Governor Signs Several Bills

Governor Martin O'Malley signed several bills yesterday, including one of the strictest gun control laws in the nation. The National Rifle Association and other opponents say they will immediately challenge that measure, which takes effect October 1st,  in court. O'Malley also signed the first gas tax increase in 20 years. And, using a handheld cellphone to talk or text will be considered a primary offense, after October 1st. The first offense would be punishable by a fine of up to $75; fines increase up to $175 for a third offense.

DNR Boat Sinks At Deep Creek Lake

There won't be too many details until a report is filed, but a Department of Natural Resources boat sunk yesterday afternoon at Deep Creek Lake. The DNR boat was unmanned at the time, and it was brought to the surface with air bags. The 24-foot Ottercraft is a work boat and is able to lift heavy loads. Two staff members were in a boating accident, but no other information will be provided until the report is finished.

Second Case of Rabies In Garrett County

There has been a second case of laboratory-confirmed rabies in Garrett County. The case involved a goat in the southern area of Garrett County. The animal became ill, and died on Monday, May 6th. It tested positive for rabies; a total of seven peopled initiated post-exposure treatment for the virus, and an additional goat was vaccinated against rabies, and will be watched closely for six months.

Three Personnel Changes for County Schools

The new school year will see two new principals and a new chief academic officer for the coming year. Scott Sisler will replace Steve Wilson as principal at South Penn Elementary School. Candy Canan will become principal at the Center for Career and Technical Education. Kim Green has been named the chief academic officer for the school year. The appointments are effective July 1st.

Man Arrested After Forcing His Way Into Home

Twenty-year old Keyser resident Matthew Ryan O'Reilly was arrested after forcing his way into a home...the home of Mineral County Sheriff Jeremy Taylor. O'Reilly thought he was at his uncle's house; Sheriff Taylor's wife was able to call her husband to report the incident. O'Reilly had admitted to using about a gram of crystal methamphetamine earlier in the day. He is being held in the Potomac Highlands Regional Jail on $10,000 bond.

State Police Seek Man In Connection to March Incident

The McHenry Barrack of the Maryland State Police is attempting to locate Brian Keith DeBerry. He is wanted in connection with a March 9th incident on Teaberry Lane in Accident. DeBerry is wanted on an arrest warrant, charging him  with second-degree assault and malicious destruction of property charges. He may be in the Oakland, Maryland or Terra Alta or Fairmont, West Virginia areas. Anyone with any information is asked to contact the McHenry Barrack of the Maryland State Police at (301)-387-1101.

Man Held Without Bond

A 27-year old Mount Savage man is being held without bond, following his arrest on Wednesday. Andrew Wade Ridgeley is charged with the fraudulent use of a credit card last February 13th and February 14th. He is charged with I.D. theft and 7 counts of illegal use of a credit card.

Baltimore Man Charged with Unauthorized Use

Baltimore resident Rodricus Marquees Wilkes is being charged in Cumberland with driving a vehicle without the owner's consent and unauthorized removal of property. The incident occurred earlier this week, when the victim lent Wilkes a car, but failed to return it after several hours. The victim could not get in touch with him, and enlisted the help of the Cumberland City Police. After his appearance in District Court, Wilkes was released on personal recognizance.

O'Malley, O'Reilly Battle It Out

It seems to be a war of words between Governor Martin O'Malley and talk show host Bill O'Reilly, when it comes to the corruption that has been uncovered in Maryland's jails. O'Reilly has referred to Corrections Secretary Gary Maynard as a, quote, "moron." O'Malley says he has no desire to fire Maynard. Meanwhile, Tavon White, who federal authorities call a gang kingpin, has complained about conditions in Cumberland, where he is being held, following his transfer from Baltimore.

Fewer West Virginians Seeking Unemployment Benefits

The state of West Virginia's unemployment rate declined four-tenths of a percentage point to 6.6 per cent in April, and this is the lowest rate in four years. The number of unemployed residents fell 2600 to 53,500. Trade, transportation, and utilities and other services added 200 jobs, while educational and health services showed the largest unemployment declines at 800.

Man To Stand Trial in Fatal Shooting of Sheriff

An October 21st trial date has been set for 37-year old Tennis Maynard, who is accused of fatally shooting Mingo County Sheriff Eugene Crum on April 3rd. Maynard pleaded not guilty to the charges of first-degree murder, attempted murder and felony fleeing a police officer during Wednesday's arraignment hearing in Cabell County. A bond hearing has been set for June 17th in Huntington.

Ridgeley Mayor Indicted

Ridgeley Mayor Jim Twigg has been indicted by a Mineral County Grand Jury, on eight felony counts of fraudulent or unauthorized use of a government-issued purchase card. Twigg allegedly charged over $400 to the card; the Mayor, for his part, claims the town has been reimbursed for the expenses. He was unaware of the indictment, prior to a meeting of town officials last night. The charges were made during travel, on behalf of the town. Twigg could be removed from office, if found guilty.

School Board May Be Minimally Funded

The Allegany County Board of Education could be, for the first time ever, funded at the lowest possible level, as required by state law. A draft budget from the county recommends $29.8 million for the fiscal year; the board had requested $31 million. The board has been cut by nearly $11 million in state funding in the past four years. The state is expected to fvund the board $74.7 million, according to the Cumberland Times-News.

Accident Involving ACPS Bus

An Allegany County Public School bus, en route to Allegany High School, was involved in a minor traffic accident. The bus was turning left, off of Cumberland Street, when the back end hit an unoccupied, parked vehicle. There was only one student on the bus at the time, and no injuries. ACPS administrators, as well as law enforcement officers responded to the scene. The parents of the student on the bus were notified, and the school nurse examined the student as a precaution. No replacement bus was necessary.

Route 219 Southern Link Best Use of Funds

Completing the southern link of U.S. Route 219 is the best use of Pennsylvania Appalachian Development Highway System Funds. There is no section of the Appalachian system that is as far along as Route 219. Of a total of $500 million in ADHS funds, $305 million is promised for the completion of the 12-mile stretch of U.S. Route 219 from Somerset to Meyersdale. The balance of the money could be used for the final leg of Route 219 in Pennsylvania, from Meyersdale to the Maryland line and Interstate 68.

Judge to Address Mini-Marina Request

Oakland Judge Jim Sherbin will reconsider a request to establish a mini-marina at the Lakeside Creamery, and a decision is expected by June 1st. Business owner Bill Meagher has made the request for the mini-marina, but it's been determined that his property did not meet the minimum total lot or land area per use of 10,000 square feet in the ordinance, and instead a permit was based on a minimum land area of 6,000 square feet, according to the Cumberland Times-News. Attorney Greg Skidmore has requested Meagher repeat the zoning process.

West Virginia PSC Approves Second Rate Hike

The West Virginia Public Service Commission has approved a second utility rate increase for Keyser, authorizing a 15-per cent sewer rate hike to pay for a $2.6 million sewer upgrade in the Hawthorne Heights neighborhood. The Mineral News-Tribune notes the increase will also affect residents of New Creek and McCoole, Maryland, whose sewer systems feed into Keyser's. However, New Creek residents will see an 8 per cent increase, while McCoole's will be 7 per cent.

Charges Pending in Accident

Charges are pending against a driver who hit a telephone pole on Cumberland Street early Monday morning. The car then overturned onto its roof. Traci Glotfelty was extracted from the car, after she hit the pole, and her vehicle overturned after striking the front porch steps at 216 Cumberland Street. Two streets signs were also damaged; Allegheny Power was notified and later responded to assist with the damage caused to the light pole. Her vehicle was towed from the scene.

Nemacolin Plans Summer Opening

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort plans to open the "Lady Luck" casino in early July, featuring 600 slot machines and 28 table games. General Manager Rich Laudon says they are hoping to attract customers from the Uniontown, Pennsylvania and Morgantown, West Virginia areas. The casino is in the process of hiring employees, with Laudon noting he has been pleased with the quality of the applicants for the positions.

Housing Workshop Set for May 21st

A free housing workshop is set for next Tuesday, for residents of Hampshire, Grant, Hardy, Pendleton, and Mineral Counties. The Region 8 Planning and Development Council and the West Virginia Housing Development fund are co-sponsoring the workshop, which is being held for those interested in purchasing a home, but afraid to take the first step. The workshop will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Mineral County Health Department in Keyser. To register, call (304)-257-2448.

Former Sheriff Sentenced to One Year in Federal Prison

Former Jefferson County Sheriff Robert Shirley was taken into custody, and will spend the next year in federal prison for his role in the 2010 beating of a bank robber, following a high-speed chase. Shirley had requested he report to a federal facility on his own, but that was denied. He will also have to pay over $1800 to the victim, convicted bank robber Mark Daniel Haines. Shirley will also be on probation for 18 months following his release. Haines had also been incarcerated at the Allegany County Detention Center some time ago.

Man Served with Three Warrants

A Frostburg man was served with three arrest warrants over the weekend, and is being held without bond in the Allegany County Detention Center. Thirty-six year old Joshua Ian Cline is accused of breaking into a Memorial Avenue residence in April, and stealing an electronic gaming system valued at about $400. He also damaged a screen in breaking into the home. Cline is also being held on child support contempt charges, and failure to appear.

Man Held on Sex Offense Charges

Cumberland resident Roger Martz was arrested during a traffic stop over the weekend. During the arrest, it was discovered he had an outstanding warrant, stemming from a citizen complaint filed in District Court. A woman claims she was sexually assaulted by Martz in November and December of last year. He was held on $35,000 bond.

No Charges in Garrett County Collision

No charges were issued, but one person was taken to Garrett Memorial Hospital, following a two-vehicle collision on the Garrett Highway at Friendsville Road over the weekend. McHenry resident Lesa Maust was making a left turn from Garrett Highway onto Friendsville Road; she struck another vehicle, driven by 65-year old Donald Harvey Umbel of McHenry. Mr. Umbel was taken to the hospital for injuries sustained during the collision.

Keyser Mayor Moving to Increase Fire Fee

Keyser Mayor Randy Amtower is proposing that fire protection fees be increased to cover the expense of the Keyser Volunteer Fire Department. There has been no increase in fees for the past eight years. The Mayor is proposing increasing the fee to $2.40; they are collected as part of the monthly water bill. Last year, the fee generated $59,000, but expenses totaled $79,000. The deficit was covered through a reserve fund, which is rapidly being depleted, according to the Mineral News-Trivbune.

Mountain Ridge Schedules Combined Spring Concerts

The Mountain Ridge High School Band has had a banner year, depsite a pending embezzlement case against one of the organization's volunteers. The Mountain Ridge Concert Band, the Marching Band and the Jazz Orchestra have all garnered a number of accomplishments this past school year,and the groups will be presenting their combined spring concerts next Saturday and Sunday. The concertswill be held on Saturday evening at 7 p.m., and Sunday afternoon at 3 p.m. Proceeds from the ticket sales will be distributed equally between the band and choral programs.

USS Somerset to be Commissioned in Philadelphia

The USS Somerset, the Navy's newest amphibious transport dock ship, will be commissioned, or put into active service. The ship is named in remembrance of Somerset County, where hijacked United Airlines Flight 93 crashed during the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The USS Someret was commissioned in July. Two other ships, the USS New York and the USS Arlington are also named to commemorate the other sites attacked that day-the World Trade Center towers, and the Pentagon.

O'Malley Expects More Firings

Governor O'Malley expects more firings and personnel changes, in light of indictments handed down, in connection wtih a drug and contraband smuggling ring at the Baltimore Detention Center. A total of 25 people, including 13 correctional officers were indicted last month. The Governor continues to express confidence in Secretary of Public Safety and Corrections, Gary Maynard. A reporter from "The O'Reilly Factor" questioned O'Malley about the scandal, which has been covered on the Fox Television show. For his part, O'Malley called O'Reilly's comments a "cheap shot," and vowed to "root out" the problem rather than "paper over them."

Toddler Dies of Methadone Intoxcaton

A 23-month old West Virginia toddler died of methadone intoxication, and her parents are now facing charges in connection with the case. Thirty-eight year old David Delauder and 31-year old Ida Evans Delauder of Barbour County are accused of giving their daughter, Ona Leann Delauder methadone they purchased on the street. When the parents awakened the next morning, the toddler was not breathing, and a nearby relative called an ambulance. they are being held at the Tygart Valley Regional Jail on $100,000 bond each.

Man Killed in Single-Vehicle Accident

An Accident resident. 47 year old Carlon David Doerr was killed in a single vehicle accident, just before midnight last night on the Friendsville Road. Doerr's pickup truck ran off the roadway down a steep mountainside along the road. He was ejected from the vehicle. The exact cause of the accident is unknown at this time. The investigation is being handled by the McHenry Barrack of the Maryland State Police. Anyone with information is asked to call them.

Meyersdale Man Arrested in Meth Lab Case

Meyersdale resident Larry Wilt has been arrested, after police found a possible meth lab in the town last March. Wilt has been charged with conspiracy, operating a meth lab, possession with intent to manufacture or deliver, and several other charges. After a report on possible illegal activity at a residence on Celtic Avenue, police sent substances to a police crime laboratory for testing. Wilt is being held in the Somerset County Jail, and the investigation is continuing.

Woman Charged with Second-Degree Attempted Murder

Cumberland resident Cindy Marie Miltenberger-Stickly has been arrested and charged with second-degree attempted murder and second-degree assault, following an incident last Thursday. She is accused of hitting her boyfriend with a frying pan, and then tying him up with leather straps. She then continued to assault him by punching and choking him. After being charged, she was held at the Allegany County Detention Center on $20,000 bond.

Resident Held on $25,000 Bond

Cumberland resident Stephen Allan Smyth is being held on a total of $25,000 bond, after being arrested on two outstanding warrants. In the first, Smyth is alleged to have threatened a man wiht a knife, in the 400-block of Seymour Street last Thursday. In the second,  he allegedly left the scene of a minor accident on Columbia Street last Saturday, because he acknowledged he had neither a valid registration, nor insurance.

ABC Administration Holds Hearing

The West Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Commission held a hearing last night on a proposed bar, to be located at 3 Potomac Street. Mick & Tina's, LLC had proposed the bar, called the "Canal Hotspot" be open daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. and on Sundays, they would have opened at 1 p.m. Residents in the area expressed concerns about the bar during last night's meeting. There would have been about four drinking establishments within a four-block area of town; additionally, residents say parking and traffic are already dangerous in that area, which is congested by existing businesses. About 241 residents signed a petition, opposing the establishment.

Achievement Awards Banquet Held

The 30th annual Achievement Awards banquet was held for high school seniors at the Allegany County Fairgrounds. The event recognizes graduating seniors in the school system who are in the top 12 per cent of their classes in academic excellence, who have made special accomplishments in the arts, and those who demonstrate superior leadership qualities. Several of the 63 students have chosen to continue their education locally, at either Allegany College of Maryland or Frostburg State University.

Company Cuts 30 Jobs in Hagerstown

About 140 jobs are being cut nationally by First Data, and 30 of those jobs-a little less than one-fourth-will be eliminated at the Western Maryland Parkway location in Hagerstown. Employees were notified of job cuts on Monday; a total of 2,000 people work at the facility, which houses customer care and other merchant business operations. First Data had another reduction in force of about 250 positions, nationally, in 2009.

Hagerstown Man Arrested in Connection with Robberies

A 50-year old Hagerstown man has been arrested in connection with two bank robberies in the past several weeks. Jeffrey Sheffler is accused of robbing the PNC Bank on the Dual Highway on Tuesday. He is also charged with the robbery of Susquehanna Bank on April 22nd. in that incident, Sheffler claimed he was armed and demanded money. He is being charged with multiple counts of robbery, armed robbery and theft of more than $1,000.

Lieutenant Governor To Announce Gubernatorial Bid

Lieutenant Governor Anthony Brown is expected to announce his gubernatorial bid Friday at Prince George's Community College. He is also expected to make stops in Frederick, Montgomery County and Baltimore on Saturday. He has served as lieutenant governor since 2006 and, if elected, he would be Maryland's first African-American governor.

Man Faces Charges Following Amber Alert

A six year old boy is safe, but not before he was sexually assaulted by a Fayette County man. Brian Lynch allegedly lured the boy from his home to an ice cream stand in Somerset County, and later, sexually assaulted him in the back seat of his car. The boy was dropped off at Legion-Keener Park in Latrobe, and was later found by police. Lynch was later arrested and charged with rape and kidnapping charge. Police are continuing their investigation.

Authority to Revisit Master Plan

Members of the Potomac Highlands Airport Authority plan to revisit the Master Plan for the Greater Cumberland Regional Airport. The plan was developed in the 1990's, and manger Ryan Shaffer says there have been changes in the economic climate since then. Officials are hoping to schedule a session this summer to conduct an informational session to help bring elected officials from both West Virginia and Maryland up to speed on the needs and potential at the airport, according to the Mineral News-Tribune.

Two Men Sentenced in Garrett County Circuit Court

Oakland resident Daniel Matthew Grimm was sentenced to five years in prison, with 3-1/2 years suspended on charges of possession with intent to distribute marijuana. the case was recently tried in Garrett County Circuit Court. In a separate case, Frostburg resident Anthony Ashby Racic of Frostburg was sentenced to three years in prison for the possession with intent to distribute clonazepam, and for possession of heroin.

Stoystown Bank Robbed Yesterday

Police are seeking a suspect in yesterday's robbery of the First National Bank on Main Street in Stoystown, Pennsylvania. The man walked into the bank shortly after it opened, handed a handwritten note demanding money, and then fled with a bag, containing an undetermined amount of money. He is described as being approximately 50 to 60 years of age, wearing camouflage pants, shirt and a hat. Anyone with information, or who may have seen the suspect is asked to contact the Somerset barrack of the Pennsylvania State Police at (814)-445-4104.

FSU Graduation Set for May 18th

Frostburg State University will conduct its 142nd commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 18th in the Harold J. Cordts Physical Education Center's Main Arena. Graduation for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences will be at 9:30 a.m., with the College of Business and the College of Education will hold ceremonies at 2 p.m. Lindsey Glotfelty, of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Caleb Stair of the College of Business and Many Gale of the College of Education, are the featured speakers for the spring commencement exercises.

Former Shelter Manager Files Suit

The former manager of the Preston County, West Virginia Animal Shelter has filed suit in U.S. District Court for the northern district, alleging wrongdoings by the county commission there. Specifically named in the suit was Craig Jennings, the current president of the commission. Courtney Austin's suit alleges wrongful discharge, violation of the West Virginia whistleblower law, defamation, and violation of the fair labor standards act. She was fired after posting a Facebook comment that the pipes at the facility froze, and the shelter was left without water. The commissioners, for their part, denied the allegations. She is seeking a jury trial, and reimbursement for back pay, benefits, compensatory and punitive damages and attorney's fees.

Death Penalty Supporters Launch Petition Drive

A group plans to "repeal the repeal" of the death penalty in Maryland, and would like to see the issue be put on the ballot. They are launching a petition drive, with Western Maryland Republican, Delegate Neil Parrott wants to see the question on the ballot in November of 2014 Polls show that voters are closely divided on the issue.

Father, Son Killed in Plane Crash

A father and son from Maryland were killed in a plane crash this past weekend in Suffolk, Virginia. Seventy-three year old Berry Newgent of Davidsonville and his 51-year old son, Thomas of Westminster, were killed on impact. Both the Virginia State Police  and the Federal Aviation Administration are investigating the crash. There was no preliminary indication on what caused it.

Group Calls for Investigation into Man's Death

National Down Syndrome advocacy groups are calling for an independent investigation into the death of a man who died at a Frederick County movie theatre in January. Off duty sheriff's deputies tried to remove 25-year old Robert Ethan Saylor from the theater; Saylor suffocated and died at a local hospital. The National Down Syndrome Society and Saylor's parents have had multiple meetings with the Department of Justice. The DOJ could investigate whether the man's civil rights were violated, or whether there was a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Investigation at Cass Scenic Railroad

There may be a second set of indictments against some of the current and former workers at the Cass Scenic Railroad. The original indictments were dismissed because of a wording mistake; at the time, 11 people were indicted; it has since been confirmed that two of the original 11 have returned to work at the park. Some of the workers are accused of taking metal from Cass State Park and selling it to scrap yards, then keeping the cash. An investigation revealed that $35,000 worth of metal was sold to two different scrap yards.

Frostburg Man Held at Potomac Highlands on Bond

Frostburg resident Matthew Borror is being held on $2700 bond, after being accused of a recent string of vehicle break ins in the Keyser area. Police arrested Borror, following a tip from a resident, of a suspicious person looking into parked cars. Police recovered a large number of electronics, purses and other items they believe may have been stolen in recent weeks. Police are asking area residents to contact the Keyser station at (304)-788-1311, even if the theft went unreported. More charges are expected to be filed against Borror.

Man Pleads Guilty to Abuse of Corpse

Somerset resident Michael Moore has pleaded guilty to moving his friend's body, after finding him dead. Frankie Sass went to Moore's apartment and was subsequently found dead. He admitted to moving Sass' body from his apartment to Sass' truck and leaving the body there. While he remains in the Somerset County Jail on $30,000 bond, he could face up to two years in jail and $5,000 in fines, when sentenced.

Accident Results in Citations

A two vehicle accident on Lamont Street at West Industrial Boulevard sent two people to the Western Maryland Regional Medical Center, and resulted in a citation for one of the drivers. A car, driven by Xianna Kesler of Cumberland, pulled into the path of another, driven by 55-year old Donna Hartung, causing the crash. Both vehicles were towed from the scene, and passengers in each vehicle were taken to the hospital. Ms. Kesler was found to be at fault for failure to yield right of way. Ms. Hartung was also issued a citation for a seat belt violation, due to a child not being restrained in an appropriate child safety seat.

Rocky Gap Open House Set for Tomorrow

Rocky Gap Casino Resort has announced it will hold an open house tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Players will be able to sign up for its loyalty program, the Rocky Gap Rewards Club and see the new hotel lobby. The casino will not be open during the open house. The casino will be home to approximately 550 slot machines, including the Wheel of Fortune, Wizard of Oz Ruby Slippers, Aladdin and more, similar to games found in any casino. There are also 10 table games, including blackjack, roulette, craps, Mississippi Stud Poker and Three Card Poker.

Men Arrested on Various Drug Charges

Three West Virginia men were arrested on Interstate 68 at Keyser's Ridge, and charged with a variety of drug counts. Morgantown residents Grayson Hall and Dylan Newman, along with Tory Jordan of St. Albans  were charged, following a K9 scan revealing drugs and drug paraphernalia. Police found not only marijuana, but also LSD, Ecstacy, heroin, hash and prescription pills, and paraphernalia. They received a hearing before a District Court Commisisoner.

Garrett County Burglary Reported

The McHenry Barrack of the Maryland State Police is asking for the public's help in solving the burglary of a residence on Chestnut Ridge Road, north of Interstate 68. The burglary occurred sometime between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Wednesday. Several pieces of jewelry were removed from the home. If you have any information, you are asked to call (301)-387-1101.

Regional Fugitive Arrested

Thirty-two year old Erick Hopkins, who was a federal fugitive from justice, turned himself into the Berkeley County courthouse Wednesday. He was arrested on charges of possession with intent to distribute heroin and being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. When new warrants were issued for Hopkins, he was already on a bond from a previous charge of delivery of heroin earlier in April. Appearing with his attorney, Hopkins was given a second bond on his new charges. He had been sought by state and federal authorities, including the Mineral County Sheriff's Office.

National Support for O'Malley at One Per Cent

Support among Democrats for a possible presidential run by Governor Martin O'Malley has been set at only one per cent. The Quinnipiac University survey shows that former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's support for the 2016 race is a commanding 65 per cent. Others only receiving one per cent of support were Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, and Virginia Senator Mark Warner. If Secretary Clinton were removed from the equation, O'Malley's support would increase to 3 per cent.

Cause of Fatal Frostburg Fire Determined

The cause of last week's fatal fire in Frostburg has been determined. The Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office says electrical components of an entertainment center in the living room of the home sparked the blaze. The fire, at a mobile home on Green Street, took the life of Patricia Porter, and injured 62-year old Glenn Porter and 62-year old Maria Porter. Fire loss to the structure and its contents was set at $25,000.

Police Investigate HRDC Incident

The Cumberland City Police Department is investigating an incident this week, in which an unidentified mini-van attempted to pick up Head Start children at one of HRDC's bus stops in the Baltimore Street/Goethe Street area. The van is not an HRDC Head Start vehicle, and the agency is urging all families to take necessary precautions. If you notice any suspicious vehicle at your child's bus stop or near the Head Start Center, contact Cumberland City Police immediately at (301)-777-1600. The HRDC Head Start program will only send a yellow bus to pick up children.

Fire Causes $100,000 Damage to Iris Avenue Home

The Maryland State Fire Marshal has determined Monday's fire at 11908 Iris Avenue to be accidental in nature, caused by an electrical malfunction of household wiring in the basement ceiling. The home of Samuel and Maragaret Blume sustained $100,000 in damage, and two dogs were lost in the fire. The structure is considered a total loss, and the family is being assisted by the local American Red Cross and family members.

Sewer Rates to Rise

Sewer rates will increase 20 per cent for Cumberland City residents at the beginning of Fiscal Year 2014. The Cumberland Mayor and City Council approved the drafting of an ordinance during last night's work session. An average city residents' sewer bill, which is now about $35, will rise to $42 with the increase, which is being implemented due to a projected deficit in the sewer fund of over a million dollars.

Auction Fails To Produce Buyers

An auction of the former Oxford House Restaurant, located at 127-129 Baltimore Street yesterday failed to produce any buyers. The value of the five story property is over $423.000, but the minimum bid sought was $131,000. The building will remain in the hands of PNC Bank, based in Pittsburgh. Along with that structure, the McMullen Building, the former home of G.C. Murphy Company, was also retained at auction by First People's Community Federal Credit Union. 

Traffic Stop Yields Nearly 140 Pounds of Marijuana

A stop for speeding this past weekend yielded about 140 pounds of marijuana. The stop was made on Interstate 68 near Frostburg. The marijuana had a street value of a little over $200,000. Taken into custody were Baltimore residents Tamboura Hall and passenger Chanelle Williams. They were taken to the Allegany County Detention Center, and are being held on  $750,000 bond each.

Frostburg Woman Dies of Injuries

Frostburg resident Patsy Porter died over the weekend of injuries sustained in a mobile home fire last Wednesday night on Green Street. She passed away at the Johns Hopkins Bayview Burn Center. Both 62-year old Glenn Porter and 52-year old Maria Porter suffered non-life threatening injuries in the fire. The cause of the fatal fire remains under investigation by the Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office. The home did have working smoke detectors.

Cumberland Man Pleads Guilty in Fatal Crash

Twenty-nine year old Cumberland resident Ronald Lee Streets has pleaded guilty to homicide by motor vehicle, in connection to a fatal crash on Route 160 in Pennsylvania last June 9th. Twenty-six year old Anthony Michael Winter of Michigan died of blunt force trauma to the head. Neither man was wearing a seatbelt and were ejected from the car, after it skidded and went over an embankment. Streets did not call "911" until a half-hour after the crash. At the time his blood alcohol level was below the legal limit of .08 per cent. Streets faces nine years in jail and a fine of over $20,000.

Hampshire Man Found Guilty in Brothers' Death

Romney resident David Corey was convicted of first degree murder, with the jury taking less than an hour to do so. He now faces life in prison for the murder of his brother, Danny. Danny Corey was pronounced dead on the evening of January 8, 2012. The case against David Corey was admittedly circumstantial, and his attorneys' defense relied on the lack of physical evidence or witnesses. However, he was found guilty, and the jury voted against a recommendation of mercy, which would have made him eligible for parole after 15 years.

Somerset County Police Officer Dies of Injuries

A longtime Paint township officer died late last week of injuries received in an ATV accident on April 13th in Bedford County. Forty-three year old William Gephart was not wearing a helmet when riding near his family's New Paris cottage. He was taken to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown following the accident. His son, who was riding with him, was thrown from the ATV and was treated and released from the same facility.

Rocky Gap Could Open May 22nd

The Rocky Gap casino could begin gaming operations on May 22nd, pending the results of a controlled demonstration on May 20th. The casino is planning for 558 slot machines and ten table games. About 250 employees are being hired for the gaming operation, and will operate 24 hours a day. Rocky Gap will become the state's fourth casino and its smallest.

Woman Arrested for Robbery

Twenty-one year old Mikki Kondilas is being held on $100,000 bond, following her attempt to rob a Maryland Avenue business late Saturday afternoon. She allegedly jumped over the counter and grabbed the cash register, demanding money, but tripped, giving the clerk time to close the drawer. Ms. Kondilas fled the business, but was apprehended near Kingsley Place. The clerk positively identified her. It was also learned that she also had an additional arrest warrant in Harford County for failure to appear. She was remanded to the Detention Center, following a District Court hearing.

Traffic Pattern, Parking Change on West Elder Street

The city of Cumberland is changing the traffic pattern and parking on West Elder Street, from Virginia Avenue to the Canal Parkway. Parking will be permitted only on the North side of West Elder Street, restricting parking on the South Side. Parking will also be restricted on West Elder Street, from Lexington Avenue to Canal Parkway. Lane markings will be adjusted from Lexington Avenue to Virginia Avenue, to allow for the parking lane on the North side of the street. The City feels the change is necessary for the safe travel of motorists in the area, as West Elder Street was not initially designed for parking.

Westernport Water Interruption

There will be a water interruption in specified areas of Westernport on Wednesday, beginning at about 4 p.m. and lasting for four hours. Those areas affected will be Main Street, from Route 135 to the First Baptist Church; Church Street, including all businesses; Maryland Avenue, including the UPRC; 306 to 308 Front Street; Philos Avenue, from Main Street to Howard Street; the Port West Plaza; and, Washington Street.

Three Hurt in Canaan Valley Plane Crash

Three Virginia men were injured in a single engine plane crash Friday afternoon at the Windwood Fly-In Resort in Canaan Valley. They were identified as Wasseem Haider, Shujjat Rathore and Muhammad Paracha. The other two men got out of the plane, while Haider had to be extricated. The three were taken to Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown. The Federal Aviation Administration began an investigation Friday night.

PennDOT Awaiting Final Route 219 Permit

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is awaiting a final permit, before beginning to advertise for bids on Route 219, between Meyersdale and Somerset. Bids are expected to be advertised this summer; at that point, PennDOT will give contractors eight weeks to submit bids, because it is such a large project. Earthwork is to be done this year; following that, the bridges and other structures are to be built next year, and the paving done in 2015. The 11-mile project includes two interchanges and six bridges.

Three Injured in Mobile Home Fire

One person was taken to the Johns Hopkins Bayview Burn Center, and two others, to the Western Maryland Regional Medical Center, following a fire in a mobile home on Green Street in Frostburg Tuesday night. Sixty-three year old Patsy Porter is listed in critical condition at the Baltimore facility, while 62-year old Glenn Porter and 52-year old Maria Porter were taken to the local hospital with non-life threatening, smoke inhalation injuries. Two adjacent mobile homes received exterior radiant heat damage. There were no other injuries, and working smoke alarms alerted the occupants of the blaze. The origin and cause for the fire remain under investigation.

Striplin To Announce Candidacy

All three incumbent Allegany County Commissioners have filed for re-election in 2014, and now former Board of Education member Tom Striplin is announcing his candidacy for the county board. Striplin's Kick-Off event is scheduled for tonight at 6:30 p.m., at Maplehurst Country Club in Frostburg, and the event is open to the public. He is currently the Director of Clinical Education for the Respiratory Care Program at Allegany College of Maryland, a position he has held for the past 25 years.

School System Experiences Phone Issues

The Allegany County School System was notified Tuesday there were issues with intermittent phone service in Allegany County. Verizon and Lumos have confirmed there are issues in the area, and are working to resolve them. Several schools have observed difficulties with incoming calls as well. There are currently more than 150 customers with phone service issues in the county with no estimated time of resolution from Verizon and Lumos. The public schools wanted to make parents aware if they are attempting to contact their child's school, and the calls are going unanswered, it is likely due to the county-wide phone service issue.

Somerset Prison Guard Charged with Smuggling Contraband

An SCI-Somerset correctional officer has been charged and arraigned on charges he was involved in a contraband smuggling operation with inmates at the prison. Thirty-five year old Donald Lynch was charged by special agent Michael Kondas of the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections. The contraband brought in included marijuana and other drugs, pornographic magazines and Muslim oil, according to the probable cause affidavit. Lynch is free on $20,000 unsecured bond, and has a preliminary hearing scheduled for May 7th.

Man Sentenced for Burning Own Home

A 48-year old Somerset County man has been sentenced to one to five years in prison for setting fire to his home last June. Jay Shaulis of Somerset had been in the Somerset County Jail since last July; he was not credited for any time served. Shaulis, who provided several accounts of how the fire started, allegedly had previously threatened to burn it down, according to a court document from his wife. He has also been ordered to pay $1,000 in fines and make restitution of nearly $47,000 to State Farm Insurance.

Shoplifting Complaint Leads to Drug Arrest

A Cumberland woman, who had allegedly been shoplifting at a Virginia Avenue business, was later charged with possession of CDS. Thirty-two year old Allysan McDaniel was spotted placing various items in her handbag. A search by police yielded a quantity of Clonazepam pills, which are a Schedule IV controlled dangerous substance. She was charged with theft and drug possession and held on $3500 bond at the Allegany County Detention Center.

Maryland Avenue Disturbance Leads to Arrest

Cumberland City Police were called to a disturbance in the 700-block of Virginia Avenue early Tuesday evening; when they were called back, the person allegedly creating the disturbance was arrested. Thirty-five year old Kelly Goetz had been told by police to stop causing the disturbance. Less than 20 minutes later, she was continuing to cause the disturbance, throwing household items out of the residence onto the roadway. She was charged and released pending trial in Allegany County District Court.

WV School Building Authority Funds Projects

The state of West Virginia School building Authority has funded 11 projects, including several regional ones. Among those, Pendleton County received nearly $10 million for the construction of a new Franklin Elementary School. The Martinsburg North Middle School will be renovated with nearly $6 million in funding. And, Preston County received $4 million for a new West Preston Middle School. A total of more than $49 million was allocated to a dozen school systems.

Officers Accused of Being Members of Prison Gang

Dozens of correctional officers and gang members were apprehended as part of a grand jury indictment involving the Black Guerilla Family gang in Baltimore. Those accused are alleged to have helped run the prison gang in the Baltimore City Detention Center and at the Baltimore Central Booking and Intake Center. Fifteen women and ten men are accused of not only being gang members, but also of smuggling drugs and cell phones into the facilities. According to the indictment, one of the alleged leaders got four female correctional officers pregnant at least once over the last several years.

Operation Takedown VI Nets 29 Arrests

Last week's new warrant initiative, conducted by the Cumberland Police Department's Safe Streets Program, netted 29 arrests; 36 arrest warrants were also served. The operation ran from last Monday through Friday. Charges ranged from drug offenses, to sex crimes, to assault, theft and failure to appear.

Hamilton Relay Awarded State Contract

The state of Maryland Department of Information Technology has awarded Hamilton Relay of Frostburg the contract to provide Telecommunications Relay and Captioned Telephone Services. Hamilton first opened a relay service call center in Frostburg, after receiving the initial award in 2007, and the workforce was expanded in 2012

Frostburg Trailer Fire Reported

Two people were reportedly injured in a trailer fire last night on Green Street in Frostburg. The alarm went out around 9:45 p.m., with five fire companies responding. The State Fire Marshal's Office and Potomac Edison responded as well. There were no further details on the cause of the fire, nor the condition of the victims.

Somerset County Man May Face Trial Next Month

Fifty-seven year old Brian Scott Eppley, a former Somerset County area church deacon, school board member and middle school teacher May face trial as soon as next month. He is charged with two counts each of unlawful restraint which is a felony, along with corruption of minors. Eppley had requested a non-jury trial before a judge, but that was denied. A jury is to be chosen May 6th, but because of time issues and possible continuances, the trial could be delayed. Meanwhile, Eppley is free on non-monetary bond.

Potomac Edison Enhancing Electric System and Reliability

Potomac Edison, a subsidiary of First Energy Corporation, is spending about $55 million this year to further enhance the electrical system and reliability in Western Maryland, and in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia. Among the improvements is the purchase of several spare, high -voltage transformers at a cost of more than $1 million to help reduce outage duration. The company also plans to replace aging equipment and install new monitoring technology. More than $17 million will be spend for ongoing vegetation management and to maintain proper clearances to help reduce tree-related storm damage. That work is planned for all three Western Maryland counties, along with Frederick County, Maryland and Berkeley County, West Virginia.

Two Arrested After Mall Disturbance

Two men were arrested, following a disturbance on the downtown Cumberland Mall on Monday. Twenty-seven year old Charro McMillan and 49-year old Donald Crawford were arguing, and both were placed under arrest, and criminally cited for disorderly conduct. McMillan was also charged with possession of paraphernalia when officers found a suspected marijuana smoking device on him. They were released pending trial in Allegany County District Court.

Grantsville Woman Charged with Assault

Grantsville resident Marcy Lynn Durst was charged with assault, following a domestic disturbance on Posey Row Road. Maryland State Police troopers found a male victim with scratches in the face, neck and stomach areas. As a result, Ms. Durst was arrested and charged with the assault count.

Traffic Change for Sunday in Downtown Cumberland

The City of Cumberland, on behalf the Allegany County Child Abuse Task Force, is advising motorists that Salem Street, from Queen City Drive to South Center Street will be closed on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All traffic should use Queen City Drive to Harrison Street to access the downtown area during that time, to allow for a car show, as part of the event. All through traffic will need to use I-68 westbound or Queen City Drive to detour around the event.

 Maryland Man Dies After West Virginia Event

An Ellicott City man died, while competing in an endurance course in the Eastern Panhandle. The body of 28-year old Avishek Sengupta was found at a water obstacle at the "Tough Mudder" event in Glengary, and died on Sunday at a Northern Virginia hospital. An investigation is continuing, but the initial finding was that the death was accidental.

Indictment for Murder Suspect

An indictment has been issued for the man charged in the death of the Mingo County Sheriff.  A three-count indictment was handed up against 37-year old Tennis Maynard of Ragland. He allegedly walked up to a parked cruiser and shot Sheriff Eugene Crum on April 3rd. Sheriff Crum died a short time later.  He is charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder and felony  fleeing a police officer.