Oct. 6

SERVING DELMARVA FOR 60 YEARS

‘It Was A Very Special Weekend’

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – While acknowledging that a few issues will need to be worked out, resort officials and business owners this week are celebrating the success of the Oceans Calling Festival.

Roughly 50,000 attendees descended on downtown Ocean City last Friday, Saturday and Sunday for the first-ever Oceans Calling Festival. Highlighted by more than 30 performances across three stages off the Boardwalk, officials say the successful event demonstrated Ocean City’s capability to host large-scale festivals in the years to come.

“It was a very special weekend for Ocean City and the start of big things to come,” Mayor Rick Meehan said. “It showed us what we can do.”

Since 2021, the Town of Ocean City has worked with festival promoter C3 Presents and its partner, O.A.R., to prepare for Oceans Calling, a three-day music festival hosted at the southern end of the beach and Boardwalk. While an inaugural event was planned for 2022, officials were forced to cancel as the remnants of a hurricane swept through the resort.

While the news came as a disappointment to many, officials say the additional

year gave the promoter and the city time to improve its safety and transportation plans and expand the festival footprint to include the Ocean City Boardwalk. The result, they said, was a highly anticipated music festival that sold out within a few short months of promotion.

As anticipated, bringing 50,000 festival-goers to downtown Ocean City did come with its challenges. Long lines were reported at most Boardwalk establishments included in the festival grounds throughout the weekend, as well as extended wait times for outbound city buses in the hours following Friday’s concert. In social media posts that evening, the Town of Ocean City and the festival’s promoter encouraged those parked at the convention center or south of 40th Street to walk to their destinations.

In an interview this week, Public Works Director Hal Adkins acknowledged transportation issues following Friday’s shows. However, he said the transportation department was quick to alter its bus deployments.

“These attendees were instructed and encouraged to take public transportation, and we were slammed,” he said in an interview this week. “But we made adjustments. Saturday went better, and Sunday went even better.”

Among the headliners on Sunday was the Dirty Heads, pictured from the Sea Bright stage. John Mayer, below, closed out a wet Saturday but the skies cleared as the night went on. Photos courtesy of Oceans Calling, above, and Jen McCracken

… Music Festival Considered Success

Ocean City Marketing and Communications Director Jessica Waters agreed.

“We did have some learning curves, which always happens – especially in a first-year event,” she said this week. “Transportation was a challenge as moving so many people at once is definitely out of the ordinary for us. However, after Friday’s shows, the town worked with the transportation department and made significant adjustments, which resulted in better experiences for our visitors on Saturday and Sunday.”

Despite some transportation issues, city officials report the weekend continued with no major incidents. Ocean City Police Department Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller recognized C3 Presents for working with local police to ensure public safety.

“C3 Presents is a class act,” she said this week. “They provided a lot of security and medical personnel which allowed our public safety employees to focus on the Town of Ocean City. There were minimal arrests made of festival goers. The arrests made were for minor offenses such as trespassing.”

Ocean City Fire Department spokesperson Ryan Whittington said several ambulances were placed throughout Ocean City and West Ocean City in preparation of last weekend’s festival. And while the department reported an uptick in service calls on Saturday, he reported a successful weekend.

“On Saturday of the event, we observed an uptick in emergency calls, indicative of the substantial turnout at the Ocean's Calling Festival,” he said. “However, we are pleased to report that these increased calls did not overwhelm our emergency response system. This success is a testament to the diligent planning and coordination that went into ensuring the safety and well-being of all festival attendees.”

Fire Chief Richie Bowers agreed.

“Through meticulous event pre-planning and the diligent execution of our event action plan, our department was fully prepared to handle the unique challenges posed by the Oceans Calling Festival,” he said. “We are proud of the efforts put forth by our dedicated team and grateful for the smooth operation of our emergency response system.”

Overall, city officials reported a successful weekend. And despite wet weather on Friday and Saturday, they said festival-goers came out in full force.

“It was a super event and a super weekend for Ocean City,” said Ocean City Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo. “We showcased the town, the beach, the businesses and I don’t think we disappointed anyone who attended the event.”

This year, the Ocean City Boardwalk was included in the festival grounds, which spanned from North Division Street to the Inlet. When reached for comment this week, several Boardwalk businesses reported strong sales

“I think the whole Boardwalk community worked really hard,” said Kevin Gibbs

SEE PAGE 57

WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY OPEN AT 4PM

The crowds built steadily throughout the weekend in Ocean City. Above is an elevated scene from Friday afternoon.

Photo by Campos Media

Council Advances Air Rights Conveyance For Hotel Project

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – An ordinance granting air rights above Washington Lane to the developer of an oceanfront hotel will advance to a second reading, but not before staff reviews accessory uses on the property.

On Monday, the Mayor and Council voted to approve the first reading of an ordinance conveying air rights above a portion of Washington Lane for the development of an oceanfront Boardwalk hotel between 13th and 14th streets. The council also directed staff to review retail uses on the property after receiving an attorney’s letter detailing concerns about the project’s site plan.

“I don’t think the air rights is the issue with this body,” said Council President Matt James. “I think it’s making sure that

the air rights that we pass are for a codecompliant project.”

Last month, the Mayor and Council agreed to advance an ordinance conveying air rights over a portion of Washington Lane to a first reading. The developer, MHROC Property Owners LLC, has plans to utilize the air rights to construct a single building connecting properties to the east and west of the 16-foot-wide public alley.

That same week, the developer also sought, and gained, site plan approval from the Ocean City Planning Commission. As proposed, the hotel presented to resort planners calls for fewer amenities, less square footage, and a different configuration than what was initially presented under the developer’s planned overlay district (POD) project. While the developer desires to bring the Margaritaville brand to the property, MHROC’s attorney, Hugh

Cropper, told the commission the project may lack the necessary amenities to do so.

“We’re not sure that this version will qualify as a Margaritaville, so we’re asking it be approved as a hotel …,” he said at the time. “It will be a flag, it will be a brand. But Margaritaville, as you can imagine, has some very specific requirements for Margaritaville, and it appears this structure, unfortunately, may not meet those requirements.”

Back on the Mayor and Council agenda Monday, a motion was made to approve the air rights ordinance on first reading, but to direct staff to review accessory uses detailed in the approved site plan. During public comments, G. Hale Harrison, representing his family’s company, Harrison Hall Hotel Inc., took issue with the hotel’s nonconformity, density and proposed retail stores. He argued the

R-3 zoning district did not allow the shops to have exterior entrances from the Boardwalk.

“For those reasons, the site plan is not conforming to the city code, and the City Council should not grant air rights to a project or site plan that’s not conforming to the city code,” he said.

Cropper, however, told the Mayor and Council this week the issue being considered was the conveyance of air rights.

“Although we think the site plan is compliant, the issue is not really site plan issues,” he said. “It’s whether or not the air rights are still necessary for a public purpose.”

During council comments, Councilman John Gehrig acknowledged that the Mayor and Council had received a letter from G. Macy Nelson, an attorney representing Harrison and several other nearby property owners. He asked City Solicitor Heather Stansbury to address the attorney’s concerns regarding the project’s accessory uses.

“Tonight before the Mayor and City Council are the air rights, and the charter does task the Mayor and City Council to simply decide whether the air rights are continued to be needed for public use,” Stansbury replied. “It’s very clear in your charter. What’s also clear in your charter is that you don’t – as much as I hesitate to tell you what you can and can’t do –you don’t have authority over this type of site plan because it does not need a POD. So any decision about whether the site plan is code compliant or not technically rests with the planning commission. And the planning commission did find that this site plan was code compliant.”

Acknowledging the concerns of nearby property owners, Stansbury said the council had three options – to grant the air rights request, deny the air rights request, or grant the request with a directive for staff to review the accessory use issue prior to second reading.

She noted that while the property owners took issue with the site’s nonconformity, that issue had already been determined by the town’s zoning administrator.

“She made the determination that nonconformity existed as of September 21, 2021,” she said. “So it would have lapsed September 21, 2023. But as I indicated, they did go to the planning commission on September 19, 2023 and got that site plan approval.”

While he acknowledged concerns about the project’s site plan, Councilman Peter Buas said it did not fall within the Mayor and Council’s purview.

“We’re a policy board, not a management board,” he said. “And our charter delegates management appropriately to the zoning administrator, with the support of the planning commission. As far as we’re concerned, the only thing in front of us is air rights, and we only need to make two findings, that it’s no longer needed for public purpose and that it’s in the best interest.”

After further discussion, the council voted 6-0, with Councilwoman Carol Proctor absent, to approve the first reading of the air rights ordinance and to have staff review the accessory use issue prior to the second reading.

Letter Highlights School Safety Issues

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Top law enforcement officials met with the Worcester County Board of Education in closed session this week after expressing school safety concerns.

Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser and Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli and Chief Deputy Nate Passwaters met with the school board in a special session Wednesday. The meeting was requested by Heiser and Crisafulli, who outlined serious concerns about the safety of local schools in a Sept. 21 letter to the school board.

“At this point in time, we are in possession of evidence proving that there have been and continue to be repeated, and at times intentional, violations of Maryland state law by school officials in failing to notify law enforcement of criminal misconduct and delinquent acts occurring within Worcester County Public Schools,” the letter reads. “We would like to provide the board and legal counsel this evidence privately and outside of the presence of school officials, in a special closed session.”

Todd Ferrante, president of the Worcester County Board of Education, acknowledged the Oct. 4 meeting in a statement Thursday.

“Upon receipt of the letter requesting to present to the Board of Education, a special meeting was scheduled at the earliest opportunity as the safety and se-

curity of our students and staff is the number one priority of both the Board and school system staff,” Ferrante said. “Yesterday, the Board heard concerns from Worcester County's Sheriff and State's Attorney, and at the direction of the Board, school system leadership is investigating those concerns. The Board will hold another special meeting next week to hear the findings of the school system's investigation into these matters.”

In August, the school board approved an updated memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office related to the school resource deputy program. At the time, school system officials said they were comfortable with the MOU.

“We collaboratively noted we needed to firm up some things and make our memorandum of understanding even stronger so over the past few months and specifically the last few weeks we worked together on a memorandum of understanding we can both feel comfortable with,” said Annette Wallace, chief safety and academic officer for grades 912, at the August meeting when the MOU was approved.

According to the Sept. 21 letter to the board, the updated MOU came after Heiser and Crisafulli shared concerns with the school system.

“We have engaged in many difficult discussions with school officials to identify, discuss and resolve law enforcement’s ongoing concerns about the consistent

SEE PAGE 63

Public Comments Open For US Wind Offshore Project

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Officials say the public will have 45 days to comment on an environmental impact statement regarding US Wind’s offshore wind energy project.

Late last week, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) announced that a draft environmental impact statement on US Wind’s Construction and Operations Plan would be published on Oct. 6, setting in motion a 45-day public comment period. The public will have opportunities to submit written comments, attend virtual meetings, or attend in-person meetings in both Ocean City and Sussex County, Del.

“The Notice of Availability for the Maryland Offshore Wind draft EIS will publish in the Federal Register on October 6, 2023, opening a 45-day public comment

period ending at 11:59 p.m. ET on November 20, 2023,” BOEM’s website reads. “The input received via this process informs preparation of the final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).”

US Wind is one of two companies pursuing offshore wind energy projects off the coast of Maryland. The company’s first project is called MarWin, which will generate roughly 300 megawatts of electricity. The second project, Momentum Wind, will generate 80 megawatts of electricity.

As part of the approval process, BOEM is currently reviewing US Wind’s Construction and Operations Plan, or COP. The EIS essentially assesses the potential biological, socioeconomic, physical and cultural impacts from the construction, operation and maintenance of US Wind’s offshore wind projects.

“This is the most significant step for-

ward in the history of Maryland offshore wind,” Jeff Grybowski, US Wind CEO, said in a statement last week. “BOEM’s draft environmental impact statement sets us on a path toward starting construction on our offshore wind projects in 2025, putting Maryland’s goals that much closer to reality. We are proud to be the first to deliver this clean energy to Delmarva and look forward to the day we can get steel in the water.”

Knowing that the public would have an opportunity to comment on proposed offshore wind projects, the Ocean City Mayor and Council voted unanimously in July to hire SLR International, an England-based consulting firm, to review US Wind’s COP and prepare comments for the draft EIS.

In an update Monday, City Manager Terry McGean told resort officials that the town’s consultant had begun review of

the company’s COP in July, but that their services were suspended when it was learned that the company had amended its plans.

“I immediately suspended the consultant’s work on the old COP because we don't want to pay the consultant to work on and review something that now has been changed,” he explained. “And I formally requested BOEM restart the full COP review process and immediately release the amended COP for public review. BOEM denied that request.”

McGean added that the town was notified in September that BOEM would release its draft EIS on US Wind’s project on Oct. 6. He said that marks the start of public comments.

“I immediately requested a copy of the amended COP and requested an extension of the 45-day review period based on the fact that the amended COP was not available for review,” he told the council this week. “BOEM has responded that the amended COP will now be released at the same time as the draft Environmental Impact Statement and that there will be no extension to the 45-day review period.”

He continued, “After meeting with our consultant, we are redirecting all their efforts towards review of the draft Environmental Impact Statement instead of the COP, so that we can make well informed and technically sound comments within the 45-day period.”

McGean added that the town had also notified its representatives at the federal level.

“I copied our full federal congressional delegation on these developments so that they are aware of BOEM and US Wind’s, what I call, tactics,” he said. “Theoretically, BOEM could potentially approve the US Wind project as early as July of 2024.”

McGean on Monday also provided the Mayor and Council with an update on Ørsted’s offshore wind energy project, as well as plans for two new wind energy lease areas off the coast of Ocean City. He said the town has requested that turbine sizes be restricted in those areas, that the western boundary of the closest wind energy area be relocated further southwest, and that US Wind’s lease area be relocated to either of those proposed locations.

“The first area known as A2 is north of us off the Delaware coast. The closest point of that lease area to Ocean City is 33 miles,” he explained. “The second area, which is labeled as B1, is south of us off the coast of Assateague Island and the closest point to Ocean City is approximately 25 miles.”

After further discussion on the US Wind project, McGean agreed to provide the Mayor and Council with a quarterly report on offshore wind developments.

“You know, people think we’re overreacting,” Mayor Rick Meehan said. “Yet those same people are going to say at some point in time, ‘how did you ever let that happen?’”

In-person public meetings on the draft EIS have been scheduled for Oct. 24 at 5 p.m. at Ocean City Elementary School and Oct. 26 at 5 p.m. at Indian River High School.

Berlin HDC Delays Approval Of New Main Street Home

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Town officials delayed approval of a new home proposed for Main Street this week.

The Berlin Historic District Commission (HDC) voted unanimously on Wednesday to continue a hearing regarding a new house on South Main Street until they get updated renderings from the architect. While HDC members liked the proposed structure, they said they wanted to see some minor changes to soften its appearance before voting to approve the design.

“I just want to see the detail,” HDC mem-

ber Laura Stearns said.

Burley Building Company’s Nate Reister and property owner Blake Rayne met with the HDC this week to review plans for the home Rayne plans to build on South Main Street on a lot he purchased from Edward Hammond. Rayne said he was an artist and wanted to use the site for his home as well as to create art.

“I’ve been trying to move to Berlin for quite a while,” he said. “My wife and I are very excited.”

The plans show a house with an additional wing on each side, connected by breezeways, in what is basically a “u” shape. Reister said the front house would

make a statement to passersby while the back pieces would provide additional living space.

Rayne referred to it as a dogtrot design.

“You have a breezeway between two cabins sharing a roof,” he said.

Reister said the bedrooms were in fact in the two added portions, not the main house. Rayne said the portion of the building that looked like the main house would be for socializing and would feature space for cooking and a library.

“The sleeping, more private chambers, are the wings,” he said. “The second floor, that’s kind of this balcony library.”

HDC member Carol Rose said she felt the house needed a little softening in its appearance. Stearns agreed.

“To me, houses on Main Street, not just in Berlin but main streets in general, they can be from every era, they can be from any decade, but they are in general from people who have influence and money, therefore they added more detail,” she said, adding that some extra detail would make Rayne’s house fit better in Berlin.

She said the house looked very rustic and might benefit from shutters as well as changes to the second-floor windows.

“It can still be a simple house but I’d like to see more detail at the facia,” she said. “Just something to me that makes it look like it belongs on Main Street. You’re putting quality in this and you’re putting a lot of money into it. It just would be nice to see a little bit more thought put into some of the detail.”

The board also suggested a chimney instead of a pipe, which Blake said had been incorporated in a nod to a cabin the family had once owned. Blake said he had no problem incorporating a chimney.

Reister noted that the trees that have been cut down on the property to make space for the house are being repurposed during construction.

“The trees that came down on the site, we’re going to mill and try to recycle a big chunk of that back into the project,” he said.

HDC member John Holloway said he’d initially thought the house looked too contemporary. After hearing from Reister and Rayne, he said he was convinced they’d do what was needed to make the home fit in the historic town.

“I think you’re going to do whatever you need to do to make it blend in with the neighborhood,” he said.

HDC member Brian Robertson said he’d refer to the design as minimalist and cautioned Rayne not to go so far with decoration that he lost the style of the home.

“Anything you could bring to warm up front façade, like lighting or landscaping, might be helpful,” he said.

Rayne agreed to email the board an updated design once the architect had worked in suggestions such as the chimney and the window adjustments. Nornie Bunting, HDC chair, said the design could then be approved via email or at the Nov. 1 meeting.

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – A nonprofit staff position funded by Worcester County Public Schools is a cause for concern for at least one elected official.

At the close of Tuesday’s meeting, which included a presentation from the local child advocacy center, Commissioner Chip Bertino highlighted the fact that while that nonprofit relied on grants to stay open, the county’s school system included in its budget a position for the nonprofit Worcester County Education Foundation (WCEF).

“I just question that and I think that there are a lot of worthwhile organizations within our community that don’t have the luxury of having their executive director being paid for by taxpayers,”

Bertino said.

On Tuesday, representatives from the CRICKET Center, Worcester County’s child advocacy organization, provided an update on their efforts to provide support and services to children who are crime victims. The center’s director said that while it was a state mandated organization, it was entirely grant funded.

Bertino referenced the presentation when it came time for comments from the commissioners. He said he mentioned it because the commissioners had been made aware that the Worcester County Board of Education paid for the cost of the Worcester County Education

Foundation’s staff position.

“It just seems to me to be a little incongruent when we have worthwhile nonprofits throughout this county and we heard of one and saw one and experienced one today—that taxpayers are not funding that, but taxpayers are funding a nonprofit organization within the board of education that has over a million dollars in reserves,” he said.

Questions about the WCEF staff position were included in a list of budget items the commissioners asked the school system to address last month.

The school system’s response to county officials explained that the posi-

tion, that of manager of operations and community relations, was a full-time position with benefits that was funded by the school system.

Commissioner Shares Concern Over WCEF Staffer School System Addresses Position

“This position is the single staff member for an organization that has fundraised more than one million dollars,” the school system response stated. “To date the Education Foundation has donated back over $256,199 directly to the school system over the past 9 years. We expect this year’s direct donation back to the school system to be around $120,000, capping over $385,000 in donations.”

While the commissioners’ letter asked if it made sense for the county to fund the position, the school system’s response indicated that would be left up to the foundation’s board and the school system.

“This is a challenging question to answer and one that the Board of Directors and the School system will come to a common agreement around based on financial advice of several financial advisors that work with the Board of Directors for the Education Foundation,” the response reads. “The goal is to have an endowment in addition to the considerable yearly donations, which can pay the salary for the single staffer from the endowment, as well as the yearly donations to the school system. This allows for the school system to continue to receive donations at the current level, and hopefully beyond, in perpetuity.”

When asked this week about the position and how it came to be funded by the school system, Carrie Sterrs, the school system’s coordinator of public relations and special programs, addressed the creation of the foundation.

“As to the historical context of this position, under the direction of then-Superintendent of Schools Jerry Wilson, thenChief Operations Officer Lou Taylor was charged as part of his job duties to establish the Worcester County Education Foundation,” she said. “To support this effort, during the 2015-2016 fiscal year, the school system began providing additional compensation to an Educational Assistant (EA) position to handle Foundation related support. As the Foundation has grown, the position's duties were refocused to managing not only the Foundation's day to day operations, but facilitating the programs within our schools that the Foundation funds. These programs include, but are not limited to, the visiting artists series, teacher grant program, and the annual financial support request by the Board of Education.”

According to its website, the WCEF was created in 2013 to provide a perpetual funding resource that could be used to make sure every student has equal access to a high-level education that would allow them to function in the digital college environment and to compete in emerging job markets.

According to the nonprofit’s website, 46% of Worcester County Public Schools students are living at or below the poverty level so WCEF aims to enhance achievement to ensure all students are prepared for future success.

Conceptual Plans For New BES Developed

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – The design of a new Buckingham Elementary School is moving ahead following input from stakeholders.

During the past several months, a committee of educators, parents and community members worked with architects from Becker Morgan Group to develop plans for a new school to replace the aging and outgrown Berlin facility. Architects have now put together conceptual renderings of a new 104,000square-foot school for the Main Street site.

“That committee did an incredible job,” said Joe Price, the school system’s facilities planner. “We appreciate the folks showing up to all five meetings and their fantastic input.”

Last year, a feasibility study addressed the possibilities of a renovated school at the 15-acre site as well as that of a replacement school. Local officials decided to pursue a replacement school, the cheaper of the two options.

“It costs more to do a renovation because we have to do it in phases,” Price said.

With the decision made to move forward with a new building, a group of 28 people, including county commissioners, school board members, Buckingham’s principal, teachers, parents and representatives of the Town of Berlin, met five times to provide input on the design of a school to replace the existing facility. Price said the group worked with architects to come up with a conceptual and site plan for a new school. Price said they started with a conceptual floorplan that was based on the comments architects had received from school staff. Group members also reviewed the layout of the site and pedestrian and vehicular access. Price said that because the site was relatively small, the only place for the new structure was in front of the existing school. The bus loop will remain on the Main Street side of the building while the car drop off will be on the West Street side of the building.

“We want to separate as much as we can buses from cars,” Price said.

Berlin Councilman Jack Orris was one of the town representatives on the committee.

“We talked through a lot of things … working with the architects and educators to see what they really need for a successful learning environment as well as basic concerns I had such as West Street and Main Street and stormwater issues were some of the paramount discussion themes,” he said.

Orris pointed out that during the committee meetings, the cost of the school was reduced from the originally pro-

With input from a committee of stakeholders, Becker Morgan Group developed this rendering of a new Buckingham Elementary School. Submitted image

jected $73 million to $69 million. Price confirmed that the new estimate was $69 million but stressed that cost projections were still preliminary. He said the reduction was the result of changes in the school’s preliminary design elements.

Commissioner Jim Bunting, another member of the committee, said that while local officials certainly wanted to replace the existing school, it was likely the project’s cost would be reduced further. He noted the current projected price included all of the items requested for the new school.

“Superintendent Taylor made the statement in front of everybody that this was just a starting point and we’d have to do like we did with Showell and work on it because we can’t build a school that costs $70 million,” he said. “We’ll look at it piece by piece.”

School construction is funded with both state and local dollars. The state can pay for half of the construction costs but does so based on a price of $400 per square foot.

“The state has determined an average cost,” said Commissioner Eric Fiori, another member of the committee.

Both he and Bunting are concerned because as of right now, the proposed school has a finished cost of close to $680 per square foot.

“With no reduction, taxpayers are going to be asked to fund the overage,” he said. “We want as much as we can get in this school but we also have to look at what it costs.”

Bunting echoed that concern.

“We know we need a school…,” Bunting said. “We’re going to do the best we can.”

Fiori also pointed out that the conceptual design had not yet been reviewed from a safety perspective. Design changes based on input from law enforcement could add even more to the project cost.

“From someone that’s designed buildings before, I know it can be expensive if we make those changes later,” he said.

With the committee’s completion of a conceptual design, that design and site plan will now go to the Worcester County Board of Education and the Worcester County Commissioners for review. After that, a schematic design will be developed. While the overall project remains on schedule, Price noted that the timeline—which calls for groundbreaking in 2026 and opening in the fall of 2028—was partly reliant on the state.

“Every step we have to take our design to the Maryland Department of General Services,” he said.

Buckingham Elementary School was built in 1978 as a 49,000-square-foot facility on a 15-acre site. As student population increased, portable classrooms— there are now five—were added behind the school.

Commissioners Approve Cannabis Legislation

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – County officials approved emergency legislation regulating cannabis establishments this week.

On Tuesday, the Worcester County Commissioners approved legislation amending the Public Health Article to establish regulations for certain cannabis establishments. Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said the regulations needed to be in place before the state began issuing new business licenses.

“It’s coming and we want to be prepared when it gets here,” he said in an interview.

Following statewide cannabis changes, Jennifer Keener, the county’s director of development review and permitting, approached the commissioners this summer seeking guidance regarding the county’s zoning approach to cannabis. Last month, the commissioners made it clear they wanted larger separation distances than those permitted by the state.

Keener used the commissioners’ input and worked with the county attorney to draft a bill addressing cannabis establishments. She presented it Tuesday and said she’d also provided them with a map showing the distances between the two existing dispensaries and local schools and childcare facilities.

The ordinance presented includes provisions for dispensaries permitted after July 1, 2023, that requires them to maintain a minimum separation distance of 2,000 feet from a pre-existing primary or secondary school, a licensed childcare center, a playground, recreation center, library or public park, and from other licensed dispensaries.

The bill prohibits on-site consumption establishments.

“It’s both in a standard bill and an emergency bill depending on which action you want to take today,” Keener said. “I’ve also included information we received as far as the distances between schools and other establishments in there in a chart so you can see how our current dispensaries play in to the distance regulations in map format as well as information received from the Maryland Cannabis Administration on their intentions for licenses in this upcoming cycle. We are expected to receive one dispensary and the eastern region, which we are in, will receive a number of growers and processors as well as micro licenses.”

The commissioners voted unanimously to introduce the proposed ordinance as emergency legislation. Emergency legislation, which requires at least a 6/7 commissioner vote, takes effect on the date of its passage.

“OCEAN CITY CHRO NICLES”

OCEAN CITY CHRONICLES

BY HUNTER “BUNK” MANN Reminiscing

BUNK MANN’S NEWEST BOOK ON OC EAN CITY HI STORY

“Ocean City Chronicles” is the final book in Bunk Mann’s 3 volume historical series which began with “Vanishing Ocean City’ in 2014 and continued with ‘Ghosts In The Surf” in 2019. Centered around his articles in Ocean city’s awardwinning newspaper the Maryland Coast Dispatch , his latest book features 285 of the most popular ones over the past 11 years. It includes hundreds of photos of long vanished hotels & restaurants, the great storms & fires, deep sea fishing, boardwalk attractions & amusements, and stories of the people who turned a small 19th-century fishing village into a modern, year-round destination. “Ocean City Chronicles” is a comprehensive history of Maryland’s famous oceanfront resort in a hardbound coffee table book featuring cover art by noted artist, Paul McGehee. Supplies are limited so order your copy today!

Ocean City Chronicles can be ordered online at vanishingoceancity.com. Visit the website for further information and photos.

Maryland’s Beach Resort

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – A satellite child advocacy center will open in Pocomoke following approval of a funding reallocation.

The CRICKET Center is expected to use funding previously intended for construction of a new facility to go toward opening a satellite location in Pocomoke. The Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday approved the reallocation.

“I think the children of Pocomoke deserve this,” Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said.

Lauren Cooper, executive director of the CRICKET Center, and Stefanie Franklin, treasurer of the nonprofit’s board, met with the commissioners this week to provide an update on the orga-

nization’s efforts and to seek approval for the funding reallocation. Cooper, who took over the center in 2022, said the facility worked to reduce the trauma experienced by child victims by bringing all the relevant local agencies together. The facility, located near Atlantic General Hospital, is a neutral location in which law enforcement and Child Protecive Services investigators can conduct interviews with children who are victims of crimes. The nonprofit is accredited by the National Children’s Alliance.

Cooper said the agency, which is grant funded, had a variety of needs, including the latest technology, special-

ized training, after-hours staff and an interpreter. She said the facility was also in dire need of expansion, as 10 people work in the center’s 1,600-square-foot office. That, Franklin explained, was why the center had requested and been granted $190,000 by the commissioners as part of a capital campaign for a new facility. During the pandemic, however, several major fundraisers had to be canceled. In the wake of that, a variety of issues came up that prompted center staff to reconsider new construction. Franklin said the center had a great rent agreement with Atlantic General Hospital that it didn’t want to give up. Furthermore,

mortgage payments aren’t typically eligible for grant funding, while rent can be.

County Approves Reallocation for 2nd Cricket Center Location Satellite Facility Eyed For Pocomoke

“We decided to identify our greatest needs,” Franklin said. “In doing that we had to look at our underserved kids. Building a large building is beautiful but it doesn’t get kids in Pocomoke to us.”

Cooper said school administrators in the Pocomoke area are increasingly reaching out to the center for help. Transportation from Pocomoke to Berlin can be a burden for families and caregivers.

“This isn’t about the best location for child advocacy center,” Cooper said. “This is about making sure all kids in Worcester County have equal access to a child advocacy center and the services that we offer. As needs arise in each of your districts, we want to make sure we’re doing everything we can to advocate for those children.”

She added that relocating entirely to Pocomoke was not an option, because in order for the center to maintain its accreditation, it has to be headquartered within 15 miles of an emergency room. She said center leadership had determined that setting up a satellite office was the best way to serve more children in Worcester County.

“We have an opportunity here to meet an immediate need in Worcester County versus construction…,” she said. “A facility in Pocomoke is going to relieve the transportation burden off of caregivers. They’re not going to have to travel 60 miles round trip to berlin for services. In turn, our team is going to have a quicker response time when they’re called to homes or schools in Pocomoke.”

She said the center was requesting to use the $190,000 provided by the commissioners for the capital campaign for operating expenses for a new satellite office in Pocomoke. She said there was a lease drafted for a suitable space and that if the center moved forward now, the office could be outfitted by the end of the year so that limited services could be offered in early 2024 with a grand opening in April.

Commissioner Chip Bertino asked Cooper how the center was funded.

“We are state mandated, but we are not state funded at all,” Cooper said, adding that the center’s $287,000 annual budget was funded with grants.

Mitrecic said the commissioners had acknowledged the need for the center’s services when they initially allocated the $190,000 to the capital campaign. He made a motion to reallocate the funding so that Pocomoke children could benefit from the center’s services.

“I’m thrilled you’re going to be coming to Pocomoke,” said Commissioner Caryn Abbott, who represents the Pocomoke area.

The commissioners voted unanimously to approve the reallocation of funding. Cooper thanked the commissioners for their approval.

“We look forward to working with you,” Cooper said. “This is going to be a really awesome thing.”

Room Tax Hike Efforts Underway

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Officials say they will make another attempt at enabling legislation to allow the county to increase its room tax rate.

On Monday, City Manager Terry McGean told the Mayor and Council officials have been working with state elected leaders and the town’s lobbyist to reintroduce a bill in the 2024 General Assembly session that would allow Worcester and all other code counties to increase the hotel rental tax rate from 5% to 6%. While legislation failed to pass the Senate last year, he said he was hoping for a better outcome this coming year.

“The mayor and our lobbyist, we’ve been working with various state elected officials since that session to improve the bill’s chances of success,” he said, “and we will be reintroducing that bill in the 2024 session.”

In 2022, the Worcester County Commissioners, at the request of Ocean City, worked with state representatives to pass enabling legislation in the General Assembly that would allow the county to increase its room tax threshold. However, officials discovered the state constitution required Worcester to obtain approval from all other Eastern Shore code counties, including Caroline, Kent and Queen Anne’s counties.

“In 2022, we tried to get the state law changed specifically addressing Worces-

ter County, to allow us to go up to 6%,” McGean explained. “Ultimately, legally, we were not able to do that. The State Department of Legislative Services told us we could not just carve out Worcester County. Any change had to apply to all four of the Eastern Shore code counties.”

To that end, Worcester worked to secure letters of support from all Eastern Shore code counties. And in the 2023 legislative session, a new bill was reintroduced that would enable Worcester, Caroline, Kent and Queen Anne’s to raise the room tax rate.

“The bill was put forward,” McGean told the council this week. “We received favorable reports, both from the House and the Senate subcommittees. Unfortunately, the bill ultimately failed in the Senate essentially for partisan reasons.”

With the next session just months away, McGean said officials are preparing to reintroduce the bill. He noted that the bill’s passage was the first of two steps.

“Once the state authorizes the ability to do it, state law also requires that the county approve any increase, and it has to be by unanimous vote of the county commissioners …,” he said. “We’re hard at work pursuing the first. Once we have the first, then there will be some work to be done to achieve the second.”

Should both actions occur, McGean said any increase in the room tax wouldn’t take place until January 2025.

grant sought for baltimore avenue project

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Officials are seeking a $20 million grant to redevelop Baltimore Avenue.

On Monday, City Manager Terry McGean presented the Mayor and Council with an update on the Baltimore Avenue redevelopment project. While the project was delayed earlier this year because of funding, he said officials were seeking a federal grant to offset costs.

“Currently we are pursuing a $20 million federal grant for the project,” he said. “If the federal funding is approved, work could potentially start as early as next fall. We know that federal funds could have additional environmental approval steps, which could delay the start of that.”

In March, the Mayor and Council agreed to postpone a phased redevelopment project along Baltimore Avenue to give city officials more time to seek grant funding to offset a roughly $20 million cost increase.

Some of the work proposed for the phased Baltimore Avenue project includes undergrounding utilities and improving the overall streetscape. While the project was first presented with a price tag of $20 million – funded in part by a municipal bond sale and a combination of potential state and federal grants – the estimated price tag has more than

doubled.

McGean told the Mayor and Council this week construction would be spread out over four years. In year one, crews would underground utilities from 15th to 9th streets. In year two, crews would streetscape from 15th to 9th streets and underground from 9th to 5th streets. In year three, crews would streetscape from 9th to 5th streets and underground from 5th to North Division streets. And in year four, crews would finish the project by streetscaping from 5th Street to North Division Street.

“In anticipation of the project restarting, Hal [Adkins, public works director] and I did meet with Delmarva Power,” McGean said. :They are continuing to struggle with material shortages and long delivery times. Transformers right now –this is kind of the worst case – can potentially be as far out as 70 weeks. Therefore, we still feel the above four-year phasing plan is the most realistic plan.”

McGean added that Delmarva Power’s costs have also increase, but that it could be absorbed by an inflation factor built into the budget. He said the project would be financed with two $10 million bonds, one in year one and another in year three.

This allows more debt to come off the books as we bond the project, number one,” he said. “Number two, there are arbitrage requirements with the IRS. Essentially, if you do not spend the money

that you borrowed in two years, and you are earning more interest on the bond money you have in the bank than the amount of interest you are paying on the bond, then you could be subject to penalties.”

He continued, “Given that we have a four-year project, it doesn’t make sense to borrow the money all upfront.”

When asked about the timeline, McGean said the earliest the Baltimore Avenue project could start was next fall.

“That would be our best-case scenario,” he said.

Mayor Rick Meehan noted that the town has reached out to Rep. Andy Harris, Sen. Chris Van Hollen and Sen. Ben Cardin to garner support for the town’s federal funding request.

“That funding request was put in by Congressman Harris,” he said. “So we’ve had the opportunity, Terry and I, to meet with a representative from Sen. Van Hollen’s office, and both the senator and Sen. Cardin are supporting that funding request at the federal level.”

In January, staff presented the Mayor and Council with a draft capital improvement plan that listed a major redevelopment project along Baltimore Avenue beginning in the current fiscal year.

In March, however, the Mayor and Council agreed to amend the planning document and postpone the Baltimore Avenue project to allow for a larger, phased redevelopment of the corridor.

Heron Park Walk-Through Tuesday

Elected Officials To Scope Demo Work

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Municipal officials will get a firsthand look at what could be demolished at Heron Park during a work session next week.

On Tuesday, Oct. 10, Mayor Zack Tyndall and the Berlin Town Council will hold a 6 p.m. work session at Heron Park. During the work session, they’ll tour the buildings on the site with engineers from Davis, Bowen & Friedel Inc. (DBF) and talk about what can be demolished with the town’s $500,000 grant.

“We’re trying to expend those demolition funds to the fullest,” Tyndall said. “I don’t want to leave any money on the table.”

Last month, the town halted negotiations with a local developer who was interested in purchasing a portion of the park property and instead decided to move forward with using a $500,000 strategic demolition grant it was awarded by the state in 2021. Tyndall said the town asked engineers to begin looking at demolition options as soon as the vote was taken to end negotiations.

“That very next day the engineers started working on evaluating the building,” he said.

Now that they’ve explored the site, they’ll meet with Tyndall and the council to review demolition options and talk about how the building will need to be secured in the wake of partial demolition. Officials have known for some time $500,000 is not enough to demolish the dilapidated processing plant in its entirety.

“Since the beginning we’ve said the engineers are planning as if the entire building cannot be demolished,” Tyndall said.

He said elected officials would need to decide what parts to demolish so the request for proposal (RFP) documents could be developed.

“I think the only way to do that prudently is on site,” he said.

Councilman Jack Orris isn’t convinced an on-site work session is necessary.

“It’s up to the engineers we hire to tell us what should be demolished, what shouldn’t and what absolutely needs to stay for structural integrity and safety,” Orris said. “We’re legislators, not engineers or builders. I believe this work session time could be better spent continuing discussions on things like the LDC multi-year plan or stormwater issues; any number of issues instead of trying to cram everything into a council meeting.

Councilman Steve Green said he was looking forward to touring the old chicken plant with the engineers.

“We need to know what can be removed through the demo grant and what can safely stay,” Green said. “Most

importantly, I am eager to learn about DBF’s recommendations on how to secure the site once the trash buildings are removed. The entire site cannot be cleared with the demo grant. We know this already, but Berlin citizens should not have to look at a quasi-bomb site after viewing this eyesore for the last 20 years while the town continues to debate what to do next.”

Councilman Jay Knerr remains optimistic about the building repurposed in the future.

“I think it’s important for the council to have a complete understanding of what needs to be demolished and what can be saved while staying within the grant funding,” Knerr said. “That building still has value and if we take the right steps now, it could be a future home to a variety of businesses that don’t directly compete with downtown Berlin.”

The work session is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 10 at Heron Park. While the public is welcome to attend, Tyndall said attendees would have to wear closed-toed shoes, a hardhat and have a flashlight.

“There will be an indemnification form that has to be filled out,” Tyndall said. The hold harmless form is available on the town’s website.

Drowning Confirmed In OC

OCEAN CITY – Resort authorities confirmed a woman lost her life in the ocean last weekend.

The Ocean City Police Department responded to a check on the welfare call around 1:38 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 30 in the area of 70th Street and the beach. Officers learned an adult female was last seen in the ocean but had not returned to the beach. The female was located in the ocean off 43rd Street by the United States Coast Guard around 2:34 p.m.

The Coast Guard transported the female to the Coast Guard Station in Ocean City. EMS transported her to Atlantic General Hospital where she was pronounced deceased.

Police investigation found an adult female was on the beach with several

friends and she decided to go into the ocean alone. The victim’s friends reported seeing her drift south a few blocks and eventually realized they could no longer see her. They searched the area for about 40 minutes before calling 911.

According to Ocean City police, the female and friends were in town for vacation and were not in Ocean City attending the music festival. The female’s name is being withheld pending the notification of next of kin.

Malicious Destruction

OCEAN CITY – A Pennsylvania man is facing several malicious destruction

charges after an outburst of aggression on private property.

On Sept. 28, around 12:30 a.m., Ocean City police responded to 94th Street after a complainant reported a man had been screaming and destroyed his neighbor’s fence. The witness pointed out to the police officer Ryan Hazel, 39, of Hershey, Pa., walking on a sidewalk heading west toward them. Hazel had injured his hand and was covered in wet blood.

Police investigation found that Hazel was responsible for destroying a front yard wooden fence valued at $1,000; a wooden pole had been ripped from the ground at a condo association valued at $150; two landscaping lights and poles were destroyed with a value of $500 each; and a condo sign had been destroyed with a value of $10. It was unclear initially what set off Hazel, but police concluded the destroyed property exceeded what an intoxicated individual would cause by accident. Hazel later admitted to police he was upset that an Uber had dropped him off in an area he was unfamiliar with in Ocean City because of lack of funds.

Hazel was charged with five counts of malicious destruction of property for damaging the private property belonging to residents as well as the condominium association.

Attempted Theft Charges

OCEAN CITY – A Maryland man’s attempts to gain access to unattended vehicles in a parking lot resulted in drug possession charges.

On Oct. 1, around 1 a.m., Ocean City police received an alert to an attempted rogue and vagabond incident around 28th Street. The caller told police communications a man was trying to break into cars. The caller informed police the man when confronted made sexual comments toward her and a friend. The individuals provided a description of the suspect and where he was last seen.

Police were later told the women –who were from Massachusetts and staying in a hotel – saw a male, later identified as Jason Mcconoughey, 43, of Rockville, looking through car windows and jiggling the door handles to gain entrance. Police were told Mcconoughey did not gain access to any vehicles while the callers were watching him.

Police located Mcconoughey in a hotel parking lot walking between vehicles. The callers confirmed he was the man they saw trying to access vehicles. During questioning, police searched Mcconoughey and found a clear bag containing green crystals, believed from officer experience to be MDMA, or “molly.”

Mcconoughey has been charged with trespassing, attempted motor vehicle theft and possession of CDS of Schedule I (MDMA).

Assault After Arm Wrestling Bet

OCEAN CITY – Two men were charged with assault and other charges after fighting each other in the middle of the street last weekend.

Early Sunday morning, Oct. 1, around 1:30, Ocean City police officers were dispatched to a reported fight in progress SEE PAGE 24

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... COPS & COURTS

FROM PAGE 22

around 21st Street. Police arrived on the scene and saw two males, Joseph John, 27, and Nichloas Tamburelli, 28, involved in a fist fight in middle of southbound Coastal Highway. The police report noted, “two males rolling around the ground punching one another while a female was standing watching.” When the police cruiser made the turn, an officer observed John punching Tamburelli repeatedly while sitting atop him.

The female witness told police the dispute stemmed from an arm wrestling competition for money between John and Tamburelli. When John and the woman left the bar without paying the bet, Tamburelli followed the couple with Tamburelli throwing the first punch, according to the woman.

Tamburelli was charged with affray and second-degree assault. John was charged with affray, second-degree assault and CDS possession not marijuana for cocaine found in his wallet.

Special Event Zone In Place

OCEAN CITY – With thousands of car enthusiasts in the resort this week for the Endless Summer Cruisin’ event, Ocean City has been designated a Special Event Zone through Sunday, Oct. 8.

The Special Event Zone reduces established speed limits in the zone and increases fines for violations. Additionally, legislation signed in 2020 allows for increased penalties for specific motor vehicle violations. Similar to a construction zone, violators will face increased fines or, in some cases, arrest.

During this time frame, citizens should expect to see a significant police presence as officers from multiple allied agencies will be assisting the Ocean City Police Department. Officers from the Ocean City Police Department, Maryland State Police, and the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office will strictly enforce all traffic laws. In addition, significant traffic congestion and alternate traffic patterns are anticipated throughout the weekend.

Spectators are urged to keep the sidewalks clear for pedestrian traffic and should not incite the spinning of wheels or “burn-outs” by motorists. Officers will enforce all laws for spectators who incite drivers and enforce the violations with the driver. Further, with high pedestrian traffic expected, pedestrians are urged to always use crosswalks when crossing roadways. Wait for the signal to change and be sure that drivers see you while crossing.

The Ocean City Police Department would also like to remind everyone that there is no trailer or oversized vehicle parking on any street or paved public lot without a permit between May 1 and Oct. 31. There is no trailer parking or oversized vehicle parking on Baltimore Avenue at any time.

Any Endless Summer Cruisin’ participants who will be parking a trailer on city streets will need a trailer parking permit which is available through the event promoter. There will also be limited paid trailer parking available at the 100th Street gravel lot. Parking permits are available for this on-site at the pay station. Limited free trailer parking will be available at the West Ocean City Park &

Planning Continues For New Pines Kick-Off Event

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – Planning for a community showcase event will move forward with support from the Ocean Pines board.

Last Saturday, the Ocean Pines Board of Directors agreed to have a new work group continue planning for an Ocean Pines Season Kick-Off event next spring. Work group representatives Gary Miller and Linda Yurche said the board’s support will allow the committee to develop plans and budget estimates for an event that will promote Ocean Pines and its amenities.

“This is to showcase everything there is to enjoy about living in Ocean Pines, not just for full- and part-time residents, but for their guests and potential future homeowners,” Yurche said. “We think there are a lot of things to show off for people who might want to live here eventually.”

Miller said the idea for a season kickoff came about last September, when Ocean Pines Aquatics Committee member Ellen Hench pitched the idea for an event that would promote aquatics memberships. From there, plans for a larger community showcase took shape.

“The idea was to bring more information to the residents about aquatics,” he explained. “That idea warped into a bigger event with all the amenities and highlight all that Ocean Pines has to offer. We want to reinforce the fact that Ocean Pines is a great place to live.”

Miller noted an ad hoc committee was

formed and included board liaison Doug Parks and representatives from various Ocean Pines committees. He said the group has also worked alongside General Manager John Viola and Recreation and Parks Director Debbie Donahue.

With a new board now installed, he said the group was seeking the board’s approval to continue with planning.

“The goal of this presentation is to get the board’s approval to continue the detailed planning that’s necessary and to give the GM the opportunity to include the potential cost in the upcoming budget,” he said. “If approved to move forward, we will need a new liaison.”

Yurche told board members last week the Ocean Pines Season Kick-Off event will be scheduled for next spring, on a date to be determined. She noted, however, that the group has identified White Horse Park as the proposed site.

“We discussed the right venue for it, the right date, the right timing,” she said. “What we came up with was a Saturday afternoon, after the farmers market vendors clear out, at White Horse Park. There’s plenty of room for parking, rain shelter, etcetera.”

Yurche said the kick-off will feature music, food, drinks, demonstrations and displays from several amenities, clubs and community groups. She said more than 50 groups have expressed interest in participating.

“We don’t just want people picking up something from a booth …,” she added.

“We want it to be interactive. So there might be a Zumba class. There might be a pickleball demo. Or there might be a cook-off or sampling.”

Yurche said the kick-off would not only showcase association amenities and clubs but would generate membership income and reinforce Ocean Pines as a community that offers something for everyone.

“What we’re asking for at this point is your blessing to go ahead and continue to explore this, to develop a more solid budget, to develop a date and plan, and really put together what it would take to put this event on,” she said.

Director Stuart Lakernick said he had

questions about cost, insurance, and revenue. Yurche said the group estimated a cost of $15,000, based on previous events, but said that those details would be explored further.

Association President Rick Farr applauded the concept, but questioned how the event would impact community departments.

“I’m fine with moving forward with the concept, so we could get more solid information on the financial aspect, and also how it is going to affect the association in general,” he said.

After further discussion, the board agreed to have planning continue for the Ocean Pines Season Kick-Off.

Fenwick Group Advances Marijuana Facilities Ban

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – An ordinance banning the operation of marijuana facilities will advance to the Fenwick Island Town Council with a favorable recommendation.

Last Thursday, the Fenwick Island Charter and Ordinance Committee voted unanimously to forward an ordinance banning the operation of marijuana manufacturing, testing or retail facilities to the town council with a favorable recommendation.

Mayor Natalie Magdeburger, committee chair, said the draft ordinance follows state statute and exercises a town’s ability to ban sales within the corporate limits of Fenwick Island.

“We will put this on the agenda for the October 27 town council meeting and recommend council accept this as a first reading …,” she said. “It will take the effect of

law at that moment, and we will propose a second reading at the December meeting.”

Last year, the topic of recreational marijuana was referred to the town’s charter and ordinance committee for review. With new laws legalizing recreational marijuana now in effect, the committee in recent months began exploring the town’s options for banning sales.

Magdeburger told committee members last week she and the city solicitor had been tasked with drafting an ordinance banning marijuana production, testing and sales in town. When asked if the ban would apply to existing businesses, Magdeburger said it would.

“It does not permit to operate or sell cannabis in any of our retail establishments,” she replied.

Councilwoman Jacque Napolitano applauded the ban. She said it addresses concerns raised my members of the com-

munity.

“This is a family oriented area, and I don’t think our residents and community want this,” she said. “This isn’t against businesses, but it’s what the community is going for and I think we heard them loud and clear on this issue.”

Committee member Ben Waide agreed.

“I think the issue I had at the time is you don’t want to be the only beach town to allow the sale cannabis, which I believe we are right now,” he said. “So I am firmly for this as written.”

Magdeburger noted that the ban would only apply to the corporate limits of Fenwick Island. She said marijuana sales in neighboring jurisdictions could still impact the town.

“We have a big portion of Route 1 that is incorporated, but there is a section of Route 1 that falls within Sussex County rules. And state statute does not authorize

counties to limit the sale of marijuana …,” she explained. “We will exercise our rights, but understand from Atlantic Street to the state line, it is not under our jurisdiction.”

Committee member Roy Williams said that issue was out of the town’s control.

“There’s nothing you can do about it,” he said. “We just have to take care of our one square mile here.”

Councilwoman Janice Bortner said she had learned other municipalities were working with Sussex County to try to establish sales bans within a certain radius of corporate limits. Magdeburger, however, said she had reached out to other municipalities and that those mayors were unaware of those efforts.

“The statute itself charges and provides authority for municipalities, but in that same section does not give that authority to the counties …,” she added. “It appears from a statute interpretation it creates a preemption issue.”

For his part, committee member John Nason applauded Magdeburger and City Solicitor Luke Mette for drafting the ordinance.

“You and Luke have done a masterful job of maximizing the exclusion of cannabis by tracking state statute …,” he said. “You’ve done it very well.”

After further discussion, the committee voted unanimously to forward an ordinance banning marijuana manufacturing, testing and sales to the town council with a favorable recommendation. Officials say no public hearing is needed on the proposed ordinance.

Resort Officials Discuss Pension Plans, Investments

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A discussion on investments and employer contributions highlighted a presentation on pension plans last week.

Last Tuesday, Cavanaugh Macdonald Consulting CEO Ed Koebel presented the Mayor and Council with his yearly report on the Town of Ocean City’s general employees and public safety employees pension plans. While he maintained both pension plans were healthy, Koebel reported an increase in unfunded liabilities and a decrease in investment income.

“Asset returns for the fiscal year end were not that positive,” he said. “Actually, they were -3.6%. Again, we are assuming they are 6.9%. So there was a loss there of over 10% on the investment side of things.”

Ocean City has two pension plans, one for general employees and another for public safety employees. The town, through its pension committee and consultants, invests contributions paid into the accounts in order to grow the funds.

In recent years, the town has been incrementally decreasing its anticipated return on investment from 7% to 6.5%. With investments falling short in four of the last five years, Councilman John Gehrig questioned if the town’s current benchmark of 6.8% was realistic.

“I think from our perspective, this is a major potential problem …,” he said. “I think we need to discuss the investment piece, especially if long-term bond rates are going up.”

Koebel told the council last week that while the town did not report a positive return this year, most public sector pension plans averaged a return between 5% and 6%.

“It just hasn’t been a growing market over the last five years in the public sector area …,” he said. “We’re going to have periods like this. But if you look at the 20-year number, public sector pensions have averaged over 7.5%.”

In his report last week, Keobel noted the general employees pension fund had $70 million in assets and $82 million in liabilities, resulting in an unfunded liability of roughly $12 million. He added that the pension fund was funded at 85.3%, or nearly one percentage point lower than last year.

“The average pension fund in the country, public sector, is about 73%, so still fairly healthy,” he said. “But it has been coming down over past few years.”

Under the public safety employees pension plan, Koebel noted that the fund featured $80 million in assets and $97.5 million in liabilities, resulting in an unfunded liability of $17.6 million.

“You can see a large increase in unfunded liability from last year and the drop in the funded ratio, from 84.3% down to 81.9%,” he said.

Koebel also told the council last week the total employer contribution requirements would increase to $9.23 million.

The employer contribution would increase to $3.53 million for the general employees pension fund and $5.7 million for the public safety employees pension fund.

City Manager Terry McGean explained that while an increase had been budgeted, the contribution presented exceeded expectations.

“We budgeted for a certain increase. This is more than what we budgeted for,” he said. “But if you recall, almost two years ago now, we set aside $2.5 million in fund balance to cover highs and lows in the pension. So we will be drawing from that this year to cover that difference between what we need to contribute and what we budgeted.”

At a pension committee meeting on Aug. 16, the committee voted to recommend the town fund the employer contribution of $9,238,426, an amount that is $693,026 over what was budgeted.

Budget Manager Jennie Knapp said that while she budgeted an 8% increase in pension contributions, the general employees contribution ended up increasing by 11.8%, while the public safety employees contribution increased by 20%. She said the shortfall would be covered by the $2.5 million assigned in fund balance for pension increases.

“So the total increase over the amount budgeted is $693,026,” she explained. “We did have $2.5 million assigned for the increase in pension costs. We did use $633,000 of that in the adopted FY23 budget for pension increases, and now we’ll need to use another $687,000. So the total of that is $1.3 million. And the total remaining is close to $1.2 million.”

During council comments Gehrig shared his concerns with the town’s pension fund.

“That reserve is not enough because

it goes fast,” he said. “In one year, half of it is gone.”

When asked if the pension fund was earning interest, Finance Director Chuck Bireley said it was earning roughly 5.5% through the Maryland Local Government Investment Pool. Gehrig said that return was better than the rates the town had reported for pension plans in recent years.

“Wouldn’t that be better than the negative 3.6%, the 0% and the 1.5%?” he asked.

Bireley said how the town invested its pension contributions was a decision of the pension committee.

“It’s certainly worth a discussion with the pension committee,” Mayor Rick Meehan said.

After further discussion, the council voted 7-0 to approve a $9.23 million employer contribution to the two pension plans.

Town Eyes Noise Ordinance Changes

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – Officials in Fenwick Island continue to explore new noise ordinance parameters.

Last Thursday, Mayor Natalie Magdeburger presented members of the Fenwick Island Charter and Ordinance Committee with an update on the town’s noise ordinance. With a directive from the town council to review existing regulations, she said City Solicitor Luke Mette continues to explore a more enforceable approach to noise violations.

“We’re at the really early stages now,” she told the committee. “We do have an existing noise ordinance, and it’s enforceable. But we’ve been asked to make it tighter, where it’s less ambiguous.”

In March, the town council voted to have the charter and ordinance committee review the town’s noise ordinance after Councilwoman Janice Bortner brought forth a motion to remove time constraints.

During that discussion, Bortner said that while the town code stated an enforcement time of midnight to 8 a.m., members of the town’s residential concerns committee wanted to see it removed.

“I don’t think it would hurt to look at the noise ordinance, but the main focus is the time constraints of enforcement,”

she said in March. “In there, it says the enforcement is from midnight to 8 a.m., and we’re saying we don’t feel that’s necessary … It should be all the time.”

Several council members, however, took issue with Bortner’s motion. To that end, the town council made a motion to simply have the charter and ordinance committee review the town’s noise ordinance.

“I don’t want to get into a situation where we are weaponizing our noise ordinance,” Magdeburger said at the time. “I think that’s a dangerous place for anyone in Fenwick to be because it is a community that prides itself on outdoor activities, and outdoor activities engender noise … I think the way it’s written now can probably be tightened up, so that there’s more clarity for our officers in terms of enforcement.”

Back on the agenda for discussion last week, Magdeburger told charter and ordinance committee members that Mette would be providing comments on the town’s noise ordinance in the coming weeks. She said he had been tasked with reviewing noise ordinances from municipalities both near and far.

“The more modern approach appears to be using decibels …,” she said. “I’m having him take a look at the modern approach, as well as what’s around in the surrounding communities.”

Magdeburger noted that while the existing noise ordinance includes a time period from midnight to 8 a.m., the committee was exploring a time period of 11 p.m. to 8 a.m.

“That seems to be a quiet time people respect,” she said.

Committee member Dave Reifschneider questioned how noise would be measured. For example, he noted that while mechanical noise maintained a consistent decibel level, party noise could rise and fall.

“Do you measure the peak, or take the average?” he asked.

Magdeburger said it was one of the issues Mette would explore.

“That’s why I’m asking him to look at a modern approach to that,” she replied. “Is it measured at the peak? At the property line? … That’s why I’m having him do a broader survey of what’s out there.”

When asked if the town had received any noise complaints in the last year, Magdeburger said it had, although those complaints were isolated to certain residences. She said the police department’s desire for more explicit noise regulations also prompted the town’s review of the noise ordinance.

“It gives a more unambiguous measuring rod,” she said.

Magdeburger noted that while Mette has been tasked with researching noise ordinances in surrounding communities, the committee would be responsible for drafting any changes.

“I’m hoping to get some comments from him in October,” she said. “If so, we will start to tackle that … We’re going to need to work at that a little bit.”

South Station Group To Share Recommendations

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – Officials will come before the Ocean Pines board this month with recommendations for the South Station replacement project.

Last week, General Manager John Viola presented the Ocean Pines Board of Directors with an update on the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department (OPVFD) South Station project. As a work group continues to explore the facility’s replacement, Viola told the board he and fire department representatives would make their recommendations to the board later this month.

“I will come before the board with three options on funding for the building with a recommendation to the board, with which one I believe we should take,” he said.

Last year, OPVFD leaders held a town hall meeting to discuss proposed South Station renovations, and the funding needed to make the project a reality. Officials at that time proposed an $8.6 million project that called for a demolition of the station’s living and administrative quarters, the addition of a two-story building, and a new bay.

In last week’s board meeting, Viola said officials continue to work through the funding aspects of the project. While state funds and fire department reserves would cover a portion of the renovation and replacement, the rest would be paid for through community support. That, officials say, would require the board’s approval of a referendum.

“We’ve done a lot of work on this,” he said. “We are in the budget process … This is a part of it. All these initiatives, this has all been planned for, this is what we’ve been working for the last three or four years, and how we’ve positioned our balance sheet.”

Viola said the work group continues to review contracts, as well as a memorandum of understanding between the fire department and the Ocean Pines Association.

He also told the board the design for the new South Station includes two new truck bays to the south of the three existing ones.

“To the right are two optional bays that the volunteer fire department came forward with and said that would be a wish list, something they would like to have,” he explained. “Based upon the design and the estimates we’re getting, and the way we factored this, it is possible I will be coming forward with those bays in there, at least one, with the pricing.”

Viola added that the project would include the demolition and replacement of the living and administrative quarters. He noted, however, that the three existing truck bays would remain.

“We’re hoping to keep it three bays, and the walls to that,” he said. “We believe there will be sizable savings on that, all factored in. The board gave me the goahead to reach out to a firm to test those walls, and that will be happening shortly, in conjunction with Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department.”

9925 Stephen Decatur Highway, Suite #4 • West OC 21842 aharrison@mainstreethl.com www.AshleyRHarrison.com 443-614-5742

OC Officials Approve Road Closure

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A portion of Chicago Avenue will officially close following a second reading this week.

On Monday, the Mayor and Council had before them the second reading of Ordinance 2023-17, authorizing the closure of Chicago Avenue between 3rd and 4th streets. As redevelopment of the Downtown Recreation Project advances, officials came before the Mayor and Council seeking the closure of the neighboring roadway.

“This is to authorize the closure of Chicago Avenue between 3rd and 4th streets,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury told the council this week. “This was necessary for the Downtown Recreation Complex.”

In September, City Engineer Paul Mauser came before the Mayor and Council with a request to close a portion of the Chicago Avenue corridor for the redevelopment of the Downtown Recreation Complex. As the portion of roadway had already been converted to a walkway, he said he was seeking formal approval to close the roadway.

“As everyone has seen, as part of the construction of the Downtown Recreation Complex, the corridor known as Chicago Avenue between 3rd and 4th street, where we used to have a road, is now a pervious concrete walkway that is not open to vehicular traffic. That was all part of the plan for the park,” he said at the time. “Essentially, I want to recommend to the council that we officially close this portion of the

$28M Bond Ordinance Advances

corridor.”

Located between 3rd and 4th streets bayside and bounded by Philadelphia and Chicago avenues, the Downtown Recreation Complex is being redeveloped in phases to include various recreation opportunities.

For the east section of the complex, the plan includes an expanded skate park, relocating the existing basketball courts and an improved inclusive playground area. The section to the west would be less developed and more passive. It includes a lawn in the center surrounded by trees for pickup sports and other events, a playground area, new restrooms and more.

However, plans call for the Chicago Avenue corridor between 3rd and 4th streets to become existing right-of-way. To that end, the roadway should be officially closed.

On Monday, Mayor Rick Meehan questioned if the ordinance reading had been pulled from a prior meeting. City Manager Terry McGean noted there was some discussion of converting the portion of Chicago Avenue between 2nd and 3rd streets to a two-lane road.

“It was pulled awhile ago, and that’s because there was actually a second piece to this,” he replied. “That was to make the piece of Chicago Avenue from 2nd to 3rd two-way. That had not really been discussed with the property owners. That was brought to the property owners, and they are opposed to that. So we removed that piece … That was brought back to you, and that’s why this was passed on first reading.”

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Resort officials this week agreed to advance an ordinance authorizing the sale of $28 million in general obligation bonds to a second reading.

On Monday, the Mayor and Council voted 5-1, with Councilwoman Carol Proctor absent and Council President Matt James opposed, to approve the first reading of an ordinance authorizing the Mayor and Council to sell no more than $28.4 million in general obligation bonds. City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said the sale would allow the town to fund several capital projects in fiscal year 2024.

“This is to authorize the Mayor and City Council to issue and sell general obligation bonds not to exceed $29,410,000 for the water infrastructure projects, Montego Bay street paving, OCPD mixed-use facility, convention center improvements, and the bond issuance costs,” she said.

As proposed, the bond sale will finance a $2.2 million water main upgrade on 94th Street, an $11.25 million clarifier improvement project at Gorman Avenue Water Treatment Plant, and a $2 million chloride system addition at Gorman Avenue Water Treatment Plant, with the debt service of each project to be paid by user fees.

The bond sale will also finance a $4.26 million downtown mixed-use facility for the Ocean City Police Department

and a $2.5 million street paving project at Montego Bay. Officials noted that specific project was above and beyond what the town typically allocates for street paving.

“So it doesn’t affect the $2.5 million we are spending on our regular street paving projects,” Mayor Rick Meehan said in a council meeting last week.

The bond sale will also finance $4 million in improvements to the convention center, the debt service of which will be paid for by food tax revenue. City Manager Terry McGean told the council last week that request was nearly $1 million more than he initially requested.

“What it does is include replacing all the carpet on the second floor,” he said.

During last week’s council meeting, Finance Director Chuck Bireley said cost estimates of $28.21 million and bond issuance costs of $200,000 brought the total not-to-exceed cost to $28.41 million. He said that would result in an annual debt service of $2.07 million – $1.12 million for the water department, $292,447 for the convention center, and $655,079 for the general fund.

Back on the agenda for a first reading on Monday, James announced he would not support the ordinance.

“I’m not going to vote against this for all of the projects,” he said. “I just don’t support the mixed-use facility downtown. So I will be voting against it.”

With no further discussion, the council voted 5-1 to approve the first reading of the bond ordinance.

Fall Cruisin Event Underway In OC

OCEAN CITY – The 26th Annual Endless Summer Cruisin Car Show began yesterday in Ocean City and continues through Sunday.

The four-day automotive event continues to be one of the region’s best fall car shows with hot rods, cool classics, customs and more. The epicenter of the event will be the Inlet parking lot with activities at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center on 40th Street as well as businesses around town.

Scheduled to appear at Endless 2023 will be television and movie star Priscilla Barnes, best known for her role as Terri Alden on the classic hit show Three’s Company. Barnes will be inside the convention center on Friday and at the Inlet on Saturday. Also joining the fun from the show Bitchin Rides will be car builder Kevin “Kevdogg” Schiele, who will be at the event meeting and greeting fans. Schiele will be at the Inlet on Friday and inside the convention center on Saturday.

Some of the top national names in the country will be on display at Manufacturer’s Midway located at the Inlet, notably Jet-Black that will be on display inside the convention center as well as a vendor showroom with automotive vendors, plus jewelry, arts and crafts a swap meet and more.

Another Endless Summer Cruisin Car Show highlight are the special Boardwalk Parades that will take place Thurs-

day, Friday and Saturday mornings. Parades begin at 8 a.m. leaving 27th Street to the Inlet.

Being held in conjunction with Endless Summer Cruisin is the Hot Rod & Custom Car Show taking place indoors at the Ocean City Convention Center Oct. 5-7. See some of the hottest show cars on display competing for cash and trophy awards. Spectators can vote for their favorite. There will also be live music and entertainment.

Spectator tickets for Endless Summer Cruisin are $15/day Friday and Saturday and $10/day Sunday. Four-day event passes are also available for $40 at the event. For more information on Endless Summer Cruisin visit www.EndlessSummerCruisin.com.

During Endless Summer Cruisin, the Town of Ocean City and Worcester County will be classified as a Special Event Zone where there will be increased fines for speeding, negligent/reckless driving, spinning wheels and alcohol related offenses. A statement from event organizers reads, “We encourage everyone that comes to Ocean City for Endless Summer Cruisin, both participants and spectators, to respect the town and abide by the rules. Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated. We look forward to a wonderful and safe Endless Summer Cruisin for 2023 and for many years to come.”

Boardwalk parade participants are pictured in a previous year’s Cruisin event.

People in Society

by Charlene Sharpe

Bruce and Susan Robson are pictured with Kate Patton at a Lower Shore Land Trust event in Berlin.

Among the outstanding volunteers at last week’s AGH Foundation golf fundraiser were Terry Wright, Mary Brennan, Vonnie Brown and Charlotte Cathell.

JL and Hugh Cropper are pictured with Dr. Sally Dowling at a Lower Shore Land Trust event the Croppers hosted in Berlin.

Doug Cook, Toni Keiser and Steven Sweigert paused for a photo at Atlantic General Hospital’s 30th annual fall golf tournament.

Enjoying the Berlin Air Lift concert on the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum lawn last Sunday were Gussie Sholtis and Beckett and Pam Green.

Stephen Lewis, C.L. Marshall and Doug Cook are pictured at the 2023 Robert E. Warfield Memorial Tournament, AGH's 30th Annual Fall Golf Classic.

Handling the orange crush bar duties at the AGH Foundation golf tournament were Cate Nellans and Cassidy Fisher.

Steven Sweigert and Lisa Cook helped out at AGH’s annual golf tournament.

Todd Burbage and Hugh Cropper are pictured at a Lower Shore Land Trust reception last Thursday.

Dr. Sally Dowling and Robert and Jane Corcoran were among the attendees at a Lower Shore Land Trust reception in Berlin.

Two High Schools Honored By Apple

NEWARK – Worcester County Public Schools announced this week Pocomoke and Snow Hill High Schools have been recognized as Apple Distinguished Schools for 2023–2026 for their commitment to continuous innovation in education and using Apple products to create exemplary learning practices.

Apple Distinguished Schools are recognized as some of the most innovative in the world. They’re centers of leadership and educational excellence, with a clear vision for how technology-rich environments support learning goals. PHS and SHHS use Apple technology to inspire creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking in learning, teaching, and the school environment.

“Our school deeply believes in empowering students to take ownership of their learning,” Leland Green, principal of Snow Hill High Schoo,l said. “Apple technology has transformed how our teachers include student voice as an integral part of designing a student’s learning journey.”

Pocomoke High School Principal Jenifer Rayne echoes the importance of students’ involvement.

“Students are the most important voice in the room, so we have engaged them in every step of this process. From our school’s student innovation team leading professional development, we are designing instruction to meet students wherever they are in their learning,” Rayne said.

The selection of PHS and SHHS as Apple Distinguished Schools highlights the schools’ success as innovators and creators of compelling learning environments that engage students and provides tangible evidence of academic achievement.

“It is wonderful to see how our schools are continuing to transform educational practices to more effectively reach this generation of learners,” Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor said. “We began the journey to bring cutting edge technology to our schools in 2020, and to see three of our schools be named Apple Distinguished Schools within that time demonstrates how impactful this investment is for our both our students and staff.”

The three-year designation of being an Apple Distinguished School comes with the expectations that both Pocomoke and Snow Hill High Schools will continuously innovate and explore cutting-edge opportunities for using technology to design the future of education. The schools join Berlin Intermediate School, which was named an Apple Distinguished School for 2022-2025 last October.

Students and staff at all three schools will be able to engage with the Apple Education team, along with a worldwide network of school leaders, to investigate and support the integration of new education products, curriculum, and services and inspire others. The schools will have the opportunity to renew the recognition during the last year of their recognition term, by demonstrating continued growth in innovative learning with integrated technology.

• Check the electrical service panel and wiring

• Tighten screws and lugs on circuit breakers to ensure proper functioning

• Apply Noalox on branch circuits’ aluminum wires

• Check all outlets with tester for loose connections, open grounds, neutral wires, proper polarity

• Test/inspect GFCI outlets and breakers

• Check for double tapped breakers to eliminate overloading a circuit breaker

• Survey for proper surge protection

• Check smoke detectors and make recommendations for compliance with local electrical codes

Ocean City Art League To Open New October Exhibits

OCEAN CITY — The Art League of Ocean City announced a special First Friday art opening for October featuring five new art shows plus a special exhibit honoring recovery from addiction. Patty Buchta will provide live music on acoustic guitar during the opening, and PKS Investments is sponsoring complimentary beverages.

The Thaler Gallery will feature largescale paintings created by Leo Kahl of Ocean View, Del., in a show he calls “Coastal Impressions.” Born in Baltimore, Md., Kahl was exposed to creativity and inventiveness at an early age and attended the Maryland Institute College of Art. He would make use of visualization, design, and technical skills for the next four decades envisioning and marketing commercial and industrial products. After moving to Delaware in 2020, Kahl devoted his full attention to making art, and has won awards for his paintings in Art League shows. The light and wildlife of the coastal regions of Maryland and Delaware are a constant source of inspiration for him.

Studio E will feature Beth Deeley of Ocean City in a show entitled “Wicked Waves.” The artist, who spends several months a year in Costa Rica, is a lifetime crafter and student of macrame but found weaving four years ago. “I love color and nature and try to combine the two in my pieces,” she said. “Each strand, each piece of fabric, is a meditation or a thought or a moment in my life.”

The Sisson Galleria will feature an all-media group show exhibiting abstract art. The judge for the show is Deborah Rolig of Berlin, who will award cash prizes to the winners.

Rolig is also the artisan for the month of October. A graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art and daughter of regional artist, Richard Harryman, Rolig blends her traditional training with her love of abstract art to create her own unique style. She defines her process as intuitive and loves the “laying down and taking out [which] leaves me with a surface that has history. Each layer, a moment in time recorded, is like a chapter in a book, and I'm never quite sure

how it will end.”

The Spotlight Gallery will be home to a special event honoring artists who are in recovery from addiction. The “Art of

Recovery” exhibition challenges misconceptions and negativity towards those battling addiction and displays art created by individuals in recovery from across the Eastern Shore. The Preston Motors “Preston Goes Purple Truck” will be parked in the Arts Center’s parking lot for guests to sign with special encouraging messages. This exhibit is a partnership among the Art League, Wor-Wic Community College, Salisbury University and Worcester Goes Purple.

The Art League also opens two new offsite exhibits in October. Amanda Lind of Berlin will be exhibiting her abstract and mixed media artwork, inspired by pop and modern art, at the Coffee Beanery on 94th Street and Coastal Highway Carol Ward of Salisbury, who is president of the Tidewater Camera Club, will display her photographs, including nighttime astrophotography, in the lobby of the Princess Royale on 91st Street.

Arts Center shows will be on display until Oct. 28; satellite shows, until Dec. 31. More information is available at OCart.org or by calling 410-524-9433.

adventure lifestyle show Planned For oc next

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A new resort event aims to celebrate the outdoors by showcasing vendors catering to the adventure travel lifestyle.

The first annual OCRV & Van Lifestyle Show will be held in the Roland E. Powell Convention Center Oct. 12-15. The event is being marketed as a celebration of the outdoor and adventure travel lifestyle, geared toward campers, hikers, cyclists and paddlesport lovers.

“The feedback from exhibitors is extraordinary, and industry partners see this becoming a must-attend event on the Eastern Shore for RV & custom van life enthusiasts,” said Rich Hutchins, promoter of the OCRV Show. “It offers an unparalleled opportunity to market and sell new RVs and custom vans while showcasing the adventure lifestyle. This event is a collaborative effort between us, our sponsors, partners, and exhibitors. We’re passionate about

delivering an exceptional visitor experience and providing the best platform for exhibitors to showcase their products to an engaged audience. We eagerly anticipate hosting our first event and hope this format proves to be a highly successful strategy.”

Organizers said they’ve had an overwhelming response since promoters first shared their idea for the show to the convention center’s executive team. During the show’s four days, thousands of visitors will be able to view hundreds of adventure lifestyle products, including an extensive RV and custom van lineup as well as tiny homes and watercraft. One of the RV vendors will be Meyer’s RV Superstores.

“The OCRV & Van Lifestyle Show provides the ideal location to showcase our new RVs, and what I particularly like about it is that it's more than just an RV show. By incorporating a wide range of outdoor activities that appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, it brings a more diverse crowd to the event," said Rob

Yeager, general sales manager at Meyer's RV Superstores. “With numerous campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, this show is the perfect destination to present our offerings to a market that enthusiastically embraces outdoor adventures.”

Patrick Connell, owner of The RV Shop, also expressed excitement for the event.

“It’s a truly unique show, an opportunity we couldn’t pass up,” he said. “It’s the only RV show embracing the outdoor lifestyle with kayaks, e-bikes, offroad power sports, vans, SUP, scooters, fishing, golf carts, and more – everything related to the outdoors, which aligns perfectly with our values. It’s the perfect partnership for us.”

The event kicks off on Thursday, Oct. 12, at noon and runs until 7 p.m. The show will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 13 and 14 and will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 15. Additional events scheduled during the OCRV & Van Lifestyle Show include Broadway Rock of Ages Band at the Performing

Arts Center on Oct. 13, BMX stunt shows by Dialed Action Sports on Oct. 13 and 14, a cornhole tournament benefiting the Burbage Regional Cancer Center on Oct. 14 and a local skateboard competition presented by Central Skate Supply on Sunday, Oct. 15.

Other happenings include yoga classes by Ocean City Yoga, a variety of product demos and Tipsy Tiki bay cruises. For more information about the OCRV & Van Lifestyle Show and offerings visit ocrvshow.com or visit the event page on Facebook and Instagram.

“We’re passionate about delivering an exceptional visitor experience and providing the best platform for exhibitors to showcase their products to an engaged audience,” Hutchins said. “We eagerly anticipate hosting our first event and hope this format proves to be a highly successful strategy.”

For more information about the OCRV & Van Lifestyle Show and offerings please visit ocrvshow.com. Connect with the OCRV & Van Lifestyle Show on Facebook and Instagram.

CEO Recognition

SALISBURY – With a community of nearly 9,000 students and employees, approximately 100 buildings and a campus spanning some 220 acres, running Salisbury University — or any university — is the equivalent of overseeing a small town.

Since July 2022, SU’s 10th president, Dr. Carolyn Ringer Lepre, has been up to that task, engaging with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and constituents throughout Maryland and beyond to ensure the university is meeting and exceeding the needs of its students, employees and the greater community.

The respect and esteem she has earned among those groups in the past year has landed her on this year’s list of “Maryland’s Most Admired CEOs.” Bestowed by the Baltimorebased statewide newspaper The Daily Record and BridgeTower media, the honor recognizes those whose leadership and vision are admired by those around them. Selections are based on professional accomplishments, community service and letters of reference.

“My favorite part of being a university President is the opportunity to meet and work with so many people whose lives are changed by the work we do,” said Lepre. “I am honored and humbled that the admiration I have for the members of our campus community — in Salisbury and beyond — is reflected back through this award. I thank those who join me every day in working to make our collective vision for Salisbury University a reality.”

Since joining the SU community, Lepre has set goals of increasing enrollment and retention rates; creating a campuswide diversity, equity and inclusion plan; making SU a top 25 campus in U.S. News & World Report rankings; and placing a greater emphasis on study abroad and study away programs.

She also has placed an emphasis on creating a facilities plan to attract students and support high-quality educational experiences; restructuring the SU budget to ensure the university’s spending is the most strategic it can be.

In addition, she has announced priorities including adding new varsity sports including men’s and women’s golf, creating new scholarships as part of fundraising efforts for the university’s 100th anniversary in 2025, and continuing to tell the SU story through its “Make Tomorrow Yours” brand.

BUSINESS And Real Estate News

This is Lepre’s third honor from The Daily Record in the past six months. Others have included being recognized among Maryland’s Top 100 Women and named to its 2023 Higher Education Power List. The publication also recently named SU among its inaugural Empowering Women Award recipients, in part due to Lepre’s leadership.

Other members of the University System of Maryland (USM) community joining her on the Most Admired CEOs list include Chancellor Jay A. Perman and USM Regent Robert Wallace, who earned the accolade as the founding president, CEO and chair of BITHGROUP Technologies, LLC, an IT and hardware solutions provider based in Baltimore.

Store Opens

BERLIN – Jersey Mike’s Subs, known for its fresh sliced/fresh grilled subs, opened at 11347 Samuel Bowen Blvd., in Berlin on Sept. 27.

Franchise owner Robert Bradley held a grand opening and fundraiser from Sept. 27 through Oct. 1 to support Stephen Decatur High School. Customers who received a special fundraising coupon distributed through a grassroots effort prior to the opening could make a minimum $3 contribution to Stephen Decatur High School in exchange for a regular sub.

“We are thrilled to bring the first Jersey Mike’s to Worcester County,” said Bradley. “The Jersey Mike’s dedication to community involvement and charitable giving while delivering the very best sub on the planet aligns perfectly with our operating philosophy. We are excited to have partnered with Stephen Decatur High School for our grand opening charitable partner and look forward to seeing you all in our new store and in town very soon!”

Guests can place orders in-store or for pickup through the website or through the Jersey Mike’s app. Additionally, delivery is available in most areas through the Jersey Mike’s app or through third-party delivery partners. Curbside pickup is avail-

able for orders placed in the Jersey Mike’s app.

Jersey Mike’s premium meats and cheeses are sliced on the spot and piled high on in-store baked bread. Jersey Mike’s fans crave their subs made Mike’s Way with the freshest vegetables – onions, lettuce and tomatoes – topped off with an exquisite zing of “the juice,” red wine vinegar and an olive oil blend. Authentic cheesesteaks are grilled fresh.

Jersey Mike’s is looking for individuals interested in career opportunities with extraordinary growth potential to join their team. Candidates who are passionate about customer service and connecting with their local community are invited to apply to Subs@berlinjm.com. The restaurant’s hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week. You can contact this location directly at 443-856-2326.

New Police Chief

SALISBURY – Following a national search to fill the position, the City of Salisbury is proud to announce the hiring of David Meienschein as the city’s police chief.

A 36-year veteran of the Salisbury Police Department (SPD), Meienschein has served in numerous capacities over his career including 12 years as assistant chief of police and the last two months as acting chief.

“It is my honor to have served the citizens of Salisbury as a career officer and look forward to the future in my new role as Chief of Police,” said Meienschein. “Growing up in Salisbury, I have a vested interest in this community and will dedicate myself to leading the department by focusing on employee wellness, community collaboration, combating crime and helping our citizens feel safe.”

He began his public safety career in 1987 as a police officer and K-9 handler. During his tenure he has been promoted through the ranks and has been serving

as acting chief of police since June 2023. He has held many administrative and operational positions within the police department. In these roles, he has focused on community oriented policing, crime reduction and police-community relations.

The Salisbury native has emphasized the importance of staffing and resource allocation while addressing community issues during his career. He was a U.S. Air Force active-duty senior master sergeant from 1982 to 2003 and served in the Air Force Reserve until 2003.

Meienschein has also earned a plethora of awards and recognition of service from the SPD including: The Salisbury Police Department Community Policing Award/Military Service Award; COPP Unit Citation/Exceptional Service Award, Educational Achievement/Marksmanship Award; Canine Service Award; Honorable Service Award/Distinguished Achievement in Public Service; and numerous letters of recognition and appreciation for performance in the field and community policing activities.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in human resource management from Wilmington University in Georgetown, Del., and is a member of the 2005 Graduate Class Session 220 of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va.

Meienschein joined the United States Air Force after graduating from Parkside High School in 1982. He served on active duty for four years before joining the Air Force Reserves in 1987. His career in law enforcement began the same year when he became a seasonal police officer in Ocean City, and then a police recruit for the SPD. His military career officially ended in 2003 when he retired from the reserves.

The city engaged Strategic Government Resources (SGR) to assist in conducting the extensive national search that resulted in an impressive candidate pool. SGR is an executive recruitment firm based in Texas, specializing in recruiting, assessing, and developing innovative, collaborative, and authentic leaders for local governments. SGR’s proprietary recruitment and vetting process produced an incredibly strong field of candidates, with 29 applications from candidates in 15 states. The city also established a Citizen Police Chief Search Committee which reviewed the background and application materials of the candidates with SGR and ultimately selected the four finalists.

Meienschein was the top choice of both the city administration and the Citizen Police Chief Search Committee.

CAROLYN RINGER LEPRE

DAVE MEIENSCHEIN

with Scott Lenox

We’ve got a few weeks left of the Fish in OC fishing report here in The Dispatch and fall fishing is as good as we hope it can be this time of year.

Last week’s weather was terrible, but when Mother Nature wasn’t raining on our parade there was some good fishing to be had. We had a few boats that were able to get out to the offshore canyons just one day last week and the billfish were still there and they were chewing. The crew of Kilo Charlie headed to the Norfolk where they caught and released seven white marlin out of nine bites and also saw a blue marlin. I don’t think the billfish will be out there much longer, but we should see a run of tuna and some good sword fishing over the next couple of weeks.

Maryland black sea bass season will reopen on Tuesday, Oct. 10 and we should see better and better fishing as water temperatures cool. Captain Monty Hawkins of the Morning Star was able to get out one day last week before the season closed on Oct. 1 and he found some big knot heads on ocean structure. There were a few flounder mixed in as well so hopefully we see a good weather pattern over the next month to take advantage of what should be some good ocean bottom fishing.

Inshore fishing is picking up nicely with cooling water temperatures and lots

of bait in the back bays. Rockfish, bluefish and even red drum have been caught from, and under the Route 50 Bridge over the past week with some really nice fish in the mix. Morgan Mericle and Shaun Flaherty had some great fishing with swim shads during the blow with rockfish from 30” to over 35” and Morgan added a beautiful 32” red drum. Remember both fish have slots. Rockfish must be between 28” and 31” and red drum must be 18” to 27”. Both fish have creel limits of one fish per person per day.

Hopefully we see some red drum and rockfish at our 7th Annual Ocean City Inshore Classic Tournament this weekend. Registration takes place on Friday, Oct. 6 from 5-7 p.m. at the Sunset Marina activity room and then fishing takes place Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 7-8. Lines go in Saturday morning at 7 and then anglers can fish any or all of 32 hours until lines out Sunday at 3 p.m. We’ll have scales action at Atlantic Tackle on Saturday from 4-7 p.m. and then on Sunday from 3-5 p.m. Hope to see you there. Until next week, tight lines.

(The writer is the owner of Fish in OC and host of Ocean City’s fishing television 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.)

SEE NEXT PAGE

Morgan Mericle used a swim shad from the Route 50 Bridge to catch and then release this stud 32” red drum. Submitted Photos

Top left, Alex Cabada was fishing with Jeff Weeks and Dave Weller when he caught this citation 23”, 8.5 pound sheepshead. Top, middle, this nice keeper flounder came over the railing at the Oceanic Pier in downtown Ocean City. Top right, Morgan Mericle was surprised when a nice 20” sheepshead ate his swim shad from the Route 50 Bridge.

Middle left, Korey, Big Bird Cropper and Shaun Flaherty had a great day at the Route 50 Bridge with two keeper rockfish and a bluefish. Middle right, Willie caught and released this big, over 31” slot rockfish while fishing a swim shad from the Route 50 Bridge in last week’s wind.

Above left, Captain Monty Hawkins stepped out of the wheelhouse of his Morning Star to land this pretty black sea bass. Above middle, this nice sheepshead was caught on the Oceanic Pier with a live sand flea. Above right, Captain Jason Mumford of Lucky Break put this crew on a fine day of fishing with rockfish, flounder and this lineup of keeper sheepshead.

COMMUNITY News In Photos

Atlantic General Hospital received a generous donation of $5,245 from the LPGA Amateur Golf Association Eastern Shore MD/DE chapter. This donation from the chapter’s annual Pink Ball Week fundraising event will assist those in the community who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, specifically those with limited or no healthcare coverage. Pictured from left are Ellen Ash, LPGA Amateur Golf Association Eastern Shore MD/DE chapter’s Pink Ball Week fundraiser co-chair; Chanelle Lake, Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center director; Diane Sarsfield, LPGA Amateur Golf Association Eastern Shore MD/DE chapter president; and Hilanne Myers, LPGA Amateur Golf Association Eastern Shore MD/DE chapter’s Pink Ball Week fundraiser co-chair.

Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall, right, recently swore in new municipal committee members, from left, Erich Pfeffer, Kristen Gerhart, Jennie Allen, Mike Wiley, Patricia Dufendach, Sarah Hooper, Steven Scheiber, Natalie Blanton, Carol Rose and Tony Weeg.

Janice Uhitzsch, Patricia Seufert, Beth Leonard, Abigail Imus, and Jimena DeChant made sunflower paintings by pouring the paint onto canvases at the Art League of Ocean City's Pour Painting Class on Sept. 15.

A Sierra Club Lower Eastern Shore group visited University of Maryland Eastern Shore on Sept. 20 to discuss environmental advocacy. Students were encouraged to adopt zero waste practices. Pictured from left to right are Jacky Grindrod, David Ogunola and Joan Worrall.

Berlin resident Bruce Hyder was recently recognized for his years of service on the town’s parks commission. Hyder, center, is pictured with (from left) Berlin Parks Commission members Sarah Hooper, Mike Wiley, Mayor Zack Tyndall and Patricia Dufendach.

Submitted Photos

The Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club recently helped serve dinner and presented a check to Believe in Tomorrow's Children House by the Sea. Pictured from left to right are Past District Governor Cliff Berg, Mary Brown, Donna Berg, and Amanda Koontz.

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

HYGIENIST

Small boutique dental office looking for a Dental Hygienist to join our friendly team. Very competitive salary. Please send resume to dentistryinthepines@gmail.com

INDIAN RIVER MARINA IS NOW HIRING!

•OVERNIGHT NIGHTWATCH

•MAINTENANCE

•BOAT YARD ATTENDANT

Apply Online at delawarestatejobs.com

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

For additional information, please contact the Marina office at 302.227.3071 AA/EOE

CUSTODIAL

Summer Beach Condos is looking for a Part-time, Year Round Custodial Person, some maintenance experience a plus. 8am–12pm, 5 days/week, $13.50-$14.00 per hr **Must be able to move heavy objects** call 410-603-5627 for an interview

•FACEBOOK

• INSTAGRAM

•TWITTER BROADENING OUR COMMITMENT

BOOKKEEPER

Red Sun Custom Apparel located in Selbyville De. is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented bookkeeper to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in accounting and be proficient in QuickBooks and EXCEL. If you are passionate about numbers, highly organized, and have excellent attention to detail, we would love to hear from you. To apply, please send your resume, salary requirements and questions to: bregan@redsuncustom.com

COMMERCIAL RENTAL

WATERFRONT BAYSIDE:

Newly remodeled 2BR, 2BA condo in North OC. 4 steps to ground level off of your private balcony. Full Kitchen, LR, DR, W/D, balcony w/tables + seating for 6. Seasonal-monthly. Dec-April, $2,600, util’s incl. 443-223-4623.

TIMESHARE FOR RENT: Gorgeous timeshare & resorts. Several weeks avail. anywhere in US. Personal timeshare, can’t use all weeks. $1K per wk. 267-254-0111.

WINTER RENTAL: 3BR/2BA

Fully furn. home. Swann Keys on canal w/ bulkhead. Avail. thru 5/31/24. $1300/mo + util’s. 443-278-3993 leave message

ROOMMATE

ROOM(S) FOR RENT: Seeking Roommate(s). YR or Seasonal. Indoor Hot Tub. Non smoking, pets welcome. Single Family Home, 94th St. area. Rent negotiable. Call/text for more info. 410-7265200.(Job inhibits phone calls, text if can’t reach by calls).

CAREGIVER

CAREGIVER IN YOUR HOME: Honest, dependable, trustworthy & compassionate care. Hospital & home health exp. Exc. Ref.’s Call Debbie Bell 302-339-7162.

PETS

WEST O.C. OFFICE/RETAIL SPACES AVAILABLE: 1 Office or Retail Space for Lease. 1,656. Sq. feet. Plenty of Parking. 443-497-4200.

INDUSTRIAL WAREHOUSE SPACE: 1,500 Sq. Ft., Masonry construction. 18’ high ceilings, large garage door & bathroom. Rt. 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.

FOR SALE

Sofa bed, 2-Dbl beds, 1-Queen bed, Dressers,

YARD SALE

YARD SALE: Sat. 10/7, 8am1pm. Pictures, Household, applicances...a little of everything. Too much to mention. 6 Burley St., Berlin MD 21811

Shoulders stiff and sore You would grab the other end Whenever I, when...

GET READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS! DINING ROOM SET FOR SALE! Beautiful solid wood dining set. Table seats 8-10 with two leaves. Lighted China Cabinet with glass shelving. (Chairs not incl’d.) Must see! $500. Berlin. 443-880-8885

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

True Test Copy

Third Insertion

decedent's death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign 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. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

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 6, 2023

JAMES WESLEY AYRES Personal Representative True Test Copy

First Insertion

SMALL

HARRISON

JOSEPH E. MOORE, ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY &

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19899

To all persons interested in the estate of JOYCE G. ELDER Estate No. 19899. Notice is given that THEODORE J. ELDER, whose address is 7823 WHALEYVILLE ROAD, WHALLEYVILLE, MD 21872, was on SEPTEMBER 18, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOYCE G. ELDER, who died on MAY 4, 2023, without 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 18th day of MARCH, 2024.

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:

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 SEPTEMBER 22, 2023

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County

ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102, COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

3x 9-22, 9-29, 10-6

Third Insertion

RAYMOND D COATES,JR, ESQ. COATES, COATES & COATES PA 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19896

To all persons interested in the estate of JULE E. JOYCE, Estate No. 19896.

Notice is given that PATRICK C. JOYCE III, whose address is 5413 ALBEMARIE STREET, BETHESDA, MD 20816, was on SEPTEMBER 15, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JULE E. JOYCE, who died on JANUARY 12, 2000, without 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 MARCH, 2024.

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:

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

SEPTEMBER 22, 2023

PATRICK C. JOYCE, III Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102, COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 9-22, 9-29, 10-6

Second Insertion

JAMES P. YOKE

605 BALTIMORE ANNAPOLIS BLVD., #2 SERVERNA PARK, MD 21146

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 14118

Notice is given that the PROBATE DIVISION OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF SARASOTA, FLA, appointed JOYCE G. CMIEL, 1943 HARRIS ROAD, CHARLOTTE, NC 28211 and JAMES W. GRAY III, 171 VILLA NUEVA COURT, MOUNTAINVIEW, CA 94040 and SUSAN E. LOCKHOFF, 14781 CARRIAGE MILL DRIVE, WOODBINE, MD 21797 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES of the Estate of ELIZABETH B. GRAY, who died on 12/23/22, domiciled in SARASOTA COUNTY, FLA, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is SUSAN E. LOCKHOFF, whose address is 14781 CARRIAGE MILL DRIVE, WOODBINE, MD 21797. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: QUEEN ANNES, WORCESTER.

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for QUEEN ANNES 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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication SEPTEMBER 29, 2023

JOYCE G. CMIEL

JAMES W. GRAY, III

SUSAN E. LOCKHOFF Personal Representative True Test Copy

LAURA NAN COOK

QUEEN ANNES COUNTY REGISTER OF WILLS PO BOX 59 CENTREVILLE, MD 21617 3x 9-29, 10-06, 10-13

First Insertion

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIR ESTATE 19904

To all persons interested in the estate of ANGELIA MAY AYRES Estate No. 19904. Notice is given that JAMES WESLEY AYRES whose address is 9132 PITTS ROAD, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on SEPTEMBER 25, 2023 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of ANGELIA MAY AYRES, who died on AUGUST 21, 2022 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 an 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:

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 creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102, COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 1x 10-6

First Insertion

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIR ESTATE 19911

To all persons interested in the estate of RALPH RICHARD WHITE Estate No. 19911. Notice is given that JANA KRABILL whose address is 415 SILVA ROAD, STOCKTON, MD 21864, was on SEPTEMBER 27, 2023 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of RALPH RICHARD WHITE, who died on AUGUST 20, 2023 without 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 an 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:

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 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:

To all persons interested in the estate of ASHLEY O. JONES, Estate No. 19913.

Notice is given that LISA OUTTEN HARRISON, whose address is 3740 RIDGE ROAD, SNOW HILL, MD 21863, was on SEPTEMBER 29, 2023 appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of ASHLEY O. JONES, who died on AUGUST 25, 2023 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 an 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:

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 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 6, 2023 LISA OUTTEN HARRISON Personal Representative True Test Copy

Who’s Where When

Who’s Where When

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Rt. 611, West O.C.

Friday, Oct. 6: TBA

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West O.C.

Friday, Oct. 6: DJ Bigler

Saturday, Oct. 7: The Dunehounds

DJ Brian K. Hall

Sunday, Oct. 8:

Opposite Directions

Thursday, Oct. 12: Dust N Bones Duo

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beast By DeoGee

Saturday, Oct. 7: The Dunehounds

Sunday, Oct. 8:

Beats By DeoGee

Mondays:

Karaoke w/Wood

Tuesdays:

Beats By Wax

Wednesdays:

Beats By Deogee

Thursdays:

Beats By Wax

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts.

On The Boards

Friday & Saturday, Sept. Oct. 6 & 7

Awaken

Tuesdays: DJ Madame Dutchess

Wednesdays: DJ Papi

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, Oct. 6: DJ Tuff, Side Piece Duo, Kristen & The Noise

Saturday, Oct. 7: DJ Davie, DJ Cruz, 9th Gear, Feel Free, Turning The Tide

Thursday, Oct. 12: DJ Connair, Full Circle Duo

THE ORIGINAL

GREENE TURTLE

410-723-2120

116th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Saturday, Oct. 21: No Brakes

JOSH PRYOR TRIO Crawl St. Tavern: Saturday, Oct. 7

LAUREN GLICK BAND Coconuts Beach Bar: Sunday, Oct. 8

KRISTEN & THE NOISE Seacrets: Friday, Oct. 6

ENDLESS EMBER Crabcake Factory Bayside: Friday, Oct. 6 THE EPICS Fager’s Island:

MONKEE PAW Coconuts Beach Bar: Friday, Oct. 6

STARLIGHT ANTHEM Fager’s Island: Friday, Oct. 6

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 Monday: Bridge Games

Are you interested in joining others for a game of Bridge at the Ocean City 50+ Senior Center? If so, please call or text Tish at 410-804-3971.

Every Monday: Overeaters Anonymous Meetings are from 7-8 p.m. at the Ocean Pines Library branch. No dues or fees. Call 410-459-9100.

Every Monday: Acapella Chorus

All ladies who love to sing are invited to the Delmarva Woman’s Acapella Chorus, Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Contact Mary 410629-9383 or Carol 302-242-7062.

Every Tuesday: TOPS Meeting

Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. Meetings are held at the Worcester County Berlin Health Department at 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin from 3:30-4:30 p.m. every Tuesday. 410289-4725.

Every Tuesday: Beach Cleanup Beach Heroes, a volunteer Ocean City group, holds cleanups 9-10 a.m. yearround. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page "Beach Heroes-OC" for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.

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.

Every Thursday: Beach Singles

Join the club, 55 plus, at Harpoon Hanna’s in Fenwick Island, 4-6 p.m. 302-436-9577 or BeachSingles.org.

2nd and 4th Thursdays: Caregiver Support Meeting

The Caregiver Support Group will continue to meet on the second and fourth Thursdays in the Ocean Pines Library. Meetings will run from 3-4:30 p.m. The meetings are private and confidential.

Oct. 7: 5K Hero Run

The Wor-Wic Community College Foundation is sponsoring a 5K Hero Run or two mile walk, along with the 2023 First Responder Team Cup Challenge, at 9 a.m., at the college campus on the corner of Route 50 and Walston Switch Road in Salisbury. Check-in and registration begin at 8 a.m. The entry fee is $25 per person, or $35 per person after Oct. 4. Proceeds will benefit the students of Wor-Wic. A Kids’ Hero Run and obstacle course for ages 9 and under will be held at 9:45 a.m.; the entry fee is $5. www.worwic.edu/5K.

Oct. 7: Fried Chicken Buffet

From 11 a.m. until at Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church, 36540 Mt. Pleasant Road, Willards, Md. 21874. Vegetables, beverages and dessert included for dinein. Carry-out platters available. Additional baked goods available for purchase. No pre-orders. Adults $15, Children $7.50, kids under 6 are free.

Things To Do

Oct. 7: Car, Bike Show

From 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 17th Annual Cruizers for Christ Car/Bike Show will be held at the Whaleyville United Methodist Church. Entry fee is $15. Trophies will be given to the Top 20 and "Best in Show.”

Oct. 7: Tindley Celebration

The Germantown School will host its annual gospel celebration of Berlin native Rev. Charles Albert Tindley from 1-4 p.m. In addition to the gospel music from Tindley’s vast body of hymns, the day will also include historical presentations on Tindley’s life and musical inspiration. Inside the school will be storytelling and puzzles for children and a Tindley exhibit for older visitors. The event is free, all are welcome.

Oct. 8: Blessing Of Animals

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Berlin will be holding at 1 p.m. at the church, which is located at 3 Church Street in Berlin. Bring your dog, cat, horse, donkey, bird, fish, reptile or other animal buddy to receive a blessing on this Sunday closest to the Feast Day of St. Francis, patron saint of all animals.

Oct. 8: Blessing Of Animals

St. Paul’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church on 3rd Street in Ocean City will be blessing the animals in celebration of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi at 10 a.m. service. Animals must be leashed or crated. All creatures great and small are invited.

Oct. 9: Breast Cancer Event

Benefiting Women Supporting Women at 5:30 p.m. at Pure Fitness West Ocean City. Free to the public but donations greatly appreciated. Local area fitness instructors, auction and goodie bags. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com.

Oct. 10-12: Basic Boating Course

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering the Maryland Basic Boating Safety Course virtually from 6-9 p.m. Cost is $20 for all three evenings. Register or get more information by calling Barry Cohen at 410-9354807, or Email:CGAUXOC@Gmail.com.

Oct. 10: Mini Golf Tourney

The Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce will host a Mini Golf Tournament at Nick’s Dino Golf Course on 125th Street in Ocean City at 2 p.m. Following the same rules and side bet contests as a real golf tournament, this event is for golfers and nongolfers alike. Prizes will be on hand for closest to the pin, hole in one, ball drop, and other fun contests. Mulligans available to gain an advantage. Beverages available along the course for sale. Happy Hour to follow at Grotto’s Pizza next door. Teams are twosomes, $50/team, shotgun start at

2 p.m. Sponsorships available. To register your team and snag a hole sponsorship, OceanPinesChamber.org.

Oct. 11: AARP Meeting

The local AARP chapter will meet in the Ocean City 50 Plus Center located at 41st St. and Coastal Highway (behind the Dough Roller) at 10 a.m. Guest speaker will be from the Worcester County Commission on Aging. New members are welcome. 410-250-0980.

Oct. 12: Seafood Boil

Join the Ocean City Chamber for a Seafood Boil from 5-8 p.m. at the Ocean Downs Casino and spend the night enjoying great food and music. Dinner is being provided by Delmarva Boil Company and Monkee Paw will be playing music all night. Each ticket includes two free drinks, $10 in casino free play and food.

Oct. 13: Crab Cake Dinner

Stevenson United Methodist Church in Berlin will host its monthly crab cake dinner from 4-6 p.m., eat in or carryout. Cost is $14, one crab cake sandwich with green beans, baked potato and cole slaw; $24 for two crab cake sandwiches with sides; and $10 for a crab cake sandwich. Bake sale table available.

Oct. 13: Memorial Trap Shoot

The First State Detachment of the Marine Corps League is holding the first Annual Marty Kwesko Memorial Trap Shoot. Open to veterans, first responders and sport shooting enthusiasts at noon at the Synepuxent Rod & Gun Club. Milt Warren by phone or text at 443-497-0057 or email at milt.warren@comcast.net.

Oct. 13-14: Good Beer Festival

Wicomico County’s Good Beer Festival returns to Pemberton Park in Salisbury featuring unlimited sampling from nearly 40 breweries. In addition to craft beer, there will be domestics, ciders, seltzers and wine. Fan-favorite games will return, including a keg toss, beer-themed carnival games, cornhole and wall hooky.

Oct. 14: Bingo Fundraiser

The Willards Ladies Auxiliary’s 15th Annual Baskets, Bags & Bucks Bingo fundraiser will be held at the Willards Lions Club. Chinese auction, door prizes. Refreshments on sale. Doors open at 4 p.m. and bingo starts at 6 p.m. Cost is $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Only 200 tickets will be sold. For tickets, call 410-7261583 or 410-835-2285.

Oct. 14: Shopping Extravaganza

Powellville Volunteer Fire Company’s Annual Shopping Extravaganza will offer ama-

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 410641-0966; or mail to The Dispatch, P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811.

zing vendors and offer the famous oyster sandwiches while you shop. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 5085 Powellville Rd Pittsville, Md. 21850. If you would like to be a vendor, email treasurer@powellvillefire.com.

Oct. 14: Club Meeting

The Ocean Pines Anglers Club will meet at 9:30 a.m. in the Ocean Pines Library. Speaker will be award winning Captain Ken Thompson who will talk about the White Marlin Open.

Oct. 15: Empowering Children

Enlightening Women will hold a free community event at Henry Park, offering activities for the whole family, free school supplies, free food and free winter coat giveaways, community vendors and health vendors. Event starts at noon and runs through 4 p.m. enlighteningwoman2022@gmail.com.

Oct. 15: Blessing Of Pets

The Church of the Holy Spirit in Ocean City will hold a Blessing of the Pets ceremony from 11:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. in the church parking lot. Pets should be on leashes or otherwise under their owners’ control.

Oct. 20: Fried Flounder Dinner

Bowen Fellowship Church in Newark will host at 4:30 p.m. a fried flouder dinner with sides. Carryout also available. $10.

Oct. 20: Oyster Fritters

The American Legion SAL will offer for sale in Berlin starting at 2 p.m.

Oct. 21: Pancake Breakfast

Worcester County Democrats will hold the Spirit of the Party Breakfast at WORCOA’s Ocean City 50+ Center located directly across from the north end of the Convention Center from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Join us for good times and to learn more about several of the upcoming Democratic candidates. Cost is $15 per person if paid in advance and $20 at the door. Registration forms can be found at worcesterdems.org. Mail it with your check payable to DCCWC. PO Box 1582, Berlin, Md. 21811. Call or text Tish at 410-804-3971 for more information or questions.

Oct. 21: Fried Chicken Dinner

Drive thru pickup only from 11 a.m..-until at New Hope United Methodist Church in Willards. Menu includes mashed potatoes, greens, string beans, roll and dessert. Cost $15. Baked goods for sale. 410-543-8244.

Oct. 21: Church Fall Bazaar

From 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Allen Asbury United Methodist Church’s Fall Bazaar will offer delicious homemade chicken salad, soups, oyster sandwiches and baked goods. Also available will be homemade baked goods including lots of pies, cakes, Maryland beaten biscuits, sweet potato biscuits and other treats. A wide selection of books and favorite vendors will be available for browsing inside the building. Weather permitting, there will be yard sale tables outside, too.

Oct. 28: Pig Roast

The Worcester County Republican Central Committee invites all to a pig roast from noon-5 p.m. at Addis Barn, 11043 Mumford Road, Bishopville. All the fixings, family friendly, music by Chris Miller with special guest Diante Johnson, founder and president of the Black Conservative Federation. $35 per person; children 10 and under free.

… Festival Offered Showcase For Resort

FROM PAGE 5

of The Dough Roller. “And I think the town, the Boardwalk businesses and C3 put on a banner weekend.”

Gibbs noted that while staffing was an issue among many merchants, he believed the weekend was a success.

“Places got busier as the weekend progressed …,” he said. “You could really tell there was a new crowd to Ocean City and they were out exploring Saturday and Sunday, especially from 27th Street south. That’s what made the event different.”

Wendy DiBuo, whose family owns and operates the Cork Bar and Crawl Street Tavern, also applauded the promoter and the Town of Ocean City for working with Boardwalk merchants to prepare for Oceans Calling. She also recognized yearround staff for working hard throughout the weekend.

“From the perspective of two bars located downtown, with one bar located inside the festival and the other just steps outside the festival, I feel it was a winwin,” she said.

Resort leaders also took time during Monday’s Mayor and Council meeting to recognize city staff for their efforts.

“I wanted to thank the staff for all of their work over this weekend, but especially transportation with the help of the police department,” said City Manager Terry McGean. “What they did was nothing less than miraculous. Sometimes we get criticized for not being agile, for not adapting. Friday, we saw what happened. We didn’t give up. We stood up.”

For his part, Councilman John Gehrig said the weekend provided a learning opportunity.

“That is why we do special events. We don’t know what we don’t know …,” he said. “When we talk world-class, Ocean City was world-class this past weekend. And I agree 100% with what the team did. The promoter was outstanding, the entire Ocean City team was outstanding. It wasn’t perfect, but what is? We’ll get better.”

Meehan said the Oceans Calling Festival was a team effort. He thanked the promoter, Boardwalk businesses, town staff and visitors for a successful inaugural event.

“I’m happy we got it in,” he said, “and now everybody knows what it really could be.”

Officials say the festival – which attracted 50,000 people from all 50 states – checks all the boxes in terms of tourism and economic development.

With the 2023 Oceans Calling Festival in the rearview mirror, officials say they will now begin the task of preparing for next year’s event.

“Our town, our city services did a tremendous job seeing the vision of what a music festival could mean for the town,” Perlozzo said. “Hats off to police, fire, EMS, special events, tourism, and even the Mayor and City Council. It was about the vision, and thank God we could pull it off. I think it will be good for years to come.”

It was a mass of humanity on the Boardwalk and throughout the downtown area when the final concert of the day concluded. Above was the scene Saturday night at 11:15 p.m.

Photo by Steve Green

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 featured in this space. Above, a special moment is shared on the Boardwalk last week. To purchase any of Parypa’s photos, click over to www.chrisparypa.com.

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 70

HOROSCOPES

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): An upcoming trip could create some problems with your schedule unless you tie up as many loose ends as possible before you head out the door. Ask a friend or colleague to help you.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): Being eager to start a new project is fine. However, moving ahead without knowing what will actually be expected of you could cause a problem down the line. Ask some questions.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Getting through some recent challenges in good shape might give you a false sense of security. Don't relax your guard. You need to be prepared for what else could happen.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): Caution is still advised, even though you think you're as prepared as you need to be at the moment. Keep in mind that change is in your aspect, and you should expect the unexpected.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): The Lion's gift of persuasion helps you get your points across, even to some of your most negative naysayers in the workplace. Also, an old friend might seek you out for some advice.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): Being sure of your convictions is fine, but leave some room for dissenting opinions. You might learn something that could help you avoid a possible problem later on.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): Getting good legal advice on what your

rights actually are is the first step toward resolving that pesky problem so that it doesn't reemerge at a later date. Good luck.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Longtime relationships work well this week, whether they're personal or professional. It's also a good time to invite new friends and colleagues into your life.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): This is a good week to do the research that will help you uncover irrefutable facts for a project; this will back you up on your new venture when you most need it.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): Change is an important factor in your aspect this week and could affect something you might have thought was immune to any sort of adjustment or "alteration."

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): Being asked to share someone's deeply personal confidence might be flattering, but accepting could be unwise. Decline gracefully but firmly.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): As wise as you are, you could still be misled by someone who seems to be sincere but really isn't. Take more time to assess the situation before making any commitments.

BORN THIS WEEK: You like to face challenges that others might try to avoid, and by doing so, you set an example of courage for all.

© 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

O.A.R.’s love of the area

The overall vibe at Oceans Calling A sea of Orioles orange at Camden Yards

Fridays without a meeting

Seeing excitement in a kid’s eyes

The rare easy Ravens win

Approachable celebrities

Wings and football on Sundays

Stories of business success

Short dentist appointments

Other people’s big round number birthdays

The Samoa and Mario’s were two of Ocean City’s most popular restaurants in the late 1960s. Located on Philadelphia Avenue between 22nd and 23rd streets, the Samoa moved two blocks north in 1969 and is now the location of a Sunsations store.

Mario’s was a favorite of Ocean City’s locals and stayed open yearround serving some of the resort’s best steaks and Italian food for over 50 years.

Mario’s closed forever on Sept. 24, 2005 and the building was razed soon after for a parking lot.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Photo courtesy Vera Maiorana

Berlin Planning Oktoberfest, Fall Sidewalk Sale Next Weekend

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Oktoberfest returns to Berlin next Saturday in conjunction with the annual fall sidewalk sale.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to come to downtown Berlin Oct. 14 as the town once again hosts Oktoberfest.

“Oktoberfest in Berlin will once again bring a festive atmosphere to downtown with authentic Oktoberfest food, a variety of and additional beer stations and choices this year, plus a brand new Kid Zone on Jefferson Street to include a petting zoo, Assateague State Park scales and tails and Cascading Carlos, plus live music from the Edelweiss Band returning again for their fourth year funded by a grant from the Worcester County Arts Council and The Dunehounds sponsored by the Sterling Tavern,” said Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director.

On Saturday, Oct. 14, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oktoberfest, a day of traditional German food, beer and music, returns to Berlin. Visitors will be able to choose beverages from Burley Oak Brewing Co., the Buzz Meadery and even the new Berlin Beer Company. Limited edition “Berlin” Oktoberfest mugs will also be on sale. Mugs are currently available at the Berlin Welcome Center.

In an effort to support local nonprofits, the Berlin Chamber of Commerce is giving three local organizations, the CRICKET Center, Beach to Bay Heritage Area and Worcester County GOLD, the chance to compete for a $1,000 donation. The nonprofit that sells the most drinks will receive a $1,000 donation while the organization that sells the second most will receive $600 and the third organization will receive $400.

Featured musicians at this year’s event are The Edelweiss Band and The Dunehounds. To keep younger guests entertained, the town has invited Cascading Carlos, a petting zoo and even Assateague’s scales and tails program. Wells said entertainment was funded by grants from the Maryland States Arts Council, Worcester County Arts Council and Ocean City Tourism.

For those interested in shopping, the town’s merchants will have their wares set up outside, as Oktoberfest coincides with Berlin’s annual fall sidewalk sale.

Attendees are encouraged to park at Stephen Decatur Park, the Berlin Fire Company, or Berlin Intermediate School. A free shuttle provided by Ocean Downs Casino will serve those who park at Berlin Intermediate School from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, visit the “Oktoberfest in Berlin” event page on Facebook or berlinmainstreet.com.

Lotta Jayne Sawyer

WEST OCEAN CITY – Lotta Jayne Sawyer, 75, of West Ocean City, passed away on Sept. 20,2023 after a brief illness.

She was born in Baltimore to Charles and Lotta Wilson on Feb. 17, 1948. She graduated from Eastern High School.

She is survived by her husband of almost 42 years, Charles “Pete” Redden Sawyer; her son, Patrick Dearborn, (Lisa) of Naples, Fla.; grandson Cooper; cousin Janette Knill (Danny), her daughter Dawn Watkins (Craig) and son Bucky; her brother Corey Jones (Raye); and her 7-year-old golden retriever, Molly.

She was predeceased by her younger sister, Carol Lynn Wilson (2022); her parents, Charles Wilson (1984) Lotta Rider Wilson (2005); and special aunt Elenor Wilson.

Since 2003, Jayne was an integral part of the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association where she thoroughly loved talking with all the members. Previously she was employed by Second National Bank, Ocean City Service Company and The Maryland Coast Dispatch Jayne was an excellent cook and her spaghetti was famous among family and friends. Everyone she met became her friend.

A celebration of Jayne’s life will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023, at Coral Reef Restaurant from 1-3 p.m.

Dino O. Iacchetta

BISHOPVILLE – Dino O. Iacchetta, age 65, of Bishopville, died Sunday, September 17, 2023 at home.

He was born in Baltimore and was the son of the late Ercole Iacchetta and Patricia (Katsikides) Iacchetta.

He was a home builder and owned and operated Iacchetta Builders Inc. Dino was a member of St. Luke Catholic Church in Ocean City.

Dino was compassionate and dedicated husband, father and poppy. He took great pride in his work and made friends with everyone he met. He also had a passion for music and was especially talented at playing the piano and accordion.

He is survived by his wife, Lori Iacchetta; four daughters, Sara P. Kirby and husband Sean of Selbyville, Del., Gina Iacchetta of Bishopville, Amanda Stevenson and husband Zachary of Selbyville, Del. and Maria Iacchetta of Bishopville; two sisters, Josephine Maio of Italy and Tina Gugliaotta of Selbyville, Del.; and eight grandchildren, Maddie, Collin, Matthew, Fiona, Amelia, MaryKate, Benjamin and Max.

Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Catholic Charities Seton Center, 30632 Hampden Ave., Princess Anne, Md. 21853. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.

JAYNE SAWYER

DINO IACCHETTA

School Board, Law Enforcement Meet

FROM PAGE 7

lack of notification to law enforcement about criminal activity and delinquent acts occurring at school or by students,” the letter reads. “Quite obviously, law enforcement cannot enforce the law when they are not notified that the law has been broken.”

In addition to the MOU, those discussions led to development of a new Standard Operating Procedure for the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office’s school resource deputies. Crisafulli told The Dispatch in August that the new procedure would provide deputies with more guidance regarding custodial arrests and referrals to the juvenile justice system.

Before the school year began, the sheriff’s office provided training to school administrators to ensure they were aware of the policies, according to law enforcement. The sheriff’s office then conducted community outreach about the changes and released a smartphone app to allow community members to anonymously report any concerns.

“We were hopeful that this school year would provide a fresh start and a renewed dedication by school officials to safety protocols and mandatory notifications to law enforcement, as outlined in these written guidelines and policies,” the letter reads. “Unfortunately, we continue to witness the ongoing failures in communication and notification, with several violent and disturbing incidents and corresponding lack of notification to law enforcement by school officials, even during these first few weeks of school. It has become quite clear that no progress will be made by school officials without greater involvement and specific direction from the Board of Education, to whom they are directly accountable.”

Heiser and Crisafulli said the negative impact of the actions of school officials on the ability to maintain safe schools couldn’t be overstated.

“Over the past four years, we have had two critical incidents involving the potential for mass casualty events at schools within Worcester County, which were fortunately discovered and prevented,” the letter reads. “However, we cannot risk another incident, especially at a time when we know that school officials are regularly substituting their judgment for that of law enforcement and deciding not to notify school resource deputies about such incidents.”

The letter references evidence highlighting law enforcement concerns. Ferrante indicated that the board would likely release additional information after the school board meets next week.

“At the conclusion of the next meeting, I anticipate being able to make a public statement specifically addressing the allegations in the letter we received while maintaining the privacy of any students and personnel referenced,” he said in Thursday’s statement. “We take matters of safety and security very seriously, and we will ensure that our school system community can rest assured that our schools are safe centers for learning.”

Crowd Overflow: Thousands of people are pictured along Baltimore Avenue after the Oceans Calling Festival wrapped up Friday night. Photo by Campos Media

STUDENTS In The News

Your Source For Moldings

Head of

Dr.

School an-

this week Sara Freih

Re-

Beach, Del., has been named a Commended Student in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program. About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although they will not continue in the 2024 competition for National Merit Scholarship awards, Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2024 competition by taking the 2022 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Freih is pictured above

Kathy Huyett's PreK-4 students at Ocean City Elementary School have been busy thinking like mathematicians. Above, Saylor Fogle, Ryan Abuahmadeh, Bennett McGowan, Emmie Buckworth, Merrick Boden and Chloe McCallum are pictured learning to sort shapes by attributes such as color, texture, size and number of sides. Submitted Photos

School

John McDonald of Worcester Preparatory

nounced

of

hoboth

with WPS Head of Upper School Carol Evans and McDonald.

Worcester Preparatory School recently held an energetic pep rally to commence this school year's chosen theme of IMPACT. With pride and determination, the WPS community aims to make a significant and lasting difference in various aspects of the lives of our students, ensuring that their actions echo beyond the walls of the school itself. Divided into three categories –Impact Our World, Impact Our Community, and Impact Our School –each individual at WPS has committed to striving to make a difference in the experiences of those around them.

Throughout the academic year, several activities will be incorporated into daily school life to foster a better understanding and application of how IMPACT can manifest in various forms. Through this unified effort, WPS stands poised to not only educate its members academically but also nurture socially responsible citizens capable of leaving an indelible mark on society. Above left, seventh graders pictured are Ted Timmons, Drew Bergey, Artemiy Klimins, Jack Jarvis, Elliot Mason, Liam McAllister, Brock Hidell and Reed Grinestaff. Above right, helping get the crowd hyped were cheerleaders Evelyn Westman, Maggie McCabe, Quinn Solloway, Grant Crothers, Madilyn Nechay and Avery Roselle.

Below, WPS seniors Savannah Palmisano and Emma Crivella were all smiles during the IMPACT pep rally. Bottom, fourth grader Lila Holland had a great time participating in the games during the pep rally on Wednesday.

The Dispatch

Forever In Memory

Of Our Founder, Dick Lohmeyer (May 25, 1927-May 5, 2005)

“Iron Man” Shawn Soper (July 24, 1963-February 15, 2023)

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

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J. STEVEN GREEN

Publisher/Editor editor@mdcoastdispatch.com

NEWS DEPARTMENT

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Associate Editor csharpe@mdcoastdispatch.com

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The Maryland Coast Dispatch (USPS #015125) is an official and legal newspaper for Worcester County. Periodical postage paid at Berlin, Maryland, and additional mailing offices. The Maryland Coast Dispatch, 10012 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin, Md. 21811, is published weekly on Friday mornings, 52 weeks a year. Subscription rates are $260 per year.

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 blunt talk included in the letter to the Worcester County Board of Education from State’s Attorney Kristin Heiser and Sheriff Matt Crisafulli should be concerning.

The letter was a call for change in the way the school system handles behavior and the reporting of incidents as well as a general order to the school board and administration to get more involved with individual school management and mandate compliance with a heightened level of enforcement.

To be clear, the tone and content in the three-page letter is alarming and paints a disturbing scene with the manner in which the school system is cooperating – or lack thereof – with authorities. The letter alleges illegal noncompliance with state law on reporting student and school safety violations, calling out the school system for not adequately working with authorities to combat “the rising crime within our schools and to ably protect students and school personnel.”

Furthermore, the letter states, “we are in possession of evidence proving that there have been and continue to be repeated, and at times intentional, violations of Maryland state law by school officials in failing to notify law enforcement of criminal misconduct and delinquent acts occurring within Worcester County Public Schools. We would like to provide the Board and legal counsel with this evidence privately and outside of the pres-

Authorities Sound Alarm On School Safety

ence of school officials, in a closed special session. It is our great hope that once we have met and provided you with the facts and evidence surrounding our concerns, that you will enact and enforce policies requiring school officials to work with us, so that law enforcement can meet its obligation to fully protect everyone in our schools.”

These sorts of critical, accusatory letters do not happen often, and the accusations in the letter dated Sept. 21 deserve immediate attention. This is not a time to be defensive. It’s a time to be corrective and constructive. Gross misjudgment and blatant misrepresentations must have been made to justify a letter of such intensity.

We have full confidence the school system will get this right and make the immediate changes in policies and directives. We agree when the authorities’ letter states, “students and teachers in Worcester County have the absolute right to be free from the disruption, distraction, violence, trauma and fear caused by crime occurring within our schools.” The school system needs to do better in protecting this right.

We have confidence the school system will make immediate changes and carry out the statement by Board of Education President Todd Ferrante, who said, “school system leadership is investigating those concerns” and will soon follow up with a more expansive state-

How We See It Letters To The Editor

Unsung Heroes Recognized

Editor:

It seems the Oceans Calling event was a nice success. Kudos to all the imaginators who saw and believed in the vision and made it happen.

We are always so grateful to our dedicated and protective OCPD police force and our OCFD firefighters, but I would like take an opportunity to shed some light on hundreds of other Ocean City employees who rarely are recognized for rising to any and all challenges, whether 24/7, any weather or how many family plans need to be cancelled.

Hal Adkins and his Public Works heroes: maintenance from rest rooms to trash collection, bus drivers/technicians, water/wastewater, construction and many, many more.

Quiet and unknown, many working while we are sleeping. We don't see their work, they have done their work silently but we would definitely notice if they didn't keep our city clean and safe.

Heroes all, congratulations.

Bonnie Oliverio Ocean City

Human Perspective On Route 113’s Division

Editor:

Over the past seven decades, Route 113 has divided our town geographically. In 1952, a network of interstates was de-

veloped across the nation, often intersecting low-income neighborhoods and splitting communities apart.

Today, we find ourselves at a juncture where we can address the consequences of this geographical division. While one crosswalk was installed in response to tragic accidents, it is evident that the minimum effort has been made to rectify the situation. Fortunately, there is a grant opportunity on the horizon that offers a chance to make a significant difference. This grant would initially fund a comprehensive study aimed at reconnecting our divided town, followed by a construction grant to implement the study's recommendations.

I am excited about this opportunity, but I urge us to approach it with a humancentered perspective, rather than merely constructing a pedestrian bridge.

In the spirit of offering solutions rather than just pointing out problems, I propose the following vision: Picture Route 113 adorned with sidewalks, towering trees, bike paths, and pedestrian crosswalks at every intersection that was taken away from the Town of Berlin in 1952. Envision safe pathways to and from the grocery store and Atlantic General Hospital. Imagine residents of Branch Street and Decatur Farms crossing well-designed, pedestrian-friendly crosswalks that prioritize their safety and convenience.

My daughters and I frequently witness

ment once the letter’s allegations are investigated.

It’s clear there are individual judgments about the management of incidents within specific schools that deserve criticism. It’s horrifying to read in the letter the following: “The current operation … does not prioritize student and school safety in a meaningful and practical manner.” We do not believe there is an umbrella of covert intentions to hide the severity of incidents within schools, such as teachers being assault and teens fighting. However, it’s clear wrongs have been committed and it must change immediately.

There’s an irony to individual school decision makers needing to be educated further on the new public safety rules and policies for managing their students. More training is evidently needed because it’s intolerable to think early attempts to inform and bring awareness to a new level of public safety were either not digested at the best or ignored at the worst.

A partnership is only as good as the parties involved and at this point there is no trust. The school system appears to have lost the trust of the responding law enforcement agency (Sheriff’s Office) and the criminal prosecution team (State’s Attorney’s Office). Immediate, corrective action must take place and examples must be provided as to what has changed.

individuals, including grandmothers and mothers with young children, walking along the shoulder of Route 113. This situation is not about exercise, but about basic mobility needs, and it pains us to see them navigating these conditions. I believe that all residents should have the opportunity to travel with dignity, using a network of walkable paths, sidewalks, and crosswalks that crisscross Berlin while being shaded by a canopy of trees, such as Sycamores. Creating a human-scale environment on Route 113 could also encourage motorists to slow down.

We owe it to our community to explore innovative solutions that prioritize the well-being of our residents. A solitary pedestrian bridge with a substantial price tag, serving only one intersection, would pale in comparison to the positive impact we can achieve by transforming Route 113 into a thoroughfare of dignity and inclusivity, benefiting a far greater number of individuals.

Tony Weeg Berlin

More Interest Needed

Editor:

I have been baffled for the last 2-½ years by the apparent acceptance by some Americans of the horrible things occurring here in America. I can only as-

Letters To The Editor

sume that approximately half the population is unaware of these matters, either from lack of curiosity or from watching media which deliberately refuses to report the truth. It’s a mystery.

In any event, I just want to make sure people have the opportunity to learn a few facts.

One of our major problems is the situation on our southern border. The DHS Secretary Mayorkas keeps saying the border is closed and President Biden keeps blaming the Republicans for the open border. So, which is it? All I know is that over 7 million people have flooded across the border in the last 2-½ years. Included in this number are people on the terrorist watch list, MS-13 gang members, human traffickers, unaccompanied minors and tons of fentanyl which is being marketed here in America and has killed over 75,000 Americans by drug overdose in the last year. Children are drowning trying to cross the Rio Grande. Women are being raped and trafficked by the cartels. We have recently discovered that there are active tuberculosis cases among the migrants, and we have no way of knowing whether any of the migrants are vaccinated against anything, including COVID. As a matter of fact, Biden, as one of the first actions of his presidency, signed an Executive Order ending the DNA testing of children at the border to make sure they are actually with their families, and not human traffickers.

The facilities are (and have been for over two years) overflowing, and can hold not one more person, so they are being let go and told to go wherever they want. The Biden administration is flying thousands of migrants all over the country to towns small and large, with no warning to the local governments. Governors Abbott and DeSantis are sending busloads of migrants (at their request) to New York and Chicago and San Francisco. The mayors of these big blue cities and governors of these blue states are crying that they can’t afford all these migrants and someone needs to do something. Well, you know, all these big blue cities are “sanctuary cities” -- they’ve been patting themselves on the back for years for being so open and kind and generous.

Reality bites hard, doesn’t it? These cities are finally getting a taste of what small towns in Texas and New Mexico and Arizona and southern California have been suffering.

Eleven thousand illegal migrants have crossed our southern border in the last 24 hours (as I write this on September 25th). Over 2,000 per day are crossing into Eagle Pass, Texas, a town of about 28,000-30,000 (about the size of Salisbury). How is this town supposed to handle this?

So a couple of questions:

1. How much money do you think this is costing American taxpayers, since we are supporting these people with housing, food, medical care, schools and on and on and on?

2. How many fentanyl overdose deaths are acceptable? Is it acceptable that Mexican drug and human trafficking cartels have control of our border?

3. If you are the leader of a country, and you are allowing this to happen, and lying about it, what does that say about you? And what do you think might be the motivation?

Carol Frazier Ocean Pines

Serving Learning Praised

Editor:

What is SLP? It's Kiwanis International Service Leadership Program clubs for students throughout the world. Kiwanis exists in 86 nations. There are 8,386 adult clubs and 8,268 youth clubs.

Youth clubs start in elementary schools and progress through college and there is a club for young adults with disabilities called the Aktion Club. Kiwanis International (KI) has Kiwanis Clubs all over the world and these clubs can sponsor those SLP clubs. It happens that the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean PinesOcean City, MD sponsors 5 clubs, namely, K-Kids in elementary schools Buckingham in Berlin and Showell in Berlin, (BIS) Berlin Intermediate School Builders Club, Stephen Decatur Middle School Builders Club and Stephen Decatur High School Key Club. At one time pre-COVID, there was also an Aktion Club in the Worcester County Developmental Center in Newark, but it's currently on hold, possibly to re-activate. Colleges also have Circle K Clubs, but there are none locally.

At the regular weekly Wednesday meeting on Sept. 27, Candy Foreman, President--Elect and the advisor to the Showell Elementary K-Kids, did a presentation to bring members up to date on what SLP is and what the students are doing. SLP clubs teach students leadership, how to do service projects, and engagement.

All the clubs have faculty advisors and Kiwanis Club Liaisons to those clubs to assist in their meetings and projects. Buckingham has Kiwanis liaison Jackie Dubin, Showell has Kiwanis liaison Candy Foreman and faculty advisor Evy Collins, BIS has Kiwanis liaison Sue Wineke and faculty advisor Jane Slotter, SDMS has Kiwanis liaison Sarah Walker and faculty advisors Mindy Oulette and Heather Hand and SDHS has Kiwanis liaison Lynne McAllorum and faculty advisors Wendy Saullo and Rebecca Kaichthaker. All these people are very dedicated to these extra-curricular clubs.

In line with SLP, it's wonderful to remember and appreciate the service of suddenly deceased Kiwanis member and Past President Roy Foreman who was the Kiwanis liaison to the SDHS Key Club for over a decade. Candy Foreman decided to take his place as the PresidentElect for 2024-2025. A family of dedicated service to children as both were teachers in Bowie, MD before moving to Ocean Pines and becoming dedicated Kiwanis members. Always focused on children, so a perfect fit for Kiwanis: "Serving the Children of the World". See www.kiwanisofopoc.org and follow on Facebook to really understand what this local Kiwanis Club is and what it does.

David J. Landis, Sr.

(The writer is a member of the club’s public relations committee.)

Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green

A random collection of thoughts from my weekend attending the first Oceans Calling Festival in downtown Ocean City.

•It’s tough ahead of time to imagine 50,000 people gathered on the beach and Boardwalk south of N. Division Street and in the Inlet parking lot. It just must be experienced. This event was unlike anything Ocean City has ever seen as a special event. The Dew Tour, at its peak year, rivals the magnitude of the attraction, but there were far more people in attendance at the music festival for longer periods of time.

•It was reported heading into the weekend anywhere from 60% to 70% of attendees had never been to Ocean City before. Because I’m nosey and a newspaper guy, random conversations shed a lot of light on where folks came from. Throughout the weekend, I spoke with people from North Dakota, California, Texas, Massachusetts, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Richmond, Va., Pittsburgh, Pa., Maine, New York, Ohio and Vermont. It was refreshing to overhear their thoughts of the beach town, even during the pouring rain of the Sheryl Crow concert. The unfamiliarity of the area by attendees was humorous at times. One conversation I overheard as we were leaving the main stage and waiting for the masses to exit toward the Boardwalk summed it up. After spending the evening at Pickles the night before, the group’s plan was to go to Seacrets – where they had never been – and Waze told her it was a 30-minute walk from N. Division Street. As they started heading toward Baltimore Avenue, I jumped in and told them to walk the Boardwalk instead. The group was unfazed by the walk.

•It was clear throughout C3 Presents – the event promoter – knows what it’s doing with large, multi-stage festivals. It was a world-class event with seemingly everything covered. Each band started exactly at the time it was reported. It’s a minor detail but a big deal. The Town of Ocean City deserves a round of applause as well for all the advance planning. While there may have been a few hiccups here and there, namely end of the night transportation, they were understandable and predictable. The event ran smoothly for the most part, and the overwhelming response has been positive from attendees and performers.

•As far as transportation, most of my observations were obvious. The concerns were exactly what was known would be when it was announced 50,000 tickets would be sold each day. While it’s true many people stayed close by and were walking and biking, mass transit was needed to get high volumes of folks out of the area in an efficient manner. There were successes and failures and lessons inevitably learned.

When we attend concerts or sporting events in Philadelphia at their massive stadium complex, the secret to addressing the overwhelming people onslaught at the end is the subway. It’s a vacuum for removing large amounts of people. Ocean City will never have a subway system. Nonetheless, dozens of mass transit buses were lined up for the inevitable flood of concert goers at the end of the night.

I did not utilize mass transit all weekend. We parked in West Ocean City and walked to Ocean City from the bridge. It was simple.

•The clientele in Ocean City was the subject of multiple casual conversations.

When I asked a few Boardwalk business people if this weekend was like the 4th of July on steroids, the answer was no. The crowds were continuous throughout the weekend from noon to 11 p.m. for those businesses inside festival grounds. One operator said he would take the festival crowd over the summer holiday visitors, saying they understand the onslaught nature of the business surge and were forgiving about the quality of service being provided. It’s no secret the businesses were understaffed for the surge. In many cases, I saw business owners and managers working all day and night to meet demand. I counted lines of 50-70 people at Piezano’s and Caruso often and 100-plus at Thrasher’s throughout the weekend.

The good-natured personality of the people in attendance was clear. At one point, my group was working our way through a moving mob in between concerts to the restrooms. I could hear incoming apologies from men clearly violating common etiquette. The young guys were clearly influenced by their good times. I joked to one guy sporting a Phillies hat who was trying to rudely squeeze by that he better be careful he’s going to get a “tush push,” a nickname for a quarterback sneak run by the Philadelphia Eagles. He liked the reference, leading to him and his friends chanting “tush push, tush push.” Giggles ensued despite the packed nature of the scene.

•During the John Mayer concert specifically on Saturday night, there were at least six medical emergencies requiring EMT assistance. Attendees would raise their cell phones with lights on to bring attention to the situation. Mayer, on two occasions, alerted EMTs, but then asked whether it was necessary to continue to alert paramedics. The two situations closest to us seemed to be either dehydration or drunkenness. It was remarkable how fast the EMTs responded, working their way through the crowds to provide care.

•If Ocean City does create a two-weekend slate of back-to-back major music festivals, as appears to be in the future, it’s going to be interesting to see how manpower issues are addressed. Along with the private sector, the city government’s team – especially those involved in mass transit and public safety – were clearly taxed. Adding two weekends of similar size next year will be interesting. The planning is probably already underway.

Puzzle Answers

by Steve Green

hat a weekend. I miss it already.” This was what Beckett, 15, said Monday morning. Considering he didn’t get home until midnight from the last day of the Oceans Calling Festival, I figured he would be exhausted for school on Monday. It was quite the opposite, as he seemed to still be excited about the weekend festivities.

The exhaustion seemed to set in over the following days. I would also surmise there was a bit of despair, too, as he realized the event was over and that sort of social happening was a year away again. On Monday, Beckett sent his mom and me a variety of pictures he took from the weekend. It was clear he and his friends had the time of their lives. He even said Sunday, “was the best day of his life.” I am so glad he got to experience this sort of spectacle and enjoyed all that it offered.

My lasting impression and memory from the first Oceans Calling Festival will be the impact it had on the local teens who were blessed to experience the festival in their hometown and in an area – the Boardwalk and beach – most of them know so well. It’s a special thing to have an event with world-class music in a familiar and comfortable place. As adults, we understand how incredible the event was for so many. As teens, they just want to know where the next festival is and when they can go again.

Growing up around here in the late80s and early-90s, many of us local GenXers have fond memories of Reggae Sunsplash concerts in the summer months. It was an opportunity to converge on the convention center with friends and enjoy sounds of the summer. We would meet up before and after and it was a locals reunion of sorts. I can recall my employer during the summer months complaining how none of the local kids could work on Reggae Sunsplash night.

It's exciting to think our kids will have Oceans Calling memories as part of their teen years to take with them through their lives. I look back with fondness at those Reggae Sunsplash nights, but it’s incredible to think our kids will have Oceans Calling as their first major live music memories.

On Sunday, Beckett rode the front rail area of the Sea Bright stage for about nine hours and fell in love with the musicians. Songs from these acts are now filling his room nightly.

What is equally special is the newfound pride in their hometown seen by him and many other teens. He told stories of meeting people who had never been to Ocean City and how they told him and his friends how fortunate they were to live here. There were countless stories to share of the various experiences from the weekend. This is special. He even was asking me throughout the week how long the event had been planned and how much planning went into it.

As his parents, it was important for us that he was safe while having fun. Because he was eager to get into the festival on Sunday, I dropped him off under the arch around 12:30 as the first act was to play. We needed a couple more hours after two festival days.

It was a great feeling to see him run off to catch up with friends, feeling he was safe and going to make good decisions. While we had hope of hanging with him a bit or at least running into him, we planned for the inevitabile –meeting up at the same spot each night after the last act. Once he was gone out of sight, we did not see him again until the end of the evening. It was fine with us because we knew he was having fun.

While it was great to see the hotels so full, private properties rented months ago and the huge economic impact on most Boardwalk businesses included in and near the festival grounds, these local kids of ours made memories to last

a lifetime. Most of them can't wait until next year already.

While my charge each school morning is Carson, 13, Pam may have the rougher end of the deal with Beckett, 15. The kid just does not like to rush and can be quite stubborn at times. No time is this mulish will more evident than on school mornings. He now prefers to have his breakfast and chill before showering for school. He says it gets him in the right frame of mind. This schedule change also means he leaves for school with his hair dripping wet sometimes because he doesn’t want to be rushed in the shower. He says he wants to enjoy his time. This doesn’t exactly sit well with Pam as you can imagine as she has a full plate with her own days.

This daily drama reminds me of a letter a mom once wrote to her daughter’s school teacher explaining why she was tardy one morning.

“To Whom It May Concern, Cara is tardy this morning as a result of a condition known as teenage-ism. Adolescents across our great nation are afflicted and there is no known cure.

Symptoms are multitudinous, but this particular morning she suffered from an inability to remove herself from her bed and also felt the need to talk back to her birth-giver.

She seems to be recovering her sents senses after watching her cell phone fly out the car window. Please call me if there is another flare-up.

Thank you.”

Beckett has not been late for school yet, as far as I know, but I could see Pam penning a snarky letter like this one if it ever does happen.

(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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