Contact:
Diane Kerbin
or
Jennifer Rafter
Pocomoke Area Chamber of Commerce
410-957-1919
410-957-1919
#####
Seeking Artists for 7th Annual Costen House Museum Art Show at the Delmarva Discovery Center
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Seeking Artists for 7th Annual Costen House Museum Art Show at the Delmarva Discovery Center
David Craig on Tax Foundation Analysis of Maryland's Small Business Taxes
For release: 9.10.13
Contact: Jim Pettit
@jamesmpettit
"Maryland punishes small businesses. With marginal tax rates for sole proprietorships and S-corporations the 7th highest nationally and the highest among all neighboring states in the region, the O'Malley-Brown Administration can take credit for driving away small businesses. Our state has lost small businesses at rates that are among the highest in the region under their term in office and high taxes are the reason."
Background:
http://taxfoundation.org/blog/
Hunter Education Classes: Eastern Shore
Basic Hunter Education Class: Eastern Shore
September 19 & 20, 2013
All classes will run from 6:00PM until 9:30PM.
Both nights must be attended.
E.S. Regional Fire Training Center
28598 Beacon Rd
Melfa, VA 23410
Registration/Information:
www.dgif.virginia.gov/hunting/education
Class Size: Minimum 10, Maximum 35
*Pre-registration is required
*Pre course study is required. Course materials will be available at:
Chris Bait and Tackle
Eastern Shore Outfitters
Jaxsons Hardware
To Benefit the American Legion Post 93/ "Raise The Roof Benefit/Roast"
"RAISE THE ROOF"
AND
ROAST WORCESTER COUNTY SHERIFF REGGIE MASON !!
I can't wait for this!!! bw
The Saxis Island Museum Hours of Operation
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| Photo/ Linda Miles |
 |
| Photo/ Linda Miles |
For more information, go the the museum’s website, www.saxisislandmuseum.org.
The museum also is on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SaxisIslandMuseum.
Directions: Turn west off Route 13 onto Saxis Road at Temperanceville and drive about 12 miles into the town of Saxis. The museum is located near the Saxis firehouse.
Worcester County Sheriff's Office ~ 2013 Bike Week
From: Worcester County Sheriff's Office
As this weekend approaches, we would like to remind you that the 2013 Bike Week activities will be held.
On average, over 100,000 visitors will be in the Ocean City and Wicomico County areas.
This year, Delmarva Bike Week will be held at locations in Wicomico County and Ocean City Bike Fest will be held in Ocean City.
As we prepare for the large amount of motorcycle traffic, we would like to remind you to allow extra time this weekend when traveling on our roadways. Look twice for motorcycles and give them space as they travel.
Deputies will be out during this weeks activities and will be coordinating with all the allied agencies to protect and prevent incidents that may occur.
Our experience with the Bike Weeks in the past have found that 99% of the "bikers" are here to have fun and enjoy our area. We welcome them and hope that all return home safely when the weekend is over. The noise can be overwhelming for some, and the Sheriffs Office will be patrolling neighborhoods to keep the noise to a minimum.
As always, should you require assistance from us, please contact the Sheriff's Office at 410-632-1111.
We hope everyone enjoys this coming weekend.
On average, over 100,000 visitors will be in the Ocean City and Wicomico County areas.
This year, Delmarva Bike Week will be held at locations in Wicomico County and Ocean City Bike Fest will be held in Ocean City.
As we prepare for the large amount of motorcycle traffic, we would like to remind you to allow extra time this weekend when traveling on our roadways. Look twice for motorcycles and give them space as they travel.
Deputies will be out during this weeks activities and will be coordinating with all the allied agencies to protect and prevent incidents that may occur.
Our experience with the Bike Weeks in the past have found that 99% of the "bikers" are here to have fun and enjoy our area. We welcome them and hope that all return home safely when the weekend is over. The noise can be overwhelming for some, and the Sheriffs Office will be patrolling neighborhoods to keep the noise to a minimum.
As always, should you require assistance from us, please contact the Sheriff's Office at 410-632-1111.
We hope everyone enjoys this coming weekend.
Monday, September 9, 2013
Vice President Biden To Visit Port of Baltimore Today
Vice President Joe Biden will visit the Port of Baltimore today as part of a tour of East Coast ports seeking federal money to accommodate increased freight expected from the Panama Canal in coming years.
The White House said last week Biden would add Baltimore to an earlier announced line up of visits to the ports of Savannah, Ga., and Charleston, S.C. Biden is scheduled later this month to visit Panama, where an expansion of the canal is expected to be completed in 2015.
Biden's trip was announced days after the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded Baltimore a $10 million grant to build more access to rail, expand storage at Fairfield Marine Terminal, and help widen the channel at Seagirt Marine Terminal.
The federal money will be matched with a state grant of $19.5 million.
LADEE Spacecraft Runs Into Equipment Trouble
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| NASA Photo |
The Associated Press
NASA's newest robotic explorer rocketed into space late Friday in an unprecedented moonshot from Virginia that dazzled sky watchers along the East Coast.
But the LADEE spacecraft quickly ran into equipment trouble, and while NASA assured everyone early Saturday that the lunar probe was safe and on a perfect track for the moon, officials acknowledged the problem needs to be resolved in the next two to three weeks.
S. Peter Worden, director of NASA's Ames Research Center in California, which developed the spacecraft, told reporters he's confident everything will be working properly in the next few days.
LADEE's reaction wheels were turned on to orient and stabilize the spacecraft, which was spinning too fast after it separated from the final rocket stage, Worden said. But the computer automatically shut the wheels down, apparently because of excess current. He speculated the wheels may have been running a little fast.
Worden stressed there is no rush to "get these bugs ironed out."
The LADEE spacecraft, which is charged with studying the lunar atmosphere and dust, soared aboard an unmanned Minotaur rocket a little before midnight from Virginia's Eastern Shore.
"Godspeed on your journey to the moon, LADEE," Launch Control said. Flight controllers applauded and exchanged high-fives following the successful launch. "We are headed to the moon!" NASA said in a tweet.
It was a change of venue for NASA, which normally launches moon missions from Cape Canaveral, Fla. But it provided a rare light show along the East Coast for those blessed with clear skies.
READ MORE
Pocomoke City Mayor and Council Meeting
AG E N D A
POCOMOKE CITY MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, September 9, 2013, 7:30 P.M.
City Hall
Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance.
2. Review and approval of minutes from meetings of August 5 and September 3, 2013.
3. Review and approval of bills to be paid.
4. Police Chief Sewell to introduce new police officer. (Rudell Brown)
5. Introduction of new police K-9 Unit. (Officer Conner and K9 Exodus)
6. Mr. Charlie Webster representing Relay for Life Committee
7. Mr. Mike Shannon to present wrap-report on recent Boat Docking Contest.
8. Mr. Larry Layman to discuss rental property at 423 Oxford Street.
9. City Manager to recommend purchase of new kayak/floating dock system from A Plus Marine Services of Selbyville, De.
10. Discuss proposed equipment purchases:
a. Used 6” inch pump with trailer for Public Works/Water & Sewer Departments.
b. Replacement keystone actuators for Sewage Treatment Plant. (5).
Comments from the Audience.
Mayor and Council Items.
AGENDAS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE UNTIL THE TIME OF CONVENING.
Sunday, September 8, 2013
TIME MACHINE ... 1916, 1956, 1930, 1914, 1967
(Reader-friendly viewing of newspaper archives material)
(Prohibition in Worcester County brings very different views.)
September, 1916
(The Frederick News Post- Frederick, Md.)
WORCESTER COUNTY
Senator Orlando Harrison:
Voting out the legalized saloons of Worcester County has done wonders for the laboring man. More than 90 percent of our men have bought homes and are paying for them weekly. They feed better, dress better and double the percentage in attendance at church. Some improvements can yet be made. It's a hundred to one better without saloons.
Footnote:
Harrison was a former mayor of Berlin and a man of many accomplishments which are detailed at the following web address:
http://www.ocmuseum.org/index.php/site/worc_history_article/senator_harrisons_lifes_history
(An advertisement against prohibition quoted the "Baltimore News" of September, 28,1916, concerning conditions in Worcester County.)
October, 1916
(The Frederick News Post- Frederick, Md.)
Worcester County is "dry." Someone took the trouble to find out what was coming into the county and, disregarding the other carriers, selected one express company.
During one month the company brought into the county, directed to citizens, 27 barrels of whiskey, costing $9.000. Of this amount, Pocomoke City received 10 barrels, Snow Hill 7, and other towns the rest.
Besides these amounts, the freight trains brought in at least an equal amount, while steamboats from Baltimore are said to have brought in as much again, making a total of nearly $36,000 worth of booze that Worcester county people purchased in one month.
(The anti-prohibition advertisement went on to state:)
The above news items show beyond all doubt...
...that drunkenness actually increases under prohibition rule;
...that Prohibition fosters bootlegging and illegal selling;
...that Prohibition encourages constant evasion of law and order.
Prohibition also deprives the community of its necessary revenues- and the loss of these revenues invariably results in poor roads, neglected schools and increased taxes.
April, 1956 (The Salisbury Times)
Two Trotters Die In Track Fire
POCOMOKE CITY, Md.,- April 5. (AP) Two harness horses were killed and a brick building destroyed yesterday by a fire which for a time endangered nearby houses and buildings.
The horses, Mar-D and Broray, were owned and trained by John Matthews, a name familiar on the eastern harness circuit.
Footnote:
The fire occurred in the early morning hours sometime before dawn. The building was at the end of Dudley Avenue, off of Second Street, not far from the Fairgrounds (no longer used for public events at that time) where the old race track was used for harness horse training. The home I grew up in was closest to that old brick building. I remember being awakened by my parents and leaving our house, seeing the blaze and embers whirling in the night sky, Before being used for harness horse stables the old brick building was an abandoned structure. I seem to recall having heard that it originally may have been a box factory. -tk
February, 1930
The 1930 Nash 400 was being advertised as the car with the oil cushioned chasis and superior performance. The dealership nearest Pocomoke City was D.H. Hancock in Stockton.
May, 1914 (The Denton Journal)
The Republicans will come into full control of the House of Correction this month. There are 26 places, big and little, to be filled by the House of Correction Board. First of these is that of superintendent or warden, now held by William E. Lankford of Worcester County. This is one of the best paid positions in the State, the salary, which is fixed by the Board, being $3,000 a year, with a comfortable residence and subsistence for the warden and family. The assistant superintendent gets $1,200 a year and board for himself, but not for his family. The clerk gets $125 a month and does not live at the institution, while the chief engineer receives $100 a month. The physician, who does not give his full time to the prison, receives $700 a year. Most of the other places pay modest salaries, nevertheless they have been much sought after, particularly by men from the counties.
April, 1967 (Time Machine archive)
The Pony Ranch Drive-In on Route 13 south of Pocomoke City was advertising a 39-cent Ranch Burger special that consisted of a double-decker hamburger with cheese, special sauce, lettuce and pickle. The regular price was 60-cents. The Pony Ranch menu also included Subs, Pizza, Chicken In The Basket, Shakes, and Soft Serve Products.
Footnote:
The Pony Ranch parking lot spaces had speaker phones so you could just drive up and order from your car; your order would be brought out to you to enjoy in your car or to take with you. The Pony Ranch was operated by L.J. and June McGee.
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!
PRESS RELEASE Maryland State Police (MSP) In An “All Hands On Deck” Data Processing Effort This Weekend
(PIKESVILLE, MD) – Employees from across Maryland state government are assisting the Maryland State Police (MSP) in an “all hands on deck” data processing effort this weekend designed to continue MSP’s efforts to ensure both (1) that firearm purchase applications are processed as quickly as possible, and (2) that firearms are not released to prohibited persons.
Data entry personnel, who are all state employees, from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Department of Transportation, Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, Department of Human Resources, and the Department of Juvenile Services began assisting the State Police Licensing Division yesterday and are continuing their work today, tomorrow, and Monday. Each agency has between 25 and 40 employees working each day to input information from the backlogged firearms purchase applications into electronic form. MSP personnel will then be able to conduct the necessary background checks more quickly and efficiently. The employees from each agency have volunteered for the extra duty.
Various steps have been taken to protect each applicant’s personal information:
• None of the assisting state employees will be conducting any type of background check or investigation -- that will all continue to be handled by the appropriate MSP personnel.
• Each of the employees involved in the data entry process is bound by a confidentiality agreement.
• State employees from these five agencies deal with sensitive and confidential information every day in the course of their regular duties -- this includes mental health records, inmate records, driving records, and social services records, all of which contain information like social security numbers.
• The firearm purchase application information provided to these employees is encrypted and all discs will be destroyed after the data is entered for MSP.
• All employees have been instructed that this information is not to be released outside the agencies, or their networks.
• The employees assisting in this data entry will not be accessing confidential information related to any of the 16 inquiries conducted by MSP during a background investigation for a firearms purchase application -- their role is to simply enter the applicant’s data electronically to expedite the MSP investigative process.
• This procedure was reviewed and approved as appropriate by an assistant attorney general assigned to the MSP.
• This process is being actively overseen through auditors at each agency and at the State Police Licensing Division to ensure accuracy and quality control of the information.
MSP scanned more than 35,000 backlogged firearms purchase applications and delivered the encrypted data to each of the assisting agencies. MSP personnel met with liaisons at each agency and trained them on the proper procedures needed for this data entry process. The work began yesterday and will continue through Monday. Employees from the various agencies will be working in their own offices.
MSP has been working since last fall to address the unprecedented surge in regulated firearms purchase applications. In December 2012, Licensing Division personnel began working 21-hours a day, seven days a week. A resource pool of almost 60 sworn and civilian personnel who are able to conduct background investigations were identified and were called upon to supplement Licensing Division staff. From August 2012 to August 2013, State Police personnel have worked more than 24,000 hours of overtime addressing the firearm purchase application backlog.
In the past year, 21 troopers have been reassigned from other duties and 17 civilian employees have been added to the Licensing Division for a total of 73 employees as of August 1st. Additional employees continue to be hired. Thirty-seven computers have been added to provide workstations for the additional personnel.
As of September 6, 2013, the Maryland State Police Licensing Division has received 88,884 firearms purchase applications and 48,934 of those applications have been processed. The applications processed so far this year number more than the number of applications received in each of the years 2010 and 2011. The weekly average of applications received in 2010 was 744. In 2013, the weekly average of applications received is 2,432.
This weekend’s extra effort is an attempt to speed the background check process by converting the purchase application into an electronic form and eliminating that step for State Police investigators. New options and ideas will continue to be explored and employed in an effort to overcome this challenge, while keeping the safety of Maryland citizens as our top priority.
Legislative Updates By Delegate Mike McDermott
- Gun Bill Update-One More Problem
September 7th, 2013
Now...One More Thing to Worry About!
by Delegate Mike McDermott
Today, the Maryland State Police announced a new policy which is currently allowing non-certified personnel from a several statewide organizations to have complete access to the MSP Form 77’s filed by individuals seeking to purchase a Regulated Firearm. The decision to allow non-vetted, non police personnel to access these forms is unprecedented and is part of a plan to help the MSP get caught up with the tremendous backlog they currently face with applications.
The Form 77 contains an incredible amount of identity information including: name, birthdate, address, Social Security number, Drivers License number, and information relevant to the firearm being purchased. With so many issues surrounding identity theft and compromised personal information, citizens filling out these forms do so with the idea that the only people visiting and accessing the information are law enforcement personnel. Law enforcement personnel must have background checks completed, polygraph exams, drug testing, psychological evaluations, etc. before they are considered for employment. This type of extensive vetting insures, to the best of the governments ability, that the individual is trustworthy and can be trusted with various types of sensitive information and access to confidential information. Vetting of this nature is important.
Cutting corners by allowing non law enforcement personnel to provide clerical support to an overwhelmed MSP may appear to be a good idea, but the risk cannot be overlooked. Many folks are expressing various degrees of outrage that this is taking place. They already feel threatened with the loss of liberty by the current implementation of SB-281, now they feel violated by a process that they have submitted to as law abiding folks.
To be sure, the criminals are not submitting their information for review. Their identities will remain secure.
This wave of applications should have been seen as it was approaching more than a year ago. The increase in firearms purchases was a sign of things to come and should have clued in the governor and MSP to prepare to hire and expand the Firearm’s Section. Having failed to take this type of action doomed the state to find itself in the current predicament. Any business in the private sector that failed in such a way would already have gone out of business.
Perhaps, if this use of personnel from various state agencies was seen as a possible means of getting caught up, those assigned should have been vetted and had background checks performed on them many months ago. At least this would have provided some degree of reassurance to the folks who are submitting these applications. As it sits, citizens can only wonder if this action will come back to haunt them and their families in the future.
Since it appears these outside agency personnel are being utilized in an overtime capacity, would it not have been prudent to simply utilize overtime to have other MSP personnel do the same duty? Or perhaps the other state law enforcement agencies (and there are many) could have been tasked as well over the past several months to insure that only vetted, certified staff would be accessing these records. Had these options been utilized over the past 6 months, we would have avoided this massive use of non law enforcement staff in the “ ninth” hour.
I have contacted the MSP Legislative Liaison and shared my concerns and those of the thousands of firearms applicants across Maryland who, once again, feel betrayed by their state. The reasoning behind their decision is included in their press release from today.
I join with the vast number of those who have contacted my office on this matter and express my great concern over these actions. A failure to plan on the part of those who should have known better is not a good reason to compromise our standards and process.
I will be contacting Colonel Marcus Brown and Governor Martin O’Malley to give voice to these concerns and I urge all firearms owners in Maryland to contact their offices as well and voice your concerns over this practice.
"Marylanders Take Back Your State!"
SEATBELT VIOLATION LEADS TO TWO WEAPONS ARRESTS
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| Charles Michael Reynolds |
When the officer spoke to the driver, later identified as Charles Michael Reynolds, 22, of Bristow, VA, he stated that there was a loaded semi-automatic .45 caliber handgun in the vehicle and that he did nothave a handgun permit in the State of Maryland. The officer then requested that Reynolds and the passenger, Ryan Zachary Pritchard, 21, also of Bristow, exit the vehicle while officers conducted a search. During the search of the vehicle, officers located the handgun that Reynolds mentioned, loaded magazines, two other large fixed blade knives and a metal throwing
tomahawk.
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| Ryan Zachary Pritchard |
Reynolds has been charged by Ocean City police with two counts of possession of a concealed deadly weapon, two counts of possession of a handgun on his person and possession of a handgun in a vehicle. Pritchard has been charged with two counts of possession of a concealed deadly weapon, possession of a handgun on his person and possession of a handgun in a vehicle.
Both were seen by a Maryland District Court Commissioner and released without bond.
Submitted:
Ocean City Police Department
Stay Alert On Roadways For Ocean City BikeFest
OCPD REMINDING CITIZENS TO BE ALERT ON ROADWAYS DURING BIKEFEST
Next weekend, September 12 – 15, 2013, Ocean City will see an increased number of motorcyclists as bikers make their way to Ocean City for this year’s OC BikeFest Motorcycle Rally. OC BikeFest will take place at various locations throughout Ocean City. The Ocean City Police Department is reminding citizens of a few important safety tips to keep in mind during this weekend’s event:
◾Be aware of motorcycle traffic. Often time’s people cannot see motorcycles because of blind spots in their mirror. Be extra cautious of this when driving, especially when changing lanes.
◾If you see any criminal activity including racing or dangerous driving, try to get a good description of the vehicle and person. If you are not driving, try to write down the tag number and call the police.
In addition to safe driving tips, the Ocean City Police Department also reminds citizens of the importance of pedestrian, bicycle and scooter safety. For individuals who are traveling on foot, on a bicycle or scooter, here are some important safety tips to remember:
Cross the street at a marked crosswalk or intersection.
◾Make eye contact with drivers when crossing busy intersections.
◾Continue to watch for traffic the entire time you are in the crosswalk.
◾It is illegal to wear headphones in both ears at the same time while operating any vehicle.
◾Vehicle operators should to be extremely vigilant while driving, keeping consistently aware of pedestrians, bicycles, mopeds and scooters.
◾Avoid making quick, un-signaled turns or abrupt stops. If you can’t make the turn safely, proceed past the turn and turn around when safe.
◾Allow plenty of time to stop or proceed through intersections.
◾Pedestrians should not take unnecessary risks crossing busy streets against traffic lights.
◾Parents are reminded to pay extra attention to children when crossing busy roads. Keep hold of small children’s hands while waiting for traffic lights to change and while crossing.
◾Bicyclists are encouraged to wear helmets and must ride in the bus lane. In addition, bicyclists must abide by all traffic laws, including stopping at red lights and stop signs.
◾Moped/scooter operators and passengers are encouraged to wear helmets and footwear. If you are renting a scooter you are required to wear a helmet and footwear.
Submitted:
Ocean City Police Dept.
Saturday, September 7, 2013
TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview
1916.. Two very different views on results of Worcester
County's liquor prohibition; 1956.. Pocomoke fire claims race horses; 1930.. Stockton auto dealership; 1914.. Attractive
salaries for House Of Correction employees; 1967.. Pocomoke's Pony Ranch
drive-in.
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!
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!
TWO MEN ARRESTED FOR BURGLARIZING VACATED MOTEL
Officers observed two males exiting a unit in the motel and placed them under arrest for burglary. The Ocean Voyager was recently vacated as it is slated to be demolished in the coming weeks. The two males were identified as Patrick Michael Herrmann, 25, of Lutherville, MD, and Jonathan McGovern Boeri, 18, of Phoenix, MD.
During the investigation, officers learned that the men broke into at least five other units and attempted to steal a small amount of items with an approximate value of $35.
Ocean City police have charged Herrmann with second degree burglary. He was seen by a Maryland District Court Commissioner and transferred to Worcester County Jail on $5,000 bond. Boeri was charged with second and fourth degree burglary. He was also seen by a Maryland District Court Commissioner and was transferred to Worcester County Jail on $10,000 bond.
Submitted:
Ocean City Police Dept.
Friday, September 6, 2013
Two More Arrests Made In Sanford Home Invasion (Marsh Market Road)
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| Leon O. Crippen |
SANFORD, Va. - Police say they have made two additional arrests in connection with a Sanford home invasion that happened last month.
The Accomack County Sheriff's Office says on Thursday, they arrested 22-year-old Leon Crippen, of Temperanceville, and charged him with armed burglary, robbery, and used of a firearm during the commission of a robbery. On Friday, the sheriff's office says they arrested 20-year-old Titus Floyd, Jr., of Mappsville, and charged him with armed burglary, robbery, and brandishing a machete. Both men are being held at the Accomack County Jail without bond.
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| Titus Floyd, Jr. |
The arrests stem from an August 28th home invasion where Police say went into a Marsh Market Road home in a reported attempt to rob the home, where several people were inside. Police say multiple gunshots were fired during the incident. During the investigation two people were found at a Temperanceville convenience store with gunshot wounds, one was pronounced dead.
26-year-old Lamesha Cropper, of Salisbury, was arrested on Wednesday, in connection with the incident.
The investigation is still on-going, according to authorities, and further charges could be pending. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Accomack County Sheriff's Office at 757-787-1131 or 757-824-5666. Tips can also be submitted through http://www.co.accomack.va.us/government/constitutional-officers/sheriff.
Keeping Worcester County Students Safe
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| Worcester Co. Sheriff's Office |
As your Sheriff, and being the top Law Enforcement Official in our County, it is my job to keep the citizens in Worcester County Safe. I feel that we have one of the safest counties in our state. We have the best group of Chief's of Police, MSP Berlin Barrack Commanders, States Attorney, Police Officers, Troopers and Deputy Sheriff's. Their combined work is outstanding.
When the tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut occurred, my Chief Deputy Dale Smack and I were on the phone to each Chief and the MSP Barrack Commander asking them to assist us in making patrol checks and foot patrols at our schools for their opening and closing of each day and to conduct random spot checks throughout the day when they could. I have nothing but praise for all of the law enforcement agencies in this county. We have all put our resources together to help make our schools as safe as possible; however we all felt that we could do a better job of protecting our schools.
Dr. Wilson and I met in my office to address security issues and together, we formed a school security committee, comprised of School Administrators, Principals, Health Department Officials and my staff. Each school was visited and a site assessment was conducted by Col. Dods and Steve Price from the Board of Education. New measures have already been put in place and we will continue to review each school to make more improvements for the teachers and students so they can feel safe while at their schools.
Dr. Wilson and I came to the conclusion that the schools in our county needed a Deputy Sheriff's presence at all of the 13 public schools. At a cost of less than $600,000, we have been able to place part-time deputies and two full time deputies at these schools. They have been trained in Active Shooter Response and how to deal with an immediate threat and quickly end it. We concluded that it takes time to assemble tactical trained teams and in the event of an Active Shooter, significant damage can occur in seconds. These seconds count. Just ask those parents and communities of Newtown, Virginia Tech and Columbine. My Active Shooter Trainers have also trained your local police in our program. This was done so everyone would be on the same page and would know what to do should such an incident occur. As with anything, our plans are not 100%. However, if we chose to do nothing, we would have not created a viable deterrent should and incident occur. I feel our children deserve our best protection we can offer. I am concerned for our children as they are so precious and innocent. As a member of this community, if I had a child or grandchild in our schools, I would want our schools protected by a Deputy Sheriff.
My Job as your Sheriff is to face these problems such as School Security or anything that pertains to law enforcement and solve it before it escalates.
Sheriff Reggie Mason
Worcester County Sheriff's Office
Ocean City Police ~ Drug Arrests Over Labor Day Weekend
PROACTIVE POLICE WORK LEADS TO FOUR DRUG ARRESTS OVER LABOR DAY WEEKEND
On September 1, 2013, at approximately 2:05 a.m. an Ocean City police officer on uniformed bicycle patrol observed a male acting suspiciously and talking on two cell phones simultaneously in the area of 8th Street and Philadelphia Avenue. When the subject, later identified as Darnell Defate Harris, 25, of Wilmington, DE, noticed the officer observing him, he quickly walked out into traffic crossing east to west causing two vehicles to quickly brake to avoid Harris.
The officer then approached Harris and issued a traffic warning for illegally crossing Philadelphia Avenue and told Harris that he was free to leave; however, Harris did not leave and become increasingly nervous and continued talking on two cell phones, behavior consistent with possible criminal activity. Officers requested to search Harris and he consented. During the search, officers located 24 small plastic bags containing heroin. Officers also seized $135 in US currency. Harris was then placed under arrest.
While officers were arresting Harris, a female, later identified as Clovise Frances Evans, 29, also of Wilmington, approached officers asking about her cell phone that Harris had been using. Soon after, Evans opened the door to her vehicle closeby and officers clearly saw a stun gun. Officers later found a small amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia after she consented that officers search her vehicle.
Harris was charged by Ocean City Police with possession of heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession with intent to distribute. Evans has been charged with possession of a weapon with in the corporate limits of Ocean City, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Both were seen by a Maryland District Court Commissioner. Harris was transferred to the Worcester County Jail on $5,000 bond and Evans was released on her own recognizance.
The next morning, on September 2, at approximately 7 a.m. an Ocean City officer was on patrol in the Inlet Lot when the officer noticed two individuals sleeping in a vehicle in violation of an Ocean City ordinance. The officer made contact with the individuals and they appeared extremely nervous. A K-9 completed a scan of the vehicle and the K-9 gave an alert for possible drugs. During a search of the vehicle, officers located 20 baggies of heroin, syringes, marijuana and other drug paraphernalia. The two suspects were identified as Jeffrey Lee Foard, 24, and Aubrey Marie Sieracki, 31, both from Jarrettsville, MD.
Foard and Sierack were charged by Ocean City Police with possession of heroin, possession of marijuana, two counts of manufacturing and distribution, possession with intent to distribute and other drug charges. Both were seen by a Maryland District Court Commissioner. Foard was transferred to the Worcester County Jail on $7,500 bond. Sieracki was released on $10,000 bond.
Submitted:
Ocean City Police Dept.
The officer then approached Harris and issued a traffic warning for illegally crossing Philadelphia Avenue and told Harris that he was free to leave; however, Harris did not leave and become increasingly nervous and continued talking on two cell phones, behavior consistent with possible criminal activity. Officers requested to search Harris and he consented. During the search, officers located 24 small plastic bags containing heroin. Officers also seized $135 in US currency. Harris was then placed under arrest.
While officers were arresting Harris, a female, later identified as Clovise Frances Evans, 29, also of Wilmington, approached officers asking about her cell phone that Harris had been using. Soon after, Evans opened the door to her vehicle closeby and officers clearly saw a stun gun. Officers later found a small amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia after she consented that officers search her vehicle.
Harris was charged by Ocean City Police with possession of heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession with intent to distribute. Evans has been charged with possession of a weapon with in the corporate limits of Ocean City, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Both were seen by a Maryland District Court Commissioner. Harris was transferred to the Worcester County Jail on $5,000 bond and Evans was released on her own recognizance.
The next morning, on September 2, at approximately 7 a.m. an Ocean City officer was on patrol in the Inlet Lot when the officer noticed two individuals sleeping in a vehicle in violation of an Ocean City ordinance. The officer made contact with the individuals and they appeared extremely nervous. A K-9 completed a scan of the vehicle and the K-9 gave an alert for possible drugs. During a search of the vehicle, officers located 20 baggies of heroin, syringes, marijuana and other drug paraphernalia. The two suspects were identified as Jeffrey Lee Foard, 24, and Aubrey Marie Sieracki, 31, both from Jarrettsville, MD.
Foard and Sierack were charged by Ocean City Police with possession of heroin, possession of marijuana, two counts of manufacturing and distribution, possession with intent to distribute and other drug charges. Both were seen by a Maryland District Court Commissioner. Foard was transferred to the Worcester County Jail on $7,500 bond. Sieracki was released on $10,000 bond.
Submitted:
Ocean City Police Dept.
Cherished Ocean City Mounted Patrol Horse To Be Retired
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| Photo/ OC Police Dept |
"Goodnight" came to the OCPD in 2011 at the age of 7. During his service with the department he has had one primary rider. "Goodnight" has been involved in numerous arrests, several hundred enforcement actions and participated in special details including the car cruises, Delmarva Bike Week and Winterfest of Lights as well as all of the annual parades and festivals that Ocean City hosts.
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| Photo/ OC Police Dept. |
During his career "Goodnight" has assisted other agencies including Pocomoke City Police, Maryland State Police and the Worcester and Wicomico County Sheriff’s Departments with crowd control functions as well as search and recovery details. "Goodnight" has also served as the lead horse to train new police horses and new mounted officers.
"Goodnight" retires at the age 11 and will be spending his retirement on a farm in Western Maryland. He is in good health and spirits, and is enjoying the company of his new family. As for "Goodnights" replacement, the OCPD has begun to search to select a suitable replacement.
Submitted:
Ocean City Police Dept.
Public Viewing Sites For Ladee Launch
**ARBUCKLE ROAD WILL BE OPEN TO RESIDENTS ONLY. RESIDENTS MUST HAVE PROPER I.D.
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| NASA Photo |
Residents and visitors for the launch of NASA's Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer (LADEE), scheduled to lift-off at 11:27 p.m. EDT, Sept. 6, from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceports Pad-0B at the Wallops Flight Facility, will have two prime viewing locations.
In partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Accomack County Board of Supervisors and the Town of Chincoteague, visitors to the area may view the launch from Robert Reed Park on Chincoteague or Beach Road spanning the area between Chincoteague and Assateague Islands.
The two sites will feature the LADEE launch countdown live and NASA personnel will be on hand to discuss the LADEE mission. In addition, a live broadcast of the launch operations will be shown on a big-screen projector in Robert Reed Park beginning at 9:30 p.m. on the day of launch.
"We're excited about this partnership with the community in providing an enhanced launch experience to members of the public," said Jeremy Eggers, public information officer for Wallops. "The live countdown and launch broadcast will place people in mission control on launch night for what is already a historic mission for Wallops and the Eastern Shore."
The Robert Reed Park and Beach Road viewing sites are the official viewing sites for the LADEE launch. Area residents and visitors to the area should note that the beach on Assateague Island (Va.) will close at 7 p.m. on day of launch and will not be open for launch viewing given the safety area required for LADEEs launch trajectory.
The LADEE mission has many firsts, including the first flight of the Minotaur V rocket, testing of a high-data-rate laser communication system, and the first lunar launch from Wallops.
LADEE also is the first spacecraft designed, developed, built, integrated and tested at NASA's Ames Research Center in Moffett Field, Calif. Ames manages the overall LADEE mission. The probe will launch on a U.S. Air Force Minotaur V rocket, an excess ballistic missile converted into a space launch vehicle and operated by Orbital Sciences Corp. of Dulles, Va.
For more information about the LADEE mission and launch, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov/ladee
For more information about our nearest celestial neighbor, visit:
http://moon.nasa.gov
In addition, the site contains a map showing different viewing locations available for launch viewing.
Organizations interested in hosting a launch viewing event may submit the event information at:
http://go.nasa.gov/1f0qkih
Android users have the option of downloading the new Whats Up at Wallops app, which contains information on the launch as well as a compass showing the precise direction for launch viewing. The app is available for download at:
http://go.nasa.gov/17veCYT
A live broadcast of the launch will air on NASA TV; a television schedule as well as a live webcast of the launch will be available here:
http://www.nasa.gov/nt
WESR FM will broadcast the audio of the countdown so be sure to take a portable radio with you when you view the launch.
Finally, NASAs web and social media resources will carry the latest information on the LADEE launch. For more information, see:
http://www.nasa.gov/wallops
http://www.nasa.gov/connect
Saxis Island Museum OPENS Saturday
Carol Vaughn
SAXIS — The town of Saxis will hold a celebration Saturday to mark the opening of a new museum created to preserve the history of the remote Chesapeake Bay community.
When the tiny Saxis Island Museum, housed in a single, 13-by-27 foot room, opens its doors it will mean the culmination of a dream long held by former Saxis mayor Charles Tull, who died in 2010 at age 62.
Tull served as mayor from 1996 until his death and was widely known as an advocate for his native town.
“He always wanted to have a little museum on Saxis,” said historian M. K. Miles, himself a Saxis native and Tull’s former schoolmate.
After Tull died, his sister, Hannah Tull Glisson, approached Miles and others about making her brother’s dream a reality.
The museum’s opening is a milestone for Miles as well — its creation along with the 2011 publication of Kirk Mariner’s history of Saxis, “Almost an Island,” fulfilled the top two items on his own post-retirement bucket list, he said.
The first six months museum organizers spent a lot of time on paperwork, including making application with the state to become incorporated and filing with the federal government for tax-exempt status — both of which have been achieved.
The group also set up a window display at the future museum site and installed a sign on the side of the building.
The Saxis Island Museum is located in the heart of town, in one half of a 1950s building also occupied by the town’s post office.
Virtually the entire town is turning out to support and celebrate the museum.
“We’re just trying to help them get kicked off on the right foot,” said Saxis Mayor Denise Drewer.
Events Saturday start at 7 a.m. with a town-wide yard sale that includes more than 30 participants.
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| Carroll Lee Marshall/ Egret carving |
Being raffled are a wood duck carved by Kefford Linton and an egret carved by Carroll Lee Marshall. The raffle winners will be announced at noon Saturday at the museum and ticket purchasers do not have to be present to win.
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| Kefford Linton/ Wood Duck Carving |
Raffle tickets are $5 each or five for $20 and are being sold at Martha’s Kitchen, Sherrye’s Snack Shack, Tall Pines Campground, T’s Corner and the Book Bin in Onley, as well as by calling Mayor Denise Drewer, 757-710-4747.
Linton also will be selling his carvings and Chesapeake Bay work boat models at the Saxis dock.
Works by three local authors also are part of the celebration.
Mariner’s book, “Almost an Island” will be on sale at the museum.
Glenn Linton will be selling his books at Sherrye’s Snack Shack at 20051 Saxis Road and poet Michael Marshall will be selling his new book at his house at 20117 Saxis Road.
The museum itself will offer free admission for the day and will have museum T-shirts for sale. Museum memberships also are available and donations will be gladly accepted.
Visitors to the museum and the town Saturday will have several eateries to choose from if they get hungry.
Martha’s Kitchen at the Saxis dock will sell seafood sandwiches, hamburgers and hot dogs, sodas and more.
Sherrye’s Snack Shack at 20051 Saxis Road will sell ice cream, snow cones and other treats.
Capt. E’s Kitchen, Saxis’ newest restaurant, located at 9104 Starling Creek Road, will be selling cheese steak subs, cream of crab and vegetable beef soup and home made baked goods.
Restroom facilities will be available at the Saxis firehouse during the event.
The rain date for the celebration is Sept. 14.
Drewer said she has heard from lots of people planning to attend Saturday’s events. She said, “I think it’s going to be good — it’s going to be a nice day.”
Directions: Turn west off Route 13 onto Saxis Road at Temperanceville and drive about 12 miles into the town of Saxis. The museum is located near the Saxis firehouse.
To see the museum by appointment, call Miles at 703-328-2898.
For more information, go the the museum’s website, http://www.saxisislandmuseum.org. The museum also is on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SaxisIslandMuseum.
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