Riverside Grill Pocomoke

FRIDAY SPECIALS

FEBRUARY 8, 2013

 

-Seafood Chowder (shrimp, crab, and clams) w/ 1/2 ham sandwich or side salad 6.99
 -Neptune Wrap (shrimp and lump crab) w/ fries 9.99
 -Open-Face Roast Beef w/ mashed potatoes and green beans 6.99
 -Blackened Shrimp Wedge Salad 8.99

 

 

 

Friday drink specials:

 *Happy Hour is starting at 3 pm today!

$1 off all appetizers and most drinks until 7 pm*

 

 

 @ 8 pm: $3.50 Captain Morgan and Sailor Jerry drinks, $1.50 Coors light, Bud light, and Yuengling drafts

 

 

The Future Of Social Sharing? Why Facebook May Want To Track Your Location

(CNN) — Facebook may be working on an app that will let your friends, or even complete strangers, know where you are at all times.

If that sounds unpleasant, even creepy, you’re not alone. But it sounds an awful lot like a small but growing mobile sector in which users knowingly sacrifice some privacy in exchange for “social discovery.”

And, as Facebook works to make money off its constantly growing list of mobile users, such a feature raises questions about how the company will use the personal info it would collect.

On Tuesday, Bloomberg reported that Facebook is developing a smartphone app that would track the location of users. The app would run in the background of smartphones even when not opened and is designed to help users find nearby friends, according to one of two unnamed sources cited in the article.

A Facebook spokeswoman told CNN that the company has no comment about the report.

Social discovery, or stalking?  READ MORE.....

Accomack County Sheriff Todd E. Godwin Accepting Applications For Scholarship Program

Accomack County Sheriff Todd E. Godwin announced Thursday that he is accepting applications for the Virginia Sheriffs Institute Scholarship Program.

The VSI Program was established to provide an opportunity for young people across Virginia to pursue an educational curriculum in law enforcement or criminal justice. Full-time and Part-time students are eligible for this program and all applicants must meet the requirements set forth by the Virginia Sheriffs Institute in order to qualify as a recipient of the VSI scholarship award.

Applicants must live in the locality where the sheriff is a member of the Virginia Sheriffs Institute and must be accepted to Virginia Colleges and Universities with a major in the criminal justice field.

All students interested in the Virginia Sheriffs Institute Scholarship Program for the 2013/2014 school year should contact Karen Barrett of the Accomack County Sheriffs Office @ 787-1131, 824-5666, or 891-2489.

Applications may be obtained from the Accomack County Sheriffs Office and must be completed and returned by April 19, 2013. 

Accomack County Fires/ Serial Arsons Could Be Work Of a Group

Rachel West
Anita Blanton

ACCOMACK COUNTY, Va. (WAVY) - Nearly four dozen arsons have been reported on the Eastern Shore in a matter of three months and officials are aggressively searching for a suspect.

Since November 2012, 44 arsons have been set in Accomack County, with the majority of them destroying abandoned buildings.

State Police say based on evidence that's been collected, there may be several individuals working in connection for the majority of the arsons on the Eastern Shore.

The agency is "aggressively pursuing leads", said Sgt. Michelle Anaya.

“From solid, old-fashioned police work to utilizing the latest in police technology, we have developed several strong leads as to who may very possibly be behind these fires,” Capt. T.A. Reibel, Commander of the BCI Chesapeake Field Office said.

WAVY.com’s Anita Blanton traveled to Accomack County and found that after three months of fires, conversations around a community in fear of the next arson make it clear that rumors are running rampant.

Martha McNair, who's lived in the area for years said, "I feel like it's an inside job. I feel like somebody obviously knows what's going on."

People in the town say their patience is wearing thin. "It's outrageous really somebody should have caught this guy by now," said Jeff Bender. 

His wife Erin agreed, "I thought we were done with it and whoever it was had moved on, but I guess that's not the case." 

To date there have been 44 arsons on the Eastern Shore since mid-November. "We hear about it the next morning and everybody's like ‘Oh did you hear about the fire happening and this and that’," said

Tony Ramirez who lives next door to one of the burned structures. 

WAVY.com also spoke with two residents who lived on property where firefighters battled flames just feet away from their homes.  Donald Carroll was in disbelief, "He (a friend) called me and he said have you looked outside? And I said no and I look and see fire trucks and the lights are going on.

Considering what could have happened and what did happen this is some kind of a miracle almost because it should have burned the whole thing down.  Sooner or later this man or men or woman or whoever keeps doing this is going to burn something and one of our local firemen is going to get killed." 

For those wondering who could be behind it all and why police haven't made an arrest, 10 on Your Side went to two experts for answers, Bernadette Holmes, a criminal justice professor at Norfolk State University and Doctor Velma Bacak, a psychiatrist at Riverside Behavioral Health Center. Dr. Bacak explained, "These are quietly angry people but they don't show it.  You see more personality disorders and alcohol abuse. Who knows if this is somebody who does it for thrills or maybe this is about revenge."

Professor Holmes added that these crimes can be extremely hard to investigate. "You're putting together those pieces of the puzzle and there's so much property damage associated with this type of crime that it can take longer to solve," said Holmes.

Investigators have released very little information about any potential leads. "We do believe it’s someone inside the community that's very familiar with Accomack County. Right now any leads that we have are under investigation,” said Sgt. Michelle Anaya, with Virginia State Police.

Professor Holmes says it’s understandable given the nature of the crimes.  "Law enforcement has to be very tight-lipped because one misstep, one misstatement could escalate the behavior of the perpetrator or it could give clues," explained Holmes. 

State Police say this investigation is extremely challenging, with the large area it covers and the fact that the crime scene is typically compromised by the time they arrive, simply from the fire fight.

"We have stepped up troopers, we have stepped up surveillance, we're bringing in different types of agencies, state, local, and federal agencies. Our utmost priority right now is the security of this community," said Sgt. Anaya.

Right now the main targets for arson in Accomack County have been abandoned or unoccupied buildings, but State Police want people to know how serious this is. According to state law, even burning an unoccupied structure is a Class 4 Felony that carries a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in jail and a fine of up to $100,000.

Investigators are urging anyone with information to call police. They also want residents to be vigilant especially if you see someone coming in and out at late times at night.

There is currently a reward of $5,000 for information leading to an arrests and conviction.

Source:

103rd Anniversary for Scouting

Scouts raising flag at City Hall

October 2012

BWphoto

 

In honor of Scouting's 103rd Anniversary

 

Pocomoke City Mayor Bruce Mayor  and  City Council

 have declared

February  6 - 12, 2013 as

Scout Week In Pocomoke City

 

Photo BW

Scouts in Cypress Park

Flag Day Ceremony

June 2012

 

 

 

Scout Sunday 2013 ~ A Scout Is Reverent

 

During the Scouting Anniversary Week in February, Scouts around the world honor this important point of the Scout Law by celebrating "Scout Sunday" or "Scout Sabbath".

 

Units throughout the Del-Mar-VA Council will celebrate Scout Sunday on February 3 or 10, 2013. Scouts and Scouters are asked to wear their Field Uniforms (class A) to their places of worship in celebration of the 103rd Anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America.

 

 

Boy Scouts of America was founded February 8, 1910.

Delegate Mike McDermott Speaks at Pro Gun Rally/ VIDEO

On February 6, 2013, many Marylanders came out to Annapolis to let their voice be heard on their 2nd Amendment Rights.

In this video, you will see Delegate Mike McDermott speaking to the crowd at the Pro Gun Rally.

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview

1827.. Bathing resort plans for Smith Island?; 1976.. Emergency Medical Technicians graduate in Pocomoke; 1965.. Country music stars headline Civic Center show in Salisbury; 1908.. Polk's new Peninsula Directory is now off the press; and the concluding portion of Memories Of Accomac, 1890.

Although you may not find these items in a history book, they are a part of our local history and you can read more about it this Sunday right here at The Pocomoke Public Eye!


　 Do you have a local memory to share with PPE readers.. such as a big snow storm, a favorite school teacher, a local happening, something of interest your parents or grandparents told you about. It can be just a line or two, or more if you wish. Send to tkforppe@yahoo.com and watch for it on a future TIME MACHINE posting!

News Release From Virginia State Police: Virginia State Police Still Pursuing Arsonist

Investigators with the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI) Chesapeake Field Office continue to deploy numerous investigative techniques and strategies in pursuit of the criminal(s) responsible for setting fire to more than 40 structures in the county since November 2012."

"Since the first fires were set Nov. 12, 2012, state police has dedicated a multitude of resources to tracking, investigating and preventing these arson (fire)s," said Capt. T.A. Reibel, Commander of the BCI Chesapeake Field Office. "From solid, old-fashioned police work to utilizing the latest in police technology, we have developed several strong leads as to who may very possibly be behind these fires."

"We are confident that a few of the arson (fire)s are the work of some individuals seeking to take advantage of what has become a serial crime spree. But, the evidence collected from the other fires indicates that the majority of the arson (fire)s are the work of several individuals possibly working in connection with one another," Reibel stated. "Solving crimes like these does require public participation. It's that one tidbit of information that an Accomack County resident knows about that's going to affect the arrest and successful prosecution of the person(s) responsible."

From Nov. 13, 2012, through Feb. 4, 2013, there have been 44 reported structure and brush fires all purposely set in Accomack County. No injuries have resulted from the fires, which have all occurred in the overnight hours. In some instances, multiple fires have been set the same night in different locations in the county.

During the course of the investigation, State Police has increased uniformed patrols and surveillance across the county; as well as brought in additional arson and crime scene investigators from other State Police BCI Field Offices around the state. State police is also working with the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, the ATF and the Accomack County Sheriffs Office on the cases.

"We sincerely appreciate all the tips called and emailed in to us from Accomack County residents. Your information has been incredibly valuable in our pursuit of the individuals endangering your community with these arsons. We also appreciate residents vigilance to protect their properties from such criminals and your patience with this expansive investigation. Please keep the tips coming in, so we can solve these crimes, put the individuals responsible behind bars, and let Accomack County residents regain a sense of safety and normalcy in their lives," Reibel continued.

Arson is one of the most challenging of criminal investigations because the crime scene has to be compromised before being thoroughly investigated. The simple act of putting out the fire can dramatically contaminate evidence at the scene, which is why State Police continues to ask residents to call 911 or 77 on a cell phone as soon as any kind of suspicious activity is suspected or spotted.

Additional numbers to reach the Virginia State Police Chesapeake Headquarters are toll-free at 1-800-582-8350 or at (757) 424-6820; the Accomack County Sheriffs Office can also be contacted at (757) 787-1131.

Information that leads to an arrest and conviction could result in an award of up to $5,000 from the Virginia Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators (http://www.vaiaai.com).


In Virginia, state law declares the burning of a structure an unoccupied dwelling as a Class 4 Felony. A Class 4 Felony carries a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in jail and a fine of up to $100,000.

Support Our Troops Project

Team Britt's Support Our Troops Project seems to be going strong but can always use continuing  support for our troops. 

Below is a list of items that you can be donated.  The soldiers that Britt has adopted appreciate anything from home and have expressed that on her facebook page.  As always, it is important that all of us at home let them know how much we care and miss them.

Snacks- items that do not melt or spoil
cookies, crackers, trail mixes, snack packs, candy, gum, drink mixes

Personal items- deodorants, lotions (scented and non), Q-tips. cotton swaps, wet wipes /baby wipes, sanitizer, men's shampoos, soaps, disposable razors, chap stick

Also: Our soldiers love drawings and letters from children, letters of support, cards, magazines, books, small games

Use your imagination!  Keep in mind that it costs a little over $14.00 towards shipping and handling of these packages so monetary donations are always appreciated!

Team Britt's Support Our Troops Project has T-shirts, bracelets and other items for sale on her facebook page.  1/2 the cost of the items goes towards the cost of getting the packages to our troops.

Donations and items can be dropped off at
Enchanted florist in Pocomoke, Captains Cove Marina Club or Bay Country in Pocomoke.
 
Be sure to "like" this page- Team Britt's Support Our Troops Project for updates/pictures and more.

SHHS Athletic Boosters Presents A Womanless Beauty Pageant

No Municipal Election For Pocomoke City This Year

Photo BW

By
Elaine Bean
POCOMOKE CITY — Since only two incumbent council members filed to run in the upcoming municipal election, the town will not hold an election this year.

Incumbent council members Diane Downing and George E. Tasker had already filed to run in the election and will automatically be declared the winners, according to city manager Russell Blake.

“There is no election required under our rules,” said Blake. “(Downing and Tasker) will be declared the winners.”

The cancellation of the municipal election will save the town and its citizens both money and effort.

“With no other candidates, we don’t need to go through the motions and expense of an election,” said Blake.

Downing, who represents the 2nd District, will be serving her second term as city council member.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue serving, because I enjoy it,” said Downing. “(Running unopposed) makes me feel like I’m doing something right.”

She was involved in bringing the Riverside Grill restaurant to Pocomoke City during her first term, part of her interest in downtown revitalization.

“That’s a big thing economically,” Downing said.

Downing would also like to see improvements in the condition of homes in Pocomoke City and is also interested in developing activity programs for youth.

“Maybe something that would hold their interest — an arcade, maybe. It takes time,” she said.

Tasker, who represents District 1, was elected in 2012 to fulfill the unexpired term of the late Bob Hawkins. This will be his first complete three-year term.

“I’m glad that no one ran against me,” said Tasker. “But sometimes it makes me wonder whether people really care when no one runs against someone unopposed. …Unless everyone thinks I’m doing the job. But I haven’t been in there long enough for anybody to think I’ve done a good job.”

Bringing businesses to downtown Pocomoke City and the industrial park is high on Tasker’s list of priorities. He is also concerned about flooding and other drainage issues.

“I want to see the downtown grow, and I’d like to see more youth programs come alive in town.

Maybe some open mentoring programs,” said Tasker.

Source:

Rep. Scott Rigell makes Statement About Delay of USS Truman’s Deployment

On Wednesday the Navy announced that the USS Harry S. Truman will not deploy on Friday as scheduled.

Congressman Scott Rigell released the following statement:

“This most recent announcement concerning the USS HARRY S TRUMAN and our carrier presence in the Persian Gulf is an early indication of the challenge our region will face if sequestration is not averted. I have supported, and the House has passed on two separate occasions, measures that would avert sequestration. As recently as today, I co-sponsored legislation to be introduced by House Armed Services Committee Chairman Buck McKeon that would avert these cuts for the remainder of this fiscal year by offsetting them with savings through attrition in the federal workforce with a national security waiver.”

“I urge the President and the Senate to consider these alternatives passed by the House to avert sequestration. The seriousness of this situation cannot be overstated. These cuts have the potential to devastate our region and, as we can see by today’s announcement, the impact on our community and our forward presence has already begun.”

Thousands Protest O'Malley's Gun Control

WBFF Photo

A huge crowd of gun rights supporters rallied in Annapolis Wednesday to protest a comprehensive gun control bill backed by Governor O'Malley.

Among the signs displayed by protesters on Lawyer's Mall outside the State House: "Armed people are safe and free."

The bill would ban the sale of military-style assault weapons and restrict the high capacity of magazines to ten rounds.

The measure also calls for those purchasing handguns to obtain a license and complete a firearm safety course.

But Shannon Alford, a lobbyist for the National Rifle Association, told the crowd "We know that law abiding citizens are the only affected by this bill because criminals don't follow laws."

Tim Rourke, who attended the rally, said "I'm not part of the NRA, I'm not part of any group, I'm a stay at home dad and I'm here cause they're not going to take my rights away."

A short time later, Governor O'Malley testified on behalf of his bill before the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee.

"This is not about ideology, this is about public safety, this is about doing reasonable things that work to save lives, to prevent hopefully the sort of slaughter that our country sadly is a witness to far too often," said the Governor.

The Governor was referring to the recent school shooting in Newtown, Connecticut where 20 young students and six staffers were killed.

"None of us having empathy in our heart and not ask ourselves is there not something that we could and we should be doing," said the Governor.

Baltimore County State's Attorney Scott Shellenberger also testified in favor of licensing new owners of handguns.

"Just like you wouldn't want your 15-year old to begin driving a car without proper licensing and training, we want to make sure that every gun owner also has proper training and licensing.

Senate President Mike Miller says, "It'll be a close vote on the licensing aspect but you got to remember, it only applies to future purchases, it doesn't apply to existing guns and it doesn't apply to rifles or shotguns."

The public hearing began at 1pm Wednesday but continued well into the evening, with more than 800 witnesses signed up to testify.

Source:Thousands Protest Governor O'Malley's Gun Control Bill

Woman Strikes Fiance' In Head/ Arresed Twice In One Day

Kathleen Theresa Machen

On February 6, 2013 at approximately 12:30 a.m. Ocean City police responded to 1210 Philadelphia Avenue in reference to an assault. Officers arrived at the scene and met with a male victim
who was bleeding from the head.  The victim told officers that he had been attacked while sleeping in his room by his fiancé, later identified as Kathleen Theresa Machen, 47, of Ocean City, Maryland.

The victim told police that he had been asleep, alone, in his room, when Machen came into the room and attacked him with a metal can of beans; striking him repeatedly in the head and causing several bleeding head wounds.  The victim advised he was able to get Machen off of him and get out of the room and flee to a friend’s room where he called the police.

Police located Machen and attempted to place her under arrest for assault. During the arrest Machen resisted police and was eventually subdued and taken into custody.  Prior to this incident, Machen had attacked the victim earlier in the day, striking him in the head with a beer can after which Ocean City police responded and arrested her for second degree assault. 

After the arrest for second degree assault, Machen was released on her own recognizance by an Ocean City District Court Commissioner with the specific stipulation that she was not to return to 1210 Philadelphia Avenue and to have no contact with the victim. As a result of the second attack, Machen was charged with:

 

First degree assault

Second degree assault

 Malicious destruction of property

 Resisting arrest

Machen was seen by an Ocean City District Court Commissioner and is being held on $250,000.00 pending a bond review later today by an Ocean City District Court Judge.  The victim was treated at the scene by Ocean City EMS. 
 
Ocean City Police Department

Ballet Theater of Maryland To Perform

MEDIA ADVISORY: POLICE WARN MOTORISTS YOU HOLD THE KEY.....

MEDIA ADVISORY:

POLICE WARN MOTORISTS

 YOU HOLD THE KEY

 WHILE COLLEGE STUDENTS HELP PUT

THE BRAKES ON AUTO THEFT

Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel Marcus L. Brown will be joined by Baltimore City Police Commissioner Anthony Batts, Howard County Deputy Chief Lee Lachman, Colonel Pete Evans of the Baltimore County Police Department, and Paul Holland, Vice President of the MD/DC Anti-Car Theft (ACT) Committee to educate Maryland motorists about the newest trends in auto theft.

Maryland’s Vehicle Theft Prevention Council, in partnership with the Maryland/DC Anti Car Theft Committee, will present $7000 in scholarship money to Towson University students for their winning entries into the fourth annual radio and television PSA competition. The public service announcement entries, in both the radio and television categories, were required to focus on new trends in auto theft.

Contrary to the belief, auto thieves do not focus solely on new vehicles. Award recipients produced thirty second spots that will be used in a media campaign to reach a target audience who is unfamiliar with the rapidly growing criminal enterprise. The PSA’s will be made available to all media for broadcast.

WHAT: Top Cops Reveal New Trends in Auto Theft
Scholarship Awards Presented to Student Producers

WHEN: Thursday, February 7, 2013 at 1:00pm

WHERE: 2013 Motor Trend International Auto Show
Baltimore Convention Center
Main Showroom Floor, adjacent to KIA and VOLVO
One West Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD 21201

Hogan: Maryland is in "Race to Bottom" if Gov. Fails to Act on Education

Hogan: Maryland is in "Race to Bottom"

 if Gov. Fails to Act on Education

 

Annapolis - Change Maryland Chairman Larry Hogan called for tighter coordination between the O'Malley and Obama Administrations on key areas of education reform. According to the U.S. Department of Education's review of Maryland's performance in the Race to the Top initiative, the state failed to set clear expectations for principal and teacher evaluation systems.

"School reform in Maryland will be a 'race to the bottom' if the governor fails to get engaged in this," said Hogan. "It is a serious problem when the U.S. Department of Education cites a leadership failure in the state's ability to implement needed reforms."

Federal officials cited a leadership void when the state's education department was without a permanent superintendent.

In the second year of the $5 billion Race to the Top initiative, the Obama Administration singled out Maryland, Washington D.C. and Georgia as coming up short on progress in fundamental areas.   According to the U.S. Department of Education, Maryland did not set clear expectations for the 2011-2012 school year in the development of a teacher and principal evaluation system which rendered the data meaningless and inconsistent.  Lack of coordination between the state and local school districts was cited as the primary reason for the data collection failure.

"I would like to see Gov. O'Malley reach out to President Obama while he has his attention today and seek assistance on properly implementing the Race to the Top initiative," said Hogan. "Our students and their parents deserve a way to measure how effective their teachers are."

According to Education Week magazine - the source that O'Malley has used more than any other to tout his Administration's success - the rankings as weighted towards quality criteria such as evaluating teacher performance likewise show weakness in the public school system.  Under that criteria, Maryland's performance lags behind Virginia and Pennsylvania and joins Delaware and West Virginia in earning a "C" grade in that category.

"There can be no serious effort at education reform without proper procedures to evaluate teacher performance," said Hogan.  "Maryland is behind the curve on implementing the most sweeping, fundamental and systemic changes to public schools our nation has seen in a generation."

In the Education Week annual report card, Maryland earns a 76.5 score under the accountability for quality criteria.  Among the performance indicators this category measures are the degree to which teachers are formally evaluated.

Wednesday Specials ~ Riverside Grill Pocomoke

Wednesday

February 6, 2013

 -Maryland Crab Soup w/ 1/2 roast beef sandwich or side salad 6.99
 -NC Pulled Pork BBQ w/ coleslaw  and hush puppies 6.99
 -Pear and Bleu Cheese Salad 7.99
 -Cajun Shrimp Caesar Wrap w/ fries 8.99

 

Happy Hour 4-7

 w/ $1 off appetizers

 @ 8 pm: $5 crab dip

 $5 cosmos,

$2 Coors lt drafts

 $2 house wine

Postal Service To Cut Saturday Mail

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Postal Service will stop delivering mail on Saturdays but continue to deliver packages six days a week under a plan aimed at saving about $2 billion annually, the financially struggling agency says.

In an announcement scheduled for later Wednesday, the service is expected to say the Saturday mail cutback would begin in August.

The move accentuates one of the agency's strong points — package delivery has increased by 14 percent since 2010, officials say, while the delivery of letters and other mail has declined with the increasing use of email and other Internet services.

Under the new plan, mail would be delivered to homes and businesses only from Monday through Friday, but would still be delivered to post office boxes on Saturdays. Post offices now open on Saturdays would remain open on Saturdays.

Over the past several years, the Postal Service has advocated shifting to a five-day delivery schedule for mail and packages — and it repeatedly but unsuccessfully appealed to Congress to approve the move. Though an independent agency, the service gets no tax dollars for its day-to-day operations but is subject to congressional control.

It was not immediately clear how the service could eliminate Saturday mail without congressional approval.

But the agency clearly thinks it has a majority of the American public on its side regarding the change.

Material prepared for the Wednesday press conference by Patrick R. Donahoe, postmaster general and CEO, says Postal Service market research and other research has indicated that nearly 7 in 10 Americans support the switch to five-day delivery as a way for the Postal Service to reduce costs.

CONTINUE STORY

Story Time At Worcester County Libraries

For more info go to:  http://www.worcesterlibrary.org/
OR  FACEBOOK

Frontier: The War of 1812 ~ Ballet At the Mar-Va Theater

 Frontier: `The War of 1812

Ballet by the Ballet Theatre of Maryland

Saturday, February 9 

 2  & 7 pm

Mar-va Theater and Performing Arts Center in Pocomoke

 

 

Frontier: The War of 1812 is a live dance multi-media performance that captures the fiery independence of colonial America as it forges itself into a nation. This production is inspired by the letters of Dolly Madison and other significant
women of the period and depicts major events of the war that shaped America’s destiny.

 

 

Tickets are $6.00 and go on sale at all branches of the Worcester and
Somerset County Libraries

 

This event is sponsored by the Worcester County Library Foundation, The Worcester County Arts Council,
and the Somerset County Library.

 

 

NASA, Industry Head To Richmond For 2013 Aerospace Days

 Leaders from NASA's Langley Research Center in Hampton, Va., and NASA's Wallops Flight Facility in Wallops Island, Va., will join industry representatives Feb. 6 and 7 to meet with General Assembly members to promote aerospace in Virginia.

This is the eighth "Aerospace Days," which include meetings with legislators, briefings to various committees such as science and education, and other events to provide updates on current aerospace-related operations, initiatives, facilities and technology development in the Commonwealth, including:

ongoing efforts at NASA Langley and Wallops to continue NASA's exploration of Earth and space, support commercial cargo and crew space transportation development, and enable access to deep-space destinations with the Orion multi-purpose crew vehicle and the Space Launch System;

construction of a new 135,000 square foot "integrated engineering services building" at NASA Langley and the recently opened, state-of-the-art Research and Innovation Laboratories at Hampton's National Institute of Aerospace;

the expanding and increasingly important efforts to increase and improve science, technology, engineering and mathematics or STEM education across the state by NASA and its partners, including the Virginia Space Grant Consortium and others.

Astronaut Anna Fisher – NASA's first mother in space - will also be speaking with legislators and participating in NASA education outreach efforts. Fisher flew as a mission specialist on STS-51A in November 1984.

Additional facts about aerospace in Virginia:

• Virginia's aerospace industry employs more than 28,000 people with a direct economic output of $7.6 billion and average salary of almost $100,000;
• NASA generates $1.2 billion and almost 11,000 jobs in Virginia;
• NASA provides STEM-related K-12 education programs, digital learning network, teacher enhancement, summer internships, pre-college and higher education programs in the Commonwealth.

• For more information on NASA's Langley Research Center, visit:
  http://www.nasa.gov/langley
  For more information on NASA's Wallops Flight Facility, visit:  
  http://www.nasa.gov/wallops
  For more information on the LADEE mission, visit:  
  http://www.nasa.gov/ladee
  
  Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2013/02/05/5167233/nasa-industry-head-to-richmond.html#storylink=cpy
  
  Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2013/02/05/5167233/nasa-industry-head-to-richmond.html#storylink=cpy

Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2013/02/05/5167233/nasa-industry-head-to-richmond.html#storylink=cpy

Riverside Grill Pocomoke

Tuesday Specials

February 5, 2013

 -Beer-Cheese Soup w/ 1/2 sandwich or side salad 5.99
 -Meatloaf w/ mashed potatoes and green beans 6.99
 -Thai Chili Shrimp Wrap w/ fries 8.99
 -Apple-Cranberry Salad 7.99

 @ 4 pm: 99 cent kids meals 

Happy Hour 4-7 w/ $1 off appetizers

@ 8 pm: 50 cent wings
 Buffalo Wings: 50 cents a wing tonight after 8

Crime Watch Meetings/ February

STOCKTON, MD.

Community Crime Watch Meeting

with

DFC Trotter

Friday

February 8, 2013 at 6:00 PM

To be held at the Stockton Firehouse

 Please bring you questions, comments or any concerns that you have.

The Community Crime Watch is one of the most effective means available for keeping crime out of our neighborhood.

 When neighbors work together with Law Enforcement, it creates one of the best crime fighting teams around.

STOCKTON VOL. FIRE CO. /Facebook


OTHER COMMUNITY MEETINGS

 Friday, February 15, 2012 at 6 p.m. at the New Bethel United Methodist Church in Germantown

Wednesday, February 20, 2012 at 6 p.m. at the Bishopville Fire Department

Fire Stations Have Responded To 44 Suspected Cases Of Arsons Since Nov. 14

by Eric Kane, 13News

WVEC.com

 

ACCOMACK CO.-- As volunteer firefighters continue battling the rising number of arsons on the Eastern Shore, they are seeing a burning hole in their bottom line.

The Accomack County Department of Public Safety says 14 fire stations have responded to 44 suspected cases of arson since Nov. 14,   They've sent an average of 20 volunteers to each fire and estimate hundreds of firefighters have now racked up close to 100 man-hours.

The department says they're also paying 65% more in fuel costs in order to fight these fires, increasing from $2,000 to $3,000 per month.

According to Virginia State Police, someone intentionally set two fires over the weekend, including an airplane hangar in Onley and an abandoned barn in Parksley.

“It was pretty shocking, it's so close to home,” said Ann Weinheimer.

Weinheimer lives just across the street from her brother's hangar. She says the community is fed-up with the fires, and she feels for the volunteers.

"It's just one night after another, and the resources, and the expense is, I would imagine, very challenging for them, but also physically draining," said Weinheimer.

With the serial arsonist still on the loose, people in Accomack County wonder what might be the next target.

While Weinheimer says she felt violated by the fire, she has a strong message for the person responsible.

"Get help, get help. Don't destroy our property.  I'm sorry for whatever is wrong, whatever is troubling or upsetting, but don't hurt other people."

Source:

Bill To Partially Close Gun Show Loophole Fails

Bill to partially close gun show loophole fails in committee vote

BY JIM NOLAN
Richmond Times-Dispatch Richmond Times-Dispatch

Any chance of even a modest tightening of Virginia's laws governing the ability to purchase firearms died Monday when a Senate panel overwhelmingly defeated a proposal to make available voluntary background checks for the private purchase of firearms at gun shows.
The Senate Courts of Justice Committee voted 11-3 to kill Senate Bill 1372, with Democrats and Republicans joining forces to scrap what had just several days earlier been promoted as a compromise on gun show regulation embraced by both sides of the debate.
In the end, some of the most ardent proponents of greater restrictions on firearms voted against the bill in protest, because they said it did too little to address the issue.

"It would only create the impression," said Sen. Henry L. Marsh III, D-Richmond, who has previously unsuccessfully carried gun show legislation. "It wouldn't do a thing."

And some of the traditional gun-rights opponents of background check legislation were happy to have Democratic support in killing a bill they did not find particularly offensive, but insisted would not prevent criminals from getting guns.

The bill would have required that a background check kiosk operated by Virginia State Police be present at gun shows to offer private sellers of firearms at the shows the chance to request a background check of their prospective purchasers.

Currently in Virginia, only federally licensed firearms dealers are required to perform background checks on prospective purchasers. There is no requirement for background checks on the private purchase, exchange or transaction of firearms anywhere in the state.

CONTINUE STORY....

PLAY TIME ! At The Library/ Adult Programs Too

Did you know that the Worcester County Library has programs for adults too?

Friday, February 1 through Thursday, February 14
Pocomoke Branch

Blind Date with a Book

Come to the library during the month of February and have a mysterious rendezvous…or a few if you’d like! Look for the display of tightly wrapped books, check one out and find out what it is when you get home! Spend some time getting to know your date. Even if your date turns out to be a dud, all is not lost. Fill out your “Rate Your Blind Date Slip”, which is located inside the book, and return it to the Pocomoke Library to be entered into a drawing for a prize!

Wednesday, February 13 at 1 pm
Pocomoke Branch

Antique Silver Appraisal

Silver appraiser John Gallagher will be on site to appraise your most treasured antique silver. Coins are not included as they have a different value system. Please limit to three pieces.

Activities vary throughout Worcester County so go to WORCESTER COUNTY LIBRARY  to see what's happening in your area!

"Educator Fairness Act" Passes in the Senate

Governor McDonnell's "Educator Fairness Act" Passes

 in the Senate on a 40-0 Vote

 

RICHMOND - Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement regarding the passage of his proposed "Educator Fairness Act" in the Senate today on a unanimous 40-0 vote. The bill had previously been passed in the House of Delegates last week. The Educator Fairness Act was part of the governor's All Students K-12 legislative agenda. The Educator Fairness Act extends the probationary window for teachers from 3 to up to 5 years, to allow for a more thoughtful examination of teachers being awarded continuing contract status, and to allow for an extended period of mentoring for new teachers. It also provides for a definition of incompetence to include one or more unsatisfactory performance evaluations and defines the relationship between the evaluation and the contract. This act will streamline the grievance procedure and will allow for an expedited decision to inform the teacher of the final outcome.

"I am pleased that members of both parties came together in the House and Senate to support these key reforms to Virginia's teacher contract and grievance system. We have incredible teachers in Virginia and these reforms will help ensure that our children always have the most effective educators possible in the classroom. Great teachers are the key to bright futures for our children. These reforms came together with the input and support of the VEA, the Virginia Association of Elementary School Principals, the Virginia Association of Secondary School Principals, the Virginia Association of School Boards, the Virginia Association of Counties, the Virginia Chamber of Commerce and others. I thank these groups for working with me and with House patron Delegate Dickie Bell and Senate Patron Tommy Norment throughout the legislative process. The Educator Fairness Act, along with other key education reforms and investments we are making this year, will enable Virginia schools to better recruit, retain and reward excellent teachers, and ensure that our children get the world's best education."

 

Pocomoke City Police Department / Press Release

POCOMOKE CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

PRESS RELEASE

January 3 - 28, 2013

01-11-2013     Jerron Crippen age 27 of Pocomoke, MD was arrested and charged with 2 Degree Assault.

01-13-2013    Aaron Walker age 34 of Philadelphia, PA was arrested and charged with Disturbing the Peace.

01-14-2013   Savanta Selby age 44 of Ocean City MD was arrested and charged with Theft less $1,000. Selby also had an Outstanding Warrant from Wicomico County for an open  container violation.

 01-16-2013    William Mills age 43 of Chincoteague VA was arrested and Charged with Theft less $100 False Statement to a Police.

01-19-2013    Norman Clayton age 25 of Pocomoke City was arrested on an Outstanding Warrant for traffic violations.

01-19-2013   Charlie White age 58 of Mappsville, VA was arrested on an Outstanding Warrant for Failure to Appear.

01-27-2013    Latasha Blake age 28 of Pocomoke, MD was arrested and Charged with Disorderly Conduct.

01-28-2013     Carl Williams age 21 of Pocomoke, MD was arrested on an Outstanding Warrant for Possession of Marijuana.

 

Kelvin D. Sewell

Chief of Police
Pocomoke City, MD. 

February 4, 2013

Arrested A Second Time~ Guess He Didn't Get The Message

 Once again the Worcester County Criminal Enforcement Team was assisted by the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, Pocomoke City Police Department, and the Maryland State Police.

Sometimes a thug doens't "get it" the first time and for some unknown reason continues down the same path of life once given a second chance.  Maybe it won't take long before those who decided to continue to break the law will get the clear message that these law enforcement teams are NOT joking and will continue to clear the community area of such nonfunctioning crap as this!

Another great job from those who protect and serve!

Worcester County Sheriff's Office

On February 1, 2013, members of the Worcester County Criminal Enforcement Team concluded a cocaine distribution investigation in the Pocomoke, Maryland area.

  As a result of this investigation a search and seizure warrant was authored for Christopher Shawn Harmon, Age 39, of Pocomoke, Maryland along with his residence on 8th Street, Pocomoke, Maryland. On this date, Harmon was observed operating a vehicle in the area of Linden Avenue at which time members of the Criminal Enforcement Team attempted to conduct a traffic stop of this vehicle in order to execute this search and seizure warrant.

Harmon subsequently fled in this vehicle on to U.S. Route 13, where he was observed discarding several glass vials of cocaine from the window of the vehicle. Harmon was stopped near the intersection of U.S. Route 13 and U.S. Route 113, Pocomoke, Maryland at which time he was taken into custody without further incident. Approximately 12.2 grams of cocaine was recovered from the roadway and Harmon’s vehicle. Harmon was transported to the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office where he was charged with the following offenses:

-Possession of cocaine
-Possession with the intent to distribute cocaine

Harmon was committed to the Worcester County Detention Center on a $25,000.00 bond.

 Harmon was just recently released on January 3, 2013 from the Maryland Department of Corrections stemming from a previous controlled dangerous substance conviction.

The Worcester County Criminal Enforcement Team was assisted by the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, Pocomoke City Police Department, and the Maryland State Police.


Submitted by Lieutenant Edward C. Schreier
Worcester County Sheriff's Office

Pocomoke City Vol. Fire Company Awards Banquet

The Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company held their annual awards banquet on Saturday, January 26, 2013.  Held the last Saturday in January,  the banquet recognizes the greatness of those men and women in the community who are always there  when called to aid those in harms way.  From fighting the most fierce fire to selling the most BBQ chicken tickets or manning the fire house during a storm each individual, in his/her own way,  complete the Pocomoke City Fire Company to make it the greatest that it is.

It is important to note also that some of these firefighters are second and third generation members of the firefighting families.

Pocomoke City Vol. Fire Co. Top Responders for 2012

(left to right)
Travis Cowger 192; Mike Dean 181; Tyler Fairman 179; Devin Fairman 149; Choppy Layton 136;Doug Mumford 117; Chris Vieira 116; Josh Weichmann 102; Bill Sparrow 116; Keven Hall 104; Richard Wimbrow 102 (not in photo) Chief Dicky Gladding 205; Asst. Chief Corey Dean 180; Capt. Eric Denston 125 Cadet Austin McGee 111 (there was a total of 261 alarms in 2012)

Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company Cadets

 

Cadets that attended the banquet: (l to r)
Austin McGee; A.J. Miller; Noah King; Steven Wright; Jordan Sharpley; Ethan Taylor

To be a cadet with the Pocomoke City Vol. Fire Dept. you must be between the age of 16 to 17 years, live within the are the fire department serves and maintain at least a "C" average in school.  (Please be sure to support them during their next fundraiser)

Many awards are given during the few hours of the banquet and I have just touched on a few.  It should be known that (to me) each individual from the Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Department is special AND important...not because of who they are but for what they do!

Marion Butler, Sr. Awarded For 65 Years of Service


Maryland State Delegate, Norman Conway (L) presents a Certificate to Marion Butler, Sr. (R) for his 65 years of community service as a member of the Pocomoke City Vol. Fire Co.  President Andy Clarke (center)

Senator Jim Mathias (left) presents a certificate from the State of Maryland to Marion Butler, Sr. (right) for 65 years of service.  Andy Clarke (center) President of the PCVFD 
Marion Butler, Sr. has served Pocomoke City in many capacities throughout the years.

Other members of the Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company with 60 plus years of service are:

Marion Butler, Sr. - Member since 1948

George Henderson, Jr. - Member since 1951

George Young, Jr. - Member since 1950

For more photos and more information about the Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company visit their website.  Pocomoke City Fire Company
OR

"Like" them on their FACEBOOK PAGE

Photos are from the Pocomoke City Vol. Fire Company website.

Ravens Win Is Closer To Home Than You Might Think

Todd Washington

From WESR
Todd Washington will get his second Super Bowl ring in 10 years. Todd, a graduate of Nandua High School and son of coach Tony Washington and Earline Washington of Melfa is an assistant to the offensive line coach of the Baltimore Ravens who defeated the San Fransisco Forty Niners 34-31 at the Superdome in New Orleans last night.

Todd played along side of his brother TJ for Virginia Tech. He then joined the NFL playing for Tampa Bay. In 2003, Tampa Bay defeated Oakland 48-21 earning Todd his first Super Bowl ring.

Last night the Ravens held of a second half surge by the 49ers to win the game for Baltimore. The revamped offensive line in the playoffs was a contributing factor to the Ravens' advance through the playoffs to the Super Bowl.

The Washington family owns another piece of football history. Son TJ won a world championship ring for the now defunct European league. The game was called the World Bowl.

Congratulations to the Washington family. No one else from the Eastern Shore has ever owned a Super Bowl ring.

Source:

More Info on Todd Washington
http://www.baltimoreravens.com/team/coaches/Todd_Washington/0604a00b-4e2d-42bb-a560-51df6dbaa591