The Pocomoke Public Eye

Thursday, March 19, 2026

Jimmy Hoppa-

For many months viewers have been asking about the on-screen absence of WBOC's DelmarvaLife popular co-host Jimmy Hoppa. According to social media Jimmy has retired. We cannot confirm. Our latest AI (Artificial Intelligence) inquiry is posted below. We cannot verify its accuracy. A statement from WBOC would be deserving.

(AI)

Longtime WBOC-TV morning news anchor and DelmarvaLife co-host Jimmy Hoppa (legal name Preston Lay) reportedly retired in early 2026.

While there was no high-profile televised farewell, his departure was confirmed through social media tributes from colleagues and community members in late February and early March 2026. Hoppa indicated his primary reason for retiring was to spend more time with his family, specifically for "PB&J lunches and naps" with his grandsons.

Career & Community Impact

Prior to his retirement, Hoppa was a staple of Delmarva broadcasting for over two decades:

Broadcasting: He joined WBOC-TV in the early 2000s after a career in radio. He was best known for his "sparkling personality" as the morning news anchor and co-host of the afternoon talk show DelmarvaLife.

Public Service: Outside the studio, he served as a lay minister with the Church of God, a fire chaplain for Laurel’s Station 81, and a chaplain at Nanticoke Memorial Hospital.

Health: His later years on air were marked by intermittent absences for medical procedures, including a significant open-heart surgery in 2015 and another procedure in mid-2023.

Worcester Chief Deputy graduates FBI National Academy-

(Worcester County Sheriff's Office)

Chief Deputy Passwaters Graduates from FBI National Academy, Session 297.

We are proud to announce that Chief Deputy Nathaniel J. Passwaters successfully graduated from the FBI National Academy, Session 297, on March 18, 2026.

A total of 253 law enforcement officers graduated from the prestigious program held in Quantico, Virginia. The 297th session included men and women from 48 states and the District of Columbia, along with 26 international law enforcement professionals representing 24 countries, four military organizations, and four federal civilian agencies.

Internationally recognized for its academic excellence, the National Academy provides 10 weeks of advanced training in communication, leadership, and physical fitness. Attendees are selected based on their proven professionalism and leadership within their agencies. On average, participants bring 21 years of law enforcement experience and often return to serve in executive-level roles.

Instruction is delivered by FBI Academy instructors, special agents, and highly credentialed staff—many of whom are internationally recognized experts in their fields. Since 1972, participants have also had the opportunity to earn undergraduate and graduate academic credit through the University of Virginia, which accredits all National Academy courses.

Chief Deputy Passwaters shared: “I am deeply honored to have been selected to attend and graduate from the FBI National Academy, Session 297. This opportunity represents not only a milestone in my career, but also a commitment to continued growth, leadership, and service to those who live and visit Worcester County. This experience has been both challenging and rewarding, and I’m proud to stand alongside such dedicated professionals. These past ten weeks would not have been possible without the unwavering support, sacrifice, and encouragement of my colleagues and family—thank you for being my foundation every step of the way.”

Congratulations, Chief Deputy Passwaters!

New arrival and a sad departure-

DSC Photography has spotted the first foal of 2026 on the Virginia portion of Assateague.

Earlier this week the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company shared the news of the passing of longtime Saltwater Cowboy Edward Lewis.

Wednesday, March 18, 2026

More regarding Museum closing-

(View WBOC news story)

Delmarva Discovery Museum set to close Friday as supporters make final push to save it | Latest News | wboc.com

Lower Shore minimum teacher salaries below state mandate-

(View news story)

Half of Maryland’s school districts still not at $60K teacher salary threshold - Maryland Matters

Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Mayor Nock comments on Delmarva Discovery Museum closing-

(Pocomoke City Mayor Todd J. Nock:)

I tip my hat to Christy Gordon, the staff and the volunteers. When Christy returned to the Delmarva Discovery Museum, she dug her heels in and worked tirelessly to turn a very difficult situation around. She built a strong rapport with the Mayor and City Council, and we supported the organization in every way that we could.

We were deeply saddened to learn of the ongoing financial challenges. The Delmarva Discovery Museum has meant so much to Pocomoke City. It has been a place of learning, joy, and pride for our community. The truth is, times changed. Attendance declined, funding became harder to secure, and donations were not sufficient to sustain operations. It was also estimated that nearly $500,000 would be needed to revamp and modernize the facility.

Through it all, Christy and her staff never stopped working. They remained committed, resilient, and dedicated to the mission even in the face of uncertainty. That kind of leadership and perseverance deserves to be recognized.

It is also important to note that the Delmarva Discovery Museum is a nonprofit organization governed by its own Board of Directors and operates independently from the City of Pocomoke. While Pocomoke City has been a strong partner and supporter, this decision was made by the organization.

We will be discussing next steps and future possibilities for the building soon. The Discovery Center has been an important asset to our community, and we remain committed to ensuring that it continues to serve a meaningful purpose for the people of Pocomoke City.

SAY IT ISN'T SO! DELMARVA DISCOVERY MUSEUM IS PERMANENTLY CLOSING-

(City of Pocomoke)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 17, 2026

City of Pocomoke Announces Closure of Delmarva Discovery Museum

Pocomoke City, MD — The City of Pocomoke announces with sadness that the Delmarva Discovery Museum will permanently close its doors on Friday, March 20, 2026.

The museum, housed in a city-owned building, underwent significant renovations in the early 2000s through Project Open Space funding. The City of Pocomoke is actively working to ensure continued compliance with all applicable state requirements during this transition.

For many years, the Delmarva Discovery Museum has served as a valued cultural and educational resource for residents and visitors alike. As a strong nonprofit organization, it played a vital role in supporting the growth and vibrancy of Pocomoke City’s downtown district.

The City of Pocomoke extends sincere appreciation for its longstanding partnership with the museum and recognizes the lasting impact of its contributions to the community. City officials also wish the museum’s staff, board members, and animal ambassadors a smooth transition as this chapter comes to a close.

(See WBOC news story:)

Delmarva Discovery Museum to shutter its doors on Friday | Latest News | wboc.com

Domino's files for bankruptcy- but don't panic.

National franchisor Domino's Pizza has filed to operate under Chapter 11 Bankruptcy provisions. Our local Domino's in Pocomoke, Berlin, Ocean City, and Salisbury are all independently owned franchises and may be affected only to some degree.

(AI explains:)

When a franchisor like Domino's files for bankruptcy, independent franchises generally continue to operate because they are legally separate entities. While the parent company (franchisor) manages the brand and supply chain, individual stores are owned and managed by independent entrepreneurs who hold their own assets and liabilities.

Monday, March 16, 2026

WEATHER-

(Link to forecast and advisories, lower E.S. Md:)

https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.0722&lon=-75.5638

(Link to forecast and advisories, E.S. Va:)

https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=37.7108&lon=-75.742

Former WMDT reporter Leila Weah-

(We asked:)

Leila Weah no longer appears on WMDT-TV and is no longer listed on the WMDT news team roster. Where is she?

(AI says)

As of March 2026, Leila Weah is no longer with WMDT-TV (47 ABC) in Salisbury, Maryland. While she has not yet officially announced her next specific newsroom role, she has recently expressed a strong interest in transitioning into nonprofit work.

Current Status and Recent Activities

Career Transition: In December 2025, Weah shared that her long-term goals include continuing to host community events and eventually moving into the nonprofit sector.

Advocacy Work: She recently organized and hosted a high-profile memorial and fundraising walk in Minnesota to honor journalists and raise awareness for underrepresented voices.

Online Presence: Her professional bio has been removed from the WMDT News Team roster, and her LinkedIn profile currently lists her location as the United States without an updated employer.

Sunday, March 15, 2026

Time←←Machine: 90 years ago this week in Pocomoke's newspaper; plus 1997.

(Note: An archived edition of the Worcester Democrat 100 years ago this week was not available. We're using the corresponding week in 1936.)

I would love to know who Admiral Byrd's detailer was. While an officer in the Navy Admiral Byrd was literally allowed to go wherever he wanted to go, do whatever he wanted to do, and spend as much money (and resources) as needed to accomplish his projects.

Your friend,
Slim