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November 17, 2023
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Monster Truck Event Eyed For OC
See Page 14 • File Photo by Chris Parypa
Ocean City Creates Parking Division
Holiday Season Underway:
The Town of Berlin unofficially kicked off the holiday season with the Photos by Alyssa Maloof Photography arrival of the Christmas tree that will serve as centerpiece of town festivities.
See Page 5 • File Photo by Chris Parypa
Resort Talks Electric Buses In Future
See Page 19 • File Photo by Chris Parypa
Demo Process Advances In Berlin
See Page 24 • File Photo
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November 17, 2023
November 17, 2023
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Resort Officials Adopt Air Rights, Right-Of-Way Policy
Page 4
BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR
OCEAN CITY – Resort officials this week agreed to adopt a policy on the abandonment of air rights and city right-ofways. The Mayor and Council voted 6-1 in work session Tuesday to approve a policy for the abandonment of air rights and right-of-ways. Following a handful of recent requests to convey alleys and air rights for proposed redevelopment projects, the council tasked staff with developing a more formal policy for when such requests are made. “This policy essentially formalizes the process that we have been going through for right-of-way abandonment,” said City Manager Terry McGean. Earlier this year, attorneys represent-
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
ing two separate developers came before the Mayor and Council with requests to convey air rights over two resort alleyways to their respective clients for the construction of oceanfront hotels. However, from those discussions a request was made to have staff bring back a policy on air rights. “When I went through the policy manual, I realized that although we had a policy on the transfer of real property, we did not have a policy on either right-of-way abandonment or air rights,” McGean told the council this week. “So the city attorney and I worked on creating a policy that does that.” McGean said the proposed policy essentially formalizes current practices. He said a person seeking the abandonment of a right-of-way or air rights must first approach staff. From there, the public works
director will review the request and make a recommendation to the Mayor and Council. “More specifically what he is looking at is are there utilities in it, is it open to traffic now, that type of thing,” he explained. “The final say on public need for the right-of-way remains with the Mayor and City Council, but the public works director will offer his opinions on that.” From there, McGean said the Mayor and Council would consider the request. “You will decide whether or not you wish to pursue it or not,” he said. “If you do wish to pursue it, then it moves to a public hearing and goes through an appraisal process, which is all defined in there. It calls for an appraisal regardless of whether it is the actual right-of-way abandonment or the transfer of air rights.” McGean noted, however, that the coun-
November 17, 2023
cil had the option to waive the appraisal process if it’s believed property of equal or greater value was offered in exchange for the abandonment. “We’ve had numerous occasions for right-of-way abandonment where a 10-foot east/west alley that is not in use, we abandon that in exchange for the developer giving us a 20-foot north/south alley that provides more use to the council …,” he explained. “You can still require appraisals or, at your discretion, you could say it’s clear that what we’re getting is of equal or greater value and we will forego the appraisal process and move straight to conveyance.” McGean said the policy also set restrictions on who could request the conveyance. “It also notes that in the case of rightof-way abandonment, the abandoned right-of-way could only be conveyed to the adjoining property owners. In the case of air rights, those can only be given to a property that owns both sides of the rightof-way,” he said. “And it also places in that policy if air rights are given, approval of the structure that’s going over those air rights requires both the approval of the planning commission and the Mayor and City Council.” When asked if the proposed policy was different from the one the town had for real property, McGean said it was. “So real property, anyone can buy,” he said, “and that’s really the primary difference.” Councilwoman Carol Proctor questioned the public works director’s input was a recommendation or a determination. Officials said it was a recommendation. “If public works felt they needed it for some particular reason, the request would probably make it onto your agenda, but then, for example, Hal [Adkins, public works director] would come and say we still need this parking lot, for example,” City Solicitor Heather Stansbury replied. “Then you all would decide if you agree with him or not. Typically, you want to have a recommendation from staff.” McGean said the city engineer used to provide formal recommendations on abandonments. He said the proposed policy changed that. “It used to come from the city engineer,” he said. “Now we’ve moved that department underneath public works, so we’ve made it the public works director.” Proctor also questioned the appraisal process for air rights. “Do we have a mechanism in place?” she asked. “How do we define how much air rights are worth?” McGean said that value would be determined by a real estate appraiser. “Similar to what we do with real property, we would contact a real estate appraiser and ask them for their opinion,” he replied. With no further discussion, the council voted 6-1, with Councilman Peter Buas opposed, to adopt the policy. “I have a conflicting view with the staff,” Buas said. “The town doesn’t own the underlying fee to a right-of-way and therefore it can’t sell it … So I held an opposing view that we can’t actually appraise and sell the right-of-way.”
OC Council Creates Parking Division
November 17, 2023
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
everything under that division,” he explained. “So that division would handle overall administration and management. Right now, no one does that.” McGean said Ramp Up Advisors Principal Duke Hanson recently reviewed parking statistics and operations within Ocean City and found that people were not paying for paid parking. Compared to similar jurisdictions, he said the town reported a much lower paid occupancy rate. “We would expect occupancy revenue from a space to run about 55%,” he said. “Right now, we’re at 46%.” McGean added that the number of non-Inlet metered parking tickets had dropped dramatically since one public safety aide (PSA) tasked with parking enforcement had retired in 2021. Since that time, revenue from fines has decreased from $120,000 to $40,000. “The police, their goal is law enforcement,” he said. “They have a mandate from the council, specifically for Boardwalk patrols. That’s where the PSAs are. Parking enforcement for the PSAs is secondary, quite honestly.” McGean said he anticipates the creation of a new division to cost $151,000 in one-time fees and $621,000 in recurring costs. He noted, however, that the division would also produce $289,000 in savings and generate an estimated $460,000 in new revenue. “Ultimately in year one, this would be SEE PAGE 10
BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR
OCEAN CITY – A new division under the transportation department will oversee all paid parking activities in town. In a work session Tuesday, the Ocean City Council voted 6-1 to create a new parking division under the town’s transportation department. The division would fall under the leadership of Transit Manager Rob Shearman and would feature a new full-time parking manager and seven or eight part-time parking enforcement officers. “To have a revenue source and, frankly, a system that is fairly complex and not have a person be in charge of it, I think is a mistake,” City Manager Terry McGean told the council this week. Currently, paid parking in Ocean City generates an average of $6 million in revenue each year. However, activities associated with the management of paid parking are dispersed among five different departments and five different parking vendors. To that end, McGean presented the Mayor and Council on Tuesday with a request to form a parking division within public works’ transportation department. He said the division would be staffed with a full-time parking manager and between seven and eight part-time parking enforcement officers, two of which will be on duty during all paid parking hours. “What we’d like to do is move virtually
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Fire Marshal Reports Successful Beach Bonfire Season
Page 6
BY BETHANY HOOPER
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
OCEAN CITY – Officials this week applauded the fire marshal’s office and its part-time staff for another successful beach bonfire season. On Tuesday, Fire Marshal Josh Bunting presented the Mayor and Council with an end-of-season report on the town’s beach bonfire program. While the number of beach bonfires decreased in 2023, so did the number of complaints the fire marshal’s office received. “It is a great program,” Council Secretary Tony DeLuca said. “Last summer we had many complaints about cleanup, about smoke. This summer there were very, very few …So great job in terms of cleanup and addressing what happened.”
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Ocean City’s beach bonfire program began in the 1970s and has continued to grow in popularity over the years. Fueling this growth, Bunting said, was the town’s conversion to an online application process for beach bonfire permits. “Ultimately, in the summer of 2017 we conducted an RFP and hired a company to develop and work on a website that works similarly to how you would reserve a hotel room …,” he said. “It seems to be working seamlessly.” Bunting said this change was beneficial to the town, particularly during the COVID pandemic. From 2019 to 2020, the number of bonfire permits jumped from 698 to 2,584. That number would grow to 3,557 in 2021. “Beach bonfires were one of the few things you could do in this town during the COVID shutdown in March of 2020.
We saw a tremendous growth in bonfire use and it’s really set the stage since then …,” he told the council. “Right around that same time, we started bringing on part-time inspection staff.” Bunting said those part-time inspectors are tasked with ensuring compliance with beach bonfire regulations. He said they also act as ambassadors for the town. “This is one of the programs we take almost as a tourism offshoot,” he said. “So that’s our attitude.” As of Tuesday’s report, Bunting said the town had issued 3,245 bonfire permits over the course of 2023. His office also reported 194 unpermitted bonfires, 144 of which were voluntarily extinguished and 50 obtaining permits through the online permitting process. “That was one of the benchmarks we
November 17, 2023
had with the software developer, was to make sure that if somebody was out there enjoying an event with family, the last thing they need to do is end that event when all they need to do is go on their phone and actually be able to process the permit accordingly,” he said. Bunting also applauded the work of the town’s bonfire inspectors. Throughout the season, the fire marshal’s office recorded 134 nights where at least one inspector was on the beach, 23 nights where two inspectors were on the beach, and one night where all three inspectors were on the beach. “On July 4, we put everybody we had out on the beach,” he explained. Bunting said the 2023 beach bonfire season was an overall success, with the fire marshal’s office receiving few complaints. He said most of the negative feedback pertained to smoke and air quality, residual embers and dark sand, and smoke odor. “Every year we have a couple of ground-floor unit owners that complain,” he said. “If the wind is blowing out of the east, they’re taking the brunt of that bonfire odor blowing into their units.” Bunting added that his office also received several citizen recommendations, including requests to create two bonfirefree nights each week, move bonfires to the offseason, and to limit the number of bonfires to one per block. He said the fire marshal’s office also received a request to install ash bins at every street end, but Public Works Director Hal Adkins opposed the idea. “I personally prefer you not go with any sort of ash can at the head of the street,” he said. “It will become a trash can and then it will become a fire can. And there haven’t been enough issues to justify it.” Bunting also highlighted the fiscal impacts of the beach bonfire program. To date, the town has collected $166,975 in bonfire revenue in fiscal year 2024. He said that money funds part-time positions, equipment purchases and special programs. “It does bring in a good deal of revenue,” he said. “But that revenue does help to offset some of the critical programs we have in the fire marshal’s office that would otherwise not get done or at the very least would be hard to fund.” With the fiscal year 2025 budget process set to begin in the coming weeks, Bunting said he would be requesting the continuation of part-time inspector positions, as well as the purchase of a vehicle. “These guys are out on the beach in the rain, in thunderstorms, and a lot of times there’s two of them out there,” he said. “So I’d like to be able to put them in a vehicle that is dedicated and ready to go when going out for inspections.” For their part, council members applauded the beach bonfire program and the reduction in the number of complaints the town received. Bunting attributed the success to the work of bonfire inspectors. “People will follow the rules so long as there’s someone there telling them they need to,” he said.
November 17, 2023
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Page 7
Property Owner Questions Solar Project Decision
Page 8
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR
SNOW HILL – Connections of a Snow Hill solar project remain perplexed as to why county officials voted not to support the project. A week after the Worcester County Commissioners voted 4-3 not to support a solar project on Timmons Road, those associated with the project still don’t understand their reasoning. Property owner Charles Waite III thought that after years of research and with a solar farm already operating on Timmons Road, he’d found the perfect way to ensure the independence of the family farm while supporting local energy needs. “As a fourth-generation owner of my farm and a former elected officer for the State of Maine for two three-year terms, it
is important to note that the decision to work with Chaberton Energy was one made after exhaustive and careful consideration,” Waite said. “The decision was made through the lens of both a property owner and that of an elected representative.” Last week, the commissioners were presented by staff with plans for a utility scale solar project, to be developed by Chaberton Snow Solar LLC, on land on Timmons Road owned by Waite. Staff said the 7.54-megawatt project would take up about a quarter of the 100-plus acre farm, most of which would remain in agricultural production. The Worcester County Planning Commission recommended approval of the project. “This was a straightforward application with unanimous support from the appointed planning board and technical review
committee meetings recommending approval,” said Waite, who has served as an elected official in Maine, where he’s been a resident the last few decades while maintaining ownership of the farm in Snow Hill. A motion to approve the project, however, failed at the commissioners’ meeting with a 3-4 vote. Commissioners Joe Mitrecic, Caryn Abbott and Diana Purnell supported the project. Commissioners Chip Bertino, Jim Bunting, Eric Fiori and Ted Elder were in opposition. Mark Cropper, the attorney who represented Chaberton at last week’s hearing, said he’s still waiting for the majority’s rationale in opposing the project. “I am still awaiting receipt of the findings of fact to be adopted by the commissioners that explain or justify the denial of this request,” he said.
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Roscoe Leslie, the county’s attorney, said this week the solar review process was similar to the rezoning process and that findings of fact were being drafted. Waite is hopeful that one of the majority in opposition will reconsider their position before then. He believes the project would have provided a sustainable energy source for the community at no risk to the county. “The 4-3 commissioners’ denial appears to ignore the existing precedent regarding a solar application I can see from my front porch,” he said. During discussion of the project last week, Bunting and Fiori both had questions about the decommissioning process. Staff confirmed that a bond would ensure the site was cleaned up property once it was no longer being used. Fiori said this week he felt more needed to be done to safeguard the county. “Until we have rock solid disposal bonds in place, these investors just walk away from these projects and these properties become worthless,” he said, adding that he didn’t want the county to be stuck cleaning up the debris 30 years from now. He said there were abandoned solar projects throughout the state. “They’re huge eyesores,” he said. Fiori believes that until the county has stiff guidelines in place officials should be wary of solar projects. “It’s more of pumping the brakes,” he said. “We need to put some standards in place.” Elder said he opposed the project because he wants to protect the county’s agricultural land. “I’d like to see solar only to be used as it covers a roof or parking lot,” he said. “I think we need to protect our agricultural land. Somewhere we need to stop putting up all of our ag land to other uses.” Abbott, though she initially had concerns about decommissioning, supported the project because she was satisfied the county was protected. “Once I confirmed the county would not be responsible financially for potential cleanup and that the company had to hold a bond on the project, I was satisfied that the county was protected,” Abbott said. “There is also already solar on Timmons Road.” Bertino, while he voted against the project, said the state preempted the county when it came to decisions like this, as the Maryland Public Service Commission will have final approval of the project. “Regardless of how the commissioners voted, the project could still move forward,” he said. As far as the fact that the project received a favorable recommendation from the planning commission, Bertino said he made his decisions based on what was presented and what he felt was in the best interests of the county. “I make up my own mind based on what is presented,” he said. “The system is set up for review by both the planning commission and the county commissioners. I don’t think anyone should assume the commissioners should rubber stamp a project just because it had the support of the planning commission.”
November 17, 2023
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
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… Town To Hire Parking Manager, Enforcement Staff
Page 10
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FROM PAGE 5 cost neutral,” he explained. “And in years two through five, we would expect an average net revenue increase of approximately $120,000.” Councilman John Gehrig said he agreed with the creation of a parking division but questioned if the town needed to hire nine additional employees. “I’d rather see what we can do with Rob managing it and get someone on board to at least enforce …,” he said. “Hiring nine people right out of the gate, that’s a tough one for me.” Officials, however, argued a parking manager was needed. Public Works Di-
rector Hal Adkins said the town had a $6 million revenue source with no one to manage it. “You’ve got a $6 million revenue source, call it a ship floating out in the ocean, and nobody is steering it …,” he said. “I think there’s a great potential here for growth, control and management.” Councilman Frank Knight also highlighted the importance of enforcing the town’s paid parking. He said enforcement officers would ensure compliance. “I’m fine with hiring a couple people to patrol the streets,” Gehrig said. “We don’t need this $150,000 person with a car and everything else.”
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Gehrig also questioned if the town’s paid parking occupancy was lower than typical parking standards because there was an abundance of free parking elsewhere. He said paid parking was something the town should start discussing. “We’re assuming that 20% drop is because people are parking and not paying for it,” he said. “People may not be parking there because we have so much free parking elsewhere that it sits vacant.” For his part, Hanson said he had personally conducted a survey of paid parking in town and had logged numerous parking violations where no tickets were issued. He said the issue wasn’t paid parking, but a lack of enforcement. “The level of legal occupancy is low, and the violation rate is even higher than what you would anticipate in a normal parking management program,” he said. Addressing Gehrig’s comments about paid parking, McGean said a consultant had met with members of a parking task force in recent years and had made three recommendations – to change parking rates, to address the management of the parking system, and to create additional paid parking. While the first two recommendations are being addressed, he said the task force disagreed with the idea of expanding paid parking. “We need a real conversation about where paid parking needs to be and why, and be honest …,” Gehrig reiterated. “We are not having the other side of the
November 17, 2023
conversation, and I think we need to have it.” Councilwoman Carol Proctor, however, argued that creating a parking division was the first step in addressing paid parking issues. “Without a division, I honestly don’t know if we know what we have …,” she said. “I think we’re leaving a lot more on the table then we think we are. I think by putting this division together we’re going to be able to make the sound decisions we need to make as a council. Before we add paid parking throughout town, we really need to know what we have and what we need to do with what we have.” After further discussion, the council voted 6-1, with Gehrig opposed, to combine all paid parking activities into a parking division under the transportation department and to hire a full-time parking manager and the necessary part-time parking enforcement officers. The council this week also voted unanimously to award a bid for parking enforcement technology and citation management services to Duncan Solutions at a cost of $330,000. McGean said the company was one of two bids the town received. “We did get two bids, from Duncan and T2,” he explained. “Our current vendor did not submit a bid. They were unable to do some of the things we were looking to have this new enforcement vendor perform.”
November 17, 2023
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Berlin Council OK’s Minor Fee Changes
November 17, 2023
BY CHARLENE SHARPE
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
9925 Stephen Decatur Highway, Suite #4 • West OC 21842 aharrison@mainstreethl.com www.AshleyRHarrison.com 443-614-5742
BERLIN – While minor changes were approved this week, Berlin officials agree discussion needs to continue regarding trash fees and potential parking solutions downtown. An updated municipal fee schedule presented this week led to a lengthy talk about the need for more parking in the downtown business area, as well as concerns about trash fees not covering the cost of providing the service. Although the council agreed to increase the long-term rental license fee to $75 and to end commercial dumpster pickup July 1, officials agreed discussions should continue about trash costs and potential parking solutions. “It’s obvious staff has a bit more work to do on this,” Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said. Staff presented officials with an updated fee schedule this week, citing inflation and the fact that fees hadn’t been adjusted in years as the need for slight increases. Bohlen said the fees being adjusted were for things like rental licenses and building permits. “They are only paid by the person using the service,” she said, adding that they weren’t things that would affect every taxpayer. Mayor Zack Tyndall said the idea was to get the updated fee schedule approved before the town began its next budget process. Councilman Steve Green said he felt the long-term rental license fee was still too low, even with its proposed increase to $15 in the fee schedule. He said that fee was significantly higher in most municipalities. “Expenses have gone up for everybody including government,” he said. “I just feel there’s an opportunity there to recoup some costs.” Planning Director Dave Engelhart agreed more of an increase was warranted. Tyndall asked Engelhart what his thoughts were on a parking fee for projects that didn’t have parking on site. Engelhart said that was allowed in the code but the town had never imposed such a fee or created a fund those fees would go into. He said the concept was to put those fees toward something that would improve the parking situation, such as a new parking lot. “We could set a fee but you really need to have that policy in place,” he said. Engelhart said that while it wasn’t popular, a similar idea would be to have a portion of the business license fee devoted to improving the parking situation. Though there was some discussion regarding a parking impact fee, David Gaskill, the town attorney, reminded officials impact fees were meant to be spent on items directly related to new growth. “If I’m a resident why am I paying for tourists to park?” he said. Tyndall said the concept wasn’t to have the fee in residential areas but rather the downtown business district. Engelhart said his department could review possibilSEE PAGE 52
November 17, 2023
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
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Tourism Commission Supports Monster Trucks Beach Event
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
BY BETHANY HOOPER
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Members of the Ocean City Tourism Commission are pictured Monday during a presentation for the Monsters of Metal Beach Brawl event. Photo by Bethany Hooper
OCEAN CITY – A new monster truck event will go before the Mayor and Council with a favorable recommendation from a resort commission. On Monday, the Ocean City Tourism Commission voted unanimously to advance a new Monsters of Metal Beach Brawl event to the Mayor and Council with a favorable recommendation. Special Events Director Frank Miller said the event will be held Oct. 18-20 of next year on the downtown beach. “Even with our Sunfest event setting up, this event would take place and would draw a lot of people to town,” he told the commission. “We’re expecting this event to draw up to 5,000 people in its first year. It would be beach based, and it would have an immersive experience, not only
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November 17, 2023
for our patrons but also for our businesses.” As proposed, the town would partner with The Metal Shop, a Delmar-based company featured on the TV show “Metal Monsters: The Righteous Redeemer,” to bring the monster truck event to Ocean City. Miller said the event would also fill an otherwise vacant weekend on the October events calendar. “It is a financial partnership we want to bring in front of the council to consider,” he said. “The team, the drivers, they will also help significantly to put this out on their social media, to their fan base.” Miller said Monsters of Metal Beach Brawl would feature family friendly activities including pit parties, autograph sessions, a monster truck parade, monster truck rides and a potential music component. The monster truck competitions, he added, would be held on the downtown beach, near the Inlet parking lot. “There’s a head-to-head setup too,” Miller added. “So there’s no positive energy coming toward the crowd in the way this is set up.” Miller told commission members Monday The Metal Shop’s Rick Disharoon would be setting up the beach track and would work with professional drivers to bring Monsters of Metal to Ocean City. He said the event would attract a fan base from states as far away as Michigan and Florida. “Being on the beach is a unique experience, versus going to an arena or somewhere else,” he said. When asked if The Metal Shop had participated in the monster truck event at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center, The Metal Shop’s Jaclyn Disharoon Cooper said it had. She noted, however, that the proposed event in Ocean City would feature professional drivers from the Monster Jam series. “That’s what I would call a lower tier series of drivers,” Cooper said of the Wicomico event. “They bring ours in only because we’re local and they hope that it drives their sales … But the people we’re going to be pulling from, most of them are on Monster Jam, which is a televised professional monster truck racing series. The qualification of drivers we’re having is professional level.” After further discussion, the commission voted unanimously to send a favorable recommendation to the Mayor and Council. “It’s going to be an exciting event,” said Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo. In addition to the Monsters of Metal event, Miller also presented commission members this week with plans to celebrate the town’s 150th anniversary, which will occur in 2025. He said staff members were working to incorporate anniversary events into the fiscal year 2025 budget. “We do need to start talking about those things …,” he said. “A lot of this will be proposed in our budget, but we’re looking at anything from banners to parades to a gala. There are several things we have submitted early on to the city manager for consideration.”
October Calls For Service Dip In OC
November 17, 2023
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
BY BETHANY HOOPER
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
OCEAN CITY – Ocean City’s police chief said police activity remained consistent throughout October. On Monday, Ocean City Police Chief Ross Buzzuro presented members of the Ocean City Police Commission with an update on police activity for the month of October. Reviewing statistics from recent years, Buzzuro said officer calls for service decreased from 1,526 in October 2022 to 1,214 in October 2023, while citizen calls for service increased from 792 to 850. “It’s pretty consistent with where we’ve been the last two years, with some small variances,” he said. In the top 25 calls for service, the department reported 301 more traffic stops in October. Buzzuro said that number was impacted by Endless Summer Cruisin. “We’re very proactive with that event,” he said. He added that calls for service relating to parking and suspicious activity had decreased, while calls to assist fire and EMS had increased, from 73 in 2021 and 137 in 2022 to 199 in 2023. “That’s a pretty big jump up,” he said. When asked why calls to assist fire and EMS were higher, Buzzuro said it remained unclear. However, he questioned if the Oceans Calling Festival had something to do with the uptick. “There’s nothing I can pinpoint other
than additional medical needs,” he said. “It could be additional people in town. That crowd that was here until Oct. 1 was a good number of people in town. Maybe that had a slight effect on that, but still that number is higher. We’ll take a look at it internally and see if we have a common denominator there moving forward.” Buzzuro also told commission members this week that both accidents and trespassing calls had increased in October. He said the jump in trespassing calls was a result of increased enforcement and citizen calls for service. “Beyond that, everything is fairly consistent,” he said. “We don’t see anything that’s glaring or emergent in terms of problems or patterns.” Under October enforcement, custodial arrests increased from 84 to 96, drug arrests decreased from nine to six and DUI arrests decreased from 22 to 18. Buzzuro added that weapons arrests decreased from 10 to six, with the department confiscating five knives and one BB gun. Buzzuro also provided members of the police commission Monday with an update on seasonal recruitment. As of the end of October, the department has received 13 seasonal officer applicants and one public safety aide applicant. “We’re just starting out at the gate but we are heavily recruiting,” he said. Buzzuro noted that the next testing dates will be held Nov. 18 and Nov. 19. “As we get moving, we’ll start to see how this develops,” he said.
“OCEAN CITY CHRONICLES” Makes A Great Christmas Gift
OCEAN CITY CHRONICLES Reminiscing Maryland’s Beach Resort
BY HUNTER “BUNK” MANN
BUNK MANN’S NEWEST BOOK ON OCEAN CITY HISTORY
“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.
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
November 17, 2023
November 17, 2023
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
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Tourism Officials Talk Budget Process, Requests
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR
OCEAN CITY – As officials look to grow tourism and special events, members of a resort commission say they want more de-
tail on what is being requested in the fiscal year 2025 budget. During an Ocean City Tourism Commission meeting Monday, Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo briefed officials on the upcoming budget
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process. As staff continue to develop budgets for fiscal year 2025, he said he has directed his department heads to incorporate bigger ideas. “I’ve asked these guys to get out of the box more for fiscal year 2025, to think big-
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ger, and at least allow a discussion with some ideas …,” he said. “It’s not a situation where it’s a need and a want, but it’s where we want to drive, where the vision is taking us with special events, with the convention center, tourism. We want to be able to expand on that.” Perlozzo also asked for the commission’s help. He said he wanted to incorporate any ideas commission members had into the coming year’s budget. “Really what I’m saying to you all is if you’ve got an idea for an event you’d like to see, send it our way, because we’re going to make a larger effort in the next three or four months to recruit those events, whether it’s sports, convention center business, six more Oceans Callings, whatever it may be,” he said. “We’re at a time where we’re at a crossroads, and it’s a great opportunity for us. So we could use your help.” Each year, every department submits its budget for review. Those budgets are then taken into consideration and ultimately presented to the Mayor and Council with proposed cuts. For his part, Councilman John Gehrig applauded Perlozzo’s directive. He noted, however, that he wanted to see the full list of ideas presented at the Mayor and Council’s budget meeting. “Can we get all these ideas unfiltered?” he said. “I don’t want anything excluded just because of budget or anything else.” Perlozzo said some of the ideas his department has pitched included the redevelopment of the Caroline Street stage, and the purchase of marsh mats, which would allow the town to move special events off the Inlet parking lot in an effort to maintain Inlet lot revenue. Gehrig said he wanted the Mayor and Council to hear those ideas. “Big ideas are great, I love them. But we’ve got to hear them,” he said. “That’s my point. I don’t want to filter them out before they come to the Mayor and Council.” For his part, City Manager Terry McGean explained that operating budgets were submitted to his office in late November and then reviewed. He said requests that were cut from department budgets were ultimately included in the budget director’s notes to the Mayor and Council. “You see what’s been requested, and then it goes to you all for a budget hearing …,” he said. “On the capital improvement side, it all gets presented and you rank the projects.” Gehrig, however, said he wanted all ideas to be brought forward and discussed. He noted that tourism and special events made the town money. “This comment that it might not get funded, I don’t want any assumptions like that,” he said. “I just want it to be, this is why it should be funded. I don’t want any idea that seems to be too big get cut and left on the floor.” For his part, Council President Matt James suggested that ideas presented within the tourism departments’ budgets could be discussed at the January commission meeting. “Then we’ll know what ideas were proposed,” he said. “If there’s any we really like or really dislike we can talk further and in more detail.” Gehrig replies, “I think that’s a great first step.”
Resort Eyes Electric Bus Transition Plan
November 17, 2023
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
BY BETHANY HOOPER
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
OCEAN CITY – Resort officials this week got a better understanding of how long it would take to transition the town’s transit system from diesel to electric. In an Ocean City Transportation Committee meeting Tuesday, Transit Manager Rob Shearman presented members with an estimated timeline for transitioning its diesel fleet to electric. While a state committee has recommended local transit systems convert by 2025, he told the committee the town could not meet that mandate. “We’re not opposed to a transition to electric,” he said. “In fact, we think our system will have fewer obstacles to a transition to electric buses than many of the other systems across the state. But we are just concerned with the aggressiveness of the timeline. We don’t think we’ll have charging infrastructure in place that quickly.” Earlier this year, the committee began discussing the transportation department’s plans to convert its diesel fleet to electric after receiving a statewide zero-emissions bus study for Ocean City Transit. While no specific mandates have been placed on local transit systems, the town agreed to begin working with a consultant to create a transition plan. It is estimated that the town’s transition to electric would total $99 million in capital costs and $1.9 million in annual operating costs, and the transition plan would allow the town to receive federal funding to support the project. However, Shearman told committee members Tuesday that a new recommendation from the Maryland Commission on Climate Change could complicate the town’s plans for fleet electrification. “The larger systems in the state already have an electric vehicle purchase mandate,” he said. “The climate change commission wants to extend that mandate to the local systems by 2025. We’re just not going to be able to meet that.” Shearman said town representatives would be attending a legislative reception in January to share the concerns with lawmakers. He said the town was opposed to an aggressive timeline. When asked about the town’s timeline for converting its diesel fleet, Shearman said the town must first complete a transition plan and then work with Delmarva Power to determine electric load needs. “We’ll come back to you, the committee and the council, ahead of the FY26 budget process with a much clearer picture of those infrastructure costs …,” he said. “But even with council and committee approval, we still need to apply for and receive grant funding in advance of breaking ground on any charging infrastructure. I think we are still probably two, three years out, best case scenario.” Mayor Rick Meehan said town moving forward as quickly as it could to electrify its fleet. “I support this and think it’s the right thing to do,” he said. “Let’s just keep on a very strict timeline and move forward as quickly as it allows us to do so.”
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Berlin Remains In Class Action Suit
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR
BERLIN – The town will remain in a class action lawsuit tied to toxic chemicals in water systems. The Berlin Town Council voted 4-0 this week to approve an agreement with Nachawati Law Group for representation in a class action lawsuit related to PFAS, per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances, which are commonly called forever chemicals. “The town, since it has a water system, is a part of that class action lawsuit,” said Dave Gaskill, the town attorney. “We’ve been approached by Nachawati Law Group who is part of plaintiffs counsel in the lawsuit against 3M and Dupont.” Following a closed session meeting regarding the PFAS lawsuit, the council was presented Monday with an agreement for legal representation by Nachawati Law Group. “I think it’s important to note this is not anything the town has done,” Mayor Zack Tyndall said. “This is a result of outside factors. It’s also important to note it’s not limited to the Town of Berlin and it is in fact affecting municipalities, cities, counties across the country.” He said the town currently tested for PFAS regularly. Jamey Latchum, the town’s water resources director, said water changed daily so tests were done daily. A regular report provided to the
November 17, 2023
public shows the results of those water tests. He said it was available online, at the library and was printed in the newspapers. Gaskill said that the town because it had a water system and was involved in the class action had been approached by Nachawati Law Group. He said if the council wanted to retain the law firm’s services it had to approve an agreement with the company. “I’ve gone through it several times,” Gaskill said. “It’s a standard contingency fee arrangement, similar to what we had in the opioid lawsuit. I don’t see a problem with it.” The council voted 4-0, with Councilman Jay Knerr absent, to approve the agreement. According to the Environmental Protection Association (EPA), PFAS are widely used, long lasting chemicals whose components break down very slowly. There are thousands of PFAS chemicals found in an array of products. The forever chemicals have been linked to a variety of health concerns, including reproductive issues, development effects, increased risk of cancer and increased cholesterol levels, among other things. Earlier this year 3M reached a $10.3 billion settlement related to PFAS contamination in public water systems. The goal of the settlement is to help communities pay for cleanup and to help them meet new regulatory standards for PFAS contamination levels.
November 17, 2023
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
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Assault, Malicious Destruction OCEAN CITY – After letting his temper get the best of him over the summer, a Lower Shore man was recently apprehended on assault and malicious destruction of property charges. On Aug. 23, Ocean City police responded to a convenience store on Baltimore Avenue for an assault. The cashier told police Mario Morton, 54, of Salisbury, began arguing with him when he picked up a beer Morton was purchasing to scan its bar code. The cashier told a responding officer that an aggressive Morton quickly, “became irate and picked up several red shopping baskets near the door … and threw them” at him, according to police charging documents. The cashier said Morton then charged at the man before fleeing the store. Video surveillance of the incident confirmed Morton arguing with the cashier before picking up a tip jar and throwing it behind the counter. The video shows Morton strike the cashier in the face with a banana and throw the grocery baskets at the cashier. A police investigation found that after leaving the store Morton walked south to a toy store where he destroyed a chess
COPS & COURTS piece on a chess display in front of the store as well as threw an A-frame chalk board into a chair breaking the chalk board. Morton was able to be identified by surveillance. For the incidents, Morton was charged with second degree assault and two counts of malicious destruction under $1,000 on Aug. 23. After failing to appear in court, an arrest warrant was issued in October. He was apprehended Nov. 8. Morton is scheduled to appear in Worcester County District Court Dec. 13.
Fight At School Reported POCOMOKE – An investigation was initiated Monday into a fight at Pocomoke High School. Pocomoke High School’s resource dep-
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toxicated hotel guest displayed disturbing behavior toward her daughter. Police met with a security officer who informed officers a woman, later identified as Nirva Soliman, 40, of Orange, N.J., was heavily intoxicated and was physically led by staff to her hotel room’s bed because she had fallen and hit her head. Soliman refused to stay in bed and requested the security officer take her 5-year-old child with him. Soliman and the juvenile then began riding the elevator up and down the hotel with witnesses telling hotel staff about Soliman’s level of inebriation. Soliman and the child were in the hotel’s ballroom when police arrived. Police spoke with a witness who told police Soliman had fallen and when she tried to help her, she became combative. The witness said the juvenile was crying and asking for help, telling her mom to “stop hurting her,” according to police reports. A second witness trying to help said the juvenile was desperate for help. The second witness told police Soliman grabbed the juvenile’s arm and was “twisting it behind her back” and then grabbed her arm. A police officer spoke with the juvenile who said her mom struck her in the head multiple times with an open hand. Due to the obvious injuries and Soliman’s refusal to answer any questions, Child Protective Services was called and Soliman was charged with second-degree assault and disorderly conduct.
Assault Charge For Fighting OCEAN CITY – A Maryland woman’s punch outside a bar has resulted in a second-degree assault charge. On Nov. 10 at 12:46 a.m., law enforcement was dispatched to Wicomico Street for a fight in progress. As police arrived on the scene, the responding officer observed a woman, Jessica Krause, 38, of Joppa, strike another female in the chest. Police noted in a statement of charges the victim did not retaliate. According to bar employees, the incident was a result of a game of pool. Two men were engaged in an argument outside when the victim exited the bar to check on her family member’s safety. A verbal altercation then ensued between the victim and Krause, who told police the victim took a swing at her first. Krause told police, “I attacked her because she came after me first,” according to charging documents.
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The Polish American Club of Delmarva’s monthly meeting for November featured representatives from the Ocean City Police Department. The club is a social organization of men and women of Polish or Slavic descent. Pictured are meeting guest speakers Detective Sergeant Chris Wrench and Civilian Crime Analyst Brandon Reim. Submitted Photo
Resort’s Bus Ad Revenue Jumps, Tram Tally Skids
November 17, 2023
BY BETHANY HOOPER
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
OCEAN CITY – Members of a resort committee will meet with the town’s advertising contractor to review plans for next year’s advertising campaign. On Tuesday, Transit Manager Rob Shearman presented the Ocean City Transportation Committee with an update on bus and tram advertising. While revenues from bus advertising exceeded projections, he told committee members more time was needed to bolster the tram advertising program. “I really think we need to give them another year to really get the tram advertising program spun up to full speed,” he said. Last fall, the Town of Ocean City hired Gateway to replace Vector Media as its new advertising contractor. The company has been tasked with overseeing advertising on the town’s bus and tram fleets, as well as digital advertising placed on the back of the Boardwalk trams. In Tuesday’s meeting, Shearman presented advertising revenues, which totaled $179,050.42 for the bus fleet and $20,949.58 for the tram fleet. He noted that Gateway expects bus advertising to exceed last year’s revenues by 11%. “So as much as we expressed some concerns about how they’re spinning up and getting started, I’ve said more than once at these meetings we do need to allow some time for them to spin up, especially in light of the fact that the transition from Vector to Gateway was less than ideal in some ways,” he said. “At least in terms of their performance on the bus route, they’ve met expectations there.” Shearman noted, however, that more time was needed to improve tram advertising revenues. His report showed tram advertising revenues dropped 57%, from $48,519, in 2022. “In terms of tram revenue, they’ve fallen significantly short of what Vector had in tram advertising revenue last year, prior to the transition,” he said. Shearman noted, however, that advertising revenues did not include digital advertising, which would be added in next year’s report once the digital signs are up and running on the Boardwalk trams. He said the response from a free digital advertising trial has been positive. “They’ve received feedback from those companies and other companies about getting in on the program in 2024,” he said. Mayor Rick Meehan questioned if the committee could meet with Gateway representatives at the beginning of the year to hear their advertising plans for the 2024 season. Shearman said the committee could meet with the agency in February. “Based on their success with the buses, I think we need to give them another year to really prove themselves with respect to the tram advertising program,” he said.
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Council Approves RFP For Partial Demo At Heron Park
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BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR
BERLIN – Town officials approved bid documents for the demolition of some portions of the old processing plant at Heron Park. The Berlin Town Council on Monday approved a request for proposals (RFP) for demolition of the middle portion of the old processing plant. The much-anticipated project could be done by April. “I’m cheering over here,” Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols said. After more than a year was spent negotiating with a developer who wanted to turn the old processing plant into a mixeduse project, the council this fall opted not to proceed. Instead, officials decided to take advantage of a $500,000 strategic demolition grant it received from the state in 2021 to knock down the derelict building. Because costs have increased however, Andrew Welch of Davis, Bowen & Friedel Inc. made it clear in this week’s presentation of bid documents that it’s likely only a small portion of the building can be demolished with the grant funding. Welch said his company performed an extensive site assessment, looking at things like condition, topographic surveys, reconnaissance photographs and the like, before developing the bid documents. That research led to the develop-
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ment of plans for the partial demolition of the giant structure. “There aren’t a whole lot of plans and details for a demolition project but considering that it’s a partial demolition, we have developed details for how do you protect and close off portions of the building that are going to remain,” Welch said. “That’s always an important factor for any demolition.” He said DBF developed details for the partial demolition and the safety and access needs associated with it as well as a specification book for bidding purposes. He said DBF had broken the project up into a base bid that would address demolition of the two sections of the existing structure in the worst condition and additional alternatives that could be added to the base bid. He said that way the town would be able to do more if the grant funding stretched far enough. “That will give the town an opportunity to assign and select a base bid and then possibly add alternates to maximize their usage of the grant.,” he said. According to Welch, DBF broke the old processing plant into eight segments, ranked from one to eight. One and two, which are located in the center of the building, are in the worst condition and so demolition of them is included in the base bid. “They’re the lowest roof structure,” he said. “Area one is actually already partially collapsed.”
He said area two also has poor structural integrity. “That is the base bid, along with removal of debris and cleaning of the site toward the west side of the project,” he said. He said area three was in poor condition but the remaining sections of the structure were in fair condition. “There are some add alternates in there for cleaning up those portions of the building,” he said. “Area eight, there’s a lot of wet insulation and collapsed ceilings though the structure there I’d say is in fairly good condition.” Councilman Steve Green, who was one of several people who toured the site this fall, said he understood how bad sections one and two were but added that he thought the tour had revealed that section three should be demolished as well. “I think we should do one, two and three, however if the grant monies are not there we may want to negotiate with the low bidder as to partial demolition or even reconstruction or reinforcement of area three,” Welch said. “There are some portions there we have a structural concern.” Green asked if Welch thought the grant would allow the demolition of area three. Welch said demo costs ranged from $10-$15 a square foot. “I think the monies are there for one, two and three but depending on the bid-
November 17, 2023
ding environment that’s a tough call to make,” he said. Mayor Zack Tyndall thanked DBF for providing a variety of options, knowing that the town was working within a limited grant budget. Nichols agreed and said she was thrilled that it looked as if the town could make some progress with the grant funding. “Grant funding doesn’t look preposterously out of the ballpark,” she said. When asked about the timeline for the demolition, Welch said that if the bid documents were approved Monday and put out to contractors immediately, the work could potentially be complete by April. Welch said the town should allow about four weeks for the bidding process. “There’ll be questions that come in,” he said. He said it would likely be eight weeks before the town awarded a bid. At that point, the selected contractor will have 90 days to complete the work. Staff said that timeline would mean work could be complete in April. Green noted that the grant documents said the town’s demolition project needed to be complete by the end of June. “It sounds like we might be within that ballpark,” Nichols said. The council voted 4-0, with Councilman Jay Knerr absent, to approve the bid documents.
November 17, 2023
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Split Vote Denies Parking Zone Removal For Old Phillips Property
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
BY BETHANY HOOPER
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
OCEAN CITY – In a split vote Monday, the town’s police commission denied a request to remove parking and loading zones along the north side of Upshur Lane for the placement of bike racks. On Monday, LUX QOZP Properties LLC Principal Mike Ramadan came before the Ocean City Police Commission with a request to replace parking and loading zonings along the north side of Upshur Lane with bike racks. The request ultimately failed in a 2-2 vote. “As much as I support bike parking, I think it should be contained to the site plan,” said Councilman Peter Buas, commission chair. “But that’s more of a policy point.” In September, the Ocean City Plan-
ning and Zoning Commission voted to approve a site plan for the conversion of the former Phillips Crab House property, located at 21st Street. LUX QOZP Properties LLC has plans to convert the old restaurant into multifamily dwelling units, which would likely serve as employee housing. “It’s not officially J-1 housing, but that’s the intent,” City Manager Terry McGean told the police commission. As part of that project, required parking would be placed across the street, adjacent to the Islander Motel. Ramadan told commission members Monday he would rather have bike parking along Upshur Lane. “We’re just trying to make it so they don’t go across the street,” he said. “Our parking lots are actually across the way. I foresee a lot of accidents happening by just crossing the street to get their bikes.”
McGean told commission members that Ramadan had approached him a couple weeks ago with a request to acquire the right-of-way on Upshur Lane. When the town declined that request, Ramadan then approached staff with the idea of removing the parking and loading zones and replacing it with bike racks. “He asked about the possibility of removing that parking and loading zone, which is no longer needed, and instead installing bike racks for the students,” he explained. “The residents there are much more likely to have bicycles than cars. He would furnish the bike racks, maintain the bike racks.” When asked for his input, Public Works Director Hal Adkins said he had no objection to Ramadan’s request. However, he did request that the bike racks be removed during the winter. “My concern is during the winter
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months, that it would inhibit my snow plowing efforts,” he said. “It would be nice if the bike racks were portable and could be removed from that lane after November 1 of each year for snow removal reasons.” When asked if any other location in town utilized the public right-of-way for bike racks, Adkins said he was not aware of any. However, he said the addition of bike racks would not impact the street. “When you look at the traffic flow on Upshur Street itself, it’s not a high-volume road,” he said. “I was more concerned about whether the adjoining property owner, Calvin B. Taylor Bank, would like to at least have advanced notice. But I don’t see how it’s going to affect them either.” When asked the procedure for removing loading and unloading zones, McGean said it is typically done when a property is redeveloped. In this instance, officials proposed removing the painted curbs and loading signage, delineating the bike rack area with white paint, and adding flex posts. “My thought would be that the bicycles would park perpendicular to the street,” McGean added. “The parking lane is typically nine feet, so there should be plenty of room to allow for that.” Buas asked if the bike racks could be placed on the Phillips Square shopping center, to the north of the crab house, Ramadan said he was leasing the property and could not use the shopping center for his housing project. “I have a 45-year lease on the other property,” he said. “So the land owners would refuse the fact that we are putting bike racks on a property that has nothing to do with the actual property.” For his part, Mayor Rick Meehan took issue with Ramadan’s comments regarding safety. He said the location of the parking lot for the Phillips property already posed a safety issue. “Mr. Ramadan’s comment about how it’s dangerous for the bike racks to be on the parking lot on the other side of Coastal Highway, I would certainly suggest that that same concern should apply to the parking that’s been approved across Coastal Highway,” he said. “It doesn’t speak well for the fact that parking for the project is across Coastal Highway, which he already said is a dangerous situation.” Councilman Frank Knight, however, said he had no objection to Ramadan’s request. “I don’t have a problem with it,” he said. “I drove down the street yesterday, again, and it’s hardly ever traveled. There’s plenty of space in that lane.” After further discussion, a motion was made to approve Ramadan’s request, but to require that painting and flex posts be added and bike racks be removed during the offseason. The motion also set conditions as it pertains to occupancy permits, ownership and property changes. With no further discussion, the commission voted 2-2, with Knight and Council President Matt James in favor and Buas and Meehan opposed, and the request failed.
November 17, 2023
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November 17, 2023
People in Society Ryan and Erin Cowder are pictured with Brian and Julie Phillips at the Worcester County Education Foundation’s Decade Celebration.
by Charlene Sharpe Featuring ose Helping Causes In e Resort Area
Carrie Sterrs, Olivia Momme and Susan Trimble are pictured at the Decade Celebration benefitting the Worcester County Education Foundation.
Todd and Jill Ferrante are pictured with Superintendent Lou Taylor at a Decade Celebration for the Worcester County Education Foundation.
Gail and Jeff Greenwood are pictured with JL Cropper at the Flannel Formal at Merry Sherwood.
Brooke Borelli and Jack Orris hosted a bingo game at Sterling Tavern to benefit the Taylor House Museum.
Lora Bottinelli and Mike Lewis were among close to 200 attendees at the Lower Shore Land Trust’s Flannel Formal.
Carol Jacobs and Beth Sheppard paused for a photo at the Flannel Formal benefitting Lower Shore Land Trust.
Hugh and JL Cropper are pictured at the Lower Shore Land Trust’s Flannel Formal.
Maddie Mowl and Beth Sheppard volunteered at the Lower Shore Land Trust’s Flannel Formal.
Nate Cobb and Brian Winter attended a charity bingo event to benefit the Taylor House Museum.
Berlin Planning Commission Approves Brewery Silo
November 17, 2023
BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR
BERLIN – The town’s planning commission approved a proposal for a grain silo at a local brewery. The Berlin Planning Commission last week voted 6-0 to approve a site plan for a grain silo at Burley Oak Brewing Co. The commission approved the plan but limited grain deliveries to six a year because of traffic concerns. “It’s a health and safety thing,” commission member Ron Cascio said. Burley Oak’s Matt Burrier approached the commission last Wednesday seeking approval for plans to add a silo to the front of the Burley Oak facility. A text amendment approved by municipal officials last year allows grain silos not exceeding 35 feet as a special exception use on properties zones commercially as part of a brewery operation. Burrier said the concept the brewery talked about when that text amendment was proposed was the same one he was presenting to the commission last week. He said the only change was that the silo, which was initially planned for the rear of the property, was now planned for the front of the property. It will be installed in front of the beer garden space. Burrier said it was the same type of silo that many brewery operations had throughout the country. He said it would likely be beige or
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
brown and would feature the Burley Oak tree logo. According to Burrier the silo had been repositioned at the front of the building because the brewery’s driveway couldn’t accommodate the grain truck. “Basically we would have this filled three to four times a year,” he said, adding that the truck would be on Old Ocean City Boulevard while a hose was used to move the grain into the silo. Burrier said the deliveries could be set up so they didn’t occur during times of heavy traffic on Old Ocean City Boulevard. “It’ll be less of an intrusion than what we’re currently doing with the grant because now we’re getting it probably twice a month if not more,” he said, adding that the truck parked on the road while a forklift was used to move pallets containing bags of grain to the brewery. Cascio said he understood there would be fewer deliveries but still had traffic concerns. “It’s still not a good situation,” he said, adding that if the brewery started brewing more it could need more than three to four deliveries a year. Commission member Chris Denny asked if the commission could limit the number of deliveries. Staff said it could. Commission member Matt Stoehr said he felt what was proposed was an 80% improvement over the current situation. Cascio maintained that the road would
only get busier in the future. Commission member Pete Cosby suggested the business might be getting too big for its site. He said he’d heard complaints from Graham Avenue residents regarding the music at the brewery, which now planned to add a silo. “You’re right next to a residential neighborhood,” he said. “You’ve got to show some respect for people in their homes … I want you in Berlin but there comes a time this may not be the right place.” Other commission members expressed concern about the amount of
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signage that could be added to the silo. They said they didn’t want to see more than the Burley Oak logo and did not want to see lighting on the silo. When asked if the brewery had considered bollards to protect the silo from vehicles, Burrier said it wouldn’t be located in a place where it should be at risk for getting hit. The commission voted 6-0 to approve the site plan for the silo but with a limit of six deliveries of grain a year. The commission also asked that the logo planned for the silo be submitted for email approval by the group.
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Surf Club Educates: The Ocean City Surf Club recently wrapped up another successful year with its “Surf Into Integrity” program at the Stephen Decatur
Middle School. The nine-week course teaches the children valuable life lessons in the classroom and then surf lessons in the ocean. Pictured are “Surf Into Integrity” students, instructors assistant instructors and officers with members of the Ocean City Beach Patrol. Submitted Photo
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60th anniversary celebrated:
The Art League of Ocean City's Diamond Jubilee Gala was held on Nov. 4 at the Ashore Resort & Beach Club, celebrating the 60th anniversary and serving as a fundraiser for the programs of the nonprofit arts organization. Above, from left, are Gala Committee members Dawne Pappas, Courtney Blackford, Nancy Dofflemyer, Heather Ross, Virginia Pappas, Eileen Stamnas, Rebecca Galyon and Patti Selig. At right, artist Kathy Denk body-painted model Drew Berkeley to blend into the scenery. Berkeley and the background became a photo spot at the gala. Photos by Greg Poulos, above, and ALOC
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November 17, 2023
Vice President Welcomed HEBRON – Hebron Savings Bank has announced that Trevor Carouge has joined the bank as vice president, commercial lending officer, serving our customers in the Cambridge and Easton areas. With over 13 years of experience in commercial lending on the Eastern Shore, Carouge brings lending expertise along with a history of excellent local service to our team. Having been born and raised in Cambridge CarTREVOR CAROUGE ouge will serve an area for which he has a vested interest. He has been involved with a coalition of local bankers and lenders who have provided financial education programs to the community and has organized sailboat races through his service to the Cambridge Yacht Club. Along with his extensive lending experience and local ties, he holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in business management and financial analysis from Washington College. Carouge will play a key role in expanding the bank’s commercial lending capabilities. As a seasoned commercial lender, he will be responsible for offering financing solutions to business clients, helping them achieve their financial goals, and supporting overall business growth. “I have always heard that Hebron Savings Bank offers top-notch customer service for their clients as well as fosters a welcoming culture for employees to grow. I am proud to now be a part of this exceptional company and lending team,” said Carouge.
Hospitals Recognized SALISBURY – Healthgrades, the leading resource that connects consumers, physicians, and health systems, released its 2024 Star Report of hospital achievements, and TidalHealth Peninsula Regional and TidalHealth Nanticoke are rated among the nation’s best in several clinical services. At TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in Salisbury, Md., new in the 2024 report is a designation as One of America’s 100 BEST Hospitals for Spine Surgery, placing it among the top 10% in the nation. New 5-Star ratings in the 2024 report include Pacemaker Procedures, Spinal Fusion, Treatment of Sepsis and Treatment of Respiratory Failure. TidalHealth Peninsula Regional is also again One of America’s 50 Best Hospitals
BUSINESS And Real Estate News
During its latest round of funding, the Coastal Association of Realtors awarded $5,000 in grants to local six local charities: Art League of Ocean City, Diakonia, Eastern Shore Alzheimer's Association, Habitat for Humanity of Wicomico County, Smith Island United, and Village of Hope. Pictured above, from left to right, are Leslie Zimmerman, Eastern Shore Alzheimer’s Association; Pilar Burton, Capitol Title; Kaytlyn Senkbeil, Movement Mortgage; Christina Williams, Habitat for Humanity of Wicomico County; Joni Williamson, CAR Foundation Committee chair; Curtis Paul, Village of Hope; Marlene Ott, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty; Nancy Dofflemyer, Art League of Ocean City; Sharyn O’Hare, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty; and Ken Argot, Diakonia. Submitted Photo
for Vascular Surgery. This is the tenth consecutive year earning that recognition (2015-2024). The vascular team also maintains the Healthgrades Vascular Surgery Excellence Award for a tenth consecutive year (2015-2024), placing it among the top 10% in the nation for vascular surgery. TidalHealth Peninsula Regional was also the only hospital in the state to earn a 50 BEST Hospitals for Vascular Surgery designation, and the only Maryland hospital 5-Star rated in both the treatment of abdominal aorta and peripheral vascular bypass. At TidalHealth Nanticoke, and new for 2024, the team was presented the Healthgrades Coronary Interventional Excellence Award, placing that service top 10% in the nation. The Seaford hospital also was 5Star rated for the first time in Coronary Intervention, Treatment of Heart Attack and Treatment of Respiratory Failure. “Quality and safety remain at the heart of everything we do as an organization. To have TidalHealth Nanticoke placed among the nation’s best hospitals, once again, by
Healthgrades and to have our cardiac services recognized this year among the nation’s best reinforces that we have assembled the finest healthcare team in the region that is committed to outstanding clinical outcomes and quality patient care,” said Penny Short, MSM, BSN, RN, TidalHealth Nanticoke president. TidalHealth Nanticoke was also honored again as one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Gastrointestinal (GI) Surgery. The recognition was first awarded to the Seaford hospital in 2023. The GI Surgery Excellence Award keeps TidalHealth Nanticoke among the top 10% in the nation. TidalHealth Nanticoke is also the only hospital in the state of Delaware to achieve the Healthgrades 5-Star rating for the treatment of Heart Attack. From 2020 through 2022, if all hospitals as a group performed similarly to five-star hospitals, on average, 215,667 lives could potentially have been saved, and 149,521 patients could have avoided potential complications. Healthgrades evaluated patient mortal-
ity and complication rates for 35 of the most common conditions and procedures at nearly 4,500 hospitals across the country to identify the top-performing hospitals for specialty care. Hospitals cannot choose to opt in or out of a Healthgrades performance review. “TidalHealth’s greatest asset is our team members, medical staff, and volunteers. Our Healthgrades clinical successes, many that have repeated for several years, are a direct result of their devotion to every patient and family member,” said Steven Leonard, Ph.D., MBA, FACHE, TidalHealth president and CEO. “And, to achieve these successes during a reporting period at the height of the COVID pandemic, validates the dedication and determination of our entire team in extremely challenging times.” A total of 18 services at TidalHealth earned a Healthgrades 5-Star rating, which indicates they are performing statistically significantly better than their peer services at other U.S. hospitals. Among those, treatment of carotid procedures was 5Star rated for a 14th consecutive year (2011-2024) and treatment of hip fracture for a 9th consecutive year (2016-2024).
Tourism Report BALTIMORE – More than 43.5 million people visited Maryland in 2022 and spent $19.4 billion, topping pre-pandemic levels, according to an economic impact report released by the Maryland Department of Commerce Office of Tourism. In total, the economic impact of tourism was $30.3 billion and generated $2.3 billion in state and local taxes, saving each Maryland household $1,000 in annual taxes. The report also found that tourism is the 10th largest private-sector employer in the state and supports more than 187,000 jobs. The largest employers within the tourism sector are the food and beverage industry (52,373 jobs), followed by the lodging industry (22,972 jobs). The sector accounts for one in 20 jobs in Maryland, with workers in the industry earning nearly $10 billion in wages. The report was prepared by Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company that measures tourism spending and economic impact. “Tourism in Maryland continues to be a significant economic engine and job creator, but it also drives our state’s outstanding quality of life which keeps visitors returning again and again,” said Governor Wes Moore. “We are excited to see both visitor volume and spending has rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, showing the resiliency of tourism as a critical industry.”
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COMMUNITY News In Photos
Worcester County Humane Society (WCHS) dog caregiver Amy, WCHS Board Member Terri, WCHS Board Member Lisa, Volunteer Frank, dog caregiver Aaliyah, and dog caregiver Mary are pictured accepting a $5,000 donation check from Macky’s General Manager Julie Hemp and Macky’s Executive Chef Derek.
The Salvation Army kicked off its 2023 Red Kettle Campaign at the Civic Center in Salisbury with a breakfast during which awards were presented for the 2022 campaign. The Kiwanis Club and the Kiwanis Club sponsored Key Club at Stephen Decatur High School both received awards for first place in the “Bell Ringer Civic Group.” Kiwanians attending the kickoff and holding the two awards were from left to right Tom Southwell, Diane Denk, Diane Sparzak and Dave Landis. Submitted Photos
The Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club recently honored past president Margaret Mudron with another Paul Harris tier for dedication and hard work during her year as president. Pictured from left to right is Gina Shaffer, president, Mudron, past president, and Past District Governor Cliff Berg. The Berlin Lions Club recently welcomed several new members. Picture are Grover Collins and new members Mike Parker and Jody Palmisano along with President Joe Andrews.
The Delmarva Shorebirds and Preston Automotive Group were proud to team up for Flock for a Cure night at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium during the summer. The main mission of the night was to support and raise awareness for those affected by cancer. Through the sale of name space and the jerseys at auction, the Shorebirds and Preston Automotive Group were able to raise $3,000 for three local charities and purchase $1,000 in toys to donate to Brooke’s Toy Closet.
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City has a hard-working group of members who cook and sell concessions for fundraisers and Ocean Pines events all year long. To finish up the year 2023 the "Dawgs" did the Ocean Pines Halloween Party for the children and then the Pine'eer's Craft Show. Pictured from left to right are some of the members at the Halloween event: (front) Pat Winkelmayer, (rear) John Hulit, President Bob Wolfing, Jim Spicknall, clown masked Geoffrey Goodson, Janet Goodson, John Hanberry, Barbara Southwell, Ed Ahlquist, Tom Southwell and a partial Mike Castoro.
November 17, 2023
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The Dispatch Classifieds $15/Week for Minimum of Five Lines • $2 Thereafter Per Line Display Classified Ads: $20/Week Per Column Inch (Contract Discounts Available) Deadline for Insertions, Cancellations & Payment is 3pm Tuesday Pre-Payment is Required. We Accept Visa & MasterCard
CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811
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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 fax 410-641-0966. Third Insertion NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19946
To all persons interested in the estate of CHAUNCY D. WINES, JR., Estate No. 19946. Notice is given that CHRISTINA ROBINSON,, whose address is 4299 WENDY COURT, MONROVIA, MD 21770, was on OCTOBER 27, 2023, appointed Personal Represen-
tative of the estate of CHAUNCY D. WINES,JR., who died on OCTOBER 12, 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.
CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 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 27th day of APRIL, 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 per-
sonal 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 Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
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November 17, 2023
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 fax 410-641-0966. 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 NOVEMBER 3, 2023 CHRISTINA ROBINSON 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 11-3, 11-10, 11-17
Third Insertion STEVEN W. JACOBSON ESQ. WEST & FEINBERG, P.C. 4550 MONTGOMERY AVENUE SUITE 775N BETHESDA, MD 20814 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19945 To all persons interested in the estate of KENNETH B. SHAFER, Estate No. 19945. Notice is given that PATRICIA L. SHAFER, whose address is 312 TUNA LANE, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on OCTOBER 26, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of KENNETH B. SHAFER, who died on OCTOBER 4, 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 (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 26th day of APRIL, 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 follow-
ing 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 NOVEMBER 3, 2023 PATRICIA L. SHAFER 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 11-3, 11-10, 11-17
Third Insertion REENA J. PATEL, ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD, SUITE B SALISBURY, MD 21804 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19947 To all persons interested in the estate of GREG NOEL TURNER, AKA: GREGORY NOEL TURNER, Estate No. 19947. Notice is given that SUSANNE CATHERINE HALEY, whose address is 1404 W DOUBLE EAGLE COURT, HERNANDO, FL 34442, was on OCTOBER 26, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GREG NOEL TURNER, who died on OCTOBER 10, 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 26th day of APRIL, 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 NOVEMBER 3, 2023 SUSANNE CATHERINE HALEY 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 11-3, 11-10, 11-17
Third Insertion SIMS & CAMPBELL, LLC MICHAEL E. LEHR, ESQ. 181 HARRY S. TRUMAN PKWY SUITE 150 ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19951 Notice is given that the CLERK OF COURT of LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA, appointed SUSAN WESSELS GIMBERT, 8314 WELLER AVENUE, MCLEAN, VA 22102, as the PERSONAL REPRE-
CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 SENTATIVE of the Estate of AUGUST H. WESSELS, JR., who died on NOVEMBER 9, 2022, domiciled in VIRGINIA, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is MICHAEL E. LEHR, whose address is 181 HARRY S. TRUMAN PKEY, SUITE 150, ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND coun ties: WORCESTER. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or 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. Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 3, 2023 SUSAN WESSELS GIMBERT Personal Representative True Test Copy
LATE OF WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND NOTICE OF MEETING OF INTERESTED PERSONS IN THE ESTATE OF NORMA PARKS
Second Insertion William Collins and Barry Lynch, Personal Representatives of the Estate of Norma Parks, same being Estate No 18739 in the Orphan's Court for Worcester County, Maryland, do hereby give notice that on
a meeting of the interested persons in the Estate of Norma Parks shall be held in Court Room Number l, Court House, 1 W. Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21842 Pursuant to Section 9-112 of the Estates and Trusts Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, the Personal Representatives have reason to believe that one or more interested persons whose names and addresses are not known to them, and in some cases, it is not known to said Personal Representatives if an interested person is still surviving.
IN THE ORPHAN’S COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, STATE OF MARYLAND ESTATE NO. 18739 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF NORMA PARKS
Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 3, 2023
Third Insertion PETER S. BUAS, ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, LLP 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19952
December 19, 2023 at 10:00
Therefore, the Orphan's Court for Worcester County, Maryland has ordered the said meeting so that all persons who believe they are an interested person in the Estate of Norma Parks, who have not been known to the Personal Representative or who have not been names as an interested person in the said estate shall come forward at said meeting for the purpose of establishing whether or not they are entitled to distribution out of said Estate. Further, any interested persons named in the Estate having objections to the proposed distribution percentages of the net estate filed in said estate shall, likewise, come forward at said meeting for the purpose of establishing whether or not they are entitled to distribution out of said Estate.
TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-3, 11-10, 11-17
PETER S. BUAS, ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, LLP 3509 COASTAL HWY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 (410) 289-3553, EXT. 20 3x 11-3, 11-10, 11-17
Notice is given that the REGISTER OF WILLS of LACKAWANNA COUNTY, PA, appointed KIMBERLEE L. NACKLEY, 586 EPIRUS HILL ROAD, SOUTH ABINGTON TOWNSHIP, PA 18411, as the EXECUTRIX of the Estate of MICHAEL ANTHONY STEFANIK, who died on SEPTEMBER 7, 2023, domiciled in PENNSYLVANIA, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is PATRICK BENNETT, whose address is 117 NEWPORT BAY DRIVE, UNIT B, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND coun ties: WORCESTER. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or 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. Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 10, 2023 KIMBERLEE L. NACKLEY Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for
November 17, 2023
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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 fax 410-641-0966. Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-10, 11-17, 11-24
TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102, COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-10, 11-17, 11-24
Second Insertion NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19955 To all persons interested in the estate of JUNE TAYLOR MOREAU, Estate No. 19955. Notice is given that ROBERT T. FISHER, whose address is 104 PINE STREET, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on OCTOBER 31, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JUNE TAYLOR MOREAU, who died on SEPTEMBER 24, 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 (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 30th day of APRIL, 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 NOVEMBER 10, 2023 ROBERT T. FISHER Personal Representative True Test Copy
Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 10, 2023 BY ORDER OF JAMES C. BARBELY PRESIDENT 2x 11-10, 11-17
Second Insertion NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED FINANCING FOR NEWARK VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY BY TAYLOR BANK 108 WEST MARKET ST SNOW HILL, MD 21863 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE NEWARK VOL. FIRE COMPANY LOCATED IN NEWARK, WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND (THE ISSUER), WILL MEET ON NOVEMBER 21, 2023, AT 7 O'CLOCK PM AT THE NEWARK VOL. FIRE COMPANY 8338 NEWARK ROAD, NEWARK, MD 21841 FOR THE PURPOSE OF HOLDING A PUBLIC HEARING PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF SECTION 147(f) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1986, AS AMENDED, ON A PROPOSAL THAT THE ISSUER ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT TO FINANCE A NEW FIRE APPARATUS (RESCUE PUMPER). TO FINANCE THE COSTS OF SUCH EQUIPMENT AND TO PAY COSTS AND EXPENSES INCIDENTAL TO THE FINANCING, THE ISSUER PROPOSES TO ENTER INTO A LOAN AGREEMENT IN THE MAXIMUM AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF $825,000.00. THE PAYMENTS DUE PURSUANT TO THE LOAN AGREEMENT WILL BE SECURED BY A MORTGAGE ON EXISTING EQUIPMENT. ALL PERSONS INTERESTED MAY APPEAR AND BE HEARD AT SAID TIME AND PLACE OR MAY FILE WRITTEN COMMENTS WITH THE NEWARK VOL. FIRE COMPANY PRIOR TO THE DATE OF HEARING SET FORTH HERETOFORE. DATED: NOVEMBER 7, 2023
First Insertion MARIANNA BATIE, ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HIGHWAY SUITE 112 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19966 To all persons interested in the estate of BARBARA BRENNAN CULHANE, Estate No. 19966. Notice is given that CRAIG J. CULHANE, whose address is 150 MAIN STREET, APT 2426, LONGMONT, CO 80501 and KATHLEEN E. CULHANE, whose address is 707 CARROLL STREET, APT 1 L, BROOKLYN, NY 11215, were on NOVEMBER 7, 2023, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of BARBARA BRENNAN CULHANE, who died on OCTOBER 24, 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 (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 30th day of APRIL, 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
CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 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 NOVEMBER 17, 2023 CRAIG J. CULHANE KATHLEEN E. CULHANE 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 11-17, 11-24, 12-1
Register of Wills on or before the 9th day of MAY, 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.
First Insertion VICTOR H. LAWS, ESQ. LAWS, INSLEY & BENSON, PA 209 E. MAIN STREET PO BOX 75 SALISBURY, MD 21803-0075 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19972 To all persons interested in the estate of BETTY JEAN POWELL, Estate No. 19972. Notice is given that NANCY P. DONOWAY, whose address is 6679 WORCESTER HIGHWAY, NEWARK, MD, 21841 and BONNIE P. LEWIS, whose address is 6704 WORCESTER HIGHWAY, NEWARK, MD, 21841, and H. WATSON POWELL, JR. whose address is 6570 WORCESTER HIGHWAY, NEWARK, MD 21841 were on NOVEMBER 9, 2023, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of BETTY JEAN POWELL, who died on OCTOBER 19, 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 (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the
Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 17, 2023 NANCY P. DONOWAY BONNIE P. LEWIS H. WATSON POWELL, JR 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 11-17, 11-24, 12-1
First Insertion STEPHANIE SCALES SHERRIN ESQ. SCALES LAW GROUP 11032 NICHOLAS LANE STE A202 BERLIN, MD 21811 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19957 To all persons interested in the estate of MARY KATHLEEN WARD AKA: MARY K WARD, Estate No. 19957. Notice is given that TONI KNOBLOCH, whose address is 10212 WILLOWBROOK DRIVE, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on NOVEMBER 8, 2023,
appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of MARY KATHLEEN WARD, who died on SEPTEMBER 15, 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 (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 8th day of MAY, 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 NOVEMBER 17, 2023 TONI KNOBLOCH 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 11-17, 11-24, 12-1
First Insertion SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19968 To all persons interested in
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November 17, 2023
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 fax 410-641-0966. the estate of RONALD LEE ABBOTT, Estate No. 19968. Notice is given that DALE S. ABBOTT, whose address is 2212 OLD FURNACE ROAD, EDEN, MD 21822, was on NOVEMBER 6, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of: RONALD LEE ABBOTT, who died on AUGUST 19, 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 any objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine 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 NOVEMBER 17, 2023 DALE S. ABBOTT Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for
Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 11-17
First Insertion REENA J. PATEL, ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD, SUITE B SALISBURY, MD 21804 IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND NOTICE OF JUDICIAL PROBATE IN THE ESTATE OF MICHELE J. SHAFER ESTATE NO. 19978 To all persons interested in the above estate: You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by SAMUEL W. SHAFER, SR., 12508 SINEPUXENT AVE., OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, for judicial probate for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at WORCESTER COUNTY COURTHOUSE COURTROOM 4, ONE W. MARKET ST. SNOW HILL, MD. 21863 on 12/19/2023 at 10:00 A.M. This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time. Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills. Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 17, 2023 TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074
2x 11-17, 11-24
First Insertion VICTOR H. LAWS, ESQ. LAWS, INSLEY & BENSON, PA 209 E. MAIN STREET PO BOX 75 SALISBURY, MD 21803-0075 SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19973 To all persons interested in the estate of H. WATSON POWELL, Estate No. 19973. Notice is given that NANCY P. DONOWAY whose address is 6679 WORCESTER HIGHWAY, NEWARK, MD 21841, BONNIE P. LEWIS, whose address is 6704 WORCESTER HIGHWAY, NEWARK, MD 21841 and H. WATSON POWELL, JR. whose address is 6570 WORCESTER HIGHWAY, NEWARK, MD 21841. were on NOVEMBER 9, 2023, appointed Personal Representatives of the SMALL ESTATE of: H. WATSON POWELL, who died on AUGUST 19, 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 any objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine
CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 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 NOVEMBER 17, 2023 NANCY P. DONOWAY BONNIE P. LEWIS H. WATSON POWELL, JR. Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 11-17
First Insertion SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19894 To all persons interested in the estate of DEONARD E. QUILLEN AKA: DEONARD EMORY QUILLEN, Estate No. 19894. Notice is given that DAWN E. Q. ADKINS whose address is 8852 LYNCH DRIVE, DELMAR MD 21875, was on NOVEMBER 9, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of: DEONARD E. QUILLEN, who died on JUNE 23, 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 ob-
jection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having any objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine 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 NOVEMBER 17, 2023 DAWN E. Q. ADKINS Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 11-17
First Insertion NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19962 To all persons interested in the estate of GAIL LYNN BISHOP, Estate No. 19962.
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Notice is given that BARBARA BISHOP JANKIEWICZ, whose address is 37305 HIDDEN BAY DRIVE, SELBYVILLE, DE 19975, was on NOVEMBER 8, 2023, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of GAIL LYNN BISHOP, who died on OCTOBER 17, 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 (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 8th day of MAY, 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 NOVEMBER 17, 2023 BARBARA BISHOP JANKIEWICZ 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 11-17, 11-24, 12-1
Foundation Awards $116K In Grants To Lower Shore Schools
November 17, 2023
SALISBURY – Schools in Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties received $116,144 in grant funding through the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore’s 2023 Education Grants Program. CFES saw another record-breaking number of requests this year and a wide variety of needs. Funds will be distributed across forty school-based programs. Educators and school districts were honored at an evening reception on Nov. 9 at James M. Bennett High School. “The Community Foundation is proud to offer support to our schools, educators, and students,” said Community Foundation President Erica Joseph. “When we invest in education, we are building long term impact for the future of our local community and the success of our future leaders.” Grants through the program are made annually in conjunction with National Education Week through a competitive process to public and private grade schools on the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland. Grants are made to those schools that have developed innovative programs to enhance education and improve the social, emotional and physical wellbeing of their students and communities. The foundation honored North Salisbury Elementary School with the Mary Gay Calcott Award of Excellence and a bonus grant from the Foundation’s Mary Gay Calcott Memorial Fund, for their in-
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
novative program that engages English Language Learners in running a schoolbased business to improve language proficiency with real-world application. The award is named for the late Mary Gay Calcott, a professor of English at Salisbury University whose life embodied her ideals of teaching students to think, to express themselves with clarity and to care about the world they live in. The following schools received Education Award Grants for the 2023/2024 school year in Worcester County. Berlin Intermediate will stock the school's House store with incentive items for their positive behavior program. Cedar Chapel Special School will purchase adaptive tricycles for students with diverse abilities. Cedar Chapel Special School will use a curriculum that teaches students with diverse abilities about boundaries and self-awareness. Ocean City Elementary will provide targeted enrichment instruction for Tier 1 students through literature text sets. Ocean City Elementary will improve the library collection and increase student engagement in recreational reading. Pocomoke Elementary School will install a book vending machine to promote excitement about reading. Pocomoke Elementary School will create a diverse outdoor classroom space for art, music, physical education, and STEM lessons.
Pocomoke High School will partner with Cedar Chapel Special School to bring awareness and acceptance of those with special needs. Showell Elementary will install a book vending machine to promote excitement about reading. Showell Elementary will purchase iPads and Lego Education Kits to enhance the school's makerspace. Snow Hill Elementary will expand the school library's picture book and chapter book selections to engage readers. Snow Hill High School will boost the school's positive behavior program with
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exciting rewards and incentives. Snow Hill High will host a Friday Night Book Club that allows students to select titles from current and engaging themes. Snow Hill Middle's RISE program will allow at-risk students to practice life skills and social etiquette in real-world social settings. Snow Hill Middle's "Pathways to Resilience" initiative will fortify the library's Social-Emotional Learning resources. Stephen Decatur Middle will expand the library's nonfiction resources and build a collection of books written in Spanish.
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‘catch a ride’ program honored at state summit The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
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OCEAN CITY –The Ocean City Department of Tourism & Business Development announced this week it has been honored with the "Best Media and Public Relations Campaign" award at the Maryland Tourism and Travel Summit for its "Catch a Ride" program. The program was designed to assist travelers in selecting the ideal vacation destination, coinciding with the launch of the department's new brand platform, "Somewhere to Smile About." The "Catch a Ride" program, featuring a customized 1970’s iconic VW beach van, embarked on a mobile tour from Washington D.C. to Philadelphia and Baltimore, kicking off on National Road Trip Day (May 26) and continuing through Memorial Day weekend. This first-of-its-kind initiative for the tourism office positioned Ocean City as a friendly, carefree destination, encouraging
travelers to pack up their cars for the ultimate summer trip to Ocean City. To generate awareness of each event in advance of a crowded holiday weekend, the team executed a hardworking public relations strategy that included a program launch and media preview in Ocean City, global news release, event and lifestyle media pitches and media alerts to invite local media to visit the tour. These efforts resulted in an impressive 176 million media impressions, seven unique placements and an earned media value of $1.6 million. "We are honored to receive this prestigious award for our 'Catch a Ride' program,” stated Tom Perlozzo, director of Ocean City Tourism. “This achievement is a testament to the dedication and creativity of our team, along with our partners at BVK, in promoting Ocean City as a must-visit destination. We be-
November 17, 2023
lieve in creating experiences that resonate with travelers, and 'Catch a Ride' perfectly embodies the spirit of our new brand platform, 'Somewhere to Smile About.'" The public relations strategy complemented a media plan that encompassed social media, mobile billboards, radio and influencer marketing and earned Ocean City over 275 million impressions. All efforts supported traffic to the mobile tour, encouraging nearly 5,000 Mid-Atlantic residents to enter for their chance to “Catch a Ride” to Ocean City and other prizes. Beyond quantitative metrics, the campaign garnered qualitative success and gratitude from event attendees, residents, and local businesses. The positive response has sparked anticipation for the next phase of "Catch a Ride."
November 17, 2023
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
November 17, 2023
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November 17, 2023
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
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Who’s Where When
FUZZBOX PIRANHA Crawl St. Tavern: Saturday, Nov. 18
SOUTHBOUND 4 Purple Moose Saloon: Saturday, Nov. 18
SCHIZOPHRENIC BOOGIEMEN Fager’s Island: Wednesday, Nov. 22
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NO MORE WHISKEY Coins Pub: Saturday, Nov. 18
THE ROGUE CITIZENS Fager’s Island: Wednesday, Nov. 22
THE WAY OUTS Seacrets: Friday, Nov. 17
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PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Fridays: Beats By DeoGee Saturday, Nov. 18: Tranzfusion Sundays: 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 Saturday, Nov. 18: Southbound 4 SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Nov. 17: DJ Tuff, Opposite Directions, The Way-Outs Saturday, Nov. 18: DJ Bobby O, DJ Connair, Starlight Anthem, Stealing Savannah Thursday, Nov. 23: Happy Thanksgiving-Closed
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November 17, 2023
Things To Do Every Monday: TOPS Meeting 5-6:30 p.m. Atlantic General Hospital, Berlin. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a support group promoting weight loss and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Call Rose 443-8808444. 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 410-6299383 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.
Nov. 17-18: Christmas Bazaar St. Mary Star of the Sea/Holy Savior on 1705 Philadelphia Avenue in Ocean City will host from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Event is free and offers gift shop, linen shop, dollar shop, plants/flowers, homemade crafts, toys, books, jewelry, auctions, homemade baked goods and candy. Food will be available dine-in or carryout.
Nov. 18: Chicken Salad Carryout The Bishopville Volunteer Fire Dept. Auxiliary will be holding a chicken salad carry out at the main station in Bishopville on Saturday, from noon-2 p.m. $8 per pint. Call 619-922-9950 to preorder by Nov. 15. Nov. 18: Shop With A Cop Kiwanis "Shop With A Cop" Special Pancake
Breakfast, 8-11 a.m. in the Assateague Room of the Ocean Pines Community Center. Tickets $9, children under 10 are free. Proceeds benefit local youth. Carryout also available.
Nov. 19: Community Thanksgiving Service The All Faith Friendship Association will host at 7 p.m. at the Community Church, 11227 Racetrack Rd., Berlin. Interfaith service to give prayers of thanksgiving, sharing peace with neighbors. A special collection will be gathered for Worcester Goes Purple and Beyond Your Walls mobile shower unit.
Nov. 20: Monthly Meeting Democratic Women's Club of Worcester County will meet in the Ocean Pines Community Center, Assateague Room. Social time, 9:30 a.m. (bring your own beverage), meeting, 10 a.m. Guest speakers will be Pocomoke Mayor Todd Nock and Salisbury City Councilwoman Michele Gregory. Nov. 23: Free Thanksgiving Dinner The 43nd annual free thanksgiving dinner will again be held at the Ocean City Baptist Church from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. in downtown Ocean City. Anyone who is looking for a good home cooked meal this Thanksgiving Day is invited to dinner. Come and receive a great meal at no cost. The men and women of the church and community will be preparing and serving the dinner. Please call 410-289-4054 to RSVP from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., Monday-Friday. or sign-up on line at ocbaptist.com. Dinners will also be delivered to shut-ins.
Nov. 23: Turkey Trot 2nd Annual Diakonia Turkey Trot will take place on the Boardwalk in Ocean City with registration starting at 8 a.m. and the walk/fun run at 9 a.m. Best turkey day costumes welcomed. Kids games and activities starting at 8 a.m. First 250 participants get a T-shirt. Registration now open at diakoniaoc.org. Entry fee increases closer to event. Nov. 24: Jolly Roger Black Friday Black Friday is back for 2023 at Jolly Roger Amusement Parks® at the SpeedWorld building at Jolly Roger on 30th St., from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Kickstart your holiday shopping on the best deals of the year with 50% off all 2024 park passes and select merchandise. Purchase passes for the Pier and their 30th Street location, including SpeedWorld, Splash Mountain, 30th St. Amusement Park, and Mini Golf! Choose from The BIG Ticket, 2-Hour Armbands, Unlimited Daytime or Unlimited Nighttime Armbands, and more all for 50% off. Give your friends and family the gift that keeps on giving with Season Passes to Splash Mountain so you can cool off all summer long. https://jollyrogerpark.com/black-friday/.
Nov. 25: Drive Thru Church Luncheon From 10 a.m. until sold out at the Powellville UM Church located at 35606 Mount Hermon Road, Powellville. Drive thru luncheon features oyster fritter sandwiches, homemade chicken salad, homemade soups including chili, peas and dumplings and veg. beef. Bake sale items will be available. No pre-orders. Call 410-835-8796 or 443-880-8804 for more details.
November 17, 2023
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
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THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle
ANSWERS ON PAGE 58
HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 21 to April 19): You often let others complete projects that you've started, but you'd be wise to stick with this one if you hope to make that important professional impression. TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): As you begin to shop for holiday presents, be sure to put yourself on your list for a well-earned special gift. (Perhaps that trip you've been putting off for so long?) GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): It's decision-making time in the workplace. Use your communication talents to put your case for a promotion in the best light. In addition, a family member has news. CANCER (June 21 to July 22): You continue to see progress in both your personal and professional aspects. But be careful not to allow holiday pressures to erupt and cause new problems. LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): You relish being surrounded by the bright lights of the holiday season, but be careful that they don't blind you from seeing the true motives behind a friend's recent behavior. VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): "Flexibility" remains your watchword at this time. Expect more changes in your plans. But stay the course, and you'll soon enjoy smooth sailing. LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): Recent family problems have simmered
down for the holidays, but they're still boiling beneath the surface. Expect new support in your search for a resolution. SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Holiday plans could include long-delayed reunions with people you loved in the past and still keep close to your heart. Reach out to them. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): Opposites attract in physics, but not necessarily between humans. Be wary of a relationship with which you don't feel comfortable. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): That business decision finally can be made now that you have the facts to back it up. You could also get a surprise offer to do some holiday traveling. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): Your circle of friends widens as new people come into your life. An old friend urges you to reconsider travel plans that you once put aside. PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): You have a warm and generous nature, but be careful that it doesn't get out of control during these holiday times. Make careful decisions and stick to them. BORN THIS WEEK: You have a gift for seeing beyond the obvious. You also have a sense of curiosity that makes you want to discover hidden places. © 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.
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Things I Like...
vanishing
OCEAN CITY
November 17, 2023
WITH BUNK MANN
By Steve Green
Youth athletes celebrating together Spotting a bald eagle in flight
Carryout for lunch the next day
A Sunday of church and football The Berlin Bubble Project
Netflix’s “All The Light We Cannot See”
The initial snugness of jeans after a wash When a quick text will do
Having dress shoes for years
A speech that brings goose bumps
When all the Halloween stuff is away
The worst motel fire in Ocean City’s history took place on June 12, 1988 at the Beachcomber Motel on 12th Street and Edgewater Avenue. It was Senior Week and the motel was full of high school and college kids. In those days sprinklers were not required in buildings under five stories tall; the Beachcomber was only three stories high and not sprinklered. The alarm came in at 3:19 a.m. and first arriving firefighters found fire shooting from windows on the third floor and moving fast. People were trapped and began jumping into a trash dumpster below. One man dropped his one-yearold baby, which was rescued by a police officer. The baby was safe, but the father jumped and hit the side of the dumpster. He was flown to Shock Trauma in Baltimore with serious injuries. Two girls died in the fire while 14 others suffered serious injuries. Most of the occupants escaped with just the clothes they were wearing. The fire was labeled suspicious – there was talk that kids had been “fireballing” (spitting high proof alcohol on an open flame), but that was never proven. No one was ever charged and the case remains unsolved today. To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. File Photo
Tree Lighting On Tap For Nov. 24
November 17, 2023
BY CHARLENE SHARPE
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
BERLIN – More than 30 ice sculptures will line the streets of Berlin as the town kicks off the holiday season with a tree lighting next week. On Friday, Nov. 24, the town will host Ice Ice Berlin, its annual holiday tree lighting and celebration of ice sculptures. Residents and visitors are invited to stroll the town’s streets to shop, eat and enjoy the evening. “The annual town tree lighting event is a magical celebration that brings our community together,” said Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director. As it has for many years, the town will launch the holiday shopping season on Black Friday with Ice Ice Berlin. This year’s event will feature 34 ice sculptures, sponsored by local businesses, that will line downtown streets. Sculptures will be set up on Main Street, Pitts Street and Commerce Street. A special sculpture, at the intersection of Main Street and Broad Street, will honor the memory of Erik Cantine, the ice carver that showcased his skill at the event for years. Wells said he played a key role in making the event what it is today. “This event would’ve never happened without his vision,” she said. While the event begins at 5 p.m., Wells said the actual tree lighting is set for 6 p.m. Officials are hopeful that after seeing the tree pulled into town by a team of horses this week, people will be eager to see it fully decorated and lit on Nov. 24. “OC Pipes and Drums will be performing and the mayor will be on the hotel balcony at 6 to light the tree,” Wells said. Visitors will be able to enjoy food throughout the event from the town’s restaurants as well as from two food trucks, The Street Kitchen and Sessa’s. Kids have the chance to see Santa at Kringle Kottage, which will be set up on Artisan’s Green, the space next to Honeywater Candles and HOUSE. Shops will be open late as merchants hope for a successful start to the holiday shopping season. Ryan Nellans, executive director of the Berlin Chamber of Commerce, said both Friday and Saturday were key days for the town’s shops. “We’re looking forward to the tree lighting, of course, but as for Berlin’s economic engine we are all eyeing the real prize on Small Business Saturday,” Nellans said. “It’s a special time here because Berlin – and Worcester County – is at the heart of the small business capital of Maryland. We’re proud to boast more businesses per capita than any other county in the state. The variety and quality of what you can do and buy here in Berlin speaks to the phenomenal drive and passion that our residents and business community bring to the table.”
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
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November 17, 2023
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Worcester Preparatory School hosted the grandparents and guests of lower school students for a special day on campus last month. The day began with coffee and refreshments, followed by a "We Can All Be Superheroes" themed performance by each grade. The students then met their grandparents and special guests in the Field House to present their projects followed by a tour of the newly renovated Children’s Garden. Singing about kindness were prekindergarten students Priyansh Patel, Cayman Wang, Brooklyn Tunis, Bella Baker, John Showell and Charlie Tyndall. Below, siblings Remy, Parker, and Landon Moreland are pictured with their grandparents, Karyn and Ken Moreland and Beth and John Sharpley.
November 17, 2023
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… Berlin Officials Talk Trash Fees, Parking Solutions
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
FROM PAGE 12 ities in that regard. Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols said that if a parking fund was created to benefit the entire downtown area, all the businesses downtown should contribute to it. Bohlen said another issue to consider was whether the fee being discussed would be levied on landlords of apart-
ments in the downtown commercial district. “I think we need a later discussion,” Engelhart said. Bohlen agreed staff would review it further but noted a consultant might be needed as well. Councilman Dean Burrell said he had questions about commercial trash rates
included in the fee schedule. Public Works Director Jimmy Charles explained the town had five four-yard and four six-yard dumpsters used by Berlin businesses. Many businesses also have regular trash bins. “The fee is $95 if you have one can,” he said, adding that if a business had two cans it was $180 a quarter. “If you have
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three cans it’s $270 quarterly. We do 90some commercial cans per week. Along with the four- and six-yard dumpsters. We are undercharging. The residents are picking up that shortfall, subsidizing the volume that’s not being charged.” Bohlen said staff would like to see the town get out of the commercial trash business. “We are significantly undercharging,” she said. Burrell said the town should raise rates to what commercial trash hauling companies charged. Tyndall said if they did that they might lose some customers, which would force residents to subsidize the cost further. “We also have to examine the town code and make sure if we take away commercial collection we’re addressing that,” Bohlen said. “These are logistics we’re working through.” Charles said he specifically wanted to stop offering commercial dumpsters because the process was clumsy, involving a cable lifting the dumpster up. “That’s not safe,” he said, adding that the dumpsters cost thousands to replace. He said continuing to offer commercial service in the regular bins would not be an issue. Bohlen said another issue to consider was that in eliminating commercial service the town didn’t want to encourage improper disposal of trash. She said the town could make shops show proof of a trash contract when they applied for a business license. “Part of what we want to discourage is people dumping things,” she said. Burrell said he felt the town should increase the costs for the bins if the town was undercharging. When asked for her perspective, Economic and Community Development Director Ivy Wells said she didn’t think the town needed to offer commercial dumpsters. She said businesses could work together or with the chamber of commerce to consolidate trash in a few fenced-in areas. She noted that while merchants might have to walk a little farther it would look better. Councilmembers agreed that if they were in agreement with terminating the dumpster service on July 1, those fees should not be increased now. “We need to look at the price of the little green cans,” Burrell said. Another issue discussed was the fact that when residents purchased a can, it cost $100. Each additional can also costs $100. “You buy the can but we don’t charge for the volume of that can,” Charles said. He added that most municipalities charged for trash service. Bohlen said the trash costs were included in the town code and would need to be addressed. “How about we work on the rest of what we’ve got here, knowing we’re going to talk about this again,” she said. The council agreed to continue trash and parking discussions in the future. They passed a motion, however, to approve the updated fee schedule with a long-term rental fee of $75 a year and elimination of the commercial dumpster service beginning July 1.
November 17, 2023
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Dolores Stearn Neuland OCEAN PINES – Dolores Stearn Neuland (aka Dodie/Dee/GaMa), age 86, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023, at Bay Health Hospital in Dover, Del. Born in Washington, DC, she was the daughter of the late Herbert Preston Stearn and Veola Frances Jones. Dee grew up in historic Potomac, Md. with DOLORES her parents, grandparNEULAND ents and sister Joanie. They lived right in the heart of town. Her grandparents (Grammy and Poppy) ran the local general store in Potomac for many years. Music was always a passion for Dee as many in her family sang in the choir at Potomac United Methodist Church, which the Stearn family was founding members of. This love of music followed her to Ocean Pines where she was a member of the choir at St. John Neumann and sang with the Pine Tones Chorus of Ocean Pines.
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
OBITUARIES Her love of sports came from her father who was a lifelong Washington football fan, and she loved attending games with him. She passed this love of sports onto all her daughters and grandchildren, several of whom played sports in college. She was quite proud of this. Dee raised her four daughters in College Park with the help of her close-knit family. It was at this time that she became immersed in tennis as she was already a wicked ping-pong player. When her daughters were older, she began her next chapter of life with her second husband, Fran. His love of sailing brought to her a new passion for life on and near the water. They spent many years sailing the waters all around the Chesapeake and beyond. Once retired, Dee and Fran settled in Kinsale, Va. on the water and sailed on their boat “Otiose” as much as they could.
When Fran passed, Dee decided to move back to Maryland and landed in Ocean Pines following her little sister Joanie. In Ocean Pines her tennis, paddle and anything with a racquet really took off and any day on the court, win or lose, was a great day for Dee. Dee's greatest love was spending time with her family, whether at the beach, at the ballpark, at a swim meet, dance recital, lacrosse game, or traveling with them wherever they went. Those who will treasure their memories of her most are her sister, Joan Stearn; her four daughters, Deborah Adler, Constance Safford (Keith), Angele Valentine (Ronald), and Janelle Foster (Kevin); grandchildren Sarah (Sean), Janelle (Gabriel), Ryan, Julia, Magdalena, and Christina; and four great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was
November 17, 2023 preceded in death by her husband, Francis Neuland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at 1 p.m. at St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Ocean Pines. Interment will be held on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Washington, DC. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. John Neumann Choir or the Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School at St. John Neumann. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.
Garrett Lee German CHURCH HILL – Garrett Lee German of Church Hill passed away Nov. 8, 2023. He was 91 years old. Mr. German was born in Baltimore on Sept. 16, 1932, the son of the late William Ferdinand and Fleetwood Elizabeth German. After graduating high school, he attended GARRETT GERMAN Johns Hopkins University in the Electrical Engineering program. On Jan. 26, 1952, he married his childhood sweetheart, Rena Cecilia German, who preceded him in death in 2011. The couple lived in Baltimore, where Mr. German founded and operated Garrett Electric in 1960 and was a 60-year member of Washington Lodge #3 and the Scottish Rite of Baltimore County. In 1975, he and his family moved to Kent Island, where he operated Garrett GerSEE NEXT PAGE
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November 17, 2023
BERLIN – A special engraved paver will be dedicated in honor of Mike Beatty on Wednesday, Nov. 22 at 2 p.m. at the Worcester County Veterans Memorial in Ocean Pines. Beatty, known as DJ Batman in the Ocean City area for more than 40 years, will be noted for his service in the United States Air Force from 1967 to 1970. The public is invited to join friends and family in celebrating Beatty’s service. In the Air Force, Beatty was an administrative of special actions and performed as a DJ for the Armed Forces RaMIKE BEATTY dio Network. One of Beatty’s proudest life moments was when he was asked to deliver the keynote speech act in Worcester County Veterans Memorial on Memorial Day in 2015.
... OBITUARIES man & Sons Electrical Contracting until his retirement in 1993, creating a foundation for his family. In 1997, he and his wife moved to Ocean City where they greatly enjoyed the beach and the friends that became extended family. He moved back to Queen Anne’s County in 2021 where he enjoyed hunting, being a part of his community, and was a self-proclaimed political analyst. He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Rena German; a grandson, Michael Schwink; and son-in-law, Glenn Schwink. He is survived by his children, Theresa Coughlin (Paul) of Ocean City, Patricia Schwink of Stevensville, Garrett German, Jr. of Cambridge and Clark German (Tina) of Centreville; grandchildren Eric Maier, David Maier, Christopher Schwink, Tyler German and Kallie German; and great-grandchildren Aiden Maier, Audria Maier, Kai Maier, Noah Maier, Addison Maier, Ava Maier, and Sadie Schwink. A celebration of life will be held at a later date, to be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Centreville Masonic Lodge #180 at P.O. Box 263, Centreville, Md. 21617.
Vincent J. Smolinski SELBYVILLE – Vincent J. Smolinski, age 79, of Selbyville, Del., formerly of Baltimore, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023, at his home. Vince was a retired Baltimore County Police Officer. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Barbara (White) Smolinski; a sister, Ruth Riebel and her family of Florida; his four-legged companion Max; and family in Maryland and Delaware. His life was more than these words and he will be loved and remembered by all who knew him. Services are private. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com.
The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Page 55
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Call 410-641-1434 Worcester County Lic. #M917 • Maryland Lic. # 3506
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
November 17, 2023
Letters To The Editor Public Decency At Issue Editor: I read Editor Steve Green’s missive on the flag controversy and the First Amendment. Sometimes, we must cut through the nonsense and simply speak our intuitive truth. Some Supreme Court justices have done this. For example, said one referring to a totally unfettered First Amendment, "You cannot falsely yell 'Fire!' in a crowded movie house." Which prompted Woody Allen to ponder, "Can we yell 'Movie' in a crowded firehouse? Another Justice observed, "I can't define pornography, but I know it when I see it." Both of these comments have the ring of truth. The Trump flag controversy does not. And like the justices, the problem isn't easily solved with the law.
But it is solved by resorting to public decency, good taste and good manners – more informal but necessary social emollients. Steve, I know as you continue to raise your public profile, you seek a diplomatic path. That's understandable. But, this is about a subject, the preservation of American and global democracy, that is vital to so many facets of our already sadly eroded culture. If I lie in bed wondering if my moral "cooperation" is destined to be overwhelmed by my accommodation of themes and forces that are ultimately destructive, the next day I must change my gameplan. If I want to sleep or especially to me, like Serpico the cop, after he was shot in the face and permanently maimed, and a reporter asked him "Why did you report New York City Police corruption
when you knew many of the police around you warned you you'd be killed?" "Because," said Serpico, "I'd never be able to enjoy listening to music again." Bob Carr Willards
Developer’s Intentions Matter Editor: Isn’t it time for Mr. Todd Burbage to come clean and tell us what he intends to do with his Ayres Creek property if he gets the site reclassified to permit more intensive development? On Oct. 30, as a panel from the Maryland Critical Area Commission prepared to meet in Snow Hill to gather public comments about removing the conservation protections for a 9-acre piece of his nearly 100-acre property, Mr. Burbage was whining in an email that no one has asked him what his plans are if the
change is improved. The whining is unfounded. We’ve asked repeatedly. The County Commissioners sitting at the time the reclassification proposal was initially considered declined to ask, even suggesting Mr. Burbage was not required to disclose any more than he wanted. They agreed he should be free of restraints limiting the use and development of the property. The restrictions were approved by a different County Commission in 2002, long before Mr. Burbage speculated he could get the conservation restrictions changed and bought the bankrupt former golf course. At the Snow Hill hearing, Mr. Burbage’s attorney continued his efforts to massage the fact the County Commissioners in 2002 correctly agreed to designate the golf course property as a conservation area, deserving protection to help ease degradation of Ayres Creek and Newport Bay. The critical areas law grandfathered operating golf courses, including the golf club and other facilities, but Mr. Burbage’s attorney continues to obscure that fact citing what could be built under today’s regulations. What also is being glossed over is that the change being requested would open the door to a commercial zoning change Mr. Burbage’s attorney already told the County Commissioners he would seek. With the reclassification, Mr. Burbage would not be limited to building one unit per 20 acres. On the 9-acres he wants reclassified, he could build 4 units per acre. With the right zoning change, at least 36 of Mr. Burbage’s cozy cabins could be wheeled onto the site. Perhaps more if the County planners agree to call them “accessory” buildings, as they already have done on other portions of Mr. Burbage’s property. Hugh T. Cropper IV, Mr. Burbage’s attorney, testified during the October 30 hearing that he doesn’t think the residents of South Point understand they live in an area that has the same development potential as Mr. Burbage’s proposed reclassification. We do understand. And even though the County planners don’t like our estate zoning, we do. Estate zoning protects our natural areas that filter stormwater and provide habitat for wildlife. We also understand that Mr. Burbage will need to get the County to approve extending the sewer from Frontier Town or a new Lewis Road connection so he can develop the Ayres Creek property more intensely. Mr. Burbage’s earlier proposal to put 300 campsites on the property failed miserably. But with a little help from his friends on the County Planning Commission, I wouldn’t rule out that Mr. Burbage plans to put a cozy cabin development like Shore Point on the southern gateway to the national seashore. With sewer, maybe even Royal Farms will come along and propose locating at the Assateague Road intersection when the new traffic light is installed. Only Mr. Burbage knows. Stephen Katsanos South Point
November 17, 2023
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 PHONE: 410-641-4561 FAX: 410-641-0966 ONLINE WEBSITES: mdcoastdispatch.com facebook.com/thedispatchoc twitter.com/thedispatchocmd instagram.com/thedispatchocmd J. STEVEN GREEN Publisher/Editor editor@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 Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Special Events A Clear Focus For OC How We See It
Special events are proven economic drivers, and Ocean City tourism officials appear all in on the concept of the more the merrier. The slippery slope is ensuring quality events geared toward economics are the focus rather than simply stacking the calendar with small, insignificant events. It appears at this point in Ocean City tourism officials are open to consider all special event concepts, preferring to think large scale. This approach is laudable. We see value in securing diverse events aimed at attracting visitors at times of the year when they are needed to sustain the economy and fill in gaps in the calendar. At this week’s Tourism Commission meeting, Ocean City Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo told members the city is “at a crossroads” and wants to expand the events landscape. It’s one of the reasons a monster truck event is being proposed for mid-October in between Oceans Calling and Sunfest. He said, “… what I’m saying to you all is if you’ve got an idea for an event you’d like to see, send it our way, because we’re going to make a larger effort in the next three or four months to recruit those events, whether it’s sports, convention center business, six more Oceans Callings, whatever it may be.” Special events are major economic development initiatives in the shoulder months for Ocean City and surrounding areas. There are some weekends when business sales are contingent on special events. The cheerleading competitions in Ocean City in February and March are excellent examples of the types of events the resort needs to grow. The inclement winter weather does not matter, and these competitions involve hundreds of teams from areas all over. In some cases, it’s an introduction to Ocean City that could extend for generations. The hotels and restaurants that are open benefit greatly from the gathering. The approach to examine all special event concepts is a good one. At one point during this week’s conversation, there was talk about buying “marsh mats,” which provide stable surfaces on soft ground. Some of the mats were used during the music festival to provide stable walking areas. When connected over a broad area, the mats provide essentially a roadway. It seems Ocean City is mulling the purchase of these for the beach for major events to free up the Inlet parking lot and eliminate the loss of parking revenue during events like BikeFest. This makes practical and fiscal sense. We like the concept of thinking big because Ocean City learned during the fall music festival it can handle going outside the comfort zone.
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Between The Lines by Publisher/Editor Steve Green Parking is big bucks in Ocean City, as an average of $6 million in revenue is generated annually from paid parking at municipal lots and streets in the downtown area. It seems Ocean City thinks the revenue should be much higher with some comments this week about missed dollars in recent summers. It was predicted net parking revenue could increase an average of $120,000 per year over current levels with a new parking division after a neutral first year due to associated costs with hiring a new administrator and enforcement staff. The key to the revenue spike seems to be enhanced enforcement, according to city officials. During a presentation this week at City Hall, a consultant said the resort’s paid parking space occupancy rate is far lower than industry norms. It was said the occupancy revenue should be 55% and Ocean City’s last summer was 46%. It seems people are using the street and lot spaces without paying for the use at the kiosks. Enforcement is a problem because there’s a need for personnel to monitor the vehicles in the spots. It was also reported revenue from fines had fallen 67%, from $120,000 to $40,000 last season. Creating a new parking division seems wise for what’s a $6 million line item, but it’s unfortunate it comes with an estimated $600,000 in new expenses to the resort in the form of a full-time parking manager and parttime enforcement officers. The phrase, “it takes money to make money” applies here. As Public Works Director Hal Adkins put it, “You’ve got a $6 million revenue source, call it a ship floating out in the ocean, and nobody is steering it … I think there’s a great potential here for growth, control and management.” Councilmember Carol Proctor added, “I think we’re leaving a lot more on the table then we think we are. I think by putting this division together we’re going to be able to make the sound decisions we need to make as a council. Before we add paid parking throughout town, we really need to know what we have and what we need to do with what we have.” Back in 2019, there were 698 bonfire permits issued for the Ocean City beach. A huge spike was recorded during the pandemic, hitting a peak of 3,557 during fiscal year 2022. The pace has leveled off in recent years with 3,416 permits issued in fiscal year 2023 and 3,245 in the current fiscal year. Nonetheless, the growth is astounding. Last fiscal year the revenue from beach bonfires was nearly $260,000, compared to $59,000 in fiscal year 2020. It’s going to decline this fiscal year, but it remains an impressive program. As a reminder, I am a member of the Berlin Town Council. The Town of Berlin is at a critical juncture when it comes to cleaning up the former poultry processing buildings located at Heron Park. The Request For Proposal for demolition work approved by the council this week will soon be available for bidders to review and submit estimates for the work. A bright spot in the years since Berlin acquired the former Tyson chicken plant property was the securing in late 2021 of a $500,000 grant from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development that must be executed by June of 2024. Of the $500,000, there will be about $450,000 available for demolition work with the remainder going to the engineering evaluations and project work to get to this point. At this point, it appears the town should be able to demolish the two areas in the worst shape. The consultant ranked the buildings in terms of one through eight with the larger number being the best buildings. The two best buidings are those along Old Ocean City Boulevard which housed Tyson offices and a cafeteria at one time. Buildings one and two must go for safety, and the consultant said this week building three along the railroad track should also go. The town will know more once the bids come back but it’s important to know a part of this process is also securing the buildings once demolition takes place. The town wants to make sure whatever buildings are left remain structurally safe as well as are secured from public access, which has been available for many years. The consultant broke the bid up into two pieces. The base bid will involve demolishing the unsafe two buildings and related site work. The “Add Alternate” aspect will be for demolishing the third building and cleaning up the interior of the remaining buildings. When asked this week, the consultant seemed confident the town could knock down the worst three areas with the remaining amount of the demo grant, but I am concerned because it’s broken out by base bid and add alternate. At this point, the town is rightly so focused on the demolition effort and then it will be up to the Mayor & Council on next steps – whether to form a committee to debate and discuss future uses, issue another RFP for sale/redevelopment from prospective developers or retain it. My biggest question at this point will be answered soon. If the successful demo bid can only take down the two weakest structures and part of the third building, the town will have a decision to make on funding. I will not vote for spending any more money on demolishing structures and improving the site beyond the demo funds. The town is already paying $200,000 in debt service each year owning this property. Time will tell but the hope is the demo grant will be able to accomplish knocking down the three buildings, cleaning up the exterior areas and securing the parcel. Then the question is, what’s next?
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
Puzzle Answers
P
November 17, 2023
The Adventures of Fatherhood
by Steve Green
PUZZLE ON PAGE 47
St. Paul’s
Episcopal Church 3 Church Street Berlin MD 410~641~4066
JOIN US FOR SUNDAY WORSHIP In Person Services 8:30 a.m. (no music) 10:30 a.m. (with music) With Livestream On Our Facebook Page St. Paul’s Episcopal Church - Berlin, MD www.stpaulsberlin.org
rocessing something significant can be challenging for all of us. For a teenager like Beckett, who was adopted at birth by us in Pennsylvania, last Saturday was a milestone moment in his life. He had the opportunity to meet for the first time his biological half-sister. He and Brittany (for the sake of this space) connected on Instagram after Beckett shared a photo from the Oceans Calling Festival. Beckett, 15, and Brittany, 19, share the same birth mother. Though she doesn’t remember, we met Brittany back in 2008 when Beckett was born at the hospital in Pennsylvania. When the two connected online last month, we learned Beckett’s biological mother had passed six years ago unexpectedly from a brain aneurysm. This was a hard hit for all of us because we will forever admire, respect and appreciate Tonya (again an alias). It was equally disheartening to learn Brittany was not raised by her mother due to her ongoing battle with addiction. Though it was certainly out of the blue at the time, Pam and I were happy to hear Brittany had reached out. Beckett has always known his adoption story and is comfortable talking about it. It’s a huge part of his life story. As he’s gotten older, his curiosity about his biological roots have understandably grown. Soon after connecting, we started making plans to get Beckett and his sister together, ultimately deciding to meet as a family near her college. Beckett was nervous about the lunch, and Brittany acknowledged the same feelings. We admitted to Beckett having our own anxiety as well. We just reminded him be yourself. We arrived first to the restaurant and got a table. Pam and Beckett remained out front to meet her, while Carson and I stayed at the table to not overwhelm.
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As they were waiting in the foyer, Beckett said to Pam, “I am so nervous, I just don’t want to say anything to mess this up.” It was a rare and charming display of vulnerability. As only a mom can, Pam provided support and assurance. I was so glad Pam thought to video the first embrace Brittany and Beckett shared in the restaurant lobby. It was incredibly memorable and special to observe this interaction. I still can’t watch the video without tearing up over the relief and sincerity in the connection. We learned a lot about Brittany’s life during our lunch. She has overcome a tremendous amount and was raised by her grandparents. It would be unfair to share her life story’s details, but it’s impressive she is enrolled in college after withstanding a lot in her 19 years. There were moments during lunch when I could not help but stare at Beckett and Brittany as we talked. The resemblance was obvious, as both share light complexion, light eyes, similar smiles and the same facial features. After lunch, Beckett and Brittany walked around the mall together without us. Since Pam had a burning desire to shop, Carson and I spent 40 minutes touching every single iPad and device in the Apple store. After that fourth request to help from a service person, we opted to move along to the Tesla store. We briefly walked into the store, and I took a picture of Carson next to the latest and greatest model. Within hours, I got an email from Tesla thanking me for visiting. This notification came without me having one conversation in the store. After a couple hours, we all headed in our opposite directions. On the way home, we didn’t talk a ton about the experience. Beckett clearly was excited but not anxious to dive deep into anything. Later in the night before bed, I
checked on him. He said, “I am not sure I have even processed all this yet.” I assured him we were right there with him. It’s impossible to digest the magnitude of the day in hours. When major things happen in life, perspective can be tough to find. When I am at these sorts of strange places, I write. For Beckett, he said he was fine and was just letting it all sink in. I have no idea what’s next for these two siblings, but we will support the relationship in whatever fashion it takes. We are excited for future opportunities. We left our gathering saying we would see her soon. I think Beckett was happy with that because it's all so new. They communicate through social media regularly and Pam and I are happy about their new connection. On a deeper level, I am excited for Beckett to have another family member on his team. There’s a new relationship in his life and it’s exciting. If she can be of support to him and him to her, it will be a beautiful thing. On an even deeper level, Beckett has long wished for a neurotypical sibling. During tough stints with his Autistic little brother, he has clearly articulated his wish for a different reality. Beckett’s biting comments have been painful to hear at certain times, but the raw honesty is appreciated. Beckett loves his little brother, but life is not easy. He has missed out on many typical sibling experiences. There’s a forever bond and Beckett has an innate sense and desire to protect his special needs brother. It’s magical in that way, but it’s been difficult for Beckett. The fact he now has a sister to bond with is significant on many levels. I don’t think he has even looked at it through this lens yet or maybe he has. (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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November 17, 2023
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch
November 17, 2023