Thursday, June 5, 2014

SURF DOG RICOCHET ANNOUNCES PUBLICATION OF HER NEW BOOK

Ricochet: Riding a Wave of Hope with the Dog Who Inspires MillionsBy Judy Fridono with Kay Pflatz
 
The moving story behind the YouTube Sensation,
which garners more than 4.3 million views!
 
 
San Diego, CA, June 5, 2014— Hero dog, therapy dog, surf dog and service dog turned SURFice dog®, Ricochet launched her new book “Ricochet” on June 3rd. Within 12 hours it was at #46 on Amazon.com’s best seller list.
 
 
  In the new non fiction book (published by HCI Books) Author Judy Fridono weaves the true story of a dog who went from puppy prodigy, to service dog dropout, to inspirational phenomenon… a beautiful golden retriever named Ricochet teaches us all that by following our hearts, we can live out our destiny, and become a force for good in the world.
 
After suffering a life of loss, Judy Fridono began training service dog puppies to make a positive difference in the world. Her "puppy prodigy," Ricochet, showed boundless potential surpassing every milestone. But out of the blue, the puppy with so much promise completely lost her focus to train, preferring to chase birds on the beach instead. Regretfully, Judy had no choice but to release Ricochet from the service dog program, leaving her disappointed and disheartened.

But the presumed detour became a journey of infinite possibilities when Ricochet found her doggie destiny in the  most unexpected of places: on a surfboard. When Judy finally embraced Ricochet's true calling, amazing things began to unfold. Then the four-legged student became the teacher, showing Judy--and the world--just how much good one dog can do. Because of Ricochet's gift, a teenager with a debilitating spinal cord injury received the much needed therapy to walk at his high school graduation; a young boy with autism finally found his voice; and a soldier trapped by post-traumatic stress regained his freedom. These, and many more inspiring stories, reveal how Ricochet is on a mission to transform countless lives by "pawing" it forward. She is the only SURFice dog® in the world that surfs with people with disabilities, kids with special needs, wounded warriors and veterans with PTSD as an assistive aid.
 
A true pawtobiography about the healing power of an ordinary dog with an extraordinary spirit. Ricochet is a reminder to stay true to ourselves, celebrate our uniqueness, and appreciate the vast ocean of potential inherent in each of us. To order your copy go to http://www.surfdogricochet.com and click on "Ricochet's book".
 
This is a beautiful story about the journey of one very special human/canine team and the powerful impact they have had on so many human lives. Ricochet is a truly inspirational read that will not only make you laugh and cry, but also confirm what great love, trust, and dedication can achieve. —Victoria Stilwell, author of Train Your Dog Positively
 
“Ricochet will bound right into your heart. Her story inspires us all to find our purpose!”
—W. Bruce Cameron, author, A Dog’s Purpose
 
 
 


TIME MACHINE Preview.. Napoleon-Eastern Shore Connection?

The first lines of a biography read "Napoleon Bonaparte was a military general who became the first emperor of France. His drive for military expansion changed the world."

A newspaper article published more than a hundred years ago reveals a possible Eastern Shore connection to Napoleon!  Accomac County and Princess Anne are prominently mentioned in the article.

Read the intriguing story 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!


Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Arrest Report From The Desk of Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin D. Sewell


PRESS RELEASE
Pocomoke Police Department
1500 Market Street
Pocomoke, Maryland   21851

410-957-1600
 
May 1, 2014 – May 31, 2014


Loynial Sturgis, age 34 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Disorderly Conduct.

5-2-14  Heather Taylor, age 23 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Driving, Attempting to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and Driving, Attempting to drive a vehicle while impaired by alcohol.

5-3-14  Robert Dolby, age 25 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with CDS: Possession Paraphernalia and CDS: Possession – Marijuana.

5-3-14 Robert Dolby, age 25 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with CDS: Possession Paraphernalia and CDS: Possession – Marijuana.

5-4-14   Donna Hilton, age 25 year of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Assault 2nd Degree.

5-4-14   Nathaniel Pittman age 31 year was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Assault 2nd Degree.

5-4-14  Marguees Wise, age 21was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Attempted 1st Degree Murder, Arson – 1st Degree, Arson 2nd Degree, and Malicious Burning 2nd Degree.

5-5-14  Juan Quiles, age 32 of Camden, NJ was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with CDS Possession – Marijuana.

5-6-14  Kimberly Stephens, age 30 of Salisbury, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant for failure to appear thru the Fruitland Police Department.

5-6-14 Catherine Gravenor, age 50 of Bel Air, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than $100.00.

5-8-14  Johnny Collins, age 27 of Withams, VA was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than $500.00 Value.

5-9-14  Sarad Baral, age 48 of Fruitland, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant for Assault – 2nd Degree and a Sex Offense 4th Degree thru the Pocomoke City Police Department.

5-10-14 Hakeem McBride, age 24 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant for Violation of Probation thru Worcester County.

5-11-14 Marvin Fletcher, age 53 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with an Alcohol Violation and Disorderly Conduct.

5-11-14  Joel Owen, age 21 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Driving, Attempting to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and Driving, Attempting to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol Per SE.

5-12-14 Robert Hickman, age 60 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with   Driving, Attempting to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.   

5-13-14 Craig Douling, age 31 of Eden, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Malicious Destruction of Property having a Value of less than $500.00.

5-13-14 Ted Davis, age 20 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant for Currency: Manufacture/Counterfeit and two counts of Possession/Issue Forged Currency.

5-15-14 Cecelia Briddell, age 52 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a Warrant for CDS: Possession with Intent to Distribute: Narcotics, CDS Pack Material Possession/Distribution, CDS Possession – Not Marijuana, and Prostitution – General thru the Wicomico County Sherriff’s Office.

5-18-14  Shakeisha Sample, age 32 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Failure to Comply with a Peace Order.


5-19-14   Carl Williams, age  22 year of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with CDS: Possession – Not Marijuana, CDS Distribution – Narcotics, and CDS: Possession with intent to Distribute Narcotics.

5-19-14 Antoine Blake, age 53 year of Salisbury, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with CDS Possession – Not Marijuana.

5-19-14  Jahad Triggs, age 19 year of New Church, VA was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with CDS Possession –Marijuana.


5-20-14   Keshon Hayes, age 20 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with 2 counts of Rogue and Vagabond and Theft less than $100.00.

5-20-14  Michael Yeffestig, age 20 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with 2 counts of Rogue and Vagabond and Theft less than $100.00.

5-20-14 Tamika Fisher, age 20 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged on a warrant for Assault 1st Degree thru the Pocomoke City Police Department.

5-23-14  Brandon Harris, age 28 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with CDS Possession - Marijuana.

5-24-14  Desmon Corbin, age 35 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Burglary – 4th Degree and Malicious Destruction of Property.

5-26-14  Darrius West, age 21 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with CDS Possession – Not Marijuana.

5-27-14  Kevin Taylor, age 37 of Pocomoke City, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Failure to Comply with a Peace Order.  

5-29-14 Johnny Collins, age 27 of Withams, VA was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than $100.00.

5-31-14  Preston Scarborough, age 21 of Marion Station, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than $100.00.

5-31-14  Alexander Cohen, age 18 of Marion Station, MD was arrested by the Pocomoke City Police Department and charged with Theft less than $100.00.

OTHER POLICE DEPARTMENT ARRESTS

A Pocomoke juvenile, age 16 was arrested for Theft less than $100.00.

A Pocomoke juvenile, age 17 was arrested for Theft less than $100.00.

A Pocomoke juvenile, age 14 was arrested for Theft less than $100.00.

A Pocomoke juvenile, age 17 was arrested for Theft less than $100.00.

A Pocomoke juvenile, age 17 was arrested for Theft less than $100.00.

A Pocomoke juvenile, age 12 was arrested for Theft less than $100.00.

So sorry for the huge delay. jmmb


POCOMOKE CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT ~ CRIME ALERT

POCOMOKE CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

 CRIME ALERT
 
 
June 4, 2014
 
Crime Alert: Larcenies from vehicles and rummaged through vehicles. Residents are urged to lock their vehicles.
 
 
The Pocomoke City Police Department reports of items being stolen out of parked UNLOCKED vehicles and/or rummaged through vehicles. Residents are asked to take steps to avoid becoming a victim of this crime of opportunity. The Pocomoke City Police Department would like to remind residents to do the following:
 
 Most of the items stolen are from unlocked vehicles.
 
 Remember to keep your vehicle locked and windows rolled up even if the vehicle is parked in your driveway or in front of your home. 

Park your vehicle in your garage or in your driveway whenever possible.

 Do not leave valuables (GPS Units, MP3 Players, laptops, money, change, prescriptions, etc) visible in your vehicle. Remove ALL valuables from your vehicle.


Never leave any personal information in your vehicle such as vehicle title, registration, or insurance.

 Report any suspicious people or cars in your neighborhood to the police.

 Report all Suspicious Activity Anonymously to 410 957-1600.


 Examples of suspicious activity may include:


 Vehicles that do not belong in the area

 Vehicles that are observed circling the area

 People on foot who are not familiar to you

 People who are observed looking into vehicles or attempting to open vehicles


Pocomoke City Police Chief
Chief Kelvin Sewell


OCPD CHARGE VA MAN WITH RAPE, BURGLARY

Romer Ortuno
PCPD photo
(June 4, 2014) – Ocean City Police Department Major Crimes Unit detectives have charged a Virginia man with rape and burglary after he sexually assaulted an acquaintance in the early morning hours of May 25, 2014.

On May 25, Ocean City officers and detectives responded to Atlantic General Hospital and met with the victim of the sexual assault. Through investigation, officers determined that the victim and a group of friends were at an Ocean City nightclub where they ran into acquaintances from their hometown in Virginia. Eventually the group, including the acquaintances, returned to a hotel room together where they continued to consume alcoholic beverages and became intoxicated.

In the early morning hours of May 25, members of the group, including the suspect, left the hotel room while the victim was asleep. The suspect, who was later identified as Romer Ortuno, 29, of Springfield, VA, then returned to the room where he entered through an unlocked window and reportedly raped the victim.

Ocean City detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Ortuno charging him with first degree rape and first degree burglary.  On May 27, Ortuno was arrested at his home by local authorities.

2014 Low Cost Rabies Vaccinations Clinic


BI-WEEKLY COM STAT MEETING - POCOMOKE CITY POLICE

 
POCOMOKE CITY POLICE
 BI-WEEKLY COM STAT MEETING
 May 13, 2014 to May 26, 2014
 
June 3, 2014
 
Pocomoke City Police Chief Kelvin Sewell, Lt. Lynell Green and Lt. Brian Craven hold their bi-weekly Com Stat meeting to discuss the Officers performance and City wide crimes.
 
 
During the past two weeks the Pocomoke City Police Officers issued 115 citations, 184 warnings, completed 28 Arrest and answered 281 calls for service.

Worcester County Sheriff’s Office


 
Worcester County Sheriff’s Office
Press Release
 
In regard to the College Takeover the Beach” event that is scheduled to be held in Ocean City this weekend:

The Mission of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office is to serve the people of Worcester County Maryland, and to provide safety, combat crime, eliminate the fear of crime, and improve quality of life in our communities. This will be done through Loyalty, Integrity, Fairness, and Excellence.
 
The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office has taken proactive steps to help ensure the safety of the Worcester County Community. There will be an increased presence of Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Deputies patrolling the County. The Sheriff has also added increased patrols of Deputies in the town of Ocean City. The Sheriff wants all those who come to Ocean City and the surrounding areas to enjoy their stay without the fear of crime.
 
The Sheriff stated that criminal behavior will not be tolerated and all Law Enforcement in the area are prepared to take the appropriate action to help ensure the safety of those who wish to live and vacation in our community.

From The Desk Of Pocomoke City Police Chief, Kelvin D. Sewell

Last week I received a complaint from an individual whose family member(s) name appeared on the Pocomoke City monthly arrest log that is put out to the media by The Pocomoke City Police Department each month. The list consists of names of suspects some of whom are recidivist, (Repeat offenders) who commit crimes here in Pocomoke City.

The names and charges that appear on the Pocomoke City Police monthly arrest list are considered public knowledge. This information could also be obtained by individuals who have computers with internet access. (Maryland Judiciary website)

Pocomoke City Police Officers are tasked each and every day with keeping the citizens of Pocomoke City safe from individuals who decide to commit crimes. A Criminal Citation is considered an on-view arrest and must appear in court for the charge issued, just as an arrest that requires an officer to detain and handcuff the individual. These arrests are not personal with the Officers who affect the arrest of criminals; it is the Officers job to continue to make Pocomoke The Friendliest Town on the Eastern Shore.

To the family members whose loved ones names appear on the Pocomoke City monthly arrest log, perhaps you should ask your family members whose names appears on our monthly arrest log to stop committing these crimes and stop embarrassing your family. The Pocomoke City Police Department will continue to work hard each and every day keeping the citizens of Pocomoke City safe.


Respectfully Submitted
Chief Kelvin D. Sewell

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

Worcester County Sheriff’s Office

 
Press Release
 
Reggie T. Mason,
 
Sheriff
 
 
 
Sunday, June 01, 2014 at approximately 0043 hours, Worcester County Sheriff’s office Deputies were on the lookout for a reported a silver Honda accord possibly involved in drug activity.  A Deputy located the vehicle on Stephan Decatur hwy in the area of Old Bridge Rd. The Deputy observed the vehicle to be traveling at 60mph in a posted 40 mph zone. The Deputy also noted the registration plates were not affixed to the vehicle properly.
 
The Deputy stopped the vehicle and while talking with the occupants, detected the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle.  A search of the vehicle and its occupants was conducted with the following arrests were made.
 
A Juvenile, 17years old of Bowie, Md. was charged with possession of marijuana
DeAndre  Lovelace-Asson, 18 years old, of Mitchellville, Md. was charged with Possession of marijuana.
 
Isayah Ike Johnson, 18 years old, of Laurel, Md. was charged with possession of marijuana.
 
Mr. Lovelace-Asson and Mr. Johnson were released on criminal citations and the juvenile was referred to juvenile services for charges.  A court date will be set for the District Court.
 
 
June 1, at about 02:30 hrs. a Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Deputy was on foot patrol in the Holiday Harbor area of Bishopville as a proactive law enforcement effort to put a quick end to the burglaries. The Deputy discovered a burglary in progress of a shed behind a residence on Nora Lane.
 
 The suspect ran to his vehicle and began to flee by driving at a high rate of speed on Dixie Drive and Saint Martin’s Neck Road.  The Deputy returned to their vehicle and pursued the suspect.  The suspect vehicle reached speeds around 90 miles per hours in the short distance on Saint Martin’s Neck Road before turning on Mumford Road. The Deputy stopped the vehicle.
 
 The operator was identified as Tevin Nathaniel Smith, 23 years of age of Selbyville, De.
It was later learned that there was a female passenger and her toddler in the vehicle at the time Mr. Smith fled.
 
  A search of the vehicle yielded several pairs of bolt cutters used to cut locks as well as other common tools used to burglarize buildings.  Mr. Smith and the female were taken to the Worcester County Sheriff's Office while a family member took custody of the child.  Mr. Smith was able to be linked to several other burglaries from May 31.

Mr. Smith was charged with 1 count each of second degree burglary, 4th degree burglary and possessing burglary tools for the incident from Nora Lane.  In addition Mr. Smith’s Delaware driver’s license was suspended and he was issued numerous traffic citations in relation to the pursuit.
 
 Mr. Smith was seen by a District Court Commissioner and ordered held at the Worcester County Jail on $100,000.00 bond.  The investigation will continue and additional charges are pending for Mr. Smith.
 
Anyone with information, or who believes their building may have been burglarized  is asked to contact the Worcester County Sheriff's Office at 410-632-1111. 
 
Lt. Edward C. Schreier
Worcester County Sheriff's Office
 

Concert in Cypress Park

Pocomoke City invites you to our first Summer Concert in the Park for 2014!

Precious Memories Southern Gospel Band will open the season on Thursday, June 5th at 6:30 pm under the Cypress Park pavilion.



Free admission to the public! Refreshments will be available for purchase.

Bring your lawn chairs & enjoy the concert with a beautiful view of the scenic Pocomoke River.

Bleacher seating also available.

For more information & calendar of events please visit downtownpocomoke.com or call 410-957-1333.

Furnace Town ~ Upcoming Events!

Photo: Jo Ann Rasmussen
UPCOMING EVENTS

June 14 - Archaeology Dig 10am-1pm Feel free to pack a lunch and enjoy it under the pavilion. Space are limited. $12.00 per person / Furnace Town Members are FREE

 June 14- GHOST HUNT with Delmarva Spirit Hunters. Hunt will begin around 8pm. Cost $20.00 per person

 June 21 - Gospel Day Jamboree with The Island Boys, The Baptist Boys, and Faith DiMattia

Starts at 2pm. General admission FREE
 

Monday, June 2, 2014

Virginia Health Dept. Warns Of Whooping Cough

The Eastern Shore Health District urges all of its residents to stay current on their immunizations, in order to protect those in our community who are the most vulnerable to serious illness and death caused by Pertussis (Whooping Cough).

Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory disease spread from person to person by coughing and sneezing. It is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. Illness typically starts like a cold, with a runny nose, sneezing and mild cough. The cough lasts 1-2 weeks and then worsens, occurring in fits, sometimes followed by a whooping noise, gagging, or vomiting (but not in every case). The disease can be very serious in children less than 1 year of age, in whom it can cause lung infections and, less often, seizures or inflammation of the brain. In rare cases, Pertussis can result in death, especially in infants. In 2013, more than 24,000 cases were reported in the United States, resulting in 9 deaths (all deaths were among infants under the age of 3 months); 411 cases were confirmed in 2013 in the state of Virginia.

"The single most effective way to prevent Pertussis is vaccination," said David O. Matson, MD PhD, director of the Eastern Shore Health District. Protection from childhood vaccine wears off over time, generally in five to ten years, so teens and adults should be revaccinated. Unfortunately, many teens and adults unknowingly carry the bacteria without symptoms or have mild illness because their first vaccine doses at a young age protect them from serious disease, but not from carrying the bacteria and not from spreading Pertussis. They are often the source of infection for infants too young to be protected by vaccination. All parents, siblings, grandparents, and caregivers of infants should make sure their Pertussis vaccine is current, to help protect the vulnerable infant population. It also should be emphasized that anyone who works with infants, whether in healthcare, daycare or nurseries, such as church nurseries, must be up-to-date for their vaccines received.

Anyone experiencing Pertussis symptoms is urged to voluntarily isolate themselves at home and as soon as possible call their primary care physician, in order for the physician to assess them and to begin a treatment of an appropriate antibiotic, should their physician decide to prescribe an antibiotic. Close contacts of patients with Pertussis will also be treated, in order to prevent the additional spread of disease in the community.

Source:


3rd ANNUAL YAPPY HOUR FUNDRAISER


SUMMER CAMPS ~ Delmarva Discovery Center


Worcester County Sheriff's Office PRESS RELEASE


May 31, 2014, at 2:38 am, a Deputy from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office was on patrol in the area of South Bound Worcester Highway, near Ocean Gateway in Berlin.

 The Deputy observed a vehicle fail to remain right of center yellow line. The Deputy also observed the same vehicle traveling 62 MPH in a 45 MPH zone. The Deputy conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and made contact with the driver who was identified as Morgan Matthew Fisher, 20 years old, from Stockton Maryland.

The Deputy smelled a moderate odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from Fisher breath and person. The Deputy gave Fisher Field sobriety test, after the test Fisher was arrested and charged with DUI related charges. Fisher was later released.

A trial date for the District Court will be set.


Incident: DUI Arrest
 Location of Crime: US Route 113 near Shad Landing Snow Hill, MD
 Suspects: Lynch, Jason T O’Reilly
 Charges: DUI, DWI, Driving Unregistered Motor Vehicle, Leaving Scene of Property Damage Crash

 Narrative:
 On May 30, 2014 a Deputy from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office was on patrol and observed a 4 wheeler in the median of US Route 113 near Shad Landing.


A male was located in the woods of the median. The male was intoxicated and there was evidence that the male had been the driver.

The male, identified as Jason Lynch, was arrested for DUI. Further investigation revealed that Lynch had run into and destroyed a mailbox.

 Lynch was released on 4 citations for DUI, DWI, Driving unregistered motor vehicle, and leaving the scene of a property damage crash.

Lynch was released and a trial will be scheduled for Snow Hill District Court at a later time.


Special Attention Bishopville Residents and surrounding Communities.

 CC# 140000522 Date: 06/01/2014

 Incident: Burglary

 Location of Crime: Holiday Harbor Bishopville, MD

 Suspect: Smith, Tevin Nathaniel, 23, Selbyville, DE

 Charges: Burglary 2nd Degree, 4th Degree Burglary, Possess Burglars Tools, numerous traffic charges

 Narrative:
 On May 31, 2014 Deputies from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office responded to several burglary reports in the Bishopville area of Worcester County. The suspects had entered several sheds by cutting or otherwise bypassing locks.

 On June 1 around 2:30 am a Deputy conducted a foot patrol in the Holiday Harbor area of Bishopville as a proactive law enforcement effort to put a quick end to the burglaries. While conducting the foot patrol, the Deputy discovered a burglary in progress of a shed behind a residence on Nora Lane.

The suspect ran to his vehicle and began to flee by driving at a high rate of speed on Dixie Drive and Saint Martins Neck Road. The Deputy returned to his vehicle and gave pursuit. The suspect vehicle reached speeds around 90 miles per hours in the short distance on Saint Martins Neck Road before turning on Mumford Road. As the Deputy began to gain on the vehicle it slowed down and stopped. The operator was identified as Tevin Smith.

 There was a female passenger and her toddler in the vehicle as well. It was later learned that Smith stopped when the female objected to being in a pursuit with her child in the vehicle.

 A search of the vehicle yielded several pairs of bolt cutters used to cut locks as well as other common tools used to burglarize buildings.

Smith and the female were taken to the Worcester County Sheriff's Office while a family member took custody of the child. Smith was able to be linked to several of the burglaries from May 31.


 Smith was charged with 1 count each of second degree burglary, 4th degree burglary and possessing burglars tools for the incident from Nora Lane. In addition Smiths Delaware drivers license was suspended and he was issued numerous traffic citations in relation to the short pursuit. Smith was seen by a District Court Commissioner and ordered held at the Worcester County Jail on $100,000.00 bond.

The investigation will continue and additional charges will be considered for Smith as well as the female for her parts in these crimes.

Anyone with information or who believes their building may have been entered is asked to contact the Worcester County Sheriff's Office at 410-632-1111.

Worcester County Sheriff's Office -facebook

Bureau Initiative Focuses on Child Sex Tourism

FBI Photo
Help the Victims, Apprehend the Abusers

05/30/14
Last month, the FBI asked for the public’s help in a case involving a suspected serial child predator who for years taught in private international schools overseas. The suspect committed suicide after his employer saw pornographic images on his thumb drive, but as part of our subsequent investigation—when we began the process of identifying and notifying the victims shown in these images—we also asked that possible victims and others who may have information come forward, not only to aid investigators but to potentially access our victim assistance services.

Child sex tourism—people traveling to another country specifically to engage in illegal sexual conduct with children—is a very real issue that causes devastating and long-lasting psychological and physical consequences for victims. And the problem is growing, thanks to the relative ease of international travel coupled with the popularity of the Internet in helping individuals exchange information about how and where to find child victims in foreign locations.

The U.S. State Department estimates that more than a million children are exploited each year in the global commercial sex trade. That’s in addition to the untold number of young victims of non-commercial sexual conduct.

But whether it involves commercial or non-commercial sex acts, the FBI—in conjunction with our domestic and international law enforcement partners—investigates U.S. citizens and permanent residents who travel overseas to engage in illegal sexual conduct with children under the age of 18.

Since 2008, our Child Sex Tourism Initiative has employed proactive strategies to address the crime, including working with foreign law enforcement and non-governmental organizations to provide child victims with support services and to investigate and prosecute individuals engaging in child sex tourism.

The FBI also shares intelligence products with our overseas law enforcement partners that focus on trends, methods of operations, offenders, etc. And we offer training to foreign law enforcement and non-governmental organizations to build capacity and develop an effective team approach to address the problem. Intelligence sharing and training help develop cohesive multi-disciplinary teams, which in turn enable better international cooperation during the investigation of these crimes.

Children from developing countries are often seen as easy targets by Americans. Our investigations, however, have shown that American perpetrators travel to a variety of locations—from less developed areas in Southeast Asia and Central and South America to more developed areas in Europe. But it makes no difference where these crimes occur—any U.S. citizen or permanent resident who engages in sexual contact with a minor overseas is subject to prosecution under various U.S. laws.

And these laws were strengthened in 2003 with the passage of the federal PROTECT Act, which authorized a variety of additional prosecutive remedies and other tools to use against those who victimize children. It also makes clear that there is no statute of limitations for crimes involving the abduction or physical or sexual abuse of a child.

So a word of warning to perpetrators of this horrendous crime: No matter where you go, no matter how long it takes, you will be caught and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

And a word of comfort to the victims: The FBI will work with your countries’ authorities and non-governmental organizations to bring perpetrators to justice and to help coordinate the services you need.
 

Sunday, June 1, 2014

TIME MACHINE... 1997, 1970, 1870, 1916, 1953, 1908

(Reader-friendly viewing of newspaper archives material)

December, 1997
(Annapolis Capital)

(Excerpts)

Hyatt resort going to Shore

CAMBRIDGE (AP)  A deal to bring a $225 million Hyatt resort to Dorchester County- a project to boost the economy of this depressed region- is close to being finalized.

While state county and town officials were reluctant to discuss details, it is clear that two years of negotiations are winding down.

The state Board of Public Works chaired by Gov. Parris Glendening will likely sign an agreement to sell the Eastern Shore Hospital Center property to developers next month said Dorchester County Commission president Jeff Powell.

If it comes to fruition the Hyatt resort with its hotel conference center, golf course, and condominiums would give the lower Eastern Shore, where unemployment rates run high, a boost in job creation and tax revenue. 

The location is a developer's dream. It is nestled against the banks of the River just east of downtown Cambridge.

January, 1970
(Daily Times- Salisbury)

Fire Damages Greenhill Church

POCOMOKE CITY - Greenhill Church on Rt. 13, six miles north of Pocomoke City, received modeate damage in a fire Sunday.

Fire Chief Raymond Dryden, of the Pocomoke City Volunteer Fire Company, said fire was contained to the loft area in the educational building, and did not break through the roof.  

The fire was discovered by a passing motorist, who turned in the alarm to the Pocomoke company, which sent three engines and fifteen men.  It started from an overheated chimney, Mr. Dryden said.  Firemen were in action 45 minutes.

The church is a brick building, on the west side of Rt. 13, across from Olson's Furniture Store.  It belongs to the Church of the Bretheren, and is a well-known landmark in this area. 

February, 1870
The Bloomfield Times (New Bloomfield, Pa.)

Endorsement of a Note on Sunday. 

The Newtown (Md.) Gazette and Record says: " Quite a novel case was argued before the Circuit Court of Worcester county at its recent session (Monday and Tuesday last) as to the binding effect of what is usually termed a "Sunday transaction." It seems that some year or two ago a couple of gentlemen endorsed a note for a third party, on which he drew a given sum of money from another party; but as the note was executed on Sunday, and the gentleman who borrowed the money having since failed, the endorsers went into court and claimed exemption from the payment of said note on the grounds that they had signed it on Sunday. The case was ably argued on both sides and much interest was felt in the result; but the Court settled all speculations by deciding that the securities were liable."

April, 1916 
(The New York Times)

5,000 GREET THE PRESIDENT

Mr. And Mrs. Wilson Cheered By Throng At Crisfield, Md.

CRISFIELD, Md., April 2.-  President and Mrs. Wilson, who are on a cruise down Chesapeake Bay, stopped here today. They arrived at 230 P.M. on the Mayflower, and came ashore on the tender.  About 5,000 persons cheered them. Mrs. Wilson received a huge bouquet of sweet peas and violets.

The entire police force of Crisfield acted as an escort.

August, 1953
The Salisbury Times

The Pocomoke City Little Leaguers raised more than S200 last week with a post season double header under the lights at Parker Field. The money is for bus transportation of 50 boys to Connie Mack Stadium Aug 29. It's the Phillies vs the Chicago Cubs.

December, 1908
Peninsula Enterprise (Accomac Court House)

Carriage Emporium NOW OPEN AT BELLE HAVEN, VA.,
With a Fine Line of

Top Buggies,
Surreys,
Phaetons,
Runabouts,
Speed Carts,
Single and
Double Wagons,

for sale by the undersigned at the lowest margin of profit. The vehicles are all of best make and prices right. Call and see them and get my prices. 

Yours truly,
GEO. W. ABDELL,
Belle Haven, Va.

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An Eastern Shore connection with Napoleon Bonaparte?  Read more about it next Sunday here at The Pocomoke Public Eye. 
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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!

Saturday, May 31, 2014

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview

1997.. Hyatt resort coming to the Eastern Shore; 1970.. Fire damages Greenhill Church; 1870.. A Sunday transaction in Worcester County challenged; 1916.. U.S. President visits Crisfield; 1953.. Pocomoke City little leaguers play post season games for trip funds; 1908.. Carriage Emporium opens in Belle Haven.

Although you may not find all of 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!

Free Fishing Days in Virginia

Free Fishing Days June 6-8 - Try it, You'll Be Hooked!

June 6-8, 2014 have been designated as Free Fishing Days in Virginia.

 No fishing license of any kind will be required for rod and reel fishing in freshwater or saltwater, except in designated stocked trout waters, on these days. Plan some time to go fishing and boating; take the family fishing and boating or learn to fish and boat!

See our Where to Fish section to get started!


There are few better times to reconnect with family and friends than while waiting for that next strike. Time spent fishing is always a welcome retreat, a bit of an adventure and the perfect setting for getting back in touch with what matters most. Escape, relax, play, reconnect with nature. And rediscover the fun of fishing and boating.

You'll be surprised at how much you've missed it. Buy your fishing license today!

Antares Launch Postponed

NASA Photo
Orbital Sciences Corporation has postponed the launch of the Orbital-2 mission to the International Space Station after an engine test aborted prematurely. The engine being tested at NASA’s Stennis Space Center was slated to be used for a launch in 2015, but Orbital has taken the action to investigate the mishap before attempting to launch Orb-2. Orbital now is looking no earlier than June 17 for the Orb-2 launch.

Orbital published the following message on their website:

Orbital has rescheduled the launch of its Antares rocket for the Orb-2 mission to a date of no earlier than (NET) June 17, 2014. Orb-2 is the second of eight cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station under Orbital’s Commercial Resupply Services (CRS) contract with NASA. The new launch schedule has been established to allow the engineering teams from the main stage propulsion supplier Aerojet Rocketdyne and Orbital to investigate the causes of an AJ26 engine failure that occurred last week at NASA’s Stennis Space Center during customary acceptance testing. That engine was designated for use in a mission slated for 2015 and was undergoing hot fire testing that all Antares AJ26 engines are subject to in order to ensure nominal performance and acceptance for use in Antares missions. The NET June 17 is a planning date. The determination of a new firm date will depend on progress of the investigation team, so please check back to this page for further updates.

Judge Denies Bond In Meth Lab Case

 Accomack Circuit Court - May 29, 2014

Joanne Strickland
Joanne Strickland- was back in court on Thursday again requesting bond.

Strickland was arrested on February 14, 2014 for operating a meth lab with her husband and codefendant and has been in jail ever since.

 Strickland was denied bond on March 13, 2014 and again on March 21, 2014.

Thursdays request was based on a lower court finding that Ms. Strickland was not directly involved in the manufacturing of meth.

Defense attorney Paul Watson told the court that she had no other law enforcement issues and with the lower court ruling she qualified for bond.
William Williams


Assistant Commonwealth attorney Spencer Morgan told the court that the Strickland knew her husband was manufacturing meth in the home and she was involved directly in the purchasing of pills from the local pharmacies. Morgan continued stating that Ms. Strickland had several failure to appears in other jurisdictions and even though they were traffic appearances it showed a trend.


Judge Lewis told the defendant that she didnt appear for minor traffic offenses therefore she may choose not to appear for the current pending charges so he denied bail.

Source:

Friday, May 30, 2014

Latest IRS Figures Show Continued Decline in Maryland's Tax Base


The David Craig campaign announced today the latest analysis of Internal Revenue Service tax migration numbers that show continued decline in Maryland’s ability to retain its tax base.  Released last month, the IRS figures advance a decade-long trend where the state lost a net $232 million in adjusted gross incomes during 2010 and 2011.

“We must stop the mass exodus of people leaving Maryland,” said Craig.  “Everywhere I go people tell me they are moving to Delaware or Virginia and these numbers prove it.”

Regionally, Maryland lost the most net incomes to Virginia at $105 million followed by North Carolina at $59 million.   That was closely followed by Texas at $58 million.  Overall, Florida is siphoning off most of Maryland’s earning power at $175 million.

From 2000 to 2010, Maryland lost $5.5 billion in taxable revenues to other states.  To reverse the net outflow of the tax base, David Craig announced a plan in February to reduce and eventually eliminate Maryland’s income tax to stop the flight of businesses  and “to keep families together.” A tenth generation Marylander, he would prefer to keep his children and grandchildren in the state.

“O’Malley and Brown’s record tax increases are hastening the decline of Maryland,” said Craig. “No state can provide essential transportation, public safety and health and education services and make other needed investments with a declining tax base.”

A Gallup poll released last month shows 47% of Marylanders would leave if they could, the third highest state in the nation where people prefer to live elsewhere.   Taxes and jobs are the main reasons Marylanders gave for wanting to leave, with the former being cited more than any other state except New York and Illinois. 

Maryland’s decline was the second worst in the region after Pennsylvania and 13th worst in the nation in dollar terms.  Maryland joins high-taxed and rust-belt states including New York, Illinois, New Jersey, California and part of the mid-west that loses taxpayers at alarming rates.

The top two states in the nation attracting taxpayers are Florida and Texas, both of which have no personal income tax and collectively gained nearly $7.5 billion in incomes during 2010 and 2011 alone.
 
#####
 
 
Background:

1. attachment:  IRS tax migration state ranking 

2. IRS tax migration statistics
3. Washington Examiner:  coverage from national perspective

4. Gallup Economy: poll 
 

Hundreds Felt Troopers Enforcement Heat

Maryland State Police

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – This past Memorial Day Weekend, the Maryland State Police turned up the heat on traffic enforcement with hundreds stopped for a variety of violations.

 During the Memorial Day weekend over 11,000 vehicles were stopped by troopers. Preliminary statistics indicate approximately 8,628 traffic citations were issued along with approximately 5,421 warnings. An additional 107 motorists were found to be operating a motor vehicle while impaired. Another 87 were arrested for drug offenses and 111 were arrested for various other criminal violations.

 Troopers conducted traffic enforcement initiatives such as, Operations Millipede and Showboat, throughout Maryland during the unofficial start of the summer travel season. During this Memorial Day weekend, each state police installation turned up the heat on Maryland roads. Additional initiatives will continue during the upcoming months focusing on impaired or distracted drivers, speeding and aggressive motorists, as well as those electing not to properly use safety restraints.

 The Maryland State Police encourage all motorists to be considerate and patient while traveling. Remove as many distractions while driving and never get behind the wheel if you have been drinking. If you are impaired, call a friend or family member, use public transportation or stay where you are. If you see a driver you think is impaired or driving a vehicle in an unsafe manner, keep your distance and dial 9-1-1.

 These efforts are to reduce the number of aggressive driving motor vehicle crashes in which speed, alcohol and any other aggressive driving violations are contributing factors. The Maryland State Police will continue to support the Maryland Highway Safety Office’s ‘Move Toward Zero Deaths’ campaign.

Thursday, May 29, 2014

TWO BROTHERS ARRESTED BY OCPD FOR ASSAULT AND THEFT

Charles Middleton
OCPD Photo
(May 28, 2014) – On Sunday, May 25, 2014 at approximately 3:20 a.m. Ocean City police responded to the  area of 8th Street and Philadelphia Avenue in reference to a fight in progress. Upon arrival, officers met with the victim of an assault who had been beaten. The victim informed officers that the suspects, who were friends of the victim, assaulted him and stole numerous items from his pockets.
With a description of the suspects, officers realized that they had seen a subject matching the description of one of the suspects get into a nearby cab. Through investigation, officers were able to locate and arrest the first suspect, later identified as Damon M. Middleton, 21, of Washington, DC. Meanwhile, other officers were assisted by witnesses in locating the second suspect later identified as Charles A. Middleton, 24, of New York, NY. Charles was eventually located and arrested in a nearby vehicle attempting to hide from police. Items stolen from the victim were located and returned.
Damon Middleton
OCPD Photo
 
Ocean City police charged Charles and Damon Middleton with multiple assault and theft charges. Damon Middleton was also charged with possession of an assisted opening knife. Both were seen by a Maryland District Court Commissioner and released after each posted $50,000 bond.
 
Submitted: Ocean City Police Dept.

TIME MACHINE ... This Sunday's Preview

1997.. Hyatt resort coming to the Eastern Shore; 1970.. Fire damages Greenhill Church; 1870.. A Sunday transaction in Worcester County challenged; 1916.. U.S. President visits Crisfield; 1953.. Pocomoke City little leaguers play post season games for trip funds; 1908.. Carriage Emporium opens in Belle Haven.

Although you may not find all of 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!

International Space Station Gains New Residents

Thumbs up from the newest residents of the International Space Station.  
NASA Photo
NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman, Maxim Suraev of the Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos), and Alexander Gerst of the European Space Agency joined their Expedition 40 crewmates when the hatches between the Soyuz TMA-13M spacecraft and the International Space Station officially opened at 11:52 p.m. EDT. Expedition 40 Command...er Steve Swanson of NASA and Alexander Skvortsov and Oleg Artemyev of Roscosmos welcomed the new crew members aboard their orbital home. The International Space Station has been returned to its full complement of six crew members.
Expedition 40 will continue to take advantage of the orbital lab's unique microgravity environment and expand the scope of research. Earth remote sensing, an assessment of human behavior and performance, and studies of animal biology and bone and muscle physiology define the research of Expedition 40. Other investigations include technology demonstrations, physical and space sciences, and educational activities. Expedition 40 activities will help advance our body of scientific knowledge, leading to potential Earth benefits such as better observation of a changing climate and human medical advancements.

The crew is scheduled to conduct a pair of Russian spacewalks and three U.S. spacewalks and greet a host of cargo vehicles during their mission. Expected to arrive at the space station during Expedition 40 are resupply flights aboard the Cygnus, Dragon, Progress and European ATV cargo spacecraft.

Swanson, Skvortsov and Artemyev will return home to Earth in September. At that time Suraev will become commander for Expedition 41. Wiseman, Suraev and Gerst will return to Earth in November.

To learn more about Expedition 40, visit:
http://go.nasa.gov/QmEZOT.
 

Delmarva Discovery Center ~ Children's Archaecology Day


BINGO Friday Night !


SAVE THE DATE ~ PHS Field Hockey Team Presents.....


Spaghetti Dinner