The Pocomoke Public Eye

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Pocomoke Crime Reports so far This Month

Websleuths Recognized in a Newsweek article! "Would Bloggers Have Cracked Chandra's Case?"

"Now, when I cover any high-profile crime, I make sure to check out Web Sleuths, an Internet forum for armchair detectives who analyze cases and post court filings."

Would Bloggers Have Cracked Chandra's Case? A reporter who covered 24-year-old intern Chandra Levy's death looks at a new book about the case—and shares where the mainstream media went wrong.

When Chandra Levy went missing in 2001, she left a road map to her body. The 24-year-old intern quit her gym the day before she disappeared and spent her last known moments searching online for jogging paths in the same Washington, D.C., park where she would ultimately be found dead. But right from the start, a combination of police incompetence and media obsession with the politician Levy was sleeping with derailed the investigation. Finding Chandra, a new book about the case by Washington Post reporters Sari Horwitz and Scott Higham, details a shocking series of blunders by the police, who failed to retrieve security-camera footage showing Levy's final departure from home and somehow were unaware of a pattern of similar attacks on other female joggers. Meanwhile, Horwitz and Higham recount, the press corps failed to ask smart questions, instead jockeying for scoops concerning the most intriguing suspect: congressman Gary Condit.

The failure of both the police and journalists to properly investigate the crime could have tragic consequences. It seems clear now that the culprit was Ingmar Guandique, who was arrested for the other assaults just weeks after Levy vanished. But he may well be acquitted at his upcoming trial. Even though Guandique has confessed to murdering Levy, no forensic evidence exists. Thirteen months went by before Levy's bones were found. The evidence was so eroded that the medical examiner couldn't even determine how Levy died.

I am not proud to say that I was one of the dozens of reporters who succumbed to herd behavior, staking out Condit's home and investigating the underbelly of the Washington party circuit in a vain search for dirt on the congressman. A Vanity Fair columnist suggested that Condit frequented sex parties at Middle Eastern embassies and arranged for foreigners to kidnap Levy into sex slavery. Cable-news personalities speculated that the congressman, who happened to own a motorcycle, hired the Hells Angels to kill Levy. The anti-Condit mob drowned out all dissenting voices. Of course, we know that Condit was not a murderer, but something much more mundane—a politician who cheated on his wife.

The summer of Chandra Levy seems like yesterday, though almost a decade has passed. I'd like to think I'm a better reporter now, less likely to follow the pack. More important, the media landscape has changed. Blogs barely existed in 2001. Now, when I cover any high-profile crime, I make sure to check out Web Sleuths, an Internet forum for armchair detectives who analyze cases and post court filings. When I followed the Duke lacrosse rape story, blogs—many written by people with expertise about North Carolina politics, the law, or even, say, protocol for forensic nurses collecting rape kits—were the best source for appropriately skeptical reporting. The herd mentality of the mainstream media still exists, but it is no longer in control of the narrative. That's a good thing.

Bloggers are unrestrained by the orthodoxies of the professional reporter. They don't need to follow the conventions of the 800-word newspaper story and can instead toss out an idea in two sentences that will nonetheless spur national discussion. They can ask questions without necessarily supplying an answer. Critically, bloggers also do not typically rely on official sources for information. Reporters and their anonymous sources both benefit from the relationship. Reporters get exclusive information, which earns them promotions; sources weave narratives that serve their interests. This corrupting symbiosis makes the reporter all too quick to take an official's word at face value.

In the Levy case, this dynamic was clearly at work. At routine press conferences, all that reporters wanted to hear about was Condit. This suited the police just fine because they didn't have the slightest idea what had happened to Levy. And so, even as they were careful to say he was not a suspect, police dished on Condit, suggesting repeatedly that when the congressman was pressed for information regarding Levy, he was shifty and uncooperative. In fact, as Horwitz and Higham reveal, Condit disclosed his relationship with Levy in his first interview with police, agreed to three more interviews, allowed a search of his apartment, and voluntarily supplied DNA. But press coverage at the time propagated police officials' incomplete portrayal.

The pack tendencies of journalists are still evident, but skeptical outsiders are now part of the conversation. Take the Duke case: as the mainstream press became consumed with the racial melodrama, several bloggers zeroed in on the facts. History professor K. C. Johnson launched a blog that questioned the accuser's story early on. As the case went on, he spent hundreds of hours investigating and posting factual analysis that dismantled the prosecution's case. Unrestrained by the limits imposed on traditional reporters by periodic deadlines, source relationships, and their neutral pose, Johnson acted as a real-time historian, compiling original source material. Meanwhile, even five months into the case, The New York Times published a credulous 5,700-word story relying far too heavily on prosecutors' claims. Liestoppers, a second grassroots blog focused on the Duke case, tore the Times's story to shreds, finding several errors.

If a congressman's mistress went missing today, the media firestorm might even be more intense than it was during the summer of 2001. The bizarre conspiracy theories might spread faster. But it also is far more likely that a citizen journalist would think to search public reports of other attacks within days of the disappearance and start connecting the dots. We now know what happened to Chandra Levy. But given the time that was wasted and the evidence that has been lost, it may be too late for justice. We will find out when Guandique's trial begins this October—nearly a decade after Levy first disappeared.

VIA: NEWSWEEK.com

www.websleuths.com

~ Tell Them This........

I am not confused, I'm just well mixed.

~ Robert Frost ~

BAKE SALE

Bake Sale Today

Sunday May 23, 2010

8:00 AM until 2:00 PM

Location: Ocean Deli

Proceeds go towards the Travis Birch Scholarship Fund

Travis, the 19 year old Chincoteague resident lost his life as a result of an automobile accident recently.

The goal for this weekends bake sales is to reach $1,000.

They're almost there..........let's help them complete their mission.

Traveling Circus Stops In Onancock

ONANCOCK -- The spectators at a circus focus on the performance. The performers at the traveling circus that arrived in town for three shows this week focused on the spectators.

"The audience forgets about the things going on in their lives," said Ringmaster Rebecca Ostroff. "They become the act. It's so close, so kinetic."

After several years without stopping on the Eastern Shore, the Lewis and Clark Circus returned Monday and Tuesday to a warm welcome at the Onancock School grounds despite cloudy, rainy skies.

All ages came out to enjoy the one-ring, European-style circus featuring acts like trapeze artists, acrobats, clowns and animal acts, all under a big yellow-and-red-striped tent.

Traditional circus fare including cotton candy, popcorn and funnel cakes, and a midway featuring a petting zoo, face painting and camel rides made for a circus experience reminiscent of bygone days.

While for some the circus marks a fun evening out, for performers like Ostroff, it is a lifestyle.

Ostroff began her performing career as a dancer in New York City. In 1986, a friend convinced her to go to the International All-Star Circus to try her hand at it.

"My friend said I could earn $450 in three days," she said. "That was a lot in those days."

Realizing circus work allowed her to fulfill her passion for dance, Ostroff was hooked.

"I decided to get a trapeze and join," she said. "I ran away with the circus officially in 1987."

Since then Ostroff and her husband have worked under many circuses, she as a trapeze and silkscreen artist, he as a live musician. Ostroff began with the Lewis and Clark Circus in 2004.

In March of this year, Ostroff took over as ringmaster of the show, "because I like to talk," she joked.

She says that while circuses have had to downsize, the experience is "similar to how it was in the old, old days."

This year's big top housed performances ranging from the lighthearted antics of Jose Jose, a clown with a zest for music, to breath-holding physical feats as one performer dangled from the top of the tent by only her teeth.

All in all, about 30 people travel with the circus.

"We're like a family. We are a family," said Ostroff, saying her favorite part is "when people come and they love it."

www.easternshorenews.com

Friday, May 21, 2010

Teen suspended for Rosary beads

"Gang related" Rosary beads?

Freedom of religion or a breach of school policy?

"They might as well suspend me for the rest of the year because I'm not taking them off," said Raymond Hosier, who turned 13 Thursday.

He's been wearing his purple Rosary beads every day since the start of this school year. It wasn't a problem, until Tuesday when the seventh grader says a school administrator at Oneida Middle School told him to take the beads off or tuck them in his shirt.

Raymond refused. Wednesday he was suspended.

It's not religion necessarily that's behind this. They were his brother's beads. Joey died five years ago. He was hit by an SUV while test riding Raymond's bike. Raymond saw the whole thing.

In addition, two weeks ago Raymond's Uncle Tom died from brain cancer. The 13-year-old says the beads represent the relatives he's lost.

"Beads are one method that gangs use to identify each other," Superintendent Eric Ely explained.

The district has had a blanket policy on beads for a few years now. Students can wear them, but they must be tucked under their shirt.

"We certainly understand any youngster's desire to commemorate something, but we also understand our need to maintain a safe environment," said Ely.

Raymond's mom Chantell supports her son all the way.

"To be honest, after having the meetings I just had to think it's even more ridiculous. We have freedom of speech and freedom of religion. This is his freedom of religion. I will take this as far as It needs to go," she said.

SCHOOL BUS IN JAPAN!!

SCHOOL BUS IN JAPAN

SCHOOL BUS IN INDIA

But which country do you call when you have a

technical problem with your computer?

Hat Tip; Kack

Mike McDermott; Hosting an evening of Italian Cuisine

Dear Fellow Patriot,

Our campaign for the House of Delegates is in full swing and growing daily. I have had many opportunities in the past months to bring our message of

Smaller, more efficient government;
Lower taxes, and a Business friendly environment;
Conservation that works for farmers, watermen, and the environment; and
Trusting that Marylander’s know what is best for their families.

The response has been tremendous! The people know what is at stake in this year’s election, and they are prepared to help and be engaged in campaigns that can make a difference. We have welcomed their outpouring of support with open arms.

On Thursday, June 17^th, we will be hosting an evening of Italian Cuisine at the Ocean Pines Community Center. I am asking you to sponsor a table for this event. The cost is $200.00 which includes 10 tickets for you to sell or give to others.(Please see attachment)

I have concentrated on budget friendly events so everyone can get involved, but I need your help for this event to be a success. Your partnership in this campaign is the only way to insure that I will have the opportunity to serve you and this district in Annapolis.

Our shared eastern shore values deserve to be heard. Please help me as I work to be your strong voice in Annapolis!

With Warmest Regards,

electmikemcdermott.com

Mike

www.electmikemcdermott.com
Help us send Mike to Annapolis!
Join us for an evening of Italian Cuisine (spaghetti)
at
Ocean Pines Community Center
239 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, MD
on
Thursday, June 17, 2010
5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

TICKET PRICES
Individual $25 / Table (10 tix) $200
Order tickets online at
www.electmikemcdermott.com
or return Reply Form below.

We are concentrating on budget-friendly events so everyone can get involved. I need your help for this event to be a success.

— Mike

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Reply Form
Please indicate your choice below:
I would like to purchase ______ $25 Individual Tickets.
Total Enclosed is $_______.
I would like to purchase ______ $200 Table of 10 Tickets.
Total Enclosed is $_______.
I cannot attend, but please accept my donation of $______.
Order tickets online at:
www.electmikemcdermott .com
OR
Please complete the following information:
Name: _________________________________________________
Address: _______________________________________________
_______________________________________________
Phone Number: __________________________________________
Email: __________________________________________________
Please make checks payable
and mail to:
Citizens to Elect Mike McDermott
217 Walnut Street
Pocomoke City, MD 21851
AUTHORITY: Citizens to Elect Mike McDermott. Craig Theobald, Treasurer.

Have a Little "Faith" (Amazing Dog)

This dog was born on Christmas Eve in the year 2002. He was born with 2 legs -

He of course could not walk when he was born. Even his mother did not want him.

His first owner also did not think that he could survive and he was thinking of 'putting him to sleep'.

But then, his present owner, Jude Stringfellow, met him and wanted to take care of him.

She became determined to teach and train this little dog to walk by himself.

She named him 'Faith'.

In the beginning, she put Faith on a surfboard to let him feel the movement.

Later she used peanut butter on a spoon as a lure and reward for him for standing up and jumping around.

Even the other dog at home encouraged him to walk.

Amazingly, only after 6 months, like a miracle,

Faith learned to balance on his hind legs and to jump to move forward.

After further training in the snow, he could now walk like a human being.

Faith loves to walk around now.

No matter where he goes, he attracts people to him.

He is fast becoming famous on the international scene and has appeared on various newspapers and TV shows.

There is now a book entitled 'With a Little Faith' being published about him.

He was even considered to appear in one of Harry Potter movies.

His present owner Jude Stringfellew has given up her teaching post and plans to take him around the world to preach that even without a perfect body, one can have a perfect soul'.

In life there are always undesirable things, so in order to feel better you just need to look at life from another direction.

I hope this message will bring fresh new ways of thinking to everyone

and that everyone will appreciate and be thankful for each beautiful day.

Faith is the continual demonstration of the strength and wonder of life.

Hat Tip; Eric

Prayers For Travis Birch Of Chincoteague, Virginia

UPDATE: Travis Birch died today May 21, 2010 at 12:35. Please continue to keep his family, friends and community in your prayers.

After hearing bits and pieces of a tragic vehicle accident that occurred last Saturday night it was brought to my attention through my facebook page that this indeed was a horrible accident.

Prayers are in great need for 19 year old Travis Birch and his family of Chincoteague, Virginia.

As of tonight Travis is in critical condition and suffering from severe brain damage. He does not respond to any commands.

Below is a list of drop off locations if you care to make a donation for Travis and his family.

Donation drop-offs

Chincoteague Locations:
Chincoteague Inn
H&H Pharmacy,
Bill's Seafood Rest.
Mr. Baldy's Rest.
Shore Stop
Steve's Mini Mart

Mainland locations:
Ocean Deli: Wallops
Royal Farms: Wallops

Bank locations:
PNC Bank
Charma Birch
FBO Travis Birch
Attn: Sandra Greenley
6402 Maddox Blvd.
Chincoteague, VA 23336

BAKE SALE TO BENEFIT TRAVIS BIRCH

Saturday May 22, 2010

8:00 AM until 2:00 PM

Location: Ocean Deli

ALL MONEY GOES TO THE BIRCH FAMILY

Mailing address for the Birch family is: David and Charma Birch

6500 Fletcher Lane, Chincoteague, Virginia 23336

If you are unable to send a donation please send prayers. Chincoteague is a very close community especially in times like these and your prayers for Travis and his family are deeply and greatly appreciated. A miracle is needed.

Man Shoots Himself After Being Wanted In Slaying Girlfriend

PARKSLEY — The suspect in a Hampton Roads-area homicide fatally shot himself Friday at a traffic stop on U.S. Route 13 here.

Clarence Justin Clayton, 29, of Nelsonia, was pronounced dead at the scene, Accomack County Sheriff Larry Giddens said.

Authorities had been searching for Clayton, who was driving a red 2006 Mercedes-Benz, since the Thursday night shooting of his former girlfriend in the city of Portsmouth.

The woman, Mary Jane C. Abad, 22, of Virginia Beach, had two young children and was three months pregnant, according to reports. She had been shot several times.

Giddens said Clayton was believed to be armed and dangerous and faced a charge of first-degree murder and a weapons charge. He also was charged with stealing the vehicle.

The vehicle was observed at 9:20 a.m. Friday on Nelsonia Road. Accomack deputies initiated a traffic stop on Lankford Highway.

Before they could converge on the vehicle, Clayton shot himself, Giddens said.

The incident took place near the highway’s intersection with Whites Neck Road.

Investigators from the Accomack County Sheriff’s Office and Detectives from the Portsmouth Police Department are currently processing the 2006 red Mercedes-Benz and surrounding area.

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted in this case by the Virginia Department of Transportation and Parksley Police Department.

http://www.easternshorenews.com/

Cats Live Easy Too

Remember the old saying "It's a dogs life"?

Well.................

What about cats?

2 Year Old Catches 20 lb. Fish With Barbie Fishing Pole

ST. FRANCIS, Minn. - A muskie, a two-year-old girl and a Barbie fishing pole combined for the greatest fishing story of the 2010 Minnesota walleye opener.

2-year-old Ella was fishing with her grandparents at Round Lake near Randall, Minnesota on Saturday when she reeled in the big one. Ella, who comes from a long line of anglers, had never caught a fish until Saturday.

She caught her first fish at Round Lake not with the star plastic lure on the Barbie fishing pole, but with a hook and worm.

"Ella had her sunfish on and she's reeling it in," her mom, Carrie Haag, said. "Here comes this big muskie that went and ate her sunfish. So I grabbed the pole and yelled for grandpa David."

Grandpa grabbed a net and soon they landed a 30-inch muskie weighing in at a little under 20 lbs -- a fish bigger than the fisherman who caught it. The Barbie fishing pole survived it all and little Ella was so excited, she said the first thing that came to her mind -- "I caught a shark."

After snapping a photo, the family snapped the line and let the muskie go.

The state record muskie according to the Minnesota DNR is 54 lbs and 56 inches, caught in 1957. That's about 34 lbs more than Ella's catch.

VISIT THE MAR-VA THEATER THIS WEEKEND

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US Military Gives OK For Offshore Wind Turbines

Wind turbines could co-exist with military activities off Virginia's coast depending on their locations, a Defense Department assessment has concluded.

Proponents of commercial wind power 12 miles or beyond Virginia's coast believe the giant turbines could ultimately provide 10 percent of the state's annual electricity demand and operate without incident in the military's busy seas.

"I look at this as a very positive thing," said Hank Giffin, a retired Navy vice admiral and a member of a coalition promoting offshore winds. "Initially there were a lot of people who were concerned the Navy would just say no."

Released Wednesday, the Department of Defense assessment looks at 25 tracts identified for optimum winds. The report identifies 18 tracts as compatible with military needs and rules as long as certain guidelines are met. They were not detailed in the report.

Other tracts were ruled out because they conflict with Navy activities.

The area is used to test drones and by helicopters that sweep the ocean surface with mine-detecting sleds. Wind-power advocates have said they will honor the military's concerns and not build where there are potential conflicts.

The wind industry fared better with the military than oil and gas proponents, who were told by the Pentagon that exploration 50 miles off the Virginia coast would interfere significantly with military operations.

Both industries have to contend with Naval Station Norfolk, the world's largest naval base, a NASA launch facility on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, and other military facilities that operate in Hampton Roads.

But submarines and most live munitions practices occur beyond the ideal area for wind turbines -- 12 to 25 miles offshore and on the continental shelf, where water depths are a relatively shallow 100 feet. The 222-square-mile area identified by the Interior Department's Minerals Management Service for wind energy is also much smaller than the 4,500 square miles identified off Virginia for offshore oil and gas areas.

The Defense Department report was released by the Virginia Offshore Wind Coalition. The Navy did not immediately respond to The Associated Press for comment. Some portions of the report, deemed classified, were not released.

The Navy has an interest in supporting renewable energy such as wind. It has set a goal of achieving 50 percent of its land-based energy needs from renewable sources by 2020.

"The Navy is willing to work with the offshore wind industry because they know the importance of it, and they're really enthusiastic for the opportunity to work with us," said Giffin, who is affiliated with the coalition.

The coalition has identified 25 leasing tracts that could generate 3,200 megawatts of offshore wind. Within two decades, 9,700 to 11,600 jobs could be created with the development off an offshore wind industry, a coalition study concluded.

Developers of what would be the nation's first offshore wind farm won federal approval in late April. Developers of the 130-turbine Cape Wind project off Massachusetts want to generate power by 2012.

Two energy companies have expressed interest in the Virginia tracts, which are not likely to be developed for five years or more.

www.shoredailynews.com

Charges Dropped In Cockfighting Case

ACCOMAC — Charges have been dropped against an Accomack County man who police alleged was involved in a cockfighting ring raided in April.

An Accomack General District Court judge said there wasn’t enough evidence to proceed with felony charges against Belarimino Bedoya Alvarez, 45, of Accomac. A county prosecutor then said he would discontinue the case.

Alvarez was charged with felony cockfighting after deputies responded to a complaint about chickens being fought in a wooded area behind the Perdue Farms Inc. processing plant.

Accomack Deputy John Spivey testified that he found roosters tied to trees and other signs of the illegal activity.

“I saw chicken feathers all over the ground and a blood-like substance in the dirt,” he said.

He said also that Alvarez was very cooperative and stated that he knew nothing about what was going on in the woods near his auto-repair business.

He said that none of the items and chickens recovered belonged to him and told the deputy to take them away.

As Spivey spoke with Alvarez, he said he saw three Hispanic men running out of the woods.

Along with the chickens, the officer found cages, knives that can be attached to the fighting chickens to enhance the injuries they can inflict, scales and a cockpit used for containing fighting roosters.

Defense attorney Carl Bundick said his client knew nothing of the illegal activity and asked that the charges be dismissed.

“There is no evidence that Mr. Alvarez participated or encouraged it,” he said.

“The only path to the area was through an area that the defendant identified as his property,” said Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Matthew Brenner.

“It would be virtually impossible for him to not know what was going on there. There is an obvious connection there.”

“A misdemeanor has been shown, but not a felony,” said Judge Gordon Vincent.

”The Commonwealth has shown that the defendant authorized it. To elevate it to the level of a felony, the Commonwealth has to have probable cause that the knives were used. There is no evidence that a knife was used in the fighting of the cocks.”

The fighting cocks that were seized by the police on April 11 were euthanized after being held at the animal control facility for 10 days.

www.easternshorenews.com

Darick Walker Executed In Virginia

May 20, 2010
10:07 P.M.

JARRATT -- Darick Demorris Walker was executed by injection tonight for the separate killings of two Richmond men.

Walker, 37, was pronounced dead at 9:24 p.m., said Larry Traylor, spokesman for the Virginia Department of Corrections. It was the second execution in the state this year and the 107th since the U.S. Supreme Court allowed executions to resume in 1976.

At 8:55 p.m., Walker, a tall man wearing sandals and blue prison clothing, was escorted into the death chamber by officers. He was cooperative and appeared calm as he looked around the room and toward the witness viewing area, where one of the witnesses included his lawyer, Danielle Spinelli.

He was strapped into the gurney and a curtain was pulled to block the view while the IV lines were placed into his arms.

The curtains were opened again at 9:15 p.m. Asked if he had a last statement to make, Walker said, "Last words being: I don't think y'all done this right, took y'all too long to hook it up. You can print that. That's it." He was apparently referring to the intravenous lines used to administer the lethal injection.

Traylor later explained that there was a delay in placing one of the IV lines.

The first of three chemicals used in the execution began flowing. He took several deep breaths, his breathing grew shallower and then it stopped.

He was pronounced dead at 9:24 p.m. and the curtain was drawn again.

Outside the Greensville Correctional Center, where the execution took place, four death penalty protesters stood in silence, holding candles. They declined to comment.

State law permits the death penalty for someone who commits two premeditated murders within three years. Testimony and other evidence at his 1998 trial showed Walker shot two men to death in front of loved ones.

Rest of the story.....

www.timesdispatch.com

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Congratulations to Logan Becker, & Samuel Byrd

This sent in from an astute reader

GREAT ACCOMPOLISHMENTS!

Congratulations to Logan Becker, & Samuel Byrd who will be graduating from PHS soon. Both young men are right here from our town of Pocomoke City.

They both have been selected into one of the five U.S. Military Academies. They both have chosen

to attend The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.

Pocomoke City (& we are sure others, as well) are very proud of the both of you. Your character, attitude, personality, compassionate, & your drive to help others is highly commendable.

We wish you both the best of luck in your new endeavor, and remember, "No, is not an option....you can do anything you set your mind to do.....don't give up...no pain, no gain!!" I know your parents are very proud of you, and they should be....they have raised two admirable young men!!!! God Bless you both!!!!!

***Your town, community, school, teachers, church, family, friends, & acquaintances acknowledge your hard work, accomplishments, & achievements***

Marijuana Found During Traffic Stop

POCOMOKE -- Two Virginia men were charged with drug possession after police found 75 pounds of marijuana during a traffic stop, according to Maryland State Police.

Darnell L. Kelley, 24, and Modis L. Chandler, 40, both of Newport News, were traveling south on Route 13 near Old Virginia Road in a rented Infinity when they were stopped for speeding around 7 p.m. on Wednesday, according to police.

During the traffic stop, a K-9 team was called and the dog alerted police to the presence of drugs.

Troopers found 75 pounds of marijuana inside two duffel bags in the trunk of the vehicle.

Kelley and Chandler have been charged with marijuana possession, marijuana possession with intent to distribute and possession of more than 50 pounds of marijuana, according to state police.

Both men are being held at the Worcester County Detention Center on a $100,000 bond each, according to police.

www.delmarvanow.com

Execution Set For Tonight In Richmond

Unless the U.S. Supreme Court steps in, Darick Demorris Walker will die by injection tonight at 9 at the Greensville Correctional Center for the capital murder of two Richmond men.

His lawyers filed appeals and a request for a stay of execution on his behalf with the high court this month. Gov. Bob McDonnell turned down his plea to intervene last week.

Walker, 37, was convicted in a 1998 trial of shooting two men to death in front of loved ones. State law permits the death penalty for someone who commits two premeditated murders within three years.

Stanley Beale, 36, was slain on the night of Nov. 22, 1996, and Clarence Elwood Threat, 34, early on the morning of June 19, 1997. Each man was shot repeatedly by a gunman who kicked in their apartment doors.

Walker accused Beale of coming to his door to look for him. Beale did not know Walker.

Threat’s girlfriend said Walker once had asked her for a date but said she turned him down because she was committed to Threat.

Members of the victims’ families had not responded to requests for comment as of yesterday evening.

Walker’s lawyers argue that he is mentally retarded and therefore ineligible for the death penalty. A split panel of the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Walker had not proved that he fit the legal definition for mental retardation.

His lawyers argued in a petition to the U.S. Supreme Court that Walker’s joint trial for the unrelated murders “exposed him to the serious risks that two weak cases would bolster one another, and that the jury might convict based on a presumed propensity for crime.“

They also contend that authorities improperly withheld evidence that could have challenged the credibility of a key witness. They said Beale’s 13-year-old daughter originally told police she heard but did not see the shooter but testified later that she saw Walker shoot her father.

Walker’ s lawyers did not learn of the girl’s earlier statement until after the trial.

A social history prepared on Walker’s behalf in 2003, when he was 30, said he functioned at the level of an 11-year-old, that he may suffer from fetal alcohol syndrome, and that he has a family history of both mental illness and mental retardation.

His lawyer, Danielle Spinelli, said in an e-mail this week that Walker and his family were not speaking to the media.

Larry Traylor, spokesman for the Virginia Department of Corrections, said no victim family members had requested to witness the execution. Walker’s would be the second execution in Virginia this year and the 107th since the death penalty was allowed to resume in 1976.

Virginians For Alternatives to the Death Penalty will hold a vigil outside the Greensville Correctional Center tonight at 8:30. Vigils also will be held at churches and other sites across the state. For details, go to http://www.vadp.org/.

www.starexponent.com

Woman Charged With Texting After Car Crash

SUFFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - A woman is being charged with texting while driving after she crashed into a house Wednesday afternoon in Suffolk, police said.

Police say the motorist, who was driving a Toyota Yaros, was not injured when she struck a house in the 4300 block of Holland Road.

There were no other injuries, police say.

www.wavy.com

Birthday Today........

HAPPY 64th BIRTHDAY, CHER

Cherilyn Sarkisian- Born May 20, 1946

El Centro, California

"Women have to harness their power -- it's absolutely
true. It's just learning not to take the first no. And
if you can't go straight ahead, you go around the
corner."
~CHER~

Horses And Cows Seized From Farm

Unbelievable! One of the worst animal abuse cases in Maryland history, the owner has been under close "scrutiny" of animal control for four years yet criminal charges are STILL pending??? This is just not fair!

WOODBINE, Md. (WUSA)--A horrific case of animal abuse and neglect unfolded in an evening raid in rural Oakland, Maryland.

Authorities in Garrett County seized two dozen emaciated horses and about 20 starving cows, and brought them to Days End Farm Horse Rescue in Woodbine for rehabilitation.

One by one, emaciated horses took their first tentative steps toward a better life, leaving behind deplorable conditions in an Oakland, Maryland pasture without food or water, littered with horse and cow carcasses.

"This is as bad as it gets. It doesn't get any worse than this," said Brenda Curry, the President of the Board of Directors at Days End.

"Carcasses on a property," added Sue Mitchell of Days End. "And horses that are literally skin stretched over a skeleton. We'd call that horrific. It's despicable."

The weak, neglected horses are recovering at Days End Farm, where they face a long journey of rehabilitation. Many need to overcome fear, parasites, skin fungus and hooves that are overgrown and chipped. They are the lucky ones.

"What you see is the extreme. We have horses with hips protruding. Spines showing. No measurable body fat," said Mitchell.

The cows that survived are just down the road at James Ferguson's farm.

"They're not put on this earth to be punished or to starve, and these poor animals are starving to death," said Curry.

Healing these horses comes at a high price, more than $2,000 a horse, in just the first month.

Authorities are calling this one of the worst and largest animal abuse cases in state history. Criminal charges are now pending against the owner of the farm in Oakland, Maryland, a man who has been under scrutiny by animal control for the last four years.

www.wusa9.com

For You Today...........................

Hope you have a picture perfect day!

Paraplegic Gets Sentenced To Penitentiary For Drug Conviction

ACCOMAC -- A 66--year-old paraplegic was sentenced to serve time in a penitentiary last week in Accomack Circuit Court.

Ross Taylor of Atlantic was convicted in December of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute while possessing a firearm. On Thursday, Taylor was sentenced to serve five years in the penitentiary. The sentence is mandatory for the crime.

"This gentleman is 66 years old and has been a paraplegic for 30 years," said defense attorney Pat Robbins in a plea for leniency to circuit Judge Glen A. Tyler.

Robbins said the man's condition was the result of gunshot wounds. He described Taylor as having many health problems and said his client was "wheelchair-bound and bedridden." He said the man would have to go to a special facility, which would be very costly.

Robbins told the court that his client had "no prior record, no felonies, no drug charges." He said Taylor had family and friends in the courtroom to support him.

"I register a strong objection," said Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney Matthew Brenner. "The five-year mandatory sentence is necessary. The defendant has many health problems, but he is selling drugs and is a community problem himself."

Asking about details of the case, the judge was told that the man had about $600 worth of cocaine and a loaded .32 caliber revolver in bed with him at the time of his arrest.

"This court has no discretion; the law does not allow the court to reduce the case," said Circuit Judge Glen A. Tyler.

Hearing this, Taylor, who was slumped over in his wheelchair, spoke up.

"I'm in bad shape, judge," he said.

Tyler responded that the Department of Corrections has "an elaborate and extensive system" for caring for people with physical and mental disabilities.

"You will be required to serve the sentence," he said.

Family members who accompanied Ross to the courtroom expressed shock, disbelief and anger.

"It's not right," said a woman who rushed to Taylor's side after hearing the sentence. "He was shot seven times and nobody did anything."

www.easternshorenews.com

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Va. Man Who Skinned A Guinea Pig Convicted

What kind of a hat can be made from a guinea pig hide? Well, here's a person that calls himself the "village idiot" and claims to suffer from a brain injury resulting from being hit by a truck some 15 years ago.

Funny how the brain works. It's odd that the disability in Charles Woodson's brain would allow him to remember what he learned in biology class in graduate school ten years ago...... which is how to humanely kill an animal. But yet the same brain did not tell him that if you make a hat out of the hide with the head attached it WILL most times scare the hell out of small children and raise the blood pressure in the parents.

Now I realise that in some countries guinea pigs are eaten just as we eat chicken or beef in this country. My question is WHAT were you going to do with the rest of that furry creature that you went to the PET STORE to purchase?

Below is the story about his hearing and sentencing. After you have read about this miserable human being, AKA Village Idiot, please read the post below it to see how these creatures deserve to be treated and how much they can be loved.

FRONT ROYAL, Va. (AP) -- A man who skinned a guinea pig and wore the skin as headgear has been convicted on an animal cruelty charge.

Charles Woodson was convicted Tuesday in Warren County General District Court.

The 41-year-old Woodson was arrested in March after neighbors saw him wearing the guinea pig hat, which included the animal's head.

Woodson has said the animal was killed humanely. He had purchased the animal from a pet store.

Judge W. Dale Houff sentenced Woodson to six months in jail, but suspended four months from the term. Woodson also was ordered to serve one year of unsupervised probation.

www.wusa9.com

The Love Of The Guinea Pig

So much emphasis is placed on the horrible things people do to animals and I am convinced that for whatever harm is done to a creature by a human is what that human would or could do to another human being. It is of my own personal opinion that lack of feeding, watering, shelter and any other act is not an act of kindness and all fall under the classification of animal cruelty. Abandonment included.

Thank goodness there ARE wonderful people in the world that see animals in the same wonder light that they see humans. These people not only spread their love and friendship among people they meet but animals as well.

Through word of mouth a few years ago a very kind person heard a heart breaking story concerning an abandoned guinea pig in a park. Immediately after work this person arrived to find the guinea pig as she was told. The poor thing had been abandoned in its cage with moldy matted bedding, old decaying vegatables and matted fur so snarled and tangled and dirty that the animal barely resembled what it was.

The guinea pig traveled to the home of this kind Samaritan where it was given a bath and some serious grooming and after awhile began to resemble the animal and loved pet it was going to be. This fluffy soft animal lived for many years in a warm, sweet smelling hibitat, snacked on only the best in vegatation and eventually learned to communicate with it's squeals and coos.

I was amazed to learn this past Christmas when this guinea pig came to visit us that these soft quiet creatures like to sleep and burrow in hammocks. And sure enough in the corner of "the guinea pigs world" was her hammock and in this hammock she'd fall asleep for the night and nap during the day. All of us had come to love this fur ball and were amused at anything this guinea pig would do.

For seven years this guinea pig had a wonderful home filled with love. She had come so far from the day she was found abandoned and almost dead in the park. She had established communication with the one person that saved her and loved her.

It's love that we pour into our pets and it's unselfish dedication that we have given them that makes it so very hard and almost imbearable to lose them in death. This 7 year old guinea pig stopped eating suddenly and was rushed to an animal emergency room. The next day it went into surgery to remove a small tumor on its neck. The tumor was successfully removed but with the probability that the animal would not make it.

The guinea pigs owner, determined to give all the comforts of home one final time, took it home to be surrounded the other family pets.

Little Iris died last night and today our hearts are so heavy. She's already being missed.

Rest In Peace "Iris Ladybug". You are missed.

Welcome Center To Shut Down Without Aid

POCOMOKE CITY -- Worcester County officials are trying to scrape together money to keep the Maryland Welcome Center on Route 13 at the Virginia line open.

They are hunting for $57,281 for the facility in the already tight 2010-11 budget. If those funds aren't found, the building will be closed June 30 as the state trims welcome centers to save money. But if the commissioners can produce the funds, the state government will provide another $50,000 for the coming year.

"That center definitely benefits the whole county," said Commissioner Bobby Cowger.

The Pocomoke City Welcome Center is the second-busiest in Maryland, said Commissioner Linda Busick. The facility was built in 1985 using state money procured by then-delegate Mark Pilchard with a local match, said Shirley Pilchard, his widow.

Since then, the center has pointed tourists often headed to the beach to the museums, businesses and state parks in other parts of Worcester County.

"If nobody is going to tell them, then they are not going to go," Pilchard said. "We are going to take away from small businesses if we go any further with this."

The commissioners agreed it should stay open, but wavered on how often. To receive the state's $50,000, the center must be operational at least three days a week. The county is contemplating keeping it open seven days a week in the summer, four days a week in other seasons.

Commissioner Virgil Shockley asked staff to look at a three-day-a-week, year-round operation.

"I think it's a benefit to tourism, I think it's a benefit to Pocomoke City, and I want to see the numbers," he said.

Pocomoke City Mayor Michael McDermott said the town, which provides water and sewer to the facility, would waive its fees and provide volunteers.

Commissioner Judy Boggs was the only member in opposition to providing the money, arguing that while the center may support tourism, if the county takes it over, the state will never resume the operation.

"I'm just sick and tired of the state forcing us to take over their responsibilities," Boggs said.

www.delmarvanow.com

The Beekeepers Guild of the Eastern Shore

"How To Get Started With Bees"

The Beekeepers Guild of the Eastern Shore will meet at the Northampton Free Library in Nassawadox on

Saturday May 22, 2010 at 10:00 AM

Anyone interested in beekeeping and helping the bees in encouraged and invited to attend.

Light refreshments will be served.

For more information call Ann @ 442-4118 or email Mary at mwalker@esva.net

Eastern Shore Towns Make Chesapeake Bay Magazines 2010 Best of the Bay

The Eastern Shore had multiple appearances in Chesapeake Bay Magazines Best of the Bay 2010. The Chesapeake Bay Magazine conducted their survey primarily through their website and almost a thousand respondents voted for their favorite restaurants, marinas, towns and many more.

Bay Creek Marina in Cape Charles was named one of the Best Resort Marinas on the Bay as well as one of the Best Marinas for Natural Environment.

The town of Onancock was voted one of the best towns for foodies. Unfortunately, none of Onancocks Restaurants made it into the categories for specific food.

Onancock also was listed as one of the Best Towns for Inexpensive Docking, as well as Tangier Island.

Onancock Creek and King Creek in Cape Charles also made the list for Trickiest Channels.

www.shoredailynews.com

Police Collect Evidence In Neglect Case

I bet this case is far from being over!
In case you don't remember the father of this child remained in jail because he neglected to register as a child sex offender........something the mother doesn't deny but says isn't exactly as is stated in court documents. That doesn't matter. He still didn't register! And she has had other children with this man since he was charged. She also stated in previous reports that she asks her six year old everyday if she has been touch by him. Wow!

Parents Allegedly Placed Child On Stove

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) - Police have taken the stove top from the home of two parents who allegedly placed their 1-year-old child near an ignited burner, where they say, she was burned.

Justin Jones and Julia Tomlin were charged with felony child neglect after police say they failed to seek medical attention for their daughter. The stove top--four heating elements and four drip trays--were taken for analysis.

The child suffered burns on her back, shoulders, and arms.

Police went back to the Misty Harbor Apartments and a building off Woodall Court, where the girl was allegedly burned on April 30. Detectives were called days later to meet Child Protective Services at the home and said she had burn marks on her back "consistent with the heating elements on a stove."

Police contend the parents, Justin Jones and Julia Tomlin, placed the girl on the stove while they tended to another one of their five children. They say the toddler fell on one of the burners and was burned.

After the discovery was made, the girl was taken to a local hospital, treated and released.

In charging documents a detective wrote about Tomlin saying "she could not say for sure if the burners were turned off or not."

Neither Tomlin nor Jones could be reached for comment.

The little girl, along with her four siblings, who showed no signs of abuse, were placed in the care of Child Protective Services.

www.wavy.com

Oil Spill Unlikely To Reach The Eastern Shore??

With the oil spill occurring in the Gulf of Mexico a few weeks ago, several people have been warning the oil spillage could make its way to Virginias Eastern Shore. The oil could stray north from the spill site and catch the Loop Current, which goes all the way around the tip of Florida and bumps into the Gulf Stream, which goes as far north as the Eastern Shore.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) says the odds of the oil catching the Loop Current, being carried to the Gulf Stream and then making landfall off the shores of Cape Fear, NC are 1 in 500. Cape Fear is about 300 miles south of the Eastern Shore, which substantially lowers the odds the oil will reach our shores.

According to the Hampton Roads Coast Guard, if the oil was to reach the Eastern Shore, it would be in the form of small balls of tar. The tar balls would be small enough to fit in between someones toes.

www.shoredailynews.com

Well, I don't know about anyone else out there that loves the water and enjoys being around it and in it like I do but I don't find it very acceptable to be fishing, crabbing, swimming, walking, bike riding, etc. and find small tar balls between my toes!
In fact, I have my doubts about the whole truth being told. You can believe someone out there knows but in order to keep all of us from going into a panic we are being told the story one bit at a time. I think alot of questions aren't being answered properly. Time will tell.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Surf dogs, surf dogs, surf dogs!!!

SURF DOG RICOCHET, THE GOLDEN SURFURS & SO CAL SURF DOGS
INVITE ALL DOGS TO HANG 20 WITH THEM AT THE LOEWS SURF DOG EVENT!

SAN DIEGO, CA, May 17, 2010… Surf dog Ricochet, the SURFice dog who raises funds and awareness for charitable causes, is taking time off from her busy work schedule to have some fun! On Saturday, May 22nd, she'll be joining her surf buddies from the Golden SurFURS, and So Cal Surf Dogs as they enjoy the festivities at the 5th Annual Loews Coronado Bay Resort Surf Dog Competition. It will be a day of fun, surf and sand, and Ricochet, the Golden SurFURS, and So Cal Surf Dogs invite all dogs to hang 20 with them!

Have you ever seen a surfing dog? Chances are, if you live in southern California, you have! But, have you ever thought about YOUR dog surfing! The Loews Surf Dog event is the perfect venue to give it a try!

There is a small dog, and large dog heat, and contestants are judged on confidence level, length of ride and overall ability to "grip it and rip it". Ricochet, the Golden SurFURS, and So Cal Surf Dogs will be surfing in the competition, but they don't care if they win a medal because it's all about having fun with their dogs! The best surf dog is the one having the most FUN, so come on out, and have some fun!

The Loews Surf Dog competition is a fun activity for the whole family, and even if your dog doesn't surf, you will have a great time watching these canines hang 20. This year, the event benefits the San Diego Police Department Canine Unit through the San Diego Police Foundation.

Surf Dog Ricochet is a member of both the Golden SurFURS, and the So Cal Surf Dogs. When she's not working in her role of SURFice dog, she can often be seen surfing, or having fun with both groups. Ricochet will be surfing in the large dog category at Loews, as well as tandem with her littermate, Kalani, riding as the "Twisted Sisters". Those of you familiar with Ricochet, know she's has a propensity to chase birds, and it's not uncommon to see her ride a wave in, and then take off after a bird. Nobody cares though, because it's all about fun! Ricochet will be wearing a neon pink rashguard, so be sure to stop her and say HI! For more info on Ricochet, go to http://www.SurfDogRicochet.com

The Golden SurFURS are part of the San Diego Golden Retriever Meet-up Group, and, you guessed it... they're all golden retrievers. They are a very popular, friendly, fun loving meet-up group that has over 830 members. They get together for free activities at least once a month, but often more frequently. They created the Golden SurFURS three years ago, and are always looking to add more Goldens to their SurFURS, as well as their fun group. So, look for the gaggle of goldens under their red banner at the Loews event, and stop by their tent to join them! For more info, visit their website http://goldens.meetup.com/33/

The So Cal Surf Dogs is a fun loving group of southern California dog owners who focus on having fun with their dogs while promoting dog surfing. Experience isn't necessary, but a FUN attitude is! The So Cal Surf Dogs promotes safety first with fun a very close second! They've got a good mix of breeds and sizes amongst their SurFURS, and they're eager to meet your dog too! All dogs (and dog Owners) are welcome regardless of skill level or ability. They are enthusiastically encouraging anyone who dogs surfs, or wants to dog surf, to join their group. They'll be at the Loews event, so follow the laughter and stop by their tent to learn more about them! Their website is http://www.socalsurfdogs.com

Ricochet, the Golden SurFURS, and the So Cal Surf Dogs look forward to meeting you, and your dog at the 5th Annual Loews Coronado Bay Resort Surf Dog Competition! See you there!

For more information, contact Judy Fridono at 707-228-0679 or pawinspired@aol.com

Surf Dog Ricochet http://www.SurfDogRicochet.com
Ricochet on Facebook and Twitter "Surf Dog Ricochet

San Diego Golden Retriever Meetup Group http://goldens.meetup.com/33/

So Cal Surf Dogs: http://www.socalsurfdogs.com
So Cal Surf Dogs on Facebook and Twitter "So Cal Surf Dogs"

Loews Coronado Bay Resort Surf Dog Competition http://loewssurfdog.blogspot.com/

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Friday, May 21, 2010

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

All Time Contributors (current Pocomoke Public Eye content is voluntarily maintained by tk for PPE)