My Opportunity To Meet The New Police Chief

Or: "How Grateful I Was To Meet The New Chief Without Wearing Hand Cuffs In an 'Office' In the Basement".

It isn't often that I get the opportunity to do anything by invitation. I just stay down here in "the boonies" (as your Councilman Don Malloy calls  it) and keep peace with nature and tend to the PPE blog.... and some other things....

So, when Councilman Malloy called and offered to show me the insides of two major structures in Pocomoke, one being built and the other being fashioned into the new Pocomoke City police station, I had to take him up on it!

The added bonus was a chance to meet the new Pocomoke City Police Chief. I had received the book written by the police chief "Why Do We Kill" for Christmas so this was my chance to tell him how wonderful the book was and how much it scared me! No... That's not a good thing to say. Telling a homicide detective of 22 years his book scare you? Hmmm... Well, it does and when all of you read the book you will understand.

A series of thoughts ran through my head. Here I was, having grown up in Pocomoke, (a town I love dearly) worked downtown for over 25 hears in the same store, raised two kids in that wonderful town, I know just about everyone there is to know and I am being invited to meet the Chief.

Well, this time all of you knew him before I did so you're one up on me. And most of you know what a great person he is to talk with. But since I "knew" him from his book as the homicide detective in Baltimore City, I was absolutely surprised.

Here's a man that can't be even 50 years of age and has been involved with more TRUE crime than any of the fake crime on television.

Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin D. Sewell is a delightful person. He is for real. Chief Sewell is a great big great guy filled with personality and patience to listen....and he's smart! And he gave YOU his word.

I've received so many comments and email about how comfortable the people of Pocomoke have been lately. Many have seen the Pocomoke officers on foot through their neighborhoods. Many of those citizens have even left their houses to go to the street to speak to them. I can only imagine that this must make those officers proud of the job they do.

Please continue to thank them. In Chief  Sewell's "Mission Statement" to the people of Pocomoke City he pledged to "develop a partnership with the community." Mission Statement:  http://www.cityofpocomoke.com/index.asp?Type=B_JOB&SEC=%7B1164A319-FF06-42BE-B238-6ECDB72D1023%7D

And don't worry. I am not privvy to any inside information. I only know what you know. I know that the foot patrols will continue through the neighborhoods and once the weather becomes suitable there will be bike patrols. I know that Pocomoke City and its people will be protected to the fullest 24/7.  And I know that the people of Pocomoke will be informed on what goes on in their town.  We have already witnessed this with three Press Releases. 

Besides, it wouldn't have done any good at all to tell me any secrets. I'd forget it anyway.

Gee, first time meeting an author of a book, retired homicide detective and police chief of my home town.....I left my cell phone in his office.........had to go back to get it but not until I was totally finished with my day.   And don't worry. I won't apply to be a police officer  and risk the chance of losing a squad car or misplacing a gun.

Thank you, Chief Sewell and everyone at the Pocomoke City Police Department for making Councilman Malloy's and my visit such a pleasant one.  I feel very honored.

(But that's not all! Councilman Malloy and I took a peek into the building that will be the new police station. I'll have pictures so stand by)

TIME MACHINE Preview ... The Weather Outside Was Frightful!

Ice skating on the Pocomoke River and at Public Landing?

Our normally moderate Eastern Shore winters are not immune from exceptions and this week we'll take a look at some times when Mother Nature had other ideas.

It's this Sunday on 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. Your name won't be used unless you ask that it be. Send to tkforppe@yahoo.com and watch for it on a future TIME MACHINE posting!

"Pirates of the Chesapeake" - TODAY- The Delmarva Discovery Center

TODAY ONLY!  Secret discount for the Winter Wonderland Gala!  Tickets - still $35.00 for members and $40.00 for non-members.

Come to the Pirates of the Chesapeake Children's Plays and pick up your Gala tickets

FBI Allowed To Test Explosives

Travis Brown

Staff Writer

SNOW HILL -- While there has been a recent dustup over explosive testing on the Landmaid Road firing range, the Worcester County Commissioners decided to once again allow the FBI to use the site for field demonstrations.

“It’s a win for us, it’s a win for them,” said Commissioner Virgil Shockley.For the past 14 years, the Maryland-Delaware Joint Terrorism Task Force has held its annual Basic Anti-Terrorism Training for Law Enforcement (BATTLE) Conference in Ocean City, with an accompanying live field demonstration at the county-owned Newark firing range. More than 300 attendees from local, state and federal law enforcement agencies are expected for the conference, which will take place April 9-13.

The demonstrations will involve explosives of less than two pounds and will last about two hours.Last fall there was an outcry from some Worcester residents when they learned that the commission granted Hardwire LLC, a military-armor manufacturer, permission to use the Newark location for testing their products. Those tests would include the detonation of explosives up to 25 pounds.

Because of the negative response from many members of the community, Hardwire chose to withdraw its request to use the site. Despite the recent controversy, Shockley doesn’t expect there to be any issues with the FBI demonstrations.

“It’s a small test,” he said. “They blow up a car or two.”Many of the common concerns voiced about Hardwire using the site included damage to the environment and noise pollution. Shockley admitted that “there will be sound” and said that he’s gotten calls in years past by confused residents, but doesn’t believe that the short demonstration will be particularly disruptive. As for environmental impact, the FBI, as per usual, will be “responsible for cleanup and notification of area residents of the training,” according to a memo from Fire Marshal Jeff McMahon.

McMahon brought the request to the commission Tuesday. He stressed that the demonstration will be no different this year than in the past, but did acknowledge that his office wanted to be as open as possible about the site given the recent Hardwire controversy.

Shockley noted the valuable training and experience for Worcester employees, including five compensated seats at the BATTLE conference, which would normally cost $1,000.

Source:

"Mardi Gras" To Assist The "Residents" of the SPCA Eastern Shore

Legislative Updates - By Delegate Mike McDermott

Jan. 20th, 2012

Field Notes

Observations and Reflections on Legislative Activities

By Delegate Mike McDermott

Week 2 January 16-20, 2012
Monday-Martin Luther King Jr. Day
It is a tradition in the House that on MLK Day the Black Caucus picks a member to deliver a speech honoring the fallen civil rights leader. This year the message was delivered by Del. Jay Walker of Prince Georges County. He is a former NFL player and used some analogies of football in his presentation referring to King as a “quarterback” in keeping a cool head when all around him was in turmoil. He focused on a struggle that he sees continuing to this day and his desire to see us move forward. His remarks were a good reminder of how far we have come as a country. Of course I like to remind folks that Martin Luther King Jr. was a Republican and it was his party that was the champion of civil rights he struggled to secure. Somehow, that message has been stolen.

Following the speech, we conducted a Second Reader for an Emergency Bill (SB-46)on behalf of Somerset County to address their redistricting (local districts) which was very time sensitive. The bill will be on Third Reader on Tuesday.

Tuesday:
Today I opened the morning session with prayer. This is an honor that members of the House sign up for at the beginning of session and for which I am a thankful participant.
Legislation:SB-46: Approved by a vote of 135-1. This is the redistricting plan submitted by the local officials in Somerset County which addresses the new census numbers. The law will move to the Governor’s desk for signing so the upcoming elections can take place accordingly.
Judiciary Hearings:
We heard from various advocates regarding Eyewitness Testimony being utilized by police and prosecutors. A study was presented which seemed to indicate a wide discrepency as to the methods used by police in Maryland to present photo line ups or live line ups of suspects to victims of crimes. This has been prompted by several cases involving  eyewitness identification which were later turned over by DNA evidence. The testimony was compelling, but there was some questioning as to the best methods for addressing any potential problems. I believe this may be something better handled through training and the Maryland Police Training Commission along with the State’s Attorneys across Maryland. The advocates would like legislation along the lines which were drafted in North Carolina. They may be right, but it will be important to hear from more folks in the law enforcement community should a bill be filed. Anything we can do to keep innocent folks from being sent to prison should be looked into with diligence.

We reviewed three bills during the afternoon session of the committee:HB-17: Seeks to increase the penalties for Elder Abuse from a maximum of 10 years to 20 years. It also would make it tougher for those charged with this crime to receive a pretrial release. Increasing the penalty to 15 years may be possible, but the pretrial release was not received well.
HB-25: Seeks to increase penalties for the Malicious Destruction of Property by graffiti. It would require people convicted to perform community service as a part of their sentence along with any fines imposed by the court. In the past, community service has always been an option the court has used, but this would make it mandatory. I kind of like the idea of these defacers of property to spend many days cleaning up their mess.
HB-34: Seeks to change the law concerning the release of mental patients who have been found Not Criminally Responsible (NCR). Under the current system, people deemed NCR by a trial court judge are placed under confinement in a state institution until they are deemed to no longer be a threat to society. Currently, the law provides for an annual review by an Administrative Judge, but the original trial court can only review the findings on appeal. We heard testimony of several individuals who have been released under this system who went out and committed murder. This bill seeks to provide an additional opportunity for the original trial court to conduct a hearing into the case to determine if someone should be released. Arguments were testy at times. I suppose this is to be expected when one side is referring to a homicidal maniac as a “client” and the other side views them as a “criminal”.  I suggested that perhaps the review could be applied to those who are institutionalized for having committed a homicide. I also requested some additional information from the state to better determine the number of persons that would fall into this category.

Wednesday
Judiciary Hearing on Collaborative Law
The committee heard testimony from several attorneys in support of establishing another method of addressing out of court settlements in Maryland. Collaborative law is similar to mediation. From a layman’s prospective, it seeks to allow more revelation at the negotiating table with the hopes of achieving greater success with the outcome. The idea is to do everything possible to come to an agreement together rather than the typical back and forth offered through traditional negotiations. The downside is the understanding that, should an agreement between the parties not be reached after much effort, the client cannot utilize their same attorney for additional court actions. This was seen as a significant draw back and it seemed apparent that this was going to be a sticking point for many of the members.

Thursday
Morning Session:
We received the Israeli Ambassador to the United States, Michael Oren, who gave a speech to the members. He implored us to stand strong on terrorism and he thanked Maryland for working with Israel for the purposes of economic development. The ambassador referred to a time in early Maryland statehood when Jewish people could not hold public office and how this law was changed by Thomas Kennedy, a member of the House of Delegates during the early 1800’s.

Judiciary Committee
We held bill hearings on the following:HB-4: Seeks to change the qualifications of Baltimore County Judges of the Orphan’s Court and would require them to be members of the Maryland Bar. There are currently no non attorneys serving on the panel in Baltimore County. This will most likely be treated as a Delegation Bill if the Baltimore County Delegation agrees. There was testimony that the presence of attorneys-judges allows the processing of cases to move through the system much quicker than was previously done.
HB-39: Seeks to abolish some aspects of the immunity enjoyed by members of the General Assembly while they are engaged in debate or actions as a member.of the House or Senate. Testimony indicated that it is very difficult to prosecute cases against members who are accused of accepting bribes since their floor discussions and debates cannot be used against them in a court of law. There was much discussion on this issue. There was a fear that in lowering the fence of protection could make it difficult for members to act freely or even protect themselves from false accusations and a zealous prosecutor. While the debate was rigorous, it is clear we were left with more questions than answers and the hypothetical renderings carried the committee down many paths with no clarity.
HB-8: Seeks to modernize the Harassment statute which currently only covers electronic mail and does not cover other digital or electronic devices or methods of communication. As drafted, the bill extends coverage to all methods of electronic transmission. There were many questions as to the definition of “harassment” as it applied to this statute. There were also questions about the various methods that one can digitally eliminate the potential for someone to contact them for purposes of harassment. This statute addresses only the actual contact of an individual and not the broadcasting of information to others. It seems likely that this bill may pass out of committee , but there will probably be some amendments adopted to make it better.

Friday
Eastern Shore Delegation Meeting:
This was a busy meeting with too little time scheduled to address the many questions that we had for the folks who presented.
MD Department of the Environment-Secretary Robert Summers
Sec. Summers attempted to update us on many areas of his department’s involvement across the state and, in particular, the eastern shore. It is fair to say the focus was on the flush tax increases along with the transfers of cash from the Chesapeake Bay Trust Fund to accommodate the governor’s budget shortfalls. The fees are slated to increase by 100% for average users, but could rise significantly more for higher end users of water. Instead of $2.50 per month, residents will pay $5.00 per month. Those who use more water will see that rate potentially double. This will not bode well for industry and businesses on the shore. This base rate is also projected to rise to $7.50 over the next three (3) years. When questioned about the fund raid conducted on the Bay Trust Fund, Sec. Summers stated that the cash had been replaced with bonds. This is a clever way of saying “state debt”. So we traded cash on hand for debt. It was further pointed ouot that the Eastern Shore was receiving an inordinate amount of scrutiny from his department considering we are only responsible for 3% of the Bay polution levels coming from our septic systems.

I pointed out to the Secretary that farmers have met their goals concerning Watershed Implementation Plans while local governments where not even close to meeting their goals. In spite of this, farmers still get to take it on the chin with delayed permitting and confused oversight.

Thee were some questions regarding hydraulic fracking (extraction method of removing deep deposits of Natural Gas). He towed the party line by indicating nothing will be allowed for another three years while the myriad of reports are compiled.  I believe he thinks we can manage the program with our current regulations in place, but that is different than what the governor and the liberals in the General Assembly want to do. (Presently, Pennsylvania is experiencing a boom accounting for 50,000 jobs and lower energy costs for residents while Marylanders wait...and wait...).

Secretary Summers seems to be a good man, but right now he is a good traffic cop at a lousy intersection...not much he can do to make things better.

Susquehanna River Basin Commission
We met with Ex. Director Paul Swartz and his Deputy Thomas Beauduy of the SRBC. This commission is responsible for managing the Susquehanna River Basin to insure adequate flow and supplies of water are being achieved. They are also suppose to be in charge of providing oversight for quality of water issues. Our concerns centered on the Bay and the impact of the river as one of the principle pollutants. Thee concerns were clearly on flood management and water supplies with water quality coming in last on the list of concerns. They seem to have conceded that the lower river dams like the Conawingo accumulate huge sediment piles that are subsequently stored behind the dams until a large storm increases the need to release water. This  causes large slugs of sediment to enter the upper bay and coat everything with incredible silt deposits destroying fisheries. It was very clear that little is being done to address sediment deposits in the river throughout the basin from Pennsylvania to New York. All upgrades needed in the basin are being funded locally with limited progress. There’s no established fund (such as MD’s Flush Tax) to address the system wide failures on the river. I ventured that perhaps Maryland money would be better spent on the river rather than simply trying to play catch-up with all of the pollution delivered to the  bay through the river.

When asked about addressing this problem, the directors looked at each other and clearly stated that they feel they are making some progress, but funding issues  them from moving ahead. There is a lack of urgency seen from those on the river basin to clean up the Bay.So , as we do our best to clean up our pool, the next door neighbor pumps his septic  in through a hose, and we can’t reach the spigot. Yet, we will continue to pump money into this project to make ourselves “feel good” about what we have tried to accomplish. How about we suit Pennsylvania to get their act together? What a colossal waste!

Eastern Shore of Maryland Educational Consortium:
This group consists of all nine (9) School Superintendents from the Eastern Shore. They brought Dr, Memo Diriker (Salisbury University) with them to make the case that spending on public education creates a return of the invested tax dollars on a scale of 1.90 for every $1.00 spent. The formula and figures were complex, but it was difficult to argue the outcome. For my part, the superintendents looked weary. When asked about a possible transfer of Teacher Pension Liabilities to the counties, their spokesman, Dr. Jon Andes of Worcester County, indicated that this was a burden that would no doubt have a significant impact on local budgets. It was pointed out by Senator Pipkin that the system was suffering from the high salaries being paid out on the western shore while the benefits were being borne by the entire system , This amounts to the Eastern Shore paying  more than their share of the bill due each year.

Governor’s Proposed Budget:
I wrote an article earlier in the week titled  “The Castle Demands More” which provided a broad oversight of some of the governor’s proposed tax and fee increases along with his increase in spending. I will keep you posted as more of the budget gets fleshed out in the House.

Bills I introduced on Friday:HB-112: This bill seeks to address a recent Court of Appeals ruling  that now requires a Public Defender to be present at an Initial Appearance before a District Court Commissioner. This has never been the case and it will cause significant budget issues for our office of the Public Defender as well as our Offices of our State’s Attorneys as they will also want to be present as well. I have been working with Wicomico State’s Attorney Matt Macearello and Worcester State’s Attorney Beau Oglesby in addressing these issues.
HB-119: This bill will allow law enforcement officer the option of issuing citations for all misdemeanor crimes ( except for crimes of violence). This would keep more cops on the streets for our more serious crimes instead of tying them up waiting for a District Court Commissioner. I have been working with various groups on this legislation for the past few months.

Pocomoke City Police Department PRESS RELEASE

PRESS RELEASE

Pocomoke Police Department

300 Second Street

Pocomoke, Maryland 21851

410-957-1600

Arrests – January 14, to January 20, 2012


1/14/2012 Shanda V. Robinson, 26, of Pocomoke City was cited for "Knowingly driving a Vehicle with active Insurance Violations" as a result of a traffic stop. Robinson was released on a State Citation pending trial.


1/14/2012 Cherryssa L. Cooper, 41, of Stockton, MD was cited for "Knowingly Driving a Vehicle with Active Insurance Violations" as a result of a traffic stop. Cooper was released on a State Citation pending trial.


1/17/2012 Michele E. Voigt, 44, of Pocomoke City was arrested and charged with several traffic violations after a traffic stop confirmed DMV suspensions. Voigt was released on a several State Citations pending trial.


1/18/2012 Carl Henry Williams, Jr., 20, of Pocomoke City turned himself into the Pocomoke City Police Department for two (2) outstanding warrants; one with charges of Assault 2nd Degree and Escape and the other with charges of CDS Possession of Marijuana that were active through the Maryland State Police. Williams was taken before the Worcester County Commissioner and transferred to the Worcester County Detention Center to be held without Bond pending trial.


1/18/2012 James A. Motkya, 46, of Pocomoke City was arrested and charged with Trespassing on private property. Motkya was released on a Criminal Citation pending trial.


Submitted by:
Kelvin D. Sewell
Chief of Police
PCPD 406

The Delmarva Discovery Center ~ "Pirates of the Chesapeake"

SHORE BEEF and BBQ

NICE CROWD ON THURSDAY !!

FRIDAY SPECIAL

Beef Brisket Sandwich/ w side

Drink ~ $7.50

LET'S MAKE THE FRIDAY CROWD EVEN LARGER !!!

Shore Beef & BBQ are on facebook

leave them a nice comment

A Tradition Dies A Peaceful Death

Edgar Allan Poe

January 19, 1809 - October 7, 1849

A crowd gathered but the  'Poe Toaster' did not visit the grave of Poe last evening to leave the traditional rose and half-filled bottle of cognac.

According to historians the tradition began in the 1940's.  On the evening before  Poe's birthday a visitor dressed in black cape,  dark wide-brimmed hat and carrying a silver tipped cane paid visit to the deceased writer, toasted him, left the traditional gifts  and snuck back into the darkness.

In the 1990's the Poe Toaster left a note stating that he was passing the 'torch on to his sons'.  Since no 'Poe Toaster' has left a rose and cognac since Poe's 200th birthday in 2009 it is thought that perhaps the yearly tradition  ended on that birthday.

The only known photo
of "The Poe Toaster"
was captured
by a motion activated camera that was set
up in the cemetery in 1990
 Source: Life Magazine

Poe House and Museum curator Jeff Jerome said that during the evening there were  a few who came through the Westminster Hall and Burying Ground but he was able to identify them as impersonators because he and the mystery toaster had a secret signal verifying he was the authentic toaster. 

"I think it's obvious that this tribute is over with, and we should let it die a peaceful death. Anything similar to it is just a cheap imitation." - Jeff Jerome, Poe House Curator

Poe's birthday will always be celebrated and the Poe House will still
host readings of the writer's works.  Readings will be held tonight at 8:00 -

Tradition, nevermore.

....Presently my soul grew stronger; hesitating then no longer,
`Sir,' said I, `or Madam, truly your forgiveness I implore;
But the fact is I was napping, and so gently you came rapping,
And so faintly you came tapping, tapping at my chamber door,
That I scarce was sure I heard you' - here I opened wide the door;
Darkness there, and nothing more.... The Raven/ Edgar Allan Poe

TIME MACHINE Preview ... The Weather Outside Was Frightful!

Our normally moderate Eastern Shore winters are not immune from exceptions and this week we'll take a look at some times when Mother Nature wasn't so kind to us.


It's this Sunday on The Pocomoke Public Eye... bring a sweater!



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. Your name won't be used unless you ask that it be. Send to tkforppe@yahoo.com and watch for it on a future TIME MACHINE posting!

REMINDER: Purchase Your Gala Tickets By FRIDAY

At the Mar-Va Theater This Weekend

SHORE BEEF and BBQ

SUPPORT A SMALL BUSINESS

THURSDAY LUNCH SPECIAL

Pit Beef Sandwich w/side

Drink ~ $7.50

OPEN

10:30 AM until  2:30 PM

Look for SHORE BEEF & BBQ on facebook

The Castle Demands More!

by Delegate Mike McDermott

A large pile of books were delivered to my office today containing the Governor’s Budget for the coming year. It makes it crystal clear this governor is out of touch with anyone but the elites of Maryland. The ruling class running this state use to go after millionaires, call them names, raise their taxes, and watch as they moved their residency out of state. Having so successfully destroyed that revenue stream, now they turn to those making only 100,000.00 per year. Sounds like the O’Mallley plan is to expand the “1%” until it becomes the “30%”.

Here are a few low points of the O’Malley budget:

1.  The governor claims $7.5 billion in cuts as he has done every year. The reality is a spending plan that increases 2013 spending just as in years past by a billion dollars.
2. The governor mentions $311 million in new tax revenue yet fails to mention the additional tax and fee increases such as the massive flush tax and 15 cent fuel tax. All these taxes will be tacked on to those already existing in the budget...known and unknown.
3. If you make $100,000 or more, you will see a phasing out of some important Personal Exemptions such as your mortgage deduction and charitable donations.
4. His budget continues the discredited practice of transferring dedicated funds from established trust funds to cover over spending in the rest of the budget.
5. This budget will seek to be funded on the backs of small business with phased out tax deductions and new expanded taxing regulations.
6. The governor has now defined the “rich” in Maryland as being those making $100,000 or more and they will likewise be taxed at  higher rates and experience significant limitations on personal and business deductions..
7. The budget would apply sales tax to all Internet purchases.
8. It increases the tax on smokeless tobacco products.
9. The budget calls for shifting the cost of teacher pensions to the counties who have no room in their budgets for these incredible costs.

The bottom line:

This budget grows government and insures that our private sector will continue to struggle. It expands the definition of “rich” to apply to 30% of our people and insures the middle class will continue to shrink. The disposable income of Marylanders will continue to evaporate, and our local service providers will experience the decline.  Deductions that have helped Maryland families keep more of their income at home will , instead, go to the O’Malley coffers. Counties will be forced into budget decisions that will, no doubt, pass on additional taxes to the people of Maryland.  

While Maryland struggles under the weight of an ever expanding debt, the governor lifts his eyes to Pennsylvania Avenue.

Not so fast guv...not so fast.

LEGO ® Contest

Pocomoke City Library

is having a

LEGO ® Contest

For ages 5 to 12 years old

Saturday, January 21, 2012

11:00 AM

You must bring your own LEGO ®

REGISTRATION IS NECESSARY
Call - 410-957-0878

Edgar Allen Poe Fans: Last Vigil for Mystery Man

By Sarah Brumfield  Associated Press
Baltimore, MD. January 18, 2010 (AP)

Is the "Poe Toaster" nevermore?

For decades, a mysterious man left a three roses and cognac on Edgar Allan Poe's grave to mark the anniversary of the writer's birth. But after the visitor, dubbed the "Poe Toaster," failed to appear two years in a row, Poe fans are planning one last vigil this week before calling an end to the annual Jan. 19 tradition.

The gothic master's tales of the macabre still connect with readers more than 200 years after his birth, including his most famous poem, "The Raven," and short stories including "The Tell-Tale Heart" and "The Pit and the Pendulum." Poe's "The Murders in the Rue Morgue" is considered the first modern detective story.

Poe House and Museum Curator Jeff Jerome, who has kept watch for the "Poe Toaster" since 1978, believes that it's Poe's suffering and his lifelong dream to be a poet that people still relate to. While the midnight tribute has a touch of the theatrical, it's also an honest expression, Jerome said. Wherever Jerome travels in the world, he said when people find out what he does, they want to know whether the "Poe Toaster" is real.

"It's such an innocent, such a touching tribute," Jerome said. "People are so captivated by the warmth of the message."

Poe lived for a time in Baltimore, but died in 1849 at age 40 after collapsing in a tavern during a visit to the city years later. He was buried in Westminster Burial Ground, then moved to a more prominent spot in the front of the cemetery in 1875. The rose and cognac tributes of an anonymous man dressed in black with a white scarf and wide-brimmed hat are thought to date back to at least the 1940s.

The vigil inside the former church is closed to the public, but over the years, a crowd has gathered outside the gates to watch. After the "Poe Toaster" failed to show in 2010, last year's vigil attracted imposters, including a man who arrived in a limo as well as a few women.

The visitor has left notes on occasion. A few indicated that the tradition passed to a new generation after the death of the original "Poe Toaster" in the late 1990s, and some even mentioned politics and sports. Those notes make it even more frustrating for Jerome that there has been no message explaining the absence.

"I would have thought they would leave a note for me saying it was over," he said. "That does annoy me a little bit, but they are under no obligation to."

SOURCE;

Virginia: Bounty Hunter Bloods Gang Member Sentenced

Bounty Hunter Bloods Gang Member Sentenced for Attempted Murder

January 12, 2012

NORFOLK, Va. – Draindell Domonta Bassett Jr., 23, of Portsmouth, Va., was sentenced today in Norfolk federal court to participating in a pattern of racketeering activity (RICO) including conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder and conspiring to distribute controlled substances. 

           

Neil H. MacBride, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, made the announcement after Bassett was sentenced to eight years and four months by United States District Judge Raymond A. Jackson.

           
According to court documents, in the Spring of 2006, several members of the Bounty Hunter Bloods / Nine Tech Gangsters (BHB/NTG) street gang had an ongoing feud with a rival gang member who belonged to the Crips street gang.  On one occasion the rival Crip gang member had shot a couple of the BHB/NTG gang members.  As a result, Bassett and other BHB/NTG gang members searched for the rival Crip gang member in order to kill him.  They spotted the rival Crip gang member in the Burbage Grant area of Suffolk, Virginia.  Bassett and the other gang members chased after the Crip gang member with a knife.  The Crip gang member jumped into an automobile of a stranger and directed her to drive off quickly.  The BHB/NTG gang members caught up to the automobile before it had a chance to drive away and kicked dents into the doors as they made efforts to drag the rival Crip gang member out of the automobile.  The car then sped away and the Crip gang member was able to escape without harm.  Bassett was also involved in the distribution of illegal narcotics.
           
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Portsmouth Police Department and the Virginia State Police.  Assistant United States Attorneys William D. Muhr and V. Kathleen Dougherty are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.

Source;

Crime Watch Meetings

Worcester County Sheriff's Office

Crime Watch Meetings

Feb. 8, 2012 (Wednesday) - Stockton Crime Watch
6:00 PM ~ Stockton  Fire Department
TOPIC:  Identity Theft

Feb. 15, 2012 (Wednesday) - Girdletree Crime Watch
6:00 PM ~ Girdletree Fire Department
TOPIC:  Identity Theft

Please makes plans to attend.

"The Winter Wonderland Gala" ~ Tickets Available......

Worcester County Sheriff's Office ~ Press Release

WORCESTER COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

PRESS RELEASE

January 16, 2012

On January 5, 2012 at approximately 0931 hours a Deputy of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office arrested Larry Randolph Marshall Jr. of Snow Hill, MD on a District Court Warrant for Failure to pay deferred payment of $257.50 for paternity. Marshall was released on personal recognizance.

On January 5, 2012 a Deputy of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office arrested Stephen Richard Karafa of Salisbury, MD on a Circuit Court Civil Body Attachment for Failure to appear for court for paternity. Karafa was released after paying $1000.00 bond.

On January 12, 2012 at approximately 0943 hours a Deputy of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office arrested Rodrique Samson of Salisbury, MD on a Circuit Court Warrant for Failure to appear for court on 1/11/2012 on the charge of Fraud identity to avoid prosecution and multiple traffic charges. Samson was held on $75,000 bond at the Worcester County Jail.

On January 12, 2012 at approximately 1200 hours a Deputy of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office arrested John Sullivan Robinson of Lewisburg, Pennsylvania on a Fugitive Warrant from Pennsylvania for Burglary, Burglary Conspiracy, Theft, and Theft Conspiracy. Robinson was held without bond at the Worcester County Jail.

On January 13, 2012 at approximately 0855 hours a Deputy of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office arrested Darry Nebrowski Ames Jr. of Berlin, MD on a District Court Warrant for Failure to appear for court on 1/10/2012 on charges of second Degree Assault. Ames was released on personal recognizance.

On January 13, 2012 at approximately 1145 hours a Deputy of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office arrested Donshay Hagans of Ocean City, MD on a Circuit Court Warrant for Failure to appear for court on 1/09/2012 on charges of Robbery, Robbery Conspiracy, Theft under $100, and CDS possession Marijuana . Hagans was held on $150,000 bond at the Worcester County Jail.

Worcester County Sheriff's Office

Snow Hill, MD.

General Assembly Update ~ Virginia Senator Ralph S. Northam

January 2012 Newsletter

Ralph S. Northam, Senator

Virginia's 6th District

Greetings from Richmond!  I hope that everyone had a relaxing holiday season and enjoyed spending time with family and friends.  Now that 2012 is upon us, it is time for the  General Assembly to convene in Richmond again.   We have many challenges, but also many opportunities this session, and I am excited to begin working with my colleagues in the Senate.   The General Assembly session will be fast paced, so I will be sending out weekly updates to keep all of you informed about what is happening in Richmond.  This will be a great way to track the progress of bills I am involved with as they move through the legislative process.

As this is an even numbered year, our most important task is crafting a budget to fund state government operations for two years.  Last month, Governor McDonnell released a budget proposal that suggested spending a shade under $85 billion dollars. While I applaud the Governor for some of his initiatives, including proposing an additional $4 million for the Wallops Island spaceport, and additional money for ODU and EVMS, there are a number of glaring omissions, including adequate funding for early childhood (pre-k) education, Medicaid, and natural resources protection.  However, I am confident that we can come to reasonable agreement on most budget issues, and at the end of the day pass a bill that helps Virginia remain a great place to live and work.
 Last month I told you all about legislation that we are working on, addressing issues such as sea level rise, mismanagement of the Atlantic menhaden fishery, increasing physical education in schools to promote a healthier lifestyle among our children, and giving Hampton Roads more influence over regional transportation construction projects. I am working on a number of other bills as well, and I believe that they will greatly benefit the 6th District and Virginia as a whole.  I worked closely with Governor Kaine a few years ago to enact a smoking ban in restaurants, and now I am sponsoring legislation to extend that smoking ban to public school grounds and public buildings, including the General Assembly Building, where, incredibly, we still permit smoking. Additionally, I am advocating for new laws to protect law enforcement and other public servants by making our jails and prisons safer, as well as a measure to restrict the sale of methamphetamine precursors.
 Most importantly though, I am here in Richmond for you. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.  Our office number in Richmond is 804-698-7506, or you can send an email to matt@ralphnortham.com This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and my legislative assistant, Matt Strickler, will happy to assist you in any way that he can.
 Thank you again for allowing me to represent all of you in the Senate, and please continue to look for updates each week.  Stay safe and enjoy the weekend!

Sincerely,

Ralph S. Northam
Senator, Virginia's 6th District

MUST SEE inspiratio​nal video - sequel to SURFice dog

Remeber the inspirational SURFice dog video that went viral & brought people to tears? 

We just made a sequel. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INJWcran2fQ 

Please watch the video, and then share it with anyone and everyone, post to FB, Twitter, Blogs, etc. Through this effort, we hope we can make a difference in at least one life.

Thanks so much!! Judy

Pocomoke City Arrests ~ Press Release ~REPOST

~REPOST~

PRESS RELEASE

Pocomoke Police Department
300 Second Street
Pocomoke, Maryland 21851
410-957-1600

Arrests – January 9, 2012 to January 13, 2012

1-09-2012 Shawn A. Brown 41, of Pocomoke City was cited on a Civil Citation for "Hampering Free Passage" of customers at the Rite Aid. Brown was released on a Municipal Citation pending payment of fine.

1/10/2012 Michelle Payne, 30, of Pocomoke City was arrested and charged with several traffic violations after a traffic stop, which resulted in a unregistered & uninsured motor vehicle. Payne was issued several State Citations and was released pending trial.

1/10/2012 Joseph Thomas Revels, 50, of Pocomoke City was arrested and charged with Disorderly Conduct stemming from a disturbance on Short Street. Revels was issued a Criminal Citation and released pending trial.

1/12/2012 Chico D. Kenney, 39, of Pocomoke City was arrested and charged on a Warrant from the State of Virginia. Kenney was taken before the District Court Commissioner who placed him on No Bail and was transported to the Worcester County Detention Center pending extradition to Virginia. 
1/12/2012 A 15-year-old Pocomoke City juvenile was arrested and charged with Assault 2nd Degree stemming from a fight that occurred on Second Street. The juvenile was released to their parents pending trial.

Submitted by
Kelvin D. Sewell
Chief of Police
PCPD 406

SAVE THE DATE - "Pirates of the Chesapeake"