Sunday, April 27, 2014

TIME MACHINE... 1922, 1953, 1995, 1827, 1927, 1878


(Reader-friendly viewing of newspaper archives material)

April, 1922
Richmond Times-Dispatch (Richmond, Va.)

FROST BLACKENS EASTERN SHORE'S BIG POTATO FIELDS

Great Territory of Growing Vines Nipped by Cold Wave.
(By Associated Press)

CAPE CHARLES, VA., April 24,.- A Killing frost, with ice, covered the entire peninsula from Delaware through Maryland, and down to the lower end of the Eastern Shore of Virginia, in Accomac and Northampton Counties Saturday and Sunday nights, with resultant damages to crops in all sections.

Through the Eastern Shore of Virginia in Northampton and Accomac Counties, potato fields are today black with frost-killed potatoes. Farmers of this section are hard hit, especially after last year's short crop.

Before Saturday night the potato fields in this section were pictures of well-advanced vines. Today they look as if a fire had swept over them.

November, 1953
Evening Capital (Annapolis)

Pocomoke City Fire Causes $100,000 Worth Of Damage

POCOMOKE CITY, Md. (AP) —Fire caused an estimated $100,000 damage, including the loss of a warehouse and fertilizer factory at the William B. Tilghman Co. here Saturday.

John L. Morris of Salisbury, secretary-treasurer of the firm, said 2,000 tons of fertilizer, processed and raw, was included in the loss.

The blaze broke out shortly after the plant closed down for the weekend.

Firemen from six towns helped prevent the flames from spreading to a garage and company offices about 125 feet from the main buildings.

Origin of the blaze was not determined immediately. The company has home offices in Salisbury.

November, 1995
Valley Morning Star (Harlingen, Texas)

(Excerpts)

Satellite-aided farming spreads

Information helps apply chemicals more efficiently during season

By AXEL KOLUNG Knight-Ridder Newspapers

PRINCESS ANNE, Md. - When William Anderson harvests his soybean crop, he receives more from heaven than sunshine, rain and God's blessings.

He also picks up signals from 24 satellites orbiting at 10,900 miles from the Earth. They help him determine how much fertilizer and pesticides will be needed during the next growing season in each section of his fields.

Anderson, 57, of Maryland's Eastern Shore is one of a small but expanding number of farmers nationwide who are using satellites maintained by the Defense Department to decide how to apply chemicals more efficiently.

A start-up package with the display monitor, sensor and antenna costs between $5,000 and $7,000 to purchase, he said. For an initial soil sampling, businesses charge another $5,000 to $7,000 for each 1,000 acres. The farmers are not charged any fees for using the system. Farmers who use the equipment use about 20 percent less fertilizers and pesticides, recovering their investment over time, Olson (Ron Olson, president of Top-Soil Testing Service) said.

Anderson, who grows soybeans and corn on about 2,000 acres, said he purchased the equipment when others were still laughing about it.

"The commercial pesticide license requires a lot of record keeping, to the point where it is beyond the realm of a farmer."

"I would need one person just to keep up the records, like what pesticides I sprayed where and what direction the wind came from and so on. The GPS system records all that automatically," he said.
 
August, 1827
(Gettysburg Republican Compiler- Gettysburg, Pa.)

Singular organic relic.- Capt. Belle of the schooner Three Sisters, of Folly landing, Accomac county, Virginia, has brought from the neighborhood a very curious skull with tusks and teeth resembling ivory- It is in a complete state of petrification, and weighs fourteen pounds. It was found by Mr. Cropper on the sea shore, and it is a matter of uncertainty whether it was washed up by the surf, or disinterred by the waves. The latter is probably the fact. The specimen has been referred to the order of cetascous animals which are herbivorous, or feed upon vegetables, such as the Manati, the Dugong, and the Rytine of zoologists (newspaper's spelling).  But Dr. Mitchell, who received the specimen from the finder, through Mr. H.P. Haven, is inclined to consider it as having belonged to some antediluvian creature, who no longer exists in a living state, but, like many others, become extinct in the course of ages. By him, Mr. Cropper has been exhorted to make search for other parts of the skeleton.

January, 1927 (Time Machine archive)

The Eastern Shore Gas And Electric Company announced that Vienna had been selected as the site for construction of a modern steam turbine generating station. Salisbury, Cambridge, Pocomoke City, and Seaford had also been considered.

March, 1878
(The Denton Journal- Denton, Md.)

The Snow Hill (Md.) Messenger says a number of gentlemen in that town have formed an anti-swearing association. The fine for each oath used by a member is five cents, and the money is to be divided equally once a year. A praiseworthy association, truly.

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!


 

 

Saturday, April 26, 2014

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview

1922.. Late April frost brings damage to lower Eastern Shore; 1953.. Major blaze strikes Pocomoke City company; 1995.. Satellites aid Somerset County farmer; 1827.. Ancient organic relic found on Accomac County shore; 1927.. Site chosen for new Eastern Shore electric generating station; 1878.. What's the new "praiseworthy" association formed in Snow Hill?
                                      

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!

TODAY ~ National Take Back Prescription Drug Day ~ Pocomoke City

 
April 26th is National Take Back Prescription Drug Day!
 
The location for the event this year in Pocomoke City will be Walmart Supercenter
 
The hours are 10 am - 2pm
 
 
Most abused prescription drugs come from family or friends.
 You can help by properly disposing of your unused medications!
 
 
 Unused or expired prescription medications are a public safety issue, leading to accidental poisoning, overdose, and abuse.
 
 
 Pharmaceutical drugs can be just as dangerous as street drugs when taken without a prescription or a doctor’s supervision.
The majority of teenagers abusing prescription drugs get them from family and friends – and the home medicine cabinet.
 
 
 Unused prescription drugs thrown in the trash can be retrieved and abused or illegally sold. Unused drugs that are flushed contaminate the water supply.
 
 
 Proper disposal of unused drugs saves lives and protects the environment. Take back programs are the best way to dispose of unused and expired medications.
 
 
 Help prevent prescription drug abuse!
 
 
Check with local  police department  in your area for a drop-off location nearest you.

Friday, April 25, 2014

Coast Guard Coordinates Rescue of 3 People and Dog

Coast Guard Photo
Coast Guard Coordinates Rescue of 3 People and Dog 900 Miles Northeast of Bermuda

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The Coast Guard coordinated the rescue of three people and a dog Thursday who were rescued by good Samaritans after a 49-foot sailboat, the Blue Pearl, sank in the Atlantic Ocean.

Rescued was 29-year-old Henri Worthalter of Belgium, 55-year-old Leonard Rorke of the United Kingdom, 50-year-old Lisa Rorke of the United Kingdom and Dexter, a Jack Russell Terrier.

International Rescue Center personnel contacted Coast Guard 5th District Command Center
watchstanders at approximately 6:30 p.m. Thursday reporting they received a message from a satellite messenger device stating people were in a life raft and in need of assistance approximately 900 miles northeast of Bermuda.

District command center watchstanders conducted a search for the closest automated mutual-assistance vessel rescue (AMVER) ships to the distress and conducted an enhanced group call, a broadcast service using the inmarsat communication system, asking for rescue assistance from ships in the area.

The crew aboard the Cape Mathilde, a 958-foot bulk carrier and AMVER ship, responded to the Coast Guard's request for assistance and diverted course from approximately 80 miles from the reported location of distress. 

The crew aboard the Ouro Do Brasil, a 564-foot cargo ship, responded to the Coast Guard's EGC and diverted course with an estimated time of arrival to the distress of nine hours.

The crew aboard the Tilda Kosan, a 351-foot tanker, responded to the Coast Guard's EGC at approximately 10:30 p.m., reporting they were in the vicinity of the distress and willing to assist.

Coast Guard watchstanders relayed the updated position of the life raft and the Tilda Kosan crew diverted course. 

The crew aboard the Tilda Kosan located the life raft with three people and a dog aboard at approximately 12:30 a.m. Friday, transferred the people from the life raft onto the ship, and the survivors plan to remain aboard the ship, which is scheduled to pull into Bermuda.

"The presence and proper activation of the emergency position indicating radio beacon was instrumental in saving the crewmembers of the Blue Pearl," said Petty Officer 1st Class James Hines, a search and rescue controller at the 5th District Command Center. "This stresses the importance of a properly registered EPIRB, which provided us with an emergency point of contact and information on the boat."

There are no reports of injuries.

U.S. Coast Guard

4th Friday Art Stroll ~ Downtown Pocomoke City


TODAY is free admission day at the Delmarva Discovery Center   as part of the Eastern Shore Museum Network's Free Admission Day. Discover Delmarva!

Also....tonight is 4th Friday Art Stroll in Downtown Pocomoke City. 


We will be open from 5-8 pm. 
 Great food, vendors and live music!
 
NOTE:
The 4th Friday Art Stroll will be relocated inside the Delmarva Discovery Center tonight from 5-8pm. Artists are welcome to brave the storm & setup outside the museum or Visitors Center if they would like.

The Sturgis One Room School will still offer free admission & sidewalk chalk for the kids.

Alex&Shiloh will be performing and drinks and snacks will be available for purchase.
 

According To A New State Poll Majority Opposes Medicaid Expansion

A new poll shows that the majority of Virginians oppose a plan favored by Gov. Terry McAuliffe to use federal Medicaid funds to provide health insurance to low-income residents.

A poll from Christopher Newport University's Judy Ford Wason Center for Public Policy poll released Thursday shows that Virginia voters oppose Medicaid expansion 53 percent to 41 percent. In February, the university found the majority of voters favored Medicaid expansion 56 to 38.

The shift in the public's views suggests that Republican lawmakers are winning the long-running public relations over McAuliffe and Democratic lawmakers.

Lawmakers have been deadlocked on Medicaid expansion for several months. The impasse led the General Assembly to adjourn in March without passing a $96 billion two-year budget, which could lead to a potential state government shutdown.

Source:

CONTINUING TO MAKE COASTAL HIGHWAY SAFER THROUGH ENFORCEMENT

OCPD CONTINUING TO MAKE COASTAL HIGHWAY SAFER THROUGH ENFORCEMENT

(April 24, 2014) – The Ocean City Police Department has recently expanded its use of speed measurement devices as part of the department’s mission to reduce traffic collisions. Many officers attended a training session on Thursday, April 17, 2014, where they earned certification in the use this new device, known as LIDAR, which uses lasers and reflected light to measure speed. Officer Joseph Laughlin was among one the officers certified and used his training almost immediately.

On April 20, 2014, at approximately 2 a.m. Ofc. Laughlin was on patrol in the area of 30th Street and Coastal Highway when he observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed. Using LIDAR technology, he determined that the vehicle was traveling faster than the posted speed limit. Ofc. Laughlin stopped the vehicle and smelled marijuana coming from inside. During a search of the vehicle, officers located marijuana and a stun gun. A passenger in the vehicle, later identified as Khiry Jamal Lane, 24, of Hyattsville, MD, was later arrested and charged with possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana and possession of an electronic weapon.


“The Ocean City Police Department is committed to improving the safety of our roadways,” commented Lieutenant Scott Harner, commander of the OCPD Traffic Safety Unit. “Speeding is a choice over which every driver has complete control.”


According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, almost one-third of all traffic accidents are caused by drivers disregarding the speed limit.  The Maryland State Highway Administration has recently reduced the speed limit on Coastal Highway to 35 MPH from 62nd Street to 36th Street. Citizens of Ocean City are reminded to follow the posted speed limit while traveling and stay alert for other drivers.

 Ocean City Police Department

Worcester County Sheriff’s Office ~ ARRESTS


On April 22, 2014 at approximately 2205 hours a Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Deputy observed a white BMW driving northbound on Route 113 in the area of Brick Kiln Road with the passenger side tail light out. 

The Deputy initiated a traffic stop and made contact with the driver, identified as Justin Alex Byron, age 30, of Boston Massachusetts. 

 While speaking to Byron the Deputy detected the odor of Marijuana coming from the passenger compartment of the vehicle.  A search was conducted and a bag of suspected Marijuana was found in the driver’s side door.  Mr. Byron was placed under arrest for possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance.


      Mr. Byron was released on a criminal citation pending a trial in Maryland District Court.


On April 23, 2014 at approximately 1740 hours a Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Deputy was on patrol in the area of southbound Route 610 in the area of Route 113 Whaleyville, Worcester County, Maryland. 

 The Deputy observed a white Chevrolet pickup truck cross the northbound lanes of traffic, run off the roadway, and strike a large ditch.  The Deputy observed the operator, who was identified as Bryce Joseph Butler age 20 of Whaleyville, Maryland continue to push the gas pedal in attempt to drive out of the ditch.
              

The Deputy asked Mr. Butler to exit the vehicle. Upon speaking with Mr. Butler it was determined that Mr. Butler was in possession of a controlled dangerous substance.  T

he Deputy recovered heroin, hypodermic needles, and a digital scale from Mr. Butler. Mr. Butler was charged with possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia.

Mr. Butler was transported to the District Court Commissioner and is awaiting trial.



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


Thursday, April 24, 2014

BINGO !! Saturday Night !!

BINGO !!!!
 
 
Trail's End Clubhouse
Horntown, VA
 
Saturday, April 26

Doors Open: 6 PM

Bingo Begins: 7 PM
 
$20/book


Military Discount At The Delmarva Discovery Center



To thank our veterans for all they have and continue to do for our country, the Delmarva Discovery Center  is pleased to now offer a 20% military discount on admissions.

Free to you, Fundraiser to benefit Samaritan Shelter

Come and help Hertrich of Pocomoke as we host a test drive benefit for
SAMARITAN SHELTER
Where: Hertrich of Pocomoke
1618 Ocean Highway
Pocomoke City, MD 21851
When: Saturday May 3rd
9:00am – 3:00pm (Rain or Shine)
Hertrich Of Pocomoke & Ford are sponsoring a test drive benefit that will give $20 per test drive to SAMARITAN SHELTER, up to a maximum of $6000. Must be at least 18 years old with a valid drivers license. One test drive per person and per household.

We encourage everyone to come out and test drive and benefit such a worthy cause. Samaritan Shelter serves many people needing varying types of help. This is a very special way to support a non-profit organization that helps so many people on the Eastern Shore. We need 300 test drives to maximize this opportunity, so please plan on coming to Hertrich of Pocomoke, Saturday May 3rd from 9:00 – 3:00, to give without any cost involved. The money per test drive can total $6000 which in turn will be used to assist many people in need.

Spread the word to family & friends so we have the opportunity to maximize this event!

 Free Hot Dogs, Fries & Drink will be given out Thanks to Hertrich, Abundant Life Apostolic Church and a private donor. Thirty –One Gifts, Pampered Chef & Origami Owl will also be there raising money for the shelter and free face painting for the children. If you have any questions please feel free to call the shelter @410-957-4310 and ask for Shelly or Hertrich @ 410-957-3333 and ask for Dana. Come out and support a worthy cause and help those in need.
There is no charge to do the test drive.

Thank You to Hertrich for sponsoring Drive 4 UR Community to benefit the shelter.

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview


1922.. Late April frost brings damage to lower Eastern Shore; 1953.. Major blaze strikes Pocomoke City company; 1995.. Satellites aid Somerset County farmer; 1827.. Ancient organic relic found on Accomac County shore; 1927.. Site chosen for new Eastern Shore electric generating station; 1878.. What's the new "praiseworthy" association formed in Snow Hill?
 
 
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!

10th Annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection


The Eastern Shore of Virginia Ground Water Committee is pleased to announce that the
 10th Annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection
 will be held on
 Saturday, May 10 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
 
The collection is available for residents of Accomack and Northampton and will be offered concurrently at
 
Convenience Centers in Makemie Park (Temperanceville), Fishers Corner (Parksley)
 and Birdsnest.
 
The Eastern Shore’s landfills are not engineered to handle these materials and hazardous wastes illegally entering the landfill threaten the health of Eastern Shore residents and the environment. Hazardous wastes also tend to accumulate around everyone’s homes over time creating unnecessary health and safety risks at home. Every quantity of hazardous waste brought in ensures that that waste will not pollute our water resources on the Eastern Shore and endanger the quality of our water and our health.
 

Participants can dispose of up to 50 pounds of hazardous waste for free. Additional waste will cost $1.00 per pound for every pound in excess of 50 pounds. Disposal of the first 50 pounds for free will be available only as funds allow. Interested parties are encouraged to arrive early to ensure a spot. Collections will begin at 10:00 a.m. and end promptly at 2:00 p.m. and will take place rain or shine.
 
***Accepted household wastes include garden chemicals, poisons, repellants, degreasers, fuels including gasoline and kerosene, fungicides, wood preservatives, wood stain, paint thinner and remover, driveway sealers, epoxy, rodent poison, and asbestos.
 
Items not accepted include commercial and industrial wastes, car batteries, tires, motor oil, ammunition, flares, explosives, medical and biological wastes, radioactive waste, medicines, PCBs, smoke detectors, Freon or propane tanks, and empty containers of any kind.
 
Paint will not be accepted. Oil and latex paints may be disposed of by removing the container lid to allow the paint to air dry or mixing the paint with an absorbent such as kitty litter or wood chips. Once the paint has solidified, place the paint container in a plastic bag and dispose of the container with the regular trash.

 If you have questions about the Household Hazardous Waste Collection, please contact Curt Smith of the Accomack-Northampton Planning District Commission at 787-2936.
 

This event is the only local option for proper disposal of household hazardous waste and is only held once each year. Residents are encouraged to plan for this event each year by storing hazardous wastes in a safe, secure location until the event occurs during the spring of each year.

Delegate McDermott Addresses Concerns of Crisfield Residents


April 16, 2014

Delegate Mike McDermott recently met with many Crisfield residents and business owners at The Old Crisfield Crab & Steak House to discuss recent actions taken in Annapolis. The delegate, who is a candidate for the State Senate, outlined the current budget fiasco and highlighted some of the efforts undertaken to make Maryland a more business friendly state.

“The leadership in Annapolis has taken the Maryland Taxpayer for a ride”, Delegate McDermott said. “We have witnessed 80 tax and fee increases during the past 7 years and have watched government spending increase by 40% while our families struggle with a sputtering economy. We must change leaders if we are to change direction”.
The delegate provided an “End of Session Wrap Up” for those who attended and answered many questions posed regarding the economy, legislation, business, and the concerns of watermen. He also outlined a plan for growing Maryland’s struggling economy through:
  • energy development
  • reducing corporate tax structures
  • cutting state income taxes by 10%
  • reducing the regulatory scope of government impacting farmers, watermen, and business owners across Maryland.
“Maryland is ranked near the bottom of the barrel at #44 as a business friendly state”, said Delegate McDermott. “Changing the way we think about business in Annapolis is vital if we want to offer a future for our children that does not require them to leave Maryland to find employment”.
 

National Take Back Prescription Drug Day ~ Pocomoke City

April 26th is National Take Back Prescription Drug Day!

 The location for the event this year in Pocomoke City will be Walmart Supercenter.

The hours are 10a-2p!

Most abused prescription drugs come from family or friends.

 You can help by properly disposing of your unused medications!

 Unused or expired prescription medications are a public safety issue, leading to accidental poisoning, overdose, and abuse.

 Pharmaceutical drugs can be just as dangerous as street drugs when taken without a prescription or a doctor’s supervision.

The majority of teenagers abusing prescription drugs get them from family and friends – and the home medicine cabinet.

 Unused prescription drugs thrown in the trash can be retrieved and abused or illegally sold. Unused drugs that are flushed contaminate the water supply.

 Proper disposal of unused drugs saves lives and protects the environment. Take back programs are the best way to dispose of unused and expired medications.

 Help prevent prescription drug abuse!


Dispose of your medications at a collection site on April 26, 2014.

Pocomoke City Police Department

-FIRE DANGER- SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

 
UPDATED
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WAKEFIELD VA
432 AM EDT THU APR 24 2014

...INCREASED FIRE DANGER THURSDAY...
 
BREEZY AND DRY CONDITIONS WILL PREVAIL OVER THE MARYLAND AND  VIRGINIA LOWER EASTERN SHORE TODAY. 
 
 MINIMUM RELATIVE HUMIDITY   VALUES WILL RANGE FROM 20 TO 25 PERCENT AND WILL COMBINE  WITH  SUSTAINED NORTHWEST WINDS OF 10 TO 15 MPH WITH GUSTS UP TO  25 MPH. THIS WILL RESULT IN INCREASED FIRE DANGER ACROSS THESE AREAS.
 

RESIDENTS ARE URGED TO EXERCISE CAUTION HANDLING ANY POTENTIAL IGNITION SOURCE...INCLUDING MACHINERY...CIGARETTES AND MATCHES.  
 
BE SURE TO PROPERLY DISCARD ALL SMOKING MATERIALS. ANY DRY GRASSES AND TREE LITTER THAT IGNITE WILL HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO  SPREAD QUICKLY.
 
 
***AS A REMINDER...OPEN AIR BURNING IS PROHIBITED BEFORE 4:00 PM IN VIRGINIA. ***

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Arrests Made After Traffic Stop On Route 13 - South of Pocomoke

Kimron Dixon
4/23/14
Todays date at approximately 0938 hrs, Pocomoke City Police were monitoring traffic on Route 13 south bound.

 During this time the Officer observed a green in color Honda Civic following the vehicle in front of them too close. Upon contact with the driver, the Officer observed inside the vehicle several pieces of suspected marijuana and a brown cigar wrapper. Upon further investigation the Police located two clear plastic baggies containing suspected Marijuana.

The driver and passenger were arrested:

Kimron Dixon, age 30 of Hartford CT. Dixon was charged with CDS Possession of Marijuana.

Tyron L. Miller




 
 Tyron L. Miller, age 33 of Hartford CT. Miller was charged with CDS Possession of Marijuana.

SHARE THE ROAD WITH MOTORCYCLISTS THIS WEEKEND

(April 21, 2014) – This weekend thousands of motorcyclists are anticipated to visit Ocean City and the surrounding area as the Bikes to the Beach Spring Rally is scheduled to begin on Thursday, April 24. In correlation with Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, which begins May 1, the Ocean City Police Department is reminding motorists and motorcyclists to “share the road” and be extra alert to keep motorcyclists safe.

“Motorcycles are vehicles with the same rights and privileges as any motor vehicle on the roadway,” commented Ocean City Police Chief Ross Buzzuro. “Motorists should perform visual checks for motorcyclists by checking mirrors and blind spots before they enter or exit a lane of traffic. Pedestrians should also get into the habit of scanning for motorcyclists who might be hidden by other traffic.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are much more vulnerable than a passenger vehicle occupant in the event of a crash. Motorcyclists should remain alert to other drivers, never ride impaired or distracted and always wear a helmet and other protective gear.

In order to help keep motorcyclists safe in Ocean City, the Ocean City Police Department would like to offer the following tips:

  • Always allow a motorcyclist the full lane width—never try to share a lane.
  • Perform a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or exiting a lane of traffic, and at intersections.
  • Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.
  • Allow more following distance – three or four seconds – when behind a motorcycle so the motorcyclist has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency.
  • Never tailgate. In dry conditions, motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars.

  • In addition, motorcyclists should follow these tips to remain safe:
    • Avoid riding in poor weather conditions.
    • Wear brightly colored protective gear and a DOT-compliant helmet.
    • Combine hand signals and turn signals to draw more attention.
    • Use reflective tape and stickers to increase visibility.
    • Never drive while impaired or distracted.
    In hopes of a safe and successful “Bikes to the Beach” event and Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, the Ocean City Police Department reminds all drivers and motorcyclists to help share in the responsibility of keeping all road users safe, and do your part by safely “sharing the road.”

    Worcester County Sheriff's Office - Recent Arrests


    On April 21, 2014 at approximately 1704 hours Deputy's from the Worcester County Sheriff's Office received a Be on the Look Out (BOLO) for a possible intoxicated driver in the area of Worcester Hwy and Central Site Ln.

    A Deputy, with assistance from a Snow Hill Police Department Officer, located the suspect vehicle, a light blue Ford Van, traveling through downtown Snow Hill.

    After observing the vehicle a traffic stop was conducted.

    Upon contact with the driver, identified as Richard Wayne Kidwell of Snow Hill, the Deputy noted a moderate odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his person. The Deputy also observed Kidwell to have bloodshot and glassy eyes accompanied with slurred speech. Kidwell later admitted to consuming alcoholic beverages while operating his motor vehicle.


    Kidwell was asked to perform a battery of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests, which he performed unsatisfactorily.

    Kidwell was placed under arrest and charged with Driving Under the Influence.


    *********

    On April 22, 2014 at 0815 hours a Deputy with the Worcester County Sheriff's Office was monitoring traffic in the area of US Route 113 and Jarvis Road, in Bishopville, Maryland. The Deputy observed a vehicle traveling at 78 miles per hour in the posted 55 mile per hour zone.

    A traffic stop was conducted on a 2001 Ford truck. The operator was identified as Brian Gardner,  27 years old,  of Millsboro Delaware. A front seat passenger was identified as Jabriel K Walters, 23 years old,  also from Millsboro Delaware.

    The deputies approached the vehicle and advised the occupants to exit the vehicle, so a K9 scan could be performed. The front seat passenger exited the vehicle, Jabriel K Walters, and attempted to conceal Marijuana in his mouth.

    It was also learned that Mr. Walters was wanted on a outstanding Bench Warrant for failure to Appear in District Court back in 2012. Mr Walters was placed under arrest for the Bench Warrant and he was charged with possesion of Marijuana Less than 10 grams and he received a Criminal Citation.

    Mr. Walters was seen by the District Court Commissioner on the Warrant and released on his Personal Recognizance.

    The operator of the vehicle Mr. Gardner received two warnings for other traffic violations, and a Maryland citation for his speed.

    Pocomoke Man Charged With Malicious Destruction of Property

    On April 21, 2014 at approximately 2040 hrs Police received a call for Malicious Destruction of Property. Upon arrival Police learned the suspect had kicked the glass out of the door to the establishment.

     Arrested was Demetrius D. Mills, age 26 of Pocomoke City.

     Mills was charged with Malicious Destruction of Property.  

    Pocomoke City Police Department

    Pocomoke City to Host Delmarva Firemen’s Convention

     
    Pocomoke City to Host Delmarva Firemen’s Convention
     May 1, 2, 3
     
    The Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company will host the 85th Annual Convention of the Delmarva Volunteer Firemen’s Association and the 80th Annual Convention of the Association’s Auxiliary on May 1, 2 and 3 at the Pocomoke City Community Center and firehouse.

    Firefighters and Auxiliary members and their families from Northern Delaware to Cape Charles, Virginia will be visiting Pocomoke City for this 3-day event.  Activities kick-off on Thursday night, May 1, with the “Meet Your Host Night” at the firehouse. On Friday, convention meetings will take place throughout the day followed by a social hour and formal dinner at 6 PM in the Community Center.

    Following committee meetings on Saturday morning, the highlight of the convention will be a parade starting at 2 PM featuring fire equipment from throughout Delmarva. The parade will stage at the Pocomoke Middle School on 8th Street, travel east on 8th Street and then south on Market Street where it will disband at the firehouse.  Over 40 trophies will be awarded to fire companies and equipment in a host of different categories.

    Spectators can view the parade that will include both modern as well as antique fire equipment anywhere along Market Street.  The reviewing and judges’ stand will be located in front of Hartley Hall Nursing Home. 

    New to the convention this year will be the Cadet Firefighting Muster which will take place on 14th Street next to the firehouse following the parade.  The Cadet Corps of the Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company will host this event and cadet organizations from several area fire companies will compete in the muster with trophies presented to the winners in several competitions. The public is invited to watch as our future firefighters take part in this fun event. 

    Market Street will be closed from 8th Street south to 14th Street at the firehouse during the parade. 14th Street from Market Street to Cedar Run will be closed for the muster.

    “We’re excited about again being the host city for the Delmarva Firemen’s Convention and related Auxiliary Convention”, said Ron Taylor, convention chairman. “We are proud to showcase Pocomoke City, ‘The Friendliest Town on the Eastern Shore’,  as well as our beautiful firehouse and Community Center to hundreds of guests who will be attending this year’s event”, he added.

    The convention was last hosted by the Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company in April, 2011 when several hundred delegates and guests from fire departments across Delmarva attended the 3-day event. 

    Contact Ron Taylor – 410-632-3177

    ROMP IN THE SWAMP ~ THIS WEEKEND


    EXPECT TRAFFIC DELAYS DURING THE OCEAN CITY ISLAND 2 ISLAND HALF MARATHON & 5K

    (April 21, 2014) – The Ocean City Police Department is reminding citizens to expect traffic delays the morning of Saturday, April 26, during the 10th Annual Ocean City Island 2 Island Half Marathon and 5K. This year, half marathon runners will begin the race at Assateague Island and make their way to the finish line at the Inlet Lot. Runners participating in the 5K event will remain on the Boardwalk and will not affect traffic.

    Upon reaching Ocean City, runners will travel east on Route 50 in the far right lane and cross the Harry W. Kelley Memorial Bridge before crossing Philadelphia and Baltimore Avenues to reach the boardwalk. Drivers should expect delays in the downtown area beginning at approximately 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. Traffic on Baltimore and Philadelphia Avenues will be intermittently stopped in advance of runners reaching the intersections and may at times be stopped for several minutes to accommodate runners without delay.

    Event participants and spectators are urged to use crosswalks while crossing roadways and motorists should be extremely vigilant in the downtown area during this event. Finally, the Ocean City Police Department wishes the best of luck to all runners participating in Saturday’s races!

    Tuesday, April 22, 2014

    Pocomoke City Police Dept. Annual Easter Egg Hunt

    Pocomoke City Police Dept.
    Annual Easter Egg Hunt
    Saturday, April 19, 2014
     
    The Easter Bunny hopped his way down the bunny trail and into Cypress Park last Saturday afternoon and into a crowd of anxious children of all ages.
     
     
    The Easter Egg Hunt began at noon under cool but sunny skies.    Clad in jackets and sweaters with Easter baskets in hand each child scrambled to find the eggs carefully hidden by the Chief himself and others in the department.
     
     
     
    According to Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin Sewell this years annual hunt brought between 100 and 125 youngsters.  This was the highest turnout since 2009.
     
     
     
    Prize baskets- There were 12 winners from the egg hunt, each receiving a prize basket loaded with candy!
     
    Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin Sewell poses with the Easter Bunny....having fun and that's what it's all about.
     
     
    Hunting Easter eggs can be hard and exhausting work.  Afterwards the guests were treated to a lunch of hotdogs, French fries and a drink.  Egg hunt and picnic in Cypress  Park- what a perfect way to spend the day!
     
    Photo (above) with the Easter Bunny.  Rear l to r:  Councilman George Tasker, Easter Bunny, Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin Sewell and Councilman Rob Clarke.  Unnamed children in front.
     
     
    Future police officer?  Officer Horseman seems to have made a friend and let him experience what it might be like to be a police officer.
     
    Children's events and "hands on" experiences are very important for the youth of today.  So many of the children in today's society only see the bad side of the law and never get the chance to fully understand that the police are their friends.
     
    Pocomoke City Police Department is very conscious about the youth in Pocomoke City and also provide other sponsored events for the young.
     
    Another successful event sponsored by the Pocomoke City Police Dept.  Everyone left with a smile and a full belly.
     
    The Easter Bunny kept hopping  down the bunny trail....There were baskets to get ready for delivery...
     
     

    LOWER SHORE FAMILY YMCA MAN MEETS MUD RACE

    LOWER SHORE FAMILY YMCA MAN MEETS MUD RACE SENDS KIDS TO SUMMER CAMP

    The Lower Shore Family YMCA in Pocomoke City, MD is set to host their third annual Man Meets Mud Run, the dirtiest 5k on the Eastern Shore, on Saturday, May 3, 2014. 

    You can register online at www.manmeetsmud.com
     to sign up for your heat of choice. Heats begin at 10am for kids 12 and under. Other heats begin at 11am and run every half an hour until 4pm. Cost is free for kids 12 and under, $20 for teens 13-17 years old, and $55 for adults. Entry cost includes wave time of choice, event t-shirt, finisher’s medal, goodie bag, and one beverage ticket. Individuals may also register the day of the race.

    Participants are encouraged to run with teams and costumes. Awards will be giving to runners with the best finish times in addition to awards such as Best Costume, Funniest Costume, Best Team Name, Dirtiest Girl, Dirtiest Guy, and more!

    The party doesn’t stop after the race. Trader’s will be selling their famous chicken breast sandwiches along with hotdogs, hamburgers and fries. Beer is also available for purchase. Trade your muddy sneakers for dancing shoes with live entertainment from Alex&Shiloh then the Time Police from 4pm-6pm.

    The YMCA is a community based organization with a focus on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility.

    Proceeds from the Man Meets Mud Race benefit the YMCA of Chesapeake’s Open Doors Program. This allows the Y to offer memberships and programs to families and kids that need financial assistance. The Y's Open Doors Program is available to anyone. Fill out the Open Doors application and turn it in at the Welcome Center at any of our locations.

    www.ymcachesapeake.org/membership/financial-assistance

    Contact: Mary Chamberlin 410-957-9622

    Two Charged with 2nd Degree Assault ~ Pocomoke City Police Department

    Shannon Broadwater
    PCPD Photo
    On April 22, 2014 at approximately 0011 hrs Police responded to a call for Domestic Assault.

     Upon further investigation Police learned both parties involved had Assaulted each other.



    Franco Benoit
    PCPD Photo


     Arrested was Franco Benoit, age 24 of Pocomoke and Shannon Broadwater, age 19 of Pocomoke. They were both charged with 2nd Degree Assault.

    Pocomoke City Police Department