Severe Thunderstorm Watch

The National Weather Service has placed the Eastern Shore of Virginia and Maryland and the adjacent waters of the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean on a severe thunderstorm watch until 9:30 Wednesday evening.

A severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favorable for storm development.

One LUCKY Thief!

Antonio Eduardo Lacaffine

Victim of Burglary Escorts Suspect Out of Home After Burglary

On August 12, 2012 at approximately 12:43 a.m., Ocean City Police responded to the area of 4401 Atlantic Ave, in reference to suspicious activity, possibly a burglary in progress.

Police arrived at the scene and met with the victim who related he had heard noise on the lower floors of his unit.  When the victim went downstairs to investigate he observed a male suspect attempting to steal various items.  The victim, who confronted the suspect in the residence and stopped him from stealing the items, escorted the suspect out of the residence.

Officers obtained a detailed description of the suspect, who was last seen walking towards the 10 bock of 45th Street, and broadcast it to other police personnel.  Shortly after, officers located a person matching the description of the suspect in the area of 45th Street and Coastal Highway and identified him as Antonio Eduardo Lacaffine, 29, of Uniontown, PA.

After the victim positively identified Lacaffine as being the person in his home, police placed him under arrest for 1st degree burglary, 3rd degree burglary, 4th degree burglary, and for theft under $100.00.

Lacaffine was seen by an Ocean City District Court Commissioner and was held on $25,000 bond.  Lacaffine was transferred to the Worcester County Jail.

Ocean City Police Department News Release

Reminder: Delmarva Discovery Center Has Extended Hours

SOMETHING NEW EVERYDAY!

Community Giving Garden Is Thriving !!

Look how this garden is growing!! 

Five pounds of string beans were picked just yesterday and will go to the Samaritan Shelter.

 *See Below to VOLUNTEER*

GET INVOLVED!!

David C. Parks- Arrested For Arson- Again

This name sure has been brought up quite frequently  around here in the past few days and months.  It was once thought that Parks set fire to the Bloxom, Va. fire house one evening while firefighters were out fighting a house fire. It was never proven and Parks was never charged.

SNOW HILL, Md. — An Accomack County man has been arrested and charged with arson in connection with an April 11 barn fire near Pocomoke City.

David Clifton Parks, 37, of Melfa, is charged with second-degree arson, first-degree malicious burning and malicious destruction of property, according to Worcester Co., Md., Fire Marshal Jeffrey McMahon.

He is being held at the Worcester County Jail on a $500,000 bond, McMahon said in a release.

Parks was arrested in Accomack County after a joint investigation conducted by Virginia State Police and Worcester County authorities.

Photo/Wor. Co. Fire Marshall's Office

He appeared in court in Accomack County on Monday and waived extradition. He was transported Tuesday to Maryland.

The fire allegedly was set on Sheephouse Road, which intersects U.S. Route 13 about three miles north of the Virginia state line.

Parks in 2006 was charged with starting four Salisbury, Md., arsons at the Country House, a tea room, the former Feldman's building and a vehicle fire at the old Salisbury Mall site. He was a Norfolk firefighter at the time.

He pleaded guilty to two counts of arson and two counts of reckless endangerment, served prison time in Maryland and was living in Accomack County while on post-release probation.

McMahon said Worcester County investigators are working with Virginia officials in probes of several fires in the northern Accomack and southern Worcester areas. He said Parks “has not been connected to those at this particular time.”

Source:

MORE THAN AN ART STROLL THIS FRIDAY

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                            Contact: Angela Manos

                              

                              
                                                Phone: 410.603.1178

                              

                              
                                                Email: downtownpocomoke@gmail.com

                              

                              
                                               

MORE THAN AN ART STROLL THIS FRIDAY

Pocomoke City –14 August 2012  This Friday the Downtown Pocomoke Association and the City of Pocomoke will host their first THIRD FRIDAY ART STROLL for Downtown Pocomoke, beginning at 5:30pm and ending at 8:30pm, followed by an after-stroll party at the new Riverside Grill.  The event will take place on Market Street, near the river, and is another step in Pocomoke’s overall downtown revitalization effort.

Artists selected to display their works, include: mixed media artist, Annette Heimbruch Hicks, Pocomoke, who will be showing at Classic Collections; watercolorist Donna Faye Hope, Pocomoke, showing at Enchanted Florist; photographer John Thomas Rafter, Pocomoke, displaying at Lusby’s True Value Hardware & Appliances; watercolorist Jean Mason, Pocomoke, showing at Robin Anne’s Quilting Service; and mixed media artists Chris Pruitt and Sara Fluhart, of Greenbackville and Pungoteague respectively, will both be showing outside of Cole’s Cakes.  Chris Pruitt will also be generously sharing his time and talents by offering children’s face-painting.   Watercolorists Jan Coulbourne and Leslie Brett, both of Captain’s Cove, will be showing and demonstrating their technique at the Pocomoke Area Chamber of Commerce’s Open House.  Acrylic artist, Jenny Somers, of Chincoteague, will be hosted by A Second Time Around.  She will display for sale original paintings, signed giclee prints and hand-painted Christmas balls and note cards.  She will also demonstrate her technique.

Visitors to the art stroll may also enjoy the old-time crooning of traditional musician Diana Wagner, who will be seated just outside the Mar-Va Theater & Performing Arts Center.  Later, both collectors and artists are invited to an After-Stroll Party at the new Riverside Grill where classical guitarist, Patrick Hooks, will entertain guests.   The restaurant will also be offering drink and appetizer specials for art stroll participants.

Seven of these talented Eastern Shore artists generously donated a piece of their artwork to raise money for Pocomoke’s downtown revitalization effort.  Throughout the stroll the downtown host businesses will be holding drawings for the donated artwork.  Businesses will also be offering complimentary refreshments.  Some will offer discounts and give-aways of their own; including a drawing for a free floral arrangement from Enchanted Florist and Classic Collections will give every 10^th visitor a free sterling silver ring.  All will share tickets for discounted wine and appetizers at the After-Stroll Party.

ALL artists will have their work displayed AND FOR SALE!  

Contact: For more information, please contact, Angela Manos at: 410.603.1178, or downtownpocomoke@gmail.com .  Those interested in the city’s downtown efforts in general, should also, visit: www.downtownpocomoke.com and http://www.facebook.com/pages/

City-of-Pocomoke/
240103122695426#

~Riverside Grill~

RIVERSIDE GRILL

TUESDAY SPECIALS

8/14

Chili with half turkey sandwich or side salad 5.99

Meatloaf with mashed potatoes and green beans 6.99

Taco Salad 6.99

Fried Shrimp Basket and Fries 8.99

Happy Hour 4-7 PM
Starting at 4 PM: 99 cent kid's meals

~Bay Queen Cruises~ Downtown Pocomoke

Relax this summer by taking a cruise on the scenic Pocomoke River aboard the Bay Queeen.

 Before the cruise have lunch at the RIVERSIDE GRILL.

Photo/Donna Clarke

The Bay Queen Cruises on Facebook

or

www.thebayqueen.com

The Price Is Right Invites Male Models to Come On Down!

If the Price Is Right was on the East Coast would you have what it takes to be that male model?

If you’re a decent enough-looking chap with a knack for caressing the contours of a washer-dryer set, your time is now.

The longest-running game show in history, CBS’ The Price Is Right, is launching its first-ever casting call to find a male model, with portions of the process airing as a web series. At the end of the search, one lucky looker will join Amber Lancaster, Gwendolyn Osborne, Manuela Arbelaez and Rachel Reynolds in helping players navigate the likes of Plinko and best appreciate eye-widening prize showcases.

The search begins Aug. 30 with an open call in Los Angeles, where hunky hopefuls will be interviewed by TPIR producers and the four female models. There, candidates will demonstrate verbal skills as well as the ability to pose and “properly showcase a product.” (Matt’s Helpful Hint No. 1: Do not straddle the JetSki backwards.)

As contenders move through the process and have their on-camera presence/skills further tested, the judges will make eliminations but also afford cast-offs some opportunity to jump back into the mix.

On Sept. 28, as up to six finalists are announced on The Price Is Right, the five-episode web series will launch (at PriceIsRight.com and YouTube.com/PriceIsRight), showing the wannabes engaging in assorted challenges. Viewers will then have until Oct. 4 to vote for their pick to land a one-week gig on TPIR (beginning Oct. 15).
MORE STORY.....

2012 Shop Maryland Tax Free Week

Maryland goes tax-free for back-to-school shopping week. From 12:01 a.m. Sunday, August 12, through midnight Saturday, August 18, qualifying clothes and shoes, costing up to $100 per item, will be exempt from Maryland's six percent sales tax.

A list of exempt and taxable items is available on the Comptroller's website at www.marylandtaxes.com or by calling the Taxpayer Service section toll-free at 1-800-MDTAXES from elsewhere.

In addition to the back-to-school shopping event this summer, there will also be a tax-free weekend on ENERGY STAR products during the third weekend in February 2013.

“BEST WINGS ON DELMARVA” CONTEST

Please mark your calendar for Sunday, October 21, 2012 from 11am until 6pm and join us at the Oasis in Whaleyville for the “BEST WINGS ON DELMARVA” contest (indoor/outdoor event). Come out and support The Wounded Warriors & FOP Lodge 50 for this fundraiser that will repeat itself year after year! We will have local
restaurants competing for the best wings (judged by you),
as well as a wing eating contest.

**FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY**

FACE PAINTING
BOUNCE HOUSE
DUNKING BOOTH (w/ special surprise guests)
HOT DOGS & HAMBURGERS
CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT
FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS ALL DAY
PRIZES
AND MORE!!

13 and Up - $10 donation at the door
Kids 12 and Under Enter Free

"Feathered Fiesta" ~ Delmarva Discovery Center

Feeding Wildlife Is Illegal

Last year, on July 1st 2011, it became unlawful to feed wildlife in such a way that the food or attractant being placed creates a situation where the increased presence of wildlife causes property damage, endangers people or other species of wildlife, or creates a public health concern. Even though the effects of feeding wildlife can seem minimal to some, this behavior has the potential to create dangerous situations, as well as to have a significant impact on personal property. When wild animals are allowed to feed on human-related food sources, they can become dependent on people for food and lose their innate fear of humans, a situation which could be detrimental to both the animals and to people. Feeding also draws animals unnecessarily close to our homes, where they could cause damage to residential landscaping, decks and patios, gardens, and crops.

People who feed wild animals are often doing harm to the very animals they are trying to help. An artificial food source will often create unnatural concentrations of animals, increasing the potential for the spread of wildlife diseases. A pile of food meant for one species is going to attract many others, some of which may carry undesirable parasites or diseases such as Lyme disease and rabies that can impact humans and domestic animals. The spread of wildlife diseases is also a serious concern to wildlife management officials both here in Virginia and across the United States. Keep wildlife wild by not feeding them and by letting them live as nature intended.

Go to www.dgif.virginia.gov  to learn more about responsible wildlife feeding practices. You can also find the telephone number for your nearest Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries regional office if you have any questions concerning feeding regulations and would like to talk to a wildlife biologist or conservation police officer.

Source:

"Praise In the Park"

It's wonderful to see that so many members and friends of the local churches chose the beautiful Cypress Park to gather and spend the evening together last Wednesday evening. 

An inspirational evening in Cypress Park.

"Praise In the Park"

"Praise In the Park" message was deliverd by Jamar Jackson from Mt. Zion UM Church

Sarah Butler from Bethany Church sang "God Bless America"

Rev. Jonathan Whitney

Mt. Zion UM Church Choir

Gwendolyn from St. John's  UM Church

St. Johns UM Church

St. Johns UM Church

St James UM Church

Liturgical Dance

Brittany Lewis from Salem UM Methodist Church

Four-Given from Salem  UM Church

Salem UM Church Choir

Thanks Christy for sending the photos!

TIME MACHINE ... Delmarva A State?

(Reader-friendly viewing of newspaper archives material)

　

February, 1833

(THE MAIL- Hagers-Town, Md.) (Spelling of town is correct for this era)

From The Delaware Journal.

(Excerpts)

An OVERTURE, it has been seen, has been made by our legislature to the legislature of Maryland, for an union between this state and the eight counties of Maryland on the Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake Bay- the united territory to be called the State of Delaware. We know not in what spirit this overture may be received by our sister state, but we understand, that the first suggestion of such an union came from leading citizens of that state, and we ourselves have heard one of her most distinguished citizens on the Eastern Shore, advocate it as a measure desirable in itself & which would be acceptable to the people of that district. If natural boundaries had been originally considered, the whole Peninsula, including the counties of Maryland and the two counties of Accomac and Northampton, which by some queer accident, belong to Virginia, would have been included in one government. Nature intended it so- but men's caprice has marred the design, and spoiled one of the prettiest states of which our union could have boasted, and even accepting the sovereign state of S. Carolina. Why Virginia should stretch her enormous legs across the wide expanse of the Chesapeake Bay, or Maryland wish to retain a territory disunited from her main body by nature's irrevocable fiat, supposing the wish to exist, are questions we desire those interested to consider. - The people of the Peninsula assimilate in character and habits, and would readily form one people, as nature intended their territory to constitute one state. In the event of such an arrangement, Easton would probably become the capital of the regenerated state- and its Capitol, adorned by the Lloyds, the Chambers, the Goldsboroughs, the Tilghmans, the Kerrs, and the Upshurs, of the Eastern Shore, with the Claytons and others , who little Delaware could throw into the scale, would present a galaxy of talent and character, which would give the Peninsular State a name that her sons would be proud of. We wish our Maryland friends to take this matter seriously into their consideration.　

　

January, 1870

(The New York Times)

The effort to consolidate Delaware, the Eastern Shore of Maryland, and Accomac County, in Virginia, into a new state, has been renewed with increased energy. A Baltimore paper insists, however, that if the new arrangement is to be carried into effect, Delaware must lose its identity, and the new State be called Chesapeake "as the people of Virginia and Maryland would object to being annexed to so small a state as Delaware." How the new state will be any larger under the name of Chesapeake than it would be under the name of Delaware it did not explain, and we appeal to it for further information before committing ourself to the project.

　

July, 1901

(The Daily News- Frederick, Md.)

(Excerpts)

A NEW STATE PROPOSED

Eastern Shore Suggested as a Part of "Delmarvia"

"Delmarvia" says the New York Times, "is the odd name that some persons bestow upon a hypothetical State of the American Union." A proposal to create such a state by the union of Delaware with the counties of the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Virginia has been often discussed, often with considerable interest and by the people of Delaware, occasionally with qualified approval by part of the people of Maryland most directly interested, never with interest or approval by the Eastern Shoremen of Virginia, and usually with unqualified disapproval by Virginia and Maryland.

"Rural Delaware and the Peninsula counties of Maryland and Virginia had a common English origin and a population almost exclusively native and of native ancestry. But Wilmington, which will soon include half of the population of Delaware, has a large foreign element. Eastern Shore traditions are also more distinctly southern and aristocratic than those of Delaware, and the strong Quaker element in Northern Delaware has no counterpart on the Eastern Shore."

　

December, 1933

(The Daily News- Frederick, Md.)　

SOME DAY YOUR MAP OF U.S. MAY SHOW: STATE OF DELMARVA!

Invasion of Gov. Ritchies Militia and Criticism from Baltimoreans Heightens Agitation that Nine Counties Secede from Maryland and Join Delaware.

By NEA Service

(Excerpts)

Baltimore, Md. Dec.26.- Delmarva- newest commonwealth in the American family of states!

Back of the proposal for establishment of the new state, to be made up of Delaware and eleven counties of the other two states, lies a story of virtual civil war in Maryland. It is the immanent secession of the nine Maryland counties and their union with Delaware which would make the new state possible, and the backers of the plan-they number thousands in eastern Maryland- are hopeful that the two lower Peninsula counties of Virginia will join their lot with the Maryland counties.

Such a secession of the Maryland counties from the rest of the state, which lies on the other side of the Chesapeake, would be revolutionary in recent American political history.

But to the citizens of the Eastern Shore of Maryland, secession is not unthinkable. For it was only recently soldies invaded the lower shore. They seized citizens of two counties and held them prisoner in an armory. The outraged inhabitants attacked the armory, and virtually drove them out- drove them back ignonimously to Baltimore, and with them drove the Attorney General of Maryland and the Commander of the Maryland National Guard.

From that incident particularly, and from a series of other previous incidents, has arisen the desire of the citizens of the Maryland's Eastern Shore to break away from the rest of the state.

For the Eastern Shoremen are mad- mad clean through. Their resentment is particularly directed towards Maryland's Governor Ritchie, and also towards Baltimore newspapers which have been exceedingly open in their criticism of the 'Shore and its demonstrations of mob violence which culminated recently in the open street fight at Salisbury between irate citizens and the militiamen dispatched by Governor Ritchie to seize suspected lynchers.

That "Battle of Salisbury" was to the citizens of the Eastern Shore what the Battle of Lexington was to the American colonists in 1776.

　

August, 1956.

A welcoming road sign bearing the insignia of 11 Pocomoke City civic and service organizations was erected along Route 13 about a half-mile south of town. Sponsors were: The Pocomoke City Chamber Of Commerce... Pocomoke Woman's Club...Soroptimist International...Junior Woman's Club Of Pocomoke City...Junior Chamber Of Commerce...American Legion Post 93...Lions International...Rotary International...Kiwanis International...B.P.O. Elks Lodge 94...Veterans Of Foreign Wars Post 8622.

A second sign was to be placed on the northern approach to town. Snow Hill had already placed welcoming signs to their town and Berlin was planning to do the same.　

　

　

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.

Concerns and Comments

Comments on a post made last Sunday concerning the membership drive for the Save The Youth has gotten many comments....some negative...some positive. I'm sorry to say that as of almost one week later there have been no comments left by anyone identifying themselves as a part of Save The Youth. There are no names of board member nor staff.

A request for more information on the organization was left and there was no response. I personally emailed the person who's name was on the request that the info be posted to see how the membership drive was going and if I should post it again. No response. I am not going to deny the fact that Save The Youth at one time, many years ago, was a very good thing. Recently, however, if you were to check back on the Pocomoke City Council minutes you will find that Bishop Jenkins with the Rev. James Jones have been to the council meetings numerous times but the minutes will show they have failed to produce what the council has requested.  Readers of the PPE have requested info and there is no response with any information.

You can not expect the citizens of Pocomoke to just accept this group without the knowledge of who they are. I have personally searched many times for information on this group to see how it is progressing and who some of the leaders may be but have reached nothing but dead ends.

Here is one comments:
　
Please answer the above questions and more!
What does "Save the Youth" do for the youth? How many are saved? What are they saved from?
How are the parents involved? Where is your roster?
What age youth do you serve?
How are they supervised?
What do the youth do for the community? Do the youth simply take from the community or do they contribute to the community?
Are they taught entitlement or self-reliance, ethics and moral behavior?

How are the youth involved in fund raising?
Do you have an official non-profit tax status with paperwork up to date?
And here is one reply:
Never read such degrading and negative remarks. STY for years held basketball tournaments outdoors for youth, sponsored motivational speaker events, and workshops targeting the youth.

No other organization has thus far come close.
Instead of spreading fear, hatred and negativity... GET INVOLVED!

Kudos to Bishop Jenkins and staff.
　
Now, how is anyone supposed to get involved if there is no phone #, no email, NO NAMES ! How can people get involved if they have no information??Not one soul seems to have gone to bat for the Save The Youth - which is now - Save The Youth Crime Prevention. Seems to me that if this organization is SO very crucial to the youths of the city someone would be answering some questions....and the citizens would know who you are.
　
And while we are on the subject of youths ...

~~~~~~

This was emailed to me earlier this week and I find that it is an ideal time to post it.

Wise Words from a Judge in New Zealand - for Young People and Adults
"Northland College (NZ) principal John Tapene has offered the following words from a judge who regularly deals with youth.

"Always we hear the cry from teenagers 'What can we do, where can we go?'

... My answer is, "Go home, mow the lawn, wash the windows, learn to cook, build a raft, get a job, visit the sick, study your lessons, and after you've finished, read a book."

"Your town does not owe you recreational facilities and your parents do not owe you fun. The world does not owe you a living, you owe the world something. You owe it your time, energy and talent so that no one will be at war, in poverty or sick and lonely again."

"In other words, grow up, stop being a cry baby, get out of your dream world and develop a backbone, not a wishbone.

Start behaving like a responsible person. You are important and you are needed. It's too late to sit around and wait for somebody to do something someday. Someday is now and that somebody is you..."
Source:

Minutes From Pocomoke City Mayor and Council Meeting ~ 7/2/12

July 2, 2012

The regular meeting of the Pocomoke Mayor and Council was held in the Council Chambers at City Hall on Monday July 2, 2012. The meeting was called to order at 7:30 P.M.

Present: Mayor Bruce Morrison

Council Members: Tracey Cottman,

Rob Clarke, Diane Downing,

Donald L. Malloy, George Tasker

City Attorney William Hudson

City Manager Russell W. Blake

City Clerk Carol L. Justice

Review Minutes:

In a motion (Malloy, Clarke passed), to approve the minutes of June 18, 2012.

Review Bills:

In a motion (Downing, Clarke passed), the bills presented to be paid. (Copy of bill list attached to original minutes).

Chief Kelvin Sewell to introduce new Police Officer, Anthony Foy:

Chief Sewell introduced Anthony Foy as a new certified officer. Mr. Foy has been a dispatcher for two and half years and became a certified police officer two years ago. Mr. Foy lives in Fruitland Maryland.

Mayor Morrison welcomed Mr. Foy to the City of Pocomoke.

Chief Kelvin Sewell to discuss recent grand opening of new police station building and National Night Out event (August 7):

Chief Sewell thanked the Mayor and Council for the new police building. He stated that staff morale is up and crime rate are down.

Chief Sewell stated that the National Night Out will be August 7 this year and the State funding for this event has been cut. He would like to request $1,500 to fund this project. He stated that it is a well-attended event.

Mayor Morrison stated that it is a wonderful program.

In a motion (Malloy, Downing passed) to sponsor the National Night Out with a donation of $1,500.

Authorize Mayor to sign renewal agreement for monitoring and laboratory services for Water and Wastewater Treatment with Maryland Environmental Service (MES):

City Manager Blake stated the MES has been a back-up service that advises and counsels the Superintendent with monitoring and laboratory services at the Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant. He stated that the contract was up for renewal at a cost of $21,905.

Councilman Clarke asked if there were any alternatives.

City Manager Blake stated yes, but they would be very costly.

In a motion (Tasker, Cottman passed) to authorize the Mayor to sign the renewal agreement with MES in the amount of $21, 905.

Discuss recommendation from Housing Coordinator Harvey Davis for repair or demolition of houses at 724 Sixth Street (James Finney, owner) and 415 Oxford Street (Mr. James H and Mary E. Wright, lifetime and others, owners):

Mayor Morrison read a memo from Housing Coordinator Harvey Davis stating that both properties show signs of progressive structural failure, neglect, and abandonment, and should be considered unsafe structures.

In a motion (Cottman, Downing passed) to accept Housing Coordinator Harvey Davis’ recommendation to send notification to owners to repair or demolish 724 Sixth Street and 415 Oxford Street.

Discuss proposal from building inspector Ron Hamblin for preliminary inspection services at Armory Building:

City Manager Blake stated that the City needed to have a preliminary inspection of the Armory building to find out the condition of the building and the possibilities for reuse of the building. He suggested Ron Hamblin for this job since Mr. Hamblin has done other inspections for the City. There would be two phases; Phase one would be to inspect the building and determine possible reuses and Phase two would be an environmental review inspection.

Councilwoman Cottman suggested to move forward with the preliminary inspection and not to make any decision regarding the building until the preliminary study was completed.

In a motion (Malloy, Cottman passed) to hire Ron Hamblin for preliminary inspection of the Armory building.

Councilman Clarke stated that Save the Youth would like to use the gym this summer.

In a motion (Clarke, Cottman passed) to allow “Save the Youth” to use the gym if they sign the proposed lease agreement, and abide by all conditions, for the summer using the back door. Also Save the Youth could continue to use the office downstairs until preliminary study is completed. Councilman Malloy was not in favor of this motion.

City Attorney to discuss proposed Ethics Ordinance as required by Maryland State Law:

City Attorney Hudson stated that the City has an Ethics Ordinance (Chapter 37) in the Code book but it has been thirty (30) years since it has been updated. The new state law is much more comprehensive. The City requested and was exempted from the lobbying requirements. Two model ordinances which we must choose trying to add into them can be cumbersome. He suggested going with the simplest model ordinance and he would have a draft Ordinance at the next meeting.

Mayor Morrison stated that he did speak with Scott Hancock at the MML Convention and stated his displeasure with how MML handled this situation.

City Attorney to discuss progress on right-of-way acquisition for Stormwater Drainage project near Butler’s Village:

City Attorney Hudson stated that since the last meeting he spoke with City Manager Blake and Attorney Paul Wilbur who has handled things like this before. Mr. Wilbur stated that Tucker Homes is in foreclosure and in 2010-2011 they filed bankruptcy. PNC Bank holds the lien and has initiated a foreclosure. Auctions take time because they have to be advertised for three weeks and several months after to complete the sale. He stated that he doesn’t believe that the City can negotiate and finalize an agreement with Tucker Homes at this time.

City Manager Blake stated that they need to look at the map again to see if there may be another way to proceed with the stormwater plan.

Mayor Morrison asked City Manager Blake to request an extension for the grant.

City Manager to discuss proposed cell phone policy:

City Manager Blake stated that Finance Director Monna VanEss has recommended a cell phone policy for privately owned cell phones used by employees for City business. Employees who are required to have a cell phone would be required to sign an agreement and be reimbursed $40.00 a month which would be taxable. The IRS is considering a cell phone policy and we would be required to keep more documents to determine what was used as business or personal. This proposal would make it easier for the City and could possibly save money.

Councilman Tasker asked what the percentage of the cell phone would be paid.

City Manager Blake stated maybe 50%.

It was suggested to reimburse employees $60 per month for cell phone use and the employee would be required to maintain the cell phone, chargers and headsets.

Councilwoman Cottman asked how many people have City cell phones.

City Manager Blake stated approximately 12.

In a motion (Malloy, Tasker passed) to adopt a cell phone policy with to reimburse employees $60.00/month to maintain a cell phone for both personal and City buisness.

Cameras on Cedar Street near school zones:

Mayor Morrison said he would like to have a trial period using cameras on Cedar Street to slow traffic down in that area. He recommended a three month trial period.

Councilman Malloy stated that he liked Councilman Clarke’s idea a couple of months ago about adding stop signs.

Councilman Clarke stated he doesn’t like the cameras. It’s a scam for local government to raise taxes without taxes being raised.

Esther Troast, from the audience, stated that she would be happy with the cameras but something had to be done regarding the speeding on Cedar Street. She has almost been killed twice pulling out of her driveway; she said give her stop signs and she would be happy.

Councilman Malloy asked Councilman Clarke where he thought stop signs should be installed.

Councilman Clarke stated a 4-way at 10^th and Cedar; 3-way at 11^th and Cedar; and 3-way at 14^th and Cedar.

In a motion (Malloy, Clarke passed) to install new stop signs at 10^th and Cedar, 11^th and Cedar and 14^th and Cedar.

Ms. Troast thanked the Mayor and Council.

Comments from Audience:

Josh Nordstrom thanked the City for their help at the Cypress Festival. He stated that they had hired a new executive director who will be working on Saturdays.

Comments from Council:

Councilman Tasker stated that 802 Second Street is infested with bats. The man living there had to move and the neighbors are upset.

City Manager Blake stated that the Health Department has been called.

Councilman Tasker asked if a handicap sign be installed at Front Street near the church.

In a motion (Clarke, Cottman passed) to have a handicap sign installed on Front Street.

Following a motion by Councilman Malloy and seconded by Councilwoman Cottman, the Council voted to meet in a closed session at 8:18 P.M. in the Council Chambers. Present were Mayor Morrison, Councilman Clarke, Councilman Malloy, Councilwoman Cottman, Councilwoman Downing, Councilman Tasker, City Manager Blake, City Attorney Hudson, and City Clerk Carol Justice. Items discussed were real estate matters and personnel. The Executive Session was adjourned at 8:26P.M.

Approved:___________________

________________________________

Carol L. Justice

City Clerk

TIME MACHINE Preview ... Delmarva A State?

A number of times in past history the idea surfaced that our Eastern Shore counties and Delaware should join to become a new state. We've come across some of these mentions.. from 1833, 1870, 1901, and 1933.

Read more about it 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!

Romney To Announce Running Mate Saturday In Virginia

WASHINGTON (AP) - Mitt Romney's campaign says the presumed Republican presidential nominee will announce his running mate Saturday morning in Norfolk, Va.

The short list - if there is one - is believed to include Ohio Rep. Rob Portman, former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty and Wisconsin Rep. Paul Ryan.

In a statement issued Friday night, the Romney campaign said the running mate would be revealed at 9 a.m. EDT at the Nauticus Museum. Romney is kicking off a four-day bus tour through swing states.

Romney's choice comes as he tries to repair an image damaged by negative Democratic advertising and shift the trajectory of a campaign that's seen him lose ground to President Barack Obama.

The vice presidential selection will dominate headlines, and Romney's team has been relentlessly teasing the announcement for weeks.

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Worcester County Sheriff's Office Receives Grant

Sheriff’s Office awarded grant for sex offender monitoring

The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office applied for and has received a grant award of $8,510 from the Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention.

This grant will help fund the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office monitoring support compliance of local sex offenders who are required to register or re-register with the Maryland Sex Offender Registry. This program benefits Worcester County by ensuring sex offenders are in full compliance as required by Maryland law and providing reassurance to county residents.

Grant funds help support the two parttime detectives who work to keep track of multiple offenders in Worcester County, Sheriff Reggie T. Mason stated.

The Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services is required to reimburse law enforcement annually for processing registration statements, fingerprints, photographs, and for performing community notification requirements.

The Criminal Justice Information System Central Repository Maryland Sex Offender Registry Unit has determined the amount of reimbursement to the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office is $15,000 for 75 active registrations, according to Mason.
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Charged With Prostitution and Indecent Exposure In Salisbury

Shockley
2010 Photo

SALISBURY -- A 22-year-old Pocomoke City woman and a Salisbury man were charged with prostitution and indecent exposure after a Salisbury Police Officer allegedly saw them engaged in sexual activity in public.

Kristen Ann Shockley and Andrez Pascual-Pascual, unknown age and address, were charged on Wednesday after an officer patrolling near Route 13 and Baltimore Avenue allegedly saw them engaging in a sex act, according to police documents.

Both were released to central booking.

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Mar-Va Theater ~ Saturday Night~

SHOWING ONE NIGHT ONLY

*Make it Ladies Night Out*

Riverside Grill will offer wine and Cosmos specials

beginning at 5 PM

Saturday   August 11, 2012

7:30 PM

Tickets  $5.00

Rated R

National Night Out In Pocomoke City 2012

Pocomoke City's NATIONAL NIGHT OUT  2012

Hosted by the Pocomoke City Police Department

The kids loved this!  But then kids have the energy.  The older I become the more amazed I am with the things children can and will do.  Note:  to enter this house of a thousand bounces you have to crawl through a small door, or so it seemed.  Once inside you just bounce up and down, fall down, get up,  fall down again and continue that same routine for what seemed to me forever.  The amazing part, to me,  is when you have completed all the bouncing you crawl out the small door, get to your feet and continue onto something else.  Amazing!

Pocomoke City Manager Russ Blake and wife Lynn with Councilwoman Tracey Cottman

Officer Perkins with one of the city crew workers, I believe.

Mike Dean with Lt. Green and some other Pocomoke City Police Officers

Mayor Bruce Morrison with Councilwoman Diane Downing and Councilwoman Tracey Cottman

In this photo:  Rhonda Sewell, wife of Pocomoke City Police Chief, Councilwoman Downing, Mayor Morrison, Laura Morrison and Councilwoman Cottman.

Pictured with PCPD Chief Kelvin Sewell

What an honor it was to have Sen. Jim Mathias (left to right), MD State Police Commander of the Berlin Barracks- Lt. Earl Starner and Worcester County State's Attorney Beau Oglesby  attending the National Night Out in Pocomoke.

Also attending: Investigator for the Wor. Co. State's Attorney  Office- Rick Taylor and Special Investigator fof the Wor. Co. State's Attorney Office. 

Officer Perkins with Mike Dean

PFC 1st Class Ralph Corbin with Lt. Earl Starner and Tfc. Orndorff

from the MD. State Police Barracks in Berlin.  He is also a K-9 Handler.

These 3 were having a great time but didn't stick around longe enough to give me their names.

National Night Out events have proven to be effective all across America. 

Each National Night Out is an inexpensive and enjoyable  evening to promote neighborhood spirit and  police/community partnerships.  The outcome is to create a safer and more productive neighborhood, not just in one community but all across the nation.

Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin Sewell has certainly kept his word when he wrote in   his Mission Statement "to provide the highest quality of police service" and to "develop a partnership with the community". What he has done in just a few short months with his department and for the great town of Pocomoke City is outstanding.

Be sure to thank them.