Worcester County Sheriff Office Recent Arrests

March 15, 2014 at 2118 hours, Worcester County Sheriff Office was Dispatch to  Bishopville Road, for a suspicious vehicle at a residence. 

The driver of the vehicle who was identified as Mansfield Edward Gott 3rd, 30 years old, of Selbyville DE was passed out behind the wheel with the car still in drive.  Mr. Gott appeared to have been drinking. Mr. Gott was arrested and charged with DUI.  Mr. Gott was released pending trial.

March 16, 2014 at 0020 hours a Worcester County Sheriff Office Deputy stopped a vehicle for speed in the area of Ocean Gateway West Bound near Jerry Mack Road.  During the stop a K-9 scan was done of the vehicle with a positive alert. 

The driver was identified as Dana Lee Seidman, 40 of Ridgely Maryland, Ms. Siedman appeared to have been drinking, She was arrested for DUI as well as possession of Marijuana. She was released pending trial.


 March 16, 2014 at approximately 11:42 hours a Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Deputy stopped a vehicle on Route 12 northbound, south of Stockton Road,  for 68 mph in a 50 mph zone, the driver was also operating a handheld telephone while the motor vehicle was in motion.  When the Deputy approached the vehicle they could smell  an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle, a search of the vehicle reveled marijuana and paraphernalia used to smoke marijuana.

The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle was Kristie Nolana Dove, 41 years of age, from Severna Park, Maryland.  Ms. Dove was issued a warning for the speed violation, a traffic citation for operating a handheld device, and two criminal citations, one for CDS possession of marijuana less than 10 grams, and one for possession of paraphernalia. 

Ms. Dove was released pending trial.

Coast Guard Rescues Stranded Man From Island

Coast Guard rescues stranded man from island near Carrollton, Va.

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The Coast Guard rescued a 33-year-old man Monday who was stranded while camping on Ragged Island near Carrollton, Va.

Rescued was Anthony Gontarz.

Gontarz called 911 dispatch when weather worsened, and the rising tide stranded him on the island he was camping on near Ragged Island Creek. 

Carrollton Volunteer Fire Department crews dispatched a boat crew but were unable to rescue Gontarz due to his location and weather conditions.

At approximately 1:30 a.m., fire department personnel contacted Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads watchstanders requesting helicopter assistance.

An MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City, N.C., launched and arrived on scene at approximately 3:30 a.m.

Gontarz was hoisted into the helicopter and taken to a safe landing zone where he was transferred to an awaiting ambulance service and taken to Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News.

Gontarz was reported to be in good condition.

Worcester County Sheriff's Office ~ RECENT ARRESTS

Warrant and Harboring a Fugitive- Arrests

 03/09/2014 at approximately 2056 hours, members of the Worcester County Sheriff's Office arrested David Dwayne Dickerson, age 22, of Pocomoke City with a Circuit Court warrant for Rape-2nd degree and Sex Offense.

Dickerson is currently being held at the Worcester County Detention Center on $100,000 bond.

While serving Dickerson's warrant, it was learned that his mother, Tammy Terrail Copes, age 40, also of Pocomoke City, was attempting to hide Dickerson from the deputy.

 Copes was later charged with False Statement to a Police Officer and Harboring a Fugitive.


Disabled Vehicle - Arrest

03/11/2014 at approximately 1627 hours, members of the Worcester County Sheriff's Office stopped to render assistance to a disabled vehicle.

While identifying its occupants, it was determined that passenger Morris Edward Waters, Sr., age 47, of Pocomoke City had a Delaware warrant for Terroristic Threats and Disorderly Conduct.

Waters was placed under arrest and is currently being held in the Worcester County Detention Center with no bond pending extradition to Delaware.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

To ALL of my Irish friends and even those friends who will be Irish for the day....

 

 

 

 

 

May the road rise up to meet you.
 May the wind be always at your back.
 May the sun shine warm upon your face;
 the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again,
 may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
       ~Traditional Gaelic Blessing

1st Annual Scavenger Hunt!!

GET A TEAM TOGETHER TODAY !!

 

 

 

DON'T FORGET TO NAME YOUR TEAM !!

TIME MACHINE ... 1984, 1934, 1900, 1888, 1881, 2005

(READER FRIENDLY VIEWING OF NEWSPAPER ARCHIVES MATERIAL)
　
April, 1984
The Capital (Annapolis, Md.)

(Excerpts)

Candidates stump in Md.

Vote quest draws pair

PRINCESS ANNE, Md (AP) - The Rev. Jesse Jackson took his campaign to Maryland's Eastern Shore while former Vice President Walter Mondale picked up endorsements in Baltimore, with the state's primary only two weeks away.

About 1,200 supporters packed an auditorium at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore last night, having been treated to a gospel music program before Jackson appeared about an hour late.

But he brought the message of his "Rainbow Coalition" amid thunderous applause and cries of "run Jesse, run. "

Jackson told the audience he was running a "poor campaign" that had a "rich message." "If they (Hart and Mondale) had my budget, they could not compete and if I had their budget, they could not compete," he said. Before the night was over, Jackson picked up about $2,000 in pledges for his campaign.

August, 1934
Gettysburg Times (Gettysburg, Pa.)

Wear Rubber Clothes To Avoid Mosquitoes

Easton, Md.. Aug. 15— Mosquitoes were reported never to have been seen here on the Eastern Shore of Maryland in such quantities as they are now.

Pickers of tomatoes for the canning houses are harassed by them. In Dorchester county the insects are so bad that the pickers of tomatoes are clothed in rubber boots, rubber coats, gloves and head coverings.

The tomatoes are gathered daily, but,the mosquitoes are hampering the work to a great extent. The insects appear in clouds, millions of them swarming about the tomato pickers.

Footnote: February, 1934, saw more snow and cold than usual on the Eastern Shore, as did our February of 2014. Hopefully, the February weather wasn't a precedent for the summer mosquito population!

March, 1900
(Peninsula Enterprise- Accomac Court House)

Arrangements have been made by the Worcester Telephone Company, of Snow Hill, to extend the line to Girdletree and Stockton and thence to Pocomoke City, via the grange. This will give communications to the Virginia lines to Franklin City, Chincoteague, New Church, Bloomtown and all principal towns in Accomac County and in Northampton County as far as Cape Charles.

April, 1888
Rochester Republican (Rochester, Ind.)

A Handsome Blond Given Ten Tears.
PRINCESS ANNE, Md , April 20.—The jury in the case of Mrs. Emma Farlow, of Crisfield, on trial here for poisoning her husband on July 9 last, returned a verdict Thursday of manslaughter. She was sentenced to ten years in the penitentiary.  Mrs. Farlow is only 19 years old and a good-looking blond.

February, 1881 (Time Machine archive)
(The Denton Journal)

Since the Christmas holidays the price of eggs, instead of going down, as is usually the case, has been steadily going up. Eggs are selling in Baltimore for fifty cents a dozen, and in Philadelphia they are several cents higher than this. The price paid in this town (Denton) for several days has been 40 cents. It is said that the cause of the scarcity and the consequent high prices is owing to the cold weather and snow-covered ground from which the chickens can not find anything to eat. They are fed regularly, but it is said there is something in the ground which is peculiarly productive of eggs.

February, 2005

Pocomoke City received official word that it was being listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The designation would make Pocomoke property owners eligible for state and federal tax incentives. The listing would not affect what property owners could do unless they applied for federal assistance.


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!


　

　

　

Critical Missing Person

Cortland Read Lambert
MISSING

LOCATION: Starr Road, Centreville

 SUBJECT: Cortland Read Lambert (23) of Centreville, MD

NARRATIVE: Reported missing by his family on Thursday afternoon after last being seen on Wednesday leaving his residence.

 A search of the immediate area near the family residence was started on Thursday evening and resumed on Friday using search teams, DNR K9 and aviation units.

 Lambert is 6'2" - 200 Pounds with brown hair and eyes. He possibly is distraught over a delay in his plans to go into the military. A shotgun is missing from the residence and may be in his possession.

 Anyone with information is urged to contact the Queen Anne's Office of the Sheriff at (410) 758-0770.

Virginia Department Of Forestry - BURN NOTICE!

The Virginia Department of Forestry (VDOF) protects our forest resources from fire. Our main goals are:

• prevent injury or loss of human life
• minimize property damage
• protect the forest resources

 

 

 

February 15 - April 30
During this period, the 4PM Burn Law is in effect.

 

 

 

• DO NOT light fires until 4PM.
• DO NOT stir up the fire or add new fuel after Midnight.
• Can I burn...? Burning and the 4 PM Law

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview

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

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


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

Beautiful Day On DelMarVa ~ GET OUTSIDE AND MOVE AROUND!!!

Photo BW

A warm Saturday is in store for most of the area.   The winter has been very long and cold so today get outside and move around.

Don't know what to do or where to do?

Try the  POCOMOKE NATURE TRAIL at STEVENSON'S POND  OR the entryway in CYPRESS PARK!

Photo BW

Cypress Park Entry
Photo/ BW

REMINDER: The Nature Trail setting belongs to Nature....everything else that is there is maintained by those that care.

Please take your trash and if needed  someone else's too.


"Oh, the places you'll go! There is fun to be done!"  ~ Dr.Seuss

Worcester County Dept. of Recreation & Parks ~ TODDLER GYM

Driver Arrested On Traffic Charges and Possession By Worcester County Sheriff's Deputy

Worcester County Sheriff's Office
On March 14th 2014 at 0823 hours, a Deputy with the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on Rt 610, west of Shavox Church road, Whaleyville, Worcester, County Maryland.

The sole occupant of the vehicle was identified through his MD ID card as 22 year old Bryant J Cooper, of Willards Maryland.

 The Deputy smelled the odor of Marijuana coming from within the vehicle and a search of the vehicle was conducted.

 Under the driver’s seat the Deputy located a NEWPORT cigarette box. Located in the box the Deputy located a smoldering suspected Marijuana cigarette.

 Through further investigation of the traffic stop it was also determined that Cooper’s license was Suspended/Revoked in the State of Maryland, and that the Delaware Tag on the vehicle was stolen out of Georgetown Delaware.

 Cooper was placed under arrest on numerous traffic charges, possession of Marijuana. He was seen by the Commissioner and later released on his Personal Recognizance.

 An investigation by the Georgetown Police Department into the stolen tag in currently being done.

Visit The Delmarva Discovery Center THIS WEEKEND - Take Advantage of the Wear Green, Save Green Special

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY

 

 

 

While visiting, make sure you take time to view the newly updated NASA Wallops Flight Facility exhibit "Wallops Through The Ages." in the  changing exhibits room

 

Karaoke For Cindy ~ Powellville VFW

Raising funds for Cindy Hill

Powellville VFW- Saturday Night-

8pm-12pm

 

 Cindy suffered a heart attack Wednesday. Anyone having been hospitalized knows how that is on your checkbook.

Join us tonight as we try and ease her financial burden a bit.

 

Violent Crimes Task Force Seeks Identity of Serial Bank Robber

FBI Baltimore
The Baltimore FBI Violent Crimes Task Force is asking the public to help them identify a serial bank robber responsible for a series of robberies in the Baltimore area.

The suspect enters the banks and shows tellers a note indicating he has a weapon. After grabbing the money, he’s usually seen running into nearby neighborhoods. Witnesses describe him as a black man between 18 to 30 years old, about 5’7” to 5’10” tall, with a very thin build and thin mustache. He’s been seen wearing baseball caps during the robberies.


Investigators believe he’s responsible for robberies at the SunTrust Bank at 111 Orville Road on December 17, 2013; the TD Bank at 1800 Eastern Boulevard on January 8; the SunTrust Bank at 7699 Harford Road on January 8; and the Bay Bank at 1740 Joppa Road on January 10.

If anyone has information about the robber or any of the robberies, please call the Baltimore FBI at (410) 265-8080, or the Baltimore County Police at (410) 307-2020.

The Baltimore FBI Violent Crimes Task Force is made up of FBI agents, Baltimore City Police detectives, Baltimore County Police detectives, and Anne Arundel County Police detectives. They investigate significant violent crimes, including kidnappings, robberies of commercial institutions, armored car and bank robberies, extortions, and fugitive felons.

Delegate McDermott On The House Floor

Yesterday's discussion on the "dinosaur fees" we are still paying in Maryland ~ Delegate Mike McDermott

Dinosaur Fees

Larry Hogan Swings Through Western Maryland

March 14, 2014

~Larry Hogan Swings Through Western Maryland~

 

 

ANNAPOLIS – Larry Hogan, the leading Republican candidate for governor, will travel through the Western Maryland counties of Garrett, Allegany, Washington, and Frederick on Monday, March 17, 2014. "I'm very excited to return to Western Maryland. This is our first trip since our announcement six weeks ago, and it will be a great opportunity to hear folks' concerns and share my priorities with them," Hogan said. "An overwhelming majority of people across the state are very worried about Maryland's future, and we share their main concerns about the economy, taxes, and jobs."

The campaign will make stops in Oakland, Cumberland, Hagerstown, and Frederick. The schedule includes the following stops:
• 8:00 – 9:00 am, Meet and Greet at Trader's Coffee House; 21311 Garrett Highway, Oakland, MD 21550
• 10:30 am – 12:00 pm, Meet and Greet at Cornish Manor Restaurant; 830 Memorial Drive, Oakland, MD 21550
• 1:30 – 2 pm, Meet and Greet at Curtis Famous Coney Island Wieners; 35 N. Liberty Street, Cumberland, MD 21502
• 2:00 – 3:00 pm, Keynote Speaker at Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Allegany County GOP Headquarters; 100 Mechanic Street, Cumberland, MD 21502
• 5:00 – 6:30 pm, Meet and Greet at Bulls & Bears; 38 S. Potomac Street, Hagerstown, MD 21740
• 7:30 – 9:30 pm, St. Patrick's Day Party at Jekyll & Hyde Tavern; 906 N. East Street, Frederick, MD 21701

For questions, contact Hannah Marr at (443) 935-3684 or email hmarr@hoganforgovernor.com.

A business owner for over 25 years, Larry has helped attract hundreds of businesses and thousands of jobs to Maryland. He took time away from his successful business to serve as a Cabinet Secretary in the Ehrlich Administration, and founded the state’s largest non-partisan grassroots organization, Change Maryland, focused on bringing fiscal responsibility and common sense policies to Annapolis.

###www.HoganforGovernor.com
www.facebook.com/ChangeMaryland@Hogan4Governor

Authority: Larry Hogan for Governor, John C. Wobensmith, Treasurer.

 

The U.S. EPA Reaches Agreement With Sergeant's Pet Care Products, Inc. and Wellmark International

EPA, Sergeant’s Pet Care and Wellmark International Reach Agreement to Cancel Potentially Harmful Insecticide Products

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has reached agreement with Sergeant's Pet Care Products, Inc. and Wellmark International to cancel flea and tick pet collars containing propoxur marketed under the trade names including Bansect, Sentry, Zodiac and Biospot.

“This action is another example of EPA’s efforts to protect children from pesticide risks,” said Jim Jones, assistant administrator of the EPA’s Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention. This voluntary move will get to an expedient result that protects people’s health.”

This decision was reached between EPA and Sergeant's and Wellmark as a result of EPA’s risk assessment showing risks to children from exposure to pet collars containing propoxur.

Propoxur is an insecticide registered for use to control ticks, fleas and a variety of insects and is used in industrial, commercial and residential facilities. The agreement represents the solution to most quickly remove the pet collars from the market.

EPA completed the propoxur pet collar risk assessment in fall 2013 in response to a Natural Resources Defense Council petition to cancel the uses. EPA’s risk assessment found, in some but not all use scenarios, unacceptable risks to children from exposure to propoxur pet collars on the first day following application. Because the manufacturers could not find a way to eliminate unacceptable risk under all scenarios, EPA encouraged them to cancel these products and they subsequently agreed.

EPA announced the voluntary cancellation on January 22, 2014. Under the cancellation agreement, manufacturers are allowed to produce the pet collars until April 1, 2015, and will not be allowed to distribute the products after April 1, 2016. EPA will continue to watch for incidents from the use of these collars and is prepared to take further action if necessary.

Flea and tick collars work by leaving a pesticide residue on dogs' and cats' fur, which can be transferred to people by hugging, petting or coming into contact with the pets. The major source of exposure to these chemicals is from absorption through the skin after directly touching the treated pet. Small children may ingest pesticide residues when they touch a treated cat or dog and subsequently put their hands in their mouth.

If you purchase a propoxur pet collar, read the label carefully and follow all directions on the label to protect your family from exposure. Do not allow children to play with the collar, and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling.



For more information about the voluntary cancellation:
http://www2.epa.gov/safepestcontrol/companies-agree-stop-selling-pet-collars-containing-pesticide-protect-children

A Message From A & N Electric Cooperative ~ SCAM ALERT

3/14/2014

A & N Electric Cooperative

SCAM ALERT

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

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

On April 8 No More Upgrades For Microsoft's XP

Microsoft decision leaves hackers waiting breathlessly

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

 

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

Continue Reading....

State Police DUI Patrols Deployed This Weekend

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Delmarva Discovery Center ~ Wear Green, Save Green Special.

Delmarva Discovery Center

 

Any Backyard Birder Can Become A Bluebird Landlord

My Bluebirds
Photo/BW

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

Why Bluebirds Need Houses

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

My Bluebird
Photo BW

Tips for Bluebird Houses

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

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

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

BUILD A BLUE BIRD HOUSE & MORE ON BLUEBIRDS

After School Dodge Ball ~ Worcester County Recreation & Parks

 Back By Popular Demand

After School Dodgeball  !!!

 

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

 

 Transportation is provided for Snow Hill Middle School students,

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

Investigations Into Copper Wiring Thefts

March 13, 2014
Worcester County Sheriff's Office

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

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

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

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

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

Worcester County Sheriff's Office (Facebook)

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

 

March 13, 2014

Jim Mathias Votes Again for O’Malley’s Budget

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

Delegate Mike McDermott - Smart Meter Opt Out Notice

March 11, 2014

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Suspect On The Loose In Talbot County - CAPTURED

Brooks S. Perry
CAPTURED

Maryland State Police Press Release

 SUSPECT WHO SHOT AT TROOPERS IN TALBOT CO. CAPTURED

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The investigation is continuing.

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview

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

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


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

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

Virginia Beach Police Officer
Bradley Colas

Virginia Beach police officer sues drug company over psychotic outburst

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The drug company has not responded.

Source/Video

SUSPECT SOUGHT IN TALBOT COUNTY BY STATE POLICE

MSP Photo
Brooks S. Perry

MARYLAND STATE POLICE PRESS RELEASE

SUSPECT WHO SHOT AT PURSUING TROOPERS SOUGHT IN TALBOT CO.

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The investigation is continuing. 

Maryland State Police (LIKE on Facebook)

2014 Youth Recreation Softball

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

 

 

Who: Girls grades 2-8

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

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

Volunteer coaches are always needed as well!

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