Nov. 25

Townhouse Community Proposed At Former Theater Property

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – After a rather philosophical debate about zoning and allowable density, resort planners this week approved a site plan for a new 56-unit townhouse community on the property that for decades hosted the Sun and Surf Theaters uptown.

The Sun and Surf Theaters, which covered an entire city block along Coastal Highway between 143rd and 144th streets, was built in 1972 and for decades was an iconic entertainment venue in the north end of town. Earlier this summer, Sun and Surf representatives announced the property had been sold, the theaters were closing on Labor Day Monday after 50 years and the site has since been cleared.

On Tuesday, developer 143 Coastal

Development LLC presented a site plan to the Ocean City Planning Commission seeking approval for a 56-unit townhouse project each with four stories, three bedrooms in a total of eight separate buildings spread across the site that encompasses an entire city block.

The commercially-zoned property could have supported a large-scale hotel or even more housing units, according to the code. However, the developer has opted to use around 60% of the allowable density, which provides more open space, common areas, a pool and landscaping, according to Planning and Community Development Director Bill Neville.

“This is an entire city block that could allow for 101 units,” he said. “They are proposing just 56.”

The proposed residential does not have access to a convenient pedestrian

crosswalk for safe access to the beach. The nearest signalized intersection is located one block to the south at 142nd Street and many of the proposed units are in close proximity to the north-end transit stop with a continuous median in Coastal Highway. Those issues are still being resolved.

Despite the significant reduction in density, the planning commission voiced some concern the project could be an even better fit in the surrounding community with less units. The planners suggested reducing the number of units in each of the eight buildings.

“Now we’re building units that people can live in year-round,” said Planning Commission Chair Pam Buckley. “These are beautiful units, there’s no question. It’s scary to me every time the Mayor and Council propose another weekend event of something, and we get more and more

people that want to live here year-round.”

However, attorney Joe Moore, representing the applicant, said the developer had already reduced the density to the point the project represents a far less intense use than what could be allowed.

“Tonight, we have 40 signatures from residents in the surrounding area saying they want four-story townhouses on this property,” he said. “There was some notion there was going to be an eight-story hotel on this site. There are 40 letters saying they want you to approve fourstory townhouses.”

Buckley agreed the project represented a less-dense use of the property but suggested maybe one unit could be eliminated from each of the eight buildings.

“I don’t necessarily have a huge issue with the six units,” she said. “My thing has always been you can bring the unit count down and raise the price. I don’t want to get into the economics of it. If we want to maintain the quality of life in Ocean City, this is where people are going to live year-round. It’s not like one or two weeks of the year. They come down every weekend. You can develop a really, really nice site plan without it being a large number of units.”

Buckley said reducing the number of units below what would be allowed resulted in a better design for the site.

“You’re only using 61% of your allowable density,” she said. “Why did you do that? Because you think this is a better project than what the site would allow.”

Planning Commissioner Palmer Gillis said just because the proposed project for the former Sun and Surf site met all standards in the code didn’t necessarily mean it was the best use of the site.

“Just because it meets the code does not mean you have to crunch it down to the last inch,” he said. “It would be a better project for the customer, the developer and the town if you didn’t have to get down and say every detail is code compliant. That’s the letter of the law, but not necessarily the spirit of the law.”

Project consultant Jeff Thaler said cutting the number of units would result in a higher price for potential homebuyers.

“This group was looking for a sweet spot to sell units,” he said. “That’s how they came up with the six units. If they lose a unit on each of these buildings, the prices are going to go up and that’s not the customers they are looking for. They’re looking for customers looking to spend $600,000 to $800,000. They are not looking for units at $1.2 million or $1.3 million.”

Buckley agreed with Gillis on the code compliant issue.

“You continue to remind us that it’s code compliant,” she said. “Code compliant is the minimum level of what you want. The developer has already made a decision to reduce the density by 40% because that makes it a better project. What’s another 5% to make it an even better project.”

After considerable debate, the planning commission approved the site plan as presented with staff recommendations and a requirement for eight-foot sidewalks.

Mayor, Council Pay Hikes Advance

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – An increase in the salaries of the Mayor and Council inched closer to becoming a reality this week with the approval of an ordinance on first reading.

Throughout the last year or so, the Mayor and Council and staff have been discussing an increase in their annual salaries, which had not been raised since 1989. The catalyst for the proposed increase was a belief in the increased workload for the Mayor and Council coupled with the assumption the enhanced salaries could attract more candidates for the town’s elected positions. For example, just four candidates vied for three open council seats and the mayor ran unopposed during the municipal election earlier this month.

The sitting council when the issue was largely discussed earlier this year decided the proposed salary increases should be put before the voters during the November 8 municipal election in the form of ballot questions and not simply decided by themselves through the ordinance process.

For the mayor’s position, the proposed salary would increase from the current $20,000 per year to $30,000 per year, representing a roughly 67% increase. The councilperson salary would increase from the current $10,000 to $20,000, representing an increase of 100%, while the council president’s salary would be set at $23,000 because of the added time commitment and responsibilities.

During the Nov. 8 election, the town’s voters solidly approved the proposed salary hikes for the elected officials. A total of 1,223 votes were cast in favor of increasing the mayor’s salary, while 823 were opposed. Similarly, 1,210 voted to increase the council and council president salary, while 845 were opposed.

With the endorsement of the town’s electorate, the mayor and council salary increase came before the elected officials on Monday in ordinance form for first reading. The council voted 6-0 with Councilman John Gehrig absent to approve the salary increases as presented.

City Manager Terry McGean researched the proposed salary figures. For research purposes, Ocean City’s average population size was assumed at 70,000 and the general fund budget was set at $88 million. McGean said during earlier discussions those assumptions were modest, particularly on the average population side because of Ocean City’s uniqueness as a seasonal resort, the population of which often swells to over 200,000 during the summer.

The research shows salaries, populations and budgets of 23 state municipalities. In Salisbury, the population is 30,000 and the mayor’s salary is $25,000. In Annapolis, the population is 38,000 and the mayor’s salary is $98,000. In similarlysized Frederick, the population is 65,000 and the mayor’s salary is $90,000.

Sign Business Eyes Berlin Property

BY CHARLENE SHARPE STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – A West Ocean City sign and printing company could be moving to Old Ocean City Boulevard.

Plak That, the West Ocean City company known for its signs, could be moving to a vacant lot on Old Ocean City Boulevard, just west of the railroad tracks. Own er Wyatt Harrison met with the Berlin Planning Commission last week to talk about the concept.

“He’s just trying to get some guidance to get moving,” Planning Director Dave Engelhart told the commission.

Harrison said he currently had the property — two acres at 9933 Old Ocean City Blvd. east of Cheers! — under contract. He’d like to eventually move Plak That, which is currently housed in various contractor shops in West Ocean City, to the Berlin site.

“My number one concern is getting a new building so I can have more interior floor space to do the operations I need,” he said.

The building he’s planning for the prop erty would feature a little bit of retail but primarily would be for production.

“We do have some customers that come and order things at our storefront but it’s mostly going to be a production facility,” he said.

Harrison said that in planning the design of a new building, he was considering issues that had plagued his existing operation. Details like having dumpster

space, tractor trailer turnarounds and complying with property line setbacks are being taken into account.

“I’d like to come back later on when I own the property and have a full site plan,” he said.

Harrison added that while a new headquarters for Plak That was his priority, he was also planning to eventually develop the full site. He said the front of the property could house businesses as well.

“I’m not absolutely set on an office here, or a café,” he said, adding that he was also considering mixed-use buildings that would have residential space on the second floor.

Commission members suggested he work with a land planner to determine the best use for the entire site and to maximize its footprint.

Commission member Ron Cascio said that one general piece of advice he’d offer for that area would be to put buildings on the street and parking behind them.

“You need to find out what your wetland situation is, then stormwater issues, so you know how much you have left to work with and where it is,” he said. “That’s going to enable you to determine beyond your own business what you might have.”

Harrison encouraged officials to reach out to him if they had any thoughts about the project as it moved forward.

“I want to create something that’s aesthetically pleasing that I’m not going to have to come back three times to the planning commission on,” he said.

OPA Board Postpones Skate Park Renaming Proposal

BY BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITER

OCEAN PINES – The Ocean Pines Association (OPA) Board of Directors voted last week to withdraw a motion allowing for the creation of an annual Gavin Knupp Award.

Last Saturday, board members had before them a motion to approve a partnership with the Gavin Knupp Foundation to create an annual Gavin Knupp Award within the community. However, the motion was ultimately withdrawn in a 70 vote after officials highlighted the family’s opposition to the award proposal and the community’s sentiments regarding an effort to rename the community skate park in Knupp’s honor.

“It’s unfortunate that we could not find a way to honor Gavin today,” said Direc-

tor Steve Jacobs. “I hope going forward we still find a way to do so.”

While there was no motion on the agenda last Saturday, several association members came before the board requesting the Ocean Pines skate park be renamed after Gavin Knupp, a 14-yearold who died in a hit-and-run collision on Grays Corner Road in July. As of Monday, no charges have been filed and the investigation remains ongoing.

Resident Kim Gorsuch argued the renaming would not only honor Gavin but would offer a space for his friends and peers to heal.

“I think it would do good for this community, I think it would do good for the family and I think it would do good for the kids …,” she said. “It’s not going to cost us anything more. They want to come in and improve it. And kids go there, his

peers go there.”

Resident Becky Vail agreed.

“We have a young member of our community who was senselessly killed, murdered by a hit-and-run driver,” she said. “That family is a part of our community. Sometimes we have to think from the heart and not from the financials. It wouldn't take much for this community to rename that skate park in Gavin’s name. He’s a member of our family, our community.”

Jacobs, however, said a motion to rename the skate park was pulled from last Saturday’s agenda after learning Association President Doug Parks and Director Colette Horn had met with Tiffany Knupp, Gavin’s mother, on Nov. 14 and had reportedly reached an agreement to create an annual award instead.

“I confirmed the agreement with Ms.

Knupp and she agreed I should remove the motion from the agenda for today’s meeting,” he said.

To that end, Horn introduced a motion last Saturday to partner with the Gavin Knupp Foundation for the creation of the annual award. But that motion was ultimately withdrawn after officials learned Tiffany Knupp had posted a social media comment sharing her disappointment with the association for not renaming the skate park. She wrote, “please kindly take the meaningless award and shove it up your a---.”

“It is unfortunate that the board’s offer of either a bench or an award in Gavin’s name is considered an insult,” said Director Monica Rakowski. “Having that information, in my opinion, there’s no action required at this time, or warranted.”

Director Frank Daly said he had supported the renaming of the skate park, as well as the annual award. He noted, however, it was unclear as to what the Knupp family wanted.

“At the end of the day, I’m not going to shove something down the family’s throat if that’s not what they want …,” he said. “Until I know what they want, I’m not going to vote on anything. And that’s unfortunately where we’re at, and it’s sad.”

Board Discusses Skate Park Renaming

Officials this week also highlighted the community’s opinions regarding the proposed renaming effort. Parks noted that he had received comments both for and against renaming the park in Gavin Knupp’s honor.

“I certainly understand these requests, but we also have to respect the requests of others who have said it would be wrong to do that, that it would set a precedent …,”

he said. “That’s the other side of the argument we’ve heard which has caused us the dilemma.”

Horn told community members last week she felt the award presentation would be a better way to honor Gavin Knupp.

“For me, I felt it was an important initiative to consider because I felt we needed a memorial that would reach the entire membership, not just the skate park membership and those families,” she said. “It's on this agenda today because I feel it deserves an airing by this board and the public deserves to hear where this came from and what the intent is. I still believe this is an appropriate method to memorialize Gavin to the wide audience.”

Jacobs said he still supported the proposal to rename the skate park but argued that division and negativity within the community had prevented the matter from moving forward.

“In this case, it has made the chance – at least for now – for Ocean Pines to memorialize Gavin a nonstarter,” he said.

Directors Rick Farr and Stuart Lakernick also discussed threatening comments that had been made from mem-

OCEAN CITY – With the clock suddenly ticking on the upcoming General Assembly session, legislation that could enable the Town of Ocean City to raise its room tax if desired still needs approval from three other Eastern Shore counties before heading to Annapolis.

After raising the room tax in Ocean City in 2019 from 4.5% to 5%, resort officials have been looking into possibly raising the rate again, or at least the ability to raise the rate. Gaining the ability to raise the room tax rate is a complicated process made more difficult after it was learned the town and Worcester County would need the approval of three other “code” counties on the Eastern Shore, including Kent, Caroline and Queen Anne’s.

In order to have the ability to raise the room tax rate, Ocean City needed, and has since obtained, consent from Worcester County. While it is largely a local Ocean City issue, the ability to raise room tax rates would apply throughout the county, so any proposed enabling legislation aimed at that purpose had to first go through the county commissioners.

Armed with the consent of the Worcester County Commissioners, resort officials last year had draft legislation prepared to submit to its representatives in Annapolis for the 2022 General Assembly session, including state Senator Mary Beth Carozza and Delegate Wayne Hartman. However, it was learned at the 11th hour because Worcester is one of four code counties on the shore, the enabling legislation would have to have the consent of the three other counties.

With the draft enabling legislation for the proposed room tax increase put on the shelf last year, resort officials began working on another attempt for the upcoming General Assembly session. At the close of Monday’s regular meeting, Council Secretary Tony DeLuca asked about the status of the proposed enabling legislation for the upcoming session. He directed his question at Mayor Rick Meehan.

“I’d like to get an update on the progress on our ability to increase the room tax,” he said. “What are the next steps in the process?”

Meehan explained the effort was still underway, but there was a pause of sorts while waiting on how the November statewide elections shook out. He said with the election over, the discussion could begin in earnest again.

“Basically, this conversation just started,” he said. “We were waiting until after the election to really pursue this. We’ve had meetings with our representatives Mary Beth Carozza and Wayne Hartman as well as the county commissioners.”

Meehan said the lynchpin in the effort to get the enabling legislation approved was still the approval of the other code counties.

“We still have to have the approval of

the other three counties,” he said. “That’s what we’re working on now.”

It's important to point out the draft legislation proposed by the town would only provide Ocean City with the ability to raise the room tax. If the bill was passed by the General Assembly, the Mayor and Council would take up the debate on whether or not to raise the room tax rate and by how much, or if at all. Cursory discussions have included an increase by one percentage point, or from the current 5% to 6%.

Because of the complexities of the proposed legislation, even if officials were to gain the approval of the other code counties and make it into bill form in time for the upcoming General Assembly session, an actual room tax increase in Ocean City and Worcester County would not likely be in place until 2024. If state lawmakers approved the enabling legislation, it would likely have an effective date of July 1, 2023.

However, resort officials would still have to approve the amount of increase, adding another layer to the approval process. In addition, resort tourism officials throughout the process have expressed a desire not to set the room tax increase in place during the season when the hotels and lodging establishments have set their rates and began taking reservations. As a result, a January 2024 start date would be more likely if all the remaining hurdles are passed.

Ice Ice Berlin To Feature Tree Lighting, Displays

BY CHARLENE SHARPE STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – The town will officially welcome in the holiday season Friday with Ice Ice Berlin.

On Friday, Nov. 25, more than three dozen ice sculptures will line the sidewalks as the town kicks off the holiday season with an evening of shopping, entertainment and visiting Santa. The event will be held rain or shine.

This year, 37 ice sculptures will be on display in front of downtown shops,

which will be open late for the evening.

“Each ice sculpture is created with the holidays in mind,” said Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director. “They’re unique. There’s some really fun artistic expression.”

Years ago, the town began a tradition of kicking off the holiday season with a tree lighting ceremony in front of the Atlantic Hotel. During the pandemic, in an effort to adjust the event to encourage social distancing, organizers set up ice sculptures throughout the

town. Because the sculptures were so popular, Ice Ice Berlin has become a regular event that begins with the tree lighting and then gives attendees the chance to stroll through town admiring the icy works of art.

This year, attendees can visit Santa at Kringle Kottage on the lawn of the Taylor House Museum from 5-8 p.m. Carriage rides will also be offered throughout the evening.

At 5:45 p.m., dancers from Seaside Dance Academy will perform in front of the hotel, and at 6 p.m. Mayor Zack Tyndall will light the 25-foot tree.

“Right after the tree is lit OC Pipes and Drums will be performing, strolling to a variety of places throughout the evening,” Wells said.

The 37 ice sculptures will be placed on the sidewalks in front of the businesses that sponsored them.

“We’re very fortunate that we had 37 businesses that wanted to sponsor sculptures,” Wells said. “The more businesses sponsor the more sculptures we can have.”

Friday’s event, which is also sponsored in part by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council, starts at 5 p.m.

Wells said parking is free and encouraged attendees to utilize the parking lot at Stephen Decatur Park. For more information, visit the “Ice Ice Ber-

A map detailing the locations of ice sculptures at this year’s Ice Ice Berlin event is pictured above. Submitted Image

lin & Tree Lighting” event page on Facebook. Wells encourages area residents who haven’t been before to take part in the festive start to the holiday season.

“Ice Ice Berlin creates a magical experience for all ages, and it celebrates Berlin as an arts and entertainment district,” she said.

Former Mayor Releases ‘Turn Your Town Around’

BY CHARLENE SHARPE STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – The town’s transformation into a successful destination community is detailed in a new book written by former mayor Gee Williams.

Williams, well known for the years he spent as a councilman and then mayor of Berlin, will release “Turn Your Town Around,” a book that recounts Berlin’s revitalization, on Saturday. The public is invited to The Greyhound from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. to purchase the book and speak with Williams, who will be signing copies.

“It’s a story that needed to be documented but also shared,” Williams said. “This is real people talking about real experiences from different perspectives.”

Williams, who grew up in Berlin and graduated from Stephen Decatur High School in 1966, spent decades as a local journalist. From there he moved on to public relations and eventually public service, getting elected to the Berlin Town Council in 2003. Williams went on to serve as mayor from 2008 to 2020.

He’d long considered the idea of writing a book and with more time on his hands in recent years began to truly explore the idea. He quickly noticed that while there were local history books, they didn’t include anything substantive on the town’s relatively recent revitalization. With his front row seat to the changes, first as a reporter and later as an elected official, Williams realized he had insight into its evolution.

“In my view, revitalization got going in the 1970s, got into high gear in the ‘80s, and has continued,” he said. “It has not stopped nor should it.”

For “Turn Your Town Around,” Williams decided to interview the people that played a part in the town’s renaissance.

“I had a list of 50 names to start,” he said. “I pared it down to 35. Once I started the interviews it just started to fall into place.”

He spoke to property owners like J.E. Parker, local history experts like Carol Rose, merchants like Robin Tomaselli and town staff like Dave Engelhart and Ivy Wells. They touch on topics ranging from architecture to art and describe how they’ve seen the town change.

“I learned a lot along the way,” Williams said.

In the 13-chapter book, he combines their observations with historical details, such as information on the Renaissance Plaza project and restoration of the Atlantic Hotel, to provide readers with examples of how small towns can transition into destination communities. Ideally, he wants the book to provide encouragement to other towns that may be struggling but to also serve as inspiration for the people of Berlin.

“I hope this gives current and future residents of our town the encouragement and inspiration to continue down this path,” he said. “I don’t think revitalization has a definite end. As the book relates, you can adapt to the times but you don’t lose sight of what your basic values are as a destination community.”

Williams said he enjoyed the experience of writing his first book and that while only a handful of people have read it so far, he’s been pleased with their responses.

“I also want to do some paid speaking engagements, not just to promote the book but the idea behind it,” he said.

“Revitalization is possible.”

“Turn Your Town Around” will be available starting Saturday at The Greyhound, where Williams will be signing copies from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The book is also available online at turnyourtownaround.net.

Gee Williams, who served as Berlin’s mayor from 2008 to 2020, on Saturday will release “Turn Your Town Around,” his new book about how to create a destination community.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

BY CHARLENE SHARPE STAFF WRITER

NEWARK – Two incumbents retained their seats while one newcomer was elected to serve on the Worcester County Board of Education.

While voters in District 6 chose newcomer Katie Addis to serve as their school board representative, citizens in District 4 and District 1 reelected incumbents Bill Gordy and Bill Buchanan. Addis said she was looking forward to joining the board.

“This past year, I've put in the work to educate District 6 on the current issues and my goals as a future board member,” she said. “As a result, my concerns resonated with a majority of my constituents and they showed their support of my platform at the polls. I am excited to get to work with the other board members, knowing that my concerns are the concerns of my district as well.”

Addis received 2,040 votes, or 56.53%, to defeat Nate Passwaters, who was appointed to the school board position upon the death of Eric Cropper. Passwaters received 1,553, or 43.04%, of the votes cast.

In District 4, Gordy easily defeated challenger Jamie Rice. Gordy received 2,061 votes (76.36%) while Rice received 622 votes (23.05%).

“I’m excited,” Gordy said. “I want to thank the voters for giving me a third term. I’ve enjoyed the last eight years and I’m looking forward to continuing to do what’s best for our children and the staff.”

In District 1, incumbent Buchanan held on to his seat after receiving more than double the number of mail-in votes challenger John Abbott did. Abbott led after early voting, with 77 votes to Buchanan’s 73, and led again on election day, receiving 891 votes to Buchanan’s 804 votes. When mail-in ballots were counted, however, Buchanan took the lead. He received 256 mail-in votes and 24 provisional votes while Abbott received 115 mail-in votes and 14 provisional votes. In the end, Buchanan was reelected, receiving a total of 1,157 votes (51.15%) while Abbott received 1,097 votes (48.5%).

Buchanan thanked his supporters in a Facebook post following the final vote count on Nov. 18.

“Non-partisanship scored a victory for the Board of Education today,” he wrote. “Final votes were counted, recorded and I was re-elected as the Board of Education member for District 1. You may wonder why I began this post crediting the term ‘nonpartisan.’ Kids should not have political agendas, misinformation and personal opinion dictate the direction of their education. Everyone has the right to question aspects of their child’s or grandchild’s educational program. The avenue for

attention of concerns, or praise will always be open to

Five Suspects Arrested After Downtown OC Armed Robbery

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Resort police officers are investigating an armed carjacking downtown that led to a multiple-county pursuit and ended with a fiery crash in Dorchester County.

Early last Friday morning, a concerned citizen informed Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers of a possible vehicle break-in in the area of Wicomico Street. While officers were on their way to investigate the report, they were dispatched to the area of Dorchester Street for a reported armed carjacking with a handgun, according to police reports.

OCPD officers located the victim, a 73year-old male, who was suffering from a head injury. The victim was transported to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional Hospital with injuries not believed to be life-threatening. An update on the victim’s status had not been made public this week.

During the investigation, the victim informed officers he was standing near his vehicle on Dorchester Street when a group of three males approached him. One of the males pointed a handgun at the victim and demanded his personal belongings, according to police reports.

During the incident, the victim was

struck in the back of the head with the handgun, according to police reports. The suspects then stole the victim’s vehicle and several personal items. OCPD officers quickly located the stolen vehicle at a convenience store on North Division Street.

Police attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but the stolen vehicle drove north on Philadelphia Avenue with two additional vehicles. All three vehicles crossed over the Route 50 Bridge leaving the town of Ocean City. During the pursuit, stop sticks were successfully deployed, disabling one of the vehicles.

That vehicle was ultimately stopped in the West Ocean City area, and the driver, later identified as Jaquawn Daney, 19, of Baltimore, fled on foot. Worcester County sheriff’s deputies located Daney and he was arrested by the OCPD. It was later determined the vehicle Daney was driving was an unreported stolen vehicle from Somerset Street in Ocean City.

OCPD officers did not pursue the remaining two vehicles and allied law enforcement agencies continued the pursuit. The vehicle that was carjacked in Ocean City was later stopped by the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office and the driver, a 15-year-old juvenile from Baltimore, was

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arrested.

The third vehicle crashed and caught fire in Dorchester County. The Cambridge Police Department reported three juveniles fled the vehicle just after the crash and they were ultimately arrested by the Cambridge Police Department.

During the investigation into the incident back in Ocean City, OCPD officers discovered several other vehicles parked in the same area had been broken into, according to police reports. OCPD officers learned a handgun had been stolen from one of the vehicles that had been broken into.

During a search incident to the arrest, Cambridge police officers located the stolen handgun and several other stolen personal items on a second juvenile, a 17-year-old also from Baltimore. Numerous other personal items were recovered from the suspects and the vehicles involved in the multijurisdiction incident that began in Ocean City.

Officers were able to trace the property back to vehicle break-ins in the Ocean City and Baltimore areas. Through a coordinated effort between the OCPD and several allied law enforcement agencies, a total of five arrests were made.

Daney has been charged with armed robbery, robbery, carjacking, theft, reckless endangerment, first and second-degree assault and two counts of unlawful taking of a motor vehicle. He was transferred to the Worcester County Jail and is being held without bond.

The 15-year-old juvenile is currently being held in Wicomico County for crimes committed within Wicomico County. Charges against that suspect in Worcester County are pending. The 17-yearold juvenile was waived to adult status and has been charged with armed robbery, robbery, carjacking, theft, first- and second-degree assault, unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, possession of a firearm and ammunition and possession of a stolen firearm. He been transferred to the Worcester County Jail and is also being held without bail.

Two other suspects, a 14-year-old juvenile from Baltimore County, and a 12year-old juvenile from Baltimore City, were apprehended in Dorchester County Each was released to a parent by the Cambridge Police Department. The OCPD is prepared and proactively handling criminal violations and citizen complaints of illegal activity to ensure the safety of residents and visitors. Citizens are reminded if they see something suspicious or have concerns about possible criminal activity occurring in Ocean City to reach out to the department using the Tip Line at 410-520-5136, email the OCPD at crimetips@oceancitymd.gov, or call the department directly at 410-7236610.

JAQUAWN

DANEY

BY BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITER

OCEAN PINES – As a Worcester County group continues to advocate for bike and pedestrian access along the Route 90 corridor, board members last week discussed plans to submit a letter of support to the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA).

Last Saturday, Worcester County Bike and Pedestrian Coalition Chair Patti Stev ens came before the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors to discuss plans for improving bike and pedestrian safety and accessibility within the community, most notably as it relates to the redevelopment of the Route 90 corridor.

“We’re trying to think of big-picture connections that will enhance walkability and bikeability in our community,” she said.

As project planning continues, Stevens encouraged board members last week to advocate for bridge improvements and to take steps to create and maintain trails and access points.

“My point of being here today is to talk to you about what Ocean Pines can do to improve the safety of walking and biking, specifically with the planning of the Route 90 bridge,” she said.

For years, local officials in Ocean City and Worcester County have advocated for improvements to the Route 90 corri-

dor, including an expansion of the current highway and its two bridges from two lanes to four lanes. Officials have argued those changes would not only ease access in and out of the resort for members of the public but would improve travel for emergency service vehicles.

In August 2021, Gov. Larry Hogan announced funding would be included in the state’s Consolidated Transportation Plan for the planning phase of a Route 90 improvement project. And last month, MDOT SHA initiated a survey to receive public input on the proposed alternatives that are currently being considered.

Stevens told board members last week the survey will remain open through Nov. 30, giving community members more time to share their thoughts on design concepts.

“There is a shared use path for each option,” she said. “Jeremy Beck [project lead] has told me it’s fully on the table for consideration if there is interest and collaboration on making that happen.”

She added that the Ocean Pines Association could also send a letter of support to MDOT SHA.

“Review the project plans and potential designs and give input as the commu nity,” she said. “Individuals are doing it, but what is the community saying would be the best option for our community?”

Stevens also encouraged the association to form a workgroup on bike and pe destrian access.

“I think it should be bigger than the Route 90 issue,” she said. “Making this community more walkable and bikeable is something that’s been requested for a long time … I would make that scope broader.”

Association President Doug Parks told board members he was looking to gauge interest in submitted a letter of endorsement to the appropriate agencies. He said not only would the letter offer the association’s cooperation but would outline the community’s desires when it came to the redevelopment of Route 90.

“I think it’s important that we, as the Ocean Pines Association, reach out to all the folks that are involved in that project …,” he said. “This would be on two levels, to make sure they understand we are interested in the project and want to move forward, and – once a project team is put together – to send them a list of things we want.”

Parks said requests to improve the Oc ean Parkway overpass and develop bike and pedestrian access points to Route 90 could be included in the letter.

“I know first and foremost we are going to do something with Route 90 and the overpass over Ocean Parkway,” he said. “It needs to be bigger so firetrucks can get through there. I think the other big thing is the access. It's great to have this bike path but if we can’t get from Ocean Pines up onto there, what’s the point.”

Director Steve Jacobs, however, said the association would need to do more if it wanted to improve bike and pedestrian access.

“This is not going to be a one-shot deal. We can assume, at least through the planning process, that we need to find access points and have internal bike paths …,” he said. “We should also begin the process of reaching out to our county commissioners, state government to see what funds we can get … There’s money out there for these sort of undertakings … It would be smart to be proactive with this.”

Jacobs added that bike and pedestrian improvements within the community would also make Ocean Pines more attractive.

“Other communities in and around this area that are similar to Ocean Pines, they are aggressively working on walking and biking paths within their communities …,” he said. “To be competitive with other communities would mean we would have to be more involved than what we are right now.”

Director Colette Horn agreed.

“I fully support this letter, but Patti’s presentation identified some other things the Ocean Pines Association can do,” she said. “I don’t want our support to stop with this letter. I’d like us to really take to heart the power we have as a community to promote biking and pedestrian safety in our community.”

Hit-And-Run Arrest

OCEAN CITY – An Ocean City man was arrested for hit-and-run last week after allegedly colliding with another vehicle and leaving the scene.

Around 11 p.m. last Monday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer was dispatched to the area of 8th Street and Philadelphia Avenue for a reported hit-andrun collision that had already occurred. Ocean City Communications advised a Toyota Rav4 had side-swiped a tow truck in Ocean City and the victim whose vehicle had been struck was following the suspect, later identified as Leslie Lilly, 38, of Ocean City, according to police reports.

The victim reportedly stayed on the line with Ocean City Communications and provided updates on the suspect’s position as he drove west across the Route 50 Bridge into West Ocean City. The victim followed and continued to provide updates as Lilly drove west on Route 50, turned at Route 589 and headed east on Route 90 before being stopped by a Worcester County sheriff’s deputy on 63rd Street in Ocean City, according to police reports.

COPS & COURTS

An OCPD officer arrived on the scene and reportedly asked Lilly what had happened, but Lilly acted as if he did not know what the officer was talking about. When asked if he had been in the south end of Ocean City earlier, Lilly told the officer he had been to a sub shop in West Ocean City about 30 minutes earlier. The officer told Lilly he had been stopped because a victim reported he had struck his vehicle and left the scene, according to police reports.

Lilly reportedly told the officer he did not strike another vehicle, but another vehicle had struck his and the driver of that vehicle began to follow him. Lilly reportedly said he was traveling in the southbound lane closest to the bus lane when his vehicle was struck.

Lilly reportedly told the officer the other vehicle was in the center lane when it struck his vehicle, and the damage was on the passenger side. The officer pointed

out if the other vehicle had struck him from the center lane, there was no way for the damage to Lilly’s vehicle to be on the passenger side, according to police reports. Lilly then told the officer he did not know if the collision took place in Ocean City or West Ocean City. The officer reportedly told Lilly if his vehicle had been struck, he certainly would have remembered when and where the collision took place.

Officers interviewed the victim, who advised he was traveling in his tow truck in the area of 8th Street when Lilly’s vehicle swerved into his lane and collided with his truck. The victim told police Lilly’s driver side rear bumper collided with the front bumper of his truck. The victim told officers Lilly’s vehicle fishtailed as a result of the collision. The victim told police he made eye contact with Lilly multiple times, but Lilly never stopped, according to police reports.

The victim reportedly told the officers

he followed Lilly across the bridge and through West Ocean City to Route 589 and never lost sight of him. He said Lilly never stopped, nor did he ever change drivers along the way. Based on the evidence and testimony, Lilly was arrested and charged with leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage.

Guilty Of Disorderly Conduct

OCEAN CITY – A Huntingtown, Md., man, arrested in September after first allegedly assaulting his girlfriend at a downtown hotel and later screaming expletives at the officers attempting to remove him, pleaded guilty last week to disorderly conduct.

Around 3:05 a.m. on Sept. 11, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers responded to a Boardwalk hotel at 16th Street for a reported possible domestic assault. OCPD officers responded to the room on the ninth floor and could hear a male’s raised voice coming from the unit, according to police reports.

The officers made contact with the male, later identified as Joshua Piovesan, 22, of Huntingtown, Md. Officers met with a female victim, who told them she and Piovesan had been in a verbal argument, but she did not remember if he had pushed her, according to police reports. The victim told police the couple was arguing because he could not locate the keys to his vehicle.

OCPD officers, convinced everything was okay, cleared the scene with no action taken, according to police reports. However, before one officer left the scene, he got another call from Ocean City Communications that the female victim had called back and wanted Piovesan removed from the room.

OCPD officers responded back to the hotel room on the ninth floor and Piovesan was reportedly irate and yelling.

Based on the evidence, Piovesan was arrested and charged with second-degree assault at that point. As OCPD officers were escorting Piovesan through the hotel lobby, he began screaming “[expletive deleted] pigs,” and that the officers “smelled like bacon,” and other racially-charged vulgarities, according to police reports. Last week, Piovesan pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct.

Smashed Light Fixture Arrest

OCEAN CITY – A local man was arrested for malicious destruction of property last week after allegedly smashing an exterior light fixture at a north-end condo following a domestic dispute.

Around 2:55 a.m. last Wednesday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer responded to a condominium at 79th Street for a reported domestic incident and malicious destruction of property. As the officer approached the condo, he heard a female voice from inside saying, “Why did you hit me?” according to police reports. The officer also noticed the housing to the front porch light was damaged with pieces of it on the ground.

The officer knocked on the door and it was answered by a male individual, who pointed to the living room where the couple was, including the suspect identified as Nathaniel Beard, 22, of Ocean City. The officer knew Beard from previous encounters with the suspect, according to police reports.

The investigation revealed Beard had been in an argument with his girlfriend,

after which he went outside and punched the light fixture, causing it to break. Beard’s roommate said he heard the argument but never saw either party hit each other. He also told the officer he heard Beard go outside and heard a crash, and when he went outside himself, he saw pieces of the broken light fixture on the ground, according to police reports.

Beard reportedly had fresh blood from a cut on his hand but told the officer he cut his hand on a loose doorknob to his room. Beard was arrested and charged with malicious destruction of property. According to police reports, Beard’s two roommates ex-

pressed a concern if Beard was released, he would think one of both of them called the police and that he would retaliate against them, according to police reports.

Heroin Possession Arrest

OCEAN CITY – A local woman was arrested last weekend after allegedly being found in possession of heroin during a traffic stop.

Around 3 p.m. on Sunday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer patrolling in the midtown area observed a pickup truck parked in the Ocean City Tennis Center parking lot at 61st Street. The officer observed the female driver appeared to be asleep in the driver’s seat and approached the vehicle.

The officer made contact with the driver, identified as Savannah Cole, 22, of Ocean City and asked if she was okay, according

to police reports. Cole and her male passenger advised they were both okay. During the interaction, the officer observed small bundles of suspected heroin on Cole’s thigh, according to police reports.

Cole reportedly told the officer her male passenger was a heroin user, and she was going to flush the heroin down the toilet when they got home. The officer took possession of the heroin and Cole was arrested and charged with possession.

Traffic Stop Leads To Assault

OCEAN CITY – A Berlin man was arrested last week on multiple charges after scrapping with resort police officers.

Around 8 p.m. last Wednesday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer was dispatched to the area of Dorchester Street for a report of a suspicious vehicle. Ocean City firefighters reported they were suspicious of a silver truck with a red cap parked in front of the fire station at Dorchester Street. The truck was parked blocking the garage doors where fire trucks and ambulances exit the building and had been there for about 30 minutes, causing concern for the firefighters, according to police reports.

As the officer was heading south on Philadelphia Avenue, a truck matching the description provided by the firefighters was observed turning south onto Philadelphia Avenue from Dorchester Street. The officer noticed the truck did not have a functioning rear registration light and conducted a traffic stop.

When the officer approached the truck, the driver, identified as Josiah Magee, 22, of Berlin, got out and the officer advised him to get back into the vehicle. When told the reason for the traffic stop, Magee a-

gain began to get out and told the officer he wanted to see for himself if the light was not operating, according to police reports.

Once Magee was back in the truck, the officer asked him for his license and registration. The officer detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from the passenger compartment, according to police reports. The officer reportedly asked Magee to exit the truck so he could perform field sobriety tests to ensure Magee was safe to operate the vehicle. Magee was reportedly uncooperative, and the officer told him a final time if he did not get out and comply with orders, he would be arrested.

Due to Magee’s agitated and argumentative behavior, the officer attempted to detain him in handcuffs, according to police reports. Magee tensed his arms and refused to place them behind his back. Magee then went down to his knees and laid on the ground, all the while refusing to put his arms behind his back and continuing to resist despite multiple orders not to do so, according to police reports.

Magee continued to resist and scuffled with officers, at one point shoving an officer with his hands in an attempt to flee. Other officers responded with the situation tense and evolving rapidly, according to police reports. In their attempt to arrest Magee, officer conducted multiple knee strikes and punched Magee in the face multiple times, according to police reports.

Magee was ultimately brought under control when an OCPD officer deployed a Taser, according to police reports. He was arrested and charged with second-degree assault, resisting arrest and obstructing and hindering.

29th AGH Penguin Swim Announced “GHOSTS IN THE SURF”

BERLIN – The 29th Annual Penguin Swim is set for Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023 and will take place once again on the beach at The Princess Royale Oceanfront Hotel at 91st Street in Ocean City.

Individuals and teams are invited to join in the fundraising. Participants who register on or before Dec. 10 will receive an official 2023 AGH Penguin Swim shortsleeve T-shirt for their $25 registration fee. Shirts for participants who register after Dec. 10 will be available while supplies last. Individual participants who raise or donate $100 or more will also be eligible to receive an official 2023 AGH Penguin Swim long-sleeve T-shirt while supplies last. Participants can register online now to start collecting donations. To view this year’s shirts, or to register, visit www.aghpenguinswim.org.

All participants are required to register either online or in person and check in on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day to receive a wristband to gain access to the swim area. Advance online registration is recommended.

Participants are encouraged to come to pre-registration and advance check-in at the Princess Royale from 2 - 4 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. Avoid long lines on event day and pick up wristbands and shirts early. Participants will also receive an additional Penguin Swim item during advance check-in.

Event day registration and check-in will begin at 9 a.m., ending promptly at 11:30 a.m., with the main event at noon

on the beach at 91st Street. The time in between will be chock full of fun activities the whole family will enjoy like costume contests, face painting, mermaids and more. The Bull on the Beach team will parade down the beach at 11:45 a.m. from 94th Street to the swim area in front of the Princess Royale. Spectators are welcome.

The awards ceremony will take place in the atrium immediately following the swim. Special recognition awards will be given to Oldest and Youngest Penguins, and the Penguin who traveled the furthest. Trophies for first, second and third place will be awarded to those who raise the most money in divisions for: Adults (19 & Over); Youth (18 & Under); Teams/Businesses; Community Groups/Organizations; Youth/Family.

The 1 p.m. Ravens-Steelers game will be on a big screen in the atrium. Food and drink specials at the atrium bar may include beer, wine, soda, wings, chicken tenders, pizza, soups, and sandwiches.

If you’re unable to attend, you can still participate in the cyber swim. Register online, then take an ice-cold dip wherever you are and post a photo or video of your personal virtual Penguin Swim on social media using #OCPenguinSwim. Participants can register for the cyber swim on the event website and pay an additional $10 fee per participant to cover costs to have their T-shirts shipped to them.

• Companion to his best-selling “Vanishing Ocean City”

• Ocean City memories from the summer of 1945 to the spring of 2019

• Over 700 photos and 340 pages

• Hardbound coffee table book with cover art by Paul McGehee

• Special sections on the lost buildings of Ocean City, the March Storm of ‘62, Frontier Town, Trimpers Rides, Shanty Town, Hurricanes Gloria and Sandy, the White Marlin Open, Surfing, the Ocean City Beach Patrol, Phillips Crab House, the Commander Hotel, the Segregation Era, the Arson fires of the 1970’s, Characters and Personalities, and much more Ghosts in the Surf can be ordered online at vanishingoceancity.com. Visit the website for further information and photos.

BUNK MANN ’S LAT ES T BO OK O N OCEAN CITY HIS TORY

Fenwick Committee, Developer Renew Dredging Talks

BY BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITER

FENWICK ISLAND – As plans for a dredging project in the Little Assawoman Bay continue to develop, a Fenwick Island committee last week began exploring other potential partnerships.

Last Thursday, the Fenwick Island Dredging Committee met with consultant Tony Pratt and Anchor QEA’s Steve Bagnull to discuss ongoing efforts for dredging the neighboring Little Assawoman Bay.

While officials have set their sights on Seal Island as a potential deposit site for dredged material, Councilman Bill Rymer, committee chair, noted that representatives from the Carl M. Freeman Companies have reapproached the town regarding a partnership.

“Until we get a green light from the state, I don’t think we should be spending money on Seal Island,” he told committee members last week. “But we could turn our engineering attention to what a permit application would look like if we turned our attention back to the land developers.”

Plans to dredge roughly 19,000 cubic feet of material from the Little Assawoman Bay began in earnest in 2018, when the town hired Pratt, a former administrator for the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), to guide them through the funding and permitting processes.

And in 2019, Anchor QEA, a Lewesbased engineering firm, was brought on board to provide design, bidding and construction management services.

Since that time, town officials have been seeking locations in which to place the project’s dredged materials, including Seal Island, Seatowne community and a nearby kayak launch.

In 2019, the town also worked with Carl M. Freeman Companies on a plan to relocate the material to one of its properties, a parcel of land off Route 54.

Last year, however, officials announced the company had decided to accelerate its timeline for a project on the potential deposit site, preventing the partnership from moving forward.

In an update last week, Rymer told committee members representatives working with Freeman Companies have once again reached out to the town.

“It was a great conversation …,” Rymer said. “Their opening comment

was that their timetable on the development had changed, and all of our conversations were down the path of what it would look like to re-engage and how quickly it could move forward.”

Rymer noted the company was willing to work with the town’s dredging timeline and recommended Anchor QEA prepare a new proposal, incorporating a timetable and the steps necessary to complete an upland placement project with the land developer as efforts continue to secure a deposit site at Seal Island.

While the town is currently working with the state to secure approval to use Seal Island, officials noted a partnership with Freeman Companies could allow the permitting process to move faster.

“Our number one priority has been to successfully dredge these two boating channels and finding an acceptable place to dispose of those materials …,” Rymer said. “The biggest thing I wanted to gain from the conversation was what the timeframe would look like.”

Rymer told committee members last week the town was still waiting on a written approval, or a potential contract, to deposit dredged materials onto Seal Island.

Pratt, however, said that process could take more time, as any potential agreement between the town and the state would involve the attorney general’s office.

“The department has not, to the best of his knowledge, reached out to the attorney general’s office, which will be a necessary step …,” he said. “That could add to the timeline … It’s anybody’s guess how long it would take.”

Committee members noted that the town would need to apply for the necessary permits early next year in order to begin its dredging project in October 2023.

Pratt said he would continue to work with DNREC, Delaware State Parks and other state agencies to expedite the process.

“This could be a lot of back and forth,” Rymer added, “and time, which is not exactly on our side.”

After further discussion, the committee ultimately agreed to continue pursuing Seal Island as a potential deposit site for the dredging project.

Officials also directed Bagnull to explore timelines and steps for a potential deposit site at the Freeman Companies property.

A drafted memorandum of understanding between the town and Freeman Companies would also be discussed at the committee’s next meeting.

“I think this is awesome,” said committee member George Murphy. “If we can work these two things in parallel and get two disposal sites, that would be great. That would not only take care of a deposit site for the channels but would also give us an opportunity to explore doing the canals and lagoons.”

OC Driver Recruitment Ramped Up

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Resort transportation officials are already embarking on an aggressive bus driver and Boardwalk tram driver recruiting effort.

It’s no secret Ocean City, like most jurisdictions and the private sector, in recent years has struggled to fill out its staffing ranks for a variety of reasons. Perhaps hit most acutely by the labor shortage has been the town’s transportation department, including municipal bus drivers and Boardwalk tram drivers and conductors.

For example, prior to the pandemic, the town employed 150 bus drivers to meet its deployment goals. Since 2019, the pre-COVID benchmark by which deployment and ridership numbers are still measured, the number of municipal bus drivers employed has dwindled to around 90. The transit system has managed to meet its deployment goals for the most part, and ridership numbers have remained steady but finding bus drivers continues to be a struggle.

During an Ocean City Transportation Committee meeting this month, the discussion continued on how best to recruit, hire and retain municipal bus drivers and tram drivers and conductors. Last year, faced with a shortage, the town adopted an hourly wage increase for drivers and tram conductors along with an attractive incentive program.

For example, the new hourly rate for a new municipal bus driver is now $20.50, while a returning driver will earn $21.00.

In addition, other incentives have been proposed. For example, there will be a seasonal employee referral bonus wherein a Town of Ocean City employee will be eligible for a $500 bonus for referring someone to work within the transportation department. Also in place is an end-of-season loyalty bonus wherein a transportation department employee can be eligible for a $300 bonus for sticking it out through the end of Sunfest with certain conditions attached. Council Secretary and committee member Tony DeLuca said the town’s hourly wage increase appeared attractive on the surface, but the department needed to keep an eye on what neighboring jurisdictions were paying bus drivers.

“This was done midseason last year,” he said. “We really need to monitor this and see if our competitors are raising their pay rates. That goes for the solid waste division also.”

DeLuca asked if there was anything the town was planning to do differently with the recruitment and hiring of bus drivers this offseason. Operations Manager George Peake said the town was going to be aggressive in recruiting bus drivers.

“The big thing we can do now is get the word out early,” he said. “There was a time when we had 150, but I could function very well with 90. I would be happy with that. I’d like to go back to pre-COVID numbers, but that probably isn’t realistic.”

In terms of the Boardwalk tram drivers and conductors, similar wage increases and incentive programs are also in place. Peake said the ideal number for tram drivers was 25 but last season the actual number was more like 18 or 19. The trams for the most part did meet their deployment and ridership goals, but it was always a matter of doing more with less. Councilman and committee member Frank Knight said it was imperative to keep the tram fleet out on the Boardwalk during the peak times of the season.

“This is a moneymaker for us,” he said. “There was discussion about paying the conductors the same as the drivers. We want to be competitive because we want to keep the trams out there.”

For the trams, the drivers’ hourly rate is set at $15.91, while the conductor rate is set at $15.50 for the upcoming season. Mayor Rick Meehan asked if there was room to nudge those figures a little higher.

“Is it better to round it up?” he said. “I think it might be better to be at $16 per hour instead of $15.50 from a perception standpoint.”

Public Works Director Hal Adkins said maintaining reliable tram drivers and conductors would allow the department to reach its deployment goals.

“I’d hate to not be able to run them completely because we don’t have the drivers,” he said. “We need to have good communication. It’s really about the manhours. If the number we need is 25, maybe we can get 27 or 28 if they can meet the man-hours.”

Council, Planning Comm. Plan 2nd Summit In December

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – The Mayor and Council will hold another joint summit next month with planning commission members to discuss issues germane to development and redevelopment.

In late September, the Mayor and Council met with members of the Ocean City Planning Commission for a long-awaited joint session. The last time the two bodies met jointly to discuss issues related to zoning, development, redevelopment and certain sections of the code was in 2016.

During the September joint session, the two bodies worked through much of the aggressive agenda, but many issues were left on the table. At the close of that session, it was determined it had been productive, but there was still much work

to be done to ensure the Mayor and Council and the planning commission were on the same page on many of the issues. In recent months, there has been an apparent rift bubbling below the surface between the planning commission and the elected officials, and the joint summit was a means to find some common ground on some of the issues.

The Mayor and Council last week got a first look at the proposed agenda in place for the second summit scheduled for Dec. 13. City Solicitor Heather Stansbury presented the agenda, which includes a renewal of discussions on items covered in the first summit, along with issues not discussed before the close of the September meeting. Stansbury said it was clear the two bodies wanted more time to have an open, frank discussion on some of the issues.

“The question that came up at the end

of the first joint session was a desire to have an open discussion on some of the issues,” she said.

Items on the agenda for the December summit include an update on the non-conforming sign ordinance in the downtown area, an update on the comprehensive plan revision along with a timeline, continued code amendments including lighting requirements for new development, parking requirements, including garage parking and stacked parking in all zoning districts.

The agenda also includes a discussion of maximum building height measured from above parking under a building and a site plan appeal process. The agenda includes discussions of non-conformities for minimum parking requirements and pyramidal zoning in certain districts. Council Secretary Tony DeLuca said he would like another item added to

the December joint session agenda.

“I would like to have any and all new construction to be required to have a traffic signal or crosswalk as approved by the State Highway Administration,” he said. “I’d like that added to the discussion.”

Councilman Peter Buas also asked that an item be added to the agenda as proposed.

“I’d like to add to the discussion the elimination of commercial parking requirements,” he said. “I think that should be a discussion point.”

With little more discussion, the council unanimously approved the agenda as proposed with the discussion items requested by DeLuca and Buas added. Meanwhile, in a related order of business, a new planning and zoning commissioner has been appointed to fill a vacancy on the board.

In recent months, there has been a considerable changeover in the makeup of the planning commission with longtime members leaving and new members appointed. During last Tuesday’s meeting, Mayor Rick Meehan introduced Pam Robertson as the newest appointee to the board.

“We’re excited Pam has decided to give her time to the Town of Ocean City and serve on the planning and zoning commission,” he said. “She’s very vested in Ocean City and this is her home. Her knowledge of the local events and issues makes her a great asset to the board.”

Ag Storage Tank Ban Now Law

BY BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – Legislation banning the use of certain open-top storage tanks in Wicomico County will go into effect next month.

In a meeting this month of the Wicomico County Council, Administrator Laura Hurley announced the adoption of legislation banning the open-top storage of liquid organic fertilizer or soil amendments.

The adoption of the bill, one of three presented to the council for consideration, concludes a three-year effort by local elected officials and county residents to address concerns associated with dissolved air flotation (DAF) storage tanks.

“Legislative Bill 2022-10, pertaining to the open storage tanks for the DAF material, was returned to the council office by the acting county executive unsigned,” Hurley said. “In accordance with Charter Section 411, if the county executive does not return the bill within 21 days, either approving or vetoing it, the bill automatically becomes law.”

The topic of DAF storage was first introduced in 2019, when a building permit was issued to allow a local farmer to construct a multi-million-gallon DAF tank on Porter Mill Road. Several nearby residents and environmental advocacy groups, however, have since shared their concerns with the council regarding the smells and potential hazards associated with the tank. There has also been litiga-

tion in Wicomico County Circuit Court challenging the validity of that storage tank and the permit issued for its construction.

In the years since the issue was first brought to the council’s attention, the legislative body has enacted – and extended – a moratorium on the issuance of building permits related to the construction of DAF tanks.

In September, however, the council was presented with three legislative bills – one to prohibit DAF tanks, one permitting DAF tanks in the I-2 heavy industrial zone with certain restrictions, and one permitting DAF tanks in the A-1 agricultural-rural zone with certain restrictions.

“What we’re trying to do here is come up with some sort of reasonable compromise …,” Council President John Cannon said at the time. “We don’t want to compromise an industry, but we certainly don’t want to subject neighborhoods to the issues and problems that have come before us.”

In September, the council ultimately voted to introduce legislation banning open-top DAF storage. Last month, the council voted 5-2, with Cannon and Councilman Joe Holloway opposed, to approve the legislative bill.

Council Administrator Laura Hurley noted this month the legislative bill had been sent to the acting county executive’s office but had been returned unsigned.

“The bill became law on Oct. 27 and will go into effect 60 days later, which is Dec. 27,” she announced.

Commission Approves Site Plan Adjustment

BY CHARLENE SHARPE STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Officials approved a site plan revision last week for Oceans East.

The Berlin Planning Commission voted unanimously last week to approve a change to the plan for Oceans East, the apartment complex on Seahawk Road. The revision allows for the enlargement of the development’s lake.

“This lake is going to be the focal point of all of Oceans East,” said Brock Parker, the project’s engineer.

While several apartment buildings at the site are already occupied, Oceans East is a multi-phase project that is expected to feature close to 700 units upon completion. Parker told the commission last Wednesday that the project’s developer, the Rinnier Development Company, wanted to adjust the plan for phase two to make the lake featured at the community more of a focal point.

“The main goal of this is to provide symmetry in the design of the project,” Parker said. “They’re going to bulkhead that and provide that as a central amenity for the project moving forward.”

To do that, he said the site plan would have to be adjusted slightly. Rather than the one 36-unit building and 22 townhouses initially approved near the lake, he said the developer now wanted to do two, 24-unit apartment buildings and 18 townhouses. Parker said the apartments would be oriented toward the lake and the townhouses would be sitting on a faux canal coming off the lake.

“We’re just seeking to reorient the units and change the number of units just slightly from 58 total to 66 total… ,” he said. “The Rinniers just feel aesthetically this is a better design.”

When asked about the depth of the canal, Parker said it would be three to four feet deep but would fluctuate, as it was tied to stormwater management. As for the actual change in unit numbers, Parker said there would be an increase of eight units but that the site plan would feature four fewer townhouses than initially proposed.

“They really want to come in with a top-notch project,” Parker said.

While some commission members questioned the overall size of the project, Parker said at this point the developer only had approval for phases one and two.

“We’re going to return with three and four as the development proceeds,” he said.

Commission member Newt Chandler expressed no concern with the proposed revision.

“I don’t see as it makes a lot of difference,” he said.

The commission voted unanimously to approve the change.

People in Society

by Charlene Sharpe Featuring Those Helping Causes In The Resort Area

Larry Duffy, Vince Holloway and Mike Higdon presented the colors at a Veterans Day ceremony in the Pines.

Jeff Hilovsky and Milt Warren participated in a Veterans Day ceremony hosted by the Worcester County Veterans Memorial.

Jim Quillen, Buster Slaton and Billy Greenwood attended the Veterans Day ceremony.

Chip Bertino and Carol Frazier were among the attendees at a Veterans Day tribute hosted by the Worcester County Veterans Memorial.

Alex Mitchell and Morris Semiatin were among the attendees at the Worcester County Veterans Memorial’s Veterans Day tribute.

Willie Street and Charles Otto were among the attendees at a Veterans Day tribute hosted by the Worcester County Veterans Memorial.

Mike Pruitt and Pat Schrawder attended the Veterans Day ceremony at the Ocean Pines Community Center.

Ocean City residents Sharon Hilty and Dorothy Morse paused for a photo at a Veterans Day tribute in the Ocean Pines Community Center.

Diane Tanner and Sandra McCabe are pictured at the Veterans Day ceremony.

Susan Pantone and Jenny Cropper-Rines are pictured at the Ocean Pines Community Center for a Veterans Day tribute.

BY BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITER

FENWICK ISLAND – Officials are encouraging community members to preregister for this year’s 18th Annual Fenwick Freeze.

On Jan. 1, 2023, the Town of Fenwick Island will host its traditional Fenwick Freeze fundraiser on the beaches of Bayard Street. Community members can welcome the New Year by taking a plunge into the Atlantic Ocean.

“Bring your towel and hot chocolate and plunge with your family and friends,” said Councilwoman Jacque Napolitano, chair of the Fenwick Island Beach Committee.

Earlier this month, pre-registration opened for the coming year’s Fenwick Freeze.

Napolitano noted that forms can be filled out and dropped off at town hall, or mailed to the Fenwick Island Beach Committee, 800 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE 19944. Registrants should make checks out to the Fenwick Island Beach Committee.

“We have pre-registration from now until December 29 at town hall,” she said. “Or they can download the form online … There is a connection there where they can go to the link and mail it in or drop it off at town hall.”

As in years past, the town will also be selling Fenwick Freeze T-shirts, which will be included with event registration.

“With pre-registration, it’s $20,” Napolitano added. “The day of, or any time after December 29, it’s $25.”

Napolitano encouraged Fenwick Freeze participants to arrive early – between 910 a.m. – to pick up their T-shirts or register onsite. The plunge begins at 10:30 a.m.

“If the event is canceled due to inclement weather, they can come to town hall from 10:30 to 11:30,” she added. “The committee will be there to sell T-shirts and hand out the ones that people have purchased during pre-registration.”

Napolitano said the committee is eager for the return of the Fenwick Freeze, one of the town’s more well-attended events. She noted the 2022 event was the first to be held since the start of the pandemic.

“Last year was the first one in a couple of years,” she said. “I think there were a few people that came out, that were hungry to be with family and friends. So we’re very excited to have it again.”

Napolitano added that money raised from registration fees and T-shirt sales will go to support the Fenwick Island Beach Patrol.

“It does support them in their yearend competition at the nationals,” she explained. “It all goes into our beach patrol committee fund, and they use it at the end of the year for competitions.”

For more information, or for updates on this year’s Fenwick Freeze, visit the town’s website, fenwickisland.delaware.gov.

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COMMUNITY

News In Photos

The Worcester County Arts Council recently announced winners in the juried art exhibit: “Small Treasures.” This exhibition features 29 pieces of artwork submitted by professional and emerging artists, with work in all media. The exhibit combines many mediums including oil, watercolor, and acrylic painting, pastels, encaustic, photography, glass, and mixed media. Pictured from left are winners Carol Gentes, Gail Stern, Brigitte Bowden, Jiyeong Yun, Ellie Scott, and Tawn Crosby Shivers.

The Worcester County Commission for Women hosted a “Gems Tea” recently to celebrate “Extraordinary Worcester Women.” Honorees Elizabeth Rodier, Shelly Bruder, Andrea Lily, Becky Collins and Sherri Lassahn are pictured with Worcester County Commissioner Joe Mitrecic, Sen. Mary Beth Carozza and Worcester County Commissioner Chip Bertino.

The latest painted utility box under the Ocean City Development Corporation’s Public Art Program has been completed in downtown Ocean City by Snow Hill artist, Olga Deshields. This project is located on Philadelphia Avenue, just south of 26th Street in downtown Ocean City. This box is sponsored by the adjacent business, Happy Jack Pancake House. Submitted Photos

Members of the Worcester Prep Upper School Volunteers Club donated their time at the Giant in Millville, Del. to collect supplies for Diakonia, the homeless shelter in West Ocean City. WPS Volunteers Club members Jackson Fernley, Sara Freih, Isabella Borsoni, Esi Mehilli, Izzy Huber, Elaina Elrick and Claire Windrow (not pictured) stand outside of Giant in Millville, DE collecting donations for Diakonia.

On Nov. 16, the Salvation Army hosted a kickoff event for its “Red Kettle Campaign” in Salisbury. Annually the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City members volunteer to ring the bell at the Walmart on Rt.50 in Berlin. At the kickoff, the club received the 2nd place award for a civic group for hours spent manning the kettle last year. Pictured are three Kiwanis Club members who attended the function. Diane Sparzak, Tom Southwell (holding the award) and Diane Denk.

VFW Post 10159 made a scholarship donation to Wor-Wic Community College recently. From left, Jason King, director of veterans services at Wor-Wic Community College, and Stefanie K. Rider, executive director of the foundation and director of development, accept a check for $3,000 from William Dennis, Thomas Kimball, Robin Wright and William M. Price Jr. of VFW Post 10159 during the college’s Veterans Day ceremony.

Mental Health Provider Earns SU Hatchery Grant

SALISBURY – According to the American Psychological Association, the U.S. has experienced a “mental health tsunami” since 2022, with increases in patients seeking counseling for anxiety, depression and other disorders leading to longer waitlists and, in some cases, resources stretched beyond their limits.

When Salisbury-based Mosaic Counseling and Wellness expanded its operations from a solo practice to a multipractitioner office earlier this year, its founder, Stephanie Blevins, hoped to offer more services for residents of the Delmarva Peninsula facing such issues.

She received a boost in that expansion as the highest-funded winner of the 19th round of the Philip E. and Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation Shore Hatchery Foundation Shore Hatchery entrepreneurship competition at Salisbury University. Mosaic received $25,000 to help fund the business’ growth, which recently has included youth counseling, art therapy and hydromassage.

During the application period, Mosaic received mentorship from SU’s Dave

Pictured, from left, are SU President Carolyn Ringer Lepre; mentor Jean Sewell, vice president of NFP (corporate records); Mosaic founder and counselor Stephanie Blevins, and office manager Jessica Hassler; mentor Sandy Fitzgerald-Angello, vice president and dealer operator at Pohanka Automotive Group of Salisbury; and SU Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs Karen Olmstead. Submitted Photo

and Patsy Rommel Center for Entrepreneurship.

Held at the Rommel Center in downtown Salisbury, the competition featured some 36 applicants from throughout the mid-Atlantic vying for their share of $100,000 in prize money. Other winners included:

•Lytos Vodka – Billy Fanshawe: Referred to the competition by University System of Maryland entrepreneurship colleagues at Towson University, this Columbia, Md.-based business distills gluten-free vodka from corn, infused with salt, potassium and phosphorus$20,000

•Galaxy Gymnastics – Chelsea Lahey: Based in Salisbury, this center provides youth gymnastics training for all, regardless of mental or physical ability or age - $20,000

•Absurd Snacks – Grace Mittl: Referred to the competition by former Ratcliffe Foundation Shore Hatchery winner and fellow healthy snack manufacturer Hummii, this Richmond, Va., company produces nut-free trail mix featuring dried beans and seed-based granola -

$20,000

•Benson Outfitters, LLC – Kelly Benson: Doing business as Fin Outdoor Recreation, this Perryville, Md.-based kayak and bicycle rental business allows users in Maryland and Delaware to virtually reserve and unlock equipment, with half-hourly, monthly and annual subscription plans - $10,000

•Postbys – Erik Victorin: This Washington, D.C.-based digital platform allows trade show attendees to connect via online posts that direct potential buyers and suppliers to their booths - $5,000

In addition to funding, winners and participants also receive mentoring support from the program’s board. Mentors include business leaders such as Chris Perdue of Perdue Farms, Inc.; Mike Cottingham of the Rommel Companies; Kathy Kiernan and Patricia Royak, members of SU’s Franklin P. Perdue School of Business Executive Advisory Council; and Jennifer Layton of Layton’s Chance Vineyard and Winery.

This round’s winners join the program’s 94 previous award recipients,

who have self-reported estimated profits of some $98 million, creating 678 jobs.

“I’m incredibly impressed with the work that goes on here,” SU President Carolyn Ringer Lepre told this year’s contestants. “Community partnerships like this are invaluable. Hopefully we’re inspiring a generation of future entrepreneurs.”

William Burke, SU executive director of entrepreneurship and economic development, also shared words of encouragement, noting previous program successes such as Tania Speaks organic skincare, The Frozen Farmer ice cream and Tip Tough finger protector, the principals of which have appeared on ABC-TV’s Shark Tank. Tip Tough inventor R.J. Batts, who recently made his QVC debut, was a special guest during this semester’s Ratcliffe Shore Hatchery competition.

“There are tremendous opportunities for those who get experience here and move forward,” Burke said. “Being an entrepreneur is tough. It feels like everything is against you, and you’re out there on your own. But we — the Uni-

versity and the Ratcliffe Foundation — are here with you.”

All competitors have the opportunity to meet with the Rommel Center team to discuss the resources available to support their businesses.

The Philip E. and Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation Shore Hatchery program was established with an initial $1 million contribution in 2013. In 2017, the Ratcliffe Foundation announced a second $1 million gift to continue the Shore Hatchery through Spring 2023. It is administered through SU’s Franklin P. Perdue School of Business. Its goal: to fund entrepreneurs and have new businesses opening within six months, with the potential of employing three or more within three years.

Up to $200,000 annually is available for those applying for grants through the Shore Hatchery program. Its board of directors selects recipients based on presentations.

For more information call 410-5464325 or visit the Ratcliffe Shore Hatchery webpage at www.salisbury.edu/shore-hatchery.

Director Honored

SALISBURY – Hudson Behavioral Health Director of Admissions Shiela Pullen, LPN, was honored with the Unsung Hero Award at the recent Tuerk Conference on Mental Health and Addiction Treatment.

The conference, hosted by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), took place in midSeptember in Baltimore, Md.

BUSINESS

And Real Estate News

Ocean Gateway and is expected to open this winter. An official opening date will be announced closer to opening.

Construction has already begun at the location, using local workers and companies from the surrounding Berlin area.

“We’ve been looking to open a location in Berlin for a number of years so that we can provide the tools and equipment at tremendous values to the community,” said Trey Feiler, senior vice president of real estate and construction for Harbor Freight Tools. “In addition to finding a great location, we were attracted by the availability of great associates in the Berlin area, and we look forward to having them join the Harbor Freight team.”

SHIELA PULLEN

As director of admissions, Pullen oversees the admissions department and staff, and is the first face incoming patients see when they come to Hudson. Her behind-thescenes work includes creating a warm and welcoming environment for new admissions and implementing a rigorous physical and mental screening to ensure patients receive the best care.

“Shiela is an integral part of our team and has served our organization for more than two decades, and I’m thrilled that she is being recognized with this award from NCADD,” said Leslie Brown, CEO of Hudson Behavioral Health. “She is dedicated to doing everything possible to make sure patients feel safe, welcome and understood when they arrive at our facility for admissions.”

Pullen started her career at Hudson Behavioral Health in 1998 as a licensed practical nurse and has served as the director of admissions since 2000.

Hospital Distinction

BERLIN – Atlantic General Hospital has earned the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives’ 2022 Digital Health Most Wired recognition as a certified Level 8 institution, receiving awards for both acute care and ambulatory settings. This year’s recognition is the seventh Atlantic General has received in eight years.

Among the more than 38,000 organizations surveyed by CHIME, Atlantic General ranked above peers in categories like analytics and data management, population health, infrastructure and patient engagement. The survey assessed the adoption, integration and impact of technologies in healthcare organizations at all stages of development, from early development to industry leading. Fewer than 1.2% of surveyed organizations achieved Level 8 or higher in this year’s survey.

The Digital Health Most Wired survey and recognition program serves as a comprehensive digital health check-up for

healthcare organizations around the world. As success in digital health increasingly determines the quality of patient care, the scope of the CHIME Digital Health Most Wired survey reflects the progress of leading healthcare providers as they reinvent healthcare for a new century.

Just one of many accomplishments highlighted in Atlantic General’s survey submission is the expansion of its Mobile Patient Experience platform. Launched in the fall of 2020, the text-based platform initially allowed patients to receive doctor’s appointment reminders, request appointment cancellations, receive self-care instructions after hospital discharge and respond to periodic check-in texts to make sure they’re on the path to recovery. The service was then expanded in 2021 to include online scheduling of doctor’s appointments, followed by mobile appointment check-ins.

"It takes hard work and dedication from our IT team, medical staff, plus employees from the front lines to the executive suite to implement information technologies initiatives that improve the quality of the care we commit to deliver every day,” said Jonathan Bauer, Atlantic General’s vice president of information systems. “The Most Wired Award is a testament to their ongoing efforts.”

New Provider

SALISBURY – TidalHealth is pleased to welcome Ali Griffin, PA-C, to TidalHealth Gastroenterology in Salisbury, Md.

Griffin received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore in Princess Anne, Md. She is a board-certified physician assistant and has been in practice since 2014.

When she is not seeing patients, Griffin loves spending time with her family and friends. She also enjoys watching her son play baseball, traveling and reading. She is married to her husband, Shawn, of 18 years and they have two children: daughter, Taylor, and son, Connor.

Griffin is accepting new patients at TidalHealth Gastroenterology, located at 1640 Woodbrooke Drive in Salisbury, Md.

New Store Eyes Berlin

BERLIN – Harbor Freight Tools, America’s go-to store for quality tools at the lowest prices, has announced that it will be opening a new store in Berlin.

The new store will be located at 10716

The store is expected to bring between 25 and 30 new jobs to the community, including sales and logistic supervisors, senior associates, sales associates, and seasonal opportunities as well.

Harbor Freight Tools offers a competitive starting rate along with a best-inclass retail benefits package that includes robust health coverage, and Thanksgiving and Christmas off. Harbor Freight provides stability and the opportunity to advance in a company that continues to grow, with over 25,000 associates and more than 1,300 locations nationwide.

Harbor Freight recognizes that its people are key to its success and is committed to being the best place to work in any industry.

Forbes Magazine has recently recognized Harbor Freight as one of the top 20 large employers in all of retail, one of the top employers in terms of diversity, a top employer for women, and one of the country’s Best Employers for Veterans for two years in a row. Diversityjobs.com has also recognized the company as a top employer for its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Interested applicants can apply online at www.harborfreightjobs.com/retail and searching “Berlin, MD.”

For more than 40 years, Harbor Freight Tools has been America ’s go-to source for affordable tools. The family-owned company started in Southern California in 1977, when 17-year-old Eric Smidt began transforming his father ’s small phone sales business into a successful mail order company, bypassing the resellers, dealing directly with factories, and passing the savings on to the customer.

The company opened its first store in 1980. Today Harbor Freight Tools has over 1,300 stores across the country, 25,000 associates and more than 40 million customers.

The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a joint ribbon cutting ceremony with the Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce to welcome Planet Fitness to the White Marlin Mall in West Ocean City. More than 50 clients, employees, chamber members and community leaders were present to celebrate the gym’s grand opening, including Ocean City Councilman John Gehrig, Delegate Wayne Hartman and Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development Director Melanie Pursel. Above, attendees are pictured at this month’s celebration. Submitted Photo

ALI GRIFFIN

Chris Parypa’s Photo Of The Week: Each week staff photographer Chris Parypa is tasked with submitting a photo from his vast library to be featured in this space. Above, Route 90 foliage is pictured earlier this month. To purchase any of Parypa’s photos, click over to www.chrisparypa.com.

FROM PAGE 8

bers of the Justice for Gavin movement.

“We had to take our phone numbers and addresses off the website because of the targeted emails, text messages and phone calls we have all been getting, that are threatening us,” Lakernick said.

Parks said he understood residents’ desires to rename the skate park but questioned the timing.

“We also need to consider that perhaps now is not the right time,” he said. “Maybe it should be done at some point in the future as this unfortunate situation progresses. Nobody up here is saying it will never happen … From my perspective, perhaps we should consider it at a more appropriate time, because there is merit in doing it.”

Parks noted, however, that the community could form a petition effort to rename the skate park. He said signatures must be from association members in good standing.

“Within the governing documents of this association, members can start a petition …,” he said. “If qualified, it would generate a referendum, which then would go out to the community to vote on the issue.”

Knupp Speaks On Renaming Effort

On Sunday, Tiffany Knupp shared a post on the “Do It For Gavin – Justice For Gavin” Facebook group outlining plans to begin a petition.

“We will absolutely be starting a peti-

tion to let the OP community be heard,” she wrote. “I have dedicated friends of the family that will be helping with the process. Unlike the board we welcome all views and suggestions. We will however not be doing this until after Thanksgiving. This time is for family and being thankful. Life as we know is short, let’s take a breath and be in the moment.”

She continued, “WE will announce when this will be done, and the details will be planned as all of our events have been. Any other posts about drop off locations have not been approved by me or have even asked permission to do so.”

Tiffany Knupp also addressed the board’s comments regarding negative social media interactions from the Justice For Gavin group.

“Certain people have also been removed from this page to keep the movement open but positive, the new admins will not encourage the negativity that the former admin fueled,” she wrote. “We need change, we need help, we need to make changes for our community and I will not accept anything less.”

Association Maintains Relationship With Matt Ortt Companies

During president’s remarks at last Saturday’s board meeting, Parks also addressed the community’s calls for the Ocean Pines Association to sever ties with Matt Ortt Companies, which manages the community’s food and beverage operations. While no charges have

been filed in Gavin Knupp’s death, the company’s former partner has been publicly linked to the hit-and-run collision.

“Over the last several months, there have been posts and comments on social media to have the board remove the Matt Ortt company as a management firm for the OPA’s food and beverage operations,” he said. “Recently there have been a number of emails sent to the directors with the same recommendation, along with calls to boycott OPA amenities and veiled threats to the board if no action is taken.”

He continued, “OPA has a business contractual relationship with Matt Ortt Companies that involves specific obligations by both parties. At this time, there is no consideration for changing that relationship or the end date of the contract. It is the obligation of the OPA Board of Directors to base any decision to do so on the business interests of the Association.

“Regardless of how some people feel about the matter, major decisions affecting the Association must include consideration for how the overall community will be affected, rather than a subset of the membership. I understand and respect everyone’s right to voice their opinions and boycott facilities as they see fit, however, those actions in and of themselves are not the basis for an important financial decision. I respectfully ask that at this time you consider and understand our position on the matter.”

BY BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITER

OCEAN PINES – Efforts continue to secure a consultant for the creation of a South Station capital campaign.

Last Saturday, General Manager John Viola presented the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors with an update on efforts to secure a consultant for the creation of a fundraising feasibility study. As an Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department (OPVFD) looks to construct a new South Station, a workgroup has been established to kickstart a capital campaign.

“I want to give an update on the group that we put together to address the fundraising, feasibility studies and everything that should be done before we even start to address a new building,” he told board members last week.

In June, OPVFD leaders held a town hall meeting to discuss proposed South Station renovations, and the funding needed to make the project a reality. Officials told community members they are proposing an $8.6 million renovation that calls for a demolition of the station’s living and administrative quarters, the addition of a two-story building, and a new bay.

OPVFD officials say state contributions totaling $1.6 million and department reserves of about $1 million will also go toward South Station Improvements. The department is also seeking the com-

munity’s support to fund the remaining $6 million. In July, however, Director Frank Daly noted an existing memorandum of understanding between OPA and the fire department excluded funding for South Station improvements, but called for a joint capital campaign to raise funds for construction.

To that end, the board voted unanimously to direct the general manager to form a workgroup to evaluate and select a fundraising professional for a capital fundraising effort.

In a report last week, Viola noted efforts to find a consultant for the creation of a feasibility study that will be used to launch a capital fundraising campaign began in September, when the workgroup issued a request for proposals

“I said I would come forward today with the team with a recommendation,” he said. “We need a little more time to evaluate.”

Viola noted that the workgroup received responses from seven firms, plus some individual consultants. He said new information the workgroup received had prevented members from making a recommendation to the board on Saturday. Viola asked the board to give the workgroup another 30 days to make a recommendation.

“This is not a showstopper, this is actually a good thing,” he said. “We have gotten some really interesting information and we just need a little more time.”

OCPD Offers Residential Security Check Program

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – With the arrival of holiday travel and others in the resort starting to seek warmer climates to ride out the winter, there are countless vacant properties in the resort, but there is a proactive program in place to prevent burglaries.

Homeowners and business owners can register their properties with the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) residential check program. Through the pro-

gram, OCPD officers will randomly go around at different times of the day to ensure registered properties are secure.

During the registration, homeowners provide information about how long they will be away, what interior and exterior lights are on timers, who might be visiting the property, what vehicles might be in the driveway and any other pertinent information. OCPD Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller this week explained how the residential check program can prevent burglaries from happening in the first place and assist in

investigations if and when they occur and are reported later.

“The free residential security check program is a great opportunity for community members to lend a helping hand in deterring crime,” she said. “This program lets officers know that a resident will be away for a short or extended period. Our officers are then able to keep an eye on the property, not only to ensure the property is safe, but to give the owner some peace of mind.”

Vacant properties throughout the resort in the winter months provide opportunities for would-be criminals. Some are intent on clearing vacant properties out of valuables. In other cases, would-be criminals are looking for a warm place to crash for a few days. In either case, registering a property with the OCPD’s residential security check program can prevent winter break-ins and ensure properties remain secure while the owners are on vacation or have simply moved away from the winter solitude in the resort to warmer climes.

Serving most states

Many resort property owners close up their second homes in Ocean City and winterize them. Unfortunately, some return in the spring or early summer and find their property has been burglarized. The OCPD’s residential check program is an effective way to prevent that from happening in many cases and it’s free and easy to register, according to Miller.

“Are you going on vacation for a week or two?” she said. “Do you own a second home in Ocean City that is currently unoccupied? Let us know and we’ll check on it up to five times per week while you’re away. The residential security check program is completely free and gives citizens that leave their homes peace of mind while they are away.”

In some cases, local residents come home from prolonged vacations to learn their property has been burglarized, vandalized or otherwise tampered with. In others, those who have second homes in the resort return for the first time in the spring to find the same result. Registering with the residential security check program can prevent that.

“In Ocean City, we typically see a spike in reports of burglaries in the late

spring and early summer months,” she said. “Officers have reported that during the investigation, it is sometimes determined that the incident occurred over the winter and went unnoticed until the homeowner returned for the summer months.”

The OCPD’s residential security check module is used to track residential and commercial addresses that require special monitoring. As OCPD officers patrol Ocean City, their observations and comments for the locations are captured in the department’s CAD system. When a special watch expires, a detailed report can be generated that outlines the frequency of the officer checks and any observations or unique circumstances experienced by officers for a specific address.

More importantly, the security check system provides officers with enough information to quickly contact residents about their property in an emergency. In addition to crime-related activity, the residential security check program allows the OCPD to alert homeowners to natural occurrences such as broken pipes or storm damage, for example.

The proliferation of social media outlets allows would-be criminals the opportunity to find out who is away and how long they will be gone. Miller advised local residents to be careful about how much information they make public, including pictures of them on social media platforms such as Facebook, for example. Beyond that, a handful of common sense tips can prevent resort property owners from becoming victims of crime while they are away from home.

“After answering a few simple questions, the homeowner’s information will be added to our database and officers will begin checking on the home multiple times each week,” said Miller. “If the officer sees anything that varies from the information the homeowner provided, they will investigate further and contact the homeowner.”

The program is completely free and available to anyone with property within the corporate limits of Ocean City. To sign up, homeowners can visit oceancitymd.gov/police and click on the Residential Checks link on the right side of the webpage.

Snow Hill Field, Stadium Renamed

BY CHARLENE SHARPE STAFF WRITER

NEWARK – Education officials are honoring two well-known figures from Snow Hill High School’s history with the naming of the field and stadium at the facility.

The Worcester County Board of Education voted unanimously last week to officially label the athletic field at Snow Hill High as the Maurice “Moe” Barber Field at Kelly Shumate Stadium. The new moniker is meant to honor Barber, a longtime football coach, and Shumate, the former principal who helped bring football to the school.

“I find these two gentlemen to be two people that we in Worcester County are extremely proud of,” Superintendent Lou Taylor said.

According to Snow Hill High School Principal Kim Purvis, Shumate began his teaching career in Worcester County in 1964 before serving as vice principal and eventually principal. He ended up serving as principal at Snow Hill High from 1971 to 1995. Purvis said it was his vision to bring football to the school and he was instrumental in hiring the people who helped set up the team. Once it was established, he became the voice of the Eagles, announcing games until long after he retired.

“In tribute to Mr. Shumate’s service to the Snow Hill High School Eagles, we

are requesting approval that the stadium be named Kelly Shumate Stadium,” she said.

Along with that, she said the school community wanted to see the field named for Barber, who was personally hired by Shumate in 1972. Barber took the Eagles to four state championship games, winning in 1980 and 1982, and coached the team through several playoff appearances. Barber collapsed and died on the field during a game against Easton in 1988.

“To date Mr. Barber has the best record of any coach before or after his tenure,” Purvis said.

She said the school was seeking approval of the renaming and that a dedication and ribbon cutting could be held at the start of the 2023-2024 football season. She said a temporary banner in the meantime could let the community know of the upcoming change.

Taylor praised both Barber and Shumate and said he recommended the board approve the field and stadium name. Annette Wallace, the school system’s chief operating and academic officer for grades 9-12, said she was a Snow Hill High School graduate and that Shumate had been her principal while his wife had been one of her teachers.

“Thank you all for all that you’ve done for our community,” she said. “You all have truly been servants to the Snow Hill community.”

SPORTS In The News

Decatur’s Greenwood Named Coach Of Year

Seahawks Advance To State Semifinals

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s varsity soccer teams were well represented when the Bayside South Conference awards were announced last week including a Coach of the Year Award for boys’ varsity head coach Jamie Greenwood.

The Decatur boys went 7-2 in the regular season and won the Bayside Conference championship before bowing out in the state regional tournament. The outstanding season earned Coach of the Year honors for Greenwood.

Named to the All-Bayside South First Team from Decatur were Nick Hernandez, Ryan McLaughlin, and Brogan Eastlack. Named to the All-Bayside South Second Team from Decatur

were Owen Knerr, Dalton Bunting and Holden Bunting. Earning Honorable Mention for Decatur were Gabe Geiser, Sean O’Halloran, Finn Ramnarian and Colling Bunting.

The Decatur girls also enjoyed an outstanding season, going 10-2 in the regular season before falling in the state regional championship. Named to the All-Bayside South First Team from Decatur were Riley Wilson, Hannah Dang, Mia Kemp and Morgan Sullivan.

Named to the All-Bayside South Second Team from Decatur were Payton Wilson and Maddy Tapley. Earning Honorable Mention from Decatur were Jessica Beck, Macy Seitz, Keeley Catrino, Katelynn King, Kayla Rocco, Payton Piercey, Samantha Ruppert, Laila Pascucci and Luca Russo.

Former Seahawk Fell Coaching At World Cup

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Steve Fell, one of the most decorated athletes ever at Stephen Decatur, will be on the sidelines this week for the United States Men’s National Team as a coach as it begins play in the World Cup in Qatar.

Fell, who starred at Decatur before graduating in 2001, is the assistance performance coach and sports scientist for the United States World

Cup team as it competes in Qatar. Fell was a four-year standout for Decatur and was named All-State in Maryland and Bayside Conference Player of the Year in 2000, his senior year as a Seahawk.

After high school, Fell continued his soccer career at Towson University while he continued to pile up the accolades as team captain. Professional soccer became a reality for Fell in 2005 when he was selected by the Baltimore Blast in the amateur draft.

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s varsity football team continued its magical run through the state playoffs last weekend with an impressive 36-7 win over Potomac on the road to advance to the quarterfinals.

The Seahawks won their first two home games as the top seed in the state 2A playoffs, beating C. Milton Wright, 45-13, and North Caroline, 4327. Those wins advanced Decatur to the state quarterfinals and a date with a tough top-seeded Potomac team on the road last Friday night.

The Seahawks trailed early in the first, 7-0, after a quick score by the Wolverines. Decatur’s offense got loosened up after that early setback and led 13-7 after two unanswered touchdowns in the first quarter.

The Seahawks continued their dominance in the second quarter, scoring two more times to take a 27-7 lead in-

to halftime. Decatur added nine more points in the second half to close out the improbable 36-7 win to advance to the state semifinals this weekend. After that early first quarter touchdown, the stout Decatur defense held Potomac scoreless the rest of the way.

With the win, Decatur now faces a formidable Milford Mill Academy in the state semifinals this weekend. Milford Mill has gone a perfect 12-0 on the season and is the top seed among the four teams left in the state 2A bracket. Milford Mill Academy has beaten its three opponents in the state playoffs thus far by scores of 67-0, 55-0, and 20-7.

In the win over Potomac last weekend to advance, Decatur got a total team effort on both sides of the ball. Brycen Coleman was seven for 11 passing for 79 yards and two touchdowns. Coleman also carried the ball 18 times for 108 yards and a rushing touchdown. Luke Mergott caught four passes for 59 yards including two touchdowns.

Decatur’s Luke

hawks’ 36-7 playoff

Decatur’s Jamie Greenwood last week was named Bayside South Coach of the Year. Decatur went 7-2 on the season and won the Bayside Conference championship. Pictured above, Greenwood coaches his players during a recent state playoff game.

Photo by Nick Denny

Mergott reaches out for one of his two touchdowns in the Sea-

win over Potomac in the state 2A quarterfinals last Friday.

Photo by Bayside Sports-Vince Risser

Decatur’s Brycen Coleman runs for yardage during the Seahawks’ 36-7 win over Potomac to advance in the state 2A playoffs. Coleman threw for two touchdowns and ran for another in the win. Photo by Bayside Sports-Vince Risser

Silo Text Amendment Moves Ahead

BY CHARLENE SHARPE STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – A text amendment that would in certain cases allow silos on commercial properties will be considered by Berlin’s elected officials in the coming weeks.

Last week, the Berlin Planning Commission voted 6-1 to forward a text amendment that would allow a grain silo on property zoned B-2 or B-3 as a special exception. The text amendment comes at the request of Burley Oak Brewing Company.

“Right now we receive our grain a tractor trailer load at a time,” said Adam Davis, the brewery’s chief of operations. “It would be an easier means of operation to have it delivered and augered into the silo.”

According to Dave Engelhart, the town’s planning director, silos are not currently permitted. When Burley Oak leadership approached him about installing one, he advised them they’d first have to get a text amendment approved that would allow silos in the business zoning district.

“The text amendment would be the only way to get a conditional use in the B-2,” he said.

Davis said that in addition to allowing the brewery to cut costs, a silo would make the grain delivery process easier. He said it would reduce the potential for forklift accidents, as staff would no longer be unloading more than 200 pallets of grain a year, and it would reduce the amount of truck traffic coming to the brewery.

“It’s arguably a greener means of brewhouse operations,” he said.

While the proposed text amendment would permit a silo not exceeding 35 feet to be used as part of a brewery operation in the business districts, Davis said the silo Burley Oak planned to install would probably be just slightly over 30 feet.

“It’s not going to be much taller than the trees lining the back of our property,” he said.

Commission member Pete Cosby questioned if the commission wanted to restrict signage on silos.

“This is basically a sign post,” he said.

“I’m really torn on this. In an ideal world I’d rather see something more aesthetic.”

Commission member Matt Stoehr pointed out that breweries weren’t a common use when the zoning code was written.

“It’s kind of like we’re catching up with the times,” he said.

Commission member Newt Chandler asked whether the addition of a silo would impact neighbors’ quality of life.

“To me this looks industrial,” he said.

“I don’t know how you soften it.”

Davis said it could be painted any color and could be built shorter and stouter than the planned 31 feet. Commission member Austin Purnell said he’d like the proposed silo better that way.

“It’s easy to shield in my mind if it’s shorter,” Chandler said.

While the idea of decreasing the 35foot height limit included in the text amendment was briefly discussed, Mark Cropper, the attorney representing Burley Oak, advised against it. He said that while Burley Oak was the entity seeking the code change, the proposed text amendment would be applicable townwide.

“You may want to leave the flexibility so you can decide on a case-by-case basis,” he said.

Cosby said breweries had become common in today’s world.

“The industrial look has become chic,” he said.

He said the commission just needed to decide how far it wanted to push the potential height concerns.

“I think it’s appropriate down there,” said Chris Denny, chair of the commission, adding that his only potential concern would be uplighting.

Engelhart said he didn’t want the commission to get hung up on the height of the silo Burley Oak wanted because that was a project specific issue that would be addressed by the commission during site plan approval, if the text amendment is eventually adopted.

“If there is an issue I think it’d be brought up here,” Stoehr said.

His motion to forward the amendment on to the town council with a favorable recommendation passed 6-1, with Chandler opposed.

Who’s Where When

BUXY’S SALTY DOG 410-289-0973

28th St. & Coastal Hwy. Saturday, Nov. 26: TBA

COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Saturday, Nov. 26:

CORK BAR Saturday, Nov. 26: Wes Davis

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54 Selbyville, DE Friday, Nov. 25: Full Circle Duo Wednesday, Nov. 30: Blind Wind

CRAWL STREET TAVERN 443-373-2756 Wicomico St., Downtown O.C. Friday, Nov. 25:

DJ Willdabeast Saturday, Nov. 26: Mercury Agenda

FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St. In The Bay Friday, Nov. 25: DJ RobCee, Great Train Robbery, Tranzfusion Saturday, Nov. 26: DJ Hook, The 1974, Jumper Monday, Nov. 28: Btryan Clark

GREENE TURTLE WEST 410-213-1500 Rt. 611, West O.C. Saturday, Nov. 26: The Rogue Citizens

Who’s Where When

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West O.C.

Fridays: DJ Billy T Saturday, Nov. 26: Side Project, DJ Jeremy Sunday, Nov. 27: Pickin’ Party Thursdays: DJ Billy T

OC EATERIES

443-252-3700

12849 Ocean Gateway, Rte. 50, West OC Friday, Nov. 25: Karaoke w/Kennedy Wednesdays: Trivia w/ Kennedy

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Fridays: Beats By Deogee Saturday, Nov. 26: The Dunehounds Sundays: Beats By Deogee Mondays: Karaoke with Wood Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Wednesdays: Beats By Deogee Thursdays: Beats By Wax

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Nov. 25:DJ Tuff, The Malones, Liquid A Saturday, Nov. 26: DJ Bobby O, DJ Tuff, Full Circle, Kono Nation Thursday, Dec. 1: Full Circle Duo

TRANZFUSION

Fager’s Island: Friday, Nov. 25

MERCURY AGENDA Crawl St. Tavern: Saturday, Nov. 26

FULL CIRCLE

Crabcake Factory Bayside: Friday, Nov. 25 (duo) Seacrets: Saturday, Nov. 26 & Thursday, Dec. 1 (duo)

THE DUNEHOUNDS Pickles Pub: Saturday, Nov. 26

LIQUID A

Seacrets: Friday, Nov. 25

BLIND WIND

Crabcake Factory Bayside: Wednesday, Nov. 30

PICKIN’ PARTY Harborside: Sunday, Nov. 27

ROGUE CITIZENS Greene Turtle West: Saturday, Nov. 26

Every Monday: TOPS Meeting

5-6:30 p.m. Atlantic General Hospital, Berlin. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a support group promoting weight loss and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Call Rose 443880-8444.

Every Monday: Acapella Chorus

All ladies who love to sing are invited to the Delmarva Woman’s Acapella Chorus, Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Contact Mary 410-629-9383 or Carol 302-2427062.

Every Monday: Bridge Games

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

Things To Do

Every Tuesday: TOPS Meeting

Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly sup port and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. Meetings are held at the Worcester County Berlin Health Department at 9730 Healthway Drive, Ber lin from 3:30-4:30 p.m. every Tuesday. 410-289-4725.

Every Tuesday: Beach Cleanup

Beach Heroes, a volunteer Ocean City group, holds cleanups 9-10 a.m. yearround. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page "Beach Heroes-OC" for weekly meeting

locations. All are welcome.

Every Tuesday: Dancing

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

Every Wednesday: Bingo

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

Every Thursday: Beach Singles

Join the club, 55 plus, at Harpoon Hanna’s in Fenwick Island, 4-6 p.m. 302-4369577 or BeachSingles.org.

Every Friday: Bingo

Knights of Columbus hosts with doors open at 5 p.m. and bingo beginning promptly at 6:30 p.m. Held at the Columbus Hall at 9901 Coastal Highway, behind St. Luke's Church. Play every game for just $24. Light refreshments available. Call 410-524-7994 with any questions. rain or shine.

Nov. 25-Dec. 31: Winterfest of Lights

The 2022 Winterfest of Lights will be an ex panded walking tour that takes you through thousands of sparkling holiday lights and many animated light displays located along a paved path in Northside Park. Sip hot chocolate, take a photo with Santa, visit our gift shop and enjoy the array of holiday exhibits – including many surprises. Come see the 50-foot Christmas tree put on a show for you and soak up all of the holiday spirit at Winterfest of Lights.

Nov. 25: Ice Ice Berlin, Tree Lighting

Join Berlin as it celebrates the start of the holiday season featuring beautifully carved ice sculptures sponsored by the Berlin businesses.Thirty-plus holiday them ed lighted sculptures all over downtown. Tree will be lit at 6 p.m. featuring Town Crier Squire Frederick Taylor. Greet Santa at Kringle Kottage at the Taylor House Museum. Music by DJ Al Reno from Ocean98. Shops open late.

Nov. 25: Run/Walk

A Thankskitten 2.5 mile run/walk at the Oc ean Pines South Gate. Register at cfacrossfit.com.

Nov. 26: Drive Thru Church Luncheon

From 10 a.m. until sold out at the Powellville UM Church located at 35606 Mount Hermon Road, Powellville. Drive thru luncheon features oyster fritter sandwiches, homemade chicken salad, homemade soups including peas and dumplings, chili, and veg. beef. Bake sale items will be available. No pre-orders. Call 410.835.8796 or 443-880-8804 for more details.

Nov. 26: Holiday Open House

The Germantown School Community Her itage Center, a restored 1922 Rosenwald school, will hold its holiday open house from 1-3 p.m. The day will feature museum tours, children’s activities and holiday refreshments, and, as a special treat, this year’s celebration will feature a book signing by Al “Hondo” Handy. Handy’s memoir tells of his remarkable life from his early

years as one of the first black students to attend Stephen Decatur High School, lead ing the basketball team to a state championship, a feat that brought the community together in a turbulent time, to his years working to build Ocean City’s vibrant community athletic programs. The book will be available for purchase.

Dec. 3: Novel Launch

Local author Diana McDonough will launch her latest novel, Ginger Star, completing the trilogy of the “Stuck in the Onesies” series. The initial release of the book will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Greyhound Indie Bookstore and Fine Art Gallery in Berlin.

Dec. 3: Christmas Bazaar

The Grace Center for Maternal and Women’s Health located in Berlin will once again hold a Christmas Bazaar to benefit the programs and services they provide for women during their pregnancy and beyond. Event at the Berlin Intermediate School from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. All are welcome to attend and shop from a wide variety of vendors; make selections from a bake sale table; purchase 50/50 tickets; and get lunch to eat on site or carry out. There is still room for additional vendors. 443-513-4124.

Dec. 3: Church Bazaar

A variety of vendors, a silent auction, a white elephant sale, bake table and lunch will be offered at Stevenson United Methodist Church’s Christmas Bazaar, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in the fellowship hall.

Dec. 3: Christmas Concert

The Community Church at Ocean Pines is sponsoring a free Christmas season concert featuring the Capital Ringers of Delaware, entitled, "Christmas Reflections." The concert will take place at 3 p.m. at the Community Church at Ocean Pines on Racetrack Road. A free will offering will be collected.

Dec. 7: Book Signing

Author and columnist Chip Bertino will host a book signing and reading for his just released book, It’s All About...Some of My Favorites, a collection of some of his favorite columns written during the past two decades. The book chronicles experiences of raising children, getting older, being (and staying) married and just living life. The stories will resonate with readers who will visualize their own similar experiences. Copies of the book will be available for purchase at 6 p.m. at the Ocean Pines library.

Dec. 8, 22: Support Group

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Sup port Group meets from 3-4 p.m. at the Ocean Pines Library. Monthly meetings are held on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month.

Dec. 11: Sunday Side Orders Sales

Calvary United Methodist Church, 8607 Ironshire Station Road, Berlin, will offer from 12:30 p.m. until. The 12-ounce containers will be offered for $5; 16-ounce con tainers for $8. Sides include potato salad, mac n cheese, macaroni salad, string beans, greens, etc. Dessert table, rolls, corn bread and cold drinks for sale.

Dec. 14: Dinner Theater Trip

The Ocean City 50+ Senior Center plans a trip to see "It's A Wonderful Life" at Toby's Dinner Theater. 410-289-0824.

HOROSCOPES

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): Your honesty continues to impress everyone who needs reassurance about a project. But be careful you don't lose patience with those who are still not ready to act.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): Pushing others too hard to do things your way could cause resentment and raise more doubts. Instead, take more time to explain why your methods will work.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Be more considerate of those close to you before making a decision that could have a serious effect on their lives. Explain your intentions and ask for their advice.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): You might have to defend a workplace decision you plan to make. Colleagues might back you up on this, but it's the facts that will ultimately win the day for you. Good luck!

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): The Big Cat's co-workers might not be doing enough to help get that project finished. Your roars might stir things up, but gentle purrr-suasion will prove to be more effective.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): Someone you care for needs help with a problem. Give it lovingly and without judging the situation. Whatever you feel you should know will be revealed later.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): While you're to be admired for how you han-

dled recent workplace problems, be careful not to react the same way to a new situation until all the facts are in.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Rely on your keen instincts, as well as the facts at hand, when dealing with a troubling situation. Be patient. Take things one step at a time as you work through it.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): Your curiosity leads you to ask questions. However, the answers might not be what you hoped to hear. Don't reject them without checking them out.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): Be careful not to tackle a problem without sufficient facts. Even sure-footed Goats need to know where they'll land before leaping off a mountain path.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): Appearances can be deceiving. You need to do more investigating before investing your time, let alone your money, in something that might have some hidden flaws.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): Your recent stand on an issue could make you the focus of more attention than you would like. But you'll regain your privacy, as well as more time with loved ones, by week's end.

BORN THIS WEEK: You're a good friend and a trusted confidante. You would be a wonderful teacher or a respected member of the clergy.

© 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Christina Applegate’s story

A house full of kids

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY

Postmarked Aug. 2, 1927, this postcard illustrates how much Ocean City has changed in 90 years.

The Boardwalk was raised far above the beach in those days and on hot days bathers would seek shade under it. Some would plan a picnic lunch under the Boardwalk with the smell of creosote, damp wood and wet sand a luncheon companion.

The beach was narrow and waves reached almost to the Boardwalk on high tide. When storms rolled up the coast, the beach would literally disappear. The beach would remain narrow until the creation of the Inlet in 1933 and the construction of the north jetty allowed sand to build up on the south end of town.

The view above looks north from N. 1st Street. The tower in the background marked the site of the Plimhimmon Hotel while the tower in the foreground belonged to the Rideau. Neither of these historic hotels exist today. The suits worn by the bathers were typical of that era.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann's books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com. Postcard from Bunk Mann’s collection

WITH BUNK MANN

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

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.

CLEANERS/LAUNDRY PERSON: Now interviewing. Will train the right person. Newly retired strongly encouraged to apply. Please call Tammy 443-513-1150.

BOOKKEEPER

Accounting firm in Ocean City MD seeking full-time. Position will be responsible for maintaining multiple client accounts on a monthly basis.

Previous accounting experience preferred but not required. We are willing to train the right candidate.

ADMIN ASSISTANT / RECEPTIONIST

Accounting firm seeking front desk receptionist/adm. assistant. Full-time, year-round position. Some Saturdays Feb – April.

Please email your resume to cpa@cgcpa.pro References will be requested.

To all persons interested in the estate of JAMES E. BOWEN, JR., Estate No. 19440. Notice is given that EDWARD F. BOWEN, whose address is 219 MAIN STREET, EAST GREENVILLE, PA 18041, was on NOVEMBER 02, 2022

Personal Representative of the estate of JAMES E. BOWEN, JR., who died on OCTOBER 06, 2022, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections withhe Register of Wills on or before the 2nd day of MAY, 2023.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 11,2022

EDWARD F. BOWEN

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 11-11, 11-18, 11-25

Third Insertion

VICTORIA L. O’NEILL, ESQ. AYRES, JENKINS, GORDY & ALMAND, PA 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19439

To all persons interested in the estate of MAXINE J. SHANK, Estate No. 19439. Notice is given that JANE M. BROWN, whose address is 86 WINDJAMMER ROAD, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on NOVEMBER 02, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MAXINE J. SHANK, who died on SEPTEMBER 21, 2022, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2nd day of MAY, 2023.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication

NOVEMBER 11,2022

JANE M. BROWN 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 11-11, 11-18, 11-25

Second Insertion

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

ESTATE 19378

To all persons interested in the estate of ALICE DOUGLAS, AKA: ALICE LEE DOUGLAS, Estate No. 19378. Notice is given that DONNA L. COPES, whose address is 12402 SELKIRK CIRCLE, BRISTOW, VA 20136, was on NOVEMBER 09, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ALICE DOUGLAS, who died on DECEMBER 14, 2004 without a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 9th day of MAY, 2023.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from

the Register of Wills.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 18,2022

DONNA L. COPES 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 11-18, 11-25, 12-02

Second Insertion

MICHAEL B. MATHERS, ESQ.

WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP PO BOX 910 115 BROAD STREET Suite 300 SALISBURY, MD 218030910

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19417

To all persons interested in the estate of JAMES R. REINKNECHT, Estate No. 19417. Notice is given that PATRICIA REINKNECHT, whose address is 5 ANNAPOLIS COURT, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on OCTOBER 17, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JAMES R. REINKNECHT, who died on SEPTEMBER 04, 2022 with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (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 APRIL, 2023.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the

Legal Notices

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

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 18,2022

PATRICIA REINKNECT

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 11-18, 11-25, 12-02

Second Insertion

RAYMOND D. COATES, JR., ESQ.

COATES, COATES, & COATES, PA 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19447

Notice is given that the SURROGATES COURT of NASSAU COUINTY, NY, appointed JENNA R. FERRETTI, 3814 MORTON LANE, SEAFORD, NY 11783, as the ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of ANTHONY CHARLES SORRENTINO, who died on APRIL 21, 2021, domiciled in NEW YORK, 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 counties: WORCESTER. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 18, 2022

JENNA R. FERRETTI

Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTOCTT

Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-18, 11-25, 12-02

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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published no- tice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred un- less the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 18, 2022

TERRI WESTOCTT

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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19457

Notice is given that the REGISTER OF WILLS of CHESTER COUNTY, PA, appointed JOANNA M. PIETRAFITTA, 15245 TANGLEWOOD DRIVE, WEST CHESTER, PA 19380, as the EXECUTRIX of the Estate of HENRY MICHAEL VASIL, who died on SEPTEMBER 02, 2022, 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 counties: WORCESTER.

All persons having claims against the decedent must

Register of Wills for Worcester County ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE ONE W. MARKET STREET SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

3x 11-25, 12-02, 12-09 DEBORAH ULLMANN ESQ 203 2ND STREET POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851

To all persons interested in the estate of JENNIE J CYLC, Estate No. 19428. Notice is given that CECILLIA BRITTINGHAM whose address is 5402 RABBIT KNAW ROAD, STOCKTON, MD 21864 was on OCTOBER 21, 2022, appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of JENNIE J CYLC, who died on SEPTEMBER 17, 2016 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any ob-

JOANNA M. PIETRAFITTA Personal Representative True Test Copy

jection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice.

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the 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 25, 2022

CECILLIA BRITTINGHAM 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 11-25

of JEFFERSON DAVIS TRADER, JR., who died on SEPTEMBER 3, 2022, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (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 MARCH, 2023.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 25, 2022

DREW BULKLEY, Estate No. 19469 Notice is given that MARY ELIZABETH HUNTER, 2806 GULL WAY, UNIT A, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on NOVEMBER 21, 2022, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MICHAEL ANDREW BULKLEY, who died on NOVEMBER 2, 2022, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 21st day of MAY, 2023.

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 25, 2022

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19456

To all persons interested in the estate of DAVID E HILL, Estate No. 19456. Notice is given that THERESA HILL whose address is 300 DAMASK DRIVE, LANCASTER, SC 29720, was on NOVEMBER 15, 2022, appointed personal representative(s) of the small estate of DAVID E HILL, who died on JUNE 7, 2021 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

203 2ND STREET

POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

ESTATE NO. 19435

To all persons interested in the estate of MILDRED P BRYANT Estate No. 19435

Notice is given that LOVIE BALLARD whose address is 817 SECOND STREET POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851 was on NOVEMBER 02, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MILDRED P BRYANT who died on SEPTEMBER 15, 2020 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.

Worcester County

ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-25, 12-02, 12-09

C. ISHAK APAC ISHAK LAW LLC 224 N WASHINGTON ST HAVRE DE GREACE, MD 21078

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

ESTATE NO. 19394

To all persons interested in the estate of BONNIE LEE SCHNEPF. Estate No. 19394 Notice is given that CARROLE ANN WELSH, whose address is 5290 LAKEVIEW ROAD, CHINCOTEAGUE, VA, 23336 and RONALD H WITTE, whose address is 22484 LAKESHORE DRIVE, GEORGETOWN, DE 19947, were on NOVEMBER 14, 2022, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of BONNIE LEE SCHNEPF, who died on AUGUST 23, 2022, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

KIRK G. SIMPKINS, ESQ SIMPKINS & SIMPKINS, P.A. P.O. BOX 550

PRINCESS ANNE, MD 21853

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

ESTATE NO. 19379

To all persons interested in the estate of JEFFERSON DAVIS TRADER JR Estate No. 19379 Notice is given that KIRK G. SIMPKINS whose address is P O BOX 550, PRINCESS ANNE, MD 21853 was on SEPTEMBER 08, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate

MARY ELIZABETH HUNTER 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 11-25, 12-02, 12-09

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the 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 25, 2022

THERESA HILL

Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT

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 2nd day of MAY, 2023.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 25, 2022

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 14th day of MAY, 2023.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 25, 2022 CARROLE ANN WELSH RONALD H WITTE, Personal Representative True Test Copy

L. O'NEILL ESQ. AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P A 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 200

Register of Wills for Worcester County

ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE ONE W. MARKET STREET SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 1x 11-25

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for

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

VICTORIA

DEBORAH ULLMANN ESQ

LOVIE BALLARD Personal Representative True Test Copy

APRIL

Andrew James Pangratz

BERLIN – Andrew James Pangratz, better known as AJ and also known as Mr. Supervisor, 26 years old, of Berlin, (Ocean Pines) and originally from Aberdeen, passed away on Friday, Nov. 11, 2022, at Atlantic General Hospital from complications resulting from his having Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

He was born Feb. 2, 1996 at Franklin Square Hospital in Maryland to Lora Seccurro Pangratz and James Pangratz.

He is survived by his parents; his sisters, Kelleigh (Trevor) Pangratz and Grace (Tony) Pangratz; his grandparents, Bill and Kay Seccurro; his godparents, Sara Harwood and Brian Seccurro, and his Goddaughter, Olive Seccurro; his cousins Emma, Kate and Jane Harwood, Lilly Seccurro; his Uncle Tony (Wendy) Pangratz; Aunt Vikki Crissman; and his close friends, Chloe and Reef Goble, Sebrina Sefa

and Brianna Howard.

OBITUARIES

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Peter Pangratz, and his step grandmother, Shirley Pangratz, his grandmother, Mary Caslin and his step grandfathers John Caslin and Bill Brummel.

AJ attended St. Matthew Co-Op Nursery, Bakerfield Elementary, Aberdeen Middle School and graduated in 2015 from Harford Technical High School. He was in the CADD program. He was very successful academically. AJ did not talk much but when he did it was usually something humorous. He had a witty, dry sense of humor that made people laugh. He was a very thoughtful gift giver to his family and friends. He loved online shopping. He collected all things related to video and computer games. He loved hot sauce, especially his sister Kelleigh’s homemade hot sauce. He loved watch-

ing the O’s play and the Ravens and any of the college football games. He also loved his dog, Rosie, for 18 years and his cat Bobo.

He enjoyed spending time on the Boardwalk in Ocean City where he would navigate his way down the “AJ Lane” and people watch. The smooth straight boards in the middle of the Boardwalk are the “AJ Lane” because it was a smoother ride for him. And he was an expert at supervising his family. He was the favorite grandson because he was the only grandson. AJ and his sister Grace shared many years of school together. He also loved his time with his helpers during his school years, Mrs. Adams and Mr. Neal. AJ attended the MDA Summer Camp every year from age 8-17. He loved his time with his camp counselors, Mrs. Trudy Hargett, Derek Munro and Mark Smart. His sisters

were also camp counselors volunteering their time every year. He was known as Mr. Sunshine and Lightness by his DMD doctor at Hopkins, Dr. Crawford and was part of the MDA clinic there. He was also an honorary member of the Har-Ce Forest No. 142 of Tall Cedars of Lebanon. He was his dad’s mini me and they spent every day all day together.

AJ was a beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, godson, godfather and friend. He was loved by many and never let his Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy stop him from enjoying life. He will always be remembered and forever missed.

A celebration of life will be held at on Saturday, Dec. 3, 2022, at 11 a.m. at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 1200 Churchville Rd., Bel Air, Md., with a visitation from 10-11 a.m. prior to the start of the service.

Memorial contributions may be made in AJ’s memory to the Muscular Dystrophy Association at www.mda.donordrive.com or by mail to Muscular Dystrophy Association, WEB PO Box 97075, Washington, D.C. 20090-7075 or to Cure Duchenne at www.cureduchenne.org/donate.

Share memories with the family at www.HollowayFH.com.

C.S. Holder Jr.

ROXANA, Del. – C.S. Holder Jr., age 70 of Roxana, Del. passed Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2022, while surrounded by his loving family.

He was born and raised in Roxana, Del., Aug. 4, 1952, son of the late C.S. Holder Sr. and Brenda (Lynch) Holder.

C.S graduated from Fork Union Military Academy in Fork Union, Virginia. C.S (Butch) took great pride in protecting and maintaining his family century farm. He loved his farm and passed on that same enthusiasm to his grandson, Cash.

C.S. raised chickens for some time, and then ventured into the next role, working for Sussex County as a tax accessor / building inspector. He spent 40 years with them and retired, ready to enjoy life with his wife, Wendy Holder and family.

C.S. enjoyed spending his new found free time going to concerts with his wife and close friends. Riding his four-wheeler with his grandson, taking Jeep rides with his son and grandson into OC, fishing at the pond and target practice. No doubt he loved the outdoors and his family.

C.S. was a friend of Bill’s and was proud of his many years of sobriety. C.S. was a mason at the Doric Lodge in Millville Delaware, where he was honored to serve with his lodge brothers.

Survived by his wife, Wendy S. Holder; son C.S. Holder III; grandson C.S. Holder IV (Cash); Shannon Holder; daughter Priscilla Abruzzo; granddaughters Zoe Weistling and Giabella Abruzzo; and faithful companion his dog Gunner.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Melson’s Funeral Home in Frankford, Del. Friends and family are invited to attend the public viewing Nov. 28,

A.J.

PANGRATZ

C.S. HOLDER JR.

2022, at 12:30 p.m. with funeral service to follow at 2 p.m. Burial will be held at Roxana Cemetery.

Online condolences can be left by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Carol J. Skinner

BERLIN – Carol J. Skinner, age 84, passed away at Coastal Hospice at the Lake in Salisbury on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2022.

Born in San Antonio, Texas, she was the daughter of the late Robert L. Johnston and Gladys Kuhn.

Carol wore many hats. She was a loving wife of 64 years to her high school sweetheart Jimmy, a mother to two daughters, Barbie and Breezy, a mother-inlaw to Tor and Richie, and a Mimi to her favorite Remy. She was Aunt Carol to nieces, nephews and those dear to her heart. She was a colleague to those in the travel business and a friend and neighbor to all who knew her. A lover of boating and beach days, toes in the sand, a reel in her hand and sun on her face. A wellplaced geranium with all the umbrellas up on her back deck made her day. Cruises to warm islands, family get togethers and dancing with Jimmy. She was a shoulder to cry on, a warm hug, a good morning and goodnight text. We know you are “tucked” now and forever. Love you and goodnight.

She is survived by her husband, James Skinner; two daughters, Barbara Skinner Andersen (Tor), and Breezy Kammermeier (Richie); and a granddaughter, Remy Sky Andersen.

A celebration of life will be held at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin on Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

Donald George Schaefer

OCEAN PINES – Donald George Schaefer passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2022, at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.

Born in Glastonbury, Conn., he was the son of the late George Schaefer and Lillian Drexel Schaefer.

Following high school, Donald served in the United States Navy and later joined the Coast Guard Auxiliary, where he remained active for more than 30 years in positions of leadership, instructor and mentor.

Donald spent his professional career at AT&T/Verizon, and upon retirement relocated from Rockville to Ocean Pines. Active in the community, Donald was a member of the Ocean Pines bowling and golf leagues and could be found spending time with family, fishing and growing the community with his many volunteer activities.

He was survived by his loving wife, Shirley Scott Schaefer; their son, Scott Schaefer (Dawn); and their daughter, Dr. Sue Ann Hartzell (Charles). He was also survived by his three grandchildren, An-

OBITUARIES

gela Martinov, Lauren Hartzell and Warren Hartzell, as well as a great-grand-

Cremation followed his death. Inurnment will be at The Community Church of Ocean Pines Columbarium. Services will be held and announced at a later date. Letters of condolences can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his name to the Community Church of Ocean Pines (www.ccaop.org) or your favorite charity.

Nelson Leo Macher

SALISBURY – Nelson Leo Macher, age 85, passed away at his home in Salisbury on Friday, Nov. 18, 2022.

Born in Baltimore, he was the son of the late Nelson Lee Macher and Beatrice Drinks.

In 1955, Nelson graduated from Mount St Joseph HS Baltimore. He served in the United States Army from 195658 followed by a 34-year career with AT&T retiring in 1989. While working to support his family, Nelson went to school at night and earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland in 1968.

Nelson, along with his wife Joanne, lived out their retirement dream of owning a home on the water. Above all, Nelson loved his family, and his family knew how

much they were loved through both his actions and words.

He is survived by his wife, Joanne Ruth Macher; his son, Greg Macher (Joyce); his daughter, Cindy Nahorski (Mark); his brother, James Macher (Carolyn); and four grandchildren, Kristen Imbesi (Anthony), Eric Macher, Taylor Nahorski and Zachary Nahorski.

Nelson was preceded in death by his father, Nelson Macher, and his mother, Beatrice Drinks.

A visitation was held on Monday, Nov. 21, 2022, at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. The service was held Nov. 22 at St John Neumann Catholic Church. Interment followed at Evergreen Cemetery. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to The American Cancer Society.

Francis Donald Goodrich, Jr.

BERLIN – Francis Donald Goodrich, Jr. (Don), age 71, passed away on Nov. 16 at TidalHealth Peninsula Hospital.

Born in Baltimore on June 20, 1951 to Francis D. Goodrich and Mary C. Goodrich, he relocated 25 years ago to Bethany Beach, Del. and ultimately Berlin.

Don, a more quiet soul, was married

to Salli A. Goodrich for 42 years. Their mutual love for the beach brought much happiness as they settled on the Eastern Shore and made many new friends.

From a very young age, Don was active in community baseball and continued throughout high school. It was truly his passion to play major league baseball one day. He still has a $4 1966 World Series Ticketstub for the Baltimore Orioles game he attended at Memorial Stadium. Upon graduation, he went to Florida to play in a minor league farm team. Not working out to his satisfaction, he returned to Baltimore and reassessed his career. Along the way, Don also helped coach a Youth Baseball Team for a few years – loving every minute of it.

He became interested in driving tractor trailers and assumed a Truck Driver position with Western Auto Supply Company. Through company mergers and relocations, he also worked for Schneider, Overnite Transportation, finally retiring from UPS. Through this experience, he focused mainly on the Northeast states and Ohio. Always the one to volunteer, he assisted sites in California, Florida, and Texas on several occasions. He always said, “my alone time on the road helps me think and focus” – thereby, earning numerous Safe Driver Awards.

Not wanting to be idle, Don went to work for Town of Ocean City’s Transportation Department as a bus driver and supervisor. For the last 13 years, he has made many friends and witnessed changes in the town and its customers’ needs. He enjoyed assisting with special events/requests, especially transporting

child, Gabriella Cooper.

CAROL J. SKINNER

NELSON LEO MACHER

DON GOODRICH, JR.

Two Arrested For Vehicle Break-Ins

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Two Eastern Shore residents are being held without bond this week after resort police were able to connect them to a spree of vehicle break-ins in June.

The Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) last week charged two individuals in connection with multiple thefts from vehicle complaints that occurred in the resort in June. During the early morning hours on June 11, the OCPD investigated 21 theft from motor vehicle complaints.

The complaints occurred in the area from 26th Street to 28th Street on the bayside in Ocean City. Throughout the course of the investigation, the OCPD determined a total of 22 unlocked vehicles were entered and some had items stolen from them and others were just rummaged through, according to police reports.

OCPD officers were able to gather surveillance footage in the area to aid in the investigation and determine a description of the suspects involved. The OCPD Forensics Services Unit processed most of the vehicles involved for latent fingerprint matches. From those latent fingerprints, the investigation revealed two known fingerprint matches, according to police reports.

Through fingerprint matching, OCPD detectives were able to identify the sus-

pects as Leon Spry, Jr., 18, of East Market, Md., and Josiah Bolden, 18, of Federalsburg, Md. Spry and Bolden matched the features and characteristics of the suspects seen on video surveillance footage pulling on door handles of vehicles in the incident area on June 11.

Based on the video surveillance footage and the fingerprint evidence, OCPD detectives last week charged Spry and Bolden with the vehicle break-in spree. Spry was charged by an arrest warrant with 22 counts of rogue and vagabond, theft from $1,500 to under $25,000, six counts of theft from $100 to under $1,500 and seven counts of theft less than $100. He was seen by a District Court Commissioner and was ordered to be held without bond.

Bolden was charged through a criminal summons with 23 counts of rogue and vagabond, theft from $1,500 to under $25,000, six counts of theft from $100 to under $1,500 and six counts of theft less than $100. Bolden was held last week at the Caroline County Detention Center on unrelated charges.

The OCPD is reminding anyone who believes their vehicle has been broken into to contact the department, even if they left their vehicle unlocked. Often, victims do not report a break-in because they believe they are at fault. By contacting the OCPD, officers can get an accurate count of incidents occurring in Ocean City and, if possible, recover the stolen property.

... OBITUARIES

FROM PAGE 57

the COPS organization children.

He was a football fan as well – going back to the old Colts days and attending the 1971 Super Bowl in Miami, Fla., with a memorable $15 Ticketstub. With the new Ravens team, he supported them one day, then complained about them the next. But, overall, he was a ‘secret supporter’; watching the games despite what he said.

Throughout all of this, he loved to travel – mainly on cruises and to sunny warm places – and to attend concerts/shows. Don loved his music from the 60’s and you could depend on him watching every PBS special about the Temptations and Four Tops, saying, “there’s no music like this”.

Don is survived by his wife, Salli A. Goodrich; father-in-law, James F. Seal; mother-in-law, Nancy R. Seal; sister-inlaw, Debra L. Howe; niece-in-law, Melissa A. Simons; great nephew-in-law, Jackson W. Simons; aunt, Rose Garvey; uncle, Tommy Garvey.

“Godsons” Connor R. Allen, Flynn X. Allen; and many other special family and friends.

Don was predeceased by his father, Francis D. Goodrich; mother, Mary C. Goodrich; brother-in-law, James F. Seal, III (Jimbo); brother-in-law, Michael P. Howe; nephew-in-law, Jason W. Simons; uncle, Lee Garvey; aunt, Liz Garvey; uncle, Richard Glaveskas; and aunt, Ca-

role Glaveskas.

Don's wishes were to be cremated and scattered at sea. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Dec. 3, 2022, from 2-4 p.m. at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation in Don's name to a charity of your choice. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

Barry Lee Friedman

Sandra Marie Friedman

OCEAN CITY – Barry Lee Friedman, 84 years old, died Nov. 12, 2022. Sandra Marie Friedman, 81 years old, died April 22, 2022.

“Just another day in paradise.” Barry and Sandie were their best selves when they were at the beach. They shared a love story that started decades ago. No one could have asked for better parents or better friends. With numerous family members and three children, Douglas, Randi and preceded in death a daughter Sheri. They will be dearly missed. So very special to them was their “beach family.” May you rest in peace together with the sun on your faces and your toes in the sand. I love you Randi.

BARRY AND SANDRA FRIEDMAN

How We See It

Forever In Memory

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

The Dispatch, Serving Greater Ocean City Since 1984, Is Published By Maryland Coast Dispatch Inc. Weekly

On Friday Mornings

MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811

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

POSTMASTER: Please send change of address to Maryland Coast Dispatch, P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Maryland 21811. Maryland Coast Dispatch offices are located at Route 346 and Graham Avenue, Berlin, Maryland.

Some Aspects Of Life Deserving Gratitude

It’s a week of recognizing blessings and giving thanks. While it would be appropriate for all of us to spend some time in reflection over the holiday weekend, the following is a look some of the aspects of life we are thankful for as a media company.

•Each year the generosity of this community is seen throughout the holidays. Thanksgiving is just the first of many public displays of support for those who need a helping hand this time of year. Schools across the county – public and private – are currently leading efforts to help brighten the holidays for those less fortunate. Canned food drives as well as toy collections have already been launched. Numerous civic organizations also lead similar efforts. For instance, this past week, the Worcester County Bar Association delivered 40 complete Thanksgiving dinners to Buckingham Elementary School to be distributed to families in need of supplies to hold a memorable family dinner. We are fortunate to live in an area ready and able to help others.

•The year began with hopes for normalcy. For the most part, 2022 played

out like most pre-pandemic years. Restrictions borne out of COVID-19 have largely been eliminated. The virus remains a part of life and probably always will be. While there is still divisiveness associated with the virus, the irrational extremes seem to have subsided and rotated to other issues.

•Distance learning and masking have become a notion of the past in schools. Once a state legislative committee approved the Board of Education’s lifting of the mandatory mask mandate, the local school system went mask optional in late February and never looked back.

Distance learning was a worst-case scenario for school systems to try and educate kids. In many cases, teachers had to be creative through the computer and worked harder than ever from the confines of their living rooms and home offices to reach their students. Despite their best intentions, students fell behind and most of this calendar year has been spent trying to get students back on track academically as well as a maturity perspective.

•Mental health is no longer a feared

subject. Business professionals are recognizing the need to include morale and wellbeing of employees in their business plans. School systems are increasingly hiring mental health professionals to specifically work with children who are struggling to succeed. The spotlight has been shined and this modern epidemic is now a frequent talking point in society.

•Elected officials seeing things differently. In all the primary elected boards we cover, like Ocean City, Worcester County, Berlin and Ocean Pines, there are profound philosophical ideologies and political approaches on display each week. It’s a good thing to report on the disparate opinions. Spirited discourse often leads to compromises on controversial matters, and the process to find these middle grounds is often beneficial to all.

•All who make this publication possible – staff members who create this product, the subcontractors who distribute it, dedicated readers and critical advertisers. We are grateful for each pod of support because each is dependent on the other.

Letters To The Editor

Pharmacy Nightmare

Editor:

My wife had a stroke in the middle of October 2021, was taken to TidalHealth in Salisbury then admitted to Encompass rehab in Salisbury and then Berlin Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. After three months, she came home in a wheelchair, but she could get in and out of bed on her own. She could take care of herself.

I was told to pick up her prescriptions from Walgreens in Ocean Pines. I picked up eight prescriptions and was never told that the blood thinner Eliquis was not given to me, even though it was prescribed. In the past when a prescription was not right they would let me know.

Six days later, she had another stroke, this time very serious. She was admitted to TidalHealth in serious condition. The doctor in the emergency room wanted to know if he could do whatever necessary to keep her alive. We both have living wills, so I told him to stick to the living wills. A priest was called in to give her last rites.

Then she was moved to a room, she was doing just a little better. I asked the doctor what could have caused the stroke, and he said he wasn’t sure but it was likely that she wasn’t given her Eliquis blood thinner. When I went home, I checked the prescriptions I was given by Walgreens and the blood thinner was missing. When my son brought it up to the manager at Walgreens, he just shrugged it off and said that people make mistakes.

Starting with Memorial Day, I was demonstrating outside Walgreens. When

I first started, a retired nurse stopped to talk to me and said the only way I will find peace is to forgive the pharmacist and I told I would never do that. A few people that stopped to talk to me said the pharmacist must be a real bonehead to make a mistake like that.

Then in August the manager came out and said he was nice enough to let me stay but I should stop talking to customers. I said I would keep demonstrating and talking to the customers. I asked him he would like it if it happened to his wife. I was very upset. My blood pressure went up to 180 and they gave me medication in the ER to deal with it.

In September, some who likes the pharmacist tried to get me into a fight with the manager. I’m 88 years old. He is about 20 years younger than me, so that makes two boneheads. On Nov. 7, they called the police so I had to stop.

My wife is in Berlin Nursing and Rehabilitation. I don’t think she will ever be able to come home. We have been through hell and are still going through it.

John Scrudato Ocean Pines

Fenwick Concerns Aired

Editor:

When Fenwick Island Mayor Natalie Magdeburger reactivated the Ad Hoc Parking Committee, she asked three commercial property owners to join -Scott Mumford (Warren’s Station), Kinsley Parker Hazel (former PNC property) and Virginia Childers ( Sea Shell City). The purpose of this committee was to discuss a very controversial newly pro-

posed parking ordinance. After gathering the views of the primary commercial property owners in Fenwick, they in good faith agreed to serve on the committee.

I attended all these meetings, personally or via zoom. Many ideas, thoughts, and concerns were discussed. Although this committee is still active and no final report has been publicly released, the mayor, who appointed herself as the chairman of this committee, sent a letter to all Fenwick residents outlining 10 points. Not only are these points out of context, misstated or moot, they also are inflammatory. No one that volunteers to serve on a Fenwick Island committee should ever be put in a position where their contributions are turned against them. The best intentions of Scott, Kinsley and Virginia fell victim to a classic courtroom tactic – get it on the record and use it against them.

If you are a Fenwick resident that desires to see a healthy business community continue, ask yourself why the town needs to employ a strategy that casts such a negative approach to working together as a community. Fenwick has one of the most restrictive commercial building codes at the beach. There has been virtually no new commercial building in Fenwick in the last 15 years. There are only three undeveloped lots that have the potential for commercial development. Fenwick cannot be another Dewey Beach or Ocean City. However, if more restrictions on commercial property, as advocated by our mayor, are put into

Letters To The Editor

place you will see a gradual demise of your Fenwick business community.

If this concerns you, as it does me, let your Town Council know.

Tim Collins Fenwick Island

(The writer is a long-time, year-round resident and commercial property and business owner.)

Show Safety To Motorists

Editor:

I enjoyed reading about Berlin considering speed cameras. What bothers me is that the State/Berlin (not sure who initiated the speed change) lowered the speed limit on Route 113 to 45 mph (surrounding Berlin). In paragraph 12, Downing said the state would not approve speed cameras on Route 50 or 113. Then, in paragraph 14, the mayor is quoted saying, "the goal is to get people to abide by the speed limit and keep our streets safe."

Let me say that I drive through Berlin (via 113) just about every day. The posted 45 mph speed limit is a joke. I don't think I could count on my hand the number of times I observed a passenger vehicle going 45. When I'm traveling south, most vehicles reach 60 mph by the time they get to the ball fields. According to paragraph 10, any vehicle would need to do 57 mph to get ticketed (assuming 12 over).

I don't understand why the speed limit was lowered to 45 from 50 (I believe it was 50). If Berlin actually cares about its road safety, they would enforce the speed limits or install speed cameras that provide results. And I mean, once folks know the cameras are there because of a recent ticket, the next time they slow down (fact).

The mayor claims it's not the revenue; it’s the safety. If that's the case, show us the safety and not just the hot air, in the town or on the highway.

Pete Bott Berlin

Question A Reflections

Editor:

Now that Question A has been defeated by the voters of Worcester County, it is time to set the record straight. The People For Fiscal Responsibility, a ballot issue committee, was formed solely to bring the matter of a specific Bond Bill for a Sports Complex to the voters. From the outset, we made it very clear that we are not opposed to a Sports Complex, per se; but we are opposed to the use of public funds to build it, to operate it and to pay an exorbitant price for the land. For the County Commissioners to pay nearly $75,000 per acre, when land is readily available throughout the county for $10,000 to $19,000 per acre is ridiculous.

From the beginning, we were repeatedly told that the bond proceeds were to be used for construction of the complex and to purchase the 95 plus acres next to Stephen Decatur High School. It was not until we had met the signature requirement that we then learned that bond funds could not be used to purchase the land.

Later, there was confusion about the language of the bond bill as it appeared on the ballot as Question A. Some insisted that if the Bond Bill was defeated, a Sports Complex could never be built in Worcester County with bond proceeds. That was never true. Question A pertained to one Bond Bill, and one Bond Bill only. Furthermore, our committee never had any control over how the language was written on the ballot.

On behalf of the People For Fiscal Responsibility, we want to thank the 71 volunteers who gathered signatures throughout the county. We also want to thank the 5,093 voters who signed the petition to place the issue on the ballot. Finally, we want to thank the 11,760 voters who voted against Question A, thus defeating the Bond Bill.

What we learned from this initiative and this tremendous effort is that people still have the power to take control of their government. While we all enjoy the right to vote, the power of the Petition to Referendum allows for citizens to override the actions of their elected officials in the passage of an ill-conceived bill. The founders of our great Nation understood the right of the people "...to petition the government for a redress of grievances." In Worcester County, Maryland, the Constitution is alive and well.

Vincent dePaul Gisriel, Jr. Ocean City

OC Branding Follow Up

Editor:

I appreciate the reply from Mayor Rick Meehan of Ocean City to my letter on behalf of Ocean City Advertising Agency, located for many years in North Ocean City.

The mayor makes several very good points about the new OC logo and ad campaign. Upon further reflection, I find myself persuaded of the validity and the power of the mayor's observations about the new Ocean City/BVK ad campaign and logo. Who says an old dog can't learn new tricks? I certainly can.

Despite my 40 years’ experience in advertising and three decades of teaching advertising, marketing, and business management in various colleges, I find the mayor's case persuasive, compelling, and convincing for the new "carefree" OC campaign from BVK. And the market research behind the new campaign? Persuasive, indeed.

Who could possibly question the success (dare one say, market penetration?) of "Carefree Tampons," or the six-decade history of the smiley-face emoji used by Wal-Mart, McDonald's and Hallmark Cards, to name only a few of the thousands of other commercial users who have used the smiley-face emoji over the past 60 years?

So, I salute Mayor Meehan, the OC Tourism Board, BVK, and the 100,000 people surveyed during the development of this new "carefree" OC campaign that employs a 60-year-old emoji. They have proved, truly proved, there is nothing new under the sun, especially, a smileyface emoji.

Paul Jankovic Ocean City

Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green

After all the votes were counted, the Worcester County sports complex referendum – whether a public bond could be issued for design and construction costs of a facility – failed by 697 votes. There were four different ways to vote in the general election. Breaking out the results by method was interesting and shows mixed reuslts – early voting, 1,763 for, 2,257 against; election day, 6,809 for, 7,167 against; mail-in ballots, 2,265 for, 2,112 against; and provisional, 226 for, 224 against. In total, there were 11,760 votes (52%) against the referendum and 11,063 for public financing (48%). This is hardly a mandate and confirms the division among the community on this issue, but nonetheless the referendum results are important heading into next month’s swearing in of the new slate of county commissioners. Though this referendum dealt specifically with the particular bond that was petitioned, it would be illogical to think an elected body would ever undermine the public’s vote on the matter.

Fireworks continue to be a complicated matter in Ocean City, but a plan has been approved and all seems to be back on track.

For many years, except for the last three years due to a variety of issues, Ocean City has held three major fireworks displays each year -dual fireworks displays on the Fourth of July (one downtown and the other at Northside Park) and one on New Year’s Eve in north Ocean City at Northside Park. The plan moving ahead for 2023 will be the traditional fireworks displays on Independence Day downtown and at Northside Park and the New Year’s Eve fireworks display taking place on the beach downtown instead of uptown as has been the case in recent years. The contract with Celebration Fireworks will be for $357,000 over three years.

It was learned earlier this year Northside Park has become a problematic site for fireworks vendors, especially in the winter due to Winterfest of Lights. Therefore, fireworks will not be held at Northside Park next year on New Year’s Eve. Due to the vendor breaching the contract with the town days before the Fourth of July last summer, there do not appear to be any plans for fireworks on New Year’s Eve at Northside Park this year either.

No matter what happens Friday night against the Class 2A topranked team in the state, Milford Mill, Stephen Decatur High School’s football team has had a magical year. This season’s tremendous performance thus far comes after an impressive season last year. “Decatur strong” is a great way to describe the resurgent football program, which is led by an engaging and experienced coaching staff. In fact, the program’s revival is no better confirmed than by attending a home game. The atmosphere is electric with parents, students and community members providing a true homefield advantage. There is tremendous excitement surrounding the program. Friday night football games are now a community event once again and it’s been inspiring to observe.

Last week, in a state quarter-final playoff game, Decatur scored more points in a single game (36) against Potomac than its opponent allowed all season to date cumulatively (33). It was an incredible display and turned into a rout by halftime. Decatur will need to defy the odds Friday night as well. Milford Mill is an undefeated powerhouse and is heavily favored. It’s a familiar script as Decatur was the underdog against Potomac last weekend as well. Decatur, ranked fifth, has nothing to lose as it appears in its first state semifinal game since 2004.

I am hoping for an all-Bayside state title game next weekend between Decatur and Kent Island, the No. 2 ranked team in the state who plays No. 6 Middletown.

Every now and again I like to geek out and look at our social media statistics. Facebook, or Meta, is by far our largest audience with about 116,800 followers. Of those page followers, 70% are women with the ages 45-54 the largest age grouping. Some other interesting data facts include the top 10 cities of the page’s followers are Ocean City, Salisbury, Baltimore, Berlin, Ocean Pines, Bel Air, Dundalk, Glen Burnie, Hagerstown and Pasadena; the top 10 countries are United States, 98%, followed by India, Bulgaria, Canada, Italy, Mexico, Nigeria, Philippines, Romania and United Kingdom.

The 10 most viral posts of 2022 so far were the July beach closure on Assateague Island caused by old ordnances being discovered that reached more than 500,000 people with 11,670 total reactions; a gallery of photos of severe tidal flooding this summer causing large beach cliffs, 408,522 reach; a photo of a whale breaching, 252,489; a gallery documenting horses fighting on Assateague, 240,151; the closure of the Sun and Surf movie theater, 236,136; the opening of the White Marlin Open with a gallery of aerial photos of boats entering the Inlet, 226,738; a photo of a yacht grounding near the Inlet in August, 185,213; a Vanishing Ocean City post about the White Marlin Open with a photo of a record blue marlin, 179,087; a photo and press release about the Dunes Manor Hotel being sold and transformed into a Hilton brand, 151,506; and the first word of Oceans Calling being canceled, 106,661.

Puzzle Answers

PUZZLE ON PAGE 51

The Adventures of Fatherhood

by Steve Green

The house has been full this week.

Beckett came home last Thursday for an extended Thanksgiving break from boarding school. A few weeks ago, he asked if his friend Diego, an exchange student from Guatemala, could come home with him for Thanksgiving. He needed a place to go, and we were excited to have him.

One day before they were to come home, Beckett called in the middle of the day – taking a break from class evidently – to ask if his friend Eduardo could join us because he didn’t have anywhere to go for the long break. Though we had some reservations about having all these kids here for the 12-day break from school, we couldn’t say no.

Some highlights of our interesting week include:

•The ride from boarding school to home was fun. We had met Diego at parent weekend in October, but Eduardo we did not. Diego is fluent in English as he’s spent more time in the states, but Eduardo is more of a work in progress. I sense Eduardo understands English better than speaks it.

There were a few instances on the way home when our Guatemalan visitors were teaching Beckett some Spanish phrases. These sorts of quick lessons went on and on throughout the week. There was a common phrase the three of them repeated multiple times each day. I can only assume it was something inappropriate because they laughed and laughed whenever it was said.

When the Spanish lessons weren’t taking place, the boys were taking turns playing music. I quickly learned I’m a fan of Latin techno music, which helped pass the time of driving up Route 13 on the Eastern Shore of Virginia at night. At one point, I noticed all three boys had fallen asleep, and I was the only one lis-

tening to the tunes.

•All three boys were happy to have some different foods to eat. The only complaint we have heard from boarding school has been the food. Beckett is a picky eater so most of the complaining we thought was due to his non-adventurous food spirit. Diego and Eduardo, however, echoed his food complaints. It’s cafeteria food so opportunities to eat elsewhere are appreciated.

When they head back to school next week, I think we will have done our part to ease their food issues. The amount of food consumed by these growing teens has been remarkable. I have a hearty appetite, but I have been amazed at their intake, especially Diego and Eduardo.

Pam cooked the boys a big breakfast Saturday. I walked into the house from hanging Christmas lights to the wonderful smell of breakfast food. I peeled back the aluminum foil on a platter to find dozens of pancakes and waffles, eggs, bacon and scrapple. It looked like enough food for 10. She knows me well enough to know scrapple is one of this Eastern Shore boy’s favorite foods, so she said, “go ahead, there’s plenty, I’m hoping this will last a few days.” I wondered whether the Guatemalan kids would like scrapple and question what it was. I hoped they didn’t like it selfishly.

Hours later I was standing in front of the refrigerator preparing to do some grazing. I had the scrapple leftovers on my mind. All I found from that huge amount of food was two pancakes and some bacon scraps in a Ziploc. I figured Pam hid it somewhere from me. When I inquired, she said the three teenagers had inhaled two pounds of scrapple in one seating along with almost all the pancakes, waffles and eggs.

On deadline morning, one of the boys came downstairs. I told him I had to run out the door, but to help himself to breakfast, as there were bagels and fruit in the kitchen. He seemed disappointed

because the first two days Pam offered a tremendous breakfast spread, and I provided scrambled eggs the morning before. The honeymoon was over, and his disappointment was evident.

•One morning early, I heard a television on upstairs. This is not uncommon when Beckett is home, as he likes to watch TV in bed at night – something he can’t do at school. It was 5:15 so I didn’t knock because I didn’t want to wake anyone up. I walked into the guest room to find Diego and Eduardo in their pajamas awake watching the ArgentinaSaudi Arabia World Cup match that began at 5. It was surprising and awesome to see. I tried to explain I could have recorded it for them, so they didn’t have to wake up so early. It was one of the few instances since they have been with us when the translation didn’t seem to work. They couldn’t understand what I was saying so I just let them be.

•A few days into their stay, Pam and I started picking up on a few things. Beckett had a lot of things on his to-do list while home, but topping them in importance were sleeping in, in his own bed and room and playing his video game console. After a few days of chilling, the Guatemalans wanted to get out and about much more than Beckett did, so we talked to him about striking a balance. The problem was the weather. A few minutes of walking around downtown Berlin or playing sports outside in temperatures in the 40s was all they could take as it’s obviously much warmer in Guatemala. The end result was a few movies, some time shopping at the outlets in West Ocean City and many meals out and about.

•Did I mention the food? The intake of these growing, food-driven boys was impressive.

(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.)