Something More From the Pocomoke City Police Department

All things GREAT keep happening at the Pocomoke City Police Department!

Tom and I here at the PPE have always wanted the the Pocomoke citizens to know what was going on in the city of Pocomoke - good or bad. Angel and others at the Police Department, on behalf of Chief Sewell,  have been working hard to get information out to the people as quicklty as they can.  Gayle at the police department is kind enough to send  the Press Release to me every week.  Angel keeps me updated with any changes and always sends me the good news.

So, in keeping with his pledge written in his Mission Statement: "develop a parnership with the Community, lead a community commitment to resolve proplems and improve the safety and quality of life in our city", .....
Chief Kelvin D. Sewell is very pleased to inform the people of Pocomoke City  that the Pocomoke City Crime Report is NOW available to you.

Go to : www.thepocomokepubliceye.blogspot.com/  Look for CRIME/ Pocomoke City Crime Report on the right side.

And Readers please thank Chief Sewell and those officers for all they do.  Their job is not easy but it seems easier when they know the city is behind them and appreciates what they do.

And a note from Tom and me:
There are just so many people to thank for all of this and we personally can not thank you enough.
So from us (you know who you are) thank you for putting the heartbeat back into Pocomoke.

SPCA Eastern Shore "MARDI GRAS"

State Lawmakers Consider Drug Testing Tor Some Welfare Recipients

RICHMOND, Va.—

A bill that would require drug testing for recipients of some public assistance programs cleared a House committee on Tuesday.

The legislation requires local departments of social services to screen participants in the VIEW  (Virginia Initiative for Employment not Welfare) program.  Anyone who fails a test, or refuses to participate would be ineligible for payments for a period of one year.

Botetourt County Delegate Chris Head (R-17th District) sponsored one of the bills. His proposal was incorporated into a similar proposal introduced by another lawmaker. "It's just simply as stewards of public money," he told reporters after the hearing, "we have the responsibility to make sure that money is being spent wisely."

One Democratic lawmaker described the legislation as indefensible.  "I find it inexplicable when we're endorsing an idea where we invade somebody's body, draw their blood to determine if that person has committed an illegal act," said Richmond Delegate Joe Morrissey (D-74th District).

The committee voted along party lines, approving House Bill 73 on a vote of 14 to 8.

Source:

Restaurant Progress-- Moving Right Along....

The photos I posted the last time showed the restaurant in downtown Pocomoke City all wrapped in Tyvek and just sitting there beside the Pocomoke River in the  cold winter weather in Pocomoke City.

But the action now is on the inside!!!

I had imagined that at some point in time my bi-weekly trips to the growing restaurant would end  but they didn't!  Councilman Malloy made it possible for me to venture in to take photos.....after all he recognizes that this is my project, it means alot to me and after all...... it's his district!

We went in through the back of the restaurant oesn't look like much has been done (to me).  'm sure there has...Wiring is being run, kitchen seems to be making progress....

And there are windows, windows, windows!!!  I like the thought of looking out towards the river from inside.

The restaurant has been designed so that there are decks at both ends.

When completed this restaurant will be an asset to downtown Pocomoke City.  From what I am hearing contruction is ahead of schedule.  The city is still accepting proposals from interested and qualified restaurateurs and will be until January 31, 2012.  So if you are interested you don't have much time.

When completed the restaurant will seat at least 140 guests with the decks to hold an additional 40.  The city plans to have the restaurant in operaton by June 2012.   Information on the qualifications for being the restaurant operation go HERE  or www.cityofpocomoke.com

Hmmm.... I wonder how they will select a name for it.

I'd like to thank the two gentlemen working inside the restaurant, for allowing me to take pictures.  Sorry I didn't get back to help sweep up.

You Might Be Interested To Know......

Worcester County Sheriff's Fingerprinting Services

If you wish to make use of the fingerprinting services we provide to the community, you will need:

• The fee, $5.00 cash
• Current picture ID.
• A fingerprint card

The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office provides fingerprinting for civilians with the following instructions.  This office has an Identix Livescan fingerprint machine. This scans your fingerprints, no ink involved. 

Civilian Print Hours 
9am – 1pm Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, excluding holidays. FIngerprinting will only be done on the above specified dates and times. Photo ID is required and the charge is $5.00 per card. Payment due at time of service. We do not take credit cards or checks. We do not bill any agencies or departments, we will gladly give a receipt for reimbursement by the requesting agency, at the time of service, upon their request.

If there is a prisoner being processed the civilian will have to wait for saftey reasons.. This office has a high volume of print requests because of our use of livescan machine.

If you have any questions, please contact this office at 410-632-1111 or fax 410-632-3070.

 SOURCE;

Sun Hurls Strong Geomagnetic Storm Toward Earth

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The strongest geomagnetic storm in more than six years was forecast to hit Earth's magnetic field on Tuesday, and it could affect airline routes, power grids and satellites, the U.S. Space Weather Prediction Center said.

A coronal mass ejection - a big chunk of the Sun's atmosphere - was hurled toward Earth on Sunday, driving energized solar particles at about 5 million miles an hour (2,000 km per second), about five times faster than solar particles normally travel, the center's Terry Onsager said.

"When it hits us, it's like a big battering ram that pushes into Earth's magnetic field," Onsager said from Boulder, Colorado. "That energy causes Earth's magnetic field to fluctuate."

This energy can interfere with high frequency radio communications used by airlines to navigate close to the North Pole in flights between North America, Europe and Asia, so some routes may need to be shifted, Onsager said.

It could also affect power grids and satellite operations, the center said in a statement. Astronauts aboard the International Space Station may be advised to shield themselves in specific parts of the spacecraft to avoid a heightened dose of solar radiation, Onsager said.

The space weather center said the geomagnetic storm's intensity would probably be moderate or strong, levels two and three on a five-level scale, five being the most extreme.
(Reporting By Deborah Zabarenko, Environment Correspondent; Editing by Mohammad Zargham)

Source;

Crime Watch Meetings In Worcester County

Worcester County Sheriff's Office

Crime Watch Meetings

Feb. 8, 2012 (Wednesday) - Stockton Crime Watch
6:00 PM ~ Stockton Fire DepartmentTOPIC: Identity Theft

Feb. 15, 2012 (Wednesday) - Girdletree Crime Watch
6:00 PM ~ Girdletree Fire DepartmentTOPIC: Identity Theft

PLEASE MAKE PLANS TO ATTEND

Governor Makes Drug Policy a Top Priority

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Gov. Bob McDonnell said Thursday that one of his public safety priorities in the 2012 General Assembly is cracking down on repeat drug dealers.

At a news conference outlining his legislative agenda, McDonnell emphasized a bill that would impose a mandatory minimum sentence of five years for a second drug-dealing conviction. Third and subsequent convictions would trigger a minimum 10-year term.

McDonnell said drugs are responsible for 60 percent to 70 percent of all crimes, and dealers currently aren't being punished enough.

"If you're going to deal drugs in Virginia, be on notice: You're going to prison for a lot longer period of time after this session," McDonnell said.

Sen. Thomas K. Norment, R-James City and chairman of the Senate Courts of Justice Committee, said the bill sends a strong message to drug dealers that they no longer will "just get smacked on the hand" for repeat offenses.

The Republican governor said he has included about $11 million in the state budget to pay for keeping drug dealers in prison longer.

MORE HERE

Mar-Va Theater Scheduled Events

HERE'S A QUICK GLANCE AT WHAT'S GOING ON

AT THE MAR-VA THEATER

Lowcost Rabies Vaccination - Keep Your Pet Protected

Support The New Church Vol. Fire Company ~ Spaghetti Dinner & Silent Auction

What's New With The "New" Police Department- Pocomoke City

In May of 2011 the Pocomoke City Mayor and Council took steps in purchasing the former Delmarva Auto Collision building to be the new home for the Pocomoke City Police Department. 

Councilman Malloy and I traveled to the  opposite end of Market Street so I could see first hand what was going on inside to prepare for this big move the police department will be making in just a few months.

The Pocomoke City Police Department is currently located on Second Street, in the former National Guard Armory,  where it has been for many years and I can only remember one other possibility of it ever being anywhere else and that was on Willow Street.... but that's a maybe.

Anyway, the new facility is large and certainly seems to have ample space for the offices  that are needed to operate a police department.  Plus, it has to be more energy efficient and will certainly have better parking!

 A Beauchamp Construction crew was  busy working when we stopped by.  Quite hard to tell the ins and outs of the whole facility right now but this is going to such a wonderful improvement over the conditions of the current police department.  Wall board has been put up and wiring has been run with still a ways to go but certainly won't take much longer.

 

Energy efficient and brand new on the inside,  the new Pocomoke City Police Department  headquarters will be something Pocomoke  City can be proud of......Just as proud as they are of their Police Department.

TIME MACHINE ... The Weather Outside Was Frightful!

(Reader-friendly viewing of newspaper archives material)

　

January, 1893

(The Daily News- Frederick, Md.)

The condition of affairs in the lower peninsula, growing out of the protracted freeze, is growing worse. On Smith's Island the people are cutting down the few trees for fuel and killing the cattle for food. At Crisfield there is great destitution at the sailors' boarding-houses. Parties of men have ventured to walk across Tangier Sound to Smith's Island. Throughout the state yesterday morning was about the coldest of the winter. In Worcester County a temperature of 14 below zero is reported. Sinepuxent and Chincoteague Bays are frozen and communication with the island is cut off. Food and fuel there are scarce and the situation is becoming alarming.　

　

February, 1895

The state of Maryland was snowbound with 16 inches reported in Pocomoke City. Waterways were icebound. The New York Times reported "The eastern shore of Maryland is almost entirely cut off from the outside world." 　

　

February, 1899

A two-day blizzard, preceded by days of frigid temperatures, buried the Eastern Shore, leaving it virtually paralyzed. Worcester County snow amounts were reported up to 22-inches. Leading up to the storm temperatures were reported at below zero during the night and only near zero during the day.

　

Circa 1900

(The Democratic Messenger- Snow Hill)

(1969 One Hundredth Anniversary Edition)

WINTER ON THE RIVER

Around the turn of the century the temperatures were lower in winter than during the last few decades. Consequently, there was more and thicker ice on the river. Skating was a great sport. The young people would have skating parties with huge wood fires on the river bank and skate far into the night. Several people have been known to skate to Pocomoke City, a distance of sixteen miles. Snow Hill and Pocomoke City harvested river ice each winter and stored it in houses built for the purpose. The ice was packed in sawdust providing a supply to last all summer.　

Special thanks to a PPE reader who shared old copies of the Democratic Messenger and Worcester Democrat.

　

December, 1917

In a 1967 "Scratch Pad" column Salisbury Times Editor Dick Moore related a letter received from Mrs. George E. Bonaville of Accomac who recalled a stormy Christmas Eve trip by boat to visit relatives in Chincoteague in 1917. "We went three days and stayed three weeks." The freight and mail boats at Franklin City were frozen in, and finally some people walked over the ice to the mainland. The column also mentioned a note from Scott Brewington who remembered driving his Model T on the frozen Wicomico River, the date not recalled.　

　

February, 1934

(The Frederick Post- Frederick, Md.)

(Excerpts)

Startled residents of Maryland took a look at their thermometers and wondered if they hadn't strayed to an arctic region overnight. -- ...the near 2 below in Salisbury was the coldest since 1899. -- Salisbury experienced a milk famine temporarily as a result of the cold. Bottles delivered as usual soon burst and the subsequent calls for replacement soon exhausted the available reserve. -- The grease in the Associated Press printers of The Salisbury Times froze and service to the paper was delayed 40 minutes in starting.　

　

February, 1935

(The Denton Journal)

(Excerpts)

For the first time since 1888 the upper Chincoteague Bay which laps tidewater Worcester County between South Point, near Ocean City, and the Maryland-Virginia boundary, is a solid field of ice. Approximately 90 square miles of the bay is frozen with ice ranging from 6 to 10 inches in thickness, which extends between the mainland and the beach peninsula. Last week several Stockton and Girdletree fishermen walked seven miles across the ice to the beach, chatted with Coast Guards isolated at the Green Run station, and returned without mishap. Ice skaters at Public Landing ventured miles out across the ice covered bay. Older residents, recalling the freeze on the bay in 1888, tell tales of horse-drawn vehicles being driven over the ice from Chincoteague, Va., north to Ocean City, Md., a distance of 40 miles.

　

January, 1957

The front page headline in the Salisbury Times read "SUB-ZERO TEMPERATURES CHILL SHORE". While the official low temperature at Salisbury was reported at 4 1/2 degrees below zero. Maryland State police said outside of town the thermometer dipped to minus 13.　

　

December, 1958

A cold wave continued its grip on the eastern United States with 5 below zero reported in Salisbury, 1 above at Richmond, and 7 degrees at Raleigh, N.C.

　

Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers.. such as a big snow storm, a favorite school teacher, a local happening, something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about? It can be just a line or two or more if you wish. Your name won't be used unless you ask that it be. Send to tkforppe@yahoo.com and watch for it on a future TIME MACHINE posting!

My Opportunity To Meet The New Police Chief

Or: "How Grateful I Was To Meet The New Chief Without Wearing Hand Cuffs In an 'Office' In the Basement".

It isn't often that I get the opportunity to do anything by invitation. I just stay down here in "the boonies" (as your Councilman Don Malloy calls  it) and keep peace with nature and tend to the PPE blog.... and some other things....

So, when Councilman Malloy called and offered to show me the insides of two major structures in Pocomoke, one being built and the other being fashioned into the new Pocomoke City police station, I had to take him up on it!

The added bonus was a chance to meet the new Pocomoke City Police Chief. I had received the book written by the police chief "Why Do We Kill" for Christmas so this was my chance to tell him how wonderful the book was and how much it scared me! No... That's not a good thing to say. Telling a homicide detective of 22 years his book scare you? Hmmm... Well, it does and when all of you read the book you will understand.

A series of thoughts ran through my head. Here I was, having grown up in Pocomoke, (a town I love dearly) worked downtown for over 25 hears in the same store, raised two kids in that wonderful town, I know just about everyone there is to know and I am being invited to meet the Chief.

Well, this time all of you knew him before I did so you're one up on me. And most of you know what a great person he is to talk with. But since I "knew" him from his book as the homicide detective in Baltimore City, I was absolutely surprised.

Here's a man that can't be even 50 years of age and has been involved with more TRUE crime than any of the fake crime on television.

Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin D. Sewell is a delightful person. He is for real. Chief Sewell is a great big great guy filled with personality and patience to listen....and he's smart! And he gave YOU his word.

I've received so many comments and email about how comfortable the people of Pocomoke have been lately. Many have seen the Pocomoke officers on foot through their neighborhoods. Many of those citizens have even left their houses to go to the street to speak to them. I can only imagine that this must make those officers proud of the job they do.

Please continue to thank them. In Chief  Sewell's "Mission Statement" to the people of Pocomoke City he pledged to "develop a partnership with the community." Mission Statement:  http://www.cityofpocomoke.com/index.asp?Type=B_JOB&SEC=%7B1164A319-FF06-42BE-B238-6ECDB72D1023%7D

And don't worry. I am not privvy to any inside information. I only know what you know. I know that the foot patrols will continue through the neighborhoods and once the weather becomes suitable there will be bike patrols. I know that Pocomoke City and its people will be protected to the fullest 24/7.  And I know that the people of Pocomoke will be informed on what goes on in their town.  We have already witnessed this with three Press Releases. 

Besides, it wouldn't have done any good at all to tell me any secrets. I'd forget it anyway.

Gee, first time meeting an author of a book, retired homicide detective and police chief of my home town.....I left my cell phone in his office.........had to go back to get it but not until I was totally finished with my day.   And don't worry. I won't apply to be a police officer  and risk the chance of losing a squad car or misplacing a gun.

Thank you, Chief Sewell and everyone at the Pocomoke City Police Department for making Councilman Malloy's and my visit such a pleasant one.  I feel very honored.

(But that's not all! Councilman Malloy and I took a peek into the building that will be the new police station. I'll have pictures so stand by)

TIME MACHINE Preview ... The Weather Outside Was Frightful!

Ice skating on the Pocomoke River and at Public Landing?

Our normally moderate Eastern Shore winters are not immune from exceptions and this week we'll take a look at some times when Mother Nature had other ideas.

It's this Sunday on The Pocomoke Public Eye!



Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers.. such as a big snow storm, a favorite school teacher, a local happening, something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about? It can be just a line or two or more if you wish. Your name won't be used unless you ask that it be. Send to tkforppe@yahoo.com and watch for it on a future TIME MACHINE posting!

"Pirates of the Chesapeake" - TODAY- The Delmarva Discovery Center

TODAY ONLY!  Secret discount for the Winter Wonderland Gala!  Tickets - still $35.00 for members and $40.00 for non-members.

Come to the Pirates of the Chesapeake Children's Plays and pick up your Gala tickets

FBI Allowed To Test Explosives

Travis Brown

Staff Writer

SNOW HILL -- While there has been a recent dustup over explosive testing on the Landmaid Road firing range, the Worcester County Commissioners decided to once again allow the FBI to use the site for field demonstrations.

“It’s a win for us, it’s a win for them,” said Commissioner Virgil Shockley.For the past 14 years, the Maryland-Delaware Joint Terrorism Task Force has held its annual Basic Anti-Terrorism Training for Law Enforcement (BATTLE) Conference in Ocean City, with an accompanying live field demonstration at the county-owned Newark firing range. More than 300 attendees from local, state and federal law enforcement agencies are expected for the conference, which will take place April 9-13.

The demonstrations will involve explosives of less than two pounds and will last about two hours.Last fall there was an outcry from some Worcester residents when they learned that the commission granted Hardwire LLC, a military-armor manufacturer, permission to use the Newark location for testing their products. Those tests would include the detonation of explosives up to 25 pounds.

Because of the negative response from many members of the community, Hardwire chose to withdraw its request to use the site. Despite the recent controversy, Shockley doesn’t expect there to be any issues with the FBI demonstrations.

“It’s a small test,” he said. “They blow up a car or two.”Many of the common concerns voiced about Hardwire using the site included damage to the environment and noise pollution. Shockley admitted that “there will be sound” and said that he’s gotten calls in years past by confused residents, but doesn’t believe that the short demonstration will be particularly disruptive. As for environmental impact, the FBI, as per usual, will be “responsible for cleanup and notification of area residents of the training,” according to a memo from Fire Marshal Jeff McMahon.

McMahon brought the request to the commission Tuesday. He stressed that the demonstration will be no different this year than in the past, but did acknowledge that his office wanted to be as open as possible about the site given the recent Hardwire controversy.

Shockley noted the valuable training and experience for Worcester employees, including five compensated seats at the BATTLE conference, which would normally cost $1,000.

Source:

"Mardi Gras" To Assist The "Residents" of the SPCA Eastern Shore

Legislative Updates - By Delegate Mike McDermott

Jan. 20th, 2012

Field Notes

Observations and Reflections on Legislative Activities

By Delegate Mike McDermott

Week 2 January 16-20, 2012
Monday-Martin Luther King Jr. Day
It is a tradition in the House that on MLK Day the Black Caucus picks a member to deliver a speech honoring the fallen civil rights leader. This year the message was delivered by Del. Jay Walker of Prince Georges County. He is a former NFL player and used some analogies of football in his presentation referring to King as a “quarterback” in keeping a cool head when all around him was in turmoil. He focused on a struggle that he sees continuing to this day and his desire to see us move forward. His remarks were a good reminder of how far we have come as a country. Of course I like to remind folks that Martin Luther King Jr. was a Republican and it was his party that was the champion of civil rights he struggled to secure. Somehow, that message has been stolen.

Following the speech, we conducted a Second Reader for an Emergency Bill (SB-46)on behalf of Somerset County to address their redistricting (local districts) which was very time sensitive. The bill will be on Third Reader on Tuesday.

Tuesday:
Today I opened the morning session with prayer. This is an honor that members of the House sign up for at the beginning of session and for which I am a thankful participant.
Legislation:SB-46: Approved by a vote of 135-1. This is the redistricting plan submitted by the local officials in Somerset County which addresses the new census numbers. The law will move to the Governor’s desk for signing so the upcoming elections can take place accordingly.
Judiciary Hearings:
We heard from various advocates regarding Eyewitness Testimony being utilized by police and prosecutors. A study was presented which seemed to indicate a wide discrepency as to the methods used by police in Maryland to present photo line ups or live line ups of suspects to victims of crimes. This has been prompted by several cases involving  eyewitness identification which were later turned over by DNA evidence. The testimony was compelling, but there was some questioning as to the best methods for addressing any potential problems. I believe this may be something better handled through training and the Maryland Police Training Commission along with the State’s Attorneys across Maryland. The advocates would like legislation along the lines which were drafted in North Carolina. They may be right, but it will be important to hear from more folks in the law enforcement community should a bill be filed. Anything we can do to keep innocent folks from being sent to prison should be looked into with diligence.

We reviewed three bills during the afternoon session of the committee:HB-17: Seeks to increase the penalties for Elder Abuse from a maximum of 10 years to 20 years. It also would make it tougher for those charged with this crime to receive a pretrial release. Increasing the penalty to 15 years may be possible, but the pretrial release was not received well.
HB-25: Seeks to increase penalties for the Malicious Destruction of Property by graffiti. It would require people convicted to perform community service as a part of their sentence along with any fines imposed by the court. In the past, community service has always been an option the court has used, but this would make it mandatory. I kind of like the idea of these defacers of property to spend many days cleaning up their mess.
HB-34: Seeks to change the law concerning the release of mental patients who have been found Not Criminally Responsible (NCR). Under the current system, people deemed NCR by a trial court judge are placed under confinement in a state institution until they are deemed to no longer be a threat to society. Currently, the law provides for an annual review by an Administrative Judge, but the original trial court can only review the findings on appeal. We heard testimony of several individuals who have been released under this system who went out and committed murder. This bill seeks to provide an additional opportunity for the original trial court to conduct a hearing into the case to determine if someone should be released. Arguments were testy at times. I suppose this is to be expected when one side is referring to a homicidal maniac as a “client” and the other side views them as a “criminal”.  I suggested that perhaps the review could be applied to those who are institutionalized for having committed a homicide. I also requested some additional information from the state to better determine the number of persons that would fall into this category.

Wednesday
Judiciary Hearing on Collaborative Law
The committee heard testimony from several attorneys in support of establishing another method of addressing out of court settlements in Maryland. Collaborative law is similar to mediation. From a layman’s prospective, it seeks to allow more revelation at the negotiating table with the hopes of achieving greater success with the outcome. The idea is to do everything possible to come to an agreement together rather than the typical back and forth offered through traditional negotiations. The downside is the understanding that, should an agreement between the parties not be reached after much effort, the client cannot utilize their same attorney for additional court actions. This was seen as a significant draw back and it seemed apparent that this was going to be a sticking point for many of the members.

Thursday
Morning Session:
We received the Israeli Ambassador to the United States, Michael Oren, who gave a speech to the members. He implored us to stand strong on terrorism and he thanked Maryland for working with Israel for the purposes of economic development. The ambassador referred to a time in early Maryland statehood when Jewish people could not hold public office and how this law was changed by Thomas Kennedy, a member of the House of Delegates during the early 1800’s.

Judiciary Committee
We held bill hearings on the following:HB-4: Seeks to change the qualifications of Baltimore County Judges of the Orphan’s Court and would require them to be members of the Maryland Bar. There are currently no non attorneys serving on the panel in Baltimore County. This will most likely be treated as a Delegation Bill if the Baltimore County Delegation agrees. There was testimony that the presence of attorneys-judges allows the processing of cases to move through the system much quicker than was previously done.
HB-39: Seeks to abolish some aspects of the immunity enjoyed by members of the General Assembly while they are engaged in debate or actions as a member.of the House or Senate. Testimony indicated that it is very difficult to prosecute cases against members who are accused of accepting bribes since their floor discussions and debates cannot be used against them in a court of law. There was much discussion on this issue. There was a fear that in lowering the fence of protection could make it difficult for members to act freely or even protect themselves from false accusations and a zealous prosecutor. While the debate was rigorous, it is clear we were left with more questions than answers and the hypothetical renderings carried the committee down many paths with no clarity.
HB-8: Seeks to modernize the Harassment statute which currently only covers electronic mail and does not cover other digital or electronic devices or methods of communication. As drafted, the bill extends coverage to all methods of electronic transmission. There were many questions as to the definition of “harassment” as it applied to this statute. There were also questions about the various methods that one can digitally eliminate the potential for someone to contact them for purposes of harassment. This statute addresses only the actual contact of an individual and not the broadcasting of information to others. It seems likely that this bill may pass out of committee , but there will probably be some amendments adopted to make it better.

Friday
Eastern Shore Delegation Meeting:
This was a busy meeting with too little time scheduled to address the many questions that we had for the folks who presented.
MD Department of the Environment-Secretary Robert Summers
Sec. Summers attempted to update us on many areas of his department’s involvement across the state and, in particular, the eastern shore. It is fair to say the focus was on the flush tax increases along with the transfers of cash from the Chesapeake Bay Trust Fund to accommodate the governor’s budget shortfalls. The fees are slated to increase by 100% for average users, but could rise significantly more for higher end users of water. Instead of $2.50 per month, residents will pay $5.00 per month. Those who use more water will see that rate potentially double. This will not bode well for industry and businesses on the shore. This base rate is also projected to rise to $7.50 over the next three (3) years. When questioned about the fund raid conducted on the Bay Trust Fund, Sec. Summers stated that the cash had been replaced with bonds. This is a clever way of saying “state debt”. So we traded cash on hand for debt. It was further pointed ouot that the Eastern Shore was receiving an inordinate amount of scrutiny from his department considering we are only responsible for 3% of the Bay polution levels coming from our septic systems.

I pointed out to the Secretary that farmers have met their goals concerning Watershed Implementation Plans while local governments where not even close to meeting their goals. In spite of this, farmers still get to take it on the chin with delayed permitting and confused oversight.

Thee were some questions regarding hydraulic fracking (extraction method of removing deep deposits of Natural Gas). He towed the party line by indicating nothing will be allowed for another three years while the myriad of reports are compiled.  I believe he thinks we can manage the program with our current regulations in place, but that is different than what the governor and the liberals in the General Assembly want to do. (Presently, Pennsylvania is experiencing a boom accounting for 50,000 jobs and lower energy costs for residents while Marylanders wait...and wait...).

Secretary Summers seems to be a good man, but right now he is a good traffic cop at a lousy intersection...not much he can do to make things better.

Susquehanna River Basin Commission
We met with Ex. Director Paul Swartz and his Deputy Thomas Beauduy of the SRBC. This commission is responsible for managing the Susquehanna River Basin to insure adequate flow and supplies of water are being achieved. They are also suppose to be in charge of providing oversight for quality of water issues. Our concerns centered on the Bay and the impact of the river as one of the principle pollutants. Thee concerns were clearly on flood management and water supplies with water quality coming in last on the list of concerns. They seem to have conceded that the lower river dams like the Conawingo accumulate huge sediment piles that are subsequently stored behind the dams until a large storm increases the need to release water. This  causes large slugs of sediment to enter the upper bay and coat everything with incredible silt deposits destroying fisheries. It was very clear that little is being done to address sediment deposits in the river throughout the basin from Pennsylvania to New York. All upgrades needed in the basin are being funded locally with limited progress. There’s no established fund (such as MD’s Flush Tax) to address the system wide failures on the river. I ventured that perhaps Maryland money would be better spent on the river rather than simply trying to play catch-up with all of the pollution delivered to the  bay through the river.

When asked about addressing this problem, the directors looked at each other and clearly stated that they feel they are making some progress, but funding issues  them from moving ahead. There is a lack of urgency seen from those on the river basin to clean up the Bay.So , as we do our best to clean up our pool, the next door neighbor pumps his septic  in through a hose, and we can’t reach the spigot. Yet, we will continue to pump money into this project to make ourselves “feel good” about what we have tried to accomplish. How about we suit Pennsylvania to get their act together? What a colossal waste!

Eastern Shore of Maryland Educational Consortium:
This group consists of all nine (9) School Superintendents from the Eastern Shore. They brought Dr, Memo Diriker (Salisbury University) with them to make the case that spending on public education creates a return of the invested tax dollars on a scale of 1.90 for every $1.00 spent. The formula and figures were complex, but it was difficult to argue the outcome. For my part, the superintendents looked weary. When asked about a possible transfer of Teacher Pension Liabilities to the counties, their spokesman, Dr. Jon Andes of Worcester County, indicated that this was a burden that would no doubt have a significant impact on local budgets. It was pointed out by Senator Pipkin that the system was suffering from the high salaries being paid out on the western shore while the benefits were being borne by the entire system , This amounts to the Eastern Shore paying  more than their share of the bill due each year.

Governor’s Proposed Budget:
I wrote an article earlier in the week titled  “The Castle Demands More” which provided a broad oversight of some of the governor’s proposed tax and fee increases along with his increase in spending. I will keep you posted as more of the budget gets fleshed out in the House.

Bills I introduced on Friday:HB-112: This bill seeks to address a recent Court of Appeals ruling  that now requires a Public Defender to be present at an Initial Appearance before a District Court Commissioner. This has never been the case and it will cause significant budget issues for our office of the Public Defender as well as our Offices of our State’s Attorneys as they will also want to be present as well. I have been working with Wicomico State’s Attorney Matt Macearello and Worcester State’s Attorney Beau Oglesby in addressing these issues.
HB-119: This bill will allow law enforcement officer the option of issuing citations for all misdemeanor crimes ( except for crimes of violence). This would keep more cops on the streets for our more serious crimes instead of tying them up waiting for a District Court Commissioner. I have been working with various groups on this legislation for the past few months.

Pocomoke City Police Department PRESS RELEASE

PRESS RELEASE

Pocomoke Police Department

300 Second Street

Pocomoke, Maryland 21851

410-957-1600

Arrests – January 14, to January 20, 2012


1/14/2012 Shanda V. Robinson, 26, of Pocomoke City was cited for "Knowingly driving a Vehicle with active Insurance Violations" as a result of a traffic stop. Robinson was released on a State Citation pending trial.


1/14/2012 Cherryssa L. Cooper, 41, of Stockton, MD was cited for "Knowingly Driving a Vehicle with Active Insurance Violations" as a result of a traffic stop. Cooper was released on a State Citation pending trial.


1/17/2012 Michele E. Voigt, 44, of Pocomoke City was arrested and charged with several traffic violations after a traffic stop confirmed DMV suspensions. Voigt was released on a several State Citations pending trial.


1/18/2012 Carl Henry Williams, Jr., 20, of Pocomoke City turned himself into the Pocomoke City Police Department for two (2) outstanding warrants; one with charges of Assault 2nd Degree and Escape and the other with charges of CDS Possession of Marijuana that were active through the Maryland State Police. Williams was taken before the Worcester County Commissioner and transferred to the Worcester County Detention Center to be held without Bond pending trial.


1/18/2012 James A. Motkya, 46, of Pocomoke City was arrested and charged with Trespassing on private property. Motkya was released on a Criminal Citation pending trial.


Submitted by:
Kelvin D. Sewell
Chief of Police
PCPD 406

The Delmarva Discovery Center ~ "Pirates of the Chesapeake"

SHORE BEEF and BBQ

NICE CROWD ON THURSDAY !!

FRIDAY SPECIAL

Beef Brisket Sandwich/ w side

Drink ~ $7.50

LET'S MAKE THE FRIDAY CROWD EVEN LARGER !!!

Shore Beef & BBQ are on facebook

leave them a nice comment

A Tradition Dies A Peaceful Death

Edgar Allan Poe

January 19, 1809 - October 7, 1849

A crowd gathered but the  'Poe Toaster' did not visit the grave of Poe last evening to leave the traditional rose and half-filled bottle of cognac.

According to historians the tradition began in the 1940's.  On the evening before  Poe's birthday a visitor dressed in black cape,  dark wide-brimmed hat and carrying a silver tipped cane paid visit to the deceased writer, toasted him, left the traditional gifts  and snuck back into the darkness.

In the 1990's the Poe Toaster left a note stating that he was passing the 'torch on to his sons'.  Since no 'Poe Toaster' has left a rose and cognac since Poe's 200th birthday in 2009 it is thought that perhaps the yearly tradition  ended on that birthday.

The only known photo
of "The Poe Toaster"
was captured
by a motion activated camera that was set
up in the cemetery in 1990
 Source: Life Magazine

Poe House and Museum curator Jeff Jerome said that during the evening there were  a few who came through the Westminster Hall and Burying Ground but he was able to identify them as impersonators because he and the mystery toaster had a secret signal verifying he was the authentic toaster. 

"I think it's obvious that this tribute is over with, and we should let it die a peaceful death. Anything similar to it is just a cheap imitation." - Jeff Jerome, Poe House Curator

Poe's birthday will always be celebrated and the Poe House will still
host readings of the writer's works.  Readings will be held tonight at 8:00 -

Tradition, nevermore.

....Presently my soul grew stronger; hesitating then no longer,
`Sir,' said I, `or Madam, truly your forgiveness I implore;
But the fact is I was napping, and so gently you came rapping,
And so faintly you came tapping, tapping at my chamber door,
That I scarce was sure I heard you' - here I opened wide the door;
Darkness there, and nothing more.... The Raven/ Edgar Allan Poe

TIME MACHINE Preview ... The Weather Outside Was Frightful!

Our normally moderate Eastern Shore winters are not immune from exceptions and this week we'll take a look at some times when Mother Nature wasn't so kind to us.


It's this Sunday on The Pocomoke Public Eye... bring a sweater!



Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers.. such as a big snow storm, a favorite school teacher, a local happening, something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about? It can be just a line or two or more if you wish. Your name won't be used unless you ask that it be. Send to tkforppe@yahoo.com and watch for it on a future TIME MACHINE posting!