The Dispatch January 4, 2019
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It was one of the warmest days in the 25-year history of Atlantic General Hospital’s Penguin Swim on Tuesday. Above, the Bull on the Photo by Chris Parypa Beach team makes it way to the beach. See page 18 for more photos.
Local Assessments Confirm Property Values Continuing To Rebound On Shore See Page 4 • Photo by Chris Parypa
Foul Play Not A Factor In Local Man’s Creek Death, Authorities Report
See Page 20 • Photo by Cesar Campos
Despite Weather, Resort’s Winterfest Final Attendance Numbers Strong
See Page 16 • Photo by Chris Parypa
Report Estimates Worcester Airbnb Rental Revenue At $1.5 Million
See Page 6 • Photo by Chris Parypa
INSIDE PAGES
Cops & Courts PAGE 22
Classifieds PAGE 29
Faces In Places PAGE 34
Things To Do
PAGE 35
Fatherhood PAGE 36
People In Society
PAGE 38
Things I Like PAGE 39
Music
PAGE 40
Sports
PAGE 42
Editorial PAGE 43
Crossword PAGE 46
Vanishing OC PAGE 46
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
SERVING OUR CUSTOMERS FOR OVER 55 YEARS
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January 4, 2019
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Reassessments Confirm, ‘Things Have Certainly Turned Around’
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
BY SHAWN J. SOPER
MANAGING EDITOR
An aerial view of West Ocean City is shown in a file photo.
Photo by Chris Parypa
BERLIN – Driven largely by significant redevelopment in West Ocean City, property values in the north end of Worcester County increased substantially in the latest reassessments announced late last week. The State Department of Assessment and Taxation (SDAT) last week announced the results of a triennial assessment of residential and commercial real estate values across Maryland and the news was particularly good statewide, especially on the Lower Shore in Worcester and Wicomico. Each year, about one third of the residential and commercial properties around the state are reassessed and assigned new values that are used to
January 4, 2019
determine property tax amounts. Across Maryland, residential properties reassessed saw their values increase by over 8 percent since their last reassessment three years ago in 2016, while commercial properties saw their values increase by about 12 percent. The overall increases statewide for both combined came in at just over 9 percent. On the shore, the reassessments followed the statewide trend, and actually exceeded the state averages in many cases. Worcester properties are reassessed every three years based on a geographic formula that divides the county into three relatively equal parts. This year, the county’s Group 1, which includes Berlin, West Ocean City, Ocean Pines and other north-end areas such as Bishopville and Showell, for example, were reassessed. According to the SDAT statistics released last week, the value of residential properties in the area reassessed in Worcester increased from $3.5 billion to $3.7 billion, representing an increase of 6.2 percent. Perhaps more importantly from a property tax standpoint, the value of commercial property, which is not protected by the Homestead Tax Credit, in Worcester reassessed this year increased from $1.1 billion to $1.4 billion, representing an increase of 19 percent. Combined, the total value of all reassessed properties in Worcester increased from $4.6 billion to $5.1 billion, or a little over 9 percent, which is right around the state average. According to Amy Smith, SDAT Director for Worcester County, the latest reassessments appear to signal a reverse in the trend of stagnant or declining property values in recent years. “Things have certainly turned around,” she said. “This is the first year every county in the state is showing an increase.” In Worcester, the 19-percent increase in commercial property values appears to be driven by growth and redevelopment in West Ocean City, especially along the Route 50 corridor and the entrance to Ocean City. Several new hotels have been built or are being built since the last reassessment of the area three years ago and there have been other significant redevelopments of older properties in the area. For example, a brand-new Park Place Plaza shopping center and retail complex has replaced an aging and somewhat dilapidated old hotel property in the area. In addition, an old building that used to be home to the Ocean City Marlin Club among others is being redeveloped with a brand-new Bad Monkey restaurant. Smith said the growth spurt in West Ocean City helped fuel the significant increase in commercial properties in the reassessed area. “There is a lot of new construction in West Ocean City,” she said. “We’ve picked up three new hotels there. We saw the values increase in a lot of SEE NEXT PAGE
… Commercial Properties Up 19%
January 4, 2019
FROM PAGE 4 properties that were redeveloped.” Commercial growth is only part of the story for the increases in the north end of Worcester reassessed this year. Of the 14,301 residential properties reassessed, 11,882 saw their values increase, representing an increase of 83 percent. Most of the individual property increases reportedly came in around 8 to 12 percent depending on location. For example, in Berlin, a one-acre property near downtown increased 10 percent, from $365,400 to $402,100. The increases seen in Worcester this time around signal a steady upward trend after years of decline. In the boom years from 2006 to 2008, for example, property values in the assessed areas of Worcester increased by 79 percent, 54 percent and 33 percent respectively. When the recession hit in around 2009, the values started a six-year cycle of decline, reaching a nadir of 20 percent in 2010. Since 2015, the values have slowly but surely increased by degrees, but this year’s numbers reflect the biggest gain since the recession. Over in Wicomico County, the reassessments announced last week showed even larger increases. For example, commercial properties in the section of Wicomico reassessed this year saw their values increase by 31 percent, the biggest gain in commercial property values in the state. Commercial properties in Wicomico saw their values increase from $386 million to $505 million. Residential properties in the section of Wicomico reassessed this year also saw significant gains. For example, the value of residential properties reassessed increased from $1.37 billion to $1.44 billion, representing an increase of nearly 6 percent. Much of the area reassessed in Wicomico this year falls in Salisbury, leaving Mayor Jake Day bullish about the results announced last week. “I’m not surprised at the results given the tremendous growth we’ve seen over the past few years,” he said. “The purpose of our constant and tireless efforts to grow the economy in our city is to create value for the families, shop owners and workers of our community.” Day was quick to point out the significant gains in commercial property values in Wicomico, especially in the Salisbury area, were the highest in the state. “These significant and dramatic increases in value represent concrete evidence that those efforts are working,” he said. “The vast majority of the properties assessed this year are in our great city and I am delighted to see our hard-working citizens gaining ground faster than anyone else in the state.” Residential property values in the reassessed area of Wicomico also followed the statewide trend. For example, of the 11,351 residential properties reassessed in Wicomico, 8,863 saw their values increase, or 78 percent.
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
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Berlin Plans Community Meetings Detailed Report Shows Airbnb’s
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Input Sought For Comp Plan Revisions
BY CHARLENE SHARPE
STAFF WRITER
BERLIN – The town has scheduled a series of community meetings in March as it moves to address resiliency in its comprehensive plan. The town has partnered with the University of Maryland Environmental Finance Center to host meetings March 14, 16 and 18 as it begins to develop a resiliency element for its comprehensive plan. Topics to be discussed by residents include climate change, funding for the town’s future and growth. “I think a lot of folks will be concerned about flooding,” Town Administrator Laura Allen said. “We’re also going to talk about growth and financial sustainability.” The Town of Berlin received a $20,000 climate resilience grant last fall from Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources to aid in development of a resiliency element for its comprehensive plan. Allen said that as communities faced extreme weather events, stress on public facilities and higher costs of services, there was a growing need to plan for those events. “It’s unusual for a community of this size to have a resiliency element but more and more communities in Mary-
land are moving in that direction,” she said. The University of Maryland Environmental Finance Center, which previously worked with the Town of Berlin as it was developing its stormwater utility, will lead the meetings and compile relevant data to create a draft document for the town. Allen said the center would look at the town’s budget, audit, GIS data and any other relevant documentation. “They’ve done similar work in four other communities…,” Allen said. “The information from the meetings will be gathered along with other data and put into this resiliency element.” The center will eventually provide the town with a draft of the proposed addition to the comprehensive plan. That would then go to the town’s planning commission for review. Allen said this latest piece to the comprehensive plan comes as the town as is preparing to do an overall review and update of the document. It also addresses the town’s environmental concerns. “It’s consistent with the town’s environmental ethic and the work we’re doing,” she said. “It also fits our need to update the comprehensive plan.” Locations for the three March meetings are still being finalized.
January 4, 2019
Impact On Maryland Counties
BY SHAWN J. SOPER
MANAGING EDITOR
OCEAN CITY – While Ocean City officials continue to grapple with the short-term rental issue, at least one of the companies providing the service in the resort and across Maryland this week reported a banner year in 2018. For well over a year, Ocean City has been monitoring the proliferation of short-term vacation rentals in the resort brokered by online platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO, for example. In fact, the short-term vacation rental issue was an agenda item on a tourism commission meeting on Thursday held too late to be included in this edition. The concern in recent years has largely been on two fronts including the apparent lack of room tax collection on the one hand, and the sanctity of the neighborhoods in which shortterm vacation rentals are located. Airbnb, VRBO and similar internet sites enable property owners to rent homes, apartments and even single rooms to visitors searching for accommodations by bypassing the traditional rental companies that carry larger commissions with each booking. Just
as Uber has transformed the public transportation industry, Airbnb, VRBO and similar companies have rocked the traditional rental industry with millions of available vacation accommodations in thousands of cities across the U.S. including Ocean City. While resort officials continue to debate the impact of online short-term vacation rentals, Airbnb this week released data on the company’s earnings in Maryland for 2018. Statewide, Airbnb hosts in Maryland earned roughly $57 million in supplemental income last year. Airbnb hosts in Maryland welcomed 383,600 guests in 2018, the company’s report summarized. According to the report, there are currently over 6,500 Airbnb hosts in Maryland who share their residences with online vacation shoppers. The average amount of yearly supplemental income for the hosts comes in at around $5,600. In Worcester County, Airbnb hosts welcomed 10,800 visitors in 2018 and collected around $1.5 million in supplemental income. While the report did not break down Worcester’s data by jurisdiction, the assumption is most of the Airbnb rentSEE PAGE 8
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Page 7
… Airbnb Income In Worcester Calculated At $1.5M
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
FROM PAGE 6 als in the county are located in and around the Ocean City area and the north end of the county. According to the Airbnb data, Worcester County ranked sixth in the state in total number of guests hosted in 2018 and also sixth in the amount of income collected by the hosts. Baltimore City was tops in the state with over 107,000 guest arrivals reported and nearly $15 million in income collected by hosts. “2018 was another great year for Airbnb in Maryland with more local residents and small businesses able to benefit from the economic opportunities created by home-sharing then ever before,” said Airbnb spokesperson Liz DeBold Fusco this week. “As we reflect on this past year and celebrate the beginning of a new one, we are proud to have played a small role in countless memories and cultural exchanges statewide, from summer trips to the holiday season. We look forward to continuing to help families across Maryland earn extra income while allowing countless communities to enjoy the tourism economy in 2019.” Whether the Ocean City community has benefited from the tourism economy touted by Airbnb has been the subject of considerable debate over
the last year or so. The working assumption all along had been most of the short-term vacation property owners likely weren’t acquiring requisite business licenses and, therefore, were not likely remitting the required room tax. It is a serious concern in a resort town with thousands of hotel rooms and condos playing by the rules. However, last year it was announced during a tourism committee meeting careful research conducted by town staff revealed the majority of the short-term rental listings in Ocean City were licensed. However, it was unclear if those short-term vacation rentals that were licensed were remitting the requisite room tax. A survey of Airbnb listings in the Ocean City area for the upcoming weekend revealed over 300 shortterm vacation rentals were available. The listings range from around $18 a night for a single room to as high as around $300 for an oceanfront, fivebedroom condo, but the majority were under $100 per night. It’s important to note those rates are for January and are much higher in the warm months. The Airbnb data for Maryland and Worcester County released this week essentially confirms the online shortterm rental business is thriving. Resort officials continue to try to come to grips on how best to monitor and regulate, if
WE’LL BE BACK THURSDAY, JAN. 10, AT 2 P.M.
necessary, the growing business locally. During last year’s General Assembly session, there were at least two bills filed that would have added regulations to the short-term rental industry, but neither passed. On the eve of another General Assembly session, there will likely be new legislation introduced aimed at the industry. On the local front, resort officials continue to monitor the issue and conduct their own research on which ones are obtaining the required business licenses and which are remitting the requisite room tax. In short, there are short-term rentals that are acquiring the business license and remitAirbnb released data this week recapping its 2018 ting room tax and there year of guest arrivals and host income. Submitted Image are likely some licensed short-term rentals that are not remitting room tax. There are tax, and finally there are likely some also short-term rentals that are not li- that neither acquire the business licensed, but may be remitting room cense nor remit room tax.
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Berlin To Host Restaurant Week Starting Monday
January 4, 2019
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Page 9
BY CHARLENE SHARPE
STAFF WRITER
BERLIN – Local restaurants will showcase their fare next week as the town hosts its annual Berlin Restaurant Week. From Jan. 7-13, restaurants in Berlin will feature a variety of specials as they seek to encourage residents and visitors alike to dine in the historic town. “It gives everybody a chance to see what Berlin is all about,” said Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director. Berlin Restaurant Week was created in 2016 at the suggestion of local resident and business owner Cam Bunting, who’d seen something similar prove successful in another town. In the years since, it has brought a variety of visitors to town to experience Berlin’s array of restaurants. “We’re almost a culinary destination,” Wells said. The event is scheduled each January, as that’s typically a slow time of year in Berlin. “It’s not the busy season,” Wells said. “You won’t have to wait for a table.” Baked Dessert Café’s Robin Tomaselli agreed. She said Berlin Restaurant Week helped bring people to town after the holidays. “January is a pretty quiet time,” she said. “It brings a ton of people into Berlin and it gives all of us the chance to highlight and showcase some incredible food.” In addition, the specials offered encourage patrons to branch out. “It gives people the chance to try places they haven’t tried before,” Tomaselli said. “They can try great food at an amazing price.” Most participating restaurants are offering special menus for the week. Tomaselli’s café will feature a $6.99 lunch special and a $4.99 dessert sampler. The Burley Café will offer a special that provides diners with three small plates and bottomless mimosas for $30. On What Grounds aims to bring in customers with a made-to-order breakfast sandwich and small coffee for $6. At The Globe, which launches a new menu Jan. 7, there will be a variety of $10 “Sweater Weather” specials and drink discounts. Wells said she was posting other specials on the “Berlin Restaurant Week” Facebook page as she received them. “A lot of the restaurants get creative with their menus,” Wells said. Patrons that eat at least three different participating restaurants during the week will receive a raffle card. They’ll be able to enter to win a basket of Berlin gift cards as well as $100 cash. For more information, visit the “Berlin Restaurant Week” event page on Facebook.
Winter Crowds:
Sunny skies and warm daytime temperatures in the 60s brought out large crowds to the Boardwalk last Saturday, Dec. 29. Photo by Allen Sklar
Snow Hill To Hold Benefit Saturday For Local Family
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
BY BETHANY HOOPER
STAFF WRITER
SNOW HILL – Members of the Snow Hill business community will host a fundraiser to benefit a local boy battling cancer. On Saturday, Jan. 5, the community is invited to the Snow Hill Volunteer Fire Department for a “Raise-theFunds Bash” to benefit Jake Newcomer, an 11-year-old student at Snow Hill Middle School who was recently diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. The Daily Brew Coffeehouse owner
Lori McAllister said she was inspired to help Newcomer and his family after watching live Facebook videos of a recent Christmas parade held in front of Newcomer’s home. “I was watching the parade on Facebook and tears were streaming down my face,” she said. “I decided this was something the business community should contribute to.” McAllister said she quickly sent a message to Snow Hill merchants in a private Facebook group and found that all were eager to help the family. “Once everyone was made aware
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of what was happening, people have come out of the woodworks,” she said. “That speaks to the character of our town. We are a close-knit community, and everyone has tried to contribute to this cause.” McAllister said she and Mirror Salon owner Betsy Brittingham are spearheading the event and have reached out to various entities and organizations for assistance. For example, the Snow Hill Jake Newcomer is an 11-year-old Snow Hill Submitted Photo Volunteer Fire Department is Middle student. providing the venue and cash bar, Snow Hill merchants are and the price of admission will include providing gifts and services for the live entertainment from Triple Vision, event’s silent auction and the Snow food, a cash bar and silent auction. Hill Area Chamber of Commerce will McAllister said tickets can be purprovide a sizable donation. chased at The Daily Brew or Mirror All proceeds from the event will go Salon prior to the event, or online to Newcomer and his family for travel through the Facebook event page, and medical expenses. “Raise-The-Funds Bash to Benefit “We are trying to do what we can Jake Newcomer.” Tickets will also be for this family …,” McAllister said. sold at the door. “Nothing we can do can make his sit“We request that people purchase uation easier, but if we can lift some of their tickets beforehand, so we can the financial burden of traveling to and provide enough food and drink,” she from Johns Hopkins, that’s what we said. will aim to do.” McAllister encouraged anyone to The “Raise-the-Funds Bash” will come out and support the cause. take place Jan. 5 from 5-9 p.m. at the “This could be any of us,” she said. Snow Hill Volunteer Fire Department. “It takes a village to support one anTickets will be sold for $25 each, other.”
January 4, 2019
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States Threaten Offshore Seismic Testing Lawsuit
Page 12
BY SHAWN J. SOPER
MANAGING EDITOR
OCEAN CITY – Opposition to proposed seismic air gun testing off the mid-Atlantic coast gained momentum last week when Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh and eight of his colleagues threatened a lawsuit to stop the potentially dangerous practice. Frosh announced during a press conference December 20 he and the attorneys general of eight other Atlantic coast states were formally opposing the proposed seismic air gun testing off the mid-Atlantic coast for offshore oil and gas exploration. Just a day later, Gov. Larry Hogan authorized the state of Maryland to join a lawsuit to halt dangerous seismic air gun testing.
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
In late November, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announced it had issued its final Incidental Harassment Authorization (IHA) permits allowing five private sector companies to begin the potentially dangerous practice of seismic air gun testing for oil and gas reserves in the mid-Atlantic, including vast areas off the Ocean City coast. As the name implies, the permits allow for the incidental harassment of marine life off the coast during the testing process including dolphins, whales and other species, for example. Seismic air gun testing is used to determine what oil and natural gas reserves lie beneath the ocean floor. Seismic air guns essentially shoot blasts of compressed air into the ocean floor. The blasts are estimated to be 100,000 times more intense than
the sound of a jet engine. If approved, vessels would tow as many as 30 air guns, which would be fired every 10 seconds continuously 24 hours a day and seven days a week for the duration of the mapping exercise, which could last for several weeks. During his press conference last week, Frosh claimed seismic air gun testing off the mid-Atlantic coast was short-sighted because the potential dangers to the fragile ecosystems outweighed any negligible benefit. “Seismic testing will have dangerous consequences for hundreds of thousands of marine mammals, including endangered species,” said Frosh. “While the administration continues to place the interests of the fossil fuel industry ahead of our precious natural resources, attorneys general up and down the Atlantic coast will
January 4, 2019
continue to fight these and other efforts to open the waters off our shores to drilling for oil and gas.” By year’s end, Hogan and his colleagues on the East Coast followed suit in the opposition to the exploration for oil and gas reserves off the coast. “As governor, I take my role as a steward of our environment extremely seriously,” he said. “We have made incredible progress in improving our air and water quality standards, and we are not going to let misguided policies from the federal government jeopardize our hard work. Maryland will continue to fight against this sort of federal government overreach that threatens our natural resources and coastal communities.” Delaware Gov. John Carney voiced similar concerns for the coastal communities in his state. “Drilling in the Atlantic would pose significant threats to Delaware’s natural resources and our economy,” said Carney. “I am proud to stand with fellow Atlantic state governors in opposition to seismic testing and drilling for oil and gas off our coasts. There’s too much at risk for Delaware and the Atlantic Seaboard to allow this to go unchallenged.” Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Secretary Mark Belton expressed concern about the cumulative impacts on the marine species and habitat in Maryland. “Maryland remains steadfast in its opposition to offshore oil and gas development and exploration in the Atlantic Ocean due to the fact that it unnecessarily endangers marine life and water quality, and exposes our communities and commerce to harm,” said Belton. “We strongly believe that these actions by the federal government pose greater risk than we are willing to assume in the backyard of one of our nation’s most iconic natural places – the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays.” Last month’s strong opposition to seismic testing from leaders in Maryland and Delaware along with other coastal states following a coalition of nine environmental advocacy groups, most notably the Center for Biological Diversity, the Natural Resources Defense Council, Oceana, the Sierra Club and the Surfrider Foundation among others, filing suit in U.S. District Court seeking to force NMFS to reverse its issuance of the five IHA permits. The federal suit also seeks to force NMFS to essentially admit the agency has violated several longstanding federal policies including the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Endangered Species Act and the National Environmental Policies Act. The 46-page complaint filed in U.S. District Court goes into great detail about the various ways scientific research has allegedly shown seismic air gun testing has proven to be harmful to marine mammals and other species.
New Legislative Session Begins Next Week In Annapolis
January 4, 2019
BY SHAWN J. SOPER
MANAGING EDITOR
BERLIN – With next week’s opening of the 2019 Maryland General Assembly, over 120 pieces of legislation have already been pre-filed in advance of the session. The Maryland General Assembly convenes next Wednesday, Jan. 9, and before the 90-day session is complete, state lawmakers will debate and ultimately vote on thousands of pieces of legislation from the gravely serious to the somewhat mundane. With less than a week to go, already 85 bills have been pre-filed in the Senate with another 38 already scheduled for debate in the House. The following is a brief look at some of the proposed legislation already in the hopper, some of which could have local implications if passed: Senate Bill 5: This bill would allow custodians of certain 911 communications to deny access to public records under certain conditions. For example, public access to 911 communications could be denied if they contain gory or gruesome injuries, if they could provide access to victims of domestic violence or if they contain information including an individual’s medical history.
Pedestrian Killed In OC Crosswalk
BY SHAWN J. SOPER
MANAGING EDITOR
OCEAN CITY – A Pennsylvania woman succumbed to injuries sustained after being struck by a vehicle last Saturday. Around 8:50 p.m. last Saturday, Ocean City Police were dispatched to the area of 28th Street and Philadelphia Avenue for a reported pedestrian collision in the southbound lane. The pedestrian, later identified as Lorena D. Merris, 56, of Landisburg, Pa., was crossing the highway at 28th Street when she was struck by a BMW 328i. The circumstances of the collision are still under investigation, but it has been determined the victim was in the immediate area of the crosswalk. The driver of the vehicle remained on scene and it has been determined the driver was not impaired at the time of the incident. The victim was transported on Saturday night to Shock Trauma in Baltimore by Maryland State Police helicopter Trooper 4. She succumbed to her injuries on Sunday afternoon. The Ocean City Police Department Traffic Safety Unit is investigating to determine the cause of the collision. Traffic on southbound Phila-delphia Avenue was diverted to Baltimore Avenue for roughly two hours while investigators processed the scene and cleared the area of debris.
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Senate Bill 6: This bill would allow for the creation of a basket of cheer permit in Wicomico County. It would allow nonprofit organizations in Wicomico to offer a basket of cheer containing alcoholic beverages as prizes and giveaways. Senate Bill 10: This bill would repeal some state laws regarding hardshell clamming in state waters in Maryland and clear up other sections of the existing laws. It would repeal a provision that requires a person to obtain a tidal fishing license to catch clams by hand-scape, Shinnecock rake or hydraulic dredge in state waters in Worcester County. It would also prevent individuals from harvesting clams within 300 feet from shore without permission of the property owner. Senate Bill 12: This bill would require
some elements of public art to be used in all capital projects in Maryland that are funded at least 50 percent by the state. The law would apply to all capital projects of at least 15,000 square feet and would be monitored by the Maryland Commission on Public Art and the Maryland State Arts Council. Senate Bill 19: This bill would establish a bed-and-breakfast license in Wicomico County. The law, if approved, would establish a bed-and-breakfast license in the county for facilities with no more than 10 rooms for accommodations. Senate Bill 34: This bill would establish a tourist area and corridor sign program under the auspices of the State Highway Administration. It is an idea that has been pitched in local jurisdictions including Ocean City and
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Worcester County to date. The bill, if approved, would allow signs on certain state roads that point out tourist attractions and other amenities. House Bill 3: This bill would allow for the option of renewing a motor vehicle registration in Maryland in multiple years at different time schedules. For example, a vehicle owner could register a vehicle for just one year, two years or three years under the options available. House Bill 4: This bill would prohibit a person from affixing a noose or Swastika on any building or real property with the intent to threaten or intimidate someone else. It’s uncertain why this is not a state law already. House Bill 9: This bill would lower the minimum age for acquiring a consolidated senior fishing license in Maryland from 65 to 62.
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
January 4, 2019
Worcester plans to sell Former liquor Warehouse
January 4, 2019
BY CHARLENE SHARPE
STAFF WRITER
SNOW HILL – Worcester County will seek to sell the warehouse formerly used for liquor control. Though they were initially presented with a lease request at their last meeting, the Worcester County Commissioners were quick to tell staff they’d rather move forward with selling the immense building. Staff presented the commissioners with a lease request from Paul M. Jones Lumber Company at a meeting Dec. 18. The company wanted to lease outdoor storage space under the covered loading bays at the former liquor control warehouse on Snow Hill Road to store surplus lumber. The company offered $1,000 a month for use of the space. Assistant Chief Administrative Officer Kelly Shannahan told the commissioners in his report that staff had reviewed the proposal and identified several concerns. “Most significantly, our insurance provider, the Local Government Insurance Trust (LGIT), has advised that Paul Jones Lumber would need their own insurance to cover the contents and a memorandum of understanding/contract with the county clearly stating that we are not responsible for their property stored in the warehouse or on the property; LGIT will not insure Paul Jones’ Lumber assets on our property; and LGIT would need to send their agent onsite to perform an inspection before they change our coverage,” Shannahan said in his report. When the commissioners voted unanimously to decline the lease proposal, Shannahan pointed out the future of the building was still unclear. “We do need at some point to determine what the final resolution of that building will be, whether it’s something you want to hang on to, to renovate for storage, or whether we want to try to sell it,” he said. Commissioner Joe Mitrecic quickly made a motion to sell the building that was approved unanimously. When Commissioner Bud Church asked who would determine the value of the property, Shannahan said an appraisal had already been done and that a report would be presented at the commissioners’ next meeting. “We do have an assessment of the property,” he said. “I’m not sure whether you’re going to get any buyers if we just put it on the market. We could auction it if you want. There’s options, maybe we should bring back some options on how best to dispose of it.” The commissioners agreed to address the issue at their next meeting.
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Winterfest Numbers Strong Even With Wet Weather
Page 16
BY SHAWN J. SOPER
MANAGING EDITOR
OCEAN CITY – After starting in a deep hole from the start, Ocean City’s Winterfest of Lights finished with a solid year in 2018 despite battling weather issues. Ocean City Winterfest of Lights wrapped up its 26th year on New Year’s Eve with a fireworks display and other special events culminating in another highly successful season for the centerpiece of the resort’s holiday experience. Despite a total washout on opening
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
night, followed by rough weather on other key dates, the total attendance for Winterfest of Lights in 2018 came in at 104,114, or just about average. The record was set in 2015 when near-perfect weather for the duration of the event resulted in nearly 127,000 visitors going through the attraction. In 2016, 111,052 went through the gates, followed by 106,067 last year. The 104,114 tallied during the 2018 event fell a little short of those recent numbers. Ocean City Special Events Director Frank Miller said this week attendees came anyway despite the
January 4, 2019
frequent weather challenges. “I am always amazed at the resilience of our guests,” he said. “For the most part, they still found a way to make it to Winterfest. This really speaks to the family tradition aspect of the event – that drive to bring the family for a familiar and friendly experience, entrusting the town’s special events department to create new family memories and taking in the holiday spirit we try to create visually and audibly.” Winterfest started behind the eight ball right from jump this year with Nor’easter conditions on opening night in mid-November virtually cancelling the event. Some of the pre-event festivities were moved inside at Northside Park, but the tram rides through the displays were shut down. On that day alone, Winterfest of Lights 2018 found its numbers down already by 3,143 from the prior year. “Weather was a major influencing variable this year, not only with rain on key attendance days, but also with temperature,” said Miller. “We were behind pace from the start by closing Winterfest on what was to be its opening night for the first time in history.” Miller said sustained winds were so strong on opening night, closing the outdoor festivities was the only option. A similar situation played out two weeks later when heavy rains on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, which is typically
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one of the busiest nights of the season for the event, severely curtailed ridership. That Saturday night saw ridership drop by 6,407, representing a decrease of 78 percent over the prior year. It was a trend repeated on several of the Saturdays during Winterfest this year. For example, rain on Saturday, Dec. 1 dropped attendance by 3,070 under the prior year, and rain and wind on Dec. 15 dropped ridership by 3,295. A chart provided by Miller shows there were plenty of dates during which the 2018 event made gains over the prior year, but the losses on opening night and some of those key Saturdays made it difficult to reach the lofty record set in 2015. Even New Year’s Eve this week was down from the prior year because of weather challenges. The attendance last Saturday and Sunday was similar to the 2015 record year, but tram ridership on a rainy New Year’s Eve was down about 50 percent. There was strong attendance for the New Year’s Even fireworks, but Miller said that number is tallied separately because many attendees don’t ride the trams. “Overall, it was a good year for Winterfest after a lot of nail-biting,” he said. “This was also the last year for the current Boardwalk trams. Next year, we should have the new Boardwalk trams pulled by Jeeps with new audio systems designed to provide a better musical experience as well.”
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Texas Officials Visit Holiday Activities
January 4, 2019
BY CHARLENE SHARPE
STAFF WRITER
BERLIN – Holiday activities in Berlin and Ocean City served as models last week for a city in Texas eager to implement similar programs. Staff and councilmembers from Forney, a city near Dallas, visited the Eastern Shore during the final days of 2018 to take in Ocean City’s Winterfest of Lights and Berlin’s annual ball drop. “I believe they left with the confidence they could do many of the things we’re doing in their own style,” Mayor Gee Williams said. “You don’t have to be a large city to do some really nice things.” Two councilmembers and three city department directors from Forney, a city of about 20,000 people east of Dallas, met with officials in Berlin and Ocean City late last week. The visit came about at the suggestion of Tony Carson, Forney’s city manager. Carson, who was Berlin’s town administrator from 2009 to 2013, said Forney had a robust system of parks and was interested in offering more special events. “I recommended going to Berlin because I was confident that once they saw the ball drop it was something we could replicate in Forney,” Carson said, adding that the city was also interested in doing a festival of lights during the holiday season. Carson said that staff and elected officials in Berlin and Ocean City – where Forney officials visited Winterfest and met with Special Events Director Frank Miller and Councilmember Mary Knight – had been extremely helpful in answering questions and offering advice. In Berlin, Williams met with the visitors, as did Town Administrator Laura Allen and a variety of department heads. “They were here to learn how we organize, plan and promote our town events,” Williams said. He took them on a walking tour of the town and Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director, provided them with examples of rack cards and promotional materials. Tim Lawrence, the town’s electric utility director, spoke with the visitors regarding the mechanics of the ball drop itself. “They see all this is doable and doesn’t cost a fortune but you do have to plan,” Williams said. Williams said he was happy to entertain visitors interested in Berlin. “We learn from each other,” he said. “That’s one thing I like about elected public service. We’re not in competition with anyone. We all learn from each other. Sharing information, as the world grows smaller, we have more and more opportunities to do that. To be as effective as you can you need to reach out.” He added that the delegation from Forney had also been helpful to Berlin officials, as they’d recently added a new park to the city’s amenities and were able to provide advice on the process for Berlin Falls Park.
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Page 17
653 Take Atlantic Plunge At Hospital’s Penguin Swim
Page 18
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
January 4, 2019
Members of the Bull of the Beach fundraising team are pictured above left enjoying the ocean on New Year’s Day. Above right and below right, some of the more Photos by Chris Parypa festive participants are pictured leaving the ocean. BY BETHANY HOOPER
STAFF WRITER
OCEAN CITY – Hundreds of individuals donning costumes and bathing suits braved the cold water of the Atlantic Ocean this week to raise funds for a community hospital. On Tuesday, 653 participants, including 47 teams, welcomed the new year by taking a plunge in the ocean and raising more than $91,000 at Atlantic General Hospital’s (AGH) 25th Annual Penguin Swim. As of Thursday, Event Coordinator Joy Stokes said the hospital collected $91,787 in total cash revenue from participant and donor contributions. She added that number is expected to increase as people continue to make donations in the coming days. “We are really happy with how things turned out,” she said. This year, the Penguin Swim concluded a year-long celebration of AGH’s 25th anniversary. In addition to the swim, activities included a beach parade, carnival games, face painting, mermaids and more. “It was a pretty big year for everybody,” she said. Stokes attributed the event’s success to organization, community support and warmer weather. Organizers recorded an air temperature of 64 degrees and a
water temperature of 46 degrees. “When New Year’s is on a weekday participation typically drops,” she said. “But for a Tuesday the turnout was excellent, and the weather really helped us out.” To date, Stokes said the hospital has raised $1,433,235 – including $601,902 from legacy sponsor Bull on the Beach – from the annual Penguin Swim. The money supports health care services at the facility and in the community. She added that those still interested in donating can do so by visiting www.aghpenguinswim.org or sending a check to the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation. Individuals are asked to write “AGH Penguin Swim” in the memo. “I think everything went off without a hitch this year,” she said. “The weather and community participation came into play and everything was well organized.” Winners listed in order of award sequence are as followed.
Youth/Family Teams
OC FOOLS (Ocean City): $425 HFY Swim Team (Laurel, Del.): $200
Business Teams Bull on the Beach (Ocean City): $30,000 Frosty Flip Flops (Berlin): $782 Swimming Skeletons (Berlin): $735
Adult Individuals
It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere (Breinigsville, Pa.): $1,325 Parkers Penguins (Gaithersburg, Md.): $750 The Roarty Family (Churchville, Md.): $500
Samantha Ewancio (Berlin): $675 Robert LeCompte (Columbia, Md.): $525 Richard Moore (Glen Bernie, Md.): $500
Community Teams
Youth Individuals
Ocean City Ravens Roost #44 (Ocean City): $16,000
Max Ewancio (Berlin): $705 Nicholas Franklin (Berlin): $425
Andrew Campbell (Salisbury): $175
Costume Winners Best Overall: Sandy Sanders-“Kim K Breaks the Internet” Most Spirited: Timothy Yates-“Uncle Sam” Most Creative: Derek Endlich, Chance Ebel- “Captain Planet & The Planeteers” Best Little Penguin: Sienna & Keera Pierce, Mckenna Schlegel-“Snowy Owls” Best Team/Group Costume: Michelle Black-“Team Happy Feet”
Oldest And Youngest Penguins Bill Hunter (Ocean Pines), 90 Years, 6 Months, 20 Days Kaden Stokes (Ocean City), 5 Months, 27 Days
‘Willbilly Memorial Reef’ Project Planning Underway
January 4, 2019
BY SHAWN J. SOPER
MANAGING EDITOR
OCEAN CITY – While still in the early planning stages, a lasting tribute in the form of an artificial reef is underway for a popular local fisherman who perished in a single-vehicle accident on Dec. 15. William Joseph Hathaway, 36, of Berlin, perished in a single-vehicle accident on Old Ocean City Road just west of Richardson Road in Wicomico County just after 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 15. Hathaway, the affable mate on the Foolish Pleasures out of the Ocean City Fishing Center in West Ocean City, was wildly popular in the resort fishing community. Tragically, Hathaway leaves behind an infant daughter and wife, a Ste-
Body Cams, Tasers Approved In Wicomico
BY BETHANY HOOPER
STAFF WRITER
SALISBURY – New body cameras and Tasers are expected to benefit the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office. On Wednesday, the Wicomico County Council approved the department’s request to authorize Axon Enterprise Inc. as a sole source vendor and to waive the formal competitive bidding process for the purchase of body cameras and Tasers at a cost to exceed $25,000. “This [company] was authorized as a sole source vendor in August of 2018 for the Department of Corrections to purchase Tasers,” Council Administrator Laura Hurley said. “This request is now coming before you from the sheriff’s department, seeking to purchase body cameras as well as Tasers.” In a statement submitted to the county council, department heads explained the need for new devices. “Current Tasers are aging and needing repairs, [and] we are looking into purchasing the upgraded version/model,” the statement reads. Officials with the department also noted the seamless transition to new Axon equipment. “Sworn personnel have familiarity with this product,” the statement reads. “The Axon Camera proprietary software functions seamlessly with equipment (Tasers), along with a cloud based data storage system (evidence.com), currently deployed or utilized by the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office The purchase of a different manufacturer’s product would create additional expense to the County in the form of training, software, and data storage. [The] product was field tested by WCSO and found to be superior in quality, functionality, durability, and an overall better value compared to other camera systems previewed.”
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
phen Decatur High School teacher. His fishing prowess was legendary and he appeared on the popular National Geographic Channel reality show “Wicked Tuna” along with his captain and other crew members on the Foolish Pleasure. More importantly, Hathaway, or “Willbilly” as he was known, was just a genuine nice guy who always garnered smiles from those around him. Almost immediately after the tragic news of Hathaway’s passing began to spread, a fundraising effort was launched to help his wife and infant child and that effort resulted in over $91,000 collected. This week, Hathaway’s friends and colleagues in the fishing communities in both Ocean City and North Carolina launched an effort to create a lasting tribute to Hathaway in the form
of an artificial reef. Called the Willbilly Memorial Reef Project, the effort is being spearheaded by angler Chris Mickey and the North Carolina fishing community in conjunction with the fishing community in Ocean City. Mickey has created a Go Fund Me page and a Facebook page for the artificial reef project in Hathaway’s name. “Our mission is to create a healthy habitat for aquatic life much like the Captain Greg Mickey Memorial Reef that was created in 2007 near the Frying Pan Tower off the coast of North Carolina,” the statement reads. “Once again, we aim at establishing a living tribute to the man whose life was dedicated to the open ocean- Captain William ‘Willbilly’ Hathaway.” The plan involves developing an ar-
Page 19
tificial reef site either off the coast of Ocean City or in North Carolina, where Hathaway was equally popular. The concept is to acquire a decommissioned vessel and rename it the “Captain Willbilly” before sending it to the ocean floor. The project will likely require some state approvals for the final site along with mediation work to strip the vessel of fuels and other pollutants. “When all is complete, the new artificial reef will become an everlasting memorial that will attract all kinds of life above and below the surface of the Atlantic Ocean,” the statement reads. “Everyone who knew William knows how much the ocean meant to him and I cannot think of a better way to honor his life than to create a place that will become for many ocean species a place they call home.”
No Foul Play Suspected In West OC Man’s Creek Death
Page 20
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
January 4, 2019
BY SHAWN J. SOPER
MANAGING EDITOR
Authorities are pictured on the scene at Herring Creek last Sunday after the body of Paul Scott was discovered.
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WEST OCEAN CITY – A local man drowned while apparently attempting to pump out water from his boat last weekend. Around 11:40 a.m. last Sunday, Maryland State Police troopers from the Berlin barrack responded to the Herring Creek area near Waterview Drive for a reported deceased individual in the water. Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police (NRP) also arrived and assisted the Maryland State Police in bringing the deceased to shore. The victim was identified as Paul Scott, 68, of West Ocean City. The Worcester County Bureau of Investigation (WCBI) was brought in to investigate the apparent drowning. During the course of the investigation, it was learned Scott kept his boat near the location where he was found. It was also learned after each rain storm, Scott would often pump water out of his boat. WCBI investigators found a tote bag in the area with a water pump inside. According to WCBI detectives, foul play is not expected at this time although the incident remains under investigation. The victim’s remains were transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for an autopsy.
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Cops & Courts
Page 22
Traffic Stop Nets Crack Bust
OCEAN CITY – A Berlin man was arrested on drug charges last week after getting pulled over for driving erratically on the Route 90 bridge. Last Tuesday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer was on patrol in the area of 62nd Street when he observed a vehicle fail to stay in the left-hand turn lane approaching Route 90. According to police reports, the officer observed the driver, later identified as Jermaine Manuel, 40, of Berlin, quickly change lanes in an unsafe manner in an attempt to turn onto westbound Route 90 in fairly heavy traffic for a December morning. As the officer pulled around behind Manuel, he noted in the report Manuel continually looking backward to watch the officer’s movements. According to police reports, other traffic in the area accelerated to get around Manuel, who was driving erratically while turning onto westbound Route 90. Once Manuel was on Route 90, he began tailgating the vehicle in front of him by less than a car length. Other vehicles in the Route 90 areas had to brake to avoid hitting Manuel’s vehicle. The OCPD officer ultimately stopped Manuel’s vehicle on Route 90 near St. Martin’s Neck Road. The officer approached the vehicle from the passenger side and met the female passenger who was shaking and tightly clutching her purse, according to police reports. The officer asked Manuel for his driver’s license, but was told Manuel did not have one. When asked why he was driving without a license, Manuel told police it was because he had to get to court in Snow Hill. Based on the evidence, the initial officer requested a K-9 unit. After Manuel and his pas-
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
senger were out of the vehicle, the K9 alerted positively to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle. The subsequent search of the vehicle turned up a broken glass pipe with crack cocaine residue in it, according to police reports. Based on the evidence, Manuel was charged with possession of crack cocaine, possession of paraphernalia and numerous traffic violations including driving on a suspended and revoked license. The female passenger was also charged with possession of CDS and possession of paraphernalia.
Bike Light Stop Yields Drug Bust OCEAN CITY – A Berlin man was arrested last week after allegedly being found with drugs while getting pulled over for not having a light on his bike at night. Around 1:30 a.m. last Monday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer was on patrol in the area of 28th Street when he observed two individuals riding bicycles heading west on Robin Drive. The officer observed neither of the bicycles had illuminated front lamps in unfavorable lighting conditions, according to police reports. The officer pulled over the bicyclists in the area of Tern Drive in order to issue them warnings for violating the town ordinance requiring lights on bikes. Over the last year or so, the town has initiated a program in which they install lights on bikes free of charge when a bicyclist is found riding at night. The OCPD officer issued warning to the two bicyclists after obtaining their identification information and they were told they were free to leave. However, as one suspect identified as
January 4, 2019
FBI Director Christopher R. Wray is pictured congratulating OCPD Lt. Greg DeGiovanni, right, on his graduation from the FBI National Academy. Submitted Photo
Anthony Hayward, 37, of Berlin, was preparing to leave, the OCPD officer asked if he had any drugs or weapons on his person. According to police reports, the officer asked Hayward if he could search him and Hayward raised his arms and consented. Hayward at the time was wearing a black winter hat with the bottom folded up to form a crease. While searching the crease of the hat, the OCPD officer reportedly located the short portion of a clear plastic straw and a twisted plastic bag. The officer noted in the report the straw was fashioned to create a scoop of sorts, which the officer knew from experience was used as a sniffing device. The officer also examined the plastic bag and determined it contained suspect cocaine. Hayward was taken into custody at that point under suspicion of possession of cocaine and paraphernalia. According to police reports, Hayward denied ownership of the hat and told police he had picked it up at a bar.
OC Officer Graduates From FBI Academy OCEAN CITY – Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) Lt. Greg DeGiovanni recently graduated from the FBI National Academy’s 274th Session in Quantico, Va. DeGiovanni was among 249 law enforcement officers from all 50 states, 23 international countries, five military organizations, and seven federal civilian organizations. The academy began
in October and consisted of 11 weeks of training focused on topics such as criminal law, behavioral science, leadership development, police communication, understanding terrorism and terrorist mindsets, and health and fitness. As an FBI National Academy graduate, DeGiovanni enters into a select group made up of less than one percent of the country’s law enforcement officers. “We are very proud of Lt. DeGiovanni for this accomplishment,” said OCPD Chief Ross Buzzuro. “After enduring the arduous 10-week course, he is even more prepared to help us move the Ocean City Police Department forward. I look forward to Lt. DeGiovanni’s continued contributions to our department and our community.” Prior to joining the Ocean City Police Department, DeGiovanni served with the United States Army from 1986 to 1989 then with the Army Reserves from 1990 to 2000. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Justice Studies from Frostburg State University and graduated from the Eastern Shore Criminal Justice Academy in 1997 before joining the Cumberland Police Department in 1997. He joined the Ocean City Police Department in 2000 and earned his way through the ranks to Lieutenant in April 2018. He serves the department as a firearms, defensive tactics, and active shooter instructor. He is currently assigned to the Patrol Division as the Evening Shift watch commander.
License Plate Reader Alerts Police To Stolen Vehicle In OC
January 4, 2019
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
BY SHAWN J. SOPER
MANAGING EDITOR
OCEAN CITY – For at least the third time in recent weeks, a license plate reader at one of the entrances to Ocean City resulted in a positive alert for a stolen vehicle on Wednesday afternoon. Around 3:45 p.m. on Wednesday, a License Plate Reader (LPR) on eastbound Route 90 alerted on a stolen vehicle entering town. The vehicle, a Toyota Sienna, had been reported stolen out of Anne Arundel County on Dec. 26. A strong Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) presence converged on the stolen vehicle and a traffic stop was affected on the ocean block of 36th Street. Four occupants of the stolen vehicle were taken into custody, two of which were ultimately released without charges. However, the driver, identified as Darian Scott Griffin Nelson, 21, of Glen Burnie, was charged with driving while revoked and other traffic charges. One passenger, identified as Keyon Lamont Thomas, 20, also of Glen Burnie, was charged with theft from $1,500 to under $25,000 and unlawful taking of a motor vehicle. Both were taken before a District Court Commissioner and were released on personal recognizance. Wednesday’s incident continues a trend of recent arrests made by the OCPD as a result of LPR alerts at the entrances to the resort. On Dec. 17, two Pennsylvania women were arrested on motor vehicle theft and other charges after an LPR on the Route 50
MANAGING EDITOR
OCEAN CITY – With the calendar flipping over to 2019 this week and tax season ready to begin in earnest, the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) is warning citizens of frequent recent scams involving fake IRS callers. The OCPD has seen an increase in a variety of phone scams in recent weeks. The majority of the scams that have been reported have involved a caller claiming to represent the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). In most cases, the caller will demand immediate payment for unpaid taxes and threaten arrest by local law enforcement if the victim does not comply. According to the OCPD, citizens have reported that the callers are very convincing, stating specific details about the victim or using false IRS identification badge numbers or titles. In many cases, the scammers will alter the caller ID information to make
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The oceanside block of 36th Street is pictured Wednesday when police made arrests in a stolen vehicle case from Anne Arundel County.
Photo by Boz Jefferson
Bridge detected a stolen car they were allegedly driving. In late November, an LPR on Route 90 alerted on a wanted individual and OCPD officers affected a traffic stop. After the individual was stopped, he fled the scene, resulting in a highspeed chase that ended in a collision with an OCPD vehicle. In that incident, the driver was wanted in a lengthy DEA case involving drugs and weapons.
IRS Phone Scam Warnings Issued
BY SHAWN J. SOPER
Page 23
it appear as if the IRS is calling. Meanwhile, the IRS is offering several simple tips to recognize a suspicious scam call. For example, the IRS will not demand an immediate payment and will always give the victim an opportunity to question or appeal the amount that is owed. If the caller requires the victim to use a specific payment method, such as a pre-paid debit card or gift card, it is likely a scam. In addition, an official caller from the IRS would not ask a victim for credit card information over the phone. An IRS caller would not threaten to contact local police or other law enforcement to have the victim arrested for not paying. Finally, the IRS assures citizens the agency does not call to demand immediate payment and will first mail a bill to any taxpayer who owes taxes. For more information and tips to avoid becoming a victim of a similar scam, visit the IRS tax scams and consumer alerts webpage.
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Effort Aims To Raise Farmer Suicide Rate Awareness
Page 24
BY CHARLENE SHARPE
STAFF WRITER
BERLIN – A new campaign aims to raise awareness regarding the increased risk of suicide facing farmers. Farmers are three times more likely to die by suicide than those outside the agriculture industry, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). To address that fact, local organizations have launched the “Save a Shore Farmer” outreach campaign. “The CDC report highlighted three occupations that suffer high rates of suicide: farmers, forestry workers, and watermen,” said Kim Klump, president of the Klump Fund. “Because agriculture is a keystone of our local economy, and because so many local businesses are dependent on farming, we and our partners put together a program of advertising, education and resource availability aimed directly at those who work the soil, and those who depend on them.” As 2018 proved to be a particularly difficult year for local farmers, who faced the impacts of too much rain, falling prices and trade wars, those with the Jesse Klump Suicide Awareness and Prevention Program are especially eager to share available resources with those who may be in need of help. “We are under no delusion that we
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
can get farmers to willingly attend the public suicide prevention classes that we conduct,” said Ron Pilling, secretary/treasurer of the Klump Fund. “Not only does their work, which is very solitary, put them at risk, but older men with easy access to the means of suicide are also very susceptible, and are in the group most independent and stigmatized about mental illnesses like depression. So instead we’re mounting a media outreach campaign that we hope will raise awareness and open minds to mental health care.” In the fall, the Jesse Klump Suicide Awareness and Prevention Program partnered with the Suicide Prevention Coalition to launch “Save a Shore Farmer” with the help of a $19,000 grant from the Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund. Jackie Ward, a health planner at the Worcester County Health Department, is co-chair of the Suicide Prevention Coalition, which works to coordinate prevention and awareness efforts between partners in the tricounty area. She said the health department shared Klump’s and Pilling’s concerns and identified several factors that played into the increased suicide risk among farmers. “Farming and agricultural occupations are physically demanding, prone
January 4, 2019
Farmer campaign, a website (saveashorefarmer.org) has been created that outlines the causes of farm-related suicide, lists steps one can take to prevent a suicide and includes links to local resources. Pilling said volunteers would distribute printed information to businesses frequented by local farmers, screen public service announcements and work with groups like Future Farmers of America.
A billboard on Route 13 in Wicomico County was designed to bring attention to increasing farmer suicide rates. Submitted Photo
to financial and production fluctuations, and dependent upon many things that are out of their control,” Ward said, pointing to weather and market prices as examples. “These occupational factors correlate with some suicide risk factors, many of which are compounded by rural environments, such as isolation, barriers to accessing mental health treatment, loss (relational, social, work, or financial), physical illness, easy access to lethal methods, and unwillingness to seek help because of the stigma attached to mental health and substance abuse disorders or to suicidal thoughts.” Through the new Save a Shore
“If anyone knows of a place where we might hang posters and/or make brochures available, I encourage them to contact us at info@saveashorefarmer.org or by calling 443-9822716,” Pilling said. The campaign also includes billboards featuring the tagline “It doesn’t have to be this way.” Pilling said that within days of the signs going up in November, visits to the Save a Shore Farmer website spiked. “We know we’re reaching people,” he said. Klump, referencing the popular “No farms, no food” bumper stickers, said supporting farmers was critical. “We must find ways to keep farmers safe from suicide or else our economy, our ability to put wholesome food on our tables, and the overall public health of our communities will be crippled,” she said.
January 4, 2019
Obituaries
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Edward Frank Gemmel BERLIN – Edward Frank Gemmel, age 70, died Friday, Dec. 21, 2018, at his home in Berlin. Born in Allentown, Pa., he was the son of the late Sebastian Gemmel and Helen Krcelich Gemmel. He is survived by his beloved partner, Beverly Sweitzer of Berlin, and two daughters, Tami Cunningham and her husband, Timothy, of Orefield, Pa., and Sherri Martinek and her husband, Todd, of Berlin. He is also survived by his former wife and mother of his two daughters, EDWARD Jane Gemmel. Also surFRANK GEMMEL viving is a step-daughter, Michelle Anderson, and her husband, Jeff, of Eagle, Colo. There are five grandchildren, Ty, Trista, Trevor, Alexis and Cash, and his brothers, George Gemmel (Judy) of Bethlehem, Pa., Robert Gemmel (Cheryl) of Allentown, Pa., Richard “Ricky” Gemmel (late Deborah) of Newnan, Ga., and John Gemmel (Deborah) of Catasauqua, Pa., and numerous nieces and nephews. Mr. Gemmel was a United States Navy veteran. He was a member of the South Point Association. A Penn State fan, he loved cars and was a boating and fishing enthusiast. He enjoyed sitting on the docks and watching the boats coming in after an afternoon of fishing. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, Jan. 6, 2019, at noon at the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. Donations may be made to Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, Md. 21804 or to the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, Okla. 73123. Arrangements are in care of the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. Letters of condolences may be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.
Donald Joseph Whelan OCEAN CITY – Donald Joseph Whelan, age 71, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2018, at Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., he was the son of the late Edwin Whelan and Loretta Mary Capelli. He is survived by his wife, Marion Whelan; sons David Whelan, Kevin Whelan and wife Jen, Michael Whelan and wife Jackie, Sean Whelan and wife Dawn and Danny Sinnott; daughter Stacy Cordero; brother Martin Whelan; and 10 grandDONALD children. JOSEPH WHELAN A funeral mass was held on Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2019, at Holy Savior Catholic Church. Rev. Esposito officiated. Interment followed mass at Sunset Memorial Park. Letters of condolence may be sent to the family at www.burbagefuneralhome.com.
Gift Cards Available!
Page 25
Students’ Medical Needs Result In Budget Shortfall
Page 26
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
January 4, 2019
BY BETHANY HOOPER
STAFF WRITER
SALISBURY – Officials in Wicomico County approved changes to the school system’s operating budget this week to address a $265,000 shortfall in student health services. On Wednesday, the Wicomico County Council approved a request from the Wicomico County Board of Education to transfer $265,000 from “Special Education” and “Other Instructional Costs” to “Student Health Services,” which is projecting a budget deficit in fiscal year 2018-2019. Jesse Reid, comptroller for the board of education, attributed the shortfall to unanticipated needs of three new students. “It’s necessary due to three students who are new to Wicomico County this year with severe medical needs that require one-on-one nurses,” he said. “We did not anticipate these costs in the FY19 budget and are consequently projecting a budget deficit in the category of ‘Student Health Services.’” Reid told the council the school system would utilize surplus funds from
Annual Appeal Donation:
At its annual membership meeting on Dec. 11, the Atlantic General Hospital Auxiliary presented hospital officials with a check in the amount of $40,000 towards the hospital’s annual appeal. Pictured, from left, are Barbara Lischak, Auxiliary treasurer; Jackie Choate, Auxiliary secretary; Lois Sirman, Board of Trustee member; Michael Franklin, AGH president and CEO; Margie DiNenna, Auxiliary recording secretary; Janet Mengel, Auxiliary past president. Submitted Photo
other accounts to cover the shortage. “It’s about $80,000 per student,” he said. “We are expecting a fourth student to come on sometime this month, so the additional money includes that fourth student.” Bonnie Walston, director of special education, explained that each of the four students require skilled nurses. “They need at least a registered nurse to be with them at all times because of their medical condition,” she said. Walston added that federal law re-
quired the school system to provide all students access to education. “Unfortunately, we cannot predict who is going to be moving into our county nor the disabilities they are presented with …,” she said. “We have to provide that level of support in order for them to be able to access general education curriculum and participate like any other non-disabled student would have the opportunity to do.” Council President John Cannon questioned if the school system could utilize other funding sources.
“Are there any additional funds the federal government or state matches for these families?” he said. Walston noted it was the local government’s responsibility to cover any of the additional education costs. “I know there are other supports that help families outside of the school day,” she said, “but they do not support fiscal costs to education.” With no further discussion, the council voted 6-0, with Councilman Josh Hastings absent, to approve the $265,000 transfer.
Proposed School Year Calendars Under Review
January 4, 2019
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Page 27
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BY CHARLENE SHARPE
STAFF WRITER
NEWARK – School system officials have released two similar calendar proposals for the coming year. At a recent meeting, officials with Worcester County Public Schools presented two calendar options for the 2019-2020 school year. Both options start school Sept. 3 and set the last day of school as June 12. “We will open the survey for these calendar options on Monday, January 7 and will be accepting feedback through February 1,” said Annette Wallace, the school system’s chief operating officer. Wallace, who presented the calendar proposals to the Worcester County Board of Education, said that as in years past, a committee developed the calendar options. “As is tradition, the committee was comprised of teachers, school and county level administrators, parents and students,” Wallace said. The committee was provided with guidance on state and local mandates as well as contractual obligations for faculty and staff as they put together calendar options. The committee was then broken into groups, with “frequent flyers” tasked with developing a calendar with lengthier breaks and “surfers” asked to create a calendar with an early end to the school year. Both calendars include a winter break that begins with an early dismissal on Friday, Dec. 20 with students returning Thurs. Jan 2. Both calendars also reflect state holidays on Good Friday and Easter Monday. Wallace said a survey would be released Jan. 7 to collect community feedback on the calendar proposals. At the school board’s February meeting, board members will be presented with survey results and will be provided with the superintendent’s recommended calendar for the coming year. In Wicomico County, school system officials are also collecting community feedback on calendar options. At the Wicomico County Board of Education’s December meeting, options for two calendars, both of which start after Labor Day and end June 10, were presented. The difference between the two draft calendars relates only to Oct. 18, the date of the Maryland State Education Association Convention. One option would have schools closed for students on Oct. 18, with a professional day for teachers, while the other option would have schools closed on Oct. 18 for both students and school staff. The public has until Jan. 4 to comment on the proposed calendars.
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Page 28
Nursing Home Concerns Addressed
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
BY BETHANY HOOPER
STAFF WRITER
Gifts For Seniors: About 20 volunteers gathered before Christmas to
present gifts to residents of the Berlin Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. The gifts were distributed after a fundraising effort led by organizer Ryan Whittingon, who is pictured kneeling with fellow volunteers and Dolores Kenny, president of the facility’s resident council. Submitted Photo
SALISBURY – While the future of a county-owned nursing home remains uncertain, officials this week assured community members they would work toward a solution that preserves jobs and services. On Tuesday, members of the community came before the Wicomico County Council once again to make their case for keeping the Wicomico Nursing Home under county ownership. In December, the council agreed to loan the facility $489,320 to sustain operations through fiscal year 2019 after learning low occupancy, personnel costs and write offs of bad debt had affected the nursing home’s bottom line.
January 4, 2019
In doing so, county officials also agreed to explore capital improvements, personnel changes and privatization. By way of background, the county took ownership of the nursing home in 1972 when the nonprofit corporation charged with operating the facility ran into financial difficulty. County resident Geri Mason said she and many others were blindsided by news of the facility’s struggles. She noted the nursing home was a pillar in the community and one of the top facilities in the area. “I’m proud of its accomplishments and support from the community thus far,” she said. “But if you don’t know something, and things are hidden from you …, then there is nothing the community can do.” Mason called on county leaders to work with community stakeholders to keep Wicomico Nursing Home in the public sector. “By privatizing the nursing home, all we are doing is shipping the responsibility of repairs and updates to a private company,” she said, adding that the company would prioritize profits over patient care. Mary Ashanti, president of Wicomico County NAACP, agreed. “I think working together we can resolve the issue,” she said. Council President John Cannon said he recognized residents’ concerns. “The council is very much aware of the community’s concerns on the nursing home,” he said, “and we want to make sure that we do tread very lightly as we review this.” Cannon gave his reasons for withholding information on the Wicomico Nursing Home. “We try to avoid discussing it in full detail until it is absolutely necessary, not because we want to hide the facts and figures, but simply to avoid any type of panic in the community as to what may be happening,” he said. “That being said we do recognize the fact that there are concerns financially with the nursing home.” If the county decided to privatize the facility, Cannon said job retention and care would remain paramount. “If the nursing home were to be sold to a private company we would want to make sure those insurances are maintained …,” he said. “We are carefully trying to weigh that, trying to balance the pros and cons and what the true sustainability is to the taxpayers of Wicomico County.” Cannon added the community’s comments would help officials in the decision-making process. “Every time someone comes to the podium and shares their concerns it does shed a new light on what some of the issues are on a personal level,” he said. The council and administrative staff on Tuesday also agreed to arrange a tour of the Wicomico Nursing Home at a later date to speak with residents and staff.
The Dispatch Classifieds
January 4, 2019
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Page 29
PUT YOUR LOGO IN COLOR FOR JUST $10
$15/Week For Minimum Of Five Lines • $2 Thereafter Per Line Display Classified Ads: $20/Week Per Column Inch (Contract Discounts Available)
Deadline For Insertions, Cancellations And Payment Is 3 p.m. Tuesday. Pre-Payment Is Required. We Accept Visa & MasterCard.
HELP WANTED YR SERVERS & DISHWASHER: ALEX’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Now hiring Year Round Servers and Dishwasher. Apply in person. Rt 50 in West OC. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––
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NOW HIRING
CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY for
Independent Cleaning Contractors Ocean City Beach Area Coldwell Banker Vacations is looking for experienced, energetic individuals to deliver Truly Remarkable Service by providing quality cleaning services in a limited time window for the 2019 season. Weekend hours, license, insurance, references and a great work ethic required. Contact Kay, Jen or Sue at 410-723-8507 or email: cclean@cbvacations.com
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CARPENTERS & CARPENTERS HELPERS
Must have : Tools, Trans Driver’s License Exp. Required! PATTERSON & SONS BUILDERS Call 410-641-9530
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Seeking DISHWASHER EXP. SERVERS LINE COOKS Apply within Tuesday - Sunday 11 AM - 10 PM
MAINTENANCE TECHS ENTRY LEVEL HELPERS Apply in Person at:
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A fast-paced construction company is looking for a full time Receptionist to do daily laid-out tasks. Prior experience answering phones and dealing with the public a plus. Candidate must be proficient in MS Word and knowledgeable in MS Excel, have experience in clerical work, have a professional outlook with outstanding etiquette with phone and customers, high work ethic, be highly organized and attentive to details, fast typist and learner. Position will report directly to the President and Managers of the company.
Responsibilities Answer phones, computer input and database maintenance, type office documents, filing, work closely with customers and employees, daily tasks assigned to the position. Knowledge with accounts payable and blue prints and construction experience is a plus.
Competitive benefits package is available. Only qualified candidates will be considered. Please send resumes to allstates@allstatesconst.com
FRONT DESK RECEPTIONIST (FULL TIME) A caring. dependable person with excellent communication skills in person and on the phone. Dental experience in insurance and dental procedure knowledge is required.
Fax resume to 302-732-3855 or email to brafmanfamilydentistry@mchsi.com Immediate opening with benefits.
WATER DAMAGE RESTORATION TECHNICIANS & MANAGERS IICRC, WRT, ASD certifications a plus
EXP. CARPENTERS/FRAMERS INTERIOR REMODELING PROFESSIONALS PAINTERS DRYWALL INSTALLERS DECK COATING APPLICATORS
RENTALS YR, OCEAN PINES: 3BR rancher. Large kitchen/yard. Scrnd porch, garage. new heat pump/duct wrk. $1,100 per mo. + util.’s & sec. dep. 410-733-7337 or 410-255-8814. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– YR HOUSE, W.O.C.: 3BR/2BA, Unfurnished. Avail. Immed. $1,500 per mo. + sec. dep. Call 410-2131099. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– WINTER RENTAL: 1BR, Queen + Full. W/D. No smoking/pets. $700 per mo. + util.’s. WiFi incl. $500 sec. dep. Avail. Now-May 30th. Bayside 28th St. 410-768-1791 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– WINTER RENTAL: 1BR, 1BA. 122nd St. Oceanblock. Furn. No smoking. $700 + elect. + sec. dep. W/S incl. Avail. Now-May 2019. Call/Text 443-373-5638. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––
SHOP/STORAGE FOR RENT: 12’ x 24’ $150. per mo. 24’ x 24’ $300 per mo. Near Ocean Pines. Call & Lv. msg. Steve 410-2513412. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– WEST OC AREA: 1,500 Sq. Ft. Retail/Professionals or Service space. Avail. immed. Layton Associates, 302-245-0315. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– WEST O.C. OFFICE/RETAIL SPACES AVAILABLE: 3 Offices/Retail and 2 Warehouses. Plenty of Parking. 443-497-4200. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––
SERVICES TUTOR: READING / WRITING GRADES K-12: Retired teacher w/ PhD. $35 1 1/2 hrs. First session FREE! nscarbor@gmu.edu 703-425-1296. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– J & J CLEANING SERVICE: Call for a free estimate! 443-825-8143 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– **PAINTING**: Interior/exterior painting. Free estimates 24/7. Call Joe 443-610-4644. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––
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Page 30
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Legal Notices LEGAL RATES
Legal advertising rate is $7 per column inch. Deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon. For more information, call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966.
THIRD INSERTION
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 17652 To all persons interested in the estate of PHILIP DUANE REED. ESTATE NO. 17652. Notice is given that DANIEL SPENCER REED, 1230 BALFOUR DRIVE, ARNOLD, MD 21012, was on DECEMBER 11, 2018, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of PHILIP DUANE REED, who died on NOVEMBER 16, 2018 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 11TH Day of JUNE, 2019. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 21, 2018
DANIEL SPENCER REED Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 12-21, 12-28, 1-04
THIRD INSERTION
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 17660 To all persons interested in the estate of BARBARA GARRY RAY. ESTATE NO. 17660. Notice is given that RYDER CALLAHAN RAY, JR., 29 ROYAL OAKS DRIVE, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on DECEMBER 14, 2018, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of BARBARA GARRY RAY, who died on DECEMBER 08, 2018 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 14TH Day of JUNE, 2019. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not
presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 21, 2018 RYDERE CALLAHAN RAY, JR. Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 12-21, 12-28, 1-04
SECOND INSERTION JOHN C. SEIPP, ESQ. 105 CAMDEN STREET SALISBURY, MD 21801-4916
ing dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the representative personal mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 28, 2018 PAMELA JEAN HOWARD Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 12-28, 1-04, 1-11
SECOND INSERTION
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 17672
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 17671 To all persons interested in the estate of RUTH WARD HOWARD. ESTATE NO. 17671. Notice is given that PAMELA JEAN HOWARD, 708 GREENBACKVILLE ROAD, STOCKTON, MD 21864 was on DECEMBER 21, 2018, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of RUTH WARD HOWARD, who died on NOVEMBER 26, 2018 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 21ST Day of JUNE, 2019. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the follow-
To all persons interested in the estate of ANNA LEE LOMBARDI. ESTATE NO. 17672. Notice is given that BRIAN L. LOMBARDI, 4052 ADAMS DRIVE, SILVER SPRING, MD 20902 was on DECEMBER 21, 2018, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of ANNA LEE LOMBARDI, who died on DECEMBER 15, 2018 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 21ST Day of JUNE, 2019. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or
January 4, 2019 (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of
Wills. Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 28, 2018 BRIAN L. LOMBARDI Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 12-28, 1-04, 1-11
PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL DRAIN PIPE REPLACEMENT The Ocean Pines Association (OPA) invites qualified bidders to submit proposals for the replacement of existing drain pipe located under Boston Drive adjacent to 82 Boston Drive in Ocean Pines, MD. The work consists of road closure, installation of sediment and erosion controls, excavation, removal and disposal of existing pipe, installation of new 15” HDPE pipe, filling, grading, asphalt replacement and stabilization of all disturbed areas. All bidders must include adequate information to demonstrate that they have the necessary experience and professional qualifications and licensing to complete the work. Bids Due. bids are due January 4, 2019 by 3:00 PM. Bids should be delivered to: Ocean Pines Association, Inc. c/o John Bailey General Manager 239 Ocean Parkway Ocean Pines, MD 21811 Electronic Copies to: Kevin Layfield Facilities Manager Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 14, 2018 4X 12-14, 12-21, 12-28, 1-04
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL REPAIRS TO BULKHEAD The Ocean Pines Association (OPA) invites qualified bidders to submit proposals for the repair of existing bulkhead at Westfield Circle Tax Map 16 Parcel 47 various lots and Wood Duck Drive Tax Map 21 Parcel 260 Lots 84-86 in Ocean Pines, MD. All bidders must include adequate information to demonstrate that they have the necessary experience and professional qualifications and licensing to complete the work. Bids Due: Bids are due by Friday January 14, 2019 by 3:00 PM. Bids should be delivered to: Ocean Pines Association, Inc. Public Works Building 1 Firehouse Lane Ocean Pines, MD 21811 Attention: Kevin Layfield Facilities Manager klayfield@oceanpines.org Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 21, 2018 4X 12-21, 12-28, 1-04, 1-11
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Advisory Group Outlines Bike, Pedestrian Goals
January 4, 2019
BY BETHANY HOOPER
STAFF WRITER
OCEAN CITY – Connecting a bike route at the Maryland-Delaware line, securing grant funds to develop a bike masterplan and completing an application for a Bicycle Friendly Community designation are just a few of the things a resort committee hopes to accomplish in the coming year. Since their first meeting in August, members of the Ocean City Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee have focused their efforts on several initiatives that would better position the town to become a bikable community. In a meeting last month, committee President Paul Mauser reflected on the group’s success in passing policies and completing several action items since the summer. In its five meetings, for example, the committee has developed GIS maps outlining existing and potential bike routes and data on bike collisions, created a resolution for a Complete Streets Policy – which was adopted by the Mayor and Council in November – and established a solution for a bike route between 60th and 64th streets, among other things. “I wanted to reflect on what was accomplished in 2018 by this committee,” he said. “So often we push forward to the next item and the next item that you don’t really take the time to reflect on what you actually completed.” He added that the town’s new Complete Streets Policy – which allows the town to incorporate safe and accessible transportation systems for bicyclists and pedestrians during the construction, reconstruction or resurfacing of public roadways – has already led to promising opportunities for the town. “There is a private utility company that is planning to install some fiber infrastructure in town and they are considering installing it on our existing 10-foot alleyways,” he said. “They will be disturbing our roads, so we may try to work with them to possibly repave some of those alleys … The opportunity is there for that. It is not a guarantee, but it’s at least something that is being considered right now.” In addition to its progress, Mauser also highlighted the committee’s goals for the coming year. “I think it’s prudent that we also consider what we want to see as our accomplishments looking ahead one year …” he said. Mauser said he would like to see the group take steps to finance and develop a bike masterplan for the resort. He said the town did not receive an $80,000 grant it applied for earlier this year. “That was not approved,” he said. “and we need to find another funding source.” Mauser told the committee he also wanted to connect the town’s bike route with an existing bike route on
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Route 54 in Delaware. “We’ll tie into Dukes Avenue, which is of course going to tie into Route 54 …,” he said. “That’s where we will be ending our bike route and transitioning to theirs and have a little bit of synergy between the jurisdictions.” Mauser said completing some of the action plans for 2019 would put the town steps closer to pursuing a Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC) designation. The national designation program provides guidance for cities and towns wishing to develop a bikeable community. “There are still a number of items we still need to implement and that I would like to discuss with the committee … in order to ensure we get the designation the first time we apply,” he said. While the program has two dead-
lines – one in February and another in August – Mauser said the town would apply for the latter. He explained the town would have to develop bike ridership data before that time. “We need to actually perform a manual count or get some kind of a counter and count the ridership in town to prove we have 3,000 or 4,000 bikes a day,” he said. State High Administration (SHA) representative Jana Potvin told the committee the agency could be of assistance. She noted the SHA collected data on bicycle and pedestrian movement at crosswalk signals in town. “Whenever we do our signal counts we do movement counts of bikes and peds,” she said. Councilman Tony DeLuca, who chairs the committee, said it would be
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beneficial to delay the application process to August. “We’d be more buttoned up,” he said. Mauser agreed. “Plans to do things don’t go very far as opposed to ‘this is what we completed,’” he said. Other action items on the committee’s list for 2019 include adding necessary signage for a portion of the bike route between 60th and 64th streets, supporting the construction of a hiker biker trail in West Ocean City, participating in a “Bike to Work” day and developing solutions to impediments along the bike route. “I would like everyone for the next meeting to prioritize the top five,” DeLuca said. “I always think if you focus on three or four or five things it gets done.”
Regional Digest
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New Changes For Komen Event In OC
OCEAN CITY – Some changes are in store for the Susan G. Komen event in Ocean City in April with a greater emphasis on the walking elements. Susan G. Komen Maryland told supporters this week to expect some changes at its annual fundraising walk next spring. Komen has been hard at work on the next evolution in the history of the Race for the Cure series and residents of the Eastern Shore will be among the first in the country to see it. Komen Maryland has been selected to be one of 26 locations across the country to launch the new Susan G. Komen More Than Pink Walk event, which along with a new name will include a fresh new look and experience focused on energizing the community around the lifesaving work Komen’s supporters make possible. This new approach is based on input from participants across the country, data from nine pilot events in 2018, and by Komen’s own observations from years as the leader in breast cancer walks.
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch “Much of what you have come to love about the race will continue with our new More Than Pink Walk,” said Michael Jessup, executive director of Komen Maryland, “These changes are intended to increase people’s connection to our work beyond breast cancer awareness.” The biggest difference is that the event will not have a separate timed run element, focusing instead on the vast majority of the event’s participants who walk, rather than run, during the event historically. This change will create a greater sense of community among participants and will provide a more personalized, emotional experience for all who attend. The event is set for April 13 at the Ocean City Inlet.
Homeless Film Showing Set BERLIN – The Worcester County Homeless Board, in partnership with Red Doors Community Center, will host a viewing of the film “Lost in Woonsocket” on Sunday, Jan. 13, at 5 p.m. “Lost in Woonsocket’ is a docudrama following two homeless individuals on a journey of recovery, friendship, struggle and support. The Homeless Board hopes the film will help the community better understand the struggles someone experiencing homelessness may face. Filmed in Woonsocket, R.I., the filmmakers were driven by the thought
January 4, 2019
that kindness could inspire a chain reaction of compassion, when they stumbled upon two homeless alcoholics sharing a tent in the small town. As the story unfolds, viewers will witness the real-life struggles of homelessness, addiction and stigma. “This movie helps the viewer understand the complexities of addiction and homelessness. It is a story that exemplifies the importance of peer support in the difficult journey towards recovery,” said Jessica Sexauer, director of the Worcester County Local Management Board. “Lost in Woonsocket” will be shown at the Red Doors Community Center located at 10959 Worcester Highway in Berlin. For more information, contact the Worcester County Local Management Board at 410-632-3648.
Year’s First Baby Welcomed SALISBURY – Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC) announced this week the first baby of the new year born at the Salisbury hospital entered the world at 12:43 a.m. on Tuesday. PRMC welcomed Emery Adkins early Tuesday morning, the first baby of the new year at the Salisbury hospital. Emery weighed 7 pounds, 5 ounces and was a bit of a party crasher for parents Corrie and Sean Adkins of Salisbury.
Emery Adkins was the first baby born in 2019 at PRMC. Pictured, from left, are Junior Auxiliary Board President Jani Long, Hayden, Sean and Corrie Adkins. Submitted Photo
The baby was born two weeks before her due date and the parents reportedly could not be more delighted with her arrival, as is big sister Hayden, 10. Along with a memorable birth date, Emery received a basket of baby items including clothes, a handmade blanket and toys as a gift from the PRMC Junior Auxiliary Board. Board President Jani Long presented the basket to Emery and her family on behalf of the hospital. The Junior Auxiliary Board this year is celebrating its 95th year of service to the physicians, staff and volunteers at PRMC and the residents of Delmarva. Since 1924, its members’ efforts have donated over $8 million to expansion projects, medical equipment, supplies and services at PRMC.
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Worcester School System Continues Report Card Review
January 4, 2019
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
County Proud Of Four-Star Ratings
BY CHARLENE SHARPE
STAFF WRITER
NEWARK – Education officials continue to review data associated with the state’s new school rating system. Officials with Worcester County Public Schools say they’re still looking at the ratings associated with the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and determining what the new system means for local schools. The Maryland Report Card issued in December revealed that all of the county’s eligible schools received four out of a possible five stars under the new rating system. “I know we will have five-star schools next year,” said Annette Wallace, the school system’s chief operating officer. At the last meeting of the Worcester County Board of Education, staff reviewed the new system and explained how ratings were developed. Amy Gallagher, coordinator of accountability and assessment for the school system, explained that 65 percent of each school’s rating was based on academic performance
while 35 percent was based on school quality and student success. While the ratings are based on test scores, they’re also impacted by things like student growth, attendance and school climate. Climate, Gallagher pointed out, was judged through a student survey. “The climate survey assessed student perceptions in four areas – safety, school environment, engagement and relationships,” Gallagher said. She said three of the county’s schools, Showell Elementary School, Pocomoke Elementary School and Snow Hill Elementary School, didn’t receive star ratings because they only had one grade level to be tested (as they don’t all have fourth and fifth grade students). “Those three schools do not have the possibility of earning 45 points
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which is the minimum number of points a school must be eligible to earn in order to receive a star under the ESSA star ranking system,” she said. Gallagher said school system officials continued working to fully understand and monitor all of the data associated with the new rankings. “We want the ratings to reflect the hard work of our teachers, our students and the success of our schools,” she said. Superintendent Lou Taylor said Worcester was one of two school systems in the state – the other being Caroline County – that had no schools receive lower than a four-star rating. “We were proud of that,” he said. Taylor also praised Gallagher and the rest of the staff who reviewed the scores initially provided to the school system.
HERE’S MY CARD
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“When we first got our scores, I’ve got some brilliant people on my staff,” Taylor said. “They were right at my office saying these scores are not right. I was seeing some things that were threes and lower and I said this can’t be. With their work burning the midnight oil and talking to the state department and, quite frankly, correcting the state department’s data because it was not correct, we got our position where we should have been.” Wallace said she was confident the school system’s ratings would improve next year. She said several schools were just below the 75 percent threshold that signified a five-star ranking. “We have schools that were 74.8… ,” she said. “We’re knocking on the door. I think we’ll be there.” She praised the fact that the ESSA ratings were based on more than test scores. “Everything here in this ESSA rating is good for kids,” she said. “This is probably the first time I’ve seen something in the 16 years I’ve worked in education that is more than just test scores.” LAWN CARE
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
January 4, 2019
In the third of a four-part series on Christmas Customer Appreciation parties, this week’s photos were from Pickles Pub, the Original Greene Turtle North and the Greene Turtle West (which held an ugly sweater party, too).
Greene Turtle North: Owners Steve and Stephen Pappas, Mike Bradley and Ryan Lafferty
By Terri French
Faces
SPOTLIGHT ON THE REGIONAL RESTAURANT AND BAR SCENE
In Places
Pickles Pub: Owners Justin and Brittney Acita and sons Hendrix and Quinncy
Greene Turtle West: GM Chad Rogers, Jeannie Powell, Hunter Seltzer, Brooke and Helen Borrelli, Kaelyn and Kelly Rogers, Carley, Chad, Kyle and Kerry Topper, Kim, Jimmy and Katelyn Mourlas Bunting’s Mill Crew
Pickles Pub: Amy McFarland, Madelyn Beebe, Brooke Farnan and Joseph Henson
Greene Turtle North: Frank DelPiano, Joy and Gordon Bramble (Happy Birthday, Joy) and Tom Connolly
Greene Turtle West: Dave and Kim Mulkay
Greene Turtle North: Karen Connolly, Steve Pappas, Dawn Hodge and Louise Yesko
Greene Turtle West: Joe and ugly sweater winner Linda McKenna and GM Chad Rogers
Greene Turtle North: Al Custer and Kelly Howard
Greene Turtle North: Kay Barton, Ron Kidney and Dawn Hodge
January 4, 2019
Every Monday: TOPS Meeting
5:30-6:30 p.m. Atlantic General Hospital, Berlin. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a support group promoting weight loss and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.410-641-0157.
Second Monday Of Month: Ocean Pines Camera Club
7 p.m. Ocean Pines branch library. Monthly gettogether to share photos, tips, programs. Group goes on a photo shoot the Saturday following meeting and hosts a hands-on workshop the last Thursday of each month. Professional and amateur photographers and new members welcome. Meets second Monday of each month.
Third Tuesday: Alzheimer’s Support Group
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Berlin Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 9715 Healthway Dr., Berlin. Free caregivers group. 410-629-6123.
Every Wednesday: Delmarva Hand Dance Club Dance To Sounds of ’50s And ’60s Music
5:30-9 p.m. Ocean City Elks Lodge, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave. $5 donation per person to benefit veterans and local charities in the Delmarva region. Dance lessons with Certified Hand Dance instructor Diane Engstrom on first and third Wednesdays of every month, 5-5:45 p.m. Dancing afterward until 9 p.m,. All are welcome. dance@delmarvahanddancing.com or http://delmarvahanddancing.com. 410-208-1151.
Every Friday: Knights Of Columbus #9053 Bingo
Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo at 6:30 p.m. 9901 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City. Possible to win the $1,000 big jackpot each week. 410-524-7994.
First Saturday Of Month: Writers Group 10 a.m.-noon. Berlin branch, Worcester County Library. Anyone interested in writing is invited to join the group and share a story, poem or
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essay or just come and enjoy listening to others. This is a free activity. New members are always welcome. The group is comprised of amateur as well as professional, published writers willing to share their knowledge and offer tips on being creative with words.
Now Through Jan. 29: Art Exhibits
“Artist’s Choice” and “Shared Visions.” Opening reception Jan. 4, 5-7 p.m. Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St. 410-524-9433, artleagueofoceancity.org.
Jan. 4: Cash Bingo
Denise Wagner will demonstrate how to take old garments and make a memory quilt of lap cover. Bring cherished garments to class, which takes place in three parts. Registration required: 410057-0878 or worcesterlibrary.org.
Jan. 8: Empty Bowl Project
2-3:30 p.m. Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St. Make a pottery bowl as part of the Empty Bowl Project. Proceeds benefit Diakonia and the Art League of Ocean City. 410-524-9433 or artleagueofoceancity.org.
Jan. 9: Grace Parker All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast
Doors open at 5:30 p.m., early birds at 6 p.m. Twenty regular games, two specials, jackpot and four early birds. Must be 18 to play. Bishopville Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary, Main Station. Tickets: $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Food and beverages available for purchase. For advance ticket reservations, call: 443-880-6966.
7 a.m.-noon. First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 13th Street and Philadelphia Avenue. Eggs any style, pancakes, buckwheat pancakes, sausage, ham, biscuits, hash brown potatoes, grits, coffee, tea. Cost: $9; carry-out: $7. Milk, soda, orange juice available. 410-289-9340, leave message.
7:30 p.m. Live original music by local musicians following the Frist Friday opening reception. Free. Coffee provided. Ocean City Center for the Arts, 502 94th St. 410-524-9433, artleagueofoceancity.org.
10 a.m. Ocean City Senior Center, 41st Street and Coastal Highway (behind the Dough Roller). Please arrive early at 9:30 a.m. for a social halfhour and refreshments. Guest speaker: Worcester County State’s Attorney Kristen Heiser. Optional luncheon follows meeting at the Horizons Restaurant. New members welcome. 410-
Jan. 4: First Friday Opening Reception
Jan. 7, 10, 17: Hand-Sewn Quilting Class
Worcester County Library, Pocomoke Branch.
Jan. 10: AARP Meeting
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Jan. 17: AAUW Luncheon And Meeting 250-0980.
10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Rehoboth Beach Country Club, 221 West Side Dr., Rehoboth Beach, Del. $25 cash. Meal choice of grilled sirloin with veal jus, whipped potatoes and green beans or penne pasta, grilled chicken, spinach, tomato and roasted garlic cream. RSVP to 301-980-8738 by Jan. 4.
Jan. 19: All-You-Can-Eat Spaghetti Dinner
3-7 p.m. East Sussex Moose Lodge, 35933 Zion Church Rd., Frankford, Del. Abate of Sussex County, for Bill Morgan, a longtime Abate member. Meal consists of spaghetti with or without meatballs, salad, garlic bread. Cake table. $10/person; $5/children 4-12. 302-732-3429 or 410-251-8699.
Jan. 26: All-You-Can-Eat Taco Night
5-7 p.m. Bishopville Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary. Menu: Beef, chicken or fish tacos, beans and rice, guacamole dip, salsa and chips, hard and soft shells. Soda and water sold separately. $10 for all you can eat and $6 for children under 11. Take-out available. 443-880-6966.
Feb. 14: AARP Meeting
10 a.m. Ocean City Senior Center, 41st Street and Coastal Highway (behind the Dough Roller). Please arrive early at 9:30 a.m. for a social halfhour and refreshments. Guest speaker will discuss “Guarding Your Identity.” Optional luncheon will follow the meeting at High Stakes Restaurant. New members welcome. 410-250-0980.
Feb. 22: Carrabba’s Carry-Out/Dine-In
5-7 p.m. Bishopville Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary. Menu will be chicken marsala, penne pomo, salad, bread, mini cannolis and a drink: $14. Carry-out or dine-in. Limited number of dinners available. Pre-orders are encouraged: 443880-6966.
Page 36
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Puzzle Answers
PUZZLE ON PAGE 46
T
The Adventures Of Fatherhood By STEVE GREEN
he last two weeks have been a blur. Since the third week of December, I have basically spent each day reminding myself what day it is in the week because it has never felt like the day it should be. The main difference with this year’s Christmas and New Year’s weeks was the timing of the holidays. With Christmas and New Year’s Day falling on a Tuesday, Wednesdays felt like Sundays and Sundays felt like Fridays. I’m thinking I’m not alone with feeling all sorts of mixed up since school let out for break. In my house, I know I was not the only one confused. Carson’s jaw literally dropped Wednesday morning when I brought out his bookbag. Despite being told repeatedly when he would be going back to school, I don’t think it sunk in until we were actually heading out the door that first morning back. He wasn’t thrilled to be heading to school, but I’m quite sure he had plenty of company with that thought after 11 days off. There were several times over break Beckett had no idea what day it was. Because he likes to debate and argue minute points, he would challenge me each morning on what day of the week it was. One morning he tried to argue there were more days in between Christmas and New Year’s than I realized. After a long and winding debate, his major point, which turned into a beef, was more days were needed in between so he could be out of school longer. Both our boys did a lot of relaxing over their break. They seemed to need to recharge. As a matter of fact, when it was time to go back to school, I think they had been relaxing too much because they were obviously struggling getting back into the groove. Before that drama, however, there was Christmas and New Year’s to enjoy.
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•Christmastime is certainly changing around our house. At 10 and 9 years old, respectively, both boys enjoy it, but they are much more reserved these days on Christmas morning than in the past. Both kids still get excited about the magic of Christmas and Santa arriving, but there is no question it’s different and they are changing. It’s to be expected. It’s a bit sad to see, I must admit, though. On Christmas morning, Carson was first out of bed. He’s always up before Beckett, who has found the joy in sleeping over the last year. Unlike most mornings, getting Beckett out of bed on Christmas morning was not a monumental task, confirming there is still that childhood excitement within him. Once the gifts were opened and the mayhem of flying wrapping paper, screams of joy and calls from us to slow down had subsided, the boys went their separate ways to play with their most cherished new arrivals. The favorite gifts of the year for the kids were surprises to me. Beckett’s top gift seemed to be his new Ravens jersey featuring rookie quarterback Lamar Jackson. He wore it on and off the entire break and wanted to wear it under his school uniform the first day back. He’s truly on the bandwagon and all about football these days. He’s been begging us to let him try football this summer because he really enjoys watching and playing it. For Carson, the gift that has him still excited is his new Fitbit. Since he loves numbers, he’s been fascinated by monitoring his steps. For a few days, he only thought he could see his activity level on his wrist. When I showed him the app, featuring his history of activity and other data, he was thrilled. He enjoys tracking his steps against mine and essentially anyone else of like mindset. After a couple hours, we joined our
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(The writer is the publisher and editor of The Dispatch. He and his wife, Pamela, are proud parents of two boys. This weekly column examines their transition into parenthood and all that goes along with it. E-mail any thoughts to editor@mdcoastdispatch.com.)
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neighborhood in a game of kickball, where the goal is to leave as you came (as in not get injured) and take an hour break to get some fresh air. It’s welcomed after a long night in Santa’s workshop. •By the time New Year’s rolled around, we were ready to get away from the house for a couple days. Therefore, we hit up our favorite short road trip destination, Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, with family. During the holidays, Busch Gardens holds Christmas Town, which involves the amusement park getting dressed up with lights and traditional decorations, themed shows and, of course, roller coasters. This trip was made memorable by the fact Carson was bitten by the roller coaster bug. That means we all four love roller coasters and the days of Pam and I switching on and off rides with Beckett are behind us. New Year’s Eve was never a huge deal for me, although it truly changes once you have kids. Therefore, the last couple New Year’s Eves we have hit the road for a little getaway. It’s no longer about being with hundreds of other people out and about ringing in the new year and waking up the next morning feeling the consequences of the late night. Instead, it was a full day of walking around Busch Gardens, taking in Christmas shows, eating too much, spending time with our family and riding roller coasters. After eight hours at the park, we went swimming in the hotel pool. Carson was asleep by 10. Pam, Beckett and I watched the ball drop and were down and out soon after. It was far from a ruckus New Year’s celebration. It was just the way I like it.
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Horoscopes
January 4, 2019
ARIES (March 21 to April 19): It's a good time to take a much-needed break from your recent hectic schedule and spend some time in quieter surroundings. Important news could arrive early next week. TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): The Taurean traits of reliability and thoroughness could be well-tested when decision-makers consider your proposals and/or requests. Be prepared to answer some probing question. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): A sudden attack of boredom leaves you with some tasks undone. It's OK to take a short respite. But get back to work by week's end so that you have time for other projects. CANCER (June 21 to July 22): Avoid prejudging a situation just because it looks bad. Facts could emerge that would make your position uncomfortable, to say the least. A relative has interesting news to share with you. LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): This is a good time to begin reassessing some of your recent decisions about your long-range goals to see if they still have merit. Spend more time with loved ones this weekend. VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): An unsettled situation at home or on the job early in the week could drain your energy levels, making it difficult to get your work done on schedule. But things improve by midweek. LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): A temporary setback could give you time to go over your plans to find weaknesses you might have overlooked before. A romantic getaway with that special person is favored this weekend. SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Professional and personal situations benefit once you set a positive tone in getting things off to a good start. Honest dialogue smoothes over any occasional display of balkiness. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): A problem with workplace colleagues or family members seems to defy even your sage counsel. But be patient. Your words eventually will lead to a resolution. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): Don't just wait out that unexpected and unexplained delay in your career move. You could gain added respect if you ask why it happened and what you can do to move things along. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): Although your workplace strategies usually are accepted, you could be challenged by someone who isn't so favorably impressed. Be prepared to defend your positions. PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): Your friendship circle expands, with new people coming into your life at this time. Welcome them warmly. But don't neglect those cherished longtime personal relationships. BORN THIS WEEK: You love to search for knowledge and share it with others. You would make an especially fine teacher. Š 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Page 37
Page 38
Browsing around Chic Boutique during this year’s holiday open house were Carol Withers (owner), Jane Dorang, Bertie raucci, and Katie Withers.
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
People
By Jeanette Deskiewicz
Featuring those helping Causes in the resort area
a perfect Face Day spa’s Christina Wells, alison ruggiere and sue ott welcomed customers into the salon for the holiday open house.
In Society
January 4, 2019
While at a perfect Face’s open house, this trio of inna Jevdokusina (hair stylist), Brett harbeson (massage therapist) and tiffany hoffman (make-up artist) had clients looking and feeling their best for the holidays.
southside Deli ocean pines general Manager robert “pup” Williams celebrated the store’s 20 years with pike Creek Wine representative Carla latham and Craig glovier of sysco.
team leader for the new Coastal hospice at the ocean, pam Watroba, was welcomed by Coastal hospice president alane Capen during the first look of the new facility.
processing donations from attendees at the first look of the Coastal hospice at the ocean were erin holswade and Jill Blackway of the Coastal hospice staff.
in attendance at the ocean pines Chamber annual Christmas party were Meredith and John Bailey, general manager of the ocean pines association.
a perfect Face & Chic Boutique owner Carol Withers helped Marion Connolly get her shop on during the annual open house at the store.
ocean pines Chamber ambassadors leslie Zimmerman and Jennie rice were full of holiday cheer at their annual Christmas party.
it was a 20th anniversary Celebration weekend with owners tony Kolb and Jim Deangelis of southside Deli ocean pines.
January 4, 2019
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Things I Like ... By Steve Green
A messy house on Christmas morning Walking to dinner in Berlin
No longer feeling like I have to be awake for New Year’s Eve When my son wants to practice a sport When young people show kindness Musicians who sing and write their own songs Funny classified ads
Feel of an old sweatshirt A puppy’s soft belly
Hearing rain from bed and not having to get up A new kitchen appliance
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Page 39
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Page 40
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
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January 4, 2019
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DJ HOOK Fager’s Island: Friday, Jan. 4
RAY WROTEN 28th St. Pit & Pub: Saturday, Jan. 5
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BEATS BY WAX 45th St. Taphouse: Saturday, Jan. 5 127th St. Pit & Pub: Wednesdays Pickles Pub: Thursdays
January 4, 2019
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Page 41
Who’s Where When Tuesdays: Blake Haley
NEW CENSATION Clarion/Ocean Club: Friday & Saturday, Jan. 4 & 5
JACK & T 28th St. Pit & Pub: Friday, Jan. 4
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RANDY LEE ASHCRAFT & THE SALTWATER COWBOYS Johnny’s Pizza & Pub: Saturday, Jan. 5 & Wednesdays Smitty McGee’s: Thursdays & Fridays
ELEPHANTS DANCING Pickles Pub: Saturday, Jan. 12
JOHNNY’S PIZZA & PUB 410-723-5600 56th St. & Coastal Hwy., Bayside Saturday, Jan. 5 & Wednesdays: Randy Lee Ashcraft & The Saltwater Cowboys PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Friday, Jan. 4: Beats By Jeremy Saturday, Jan. 5: Sean Loomis Mondays: Karaoke With Jeremy Thursdays: Beats By Wax SMITTY MCGEE’S 302-436-4716 37234 Lighthouse Rd., West Fenwick Ireland, DE Thursdays & Fridays: Randy Lee Ashcraft & The Saltwater Cowboys
JUMPER Fager’s Island: Saturday, Jan. 19
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SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday & Saturday, Jan. 4 & 5: DJ Cruz, 10 p.m.
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Page 42
Sports
Seahawks Go 6-1 In Warrior Duals
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
In The News
Worcester Prep sharpshooter Lily Baeurle finished second in the three-point shooting contest at the Governor’s Challenge Holiday Tournament last week. Baeurle sank eight three-pointers in her opening round to advance to the finals. Pictured above, Baeurle warms up during the competition. Submitted Photo
Mallards Take 1st Loss In Holiday Tourney
BY SHAWN J. SOPER
MANAGING EDITOR
SALISBURY – Worcester Prep’s girls’ varsity basketball team kept its unbeaten season intact with a win in its opener in the Governor’s Challenge Holiday Tournament last week, but dropped its second game for its first loss of the season. The Mallards entered the Governor’s Challenge with a perfect 7-0 record through the early part of the season and were rolling past teams in convincing fashion. The streak continued in the Mallards’ first game in the Governor’s Challenge with a decisive 61-24 win over Thomas Stone of Charles County in the opener of the
John Coleman bracket. For years, the John Coleman Tournament featured the three public high schools in Worcester County along with an at-large team in a round-robin holiday tournament, but has since been folded into the larger Governor’s Challenge. In the championship game in the Coleman bracket, the Worcester girls fell to Kings Christian Academy, 43-41, in a tight game for their first loss of the season. The Mallards resume regular season play on Saturday with a road game against Salisbury School. Next week, the Worcester girls have a pair of home games including a rematch with Salisbury School along with another home game against Salisbury Christian.
Decatur Boys Earn Split In Governor’s Challenge
BY SHAWN J. SOPER
MANAGING EDITOR
SALISBURY – Stephen Decatur’s boys’ varsity basketball team got a split in its two games in the Governor’s Challenge Holiday Tournament in Salisbury last week, dropping its opener to Tallwood before rebounding with a win over Laurel of Delaware. The Seahawks played in the boys’ varsity Bracket 1 and drew a tough assignment against Tallwood High School of Virginia Beach. Decatur trailed 10-4 after one quarter, but rallied and took a 16-14 lead into halftime. However, the Lions got their offense rolling in the second half and
the Seahawks never really found their offensive rhythm and fell to Tallwood, 54-38. In the consolation game the next day, Decatur beat Laurel High School of Delaware convincingly, 67-47. With the win, Decatur earned a split in its two games at the Governor’s Challenge and improved to 5-2 on the season. The Seahawks were back in action on Thursday on the road against Bennett in a game played too late to be included in this edition. The Bennett game on Thursday was the first of three tough road games against Bayside South rivals. The Seahawks play Wicomico and Parkside on the road next week.
BY SHAWN J. SOPER
MANAGING EDITOR
BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s varsity wrestling team turned in a strong performance at the prestigious Warrior Duals in southern Maryland last weekend, winning six of seven matches against some of the best programs in the state. The Seahawks rolled through their first six matches in impressive fashion at the Warrior Duals in La Plata last weekend before running into a buzz saw in six-time state champion Damascus. The run included wins over Old Mill, host La Plata, South River, Huntingtown, North Hagerstown and King George. In the first round, Decatur beat Old Mill, 60-15. Jagger Clapsadle won by forfeit at 112 and Austin Miller won by forfeit at 120. Noah Reho beat Damion Mansapit at 126, but the Seahawks took their first loss at 138. Alex Koulikov beat Cameron Neal at 145 and Jhymir Blake beat Brent Newland at 152, but Decatur took losses at 160 and 170. Micah Bourne got the Seahawks back on track at 182 with a win over Jesse Charnesky and D.J. Taylor beat Jack Davis at 195. Decatur last at 220, but Dakota Souder rebounded with a win over Stephen Nisweiner at 285 and Shamar Baines closed out the match with a win over Tinity Kilip at 106. Against La Plata in the second round, the Seahawks secured the 4528 win. Nico D’Amico got it started for the Seahawks with a win over P.J. Flores at 120. After a loss at 126, Reho beat La Plata’s Miles Pierce at 132. Bourne won with a win over Nate Lednum at 182. Taylor won by forfeit at 195, followed by a win by Daletez Smith over Nick Stone at 220. Souder beat Quentin Dibble at 285, Baines beat Mason Winkler at 106 and Clapsadle beat Mason Scott at 113. In its third match against South River, Decatur prevailed, 36-30. Robert Mitchell beat Austin Simpson at 126 and Reho beat Isaac Barber at 132. Kyle Elliott beat Joab Patino at 138 and Koulikov beat Michael Byers at 145. Decatur then dropped three straight from 152 to 170. Lukas Layton got the Seahawks back in the win column with a win over Sam Hicks at 182, and Bourne beat Niko Nolte at 195. After three straight losses from 220 to 106, Clapsadle got Decatur back on track with
January 4, 2019
a win over Nolan Lunsford at 113 and D’Amico closed it out with a win over Matthew Gribble at 120. In its fourth match, Decatur beat Huntingtown, 45-30. After a loss at 132, Reho won by forfeit at 138, Elliott beat Dylan Bishop at 145 and Blake beat Robert Ireland at 153. Huntingtown then swept five straight matches from 160 to 225. Souder won by forfeit at 285, Caleb Myers won by forfeit at 113 and Clapsadle won by forfeit at 120. D’Amico closed it out for Decatur with a win over Armando Bracero at 126. In the fifth round, Decatur rolled past North Hagerstown, 57-10. Elliott beat Nicholas Carter at 145 and Hayden Gable beat Blaze Godlove at 152. North Hagerstown won matches at 160 and 170, before Layton and Bourne each won by forfeit at 182 and 195. Smith beat Isaiah Dorsey at 220, Souder beat Will Klein at 285, Myers beat Cory Ridenour at 106 and Clapsadle beat Thomas Monn at 120. After a loss at 126, Mitchell beat Evan Rakich at 132 and Reho beat Krehl Kasyan at 128 to close it out. In its sixth match, the Seahawks bet King George, 45-26. King George won the first three matches at 152, 160 and 170 as the Seahawks fell behind early. Bourne beat Mettres Murrill at 182, Layton won by forfeit at 195, Smith beat David Peebles at 220 and Jonathan Church won by forfeit at 285. Baines beat Jayden Richardson at 106, Miller beat David Norris at 112, Clapsadle beat Gabe Nesmith at 120 and D’Amico beat Jeremy Kraisser at 126. After King George won two matches at 132 and 138, Elliott beat Jonah Kapp at 145 to close out the 45-26 win in the penultimate match of the tournament for the Seahawks. Decatur had won its first six matches of the tournament, but looming in the final match for the Seahawks was six-time state champion Damascus. Decatur won its share of matches but was trading wins for pins by Damascus through much of the match which resulted in the 51-17 loss, its first of the tournament. Damascus won the first four at 152, 160, 170 and 182 before the Seahawks got on the board with a win by Souder over Michael Harris at 195. Damascus won at 220 and 285 before Decatur got back in the win column with D’Amico’s win over Colton DeValle at 106. Reho beat Nick Biava at 120, but Damascus closed it out with wins at 126, 132, 138 and 145.
Bayside South Wins Legends All-Star Game
BY SHAWN J. SOPER
MANAGING EDITOR
SALISBURY – The Bayside South all-star basketball team beat the Bayside North all-stars, 56-40, last week in the first-ever Legends Alumni game as part of the Governor’s Challenge. A new wrinkle in the Governor’s Challenge Holiday Tournament this year was the first-ever Legends All-Star
game featuring top players from the Bayside South and Bayside North from teams dating back to 2002. The Bayside South team prevailed, 56-40. The Bayside South team featured Decatur’s Aaron Wyatt, Wicomico’s Bubby Brown, Devon Gale and Craig Winder; Snow Hill’s Keith Jackson, Pocomoke’s Eddie Miller, Parkside’s Devante Walker, Mardela’s Charles Fontaine, and Andre Collins and Andy Collins from Crisfield.
January 4, 2019
The Dispatch
Forever In Memory Of Our Founder, Dick Lohmeyer (May 25, 1927-May 5, 2005) The Dispatch, Serving Greater Ocean City Since 1984, Is Published By Maryland Coast Dispatch Inc. Weekly On Friday Mornings MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811 PHYSICAL ADDRESS: 10012 Old Ocean City Blvd. Berlin, Md. 21811 PHONE: 410-641-4561 FAX: 410-641-0966
WEBSITES: www.mdcoastdispatch.com www.facebook.com/thedispatchoc J. STEVEN GREEN Publisher/Editor editor@mdcoastdispatch.com
NEWS DEPARTMENT SHAWN J. SOPER Managing Editor
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The Maryland Coast Dispatch (USPS #015125) is an official and legal newspaper for Worcester County. Periodical postage paid at Berlin, Maryland, and additional mailing offices. The Maryland Coast Dispatch, 10012 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin, Md. 21811, is published weekly on Friday mornings, 52 weeks a year. Subscription rates are $75 per year, $55 for six months. POSTMASTER: Please send change of address to Maryland Coast Dispatch, P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Maryland 21811. Maryland Coast Dispatch offices are located at Route 346 and Graham Avenue, Berlin, Maryland.
Between The Lines
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
HOW WE SEE IT
Post-Election Year Ripe For Tax Hikes
The year after an election routinely brings tax increases for local property owners. It’s an unfortunate tactic elected officials employ to avoid consequences at the ballot box from voters. The idea is voters will not remember three years from now their taxes were increased. Even if they do recall the decision, enough years will have gone by that property owners will make the necessary adjustments and consequently not be as sour over government taking more from them. As we move through 2019, we will be watching our local governments carefully. We will call them out on increasing taxes unless every measure is made to reduce spending rather than simply grabbing more from property owners. Even before the calendar flipped to 2019, it seemed the groundwork was laid for tax increases at the Worcester County level and in Berlin. In Berlin, a tax increase of some sort is almost a certainty due to the town’s fund balance, or rainy day fund, not being healthy enough. Town auditors implored town officials during an audit review last month to increase the fund balance from the current $3.7 million (enough for five months of government expenses in an emergency) to a more reasonable level after reviewing the town’s vulnerabilities. During that review, Mayor Gee Williams said the town council needs to discuss how it can increase revenues to address the fund balance through fee or tax increases. In the summer, Williams also mentioned increasing taxes to sustain rising EMS costs to the town. In Worcester County, after hearing a gloomy report on rising retiree health costs, Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said what many of his colleagues were thinking – more funding is needed to keep this liability within reason. As is always the case, pressure will be put on the commissioners this spring to adequately fund the public school system. Increasing property taxes will surely be considered. With assessments surging, especially on the commercial front, an influx of new revenue is likely without a tax rate hike at the county level. There is no reason the county can’t control its expenses while putting funds toward the retiree health account. We are skeptical, however, as the county has been prone to inching up the tax rate after an election. The year after an election is simply the safest time for elected representatives to increase revenue without having to cut services. It’s important for property owners to be aware of this and to remember it if it does play out as we expect. There are better options than simply taking more at a politically convenient time from the people who call this area home.
Page 43
By Publisher/Editor Steve Green
With the first issue of 2019, here are some predictions for the next 12 months. Like most years, I will be wrong on many and right on some. Nonetheless, it’s a fun exercise. •A U.S. District Court judge will rule for Ocean City in the ongoing challenge of the 2017 emergency ordinance that banned women from going topless in the resort. In other words, the judge will agree with Ocean City’s belief a majority of the public thinks topless women is more offensive than topless men. •Governments in Berlin and Ocean Pines will each launch searches for new leaders, as Berlin loses Town Administrator Laura Allen to a town in the Pacific time zone and Pines General Manager John Bailey moves on less than two years after accepting the job. •Ocean City will ask the Court of Appeals to take another look at the recent Court of Special Appeals verdict that reversed a Worcester County Circuit Court judge’s ruling on the Rapoport property on the Boardwalk. Maryland’s high court will refuse to accept the appeal, ending the case. •Despite the wet start, the year will turn out to be the exact opposite of 2018 on the weather front. Drought conditions will exist for much of the summer, resulting in a booming season in Ocean City by all accounts. •The current petition effort to take Ocean City’s land buy on 67th Street to referendum will fall short of the required signatures, allowing the purchase to move forward. •After its appeal of a tax differential ruling is unsuccessful, the Town of Ocean City will continue to seek talks with the County Commissioners on larger grants for the municipality. Although not acknowledging a grudge, the majority of the commissioners want nothing to do with it, approving nearly the same dollar amount as in previous years. •The Town of Berlin will not pursue a study for a potential YMCA to be built at Berlin Falls Park. •Historian Bunk Mann’s follow-up to his wildly successful Vanishing Ocean City book will be released this fall under the title, “Ghosts of the Surf.” •Months after the county rezoned parcels along Route 589 commercial, a new convenience store will break ground directly across from the Ocean Downs Casino. •The year will end without Worcester County filling its vacant director of economic development post because the commissioners don’t feel it’s a priority. •More construction issues push the opening of the new Flagship Cinemas operation in the White Marlin Mall back to mid-summer. •The biggest takeaway from Berlin’s ongoing parking and mobility study is a recommendation for dozens of paid parking spots along Main Street and downtown side streets. The goal being to force employees of town businesses to park their vehicles away from work so customers have somewhere to park. •The first-ever Jellyfish Festival in Ocean City will be able to grab at least one national act, despite concerns over it being held the same weekend as Firefly in Dover •Due to pending lawsuits, the Trump administration will be unable to push forward with offshore seismic testing plans in 2019. •In the state’s second round of report cards, two schools in Worcester will earn five-star ratings. All county schools ranked at four stars in 2018. •The year will come and go with no rebuilding plans announced for the landmark property at the corner of Talbot Street and Baltimore Avenue in Ocean City. Instead, the property owner will use his vacant lot as a paid parking lot. •Despite Ocean City officials’ angst, the State Highway Administration confirms there is no money to extend the existing median fence south as had been hoped. •After much ado about Ocean Pines removing hundreds of geese from the community to be killed, 2019 will be quiet on that front, as the practice of bringing in border collies every now and again to chase them away continues to prove fruitful. •In a scene similar to what took place at the Sands Motel in Fenwick last month, the year ends with a celebration over the beginning of the Alamo Motel’s demolition in West Ocean City. The property owner intends to build two large restaurants for franchises. •Plans for a commercial development in Berlin will move forward after the town annexes 18 acres at the intersection of Routes 50 and 346. •Toward the end of the year, Commissioner Joe Mitrecic will become president, replacing Commissioner Diana Purnell after her second year in the seat. •The Worcester County Commissioners will vote to increase the property tax rate, pointing largely to concerns over ballooning retiree health costs and meeting public education demands. •Ocean City Elementary will be named a National Blue Ribbon School for the second time. •After being defeated the last couple years, the Maryland General Assembly will approve changes to craft beer regulations under Comptroller Peter Franchot’s Reform On Tap initiative. •The second half of the year on the national front will be all about who will challenge President Trump in 2020. Beto O’Rourke will become the Democratic front runner to challenge Trump. •The Baltimore Ravens will defeat the New Orleans Saints to win the franchise’s third Super Bowl.
Page 44 FRUITLAND-SALISBURY RESTAURANT 213 213 N. Fruitland Blvd., Fruitland 410-677-4880 • www.restaurant213.com Recently named one of the 100 Best Restaurants for Foodies in America for 2015 by OpenTable (1 of the only 2 restaurants named in the State of Maryland), the food at Restaurant 213 is far from your conventional Chesapeake Bay fare. A former apprentice of Roger Vergé in southern France, chef Jim Hughes prepares unpretentious, globally influenced cuisine inspired by the area’s plentiful ingredients. Chef Hughes has catered many events for Ronald Reagan, while he was President of the United States. He also served as Chef for the King of Saudi Arabia at the Saudi Arabian Royal National Guard military academy. Chef Hughes has been honored by the James Beard Foundation and DiRoNA (Distinguished Restaurants of North America). For 2015 Restaurant 213 was voted Best Chef, Best Special Occasion Dining, and Best Fine Dining Restaurant by Coastal Style Magazine, and Best Special Occasion Restaurant by Metropolitan Magazine. Frommer's Travel Guide has Awarded Restaurant 213 its highest Rating of 3 Stars, making it one of only 3 restaurants on the Eastern Shore. Additionally, "Special Finds" awarded this distinction from 2010-2015 in their Maryland & Delaware Travel Guide Edition. Open Tuesday-Sunday at 5 p.m. Special 5-course prix-fixe dinners offered on Sundays and Thursdays. WEST OCEAN CITY-BERLIN OCEAN PINES ASSATEAGUE DINER Rte. 611 & Sunset Avenue West Ocean City 443-664-8158 www.assateaguedinerandbar.com Inspired by a classic diner culture, this new hotspot offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu here features classic comfort foods prepared and executed with a modern coastal trust. Be sure to check out the exceptional coffee program and the Westside Bar within features delicious craft cocktails throughout the day. BLACKSMITH RESTAURANT AND BAR 104 Pitts Street, Berlin • 410-973-2102 Located in the heart of America’s Coolest Small Town, Berlin, Md., Blacksmith has established itself as one the area’s most loved dining and drinking destinations for foodies and wine, spirt and craft beer enthusiasts. Chef owned and locally sourced, Blacksmith keeps the main focus on Eastern Shore tradition. Everything here is homemade and handmade. Cakes and baked goods are delivered daily from down the street. Cozy and modern, traditional and on trend; Blacksmith has risen to the ranks of the area’s finest casual eating and drinking establishments. Visit and see why folks from Baltimore, D.C., Chincoteague and locals alike think Blacksmith is worth the trip. Open daily at 11:30 a.m. for lunch, dinner and bar snacks. Closed Sunday. BREAKFAST CAFE OF OCEAN CITY 12736 Ocean Gateway, West Ocean City 410-213-1804 Open 7 days a week between Sunsations & Starbucks, across from Outback, come join us at the “Breakfast Cafe” (formerly Rambler Coffee Shop) we are a family-friendly restaurant that’s been family owned for 30 years passed from mother to son in 2001. We believe that fair pricing, putting out quality food as fresh as we can make it and a nice atmosphere makes a meal. I like to think we have many “House Specialties” which include our Crab Omelet, real crab meat, cheddar cheese and mushrooms, our Sunfest Omelet, Swiss cheese, ham and mushrooms; Cafe or French Sampler, pancakes or French toast, with eggs, bacon and sausage. Homemade creamed chipped beef on toast and
Dining Out The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
sausage gravy on biscuits with browned potato home fries, with onion, excellent cheesesteak subs and fries and more! We use Rapa Scrapple fried on the grill the way you like it for all our breakfasts, sandwiches and sides. Summer hours, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Come enjoy!
FOX’S PIZZA DEN 11328 Samuel Bowen Blvd. West Ocean City 410-600-1020 • www.foxpizzamd.com Enjoy a brand new, spacious dining room. Happy hour every day from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with $5 food specials. Full menu includes appetizers, salads, stromboli, hoagies and wedgies, pizza, spaghetti and more. Open every day from 11 a.m. to midnight. FULL MOON SALOON 12702 Old Bridge Road, West Ocean City 443-664-5317 Locally owned and operated, this moderately priced casual restaurant/bar has freshly caught seafood, BBQ, and pork entrees, giant sandwiches as well as a variety of homemade soups. Locally we are known for our jumbo lump crab cakes, pork and beef BBQ, cream of crab soup, and 100% angus burgers as well as a variety of other sandwiches and entrees that are cooked with a local flair. Open daily at 11 a.m. for lunch and open until midnight. Sundays breakfast offered 8 a.m.-noon. Fifteen televisions and a big screen available for all sports events. GREENE TURTLE-WEST Rte. 611, West Ocean City 410-213-1500 Visit Maryland’s No. 1 Sports Pub and Restaurant, the World-Famous Greene Turtle. Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80-seat dining room, large bar area with 54 TVs with stereo sound and game room with pool tables. With an exciting menu, The Greene Turtle is sure to please with delicious sizzling steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, raw bar, homemade salads and more. Live entertainment, Keno, Turtle apparel, kids menu, carry-out. Something for everyone! Voted best sports bar, wings and burgers in West OC. Great happy hour and plenty of parking. HOOTERS RESTAURANT Rt. 50 & Keyser Point Rd. West Ocean City 410-213-1841 • www.hootersofoc.com New mouthwatering smoked wings with half the calories. Traditional wings and boneless wings with 12 sauce selections. Burgers, quesadillas, tacos, and healthy salads. Extensive seafood selections with raw bar and Alaskan crab legs. Children's menu and game room. Apparel and souvenir shop. Sports packages on a ton of TVs and live entertainment. Wing-fest every Tuesday from 6 to 8 with 50 cent wings. And of course, the world famous Hooters Girls. Large parties welcome. Call for private party planning. LIGHTHOUSE SOUND St. Martin’s Neck Road • 410-352-5250 Enjoy the best views of Ocean City at the newly renovated, Lighthouse Sound. Come relax and dine overlooking the bay and the beautiful Ocean City skyline. Savor entrees such as local rockfish, tempura-battered soft shell crabs, char-grilled filet mignon and jumbo lump crabcakes. Open to the public, we serve Sunday brunch, lunch and dinner. One mile west of Ocean City, Md., just off Route 90 on St. Martin’s Neck Road. Reser-
vations recommended.
RUTH’S CHRIS Within the GlenRiddle Community 410-213-9444 • www.ruthschris.com Ruth’s Chris specializes in the finest customaged Midwestern beef. We broil it exactly the way you like it at 1,800 degrees to lock in the corn-fed flavor. Then we serve your steak sizzling on a heated plate so that it stays hot throughout your meal. Many of our recipes were developed by Ruth, favorites such as shrimp Remoulade, Crabtini and Ruth’s chop salad. Located five miles west of Ocean City in the GlenRiddle Golf clubhouse. Extensive wine list. Reservations recommended. THE SHARK ON THE HARBOR 12924 Sunset Ave., West Ocean City 410-213-0924 • ocshark.com We make real food from scratch. We believe that great food and healthful ingredients are not mutually exclusive of each other. Featuring local organic produce and seafood. All natural products – clear of preservatives and antibiotics. Whole grains and whole foods are used in the preparation of our menu – which our chefs write twice daily, based on what's fresh, available and delicious. Fresh. Local. Organic. Taste the difference. Open Daily Year Round, Monday through Saturday for Lunch & Dinner and Sundays for Brunch, Lunch & Dinner. Reservations suggested. INLET TO 94TH STREET
28TH STREET PIT & PUB 28th Street & Coastal Highway 410-289-2020 • www.pitandpub.com Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub is known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties. Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy Hour daily, 3-6 p.m. Family friendly atmosphere. Weekend entertainment. 32 PALM 32nd Street Oceanside In The Hilton 410-289-2525 Executive Chef Rick Goodwin has introduced an exciting new menu. A favorite among many is the Bermuda Triangle, featuring cinnamon seared scallops finished with an ancho mango coulis along with house broiled crabcake with a sweet chili remoulade and finally, applewood smoked bacon wrapped around jumbo shrimp, grilled to perfection with jalapeno barbecue sauce. Other wonderfully delicious dishes cover the land and sea as well and each have a special touch that makes this restaurant unique among its peers. Children’s menu available. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 45TH STREET TAPHOUSE 45th Street and the bay 443-664-2201 At the newly remodeled 45th Street Taphouse, the best views of bayside Ocean City, MD are the backdrop where craft beer meets Maryland cuisine. This is vacation done right, all year long. Wash down a Crabby Pretzel or homemade crabcakes with one of our 35+ craft beers on tap, all made right here in the USA. Not feeling crabby? Pair your craft brew with our award-winning wings or even our brand new breakfast menu. Anyway it’s served, come get tapped with us. BONFIRE 71st Street & Coastal Highway
January 4, 2019 410-524-7171 www.thebonfirerestaurant.com 150 ft. Seafood & Prime Rib Buffet A famous Ocean City Restaurant for 37 years. It’s all here. The service, the atmosphere and the finest, freshest food available. Fresh seafood, snow crab legs, prime rib, BBQ ribs, raw oysters, raw clams, steamed shrimp, fish, homemade soups & salads. Decadent dessert selection – homemade donuts & bread pudding, soft serve ice cream with hot fudge topping and lots more! Large selection of children’s favorites – chicken tenders, hot dogs, burgers, macaroni & cheese and pizza. A la carte menu available featuring fresh cut steaks and seafood. Open MondayFriday at 4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, at 3 p.m. Plenty of free parking. BUXY’S SALTY DOG 28th Street • 410-289-0973 www.buxys.com Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, pierogis,eggrolls and homemade crab dip. Don’t miss our daily specials. CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15th Street & Baltimore Avenue 410-289-7192 One of Ocean City’s premier restaurants is back with a new and improved atmosphere and a brand new home. However, the mission to provide the same fresh, quality food and attentive service has not changed. Excellent chefs, who inspect each dish for culinary perfection, prepare the meals here. The finest seafood is guaranteed and nothing but the best in black angus beef is served. Be sure to inquire about the daily specials and check out the new bar and lounge area. They have the kids covered as well with a quality kids menu. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. COINS PUB & RESTAURANT 28th Street Plaza • 410-289-3100 Great mid-town location offering a complete dinner menu, lunch and lite fare. Coins features the freshest seafood, shrimp, scallops, clams, fresh catch and lobster plus the best crab cake in Maryland, hand cut steaks cooked to your liking, succulent veal and chicken dishes. Also authentic pasta selections. Enjoy live entertainment and dancing in the lounge nightly. Happy hour daily 3-6 p.m. Casual dining in a relaxed atmosphere. Special kids menu. Lots of free parking. DRY 85 OC 12 48th Street • 443-664-8989 • dry85.com Steps from the beach. Gourmet "stick to your ribs" Lowcountry cuisine. A made-fromscratch kitchen with every sauce and every dressing hand crafted. It's that attention to detail that takes the concept of burgers, fries, ribs and wings and turns them completely on their head. Charcuterie boards. Late night bar. 120+ Whiskies. Craft beer. Artisanal craft cocktails. Seasonal outdoor seating. Named one of the Top 40 Whiskey Bars in America by Whiskey Advocate. DRY DOCK 28 28th Street and Coastal Highway 410-289-0973 The new kid on the dining scene in Ocean City features eclectic pizzas, delicious sandwiches, soups, salads and hot steamers in a modern, nautical themed atmosphere. A beautiful boat bar is featured inside and features craft cocktails and brews. Outdoor seating is available. Carry out available and beer and wine to go. Live music is also offered in this kid-friendly establishment. FAGER’S ISLAND RESTAURANT & BAR 201 60th Street On The Bay 410-524-5500 • www.fagers.com Fager’s Island is an award-winning popular SEE NEXT PAGE
January 4, 2019
FROM PAGE 44 bayfront restaurant where lunch is a forgivable habit, dinner an event and sunsets unforgettable. Lite fare lunch served from 11 a.m.-9 p.m., dinner from 5 p.m., famous raw bar, festive Sunday Jazz Brunch, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and children’s menu. Complete house wine list and award-winning proprietor’s list available upon request. Outdoor decks and bar. Nightly entertainment in-season, FridaySaturday, off-season. Open every day, yearround. A Fun Place!
JOHNNY'S PIZZA & SPORTS PUB 56th Street & Coastal Highway 410-723-5600 www.johnnyspizzapub.com The Official Pizza of OC, Johnny's Pizza & Sports Pub serves families throughout Ocean City and its surrounding communities 365 days a year. Eat in, carry out or have it delivered right to your doorstep. Our comfortable dining room features ample seating for small groups or large parties and our speedy delivery service will deliver your hot, delicious pizza right to your home, hotel or condo for your added convenience. From steaming homemade pizzas to lightly tossed salads and fiery hot wings, we have something for everyone. Live entertainment every weekend all winter and live entertainment four nights in the summer. MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT 33rd Street in the DoubleTree Ocean City Oceanfront • 410-289-1201 www.marlinmoonocmd.com Eat where the locals eat. Marlin Moon is back in town with the talented Executive Chef, Gary Beach, creating his legendary food magic. Marlin Moon combines an eclectic atmosphere of ocean views and a fresh vibe with creative seafood and steak dishes you won’t forget. Winner of the Maryland People’s Choice Award, Marlin Moon delivers the culinary combinations you’re craving and uses only locally sourced seafood, meats and vegetables. Some of the original classics, such as Mom’s Shrimp and Fred-dy’s Seafood Pasta, are back as well as a raw bar, small plate appetizers, fresh salads and entrees sure to satisfy any food mood. Open daily serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner from 7 a.m.-11 p.m. RED RED WINE BAR OC 12 48th Street • 443-664-6801 redredwinebar.com Steps from the beach. Fresh coastal cuisine with a focus on locally sourced seafood and hand tossed pizzas. Artisanal cheeseboards. 35+ Wines By the Glass. Full bar. Craft beer. Late night bar. Luxurious colors and custom built couches. Casual atmosphere. Seasonal outdoor seating. Named Best Wine and Beverage Program in Maryland by the Restaurant Association. PICKLES PUB 8th Street, Ocean City • 410-289-4891 It’s pub food with a twist and a special emphasis put on quality and large portions. The
Dining Out The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
big juicy burgers and oven baked wedge sandwiches are locals’ favorites as are the pub wings (in a variety of styles) and tacos (choose from thai pulled pork, grilled chicken and blacked ahi avocado). There are numerous unique craft pizza options to choose from as well with the house favorite here being the blackened shrimp and arugula. SEACRETS On The Bay At 49th Street 410-524-4900 • www.seacrets.com We are Jamaica USA! Serving our world famous jerk chicken, along with a full menu of appetizers, soups, sandwiches, salads, entrees, desserts and a children's menu. Enjoy happy hour drink prices everyday until 7 p.m.and live entertainment in a tropical atmosphere. Please check our website www.seacrets.com for a complete list of live bands and daily food and drink specials or call 410-524-4900. Find us and get lost! 94TH STREET NORTH-FENWICK BETHANY BILLY’S SUB SHOP • 410-723-2500 140th Street, Oceanside • 410-250-1778 Rte. 54, Fenwick Shoals • 302-436-5661 Now the best just got better because they deliver fresh-dough pizza, subs and shakes to your door and have three locations to serve you better. Washington Magazine wasn’t lying when it said Billy’s had the best milkshakes and fresh ground beef hamburgers at the beach and they don’t stop there. Freshdough pizza, cones, shakes, sundaes and more. More cheese steaks sold than anyone else in Maryland. Billy’s accepts MC/Visa. BREAKFAST AT THE CRABCAKE FACTORY 120th Street/Beachside (Serene Hotel) 410-250-4900 The Crabcake Factory started out as a breakfast house in 1996 and still serves one of the best and most creative breakfast menus in Ocean City. Try Eastern Shore favorites prepared daily by Chef-Owner John Brooks including a chipped beef, skillets, omelettes and their famous lump crab creations. WorldFamous Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast. Try Sue’s Spicy Bloody Marys to start the day with a kick. Full breakfast menu available for carryout. Online at: www.CrabcakeFactoryUSA.com. See other listing (Crabcake Factory USA). Open year-round.
CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL AND CONDOS 118th and the Beach • 410-524-1000 Reef 118 Oceanfront Restaurant located in the Carousel Hotel offers beautiful oceanfront dining in a casual atmosphere. Enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet or try one of our specialty omelets including lump crab and asparagus. Our menu offers a wide variety of Succulent Seafood along with steaks, pastas & ribs. $5.95 kids’ menu available. Stop by the Bamboo Lounge serving happy hour daily 4-6 p.m. with super drink prices and $4.95 food specials. Visit the Carousel and get served by the friendliest staff in OC!
THE CRAB BAG 130th Street, Bayside • 410-250-3337 Now serving lunch and dinner, trust us when we say you can’t go wrong with anything you order here. The crabs are fat and never disappoint and are available eat-in or carryout. The BBQ ribs are also worth a try as well as any of the char-grilled specialties. Remember “Super Happy Hour” offered seven days a week, all day. Plenty of bargains available on drinks and food. CRABCAKE FACTORY USA 120th Street & Coastal Highway 410-250-4900 Voted “Best Crabcakes in Maryland, DC and Virginia,” by The Washington Post (July 2004). Full-service family restaurant, carryout and sports bar. Outside seating available. Open daily at 8 a.m. Menu selections include prime rib, chicken chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers and kids menu. Shipping crabcakes online year-round at www.Crabcake-FactoryUSA.com or www.-GotLump.com. Homemade soups served daily. See previous listing (Breakfast House at Crabcake Factory USA) for breakfast specials. Casual dress, full liquor bar, no reservations, year-round. FI-NA-LE RESTAURANT Rte. 1, Fenwick Island, DE 302-539-3526 Fi–na–le ... Fin Alley is now fi–na–le, sounds the same but looks even better. Under SAME ownership. Indoor and outdoor bayside casual dining with beautiful water and sunset views. Happy hour Monday-Friday from 4-6 p.m. Culinary coastal classics with a modern twist! In the Village of Fenwick, two blocks north of Rte. 54. Open Monday-Thursday at 4 p.m. and Friday, Saturday and Sunday at noon.
Page 45 GREENE TURTLE-NORTH 116th Street & Coastal Highway 410-723-2120 www.facebook.com/OriginalGreeneTurtle This is the Original Greene Turtle, an Ocean City Tradition, since 1976! A fun and friendly Sports Bar & Grille, where every seat is a great spot to watch sports with 50+ High Def. TVs up & downstairs! Menu favorites include homemade crab cakes, kids’ menu, salads, burgers, wings and more! Join them for weekday lunch specials 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and happy hour 3-7 p.m. Popular features are game room, gift shop, carry-out, party trays, nightly drink specials, MD Lottery-Keno, Powerball and DJs with dance floor. Something for everyone! Open 11 a.m-2 a.m., yearround. HARPOON HANNA’S RESTAURANT & BAR Rte. 54 and the bay, Fenwick Island www.harpoonhannasrestaurant.com 302-539-3095 No reservations required. Harpoon Hanna’s features a children’s menu & full bar. We are a casual waterfront restaurant serving lunch & dinner including fesh fish, seafood, steaks, sandwiches and all-you-can-eat Alaskan crab legs. Open year-round. HORIZONS OCEANFRONT RESTAURANT Located inside the Clarion Resort 101st Street, Ocean City • 410-524-3535 Horizons Oceanfront Restaurant is proud to have Chef Rob Sosnovich creating beach-inspired dishes in both our oceanfront restaurants, Horizons and Breaker’s Pub. Our new all day menu, available 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m., features many of your favorites and some exciting new creations with a local flare – from Lite Bites to Big Bites and everything in between. Our deluxe Sunday breakfast buffet is open year-round and our “famous” all-youcan-eat prime rib, crab legs and seafood buffet is available most weekends throughout the year and daily in season. The Ocean Club Nightclub features top-40 dance music every weekend and nightly this summer. We’ve added some popular local bands to our lineup, so come join us “where the big kids play!” Lenny’s Beach Bar & Grill: enjoy surf, sun and live entertainment 7 days a week on the deck, from Memorial day through Labor Day during our afternoon beach parties. Enjoy something to eat or drink from our extensive menu. Try our “Bucket of Fun”, or a fresh “Orange Crush”–two of our favorites! SMITTY MCGEE’S Rte. 54-West Fenwick Ireland 302-436-4716 • www.smittymcgees.com Smitty McGee’s is the place to be for fun. Best wings on the beach for 28 years and counting. Enjoy great food and drink specials in a casual atmosphere. Happy hour daily. Come enjoy the live entertainment Thursday and Friday. Full menu served unil 1 a.m. Banquet facilities available. Open seven days a week. We never close!
Come Join Us On Sunday
EVERY SUNDAY 8:30 a.m.: Fellowship In The He Brews Cafe
Stevenson United Methodist Church
123 North Main St., Berlin, Md. 410-641-1137 • www.stevensonchurch.org
9 a.m.: Blended Sunday Worship Service
9:30 a.m.: Children And Youth Sunday School
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The Dispatch Crossword Puzzle
AnSwerS On PAge 36
OCEAN CITY vanishing
January 4, 2019
WITH BUNK MANN
The Breakers Hotel was built circa 1904 on the southwest corner of 3rd Street and the Boardwalk and at the time was one of the northernmost hotels in Ocean City. The Breakers, like most of the hotels of the era, operated on the American Plan (meals included with room) and did so up into the early 1950s. At its peak, it boasted 52 rooms, some of which were large enough only for a bed and a chest of drawers. These rooms shared a bathroom and shower area on each floor. Bill and Julie Gibbs purchased the Breakers in 1980 and converted the front porch and lobby into the first of their popular Dough Roller restaurants. In 2003, the original building was razed to make way for a modern hotel, which Julie Gibbs decorated with bedspreads, curtains and furniture evocative of the Golden Age of Victorian Beach Hotels. Today, the new Breakers – with its attached Dough Restaurant – is a popular destination for visitors to Ocean City. Postcard photo courtesy of George Chevallier
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410-213-7144 9923 Stephen Decatur Hwy., Suite D-6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Info@OceanPointLtd.com • www.OceanPointLtd.com
January 4, 2019
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
January 4, 2019