Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Monday, May 3, 2010
Introduction To Our Local Leaders
The elected Representatives that make the biggest decisions in our area are listed below. We have compiled both groups together in one location for ease of access to readers.
Salisbury Mayor Jim Ireton
Age: 40
Born: Salisbury MD, February 14, 1970
Education: Bachelors in Elementary Education - Salisbury University 1992
M.A. in Education - College of Notre Dame of Maryland 2003
Community Service:
Wicomico Neighborhood Congress, Johnsons Lake Neighborhood Association, Wicomico County Education Association, Salisbury City Recycling Committee, Pemberton Hall, Democratic Club of Wicomico County, Democratic Central Committee of Wicomico County
"I believe that the greatest service is public service. Since high school I have devoted my time to education and advocating for schoolchildren, the safety of neighborhoods in our community, and open, efficient, and responsive government.
"I am forever grateful to this community for all of the opportunities it has given me. From being Baby New Year in the Salisbury Times in 1973, winning my first tennis tournament, at age 9, on the City Park Tennis Courts, to buying the first house through SNHS's revitalization efforts, to leading the Wicomico Neighborhood Congress, I have been blessed by a community that has always seen my potential. I am honored to work everyday in order to improve the quality of life in my hometown. I believe we live in one of the greatest communities and that we should protect our quality of life in every way possible"
information obtained from http://jimireton.com/about.html
County Executive Rick Pollitt Bio
Mr. Pollitt, a ninth generation resident of Allen, MD, resides there with his wife and two children.
Information obtained from http://rickpollitt.com/
Sheree Sample Hughes Bio
She graduated from Parkside High School in 1995. Furthering her education, she enrolled in Delaware State University and graduated in 1999 with a B.A. Degree in Public Relations. She is married to Desmond Hughes and they are the proud parents of Jordan and Noah.
After completing college, Sample-Hughes accepted a position with Pocomoke City hall in Pocomoke City, MD, as the Section 8 administrator/project coordinator. She was instrumental in acquiring several grants for the city. Her responsibilities included: monitoring and overseeing capital projects and the disbursement of Section 8 funds.
Shortly after that, she embarked upon a journey to the "city." She was hired as the special events coordinator with the Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism based in Baltimore, MD. She traveled statewide coordinating and promoting volunteer service. She spear headed the Governor's Volunteer and Service Awards event held annually in the month of April.
Among other responsibilities, she coordinated the Governor’s Volunteer and Service Day at the Maryland State Fair in Timonium, the AmeriCorps Launch and Life after AmeriCorps. She returned home to the Eastern Shore in April 2002, working diligently with the Wicomico Partnership for Families and Children (Local Management Board). She served as the Community Program Coordinator of two pulsating initiatives, the Westside CSAFE II and After School Programs.
In July of 2006 she completed her second consecutive term as president of the Spirit of Democracy American Legion Auxiliary Unit #145 and is now serving the southeastern shore district as the American Legion Auxiliary Junior Activities representative. In addition, she is an active member of the following organizations: Wicomico County Branch of the N.A.A.C.P., Delta Sigma Omega Chapter Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Charles H. Chipman Cultural Center, Wicomico County Democratic Club, a mentor with the Wicomico County Mentoring Partnership and a commissioned notary.
On December 5, 2006, Sample-Hughes was sworn in as the first African American female and youngest member of the Wicomico County Council serving District One. As a result of her council position, she now serves on the following boards: Wicomico County Free Library, Wicomico County Department of Social Services, Shore Up! Incorporated and the Tri-County Council. She pledges to serve her constituency with honesty, understanding, graciousness, hardworking spirit, energy and sincerity. She has embraced a personal philosophy that inspires her every day "focus, follow and fulfill your dreams."
information obtained from http://www.wicomicocounty.org/council/member_bios/sample-hughes.asp
John Cannon Bio
He served twenty years in the television industry working at WMDT and WBOC. Currently he is working in commercial and residential property management. He is a past member of the Kidney Foundation as well as the Epilepsy Association of the Eastern Shore.
Mr. Cannon also coached Minor League and Little League Baseball at the Salvation Army and for the Optimist. He is a Past President of the Salisbury Jaycees and a past member of the Governors Executive Advisory Committee. Mr. Cannon is also a past member of the Wicomico County Republican Central Committee and a Past President of Nutters Crossing Homeowners Association.
information obtained from http://www.wicomicocounty.org/council/member_bios/cannon.asp
William McCain Bio
The firm conducts valuation assignments on all types of real estate. He is a native of the Delmarva Peninsula. He earned an MBA degree from the Perdue School of Business at Salisbury University and a BA degree in Economics and Sociology from Washington College in Chestertown, Maryland.
He is a Certified General Appraiser in the State of Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. He holds the MAI designation with the Appraisal Institute as well as being a licensed real estate broker in the states of Maryland and Virginia. He is very active in community affairs.
He is a Past President of the Wicomico Rotary Club and Assistant Governor for Area 5. He was awarded the Rotarian of the Year in 1997. He has served on the Pastor Advisory Committee and is past chairman of the Administrative Board for Trinity Church and currently serves on the board of Trustees.
He has served as president of the Fruitland PTA, member of the Greater Salisbury Committee, Board Member of Peninsula Regional, Board Member of Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce, Wicomico Parks and Recreation, Mid-Delmarva YMCA Board and a volunteer Youth Sports Coach. He is married to Teresa McCain, former Wicomico County Teacher of the Year, and has two daughters.
information obtained from http://www.wicomicocounty.org/council/member_bios/mccain.asp
Gail Bartkovich Bio
She has also been Treasurer for the Sand Pointe Condominium Association in Ocean City, Maryland, since 1987. Mrs. Bartkovich also serves on the Planning Commission, the School Building Commission and the Wicomico County Core Service Agency Advisory Board.
information obtained from http://www.wicomicocounty.org/council/member_bios/bartkovich.asp
Stevie Prettyman Bio
Stevie Prettyman, age 57, was elected in November 1998 to her first term of office representing District #2 and was reelected in November 2002 and November 2006. Mrs. Prettyman is currently the Vice President of the County Council. Mrs. Prettyman retired from managing Prettyman Broadcasting Company and continues as absentee part owner of three radio stations. She is a member of the National Association of Broadcasters.
Mrs. Prettyman has been active as a member of the local Chamber of Commerce and the Wicomico Republican Club, supported the Wicomico Humane Society, the March of Dimes and the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art and been involved in numerous fund raising events for charitable organizations. She is currently a commissioner on the Critical Area Commission which is appointed by the Governor. She was appointed to serve on July 1, 2000 and appointed again in 2004.
information obtained from http://www.wicomicocounty.org/council/member_bios/prettyman.asp
Joe Holloway Bio
information obtained from http://www.wicomicocounty.org/council/member_bios/holloway.asp
David MacLeod Bio
He is also retired from the U.S. Army serving twenty two years in the regular and reserve components. He is the Past President of the Wicomico Commission on Aging and serves on numerous community boards such as MAC, Inc., Hudson Health Services, Poplar Hill Mansion, and Democratic Club. Mr. MacLeod and his wife Joan have been married for forty six years and have five grown children and fourteen grandchildren.
information obtained from http://www.wicomicocounty.org/council/member_bios/macleod.asp
Louise Smith Bio
LOUISE SMITH, SALISBURY CITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Elected Council President April 16, 2007 and re-elected April 20, 2009. During my term I am committed to improving the quality of life for everyone. My efforts include:
Fostering Neighborhood Commitment
· Participated in the “Women Build Day” for Habitat for Humanity … painting the house at 313 Martin Street
· Implemented in September 2007, twelve (12) cleanup efforts in the Church Street/Doverdale neighborhoods. More than 20 volunteers dedicated over 9,030 hours collecting over 20.11 tons of trash and 1,515 pounds of recyclables
· Ardently campaigning the need for a community center in the Church Street area
Responding to Constituents
· Hosting monthly, Issues and Answers, on PAC 14 since January 30, 2008. This half hour program delivers answers on issues raised by citizens such as budget, dangerous intersections, crime, annexations and other topics.
Public Safety
· Supported replacing of 3 police vehicles in 2008 and replacing one fire engine
· Supported the Salisbury University Police routinely patrolling off campus student housing areas.
· Supported additional regulations on adult entertainment businesses.
Open and Honest Government
· Outspoken critic of the City’s audit during my campaign with reports presented to Council anywhere from 2 to 4 months late. Honoring my campaign pledge, the 2009 audit report was received December 14, 2009, the earliest since 2003 when GASB standards were put in place. Additionally, no instances of noncompliance relating to the financial statements and no deficiencies identified in internal control over financial reporting that would be considered material weaknesses. A milestone reached.
Community Support
· Asbury United Methodist Church
· Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore
· Maryland Food Bank
· Peninsula Regional Medical Center Foundation Heritage Society
· Recreation and Parks Commission
· Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce
· Salisbury University President’s Club
· Salisbury Wicomico Metropolitan Planning Organization
· Salisbury Zoo
· Village of Hope
Education
University of South Florida, M.E.
Maryland Institute of Art, B.F.A.
Southern Seminary Jr. College, A. Art. Ed.
Wicomico Senior High School, Academic Diploma
Shanie Shields Bio
• Salisbury Crime Task Force member
• Council liaison to PAC14 Board
Gary Comegys Bio
Gary Comegys was elected to the Salisbury City Council on November 4, 2003 and has served as Council Vice President since April, 2005.
Elected the Salisbury City Council on November 4, 2003, Council Vice President since April, 2005
Since 2005 Gary has represented the municipalities of the lower shore in the Maryland Municipal League on the Board of Directors.
He has served on MML’s Legislative Committee since 2004 and chairs the Municipal Revenue Sub-committee.
Gary completed the Academy for Excellence in Local Governance in 2006.
In 2004 Gary completed the Civic and Government Leadership Academy sponsored by: The Greater Salisbury Committee, The Tri-County League of Women Voters and The Institute for Public Affairs and Civic Engagement at Salisbury University.
Gary also: serves on The Salisbury Zoo Commission, The Salisbury -Wicomico Planning and Zoning Commission, The Salisbury -Wicomico Airport Commission, serves as Chairman of the Shore Transit Advisory Board, and is a Board Member for Habitat for Humanity
Currently Gary is serving on the Environmental Policy Task Force for the City of Salisbury a group he has been advocating the formation of for three years.
He served as President of the Board of Directors for The Humane Society of Wicomico County from 2002 to 2008.
Gary was an active member of the Salisbury Fire Department retiring after 21 years with the rank of Assistant Chief. Now Gary is a Life Member and a member of the departments 20 Year Club.
In June of 1973 he started his career with the Maryland State Highway Administration. Gary retired from the SHA after serving as the Area Engineer for Construction in District 1 (Wicomico, Worcester, Somerset and Dorchester Counties).
information obtained from http://www.garycomegys.com/about.html
Debbie Campbell Bio
Creating solutions that work -
• Selected as one of Maryland's Top 100 Women 2007 for "outstanding achievement...as demonstrated through professional accomplishment, community leadership and mentoring."
• Recognized by the governor for developing and supervising summer programs for youth in two neighborhood parks
• Honored by the Wicomico County Commission for Women for her work in the field of housing and revitalization
Insight into issues facing our city and solutions that have worked in other communities across the country -
• Selected as one of four members nationwide selected for the first Leadership Forum organized by the National Association of Affordable Housing Lenders (NAAHL)
• Founding officer of the National Neighborhood Housing Network, a national trade association serving 230 non-profit housing groups across the country
• Past member of the Governor's Summit on Violent Crime & Neighborhood Issues
Working to improve our community -
• Salisbury City Council Member for District 2 since April 2005
• Salisbury Crime Task Force Sub-committee leader, Fall 2008
• Served as council liaison to PAC14 Board from April 2005 to 2009
• Served as council liaison to Airport Commission, April 2005 to April 2007
• Past president of the Camden Neighborhood Association
• Jaycees' Outstanding Young Marylander, 1996
A Driving Force for Positive Change
Taxpayer Protection - Debbie Campbell's focus on fiscal responsibility in budgets and audits resulted in finding $130,000 owed to taxpayers, reducing a 17% general purpose tax rate hike to 14%, moving the budget process toward line-item approval, promoting ways to reduce the $2,884 per person city debt, commissioning an operational review of Internal Services to increase efficiency and obtain an on-time audit, and moving the city toward a more taxpayer-friendly take-home vehicle policy, to name a few initiatives.
Public Safety and Crime Reduction - Debbie Campbell has raised the awareness to keep police, fire and EMS personnel previously lost due to poor salary levels, resulting in increases that have helped retention. Her action-oriented leadership as a sub-committee leader on Salisbury's Crime Task Force yielded identification and remedial action on trouble spots in just the first two weeks.
Environmental Protection - Debbie Campbell stood up for the Wicomico River by tireless requests for storm water filtration for the installation of larger outflow pipes to the river. She identified storm water intake systems that provide filtration at less cost than ordinary intake grills.
Affordable and Workforce Housing Development - Debbie Campbell convened a forum in March 2008 to bring developers, lenders and state agency representatives together to help developers understand financial paths to success in providing this type of housing. She worked with business leaders and the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore to develop a potential model for maximizing annexation agreement contributions toward affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization.
Homeowner and Tenant Safety - Debbie Campbell has met continually with neighborhood residents on problems facing their areas. Her efforts resulted in the posting of landlord licensing information on the city website so homeowners and tenants could be aware of compliant rental properties in the city. She has supported the addition of tenant protections in city codes.
Growth Management - Debbie Campbell's efforts led changes in annexation policy to increase protections for city residents from "bait and switch" annexations. She was the only council member in the first two years of her term to identify an illegal rezoning.
Open, Transparent Government - Debbie Campbell led the way in citizen outreach with a newsletter, website and public input meetings and continues to press for better access to information and input for the public.
information obtained http://www.campbell4council.net/meet-debbie/accomplishments.html
Terry Cohen Bio
· Spokesperson for the Salisbury Independent Neighborhood Alliance (SINA)
· Past President and 20-plus years membership, Salisbury Business & Professional Women (BPW)
· Member of We Care About Wicomico County “wise growth“ community group (WCAWC)
Business
· Small business partner in software development, training and writing company
· Managed customer service software implementation projects for Fortune 500 and other large corporate clients
· Provided workforce training for thousands of Shore residents and dozens of companies as computer coordinator and instructor for Wor-Wic Community College and as a trainer/consultant
· Former training coordinator, Small Business Development Center – Salisbury University
· Writer/editor of materials from newspaper articles, a four-color magazine, and technical manuals to business marketing/PR, presentations and legislative papers
Personal and Community
· Moved to Salisbury area in 1971 and to City of Salisbury in 2003
· Graduated James M. Bennett High School with honors, 1975
· Graduated cum laude University of Pennsylvania in 3 years with B.A. in English, 1978
· Pinehurst Elementary School classroom volunteer and field trip chaperone
· Adult member, Chesapeake Bay Girl Scouts, Troop #865
· Wicomico County “Technology in Education” Task Force (1995-96)
· Nominated for Salisbury Jaycees Distinguished Service Award, 1984
· Recipient of Salisbury BPW “Young Careerist” Award, 1980-81
· Wife of 13 years to Tim Fuhrmann; mother of Rebecca, 6, and Aaron, 4; stepmother of Sean, 25; daughter of Bettie and the late Sol Cohen; and “mom” to Chance, a rescued Irish setter
information obtained from
http://www.terrycohen.com/bowlsite.dll/GetPage?ReDir=Yes&SiteMenuID=224&PageID=425
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