Sunday, July 20, 2014

Team Britt's Support Our Troops Project

T shirts! Get your t shirts and bracelets! Have a lottt, really need to sell them guys! Would love to do a new design but we must sell these first! They are 15 dollars. Currently have all sizes. If you are far away, you can send a check and I will ship!! Or I can meet up with you, or you can get from enchanted florist if I know ahead of time. That is also where donations are accepted! Thank you! T shirts are 15 and bracelets are 20. Half goes to the project! ! Contact me to order yours today!





We reached 350 likes today! That's great for our little area. The project has grown a lot and I am very thankful for that. We've reached so many troops. Thank you. Have whole box of shirts that need to go!! $15 and half goes to the project, I'd love to do a new design but not until these are gone! Help us sell them and spread the word. Don't forget letters can be done all year and donations can be dropped off at enchanted florist, hygiene products and snacks that won't melt, drink mixes, and really anything is great, money is great too to purchase items we are lacking or for shipping one box at 15 dollars! Thank you! Feel free to share posts and the page to spread the word more.

Saturday, July 19, 2014

229th Maryland Army National Guard Band had a great turn out tonight!

From the Pocomoke Area Chamber of Commerce 



From The Pocomoke Public Eye; Thank you for your service. 
























Pocomoke Horizons Summer Academy. The Art Academy students painted windows in downtown Pocomoke.

Thank you Pocomoke High School Warriors Horizons Summer Academy! You did a wonderful job making Downtown Pocomoke look beautiful!




What do YOU want to see next?



Help us out! I've been researching for a new movie, but nothing jumps out! What do YOU want to see next?
Here are the typical guidelines:
It's release time was 6-8 weeks from the show date. So, it had to be released between mid June and early July.
Must be something that a ton of people want to see!
I always take in audience feedback, chart ratings, and IMDB ratings, but this round has me stumped! HELP!

CLICK [HERE] TO VISIT THE MARVA FACEBOOK PAGE

Join us at Brown Dog Ice Cream and meet some SPCA alumni!


SPCA Eastern Shore Virginia

Pawsome news! Michelle's adoption was finalized today. Here’s Michelle going home with her new sisters Emma & Kaley. We are so happy for all!

www.shorespca.com

Join the MarVa Theater for "Drop Dead Juliet"

Each year, the MarVa Theater in Downtown Pocomoke City holds a theater academy for students who like to enjoy the summer time acting in different plays, and learning more about theater and acting.  This year, the Advanced Theater Academy group is performing "Drop Dead Juliet" this Friday, July 25th during the Art Stroll at 5:00pm.  Tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for kids.  The Theater Academy students will be also be performing the musical portion of the academy, "Totally Awesome 80's" on August 15th at 3:00pm.  Come out and enjoy this awesome play, and support your local children's talent at your local theater!

THE POCOMOKE PUBLIC EYE NEEDS YOUR LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

Our beloved Brenda (JMMB) believed that we all have a Guardian Angel, she even knew the name of hers. She made me promise to keep PPE alive, and the people informed and "KEEP IT POSITIVE" she would say and find someone to take her place, (that will never happen) I believe that we have a Guardian Angel now, and I know 'her' name just Like Brenda knew hers. So with much regret in my heart I ask.    

We are looking for someone that loves our area that would like to meet interesting people, make new friends, and see new places. It really doesn't take much time but you must enjoy what you'd be doing. Of course a phone and camera are the most used tools minus the computer. If you think you'd like to be a investigator, reporter, publisher and would like to give it a try please contact me on facebook or my email address on the right of the PPE Blog 

This is a position ideal for someone that has spare time that they would like to fill with fun and doesn't mind volunteering to keep or community informed on all the local happenings and events and also show future visitors and tourist all the hidden treasures of downtown Pocomoke. Actually if you are active and visit local events, meetings, etc. anyway then it takes very little time, a few pictures and then typing your experience of that event on PPE and that's it.

Thanks
Tom

Thursday, July 17, 2014

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview.

1975.. Snow Hill High School's newspaper stirs controversy with sex education articles and editorial; 1920.. Crisifield churches hold prayer services for tax relief;  1931.. Delmarva promotes itself in National Baloon Races; 1881.. Water in short supply, sellling for as much as ten cents a gallon; 1905.. Ad advises of Pocomoke City's Parker House offerings.

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!

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Hertrich July 24 Business After Hours Press Release

Contact:
Jennifer Rafter
Pocomoke Area Chamber of Commerce

For immediate release

Hertrich Ford Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Pocomoke Business After Hours July 24th and DEBUT OF THE NEW 2015 CHRYSLER 200

Join Hertrich and the Pocomoke Chamber of Commerce for a Business After Hours and Grand Re-Opening on July 24 from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.  Have a chance to win exciting door prizes, meet old friends and new, and experience great networking opportunities with local business leaders. Chrysler Representatives will be in attendance for the DEBUT OF THE NEW 2015 CHRYSLER 200, showing from July 24-26. Stop by and join us for the Hertrich of Pocomoke Business After Hours and Grand Re-Opening on July 24 from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.  All are welcome and no RSVP is required.  Please call the Pocomoke Chamber of Commerce at 410-957-1919 for further information.

Sunday, July 13, 2014

TIME MACHINE ... 1907, 1870, 1914, 1991, 1933, 1943

(Reader-friendly viewing of news archives/historical archives material)

August, 1907
The Washington Post

QUICK WIT SAVES TRAIN

Red Handkerchief Around a Lantern Signals Flyer

HALTS SIX FEET FROM DANGER

Horse, with Unconscious Driver, attempts to Cross Bridge Over Humphrey's Lake and Falls Through Ties. Salisbury Officer Stops Exposition Express from Plunging Into the Water.

Special to The Washington Post.

Salisbury, Md., Aug. 12.-  With a red handkerchief held in front of an ordinary lantern, Officer James Crouch, of this city, held up the Exposition Flyer on the New York, Philadelphia and Norfolk Railroad to-night and prevented a wreck on the long bridge over Humphrey's Lake, saving probably several hundred lives.

The officer was notified that a horse and buggy had attempted to cross over the bridge and the the horse had fallen between the ties.

Crouch realized that an awful accident would likely happen, as the express was due within a few minutes. He broke into the baggage room and secured a lantern.  After lighting it he made his way up the railroad track to the bridge and found a horse and buggy about twelve feet from the end of the bridge.

The officer took his red handkerchief from his pocket, wrapped it around the lantern, and waved the signal before the approaching train, which by this time was coming rapidly toward him.

The engineer saw the signal, applied the emergency brakes and stopped the train within six feet of the horse and carriage. The train crew found Lemuel Brittingham, a resident of this city, in the carriage, and it was with difficulty that he was aroused and told of the dangerous position.

The position of the buggy and horse was such that would have caused almost certain derailment, and had such been the case the entire train, consisting of Pullman sleepers, would have fallen into the water, a distance of thirty-five feet below.   

Footnote:  Salisbury's Humphrey's Lake extended from just east of the Court House through what is now the City Park.  The dam containing the lake burst in 1909, leaving a large swampy area. The dam originally had been constructed in connection with a grist mill operation.

April, 1870 
(Maryland State Archives)

Proceedings and Acts of the General Assembly, 1870

AN ACT to change the name of the town of Sandy Hill, in the Eighth Election District of Worcester County, to the name of Stockton.

Name changed

SECTION 1. Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Maryland, That the town of Sandy Hill, in the Eighth Election District of Worcester County, is changed, and shall hereafter be known and called by the name of Stockton.

In force.

Sec. 2. And be it enacted, That this Act shall take effect from the date of its passage.

Approved. April 4, 1870.

February, 1914
The Times-Dispatch (Richmond, Va.)

The Pocomoke City National Bank has offered $90 to be divided Into three| prizes-$50, $25, $15-as an incentive to the boys of Accomac County, Virginia, and Worcester and Somerset Counties, Maryland, to join a Boy's Corn Club. The prizes are to be awarded tor the largest yield of ears per acre. The boy will be required to do all the work pertaining thereto, from the breaking up of the land to the husking of the corn. Mr. Chilton, Accomac County demonstrator, has visited ten schools in this county and has now a club membership of 100.

January, 1991

Bill Riordan, the former Salisbury businessman who became a well-known figure in the tennis world, died at the age of 71 in Naples, Fla.  Riordan managed the early career of Jimmy Connors and was instrumental in bringing the men's National Indoor Tennis Championships to Salisbury from 1964-1976, as well as supporting youth tennis opportunities.  

February, 1933
(Hattiesburg American- Hattiesburg, Miss.)

Mr. and Mrs. Linn Benton Hostetler announce the marriage of their daughter, Mary Lynn, to Mr. Verlin C. Krabill at Elkton, Md., February, 10, 1933.  Mr. and Mrs. Krabill will make their home at Pocomoke City, Maryland, where Mr. Krabill is principal of the high school.

1943 (Time Machine archive)

As a young Navy pilot former President George H.W. Bush trained at  the Chincoteague base.  As reported in various published accounts he flew low over an area of Crisfield where a circus had setup nearby and a frightened elephant broke away, in turn frightening nearby residents.  Reports were that Bush's low fly-over was an attempt to impress a young Crisfield woman he had met at a USO dance at Chincoteague. 

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!



"Somewhere over
the rainbow 
Bluebirds fly..."

Flying on for JMMB

Saturday, July 12, 2014

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview

1907.. Red handkerchief around a lantern averts a local train disaster; 1870.. Name change for a Worcester County community; 1914.. Pocomoke City bank offers "Corn Club" boys cash prizes; 1991.. Losing a local tennis icon; 1943.. Who was that young navy pilot whose low fly-over frightened a circus elephant in Crisfield?; 1933.. Pocomoke's high school principal to marry.

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!

Friday, July 11, 2014

Pocomoketoberfest Beer, Wine and Art Festival- Saturday, September 6th, noon to 6 pm Cypress Park, Pocomoke




Yes, just like Germany, we are holding our ‘Oktoberfest’ in September to kick off the harvest season! Taste the Eastern Shore at this wine and beer festival.  Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and get ready to enjoy the day on shore of the scenic Pocomoke River. Early Bird Admission is just $20 and includes a wine or beer glass and tastings. Admission at the gate is $25 or for designated driver is just $5. Listen to live music while you sample, play games, and enjoy shopping with local artists. New this year will be Plein Air Pocomoke. Watch artists bring a canvas to life before your eyes in historic Downtown Pocomoke on Friday and in conjunction with Pocomoketoberfest on Saturday.  For more information contact pocomokechamber@gmail.com or 410-957-1919 or see Pocomoketoberfest.com.

Thursday, July 10, 2014

Pocomoke Plein Air Press Release

Contact: Jennifer Rafter
Pocomoke Chamber of Commerce

For immediate release

Pocomoke Plein Air
September 5th and 6th, 2014

Come paint outdoors along the scenic Pocomoke River and in the beautiful downtown area of Pocomoke City, MD in a relaxed and informal atmosphere. In conjunction with Pocomoketoberfest, The Pocomoke Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring Pocomoke Plein Air on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 5 & 6th!  If you haven’t tried plein air painting before, this is the perfect opportunity to experience it. This is simply a fun opportunity to enjoy painting outdoors with a group of other artists. Beginners as well as seasoned painters are welcomed. Discounted Pocomoketoberfest tickets are available with plein air registration. The judged competition on Saturday is optional for registered painters.  For more information please contact pocomokechamber@gmail.com or 410-957-1919 or check out www.Pocomoketoberfest.com.

Jennifer Rafter
Executive Director
Pocomoke Area Chamber of Commerce
www.pocomoke.com
410-957-1919


 

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Concert In The Park


July is Independent Retailer Month


  A dollar spent at an independent retailer is usually spent 6 to 15 times before it leaves the community. From $1, you create $5 to $14 in value within that community. Shopping with an independent retailer supports local traders, their suppliers and the people they depend on to run their businesses. Buying from an independent retailer boosts your local economy, rebuilding confidence in the community, enabling local businesses to prosper and grow.

For more information see independentretailermonth.com

Sunday, July 6, 2014

TIME MACHINE... 1915, 1926, 1957, 1852,1944, 1938

(Reader-friendly viewing of newspaper archives/historical archives material)

November, 1915
The Washington Post

5,000 SEE MAN HANGED

Execution of Frank Grano in Woods at Snow Hill.

MANY CAMP THERE ALL NIGHT

Spectators Orderly But no Effort is Made to Hide Scene of Hanging from Huge Crowd- Paid  Penalty for Murder of Mr. and Mrs. Robinson and Alonzo Redden.

Special to The Washington Post.

Snow Hill, Nov. 26-  Trembling from hand to foot , but nerved before the ordeal, Frank Grano stood on the top step at the Worcester County jail and said "Good-by, boys," to the 500 persons who had gathered to see his departure for the place of execution.

He was executed at 9:15 o'clock.

At an early hour he partook of a slight breakfast and drank some coffee.  By 7 o'clock all arrangements for the execution had been made within the jail.   

Spectators began to arrive at Snow Hill as early as 9 o'clock last night, and from that hour until the time of execution there was almost a continuous passing of automobiles and all kinds of horse-drawn vehicles through Snow Hill.

Three hundred and ninety-six automobiles were counted in the woods adjacent to the execution. The Berlin state road was lined with automobiles and neighboring farmyards were the resting places of many more.

A conservative estimate placed the number of people who viewed the hanging and those around the courthouse at Snow Hill at 5,000. Many camped in the woods during the night, and the glare from the numerous camp fires presented a weird experience at an early hour this morning- it resembled a large detention camp.

This resemblance was made more realistic by the presence of women and children. During the night some campers would sing parts of a familiar hymn. The authorities saw early in the week that any attempt to exclude the public from witnessing the hanging would cause trouble, hence no precaution was taken to build a fence around the gallows and make the execution private. The crowd this morning did not interfere with the proceedings in any way. 

On September 6 Grano shot and killed Mr. and Mrs. Levin P. Robinson and their farmhand, Alonzo Redden. He was jealous of the woman. 

December, 1926
The Denton Journal

(Excerpts)

THE CHESAPEAKE BAY BRIDGE

That It Will Pay From the Start Is Believed by Many Experts.

Indicating the need of a bridge across the bay, traffic authorities of the Eastern Shore estimate that 131,500 automobiles made the detour by way of Elkton across the Susquehanna river to Baltimore, during the year 1926.

This vehicular traffic originated from all points on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Delaware. It is maintained that the erection of a bridge across Maryland's inland sea is a real need, and that the advent of motor traffic in larger volumes and the advancement of engineering knowledge, have brought this problem within the realm of practical business.

According to estimates just made public, the cost of taking a passenger automobile from Chestertown to Baltimore by way of ferry is $4.50; by way of Elkton and Havre de Grace, $5.10, while by way of the proposed bridge from Bay Shore to Rock Hall, it would be but $3.10. 

The scale of toll rates proposed by the Chesapeake Bridge Company, which corporation is expected to erect the bridge, and upon which the rates are based, are as follows: Passenger vehicles, §1.25; light trucks, §1.50; heavy trucks, $3; passengers, other than driver, 15 cents. These are said to be maximum tolls proposed. 

December, 1957
(The Kentucky New Era- Hopkinsville, Kentucky)

MARYLAND STATE IN ORANGE BLOSSOM BOWL

PRINCESS ANNE, Md. (AP)-  Coach Skip McCain heads for Miami tonight with a Maryland State football squad seeking revenge against Florida A&M in the Orange Blossom Bowl.

Three years ago, three Maryland State linemen were hurt and McCain had only 27 players to take to Miami.  Florida A&M romped to a 67-19 victory, by far the worst licking suffered  by McCain in 10 years. 

 This time, he'll be in better shape for Saturday's game with 33 hearty players.  His 10 year record is 73-7-3.

April, 1852
The Daily Dispatch (Richmond, Va.)

A Duel Prevented in Maryland. —Hon. Edward Long and the Hon. John W. Crisfield, both ex-members of Congress, and residents of Somerset county, Md., have been held to bail at Princess Anne to keep the peace, in the sum of $10,000 each, by Judge Spence, on the ground that a challenge had passed between them to fight a duel. It is said the affair grew out of a previous personal rencountre.

Footnote:  Attorney John W. Crisfield was the founder of Crisfield but he never lived there.  He resided in Princess Anne.

October, 1944

A 4-H Club member from Pocomoke City took top honors at the Sixteenth Annual Baltimore Stock Show.  The grand champion individual steer was an Aberdeen Angus raised by 18-year-old Ralph Lankford.

February, 1938 (Time Machine archive) 
(Uniontown Morning Herald- Uniontown, Pa.)

LETTER TRAVELS MANY MILES TO NEARBY VILLAGE

SNOW HILL, MD., Jan 31. (AP)-  For only three-cents, a letter travels 130 miles en route from Snow Hill to Girdletree- just seven miles away.

Here's how it works:

A Girdletree letter mailed here goes by a bus star mail route to Stockton- passing through Girdletree without a stop.  

Another bus takes it from Stockton to Pocomoke City to meet a northbound train.  

Train mail clerks unlock the pouch, sort the mail and toss the Girdletree letter into another pouch, which is tossed off the train to be picked up by a southbound train.

The pouch returns to Pocomoke City by train and another bus takes it to Stockton.

Another bus picks it up there and takes it four miles to Girdletree. 


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!




"Somewhere over
the rainbow
Bluebirds fly..."

Flying on for JMMB

Saturday, July 5, 2014

The Tyrant’s Boot


by Delegate Mike McDermott

For every oppressed people who yearn for freedom, there is always a counting of the cost. Freedom is not free. A “Declaration of Independence” does not secure liberty, but it most certainly will secure the wrath of the tyrant who is deposed. This was certainly the case with King George.

Sadly, most Americans have never read our “Declaration of Independence”. They may know certain lines that are oft repeated, but many confuse our Constitution and the Declaration. In doing so, they miss the essence of our oppression and the need for our rebellion.

Together, the Founders declared certain truths that they held as “self evident” for all people to view and comprehend. They proclaimed as fact that “all men are created equal”. They understood that God is the giver of “rights” to people, and the best any government can do is recognize this truth.

Most of the Founders would pay dearly for making such a declaration. For stating that people were the sovereign of their lives and not the king was an act of treason. Many would die for signing their names to this document. Most lost their lands and saw their families exploited and made homeless. Our liberty cost them all they possessed.

A people can be held together by many things. Most will not last the test of time. There are vows and declarations that are sacred, oaths that we swear by, promises that we endeavor to keep; the American declaration of Independence is one of those God inspired commitments.

You may error in your thinking if you believe the price for freedom has already been paid. It must be paid by each generation of Americans. Our resolve as a people must remain as stalwart as that of the Founders lest a future tyrant catch us slumbering at the wheel of freedom.

It was always said to those who seemed on their way to making it big in this life: “Don’t forget where you came from!”  Many a starlet and ball player go on and forget this admonition at their own peril. It was President Reagan who reminded us that, “Freedom is a fragile thing and is never more than one generation away from extinction. It is not ours by inheritance; it must be fought for and defended constantly by each generation, for it comes only once to a people. Those who have known freedom and then lost it have never known it again.”

Today we celebrate our independence. May a tyrants boot never again find it’s place on the neck of any American, and may our people never forget the price of their freedom, so help us God!

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview

1915.. 5,000 come to Snow Hill to see convicted murderer meet his fate; 1926.. Need for constructing a Chesapeake Bay Bridge being considered; 1957.. Princess Anne's Maryland State College is headed to a bowl game in Miami;  1852.. Duel between two prominent Somerset County men prevented; 1944.. Pocomoke City 4H-er takes top honors in Baltimore stock show; 1938.. It's just routine- a letter's long journey from Snow Hill to Girdletree.

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!

Friday, July 4, 2014

MY BIG GIRL


FIREMENS BBQ CANCELED FOR FRIDAY


Pocomoke City Vol. Fire Co. Annual Chicken Bar-B-Que
July 3, 4, 5 Route 13 South of Pocomoke City
1/2 Chicken <> Baked Beans <> Potato Salad <> Roll
$7.00 Adults <> $8.00 at the door
Tickets available from most Pocomoke Fire Co. Members
 and
First Shore Federal on Market St. - Pocomoke City.
Thank you for your support!














ATTENTION: Due to the impending severe weather we have canceled the BBQ for Friday. We plan to start back working on Saturday and may cook Sunday if supplies last. We'll keep you updated right here.


Wednesday, July 2, 2014

POCOMOKE CITY POLICE BI-WEEKLY COM STAT MEETING





 

June 10, 2014 to June 23, 2014

Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin Sewell, Lt. Lynell Green and Lt. Brian Craven hold their bi-weekly Com Stat meeting to discuss the Officers performance and City wide crimes. During the past two weeks the Pocomoke City Police Officers issued 94 traffic citations, 49 warnings, completed 15 Criminal Adult Arrest, 8 Traffic Arrest, 227 Foot Patrols, 380 Patrol Checks and answered 220 calls for service.

Kicking Off Summer With Safety


31st Annual National Night Out

The Pocomoke City Police Department is now planning our 31st Annual National Night Out! We are looking for volunteers, groups and organizations that would like to get involved in this Community event! This is a free event, therefore we work with volunteers and donations. We are in need of the vendors, face painters, people of all ages with talent, cooks, clean up crews, business donations (such as food, party supplies etc) and much more! If you or your group/organization would like to help in anyway, please contact Angel Thornes or Gayle Waters at the Pocomoke City Police Department, more updates to follow in a few days. Thank you!

Tuesday, July 1, 2014

Legislative Luncheon Wednesday, July 9 12 pm- 1:30 pm at Don's Seafood and Chicken House




Speakers will include:
Mayor Bruce Morrison
MD Senator Jim Mathias
VA Delegate Robert Bloxom
MD Delegate Mike McDermott
MD Delegate Charles Otto
MD Delegate Norm Conway

Lunch will be $14
to cover the cost of the speaker's lunches.

Limited seating is available and RSVPs are required.

If you attend but have not sent an RSVP please allow those that have to be seated first.
Please RSVP to pocomokechamber@gmail.com or 410-957-1919
with one of the menu choices below.

1-Flounder Sandwich w/Chips
2-Pork BBQ on Kaiser Roll w/Cole Slaw & Chips
3-Homemade Chicken Salad on Kaiser Roll with Lettuce & Tomato and Chips
4-Homemade Chicken Salad Cold Plate - Scoop of Chicken Salad, Scoop of Homemade Potato Salad with Tomato, Lettuce and Crackers
5-Turkey on Kaiser Roll with American Cheese and Lettuce and Tomato with Chips
6-Large garden salad
7-Large Caesar salad

The Tax You're Not Hearing About



by Delegate Mike McDermott
As we prepare to celebrate our Independence from British tyranny and unrestrained taxation this week, it is disturbing that Marylanders now face an automatic, annual Gas Tax increase every July 1st from here on out. Our state has become so progressive that we no longer require any legislation to increase taxes on our people. The liberals  have placed our taxing authority on autopilot.

This year the rate will continue to rise. The tax was set at 3.5 cents per gallon effective July 1, 2013. This tax was also indexed to inflation, which accounts for the increase effective tomorrow. The tax will increase by another 3.5 cents on January 1, 2015. Additional increases will also occur well into the future. This constitutes a fuel tax increase of 33%, and it comes at a time when the cost at the pump continues to rise.

To give you an idea of how devastating this taxing approach will have on Marylanders, consider that the cost of gasoline would be over $10.00 a gallon right now in Maryland if this tax had been implemented back in the 90’s. This does not bode well for our economic future.

William Paca, Samuel Chase, Thomas Stone, and Charles Carroll must be rolling over in their graves! These Maryland signers of the Declaration of Independence would be appalled  that a government created “of the people, by the people, and for the people” would take such a cavalier approach to their taxing authority. The crown looks timid by comparison.

Have you heard anything about this tax increase in the local media? Not a word. Google “Maryland Fuel Tax” and you will see articles from July of 2013 when the first tax increase was felt at the pump. Hence the problem with a perennial tax:
  • It often goes unnoticed by the public;
  • It is easily dismissed by politicians who take no responsibility since it is “automatic”;
  • It lacks the accountability of legislative process where taxes can be debated, deliberated, and carefully vetted prior to enactment; and,
  • It will never end unless significant legislative action is taken.

Pennies and small percentages do not sound like much until you consider their multiplied effect on our economy and your family wallet. After all, every penny the government takes is coming directly out of our local economy. When the folks have less money to spend, the loss is felt in every sector.

When fuel prices rise, transportation costs increase. The vast majority of goods on the Eastern Shore come via truck, and the added costs are borne by the consumer. A rising tide floats all boats much like an increased fuel tax is felt in every wallet.

State budgets that increase spending beyond revenues must be fed. Under the current leadership in Maryland, government needs come first. This was never the view of the Founding Fathers.

Our prosperity as a state is tied to the success of a private sector that has been lashed and bound to an anchor. It is high time we raised the anchor and loosed the citizens of this state!


O’Malley-Brown Gas Tax Hike – Round 2;


Today’s stealth tax increase designed to shield politicians from election year backlash

Annapolis, MD – July 1 - Just as Maryland families are preparing to head off on a well-deserved Independence Day weekend, already high gas prices clicked up again today as the next round of the O’Malley-Brown administration’s gas taxes go into effect.  Today’s increase falls on the one year anniversary of the largest increase in gas taxes in state history.  Tied to the rate of inflation, this stealth tax hike brings the Maryland gas tax to more than 27 cents per gallon while shielding tax-and-spend politicians from a risky election year vote.    

According to Republican gubernatorial nominee Larry Hogan, “Whether a cents-per-gallon tax increase or inflation-indexed hikes designed to insulate politicians from voting for higher gas taxes, the effect is the same: A regressive tax on struggling Marylanders and employers while Annapolis spending goes unchecked.”

Maryland’s price per gallon is dramatically higher than in Virginia which cut gasoline taxes and where pump prices are the fifth lowest in the nation.  In fact, even the District of Columbia now has lower gas taxes than does Maryland.

Hogan said, “The O’Malley-Brown administration told us their massive gas tax hike was necessary to create jobs and fund transportation projects through the Transportation Trust Fund.  Yet job creation remains stalled and long-overdue road repairs languish.  And while they were taking more out of our pockets at the pump to fund the Transportation Trust Fund, they were simultaneously siphoning $861 out of it to pay for their pet projects,” said Hogan.  Maryland law stipulates that gas taxes are to fund the Transportation Trust Fund and are not to be commingled with general revenue funds. 

 
“There was absolutely no reason for Martin O’Malley and Anthony Brown to raid our Transportation Trust Fund.  In fact, prior to their $861 million heist, Maryland received $771 million in federal stimulus funding, which like the Transportation Trust Fund, was primarily earmarked for “shovel ready” infrastructure projects.  The incredible end result of this administration’s reckless spending and mismanagement was that instead of having a total of $1.6 billion in the bank to make vital repairs and upgrades to our roads and bridges, they spent the stimulus dollars and gas tax dollars elsewhere.  It’s time to roll back the O’Malley-Brown gas tax hikes and spend our infrastructure funds where they belong on roads and bridges.       
   

Monday, June 30, 2014

Rabid Bat Found On Third Street In Pocomoke

By Leanne Murray - email

POCOMOKE, Md. - A bat that was found last week in Worcester County, has tested positive for rabies. 

The Worcester County Health Department say a bat found on Third Street in Pocomoke on June 23rd, was rabid. The bat was found by a resident, who then reported it to authorities. The bat was sent for testing on June 26th, and results were returned on Monday, which showed it was positive for rabies. Officials are asking anyone who had contact with the bat, to contact the Worcester County Health Department at 410-632-1100, extension 1220. 

This was the first dead bat available for testing, and is the first rabid one this year. Anyone who finds a bat on the ground or somewhere else it isn't normally, particularly in the day time, is reminded by health officials to no touch it, and keep pets, and people, especially children, away from it. If possible, Officials say you should cover the animal with a bucket or box, and contact the law enforcement, or animal control to have it removed. 

Rabies is a disease that is spread through saliva, bites, or scratches from an infected animal. Officials say a person who has been bitten or exposed to the disease, can prevent it though proper treatment. If a bat gets inside of your home, authorities ask that you close it in one room, and contact the Worcester County Environmental Health program at 410-352-3234, your local police department or 911 to report the bat, so that it can be handled appropriately. 

Bats have small teeth, and officials say its not always possible to know if you've been bitten, for instance if you wake up and find a bat in the room, if a bat is found in a room with an unattended child, if a bat is found near a person with disabilities, or if a bat is found near a person who is intoxicated. Authorities are reminding residents that bats serve an important part in the environment, but if they enter a home, it could be a problem.

Contact the Nuisance Wildlife Hotline at 1-877-463-6497 for general information on safe exclusion of bats, or if you have one in your attic or another unoccupied area of your home. For more information about rabies, visit the Worcester County Health Department's website

WMDT.COM

"We Are Not For Sale" Delegate McDermott REflects on June Primary


 “We Are Not For Sale!”
by Delegate Mike McDermott

I want to thank you for your support: your prayers, your time, your donations, and the confidence of your vote. Tuesday marked the beginning of a turnaround for District 38 here on the lower shore. Although the turnout for the Primary was low, the final tally has given us all a reason to be very hopeful moving forward.

We were able to surpass our opponent in the vote count by 1200 votes in a district that was carved up, Gerrymandered, and tailor made just for him! These results have gone unreported by the local media.

The bottom line: our citizens are tired of politicians. They want folks who mirror their values and who are not afraid to stand up and speak out in Annapolis.

I have stressed how I view the 2014 election as being critical for Maryland. There is an opportunity for us to see significant change in how our state conducts the business of the people; and, when it comes to the lower shore, we should be encouraged by these results.

I ask you to thoughtfully consider how you can help secure a better future in Maryland for your children’s children. We must take back the districts that we can from these big government politicians whose success can be measured by the 80-plus tax and fee increases over the past 8-years. Those who have grown government by laying the burden on the backs of our grandchildren must be removed from office.

Maryland now has the dubious distinction of being the worst state in our country (#50) when it comes to economic growth. We have heard the O’Malley-Brown administration and Senator Jim Mathias proclaim to us, “jobs, jobs, jobs!” as their top priority. I have heard this from their lips at every forum and meeting we have attended for the past 8 years. Yet, while surrounding states have turned to the private sector and prospered, the O’Malley-Mathias team continue to believe that government holds the answers.

One would think that when this bunch stumbled upon their own breadcrumbs they would admit they did not have a clue how to lead us out of the mess they have created with their policies and legislation. It is clear that they do not know the way home.

Ronald Reagan could not have stated it better for Maryland when he proclaimed, "In this present crisis, government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem."

I look forward to your help in the coming months. We have a terrific slate of General Assembly candidates for our District 38 Delegate seats:
Delegate Charles Otto (38-A Somerset & Worcester),
Mayor Carl Anderton (38-B Wicomico) *current mayor of Delmar, and,
Mary Beth Carroza (38-C Wicomico & Worcester) *Eastern shore Rep. in the Ehrlich Administration, faithful public servant, and no stranger to local campaigns.

We are united in our conservative views of government and our strong desire to return common sense to the decision making process in Annapolis. Your help in the coming months will insure that we move forward in victory and carry your message back to Annapolis.

  • Continue to pray;
  • place signs and bumper stickers;
  • talk to your family, friends, and neighbors; and,
  • donate what you can to our campaigns.

The O’Malley-Brown administration, Senate President Mike Miller, and the liberal special interest crowd believe they can buy our Senate seat. Let’s make sure they know that our seat is not for sale!


Sunday, June 29, 2014

TIME MACHINE ... 1995, 1902, 1930, 1909, 1955, 1891.

(Reader-friendly viewing of news archive/historical archive material)

September, 1995
The Index-Journal (Greenwood, S.C.)

(Excerpts)

ALBANY, GA. (AP) -  The frustrated owner of the Albany Polecats slammed local fans and city officials when he announced that he's selling the minor league franchise.

(Owner Richard Holtzman...) wouldn't say who purchased the team, but the Daily Times in Salisbury, Md. reported today that the team was acquired by chicken magnate Frank Perdue and the Maryland Limited Baseball Partnership.

The team will relocate to Salisbury and become the Delmarva Shorebirds, a class A team, the newspaper said. The team has one year left with its contract with the Montreal Expos.

August, 1902
The Evening Times (Washington, D.C.)

"Sinner" Smack Breaks Up Religious Meeting

Pelted the Salvation Army Leaders With Coal, Stones, and Brickbacks

SNOW HILL, MD., AUG. 8. -  John Smack, alias "Sinner" Smack, of Berlin, is in Snow Hill jail for disturbing the meeting of a revival brigade of the Salvation Army, under Adjutant Kemp, of Philadelphia, in Berlin. The services were being conducted in a large tent, and as it was a very warm night, the upper flaps were rolled back immediately over Adjutant Kemp and his assistants, three of whom were women. Suddenly shouts went up from outside and simultaneously bricks, coal and heavy railroad spikes came as from the sky and fell about the heads and shoulders of the leaders of the meeting and many of the congregation, who were gathered close to the members of the Salvation brigade.

March, 1930
Salisbury Times

Motordom's Latest Creations Will Be Sensational Feature Of Auto Show This Week

Peninsula Wide Interest Being Manifested In Five Day Showing

MORE VARIETY THAN IN OTHER EXHIBITS

Five Pleasure Cars Are Being Shown For First Time, All Models Improved

Salisbury's great 1930 automobile show, in which intense interest is being manifested up and down the shore, opens at the First Regiment Armory Tuesday and continues for the remainder of the week until Saturday mid- night. 

A description of the 1930 exhibition of motordom's latest creations may justifiably command more superlatives than ever before. 

In many ways it will excell any of its predecessors. It will be larger, contain a more diversified exhibit and more interesting displays. In fact, the show this year, has been made an Eastern Shore event.

Five new cars, three of which have but recently been put upon the market, will make a debut at the local auto show. The front drive Cord, the Roosevelt straight-eight and the De Sota are of recent manufacture and with the Mormon and the Auburn will share interest with the old established cars.  

Twenty-one makes of pleasure cars will be displayed by nearly as many dealers and distributors. There will be thirty-two car exhibits on the first floor of'the huge armory. 

Six commercial types of motor trucks will be exhibited in connection with the show on the Armory plaza, South Division street and Circle avenue.

Even the motor cars of the types in popular daily use will appear at the show in very latest models, improved in appearance and traction efficiency. Some of the types to be shown have not yet been displayed in the sales- rooms. 

There is probably a greater change in the latest models of popular automobiles than in any one season of the past. Some makes have been changed to eight-cylinder models exclusively, others have added an eight- cylinder line to current types. But every motor car on the market has been changed within recent weeks to better meet the demand of the motoring public for beauty of design, comfort, speed and efficiency. 

These changes will be a sensational feature of the local show next week. Each exhibit will have an expert custodian to explain and illustrate the numerous improvements. |

Strickland's orchestra, famous Washington musical organization, will play at the show each evening beginning at 7 o'clock. The interior of the armory will be tastefully decorated. The auditorium will be converted into a proper setting for the elaborate displays of cars. 

The automobile dealers and the three Salisbury newspapers are sponsoring the show this year on a co-operative basis. 

Tickets for five days of the show may be procured from members of the East Side fire company or independent sellers. Tickets for a single night may be obtained at the box office of the armory.

March, 1909
The Washington Post

Crisfield Cuts Out Phones

Special to The Washington Post

Crisfield, Md., March 25. -  Because the Pocomoke Telephone Company, which was recently acquired by the Diamond State Telephone Company, has established higher rates, at the end of the present contract, about 90 percent of the subscribers at a mass meeting last night decided to have the service discontinued.

July, 1955 (Time Machine Archive)

After five months under construction Pocomoke City's new J.J. Newberry Store was set to open at the northeast corner of Market and Second Streets where the old Wilson Hotel once stood.  The new store would feature 40 major departments as well as a lunch counter, and a half-mile of air conditioned selling and display space with slim-line florescent lighting and incandescent spotlights.  The new Pocomoke Newberry's would be five times larger than its' old store located on the west side of Market Street and would have about 40 employees.

July, 1891
(Peninsula Enterprise- Accomac Court House)

The Fourth of July is to be celebrated at Mappsville, this year, in a manner worthy of the occasion. The programme recalling its glorious memories is to be an elaborate one and if not faultlessly rendered, the people of the town and vicinity having the matter in charge, will not be at fault for lack of interest in its success. Every demonstration, which patriotic impulses have suggested, will be brought into requisition, so far as practicable, with the resources at their command, and no thought save that, of our Country, will be allowed an expression among those participating whatever their diversity of opinions in other respects. The past and its glorious memories, not the present and living issues invite all who can to attend and every word or deed likely to mar the recollection of the glorious day has been jealously guarded against and will have the condemnation it merits on the occasion. To that end addresses alone have been invited which will reflect the patriotic sentiments of out forefathers and readings will only be permitted which breathe the spirit of liberty which the Fourth recalls. Everything, from the display of our nation's emblem in the light of the early morn to the exercises of the day, which close with fireworks and illuminations, will be intended only to honor our nation's birthday — and to such a feast all the citizens of the Eastern Shore whatever their condition or creed or politics are invited.


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!




Flying on for JMMB