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Season’s Splendor: The changing of the seasons was on full display at the South Gate pond in Ocean Pines last week.

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Snow Hill Officials Sell Riverboat

Buckingham School Effort Continues

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Mailloux Requests Appeals Court Uphold Dismissal

Page 4

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – The Office of the Public Defender is requesting the state’s appeals court uphold the lower court’s decision to dismiss charges against Tyler Mailloux.

Last Friday, the Office of the Public Defender filed its brief with the Appellate Court of Maryland on behalf of Mailloux, a local man who was charged earlier this year in the hit-and-run death of 14-yearold Gavin Knupp. In their filing, Public Defender Natasha Dartigue and Assistant Public Defender Celia Anderson Davis argued the Worcester County Circuit Court was correct in dismissing Mailloux’s charges at an Aug. 18 motions hearing.

“Mr. Mailloux’s view is that the court below properly determined that the charges

filed fell with in the ‘exclusive original jurisdiction’ of the District Court as defined in the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, Section 4-301 …,” the appellee brief reads. “Given Maryland’s two-tiered trial court system, there could have been concurrent jurisdiction for trial of the misdemeanors and felonies charged, but not for charging them.”

During a motions hearing in August, Judge Brett Wilson granted a motion to dismiss the case against Mailloux in Worcester County Circuit Court over lack of jurisdiction, although he noted that charges could be refiled in district court. Immediately following the ruling, the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office filed a notice to appeal.

“We appealed the judge’s decision in the Mailloux case because we think it is incorrect … and we believe the circuit

court is the most appropriate court to hear the case,” Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser said earlier this month. “We have always charged these types of offenses in the circuit court, and have continued to do so since the judge’s decision in Mailloux was handed down.”

In April, 17 traffic charges – including failure to immediately stop at the scene of an accident involving bodily injury and failure to immediately stop a vehicle at the scene of an accident involving death – were filed against Mailloux, 23, of Berlin, in the death of Knupp last July.

Knupp, 14, was struck and killed by an unidentified motorist in a black Mercedes while crossing Greys Corner Road on July 11, 2022. Knupp was returning to a vehicle driven by his older sister and died from injuries sustained in the collision.

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not return, according to charges filed. Six days after the incident, the Mercedes identified as the vehicle in the collision was seized from a local home.

In circuit court this summer, Mailloux’s attorney, George Psoras, presented 12 motions for the court’s consideration, including a motion to dismiss for lack of jurisdiction. While he argued the district court had jurisdiction over the traffic charges filed in his client’s case, the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office argued state statute provided exceptions allowing the case to be tried in circuit court.

The circuit court judge ultimately ruled in favor of the motion to dismiss, and the case was appealed to the Appellate Court of Maryland.

When the Office of the Attorney General filed its brief with the appellate court last month, it set in motion a 30-day window for Mailloux and his attorney to respond. In the appellee brief filed last Friday, the Office of the Public Defender argued the state misconstrued the relevant statutes that it claimed gave both the district and circuit courts concurrent jurisdiction over all charges filed in the case. The appellee opined that the “plain language” of the statute indicates charges in the case should have been filed in district court.

“Under Maryland’s two-tiered trial court system, the circuit court could have properly obtained jurisdiction over the charges in this case if the criminal information had first been filed in the District Court … ,” the brief reads.

The Office of the Public Defender added that the state did not meet the exceptions that allowed the case to be tried in circuit court.

“An offense may be tried in the circuit court on a criminal information under section (c) of this Rule if a defendant requests or consents in writing to being charged by information or if a defendant prays a jury trial from the District Court,” the brief reads. “Neither of these two things had happened in this case before the August 18, 2023 hearing. The trial judge below properly concluded that the charges should have been filed in District Court.”

The Office of the Public Defender said the state’s decision to file charges in circuit court deprived Mailloux of his right to choose where and how he would be tried.

“It also interfered with Mr. Mailloux’s Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution and Article 24 of the Maryland Declaration of Rights,” the brief reads.

The appellee asked that the Appellate Court of Maryland hear oral arguments and uphold the circuit court’s decision to dismiss the charges.

“The prosecutor should have filed the criminal information in this case in the District Court,” the brief reads. “The trial judge properly recognized this and correctly granted defense counsel’s motion to dismiss based on lack of jurisdiction.

For the foregoing reasons, Mr. Mailloux respectfully requests that this Court affirm the judgement of the court below.”

With both briefs now filed, the Appellate Court of Maryland will review the case and schedule oral arguments before issuing a written decision.

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Chamber To Change Name; Officials Voice Concerns Page 6

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – The Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce will be changing its name to the Worcester County Chamber of Commerce.

Kerrie Bunting, president and CEO of the Ocean Pines Chamber, confirmed this week that the chamber was changing its name. She said the new moniker would better reflect what the organization did and would help strengthen Worcester County.

“We’re simply trying to provide unity and economic support for the entire region,” she said. “Our hopes are that we can have a collaborative partnership with the other chambers moving forward.”

Bunting advised chamber partners with an email last week that the Ocean Pines Chamber would be changing its name. In

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an interview this week, Bunting said the change was being made for a variety of reasons.

“We are already providing support for many regional businesses and nonprofits,” she said. “The name, Ocean Pines, gets confusing if I’m talking to a business in Snow Hill or Princess Anne. The name change goes with what we’re already doing. When the chamber was founded in 1975 it was a lot different. Ocean Pines was just a baby. There were maybe three or four businesses within the Pines. It has changed so much. Racetrack Road has run into West Ocean City and Berlin.

We’re no longer just focused on Ocean Pines businesses anyway because of the economic growth our area has witnessed.”

She said the chamber’s board started considering the idea of a name change in

April. Chamber officials talked about the idea with other chambers and Bunting said its “most active” business partners were surveyed. The chamber also worked with the Small Business Development Center on a business plan. After months of planning and research, the board unanimously approved the name change.

“We’re a nonprofit governed by a board of directors,” she said. “This is not the Kerrie show, this is an organization led by 15 people who formulated this and thought it through.”

She said that beginning in January, the chamber would host open houses throughout the county to introduce itself to interested parties.

“We’re slowly rolling it out,” she said.

“We look forward to working with other chambers as well as communities. We’re hoping to provide support at community

November 24, 2023

events that can help boost tourism as well as economic stimulus,” she said.

Bunting said the chamber had already applied to the state for an amendment to its articles of incorporation for the name change.

“We’re waiting on that to come back,” she said. “That’ll make it legally correct.”

Bunting stressed that the chamber would continue to provide its services and family friendly events in Ocean Pines.

“We remain dedicated to supporting the Ocean Pines community and all of its businesses,” she said. “We’ll still be located in our current office.”

Nevertheless, community members expressed concern about the chamber’s plans this week. Commissioner Chip Bertino, a Pines business owner and past president of the chamber, said he was surprised by the new name.

“I’m also saddened because the businesses that cater to the Ocean Pines community have lost their identity,” he said. “Although I believe the chamber board has the best of intentions, I’m very concerned it’s going to be perceived negatively by other chambers.”

Lisa Taylor of the Pocomoke Chamber of Commerce said the chamber had no comment. Ryan Nellans, executive director of the Berlin Chamber of Commerce, expressed mixed feelings about the name change.

“I think that having a place for county chambers and businesses to speak with a unified voice could only be to our benefit when vying for resources in Annapolis,” he said. “It seems that the Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce Board felt they were in a position to do the speaking. Despite their assurances, I’m concerned for the inherent competition between Ocean Pines and the Snow Hill and Pocomoke chambers. I have to think they would otherwise be in a position to flourish with the scope of growth predicted in the Wallops corridor.”

Bertino said he felt the name change could confuse people who would think the chamber was associated with Worcester County’s economic development and tourism programs. Amy Thompson, executive director of the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, said she wasn’t sure what the Pines chamber would be doing that Worcester County wasn’t already doing.

She said that was one of several questions she’d shared with Bunting in the spring.

“There are a lot of unknowns,” she said. “I’m still not clear on the answers to those questions.”

Thompson, a past board member at the Ocean Pines Chamber, said the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce was in the midst of strategic planning.

“We approach any change by building consensus, moving forward methodically and with intention,” she said, adding that as far as she was aware the Ocean Pines Chamber had only had one conversation with stakeholders about the change. “If the intention was to bridge the north and south ends of the county, that’s what Maryland’s Coast already does.”

Police Commission Vote Questioned

November 24, 2023

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Officials this week agreed to hold a work session regarding a local developer’s request to place bike racks on Upshur Lane.

Councilman John Gehrig told the Mayor and Council Monday he wanted more information on a recent Ocean City Police Commission meeting, during which a request to replace parking and loading zonings along the north side of Upshur Lane with bike racks failed in a 2-2 vote. He requested the council discuss the issue at an upcoming work session.

“I’m not saying I’m taking either side.

I’d just like to hear the debate,” he said.

“It seems like we have staff saying it’s OK. We have two people who agreed, two people who disagreed. It sounds like something I’d like to hear on both sides.”

Earlier this month, LUX QOZP Properties LLC Principal Mike Ramadan came before the police commission with a request to replace parking and loading zonings along the north side of Upshur Lane with bike racks. He said the installation of bike racks would complement the former Phillips Crab House property, located just north of Upshur, where he plans to develop workforce housing.

As part of that project, required parking would be placed across the street, adjacent to the Islander Motel. Ramadan told commission members this month 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.”

After further discussion, the commission voted 2-2, with Councilman Frank Knight and Council President Matt James in favor and Councilman Peter Buas and Mayor Rick Meehan opposed, and the request failed. Those in opposition took issue with the developer using public right-of-way for bike parking when he had leased property to the north on which he could place the racks.

On Monday, the Mayor and Council

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had before them a consent agenda, which acknowledged the reports of several standing committees, including the police commission. Gehrig said he wanted to talk about the portion of the meeting minutes that highlighted Ramadan’s request.

“If we have workforce housing and we’re not approving a bike rack that it seems like staff all said was totally fine, that we didn’t need that space … then I think I’d at least like to hear the debate,” he said.

For his part, Buas said he wasn’t opposed to bike racks, but rather the location.

“It was more of a policy point,” he said, “not putting them on the street when they could be somewhere else.”

City Manager Terry McGean noted that the developer had acquired the former Phillips Crab House property, as well as a long-term lease for the property just north of the old restaurant. He said the commission had asked Ramadan why he couldn’t place the bike racks at that location.

“He claims he cannot because of restrictions from his landlord,” he told the council Monday. “It was a little confusing in his presentation what exactly that meant.”

Meehan said he had opposed the request because he believed other locations should be considered first. He also noted that while the developer intends to put workforce housing on the site, plans could change.

“They did not take advantage of the workforce housing section of the code that we passed in order to accommodate and encourage builders to build workforce housing,” he explained. “Not to hold that against him, because I didn’t, but it’s not specifically going to be workforce housing. I think he’s been clear that if he doesn’t use it or isn’t able to rent for workforce housing, he will Airbnb the property.”

After further discussion, the council agreed to add the topic to a future work session agenda.

“I’d like to reach out to the applicant,” James added. “If his request is still there, I’m fine with it. If he’s found an alternative location, there’s no need to talk about it.”

Page 7

Conditional Use For Mini Golf Course Advances To Council

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A conditional use for an 18-hole miniature golf course will advance to the Mayor and Council with a favorable recommendation.

On Tuesday, the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission voted to forward a conditional use request to the Mayor and Council with a favorable recommendation. Joe Moore, attorney for Jay Taustin of Taustin Group, said the conditional use will allow his client to construct an 18-hole miniature golf course on a portion of the Montego Bay Shopping Center site.

“It is imaginative and quite attractive,” he said.

In a public hearing Tuesday, Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy told commission members the proposed miniature golf course would be placed between Ocean

City Fire Department Station Four and the Farmers Bank of Willards, in the SC1 shopping center district. She noted the site was the former home of a gas station, which had been demolished in 2020.

“There used to be a gas station here and it was removed a couple of years ago and cleaned up,” she said. “So it is ready to be redeveloped.”

Gordy said the proposed project complemented the town’s comprehensive plan and provided another entertainment venue for residents and visitors. She also noted the shopping center had 124 surplus parking spaces to accommodate the proposed golf course, as well as a bus stop.

“It should be a nice addition to the neighborhood without any issues with parking,” she said.

Gordy said Taustin is no stranger to golf course developments. She noted the

applicant was also granted a conditional use permit in 2001 to construct a 36-hole miniature golf course in conjunction with The Embers Restaurant.

Gordy said staff recommended the commission approve the conditional use request with conditions that address lighting and noise.

“Mr. Taustin and his representatives come forward asking for you to send a favorable recommendation to the Mayor and City Council for this 18-hole miniature golf course,” she said.

During the public hearing, Lauren White of Fisher Architecture touched on project details such as vehicle and pedestrian access, lighting, noise control and more. She added that gas tanks on the property had also been removed.

Taustin told the commission the proposed golf course would operate from 9 a.m. to midnight, seven nights a week,

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throughout the season. He noted his existing golf course on 23rd Street has operated for years with no noise or lighting complaints.

“We’ve received no complaints that I’m aware of,” he said.

For his part, Blaine Smith, former zoning administrator for the Town of Ocean City, said the proposed miniature golf course was compatible with both the shopping center and nearby residential neighborhoods, including Hidden Harbor and Montego Bay. He told the commission he supported the conditional use request.

“There’s a large population that would support this type of use,” he said.

At the close of the public hearing, the commission voted 4-0, with commissioners Joel Brous, Maryellen Rosenblit and Pam Robertson absent, to approve the conditional use request with the proposed staff recommendations and to forward the request to the Mayor and Council.

The commission this week also voted to approve a preliminary subdivision plat, located at 13610 Wight Street. Gordy said developers Jeff Thaler and Ravinder Singh, principals of Dolphin Street Development of OC LLC, have proposed one, three-story duplex for the site. She noted that while the applicants had received site plan approval last year for multifamily dwelling units on the property, they had opted to take a different direction.

“They had gotten what was a total condominium approval previously, a year ago, and they have now decided to undergo a preliminary subdivision plat approval,” she said.

Gordy noted staff recommended plat approval.

“As far as this request, the planning and community development staff recommends approval of the preliminary subdivision plat as presented,” she said. “We didn’t have any irregularities that would cause it to have to move to the board of zoning appeals.”

The developer also came before the commission this week seeking site plan approval for a multifamily project at 1360 Wight Street. Gordy said the units will be created as a condominium to be known as Atlantic View.

“They are going to build these as two duplexes,” she explained. “So it’s two structures with four dwelling units.”

Architect Rick Schoellkopf told commission members Tuesday the proposed project would feature four, three-story units with three bedrooms, an unenclosed loft space and three parking spaces per unit. He noted that the project featured parking spaces rather than garages.

“I appreciate the fact you have 100% of your parking spaces actually available for parking,” Commissioner Palmer Gillis said.

Officials noted that while the project required 10 total spaces, the developer had added 12. Schoellkopf said the site plan met all code requirements.

“I think this is a pretty straightforward project,” he said. “Two duplexes on a lot that meets all the requirements of our code.”

With no further discussion, the commission voted 4-0 to approve the site plan.

Redistricting Public Hearing Planned

November 24, 2023

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – The redistricting process is moving ahead in Worcester County with a public hearing expected next month.

The Worcester County Commissioners this week voted unanimously to move forward with redistricting. While there was talk of potentially delaying the process, as candidates for the upcoming board of education election must file in February, several commissioners thought that could lead to potential problems.

“The negatives of pushing this off seem to overwhelm the positives,” Commissioner Eric Fiori said.

For the past several months, county staff have been working to review Census data and formulate updated election district maps. Jennifer Keener, director of development review and permitting, presented various map options last month. She said the districts had to be modified because of population changes throughout the county.

Keener said this week the public comment period regarding the maps had been open for four weeks and she’d received 11 comments. Two of them pertained to the maps while nine of them pertained to the timing of the process.

With that in mind, Keener said staff had created “Draft Map A” as the basis

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for the redistricting changed.

“Right now the discussion is how you want to proceed with the timing,” she said.

She said she could have the map ready for introduction at the Dec. 5 meeting of the commissioners.

Commissioners asked what that meant for the Worcester County Board of Elections, as its representatives had pointed out last month that they had a board of education filing deadline in February.

“The filing deadline is Feb. 9,” said Election Director Patricia Jackson. “That would give us a month and a half.”

While the concept of delaying redistricting was discussed, officials said there would be logistical challenges whenever it was done, as polling places could need to change.

Commissioner Chip Bertino said that if the redistricting map was introduced at the Dec. 5 meeting, a public hearing could be held at the next meeting and the map could be approved to go into effect immediately as an emergency bill.

“At least the public will know which district they are if they are thinking about running,” he said.

Bertino said he recognized that the timing would put a little more work on Jackson’s office but asked if the proposed timeline would be doable.

“We would have to make it work,” Jackson said.

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Page 9

Home Fire On Sinepuxent Road

Page 10

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 24, 2023

The Berlin Fire Company was assisted by multiple local agencies during Tuesday’s residential fire.

Photos by Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office

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BERLIN – The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office investigated a residential structure fire in Berlin Tuesday.

At 11:07 a.m., the Berlin Fire Company was alerted for a structure fire at 10723 Sinepuxent Road in Berlin near Assateague Road.

Upon arrival, crews observed smoke coming from all sides of a single-story home. Firefighters worked to quickly bring the fire under control and search for any occupants still inside. Crews then remained on scene for approximately two hours performing overhaul operations, ensuring the fire was completely extinguished.

Deputies from the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office responded to the

scene and conducted a thorough fire scene examination. The fire originated in a bedroom within the home where a single occupant was sleeping. The occupant was transported to an area hospital for minor injuries sustained while exiting the home from jumping out of a window to safety.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The residents are being assisted by the American Red Cross.

Fire Marshal Matthew Owens reminds the public working smoke alarms are an absolute necessity to alert occupants of a fire before it gets out of control. Smoke alarms should be installed in every sleeping room and on every floor of a home.

November 24, 2023

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Berlin Plan To Use Casino Revenues For LEOPS Approved

Page 12

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – The Town of Berlin will be able to use its casino revenue for police pensions following approval from a county board.

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The Worcester County Local Development Council (LDC) last week approved Berlin’s plan to use the majority of the town’s casino revenues to fund enrollment in LEOPS (the Law Enforcement Officers Pension System). The decision came after Berlin officials agreed to put in writing their

intention to gradually decrease the amount of casino revenue used to pay for LEOPS. “That way we know in good faith you’ve heard the concerns of this council,” Sen. Mary Beth Carozza said.

At the beginning of 2023, the Berlin Town Council agreed to enroll the town in

November 24, 2023

LEOPS in an effort to improve police recruitment and retention. Officials agreed to use casino revenues, which were previously used to build the new police department, to pay for LEOPS, as it will cost more than $300,000 a year.

The LDC, which reviews local jurisdictions’ casino revenue spending, asked the town to submit a multi-year spending plan this fall. The town presented that plan to the LDC last Thursday.

Mayor Zack Tyndall told the council that public safety was critical to the town and that LEOPS was crucial to ensuring the town was able to recruit and retain capable police officers. He said the town had researched casino revenue regulations and couldn’t find anything that precluded the town from using slots revenue for LEOPS. He said the town wanted to use its casino revenue to pay for LEOPS and to help set up a LEOPS stabilization fund.

Any funding not used for LEOPS would go toward apparatus replacement for the Berlin Fire Company and planning for a new community center on Flower Street.

“Support of LEOPS in the Town of Berlin has received an overwhelming stamp of approval of our citizens,” Councilman Dean Burrell said. “They’re all for providing this resource for our sworn officers.”

LDC member Matt Gordon asked how the town would handle LEOPS if something happened to the casino and that revenue stream wasn’t there.

“That’s why we have the stabilization fund,” Tyndall said. “That’s designed to buy us a little bit of time.”

Gordon said that when the casino revenue grants were allocated to jurisdictions when the casino was built, the idea was they’d help fund immediate needs. He said he wasn’t sure if LEOPS was the type of expense that was envisioned. He added that no other jurisdictions were using casino grants to fund LEOPS. “We’re treading on very thin ice here… ,” he said. “I think it’s a very dangerous precedent to set because what happens if something goes wrong?”

Burrell said when the town weighed the danger of a potential future event to the danger of not being able to retain police officers, the town felt the urgent need was supporting LEOPS to retain officers.

Cam Bunting, chair of the LDC, pointed out the town could have used general fund money to pay for LEOPS and then used the casino revenue for qualifying general fund expenses.

“It’s a lot of extra work,” Tyndall said.

Council members told the LDC they’d like to see the town rely less and less on the casino funds for LEOPS as time progressed. Councilman Jay Knerr said a few council members had already suggested that the casino revenue be used for LEOPS as well as other projects.

“That’s a discussion for down the road,” he said. “For now we felt it was important to fund LEOPS.” Councilman Steve Green said the LDC could advise the town to take that approach.

Carozza said a phased approach was reasonable and suggested the town make that clear in writing to the LDC. “How you have presented this is absolutely reasonable,” Burrell said.

Town staff said a letter to the LDC outlining the council’s intentions could be put on the next meeting agenda.

November 24, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 13

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West Street Design Work Advances Aquarium Dedicates New OC Facility

Page 14

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

neering, the town’s stormwater consultant, and had included design for stormwater work on Abbey and Westminster into the DBF proposal.

“We modified our proposal slightly to include some additional design for the stormwater management work,” he said, adding that DBF would work closely with EA Engineering throughout the process.

By working with the stormwater consultant, Taylor said DBF could be sure none of the improvements included in the design would have a negative impact on downstream conditions. When Councilman Dean Burrell asked if the improvements being designed would help with standing water, Taylor indicated they would.

“If it is on West Street this project will help with that,” he said.

As far as the stormwater improvements being worked in on Abbey and Westminster, Steven LeMasters of EA Engineering said they would involve using existing stormwater facilities that currently weren’t functioning well.

The design work, which will include surveys, easement acquisition, design and construction documents and permitting, among other aspects, is expected to cost about $98,000. The council budgeted $100,000 for the design of West Street improvements earlier this year.

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Municipal officials approved design services for major West Street improvements last week.

Last Monday, the council approved a proposal from Davis, Bowen & Friedel (DBF) for design of a multi-dimensional project for West Street. The decision was delayed last month so DBF could work stormwater improvements on nearby streets Abbey Lane and Westminster Drive into the proposal.

“With the good input we got at the last meeting we made some modifications here and stayed under the budgeted amount,” said DBF’s Josh Taylor.

Taylor initially met with the council in October to talk about a proposal for the design of multi-dimensional improvements to West Street. DBF proposed design services associated with roadway reconstruction, pedestrian facilities, a bike path and utility and infrastructure improvements for the section of West Street from Broad Street to Buckingham Lane.

The council delayed a vote on the proposal to give Taylor time to look at stormwater management issues on Abbey and Westminster and how they could be worked into the project.

Taylor returned last week and said his company had met with EA Engi-

Debbie Bennington

November 24, 2023

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Officials last week celebrated the opening of a new stranding response center in Ocean City.

Last Friday, city officials and representatives with the National Aquarium gathered at the Ocean City Municipal Complex at 65th Street to dedicate the aquarium’s new Stranding Response Center. The 400-square-foot space, dedicated to long-time volunteers Chuck and Ellen Erbe, will allow National Aquarium staff and volunteers to respond faster to reports of stranded animals on nearby beaches.

“We are grateful to Mayor Rick Meehan and his staff for making it possible to locate our new National Aquarium Stranding Response Center in the heart of Ocean City,” said Aquarium President and CEO John Racanelli. “This specially outfitted space will allow our Animal Rescue team to stabilize and begin treatment of stranded seals and sea turtles immediately, without the long drive to Baltimore. We’re honored to dedicate the new center to our beloved volunteers Chuck and Ellen Erbe.”

As the organization responsible for responding to stranded marine mammals and sea turtles along the 3,000plus miles of Maryland coast, National Aquarium Animal Rescue relies on staff and a network of volunteers to respond to reports of stranded animals through-

out the region, sometimes up to 175 miles from the aquarium’s Baltimore campus. Kate Shaffer, the aquarium’s stranding response and triage manager, said the distance from Baltimore to area beaches made response particularly challenging.

“Over the years it became more and more obvious that doing stranding response was challenging for us because most animals were stranding here in the Ocean City and Assateague area, along the Atlantic coast,” she explained. “We came to a point where we said we either need to do this a lot better or we need to let someone else do this portion of the operation.”

Following a lengthy strategic planning process, Shaffer said the National Aquarium opted to open a triage center in Ocean City. Shaffer, who served as the aquarium’s on-site rehabilitation manager, relocated from Baltimore to become the first, permanent Ocean Citybased staff member.

“Stranding response was a big part of what our program does, and we didn’t want to let it go. We wanted to commit to doing it better,” she said. “For us, that meant having a full-time presence here along the Atlantic Coast.”

Shaffer said the new triage and treatment center will allow for faster response times, which could mean the difference between life and death for stranded animals. Before making a three-hour trip SEE PAGE 42

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Riverboat Saga Ends With Town Selling For $24K

November 24, 2023

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – The Black-Eyed Susan left Snow Hill for Taylor’s Island late last week.

Slaughter Creek Marina purchased the Black-Eyed Susan, the Town of Snow Hill’s riverboat, for $24,800. The boat left its dock at Sturgis Park Nov. 15.

“It’s a bittersweet time in that so many held high hopes that the Black-Eyed Susan would be a tremendous tourist attraction and economic engine while others thought the town should never have been in the boat business at all,” Town Manager Rick Pollitt said. “Our intent now is to move forward to implement Mayor Pruitt’s agenda to shore up and improve the town’s aging infrastructure, support the police and fire departments and deliver the services people expect from town hall.”

The town purchased the Black-Eyed Susan, a 149-passenger riverboat, in 2020 with the help of a loan from Worcester County. The boat had a successful season running up and down the Pocomoke River in 2021 but a mandatory inspection in 2022, revealed that the vessel needed extensive repairs in order to resume cruises. The inspection revealed numerous repairs, estimated at $600,000, were needed. As a result, the Black-Eyed Susan was docked.

After issuing a request for proposals in September, the town received three bids for the boat. The River House Inn’s Henry Wright, interested in making the boat an entertainment venue, bid $75,000 while Bay Coastal Contracting bid $20,000 and Slaughter Creek Marina bid $24,800.

While the council awarded the bid to the River House Inn, the owners later asked to withdraw their bid.

“Once the owners investigated all the hurdles they would need to overcome, including local zoning that did not allow their proposed use, State Department of Natural Resources and Department of the Environment issues, State Critical Areas regulations and Worcester County Health Department, Liquor Licensing and Fire Marshall requirements, they felt the risks were too great to take a chance on buying the boat and not getting the needed approvals to fulfill their vision,” Pollitt said.

The council permitted Wright to withdraw his bid and the boat subsequently went to the next highest bidder, Slaughter Creek Marina of Taylor’s Island. The marina bid $24,800 for the boat and plans to dock the vessel at marina property and open a restaurant in it.

Pollitt said settlement was the beginning of last week and the boat left Snow Hill Wednesday.

Pollitt said the town would be repaying the loan from Worcester County with $25,000 a year for the next 12 years.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 24, 2023

November 24, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 17

Updated CIP Includes Buckingham Project Convention Center

Page 18

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – County officials approved a capital improvement program that includes a new Buckingham Elementary School this week.

The Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday approved the school system’s updated capital improvement program (CIP) that includes construction of a new Buckingham Elementary. The updated plan was requested by state officials as they review a prior decision regarding funding for the facility.

“We are grateful they are going to reexamine that,” Superintendent Lou Taylor said.

Though planning for a new Buckingham has been in the works for years, news that the state would not be providing funding for the project was shared

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

this fall. In the month and a half since that news was shared, local officials have been asking state officials for reconsideration.

“As you are aware, we have been working through Buckingham Elementary state funding issues with the Interagency Committee on School Construction (IAC),” Taylor wrote in a memo to the commissioners. “Following a meeting with the IAC and State Senator Mary Beth Carozza on Oct. 23, the IAC requested that we revise our FY25 CIP to include the Buckingham requests.”

IAC officials previously advised the board that because there was space in adjacent schools such as Berlin Intermediate School and Ocean City Elementary School, a new facility wasn’t needed in Berlin.

“The IAC is going to review and reconsider the status of Berlin Intermedi-

ate School as a Buckingham Elementary ‘adjacent school,’” Taylor’s memo reads.

“Should the IAC determine that Berlin Intermediate is not a Buckingham adjacent school, state funding would be available for the Buckingham project.”

Taylor presented the commissioners this week with the updated CIP that includes construction of a new Buckingham. The commissioners voted unanimously to approve the updated CIP. Taylor told them that the updated plan had to be to the state by Nov. 30 and that the IAC would be meeting Dec. 14.

Taylor expects a funding decision from the state shortly after that meeting.

“We anticipate information regarding state funding within two weeks of that hearing,” he said. “As soon as I get that information you will get that information from me.”

November 24, 2023

Bookings Change

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Officials say they will be using new criteria to book events at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center.

Last week, officials presented members of the Ocean City Tourism Commission with a review of ongoing improvements at the convention center. As the third phase of renovations proceeds, officials say they are also working to revamp bookings.

“In the last three months we have implemented new booking criteria and we’ve been slowly bringing that on,” said Kim Mueller, director of sales. “Priority is given now to the level of economic impact on the community. It’s no longer you’ve been doing business here for 20 years so you can come back and book it for years out. It’s a hard conversation, but it’s about bringing that economic impact into town.”

Roland E. Powell Convention Center Executive Director Larry Noccolino said the new booking criteria would likely impact local, consumer-level shows, such as home and garden shows. He said factors such as projected revenues and room nights are also taken into account.

“We’re not talking about the car shows or BikeFest, even though they are consumer shows,” he explained. “They drive room nights like crazy. So we’re looking at room nights first, then time of year. We’re looking at everything … It's difficult, but it has to be done.”

Noccolino said the change is one of many that are occurring at the convention center. He also highlighted the new paint, carpeting and artwork installed on the first floor of the building. He said work will continue throughout the winter months.

“We’re moving right along, and we’re really happy with the way things look so far,” he said.

For months, crews have been working on a phased project to modernize the Ocean City convention center with new paint and carpet in a color scheme that matches the town’s new branding. Officials told commission members last week that new wallpaper and simulcast screens would also be added to the Performing Arts Center.

This will give the PAC personality and create interest,” Mueller said.

She noted that the goal of the renovation was to create a visually appealing center that suited the needs of clients and community members.

“Overall, the main entrance and lobby, it’s a lot of color. It’s really fun and lighthearted,” she said. “The rest of the building is going to be a bit more monotone to allow groups to bring in their personality. And it’s a little more mature upstairs.”

Officials also highlighted the new screens located on the exterior of the convention center.

“They look fantastic,” Noccolino said.

“You can actually see them from the road.”

November 24, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 19

Work Session Set For Berlin Pay Discussion OC Council Extends

Page 20

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Municipal officials are expected to discuss a step and grade system for town staff next month.

On Dec. 11, the town will host a work session so officials can discuss plans to implement a step and grade system.

“I’m all for a work session,” Councilman Jack Orris said. “I think it’s deserving of its own time.”

In early 2023, the town hired PaypointHR to conduct a pay study. The study, which looked at things like demographics, cost of living and pay rates in similar jurisdictions, found that overall municipal employees were paid 8.5% below market.

In an effort to correct that, the town council agreed to increase salaries that were identified as low to 35% of the market rate. Elected officials at the time also committed to establishing a step and grade

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

system for all positions.

Kelsey Jensen, the town’s human resources director, told the council last week that she was recommending a work session be scheduled to discuss the proposed step and grade system. According to Jensen, PaypointHR staff advised when the pay study was being conducted that setting up a step and grade system would be the hardest part of the process. She said the company proposed a system of 16 grades with 21 steps.

“When we were looking at that the mayor indicated he wanted to see more grades just to be able to space out positions a little bit more,” Jensen said.

As a result, she proposed a system of 25 grades with 21 steps. She said the one she proposed had 5% between grades and 2.5% between steps. The one PaypointHR proposed had 7.5% between grades and 2.5% between steps.

“I’ve heard from several of you at dif-

ferent times with different recommendations,” Jensen said. “I thought maybe the easiest thing is to just get us all to talk about it at a designated time.”

Orris said he liked the idea of a work session. Councilman Steve Green agreed.

“The creation of a step and grade system merits the time,” he said. “In my mind, when the step and grade system is in place administration is dealing with that and we’re dealing with COLAs (cost-of-living adjustments).”

Green added, however, that he felt the town would struggle to fully implement every improvement identified in the study.

Councilman Dean Burrell said that officials needed to remain committed either way.

“I think as a town and being committed to our employees for the service they provide to our residents we need to be that absolute,” he said.

November 24, 2023

Cell Tower Permit

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A temporary cell tower will continue to operate on Dayton Lane until a permanent installation is approved.

Last week, the Mayor and Council had before them a request to extend a temporary building permit for a T-Mobile cellular tower located at 205 Philadelphia Avenue. Planning and Community Development Director Bill Neville said the oneyear extension will give the carrier time to finalize a permanent location on the roof of the Park Place Hotel.

“We’ve tried to work with them over the last several years by extending a temporary permit,” he told the council. “At this point, the council is the only authority that can extend or continue to extend that without that location having to go through a regular site plan approval process.”

In May of 2019, the town approved TMobile’s building permit for the installation of a temporary 95-foot-tall cell tower and associated equipment on Dayton Lane, north of 2nd Street. Since that time, however, the Mayor and Council has approved three permit extensions to allow a more permanent installation to be accomplished elsewhere in town.

Neville told the council last week that the T-Mobile’s cellular equipment was initially located on the town’s water tower.

Since the water tower was painted, the company has been looking for another permanent location.

“So in previous years they’ve indicated that they were in negotiation for a permanent location on one of our taller buildings, initially the Cambria,” he explained.

“The last time they came in to speak with council, they did look at a location on top of the Summer Semester apartment building.”

Neville noted, however, that the company is now working with Park Place Hotel. Until an agreement is reached, he said T-Mobile was requesting a fourth and final one-year extension.

“They are very far along,” he said. “We believe it’s going to be a successful negotiation to locate there.”

Council President Matt James questioned why the company couldn’t reinstall its equipment on the town’s water tower.

Neville, however, said there were concerns about the mounting system.

“I think there was a concern that that mounting system at the top of the water tower didn’t meet their industry specs for being able to go back on the top of the tower,” he replied.

While he acknowledged that other carriers currently utilized the water towers, Public Works Director Hal Adkins said many were relocating their equipment to other areas of town.

“I think we have reached the point where we now have one cellular carrier per water tower,” he said. “They have been leaving our facilities and locating at other locations, motel rooftops and things like that.”

After further discussion, the council voted unanimously to approve the one-year permit extension.

November 24, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 21

Page 22

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 24, 2023

Rape Suspect Apprehended OCEAN CITY – Three weeks after eluding extradition in Pennsylvania, a New Jersey man is in custody facing local rape and assault charges.

After an extensive investigation into an August incident in the resort, the Ocean City Police Department Major Crimes Division charged Adrian Castaneda Sanchez, 38, of Pennsville, N.J., with ADRIAN CASTANEDA two counts of first-degree SANCHEZ rape, two counts of second-degree rape, third-degree sex offense, three counts of fourth-degree sexual contact and two counts of second-degree assault. Sanchez was indicted by a Worcester County Circuit Grand Jury and a warrant for his arrest issued.

In October, detectives traveled to New Jersey to execute the arrest warrant. It was learned Castaneda Sanchez was out of town and agreed to meet with detectives on Halloween. Instead, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers arrested Sanchez at the Philadelphia International Airport attempting to board

COPS & COURTS a flight to Cancun, Mexico. Castaneda Sanchez was turned over to the Philadelphia Police Department to initiate extradition back to Maryland. However, Castaneda Sanchez was released from custody in Pennsylvania after posting $30,000 bail. Therefore, the Ocean City arrest warrant remained active.

According to Ocean City Police Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller, the Ocean City Police Department then partnered with the Maryland State Apprehension Team to locate Castaneda Sanchez. Miller reported last Friday Castaneda Sanchez turned himself into the Maryland State Police at the Frederick barrack on Nov. 13. Castaneda Sanchez has been returned to Worcester County

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“Over the last several months, members of the Worcester County Criminal Enforcement Team conducted a longterm drug distribution investigation in the Pocomoke area,” read a press release from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office. “This covert investigation was initiated as a result of an increase in overdoses and several citizens contacting law enforcement about suspected drug activity in their community. At the conclusion

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of this investigation, the facts were presented to the Worcester County Grand Jury who indicted [multiple individuals].”

Arrested and charged were Gionni Murph, 25, narcotic production equipment and cocaine possession; Jacolby Roberts, 33, cocaine distribution, three counts of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and cocaine possession; Devin Bryant, 34, cocaine distribution and cocaine possession; Michelle Dryden, 53, cocaine distribution and cocaine possession; Darron Pittman, 22, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, cocaine possession and possession of CDS manufacturing equipment; Curtis Schoolfield, 45, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, cocaine possession and two counts of possession of CDS manufacturing equipment; Andrew Miller, 34, cocaine distribution and cocaine possession; and Loynial Sturgis, 44, three counts of cocaine distribution and three counts of cocaine possession.

“We will continue to apprehend and hold those accountable who try to poison our communities in Worcester County,” said Sheriff Matt Crisafulli. “The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Enforcement Team was assisted by the Worcester County States Attorney’s Office, Eastern Shore Information Center, Washington-Baltimore HIDTA and The Governor's Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services provides grant funding and strategic support to MCIN member sites to identify, disrupt, and dismantle criminal organizations through interagency collaboration."

The arrests were part of the investigation that also on Sept. 21 resulted in the arrest of three individuals on drug and weapon charges. In that probe, members of the Worcester County Criminal Enforcement Team successfully concluded a firearm and controlled dangerous substance investigation involving Jael Ghent, 21, Maquis Moorse, 21, and Naji Hassan El, 20.

As a result of this investigation, a search and seizure warrant was authorized for a residence on Short Street in Pocomoke and a residence located on Bonneville Avenue. Members of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Enforcement Team were assisted during the execution of these two search and seizure warrants by the Ocean City Police Department and the Pocomoke City Police Department. As a result of these search and seizure warrants, investigators located a total of four handguns, one being converted to fully automatic along with one AR style rifle, which was reported stolen during a previous residential burglary. Additional evidence was located to indicate the distribution of cocaine which included the seizure of approximately 15 grams of cocaine and 3.5 grams of crack cocaine.

“I want to commend the investigators in this investigation and thank those assisting agencies. The Worcester County Sheriff’s Office will continue to root out those who do evil in our communities,” Crisafulli said.

According to Crisafulli, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Enforcement Team was assisted by the Worcester County Sheriff’s Tactical Armed Response Team, Ocean City Police Department’s QRT, Worcester County States Attorney’s Office, Eastern Shore Information Center, and Washington-Baltimore SEE NEXT PAGE

November 24, 2023

... COPS & COURTS HIDTA. Worcester County Sheriff’s Office reminds the public it has an app that can be downloaded for free on IOS and Android where residents can submit tips to law enforcement anonymously.

Arrest On Burglary Charges OCEAN CITY – A man wanted on burglary charges was apprehended after police located him squatting in an apartment without permission.

On Nov. 16, an Ocean City police officer on unmarked vehicle patrol observed a wanted man, Justus Belk, 25, of Ocean City, climbing a building’s stairs on 2nd Street and Philadelphia Avenue. Police noted there were two active arrest warrants for Belk on burglary charges.

When police knocked on the door of the unit he entered, Belk opened the door and began to withdraw back into the apartment. The responding officer grabbed Belk to prevent a barricade situation inside the unit. Once outside the unit, Belk refused to lay on the ground despite multiple instructions from the officer who pointed a Taser at him to gain compliance. As Belk began to lower his knees to comply, he “intentionally jumped over the railing and off of the balcony,” according to the police report.

Belk was able to flee the scene out of view. Additional police units were alerted and Belk was eventually spotting fleeing on foot through multiple businesses, a condominium parking lot and a church with no trespassing signs. Police caught

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch up to Belk on Washington Lane and 4th Street and arrested him at Taser point.

Belk refused to answer police questions after being apprehended.

Police contacted the apartment owner who said he did not know Belk and nobody had permission to be in his unit. Police inferred Belk broke into the unit and was using the electricity supplied to the unit.

In total, Belk was charged with breaking and entering, theft value less than $100 for stealing electricity, resisting/interfering with arrest, making a false statement to police, fourth-degree burglary and trespassing. The police report noted Belk as a flight risk, a local homeless man and “has been known to locate police officer’s residences and appear at those residences without being involved,” according to the police report.

served to be emaciated and in poor condition, along with no food or water. Animal Control officers seized the two additional dogs. All the dogs are currently in the custody of Worcester County Animal Control and are being treated by a local veterinarian.

Sturgis and Williams, both of Pocomoke, were each charged each with 36 counts of animal cruelty and animal neglect charges, four of these charges being felony aggravated animal cruelty. Both Sturgis and Williams were held without bond awaiting trial.

Squaring Off With Cop OCEAN CITY – A local man is facing a second-degree assault charge after striking an officer.

On Nov. 17, Ocean City police officers were alerted to a fight in progress on the

Aggravated Animal Cruelty POCOMOKE – Felony animal abuse charges have been filed against two county residents.

On Oct. 2, Worcester County Animal Control responded to a residence on Bonneville Avenue in Pocomoke for an animal complaint. During the investigation, Animal Control officers immediately located two dogs on the front porch in a crate, one of whom was deceased. While on the front porch, officers also observed evidence of other dogs being neglected.

Residents Kierra Sturgis, 31, and Lemond Williams, 47, refused to meet with Animal Control officers on scene. With the assistance of the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation, a search and seizure warrant was secured for the residence. Upon entry, two more dogs were located inside the residence and ob-

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Page 23 Boardwalk at Caroline Street. Dispatchers relayed to police the caller reported two men actively punching each other over a drug dispute. When police arrived, Alan Stewart, 41, of Ocean City, was shirtless standing over a man who was motionless.

When Stewart would not back away from the man on the ground and appeared to be leaning toward him again, the responding officer placed his hand on Stewart’s chest. Stewart then raised his right hand and smacked the officer’s arm, according to the police report.

Stewart then assumed what the officer determined as a “pre-fight” stance. The officer noted in his report he believed he was about to be assaulted so he armed his Taser and pointed it at Stewart, who then complied and put this hands behind his back for arrest.

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November 24, 2023

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – Officials in Ocean Pines last week agreed to seek bids for digital signs.

Last Saturday, the Ocean Pines Board of Directors voted unanimously to have General Manager John Viola seek cost estimates for the purchase and installation of four digital signs. Director Elaine Brady, liaison for the association’s communications committee, said new digital signs would improve messaging throughout the community.

“It’s another tool in our toolbox,” she said.

For a number of years, the communications committee has been actively working on plans to upgrade the association’s information boards with electronic signs.

The group has even gone so far as to seek a county text amendment to permit onpremises electronic signs within an established residential community.

Back on the agenda for discussion this week, Brady said she was seeking the board’s approval to move forward with the project. She said the communications committee had proposed removing the 22 existing information boards and replacing them with four digital signs, one at each of the three entrances to Ocean Pines and one at the community center.

“Those are really the highest trafficked areas,” she said.

Brady argued there were several downsides to maintaining the association’s current information boards. She noted that several man hours were spent each week changing each of the boards, which had different messages at each location.

“Unless you are willing to drive from The Point, down on one end, all the way to the north gate bridge and back, you are never going to see all the messaging,” she said. “And it’s static.”

By installing digital signs, Brady said the association could include several messages on one board. She added that those messages could changed or fixed immediately.

“With digital, the messages rotate …,” she said. “You will see the messaging will be a lot more effective.”

During public comments, resident Lora Pangratz shared her concerns regarding the proposed digital signs. She said she had concerns about the cost of maintenance, as well as the commercial look of digital signs. Cheryl Jacobs, chair of the communications committee, said the signs would look no different than the existing information boards. Officials noted the association would retrofit the existing frames to hold the four digital signs.

“As you go by it at the north gate, or at any of the locations, it’s going to look absolutely identical to what we have now,” Brady added.

After further discussion, the board voted to have Viola secure bids for the digital signs with the goal of gathering cost estimates. Should the board proceed with the project, Brady said all remaining information boards along the parkway, except for the one at the Yacht Club, would be removed.

Ocean Pines To Create Bike, Pedestrian Committee

November 24, 2023

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – Officials say a new workgroup will identify ways to improve bike and pedestrian safety and access in Ocean Pines.

Last Saturday, Ocean Pines resident Patti Stevens presented the Ocean Pines Board of Directors with an update on the new Ocean Pines Pedestrian and Bike Safety and Access Workgroup. As bike and pedestrian improvement efforts continue throughout the county, she said a new workgroup will demonstrate the association’s commitment to doing the same.

“There are simple things we can do within Ocean Pines,” she said. “My proposal was to convene a workgroup that included the business community, residents, public safety.”

Stevens, chair of the Worcester County Bicycle and Pedestrian Coalition and appointee to the Maryland Bike and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, said Ocean Pines has several opportunities to improve existing infrastructure within the community. She added that the desire for safe biking and walking trails were identified as a top priority within the association’s strategic plan.

“In our community many people live here because they want an active lifestyle, to walk and to bike safely,” she said.

“And not just recreationally. Many people walk to work.”

By forming a new workgroup, she said members could prioritize needed improve-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

ments, identify available resources, and partner with county and state agencies.

For example, she said there was an opportunity to work alongside Worcester County, which recently contracted with Mead & Hunt to develop a Greenways and Trails Plan that identifies ways to connect communities. She also noted that the state continues with its planning for the Route 90 bridge.

“Ocean Pines, Ocean City, all around Worcester County, people said loudly and clearly we want to have bike and pedestrian access on that bridge,” she said, noting that all four options for the redevelopment of the Route 90 bridge included the option for bike and pedestrian access.

“It’s only going to be a lane on the bridge.

But we still have to get people to the bridge.”

Stevens told the board last week communities around the state with bike and pedestrian plans have obtained state

grants and technical assistance. She said Ocean Pines has the opportunity to do the same.

“There are grants for public safety and trails and sidewalks that could be built … ,” she said. “The good news is that Ocean Pines has the authority to manage our roads … I think that’s a bonus for Ocean Pines.”

Stevens said her vision was to see a connection between the north and south gates of Ocean Pines, so that pedestrians and bicyclists can access the Route 90 bridge. To do so, she said, would require the acquisition of rights-of-way in between.

“That’s why I propose we have a Realtor on the committee,” she said.

Director Steve Jacobs questioned if the association would be eligible for grant funding. He noted that Ocean Pines was not a municipality.

“It’s a homeowners association and our ability to tap into certain financial op-

Page 25

portunities is hampered or prohibited because of that …,” he said. “The type of grants you are talking about, do they have that sort of limitation?”

Stevens said she had asked county leaders if Ocean Pines could partner with Worcester County to apply for grant funding. She noted, however, that she was turned down.

“I went through Dallas Baker and public works assuming that is the way Ocean Pines would have to go to apply for these sidewalk and bicycle retrofit grants …,” she replied. “When I went through that way, I was told quite firmly that the county is not responsible for our opportunities and that Ocean Pines has, in the past, received direct money from State Highway for roads, and that that was our problem and we should take care of it.”

After further discussion, Stevens said the workgroup would hold a kickoff meeting this week.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Long-time Executive Director Kate Patton’s service to the community was celebrated with proclamations from Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin. Patton is pictured with Van Hollen Regional Director Alyssa Hastings. Photos by Charlene Sharpe

LSLT Presents Annual Awards

November 24, 2023

BERLIN – The Lower Shore Land Trust hosted its annual Flannel Formal at Merry Sherwood Plantation on Nov. 11. The fundraising event, which was attended by 200 people, featured live music as well as food, games and a silent auction benefitting the land trust, which is devoted to helping landowners protect their property for future generations.

Three individuals were recognized for their contributions during this year’s event.

Laurie Lawton-Smith was recognized as the nonprofit’s volunteer of the year by Lower Shore Land Trust executive administrator Margot Resto.

Local attorney Hugh Cropper IV, a longtime Lower Shore Land Trust board member and the current board chair, was honored as the 2023 Stephen N. Parker Legacy Award recipient. The annual award is intended to recognize a landowner or conservation practitioner for their contributions to private land conservation on the Lower Eastern Shore. Cropper was selected for his strong commitment to and significant investments in land conservation, wetland restoration, reforestation, installation of grassland and pollinator habitat and improved water quality on the Lower Shore.

Kate Patton, executive director of the Lower Shore Land Trust, was presented proclamations from Sen. Chris Van Hollen and Sen. Ben Cardin for her contributions to the organization as she prepares to retire at the end of the year.

Recognized last week were Hugh Cropper IV, above presented his Stephen N. Parker Legacy Award by Patton.

Below, volunteer Laurie Lawton-Smith was honored for her service by executive administrator Margot Resto.

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School Art Club Completes Projects

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 24, 2023

The After-School Art Club at Berlin Intermediate School, an outreach program of the Art League of Ocean City, painted trees as their art project on Nov. 15 under the guidance of Joanne Guilfoil. Pictured, above from left, with their creations are Toleen Issa, Emmie Smith, Kaleb Gordon and Sierra Zanoni.

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Fenwick Exploring Design Proposals For Median Work

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FENWICK ISLAND – A Fenwick Island Committee has agreed to forward its proposal for a median project to the town council for further discussion and approval.

Last week, the Fenwick Island Pedestrian Safety Committee voted unanimously to bring a design proposal for the town’s median improvement project back to the Fenwick Island Town Council for further approval. Following a discussion with the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT), committee members agreed to replace some of the proposed shrubbery with native plants but to keep the crepe myrtles that were originally in its design.

“This may be a way to build in a native plant in that area and check that box while still maintaining that wow factor in the medians,” Mayor Natalie Magdeburger said.

Earlier this fall, a group of Fenwick Island residents came before the Fenwick Island Town Council seeking support for a median improvement project that includes new landscaping along the north end of Coastal Highway. The council ultimately voted to provide funding for the project and to assist the group in seeking approval from DelDOT. Magdeburger told committee members last week that she had presented the landscape design to DelDOT representatives, who had shared their desires to see more native plants in the median instead of the proposed crepe myrtle trees.

While she suggested changing some of the shrubbery with native plants, she said she still wanted to include the crepe myrtles.

“The idea with Complete Streets is you want to create a median setting that distinguishes you from the highway you are coming from, so when you cross this border into town you are immediately setting this visual, that this is a neighborhood … ,” she said. “You want to visually stimulate the driver to slow down … What was presented had that wow factor.”

Magdeburger told committee members DelDOT’s comments on the median project were simply a suggestion, not a requirement. She noted, however, that DelDOT would need to approve the final design.

“I need to get approval from DelDOT,” she said. “That would be the key.”

Magdeburger said the town would also need to decide if it was going to plant sod or grass seed in the median. She suggested the council discuss it further.

To that end, the committee voted unanimously to forward the median design, which will include both native plants and the crepe myrtles, to the town council for further discussion and approval.

“I think the implementation we would defer until the spring,” Councilman Ed Bishop said.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 24, 2023

People in Society The Kiwanis Club sponsored the Shop with a Cop Pancake Breakfast to support the annual CRICKET Center Shop with a Cop event in December.

by Charlene Sharpe Featuring ose Helping Causes In e Resort Area

Mary Beth Carozza, Drew Berkeley and Ruth Waters at the Art League of Ocean City's Diamond Jubilee Gala at the Ashore Hotel, a fundraiser for the nonprofit arts organization.

Attendees Wil Rothermel, B.L Strang-Moya, Fiona O'Brien, and Kristen Helf enjoyed the Art League of Ocean City's Diamond Jubilee Gala.

Jadyn George, Bobbi Thatcher and Michael Thatcher rode their horses on a trail ride supporting the Spirit Kitchen.

Cate Nellans and Kelsey Jensen were among the crowd watching a pair of horses pull Berlin’s Christmas tree into town.

Lauren Cooper, director of the CRICKET Center, is pictured with Commissioner Chip Bertino at the Kiwanis Club’s Shop with a Cop Pancake Breakfast.

Rina Thaler and Tom Perlozzo are pictured at the Art League of Ocean City's Diamond Jubilee Gala at the Ashore Hotel.

The Tyndall family is pictured watching a pair of horses pull Berlin’s Christmas tree into town.

Tally and Caitlin were among the attendees at a trail ride in support of the nonprofit Spirit Kitchen.

Kate Hulme and Frankie Zurla attended a trail ride benefiting the Spirit Kitchen in Berlin.

November 24, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 31

Veterans Celebrated: Wor-

cester Preparatory School’s fourth and fifth grades came together in a musical performance to celebrate veterans earlier this month. Directed by Lower School music teacher Joanie Brittingham, the program began with Tom Wingert, Corporal E4 Bob Broderick, and Corporal E4 David Kline of the American Legion addressing those in attendance. Other speakers were WPS teacher and Air Force Retired Lieutenant Colonel Mike Mariotti, WPS parent Tessa Arnold and WPS parent Navy Commander Retired Joe Parker. Above, the fifth grade performs “Grateful Nation” during the program. At right, fifth grader Tejal Pillai shares a moment with grandfather Don Davidson.

Below, fifth graders Paige Asbill, Evelyn Smith, Evan Kaufman and Sloane Smith introduce the speakers. Bottom, pictured after the program are Jacqueline, seventh grader Sydney, fifth grader Eli and Navy Commander Retired Joe Parker.

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November 24, 2023

November 24, 2023

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

OCPD Anniversary Celebrated:

November 24, 2023

On Saturday, Nov. 4, the Ocean City Police Department celebrated its125th Anniversary at the American Legion in Ocean City. Those in attendance consisted of retirees, former seasonals and/or full time and support staff that came from all over the country. The more than 125 people who attended ranged in years from the 1970's through today. The event was organized by the Ocean City Police Alumni group.

Submitted Photos

November 24, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 24, 2023

Company Earns Award POCOMOKE CITY – The Rural Maryland Council (RMC) proudly announced that Hardwire, a distinguished manufacturing organization based on the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland, was selected to receive the Outstanding Rural Economic Development Award at the 2023 Maryland Rural Impact Awards.

The 2023 Maryland Rural Impact Awards, hosted by the Rural Maryland Council, serve to recognize individuals and organizations that have made exceptional contributions to communities throughout rural Maryland. The awards ceremony took place on Monday, Nov. 13, 2023, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Annapolis, Md. Hardwire, a HUBZone Small Business located in Worcester County, has been a pivotal force on the Lower Eastern Shore for several years. Specializing in protective armor systems for military, law enforcement, and civilian applications, Hardwire has not only created family-supporting jobs but has also significantly impacted economic development through innovative and creative solutions.

The company's commitment to a lifesaving mission, demonstrated by the development of protective armor systems, has garnered the attention and admiration of the Rural Maryland Council. Hardwire's approach, marked by technological advancements, collaboration, and community support, aligns seamlessly with the criteria set for the Outstanding Rural Economic Development Award.

The Rural Maryland Council's decision to award Hardwire underscores the company's steadfast commitment to a life-saving mission.

Hardwire CEO George Tunis expressed his gratitude, stating, “We are honored to receive the 2023 Maryland Rural Impact Award for Outstanding Rural Economic Development. This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and innovative spirit of the entire Hardwire team. At Hardwire, we believe in the transformative power of technology, collaboration, and community support. This award is a reflection of our commitment to not only creating jobs and driving economic development but also making a meaningful impact on the well-being of our community.”

Honorable Mary Beth Carozza, Maryland State Senate, Commissioner Caryn Abbott of Worcester County, Nancy Schwendeman, Worcester County Workforce Development specialist, and Melanie Pursel, director of Worcester County

BUSINESS And Real Estate News

researcher at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute in Bethesda, Md. Basumallik’s professional interests include preventative medicine, nutrition, and public health.

Bausmallik grew up in Salisbury and graduated from James M. Bennett High School. When he is not treating patients, he enjoys photography, travel, and hiking.

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Pictured, from left, at this year’s Maryland Rural Impact Awards ceremony are Emily Tunis, Hardwire President/COO; George Tunis, Hardwire CEO; Ryan Wendell, Hardwire CFO; Matthew Culbertson, Hardwire Human Resources, Business Development and Security Director; and Peter Emmons, Hardwire investor.

Submitted Photo

Tourism and Economic Development, are among the notable supporters of Hardwire's nomination.

Hardwire's contributions extend beyond economic development to encompass community well-being. The company actively engages with local businesses, supports education initiatives, and has played a crucial role in addressing the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic by producing over 3 million face shields and providing jobs to over 100 Marylanders. Hardwire also donated 1,700plus Emergency Response Shields® to Worcester, Wicomico, and Somerset County schools to offer active shooter protection amongst their halls.

The Outstanding Rural Economic Development Award recognizes programs, projects, or organizations that successfully attract, retain, or create jobs in rural areas. Hardwire's achievements in this regard, coupled with their commitment to community well-being, made them a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

The Rural Maryland Council serves as the State’s federally designated state rural development council and advocate for the interests of rural Maryland. The

Council brings together citizens, community-based organizations, government officials, and representatives from the for-profit and nonprofit sectors to collectively address the needs of rural Maryland communities.

Doctor Welcomed SALISBURY – TidalHealth is pleased to welcome Neil Basumallik, MD, to TidalHealth Primary Care in Salisbury, Md. Basumallik received his medical degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine in Buffalo, N.Y., and a master’s degree in public health from Columbia University in New York City. He completed NEIL his internal medicine res- BASUMALLIK idency at Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in New Brunswick, N.J. Basumallik is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) and is a member of the American College of Physicians. He has participated in several publications and conducted clinical research as a medical student

OCEAN CITY – Moody's Investors Service, a leading global credit rating agency, has announced a significant upgrade in the bond rating for Ocean City.

The city's financial stability and prudent fiscal management have resulted in this noteworthy improvement, reflecting the confidence Moody's has in Ocean City's economic resilience and responsible governance.

Moody's upgraded Ocean City's bond rating from Aa2 to Aa1, citing several key factors that contributed to this positive assessment. Among these factors are the city's robust economic development, sound financial management practices, and a diverse and growing revenue base.

This upgraded bond rating is a testament to Ocean City's commitment to fiscal responsibility and sustainable growth. It reflects the city's ongoing efforts to enhance its financial position and provide a stable environment for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

City Manager Terry McGean expressed gratitude for the recognition from Moody's, stating, “We are pleased with Moody's acknowledgment of our financial strength.

This upgraded bond rating is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our local government and community. We remain committed to responsible financial management and ensuring Ocean City continues to thrive.”

Agency Recognized SALISBURY – SVN Miller Commercial Real Estate and the McClellan Team were recently featured in the Real Leaders Magazine for leasing 25,000 square feet in Oak Ridge Commons, the new home for the Perdue Henson Junior Achievement Center.

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November 24, 2023

... BUSINESS NEWS ment Center is going to provide students from six counties on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and one county from the Eastern Shore of Virginia with experiential learning of financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship.

There are multiple programs within the Perdue Henson Junior Achievement Center. The Junior Achievement BizTown will allow fifth graders to become business leaders, consumers, and employees where they will learn what it takes to run a successful business, manage personnel and business finances, and work as a team.

To help with this program, Junior Achievement has leased spaces out to local businesses that the students can work with.

The second program is Junior Achievement Finance Park. This program teaches middle and high school students about personal finance where they will be given a “life scenario”, then visit the different store fronts and obtain information about making decisions about their expenses.

“The Center is designed to increase graduation rates, soft skills, economic growth, opportunities, social mobility, confidence, and financial stability, benefiting the community as a whole,” a news release reads.

Golf Club Member Recognized OCEAN PINES – Ninety-four people turned out earlier this month to help celebrate the Ocean Pines Golf Members Council’s annual End of Season Banquet at the Clubhouse Bar and Grille.

Among other things, the Golf Members Council oversees the members' scholarship program and hosts annual events including the Ocean Pines / Taylor Bank Scramble, the Bavarian Hops Scramble, and several social functions for the Ocean Pines golf community.

Bob Long, who assisted event organizer Don McMullen, said collecting for Toys for Tots has been a regular part of the banquet for some time, with golf member Joe Pantone overseeing that operation for perhaps two decades.

“Bunk Machen, who worked as a starter at the Golf Club and on the maintenance staff for many years, partnered with Joe,” Long said. “I always enjoyed walking into the banquet and seeing the two of them in their red marine blazers.”

Machen passed away last year, but the Toys for Tots support has remained steadfast, with impressive collection totals each year. Pantone said more than 80 toys were collected on Monday night.

The End of Season Banquet also served to honor Nelson Fenwick. He and his wife, Natalie, are longtime Golf Club members and also belonged to the Men’s and Ladies' Golf Associations (OPMGA and OPLGA).

“Nelson was the Men's Day Tournament chair for many years,” Long said.

“He began the Sand Dawg program, where members help by filling divots and doing minor maintenance on the course. Members sign up and work on their hole every week or two. They also come out in force and help out on course aeration days.

Nelson is the one who got this program started and oversaw its operation for many years.”

Long said the couple are moving out of the area to be closer to family.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 37

WHOLE HOUSE ELECTRICAL ASSESSMENT & SAFETY INSPECTION

A $249 VALUE FOR ONLY $99 • Check the electrical service panel and wiring • Tighten screws and lugs on circuit breakers to ensure proper functioning • Apply Noalox on branch circuits’ aluminum wires • Check all outlets with tester for loose connections, open grounds, neutral wires, proper polarity

• Test/inspect GFCI outlets and breakers • Check for double tapped breakers to eliminate overloading a circuit breaker • Survey for proper surge protection • Check smoke detectors and make recommendations for compliance with local electrical codes

Call 410-641-1434 Worcester County Lic. #M917 • Maryland Lic. # 3506

Ocean Pines Seeking ‘Angels’ To Help Local Families In Need

Page 38

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BERLIN – The Ocean Pines Aquatics Department is looking for “angels” to help support local children and families this holiday season.

The department started the Angel Tree program in 2014. Each year, a Christmas tree in the Sports Core Pool lobby is decorated with angel ornaments that represent a local person or family in need.

The ornaments include a short list of needed items, such as winter clothes for a newborn, STEM toys for a 10-year-old boy, and Play-Doh for a 4-year-old girl.

Aquatics Manager Michelle Hitchens said the department this year worked with Worcester GOLD and two local churches to identify potential beneficiaries of the Angel Tree program.

“People can come to the Sports Core, pick out a numbered ornament, write their name and phone number in our book, and then sponsor a local person or family with Christmas gifts for the holiday season,” she said. “It’s just our way of giving back and trying to spread a little Christmas cheer.”

The deadline to return gifts ranges from Dec. 5 to Dec. 13.

For more information, call the Sports Core Pool at 410-641-5255.

November 24, 2023

The Angel Tree is pictured in the Sports Core Pool lobby.

Submitted Photo

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November 24, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 39

Toys For Tots Drive:

More than 60 Jeeps participated last Saturday in the Ocean City Jeep Club’s 7th Annual Toys for Tots event. This year club partnered with the Town of Ocean City through Events Director Frank Miller, combing the charitable effort with the Winterfest of Lights and stuffing the Jeep toy drive. The ride began at the Inlet with a stop at The Kite Loft for toy drop then to north Ocean City.

Submitted Photo

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Page 40

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 24, 2023

COMMUNITY News In Photos

The Eastern Shore Association of Golf Course Superintendents recently presented an $11,000 check to Believe in Tomorrow’s beach respite program. Pictured is John Bartlett, ESAGCS, Joe Perry, ESAGCS, Mary Decker Brown and Amanda Koontz of Believe in Tomorrow.

Submitted Photos

The Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club donated $2,000 to the Four Steps Therapeutic Riding Program. Pictured, left to right, are Christina Dolomount-Brown and Don Fentress of the Optimist Club and Richard Warren, Sandy Winters, and Maribeth Kulynycz of Four Steps.

Nurse Professionals Home Care owner Anita Battista and Registered Nurse Beckie Graham organized donations for this year's Annual Food Drive for Sarah's Pantry in Ocean Pines.

The Worcester County Garden Club placed a wreath on Veterans Day at the Worcester County Veterans Memorial in appreciation of veterans, currently-serving military personnel, and their families. Pictured from left to right are Veterans Affairs Committee co-chairs Karen Trigger and Susan Fletcher with the wreath at the Blue Star Memorial marker.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean City-Ocean Pines will be in the Ocean Pines Community Center parking lot from 9 a.m. to noon on Nov. 29 collecting donations of toys for Worcester GOLD. Pictured is Toy Drive Chair Dave Landis and Coat Drive Co-Chairs Sue Wineke and Kitty Wrench celebrating two children's bicycles donated.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City heard about medical insurance from guest speaker Lynne McAllorum, who has worked in insurance for more than 40 years, at a recent meeting. McAllorum is pictured with President Bob Wolfing.

November 24, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 41

… Stranding Response Center Opens

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Ocean City officials and National Aquarium representatives, including longtime volunteer Chuck Erbe, fourth from left, are pictured at a dedication ceremony last Friday.

Photo Courtesy of National Aquarium

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FROM PAGE 14 to Baltimore, animals in critical condition can be treated as soon as possible from the Stranding Response Center.

“One of the issues is the extreme distance,” she said. “When an animal is critical and in need of rehabilitation, it usually needs immediate care. To be able to provide that locally was an important part of our plan for the future operation of our program.”

The new center features a treatment space equipped with a “garage door”style entrance to facilitate moving animals in and out with ease, as well as a small office space which will serve as a home base for Shaffer and a dedicated corps of volunteers. While animals requiring long-term care will still be transported back to Baltimore, the space will allow staff to assess and stabilize critical animals, buying valuable time when providing critical care.

“The town actually offered us this space,” Shaffer said. “We funded all the renovations to make it what we needed, but they are providing us a no-cost lease to reside here for the next five years.”

Shaffer said the new center will allow the National Aquarium and its roughly 65 volunteers to continue its mission of rescuing animals found on area beaches, including grey, harbor and harp seals, loggerhead, Kemps ridley and green sea turtles, whales and dolphins. Officials say seals are likely to benefit most from the

November 24, 2023

new stranding response center.

“We’re really excited to be part of the community down here and excited for this partnership with the town,” Shaffer said.

“We hope it can benefit both the animals in the area, as well as the mission of our organization.”

The stranding response center is dedicated in honor of animal rescue volunteers Chuck Erbe and his late wife, Ellen, who began volunteering with the Aquarium’s Animal Rescue team in 2007 and donated countless hours to the care and wellbeing of animals rescued and released by the program. National Aquarium Animal Rescue has released more than 350 rehabilitated animals since its inception in 1991.

Over the course of more than 15 years, the Erbes, of Frankford, Del., in their roles as animal rescue first responders, often met the call when animals in distress were spotted – sometimes in the middle of the night or in foul weather – and aquarium staff 150 miles away needed their help. For many years, they carried the aquarium’s coastal operations, undertaking everything from reports of late-night whale spottings to turtle transport trips to Florida.

“They were down here when we didn’t have anyone down here, so they really carried response for us for many years and were extremely dedicated to the program …,” Shaffer said. “We hope it honors their service to our program for many years to come.”

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Annual Shore Gives More Campaign Features 128 Nonprofits

November 24, 2023

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – An online giving campaign returns to the tri-county area next week.

On Tuesday, Nov. 28, the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore will host its 9th annual Shore Gives More campaign. This year, a record-breaking 128 nonprofits will participate in the 24-hour online giving event.

“The campaign has grown greatly since 2015 when we started with 23 nonprofits and raised just under $7,500, “ said Community Foundation President. Erica Joseph. “Since then, the campaign has raised over $1.5 million for local nonprofits. It is exciting to see 128 organizations in the campaign this year.”

Held on Giving Tuesday - the Tuesday after Thanksgiving - Shore Gives More is an online giving event that provides community members an opportunity to raise funds for various nonprofits serving Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset counties.

Using the Community Foundation’s online donation portal, shoregivesmore.org, individuals can research organizations and support local nonprofits of their choosing.

“While it’s a great opportunity to raise money for nonprofits that really need it, it is even more important for nonprofits to gain exposure - to have all of these nonprofits in one place where thousands of people see their profiles and learn more about their impact,” Joseph said. “It creates a sense of camaraderie and solidar-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

ity for the community. The campaign also provides smaller nonprofits with the ability to run an online fundraising campaign that they otherwise might not have the capacity to do.”

The Shore Gives More campaign was first launched in 2015 as a way to equip local nonprofits with the digital resources needed for fundraising. Since that time, the event has grown substantially.

Officials say the online donation portal allows community members to donate to as many or as few nonprofits as they like using one easy checkout. This year, donors can begin scheduling their monetary gifts as early as Nov. 20.

“Each gift made to a nonprofit on Giving Tuesday makes a difference for the area we call home,” Joseph said. “With such a diverse range of nonprofits participating, everyone is sure to find a cause to support that is important to them.”

Officials say software purchased by the Community Foundation allows donors to schedule their gifts in advance of the event and allows supporters the option of donating to multiple nonprofits at once. Joseph added the giving platform now includes Google Pay and Apple Pay to make it easier for people to give.

Each year, the Community Foundation also provides nonprofits with marketing campaigns and incentive prizes.

“We do a lot of outreach in partnership with the other organizations and on behalf of the campaign overall,” she added. “We talk about all the great things our nonprofits are doing in the region. We highlight nonprofits in TV and radio spots. We also put a lot of work into encouraging and helping the nonprofits to market themselves. Individuals can also get involved and create their own fundraising pages to support the causes they care about and

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help direct donors to the site.”

Joseph encouraged everyone to participate in this year’s Giving Tuesday campaign. Local nonprofits joining the 2023 campaign include Assateague Island Alliance, Worcester County GOLD and the Henry Hotel Foundation, to name a few.

“The support of this community is vital to a thriving nonprofit sector, and nonprofits are essential in creating quality of life in a region,” she said.

For more information on the Shore Gives More campaign, visit shoregivesmore.org.

“Give where you live and show that the Shore Gives More,” Joseph said. “Join the movement. Support your local community by supporting the amazing organizations providing access to things like healthcare, housing, food and basic necessities, economic development, environmental protection, the arts, animal welfare and more!”

Berlin council delays strategic plan’s second phase

Page 44

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

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BERLIN – Municipal officials said they wanted to hear from BEACON before approving a second phase of Berlin’s strategic plan.

The Berlin Town Council last week voted 4-0 to delay approval of a second phase of the strategic planning process until representatives of BEACON (Salisbury University’s Business, Economic and Community Outreach Network) present the results of the first phase to the town. That presentation is expected to take place Dec. 11.

“It would make more sense to have them talk about phase one before we go to phase two,” Councilman Jack Orris said.

In August, the town agreed to spend $9,300 with BEACON on the first phase of a strategic plan. John Hickman, director of BEACON, told the council at the time

that the program had a dual mission of community outreach and experiential learning and that all projects are completed with teams of graduate and undergraduate students under faculty supervision. Hickman told the council the purpose of the town’s strategic plan was to look at Berlin’s strengths and weaknesses as well as its opportunities. He said BEACON proposed a three-part process for the town’s plan.

The first phase would include development of a survey for citizens and the collection of information from town officials.

Mayor Zack Tyndall told the council last week the first phase had been completed and that BEACON was scheduled to share findings from that initial phase with the council on Dec. 11. He presented a motion to give BEACON the ability to move forward with the second phase for an additional $9,300.

“We don’t want to preclude them from continuing to move the study forward,”

November 24, 2023

Tyndall said.

Orris said he had hoped representatives from BEACON would be present, as he had questions about the first phase.

Councilman Steve Green, noting that just 110 of the town’s 5,000 residents had participated in the initial strategic plan questionnaire, said he also had questions.

“Were we pleased with the number of surveys we got back?” Green asked.

Tyndall said that would be a better question for BEACON. Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said John Hickman, director of BEACON, the low participation rate wasn’t unusual.

“He indicated that was on par with his experience,” she said.

Orris said he’d rather wait to approve the second phase after BEACON presented the results of the first phase.

The council voted 4-0, with Councilman Jay Knerr absent, to table approval of the second phase of the strategic plan.

November 24, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 45

Decatur Advances To Final Four In State 2A Playoffs

Page 46

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 24, 2023

In the quarterfinals of the Class 2A bracket of the Maryland Public Secondary Schools Athletic Association playoffs, Stephen Decatur’s varsity football easily cruised past Wilde Lake at home, 52-7. The Seahawks were seeking revenue against Wilde Lake, who ended the Seahawks’ season in the playoffs last year. The rematch was all Decatur from the start with the Seahawks scoring early and often. Senior quarterback Brycen Coleman, above right, was 10-21 passing on the day for 197 yards and two touchdowns. Coleman is pictured above left rushing for one of his two touchdowns on the ground. Coleman, who is committed to play at Vanderbilt University next year, rushed for 65 yards.

Photos by Bayside Sports Photography

Decatur will now square off Friday night at home against Baltimore County’s Milford Mill Academy, which is 9-2 on the season. Like Decatur, Wilde Lake has dominated in the playoffs, defeating Potomac, 42-10 last week and previously rolling New Town, 28-6, and C. Milton Wright, 20-7. Above left, junior Davin Chandler looks to break a tackle in the second half. Above right, Decatur’s defense was stout all game against Wilde Lake. Above right, securing a tackle for a loss were senior Gavin Solito and juniors Sully Auker and Cortez Smith.

Decatur has outscored its opponents in three rounds of the playoffs 142-21 thus far. If Decatur wins Friday, it will play the winner of Huntingtown and Walkersville next Friday night the Class 2A state title in the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis. Other offensive stars on the receiving end last Friday were senior Gavin Solito, who caught three passes for 56 yards including a touchdown, and junior Zakhari Baker with two receptions and a touchdown. Rushing for a touchdown apiece were juniors Donovan Henry and Amarian Manuel. Above left, Wilde Lake’s quarterback gets stuffed by Decatur’s Brookes Waters and Jakai Brittingham.

Above right, the student section was spirited on neon night last Friday night.

November 24, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 24, 2023

Best Beats On The Beach Who’s Where When CAPTAIN’S TABLE 410-289-7192 15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue on Piano COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Saturday, Nov. 25: Dueling Pianos

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BEATS BY DEOGEE Pickles Pub: Fridays, Sundays, & Wednesdays

November 24, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 49

Who’s Where When

BILL DICKSON & MTT Crawl St. Tavern: Friday, Nov. 24

SLAMM Purple Moose Saloon: Saturday, Nov. 25

BILENKI DUO Crabcake Factory Bayside: Friday, Nov. 24

NO RIGHT WAY Pickles Pub: Saturday, Nov. 25

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TRANZFUSION Fager’s Island: Friday, Nov. 24

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Seacrets: Thursday, Nov. 30

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PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Fridays: Beats By DeoGee Saturday, Nov. 25: No Right Way 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. 25: SLAMM SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Nov. 24: DJ Tuff, Element K Duo, Dear Zoe Saturday, Nov. 25: DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz, Full Circle, The Benderz Thursday, Nov. 30: Opposite Directions, DJ Connair

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November 24, 2023

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November 24, 2023

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

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28th St. Plaza • 410-289-3100 • coinspuboc.com ANSWERS ON PAGE 62

HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 21 to April 19): Restless Rams and Ewes might want to let others finish a current project so they can start something new. But if you do, you could risk losing out on a future opportunity.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): The Bovine's creative forces start revving up as you plan for the upcoming holidays. Some practical aspects also emerge, especially where money is involved.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Moments of doubt disrupt your otherwise clear sense of purpose, but don't ignore them. They could be telling you not to rush into anything until you know more about it.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): A planned trip might have to be delayed. Plan to use this new free time to update your skills and resume so that you'll be ready when a new job opportunity opens.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): A flood of holiday party bids from business contacts allows you to mix work and pleasure. Your knowledge plus your Leonine charm win you a new slew of admirers.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): An unexpected act by a colleague complicates an agreement, causing delays in implementing it. Check out the motive for this move – it might not be what you suspect.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): You

might want to cut ties with an ingrate who seems to have forgotten your past generosity. But there might be a reason for this behavior that you should know about. Ask. SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Be careful not to set things in stone. Much could happen during the next several days that will make you rethink some decisions and maybe change them.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): Your plans to help provide holiday cheer for the less fortunate inspire others to follow your generous example.

Expect welcome news by week's end.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): You're in your glory as you start planning for the holiday season ahead. But leave some time open to deal with a problem that needs a quick and fair resolution.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): The upcoming holiday season provides a perfect setting for strengthening relationships with kin and others. Meanwhile, a new contact has important information.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): Instead of fretting over a cutting remark by a co-worker, chalk it up to an outburst of envy of your well-respected status, among both your colleagues and superiors.

BORN THIS WEEK: You instinctively know when to be serious and when to be humorous, which are attributes that everyone finds endearing. © 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

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Page 52

Things I Like...

vanishing

OCEAN CITY

November 24, 2023

WITH BUNK MANN

By Steve Green

Planning a vacation

Stepping over sidewalk chart art Painted murals on old buildings

When a real person answers the phone Avocado on anything An old bar’s feel

That the last day of this year will be ‘123123’

A bonfire under a star-filled sky

Business cards with writing on both side Home after a long road trip

An old dog’s tail thumping on the floor

The Colonial was one of two cottages built by William Warrington on N. 1st Street in the 1890s. In 1897, he attached the two into one hotel and named it "The Colonial." The hotel fronted on the Boardwalk and was able to host up to 100 guests. It had an oceanfront dining room and wide porch but no private baths, elevators, heat, or air conditioning. By the late 1960s it had seen its better days and became one of the first hotels to lease its Boardwalk frontage. Its tenants would include Joe Kroart's original Ocean Gallery and John Fager's Blue Dog East coffee house.

The Colonial was the first victim of the "fire bug arsonist" that terrorized Ocean City during the winter of 1972-73; it burned down on Dec. 14, 1972.

Ocean City's first Boardwalk timeshare – Boardwalk One – would open on the site in 1975.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann's books, click over to www.vanishingocPostcard image from Bunk Mann's collection .com.

November 24, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 53

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

HELP WANTED MAINTENANCE HELP WANTED : Ocean Pines area. full or part time.

Call for an appointment. 410-6415102.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: GlenRiddle Community, FT, M – F 8:30am – 5:00pm Send Resume to: tmacintosh@legumnorman.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– POOL: General Maintenance, Outdoor work, lifting heavy objects.

Mechanical, basic pool pump & motors, CPO a plus / not required.

Able to pass CPO test. Summer includes weekends & long hours; working alone or with others.

410.289.4902 Ask for Suzanne.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC: Small Engine mechanic, Year round, Competitive Wages. Call 443-754-1047.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

R. D. H. Family dental practice seeking a

Registered Dental Hygienist Days & hours are flexible.

Please call 410-208-0909 or email: dentistryinthepines@gmail.com

ELECTRICIAN Full-time, Year-round Now accepting applications.

Established company, 5+ years exp, service type projects, health, dental, paid vacation, 401k w/matching, company van.

Hawkins Electric 443-856-2001 ask for John Ross.

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

RENTAL

NORTH OC

ROOMMATE

REAL ESTATE

WATERFRONT BAYSIDE: Newly remodeled 2BR, 2BA condo in North OC. 4 steps to ground level off of your private balcony. Full Kitchen, LR, DR, W/D, balcony w/tables + seating for 6. Seasonal-monthly.

Dec-April, $2,000, util’s incl.

443-223-4623.

––––––––––––––––––––––––

Year-round X-Large home 4 Master BR 1 Regular BR 4 Full Baths

ROOM FOR RENT: Near 28th St, Bayside. $900 per month + security deposit. Please text: 443-614-4523.

–––––––––––––––––––––––– HOUSE SHARING: Nice house, 94th Street area. Enclosed hot tub room, other amentities. Nice pets considered. Seeking employed males 20-30 years old who have their life together. Winter or year round. $600/month plus utilities. Text Rob, 410-726-5200.

FOR SALE OCEANSIDE MOTEL

Large Kitchen, Back Porch, Washroom.

$3,200/mo. + util’s Call John 443-880-2486

YEAR ROUND RENTALS HISTORIC BUILDING IN THE HEART OF BERLIN Walk to shops, restaurants and events.

Now Hiring For:

•FOOD RUNNERS •EXPO

Going quickly! Only 3 left!

BRAND NEW!

• 1 & 2 BR Apartments (with dens) $1,700-$2,000 per mo. + util’s

Stop in to fill out an application!

Downtown Berlin 119 N. Main Street

THE DISPATCH IS ON FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM & TWITTER

Currently Hiring Manpower For:

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

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

Or Contact Our Office at 410-352-9800 CUSTODIAL Summer Beach Condos is looking for a Part-time, Year Round Custodial Person, some maintenance experience a plus.

8am–12pm, 5 days/week, $14.00 per hr **Must be able to move heavy objects** call 410-603-5627 for an interview.

Thankful for our cherished customers.

Your trust and support inspire us.

Wishing you a table full of joy, surrounded by loved ones.

Happy Thanksgiving from The Dispatch Family

• 3BR, 2BA Apartment (1 Available) $ 2,400 per mo. + util’s Hardwood floors, W/D, historic charm, stainless steel appliances.

No Pets, No Smoking.

Available starting December 2023 Call 410.213.1900 ext. 1102 AIR B & B RENTAL IN WEST OC AVAILABLE DIRECT! NO EXTRA FEES 4 Bed 3.5 Bath Home Walking distance to all West OC restaurants!

Bring the family home this year for the Holidays and Winter fun in OC! Or rent until May! Fully furnished.

Only $199 a night and we allow Pets!

Email me direct at kimatdfg@aol.com for details!

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N. OCEAN CITY Winter Rental Fully furnished Room with private bath for rent in a beautiful home to share. Full house privileges, all utilities included.

Only $600 month No smoking. No pets.

Call 443-880-2486

OCEAN PINES Year-round Fully furnished Room for rent in a beautiful home, to share, in South Ocean Pines.

Full house privileges, all utilities included.

Only $800 month No smoking. No pets.

Call 443-880-2317

5 story building: 28 large efficiency units with elevator and pool.

Principals only.

866-872-9159

COMMERCIAL WEST O.C. OFFICE/RETAIL SPACES AVAILABLE: 1 Office or Retail Space for Lease.

1,656. Sq. feet. Plenty of Parking. 443-497-4200.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

NDUSTRIAL WAREHOUSE SPACE: 1,500 Sq. Ft., Masonry construction. 18’ high ceilings, large garage door & bathroom. Rt. 90/Bishopville.

Call 443-497-4200.

–––––––––––––––––––––––

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

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Plink! Away he goes.

Whispers, “it will be okay, Enjoy the wind, RIDE!”

Looking For Employees? Check Here First!

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 TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19952 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

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

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 representa-

tive 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

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 54

November 24, 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. 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 Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-10, 11-17, 11-24

Third 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 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 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 be-

fore 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 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

Second 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,

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

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

Second 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

Second 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

November 24, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 55

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.

Second 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.

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

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 COATES, COATES & COATES, PA RAYMOND D. COATES, JR, ESQ. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19950 Notice is given that the ORPHANS COURT of WESTMORELAND, PA, appointed KIMBERLY A. KOCHERA, 46 BEL AIRE DRIVE, DELMONT, PA 15626, as the EXECUTRIX of the Estate of JUDITH V. CYMEK, who died on JANUARY 9, 2023, domiciled in PENNSYLVANIA, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is RAYMOND D. COATES, JR., whose address is 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300,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.

BARBARA BISHOP JANKIEWICZ Personal Representative True Test Copy

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 24, 2023

TERRI WESTCOTT,

KIMBERLY A. KOCHERA

Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-24, 12-1, 12-8

First Insertion NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19981 To all persons interested in the estate of NAOMI ETHEL SMITH TAYLOR, Estate No. 19981. Notice is given that KENNETH TAYLOR, whose address is 10441 NEW QUAY ROAD, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on NOVEMBER 15, 2023, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of NAOMI ETHEL SMITH TAYLOR, who died on NOVEMBER 5, 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 15th 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.

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 24, 2023 KENNETH TAYLOR 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 11-24, 12-1, 12-8

First Insertion NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19965

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 24, 2023 KAREN ADCOCK 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 11-24, 12-1, 12-8

First Insertion To all persons interested in the estate of LIDIJA ULDRIKIS, Estate No. 19965.

Notice is given that KAREN ADCOCK, whose address is 41 GLOUCESTER ROAD, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on NOVEMBER 17, 2023, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of LIDIJA ULDRIKIS, who died on 0CTOBER 22, 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 17th 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

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19971 To all persons interested in the estate of KENNETH WEST FISHER, Estate No. 19971. Notice is given that AUSTIN JEREMY FISHER whose address is 1148 ASSATEAGUE ROAD, APT A, BERLIN MD 21811, was on NOVEMBER 14, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of: KENNETH WEST FISHER, who died on SEPTEMBER 24, 2023 without a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having 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 24, 2023 AUSTIN JEREMY FISHER 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 11-24

First Insertion SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19977 To all persons interested in the estate of SHIRLEY K. WARREN, Estate No. 19977.

Notice is given that WOODROW WARREN whose address is 10638 GARRETT LANE, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on NOVEMBER 13, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of: SHIRLEY K. WARREN, who died on OCTOBER 28, 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

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 56

November 24, 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. 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 24, 2023 WOODROW WARREN 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 11-24

First Insertion SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN

HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19980 To all persons interested in the estate of JOSEPH F. TAYLOR, Estate No. 19980. Notice is given that DAVID EUGENE TAYLOR whose address is 12416 CAMPBELLTOWN ROAD, BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813 and KENNETH ALLEN TAYLOR, whose address is 10441 NEW QUAY ROAD, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 was on NOVEMBER 15, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of: JOSEPH F. TAYLOR, who died on OCTOBER 30, 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

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 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 24, 2023 DAVID EUGENE TAYLOR KENNETH ALLEN TAYLOR 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 11-24

First Insertion SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19985 To all persons interested in the estate of FLORENCE ELLA FRANKLIN, Estate No. 19985. Notice is given that BONNY MAE TIMMONS whose address is 9644 BISHOPVILLE ROAD, BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813, was on NOVEMBER 17, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of: FLORENCE ELLA

FRANKLIN, who died on OCTOBER 17, 2023 without a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having 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 24, 2023 BONNY MAE TIMMONS 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 11-24

First Insertion SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19895

To all persons interested in the estate of ELIZABETH JOINES, Estate No. 19895.

Notice is given that MARK JOINES, whose address is 107 BROAD STREET, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on NOVEMBER 16, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of: ELIZABETH JOINES, who died on AUGUST 18, 2023 without a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having 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 24, 2023 MARK JOINES 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 11-24

November 24, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 24, 2023

OBITUARIES POCOMOKE – Alexander Demetriou, age 78, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023, at the Macky & Pam Stansell House hospice facility in Berlin.

Born on March 15, 1945 in Lincolnshire, England, he was the son of the late Michael Demetriou and Elizabeth Tyson.

Alex’s great sense of humor will be missed by his wife, Carolyn; (step) son John Sorenson; (step) daughter Vicki Gonzalez; his brother, Phillip and his son, Ian; and his sister, Despina Fitzpatrick ALEXANDER and her son, Stu- DEMETRIOU art. Alex had three grandchildren, Brenda Gonzalez and Amilia and Flynn Sorenson.

Alex began working at 13. After a variety of work experiences, his personality and skills aided him in becoming a manager at an elite shoe store, Elliot’s on Regents Street in the West End of London. His clients included famous actors, musicians, and wealthy Middle Eastern royalty.

Alex was devoted to his family on both sides of the pond. His favorite football team was Arsenal. A very proud achievement was 32 years of sobriety as a member of Alcoholics Anonymous.

When he and Carolyn retired to an old log cabin on 57 acres of pine trees, Alex (with his dry English wit) said to her “this may be your dream, but it is my nightmare”. However, one of his proudest moments (as lord of the manor) was when he found and put into service the buried and abandoned old well.

Cremation followed his death.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Merry Sherwood Plantation in Berlin, Md. on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society at donate.cancer.org or Alcoholics Anonymous, P.O. Box 2407, James A. Farley Station New York, N.Y. 10116-2407. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are in care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

Alexander Demetriou

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Obituaries cost $50 to appear in The Dispatch and photos are no extra charge. Direct all inquiries to editor@mdcoastdispatch.com, fax to 410-641-0966 or mail to P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811.

November 24, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

360 Families Served Editor: I would like to publicly thank and acknowledge those members of the Worcester County Bar Association who donated to our annual Thanksgiving Charity fundraiser, which is in its 25th year.

This year, through our member's efforts, we provided 360 needy families in Worcester County the food necessary to have a Thanksgiving dinner in their own homes. Each family received a frozen turkey, a five-pound bag of potatoes, a box of stuffing, and cans of sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green beans.

I would also like to thank the staff at Worcester County GOLD, Buckingham Elementary School, and Showell Ele-

Letters To The Editor mentary School for coordinating the delivery of these items to those in need.

Happy Thanksgiving.

David C. Gaskill Ocean City

Offshore Wind Too Risky Editor: It is obvious that offshore wind turbines will reduce tourism, real estate values, and thus the tax base in Ocean City because no one has ever asked a Realtor or vacation rental company for a view of wind turbines. No one. Ever.

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WOW, completely renovated & move-in ready! Located in amenity-rich Ocean Pines close to the Gate in the Sherwood Forest area. Newly renovated in 2023: roof, windows, siding, gutters, fascia, flooring, fixtures, flooring, etc. This home has an open-concept floor plan, cathedral ceilings with skylights and new luxury vinyl flooring on the entire 1st floor. The living room area has a gas fireplace and ceiling fan. The kitchen area has new shaker-style cabinets, granite counters, lighting, SS range, microwave hood, dishwasher and disposal. The primary bedroom has 2 large walk-in closets as well as a bath with tile, sky light & oversized tiled shower. Off this bedroom is a private enclosed porch with a ceiling fan. There are 2 more bedrooms, hall bath, laundry closet & 3 more storage/utility closets located on the 1st floor. The 2nd floor boasts a loft area plus a 4th bedroom with powder room. The 2nd floor has new carpet throughout. This outside living area is very welcoming with a sun deck, pergola area, outside shower and attached secure storage. The property has been landscaped for low maintenance. There’s not much left to do but move in and started enjoying all this space. Make it your new year-round residence or beautiful beach-get-away! Either way you will love what you see: a great location close to shopping, entertainment, restaurants, schools, beach, parks, etc. This home has it all including a reasonable HOA fee. 1st Time Owner Occupant Buyers may qualify for up to 6% closing assistance! *Restrictions May Apply.

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cean City response to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) regarding the US Wind Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), a study from North Carolina State University addressing the economic impact of offshore wind on tourism concluded that 55% of ocean vacation renters would not return if turbines were visible. The study also concluded that if wind turbines were located eight miles from shore, in order to keep the remaining 45% of renters from going elsewhere, property owners would have to discount their rents by an average of $1,000 per week. Wow. To put wind turbines offshore Ocean City gambles with the economy and welfare of Ocean City and Worcester County.

Robert Borghese Ocean City

Open Invitation To Discuss Editor: I am writing to express my disappointment in Stephen’s Katsanos public letter regarding my property, Ayres Creek. While concerns and questions about the development are welcome, his use of inflammatory language and poor choice of words fail to positively contribute to the community and do not accurately portray the facts.

I extend an open invitation to Stephen and anyone else that wishes to

November 24, 2023 meet and discuss their concerns. As members of the same Ocean City community, it would be more constructive to engage in direct conversation rather than timidly airing grievances in a public forum.

Mr. Katsanos described my email as “whining.” The email was written as follows: “Good morning Sir. If you would like to chat about the property in question, I’m always open to a conversation. To date, no one has ever called or inquired.

I’m making myself available to you so you may disseminate the truth. I’m available most of the day today. Let me know if you wish to chat. Have a great day.”

In addition, I met the president of the South Point Executive Committee at a fund-raiser for the Lower Shore Land Trust where I was the title sponsor of the event and requested a meeting.

Bottom line is, effective communication requires a two-way dialogue where both parties can express their perspectives, ask questions, and seek understanding. Instead, Stephen went public with his concerns before taking advantage of my repeated offers for face-toface discussions. This unfortunate approach should make us all question his real intent because he is right, intentions do matter.

So again, I extend the invitation to Stephen and any other concerned parties as my door is always open to meet and address any Ayres Creek property concerns. I welcome you to a constructive conversation at any time.

Todd Burbage Berlin

November 24, 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

NEWS DEPARTMENT CHARLENE SHARPE Associate Editor csharpe@mdcoastdispatch.com BETHANY HOOPER Associate Editor bhooper@mdcoastdispatch.com CHRIS PARYPA Photographer

SALES DEPARTMENT TERRI FRENCH Account Executive Entertainment Editor terri@mdcoastdispatch.com CHANTAL APPLE Account Executive capple@mdcoastdispatch.com

ART DEPARTMENT COLE GIBSON Art Director cole@mdcoastdispatch.com DAVID HOOKS Graphic Artist dhooks@mdcoastdispatch.com PAUL HALLAM Graphic Artist/Webmaster phallam@mdcoastdispatch.com

BUSINESS OFFICE PAMELA GREEN Bookkeeper/Classifieds Manager classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com

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

Sad, Embarrassing End For Riverboat How We See It

Back in September of 2020, in this space the headline read, “County’s Riverboat Purchase A Risky Venture.” The County Commissioners had just voted 5-2 to sign off on the purchase of a riverboat from across the state to boost south end tourism. The editorial read, “Though we don’t understand the rush to a decision, the goal is honorable. It’s going to take something bold to turn around tourism in the south-end of the county. The Pocomoke River is clearly the jewel of the region and highlighting its uniqueness is a smart course of action.”

The commissioners at the time agreed to loan Snow Hill $400,000 for the riverboat purchase with county backing. Three years later, it turns out the town bought a lemon and did not do its due diligence on this vessel. After a year of maintenance work and a few runs on the river, it was learned the boat needed about $500,000 in repairs to pass Coast Guard inspection, dooming the economic development effort for the county seat.

Back in 2020, the county was quick to approve this purchase with ARPA funds in the name of economic development. The problem is the county did not investigate why another goverment dropped out at the last minute of the boat purchase. It was obvious the government officials on the western shore learned about the boat’s mechanical issues and walked away from the buy.

Worcester County jumped in and then agreed to buy the boat.

This week the riverboat saga came to a sad end with Snow Hill having to sell the boat for $24,800 to a Taylor’s Island marina after the previous high bid of $75,000 fell through when the company realized making the boat an entertainment venue came with far too many expenses and unknowns.

Ever since taking office, Snow Hill Mayor Mike Pruitt has been transparent about his desire with the boat. Pruitt concluded the boat was too expensive for the town through his own research, learning annual repairs to the boat once the heavy inspection repairs were made were estimated at $100,000. Back in January, when the Snow Hill Town Council voted unanimously to move ahead with getting rid of the boat, Pruitt said, “We need to start this process, as painful as it may be to some people.”

It's challenging to admit a mistake especially one as high-profile as this riverboat purchase. Once it was realized the boat would be a recurring drain on the town’s finances, Snow Hill was wise to move on. Having to accept the lower bid of $24,800 over the high bid of $75,000 put a disappointing bow on this humbling ordeal. The riverboat buy goes down as the most embarrassing decision in recent county history.

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Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green Revising the county’s five-year school capital improvement plan to include Buckingham Elementary was a procedural step needed before officially asking the state to reconsider denial of funding support for a new school. The state’s decision-making body will now meet next month to take another look at the recent decision to not allocate state funds to the project. The fact the Interagency Commission for School Construction (IAC) was willing to reconsider the status of the project is viewed as encouraging by local officials. The reconsideration and request to revise the capital improvement plan came after a meeting between the IAC and Senator Mary Beth Carozza in October.

It appears the key point in the Buckingham Elementary School’s controversy is whether Berlin Intermediate School should be considered an “adjacent school.” In his letter to Commission President Chip Bertino, Superintendent of schools Lou Taylor wrote, “The IAC is going to review and re-consider the status of Berlin Intermediate School as a Buckingham Elementary “adjacent school.” Should the IAC determine that Berlin Intermediate is not a Buckingham adjacent school, state funding would be available for the Buckingham project.” It’s an interesting situation. Berlin Intermediate School (BIS) is home to fifth and sixth graders currently, serving as a collection point for elementary students for Buckingham, Showell and Ocean City elementary schools. The school is a mile away from Buckingham, but that should not qualify it as an adjacent school. For many years, BIS hosted fourth graders from Showell Elementary due to overcrowding at the old building. It was not an ideal arrangement and resulted in BIS being overcrowded. The message BIS should not host one school’s fourth grade must be articulated to the state. Transferring the fourth grade from Buckingham to Berlin Intermediate is not a long-range solution and it’s not best for the students.

As an aside, this week’s commissioners meeting packet included 10-year enrollment projections for the entire school system. Total enrollment for the school system is projected to grow by 4% from 6,933 this year to 7,185 in 2032. For Buckingham alone, the growth is more dramatic, projecting to expand enrollment by 18% from 516 in fiscal year 2024 to 610 in 2032.

As has been the case recently, the night meetings of the Worcester County Board of Education continue to draw many public comments. This week’s meeting featured praise and support for schools and educators as well as general concerns, such as the need for summer academies to continue. Many speakers focused their specific and organized comments on books they deem as inappropriate in school libraries. The books seemingly being targeted deal specifically with LGBTIQA+ issues. While it’s one thing to express concerns over inappropriate reading materials, there were many scathing comments alleging “indoctrination” of students by educators pushing liberal messages about general and alternative lifestyles. The comments struck a nerve with Treston Melvin, a Board of Education student representative of Pocomoke High School. In asking the address the board as the last public commenter, Melvin became emotional showing support for openness and acceptance in public schools.

“I would like to say as a student I am appalled by the things I have heard tonight. I am hurt and I can say every student over there is hurt too. If we as a community are focused on education, why aren’t we listening to the students who are hurting, who are crying over what you guys are saying.

I am sick and tired of you talking about indoctrination just because people want to live freely. I am sick and I am tired,” Melvin said. “I can see why some of you want evening meetings because these people will be here.

Because you get the people who hate. I am a student. I am a human. I was sexually assaulted at 15 years old and ‘All Boys Aren’t Blue,’ that book to someone who was like me that saved my life. … you need to listen to the students. Do you see how hurt and appalled we are? Please look at the people, look at the students who are in front of you. You have to see that we are in pain because the people we have to fight are the people who say they love us and are here for us. I want to encourage you as the Board of Education to please fight for us because what they want is not what is best for us. I promise you I would not come here and be in tears … do you know how embarrassing this is? I am embarrassed to be this vulnerable right now, I don’t do this, but I am embarrassed. We need to be heard.”

After all the public comments and later in the meeting, Board of Education member Dr. Jon Andes, former county school superintendent, made a suggestion on the book ban conversation. He suggested the school system consider creating “an adjustment to the policy” to have media specialists create an older teen collection for the “cringe factor” books. The collection would only be available to students who have parental permission. “Parents would have the final choice,” he said.

This is a suggestion worthy of consideration, representing an expansion of what the school system currently provides as far as parents being able to prohibit their kids from checking out specific books. The issue there is parents do not know all the books in the respective libraries. It’s the concept of opting out vs. opting in. Placing the books that have been identified as concerning in their own location and requiring permission to view may be a suitable effort to address the book concerns, which are being heard across the country these days.

Page 62

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Puzzle Answers

A

The Adventures

by Steve Green

PUZZLE ON PAGE 51

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round our house, having a birthday the week after Halloween is similar to a postChristmas birthday.

It’s a good thing Carson abhors a fuss because his birthday falls on Nov. 5. Due to Halloween decorations involving weeks of preparations, Carson’s birthday is a bit of an afterthought.

Though he doesn’t want a big deal made of his birthday, it was interesting to observe in the weeks leading up to his 14th birthday the subtle hints left as to what he wanted as a gift.

Like most kids on the Autism spectrum, Carson thrives with a routine. It’s a key piece in a safe and successful life with him. Therefore, every morning unfolds the same way, especially school days. We go through our stages of the morning essentially mirroring the entire process.

A part of the ride to school is him looking at my phone and showing me funny things, typically insanely expensive houses, jewelry and cars. He likes to hypothesize how to spend my money. Before getting out of the car and making the way to school, he always leaves my phone on the console open to something – always expensive and typically funny. .

For weeks prior to his birthday, he was leaving my phone screen on computers he liked. One day it was the 24k Gold Macbook Pro with diamond encrusted Apple logo that retailed for $24,000. Though his taste was a little outlandish, he was letting us know he wanted a computer.

Once a desktop was decided as his preferred computer option, Carson began researching and found a site for all-in-one computers where the computer is essentially the monitor. One morning, and I think it was about a week before his birthday, he stopped before getting out of the car and showed me a computer on my phone. He then

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of Fatherhood grabbed my wrist and pointed to the date making sure I didn’t forget what was coming up. merican Education Week was at Carson’s school, Stephen Decatur Middle, last week.

We asked our middle schooler if he wanted us to come. I was surprised when he said he did and chose math class as the time for us to come.

I wrongly assumed Carson would not want us to attend because he prefers to be low profile. I have noticed middle school parents are generally light on American Education Week attendance. It’s not because the parents don’t care. In most cases, I think the middle school students – who are a tough lot – mandate their parents stay away. If Carson was in that predicament, Pam and I would have been fine with it.

However, when the kid who never asks for anything says he wants us to come to his math class on a Tuesday at 11 a.m. we do it. We have learned to roll with situations with our Carson, but we were curious if he would want us to sit with him and his one-on-one buddy Mr. Chris or just observe from a distance.

Of course, as is par for the course with our Autistic son, his reaction was different than we would have imagined.

When we got to school and were waiting outside his classroom, he wanted nothing to do with us. I mean absolutely nothing. In fact, he hid behind a locker from us. The thought crossed my mind of rolling out the side door in short order if our presence was causing him anxiety and result in behavior. I walked over to him to hand him a new Apple pencil he needed to replace his broken one.

He made it known through repeated hand gestures he wanted us to go inside his classroom. Within seconds, Carson darted to his seat in the front

row and went to work.

We followed his lead and went to the back of the room, observed and refreshed our minds about linear relationships. From what we could observe, he was a model student under the guidance of his buddy Mr. Chris. We recognized the small sounds Carson was making through the class as indicators he was having fun and enjoying himself. He would often point to his oneon-one, smiling. In my head, I imagine he was poking fun at Mr. Chris over his lack of knowledge of eighth grade math concepts. He was there for support but not much in the way of math instruction, and Carson seemed to enjoy it. That’s how I interpreted the situation at least.

When the class was wrapping up, Carson and Mr. Chris grabbed his belongings and left a few minutes early.

The early departure and arrival have been a common practice with Carson in school to avoid the crowds in the hallways and keep his social anxiety in check. As Carson left the room, we thought he might look over and wave.

He did not do either. He was gone. It was as if we were not there, but we know full well Carson knew we were there. I refuse to believe it doesn’t matter to him. I think it mattered a lot to him actually, but he wanted to stay on his routine and keep to his day’s script.

In the days that followed our visit, I make dumb jokes about what I learned in school that day. I had him giggling good this week walking into school when I reminded him not to get the ‘x’ and ‘y’ intercepts mixed up and remember to rise over run when figuring out the slope.

He knows full well I have no idea what I am talking about, but it was a good takeaway from American Education Week.

(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 24, 2023