Oct. 29

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Ocean City hosted a weekend of fun Halloween activities, organized by Special Events Productions, Inc., under the O.C.Toberfest umbrella. These photos are from Sunday including the Halloween haunted beach maze and The Great Pumpkin Race.

Photos by Chris Parypa

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OC Fire Chief Stresses No Easy Fix For Personnel Issues

Page 4

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – After receiving a rather dire message from Ocean City Fire Department Chief Richie Bowers, resort officials this week approved the transition of two part-time positions to full time to address a staffing shortage.

At this week’s Mayor and Council meeting, Bowers said some of the parttime firefighter-paramedics weren’t showing up when scheduled, putting a strain on the full-time staff. He said the situation wasn’t unique to the OCFD, but it was becoming dire.

“The Ocean City Fire Department is in a situation unparalleled that I have experienced in my career as it relates to staff,” he said. “That’s consistent with all of the departments here in Ocean City

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

and across the U.S.” Bowers said converting two positions to reliable full-time status would help resolve the reliability issue.

“That being said, we have an opportunity to really begin to be able to put boots on the ground with full-time personnel that we can count on showing up to work when they are scheduled,” he said. “One of the challenges that we are currently having with a number of our part-time personnel is whether they have a full-time position somewhere else, … they’re just not showing up.”

The result is longer shifts, often 36hours, for some of the full-time staffers in order to ensure coverage for the town.

“What that allows to happen, unfortunately, is that our full-time career staff is forced to stay over at least a shift,” he said. “They’re working predominantly

a 36-hour shift once or twice a week, which is, again, unparalleled with anything I’ve seen in my career.”

Bowers said he has consulted with City Manager Doug Miller and Budget Director Jennie Knapp and there is funding for converting two positions to fulltime.

“I am asking the city council and our budget director to transition some of the part-time staff to full-time,” he said. “In addition, we did get additional funding from Worcester County for additional positions. There were funds received in the amount of $115,000 above what was expected in the fiscal year 2022 budget.”

A few years back, resort officials battled with the Career Firefighter Paramedics Union of Ocean City, or IAFF 4269, during contract negotiations over

October 29, 2021

the elimination of the union’s preferred 24-hour shift rotation at the time. Mayor Rick Meehan said the situation now resulting in some full-timers working 36hour shifts was unacceptable. He asked if converting the two positions would alleviate that.

“As you know, a 36-hour shift is really not what we want in Ocean City,” he said. “Will this resolve that issue, or will it only be a Band-Aid?” Bowers said converting the two positions would only be a stop-gap measure.

“It will only be a Band-Aid, mayor,” he said. “We have a much deeper and broader situation that requires much more investment and dedication to get this turned around.”

Miller said he has been working with the chief and his command staff on a long-term solution to the staffing issues.

“We will be bringing you a three- to five-year plan,” he said. “We have the funding today to facilitate this first part of what will be an ongoing issue.”

Bowers reiterated, “This will help some with the immediate concerns, with an emphasis on some. I don’t want to over-inflate the word some. We have open recruitment going on right now and I know there have been some applications received.”

There was some discussion of looking within for the new full-time positions or going outside. Councilman Mark Paddack encouraged the former.

“I want to encourage the chief to hire from within,” he said. “You already know who is going to be showing up. The 36hour shift is well outside our IAFF contract discussions and we don’t want our guys working like that.”

Bowers emphasized the gravity of the current situation, and the importance of a long-term solution.

“It’s safe to say we’re going to need more full-time personnel,” he said. “We cannot continue to operate our emergency service as it is with the Ocean City Fire Department with a huge reliance on part-time personnel. We cannot do it any longer.”

Meehan asked about the root of the problem with the reliability of some of the part-timers and asked if there were potentially other solutions.

“I know we did some things this summer and I don’t know if it’s relevant here,” he said. “Is there anything we need to do to help you increase the reliability of some of the part-time employees? Is it a pay issue, or is it something else? Is it something we need to look at in conjunction with adding the full-time positions?”

Bowers responded, “I do believe a comprehensive look at it would be very helpful,” he said. “The part-time employees that we currently have that show up and are very skilled are absolutely great.

I don’t need 75 part-time employees, I need 30 to 235 reliable and skilled parttime employees.”

The council voted unanimously to approve the transition of two part-time positions to full-time.

October 29, 2021

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OC Council Moves To Officially Deny Residential Cell Towers

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FENWICK ISLAND • DE

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Resort officials denied another private-sector request to place three small-cell towers in the Montego Bay community, this time agreeing to formalize the denial by resolution.

The Mayor and Council had before them on Tuesday a request from Crown Castle to install three small-cell towers in the north Ocean City residential community. Crown Castle installs small cell towers and nodes around the resort area and contracts with wireless providers, such as Verizon and AT&T, for example, to provide hardware.

In March, the council reviewed an informal request to place three small cell towers in Montego Bay in what amounted to be a feeling-out of sorts. The council at that time denied the conceptual request. In August, Crown Castle submitted formal applications for the three tower sites in Montego Bay with a November deadline for the town to formally respond in writing, per Federal Communications Commission (FCC) guidelines.

On Tuesday, the Mayor and Council heard a presentation from City Engineer Terry McGean along with Crown Castle Government Relations Manager Carly Didden. Even before the council reached the Crown Castle agenda item, Montego Bay residents flooded the council chambers, and several spoke in opposition to the proposed small-cell towers. The community’s residents presented a petition including 978 signatures in opposition to the proposed towers.

McGean outlined the timeline for Crown Castle’s proposed deployment of the three small-cell towers in Montego Bay. “At the March 30 meeting, the council denied the request to approve the locations due to Montego Bay being a community of unique character, the importance of aesthetics to the community, no above-ground utilities in the community and the community has a 15-foot height restriction,” he said. “However, under the town code, that did not prevent Crown Castle from submitting a full application for the same or different locations.”

Over the years, resort officials have worked closely with Crown Castle on the placement of small-cell towers and nodes in other areas around the resort including along the Boardwalk However, push has come to shove, so to speak, when the company has sought to place them in residential areas. In fact, the town is currently in an active civil suit with the company over denial of a proposed placement of towers in north-end residential neighborhoods.

The FCC rules are complicated and there have been other suits filed over the placement of towers in other areas around the country. McGean explained there are strict deadlines in place for jurisdictions such as Ocean City to respond to formal applications.

“The council is now being asked to

October 29, 2021

make a final decision as to whether to approve or deny the applications,” he said.

“Absent an agreement by Crown Castle to extend the time for action, that final action should be taken by Nov. 4, and if not, the town will be presumed to have violated federal deadlines for action on applications for new small wireless facilities.”

Crown Castle and similar wireless service providers are generally allowed to place facilities within jurisdictions in order to enhance and improve wireless service in those areas. However, jurisdictions such as Ocean City reserve the right to turn down certain locations or work with providers on the aesthetics of the facilities.

Such has been the case with the Montego Bay requests. The town code limits building heights to 15 feet in the community, and the three proposed towers would each be over 30 feet tall.

“There are no existing street lights in the public right-of-way on South Ocean Drive adjacent to any of the proposed locations and lighting on private property is limited to identical six-foot coach lights,” he said. “The proposed style of the antenna post and light does not match the style of the adjacent private street lights.”

According to McGean, under federal law, a decision on a wireless application must be in writing and based on substantial evidence in a written record. Given the proposed facilities would be located in the town’s MH zoning district, applying just the town code and the Distributed Cellular Antenna System, or DAS, design standards, Crown Castle’s applications should be denied, he said.

“There are sound reasons for the limitation in the MH-zoned district,” he said.

“Among them, there are no city or utilityowned street lights or above-ground utility poles or an aerial plant near the proposed facilities. Staff believes the proposed structures and their placement are not aesthetically or architecturally compatible with the surrounding environment.”

For her part, Didder attempted to make a case for Crown Castle’s applications for Montego Bay to no avail.

“To review why this is so important, we have proposed three tall towers,” she said. “Through the process, we have gone through redesigns to limit the visual impact. If we went with shorter towers we would need more of them. We would need five instead of just three. We have to have above-ground equipment.”

Even before the Mayor and Council reached the Crown Castle agenda item, Montego Bay residents turned out in force and several spoke in opposition to the applications. One resident referenced the petition signed by nearly 1,000 residences.

“We have 978 properties that support no cell towers,” he said. “That’s 64% of the properties in Montego Bay. We predict a 20% drop in property values if they drop one of these towers in front of your property. We have the largest voting bloc in Ocean City. You might want to consider SEE NEXT PAGE

‘A Ton Of Interest’ From Agencies Seeking To Market Ocean City

October 29, 2021

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – With Ocean City getting ready to transition to a new advertising agency after 20 years, interest has been robust in the early part of the process.

Last month, a Request For Proposal (RFP) was prepared and sent out seeking bidders for the town’s advertising firm contract. Every 10 years or so, Ocean City shops out its advertising firm contract and for the last 20 years, the town has contracted with Maryland firm MGH Advertising out of Owings Mills to handle the town’s advertising campaigns.

The plot surrounding the new RFP thickened when MGH opted to not participate after working with the resort for

… Decision Comes Amid Active Civil Suit Against City

that.”

Montego Bay resident Tim Gates pointed out the distance the proposed small cell tower would be from his home.

“A cell tower would be 13 feet from my house,” he said. “The regulation is 20 feet.

That would be right next to my bedroom.

I don’t want to sleep with one of these towers just 13 feet from my bedroom. We should shelve this until we know how safe they are.”

Another Montego Bay resident, a board-certified nurse practitioner, said there are radiation concerns with the small cell towers based. Montego Bay resident Holly Donovan referenced a lawsuit ruling in Oregon in 2020. Donovan pointed out the 15-foot height restriction in Montego Bay and said 80-90% of the residents live in single- or double-wide homes.

“Today is the fifth appeal to enter our community,” she said. “Our community has to be very clear. We implore the town of Ocean City to take the advice of the consultant. We sincerely suggest you reject those tower requests and ask Crown Castle to cease and desist. It has become harassment.”

After the formal presentations and recommendations from McGean and staff, Council Secretary Tony DeLuca motioned to adopt the staff recommendations and deny the three applications for small-cell towers in Montego Bay. The motion passed unanimously. The denial will come in the form of a formal resolution, meeting the FCC requirements for denying applications in writing within certain deadlines.

That resolution will be presented at the next Mayor and Council meeting.

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20 years. During an update on the process following a recent Tourism Commission meeting, Council President and Commission Chair Matt James reported this week interest in the RFP has been robust.

“A pre-bid meeting was held with 34 people on a call for a new ad agency for Ocean City with a ton of interest,” he said on Tuesday.

With the pre-bid meeting in the books this month and the RFP process underway, the finalists will be notified in November. The commission will review the finalists and make a recommendation to the full Mayor and Council in December, and the contract will be awarded by the end of the year to the successful bidder, who will hit the ground running in the new year.

For the last 20 years, the town has contracted with MGH to handle the town’s advertising, including television, radio, print and billboard advertising campaigns, for example. The company has worked closely with town tourism officials and the leadership of organizations, such as the Chamber of Commerce and the Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association, for example, on conceptual plans for campaigns and then carries out the conceptual plans.

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Petition Targets Effluent Plan On Ocean Pines Golf Course

Page 8

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BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN PINES – A petition to stop a proposed irrigation project at the Ocean Pines Golf Course is making its way around the community.

Ocean Pines resident Grant Helvey said he has launched a petition to halt a county proposal that calls for installing a new irrigation system and spraying treated effluent at the community’s golf course.

Helvey said not only was he concerned it would take more than $3 million to implement the plan, but that the use of effluent would create an environmental hazard.

“My intent in my petition is to show a higher level of opposition,” he said.

Since last year, county officials have worked with Ocean Pines Association

(OPA) General Manager John Viola and association staff to explore the possibility of using effluent from the Ocean Pines Wastewater Treatment Plant to irrigate the golf course. They said using effluent water would not only reduce the level of nutrients entering the waterway, but reduce the use of groundwater for irrigation and free up capacity at the wastewater plant.

The proposal also includes an overhaul of the golf course’s 50-year-old irrigation system.

“The pumping station and all the equipment there, it works, but it does need a lot of maintenance,” Viola said last month. “We have done repairs there, but it’s ready to be replaced.”

Installing new pipes and sprinkler heads, officials reported, is expected to cost $2.8 million, but adding pipelines and pumps to bring the treated effluent

from the Ocean Pines Wastewater Treatment Plant to the golf course is expected to increase that total to more than $3 million.

In a joint town hall meeting last month, county officials noted that ratepayers would pay between $4 and $5 more each quarter to fund the construction costs of both the irrigation system and an unrelated filter replacement at the treatment plant. The new irrigation system would then be owned and maintained by Worcester County over the course of a 15-year bond.

Following that presentation, the OPA Board of Directors voted in September to send a letter of support endorsing the county’s plan for a new irrigation system and effluent treatment process.

“There are no contracts, no proposals at this point,” President Larry Perrone said in last month’s board meeting.

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“It’s up to the county to move forward with their plans and to move forward with putting it on their schedule and try to get the bond issue going.”

Helvey’s petition, launched last week, calls on the Worcester County Government and the OPA Board of Directors to stop plans for a new irrigation system.

He noted his concerns involved the use of effluent and its impacts on the environment and public health. He also questions the board’s authority to support the project without a referendum.

“The cost to the county would be repaid through increased water bills,” the petition reads. “The impact on human health or the natural environment have not been evaluated by the Ocean Pines Environmental and Natural Assets Committee. The Ocean Pines Board of Director’s authority to support this project exceeding $1,000,000 without a referendum is in question.”

The petition continues, “To Worcester County Commissioner and Ocean Pines Board of Directors. I am an Ocean Pines property owner or resident and I oppose the expenditure exceeding $1,000,000 (or any other amount) by the Ocean Pines Board of Directors or Worcester County government for irrigating any land area of Ocean Pines with sewer water or effluent.”

Helvey says he plans to present his petition to both the OPA Board of Directors and the Worcester County Commissioners.

“This is not about me,” he said. “This is about my view that spending $3.4 million, or anything near that, and what you accomplish with that, makes no sense to me.”

In an interview this week, Ocean Pines resident Slobodan Trendic said he was not involved in helping create the petition, but supported the idea of holding a referendum on the matter.

It should be noted that the association must hold a referendum for capital expenditures over $1 million. But as the project is not spearheaded by Ocean Pines, Trendic says it can be argued it is not necessary.

“I’m in favor of the community being asked to vote on this project because it’s so controversial,” Trendic said. “It’s not because of the cost, but it’s about being fully transparent.”

Trendic said he had sent an email to the board and general manager last month saying as much.

“The County indicated it intends to fully recover all project costs by assessing OPA homeowners extra charge on the quarterly bills,” the email reads. “By choosing to support their proposal you don't have to ask the membership to approve via referendum this multimillion dollar capital expenditure. Setting aside the above point have you actually done your own due diligence on this topic?

Have you taken into account the longterm impact your decision will have on the OPA community? Do the right thing and ask the entire community to vote on the County's proposal via a referendum.”

Events Eyed For Pop-Up Weekend

October 29, 2021

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A series of special events to potentially help offset the unsanctioned pop-up event next September while raising funds for local law enforcement and emergency services agencies were presented this week.

The Mayor and Council had before them on Tuesday a presentation for a series of special events proposed for the week of Sept. 19-25 next fall, overlapping with the often-troublesome unsanctioned pop-up event. Cliff Southerland, who has produced motorcycle events in Ocean City and in his native West Virginia, pitched the concept to the Mayor and Council for a series of special events in conjunction with the Hogs and Heroes Foundation, which supports public safety and U.S. military organizations.

Southerland, who owns a Harley Davidson dealership and a Greene Turtle restaurant in in Morgantown, W.Va., has produced successful motorcycle rallies in Ocean City in the past and is hoping to build on that past success with his proposed series of events.

“We approached the city about managing an event,” he said. “It was very successful. Hogs and Heroes run our security. The beauty of them doing that is they are military and police. We had a great relationship when we had an event here.”

Southerland said the concept came to

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 9

him when he received notice from the town to avoid coming to Ocean City during the unsanctioned pop-up event in late September.

“I, like many others, received a notice not to come to Ocean City during a recent unsanctioned event,” he said. “What can we do to create a mature, older demographic event that may help during that unsanctioned event? We came up with an event that’s really a series of different events throughout that entire week.”

Southerland said the series of events called the Ocean City Adventure Fest, would largely take place in and around the convention center. It would include police K-9 competition along with training, a police motorcycle rodeo in the parking lot, concerts at the Performing Arts Center and an autumn hunting and fishing expo including a gun show.

“This would be a regional event that would bring in a lot of police and military personnel during that week,” he said.

“The police tend to wear uniforms when they’re on their bikes. We expect maybe 1,000 in year one, all riding through town in uniform.”

Southerland said through Hogs and Heroes, the hope was to create a foundation to provide proceeds from the event to local law enforcement agencies.

“We’re looking to create a lot of revenue for the non-profits,” he said. “We know for a fact there will be 3,000 room SEE PAGE 10

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FROM PAGE 9 nights in the first year, and maybe as many as 5,000.”

The hunting and fishing expo would include a gun show element, although strict rules would be in place and enforced and no one would walk in and be able to immediately purchase a gun.

“We’re looking to create a hunting and fishing expo with a gun show,” he said.

“Although we wouldn’t call it a gun show necessarily. Nobody would walk into the event and walk out with a gun. There are strict rules in place for that.”

Hogs and Heroes President Andrew Mutchler said the intent is to offset some

of the challenges created by the pop-up event while raising funds for the organization’s charities, including law enforcement and the military.

“What we want to do is reserve that block of time and preserve it for the residents and law-abiding visitors,” he said.

“It’s estimated Ocean City loses $5 million to $8 million in revenue during that unsanctioned event. This year you get a little respite, but it’s uncertain what will happen in the out years.”

Mutchler said the added benefit of hosting the event for law enforcement officers and military during the last week of September would be hundreds of uni-

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formed officers on the streets in marked vehicles.

“You could have 300 minimum uniformed police officers in marked vehicles here at no charge,” he said. “This is a sustainable, yearly event and it could offset some of the antics during that weekend. One of the best deterrents of street crime is high visibility. It would be helpful for the city, and turn a negative revenue situation into a positive revenue situation.”

Mutchler said the emphasis, however, would be on the Hogs and Heroes’ charitable endeavors, including portions of the proceeds donated to law emergency services organizations. He said Hogs and Heroes cannot donate money directly to governmental entities without passing it through a foundation.

“We want to create a foundation for police in Ocean City, Worcester County, Wicomico, Ocean Pines, the Ocean City Fire Department and EMS and the beach patrol,” he said. “We raise money to give it away. Our two-prong approach is for military and public safety.”

Councilman John Gehrig said bringing in offseason special events to help offset the unsanctioned pop-up event has been a stated goal for the resort.

“We’re talking about ways to bring in other events,” he said. “There are a lot of details to work out. We don’t have enough information yet, but we can certainly give you some direction.”

Gehrig said he liked the hunting and

October 29, 2021

fishing expo concept, but wanted more information on the gun show concept. Allowing a gun show at the convention center during the larger event would require a conditional use approved by the council, and at this point, there are more questions than answers.

“I think it should be called a hunting and fishing expo and not calling it a gun show,” he said. “I would prefer we get some more details, but I don’t want to exclude anything on its face.”

Mayor Rick Meehan agreed.

“You’ve said we were going to do a hunting and fishing expo with a gun show attached,” he said. “Everything else associated with this is beneficial. We’re trying to take control of our own destiny.

That is our goal. There’s a lot of good surrounding this, but I have some reservations about the gun show element.”

Mutchler explained no guns would change hands at the expo and gun show.

Buyers could make purchases with the appropriate waiting times applied and would later complete the purchase at an authorized dealer after considerable vetting.

Councilman Mark Paddack made a motion to remand the special event presentation to staff and legal counsel for review. That motion passed unanimously.

The concept now joins another proposed event – a three-day musical festival from promoters C3 Presents – as possible events to coincide with the popup weekend.

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Berlin To Begin Heron Park RFP Process The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Town officials approved a request for proposals for the disposition and development of two parcels at Heron Park.

On Monday, the Berlin Town Council voted 4-0 to approve a request for proposals (RFP) regarding parcels 57 and 410.

The RFP will be posted Nov. 1.

Officials have been considering the sale of portions of Heron Park since early 2021. The 60-acre property, a former chicken processing plant, was purchased by the town for $2.5 million in 2016. Officials hosted a listening session in March to gauge public interest in selling two parcels that are part of the park property. The parcels that could be sold include parcel 57 (the southwest portion of the property off Old Ocean City Boulevard, adjacent to

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the railroad tracks and including most of the old poultry processing buildings) and parcel 410 (a 10-acre rectangular portion of the property that runs behind Cropper & Sons and includes outbuildings and open space). When an interested purchaser had an appraisal of parcel 410 done, it was valued at $770,000. An appraisal of parcel 57, with its deteriorating buildings, valued it at about $100,000.

For the past several weeks, elected officials have been developing an RFP that would give various entities a chance to submit proposals to buy one or both of the parcels.

After a few minor tweaks Monday night, the council approved the RFP, which will be posted Nov. 1. A pre-proposal meeting is set for Nov. 15, along with site tours.

“The site tours would be open to people that are interested in bidding on either parcel 57 and/or parcel 410,” Mayor Zack

October 29, 2021

Tyndall said. “It’s not a general tour.”

RFPs will be accepted until mid-February, as Tyndall said that would give the town time to demolish the dilapidated building on parcel 57 if it receives the strategic demolition grant it’s applied for.

In addition to seeking RFPs regarding Heron Park, the town is also set to meet with Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) officials at the property on Oct. 29.

“Sec. Haddaway-Riccio is coming to the Eastern Shore for a couple site visits and reached out to the mayor’s office about a possible stop in Berlin,” Tyndall said this week. “I proposed a site visit to Heron Park so Secretary Haddaway-Riccio could see the passive use portion of the park firsthand. Despite Program Open Space Stateside not being a fit, I believe other partnerships with DNR may be possible in the near future.

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Board Appointment Process Questioned

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

FENWICK ISLAND – Disagreements over board appointments highlighted a recent town council meeting.

Last Friday, the Fenwick Island Town Council voted unanimously to confirm five new members – Ed Bishop, Liz Lear, Marlene Quinn, Bob Warburton and Paul Wilson – to the Fenwick Island Board of Adjustment, a group of residents that hears appeals covering the interpretation or administration of the town’s zoning code.

But before a vote could be taken, former board chair Tim Collins came before the council seeking an explanation of the appointments.

“I was, and I assumed up until this meeting was still, chairman of the board of adjustment,” he said. “I’m now seeing I’m not, which is the reason I’m here.”

Collins noted that Mayor Vicki Carmean opened applications for board vacancies at the new council’s first meeting in August. While he noted there was one vacancy on the board, Collins said he and the remaining board members were surprised to learn they had been replaced.

“There’s a lot of talk about transparency,” he said. “We have a new administration. I want to see Fenwick do the best they can. We talk about reaching out, about having experienced people in these positions. You had people in these

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positions. You threw them in the garbage.”

Carmean explained applications were taken to fill board seats after it was learned the prior town council had failed to vote on any board appointments. While the mayor can appoint people to the board, she noted Delaware Code Title 22 required the council to confirm appointments by majority vote.

“Evidently Fenwick has not done this in the past, and I cannot go back into the past,” she said. “I have to do what’s right for this town. I cannot put you in jeopardy, legally, so we have to go according to what Title 22 defines.”

Collins, however, took issue with the timing of the council’s decision.

“I’m not in a position to comment on the validity of the code, but it’s really the process of what happened and the timing,” he said.

He also questioned the mayor’s intentions, stating that officials had combed through years of town minutes to see if appointments had been confirmed.

“Somebody said, ‘We don’t want these four people in these positions.

How do we get rid of them?’” he said.

“And you figured out a way to do it.”

Councilwoman Natalie Magdeburger thanked Collins for his service, but noted the town had to follow state code.

“The board of adjustment, the planning commission, the board of elections, those are state boards where we have to follow state law when we are both appointing them and confirming them. If we don’t there are ramifications that are not positive for the town …,” she said. “I think we are doing the right thing and we are doing it for the right reasons.”

Collins questioned what prompted the mayor to research board appointment procedures, and when that took place.

“The first time I started to look at the Delaware Code was when Pat Schuchman [town manager] handed me the regulations,” Carmean replied. “Title 22 explained what I needed to do in order to fill the board … It’s my prerogative as mayor to fill the board with people who applied.”

Carmean also noted she did not receive Collins initial emails stating his concerns with the appointment process, but had subsequently sent him an application encouraging him to reapply to the board of adjustment.

Collins, however, continued to disagree with the mayor and council’s actions.

“It’s a charade,” he said. “It’s not transparent.”

With no further discussion, the council voted unanimously to confirm the five new members of the board of adjustment. The council last week also voted to confirm Faye Horner, Amy Kyle, Winnie Lewis, Magdeburger, Julie Lee, Rich Robinson and Lois Twilley as members of the Fenwick Island Comprehensive Planning Commission, and Colleen Wilson, Lynn Andrews and Lisa Benn as members of the Fenwick Island Board of Elections for 2022.

Berlin Councilman Recovering After Accident, Surgery

October 29, 2021

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Berlin Councilman Jay Knerr is recovering at home following a motorcycle accident in Girdletree last week.

Knerr, who was elected last year to the council and owns the Kite Loft in Ocean City, was on a motorcycle ride with family Oct. 18 when he struck a pedestrian walking in the road in Girdletree.

The pedestrian and Knerr were both flown to Shock Trauma. Knerr had surgery Monday to insert screws and plates in his injured leg.

“Surgery went well,” he said this week.

“They want me to slowly start working the knee as much as I can, follow up with doctor in one week then start scheduled physical therapy. I am recovering nicely at home.”

Knerr said he was on a motorcycle ride along the backroads of Worcester County last Monday with his brother and cousin. They were on Taylor Landing Road in Girdletree when Knerr spotted a man walking in JAY KNERR the road up ahead.

“I slowed down to about 20,” Knerr said. “He continued walking down the road. I moved over to the far right, I gave him plenty of room. I was just going to scoot around him. At the very last minute without even turning around he just bolted right in front of me. There wasn’t any time to react.”

During the collision Knerr landed on his left leg and said he felt it break. Emergency responders arrived and called for aviation to fly both Knerr and the pedestrian to Shock Trauma.

“The Snow Hill EMTs did a fantastic job,” Knerr said. “I can’t speak highly enough of the care we have in Worcester County.”

Knerr was released from Shock Trauma last week with an external brace to get the swelling in his leg down so surgery could be performed on Monday. He said as far as he knew the 72-year-old pedestrian, who has a broken back, broken neck and punctured lung, was still at Shock Trauma.

“I hope he makes a full recovery,” Knerr said.

With surgery on Monday, Knerr wasn’t able to attend this week’s council meeting but is keeping up with municipal issues from home. He is grateful for all the support he’s received so far during his recovery.

“I’ve had hundreds of calls,” he said.

“I appreciated each and every one.”

He said the kindness of the community was inspiring.

“So many people have helped,” he said. “It’s amazing.”

According to the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, the accident remains under investigation.

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BFC Seeks Relief Funds For Equipment, Field Paving

Page 16

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

The Berlin Fire Company is hoping to transform the grassy field along Harrison Avenue into a paved parking lot.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

BERLIN – The Berlin Fire Company is seeking funding from the town for firefighting equipment, ambulance replacement and paving its overflow parking area, among other items.

Berlin Fire Company (BFC) officials told the Berlin Town Council Monday they were hoping the town would support the organization with some of its American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. The money could help purchase firefighting equipment, aid in EMS costs and fund the paving of the grassy field currently used for overflow parking.

“We would blacktop it so that way it could be open no matter what the weather permitted when there’s town events or events at the fire company,” BFC Presi-

October 29, 2021

dent David Fitzgerald said.

During the BFC’s quarterly update to the council, Fitzgerald said that at Mayor Zack Tyndall’s request, the fire company would be making some ARPA requests.

While Fire Chief R.J. Rhode talked about the need to replace breathing apparatus, a $225,000 expense, Fitzgerald brought up the issue of paving the twoacre grass lot behind the fire house. In recent months, the BFC has opened the parking area to the public during town events in exchange for donations.

“If we have any rains prior to an event we cannot open that,” he said. “That would mean tow trucks coming. One of the things, looking into ARPA funds, was infrastructure, economic development, things like that, so that was an idea we shared with our membership and got their permission to add to this request.”

He said the BFC had reached out to Davis, Bowen & Friedel Inc. for an estimate on the cost of paving the lot.

“There is one little caveat, an 18-foot wide piece by 220 feet long that we don’t own,” he said. “The county commissioners have given their preliminary approval to deed that over to us. That actually belongs to the property that the library has … They have no objection at this point to deeding that over to us.”

Tyndall asked if the fire company would consider letting the public use the lot once it was paved.

Fitzgerald said that was something the BFC would have to discuss. He said the fire company would likely continue to offer parking during town events in exchange for donations.

“If we pave it, we’re going to have upkeep and maintenance,” he said. “That would help us generate some sort of small revenue.”

Town Administrator Jeff Fleetwood asked if the fire company’s main parking lot was typically full.

“We do not have enough space,” Fitzgerald said.

He said the fire hall held 336 people and had slightly more than 50 parking spaces. He said the conference center — the old library — had about 20 spaces.

As far as EMS operations, the fire company’s report listed cardiac monitors ($40,000), an event response vehicle ($40,000), ambulance replacements ($470,000) and additional EMT night staffing ($80,000) as ARPA requests.

Fitzgerald said that while an extra $115,000 from Worcester County had helped with EMS staffing, overnight the fire company still only had one crew on duty. He said the county wanted the department to have two crews on duty 24/7.

“We have more simultaneous calls than any of us can remember,” Fitzgerald said. “We just attribute that to growth and development and traffic through the whole county not just Berlin.”

The special event response vehicle, similar to the ATVs used at football games, has been discussed previously as a way to respond to medical emerSEE NEXT PAGE

Man Died After Fall In Ocean City

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 17

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OCEAN CITY – There are still more questions than answers surrounding the discovery of a dead body in the parking lot of a mid-town hotel in September, but the investigation remains open and the Medical Examiner has completed an autopsy.

A concerned citizen contacted the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) on Sept. 20 after discovering an unconscious male outside in the parking lot of a hotel on 60th Street.

After evaluation, paramedics pronounced the victim deceased at the scene. The victim was identified later that week as Nathanael Stroup, 42, of Hyattsville, Md. OCPD detectives from the Criminal Investigation Division responded to the scene and initiated an investigation that has remained open for over a month.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner transported the deceased body from the scene for an autopsy to determine the cause of death. According to a reliable source, OCPD detectives collected video surveillance footage from the hotel where the deceased was discovered and from surrounding businesses in the area.

Last Thursday, the OCPD issued a statement updating the investigation and the findings of the Medical Examiner through Communications and Marketing Director Jessica Waters.

“The investigation into the unattended death that occurred on September 20 is still open,” the statement reads.

“The medical examiner ruled the manner of death as ‘multiple injuries from a fall,’ and the cause of death as undetermined.”

… Larger Parking Lot Eyed For BFC

gencies during Berlin events when the streets are crowded and blocked off.

“We’d be transporting you back to the fire station to get you into a regular ambulance,” Fitzgerald said.

Councilman Jack Orris asked if the COVID relief funding the fire company had already received could be used for the utility vehicle. Fitzgerald said the BFC had received $22,000 but hadn’t received approval to spend the money yet.

The funds will not be used to buy a vehicle, however.

“They were used to balance this year’s budget,” Fitzgerald said.

Tyndall asked that the fire company submit a formal ARPA funding request denoting exactly what the BFC was seeking from the town, as Fitzgerald said the organization was presenting ARPA requests to both the municipality and Worcester County.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Berlin Favoring Well Replacement

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

$5.1M In Grants Awarded:

The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore has announced a total of $5.1 million in charitable grants for the 2021 fiscal year. The funds were awarded through more than 1,664 grants supporting various community needs across the Lower Eastern Shore as well as more than 400 scholarships totaling $542,000. The foundation has made $94 million in grants to the community since 1984. Pictured, from left, are foundation executive committee board members Todd Hershey, Jim Thomas, Mike Truitt, Dr. Carolyn Johnston, Duke Marshall and Velda Henry.

Submitted Photo

BERLIN – The town is moving forward with replacement of a well on Branch Street.

With the recent news that one of the town’s three wells failed, officials this week began discussing the need to replace it. They’re also considering plans for a new well on the north side of town.

“In an effort to not end up in this position again I think it’s a very good idea that we also pursue that fourth well,” Mayor Zack Tyndall said.

Town Administrator Jeff Fleetwood told the council Monday that following the failure of one of the town’s three wells, he’d consulted with engineers regarding the potential for grants to help with replacement.

“Grant funding is available but there’s about a 12-18 month lag time before we can get that money,” he said.

As a result, he said Davis, Bowen & Friedel recommended that the town replace the offline well now, at an estimated cost of $350,000, and begin planning and seeking grant funding for a fourth well. Fleetwood said that well should be located on the north side of town, as there wasn’t yet one in that area and because it could help accommodate growth.

Tyndall said he thought a fourth well was needed considering the town’s other wells dated to the 1940s. Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols asked about the cost of a new well.

According to Jamey Latchum, stormwater and wastewater superintendent, a new well would involve constructing a building, drilling and connecting the well to the system.

“It could be upwards of a million dollars,” Latchum said.

In response to concerns about the condition of the two wells that were still functioning, Latchum said they’d just been serviced and were in good shape.

“I feel we’re in comfortable standing on (wells) one and two right now I just don’t want to be too long waiting on three,” he said.

Fleetwood added that the town operated on slightly more than 400,000 gallons of water per day. One of the working wells produces 1.5 million gallons per day while the other produces 350,000 to 400,000 gallons per day.

Tyndall said the recommendation was to use the town’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for the well replacement since the water fund couldn’t accommodate the expense.

“The fund is not suitable for really borrowing at this time,” he said. “There is no reserve built up within that fund either.

When projects like this come forward there’s really very little option other than the ARPA money right now, or borrowing from the town’s reserves.”

With consensus to move forward, the council is expected to formally vote on the well replacement next month.

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

No Brotherly Love OCEAN CITY – Two Philadelphia brothers were arrested last weekend after allegedly tackling a man on the beach following an incident near 49th Street.

Around 1:20 a.m. last Saturday, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers were dispatched to the area of 49th Street in reference to a disorderly group of people. While officers were arriving at the scene, Ocean City Communications advised there were two males involved in the incident walking north on Coastal Highway.

OCPD officers located one of the males, who was reportedly talking on his phone. The male could be overheard telling someone over the phone he had been punched in the face and had gotten out of the area, according to police reports.

While the officers were talking with the male victim, two other men, later identified as Neil Horner, 32, of Philadelphia, and Patrick Horner, 28, of Philadelphia,

COPS & COURTS ran toward the male victim, according to police reports. When the victim saw the two Horner brothers running toward him, he fled toward the beach.

While the officer was observing, Neil and Patrick Horner tackled the victim to the ground. The victim could not lift his face out of the sand because Patrick Horner was holding his face down. Meanwhile, Neil Horner was pinning the victim’s torso and legs to the ground, according to police reports.

The officer ordered Neil and Patrick Horner off the victim and the three men separated. Neil Horner and Patrick Hor-

ner advised the victim was the friend of another man who had assaulted Neil Horner, and police observed dried blood on Neil Horner’s face, according to police reports.

Neil Horner and Patrick Horner were each arrested and charged with seconddegree assault and affray. The victim was also detained as OCPD officers attempted to investigate what had happened leading up to the incident.

Mother, Son Arrested OCEAN CITY – A mother and son were arrested last weekend on various

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charges after allegedly causing a ruckus at a downtown hotel.

Around 9:15 p.m. last Friday, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers responded to a hotel at 25th Street for a welfare check. OCPD officers met with a man, identified a Brandon Falcone, 21, of Mount Airey, Md., who claimed he had been assaulted. Falcone was bleeding from his mouth and had multiple scrapes on his body and was being treated by Ocean City EMS, according to police reports.

Falcone advised his mother, later identified as Celeste Balsam, 50, of Mount Airey, was with him in Ocean City, according to police reports. It was learned a Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) officer had been dispatched to Old Bridge Road in West Ocean City for a report of an intoxicated male, later identified as Falcone, shedding his clothing, according to police reports.

About a half an hour later, Ocean City EMS was dispatched to the hotel at 25th Street for a report that Falcone was on his bicycle and had fallen. OCPD officers responded and found Falcone shirtless and in an intoxicated state and bleeding from his face. Falcone was reportedly screaming at hotel guests, the EMTs trying to treat him and the OCPD officers that had just arrived while threatening to fight them and spit blood on them, according to police reports.

Falcone admitted to riding the bicycle, which he stole from an unknown owner, according to police reports. The NRP officer who had first encountered Falcone in West Ocean City reported he never saw him with a bicycle. Falcone said he taken the bicycle from the area of 23rd Street after taking an Uber from West Ocean City, according to police reports.

Meanwhile, he continued his expletive-laced tirade toward the officers, according to police reports. He was ultimately arrested for driving while intoxicated on a bicycle, disorderly conduct, theft of the bicycle and failure to obey a lawful order among other counts.

A short time later, Balsam arrived at the scene and began yelling and asking what had happened to her son. OCPD officers advised Balsam that Falcone had claimed to have been assaulted and an investigation was underway, according to police reports.

Balsam reportedly disregarded the officers’ comments and took her phone out and began taking pictures of Falcone’s injuries.

Balsam was reportedly highly intoxicated and slurred her words as she screamed at officers regarding what had happened to her son. She was advised to lower her voice because she was becoming disorderly. Meanwhile, numerous occupants of the hotel came out of their rooms because of the commotion Balsam was creating, according to police reports.

Balsam refused to lower her voice and began recording the incident with her phone, according to police reports. Balsam was ultimately arrested for resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.

Drugs, Weapon Bust After OC Traffic Stop OCEAN CITY – A Bowie, Md., man was arrested last weekend after claiming ownSEE NEXT PAGE

October 29, 2021

... COPS & COURTS ership of crack cocaine and suboxone during a traffic stop.

Around 3:20 a.m. last Friday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer patrolling in the downtown area observed a vehicle with its rear license plate obscured and not illuminated. The officer ultimately pulled the vehicle over on Route 50 at Inlet Isle Lane. The officer identified the front seat passenger as Thomas Hawkins, 43, of Bowie, Md. In the vehicle was the driver and another man in a rear passenger seat. The officer observed fishing rods and tackle in the vehicle, and Hawkins reportedly told police the men had been fishing near the bridge. According to police reports, the officer detected the odor of burnt marijuana coming from the vehicle. That resulted in a probable cause search of the vehicle.

In the vehicle, OCPD officers reportedly located a fixed-blade knife in a black sheath, a yellow and clear smoking device with marijuana residue, 19 blue and white packages labeled Suboxone, 14 small plastic bags containing suspected crack cocaine, all within arm’s reach of the front passenger seat where Hawkins was located during the traffic stop.

Each of the vehicle’s occupants were detained and interviewed. Hawkins reportedly told police all of the crack cocaine and suboxone found in the vehicle belonged to him. When asked if he was selling the narcotics, Hawkins said he sometimes sells crack cocaine to make

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch money to purchase other narcotics for his personal use, according to police reports.

Hawkins had claimed ownership of the crack cocaine and the suboxone and that he had brought the narcotics to Ocean City for a one-night fishing trip, according to police reports. Because the amount of narcotics to which Hawkins claimed ownership was sufficient to indicate he was dealing, Hawkins was arrested and charged with possession of controlled dangerous substances with intent to distribute and possession of a deadly weapon.

Boardwalk Theft Attempt OCEAN CITY – A Pennsylvania man was arrested last week after allegedly attempting to steal a bag from another man on the Boardwalk.

Around 12:40 p.m. last Wednesday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer was dispatched to the area of Talbot Street and Baltimore Avenue for a reported malicious destruction of property. Ocean City Communications provided a description of the suspect and advised he would be carrying a light blue backpack.

The OCPD officer arrived in the area and located the suspect, identified as Mark White, 40, of Lancaster, Pa. When White observed the officers’ vehicle, he reportedly made a quick and deliberate turn and walked north through the Worcester Street parking lot and crossed Philadelphia Avenue.

OCPD officers eventually stopped White and had him sit on a curb. White asked why he was being detained and he was reportedly told he matched the description of a suspect involved in a de-

struction of property case on the Boardwalk. White said, “That’s not what happened,” according to police reports.

At first, White told police he was on his way to work and had come from the Inlet.

He then changed his story and told officers he had just gotten off a city bus and had not been at the Inlet all day. White denied speaking to anyone on the Boardwalk and gave officers permission to search his backpack, according to police reports.

It was determined White was wanted on an outstanding warrant from Pennsylvania and he was arrested. OCPD officers met with the alleged victim, who reportedly told police he had tied his property to a pole on the Boardwalk and that he had watched White cut a strap on

Page 23 a bag he had purchased for $7 with a knife or a razorblade.

White had been found with a knife on his person. The victim told police White had cut the strap on the bag and attempted to run away. However, White had not cut a second strap and could not steal the bag. When the victim confronted White, he fled the area, which is when the victim called the police. The victim was brought over and positively identified White as the suspect who had damaged his property.

OCPD officers viewed City Watch surveillance footage and observed White using a sawing motion to cut the strap of the victim’s bag, according to police reports. White was arrested and charged with theft and malicious destruction of

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DNR Clarifies Crab Pots Permitted In Ocean Pines Canals

Page 24

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

Agency Issues Guidance In Statement

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

A marked crab pot is pictured in an Ocean Pines canal.

Submitted Photo

OCEAN PINES – Both commercial and private crab pots are permitted in Ocean Pines canals, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Citing recent complaints involving pots in the community’s canals, association officials say they reached out to DNR for guidance.

“We’ve gotten several complaints regarding the pots,” Ocean Pines Association President Larry Perrone said.

“Apparently, they aren’t crab pots, but

eel traps. They are in the canals and there are a lot of them. … We have followed up with DNR, and they are allowed to put them out as long as they aren’t touching the bulkheads or pilings and are in at least four feet of water at mean low tide.”

In a statement issued this week, a spokesperson for DNR stated crab pots, both commercial and private, are permitted in Ocean Pines canals. The only restrictions for crab pots, generally recognizable in the water because of their bright orange floats, are in the Yacht Club Marina area.

“Commercial watermen are allowed to fish in tidal waters,” DNR’s regulation unit said in a statement this week.

“So, aside from those channels, water less than four feet at mean low tide, and upstream of these non-tidal lines, they can use crab pots” in Worcester and Wicomico counties, the Pocomoke River bridge on Whiton Crossing three miles south of Powellville, the Wicomico River from Isabella Street in Salisbury, the Beaverdam Creek dam just upstream of U.S. Route 13, Nassawango Creek from Furnace Road, and Barren Creek from the U.S. Route 50 Bridge.

“Anyone who owns waterfront property (or their tenant/guest) can set their two pots (maximum of two pots per property) in the Ocean Pines canals, as well as the commercial guys, because there is nothing preventing anyone from doing that now,” the spokesperson said.

According to DNR, one caveat for placing a crab pot is that the person placing the pot(s) must own the waterfront.

“If the waterfront is owned by the HOA, the adjacent property owner/tenant/guest cannot set pots,” the spokesperson said.

Additionally, the water must be at least four feet deep at mean low tide.

“As far as nonresidents – if they're property owners/tenants/guests on a waterfront property, they'd be able to set pots just the same as residents,” the spokesperson said.

DNR states the closest “crab pot free areas” that do not allow crab pots are: the Isle of Wight Bay – Eastern Channel, 50 yards channelward of a line southward from day marker "13", C "11", R N "10", G C "9", R N "8", G C "7", R N "6", C "5", C "3", R N "2", C "1", Fl. R 4 § 14 ft. 3M "2", G "1A" to U.S. Route 50 Bridge; Isle Of Wight Bay – Western Channel, 50 yards channelward of a line southward from Fl. R 2.5 § "14", R N "12", R N "10", R N "8", R N "6", C "1"; and Isle Of Wight Bay – 100 feet channelward of a line from Ocean Pines Yacht Club easterly to Fl. R 2 § 6 ft. "4", Fl. G 2 § 6 ft. "3", Fl. 2 § 6 ft. "2".

For more information, contact info@oceanpines.org.

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Replenishment Working North To South

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – The latest beach replenishment project in Ocean City got underway this month with work beginning at the north end of town heading south.

The familiar heavy equipment, pipes and offshore equipment seen for decades around the resort about every four years began showing up last week at the north end of Ocean City’s beaches. The staging area is set at 145th Street, and the beaches were closed from 145th Street to 146th Street Monday.

The city’s website provides daily updates on closure areas and the progress of the beach replenishment project. The project is working from north to south and when it is completed, the beaches and the dune network will be renourished from the Delaware line to the north end of the Boardwalk at 27th Street. The project is expected to be completed by the end of the calendar year.

Deliveries of equipment began last week at the staging area at 145th Street. As a result, parking at the street end at 145th Street has been removed and the northbound right lane on Coastal Highway will be closed from 142nd Street to 146th Street during the period deliveries to the beach replenishment project are being made,

which is expected to be around two weeks.

Ocean City’s beaches are replenished every four years, or occasionally more frequently if the beaches are severely damaged and eroded during hurricanes or coastal storms. The resort’s beaches have been replenished five times since the inception of the Atlantic Coast of Maryland Shoreline Protection Project.

Beach replenishment began in Ocean City in 1994 through a 50-year agreement with the town, Worcester County and the state of Maryland partnering with the federal Army Corps of Engineers (ACE), which provides over 50 percent of the funding for the massive undertaking. The overall project includes a wider, elevated beach, a protective sea wall along the Boardwalk and a vegetated dune system from the end of the Boardwalk to the Delaware state line.

In March, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), the ACE and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced an agreement to source sand from the outer continental shelf for this year’s beach replenishment project. Sand for the project will be sourced from the Weaver Shoal about seven miles off the coast of Ocean City. Sand usually sourced from borrow areas in state waters has been depleted from previous replenishment projects.

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Fenwick expects lawsuit over hotel process nearing end

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

FENWICK ISLAND – Officials say a lawsuit against the town has reached an end.

In a council meeting late last week, Mayor Vicki Carmean announced the end of a lawsuit against the Town of Fenwick Island.

“While it’s not officially ended, and we don’t have the paperwork, it is my understanding it is in the process of being resolved,” she said. “I will update the public once it is. I think it’s the end of that chapter.”

In August of 2020, 17 plaintiffs – including the now-Councilwoman Jacque Napolitano – filed a petition for writ of mandamus in Delaware Superior Court demanding the Town of Fenwick Island address alleged zoning violations at the Fenwick Shores hotel.

In 2018, developer Spiro Buas demolished the aging Sands Motel on Coastal Highway and began building a new Tapestry brand hotel in its place. The Fenwick Shores, which features 65 rooms, also includes a second-floor pool deck with an outdoor bar. As part of the development process, Buas applied with the state’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Com-

What a pumpkin: This costumed youngster turned a lot of heads out of cuteness at last weekend’s O.C.Toberfest activities on the beach and Boardwalk in Ocean City.

missioner (ABCC) for a hotel liquor license. The application also sought a patio permit and variance to permit live entertainment, external speakers, a paging system and a wet bar on the secondfloor patio of his property.

Since that time, however, several

property owners have voiced their objections to his request and argued the town code did not allow for an outdoor bar.

The plaintiffs also took issue with a letter the town sent to the ABCC, in which it took no position on the liquor license application.

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“Fenwick has failed to enforce the Code by permitting the Sands Hotel: (a) to have a bar, (b) to have a bar not connected to a restaurant, (c) to have a bar area in any outside service area, (d) to have an outside service area more than three feet above ground level, (e) to have music or entertainment on an outdoor deck on the top floor of the hotel, and (f) to have a large outdoor deck bar and entertainment area on the top floor of the hotel …,” their petition reads. “The foregoing are violations of the Fenwick Code and violations of Fenwick’s duty to enforce the Code.”

In March, a motion to dismiss the case was denied, allowing the petition to move forward. According to court records, a two-day jury trial had been scheduled for October 2022.

FOIA Request Answered The town council last week also issued its public response to a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request filed by resident Andre Collins.

On Sept. 29, Collins issued a FOIA request seeking information on the amount of money the town had spent defending the lawsuit.

“Also the amount the town council anticipates spending to continue defending this suit, and the amount the council can expect to pay the plaintiffs in the event they are successful in their suit,” the request reads.

In last week’s council meeting, Councilwoman Natalie Magdeburger said she had issued a written response to Collins.

She noted that while the town’s former solicitor had been paid approximately $5,900 defending the suit, she did not expect the town to incur any more legal fees relating to the petition.

“I also advised that the town did not expect to pay any damages …,” she added. “A writ of mandamus is a specific legal action. It’s not seeking monetary damages, it’s seeking actual direction and decision making.”

Fenwick Island Council Promotes Building Official To Town Manager

October 29, 2021

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

FENWICK ISLAND – The Fenwick Island Town Council has hired Pat Schuchman as the new town manager.

In a unanimous vote last Friday, the town council appointed Schuchman, a long-time town employee, as the next Fenwick Island town manager.

“This individual probably doesn’t need an introduction, but I’m very pleased on behalf of this council – and I believe I speak for every single one of us – that we have named Pat Schuchman as the new town manager of Fenwick Island,” said Councilwoman Natalie Magdeburger, a member of the town’s search committee.

Schuchman began working for Fenwick Island in 1997. Starting as a secretary, she worked her way up through the ranks to become the town’s building official, interpreting and enforcing the town’s building and zoning regulations and reviewing permit applications.

Magdeburger said Schuchman was one of more than 20 individuals from five different states to apply for the town manager position.

“A lot of them had salary requirements that clearly were beyond anything that our town could justify,” she said. “They were very talented. There were MBAs, PhDs and people who have been town managers in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. And towards the end of that search process, we got a really neat application. As soon as we saw it, we got really excited because it sort of epitomized exactly what we were looking to have in Fenwick.”

Magdeburger noted that Schuchman had 45 years of experience in administration and 25 years of experience in municipal government. She noted Schuchman’s strong work ethic and relationships with residents, business owners and state and federal agencies would serve the town well in her role as the new town manager.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

“Most importantly, this candidate knew Fenwick,” Magdeburger said.

“This candidate knew our character and, dare I say it, the characters we have here in Fenwick. When we presented this candidate for selection, it was a unanimous choice on behalf of the council.”

For her part, Schuchman said she is honored to serve as the new town manager. She also acknowledged her family and coworkers for their support.

“I would like to thank the mayor and town council for this opportunity,” she said. “It is my privilege to serve as your new town manager. We have a great town staff here. Together, we are going to offer and provide the level of service that you’ve come to expect from your town employees.”

The council last week also voted to appoint Raelene Menominee, the town clerk, as the new town administrator.

“In reorganizing, we also realized we needed to take another look at the town clerk’s position,” Mayor Vicki Carmean said, “and we have decided to change that to a town administrator’s position.”

Magdeburger said Menominee had taken on more responsibilities in the last year and would use her knowledge and expertise to serve as the town’s new administrator.

“We couldn’t be more pleased, and we see she does her job as a town clerk very well. But we want to challenge her, and I think she’s very much up to the challenge …,” she said. “She’ll be working with Pat a great deal, and Pat is going to impart all the knowledge that she has collected in the last 25 years.”

The council last week also introduced Erin Ellinger as the town’s new police clerk and voted unanimously to extend the position from part time to full time.

“I’m so pleased, and I think the council is so pleased, that she would be the right one to do it on a full-time basis and is willing to do so,” Magdeburger said.

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Fenwick Police Veterans Day Ceremony Returns To Memorial Among Trilogy Foundation To Host Air Force Colonel Award Honorees

Page 28

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

FENWICK ISLAND – The Fenwick Island Police Department was recognized last week as an FBI-LEEDA Agency Trilogy Award recipient.

In a town council meeting last Friday, John Horsman, regional representative for FBI-LEEDA (Law Enforcement Executive Development Association), presented the Fenwick Island Police Department with the Agency Trilogy Award.

“I’m proud to add Fenwick Island, under the leadership of John Devlin, to this distinguished list of agencies that have received this award and demonstrated their commitment to progressing their agency and community to the very highest level of leadership,” he said. “We’re here today to formally recognize these officers and their commitment to being better leaders.”

Horsman said FBI-LEEDA is an international organization that has trained more than 1,000 police officers in the state of Delaware since 2013. In 2017, he noted, the agency developed its Ag-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

OCEAN PINES – The Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation announced it will once again host a traditional, in-person ceremony to commemorate Veterans Day on Thursday, Nov. 11, starting at 11 a.m. at the memorial grounds in Ocean Pines.

Annual Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies have been a hallmark of the foundation, and the events typically draw thousands of people from across the region.

“We are very pleased to be able to present our traditional program, when

ency Trilogy Award, given to law enforcement agencies whose command staff complete the necessary leadership training.

“In order for an agency to achieve this high honor, all members of the organization’s command staff have to obtain their Trilogy Award,” he said. “That means they have to go to the supervisory school, they have to go to the command school, they have to go to the executive school. In this case, your ser-

we will honor all of our veterans,” Memorial Foundation President Marie Gilmore said. “Veterans Day observances gives us the opportunity to say ‘thank you for your service.’ We should also reflect on the sacrifices made by the families of each and every veteran as they wait, and pray, for the safe return of their loved one.”

“We invite you to join with us as we honor and recognize the sacrifices of all who have served to protect our freedoms,” she added.

The program this year will feature guest speaker Col. Craig M. Harmon,

geant and your chief have both completed that successfully.”

Horsman noted that the Fenwick Island Police Department is the first agency in Delaware to receive such recognition.

“We hope others will follow their lead,” he said. “We’ve only given 25 of these out nationwide, so you are in a very exclusive club by receiving this recognition.”

Horsman said he has known Devlin,

October 29, 2021

vice-commander of the U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. Additionally, the Delmarva Chorus will provide patriotic music.

Seating is limited and those attending are encouraged to bring a chair. The ceremony will move to the Ocean Pines Community Center in the event of inclement weather.

For more information on the Worcester County Veterans Memorial at Ocean Pines and the Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation, visit www.opvets.org. the town’s police chief, for several years and was honored to present the award to the town’s command staff.

“On behalf of the FBI-LEEDA, I present the Fenwick Island Police Department with the Agency Trilogy Award."

Following the award presentation, Mayor Vicki Carmean commended police department staff for the recognition.

“I think it’s wonderful,” she said, “and I’m so proud of the police department we have here.”

Street Paving, New Park Walking Path Eyed For Surplus

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 29

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Municipal officials are exploring the possibility of paving three Berlin streets and replacing the walking path in Stephen Decatur Park with a surplus in highway user revenues.

With the news that the town would receive $114,000 more than it budgeted in highway user revenues from the state, officials this week talked about paving Stevenson Lane, the east section of Graham Avenue and Decatur Street.

Town Administrator Jeff Fleetwood said replacing the deteriorating path in Stephen Decatur Park could be tied into the paving projects.

“I think this really needs to be done from a safety perspective,” he said.

Fleetwood told the Berlin Town Council Monday that revised estimates from the state set the town’s share of highway user revenues at $227,000 rather than the $113,000 the town had budgeted. Though the town already spent what was initially budgeted on its new street sweeper, the revised estimate means Berlin will receive an additional $114,000. Fleetwood said he recommended using that money to pave the streets next slated for improvements — Stevenson Lane, the east section of Graham Avenue and Decatur Street. He said that was expected to cost not quite $100,000.

He said whatever funding was left over could be used to help pay for replacement of the walking path at Stephen Decatur Park. Though replacing it in kind would cost more than $400,000, Fleetwood said it could be replaced with asphalt for roughly $80,000. He said whatever wasn’t covered by highway user revenues could come from the town’s general impact fee fund, which currently contains about $800,000.

“I firmly believe that park is utilized by all if not most of the citizens in this town,” he said.

The condition of the existing scrap tire walking path, built in 2009, has been discussed in the past but there hasn’t been funding to repair it, according to Deputy Town Administrator Mary Bohlen.

“Obviously it’d be desirable to repair it in kind but that is just not practical,” Bohlen said. “As it turned out when the pathway was originally installed it was found it should not have been installed this far north. The freezing and thawing is what has caused problems over the years. We were an experiment.”

When asked if replacing the path with asphalt would lead to drainage issues, Fleetwood said the existing path was impervious, just as the asphalt would be.

With consensus from the council, Mayor Zack Tyndall said staff would draft a request for proposals for the paving to present to the council next month.

Replacing the existing walking path at Stephen Decatur Park with asphalt would cost approximately $80,000.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

‘A Day Of Pride’ In Celebrating New Showell Elementary

Page 30

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN PINES – School system leaders and elected officials celebrated the new Showell Elementary School with a ribbon cutting Friday.

Though the school opened in the fall of 2020, COVID-19 concerns delayed any gatherings at the school. Officials were finally able to host an outdoor ceremony last Friday to celebrate the stateof-the-art facility.

“We believe that our students and staff need facilities that mirror the workspaces of tomorrow, workspaces that adapt to new changing standards and technologies,” Superintendent Lou Taylor said. “As you can see, the new Showell Elementary School truly embodies this kind of learning environment. Today truly is a day of pride, extreme pride, for the Showell Elementary community and for all of Worcester County and Worcester County Public Schools.”

Showell Principal Diane Shorts welcomed a crowd of elected officials, educators and representatives of the construction and design team to the school during Friday’s ceremony, which was held in the school’s outdoor amphitheater.

“We know this day is long overdue, but we appreciate your patience and understanding along this journey,” Shorts said. “I’m very excited to hold our cel-

Elected officials are pictured surrounding Showell Elementary Principal Diane Shorts and Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor at last Friday’s ribbon cutting ceremony.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

ebration here in particular today because it is in one of the most exciting and forward-thinking projects of this new school. In a stroke of architectural genius, we are able to open this beautiful wall of windows to transform our indoor stage to this outdoor amphitheater where we can showcase our fantastic student performers.”

Following a performance by Showell’s student chorus, Taylor talked about the school system’s mission – preparing students for the future.

“That begins right here at the elementary school,” he said.

He praised the Worcester County Commissioners for the funding support they provided to the project. Elena McComas, president of the school board, also spoke about how grateful school system leaders were for the funding Worcester County Public Schools (WCPS) received from the county.

“On behalf of the board of education we want to thank everyone here today for playing such an important role in this

capital project,” she said. “We’re thrilled that the students and staff of Showell Elementary School now have a facility which reflects not only their past and present successes but also reflects the necessities for success well into the future.”

McComas said school board members couldn’t limit themselves to thinking about the present.

“We make decisions that prepare our school system for the demands of educating tomorrow’s youth because it takes many years as we know to bring a project like this to fruition,” she said. “We recognize there are always present-day reasons that tempt us into stalling significant projects such as this but the bottom line is our children and community needed this school.”

Commissioner Joe Mitrecic, president of the Worcester County Commissioners, said the old school’s degraded condition and lack of classroom space made its replacement essential.

“That’s what makes today’s dedication of this new state-of-the-art school a genuine cause for celebration,” he said, thanking his peers, school system leaders, the Eastern Shore Delegation and the Interagency Committee on School Construction.

He said the commissioners were committed to securing the funding needed to ensure children were provided with SEE NEXT PAGE

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… School ‘A Major Stepping Stone’

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 31

Members of the Showell Elementary chorus are pictured performing at the school’s outdoor amphitheater.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

the educational opportunities that would allow them to remain competitive.

“The new Showell Elementary School is a major stepping stone along our path to securing an even brighter future for our children,” he said. “Here in Worcester County improving school facilities has been among our top goals for many years and it will continue to be the top initiative that steers us into the future.”

Construction of the new school began in September 2018 after years of planning. Educators and parents had long advocated for a new building, as the facility built in 1976 was outdated and overgrown, with nine portable classrooms and not enough space for fourth grade. Though county officials wanted to build a new school, they were quick to express concern when initial estimates came in near $60 million.

Commissioner Chip Bertino praised the Worcester County Board of Education for making changes needed to bring the project to fruition.

“The board of education did a few things that really made a difference,” he said. “One was they got a new superintendent of schools, which was a huge factor in us being able to build this school.”

He said school board members Jonathan Cook and Bill Gordy, along with Taylor and WCPS Facilities Planner Joe Price, played key roles in making sure the project happened. Bertino also credited the efforts of Commissioner Jim Bunting.

“We’re just really happy we got this

done,” Bertino said. “There were a lot of people that made it happen.”

Bunting, who at that time was president of the county commissioners, recalled how Cook set up a breakfast meeting with him to find a way to move the project forward despite cost concerns. A group of county and school system officials went on to tour area schools and brainstormed ways to reduce the building’s price. In the end, their efforts reduced the school’s cost to $48 million.

“It was a lot of work,” Bunting said, adding that the initial meeting orchestrated by Cook heralded a spirit of cooperation between the school system and the county commissioners. “That breakfast, we moved forward. Later on, it just continued to be a good relationship between the county commissioners and the board of education. With Superintendent Taylor, that relationship just grew.”

Both Bunting and Bertino, who represent District 6 and District 5, said their constituents are thrilled with the way the school turned out. They like the natural light, the improved security, additional bathrooms and added space.

“The other thing is we got rid of the trailers,” Bertino said. “Now from a security standpoint we feel that our kids are much safer in this school.”

Bunting said he thought the decision mid-planning to add another wing to allow for future pre-kindergarten growth was also a good one.

“I think that was a smart move — money well spent in the long run,” he said.

• November 5, 2021 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Ocean Pines Community Center Ocean Pines, MD *Clinic dates subject to change based upon flu vaccine availability. AGHRx RediScripts Pharmacy will be onsite offering high dose flu vaccines for ages 65 years and older, which will be billed to Medicare or private insurance.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

People in Society The Re/Max Advantage Realty Delmarva Management Team of Elaine Davidson, Neda Howell, Alexander Karavasilis, Barbara Lawrence and Rebecca Ward unveiled the new Joy Snyder Training Center during their recent ribbon cutting.

by Jeanette Deskiewicz Featuring Those Helping Causes In The Resort Area

The BBQ chicken was going fast at the October Fest at Wright’s Market with Doug Jones and Mindy Cooper of the Mardela Springs Fire Company keeping the line moving.

Bluebird Farms’ Eric Bell and Nancie Corbett sold pumpkins at the Showell Elementary Fall Festival to benefit the school’s Parent-Teacher Association.

Every weekend in October, Wright’s Market employees and siblings Dalton, Logan, and Wyatt Webster make sure things run smoothly with the children’s activities.

The daughter-mother team of Danielle Evans and Tracy Zell are enjoying their new space in the recently expanded Re/Max Advantage Realty office on 115th Street.

Ariella O’Hara and Jasmine Marin helped out with the all access activity wristband sales for the Showell Elementary Fall Festival.

Showell Elementary School parents Valaree Murphy and Kelly Fogle rang up purchases at the Fall Festival’s Pop-Up Book Fair.

Maryland State Delegate Wayne Hartman discussed the importance of the real estate market with local realtor Joe Wilson at the office expansion ribbon cutting for Re/Max Advantage Realty.

Serving pizza at the Showell Elementary Fall Festival were Allison Swift and Brooke Berquist of the Stephen Decatur High School Connection Club.

Boy Scouts of America Troop 421 member Jordan Dennis and her mom, Jill, had popcorn and other snacks for sale at the October Fest at Wright’s Market in Mardela Springs.

Career Bodyguard Recognized For Anti-Bullying Efforts

October 29, 2021

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY– In honor of National Bullying Prevention Month, a local resident and advocate this week was honored by the Mayor and Council with a special proclamation.

For years, Adriano “Bubba” Almony has been a fierce advocate for antibullying in the local community. Almony, who grew up in Ocean City and graduated from Stephen Decatur High School, is a career professional bodyguard, protecting some high-profile celebrities including Muhammad Ali and his family, for example.

On Monday, Mayor Rick Meehan read into the record a proclamation recognizing October as National Bullying Prevention Month and Almony’s anti-bullying efforts locally. Almony recently hosted a celebrity basketball tournament in Worcester County to raise funds and awareness for the campaign. He serves as the U.S. chairman for the personal safety and anti-bullying organization Bodyguards Against Bullying.

“He’s a local guy,” said Meehan.

“He’s a Stephen Decatur graduate and he’s become an important advocate in the community to educate all of us about bullying and some of the consequences of that and trying to make this a better place in Worcester County.”

For his part, Almony said he was simply trying to raise awareness about bullying in his home community and beyond.

“A lot of people think we’re just in a pandemic of COVID-19 right now, but we have a pandemic everyday of bullying,” he said. “It’s unlike any challenge or obstacle I’ve ever faced. When we sleep at night, or are sitting back enjoying our time, the bullies don’t stop.”

Almony said it was important to raise

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

awareness about bullying at its source.

“Most importantly, a lot of people just think it’s the victims, but we have to address the bully’s behavior as well,” he said. “If we don’t, we still have bullies out there wreaking havoc.”

Almony said his anti-bullying efforts were tireless.

“This means a lot to me,” he said.

“It’s not just to come up here and get an award. I have to tirelessly keep on with the efforts. This community needs to come together and have zero tolerance for bullying, whether it’s in our school system or our work environment.”

He pointed out people’s perceptions of bullying are from the school yard, but

Page 35

it’s a larger issue than that.

“People think bullying just happens in the playground or in school,” he said.

“Bullying can happen in any place at any time to young people and older people. It has no place in our culture.

It’s the second-leading cause of suicide and the signs of suicide often go unnoticed. We all have to do our part.”

Full Service Real Estate Settlements • Serving The Resort Area Since 1989 Stephen Decatur High alum Adriano “Bubba” Almony was presented with a proclamation this month from Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan.

Photo courtesy of Ray Hill of RH Imagery Photos

Page 36

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

BUSINESS And Real Estate News Business Acquisition BERLIN – Len The Plumber (LTP), a full-service residential plumbing company based in Baltimore, announced this week the acquisition of Service Today, Heating & Cooling Company (Service Today), a full-service provider of residential HVAC, plumbing, electrical and indoor air quality services located in Federalsburg.

Service Today was founded in 2000 and serves the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Delaware across five locations.

Service Today founder Ed Collier currently spends several months away from the business and plans to fully retire after a six-month transition. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Jeff Cooper, CEO of LTP, said, partnering with Service Today is a continuation of an acquisitive growth strategy. He said, “Service Today is a great addition to our platform at Len The Plumber, as they have a strong foundation in HVAC, and

the same high standards of delivering great customer service. Their success was driven through Ed’s focus on taking care of his customer base, and his team; both of which are core attributes to our success at Len The Plumber.”

Jeff Aiello, Managing Director, added, “We are very enthusiastic to partner with Service Today. Ed has built an impressive business which complements our Len The Plumber platform nicely in terms of both service lines and geographies. I look forward to seeing what these two businesses can accomplish by joining together.”

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Several new Board of Directors members will be welcomed including Amy Hedger of Coastal Home Care, Don Robertson of Seafloor Carpet, Hardwood, and More, Tylor Lenox of Coastal Wealth Management and Tina Simmons of Atlantic General Hospital. Retiring from the board will be long time directors Sarah Yonker of Atlantic General Hospital and Wes McCabe of Taylor Bank.

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October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

... BUSINESS NEWS munity is about and serves as inspiration.

The Nonprofit of the Year is The Grace Center for Maternal and Women’s Health.

For 11 years, The Grace Center has supported area mothers in need. The center has recently, expanded the mission to include programs aimed at educating and empowering those who seek to improve themselves and their circumstances.

Internally, Volunteers of the Year William and Sherry McFarland will be recognized by the chamber. While staying on their toes with several special needs children, the McFarlands never failed to support the chamber as well as many other organizations and churches in the area.

Retired Director Honored SNOW HILL – Retired Worcester County Public Works Director John Tustin earned a state nod in October when he was named the 2021 County Engineer of the Year by the County Engineers Association of Maryland (CEAM).

Tustin, who dedicated his 36-year career with Worcester County Government (WCG) to expanding and improving public services and championing moderniza-

tion of the progressive maintenance programs for county-owned buildings and grounds, received this award for his lasting contributions to Worcester County, the State of Maryland, and the CEAM. During his career with WCG, Tustin spearheaded numerous infrastructure projects that have played an important role in shaping Worcester County. In 1986, Tustin played a key role in acquiring, designing, and developing a 724acre property for the Central Landfill in Newark where he later oversaw the development of five landfill cells. He initiated the recycling program in 1992 and oversaw the design and construction of Samuel Bowen Boulevard, the cap and closure of three old landfill sites in Pocomoke, Snow Hill, and Berlin, and headed pump station upgrades in Ocean Pines and multiple wastewater treatment plant expansions. He also coordinated upgrades and improvements to all of the Worcester County boat ramps. Tustin was involved in the design and construction of the 1988 County Jail expansion, the construction of Healthway Drive, the Worcester County Health Department office in Berlin, and the Ocean Pines Library.

Sleep Centers Merge SALISBURY – TidalHealth has announced a unification of its sleep centers.

Page 37

Starting Nov. 1, the three locations will be operating as TidalHealth Sleep Centers in Salisbury and Seaford and Millsboro, Del. Each location will continue to follow the American Academy of Sleep Medicine standards, and will offer complete and comprehensive testing, studies and medically based solutions to an assortment of sleep disorders.

Patients who have clinical sleep studies already scheduled should expect no change in their appointments. Similarly, those awaiting test results will receive them from the TidalHealth Sleep Center location where their study was performed.

Hospice Receives Grant SALISBURY – The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore approved a grant of $5,000 to help fund the purchase of three “workstations on wheels,” also called “WOWs” for Coastal Hospice at the Lake and the Macky & Pam Stansell House.

The units are helpful for accessing electronic medical records (EMR) systems and enhance the safe handling and administration of medications, especially regarding the near-industry standard of bar code scanning. The system also eliminates paper use and copier expense while helping to prevent errors in medica-

tion distribution.

Property Settlement SALISBURY – Henry Hanna, advisor with SVN Miller Commercial Real Estate, has settled on 610 Beam Street in Salisbury.

The property is an approximately 22,000-square-foot industrial facility located in the Northwood Industrial Park. The building is 100% occupied by long term industrial manufacturers.

The property was purchased by a longtime client of Henry Hanna. Hanna has represented this owner in his real estate investing for 15 years, including the purchasing of several other facilities in the park. This was purchased as an investment generating income and operations are expected to continue as is.

The buyer said he has enjoyed investing in Salisbury and the Northwood Industrial Park and sees a bright future for the community. He’s always found Salisbury to be welcoming and ready to assist in attracting new businesses or helping companies expand in the local economy.

The Hanna Team worked with Roger Sansom who had listed the property for sale through ERA & Associates and represented the seller in this transaction.

Hanna has sold seven properties in the Northwood Industrial Park in the past 12 months.

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Page 38

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

Chris Parypa’s Photo Of The Week: Each week staff photographer Chris Parypa is tasked with submitting a photo from his vast library to be fea-

tured in this space. A quiet beach scene merges with puffy clouds and blue skies last week. To purchase any of Parypa’s photos, click over to www.chrisparypa.com.

This week's Photo of the Week is sponsored by Ørsted, the world leader in clean energy. Learn more at orsted.com/md-de

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 21 to April 19): The pitter-patter of all those Sheep feet means that you're out and about, rushing to get more done. That's fine, but slow down by the weekend so you can heed some important advice.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): You're in charge of your own destiny these days, and, no doubt, you'll have that Bull's-eye of yours right on target.

But don't forget to make time for family events.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Be prepared for a power struggle that you don't want. Look to the helpful folks around you for advice on how to avoid it without losing the important gains you've made.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): Congratulations! You're about to claim your hard-earned reward for your patience and persistence. Now, go out and enjoy some fun and games with friends and family.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): The Big Cat might find it difficult to shake off that listless feeling. But be patient. By week's end, your spirits will perk up and you'll be your perfectly purring self again.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): A problem with a co-worker could prove to be a blessing in disguise when a superior steps in to investigate and discovers a situation that could prove helpful to you.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): This is a favorable time to move ahead with

your plans. Some setbacks are expected, but they're only temporary. Pick up the pace again and stay with it.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Your creativity is recognized and rewarded. So go ahead and claim what you've earned. Meanwhile, that irksome and mysterious situation soon will be resolved.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): A new associate brings ideas that the wise Sagittarian quickly will realize can benefit both of you. Meanwhile, someone from the workplace makes an emotional request.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): It might be a good idea to ease up on that hectic pace and spend more time studying things you'll need to know when more opportunities come later in November.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): A relatively quiet time is now giving way to a period of high activity. Face it with the anticipation that it will bring you some well-deserved boons and benefits.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): Go with the flow, or make waves? It's up to you. Either way, you'll get noticed. However, make up your own mind. Don't let anyone tell you what choices to make.

BORN THIS WEEK: You like to examine everything before you agree to accept what you're told. Your need for truth keeps all those around you honest. © 2021 King Features Synd., Inc.

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 62

Page 39

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 40

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

vanishing

OCEAN CITY

October 29, 2021

WITH BUNK MANN

All the houses dressed up for Halloween Meetings under one hour

Sheryl Crow’s adoption story Sound of an acoustic guitar

When my kids unload the groceries Football players who give balls to kids in the stands The owning of a mistake

Homecoming photos on Facebook Funny police incident reports Needle tip pens

Seeing a good coach impact an athlete

By 1900 Ocean City had become home to a small but growing community. The population had risen to 365 year-round residents, partially due to its commercial fishing industry. Tourism had also grown and though the season was short – mid June to Labor Day – new properties stretched along the Boardwalk for nearly 12 blocks.

The railroad made daily trips into town and in the summer as many as six excursion trains would arrive each afternoon. In that era most of the visitors as well as the food supplies, retail merchandise, and even the lumber to build the hotels and cottages arrived by train.

The land once known as the “Lady’s Resort to the Ocean” was now the growing Town of Ocean City, Maryland. It had come a long way since the first hotel opened on July 4, 1875.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann's books, click over to www.vanishinPhoto image courtesy Bob Jones goc.com.

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 41

Parsons Contest Winners:

The winners of the Ocean City Museum Society’s Louis Parsons III Memorial Photo Contest were recently announced. Parsons was a beloved member of the Ocean City Museum Society Board and a prodigious photographer. The winners in the three categories were bay sunsets category, above left, Zachary Garmoe of Berlin, $250; Boardwalk category, above right, Patricia Johnson of Ocean City, $250; and beach category, below left, Louis Sapienza of Crownsville. At right, Garmoe was named the grand prize winner for an additional $750. He is pictured with Museum Board President Mabel Rogers and photo contest sponsor Jeff Williams.

Submitted Photos

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Page 42

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

Best Beats On The Beach Who’s Where When ATLANTIC HOTEL 410-641-3589 2 North Main St., Berlin Friday, Oct. 29: Adam Bilenki Mondays: Earl Beardsley BUXY’S SALTY DOG/ DRY DOCK 28 410-289-0973 28th St. & Coastal Hwy. Saturday, Oct. 30: Halloween Party

DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Friday, Oct. 29

BEATS BY WAX Pickles Pub: Tuesdays & Thursdays Coins Pub: Sundays & Wednesdays

ANDREW ROBEAR Pickles Pub: Saturday, Oct. 30

CAPTAIN’S TABLE 410-289-7192 15th St. & Baltimore Ave. In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays: Phil Perdue COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Saturday, Oct. 30: Rick & Regina Sundays & Wednesdays: DJ Wax CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54 Selbyville, DE Friday, Oct. 29: Reform School Wednesday, Nov. 3: TBA CRAWL STREET TAVERN 443-373-2756 Wicomico St. Downtown O.C. Friday, Oct. 29: Lime Green Saturday, Oct. 30: Chest Pains Sunday, Oct. 31: Karoake W/Jeremy CORK BAR Saturday, Oct. 30: TBA

DJ BK Greene Turtle North: Friday, Oct. 29

DJ LOVE Greene Turtle North: Saturday, Oct. 30

BEATS BY STYLER Pickles Pub: Fridays, Sundays, Mondays & Wednesdays

DJ BILLY T Harborside: Friday, Oct. 29 Sunday Oct. 31 & Thursday, Nov. 4

DJ TUFF Seacrets: Friday & Saturday, Oct. 29 & 30

FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St. In The Bay Friday, Oct. 29: DJ Greg, DJ RobCee Saturday, Oct. 30: Less Than 4, The 8-Trax, DJ Groove GREENE TURTLE NORTH 410-723-2120 116th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Oct. 29: DJ BK Saturday, Oct. 30: DJ Love

DJ GROOVE Fager’s Island: Saturday, Oct. 30

DJ JEREMY Harborside: Saturday, Oct. 30 Crawl Street Tavern Sunday, Oct. 31

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 43

Who’s Where When HARBORSIDE 410-213-1846 South Harbor Rd., West O.C. Friday, Oct. 29: DJ Billy T Saturday, Oct. 30: Side Project, DJ Jeremy Sunday, Oct. 31: Pickin’ Party, DJ Billy T Thursday, Nov. 4: DJ Billy T

CHEST PAINS Crawl Street Tavern: Saturday, Oct. 30

ON THE EDGE Ocean Club/Clarion: Sunday, Oct. 31

OCEAN CLUB 410-524-3535 10100 Coastal Hwy. In The Clarion Hotel Friday & Saturday, Oct. 29 & 30: First Class Sunday, Oct. 31: Halloween Party, On The Edge OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB 410-641-7501 1 Mumford’s Landing Rd., Ocean Pines Saturday, Oct. 30: DJ BK

DOC MARTEN & THE FLANNELS Purple Moose: Saturday, Oct. 30

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Harborside: Sunday, Oct. 31

REFORM SCHOOL Crabcake Factory Bayside: Friday, Oct. 29

THE 8-TRAX Fager’s Island: Saturday, Oct. 30

RICK & REGINA Coins Pub: Saturday, Oct. 30

THE WAY OUTS Seacrets: Sunday, Oct. 31

PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Friday, Oct. 29: Beats By Styler Saturday, Oct. 30: Andrew Robear Sunday, Oct. 31: Beats By Styler Mondays: Beats By Styler Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Wednesdays: Beats By Styler Thursdays: Beats By Wax PURPLE MOOSE 410-289-6953 Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boardwalk Friday & Saturday, Oct. 29 & 30: DJ Adam Dutch Saturday, Oct. 30: Alter Ego, Doc Marten & The Flannels SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Oct. 29: Fat Mezz, DJ Davie, DJ Tuff, Steal The Sky Saturday, Oct. 30: DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz, Full Circle, Cherry Crush, Kono Nation Sunday, Oct. 31: DJ Bobby O, The Way Outs Thursday, Nov. 4: DJ Cruz, John McNutt Duo

Page 44

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

Wealth of Knowledge

BY KRISTIN COANE

SPECIAL TO THE DISPATCH

BERLIN – Remember when America ran out of toilet paper? There’s a chance that might happen again.

Yes, COVID-19 continues to ravage other countries where we have outsourced the manufacturing of many of our most commonly used household items — but there’s more to the story now.

Production has ramped back up as vaccines are disseminated in Asian countries, but not to the level of Amer-

ica’s rapidly increased demand. On top of that, congested ports and shipping issues abound.

In fact, companies are paying much higher prices for sea freight and ground transportation. In many cases, this is due to labor shortages among field harvesters, factory workers, and truck drivers. In the U.S., as more people go back to worksites and kids are back in school, there’s been a surge in demand for things like coffee, soft drinks, school lunch snacks (Kraft Heinz Lunchables), and pet food.

No one is suggesting you go out and

stockpile your favorite brands — that’s actually how shortages occur. If everyone just keeps buying at their normal consumption rate, chances are good that supplies can meet demand. However, it’s important to understand that the pandemic is not just a health issue, but also an economic issue. And as long as it continues to spread, we will continue to suffer economic problems.

It’s important to stay flexible with your product selections and household budget and to maintain a savings security blanket. Particularly for retirees on a fixed income, there may be times when you could use a little extra to augment your household budget. We’re happy to discuss ways to position your assets so you can incorporate flexibility in your spending without risking your financial future. Feel free to give us a call.

The chief financial officer at Costco recently reported that the retailer will begin imposing purchase limits again on household essentials such as toilet paper, bottled water, and cleaning supplies. Remember, these precautions are not because the world is short on toilet paper; it’s not. It may just be stuck in a port somewhere. To make sure stores can maintain available inventory on a daily basis, they need their customers to buy the usual amount of goods.

Some items in low supplies aren’t even related to the pandemic. For ex-

ample, there’s a shortage of chicken wings because the south-central U.S. experienced unusual winter storms.

Not only that, but American demand for chicken wings has gone haywire now that people are back out eating at restaurants. The combination of high demand and low supply has led some restaurants to remove the dish from their menu altogether.

Economists are predicting that shortages and delivery delays will plague this holiday season. If there are certain must-have items on your shopping list, buy them now. Otherwise, consider shopping small businesses to support your local community.

You also can support local merchants by applying for a job to help out this holiday season. One way to pay higher prices on items is to get hired as a seasonal worker during the holidays this year. Hundreds of companies, from UPS to Kohls and Michaels plan on staffing up part- and full-time seasonal workers to meet the holiday shopping demand. It’s a good opportunity to pick KRISTIN COANE up extra income and take advantage of employer discounts for your own shopping list this season.

(The writer is part of the team at Key Financial Services in Berlin. The team can be reached at 410-629-0357.)

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 45

SPORTS WPS Soccer Teams Win Conference Semis In The News

Mallards Reach ESIAC Finals

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Worcester Prep’s boys’ and girls’ varsity soccer teams each won Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference (ESIAC) semifinals this week to advance to championship games.

The Worcester boys beat Holly Grove, 2-0, at home on Tuesday in the ESIAC semifinals. The Mallards got two first-half goals from Jack Gardner and added a second-half goal from Ben McGovern to blank Holly Grove, 30. With the win, the Mallards advance to the ESIAC championship game on Thursday against Gunston, a game played too late to be included in this edition. The Mallards lost to Gunston, 2-1, in their last regular season game.

The two teams split the regular season series with Worcester beating the Herons, 3-2, back on September 27. The Worcester boys finished the regular season with a 10-2-1 record.

Meanwhile, the Worcester girls won their ESIAC semifinal at home on Tuesday over Salisbury School, 2-0. The Mallards were scheduled to play Salisbury Christian in the ESIAC championship on Thursday, again, a game played too late to be included in this edition. The Mallards split two regular season games with Salisbury Christian this season, with Worcester winning, 1-0 in the season opener, and Salisbury Christian returning the favor with a 3-2 win on September 29. The loss was the only one of the season for the Worcester girls, whose record stands at 8-1.

Decatur Harriers Sweep Home Meet Marshall, Dutton Finish First

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Decatur’s varsity crosscountry teams dominated their home meet against Snow Hill and Pocomoke last week with both the boys’ and girls’ teams finishing in first.

On the girls’ side, Amber Marshall finished first, Macy Woroniecki was second, Clarice Piela was third, Avery Braciszewski was fourth, Ava Becnel was fifth, Chloe Resnick was sixth and Dan-

iela- Carrasco-Gonzalez finished seventh.

On the boys’ side, Tristan Dutton was first, Ethan Justice was second, Gavin McCabe was sixth, Reid Caimi was seventh and Luke Braciszewski was eighth.

Aaron August finished 10th, Shiloh Carmack finished 12th, David Esch was 14th, Jake Gillespie was 15th, Michael Hoos was 16th, Luke Lafew finished 17th, Ben Chase finished 18th, Brandon Karvoski was 21st, Brian Herbert was 27th and Brennan McCabe was 28th.

Tough Guy Of The Week:

Seahawks Rout Easton On Homecoming This week’s Atlantic Physical Therapy “Tough Guy of the Week” went to Luke Scott for his strong performance in a narrow loss to Queen Anne’s. Pictured above is Scott (center) flanked by APT’s Charles Curran (left) and Head Coach Jake Coleman (right). Submitted Photo

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s varsity football team beat Easton, 49-28, on Homecoming last Friday to improve to 53 on the season.

The game was tied at 7-7 after one quarter, and Decatur led 28-20 at the half. The Seahawks scored 14 unanswered points in the third quarter to pull away for the 49-28 win to improve to 5-3.

Quarterback Ashten Snelsire completed 21 passes on 29 attempts for 260 yards and four touchdowns. Zimere Handy rushed nine times for 24 yards and one touchdown. Brycen Coleman caught seven passes for 120 yards and a touchdown, while Luke Mergott and Gavini Solito also had receiving touchdowns. Mergott also had two interceptions on defense, while Logan Bradshaw and Joe Buxbaum also had interceptions.

Seahawks Fall To Bennett, Streak Ends

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s boys’ varsity soccer team fell to Bennett, 10, last week in the regular season finale, but might get another crack at their old Bayside South rivals.

The 1-0 loss to Bennett ended a sixgame win streak for Decatur, which fin-

ished the regular season with an impressive 10-2 mark. The Seahawks earned a number-two seed in the state 3A-South and will face Oxon Hill in the regional semifinal at home on Friday.

Lurking on the other side of the bracket is top-seeded Bennett, which just edged Decatur. Should the Seahawks get past Oxon Hill, they would get a rematch with Bennett in the region final.

Page 46

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

with Scott Lenox

Above, Captain Monty Hawkins of the Morning Star took a busman’s holiday to the deep and put some guys on a bunch of golden tilefish to as big as 51 pounds. Below, Captain Bobby Layton of the Wrecker had a great day last week.

Opposite page, top left, good flounder fishing like this catch on the Angler with Captain Chris Mizurak could last well into November. Opposite page, top middle, Justin Kreiser caught this 25.5” flounder that weighed 5 pounds, 9 ounces while fishing with Blake Gunther. Opposite page, top right, Captain Kevin Twilley of the Fish Bound caught this 27.5” flounder that weighed in at 9 pounds. Opposite page, middle left, Captain Shawn Gibson and the crew of the Reel Current had an awesome day in the Washington Canyon with 10 yellowfin tuna. Opposite page, middle right, this group caught keeper flounder up to 26.5” and over 6 pounds while fishing with Captain Tony Battista of Saltwater Adventures. Opposite page, bottom left, Captain Willie Zimmerman of the RoShamBo put these guys on seven nice yellowfin tuna. Opposite page, bottom right, Captain Jason Mumford of Lucky Break and Captain John Prather of OC Guide Service teamed forces to put Bill Pino on four nice keepers using his Otter Tails.

Submitted Photos

Welcome to my final Fish in OC column of the 2021 season. There is still plenty of great fishing going on, but I’ve got to get ready for trade show season and get the 2022 issue of Fish in OC to the press so it’s time to take a break until

next spring. Now on to that “plenty of great fishing going on.”

As can be expected this time of year we’re getting more windy days than not, but the fish are still snapping in the oSEE NEXT PAGE

October 29, 2021

... Fish In OC cean when anglers are able to get out.

The yellowfin tuna that have been biting well in the Washington Canyon won’t be there for much longer, but this past week they were still being caught in great numbers on chunked baits. The yellowfin are in the 30- to 60-pound class with a few bigger fish mixed in as well as a few white marlin and a very few bigeye.

The white marlin and bigeye will be the first to vamoose, but we could see yellowfin into November if the water sticks around.

Ocean bottom fishing for flounder

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

and sea bass has picked up as expected with the cooling water temperatures with boats reporting good catches of both with the occasional triggerfish mixed in. On one day alone last week, I got reports of limits of 15 sea bass per person and four flounder per person from several boats fishing ocean structure in 65 to 100 feet of water. There were also some big fish that day with several fish over 5 pounds and one jumbo doormat caught by the Fish Bound that weighed in at 9 pounds. Squid, Gulp and fresh cut strip baits are the best for flounder and squid and clam are working well for sea bass. The good fishing for flounder and sea bass should last through next month and we usually see

a couple of very big flounder pushing or exceeding 10 pounds in November or December.

Flounder fishing in the back bays is still pretty good as the fish stage up in the Inlet area preparing to migrate offshore. The east channel and Route 50 Bridge are still the hot spots with most keepers being caught in deeper water along channel edges. Live bait like bunker, mullet and spot are your best bet for a keeper with plenty of fish being caught on Otter Tails or Gulp.

Tautog have shown up in good numbers right on schedule this year with fish just about every location on the bay and inlet that has submerged structure. Fish green crab or sand fleas along Martha’s

Page 47

Landing, the north jetty or the south jetty and you’re going to get tautog bites.

They are sneaky fish and they are tough to hook so don’t get frustrated if you go through a bunch of bait. Stick it out to catch a “tog” over 16” and you’ll have one of the tastiest fish that swims our bays.

Hit my Daily Catch at www.FishinOC.com all winter and hopefully I’ll see some of you at the trade shows. Until next spring, tight lines.

(The writer is the owner of Fish in OC and host of Ocean City’s fishing tel-evision show Hooked on OC. He has worked in the fishing industry and been fishing the waters in and around Ocean City for over 25 years.)

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

Things To Do Every Monday: TOPS Meeting 5-6:30 p.m. Atlantic General Hospital, Berlin. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a support group promoting weight loss and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Call Rose 443-880-8444.

Every Friday: Bingo Knights of Columbus will host with doors open at 5 p.m. and bingo begin ning promptly at 6:30 p.m. Held at the Columbus Hall at 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke's Church. Play every game for just $24. Light refreshments available. Call 410-5247994 with any questions.

Every Tuesday: Dancing The Delmarva Hand Dance Club holds dancing at the Selbyville Elks Lodge 2173 from 5:30-9 p.m. delmarvahanddancing.com.

Every Wednesday: Bingo Elks Lodge 2645, corner of Sinepuxent Avenue and 138th Street in Ocean City. has bingo all year. Doors open 4:30 p.m. with first game sharply at 6:30 p.m. Kitchen open for light fare. 410-250-2645.

Oct. 29: Trunk Or Treat American Legion Post #123 will host the free event, 6-8 p.m. Children will receive a hot dog, chips and bottle of water. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Event sponsored

by American Legion Auxiliary and American Legion Riders.

Oct. 30: Fall Bazaar From 8 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Swann Keys Clubhouse located on Activities Way in Swann Keys development.

Crafters, food, homemade baked goods, 50/50 drawing, giveaways, Crime Stoppers demonstration and more.

Oct. 30: Chicken BBQ Benefiting the Stephen Decatur High School wrestling team, the drive-thru event at the old Harley lot will feature chicken, coleslaw, chips, roll and soda for $10 from 11 a.m. until sold out.

Oct. 30: Breakfast Buffet AUCE breakfast buffet at the Whaleyville United Methodist Church located at 11716 Sheppards Crossing Road. $8/adult and $4/child, 7-10 a.m. Buffet will include pancakes, bacon, sausage, scrapple, scrambled eggs, chipped beef, hash brown potatoes, toast, fruit and assorted beverages.

Oct. 30: Gift, Craft Show Find the perfect gift at the Quota Club of Salisbury Christmas Gift & Craft Show, which is back at the Wicomico

Civic Center in Salisbury for its 35th annual event. The show features 75plus crafters and vendors. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $5 at the door, and kids ages 5 and under are admitted free. All proceeds from the event are used to serve the local community, with a focus on women, children, the deaf, hard of hearing and speech impaired.

Nov. 2-4: Basic Boating The US Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering the Maryland Basic Boating Safety Course, virtually. Cost is $20 for all three evenings. Register or get more information by calling Barry Cohen at 410-935-4807, or Email: CGAUXOC-@Gmail.com.

Nov. 4, 11, 18, 23: Coat & Toy Drives The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City announces its annual coat and toy drives. Collections are in the Ocean Pines Community Center parking lot from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Unwrapped toy donations will be delivered to Worcester G.O.L.D. and coats will be taken to Little Sisters of Jesus and Mary, and St. Peter's Lutheran Church. Boots, shoes, thermal ware, sweatshirts, sweaters, jeans, gloves, scarves and blankets are also accepted.

Nov. 5: Fall Glow Walk Put your glow (sticks) on and enjoy a fun free walk starting in Stephen Decatur Park and the downtown (approximately 4.5 kilometers). Hosted by the Berlin Parks Commission in partnership with the Worcester County Health Department Just Walk Worcester program. Free raffle entry for every walker. Registration starts at 4:45 p.m.

Nov. 6: Sight & Sound Bus Trip Stevenson United Methodist Church Women’s Group is organizing a bus trip to Sight & Sound Theatres in Ronks, Pa. to see Queen Esther. Bus leaves the church at 8 a.m. on Nov. 6 and returns at 11 p.m. Reservations due Oct. 10. Checks to be made out to Stevenson Women, 123 N. Main Street, Berlin, Md. 21811.

Questions, Pat Oltman, 443-6142518.

Nov. 6: Artisan, Craft Fair The entire Ocean Pines Community Center will be turned into a Winter Wonderland by the Pine’eer Craft

Club with all custom-made items displayed by vendors. Proceeds from sales and activities benefit the Ocean Pines community. Nancy Burkett, 302-233-0761.

Nov. 6: Auxiliary Dinner The Bishopville Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary will hold a carry out Chick-en and Dumpling Dinner for just $12 per dinner. Green beans and Sweet Potato sides. Extra pint of dumplings, $7. Pickup times are 5-7 p.m. at the main station. Orders must be called in by Nov. 3 to 619-9229950.

Nov. 6: Christmas Bazaar The Community Church at Ocean Pines will hold its annual Christmas Bazaar, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Family Life Center of the church at 11227 Racetrack Road, Berlin. The bazaar will feature Christmas decorations and trees, linens and things, new and gently used clothing, gifts and potpourri, children’s books and toys, and a bake sale. Proceeds from the event will support the Shepherd’s Nook outreach ministry.

Nov. 9: Monthly Meeting The Atlantic Coast Sportfishing Association is having its monthly meeting at the American Legion of Berlin, Post 123 on Old Ocean City Blvd, Berlin.

Meeting officially starts at 7:30 p.m.

Guests are welcome to attend, arrive early to get a seat. This month's guest speaker is Kennedy Paynter, Associate Professor at the University of Maryland, College Park on oyster research.

Nov. 13: Christmas Bazaar Atlantic United Methodist Church will hold its 43rd annual event 10 a.m.-2 p.m., featuring vintage and new jewelry, baked delights, gift shopping, a silent auction and carryout lunch.

Thrift shop will be open as well. Proceeds support local missions.

Nov. 13: Flannel Formal Hosted by the Lower Shore Land Trust, event raises funds for conservation programming on the Lower Eastern Shore. This year’s event will take place from 3-6 p.m. at The Manor at Brooklyn Meadows in Berlin. To purchase tickets or to inquire about sponsoring, visit www.lowershorelandtrust.org or call 443-234-5587.

Things To Do activities are printed free of charge. To ensure that an event is listed in a timely manner, please submit information as early as possible, since all items will be listed in advance as space permits. Be sure to include the date, name of event, time, location, address and a contact number. Email to editor@mdcoastdispatch.com; fax to 410-641-0966; or mail to The Dispatch, P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811.

Nov. 19: Bazaar, Marketplace St. Peter's Episcopal Church downtown Salisbury starts its Holiday Bazaar and Marketplace as part of Third Friday, 5-8 p.m. continuing Saturday, Nov. 20 (8 a.m.-1 p.m.) All are welcome to visit the church's parish hall or may bid online for selected items, beginning Nov. 1, at www.biddingowl.com. Check https://stpeteschurch.net/holiday-bazaar/ as event nears.

Nov. 19: BFC Seafood Night November’s Friday night carryout dinners series at the Berlin Fire Company continues with Seafood Night featuring a half pound steamed shrimp, macaroni salad and French fries for $15; one pound of steamed shrimp with no sides, $20; and fried clam strips, macaroni salad and French fries for $12. The next dinner will be spaghetti Dec. 10.

Nov .20: Bingomania Bingomania, the Eastern Shore’s largest bingo cash prize event, returns to the Wicomico Civic Center.

Doors open at 5 p.m. for early bird games, and regular games begin at 7:30 p.m. Admission includes all regular and special games, including the Jumbo Jackpot Game. Regular game payouts are $500, while special games will pay out $1,000. Tickets are $45 per person in advance and $55 per person at the door; fees may apply to ticket prices. Tickets at www.WicomicoCivicCenter.org and by phone at 410-548-4911. All proceeds benefit the Mardela Middle & High School Bands.

Nov 25: Thanksgiving Dinner The 42nd Annual Free Thanksgiving Dinner will again be held at the Ocean City Baptist Church from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Come and receive a great meal at no cost. The men and women of the church and community will be preparing and serving the dinner. Please call Ocean City Baptist Church to inform of attendance at 410-289-4054 or sign-up online at OCBaptist.com. Dinner will be available for shut-ins with a call.

Nov. 27: Drive Thru Luncheon Drive Thru Church Luncheon from 10 a.m. until sold out at the Powellville UM Church located at 35606 Mount Hermon Road, Powellville. Drive thru luncheon features oyster fritter sandwiches, homemade chicken salad, homemade soups including chili, peas and dumplings and veg. beef.

Bake sale items will be available. No pre-orders. Call 410-835-8796 or 443-880-8804 for more details. Hunters are welcome.

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 49

The Dispatch Classifieds $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 & Payment is 3pm Tuesday.

Pre-Payment is Required. We Accept All Credit Cards.

HELP WANTED JOHNNYS PIZZA: Now Hiring Driver! Apply within at 56th Street or call 410-726-7061 to apply.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– DENTAL HYGIENIST: Family Dental Practice seeking part time Dental Hygienist. Patient oriented, relaxed atmosphere. Please forward resume to dentistryinthepines@gmail.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––

SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC: Year Round, Competitive Wages.

443-754-1047.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

skylineconstructionoc@ gmail.com

FUNERAL ASSOCIATE / GROUNDSKEEPER The Burbage Funeral Home located in Berlin, MD is looking for several individuals to join our funeral home staff. Some job duties include assisting funeral directors with funeral services, doing removals both during normal business hours and after hours, and maintaining funeral home grounds. Must be willing to work nights and/or weekends and be on call as needed. Also must be able to lift 100 pounds. A valid driver's license is required.

Send resume to j.weldon@burbagefuneralhome.com

CASHIER/ SALES ASSOCIATE Must be friendly & dependable

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS/ CARPENTERS Must have experience.

Competitive pay.

Call 443-856-5600 or email your resume at

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811

FT/PT - Year Round & Seasonal - Various Shifts Competitive Hourly Wage Benefits Available

To Apply-go online www.petromg.com *Employment *Retail *OC MD *Cashier Wine Rack *Search *Cashier Sales Assoc.-Wine Rack Rt. 50 Wine Rack 12827 Ocean Gateway West OC, MD

ST. PAUL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Seeking Experienced Church Musician Paid Position - Part Time - Salary Negotiable Play for all Regular Sunday Church Services (10:00 am), Special Services, and Choir Practices.

Call Church Office at 410-641-0270 or Email: thebeacon405@gmail.com

Busy Ocean City Title Company Hiring Clerical Support/Receptionist Staff Person Full Time, Year Round Position.

Requires Excellent Communication and Organizational Skills.

Email resume to: Helene@Beachsettlements.com Work With the Best Ocean City has to Offer ...

We Invite You to be a Part of our Family!

Year Round Positions ~SERVERS ~HOSTESS/HOST ~BUSSER ~BANQUET SERVER ~BANQUET HOUSESTAFF ~CATERING ASSISTANT ~DISHWASHER ~ROOM ATTENDANT ~LAUNDRY ~MAINTENANCE TOP WAGES! EXCELLENT BENEFITS! HOUSING AVAILABLE!

Currently Hiring Manpower For:

Carpenter | Laborer | Painters Stucco & EIFS Mechanics Concrete Work o Experience preferred. o Tools, transportation & valid driver’s license are a plus. o Excellent pay and a competitive benefits package available.

Please Apply Online: https://www.allstatesconst.com/delmarva-renovations-careers

Or Contact Our Office at 410-352-9800

FAX RESUME & SALARY REQ. to: 410-723-9109 Online at www.clarionoc.com APPLY IN PERSON Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

CLARION RESORT FONTAINEBLEAU HOTEL 10100 COASTAL HWY. OCEAN CITY, MD. 21842 EOE M/F/D/V

Check Out The Dispatch’s E-dition Online:

Free. Fast. Every Friday. mdcoastdispatch.com

APPLY ONLINE at www.jobapscloud.com/md by November 1, 2021.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or disability.

Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request by calling 410-632-1100 ext. 1221.

RENTALS YEAR ROUND BERLIN: $975 plus utilities. Bottom floor of a house in Berlin, short walk to downtown. Includes 2 bedrooms, office, den, 1 full bath, washer/dryer.

3 people max.

Share rest of house with 31 year old male who lives on top floor. Full house privileges. First month's rent and security deposit due at signing.

No pets. Text Will 410-430-7017.

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HOUSING NEEDS SEEKING HOUSING: I am looking for a small apartment in OC, Ocean Pines, or Berlin. Need ASAP. Please call 443-754-7054.

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YARD SALES ASIAN/FRESHWATER PEARL EXPERT: Please stop back by one Saturday morning - IMPORTANT! ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– MOVING SALE - NICE STUFF!: Bayside West OC Off Rt 611.

12461 Coastal Marsh Dr Unit 402.

11/3-11/5, 12-6pm and 11/6-11/7, 9am-5pm. LR/BR/DR furniture, lamps, small appliances, kitchen items, home decor, very good or like new condition.

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FOR SALE IN HOME SALE: Christmas & holiday decorations, knick-knacks, antiques, dishware, glassware, furniture, home goods, fishing rods/reels. Way too much to list.

Call for details,make arrangements to see everything. 443-523-7878.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– DINING ROOM FURNITURE: Holiday Dinners just around the Corner! Beautiful solid wood dining set. Table seats 8-10 with two leaves. Lighted China Cabinet with glass shelving. Must see! $575. Berlin. 443-880-8885. Can send pics.

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APPLY IN PERSON South Location 31st St. Coastal Hwy. 410-289-2581 North Location 128th St. Coastal Hwy. 410-250-2304

Poolfront: $245 Efficiency: $275 2 BR Apartment: $350 3 BR Suite: $425

Burgundy Inn 1210 Philadelphia Ave.

410-289-8581

COMMERCIAL STORAGE WEST OCEAN CITY: 2 car garage with attached work room. 775 sqft. Call 410-7260075.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– FOR LEASE: Retail Banking Center with drive thru. Contact Brian Gamm. 443-880-2225.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– WEST O.C. OFFICE/RETAIL SPACES AVAILABLE: 1 OfficeRetail and 1 Warehouses. Plenty of Parking. 443-497-4200.

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LEGAL RATES Legal advertising rate is $7 per column inch.

The deadline is Tuesday at noon. For more information call 410-641-4563 or email classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com

CRYSTAL BRADY, ESQ. 2001 BAYNARD BLVD. WILMINGTON, DE 19802

HIRING AT BOTH LOCATIONS

WEEKLY RENTALS

The Dispatch Legal Notices

Third Insertion

WORCESTER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST TRAINEE- Full Time, State Benefits.

Duties include performing inspections and investigations to ensure compliance with environmental health laws and regulations. Duties are performed in various programs, which include Food Service Facility Compliance, Public Swimming Pool/Spa Compliance, Rabies Prevention & Vector Borne Disease and Nuisance Complaint Investigation and Abatement.

At the time of hire, the selected applicant must possess a certificate of eligibility to be licensed as an Environmental Health Specialist from the Maryland Board of Environmental Health Specialists. Valid driver’s license and background check required.

SERVICES CARLA’S CLEANING SERVICES: We clean homes at very low rates and promise to leave you with a smile. Call 908-266-9112.

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NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 18930 Notice is given that the REGISTER OF WILLS COURT of NEW CASTLE COUNTY, DE, appointed MICHAEL RUSSEL, 4020 FOREST POINT DRIVE, MUSKEGON, MI 49441, as the PERSONAL REPRESEN-

TATIVE of the Estate of E. JEANETTE QUILLEN AKA EMILY PLEASANTON QUILLEN, EMILY P. QUILLEN, EMILY JEANETTE QUILLEN, who died on JANUARY 31, 2007, domiciled in DELAWARE, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is CRYSTAL BRADY, ESQ who address is 6225 CRAIN HIGHWAY, UPPER MARLBORO, MD 20772.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: WORCESTER.

Page 50

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

The Dispatch Legal Notices LEGAL RATES Legal advertising rate is $7 per column inch.

The deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon.

For more information call 410-641-4563 or email classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication OCTOBER 15, 2021 MICHAEL RUSSELL Foreign 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 10-15, 10-22, 10-29

Third Insertion B. RANDALL COATES, ESQ. COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET PO BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18932 To all persons interested in the estate of WILSON KENNETH PAYNE AKA WILSON K. PAYNE, JR., ESTATE NO. 18932. Notice is given that JUANITA LYNN WATSON, 37260 DAVEY JONES BOULEVARD, GREENBACKVILLE, VA 23356, was on, OCTOBER 08, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WILSON KENNETH PAYNE, who died on SEPTEMBER 01, 2021, 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 8TH day of APRIL, 2022.

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; 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 claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A 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 OCTOBER 15, 2021 JUANITA LYNN WATSON 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 10-15, 10-22, 10-29

Third Insertion RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ. COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18934 To all persons interested in the estate of MARTHA MILLER MITCHELL BLIM-

LINE, ESTATE NO. 18934.

Notice is given that JAMES WILLIAM BLIMLINE, 19 LINKS LANE, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on, OCTOBER 08, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARTHA MILLER MITCHELL BLIMLINE, who died on JULY 31, 2021, 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 8TH day of APRIL, 2022.

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; 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 claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A 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 OCTOBER 15, 2021

WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP PO BOX 910 115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18940 To all persons interested in the estate of PAUL D. SCARBOROUGH JR. AKA PAUL DANIEL SCARBOROUGH JR., ESTATE NO. 18940. Notice is given that BETTY J. SCARBOROUGH, 203 COLBOURNE LANE, SNOW HILL, MD 21863, was on, OCTOBER 12, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of PAUL D. SCARBOROUGH JR., who died on AUGUST 15, 2021, 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 12TH day of APRIL, 2022.

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; 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 claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A 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 OCTOBER 15, 2021

JAMES WILLIAM BLIMLINE Personal Representative

BETTY J. SCARBOROUGH 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 10-15, 10-22, 10-29

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 10-15, 10-22, 10-29

Third Insertion

Second Insertion

MICHAEL B. MATHERS, ESQ. WEBB, CORNBROOKS,

BAYARD, P.A. STEVEN R. DIRECTOR, ESQ.

October 29, 2021 600 N. KING STREET, SUITE 400 WILMINGTON, DE 19801 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 18862 Notice is given that the REGISTER OF WILLS COURT of SUSSEX COUNTY, DE, appointed MARGARET ANN WOODEN, 333 S SETON AVENUE, EMMITSBURG, MD 21727, as the EXECUTOR of the Estate of LESTER F WOODEN, who died on DECEMBER 26, 2020, domiciled in DELAWARE, USA. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: WORCESTER. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication OCTOBER 22, 2021 MARGARET ANN WOODEN Foreign 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 10-22, 10-29, 11-05

Second Insertion NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18906 To all persons interested in the estate of ROBERT QUICKEL AKA: ROBERT E QUICKEL, ESTATE NO. 18906. Notice is given that CLAUDIA QUICKEL, 9 76TH STREET #104, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on, OCTOBER 15, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ROBERT QUICKEL, who died on JANUARY 27, 2021, 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 15TH day of APRIL, 2022.

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; 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 claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A 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 OCTOBER 22, 2021 CLAUDIA QUICKEL 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 10-22, 10-29, 11-05

Second Insertion I. WILLIAM CHASE THE BELVEDERE TOWERS 1190 W. NORTHERN PKWY, SUITE 124 BALTIMORE, MD 21210 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO. C-23-CV-20-000119 WILBARGER, LLC P.O. BOX 2367 DENVER, CO 80201 Plaintiff vs.

ESTATE OF CHARLES SCHOOLFIELD C/O ESTELLA SCHOOLFIELD, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE 407 MAPLE STREET POCOMOKE, MD 21851 AND UNKNOWN OCCUPANT RESIDING AT 1223 NEW BRIDGE ROAD POCOMOKE, MD 21851

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

The Dispatch Legal Notices LEGAL RATES Legal advertising rate is $7 per column inch.

The deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon.

For more information call 410-641-4563 or email classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com AND THE COUNTY OF WORCESTER SERVE ON: ROSCOE LESLIE COUNTY ATTORNEY 1 W. MARKET STREET ROOM 1103 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 AND ALL OTHER PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING TO HAVE AN INEREST IN 1223 NEW BRIDGE ROAD Defendants ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property, 1223 NEW BRIDGE ROAD, POCOMOKE, MD 21851 assessed to Estate of Charles Schoolfield, and sold by the Collector of Taxes for the County of Worcester and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiffs in these proceedings: 1223 NEW BRIDGE ROAD ACCOUNT NO.: 01-009214 The complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid, although the required time for filing a Complaint has elapsed.

It is thereupon this 14TH OF OCTOBER, 2021 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, ORDERED, that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation once a week for three successive weeks, before the 8th day of NOVEMBER, 2021, warning all persons interested in said property to be and appear in this Court by the 15th day of NOVEMBER, 2021, to redeem the property, 1223 New Bridge Road, Pocomoke, MD 21851 and answer the Complaint of or thereafter a final decree will be rendered foreclosing all rights of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff, WILBARGER, LLC a title, free and clear of all encumbrances, except for ground rents.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication OCTOBER 22, 2021

BEAU H. OGLESBY JUDGE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 10-22, 10-29, 11-05

Second Insertion BROOKE H. BOWMAN 162 WEST STREET ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18942 To all persons interested in the estate of GEORGE L. RALPH JR., ESTATE NO. 18942. Notice is given that MICHAEL SHAWN RALPH, 5871 MUSTANG COURT, SALISBURY, MD 21801, was on, OCTOBER 13, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GEORGE L. RALPH JR., who died on SEPTEMBER 11, 2021, 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 13TH day of APRIL, 2022.

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; 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 claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unen-

forceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication OCTOBER 22, 2021 MICHAEL SHAWN RALPH 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 10-22, 10-29, 11-05

First Insertion J. HARRISON PHILLIPS III, ESQ. 115-72ND STREET OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18672 To all persons interested in the estate of ADELINE SMITH FORMWALT, ESTATE NO. 18672. Notice is given that JOHN WILLIAM FORMWALT, 153 NAUTICAL LANE, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on, OCTOBER 25, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ADELINE SMITH FORMWALT, who died on AUGUST 13, 2020, with a will. There was a prior small estate proceeding.

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 25TH day of APRIL, 2022.

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; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers

Page 51

to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A 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.

tor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A 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 OCTOBER 29, 2021

ADAM BRUNO Personal Representative

JOHN WILLIAM FORMWALT 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 10-29, 11-05, 11-12

First Insertion CYNTHIA B. MACDONALD, ESQ. 208 CALVERT STREET P.O. BOX 33 SALISBURY, MD 21803 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18874 To all persons interested in the estate of ANNA MILDRED STONE, ESTATE NO. 18874. Notice is given that ADAM BRUNO, 75 HELMS HILL ROAD, WASHINGTONVILLE, NY 10992, was on, AUGUST 30, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ANNA MILDRED STONE, who died on JUNE 18, 2021, 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 28TH day of FEBRUARY, 2022.

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; 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 claim will be barred unless the credi-

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication OCTOBER 29, 2021

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 10-29, 11-05, 11-12

creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication OCTOBER 29, 2021 CINDY R. MYERS 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 1x 10-29

First Insertion First Insertion MARIANNA BATIE, ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HIGHWAY, SUITE 112 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18958 To all persons interested in the estate of NORMAN L. MYERS II. ESTATE NO. 18958. Notice is given that CINDY R. MYERS, 1605 REFLECTION COVE, ST. CLOUD, FL 34771 was on OCTOBER 25, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of NORMAN L. MYERS II, who died on SEPTEMBER 15, 2021 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 shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them 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; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the

MICHAEL B. MATHERS, ESQ. WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP PO BOX 910 115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18960 To all persons interested in the estate of WILLIAM PACE HUNTER AKA: WILLIAM HUNTER, ESTATE NO. 18960. Notice is given that JENNY QUINN, 2228 NORTH QUANTICO STREET, ARLINGTON, VA 22205, was on, OCTOBER 25, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WILLIAM PACE HUNTER, who died on SEPTEMBER 22, 2021, 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 25TH day of APRIL, 2022.

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; 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 claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims

Page 52

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

The Dispatch Legal Notices LEGAL RATES Legal advertising rate is $7 per column inch.

The deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon.

For more information call 410-641-4563 or email classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A 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 OCTOBER 29, 2021 JENNY QUINN 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 10-29, 11-05, 11-12

First Insertion IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY,

MARYLAND CIVIL CASE NO. C23-FM-21-000277 IN THE MATTER OF: ELIZABETH GRAY FLEMING FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO: ELIZABETH LOUISE GRAY NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION (ADULT) (MD. RULE 15-901) The above petitioner has filed a Petition for Change of Name to change their name from ELIZABETH GRAY FLEMING to ELIZABETH LOUISE GRAY. The petitioner is seeking a name change because: HER CHILDREN FROM HER MARRIAGE ARE NOW ADULTS, AND IT IS PETITIONER’S DESIRE TO CHANGE HER NAME BACK TO HER BIRTH NAME. PETITIONER’S DIVORCE WAS FINAL ON JANUARY 26, 2005.

Any person may file an objection to the Petition for Change of Name on or before DECEMBER 10, 2021.

The objection must be supported by an affidavit (written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation) and served on the Petitioner (Md. Rule 1-321). If no timely objection is filed, the court may issue a judgement or grant the name change.

A copy of this notice must be published one time in a newspaper of general circulation in the county at least fifteen (15) days before the deadline to fine an objection.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication OCTOBER 29, 2021 SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, MD Room 104 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 10-29

October 29, 2021

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

STUDENTS In The News

Oakley’s Mobile Pumpkin Palooza out of Hebron visited Worcester Preparatory School this month educating students on the different types of pumpkins, squash, gourds and more. Each Lower School grade attended the Mobile Pumpkin Palooza to learn about the different vegetable types in the squash family that help make the fall season so special. Students also participated in other sensory activities and selected a pumpkin of their own to take home. Students pictured above are Georgia Duffie, Ellie Bookwalter, Lilly Brittingham, Carter Merryman, Wesley DeVito, Emery Anthony, Emily Leiner and Adee Carmean. Below are Alessi Ziman, Liam Doran, Arjun Verma, Teaghan Weinstein, Lea Jaoude and Anna French.

Submitted Photos

Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School recently hosted the Knights of Columbus Council #9053 for a Soccer Challenge. The event allows students the opportunity to demonstrate shooting accuracy on the penalty kick. Students compete within their own gender and age to progress from the local level to district, regional and state competitions. Once their scores are presented to the district level, some students may move forward to the next level. Fourth grader Dylan Gunther is pictured.

The eighth grade class last Friday sponsored “Decade Dress” Spirit Day to help celebrate Worcester Preparatory School’s 50th Anniversary this year. Middle School students participated by wearing outfits representing the 70s, 80s, 90s or the 2000s. Above are eighth grader Beckett Green and teacher Allison Bescak.

Below are sixth graders, back row, Ruya Kucuk, Sarah Williams and Emma Brooks, and, front, Addison Perdue, Ariana Dorfler and Gracie Holloway. Second from bottom are eighth graders Sydney Mize, Anisha Batra, Emily Patrowicz, Elliott Windrow, Catherine Cullen and Ayla Yonker. Bottom are sixth graders Brock Phillips, Jack Tunnell, Ben Rafinski, Wesley Wisniewski, Chase Thompson and Ayven Browne.

Boom Year Increases Ocean City’s Fund Balance To 37%

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A review of the town’s annual comprehensive financial report revealed everything came up rosy in the post-pandemic fiscal year 2021 with “significant gains” in nearly every major category.

Finance Director Chuck Bireley, along with Assistant Finance Director Shawn Bunting, presented the report to the Mayor and Council on Tuesday. Bireley explained revenues for fiscal year 2021 were budgeted at around $90 million and actually came in at a little over $95 million for a favorable variance of a little under $5 million. Conversely, expenditures were budgeted at around $84 million and came in at about $74 million, for a positive variance of $5.7 million. The change in fund balance was budgeted at $1.5 million, but ended over $9 million, resulting in a variance of $10.6 million.

“We had significant positive variances in revenue and expenditures,” he said. “The $10.6 positive variance in the general fund balance was the largest single level of growth in the town’s history.”

In terms of unassigned general fund balance, the amount went from $23 million in fiscal year 2020 or roughly 30%, to nearly $29 million in fiscal year 2021, or roughly 37%. The town’s long-stated goal for general fund balance as a percentage of expenditures has been

15%, but the desire in recent years has been to grow that to 20% and beyond.

Now, however, it has grown to nearly 37%.

Bireley said a key component of the increase in fund balance was an unexpected increase in room tax revenue, which increased nearly $3.5 million from fiscal year 2020. Because of the pandemic, resort officials often compare fiscal year 2021 to pre-COVID fiscal year 2019 as more of an apples-to-apples comparison.

Still, room tax increased by over $2.6 million compared to 2019.

Another key component of the town’s financial success in 2021 came in the form of intergovernmental grants and subsidies. For example, Ocean City received $3.4 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 funds during the fiscal year. In addition, state and county grants increased by nearly $1 million.

Another important factor was the town’s successes with its Post-Employment Benefit gains, or OPEB. The town’s OPEB liability decreased by over $6.5 million, and there were total investment earnings of $36 million in the benefit plans.

“The performance of the OPEB was stellar,” he said. “We actually had negative expenses in the OPEB.” In terms of the town’s enterprise funds and business services for utilities and other user-driven entities, each came in with revenues exceeding expenses, with the exception of the convention center,

HOME OF THE ORIGINAL FRESH -SQUEEZED “ORANGE CRUSH” over a million sold!

Daily Specials Monday-Friday

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which was expected.

In the transportation fund, COVID-related service cuts led to a $1.8 million decrease in revenue, but operating expenses decreased by $1.2 million. Federal relief grants for transportation totaling $1.1 million helped offset the losses. Eagle’s Landing golf course did well in fiscal year 2021 with over $550,000 in profit with no general fund subsidy.

The town’s assets came in at $367,657,746, while liabilities totaled $164,135,614, resulting in a net position of over $203 million.

“Where we stood at the end of the fiscal year was $203 million,” said Bireley.

“That was an increase of 18.7% over the prior year. In closing, fiscal year 2021 was a very, very good year for the Town of Ocean City.”

Mayor Rick Meehan said the growth in fund balance should likely be reviewed at some point because of how much it has exceeded expectations.

“We’re fortunate the town had a great year and there were a lot of things that played into that,” he said. “Usually, we talk about fund balance at budget time, but we should up that discussion in the near future so we can really evaluate where we are and what we’re going to do with next year’s budget.”

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Page 56

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Bob Phillips BERLIN – Beloved by countless friends and family, Robert (Bob) Harry Phillips, age 93 of Berlin, passed away at the Coastal Hospice at the Lake on Oct. 21, 2021.

Born in Hebron, Maryland, on March 27, 1928, he was the son of the late John Edward Phillips and Elizabeth Savage Phillips.

Bob is survived by his wife of 48 years, Esther Collins Phillips; a daughter, Leigh Ann Taylor (Ricky); a son, Robin S. Johnson (Carol); five grandchildren, Katie Cabrera (Joaquin), Hunter Johnson (Brandie), Ryan BOB PHILLIPS Taylor, Brett Taylor, and Jake Taylor; and one great-grandson, Gavin Cruz Cabrera. He is also survived by his sister, Brenda P. Fox (Jim). He loved his nieces and nephew like his own – Susan Colliton (Kevin), Lori Bennett (David), and Jim Fox II (Dawn). He also loved his great nieces and nephews – Sarah, Corie, Patrick, Jimmy III, Jordan, Jessie, Johnny, and Rachel. He was preceded in death by not only his parents but also his son, Robbie Phillips, and his sister, Peggy Elaine Phillips.

He graduated from Hebron High School in 1946 and then from Beacom College in 1948. For 42 years, Bob was employed by two different banks – the Union Trust Co. (24 years) followed by Peninsula Bank (18 years). He served Peninsula Bank in various lending, managerial and business development capacities including regional vice president for the bank’s three offices in Ocean City and Berlin, and in 1988 was named vice president for business development in Worcester County.

Active in various civic and community affairs, Bob was a member and a director of the Berlin Lions Club, a director of the Worcester County United Fund Drive and a director of the Berlin Heritage Foundation. His other previous affiliations included the Ruritan Rockawalkin Club, the Board of Zoning Appeals for the Town of Berlin, Worcester County Board of Education Technology Task Force, Berlin Chamber of Commerce and the Atlantic General Hospital Fundraising Campaign Committee. A member of the Lions Club for 47 years, Bob was a recipient of the Melvin Jones Fellow Award for his humanitarian efforts. He was also a member of the Stevenson United Methodist Church in Berlin where he enjoyed listening to the church’s pipe organ.

After retiring from the banking industry, his passion for fine woodworking drew him into his woodworking “shop” just steps away from his back door. He spent many hours in his shop finetuning his craftsmanship. The exquisite detail of his work was deeply appreciated by countless individuals for whom he made furniture. Bob was also an avid reader with an insatiable appetite for fiction, reading up to several books a week, even up until the time of his passing. In his later years, he also thoroughly enjoyed “the Lunch Bunch” gatherings on Wednesdays as well as the monthly Phillips “Cousins’” luncheons. He was well known for his authenticity, humor, intelligence and wit which served him well throughout his life.

It has been said, “to know him was to love him.”

A celebration of his life will be held on

OBITUARIES Nov. 21, 2021 (2 p.m.) at Stevenson United Methodist Church in Berlin. Rev. James Fox and Rev. David Bennett (nephews) will officiate. For health considerations, face masks are recommended and there will be no visitation prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are welcome to Coastal Hospice (P.O. Box 1722, Salisbury, Md. 21802) or to Stevenson United Methodist Church (123 N. Main Street, Berlin, Md. 21811).

Arrangements are in the care of Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.easternshorecremation.com.

Joyce Catherine Matthai BERLIN – Joyce Catherine Matthai, age 79, died Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021 at Atlantic General Hospital.

Born in Baltimore she was the daughter of the late Rev. Harry Hager and Ruth Hoover Hager. She is survived by her husband, Wayne W. Matthai, and one son David Matthai and his wife Nancy of Yardley, Pa. There are two grandsons, Andrew Louis Matthai and James Wayne Matthai. She was preceded in death by a sister, Ruth Elaine Robbins.

JOYCE She was a 1959 gradu- CATHERINE MATTHAI ate of Westminster High School in Westminster and had been an office manager and technician in a dental office.

Joyce and Wayne (Sr. P&G Manager) traveled extensively, living in Japan for four years and visiting Asia and Europe as well as all the 50 states. She loved animals and enjoyed viewing elk, deer, bear, fox and bobcats which abounded at their home in Golden, Colo. She also enjoyed cooking and was affectionately known as the “Admiral of the household”.

No formal services are planned at this time. Cremation followed her death. A memorial service will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Worcester County Humane Society, P.O. Box 48, Berlin, Md. 21811.

Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home. Letters of condolence may be made to the family at Burbage Funeral Home.com.

George J. Doll, Jr. ROXANA – George J. Doll Jr, a recent resident of Roxana, Del., transitioned to his greater reward during the early morning hours of Sept. 13, 2021, after many years of suffering with kidney failure.

Born in Baltimore, on Nov. 15, 1947, George, 73, was predeceased by his father, George J. Doll Sr., and his mother, Esther M. Doll (Long); his daughter, Rachel Anne Doll; his sibling, Charlotte A. McNamara (Doll); and his niece, Beth M. Dawson.

He is survived by sister Gail C. Dawson (Doll); brother Lee A. Doll; and GEORGE J. his brother-in-law, Gary DOLL, JR. (Pat) McNamara, Sr. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, including his godchild, Michae-

line Vincent (McNamara), several cousins, and a large group of friends both in Maryland and Delaware. His marriages to Audrey Doll (Eisenstein) and Eileen Doll (Timms) ended in divorces.

George attended elementary school at St. Joseph Monastery School and high school at Mt St. Joseph, both located in the Irvington area of Baltimore. George received an Associates of Arts Degree from Catonsville Community College and a Bachelor of Science Degree from UMBC. He received his Master of Social Work Degree from the University of Maryland. George excelled in sports, particularly baseball (pitcher) and billiards.

After high school, George worked for the Arbutus Veterinarian Hospital and in the Emergency Room at University Hospital. He spent his career as a social worker doing family counseling, youth crisis counseling, helping those with drug and alcohol addictions, and hospice counseling at Levindale Hebrew Geriatric Center & Hospital. He finished his career as a social worker for the State of Maryland.

George volunteered for the draft and served a tour in Vietnam. He was assigned to the Inspector General’s team of Preventative Medicine. Upon retiring, George moved to Delaware spending his time gardening and caring for stray cats.

There was a brief military honors internment in September at Garrison Forest Veterans Cemetery in Owings Mills.

The family is planning a celebration of life for George on Dec. 4, 2021. Donations in George's honor can be made to My Brother's Keeper J. P. Blase Cooke Center, 4207 Frederick Avenue, Baltimore, Md 21229; or to the Baltimore Animal Rescue Care Shelter, 2490 Giles Rd., Baltimore, Md. 21225 @ barcs.org.

Jeanne Devers White FRANKFORD – Jeanne Devers White, 85, of Frankford passed away on Saturday, October 23, 2021 at home with friends and family by her side.

Jeanne was the daughter of the late Patrick and Helen Devers of West Pittston, Pa. Born on Dec. 21, 1935, she resided in the family home in West Pittston where her early education took place at Immaculate Conception Elementary School, and Saint John the Evangelist JEANNE High School. She gradDEVERS WHITE uated with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry and nutrition from College Misericordia, in Dallas, Pa. She also completed advanced Dietetics studies at several medical centers in New York City.

Jeanne was a dedicated civil servant, joining the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1963. During her career at FDA, Jeanne held many senior positions including being named the first FDA White House Liaison and serving as the Assistant Director of Field Operations in the White House Office of Consumer Affairs. In 1972, Jeanne was directed by the Nixon Administration to establish the country's first White House Consumer Protection Office in a Disaster Area in the aftermath of Hurricane Agnes. This initia-

October 29, 2021 tive to open a Consumer Protection Office has continued as a template for other disaster areas that have occurred since then. She also served as the Regional Director, Director of Field Operations and National Director of Communications at the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

In 1999, Jeanne retired from the FDA Commissioner's Office of National Industry, Scientific, and Trade Affairs. Among her numerous national and international awards, Jeanne is a seven-time winner of the FDA Award of Merit, the FDA's highest award. She is also a recipient of the Presidential Award of Excellence and was named Regulatory Professional of the Year in 1992 by the Regulatory Affairs Professional Society. Jeanne most recently was the Director of Communications at Nocopi Technologies, being appointed to that position in December 2003.

Jeanne was an avid shopper and had a flare for bold colors. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends and staying active during her retirement years. She was a member of St. Luke Catholic Church in Ocean City.

Jeanne is survived by her husband, Philip White; his daughter, Marnie Merrill, and granddaughter, Sloane Mitchell; her sister, Carole Quinn of Laflin, Pa; nephew Lawrence Kovacs Jr., and his daughter, great-niece Bridget Kovacs; niece Lynn Kovacs Pellegrino, great-nephew Matthew Pellegrino and great-niece Nicole Pellegrino, and great-great niece Riley Anne Sibley; and nieces Kathleen DePillis, Michelle Quinn, and Kimberly Hazzouri and their children, great nephew Matthew, Brendan, Adrien and Declan, and great nieces Julia, Emily and Maeve.

Jeanne was preceded in death recently by her sister, Anne Kovacs of Selbyville.

A viewing was held Oct. 27 at BishopHastings Funeral Home in Selbyville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in Pennsylvania on Friday with burial following.

In lieu of flowers, the family recommends doing something nice for someone else. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.

Jeffrey William Hantske BERLIN – Jeffrey William Hantske, age 66 passed away on Oct. 24, 2021 at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.

Born in Glen Burnie, he was the son of the late Paul and Emily (Bounds) Hantske. He is survived by his brother, Robert Hantske of Annapolis, and nieces Ari Hantske and Nettie Widgeon, both of Berlin. Preceding him in death was his older brother, Paul Hantske.

Mr. Hantske was a graduate of Annapolis High School and attended the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore. After retiring from a career with United Airlines, he worked at Outback in Ocean City.

In his spare time, he en- JEFFREY joyed spending time with WILLIAM HANTSKE his family.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, Oct. 30 at noon at the BoggsDisharoon American Legion, Post #123 at 10111 Old Ocean City Blvd. in Berlin.

Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.

Decatur Restroom Berlin Needs ‘Very Strong Plan’ For ARPA Funds Grant Received

October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – A $99,000 grant is expected to help the town install permanent restrooms at Stephen Decatur Park.

Berlin has received a $99,000 Community Parks and Playgrounds grant from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for permanent restrooms at Stephen Decatur Park.

“It’s a really big win for Stephen Decatur Park,” Mayor Zack Tyndall said.

Tyndall announced the grant last Friday, noting that the grant award came six years after the town’s initial application for the project was denied. Following that initial denial, the town sought funding for other projects and was successful in receiving funding to help with Henry Park restrooms and the resurfacing of the tennis courts at Stephen Decatur Park. In 2020, officials agreed to again seek funding for permanent restrooms at Stephen Decatur Park. Tyndall said the Board of Public Works approved the town’s application for $99,000 in funding last week. The mayor praised the Community Parks and Playgrounds program.

“This grant funding has helped fund quite a bit in Berlin,” he said. “It’s definitely a good grant to pursue and I don’t think Berlin’s short of projects.”

The municipality applied for $99,000 with a town match of $11,000, according to Deputy Town Administrator Mary Bohlen. She said the total project estimate was $110,000 at that time the application was submitted.

“Of course, as everyone is aware, construction costs have been seriously inflated since the application was submitted,” she said. “This is one of the disadvantages of such a long application process. That said, we are hopeful that we will be able to complete the project within budget as those prices seem to be coming down.”

Though pre-fabricated restrooms were installed at Henry Park, Tyndall said staff would be considering all options in an effort to find the most cost effective option for Stephen Decatur Park.

BERLIN – The town’s finance director encouraged elected officials to begin developing a plan for spending federal recovery funds.

During Monday’s meeting of the Berlin Town Council, Finance Director Natalie Saleh asked officials to start working on a plan regarding American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The town has received a little over $2,397,136 million in ARPA funds and expects to receive the same amount next year.

“It seems like lately we’ve been talking about ARPA money in general but we

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Page 57

need to develop a strategy and a plan of allocation of the ARPA money,” Saleh said.

Though officials have referenced the nearly $4.8 million the town is set to receive through ARPA, they haven’t yet developed a spending plan. Mayor Zack Tyndall said during Monday’s meeting that reviewing needed capital projects was the first thing officials needed to do. He said looking at capital projects would provide officials with “a snapshot of what we have and what we need.”

According to Tyndall that capital list should be discussed at the next regular council meeting.

“There will be an opportunity for public comment regarding the ARPA funding and

a discussion about possible ways to move forward with that,” he said.

The council has, however, already agreed to use ARPA funds to cover the cost of a $110,000 stormwater pipe repair and a $350,000 well replacement. The Berlin Fire Company is also expected to present the town with ARPA funding requests.

Saleh said there were reporting requirements associated with the funding and the town should set priorities.

“We cannot just accept requests and see if we can grant the requests going forward,” she said. “Emergencies, that’s one thing, but we have to have a very strong plan to go forward. That is required for us to do so.”

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021

COMMUNITY News In Photos

International liquor company Tito’s Handmade Vodka/Love, Tito’s and the Market Street Inn in Salisbury recently teamed up to give back to Lower Shore families. Through a unique fundraising program hosted at Market Street, Love, Tito’s gave $3,000 to the Brooke Mulford Memorial Fund held at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore. The fund supports Easter Seals Camp Fairlee and Believe in Tomorrow House By The Sea. The fund was created in memory of Brooke Mulford, daughter of Market Street Inn owner Rob Mulford, to support causes that were special to Brooke. Pictured, from left, are BJ Summers, Director of Development and Donor Relations, Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore; Rob Mulford, owner, Market Street Inn; Katie Murphy, Sales Representative, Tito’s Handmade Vodka; and Stayton Hastings, Field Sales Manager, Breakthru Beverage Group.

Submitted Photos

ERA Martin Associates, local real estate brokerage in Salisbury, recently partnered with Shamrock Realty Group of Ocean Pines to create the Shamrock Division, a branch of ERA Martin Associates. A celebration of the merger was held last week with a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Ocean Pines office of the new ERA Martin Associates Shamrock Division.

Photo by Jeanette Deskiewicz

As part of History Week in October, the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum presented an annual Spirit Award. The award recognizes a person or organization that has made strides in preserving Ocean City's cultural or natural history. This year's Spirit Award was awarded to Nancy Howard, who is pictured with Museum Board President Mabel Rogers.

The Junior Auxiliary Group (JAG) presented a check last week to Atlantic General Hospital at its Membership Social hosted by Dry Dock 28. JAG’s contribution completed a $25,000 pledge to the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation’s Campaign for the Future. Members of the Junior Auxiliary Group, along with family and friends, joined together at Dry Dock 28 to recognize the group’s significant contribution. The JAG, a group of local volunteers, raises money for the hospital through community events, fundraisers and the Atlantic General Thrift Shop.

Above, JAG President Jill Ferrante, right, along with members of the JAG Executive Committee, presented a check to AGH Co-Interim President/CEOs Sally Dowling and Kim Justice, Atlantic General Hospital Foundation Chair Steve Green and AGH Vice President of Public Relations Toni Keiser.

Working together for a worthy cause, members of the Ocean Pines Men’s Golf Association and Ocean Pines Ladies’ Golf Association recently raised $2,343 for the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation during the annual Pink Lady Fundraiser.

The Men’s Golf Association held its event on Oct. 7 and the Ladies’ Golf Association held its event on Oct. 12, both at the Ocean Pines Golf Club. Organizer Ann Shockley said the funds raised would help pay for mammograms for those who cannot afford them. Susan Morris also helped organize the event. Both clubs collected donations and offered incentives to donors. The AGH Foundation contributed some gift items to the cause. “The men enjoyed their morning event, along with closest to the hole contests, birdie and par prizes, and special incentives for those who wore pink,” Shockley said. “The women were unfortunately rained out for golf, but rallied together, all in pink, to enjoy breakfast together.” A check presentation with the AGH Foundation will be scheduled at a later date.

Above the women’s event committee is pictured with two of the many golfers from the men’s event shown.

County License Board Denies Pocomoke Legion’s Hours Request

October 29, 2021

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – Officials denied a request to extend the American Legion’s hours in Pocomoke.

The Worcester County Board of License Commissioners (BLC) voted unanimously Oct. 20 to deny a request to expand the hours at Pocomoke’s American Legion Post 93.

“I have heard nothing today to make me think we should extend it,” said BLC Chairman William Esham. “To the contrary, the only thing I can tell you is it sounds like to me you need to get your house in order or you’re going to be back down here.”

A trio of American Legion Post 93 representatives approached the board last Wednesday asking to expand operating hours from 11 p.m. until midnight to help with financial obligations.

Tom Coates, the board’s attorney, pointed out that the Legion was hosting a variety of events but didn’t appear to be distributing many charitable contributions with the money raised. He added that the Legion’s alcohol license was meant to allow it to serve members and their guests, not necessarily to host events.

A handful of area residents were in attendance to object to any changes to the facility’s hours. Pocomoke City Mayor Susan Harrison said the town council did not want the hours extended. She added that the Legion had been operating without a business license since the end of August.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 59

“We’ve tried to give leniency but there won’t be any more,” she said. “It’s not right.”

Ronnie Durham, who owns a garage near the Legion, said when events were held at the facility cars parked along the street made it difficult for him to get his tow truck out.

“I think the timing is plenty right now,” he said.

Bypass Road resident Valerie Holland told the board there was loud music at the Legion and that she’d found a bullet hole in her fence.

BLC member Marty Pusey said that the board had put conditions in place when the Legion’s liquor license was renewed in 2018. One of those conditions was that all guests sign in. “There’s no way all the guests are signing in,” Coates said.

Steve Giddens, one of the Legion’s representatives at the hearing, said there was one sign-in book that had been accidently destroyed.

“I’m holding myself accountable for any issues,” he said.

Giddens added that the camera system the board required was up and running. He said he personally picks up trash after events at the Legion.

Esham said neighbors, however, didn’t appear to be any happier with the Legion now than they were when they voiced complaints in 2018.

BLC member Charles Nichols made a motion to deny the request to extend hours. The board voted 3-0 in support.

OC Capital Project Bids Reviewed

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Bids were opened for several ongoing capital projects, and while there are options in each case that are under what was budgeted, the bids were all over the map.

The Mayor and Council on Tuesday opened multiple bids for three capital projects including repainting the municipal water tower at 94th Street, a new uninterruptable power source (UPS) system at the Public Safety Building and the town’s annual street paving cycle. In each case, multiple bids were received and at least one option came in under what was budgeted. In other cases, the disparity in the bids was significantly wide.

For the repainting of the water tower at 94th Street, the project was budgeted at $350,000. The low bid was $238,000, while the high bid was $859,000. There were also two other bids submitted, including one at $367,000 and another at $809,000. The council voted unanimously to remand the bids to staff for review and a recommendation.

Council Secretary Tony DeLuca, who opened the bids with City Manager Doug Miller, jokingly took the opportunity to bring up one of his old pet projects.

“This is a golf ball on a tee with the Eagle’s Landing logo right? he said. “Just

to clarify.”

Councilman Mark Paddack asked why there was a part A and a part B in the bid package. Water Superintendent Howard Iman explained the different sections.

“Basically, part A is to paint the outside,” he said. “If you’ve seen the outside of the tank, you can see rust stains coming through. The rest of the items were put in there if we were lucky enough on the bids.”

Iman said once painted, the 94th Street water tower will be adorned again with the Art League’s logo.

“The Art League generally asks that their logo be put on it,” he said. “They pay for that themselves.”

The street paving bids were even more spread apart. The town budgeted $2.5 million this fiscal year, of which $765,000 comes from casino revenue and another $642,000 from state highway user revenue. The balance comes from the town’s general fund, or a little over $1 million.

The low bid from street paving came in at around $550,000, while the high bid was over $1.1 million. There was another bid at $556,000 and a couple in the $600,000 range. As far as the bids for the UPS system at the Public Safety Building, the project was estimated at $110,000.

The low bid was around $85,000, while the high bid came in at over $128,000.

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Loving Care Recognized Editor: My family would like to take this time to acknowledge the following for the amazing care they took of our Dad, George Hannaway.

First, I would like to thank Catered Living for the loving care Dad received at the end of his journey. Catered Living became Dad's third family and he became a favorite member for all those living there.

Secondly, I cannot say enough about Coastal Hospice. Coastal Hospice came in at the end and took over those final tough duties to allow the Catered Living staff to just care and focus on loving Dad. We are so grateful for those of you who donated to Coastal Hospice in Dad's name.

Berlin had become home to Dad and I would like to thank his second family for their love and care of our Dad. The town also became Dad's favorite place to walk around and meet and greet the "locals". Thank you all for the love you

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Letters To The Editor showed and the care given. The "Interested Persons" miss him so very much.

Patricia Hannaway, Lori and Michael Watson and family

Extremist Representative Editor: Congressman Andy Harris has been representing us in Congress for well over 10 years. Throughout his time in office, Andy Harris has had a major problem with ties to White Nationalism and Anti-Semitism. In this letter, I will discuss in detail Congressman Harris's problematic ties to these extremist and hateful ideologies.

On Jan. 16, 2017, Congressman Andy Harris joined Congressman Phil Roe for a meeting with White Nationalist activist Chuck Johnson. Chuck Johnson is nationally known for his hateful and dangerous ideology including being a Holo-

caust denier, believing that Muslims are “genetically different in their propensity for violence or rape”, and linked to stories about how African-Americans “possessed a ‘violence’ gene.” These views have been proven to be debunked pseudoscience? from as far back as 1920. Yet our congressman took time out of his day to meet with such a radical extremist.

This is not the first time that Andy Harris has openly worked with someone with anti-Semitic and white nationalistic views. Since taking office Congressman Harris has been a major collaborator with Hungarian Dictator Viktor Orbán.

Andy Harris has assisted Viktor Orbán in his efforts to erode democracy and seize power in Hungary. Prime Minister Orbán, during his power grab, was is famous for using anti-Semitic imagery around his nation, claiming that “pow-

October 29, 2021 erful Jewish financiers are scheming to control the world.” He has also led smear campaigns that openly ran Jewish leaders, businesses, and institutions out of the country. Orban’s anti-semitic horror show doesn’t end there. Throughout his time in office, Orban has started efforts to revise history in order to “sanitize” the record of Hungarian participation in the ghettoization and deportation of the country’s Jews to concentration camps during WWII. During this period, Hungary was an ally of the Nazis. Despite these several authoritarian and openly anti-semitic actions, Congressman Harris still proudly promoted and supported anti-Semites in their effort to rewrite history, harass the Jewish community in the country, and seize power in the nation.

Andy Harris’s efforts to support foreign anti-Semites don’t stop in Hungary.

In 2018, the congressman attempted to secretly meet with the leader of the Czech Nazi Party (Svoboda a přímá demokracie) Tomio Okamura in Prague.

Not only was this meeting going to be paid for by U.S. taxpayers, but this party is also by far the most extreme that Czech Politics has to offer. You might be asking yourself why is this party so bad?

The party has a long history of advocating for the violation of human rights and extremism like anti-Semitism. The Secretary of the Party Jaroslav Staník openly called for the gassing of “Jews, gays, and Roma”, which would be nothing short of a modern-day Holocaust.

The party’s leader, Tomio Okamura, has called on the Czech people to walk pigs and dogs in Muslim neighborhoods and mosques (Muslim religious doctrines call for practicing Muslims to avoid interaction with these animals). To have people walk pigs and dogs in their community would be nothing short of harassment and open terrorism towards people just trying to live their lives like you and I. Tomio has also advocated for the end of religious freedoms and wants to ban Islam and other religions he views as undesirable. The fact that our congressman would set up a meeting with such an extremist that openly goes against American values of freedom and peace is disgusting and a clear sign he holds these beliefs himself.

In the simplest terms, the situation with our sitting congressman is untenable. The first time Andy Harris met with or attempted to meet with an AntiSemite and or White Nationalist leader or organization, there it was at least somewhat believable that maybe Andy Harris and his staff were incompetent and didn’t know how to vet people before setting up meetings. Not even Harris could be THIS incompetent. There is no reason not to believe that he holds these anti-American and anti-Eastern Shore views himself. There is a saying for people like Andy Harris: if there’s a Nazi at the table and 10 other people sitting there talking to him, you got a table with 11 Nazis. We can’t afford to continue electing a congressman who holds sympathetic views towards White Nationalism and Anti-Semitism.

Jared Schablein Pittsville (The writer is the chair of the Lower Shore Progressive Caucus.)

October 29, 2021

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 ssoper@mdcoastdispatch.com CHARLENE SHARPE Staff Writer/Copy Editor csharpe@mdcoastdispatch.com BETHANY HOOPER Staff Writer bhooper@mdcoastdispatch.com CHRIS PARYPA Photographer

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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.

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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.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

An Opportunity To Address A Need How We See It

The Town of Berlin should absolutely provide funds from its American Rescue Plan Act allocation to the Berlin Fire Company (BFC) for firefighting equipment and a new ambulance. Worcester County should as well since the BFC serves unincorporated areas.

These public safety improvements are needed and an ideal utilization of a massive federal stimulus plan. The likelihood is high the BFC will get town and county funds to carry out these lifesaving improvements.

The question of whether the town should contribute relief act funds for the fire company to pave a grassy area along Harrison Avenue for more parking is more complicated. The BFC is currently set to receive a sliver of land from the county opposite the new library, resulting in the entire area behind the old library and fire hall belonging to the BFC. The area proposed for paving will be more than two acres.

During this week’s council meeting, the request for the paving project was not discussed at length. It’s unclear if the council is receptive to the request but no objections were expressed. More discussions will likely be held soon.

What is clear is Berlin has a parking problem during special events as well as during the height of the summer and holiday seasons. There are not enough parking spaces to meet the demands of visitors coming to the area as well as the employees working and living downtown who grab the best spots.

It would make sense for the town to provide funding to the BFC to pave the field only if the parking would be made available for public use when demand is high. When asked if this would be possible, the BFC said it would be considered by membership, but the likelihood would be parking could continue to be provided in exchange for a request for donations.

Over the last quarter, the BFC reported this week $500 in parking donations from special events.

Before this proposal can be seriously considered, more information is needed including a cost estimate to transform the field into a parking lot. It’s unknown how many spots the area could accommodate but a range of 60-80 would seem reasonable.

The situation could be a win-win for the Town of Berlin. Allocating the funds to the BFC to expand its parking with the caveat it will be made available to visitors to town during peak times is a good use of stimulus dollars because it addresses a need.

Under a formal Memorandum of Understanding, the conditions of the deal could be outlined. There’s nothing wrong with the BFC requesting donations for allowing its property to be used for parking.

The agreement could discuss the handling of any sort of maintenance or additional expenses as well. This proposal deserves the town’s consideration while more details come forward.

Page 61

Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green Though masks may be here to stay in schools, it seems likely some changes will be made to quarantine rules in the near future.

As a result of many students being sidelined by protocols governing positive exposures, some jurisdictions in Maryland have recently gone against state guidance when it comes to close contact quarantining. For example, in an extreme move, Carroll County opted last month to not require a student who is deemed a close contact to a positive individual quarantine so long as the student is asymptomatic. This decision was made no matter of vaccination status. In a more conservative move, Harford County reduced its general quarantine time from 14 days to 10 to get students back in school faster. At this week’s state Department of Education meeting, State School Superintendent Mohammed Choudhury said he has been communicating with Maryland Health Department Deputy Secretary Dr. Jinlene Chan on changing the current guidance governing quarantine for students exposed to a positive individual. He said, “We are supportive of a modified quarantine. We have just not put anything out, but I hope we can soon.” Some education officials are expecting the quarantine time for exposed students to potentially be cut in half from 14 days to seven or 10 days so long as symptoms do not exist.

Currently, a close contact in a school setting is determined by an individual who was within three feet of an infected student without a mask for 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period. If a student is wearing a mask, he or she is not considered a close contact. Therefore, the mask is critical to limit close contact identification, which requires quarantining. How many days of quarantine – missed school time – varies depending on vaccination status but is a minimum of 10 days typically no matter of symptoms.

Under the current protocols, I have always felt the quarantine is the enemy not the masks, although many feel passionately I’m off base. The effort to reduce the quarantine times – especially for the asymptomatic - is worthwhile and will result in less kids missing school. I wish the promised conversation would be had in November rather than December.

Whether it’s a conscious thing is unknown, but the strategy seems to be shifting with the September pop-up weekend. For many years, efforts were strictly tied to enforcement and enhancing punishments for offenders. While these efforts will surely continue until the weekend is peaceful again, there seems to now be a tactic to add special events to the last weekend of September to coincide with the pop-up rally.

Last summer a national promoter came forward with plans to hold a major beach music festival, an event that has the support of tourism folks.

The promoter is aware his planned event is scheduled as the pop-up weekend. Now this week a week-long Adventure Fest concept was pitched to the Ocean City Mayor and Council. Unlike the music festival, which would be downtown on the beach, the adventure festival events would be centered at the convention center. Events, which would be carried out in conjunction with the Hogs and Heroes Foundation, discussed include a hunting and fishing expo with a modified gun show, a police K-9 competition, a police motorcycle rodeo and concerts. The promoter said, “We know for a fact there will be 3,000 room nights in the first year and maybe as many as 5,000.”

It’s too early to tell if these events will ever come to fruition, but it’s clear for the first time in a decade Ocean City appears to be trending in the right direction on the pop-up weekend, which was essentially a nonevent this year when compared to the hell of previous years. Adding events and welcoming people to Ocean City would be a nice change from the mantra of the last couple years to avoid Ocean City at all costs on the pop-up weekend.

Since it’s been a while since I have dug into the local and state coronavirus data, here are some interesting current numbers to share: •For Worcester County, 73% of the population (34,040) is fully vaccinated.

•In Worcester County, there have been 4,994 confirmed cases and 119 people have died from COVID-19 to date.

•Worcester County’s positivity rate was 4.89% as of Wednesday (which is a 160% decline since Sept. 12 and 75% drop from Oct. 9).

•Worcester County’s seven-day moving average case rate per 100,000 was 14.48% as of Wednesday, representing a 130% decline from Oct. 8 and 168% decrease from Sept. 3.

•98% of Marylanders 65 and older have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

•85.9% of Marylanders 18 and older have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

•84.9% of Marylanders 12 and older have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

•Maryland’s COVID-19 positivity rate (3.21%) has declined by 37.1% since Aug. 22.

•Maryland’s COVID-19 case rate per 100K (12.6) has declined by 39.4% since Sept. 15.

•Maryland’s COVID-19 hospitalizations (609) have declined by 27.9% since Sept. 9, and are down 68.8% from their peak.

Page 62

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Adventures of Fatherhood

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t’s school picture time, which is not exactly a favorite for the 13year-old kid of the house.

Expecting the worst, I have no doubt we will be disappointed when these photos arrive in a few weeks of at least one of the boys. Considering Beckett doesn’t like to show his teeth when he smiles now (despite a year of Invisalign) and likes his hair down covering his green eyes, I am keeping my expectations low for next week’s picture day for Beckett.

Carson had his photo taken on Tuesday, and he seems to really like putting on a nice shirt for his picture each year.

He even practiced his smile for me several times, asking in his non-verbal way if he was good with a thumb up or thumb down. Of course, he got a huge thumb up from me. Years from now, little will we remember he was wearing athletic shorts and no socks and holding two stuffed animals in his lap.

No matter how the pictures turn out with these two boys, the pictures will be keepsakes for years to come and get their places on the Lifetouch wall at home and around my office. The pictures from their early grades bring on the “awe” moments these days. I’m wondering what the middle school pictures of them will conjure in future years. Maybe some head shakes and bewilderment, but it’s all good. Snapshots in time are priceless.

T

here is a big difference between a closed door and a locked door.

We have no problems with our kids closing their bedroom doors, but we dislike a locked door so much we removed the dead bolts on their doors within a month of moving into our new house. There should be no option on that front in our opinion.

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frown on them entirely. There are a wide range of opinions on the subject.

We are fine with Beckett, 13, closing his door at home. We do insist he keep his door open when friends are in his room.

Another topic with varying parenting approaches is knocking on a teen’s door before entering. We try to knock on Beckett’s door before we enter. It’s more like a knock/open than it is a knock and await permission. It’s like a couple seconds of courtesy before we are in the room. We do not knock and wait for permission to enter. At 13 years old, there is no need for him to have that degree of privacy. Some say that’s the wrong approach, while others agree.

This is the thing about parenting.

We all get to raise our kids how we wish based on our own morals, knowledge of our kids and backgrounds. There are lots of different ways to parent and oftentimes it’s singular to the individual person being raised. We don’t parent Beckett and Carson the same way, but it’s largely due to the latter having special needs. Even in neuro typical families I am close with, they treat their similar-aged kids different based on their personalities, maturity, trustworthiness and attitudes.

I learned through this parenting journey a major pet peeve of mine is judgmental parents. Unfair judgements are made far too often. There should be a recognition most of us all have our struggles and we all are committed to doing the best we can for our children.

It’s none of my business if a neighbor in one direction allows their teens to keep their doors closed and if the other in a different direction finds that practice appalling. We need more acceptance in my opinion. We need to come together and lift each other up, rather than criticize and judge when we don’t know the details of the different journeys being charted.

On the topic of closed doors, a blog

on the site thesuccessfulparent.com discusses this topic at length. A highlight was this passage, some of which I agree with and some of which I don’t.

It’s about awareness and it’s interesting: “Privacy is a strong need for teens.

They need room to try out the various aspects of their personalities, select traits that help build an identity, and test ways to participate in the culture. One of the ways teens can experiment with privacy in a fairly safe manner is within the space of their own rooms. We suggest that you allow your teen the experience of being alone with himself while being able to maintain boundaries against intrusion by others, including you.

The general suggested rules are that teens are allowed to close their doors while alone, or with friends or siblings. … Secondly, it is important that anyone who wants to enter the teen's room knock first and wait to be invited in before entering. This is a very important one. Many parents knock, but they enter while in the process of knocking which is close to entering with no warning. None of us like that sort of intrusion and we generally react with anger. Give your teens the same courtesy you expect from them. As budding adults, teens need both emotional and physical privacy. …

Privacy is important, but it does imply responsibility. Teens don't tell their parents everything, nor should they. At the same time, a general sense of trust along with limits that protect teens from danger must be facilitated. Your best bet is to spend a lot of time getting to know your teens, discussing their ideas as well as problems, and establishing a strong bond that is based on caring and understanding …”

(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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October 29, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

October 29, 2021