravate pre-existing respiratory diseases.

CFMOTO Powersports, Inc. is a Minnesota corporation that holds certificates of conformity and that imports highway motorcycles and recreational vehicles manufactured by Zhejiang CFMoto Power Co., Ltd. and ChunFeng Holding Group Co. Ltd., both Chinese companies. CFMOTO America, Inc. is a now-dissolved Michigan corporation that was the predecessor to CFMOTO Powersports, Inc.

EPA filed an administrative complaint against CFMOTO Powersports in April 2013 and reached agreement on the settlement through an alternative dispute resolution process.


More information on the settlement: http://www2.epa.gov/enforcement/cfmoto-powersports-inc-cfmoto-america-inc-zhejiang-cfmoto-power-co-ltd-and-chunfeng

More information on EPA’s Clean Air Act mobile source enforcement programs: http://www2.epa.gov/enforcement/air-enforcement#mobile

2014 Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge Date Is Set

MSP POLAR BEAR PLUNGE MAKE-UP SET FOR WARMEST DAY OF THE WEEK

(ANNAPOLIS, MD) – Another snowstorm and record-setting cold will seem a distant memory on the Polar Bear Plunge make-up day this weekend, predicted to be the warmest day of the week.

The 2014 Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics has been rescheduled for this Saturday, March 8, 2014, at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis. The original Plunge set for January 25th had to be postponed due to treacherous ice on the beach and dangerous, frostbite-inducing winds.

Fortunately, the forecast predicts an outstanding weather day this Saturday, with temperatures in the 50’s. For those concerned about getting the full Plunge experience, there is no need to worry. The Chesapeake Bay water temperature is still expected to be in the mid-30’s.

The Plunge has been rescheduled due to the many requests of dedicated people who just can’t make it another year without their Plunge fun. Special Olympics Maryland and the Plunge organizing team are happy to accommodate and appreciate the commitment of the thousands of people who return each year to participate.

A kids/family plunge will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday. General plunges will be held at 12:00 p.m., 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. Participants will get a plunge meal and a commemorative sweatshirt, as well as the great feeling of knowing the money they raised will go to support year-round, free-of-charge, sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities who are a part of Special Olympics Maryland.

Plungefest will be scaled back on Saturday, but there will still be live music and a number of vendors on-site. Those interested in plunging can still collect the minimum of $75 required to Plunge and can register at the park on Saturday. Shuttle service will be operating. All the details can be found at www.plungemd.com.

So why not stick a finger in the eye of Old Man Winter and show him you won’t be intimidated? Join thousands of others for a fun day in the warmest temperatures we’ve seen in a long time and help support a great cause. We hope to see you on the beach at Sandy Point this Saturday!

Commencement of Full-Service Mission Operation of the New AgustaWestland AW 139 Helicopter

MEDIA ADVISORY: STATE POLICE TO MARK FULL-SERVICE MISSION OPERATION OF NEW AW-139 HELICOPTER IN SALISBURY

(EASTON, MD) -- Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel Marcus L. Brown will join Dr. Richard Alcorta, Acting Co-Executive Director of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services System and other state and local officials at the Aviation Command’s Salisbury Section to officially mark the commencement of full-service mission operation of the new AgustaWestland AW 139 helicopter to be deployed in Salisbury. The pilots and flight paramedics who staff “Trooper 4” have now been fully trained on the new aircraft. They have begun flying the new helicopter around the clock on all Aviation Command missions.

WHAT:
MARYLAND STATE POLICE ‘TROOPER 4’ MARKS COMMENCEMENT OF FULL-SERVICE OPS IN AW-139

WHEN: WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 2014, 1:00 P.M.

WHERE:
MARYLAND STATE POLICE AVIATION COMMAND
SALISBURY SECTION
SALISBURY - WICOMICO AIRPORT
5286 LEER JET WAY
SALISBURY, MD 21804

####

Mr.Stan Finch will be formally recognized as the 2013 Pilot of the Year at the MSPAC Salisbury Section AW139 helicopter ribbon cutting ceremony.

Watch Out For This Netflix “tech support” Scam

A security researcher has found a new twist on the traditional security hoodwink.

 

Jerome Segura has been tracking tech support scams for a year, documenting the ploys he's encountered. But even this one found him unprepared.

"Combining a phishing scam with a fake tech support call center is something that I'd never seen before," the Malwarebytes senior security researcher told Wired.co.uk. A video of the find shows Segura trying to enter a fake Netflix login on the streaming service's homepage, only to be presented with a notice telling him the account has been suspended, and telling him to call a fake tech support number.

He dutifully called up and was asked to download "Netflix Support Software"—really the remote control software TeamViewer, which allowed the scammer access to his system. Once he had hopped on, the hacker told Segura he'd been hacked. In fact, the scammer said he'd been hacked nine times, with one coming from Serbia, four from Russia, three from China, and one from Italy. It's all part of a tactic to instill fear and get the user to comply, explains Segura. Like when the helpful voice on the other end of the phone showed him a scan of apparent hacker activity—which was really just custom-made Windows batch script.

"By running their own tool, which looks authentic, the crooks can detect 'problems' that do not exist," says Segura. "Finally, showing those scan results adds to the fear factor, as well as creating a sense of urgency to fix the issue."

As well as scraping plenty of personal information from Segura's system, including a file named "banking 2013," the scammers continued by attempting to secure a payment of $389.97 (with a generous $50 Netflix discount) for Microsoft support to fix the problem. (He was repeatedly told that the problem happened because his security software is not up to scratch).

Then comes a little "fixing" after the call is passed on to a technician. This time, it's designed to induce the victim's comfort—"I can also see that these hackers were trying to access some of your personal information like documents and pictures. Do you have any pictures?" asked the helpful hacker, before proceeding to recover them for him.

Perhaps the most bizarre and unusual part, the "Microsoft technician" asked Segura to hold up a photo ID with his credit card information, because they are doing the transaction over the Internet and Microsoft wants to make sure he's the cardholder.

"The Neftlix theme was well thought out—from the suspended account ploy to the discount coupon if you agree to fix the issue, the bad guys have planned their approach in detail," Segura tells us. "Requesting a photo ID, as well as a snapshot of my credit card, was completely novel too. Despite being the untrustworthy ones, it is ironic they are trying to make sure the mark is not playing them. Aside from the fact that it is creepy, it creates a huge identity theft risk."

READ MORE/ VIDEO....

Larry Hogan for Governor - WE CAN WIN!

Are you SNOWED UNDER and SICK & TIRED of politics as usual?  Join our campaign to DIG OUT MARYLAND and SHOVEL THE MESS of the O'Malley-Brown administration to the curb!

 

WE CAN WIN!

 

Dear Pocomoke,

Three years ago, I launched a non-partisan grassroots organization called Change Maryland to bring desperately-needed fiscal restraint and common sense to Annapolis.

Because of you, our grassroots army has grown to over 80,000 Republicans, Democrats, and Independents who are FED UP  with the politicians in Annapolis who are not only not addressing the very serious problems we face but are actually making them worse!  We must hold our elected officials accountable!

Maryland’s so-called leaders have increased spending by more than a billion dollars every single year since the O’Malley-Brown Administration took office.  Yes, you read that correctly.  While your family has lived within a sensible budget, the powers-that-be have increased spending by a billion dollars every single year!

Massive spending hikes have to be paid for by YOU.  And me.  And every other hard-working, tax-paying Marylander.  We were all forced to cough up our hard-earned dollars to fund their reckless spending sprees!

It’s no wonder a majority of Marylanders, regardless of party -- are finally ready to say enough is enough!
         
I am a candidate for Governor of Maryland and need your immediate help to wrest control of our state government from an out-of-touch monopoly.

The Annapolis establishment assumed this election was a choice between the number 2 and number 3 incumbents in the current administration.  If they think our only choice is to either promote the Lt. Governor or the Attorney General.  They are wrong!

That’s not what Maryland wants.  After years of failed one-party rule, Marylanders are demanding real change in Annapolis -- and neither one of those career politicians is capable of delivering it.

I WILL BRING THE CHANGE TO MARYLAND WE NEED!
 
Only 31% of likely general election voters want to continue in the same direction. 56% want a dramatic change of leadership in Annapolis -- and that’s exactly what we are going to give them.

Early internal polling shows we are the only serious challenge to the establishment.  We have a 30% better chance to beat Brown than Gansler does, and a 36% better chance than Ehrlich had in 2002.

TOGETHER, WE CAN WIN!
        
I will need your strong early support.  You are one of our first supporters and I am honored to have you on my team.

Your strong early support in the amount of $35, $50, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, or whatever you can contribute will help create much-needed momentum in these early days and show the entrenched Annapolis politicians that we are serious about change.

 

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TODAY!

TOGETHER, WE WILL CHANGE MARYLAND!

With Maryland already struggling with the fourth highest tax burden in the nation, the O’Malley-Brown Administration decided the best course of action was MORE TAXES and since taking office, O'Malley-Brown pushed through 40 consecutive tax hikes -- the largest tax increases in Maryland history.

These ill-advised tax hikes continue to have dire consequences for our state: 

• 31,000 taxpayers left Maryland for better opportunities elsewhere
• 6,500 job creators closed up shop in Maryland
• Over 200,000 Marylanders ended up unemployed -- an increase of 100% in unemployment!

At this point, this is about more than politics.  This is about Maryland’s future and if we stay on this dangerous tax and spend path, our future is not looking bright.

As a life-long Marylander who loves this state, I believe that we are way off track, heading in the wrong direction, and that our very economic future is at stake.  I have spent a lifetime challenging the status quo, fighting against tax increases and wasteful spending, fighting to reform government, and to make Maryland a better place.

Now, as a candidate for Governor, I am bringing my message right to the voters.

I am not a politician.  I am businessman and former cabinet secretary who has spent decades working to change Maryland for the better.  My message transcends politics because it is rooted in common sense.

As Governor, my focus will be on jobs, middle class taxpayers, and restoring Maryland’s economy.  It is time to get our fiscal house in order, and I will not be afraid to make the tough decisions because state government cannot be all things to all people all the time.

That’s not how state government works!  It’s certainly not working for Maryland as evidenced by the mass exodus of people and businesses who could no longer afford to stay here.

You can rest assured that every decision I make will be put to a simple test: Will this law or action make it easier for families and job creators to stay in Maryland -- and will it make more people want to come here?

If something crosses my desk as Governor that doesn’t pass this test, I will VETO it.

In order to secure a bright future for Maryland, I will need the strong early support of committed people like you.  Together, we will fight back and bring some much-needed fiscal restraint and common sense to Annapolis.

In order to run a competitive campaign, we must run a smart, efficient campaign that is dependent on grassroots contributors like you.  To make your contribution go even farther, we have decided to participate in matching funds.

Because of the matching, your individual contribution will be matched on a 12:1 basis -- a contribution of $100 will become $1,240 and a contribution of $250 will become $3,100.  A couple who contributes $500 will provide us with a much-needed $6,200!

I want to make it perfectly clear.  These matching funds are NOT TAXPAYER DOLLARS.  Instead, the fund consists of voluntary donations and compounding interest designed to level the playing field and allow grassroots campaigns like ours to compete against the millions in special interest money.

This is grassroots fundraising at its best.  In order to qualify, we need to raise $258,612.42 as soon as possible in individual contributions of $250 or less, or contributions from married couples of $500.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TODAY!

Your strong early support will not only help us reach that threshold but also help me increase my name recognition around the state.  As I noted, early polling suggests I am the only candidate with a chance of defeating the O’Malley-Brown-Gansler regime and what we do in these early weeks will prove crucial to our success.

The real question in this historic election is this:  What do we want in our next Governor?

Do we want someone who is part of problem?  Or someone who will be part of the solution?

As Founder, President, and CEO of The Hogan Companies, a leader in economic development for 25 years, I have brought hundreds of businesses and thousands of jobs to Maryland.  I know what it takes to create jobs and lure businesses here.  Hint: it’s not higher taxes and burdensome regulations.

From 2003 to 2007, I took a leave from my company to serve in Governor Ehrlich’s Cabinet so I understand state government and know what it will take to solve our state’s problems.  It’s time to bring integrity back to Annapolis.  If elected, I will fight for more truthfulness, more transparency, and tougher ethics and disclosure laws.
This is not political rhetoric.  How can it be?  I am not a politician.

I’m not running to be something, I’m running to DO something.

An informed electorate, an honest and open debate of the issues, and the competition of a healthy and strong two-party system are essential to good government and it’s what Maryland so desperately needs.

Up until my recent campaign announcement, the arrogant monopoly in Annapolis just expected another coronation in November.  They have the power of the incumbency and special interest money on their side …But I have you.

And over 80,000 other Marylanders who are FED UP, too.

Please stand strong with us by contributing $35, $50, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, or some other amount today so that we can put the arrogant monopoly in Annapolis on notice that we are going to give them the toughest fight of their lives?

Remember, individual contributions of up to $250 will be matched on a 12 to 1 basis! 

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TODAY!

Taking on the Annapolis elite won’t be easy -- or cheap -- but with your strong early support, we will connect with the voters and change direction for Maryland.

TOGETHER, WE CAN TURN MARYLAND AROUND!
 
Sincerely,


Larry Hogan