Saturday, September 19, 2015
Photo Contest..
Amateur photographers..there's still time to submit photos in the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Annual Pass Photo Contest.
Get the details here:
http://www.fws.gov/uploadedFiles/Refuge%20Annual%20Photo%20contest%20NR.pdf
Friday, September 18, 2015
The Worcester House history?
From a Pocomoke Public Eye reader:
"Not a comment or an opinion but a question that some long time resident of Pocomoke may know. Just over the MD line in VA not far down from the Royal Farms (same side of the highway) is an antique store. I think it is called the Worcester House. It is a long, low building. On one end is a large walk in fireplace. Does anyone know when this building was built and what was its original purpose?"
Thursday, September 17, 2015
TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview
1888.. Fire sweeps Pocomoke City business district; 1892.. Virginia's Hog Island then and now; 1959.. Yacht Club queen is chosen; Circa 1920's-1980's.. recalling the small tobacco shop that, for many decades, was the Eastern Shore's music headquarters for records.
It's this Sunday right here at The Pocomoke Public Eye!
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It's this Sunday right here at The Pocomoke Public Eye!
Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers or something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about? Please send to tkforppe@yahoo.com .
When you're clicking around the Internet remember to check in with The Pocomoke Public Eye. We strive to be a worthwhile supplement to your choices.
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Beach Cleanup Day..
News Release Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
ANNUAL BEACH CLEANUP SLATED FOR SEPTEMBER 26, 2015
We invite you to join refuge staff and volunteers on Saturday, September 26 th for the Annual Beach Cleanup at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. Registration will begin at 8:00 am at the Hebert H. Bateman Educational and Administrative Center parking lot.
The annual beach cleanup is part of the International Coastal Cleanup sponsored by The Ocean Conservancy and Clean Virginia Waterways. Marine debris is a persistent problem that threatens ocean and coastal health. We all depend on the oceans: for food, recreation, transportation, and even for much of the oxygen we breathe. And we all have a responsibility to care for our oceans and the life they hold. Participating in a beach cleanup is a positive, active way to show you value clean oceans and waterways. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish in one day. You’ll be surprised at what you learn about yourself, your neighbors, and your environment.
Save the date! September 26 th, 2015. We hope you’ll join us. Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and wear comfortable footwear. Trash bags, gloves, and data sheets will be provided. The first 250 participants will receive a free T-shirt. In celebration of National Public Lands Day, the entrance fee for everyone will be waived.
This year’s beach cleanup is sponsored by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, The Ocean Conservancy, Clean Virginia Waterways, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, Chincoteague Natural History Association, Assateague Island National Seashore, Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce, Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, Town of Chincoteague, and Accomack County.
For more information contact the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge at 757-336- 6122 or email FW5RW_CNWR@fws.gov, or write to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, P.O. Box 62, Chincoteague, VA 23336.
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
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Click "comments" below..
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Sunday, September 13, 2015
TIME MACHINE ... 1884, 1950, 1976, 1917, 1893.
"Friendliest Town On The Eastern Shore." Our tradition runs deep. Excerpt from a letter to the editor from a visitor to Newtown, (former name of Pocomoke City) published in the Baltimore Sun, April 28,1847.
This place (Newtown) is a pretty snug little village, containing about 500 clever and hospitable inhabitants; it has good wide streets, quite clear of that "eye sore," known mostly over the Peninsula by the name of "deep sand"; the houses, though built of frame, are generally built substantially and with some discretion and taste; there are two neat, new, and quite handsome frame churches in it; as for the merchants of the place, suffice it to state that they are very clever and hospitable. F. Mezick, Esq., the landlord with whom I stopped, and his very obliging and jolly assistant, are richly deserving of a passing notice, for the good treatment and the extension of the many civilities to "the stranger."
(Reader-friendly viewing of news archives/historical archives material)
August, 1884..
Footnotes: The term "drummer" meant salesman.
When the case was being heard in court in October the sudden death of a juror resulted in postponement of proceedings until a new jury could be be seated. The case was concluded in November with Mills being sentenced to eight years in prison.
(From a September, 2000 "Yesteryears" column in the Somerset Herald)
1950 ... The formal opening of the new State road between Marion and Westover, completing a modern highway from Crisfield to Route 13 was scheduled for Saturday, September 2nd, when Governor William Preston Lane, accompanied by a number of newspapermen from the Eastern Shore, would cut the ribbon crossing the highway at the Marion end of the road. The Crisfield American Legion band was scheduled to appear at the opening, along with many citizens, representatives of local organizations and businessmen.
June, 1976
(The Salisbury Times)
Father And Son To Head Clubs
SNOW HILL- Father and son will become presidents of their Rotary Clubs at a joint meeting of the Snow Hill and Pocomoke City clubs Wednesday night.
The event will be at the Nassawango Country Club.
William G. Kirbin, Jr., Snow Hill attorney, will become president of that club succeeding Ninnian Beal.
His son, William H. Kirbin, editor of the Worcester County Messenger, will become president of the Pocomoke City club. He will succeed Thomas Ashby.
July, 1917
Richmond Times-Dispatch
The Wallops Island Oyster Company is the name of a new concern chartered and organized at Chincoteague Island with $7,500 capital stock. The company will plant, grow and catch oysters for the markets.
September, 1893..
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This place (Newtown) is a pretty snug little village, containing about 500 clever and hospitable inhabitants; it has good wide streets, quite clear of that "eye sore," known mostly over the Peninsula by the name of "deep sand"; the houses, though built of frame, are generally built substantially and with some discretion and taste; there are two neat, new, and quite handsome frame churches in it; as for the merchants of the place, suffice it to state that they are very clever and hospitable. F. Mezick, Esq., the landlord with whom I stopped, and his very obliging and jolly assistant, are richly deserving of a passing notice, for the good treatment and the extension of the many civilities to "the stranger."
(Reader-friendly viewing of news archives/historical archives material)
August, 1884..
The Denton Journal
Footnotes: The term "drummer" meant salesman.
When the case was being heard in court in October the sudden death of a juror resulted in postponement of proceedings until a new jury could be be seated. The case was concluded in November with Mills being sentenced to eight years in prison.
(From a September, 2000 "Yesteryears" column in the Somerset Herald)
1950 ... The formal opening of the new State road between Marion and Westover, completing a modern highway from Crisfield to Route 13 was scheduled for Saturday, September 2nd, when Governor William Preston Lane, accompanied by a number of newspapermen from the Eastern Shore, would cut the ribbon crossing the highway at the Marion end of the road. The Crisfield American Legion band was scheduled to appear at the opening, along with many citizens, representatives of local organizations and businessmen.
June, 1976
(The Salisbury Times)
Father And Son To Head Clubs
SNOW HILL- Father and son will become presidents of their Rotary Clubs at a joint meeting of the Snow Hill and Pocomoke City clubs Wednesday night.
The event will be at the Nassawango Country Club.
William G. Kirbin, Jr., Snow Hill attorney, will become president of that club succeeding Ninnian Beal.
His son, William H. Kirbin, editor of the Worcester County Messenger, will become president of the Pocomoke City club. He will succeed Thomas Ashby.
July, 1917
Richmond Times-Dispatch
The Wallops Island Oyster Company is the name of a new concern chartered and organized at Chincoteague Island with $7,500 capital stock. The company will plant, grow and catch oysters for the markets.
September, 1893..
Peninsula Enterprise
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Thursday, September 10, 2015
TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview.
1884.. Real life soap opera: The murder of Pocomoke City's Captain Davis; 1950.. Modern highway opens between Marion and Westover; 1976.. Rotary in Snow Hill and Pocomoke City headed by father and son; 1893.. (Ad) Services of 15 fashionable dressmakers offered by an expanding Pocomoke business; 1917.. Big news from the Wallops Island area. What's going on?
It's this Sunday right here at The Pocomoke Public Eye!
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It's this Sunday right here at The Pocomoke Public Eye!
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Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Police Chief Named..
(from WBOC.com)
Pocomoke City Officials Introduce New Police Chief
Posted: Sep 09, 2015 4:45 PM EDT
POCOMOKE CITY, Md. – The Town of Pocomoke City is getting ready to welcome a new police chief, months after the controversial firing of its previous chief.
William “Bill” Harden of Delmar tells WBOC he will begin the job on or around October 1.
Pocomoke City Manager Ernie Crofoot introduced Harden at Tuesday night's meeting. Crofoot said he was selected from eight candidates.
Harden’s previous employment includes 25 years with the Maryland State Police. He also served as a courtroom bailiff in Wicomico County and as an internal affairs investigator at the Wicomico County Detention Center.
Harden says he hopes to make the Pocomoke City Police Department the best in the country in spite of its recent turmoil.
"I understand and I have internalized what some of the issues are with Pocomoke,” he said in an exclusive interview Wednesday. “My job is to be the police chief. I'm not there to run the county council, I mean the city council, anything like that. I'm interested in running the Pocomoke City Police Department."
POCOMOKETOBERFEST..
Pocomoketoberfest is Back! Saturday, September 26th in Cypress Park.
Early Bird Tickets are now availalbe for Pocomoketoberfest through September 18th.
Save $10 on admission! Stop by the Chamber office in Pocomoke or purchase them online:
http://www.eventbrite.com/e/pocomoketoberfest-tickets-18331274335
Visit Pocomoketoberfest.com for additional information!
Early Bird Tickets are now availalbe for Pocomoketoberfest through September 18th.
Save $10 on admission! Stop by the Chamber office in Pocomoke or purchase them online:
http://www.eventbrite.com/e/pocomoketoberfest-tickets-18331274335
Visit Pocomoketoberfest.com for additional information!
Holiday Patrol Results..
Troopers Labor Throughout State Yielded Positive Results
(PIKESVILLE, MD) – The Labor Day weekend efforts of the Maryland State Police had a positive effect on reducing crashes and keeping the public safe to enjoy the last holiday of summer.
Preliminary information indicates from September 4 through September 7, 2015, troopers made approximately 8,075 traffic stops. They issued 5,493 citations and 4,720 warnings. There were 126 drunk driving arrests and 866 repair orders issued for defective vehicle equipment.
In support of the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, S.P.I.D.R.E., a full-time drunk driving enforcement team, was out this weekend in areas of Prince George’s County where drunk drivers and drunk driving crashes are known to be prevalent. The team arrested 20 impaired drivers and issued over 120 citations. Five of those drivers arrested were repeat offenders.
The traffic enforcement efforts of the Maryland State Police led to criminal violations as well. Troopers made 65 arrests and an additional 75 wanted people were arrested on outstanding criminal warrants.
Troopers assigned to the Southern Maryland and Eastern Shore regions worked the Operation SHOWBOAT initiative and inundated the Route 50 corridor from the Chesapeake Bay to Ocean City. Operation Millipede enforcement efforts placed troopers along the entire I-95/I-495 corridor from the Delaware to Virginia state lines. Both operations successfully contributed to highway safety this weekend. During these initiatives there were no fatal or serious crashes.
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
Citizens Help Is Asked.
"If you See Something Say Something"
REPORT SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY
Maryland's Natural Resources Police
are taking an active role in combating terrorism in the State of Maryland.
You too can help by reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement personnel.
The following could be indicators of potential terrorist activity:
- Suspicious attempts to buy or charter vessels using large cash payments.
- Vessels operating at night without running lights.
- Loading or unloading activity dockside at unusual hours.
- Immediate modifications or repairs to vessels demanded without regard to cost.
- Communications between a boat and shore by unusual means (lights, flags, etc.).
- Vessels riding excessively low in the water.
- Improper or false registration numbers.
- Suspicious activity around large commercial vessels (freighters, tankers, etc.) including off-loading of persons and packages on to small boats.
- Unusual diving activity around vessels, wharfs, bridges, dams, etc.
- Abandoned or unattended vessels or vehicles in or near unusual locations or near key facilities or public areas.
- Suspicious filming activity near public or key facilities.
- The throwing or recovering of items into/onto the waterways or shoreline.
Contact Maryland Natural Resources Police
at 800-628-9944
or
VHF Channel 16
Hail Maryland Natural Resources Police
Sunday, September 6, 2015
TIME MACHINE ... 1993, 1915, 1886, 1936, 1943.
"Friendliest Town On The Eastern Shore." Our tradition runs deep. Excerpt from a letter to the editor from a visitor to Newtown, (former name of Pocomoke City) published in the Baltimore Sun, April 28,1847.
This place (Newtown) is a pretty snug little village, containing about 500 clever and hospitable inhabitants; it has good wide streets, quite clear of that "eye sore," known mostly over the Peninsula by the name of "deep sand"; the houses, though built of frame, are generally built substantially and with some discretion and taste; there are two neat, new, and quite handsome frame churches in it; as for the merchants of the place, suffice it to state that they are very clever and hospitable. F. Mezick, Esq., the landlord with whom I stopped, and his very obliging and jolly assistant, are richly deserving of a passing notice, for the good treatment and the extension of the many civilities to "the stranger."
(Reader-friendly viewing of news archives/historical archives material)
September, 1993..
Footnote:
Although Ocean City received 2.8 inches of rain from the storm, Emily remained offshore and weakened .
(weather.wikia.com)
Emily was the fifth named storm, first hurricane, and only major hurricane of the 1993 Atlantic hurricane season. Emily formed on August 22 in the Atlantic Ocean well away from any land areas. Emily moved northwest, and was slow to attain tropical storm status, becoming a tropical storm on August 25. Emily briefly became a hurricane on August 26 as it moved to the southwest. Emily quickly weakened back to a tropical storm, later regained hurricane status, and moved generally west-northwest towards the coast of North Carolina. Emily attained Category 3 status just offshore the Outer Banks of North Carolina before turning east, southeast, and south where it weakened to a tropical storm once again. Emily then moved northeast and east, where it dissipated on September 6.
Emily caused $35,000,000 (1993 USD) in damage and killed 3 people, all directly.
January 1915 (Time Machine archive)
What may have started as a routine overnight boarding for passengers on the Chesapeake Bay steamer "Maryland" from departure points along the Pocomoke River and other lower Eastern Shore locations ended in a harrowing experience. After crossing the bay en route to Baltimore the steamer caught fire. Most of the passengers were in their berths at the time. Some of the frightened passengers donned life belts and jumped into the icy bay waters attempting to swim ashore. Two night liners from Norfolk to Baltimore arrived promptly to offer assistance and other smaller boats soon were on the scene. The steamer carried 76 passengers and a crew of 32. All were safely accounted for with apparently no serious injuries. The steamer was beached at the mouth of the Magothy River and burned to the water's edge. In addition to $10,000 loss in cargo the value of passengers' personal possessions was expected to reach a high mark. The steamer's value was placed at $120,000.
August, 1936
Cumberland Evening Times (Cumberland, Md.)
(Excerpts)
POCOMOKE CITY TOPS STATES IN RETAIL SALES
Washington. Aug 25. (AP)- The bureau of foreign and domestic commerce reported today that the municipality of Pocomoke City had a per capita of retail sales of $699 in 1933, the highest in Maryland and triple that of the national average.
The average per capita sales for the United States was $204, and for Maryland $236.
Towns over 2500 population in Maryland had per capita sales of $318, while the average per capita for the remainder of the state was $113.
In most of the cities and counties in Maryland the per capita retail sales were shown to be well above the national average of $204.
September, 1886..
May, 1943..
Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers or something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about? Please send to tkforppe@yahoo.com .
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This place (Newtown) is a pretty snug little village, containing about 500 clever and hospitable inhabitants; it has good wide streets, quite clear of that "eye sore," known mostly over the Peninsula by the name of "deep sand"; the houses, though built of frame, are generally built substantially and with some discretion and taste; there are two neat, new, and quite handsome frame churches in it; as for the merchants of the place, suffice it to state that they are very clever and hospitable. F. Mezick, Esq., the landlord with whom I stopped, and his very obliging and jolly assistant, are richly deserving of a passing notice, for the good treatment and the extension of the many civilities to "the stranger."
(Reader-friendly viewing of news archives/historical archives material)
September, 1993..
The Gettysburg Times (Gettysburg, Pa.)
Footnote:
Although Ocean City received 2.8 inches of rain from the storm, Emily remained offshore and weakened .
(weather.wikia.com)
Emily was the fifth named storm, first hurricane, and only major hurricane of the 1993 Atlantic hurricane season. Emily formed on August 22 in the Atlantic Ocean well away from any land areas. Emily moved northwest, and was slow to attain tropical storm status, becoming a tropical storm on August 25. Emily briefly became a hurricane on August 26 as it moved to the southwest. Emily quickly weakened back to a tropical storm, later regained hurricane status, and moved generally west-northwest towards the coast of North Carolina. Emily attained Category 3 status just offshore the Outer Banks of North Carolina before turning east, southeast, and south where it weakened to a tropical storm once again. Emily then moved northeast and east, where it dissipated on September 6.
Emily caused $35,000,000 (1993 USD) in damage and killed 3 people, all directly.
January 1915 (Time Machine archive)
What may have started as a routine overnight boarding for passengers on the Chesapeake Bay steamer "Maryland" from departure points along the Pocomoke River and other lower Eastern Shore locations ended in a harrowing experience. After crossing the bay en route to Baltimore the steamer caught fire. Most of the passengers were in their berths at the time. Some of the frightened passengers donned life belts and jumped into the icy bay waters attempting to swim ashore. Two night liners from Norfolk to Baltimore arrived promptly to offer assistance and other smaller boats soon were on the scene. The steamer carried 76 passengers and a crew of 32. All were safely accounted for with apparently no serious injuries. The steamer was beached at the mouth of the Magothy River and burned to the water's edge. In addition to $10,000 loss in cargo the value of passengers' personal possessions was expected to reach a high mark. The steamer's value was placed at $120,000.
August, 1936
Cumberland Evening Times (Cumberland, Md.)
(Excerpts)
POCOMOKE CITY TOPS STATES IN RETAIL SALES
Washington. Aug 25. (AP)- The bureau of foreign and domestic commerce reported today that the municipality of Pocomoke City had a per capita of retail sales of $699 in 1933, the highest in Maryland and triple that of the national average.
The average per capita sales for the United States was $204, and for Maryland $236.
Towns over 2500 population in Maryland had per capita sales of $318, while the average per capita for the remainder of the state was $113.
In most of the cities and counties in Maryland the per capita retail sales were shown to be well above the national average of $204.
September, 1886..
Peninsula Enterprise (Accomac)
May, 1943..
Salisbury Times
Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers or something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about? Please send to tkforppe@yahoo.com .
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Saturday, September 5, 2015
Holiday Traffic..
Troopers Anticipate Higher Traffic Volume This Labor Day Weekend
(PIKESVILLE, MD) –With more economical gas prices this Labor Day weekend, troopers expect an increase in vehicle traffic on Maryland roads.
As Labor Day approaches, the Maryland State Police prepare statewide for an increase in traffic. Troopers remind motorists the most important objective while traveling is to arrive safely. The best ways to accomplish this are to know before you go, remove distractions from the vehicle, and never drink and drive.
Troopers will also be conducting high visibility traffic enforcement. Operations SHOWBOAT (SHOre-Wide Bullseye On Aggressive Traffic) and Millipede both will focus on aggressive driving, crash reduction, and impaired driving. Operation SHOWBOAT will concentrate its efforts on U.S. Route 50 from Anne Arundel County to Ocean City and U.S. Route 13 in Wicomico, Somerset, and Worcester counties. Operation Millipede will focus its efforts on I-95 from the Delaware Line to the Virginia Line.
These high visibility enforcement efforts are to reduce the number of aggressive driving motor vehicle crashes in which speed, alcohol and other driving violations are contributing factors to crashes on Maryland roads.
Thursday, September 3, 2015
TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview.
1993.. Lower Eastern Shore reacts as storm "Emily" approaches; 1915.. Passengers on bay steamer "Maryland" survive harrowing experience; 1886.. Earthquake shocks reported throughout Eastern Shore of Virginia; 1936.. Report says Pocomoke City led state in 1933 per capita retail sales. 1943.. Local ad for "Spur." What was it?
It's this Sunday right here at The Pocomoke Public Eye!
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It's this Sunday right here at The Pocomoke Public Eye!
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Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Tribute From Fire Department.
Our Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Department's web page has a nice tribute to its longtime member Marion Butler, Sr., who passed away last weekend.
Take a look: http://www.pocomokefire.com/
When you're clicking around the Internet remember to check in with The Pocomoke Public Eye. We strive to be a worthwhile supplement to your choices.
Take a look: http://www.pocomokefire.com/
Marion Butler, Sr., (center)
When you're clicking around the Internet remember to check in with The Pocomoke Public Eye. We strive to be a worthwhile supplement to your choices.
Monday, August 31, 2015
Pocomoke Burglary Arrests.
Two charged in burglary at Pocomoke Friendly's.
Info at:
http://www.wboc.com/story/29923928/pair-charged-with-burglarizing-restaurant-in-pocomoke
Info at:
http://www.wboc.com/story/29923928/pair-charged-with-burglarizing-restaurant-in-pocomoke
Historic Parksley Building, Then And Now.
Parksley Hotel circa 1909
The Parksley Hotel was another place where the traveling public was always welcome. It was in easy walking distance to the railroad station, the business district, churches, post office and other sites. In years gone by traveling salesmen made it one of their stopovers on a trip through the Eastern Shore.
(Above picture and text courtesy Eastern Shore Public Library, Accomac)
On this past Sunday's Time Machine posting we noted: Several years ago there was on-going work at the Parksley Hotel structure to convert it into Virginia's first "green friendly" Bed and Breakfast, and it was to be called the Parksley Hotel General Store with the store occupying the lobby area. Anyone know the current status?
(UPDATE)
A Pocomoke Public Eye reader sent in a comment that the building is for sale. Here it is as pictured on a real estate site:
Former Parksley Hotel Today
When you're clicking around the Internet remember to check in with The Pocomoke Public Eye. We strive to be a worthwhile supplement to your choices.
Pocomoke Man Weekend Crash Victim.
(delmarvanow.com)
A 26-year-old Pocomoke City man died in a single-vehicle crash on Route 113 between Snow Hill and Pocomoke City, Maryland State Police said.
Kyle Barton Brittingham was driving south on Route 113 north of Betheden Church Road just before 8:48 p.m., police said.
A preliminary investigation shows his 2006 Jeep Wrangler traveled onto the shoulder for an unknown reason and continued southbound, police said. It then went across both travel lanes and into the median, then overturned several times with the driver being ejected, police said.
Police said Brittingham wasn’t wearing a seat belt and alcohol is believed to be a factor. He was pronounced dead at Peninsula Regional Medical Center .
The investigation is continuing.
Sunday, August 30, 2015
Marion Butler Sr.'s Passing.
A pillar of the Pocomoke City community for decades, Marion Butler Sr., passed away on Saturday, 8/29. He'll be remembered for his passion in serving with the Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company, as well as for his community leadership as a former mayor, city council member, and Worcester County Board Of Education member. He had recently celebrated his 90th birthday.
The Holloway Funeral Home of Pocomoke City is handling arrangements.
The Holloway Funeral Home of Pocomoke City is handling arrangements.
Interview Given On Pocomoke Council Meetings.
Interim City Manager for Pocomoke City, Ernie Crowfoot, spoke to a media reporter regarding alleged closed city council meetings that some say related to former police chief Kelvin Sewell's termination.
Video and transcript:
http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=14588
Video and transcript:
http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=14588
TIME MACHINE ... 1920, 1959, 1849, 1909, 1941, 1905.
"Friendliest Town On The Eastern Shore." Our tradition runs deep. Excerpt from a letter to the editor from a visitor to Newtown, (former name of Pocomoke City) published in the Baltimore Sun, April 28,1847.
This place (Newtown) is a pretty snug little village, containing about 500 clever and hospitable inhabitants; it has good wide streets, quite clear of that "eye sore," known mostly over the Peninsula by the name of "deep sand"; the houses, though built of frame, are generally built substantially and with some discretion and taste; there are two neat, new, and quite handsome frame churches in it; as for the merchants of the place, suffice it to state that they are very clever and hospitable. F. Mezick, Esq., the landlord with whom I stopped, and his very obliging and jolly assistant, are richly deserving of a passing notice, for the good treatment and the extension of the many civilities to "the stranger."
(Reader-friendly viewing of news archives/historical archives material)
April, 1920..
March, 1959
The Crisfield Post
NEW NEWSPAPER
POCOMOKE CITY- The new "Pocomoke Progress" newspaper made its appearance here last Thursday morning. The new publication has business and editorial offices here, with George N. McMath , President and Editor. He is also President and publisher of the "Eastern Shore News" at Onancock, in which the new Pocomoke periodical is being printed.
October, 1849
The Baltimore Sun
Destructive Storm on the Eastern Shore:
October 12, 1849:
A hurricane swept over a part of Worcester county on Saturday last, the most disastrous that has visited that section within the memory of the oldest man. Houses , barns, fences, granaries, bridges, &c., were but playthings of the elements and the loss sustained by many of our citizens is serious indeed. John H. Allen and John S. Jones, of Sandy Hill, had their granaries, situated at the junction of Crockle Creek with the bay, containing more than 2000 bushels of corn, blown over into the creek where both will prove to be total loss. A man named Joseph Cherrix , in charge of the granary, is missing and is supposed to have been drowned by the disaster. A dwelling on the farm of George Bishop, Esq., near Sandy Hill , was greatly damaged by a large tree being blown against it, knocking the chimney down. The barn on the farm occupied by Thomas Reed, near Sandy Hill, was also destroyed by the storm. The kitchen shed of Mrs. Catherine Selby, occupied by her servants, was blown over. On the farm of Mrs. Jones, near Girdletree Hill, not only the dwelling, but all the out buildings were blown over. There are other particulars and other losses we have yet been unable to collect with certainty . The fences and bridges shared the common fate and the roads in the lower part of the county are impassable.
The storm seemed to be most destructive in the neighborhood of Sandy Hill.
Footnote: Sandy Hill was the former name of Stockton.
Circa 1909.. Parksley Hotel
The Parksley Hotel was another place where the traveling public was always welcome. It was in easy walking distance to the railroad station, the business district, churches, post office and other sites. In years gone by traveling salesmen made it one of their stopovers on a trip through the Eastern Shore.
Footnote: Several years ago there was on-going work at the Parksley Hotel structure to convert it into Virginia's first "green friendly" Bed and Breakfast, and it was to be called the Parksley Hotel General Store with the store occupying the lobby area. Anyone know the current status?
February, 1941(Time Machine archive)
A "Blood Donors Club" was organized by 40 Pocomoke City residents. Members would voluntarily donate blood when lives of those in need of blood were at stake. The club was one of the first of it's kind in the state.
September, 1905.. Amusements and other ads in The Washington Post.
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This place (Newtown) is a pretty snug little village, containing about 500 clever and hospitable inhabitants; it has good wide streets, quite clear of that "eye sore," known mostly over the Peninsula by the name of "deep sand"; the houses, though built of frame, are generally built substantially and with some discretion and taste; there are two neat, new, and quite handsome frame churches in it; as for the merchants of the place, suffice it to state that they are very clever and hospitable. F. Mezick, Esq., the landlord with whom I stopped, and his very obliging and jolly assistant, are richly deserving of a passing notice, for the good treatment and the extension of the many civilities to "the stranger."
(Reader-friendly viewing of news archives/historical archives material)
April, 1920..
The Washington Times (Washington, D.C.)
March, 1959
The Crisfield Post
NEW NEWSPAPER
POCOMOKE CITY- The new "Pocomoke Progress" newspaper made its appearance here last Thursday morning. The new publication has business and editorial offices here, with George N. McMath , President and Editor. He is also President and publisher of the "Eastern Shore News" at Onancock, in which the new Pocomoke periodical is being printed.
October, 1849
The Baltimore Sun
Destructive Storm on the Eastern Shore:
October 12, 1849:
A hurricane swept over a part of Worcester county on Saturday last, the most disastrous that has visited that section within the memory of the oldest man. Houses , barns, fences, granaries, bridges, &c., were but playthings of the elements and the loss sustained by many of our citizens is serious indeed. John H. Allen and John S. Jones, of Sandy Hill, had their granaries, situated at the junction of Crockle Creek with the bay, containing more than 2000 bushels of corn, blown over into the creek where both will prove to be total loss. A man named Joseph Cherrix , in charge of the granary, is missing and is supposed to have been drowned by the disaster. A dwelling on the farm of George Bishop, Esq., near Sandy Hill , was greatly damaged by a large tree being blown against it, knocking the chimney down. The barn on the farm occupied by Thomas Reed, near Sandy Hill, was also destroyed by the storm. The kitchen shed of Mrs. Catherine Selby, occupied by her servants, was blown over. On the farm of Mrs. Jones, near Girdletree Hill, not only the dwelling, but all the out buildings were blown over. There are other particulars and other losses we have yet been unable to collect with certainty . The fences and bridges shared the common fate and the roads in the lower part of the county are impassable.
The storm seemed to be most destructive in the neighborhood of Sandy Hill.
Footnote: Sandy Hill was the former name of Stockton.
Circa 1909.. Parksley Hotel
The Parksley Hotel was another place where the traveling public was always welcome. It was in easy walking distance to the railroad station, the business district, churches, post office and other sites. In years gone by traveling salesmen made it one of their stopovers on a trip through the Eastern Shore.
(Picture and text: Eastern Shore Public Library, Accomac)
Footnote: Several years ago there was on-going work at the Parksley Hotel structure to convert it into Virginia's first "green friendly" Bed and Breakfast, and it was to be called the Parksley Hotel General Store with the store occupying the lobby area. Anyone know the current status?
February, 1941(Time Machine archive)
A "Blood Donors Club" was organized by 40 Pocomoke City residents. Members would voluntarily donate blood when lives of those in need of blood were at stake. The club was one of the first of it's kind in the state.
September, 1905.. Amusements and other ads in The Washington Post.
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Thursday, August 27, 2015
TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview
1920.. Wicomico students hold daily school prayer for funding; 1959.. A new Pocomoke City newspaper debuts; 1849.. Details of fierce hurricane's damage in Worcester County; 1909.. (Picture) The Parksley Hotel; 1941.. Pocomoke residents organize a first of a kind club in Maryland; 1905.. Amusements and other ads in The Washington Post.
It's this Sunday right here at The Pocomoke Public Eye!
Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers or something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about? Please send to tkforppe@yahoo.com .
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It's this Sunday right here at The Pocomoke Public Eye!
Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers or something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about? Please send to tkforppe@yahoo.com .
When you're clicking around the Internet remember to check in with The Pocomoke Public Eye. We strive to be a worthwhile supplement to your choices.
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Accident Press Release
PPE UPDATE: The accident victim was identified as 64-year-old Worcester County resident Harrison Smith. It was reported that a medical situation may have contributed to the accident.
PRESS RELEASE
Pocomoke Police Department
1500 Market Street
Pocomoke, Md. 21851
410-957-1600
On August 23, 2015, at about 1:58PM, officers from the Pocomoke City Police Department responded to the area of Market Street and Tenth Street, in reference to a single vehicle collision, where the operator of the vehicle struck a telephone pole at that location as well as struck a fire hydrant a few streets prior. The only occupant of the vehicle was the operator. The operator of this vehicle was transported by EMS to PRMC for further evaluation and later died.
PPE post by tbayers
PRESS RELEASE
Pocomoke Police Department
1500 Market Street
Pocomoke, Md. 21851
410-957-1600
On August 23, 2015, at about 1:58PM, officers from the Pocomoke City Police Department responded to the area of Market Street and Tenth Street, in reference to a single vehicle collision, where the operator of the vehicle struck a telephone pole at that location as well as struck a fire hydrant a few streets prior. The only occupant of the vehicle was the operator. The operator of this vehicle was transported by EMS to PRMC for further evaluation and later died.
PPE post by tbayers
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
Monday, August 24, 2015
Pocomoke's "4th Friday" This Week!
Visit http://downtownpocomoke.com/
When you're clicking around the Internet remember to check in with The Pocomoke Public Eye. We strive to be a worthwhile supplement to your choices.
Sunday, August 23, 2015
TIME MACHINE ... 2004, 1941, 1911, 1951, 1890, 1895.
"Friendliest Town On The Eastern Shore." Our tradition runs deep. Excerpt from a letter to the editor from a visitor to Newtown, (former name of Pocomoke City) published in the Baltimore Sun, April 28,1847.
This place (Newtown) is a pretty snug little village, containing about 500 clever and hospitable inhabitants; it has good wide streets, quite clear of that "eye sore," known mostly over the Peninsula by the name of "deep sand"; the houses, though built of frame, are generally built substantially and with some discretion and taste; there are two neat, new, and quite handsome frame churches in it; as for the merchants of the place, suffice it to state that they are very clever and hospitable. F. Mezick, Esq., the landlord with whom I stopped, and his very obliging and jolly assistant, are richly deserving of a passing notice, for the good treatment and the extension of the many civilities to "the stranger."
(Reader-friendly viewing of news archives/historical archives material)
May, 2004
The Somerset Herald (Princess Anne)
(Excerpt)
Troops due home Friday
By Liz Holland
CRISFIELD — The 1229th Transportation Company will be greeted by high school bands, flag-waving citizens and yellow ribbons tied to every utility pole along Route 413 when they return to town Friday.
The National Guard unit —which has been serving in Iraq and Kuwait for more than a year — is expected to arrive in Crisfield between 5 and 6 p.m.
Once it reaches Crisfield, the bus will drive under an American flag hanging from the extended ladders of Crisfield and Princess Anne fire trucks.
From there, the bus will drive to the City Dock where one of the high school bands will play patriotic music, Mason said. After that it will proceed to the armory where members will be welcomed by the other high school bands.
Members will greet their families at the armory, but there won't be a welcome home party that night.
"They want to get home to their families, and we don't blame them" Mason said. Instead, Chamber members are planning a community picnic for Saturday, May 15, as the official celebration. The event will be held from 11 a:m. to 2 p.m. and is tentatively scheduled at Somers Cove Marina.
A year in review recap of a story from March, 1941..
Salisbury Times
December, 1911 (Time Machine Archive)
(The Evening Post- Frederick, Md.)
SUFFRAGETTE'S BATTLE HYMN
Women Instructed By Just Government League to Learn It.
The State Just Government League has decided upon a song as its "battle hymn." Copies of it have been distributed among the members and they have been instructed by the president, Mrs. Donald R. Hooker, to memorize it, to be sung at all public meetings of the league. It was written by Miss Marie C. Jones of Pocomoke City, Md., who is herself an ardent suffragist.
The hymn is sung to the tune of "Maryland My Maryland." It's general character may be judged by its first stanza, which is as follows:
Oh, listen to the joyful note,
In Maryland, My Maryland!
The women here will surely vote,
In Maryland, My Maryland!
In city, town, and country lea,
The women will be surely free,
And they shall vote, as you shall see,
In Maryland, My Maryland!
November, 1951..
(The Daily News- Frederick, Md.)
A Model Church
The Crisfield Md. Leader says
The Crisfield Md. Leader says that a prohibition church will be erected in that town and $600 has already been subscribed. The minister will preach in favor of prohibition party from the pulpit, advocate the party on the stump, manage prohibition conventions and primary meetings, and admit none to church membership except those who truly repent of affiliating with the other parties in the past and promise to henceforth and forever vote the prohibition ticket.
Circa 1885..
Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers or something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about? Please send to tkforppe@yahoo.com .
When you're clicking around the Internet remember to check in with The Pocomoke Public Eye. We strive to be a worthwhile supplement to your choices.
This place (Newtown) is a pretty snug little village, containing about 500 clever and hospitable inhabitants; it has good wide streets, quite clear of that "eye sore," known mostly over the Peninsula by the name of "deep sand"; the houses, though built of frame, are generally built substantially and with some discretion and taste; there are two neat, new, and quite handsome frame churches in it; as for the merchants of the place, suffice it to state that they are very clever and hospitable. F. Mezick, Esq., the landlord with whom I stopped, and his very obliging and jolly assistant, are richly deserving of a passing notice, for the good treatment and the extension of the many civilities to "the stranger."
(Reader-friendly viewing of news archives/historical archives material)
May, 2004
The Somerset Herald (Princess Anne)
(Excerpt)
Troops due home Friday
By Liz Holland
CRISFIELD — The 1229th Transportation Company will be greeted by high school bands, flag-waving citizens and yellow ribbons tied to every utility pole along Route 413 when they return to town Friday.
The National Guard unit —which has been serving in Iraq and Kuwait for more than a year — is expected to arrive in Crisfield between 5 and 6 p.m.
Plans for their homecoming will include an escort into town by local police and fire departments, led by Crisfield Chief Clarence Bell, said Valerie Mason of the Crisfield Chamber of Commerce.
Once it reaches Crisfield, the bus will drive under an American flag hanging from the extended ladders of Crisfield and Princess Anne fire trucks.
From there, the bus will drive to the City Dock where one of the high school bands will play patriotic music, Mason said. After that it will proceed to the armory where members will be welcomed by the other high school bands.
Members will greet their families at the armory, but there won't be a welcome home party that night.
"They want to get home to their families, and we don't blame them" Mason said. Instead, Chamber members are planning a community picnic for Saturday, May 15, as the official celebration. The event will be held from 11 a:m. to 2 p.m. and is tentatively scheduled at Somers Cove Marina.
A year in review recap of a story from March, 1941..
Salisbury Times
December, 1911 (Time Machine Archive)
(The Evening Post- Frederick, Md.)
SUFFRAGETTE'S BATTLE HYMN
Women Instructed By Just Government League to Learn It.
The State Just Government League has decided upon a song as its "battle hymn." Copies of it have been distributed among the members and they have been instructed by the president, Mrs. Donald R. Hooker, to memorize it, to be sung at all public meetings of the league. It was written by Miss Marie C. Jones of Pocomoke City, Md., who is herself an ardent suffragist.
The hymn is sung to the tune of "Maryland My Maryland." It's general character may be judged by its first stanza, which is as follows:
Oh, listen to the joyful note,
In Maryland, My Maryland!
The women here will surely vote,
In Maryland, My Maryland!
In city, town, and country lea,
The women will be surely free,
And they shall vote, as you shall see,
In Maryland, My Maryland!
November, 1951..
The Star Democrat, Easton
June, 1890 (Time Machine archive)
(The Daily News- Frederick, Md.)
A Model Church
The Crisfield Md. Leader says
The Crisfield Md. Leader says that a prohibition church will be erected in that town and $600 has already been subscribed. The minister will preach in favor of prohibition party from the pulpit, advocate the party on the stump, manage prohibition conventions and primary meetings, and admit none to church membership except those who truly repent of affiliating with the other parties in the past and promise to henceforth and forever vote the prohibition ticket.
Circa 1885..
Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers or something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about? Please send to tkforppe@yahoo.com .
When you're clicking around the Internet remember to check in with The Pocomoke Public Eye. We strive to be a worthwhile supplement to your choices.
Friday, August 21, 2015
Firing of Sewell was LEGAL
Courtesy of WMDT:
*** Update***
New information obtained by 47 ABC shows the June 29 firing of Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin Sewell was legal, disputing the claim made by councilmember Diane Downing that it was not.
In an August 3 interview with 47 ABC, Downing said that the vote to remove Sewell was a violation of the charter because the charter states only the city manager has power to fire the chief of police. Downing said that because former city manager Russell Blake was allegedly still in office on the day of the vote, the power to fire Sewell should have been his. However according to a memo that was sent by Blake to both the mayor and city council, Blake had officially retired days before the vote occurred.
The memo addressed June 26, 2015 reads, “I will be formally and officially retired from the position of City Manager as of 3:00 p.m. on this date.”
During the July 13 city council meeting, City Attorney Bill Hudson maintained the vote was legal, citing that Blake had already finished his term at the time of the vote therefore allowing the council to vote on personnel matters.
Despite the new evidence, Councilmember Downing still says she never received this memo, nor knew of its existence.
*** Update***
New information obtained by 47 ABC shows the June 29 firing of Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin Sewell was legal, disputing the claim made by councilmember Diane Downing that it was not.
In an August 3 interview with 47 ABC, Downing said that the vote to remove Sewell was a violation of the charter because the charter states only the city manager has power to fire the chief of police. Downing said that because former city manager Russell Blake was allegedly still in office on the day of the vote, the power to fire Sewell should have been his. However according to a memo that was sent by Blake to both the mayor and city council, Blake had officially retired days before the vote occurred.
The memo addressed June 26, 2015 reads, “I will be formally and officially retired from the position of City Manager as of 3:00 p.m. on this date.”
During the July 13 city council meeting, City Attorney Bill Hudson maintained the vote was legal, citing that Blake had already finished his term at the time of the vote therefore allowing the council to vote on personnel matters.
Despite the new evidence, Councilmember Downing still says she never received this memo, nor knew of its existence.
Second Complaint Filed..
(From WBOC.com)
ACLU Files Second Complaint Against Pocomoke City
Posted: Aug 20, 2015 8:40 PM EDTPOCOMOKE CITY, Md. – The American Civil Liberties Union of Maryland has filed a second complaint in a month against Pocomoke City officials for violations of the Maryland Open Meetings Act (MOMA).
The latest complaint concerns unannounced, closed meetings held by Town Officials in late June, during which the decision was made to fire Pocomoke’s former Police Chief, Kelvin Sewell. The complaint was filed with the Maryland Open Meetings Compliance Board on behalf of Stephen Janis, a reporter for The Real News Network, a Baltimore-based non-profit news organization.
As with the ACLU’s first complaint, which pertained to the media being barred from a Pocomoke Council meeting on July 13, this complaint again relates to Pocomoke City’s controversial firing of Sewell. At the time of the firing, no explanation was given for the town’s action, and many in the community were angry and upset. Pocomoke officials have so far remained silent about the process and basis upon which they arrived at their decision to terminate Chief Sewell.
Thursday, August 20, 2015
Missing Service Dog..
8/25/15 UPDATE:
http://www.wboc.com/story/29876692/lost-service-dog-found-in-pocomoke
(From WBOC.com)
POCOMOKE, MD – A California woman staying with family for several months in Pocomoke is desperately searching for her service dog that went missing Monday night.
http://www.wboc.com/story/29876692/lost-service-dog-found-in-pocomoke
(From WBOC.com)
Pocomoke Family Desperate to Find Missing Service Dog
Posted: Aug 20, 2015 4:53 PM EDTUpdated: Aug 20, 2015 6:31 PM EDT
POCOMOKE, MD – A California woman staying with family for several months in Pocomoke is desperately searching for her service dog that went missing Monday night.
Lady is a small 3 year-old Chihuahua with a black and tan coat. She was last seen running into a cornfield near New Bridge Rd. Teona Campbell, Lady’s owner, suffers from chronic epileptic seizures. She has up to five a week and says Lady is her lifeline.
"She'll growl first and then she'll jump on me and then pat me to notify me that I'm having one,” Campbell said. “Within seconds, I'll have it."
A facebook page called "Wheresladybaby" has been created for anyone who might have any information. The family is offering a reward as well. If you have information that might help Campbell locate Lady, please call 562-673-4053.
Just an idea for clarity
For obvious reasons the city of Pocomoke is unable to release details about exactly why Kelvin Sewell was fired as the chief of police since it is a personnel issue. Now I know the public wants to know exactly why he was fired and the former chief has told his side which in certain aspects does not line up with what has been said by a few others. An idea for Mr. Sewell and his lawyer what if to clear the air because he stated in an open meeting with the city Council asking why he was fired which in my opinion opened the door for the information to be released. What if a letter signed by Mr. Sewell and his lawyer submitted a letter to the city releasing them of all liability and authorizing the full disclosure of all information pertaining to him being fired. Mr. Sewell, this could be how you can clear the air and let the citizens know what really triggered the termination and end the divide in our city. I love my city, and this could potentially solve the problem. Let what is in the dark come to light and this way potentially all could be brought out with no liability on the city.
TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview.
2004.. Welcoming our local troops back from duty in Iqaq and Kuwait; 1941.. What brought some 20,000 to the Ocean City area in March?; 1911.. Pocomoke City women authors battle hymn for women's right to vote; 1951.. Work to start on the most spectacular part of the new Chesapeake Bay Bridge; 1890.. A prohibition church to be built in Crisfield; 1885.. Ad- Toothache Drops (you might be surprised to see the incrediants).
It's this Sunday right here at The Pocomoke Public Eye!
Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers or something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about? Please send to tkforppe@yahoo.com .
When you're clicking around the Internet remember to check in with The Pocomoke Public Eye. We strive to be a worthwhile supplement to your choices.
It's this Sunday right here at The Pocomoke Public Eye!
Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers or something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about? Please send to tkforppe@yahoo.com .
When you're clicking around the Internet remember to check in with The Pocomoke Public Eye. We strive to be a worthwhile supplement to your choices.
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