.....Decision Regarding Dogs Is Not Yet in Effect

Maryland Attorney General Confirms that Tracey v. Solesky Decision Regarding Dogs Is Not Yet in Effect

The Humane Society of the United States urges landlords to cease restrictions on pet owners pending new ruling from Court of Appeals

In a turn of events welcomed by The Humane Society of the United States, the Maryland Office of the Attorney General has issued an opinion stating that the controversial Maryland Court of Appeals decision holding that all pit bull and pit bull type dogs are “inherently dangerous” is not yet in effect. The Court of Appeals decision in Tracey v. Solesky, issued two months ago, holds that not just owners of pit bull-type dogs but anyone with the power to control the presence of these dogs is strictly liable for any damages they cause. The Office of the Attorney General issued its statement in response to a request submitted by Maryland Delegate Heather Mizeur, D-Montgomery

Reports have increased in recent weeks from Maryland residents being forced to choose between their family pets and their homes, as landlords have worried about liability imposed by Tracey. The imposition of strict liability on parties other than the dog owner is unprecedented, as is the Court’s singling out of one particular type of dogs for this stricter standard.

“With this latest news, we urge landlords and property owners across the state to adhere to their existing leases with dog owning tenants,” said Tami Santelli, Maryland senior state director for The HSUS. “With the ruling suspended for the time being, landlords have no legal basis to evict their tenants who may own ‘pit bull type dogs’. This is fantastic news.”

The Attorney General’s opinion hinges on a Maryland Rule of Procedure (8-605) which provides that any mandate from the Court of Appeals will be stayed pending the Court’s decision on a motion for reconsideration. On May 26, State Farm Insurance Company, a party in the Tracey case, filed a motion asking the Court of Appeals to reconsider its decision in Tracey. Because the Court has not yet ruled on that motion for reconsideration, the ruling in Tracey is stayed.

“After the initial court ruling, confusion reigned. Landlords, fearing new liability concerns, began readying eviction notices to their renters with pit bulls,” said Del. Mizeur. “This opinion is welcomed relief for thousands of Maryland families that should never have to choose between their beloved family pet and their home.It gives us time to pass a legislative remedy to permanently fix this problem,” she concluded.

The Maryland General Assembly may consider this issue this summer if Gov. Martin O’Malley calls a special session. The joint legislative task force appointed to study this issue held a work session on June 26 to discuss the details of potential legislation. If there is no special session, a legislative fix will have to wait until January, making this potential reprieve even more critical.

Humane Society press release.

~BINGO Coming SOON ! ~

MAN ARRESTED FOR DUI AFTER NUMEROUS HIT AND RUN ACCIDENTS

On July 9, 2012, at approximately 10:15 p.m., Ocean City Police were in the area of 28^th Street and Coastal Highway when they witnessed a truck driving on its rims.  At the same time, Ocean City Police communications received numerous calls regarding a vehicle matching the description of the truck involved in several traffic collisions from 20^th Street to 28^th Street.

The driver of the vehicle, who was stopped by police on Robin Drive, was identified as Michael Keith Hall, 43, of Greenwood, DE.  Hall, who exited the vehicle at the time of the stop, admitted to police he was under the influence of alcohol.

While speaking with Hall, officers learned that he had an outstanding warrant for his arrest through the state of Delaware. In addition, during the conversation, Hall made several threats, stating that he would “kill” and “snipe” police.  Police searched Hall’s vehicle and located a rifle, a pistol holster with blanks, binoculars, a spotting scope and several knives.

Hall was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, driving while impaired by alcohol and negligent driving.  In addition, over 60 traffic citations were issued to Hall in reference to failing to stop after an accident, failure to return to and remain at the scene of accident, reckless driving and speeding.

At the time of this release, Hall was being held on a $25,000 bond after an initial appearance in front of an Ocean City District Court Commissioner.

Coming Soon.......The Great Pocomoke Fair

Sponsored by Aurora Agronomy

Pocomoke City, Maryland

Seaford, Delaware

Ocean City Police Seeking Public’s Assistance

Ocean City Police Seeking Public’s Assistance in Identifying Assault Suspect

The Ocean City Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in locating the suspect of an attempted sexual assault that occurred at approximately 2:45 a.m., on Tuesday, June 26, 2012. On that date, Ocean City Police Department responded to the area of 4200 Coastal Highway in reference to an attempted assault that had already occurred.

OCPD officers met with a female victim who told police that she was walking home when an unknown male initiated a conversation with her.  A short time after, the male suspect pushed the victim into the bushes and attempted to sexually assault her.  During the attack, the victim was able to fight the attacker causing significant injury the suspect’s ear.

The suspect, who is a white male, is described as being approximately 5’10”, approximately 170 pounds and in his mid-20’s to early-30’s. In addition, it is believed that the suspect would have a visible injury to his ear.

Ocean City Police are asking anyone with information about this incident, or the suspect involved, to please contact Detective N. Simpson Ocean City Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division, at 410-520-5349.  Those providing information may remain anonymous.

Change Maryland Responds to Gov. Martin O'Malley's Political Attack

Change Maryland Responds to Gov. Martin O'Malley's Political Attack

Change Maryland Chairman Larry Hogan appeared on WBAL's "C-4" show this afternoon to discuss the organization's study on tax flight and the Governor's response yesterday.
C-4: The Governor said Change Maryland is a partisan political organization led by a failed Congressional candidate,  Ehrlich appointee and would-be candidate for Governor.   Is that the preferred way for a Governor to handle something like this?

Larry Hogan: It was a childish lashing out.  Once again, Governor O'Malley chose to attack the messenger, rather than address the facts.

We are not going to lower ourselves to his level and resort to name calling. But, it was surprising that he used a state website, using tax payer funds, to make this kind of a petty, personal, partisan attack.

He can call me names if he wants to, but Change Maryland is the largest grassroots organization in the state with 14,000 members and they insulted our members.

These are not our numbers, these are the IRS numbers in our study. CNBC wrote the story, not us. If he wants to lash out, maybe he should lash out at NBC and the IRS.

C-4: This thing is big national news. You have opened up the debate. They are talking about this across the country. They've been able to control the spin, here in Maryland, but they can't control the national media.

Larry Hogan: The Governor has had a bad week on an NBC network. This tax exodus story broke, then CNBC came out with it's annual business climate report, in which Maryland slid again in the rankings.  And they also ran our opinion piece yesterday in CNBC.  So I think the national media focusing on what is really happening in Maryland just frustrated the Governor because it may effect his presidential aspirations.

###

Background:

Larry Hogan Op Ed:
http://www.cnbc.com/id/48117890 

Gov. O'Malley blog:

http://www.governor.maryland.gov/blog/?p=6075

~Cole's Cakes Plans Grand Opening~

Grand Opening Block Party

Pocomoke City Mayor Bruce Morrison proudly announces the grand opening of

"Coles Cakes"

a bakery featuring custom cakes, cupcakes and sculpted creations. Cole’s Cakes is a family run business.

photo from http://www.colescakesinmd.com/

The store is owned by baker, Nicole Ayres, of Virginia, and her tight-knit family is always there to lend a hand. The bakery sits at 205 Clarke Avenue, in beautiful Downtown Pocomoke.

Saturday, July 21

Ayres will host a grand opening and open house, along with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The city is blocking off a portion of Clarke Avenue, between Market and Willow Streets, for the event. Ayres is inviting the public to sample her confections by creating a festive block-party-like atmosphere. There will be free refreshments, music, and plenty of activities for children, including face-painting, cupcake-decorating, sidewalk chalk art, and a cupcake-eating contest.

 Local business owners and public officials will be on hand and a number of exciting door prizes – provided by at least fourteen local downtown businesses – will be distributed.

 Event begins at 12:00pm

and will wrap-up by 2:00pm, with the ribbon-cutting scheduled for 12:15pm.

Cole’s Cakes specializes in custom-ordered cakes for all special occasions, and they offer a variety of cupcakes flavors, cookies and "cake-pops," baked fresh daily. They will work with any budget and they will attempt any flavor. "We love a challenge," says owner, Nicole Ayres.

Cole’s Cakes grand opening marks another milestone in the city’s efforts to attract new businesses to Pocomoke’s downtown as it repositions itself as a tourist destination. Members of the community who are interested in learning more about Cole’s Cakes, or other downtown businesses, are encouraged to stop by on Saturday.

Cole's Cakes has already been awarded "Honorable Mention"/3rd Best Bakery on Delmarva on DelmarvaLife's Best of 2012 list!
For more information visit:

Those interested in the city’s downtown efforts in general, should contact Angela Manos, at 410-603-1178, or

 Also, visit: www.downtownpocomoke.com

downtownpocomoke@gmail.com.www.colescakesinmd.com

From The Worcester County Sheriff's Office

Worcester County Sheriff's Office

Arrest Report

 Thursday, July 5th,2012, the Worcester County Sheriff's office responded to a Bishopville address for a reported 911 hang-up. Upon arrival, deputies met with a victim who had reported that a suspect, later identified as William Randall Lewis, white male, age 54 of Berlin, had assaulted her and attempted to steal her purse which contained money. Mr. Lewis had left the scene prior to the deputies arrival. Mr. Lewis was located a short time later in Berlin, Maryland and arrested by deputies from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office. Mr. Lewis was charged with Robbery, and second degree assault. He was subsequently held on a $10,000.00 bond. He awaits trial on those charges.


Friday, 07-06-12, deputies from the Worcester County Sheriff's Office responded to an address in Berlin, Maryland for a civil complaint investigation. Upon arrival, deputies observed Joseph Daryl Webster, white male, age 50, of Ocean City, enter the property. Deputies were aware of a protective order in place that prohibited Mr. Webster from being on the property. Mr. Webster was then arrested by deputies from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office for violation of a protective order. Webster was released on his own recognizance by a judicial officer until a trial date.

Lt. Edward C. Schreier
Worcester County Sheriff's Office

Wednesday At the Delmarva Discovery Center

Click to enlarge

Save the Date: Snow Hill's 14th Annual Blessing of the Combines

This IS a truly wonderful event!

 It is not too early to save the date of Saturday August 4, 2012 for Snow Hill’s Fourteenth Annual Blessing of the Combines celebration.

Becky Payne, event chairperson, is enthusiastic about this popular summer event to honor the agricultural community while bringing between 500 to 1000 festival goers into Downtown Snow Hill.

Festivities begin on Green Street at 11:00 with live music and street activities. The Parade of Combines sets off down RT 12 to Green Street at 11:15. A "throttle thrust" will signal Steve Hales, master of ceremonies, to begin the program with the presentation of colors by the award-winning Snow Hill High School Junior Marine Corps ROTC.

 After recognitions and keynote speaker Mike McDermott, the afternoon’s lineup of selections featuring area musicians will begin.

Children can visit a variety of animals at the Petting Barnyard; then hop aboard a wagon for the hay ride. There will be a Children’s Barnyard of activities, and the popular Children’s Tractor Pull as well as a Scales and Tales presentation from the Pocomoke River State Park.

Booth space for craft vendors is available - email Diana Nolte at anglercpt@aol.com for a contract. Food vendors are lined up.

The 2012 Combines T-Shirts, designed by Beth McGrath Cooper, will be available.

For details contact Becky Payne at 443-783-1715, or email kfisher44@verizon.net .

Source:

photos from the 2011/ 13th Annual Blessing of the Combines.jmmb photos

SHORE BEEF & BBQ ~ OPEN

Now that the cooler weather is back SHORE BEEF & BBQ is now

OPEN

WEDNESDAY  LUNCH  SPECIAL

LUNCH

NEW SANDWICH DAY

Smoked  Pit Beef  Cheesesteak w/ fried onions & peppers

French fries

Drink

$9.95

"Community Giving Garden"

I checked on the "Community Giving Garden" last week and it seems to be making progress.  I'm sure the recent rainfall has helped it along tremendously.

If you would like to volunteer or assist in any way please contact:
 Neelam Strom @ 443-437-7203;
or Norma Howard @ 410-726-0066
The "Community Giving Garden" is located on the corner of Willow Street and Clarke Avenue.

Downtown Pocomoke City Restaurant ~ Riverside Grill

Great news sure travels fast!

Most of you know by now that the  new Riverside Grill Restaurant opened quietly on Monday.
　

Keep in mind that this new restaurant has a computerized system for employess to work with.  If you have any knowledge at all about computers you know how tempermental they can be. In an attempt to check and work out the glitches that often occur in anything that is new, and to get a little more practice time, the Reeves  decided on a "quiet opening".   In the long run the customer benefits.

I can't say I blame them for deciding on the "quiet opening".   (Even though it wasn't quiet for long)  Makes good business sense to me. After all, Riverside Grill is new to all of us....even to those who work there. Nothing can be more taxing on the nerves than the first day on the job. And nothing can be more devastating than a bad food revue.

And remember: we all want to see Corey succeed  at operating a brand new beautiful restaurant. And it is very important to Corey, her family and the employees at the Riverside Grill that your first dining experience with them is a pleasant one.

The Riverside Grill is  now open for your business. 

Enjoy your meal and enjoy the view.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Riverside-Grill-Pocomoke/147418768729116

The NEW Pocomoke City Restaurant

RIVERSIDE GRILL RESTAURANT

DOWNTOWN POCOMOKE CITY, MARYLAND

Mark Reeves announced to the crowd present at the ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday "there's not a bad seat in the house."  Well, I knew this was true.  After months of walking through the building-before it even was a building- countless times and standing in just about every corner I already knew that he was telling the truth.  Every single person present on Friday marveled at the beauty of the finished product and I couldn't help but think about all those responsible for this in the restaurants early years of development (when it was just a dream) that are no longer with us to share the excitement.

 The Riverside Grill will be managed by Corey Reeves, the 23 year old daughter of Mark and Leslie. What a responsibility for her and how lucky the Reeves are to have a daughter that can handle such a responsibility at a young age.  And what a lucky young lady to have a father to have such confidence in  a daughter. 

This restaurant will be operating by a computer system.  I'm not sure how it all works but it sounds interesting.  The wonderful thing about the system is that it has never been used in Pocomoke and once again Pocomoke is on the "cutting edge". 

Just think of the view the bridge tender has! Hmm......

  The extended area of the patio is new.  In most of my older photos it shows that the patio area stopped a few feet shorter than shown here, but was still very nice.  Mark however, had a different idea and felt the need to enhance the area with the thought of  possible patrons approaching from the south along  Riverside Drive.  The monies for the brickwork, etc.  came from the Reeves themselves.  Personally, this IS the "icing on the cake"! 

So, chew on some celery sticks while you wait for the restaurant to open.  You have to appreciate the fact that the new proprietors want to be able to give all of us a pleasant dining experience for the first time.  They are as anxious as we all are. 

The best of luck to Corey and everyone at the

 Riverside Grill Restaurant.

The Riverside Grill is on facebook now also.  Be sure to take a look.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Riverside-Grill-Pocomoke/147418768729116

Monday At the Delmarva Discovery Center

click to enlarge

Pocomoke's "Riverside Grill Restaurant"

Downtown Pocomoke City, Maryland

Friday   July 6, 2012

You just can't imagine the excitment that was all around Friday morning.  The people of Pocomoke City have waited for a beautiful downtown restaurant for so many years.  And now there is one sitting right on the banks of the beautiful Pocomoke River.

Easy access by boat with FREE docking.  It's within walking distance after shopping downtown or attending the movies.  And yes, it's very easy to find if you are traveling south on US Route 13 highway.....just turn right at the first intersection light, follow the road to the left.  You can see this beauty of a restaurant before you travel over the downtown draw bridge! 

The proprietors: Mark, Leslie, the two younger brothers (I will get their names) and Corey Reeves. Corey will manage the Riverside Grill Restaurant and I can tell you that this entire family and the entire working staff at the restaurant will fit in quite nicely with the people of Pocomoke and those visiting. 

(I took a peek through the kitchen door window.  Nice kitchen.  I remember when there was nothing there to even look at!)

There have been many ribbon cutting ceremonies and it was Mayor Bruce Morrison who said he'll never get tired of them!  I don't think anyone will.

MD. Delegate Mike McDermott(center) Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin D. Sewell(right) speak with the newest Pocomoke City Police Officer. 

This is just one view of how beautiful it is from the inside looking out.  There are more photos soon.

What an exciting time in downtown  Pocomoke recently.  I've been downtown alot in the past few months and I can see the wonderful changes that have taken place in just a short time.  There are still stores downtown that I haven't had a chane to visit- but I will.  The Mayor was absolutely correct when he mentioned Pocomoke Pride.  Not one person disagreed...why would they?

So many of you have been asking when the restaurant will open.  The only answer I have as of right now is "SOON".  So just have patience.  If it were my restaurant and I was about to serve so many Pocomoke citizens I'd want things to be right too!

I know you will enjoy the restaruant and those that work there.  I know you will love the view.

Note to Kathy:  Get ready.... 

Delmarva Discovery Center ~ OPEN Today

Discover something new at the Delmarva Discovery Center every day from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

The Delmarva Discovery Center offers daily programs that are free with paid admission for all guests from Memorial Day to Labor day.

Sunday Program
Sunday 2:00 - 2:30 PM Fish Food- Watch the fish in our 6,000 gallon aquarium eat lunch while learning about the adaptations that allow these species to gobble, gulp and thrive in the Pocomoke River. A family presentation perfect of fish-lovers of all ages.

Photo/Delmarva Discovery Center

Delmarva Discovery Center is on Facebook or www.delmarvadiscoverycenter.org.

"Mail Call!" Footnote

(Here's a resend in larger print of the Footnote in today's Time Machine posting.) -tk



In his book on the history of Pocomoke City (formerly New Town) through 1882, the Rev. James Murray wrote:



The post office, in the early history of New Town, was a very small affair, so small, indeed, that I have the impression that there was no pay for transmission of the mail from Snow Hill to New Town, as that was, then, the mail route. I am indorsed in this declaration by the fact that it was transmitted by individual citizens when they would go to Snow Hill, on business, on public days. As early as 1820, Michael Murray, my father, was post- master for New Town. When other means of getting: the mail would fail, my father would send my two oldest brothers, each one on horseback, to Snow Hill for the mail. After these two brothers went to Baltimore to learn a trade, this duty at times fell upon my two next older brothers and myself. The mail was due at New Town once a week, and sometimes it would lay in the office at Snow Hill two weeks for the want of a carrier. In such emergencies, my father would say to us: "Boys, you must take the canoe," for then we had no horse, ''and go to Snow Hill for the mail." At that period I do not think I was more than eight years of age.

TIME MACHINE ... Mail Call!

(Reader-friendly viewing of newspaper archives material)

　

July, 1839

Marylanders who wished to be considered to deliver U.S. mail in the state, effective January 1st, 1840, through June 30th, 1844, were advised though newspaper publication of the available routes, some of which included mail stops along the way. Some of the Eastern Shore routes were given as follows:

Leave Cambridge every Wednesday and Saturday at 6 a.m., arrive at Snow Hill next day by 4 p.m. Leave Snow Hill every Monday and Thursday at 6 a.m., arrive in Cambridge next day by 4 p.m.

Leave Princess Anne every Wednesday at 6 a.m., arrive at Rehoboth (Rehobeth) same day by 11 a.m. Leave Rehoboth (Rehobeth) every Wednesday at 1p.m., arrive in Princess Anne same day by 6 p.m.

Leave Salisbury every Thursday at 8 a.m., arrive in Berlin same day by 6 p.m. Leave Berlin every Friday at 6 a.m., arrive in Salisbury same day by 4 p.m.

Footnote:

In his book on the history of Pocomoke City (formerly New Town) through 1882, the Rev. James Murray wrote:　

The post office, in the early history of New Town, was a very small affair, so small, indeed, that I have the impression that there was no pay for transmission of the mail from Snow Hill to New Town, as that was, then, the mail route. I am indorsed in this declaration by the fact that it was transmitted by individual citizens when they would go to Snow Hill, on business, on public days. As early as 1820, Michael Murray, my father, was post- master for New Town. When other means of getting: the mail would fail, my father would send my two oldest brothers, each one on horseback, to Snow Hill for the mail. After these two brothers went to Baltimore to learn a trade, this duty at times fell upon my two next older brothers and myself. The mail was due at New Town once a week, and sometimes it would lay in the office at Snow Hill two weeks for the want of a carrier. In such emergencies, my father would say to us: "Boys, you must take the canoe," for then we had no horse, ''and go to Snow Hill for the mail." At that period I do not think I was more than eight years of age.

February, 1895

(The Evening Democrat- Warren, Pa.)

Mrs M.H. Evans, of Wattsville, Va., has carried the mail between Wattsville and Temperanceville, eighteen miles, for the last six years.

　

June, 1905

Changes in some Maryland postmaster salaries were to be implemented based on post office business during the past fiscal year. The annual salary would go from $1,600 to $1,700 in Pocomoke; $1,500 to $1,600 in Snow Hill, and from $1,700 to $1,800 in Crisfield.

　

November, 1920

(LeMars Semi-Weekly Sentenel- LeMars, Iowa)

94-Year-Old Mail Carrier Drives Auto Over Route

Onancock, Va.- Elija Miles of Modest Town has just celebrated his 94th birthday. He has been carrying the mail from Bloxom to Modest Town for 28 years, making two trips a day. When he first began he walked, carrying the mail on his back. Now Mr. Miles usually drives an automobile. Mr. Miles reads his paper regularly and does not wear glasses.

(In other news)

　

January, 1963

Richard L. Bunting, 33 of Pocomoke, was appointed vice president of William B. Tilghman Company and manager of the Pocomoke City branch. He taught Agriculture at the high school in Atlantic, Va. prior to joining The Tilghman Company in 1955. The company was celebrating its 100th anniversary, founded in 1863 in Salisbury as Humphreys And Tilghman.

　

June, 1976

Pocomoke City mayor J. Dawson Clarke was named new president of the Lower Eastern Shore Mayors Association. Mayor Clarke was a charter member of the Association which was comprised of mayors representing Salisbury, Ocean City, Berlin, Snow Hill, Princess Anne, Crisfield, Delmar (both Maryland and Delaware), Laurel, Seaford, Lewes, Federalsburg, and Chincoteague in addition to Pocomoke City.　

　

　

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!

Somerset Co. Man Takes His Life After Police Pursuit

From the Maryland State Police

(PRINCESS ANNE, MD) – A driver who refused to stop for police took his life and a Maryland state trooper was injured after his car was rammed by that driver during a pursuit last night in Somerset County.

The driver is identified as Alvin D. Melvin, 45, of the 12000-block of Somerset Avenue, Princess Anne, Md. He was pronounced dead at the scene. His body has been transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore for an autopsy.

The injured trooper is identified as Trooper First Class D. Tebbins, a K-9 trooper assigned to the Princess Anne Barrack. TFC Tebbins was transported to the Peninsula Regional Medical Center where he was treated and later released. His dog was taken to an emergency veterinarian center as a precaution, where he was treated and released.

At about 8:30 p.m. yesterday, a Maryland state trooper assigned to the Princess Anne Barrack was patrolling in an unmarked patrol car on West Post Office Road near Beechwood Street in Princess Anne, when he saw a 1998 Ford car in which the passenger was not wearing a seat belt. The trooper activated his emergency equipment and attempted to stop the car but the driver, later identified as Melvin, refused to stop and accelerated away.

A pursuit began which traveled through Princess Anne. TFC Tebbins was in the area and joined the pursuit, as did two patrol cars from the Princess Anne Police Department. The pursuit continued onto northbound Rt. 13 and TFC Tebbins, who was driving a marked patrol car, assumed the lead car position among the pursuing police officers.

TFC Tebbins was traveling in the fast lane of Rt. 13 and Melvin was in the slow lane when the trooper attempted to pull alongside Melvin’s car. The investigation indicates Melvin then swerved his car into the patrol car, causing TFC Tebbins to lose control. The patrol car traveled into the median, struck several trees, overturned and immediately caught fire. A Princess Anne police officer immediately stopped and assisted TFC Tebbins and his dog out of the burning patrol car.

After ramming the police car, Melvin apparently lost control of his car and crashed into a ditch on the slow shoulder of Rt. 13, south of Loretto Road. A trooper and Princess Anne officers stopped behind the car and implemented felony stop procedures, which include staying at their cars while giving verbal commands to the occupants of the suspect vehicle.

The passenger immediately got out of the car and complied with police directions. The driver, Melvin, failed to exit the car and did not comply with directions from police. While they continued to give commands to the driver, police heard what sounded like a gunshot from Melvin’s vehicle. Police could then see Melvin no longer appeared to be moving.

Police approached the car and saw Melvin had sustained what appeared to be a gunshot wound to the head. A .40 caliber pistol was in his lap. Emergency care was provided and EMS units were summoned. Melvin was pronounced dead at the scene.

The car Melvin was driving is registered to his wife. A search of the vehicle will be conducted after a search warrant is obtained. The gun he had is not reported stolen and investigators are researching its origin.

The passenger in Melvin’s car is a 16-year-old male from the county. He was not charged and was released to the custody of his parents.

A motive for Melvin’s actions is not known at this time. The investigation by the State Police Princess Anne Barrack Criminal Investigation Section is continuing. A member of the Somerset County State’s Attorney’s Office responded to the scene and has been kept updated on the investigation.

BE SAFE IN THIS HEAT

Worcester County Public Libraries are COOLING STATIONS today.

If you have no working A/C you can go to the Pocomoke branch on Market Street.

PLEASE remember to check on your neighbors and animals!

Delaware Man Charged In Worcester County Murder

From the Maryland State Police

(Whaleyville, MD) – Maryland State Police homicide investigators have charged a Delaware man in connection with the murder of Nicole Bennett who was found dead in Worcester County last month.

The accused is identified as Matthew Burton, 28, of the 30,000 block of Power Plant Road in Dagsboro, Delaware. Burton is charged with first and second degree murder. He is being held at the Sussex Correctional Institution in Georgetown, Delaware pending an extradition hearing.

The victim, Nicole Bennett, 35, of the 33,000 block of Windswept Drive in Millsboro, Delaware, was found deceased on the morning of June 15, 2012, in an embankment off of Swamp Road in Worcester County. An autopsy conducted at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore determined Bennett was murdered and had been asphyxiated. Autopsy evidence also indicated she was already dead when her body was left in the embankment off of the dirt road.

Shortly before 9:00 a.m. on June 15, 2012, Worcester Central received a 9-1-1 call reporting the body of the deceased victim in an embankment off of Swamp Road, a dirt road east of Nelson Road. The caller told police he was in the area walking when he noticed the woman’s body.

During the course of the initial investigation, police learned Bennett was the subject of a missing person’s case being investigated by the Delaware State Police. One hour before she was found, Bennett’s husband had called 9-1-1 reporting her missing. She had not returned home from a church in Gumboro, Delaware, where she was reportedly working late.

Delaware State Police responded to the church and found Bennett’s vehicle parked on the lot. It was locked with her personal belongings inside. Police learned Bennett had been alone inside the church with a custodian, identified as Burton. Burton was subsequently located and interviewed by investigators.

State Police homicide investigators executed search warrants and processed the homes and vehicles of both Bennett and Burton. Several interviews were conducted with numerous family members, friends, co-workers and acquaintances. Investigators sought video surveillance footage from area businesses and from the church which is located approximately six miles from where Bennett was found. Anyone with information was asked to call the Worcester County Lower Shore Crime Solvers.

DNA evidence gathered by crime scene technicians from the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division connected Burton to the crime. After consultation with the Worcester County State’s Attorney, an arrest warrant was obtained.

At approximately 7:15 p.m. this evening, the U.S. Marshal’s Task Force, a warrant apprehension team, located Burton driving on Route 1 near the town of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Burton was apprehended on a subsequent traffic stop and taken into police custody.

Investigators have not yet confirmed the scene of the initial crime. A motive for the murder remains unclear at this time.

Investigators with the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation, deputies from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, Delaware State Police and the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit responded to the scene. Crime scene technicians from the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division and crime scene technicians from the Delaware State Police responded to gather and analyze evidence. The Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office, the Wicomico County Bureau of Investigation, and the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation also assisted with the investigation.

The investigation is continuing.

TIME MACHINE Preview ... Mail Call!

Local routes for citizens interested in delivering the mail in the early 1840's are announced. What's the 1905 salary for Pocomoke City's postmaster?

These and more items about local mail service from days gone by...this Sunday on The Pocomoke Public Eye!

Weather wish: Cool!!

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!

~Visit the Delmarva Discover Center This Weekend~

Discover something new at the Delmarva Discovery Center every day from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

The Delmarva Discovery Center offers daily programs that are free with paid admission for all guests from Memorial Day to Labor day.  Here are the programs for this weekend.

Saturday 2:00 -2:30 PM Nature Walk - join us for a walk along the Pocomoke River as we spot wildlife and discuss the incredible natural environment of the Delmarva Peninsula.  And believe it or not you'll find that it's quite comfortable walking along the Pocomoke River even with the warm temperatures.  Great for all ages. 

Sunday 2:00 - 2:30 PM Fish Food- Watch the fish in our 6,000 gallon aquarium eat lunch while learning about the adaptations that allow these species to gobble, gulp and thrive in the Pocomoke River. A family presentation perfect of fish-lovers of all ages.

Delmarva Discovery Center is on Facebook or www.delmarvadiscoverycenter.org.

Worcester County Burn Ban

SNOW HILL, Md.- Effective immediately, outdoor burning has been banned for an indefinite period of time in Worcester County.

All current burn permits have been rescinded until further notice.

The ban applies to all outdoor ignition sources, including ground-based sparkling devices, with the following exceptions: proper use of gas and charcoal grills, campfires at the county's commercial, state and federal campgrounds; permitted official Ocean City bonfires; and public fireworks displays with a state permit.

"Due to the county's recent dry conditions and the forecast for a continued extreme heat advisory, the Burn Ban is effective immediately," Worcester County Fire Marshal McMahon said.

"This ban should reduce the number of out-of-control outside fires, which cause safety concerns for area residents, visitors and especially responding personnel."

The ban will remain in effect until the dry conditions dissipate. For more information, contact Fire Marshal McMahon at (410) 632-5666.

Worcester County joins Dorchester, Somerset and Wicomico counties, which also have burn bans in effect.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony ~ Riverside Grill Restaurant

RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY

RIVERSIDE GRILL RESTAURANT

2 RIVERSIDE DRIVE

POCOMOKE CITY, MD.  21851

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held this morning at 11:00 A.M. at the new Riverside Grill Restaurant

The restaurant is not open for business yet.....but I can tell you that you will be excited when you get the chance to venture inside.  Honestly, there is NO seat in there that does not have a view of the beautiful Pocomoke River.  Too hot outside for you?  Trust me.  Not on the deck.

Another part of the "Pocomoke Pride" of which Mayor Bruce Morrison spoke about,  has become a long awaited reality for the city.

More photos and info to follow..........

Virginia: New Distribution Schedule For Food Stamps

 The Department of Social Services issues monthly Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits at the first of every month.

But  most times retailers have difficulty keeping their shelves stocked at the beginning of the month under the current system.

So the Department of Social Services now plans to distribute food stamps on the 1st, 4th, 7th and 9th day of the month.

The day  of issue will be determined by the last digit of a recipient’s case number.

The new schedule is designed to help stores who get slammed with business on the first of every month.

 In Virginia there are about 440,00 households who depend on the nutrition assistance program.

No Limits On Handgun Sales In Virginia

Want to load up on handguns?
Now’s your chance, nothing is stopping you.

“We have a lot of customers that are just doing it out of principle,” said Donald Hood with Battlefield Guns and Ammo. “We have some customers that come in buying a gun that they planned on buying and something catches their eye before they leave.”

The law limiting handgun sales to one-a-month has been repealed, and this month went into effect. However many you can afford you can buy.

“We have a lot of high-end customers that are great upstanding citizens that just want to exercise their right and are avid shooters,” Hood said. “They shouldn’t be limited.”

At Battlefield Guns and Ammo that means more business in an already lucrative and growing industry.
For Alice Mountjoy with the Virginia Center for Public Safety says the law change is unneeded.

“I just don’t think it’s in the best interest of public safety to allow bulk gun sales to anybody,” Mountjoy said.

Mountjoy was there twenty years ago when the limit was put in place.Its goal was to keep the commonwealth the rest of the east coast safer.

“Virginia was known as the gun running mecca,” Mountjoy said. “People would come in, load up their vehicle and leave town.”

No matter how many handguns, there’s still a lot of paper work and background checks are still being done.

Mountjoy and critics of the new law are left with one question-who really needs to buy that many handguns all once?

“If you have a legitimate reason that’s good enough,” Mountjoy said.

Even when the limit was in place there were exemptions or ways around the rule. People could petition state police so they could buy in bulk for reasons such as a member of the military who’s about to go on deployment, and start up security firms.

This has critics wondering why a change in policy was needed.

The law change is specifically for handguns. Rifles and shotguns were never limited under state law.
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