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Halloween In Berlin: An annual tradition for most, thousands of trick-or-treaters and family members hit the streets of Berlin for Halloween on Monday night. See page 65 for more pictures.

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Council Approves Four Full-Time OCFD Positions

Page 4

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Faced with a dire need for more personnel for the town’s fire department, resort officials this week approved four new full-time positions with a promise to possibly add more if certain federal grant funding comes through.

During budget deliberations last spring, it became apparent there was a critical need for more full-time firefighters and paramedics for the Ocean City Fire Department (OCFD). Last year, there was a 12% increase in the number of EMS calls in the department’s service area, however, it was learned there were 58 occasions when the department was out of crews.

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Grant Funding Sought To Help

To that end, the Mayor and Council directed City Manager Terry McGean and OCFD Chief Richie Bowers to come back with a new staffing plan to meet the department’s growing needs.

That plan was presented to the Mayor and Council during Tuesday’s work session and included a request for four new full-time positions almost immediately.

The long-range plan calls for adding as many as 18 new full-time positions for the OCFD, but the four requested, and ultimately approved, this week

would help the department bridge the gap until anticipated federal Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant funding is approved. The town, among many jurisdictions around the country, has applied for federal SAFER grant funding to help finance new positions needed to fortify its fire department and emergency services although no final approval on the grant funding has yet come through.

The OCFD continues to experience a dramatic decline in the availability of

November 4, 2022

career part-time personnel to fill vacancies on the shift schedule. It’s a trend being felt by jurisdictions all over the state and the country. As a result, the town’s fire department has been relying more heavily on its full-time personnel, many of whom are “forced” to work overtime.

The result is the full-time ranks are getting stretched thin. In addition, the limited number of available personnel is creating a strain on the town’s overtime budget for the fire department.

For example, McGean pointed out the overtime expenses for fiscal year 2023 are currently expected to exceed the $300,000 budgeted. Unless additional full-time staff is hired, that estimate could soar to $700,000 over what was budgeted.

Even before the OCFD additional personnel request appeared on the agenda on Tuesday, Career Firefighter Paramedics Association of Ocean City, or Local IAFF 4269, President Ryan Whittington explained the direness of the situation during the public comment period.

“Sadly, four people may not resolve it,” he said. “The workload created on our full-time employees is taxing. It’s like putting $4 in your gas tank when you know it’s going to take you $18 to get there.”

Whittington explained the urgency of approving at least the four new requested positions because of the time it takes to vet and train new hires that didn’t have a part-time position with the OCFD in the past.

“It takes 16 weeks to onboard a fulltime firefighter-EMS provider and waiting until the next budget to hire more than four will not help us for next summer,” he said. “We need help now.”

Whittington pointed to the dramatically declining number of part-time personnel and its impact on the department’s ability to fill shifts.

“In 2019, the number of part-timers stood at 82,” he said. “After COVID, we were down to 40. Of those, only 26 were willing to work more than 350 hours per year, and 12 of the 40 provide little to no weekend or night availability.”

Again, the department was requesting four new positions at this time, with the hopes of adding more in the near future, likely contingent on securing the federal SAFER grant funding, according to Whittington.

“There are several options,” he said.

“The first is to hire eight now and eight more in 2024. Let the SAFER grant play out and see where we are going to be, but we have to make a decision to get your fire department where it needs to be.”

Whittington said the town faced similar issues two years ago when officials approved the hiring of 10 new full-time police officers.

“When the council approved hiring SEE PAGE 14

November 4, 2022

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Page 5

Coalition, Residents Talk Route 90 Bike, Pedestrian Access

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BY BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITER

OCEAN PINES – Efforts to include bike and pedestrian amenities along a redeveloped Route 90 corridor highlighted discussions at a community meeting this week.

On Wednesday, the Worcester County Bike and Pedestrian Coalition held a community meeting at the Ocean Pines library to share information and ideas regarding bike and pedestrian accommodations along the Route 90 bridge.

As the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration

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(MDOT SHA) continues to evaluate plans for the eventual redevelopment of the Route 90 corridor, Coalition Chair Patti Stevens encouraged residents to advocate for the inclusion of a safe, separated walking and biking path.

“The purpose of tonight’s meeting is to talk about what could go on here, what other communities have done and what kind of input we would need to show to our project leaders to let them know this is an important consideration,” she told community members this week.

For years, local officials in Ocean City and Worcester County have advocated

for improvements to the Route 90 corridor, 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

November 4, 2022

currently being considered.

During Wednesday’s meeting, Stevens said the coalition wanted MDOT SHA to consider bike and pedestrian options in the development of the Route 90 improvement project. She argued that bike and pedestrian pathways were needed in Worcester County, highlighting data on bike and pedestrian activity and the growing popularity of biking events in and around the resort.

“We know if we build these trails people will use them,” she said.

Stevens noted that Worcester County SEE PAGE 61

Financial Report Shows Revenues Up, Expenses Down

November 4, 2022

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A review of the resort’s annual comprehensive financial report (ACFR) presented this week revealed “fiscal year 2022 was a very good year for the Town of Ocean City.”

Finance Director Chuck Bireley on Tuesday presented the ACFR for fiscal year 2022 to the Mayor and Council. The weighty tome revealed significant positive variances in what was budgeted and what the actual numbers were on both the revenue and expense side.

For example, revenues in the final budget were anticipated at over $96 million, but the actual figure on the revenue side came in at over $102 million, for a variance of about $5.7 million. On the expense side, the budget anticipated nearly $92 million in expenditures, but the actual number came in at around $84 million.

The net change in the town’s fund balance with revenues coming in higher than anticipated and expenditures coming in lower was around $13.5 million. As a result, the town’s total unassigned fund balance is around $25.6 million, or over 30% of expenditures. For years, the town had a stated goal of maintaining a general fund unassigned balance of 15%, but resort officials earlier this year raised the goal to 17%. At 30% in the ACFR presented this week, the town’s fund balance is healthier than the policy calls for.

Among the key components in the rather rosy ACFR were gains on the revenue side. For example, room tax increased by around $3.3 million over fiscal year 2021, while admissions and amusement tax increased by over $922,000.

Parking revenue also increased by about $1 million over fiscal year 2021.

Ocean City also received a second payment in federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds totaling $3.4 million. ARPA funds were distributed to jurisdictions in the wake of the pandemic for a variety of uses and the town received its second installment during fiscal year 2022.

Perhaps the biggest gain, and contributor to the town stellar financial report presented this week, were significant changes in the Other Post-Employment Benefit, of OPEB, which funds retiree health benefits. It OPEB was created in 2009 with a 30-year funding plan. In a year where the OPEB fund has a deficit, the town makes up the shortfall with a contribution from the general fund.

The goal has always been to have the OPEB funded at or near 100% with no outstanding liability for the town. At the close of fiscal year 2021, the town had a liability of over $6.2 million in the OPEB trust fund, but that had reversed by the end of fiscal year 2022 with the OPEB assets standing at around $6.2 million.

As a result, the OPEB trust is now at over 120% funded as of the close of fiscal year 2022.

The bottom line in the ACFR presented on Tuesday is the town remains in sol-

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id financial shape on most fronts. Ocean City’s assets and deferred outflows stood at over $438 million, while the liabilities and deferred inflows stood at over $219 million. The end result is a net position of over $218 million.

“This year was an interesting challenge,” said Bireley. “The reality is, it was extremely challenging, but there’s a lot of positive information in here when you look at the actual numbers. Fiscal year 2022 was a very good year for the Town of Ocean City.”

Bireley explained one apparent anomaly in the ACFR was a decline in anticipated spending on advertising of around $4.4 million.

“There was about $4.4 million on the expense side that came in under what was budgeted because of advertising funding that was unspent,” he said.

Councilman John Gehrig asked if that was the true number or the figure at the end of the fiscal year when the report was initiated.

“Our fiscal year ends in June,” he said.

“Are those the advertising funds we’re talking about? We didn’t receive June’s room tax figures in real time, so they’re probably not reflected in this report.”

City Manager Terry McGean explained the apparent decline in the town’s spending on advertising in the report presented on Tuesday.

“Part of it was we were in between ad agencies,” he said. “We were transitioning. I don’t think we spent as much as we would have.”

Bireley said while the federal ARPA funding helped the navigate through challenging pandemic years, the latest installment would be the last.

“This represents the last of the ARPA funds,” he said. “We won’t see that going forward.”

Gehrig said the way the numbers came out, it appears the town thrived despite the pandemic.

“We got the ARPA funds because we were shut down,” he said. “We would have been better off if we were open.”

Bireley said the ground made up on the OPEB trust fund was the catalyst for the strong ACFR this year. Again, there were significant gains on the revenue side, and expenses were down compared to what was budgeted but the OPEB gains were really what surprised him.

“There’s good news on the expense side,” he said. “Literally, the profitability of the town increased because of the profitability of the OPEB plan. I can’t over-emphasize that. The OPEB was really incredible.”

He said the OPEB trust fund has made up several million dollars in a short time for a variety of reasons.

“The OPEB fund is now at 120%, he said. “The fund now exceeds the town’s liability. In the past two years there has been a difference of $27 million. It’s a tremendous accomplishment for the town.

It’s fantastic and I never would have believed it.”

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OC Approves Beach, Boardwalk Mobility Device Policy

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Having dispensed with the electric bicycles on the Boardwalk issue, resort officials this week approved a new policy outlining the rules for Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices by disabled individuals on the beach, Boardwalk and in the parks.

For the last month or so, the Mayor and Council have been debating the allowable use of certain e-bikes on the Boardwalk. The issue first arose at the police commission level and focused on the potential repercussions of running afoul of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance.

Some with disabilities or who are recovering from an illness or injury utilize e-bikes to enjoy the Boardwalk bike-rid-

ing experience or to rehabilitate. After weeks of often-contentious debate, the council voted to allow only the lowest rated, lowest speed Class 1 e-bikes on the Boardwalk and only at times when other bikes were allowed.

Out of the e-bike debate arose concern the town did not have a policy in place regarding Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices (OPDMD) operated or ridden on the beach, Boardwalk or in the parks and the same potential issues with ADA violations. Like the e-bike issue, the OPDMD issue arose at the police commission level, and it was determined the town needed to create a policy to govern the matter.

There are federal guidelines for the use of OPDMD in parks and other public areas, for example, but Ocean City did not have rules in place for its most fre-

quented public areas like the beach and Boardwalk. City Manager Terry McGean was directed to draft a policy regarding the use of OPDMD and he presented the plan to the Mayor and Council on Tuesday. He said absent a stated town policy, it could be anything goes on the beach and Boardwalk with the OPDMD. “There are federal rules in place,” he said. “The town needs a policy in place for the beach, Boardwalk and the parks.

If we don’t have a policy, it is allowed by default.”

McGean said non-powered wheelchairs and electric mobility scooters are currently allowed in those areas, but rules were not defined in an official policy for OPDMD. He said the council could address the issue by ordinance, or the draft policy could be simply approved by a majority of the council.

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“Wheelchairs, power wheelchairs and electric mobility scooters are permitted on the beach at all times and locations,” he said. “Ocean City recognizes that standard-type wheelchairs and mobility scooters will not typically operate in beach sand.”

For the beach, the proposed policy states that all Other Power-Driving Mobility Devices (OPDMD) should only be operated by a person with disabilities or should have a person with disabilities as the sole passenger and are prohibited from carrying anyone other than the person with a disability or the operator.

In addition, the operator or passenger must present on demand a valid state-issued parking placard or other state-issued proof of disability or provide a verbal representation of the disability which is not contradicted by observable facts. The OPDMD can only be operated on the beach in the daylight hours.

Given the terrain on the beach and high pedestrian traffic on the beach, OPDMD should not exceed five miles per hour when operated on the beach, or a speed McGean characterized as standard walking speed. OPDMD devices must access the beach via an existing dune crossing and may not travel more than one block in a north or south direction from the crossover entry.

The policy outlines specifications for allowable OPDMD on the beach. For example, they must have a maximum width of 38 inches and a maximum length of 72 inches. The devices can have a maximum operating speed of 15 miles per hour but will only be allowed to travel five miles per hour when on the beach. ATVs and other high-speed vehicles are prohibited on the beach due to the high volume of pedestrian traffic and density of people.

The proposed OPDMD rules spelled out in the policy for the Boardwalk and the parks are largely similar to the proposed beach regulations. A key element to the rules for the Boardwalk is the mobility devices will only be allowed during the regular stated hours when bicycles are allowed and prohibited when bicycles are prohibited.

The rules for the parks are also very similar to the beach in terms of the operator and passenger issues. For example, the town’s Northside Park complex and the downtown recreation complex have a series of 10-foot-wide paved trails that are popular with pedestrians and bicyclists.

For the parks, the OPDMD can have a maximum design speed of 15 miles per hour but can only be operated at 10 miles per hour. Like the beach, the OPDMD can only be operated in the parks during daylight hours. The specifications for OPDMD allowed in the parks are lightly larger than those allowed on the beach in terms of width, but the length requirements are the same.

The council voted 6-0, with Councilman Mark Paddack absent, to approve the OPDMD policy as presented. There was some consideration in the policy as drafted for having the OPDMD operators officially register their devices, but that proposal got little traction, so to speak.

Speed Limit Lowered On Gray’s Corner

November 4, 2022

BY STEVE GREEN EDITOR

BERLIN – The speed limit will be lowered on a road where two pedestrians died this year in separate hit-and-run collisions.

Senator Mary Beth Carozza announced Wednesday the Maryland State Highway Administration’s decision to lower the speed limit from 50 mph to 40 mph on Gray’s Corner Road. The senator said the move will increase public safety for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists.

According to Carozza, she has been working with the state officials and the local community following 14-year-old Gavin Knupp’s death in a hit-and-run crash on Gray’s Corner Road in July and Terri Wattay’s passing after a hit-and-run driver struck her while she walking her dog on Gray’s Corner Road in early October. Thought a suspect was identified in Wattay’s case, no charges have been filed in either incident. The vehicle in Knupp’s case is in Maryland State Police possession but the probe has not resulted in any charges to date.

This speed reduction will take place as soon as next week, according to the SHA. For the past several months, Carozza reported SHA has moved forward with several safety improvements on Gray’s Corner Road including increased lighting, eliminating the passing zone, re-

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striping the roadway and installing new signs. In addition, the Maryland State Police has increased its enforcement in this area, she said.

“I want to thank the SHA leadership and all the team for these timely safety improvement and for listening to the concerns of our local community,” said Carozza. “I especially appreciate the SHA recognizing the urgency of this community request and the responsiveness in our request to lower the speed limit on Gray’s Corner Road.”

Carozza noted similar requests for lowering speed limits on roads often can take long periods of time to be reviewed by the SHA. “In addition to these improvements, SHA officials also are reviewing the entire Gray’s Corner Road corridor to consider future safety improvements,” said Carozza, who also thanked all the community members who contacted her.

Tiffany Knupp, Gavin’s mother, thanked Carozza on her personal Facebook page as well as the Justice For Gavin page.

“I want to personally thank you for your support and continued efforts in pursuing the changes needed on Grey’s Corner Road. We voiced our concerns and you not only listened you took action,” she wrote. “Since Gavin’s death you have made the road a no passing zone, added more lighting and additional law enforcement presence and now lowering the speed limit to 40 mph.”

Page 9

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Officials Discuss Restoration Of Historic Advertisements

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

Members of the Berlin Historic District Commission discussed restoring the old advertisements on each side of this Pitts Street building.

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BERLIN – Officials voiced support for the concept of repainting two old advertising signs in Berlin following a similar project in Snow Hill.

Members of the Berlin Historic District Commission this week voiced their support for seeing two antique advertisements, painted on the sides of the building at 11 Pitts St., restored. In Snow Hill, a similar project that restored the “ghost sign” advertising the G.M. Dryden General Merchandise store was just completed.

“With all of the activity on Pitts Street, it would really add to that,” said John Holloway, a historic district commission member.

At the close of Wednesday’s meeting, Holloway brought up the Snow Hill project, which garnered local interest on social media in recent weeks. According to Snow Hill officials, local businesses, donors and the Worcester County Arts Council funded the restoration of the sign on the side of the American Legion building on West Green Street. The sign was leftover from the days of the general store run by George Marion Dryden from 1891 until 1934 in downtown Snow Hill. The sign was restored by North Carolina artist Scott Allred and local Snow Hill artist Olga Deshields.

November 4, 2022

Holloway told his fellow commission members he’d watched the progress on that project and thought the finished product was beautiful.

“I’ve been watching the one being redone in Snow Hill and it brought to mind the building here on Pitts Street,” Holloway said. “I thought boy it’d be nice if we could do something like that in Berlin.”

While the vintage ad in the alley on Pitts Street is hard to decipher, a portion of the one on the other side of the building is still very visible.

Other commission members said they loved the idea and suggested the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum could contain images of the signs from decades ago. Commission member Carol Rose said the commission had approved a similar project years ago but that it had never come to fruition.

Commission member Brian Robertson said the museum could provide information on the original ad and then groups like the Worcester County Arts Council, the Berlin Arts and Entertainment Committee and We Heart Berlin could potentially provide funding support if the building’s owner approved of the plan.

Dave Engelhart, the town’s planning director, agreed the project seemed doable.

“I think you could probably cobble together the funding,” Engelhart said.

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Main Street Buildings Get Revitalization Tax Credits

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Some highly visible downtown Berlin buildings are among those benefiting from revitalization tax credits announced this week.

On Tuesday, Gov. Larry Hogan announced $19 million in revitalization tax credits. In Berlin, the buildings at 11 N. Main Street, 7 N. Main Street and 1519 N. Main Street will receive credits.

“I’m very happy this project has received historic tax credits,” said Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director.

The Hogan administration announced Nov. 1 that the Maryland Historical Trust (MHT)—a division of the Mary-

Three buildings on Main Street that are currently undergoing renovations will benefit from revitalization tax credits announced by the state this week. File Photo

land Department of Planning—had awarded 16 projects throughout the state

$19 million in revitalization tax credits.

The Historic Revitalization Tax Credit,

November 4, 2022

administered by MHT, has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in rehabilitation projects since 1996. The investments have resulted in improvements to more than 5,000 residential and 825 commercial historic structures. According to a study by the Abell Foundation, the state program has helped to create an estimated 33,700 jobs through construction, and new or expanded occupation of these significant historic resources.

“The Historic Revitalization Tax Credit awards will breathe new life into our communities and towns,” Hogan said in a news release. “These awards will allow for refurbishments to revitalize sites in local communities across the state and serve as an effective investment tool for strengthening Maryland’s local economies and redevelopment across Maryland.”

This year, 24 applicants sought $39.3 million in tax credits for construction projects totaling more than $210 million in estimated costs. The 16 projects selected for the 2023 tax credits were based on an established set of criteria, including those outlined by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior for historic building rehabilitations.

“It is an honor to be part of these awards that serve historic revitalization and play an integral part in advancing economic development,” said Planning Secretary Rob McCord. “The preservation of these historic sites enhances our state’s history and encourages projects that support the enjoyment of our state’s history, culture, and scenic beauty.”

Here in Berlin, Wells said this was the first time in recent years a project within the town had received tax credits. The project, which essentially involves the storefronts along Main Street that Jack Burbage is in the process of renovating, received tax credits equal to 20% of their eligible rehabilitation expenses. The building at 11 N. Main St., which is expected to cost $1.1 million to renovate, received $292,028 in tax credits. The storefronts from 15-19 N. Main St., which are expected to cost $412,770 to renovate, received $103,192 in tax credits. The structure at 7 N. Main St., which is estimated to cost $1.4 million to fix, had $364,498 in tax credits awarded.

Samantha Pielstick, Burbage’s property manager, said the tax credits would assist in improving the buildings.

“We are very thankful to have been awarded these tax credits and look forward to moving forward with the project,” she said. “We know it will enhance downtown Berlin for locals and visitors for many, many years to come.”

The only other Worcester County project to receive tax credits was the old firehouse on Fifth Street in Pocomoke.

The building, constructed in 1939, is set to become a mixed use building featuring commercial and residential space.

November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 13

… Resort Eyes Grant Funds To Fill OCFD Vacancies Page 14

FROM PAGE 4 10 new police officers in 2020, some of the problems identified were recruiting, training, testing and lack of interest,” he said. “We have the same problems. I ask that you consider the proposal to hire more than four. We need the help now.”

The issue of adding more full-time positions for the fire department arose out of budget deliberations last spring.

McGean said what the department is facing now is more dire.

“What we are facing is worse now,” he said. “When I saw where we were

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going, the worst thing to do is to do nothing. Our full-time employees are getting stretched pretty thin.”

McGean said the decision to add the four new positions and potentially more would be easier if the status of the SAFER grants were known, but the town needed to act soon to meet the department’s demands in the short term.

“We would all like to hire more people,” he said. “The SAFER grant is still out there, but we have to do something now. I would like to see us wait to see what happens with the SAFER grant

November 4, 2022

and just do the four positions now. If the grant comes through, we could address this with as many as 18 positions. We can’t count on the part-timers anymore.

If we get the grant, I’ll come back to you.”

For his part, Bowers made an impassioned plea to at least add the four new requested positions now.

“We come before you asking for additional positions,” he said. “If there is such a thing as a perfect storm, this is it. It started three years ago. There are not enough full-timers, not enough parttimers and not enough volunteers. We need more full-time employees to meet the demand and answer the calls.”

Bowers said when he came aboard as chief, he assessed the availability of personnel and the department’s needs to meet the shift demands and learned, availability he characterized as “human capital.”

“My first assessment was we were upside down,” he said. “We had more part-timers than full-timers but that has changed. What we rely on now because of the lack of human capital is forced overtime. You might be expecting to be going home at the end of the day, but you are forced to stay.”

Bowers said complicating the issue was a number of full-time personnel on temporary leave for a variety of reasons, which has left the department short of

relief positions for shifts.

“We’re asking for four positions now,” he said. “It would provide relief on the shifts. I have three on injury leave, one on military leave and one I anticipate will be on family medical leave. That leaves me five in the hole. I only have one relief position per shift because of the lack of human capital.”

Council Secretary Tony DeLuca made a motion to approve the four full-time positions requested by the fire department, a motion seconded by Councilman Lloyd Martin.

“As the season grows, we’re going to need more people,” he said. “Hopefully, the grants come through. It’s harder and harder to full the part-time positions and we need people there right away.”

Councilman John Gehrig said he supported adding the four requested positions, but suggested a funding plan be in place if the anticipated grant funding does not come through.

“I support this,” he said. “We need to look at this with or without the SAFER grant. We just got a great financial report. We need to remain safe and clean.”

The council voted unanimously to approve the four requested full-time positions and revisit the issue of adding even more when the outcome of the SAFER grant application became clear.

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November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 15

Annual ‘No Scam November’ Initiative Returns

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – For the third straight year, allied law enforcement agencies have launched the “No Scam November” initiative in response to a growing number of fraud cases in the area often targeting the elderly.

The Worcester County Vulnerable Adult Task Force this week announced the continued efforts of its multi-disciplinary team to educate and raise awareness about common fraud schemes with its third annual No Scam November initiative. The focus of the initiative is preventing scams before they cause financial damage to the victim, given the inherent difficulties in the investigation and identification of hightech scammers and attempts to recover victims’ money.

New this year to the initiative is an Elder Fraud partnership with Salisbury University’s accounting department students, who will assist law enforcement with education and awareness efforts for senior citizens throughout Worcester County, particularly those whom police have reason to believe are targets of financial scams.

The partnership between the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and Salisbury University has already secured federal grant funding of nearly $2 million, which will give law enforcement access to new and proprietary software used to

track fraud and scam trends, analyze and assess financial data, and identify potential victims earlier.

Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser said the addition of a certified fraud examiner to her investigative team in 2021 has significantly increased the resources being devoted to the growing problem of elder abuse, and she highlighted the Salisbury University partnership as another creative initiative critical to scam prevention.

“My office works closely with all agencies involved in preventing, identifying and reporting financial scams involving senior citizens,” she said. “Our local banks, as mandated reporters of suspected financial abuse, are doing an excellent job making law enforcement aware of situations causing concern, and law enforcement conducts a thorough investigation of every suspected scam.”

Heiser said education and outreach are key components of the “No Scam November” initiative, and throughout the year.

“Our victim advocates ensure the victims are given the resources, information and assistance they need to avoid future victimization,” she said. “We are hopeful that the additional resources provided to law enforcement as a result of the Elder Fraud partnership will enable us to proactively identify, charge and prosecute even more scam cases in the future.”

Local law enforcement continues to see an increase in the number of reported fraud cases, and senior citizens have

been the most frequent target. In Worcester County, the most common types of fraud currently being reported are gift card scams. Scammers have been targeting victims either by phone or email, often claiming there is an emergency situation the victim must buy gift cards to resolve.

The scammer typically then requests the code on the back of the gift card so it can be used online. The scammer may claim to be with the IRS or claim that a family member of the victim has been arrested and needs bail money. In another common scam, the victim is told they have won a contest or prize money, but in order to collect their winnings, they must buy gift cards totaling a small portion of the larger prize they will eventually be sent by the scammer. Many times, the scammer stays on the phone with the victim while he or she travels to the store to purchase the gift cards. That way, the scammer can make sure the fraud is successful and that the victim cannot pause to reconsider whether they should actually go through with the purchase. Again, those types of scams often target the elderly, or those most vulnerable in the community.

To combat the described gift card scams, throughout the month of November, the Maryland State Police, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and the Ocean Pines Police Department will be conducting community outreach efforts and providing local businesses with free signage provided by the Worcester Coun-

November 4, 2022

ty State’s Attorney’s Office. The signs can be attached to any gift card display case.

The warning signs are designed to shake would-be victims into realizing and recognizing the scam in the moment, especially if they are still on the phone with the scammer. The signs encourage potential victims to press the pause button and exercise caution before making a purchase.

New this year, the signs will display a QR code that links the public to even more information on scams from reliable online sources. The signs, along with outreach by prosecutors and law enforcement, will also help local businesses to educate their staff on how to recognize the signs of a gift card scam before ringing up the victim’s purchase and to contact police whenever they suspect a scam.

The signs are adorned with the message “Never send gift cards to someone you don’t know personally. Reputable companies never ask for payment in gift cards.” Businesses wishing to participate in No Scam November can request their free gift card scam signage from the Maryland State Police Berlin Barrack, the Ocean Pines Police Department or the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office.

“This is another example of how we partner in Worcester County to proactively protect our residents,” said Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli. “These collaborative efforts are a great benefit to our county.”

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November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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SNOW HILL – Plans for the eventual replacement of Buckingham Elementary School continue to move forward.

The Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday approved the Worcester County Public Schools Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for fiscal year 2024.

The CIP includes a planning request for Buckingham, the aging Berlin school built in 1978.

“We began a feasibility study for Buckingham Elementary School in July,” Superintendent Lou Taylor said. “That study is scheduled to be completed sometime in December.”

Each year in November, school system leaders approach the commissioners seeking approval of the CIP. The CIP presented this month includes planning and design funding request for Buckingham as well as a design funding request for roof replacement at Snow Hill Middle School/Cedar Chapel Special School. In the list of future projects are roof replacements at Pocomoke Elementary School and Worcester Technical High School as well as a Snow Hill Elementary replacement school.

As far as the Buckingham Elementary project, Taylor said the feasibility study was underway and would be reviewed by the school board in December before being sent to the state. It will be presented to the commissioners in March.

According to the CIP, there have been no additions or renovations at Buckingham in its 44-year history and there are five portable classrooms in use. The school is at 90% of its state rated capacity and 120% of its local rated capacity.

Commissioner Jim Bunting asked if the school system would create a committee to help develop plans for the replacement school, as it had done with Showell Elementary School.

“We will follow that same process,” Taylor said.

The commissioners voted unanimously to approve the CIP as presented.

Commissioner Joe Mitrecic asked Taylor about capacity at Stephen Decatur High School, as the CIP projected enrollment in 2024 to exceed 1,500 students before decreasing in later years.

“It’s been brought up to me by members of the public,” Mitrecic said.

Taylor said the projections were typically correct but could vary a little.

“It’s right around capacity right now,” he said, adding that there wouldn’t be a problem unless enrollment exceeded 1,600.

Taylor pointed out he’d been principal there for 21 years and the largest graduating class during that time had been 364. He said the current sophomore class was on track to be the first graduating class over 400 students.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 4, 2022

November 4, 2022

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

High Bids Prompt Delay In SD Park Restroom Project

November 4, 2022

BY CHARLENE SHARPE STAFF WRITER

Mural Painting Begins: Painting began this week on the mural to be added to the wall at the town’s power

plant. The wall, which is directly behind Burbage Park, will be painted with the town’s name and “Powered by Kindness.”

The mural was designed by local resident Brian Robertson and is the latest of several Burbage Park improvements spearheaded by We Heart Berlin. We Heart Berlin founder Tony Weeg is pictured painting on Tuesday.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

BERLIN – Plans for a permanent restroom at Stephen Decatur Park are on hold after bids came in too high.

Though the town received a grant to fund much of the cost of a permanent restroom for Stephen Decatur Park, pricing has more than doubled. As a result, the project has been tabled for now.

“The prices that we got back were just not doable with the grant funds we received,” Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said.

In 2021, the Town of Berlin received a $99,000 Community Parks and Playgrounds grant from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for permanent restrooms at Stephen Decatur Park. The grant came six years after town officials initially applied for funding for the project, which has long been sought by local residents and council members.

Bohlen told the Berlin Parks Commission on Tuesday that the project was now being delayed. She said that when the town had solicited bids for the restroom, they’d come in higher than expected.

“It was double what we had budgeted,” she said.

The town informed bidders it is not proceeding at this time and staff are now exploring additional grant opportunities.

“Depending on how those turn out we may revisit it sooner rather than later,” Bohlen said. “We’ll have to see.”

She added that the pricing problems related to the fact that the town had to submit its application for the DNR funds long before grant awards were made. The application was due in the summer of 2020 and the town didn’t find out it had received the grant until 2021.

“By the time we were able to bid it wasn’t until this year,” Bohlen said. “When the bids came back they were too much.”

Commission member Bruce Hyder asked if the town could seek a grant from the county. Bohlen said that while that was a possibility, it likely wouldn’t cover the shortfall.

“If worse comes to worst, we’ll reapply for Community Parks and Playgrounds monies for the balance,” Bohlen said. “It may give us a slight advantage because they’ve already committed funding.”

Bohlen added that jurisdictions everywhere were facing price increases and extended wait times for materials.

“Hopefully prices are going to come back down,” she said.

At this week’s meeting Bohlen told the commission another upcoming project, the installation of lighting at the Henry Park basketball courts, was expected to take place this winter. The lights should arrive in December and are expected to take about 30 days to install.

November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Locals Arrested For Assault OCEAN CITY – A local couple was arrested last weekend after an alleged fight in a downtown hotel room when each claimed the other had assaulted themselves.

Around 4:25 a.m. last Friday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer responded to a Boardwalk hotel for a reported domestic dispute that had already occurred. Upon arrival, the officer met with a female, later identified as Lindsay Donophan, 33, of Ocean City, who had a dog on a leash.

Donophan’s lip was swollen, bruised and bleeding, and she had a bruise on her forehead and blood on her jacket, according to police reports. She reportedly appeared shaken up and was crying. The officer met with a male individual in a hotel room identified as Matthew Ruark, 36, also of Ocean City.

According to police reports, Ruark’s right cheek was swollen, and he had a bruise under his right eye and dried blood near his nostril. He also had abra-

COPS & COURTS sions on both of his arms, according to police reports. Ruark reportedly told police he and Donophan were staying together in the hotel room and had an argument when Donophan believed he was receiving Facebook messages from another woman, according to police reports.

Ruark reportedly told the officer the argument turned physical when Donophan punched him in the face multiple times, pushed him against a wall and continued to punch him. Ruark reportedly told the officer he was able to break away and told Donophan he was going to call the police, at which time she punched

herself several times in the face in order to give the appearance Ruark had assaulted her. Ruark told the officer the obvious injuries Donophan had sustained were self-inflicted. Ruark told the officer he had never assaulted Donophan, according to police reports.

When interviewed, Donophan told police a different version of the events.

Donophan said she had rented the hotel room for Ruark and he didn’t want her pit bull in the room and an argument ensued. Donophan told police Ruark uppercut punched her multiple times with a closed fist in her face, according to police reports. Donophan told the officer she

November 4, 2022 sustained the swollen lip and bruised forehead as a result of being punched by Ruark in the face multiple times during the altercation, according to police reports.

When Donophan was able to break away from Ruark, she used the hotel’s landline to call 911. She told police Ruark then punched himself in the face multiple times in order go give himself obvious signs of an assault before police arrived.

In the end, the officer concluded both Ruark and Donophan were mutual aggressors in the affray and each was arrested and charged with second-degree assault.

Kicking Door Leads To Arrest OCEAN CITY – A local man was arrested last weekend for first kicking and breaking the door of a downtown residence and then refusing to cooperate with officers attempting to arrest and book him.

Around 6 p.m. last Saturday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer responded to a reported malicious destruction of property case at 11th Street. Ocean City Communications advised a male suspect, later identified as Cody Davis, 26, of Berlin, kicking a door and damaging it. Communications advised Davis had last been seen walking north on Philadelphia Avenue.

Upon arrival, the officer was flagged down by a witness who reportedly advised he had been watching Davis as he left the area, but had lost sight of him before the officer arrived. The officer canvassed the area and located Davis in the area of 13th Street. Davis slurred his words and stumbled and otherwise exhibited signs of intoxication, according to police reports.

The officer reportedly had Davis sit on a bench out of concern he was going to fall. Davis reportedly told the officer he was coming from a craft beer festival. He had blood on his knuckles and forearm, according to police reports. Davis reportedly told the officer he had not kicked or hit any doors and had not tripped or fallen.

The officer interviewed the witness, who advised he heard three loud bangs and observed Davis kicking a door to a neighboring unit. The witness told the officer he observed damage to the door of a neighboring unit and called the police.

It was determined through the investigation the door would need to be replaced and Davis was arrested for malicious destruction of property and intoxicated endangerment.

Davis reportedly became disorderly and refused to sit in the back of a police car. It took a total of 12 minutes to get Davis into the back of a police car as he continued to yell and swear at officers, according to police reports.

When Davis was finally transported to the booking facility, he refused to walk to his holding cell and had to be carried, according to police reports. Once in the holding cell, he began hitting and banging the cell door for hours on end, according to police reports.

Traffic Stop Leads To Arrest OCEAN CITY – A local man, arrested last weekend on an outstanding warrant for failing to appear for court, had additional charges tacked on when he was alSEE PAGE 24

November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

... COPS & COURTS FROM PAGE 22 legedly found in possession of cocaine.

Around 4:45 p.m. last Friday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer patrolling in the uptown area observed a vehicle traveling on 142nd Street. The officer knew the driver, identified as Steven Cutright, 39, of Ocean City, had an outstanding warrant for failing to appear for a court date in a separate matter.

A background check revealed Cutright was not licensed in Maryland and his Delaware license had been suspended since 2012. When the vehicle turned into Cutright’s driveway at 142nd Street, the officer approached and informed Cutright there was an outstanding warrant for his arrest. Cutright advised he was aware of the warrant and that he was in the process of correcting his license status, according to police reports.

Cutright was arrested for the outstanding warrant. During a subsequent search, the officer located a folded dollar bill and a paper receipt, each of which had suspected powder cocaine residue on them, according to police reports. In addition to his traffic violations and citations, Cutright was also charged with possession of cocaine.

Suspended Sentence For Gun OCEAN CITY – A Pittsburgh man, arrested in July after first arguing with a Boardwalk tram driver and then being found with a loaded handgun on his per-

November 4, 2022 son, pleaded guilty last week and was sentenced to 180 days in jail, all of which was suspended.

Around 10:20 p.m. on July 31, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers responded to 4th Street and the Boardwalk to assist with a disorderly male. Officers observed Brandon Ernst, 28, of Pittsburgh, yelling at a Boardwalk tram driver. The driver had exited the tram and Ernst continued to yell at the driver, causing a scene for passersby.

OCPD officers detained Ernst and advised him of the reason for the stop. According to police reports, Ernst advised the argument arose over the tram driver not allowing his child to enter the tram, although he did not elaborate on the driver’s reason for not letting his child on the tram.

According to police reports, the tram driver advised officers Ernst was denied service because of his past disruptive and unsafe behavior. OCPD officers observed Ernst carrying a red plastic cup containing an alcoholic beverage, according to police reports, and he was placed under arrest at that point.

During a search of Ernst’s backpack incident to the arrest, officers located a loaded Glock 9mm handgun inside a holster within the main pocket of the backpack. Ernst did not possess a concealed carry handgun permit in Maryland, according to police reports. He was charged with disturbing the peace and carrying a loaded handgun on or about his person. Last week, he plead guilty with the suspended sentence order. He was also placed on probation for two years.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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OC To Launch Rebranding Campaign

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 4, 2022

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – While the new campaign won’t be officially rolled out until the spring, resort officials and stakeholders last week got a sneak peak of sorts for the town’s new rebranding and marketing strategy.

Last December, the Mayor and Council confirmed BVK advertising as the successful bidder in a months-long process to find a new advertising firm after 10 years, and the company hit the ground running earlier this year. In the months since, BVK advertising has been working with the town’s tourism and marketing departments and private-sector stakeholders on efforts to rebrand Ocean City and develop strategies on how to retain its current visitors and attract new ones.

Last Thursday, the BVK advertising team and resort tourism and marketing department officials provided a sneak preview of the rebranding effort for Ocean City, which will officially be rolled out in the spring, at the Performing Arts Center in the convention center. The simplistic campaign draws on what attracts visitors to Ocean City, including the beach and Boardwalk, the nightlife, golf, fishing and the myriad of other options for vacationers.

The rebranding campaign essentially encourages visitors to leave the stress

Ocean City’s new logo, “Somewhere To Smile About,” will be part of the town’s rebranding efforts. Submitted Image

of their daily lives behind when they arrive in Ocean City and embrace the resort’s “carefree” lifestyle. Carefree was a word used often during last Thursday presentation, a word used nearly as much as “smile.” The new slogan is “Ocean City: Somewhere To Smile About,” and the new logo is a simple but effective smiley face with the letter “O” for one eye and the letter “C” as the other eye with a smile underneath. The logo is somewhat reminiscent of the popular smiley face that adorned nearly everything in the 1970s.

Ocean City has had different marketing strategies over the years. There was the popular “Rodney the Lifeguard” campaign and the “Don’t Lose Your Vacation Days” campaign, for example, each effective in its own way.

Business and Tourism Development Director Tom Perlozzo said the new partnership with BVK Advertising promises something new and fresh. The BVK rebranding effort is more than just a new slogan and logo. The firm is bringing its expertise in identifying new markets, nurturing the town’s historic markets and careful research into the town’s target audience.

“This is a very special day,” he said.

“This is very powerful in nature. We’re changing the brand and we’re changing the direction the town is going for the next 20 years.”

Perlozzo said since he has taken the position, he has been working with the town’s tourism and marketing team to develop an attitude in the efforts to retain existing visitors and attract new ones. He said BVK shares that vision with its rebranding efforts.

“One thing I’ve tried to do since I got here is develop a mindset,” he said.

“We don’t want to lose. We believe we can achieve anything. These folks are out here every day.”

Perlozzo said the town’s own staff, in working with the BVK advertising team, is already achieving those goals with the new campaign and rebranding effort.

“We’re developing a sense of place,” he said. “What is it people love about Ocean City? We have a little momentum now and I’m excited about that. For the first time in years, we have momentum with our advertising agency. We’re going to be able to do things we haven’t been able to do in decades.”

Perlozzo did not waste the opportunity to plug a proposed youth sports complex in the resort area as part of the SEE PAGE 45

Berlin Fire Co. Explains New Fee

November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

This chart, provided by the Berlin Fire Company, shows annual fire and EMS grants from the Town of Berlin.

Submitted Image

BY CHARLENE SHARPE STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – A dwindling grant from the town and rising operating costs prompted a new emergency response fee, according to Berlin Fire Company officials.

In response to criticism from residents last week regarding an emergency response fee now in effect, the Berlin Fire Company (BFC) reached out to The Dispatch to share the reasoning behind the new charge.

“We’re not trying to hurt the taxpayers, we’re just billing for services,” said David Fitzgerald, BFC president.

According to Fitzgerald, the Berlin Fire Company has been billing for EMS services since they were initiated in 1965. Fire response billing, however, is something new that’s being tried throughout the country. Here in Berlin, Fitzgerald said it was something BFC membership started considering as a way to boost revenue. In most cases, he said auto and home insurance companies would cover the charge.

“The fire company has had to think of ways to generate revenue because from 2008-2012, the fire company was being funded at $342,000,” Fitzgerald said.

“The current fiscal year, the operating funds coming from the town is $116,000.

That’s a substantial difference. Most departments get extra each year.”

Last week, Mayor Zack Tyndall said the town this year provided the BFC with a $400,000 grant, $125,000 for additional EMS staffing and $225,000 for capital.

That’s in addition to funding from Worcester County and the state, which this year exceeded $1.3 million.

Fitzgerald said Tyndall misrepresented the town’s funding contribution. He said it was important for citizens to understand that while the main grant was $400,000, it was split between the fire company and EMS. “These are two distinct, separate entities,” said Jay Bergey, BFC accountant.

“The town insisted on that years ago.”

As a result, Fitzgerald says the funds

cannot be used interchangeably between the two. So in the current fiscal year, the fire company received $116,961 from the town and EMS received $283,039. Fitzgerald said while the funding EMS has received in recent years has increased, the fire company funding has decreased.

Last year, the fire company received $125,000 and EMS received $275,000.

Fitzgerald said the decreasing fire grant is what prompted the new fire rescue fee. Bergey said inflation also played a part.

“Costs are going up,” Bergey said.

“With the funding going down and costs going up it’s a double whammy.”

Fitzgerald said the fire company tried to host fundraisers to raise money but hadn’t been successful.

“It’s hard for the volunteer manpower to do that and answer calls,” he said.

Bergey added that now fire trucks cost about $800,000.

“You can’t buy a fire truck selling chicken these days,” he said.

Both Bergey and Fitzgerald said that the volunteer fire service was saving the town a significant amount of money. Fitzgerald said a study in 2018 had indicated that it would take at least 30 employees to handle Berlin’s fire and EMS needs.

Currently, there are 16 EMS employees who are supported by volunteers.

“The volunteer system saves $500,000-$600,000 that would have to be funded,” Bergey said.

He stressed that BFC members were committed to providing the service they have for decades.

“The people in the fire company are not going to let the town down, it’s just that we have to have the equipment to make it happen,” he said.

While the new fire fee isn’t expected to generate a large amount of revenue, Fitzgerald said every little bit would help.

As far as concerns shared last week about the fee making people hesitant to call for help, Fitzgerald doesn’t expect that to happen.

“In the excitement of the moment they’re going to call 911,” he said. “They’re not going to be thinking about a bill.”

Page 27

Hooked

Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Broadband In Newark

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

NEWARK – County leaders celebrated continued efforts to expand broadband access with a ribbon cutting in Newark.

The Worcester County Commissioners joined Bay Country Communications (BCC) last month in Newark to cut the ribbon on a new fiber-optic installation project that is making broadband available in Newark. Representatives from Talkie Communications and Choptank Fiber, the other two companies the county is working with to expand access to highspeed internet for residents, attended to show their support.

“Bay Country Communications is making rapid progress to install a fiber-optic network to make broadband available in Newark and are making their way down south,” Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young said. “This expansion is possible thanks in large part to the commissioners who have made extending the much needed high-speed fiber to all rural areas of the county their number one priority.”

Young said that to accomplish the nearly $68 million initiative, the commissioners provided incentives to Bay Country Communications, Choptank Fiber and Talkie Communications. While Bay Country is focusing on the Newark area, Talkie is now working in the Bishopville area and

Worcester County officials joined representatives from Bay Country Communications for a ribbon cutting in Newark.

Submitted Photo

Choptank is working in the south end of the county. The incentives provided by the county included applying for state and federal pass-through grants on behalf of the companies and distributing about $7 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to shovel-ready projects. The ARPA funding provided Bay Country with $1 million—a 15% match— to install more than 31 miles of fiber in the Newark area. Bay Country has worked in the area before, as it provided

service to the Worcester County Developmental Center (WCDC) in 2016 after the organization lost its internet provider.

“The WCDC project became much more time consuming and costly than we anticipated,” said Brian Roche, chief technology officer for BCC Fiber and Maryland Broadband Cooperative (MdBC) board member. “We persevered. We leveraged a portion of the MdBC's network and fellow member Choptank Electric Cooperative’s fiber to get the WCDC connected.

November 4, 2022

The entire project is an example of the way our company has done business over the past 30 years - bringing local partners together to solve the complicated problem of getting broadband to underserved communities. Since then, we have continued to invest in the area and solidified our ongoing commitment to the citizens of Newark and Worcester County.”

Currently, Bay Country is installing 32 miles of fiber to make broadband available to another 566 homes and 10 businesses south and east of Newark. Meanwhile, Talkie Communications is in the middle of extending fiber from Bishopville to Whaleyville.

Commissioner Jim Bunting, long a proponent of making broadband more widely available, said he was thrilled with the progress that was being made throughout the county.

“I’m really glad we decided to go with three different outfits,” he said, adding that it was encouraging to see access to fiber occurring in different areas of the county.

In the Bishopville area, which Bunting represents, Talkie has laid conduit in the ground and is moving toward Whaleyville. Bunting noted that while there are usually only two machines working together, Talkie has brought in four to get things moving.

“I’m elated,” he said. “I can’t get over how good they’re doing. They’re delivering.”

November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 29

Ocean City Voters To Elect Three Council Members

Page 30

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – The field is set for an intriguing Ocean City municipal election next Tuesday with four candidates vying for three open seats, including two incumbents, meaning there will be at least one new face joining the council.

Mayor Rick Meehan is unopposed and will remain in his position. Councilman Lloyd Martin did not file for re-election, ending a two-decade run on the council including a long stint as council president.

Current Council President Matt James filed early in the summer for his third term and will be among the four candidates vying for three open seats next week. One-term Councilman Mark Paddack is also among the four candidates, being the last to file just before the deadline last month.

Potential newcomers among the four

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

candidates for three open seats include local Realtor Carol Proctor and local businessman and volunteer firefighter Will Savage. The other council seats currently occupied by Council Secretary Tony DeLuca, and Councilmen John Gehrig and Peter Buas will come up for re-election in 2024, with the mayor’s position up for grabs every two years.

The Dispatch sent each of the four candidates five questions in the lead-up to next Tuesday’s election covering a wide variety of currently important local issues. Their responses are printed here verbatim to give the voters a better understanding of where each of them stands on critical local issues facing the resort currently.

Q: What makes you the best candidate for one of the open seats?

James: Experience, vision and proven leadership ability. In addition to my public service on the City Council and as a volun-

teer with the Ocean City Fire Department, I also have several years of upper-level management experience where accountability and results matter. As it is with being President of the City Council, in business I have a lot of people who rely on me, and who have faith in my ability and my judgment. The skill set and common sense I've needed professionally, have also been a valuable asset for me with my work on the MATT JAMES council, particularly with budgets, procurement and contractual issues. I'm comfortable asking tough questions because I know the taxpayers want value and results for their money, just like I do. My wife and I have started a family here, I own property here, and I plan to be here for many years because I really do love this town.

November 4, 2022

Paddack: Because of my 34 years of service to this community, and your support and guidance, my work on the City Council has been financially responsible for revenue, expenditures, and human resource development. Thank you. You spoke, and I listened, learned, and made informed decisions. Thank you. You spoke, and I redefined goals, developed teams and leaders, and marketed the town's success. Thank you. I ask that your vote in the election be for me because I want to continue to serve, lead, and do so while also listening to your concerns and your needs as a comMARK munity. We live here to- PADDACK gether, and together we shall be stronger.

Let me continue to be your voice, so we can ensure that Ocean City remains as the world's finest family resort.

Proctor: I understand this is a big job, I am committed to helping people. Now that I live in Ocean City, I see how critical it is for the citizens of Ocean City to have a Voice. I believe I can be that voice for them. Too many times politicians forget that they are there to serve the people as well as they need to be good stewards of their tax dollars paid by citizens. I am CAROL PROCTOR committed to working with the citizens of Ocean City as well as public safety employees focusing on the future of Ocean City. As you can see with my current and past jobs, I carry a strong work ethic and diverse background. I believe I can offer some diversity on the Council.

Savage: I have a proven history of integrity, experience, community engagement and education. I want to use those qualities to serve our taxpayers and their families. I believe with my public service background as a member of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company since 1993, my service as assistant fire chief, my years of successful business experience at my family’s local hotel and owning/operating two Ocean City Boardwalk retail locations, I am a perfect candidate to represent our community on the Ocean City Council. If elected, I commit to improving the overall quality of life for residents, while maintaining sensible government and a consistent tax rate.

I further pledge to promote WILL SAVAGE the town and all its businesses in a positive, professional manner to spur sustainable tourism growth and keep Ocean City a world class destination.

Q: What do you feel about the growing development and redevelopment trend? The proposed Margaritaville project is the highest profile right now, but there have been others and certainly more to come.

James: When done in a responsible manner, I think development and redevelopment is a good thing. As property owners invest in their properties it often encourages others to do the same and this usually increases the overall value of our community. Unfortunately, not all development has a positive impact. As I've publicly stated many times over the last year, I

SEE NEXT PAGE

… Q&A With Council Candidates

November 4, 2022

think the proposed Margaritaville project is too large for the Beach Plaza property and that specific neighborhood. We know this neighborhood is already parking deficient and overdeveloping this property would be detrimental to the quality of life in the surrounding area. At this time, the developers don't even have the necessary square footage to apply for a Planned Overlay District, so I hope to see a scaled-down version of this project come back for approval.

Paddack: The proposed “Margaritaville” project is the highest profile right now, but there have been others and certainly there will be more to come. Ocean City is a world class vacation resort destination with many success stories from both citizens and the business community. As such, redevelopment operates on a cycle, dictated by market trends and economic stability. Historically, the town has included all stakeholders in the process of development. For example, in 2018, the town established a vision and mission, established organizational values, and success factors and involved all stakeholders. In 2022, the town proactively reassessed and updated the vision in the strategic plan.

The Margaritaville project is following what we have done -- include the community. The proposed project is wonderful for the critical success of the entire town and is supported by the Ocean City Development Corporation. The proposed project has, thus far, followed the current policies and codes established by the town’s previous Council members. I support high quality modern amenities, tourism options for guests, employment opportunities for the community, and revenue-generating opportunities to help the town maintain the current content yield tax rates for residents.

Proctor: This project, in my opinion, will undergo many more changes. They need 90,000 square feet in order to request a POD and they only have 85,000 square feet. I would have to believe a developer would have done their due diligence with an understanding of what was needed to build the resort. I would further believe that their due diligence would not have included the need of a POD or stacked parking. In my opinion, without seeing the plans of the original build, they have increased the size and scope of the resort resulting in the need for a POD as well as stacked valet parking. As far as Baltimore Avenue is concerned, the current Council has a Capital Improvement Plan. I believe the Margaritaville development should have not been granted an expedited approval as the Capital Improvement Plan has not been given a green light. It is also my understanding that the cost of this project is $20,500,000.

However, costs have gone up since this estimate was obtained making the Capital Improvement Plan almost doubled from the original estimate. With this cost to the city, it is unknown when it will be implemented. There is a petition going around that does not specify just the Margaritaville Project. It encompasses the entire Capital Improvement Plan. If passed, the entire Capital Improvement Plan would never happen. Currently along North Division to 15th streets, there are many individuallyowned properties. Some of the said properties have already encroached on the city-owned property. If passed, what do

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 31

you think Ocean City should do with the individual property owners that have encroached on city-owned property? We need to be conscious of the impact on all of the citizens of Ocean City as well as the development of the Margaritaville Resort needs to fall within established restrictions.

Currently Ocean City does not have enough parking in the downtown area and overbuilding a resort is only going to contribute to the deficiency. I would like to see how the project has changed since its original proposal. There are many hotels and condominium projects downtown that have complied and developed their projects in accordance with city guidelines.

When you consider the age of the properties in the downtown area, there will be other redevelopment projects. When do the exceptions to establish guidelines end?

Savage: I am in favor of reasonable development, especially redevelopment that is consistent with the town’s comprehensive plan. It is outstanding when original structures can be revitalized and preserved for future generations. However, many times that is not feasible for a multitude of reasons.

Overall, I am in favor of the Margaritaville concept, but I have concerns. It is obvious that this particular parcel of land is ideal for redevelopment for a mixed-use building. If this parcel is not redeveloped as a Margaritaville, I can say with almost certainty that it will be another large mixed use building containing hotel rooms and/or

SEE PAGE 32

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FROM PAGE 31

condominium units. My concerns with this project are density and the conveyance of the Baltimore Avenue right-of-way. The density issue seems to be solved with the mayor’s veto of the stacked parking ordinance. The Baltimore Avenue right-of-way is concerning because the developers want that land now, but the Baltimore Avenue project has been placed on hold. I feel that conveying that land along Baltimore Avenue before we have a start date for the North Division Street to 15th Street revitalization project is potentially premature.

Q: Are you generally satisfied with the town's marketing strategy? Much of the resources are directed at the big metro areas just hours away although other areas are being targeted as evidenced by the variety of license plates observed around the resort.

James: I am satisfied with what the town is doing now. This year we started working with a new advertising agency and I have been impressed with the work their team has done so far. They have spent a lot of time in Ocean City and have connected with many people in the community, including residents, visitors, and business owners. We will always be a drive-to destination given our geographical location and it is important to stay relevant in our key markets. The markets we most heavily focus our resources on are only a few hours away from multiple beach vacation destinations and we want to continue being the most attractive option for both new and existing customers.

Paddack: The town's marketing strat-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch egy is one that attracts over eight million visitors annually. As a world-famous family resort, our infrastructure and business community entertain all visitors regardless of where they reside, and the revenue generated from these visitors makes our town thrive and town property tax manageable.

The data suggest that most tourists come from Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and the Philadelphia metro areas, so those areas need to be targeted so that they continue to visit us, generate money for our economy, and remind these visitors why they want to return.

Moreover, experts in the field of resort tourism use technology to identify opportunities for the town. The data enables us to prioritize resources and expand tourism options that generate revenue to offset the town’s operating budget and maintain a constant yield property tax. Our tourism efforts provide 60% of the Worcester County revenue that the Commissioners use to balance their operating budget for Worcester County residents.

Proctor: One, I am looking forward to meeting with the head of the department to understand the Tourism Department. It is my understanding that there is a Tourism Commission, which is essential to speak with them to see what their thoughts are on our marketing dollars. I would like to see a broader range of businesses represented.

Two, I believe we have made efforts in the right direction, most recently with "Oceans Calling Music Festival" which attracted people from all over the country.

This event helped people discover O.C. I believe that we should focus on high profile events that deliver a significant return on investment for our business owners. This department is funded through the collection of room tax.

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Savage: Generally, I am happy with the town advertising strategy. Based on my experience in hotel management, advertising is pennies on the dollar of increased revenue. When I was handling hotel advertising, we did both targeted and broad distribution marketing. Rarely were we ever disappointed in investing in advertising. If elected, I will support both targeted and broad distribution marketing diversified among billboard, print, television, radio, and both conventional digital marketing as well as geofencing marketing.

Q: Do you have any suggestions for improving the town's affordable seasonal workforce housing shortage, which is arguably the biggest issue facing the resort?

James: Given the seasonality of our business, we rely heavily on seasonal workers, and over the last few years, we have seen many of the workforce housing units get converted into short-term vacation rentals. Elected officials representing both Ocean City and Worcester County have met with developers that are interested in building workforce housing in our area and continue to discuss this issue facing our community. Multiple parcels of land have been identified as possible options for such a project, but the details are still being worked out between the involved parties.

Separate from any one specific project, I think it would be beneficial to encourage employers to offer housing for their employees. This could be done with possible zoning exceptions based on the seasonality, location, and use of the housing options available. I believe the business community needs to be part of the solution.

Paddack: I listen to concerns about seasonal workforce housing needs and the overall condition of living spaces. I serve on the Property Review and Enforcement Strategies for Safe Housing Committee (P.R.E.S.S.). The affordability of private sector rentals is a challenge because the private sector property owners set rental rates not the town of Ocean City. Some business owners have taken the initiative to secure and provide seasonal workforce housing for their employees. However, the summer seasons experienced fewer workers and J-1 students in the past couple of years. My understanding is some former seasonal housing is now being rented short-term to visitors by various nationallyknown rental companies. I have had various discussions with Ocean City Development Corporation and private rental property owners. As a member of the town’s Transportation Committee, I fully support routing mass transportation to West Ocean City to bring seasonal work-

November 4, 2022 force employees in town. Hopefully, a suitable affordable land location can be found in West Ocean City or elsewhere. I am open to discussing all options on the table at any given time.

Proctor: One, I believe we should have affordable housing for our local community as well as seasonal workers. Why should Ocean City limit affordable housing just for seasonal workers? Affordable housing just doesn't affect seasonal workers, it also affects citizens of Ocean City. I believe we should provide affordable housing for seasonal employees as well as the citizens of Ocean City. For example, my daughter is a nurse with Tidal Health. She is a young person that is having a challenge with finding affordable housing. With the increased property values as a Realtor, I find it is difficult for our local community to find affordable housing.

Two, this is a challenging subject. Our seasonal workers normally don't have cars and need public transportation. Currently, due to market conditions, land is at a premium. I would welcome the opportunity to meet with the business owners to better understand their needs and what they can do to contribute as a joint venture.

Savage: As a hotel manager, I regularly had to mitigate the shortage of affordable seasonal workforce housing. The solution to this problem is laid out in the sponsorship application process governed by the U.S. State Department for J-1 student visas. These same basic needs and principles apply to the U.S. citizen seasonal workforce. In short, as a sponsor employer, you need to ensure housing, transportation, and cultural activities for the J-1 employee. The cultural activities are the easy part, Ocean City has that covered.

The hard part is housing and transportation. I feel we need to look at a regional approach, and the best solution is to provide reliable, consistent transportation into Ocean City from our outlying communities where affordable housing could be built.

This can’t be limited to Maryland Routes 50 and 90. We need to utilize Route 54 that connects to the Delaware communities as well. In addition, we could look at utilizing express busses that could integrate into the existing Ocean City transit system. This same transit plan would also benefit local workers.

Q: How would you vote on the three specific referendum questions for Ocean City voters? Do you support allocating more of the room tax revenue to advertising and marketing? Do you support increasing the mayor's pay from $30,000 to $50,000? How about the council pay from $10,000 to $20,000?

SEE NEXT PAGE

… Election Preview

November 4, 2022

James: I support all three of the referendum questions facing the Ocean City voters.

Room tax is generated by the folks that visit Ocean City and our efforts have proven to be successful. The proposed ordinance offers a fair allocation of funds that will allow future elected officials and town staff the ability to promote Ocean City and everything we have to offer.

The salary of the Mayor and City Council was last adjusted in 1989 and is currently considerably lower than that of similar elected bodies. Town staff completed a comparison of salaries for elected officials throughout the state and this is how we determined the new desired salary rates for both the Mayor and City Council. Having served on the council for eight years, two as council president, I can attest to the time commitment that is required to be prepared for and engaged during our weekly meetings and other community events.

While no elected official should serve their community for the money, I hope that a pay increase will encourage others to consider getting involved in our local government.

Paddack: I am neither an expert in advertising nor marketing, but the town staff’s professionalism and expertise in data collection and research plus my overseeing of the budgets enabled me to take emotions out of the decision-making process to focus on factual data. The formula for distributing and allocating room tax revenue to Tourism and Economic Development for advertising was codified in an ordinance by the previous Council on or about 2007 and is based on a 2% allocation of gross annual room tax revenue. Currently, the budget estimate in fiscal year 2022 is $22,500,000, with $9,000,000 dedicated to advertising. I recently learned that in fiscal year 2024 there would be a $10,000,000 estimated dedicated room tax revenue for advertising. The town also receives a state grant in which the amount does fluctuate, so there are no guarantees from Maryland. I am not aware of any ordinance to prevent the council addressing and revising funding for advertising which is proposed. This should be a year-by-year collective decision by the council at budget time. I will vote for the ballot question as presented by the people to repeal the proposed ordinance.

Proctor: The people should decide. The people should decide. The people should decide.

Savage: I am in support of increasing both the mayor and city council’s salary, as these salaries have not been increased since 1989. I feel the increase will help keep/retain qualified individuals for these very important positions. I do not feel individuals that run for these positions are doing it for the money, but it will help keep them focused on doing the job and not losing money for time that they could be spending in their primary occupation.

I am 100% in favor for more of the room tax revenue to go to advertising and marketing. Simply put, advertising keeps the tourism engine running. The more we advertise, especially with targeted advertising, the greater the demand on hotel rooms will be, directly correlating to increased room night prices and a subsequent increase in the overall room taxes collected.

This is what will keep residential taxes affordable and is key to maintaining a yearround community.

Voters Face Three Municipal Ballot Questions The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Ocean City’s municipal election is set for next Tuesday, Nov. 8, with three city council seats on the line as well as a handful of important ballot questions.

The polls will be open at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center next Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The municipal election will be held in conjunction with the state and federal elections on the same day. However, the elections will be held independently, and voters must sign up at both the municipal and state-federal registration desks.

In addition to electing three councilmembers, voters in the municipal election will have to decide on three important city ballot questions. One has to do with the percentage of room tax collected dedicated to marketing and advertising. Last December, the council narrowly passed an ordinance altering the formula for how a percentage of room tax generated in the resort is distributed to marketing and advertising.

By way of background, Ocean City’s room tax in 2019 was raised from 4.5% to 5% with about 44% dedicated to marketing and advertising and 56% dedicated to the town’s general fund to help offset the increased cost of tourism, including fire and police services, public

Page 33

works, salaries and overtime.

In December, a divided council approved an ordinance that would gradually scale up the percentage of room tax revenue dedicated to destination marketing, advertising, promotions, sponsorships, special events and the like over the coming years. For example, for fiscal year 2023, 2% of the room tax revenue would be dedicated to destination marketing, with that figure increasing to 2.1% in fiscal year 2024 and 2.2% in fiscal year 2025 and beyond.

Local resident and former councilman Vince Gisriel from the beginning publicly challenged the ordinance on the grounds the scaled increases in the amount of room tax dedicated under the broad umbrella of marketing and advertising would exponentially grow those budgets at a rate faster than the general fund growth.

To that end, in December, Gisriel sent a letter and a draft petition for a referendum on the room tax ordinance to the city solicitor for approval.

Gisriel and his support team then collected the requisite number of signatures to get the referendum regarding room tax distribution on next Tuesday’s ballot.

With 1,528 votes cast in the last municipal election, the target for a successful petition for referendum was 40%, or 612 verified signatures. At the conclusion of the petition drive, 807 verified signatures had been submitted, or well beyond the

required 612, and the question ended up on next week’s ballot.

Two other questions on next Tuesday’s city ballot are similar but separate issues and both deal with the salaries of the town’s elected officials. Ballot Question 1 would authorize the mayor’s salary to be increased from the current $30,000 per year to $50,000 per year. Ballot Question 2 would authorize an increase in a councilmember’s salary from the current $10,000 to $20,000, while the council secretary’s salary would increase from the current $11,000 to $23,000.

The elected officials’ salaries were last increased in 1989. To that end, it was brought up late last year it could be time for an increase, or the pay hike should at least be explored. City Manager Terry McGean delved into several aspects of a proposed salary increase for the town’s elected officials, including a comparison of similarly sized jurisdictions around the state. McGean’s research determined to town’s elected officials’ salaries were considerably lower than officials in other jurisdictions.

The council could have approved the proposed pay increases through the ordinance process, but because at least some of them would stand to benefit from it and to avoid any semblance of impropriety, it was decided to put the issue on the ballot and let the voters decide.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 4, 2022

School Fundraising: Following the devastating events of Hurricane Ian, the Worcester Volunteers Club coordinated a fundraiser for the American Red

Cross in order to best serve the people that were hit hardest by the storm. Students and faculty could wear casual dress, featuring the color red, in exchange for a $2 donation. Above left, seated from left, are seventh graders John Lynch, Luke Mize and Mac Miller; standing, Max Griffin and Dexter Feldman. Above right, seated from left, are Samantha Kuon, Harper Hertrich and Nora Gorfinkel; standing, Brooke Moore, Chloe Holland and Sydney Doran. Below left are kindergartners Jack Farr, Finn Carullo, Ellie Tunis and Harper Haley. Below right are first graders Michael Hovhannisyan, Casey Heun, Sloane Luckenbaugh, Noah Ramadan and Vincent Submitted Photos Fasano.

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Golf Tourney Proceeds Presented To Atlantic General Hospital

November 4, 2022

BERLIN – Members of the Ocean Pines Ladies’ Golf Association recently joined Atlantic General Hospital leadership and staff to present a generous donation of $2,550.

The funds were raised through its recent Pink Lady Golf Tournament, which is held yearly during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the donation will go toward supporting Atlantic General Women’s Imaging in West Ocean City and the Eunice Q. Sorin Women’s Diagnostic Center at Atlantic General Hospital. The contribution will be used to provide women of the Eastern Shore community with crucial mammogram services, specifically for those who are not able to afford these lifesaving screenings.

The Ocean Pines Ladies’ Golf Association has contributed to Atlantic General Hospital for over a decade, totaling more than $18,000 throughout their 12 years of support.

Community support such as this allows Atlantic General Hospital to continue providing the accessible, high-quality care the Eunice Q. Sorin Women’s Diagnostic Center, which has been designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology, and the Women’s Imaging Center are known for.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 35

Pictured, from left, are Laura Powell, event coordinator/development assistant; Don Owrey, president & CEO; Steven Tyson, donor relations officer; Tina Hovis, lead mammography technologist; Kam LaBrunda, grant operations officer; and Ocean Pines Ladies’ Golf Association members Susan Morris and Ann Shockley.

Submitted Photo

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 4, 2022

People in Society Members of the Powellville Ladies Auxiliary cooked during the festivities at the Adkins Mill Pond.

by Charlene Sharpe Featuring Those Helping Causes In The Resort Area

A trio of volunteers are pictured volunteering at Powellville Days at Adkins Mill Park.

Representatives of Powellville United Methodist Church paused for a photo during a community event at the Adkins Mill Pond.

Cindi Krempel, David Fitzgerald and Natalie Blanton, all new board members for the Berlin Chamber of Commerce, are pictured at a business after hours event.

Sarah Baker and Stephanie Wilkins served food at Powellville Days.

Jack Orris and Barb Stack are pictured at a Berlin Chamber of Commerce event at the Taylor House Museum.

Lisa and Clara Jones are pictured at Powellville Days at Adkins Mill Park.

Tony Weeg and Rick Stack paused for a photo at the Taylor House Museum during a business after hours event.

Michael Satterfield and Zach Elliott represented the Powellville Volunteer Fire Company at a community event at Adkins Mill Park.

Will Tomlinson, Ashlynn Elliott and Clay Tomlinson represented the Pittsville Wildcats 4-H Club at Powellville Days.

November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Reaccreditation Earned BERLIN – The CRICKET Center, Worcester County’s only child advocacy center, has been awarded reaccreditation by National Children’s Alliance following an extensive application and site review process.

As the accrediting agency for Children’s Advocacy Centers (CAC) across the country, National Children’s Alliance awards various levels of accreditation and membership to centers responding to allegations of child abuse in effective and efficient ways that meet the needs of child victims of abuse first. Accreditation is the highest level of membership with National Children’s Alliance and denotes excellence in service provision.

Accredited CACs must undergo a reaccreditation process every five years to ensure that best practices are continually being applied.

With accreditation standards being updated in 2017, reaccreditation this year reflects The CRICKET Center’s commitment to providing evidence-based methods practice.

National Children’s Alliance awards accredited membership based on a CAC’s compliance with 10 national accreditation standards to ensure effective, efficient, and consistent delivery of services to child abuse victims. Accredited members must utilize a functioning and effective multidisciplinary team approach to work collaboratively in child abuse investigation, prosecution, and treatment.

National Children’s Alliance also considers standards regarding a center’s cultural competency and diversity, forensic interviews, victim support and advocacy, medical evaluation, therapeutic intervention, and a child-focused setting.

The CRICKET Center has served victims of child abuse in Worcester County since 2006. As an accredited member of National Children’s Alliance, The CRICKET Center provides comprehensive, coordinated, and compassionate services to victims of child abuse.

“The team of professionals working at The CRICKET Center recognizes the importance of maintaining accredited status from National Children’s Alliance,” said Lauren Cooper, executive director of The CRICKET Center. “Reaccreditation not only validates our team’s dedication to proven effective approaches of child abuse intervention and prevention but also contributes to consistency across the Children’s Advocacy Center movement as a whole.”

“The CRICKET Center is to be com-

BUSINESS And Real Estate News

The Atlantic General Hospital (AGH) Auxiliary ER volunteers recently received the Dedication to Excellence Award for their commitment to the hospital and the patients they serve. These volunteers were the first members of the auxiliary to return to help at the hospital after COVID-19 restrictions were relaxed. Additionally, when COVID-19 cases spiked again this year during the busy summer season, the volunteers worked right alongside the staff, picking up extra shifts, coming in early or staying late. Pictured, front row from left, are Audrey Vanscoy, Laura Rohe, Auxiliary President Ann Hamilton, Steve Stein, ED Assistant Coordinator Nancy Cartwright, ED Coordinator Debbie Staufenberg, Nancy Jarvis, Board Quality Committee Chair Vonnie Brown, Joyce Brittan, and AGH Vice President of Public Relations Toni Keiser. Pictured, back row from left, are Jim Morvick, Ken Waters, AGH Board of Trustees Chair Charlotte Cathell and Bruce Jarvis. Not pictured are Bill Megary, Joan Dempsey and Brooks Ensor.

Submitted Photo

mended for its continued commitment to effectively serve victims of child abuse,” said Teresa Huizar, executive director of National Children’s Alliance. “As the national association and accrediting body for Children’s Advocacy Centers across the country, our goal is to ensure that every victim of child abuse has access to highquality services that result from professional collaboration.”

She continued, “By requiring Accredited Centers to undergo reaccreditation every five years, we ensure that evidencebased practices are being implemented and the highest quality of service is being provided.”

Deputy Officer Named SNOW HILL – The Worcester County Commissioners appointed former budget officer, Candace Savage, to serve as the new deputy chief administrative officer (DCAO).

“Candace is the first woman to be ap-

pointed to this key leadership position, and there is no one more qualified to step into this role,” Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young said. “She brings the experience, dedication, and administrative foresight that we can depend on.”

Savage, who brings 18 years of planning and accounting experience to this position, joined Worcester County Administration as the budget officer in May 2021.

As part of the financial management team that develops the multi-year fiscal plans to assist with annual budget forecasting, her decisions and responsibilities play a key role in the prudent, fiscal performance that has secured Worcester CANDACE SAVAGE County Government’s solid financial standing and led to the county obtaining clean opinions from TGM Group, LLC during the annual audit, the Certifi-

November 4, 2022 cate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, and credit ratings of AA for Fitch, AA+ for Standard and Poor’s, and Aa2 for Moody’s Investor Services.

“I am excited to continue working for the Worcester County Commissioners and citizens of my home county,” Savage said.

“I look forward to utilizing my integrity, education, and experience in both the private sector and government to add depth to the administration team.”

She graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in corporate finance and a minor in accounting from Salisbury University in 2005. She later earned professional certification as a certified government financial manager through the Association of Government Accountants in 2019.

Prior to joining Worcester County Government (WCG), she owned and operated Titanium, Inc. in Ocean City from 2006 to 2016 and served as an agency budget specialist with the Wicomico County Health Department from 2017 to 2021.

The DCAO is a critical member of county administration and management, overseeing independent and broadly defined missions and special projects and acts on behalf of the CAO in his absence as directed.

Savage, who resides in Worcester County with her husband and two sons, passes the torch of leadership to former senior budget accountant and incoming Budget Officer Kim Reynolds.

Hospitality Expertise SALISBURY – Becker Morgan Group associate, David Botscheller, AIA, completed the Cornell University Hotel Planning and Design Course, further expanding his expertise in the hospitality practice area.

Since joining the firm in 2014, Botscheller’s passion for travel has fueled his interest in hotel design.

The course focused on the guest experience and maximizing the ROI for investors.

Jack Mumford III, AIA, principal and hospitality practice area leader, comments on the accomplishment.

“We are very proud of Dave for continuing to expand his expertise,” he said.

“We pride ourselves on bringing specialized staff to each project, and continuing education plays a big role in keeping Becker Morgan Group at the leading edge of the design profession.”

Established in 1983, Becker Morgan Group is a leader in architecture, engineering, surveying, land planning, and interior design in the mid-Atlantic and southeast regions of the United States.

annual scenic Film Festival tickets now available

November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BERLIN – For the 12th consecutive year, Assateague Coastal Trust (ACT) and the Assateague Coastkeeper will bring the internationally recognized Wild & Scenic Film Festival (WSFF) to Seacrets.

The WSFF focuses on films that both celebrate the splendor of the planet and speak to environmental concerns Earth faces. Wild & Scenic Film Festival inspires environmental activism and a love for nature through film.

The program for the evening will feature 15 films, including “If You Give a Beach a Bottle,” which explores ocean

pollution in a beautifully artistic way, along with “Can’t Beat This Place for Fun,” which features the building process and deep conversation legacy of Grand Canyon dories with fun at every bend.

ACT will host the event at Seacrets, Morley Hall in Ocean City on Thursday, Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. (doors opening 6:30 p.m.) There will be a silent auction with gift baskets with lots of goodies from numerous local merchants, restaurants, and artists, and raffle items. Event specials will also complement the evening.

“This festival is a natural extension of Assateague Coastal Trust’s work to in-

spire people to act on behalf of the environment,” said Assateague Coastkeeper Gabby Ross. “The staff at ACT, a local community non-profit, works all year to keep our coastal waterways swimmable, fishable, and recreational through citizen advocacy programs, youth education programs, and most importantly by working towards strong, fair and equitable environmental policy at the local and state level.”

Individual tickets are $25, or ticket bundles of five for $100. Advance tickets are now available for purchase at www.actforbays.org/wsff.

appointees named to police accountability Board

BERLIN – The Worcester County Commissioners appointed representatives from across the county to serve on the newly-established civilian Police Accountability Board (PAB) and Administrative Charging Committee (ACC), which were implemented under the Maryland Police Accountability Act, a state law that became effective in July.

The seven-member PAB appointed by the commissioners includes Chair Gregory Tate, Vice Chair Joseph Theobald, Jerred Johnson, Mary Burgess, Quincy Shockley, Carol Frazier, and John Simms, III. The five-member ACC includes Dr. Mark Bowen, John Trumpower, and James Beard along with Simms and Tate. The ACC is composed of the PAB chair, two civilian members selected by the PAB, and two civilian members selected by the commissioners.

“The PAB has received no complaints as of yet, which is a testament to the fine work of all the departments,” said Tate, a retired Secret Service Internal Affairs inspector.

The PAB serves as the overall governing body of the system of police discipline in Worcester County. The ACC will review complaints and investiga-

Page 39

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Airport Celebrates Water Main Extension Project

Page 40

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 4, 2022

BY BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – The extension of a water main will bring potable drinking water and fire suppression capabilities to the Salisbury airport.

Last Friday, officials and elected leaders gathered to celebrate the completion of the Ocean City-Salisbury-Wicomico Regional Airport water main extension project with a water-tapping ceremony.

Through a partnership with the City of Salisbury, the project extended the city’s municipal water approximately six miles to the airport campus.

“It’s important for the airport, not only in terms of day-to-day operations, but in terms of future development,” said Airport Manager Tony Rudy.

In 2019, the county secured more than $4 million in grants and low-interest loans – with the state of Maryland providing $1.5 million in grant funds and $2.8 million in Drinking Water SRF Loan funds – to run municipal water six miles from the WorWic Community College water tower to the airport. And in 2020, construction began in earnest.

In an interview this week, Rudy noted

Acting County Executive John Psota is pictured at last Friday’s water-tapping ceremony to celebrate the completion of the airport’s water main extension project.

Submitted Photo

the completed project addresses water quality issues at the airport.

For years, the facility has had to bring

in bottled water to its businesses and conduct regular testing and water treatment.

“At the most basic level, it brings drink-

able water to the airport and its tenants,” he said. “It gets us off all of these responsibilities and provides an essential need.”

Rudy added that the water main extension project will also support the construction of hangers and buildings needed to grow the airport. Part of that effort, he noted, is the addition of new fire suppression capabilities. During construction, 46 new fire hydrants were installed to serve a total of 21 buildings.

Ultimately, Rudy said the project is expected to provide for current needs and future growth at the airport and its industrial park.

“This gives us a head start if we have large hangers being built in the future,” he said.

While Wicomico County has completed the installation of the water main, the City of Salisbury will be responsible for maintaining and operating the completed water system.

The Salisbury airport water main extension project is funded by the state of Maryland and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, with cooperation from the Maryland Department of the Environment. Grant dollars were fully expended and reimbursed to Wicomico County.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

charity Tourney:

Organizers of the Michael J. Strawley, Sr. Memorial Golf Tournament presented a check for $12,000 to Coastal Hospice for the support of charitable care at the Macky & Pam Stansell House in Ocean Pines. The tournament has donated its proceeds to the organization since 2017, and the $12,000 raised this year contributed to the total amount raised over the years to over $51,000.

The 7th Annual Michael J. Strawley, Sr. Memorial Golf Tournament to benefit Coastal Hospice was held recently at the River Run Golf Club in Berlin.

Originally called the Bearded Clam Open, the tournament began in the early 1980s and was run by the late Michael J. Strawley, Sr., who then owned the Bearded Clam in Ocean City.

In 1995, Bearded Clam employee Tommy Riggins passed away and the tournament was renamed the Tommy Riggins Bearded Clam Memorial Golf Tournament. Upon the passing of Michael J. Strawley, Sr. on Sept. 21, 2016, the tournament was once again renamed in his honor. The tournament committee members are George McKelvie, Rick Cole, Richard Stone, Cindi Strawley, Rick Buccherri and Steve Silverman.

Tammy Patrick and Josh Davis of

Coastal Hospice welcomed the group to the Stansell House recently, reflecting on how the tournament has evolved and the hard work that goes into the big day. George McKelvie remembers thinking, “When I first came in, I was hoping we could do 80 play-

Page 41

ers, well we did 136 or something.”

Richard Stone recounts, “I had one of the player’s wives come up to me during the Clam party and she said, do you think all these people realize how much work goes into this?”

Pictured, front from left, are George

McKelvie; Josh Davis, Coastal Hospice Director of Hospice Inpatient Facilities; and Steve Silverman; and, back, Richard Stone; Rick Buccherri; Tammy Patrick, Coastal Hospice Director of Advancement; and Cindi Strawley.

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Pier 23 To Expand Entertainment

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – A West Ocean City bar will be able to expand its entertainment offerings following approval from officials.

Pier 23, one of the waterfront restaurants located near the commercial harbor, received approval from the Worcester County Board of License Commissioners (BLC) to increase entertainment. Up until now, the facility couldn’t offer music past 7 p.m.

“You’d see sales drop 55% when the band ended,” Taustin Group CEO Cole Taustin said.

When Taustin initially approached the board in 2021 with plans for the Pier 23 shipping container concept, neighbors expressed concern about potential noise.

As a result, Taustin made changes to the structure to mitigate sound and the BLC mandated that live music cut off at 7 p.m.

Following the restaurant’s first summer of operations, Taustin said he’d seen the impact of the live music limitations.

“It’s over and they leave,” he said, referencing to the tendency of diners to leave once the entertainment ended.

As a result, he said he was asking the board to allow him to offer live music until 10 p.m. and to increase the number of pieces from three to five.

He said there hadn’t been any complaints from neighbors during the summer and that the sound mitigating wall at Pier

November 4, 2022

23 did what it was intended to.

“We were able to control sound really well,” he said, adding that staff also used a noise meter to measure sound.

Taustin told the board that the restaurant would be closed from mid-October until the middle of April.

He added that some nearby property owners had written the board to say they did not object to his request.

One neighboring property owner, however, said he was worried that the music from Pier 23 would mix with the music from Sunset Grille and create a cacophony.

Taustin said the volume of Pier 23 bands would be at management’s discretion.

William Esham, chairman of the BLC, stressed that the board would get involved if it became aware of any problems at the restaurant.

“If they become a problem we’d have them down here,” he said.

The board voted 3-0 to allow Pier 23 to host live music until 9:30 p.m. and to have five-piece bands.

Pier 23, located along the West Ocean City Commercial Harbor, is one of the Taustin Group’s newest business ventures.

In 2017, the Taustin Group purchased the former Captain’s Galley property with plans to develop a new restaurant, Mad Fish Bar & Grille. But after a year of operation, the business was forced to close when an electrical fire destroyed most of the building.

November 4, 2022

BERLIN – The following represents a collection of announcements for local residents.

•Brady Esham was one of 720 students from Mercyhurst University in Erie, Pa., named to the Dean’s List for outstanding academic achievement during the 2021-2022 academic year.

Esham is a sophomore majoring in Education at Mercyhurst and a graduate of Stephen Decatur High School. Esham, who is also vice president of the Mercyhurst Chapter of the Council for Exceptional Children, is the child of Melissa Esham and Shawn Esham of Berlin. Esham is also a member of the Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society and is enrolled in the Autism Initiative at Mercyhurst.

•Worcester County Commissioner Joshua Nordstrom recently earned a Master of Science degree in Organizational Leadership from Wilmington University. This is the second such degree attained by Nordstrom following completion of an M.S. in Public Administration in 2020. Nordstrom also holds a B.A. in Political Science from George Washington University.

•Karen Christmas of Berlin has earned an Award of Excellence at Western Governors University College of Business. The award is given to students who perform at a superior level in their coursework.

•Lehigh University welcomed Tj Burke of Selbyville to the Class of 2026 this fall.

•The following Worcester County students completed requirements to

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Announcements graduate with a certificate (CT), associate of applied science (AAS), associate of arts in teaching (AAT), associate of science (AS) or associate of arts (AA) degree from Wor-Wic Community College this past summer.

Berlin: Cole D. Bennett, AAS, Criminal Justice; Tierra N. Bratten, AAS, Criminal Justice; Austin C. Buchiane, AAS, Computer Studies; Amy L. Cannon, CT, Nursing; Gionna Marie De-

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Pasquale, AS, Nursing; Michael Ryan Glick, AS, Nursing; Ramona Gray, AAS, Education; Tashica N. Hilliard, CT, Nursing; Eunice Huesca, AAT, Education; Juliana Jaeger, CT, Nursing; Salina Kc, AAS, Education; Daniel G. King, AA, Business; Christine M. Komlos, AS, Nursing; Renata Lovitt, AS, Nursing; Austin A. Mora, CT, Criminal Justice; and Diana Nelson, AS, Nursing.

Bishopville: Pedro Brown, CT, Crim-

The Dispatch Is On The Web: www.mdcoastdispatch.com

Page 43

inal Justice.

Eden: Victoria A. Shaw, CT, Nursing.

Ocean City: Megan M. Card, AAS, Chemical Dependency Counseling; Benjamin Cropper, CT, Criminal Justice; Jordan A. Ferguson, AA, General Studies; Trista Marie Fink, AA, General Studies; Miranda A. Luby, AS, Nursing; Sonia McFarland, CT, Nursing; David C. Megafu, CT, Criminal Justice; Sean T. Peterson, AA, General Studies; Brenda Bernice Smith, AS, Nursing; and Emily N. Staley, AAT, Education.

Pocomoke City: Tuan Ngoc Doan, AS, STEM; Zoe Elizabeth Nichols, AA, Business; Svetlana Sadakbaeva, AAS, Criminal Justice; and LaShae Q. Wise, AS, Nursing.

Snow Hill: Kiersten Gabrielle Lehmann, AAT, Education; and Delaney Lynne Taylor, AS, Nursing.

Stockton: Kathryn Suzanne Savage, AS, Nursing.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 4, 2022

COMMUNITY News In Photos

The OC Surf Club recently donated $2,000 to the local Rise Up Foundation supporting the youth in our community. Pictured from left to right are OC Surf Club President Tommy Vach, Rise Up Foundation Co-Executive Director Patrick Henry and OC Surf Club Surf Instructor Bill Thomson.

Representatives of the Berlin Chamber of Commerce presented a $1,000 donation to We Heart Berlin last week. The donation came as the result of a friendly competition at Berlin’s Oktoberfest during which three nonprofits competed to see who could sell the most drinks.

Submitted Photos

In October, Ocean City Elks Lodge 2645 hosted a Court of Honor. During the event, Jace Rabon, pictured with his parents, was presented his Eagle Scout merit award by Scoutmaster Clint Bickford. Rabon is a member of Boy Scout Troop 225, which is sponsored by the lodge.

Officers from the Wicomico County Department of Corrections who graduated in the 115th entrance-level class of the Eastern Shore Criminal Justice Academy operated by Wor-Wic Community College in Salisbury are shown in the front row, from left, Geremiah Ballard, Tyrel Douglas and Van Taylor Jr. In the back row, from left, are Kevin Trader Jr. and La’Neisha Willis.

On behalf of the Maryland General Assembly, Sen. Mary Beth Carozza presented Worcester County GOLD with a proclamation recognizing the nonprofit’s 25 years of service. Carozza, right, is pictured presenting the proclamation to Shannon Wright, Worcester GOLD’s board president, during the nonprofit’s anniversary gala.

Worcester County Superintendent of Schools Louis Taylor was the guest speaker at a recent meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City. Taylor, right, is pictured with Bob Wolfing, the club’s president.

… Resort Officials, Ad Firm Reveal New Slogan, Logo

November 4, 2022

FROM PAGE 26 larger rebranding effort.

“Everybody in this room is affected by sports,” he said. “There are so many kids in Pocomoke, in Snow Hill, even in Ocean City, that need help. This is a game-changer. This can change the game for Ocean City for years to come.”

For their part, the BVK advertising team has been working for months in Ocean City, determining the town’s best attributes for attracting visitors while working with local residents and business owners to determine the best strategy for the rebranding efforts, according to BVK’s Matt Stiker.

“We’re incredibly psyched to be in Ocean City,” he said. “This seems like a momentous day for us, and for Ocean City. We’re steeped in the tourism industry, and we understand the visitors’ mindset.”

Stiker briefly outlined the new marketing strategy, which will go beyond the traditional television, radio and print mediums and branch out more into social media and other innovative ways to reach potential visitors.

“Where are we going to put these messages?” he said. “We’re moving Ocean City’s advertising into the future.

People really want to engage in the brand. We’re going to focus on zip codes and where the people who spend are coming from.”

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BVK’s Stephanie Barkow said the firm is cognizant of the rich traditions that have brought visitors back year after year for generations, but also explored what sets Ocean City apart from other destinations.

“We worked hard to leverage the town’s historic assets and its core values,” she said. “The values are who we are. We wanted people to connect with that emotion. That was the goal. We met with 30 stakeholders to help us understand what makes Ocean City special.”

Barkow said the BVK campaign embraces Ocean City’s time-honored traditions and its greatest assets while encouraging visitors to enjoy the carefree lifestyle while they are here.

“We want to make sure we stand out and be fresh,” she said. “We want to position Ocean City so it’s relevant with where society is going. Ocean City has a rich tradition, but it’s also evolving for the future. It has deep roots in hospitality and that puts people at ease. It allows people to get in the mood and relax.”

Barkow said the message in the rebranding campaign will be clear.

“The message here is carefree,” she said. “It’s like a weight being lifted when you get here. It doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s also the core values we all want in our lives.”

BVK’s Kevin Kriehn agreed the rebranding effort for Ocean City embrac-

es the town’s greatest assets. He said the somewhat simplistic new logo is an example of that.

“What you have here in Ocean City is truly one of a kind,” he said. “There are three basic things the people, the place and the perception. We’ve all had those ‘aha’ moments in our lives. For us, it was landing on this logo mark.

We know this is the right fit for Ocean City’s brand. It speaks to the carefree spirit symbolic of this entire community. How great is it to be the place than inspires everyone to live the

Page 45

carefree life? This brand has that potential.”

In closing, Perlozzo said the combined efforts of his team and the BVK team resulted in a new campaign and rebranding effort that will truly separate Ocean City from its competitors in the region and beyond.

“Where this campaign is going is fun, carefree and a little bit of swagger,” he said. “That’s what we’re really all about here. It’s all about smiling and it’s about the people. It’s about the smiles that we make.”

Page 46

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 4, 2022

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

tured in this space. The Inlet parking lot, pictured last weekend, is serving as a staging area for the old and new wood used for the Boardwalk reconstruction project. To purchase any of Parypa’s photos, click over to www.chrisparypa.com.

November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 70

HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 21 to April 19): You that you don't unwittingly reveal workmight feel compelled to get involved on related information to the wrong person. the "right side" of a seemingly unfair It's best to say nothing until you get offifight, but appearances can be decep- cial clearance to open up. tive. Get the facts before going forth SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): With things settling down at work or at into the fray.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): Bul- home, you can now take on a new challying others into agreeing with your po- lenge without fear of distraction. Be sition could cause resentment. Instead, open to helpful suggestions from colpersuade them to join you by making leagues. your case on a logical point-by-point SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): Your creativity can help resolve an basis.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Re- emotional situation that might othersist pushing for a workplace decision wise get out of hand. Continue to be you might feel is long overdue. Your your usual caring and sensitive self. impatience could backfire. Meanwhile, CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): focus on that still-unsettled personal You could impress a lot of influential people with the way you untangle a situation.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): few knotty problems. Meanwhile, a colYour aspects favor doing something league is set to share some welcome different. You might decide to redeco- news. rate your home, take a trip somewhere AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): you've never been, or even change Aspects favor recharging your social life and meeting new people. It's also a your hairstyle.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): You good time to renew friendships that might want to take a break from your might be stagnating due to neglect on busy schedule to restore your energy both sides. levels. Use this less-hectic time to also PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): reassess your plans and make needed Congratulations. Your talent for working changes. out a highly technical problem earns VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): you well-deserved praise. The weekWhat you like to think of as determina- end could bring news about a friend or tion might be seen by others as noth- relative.

BORN THIS WEEK: Your sense of ing more than stubbornness. Try to be more flexible if you hope to get things justice makes you a strong advocate for resolved. the rights of people and animals alike.

2022 King Features Synd., Inc. LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct.ANSWERS 22): Watch ON PAGE© 46

Page 47

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 48

vanishing

November 4, 2022

OCEAN CITY

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

WITH BUNK MANN

My wife’s passion for Halloween

Fun golf tournament fundraisers Off-season restaurant specials

Berlin homeowners’ Halloween creativity Rooting for the Phillies

Biking a freshly paved road Strangers who wave hello

Giggles with my son after school

Fried chicken every now and again

Eight blocks of Boardwalk from North Division to 1st streets were rebuilt in concrete and widened by 10 feet between January and April in 1955.

The Mayor and Council had decided to replace the wood with concrete due to maintenance costs. The George Bert Cropper Company did the work for $43,819 and used some of the timber salvaged to widen the northern end of the Boardwalk.

The lower end of the Boardwalk would remain concrete until it was replaced with wood during the late-1990s.

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November 4, 2022

Page 49

The Dispatch Classifieds $15/Week for Minimum of Five Lines • $2 Thereafter Per Line Display Classified Ads: $20/Week Per Column Inch (Contract Discounts Available) Deadline for Insertions, Cancellations & Payment is 3pm Tuesday Pre-Payment is Required. We Accept Visa & MasterCard

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

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– KITCHEN : Cooks, Kitchen Help, Food Runners wanted. Flexible schedule, clean kitchen, new equipment.Weekly pay checks.

Friendly work environment.

American Legion Post #166.

Contact Sam Wiley 443-235-0876 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

So many dark puddles Splashing from here to there Wet from head to toe!

PRAY FOR UKRAINE

CARPENTERS & CARPENTERS HELPERS Must have:

Tools, Transportation, Driver’s License Exp. Required!

PATTERSON & SONS BUILDERS

Call 410-641-9530

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

Worcester County Health Department ACCOUNTANT II- Full Time, State Benefits. This position assists and supports the Accountant Supervisor with the day-to-day operations of the Worcester County Health Department. This requires an advanced level of examining, analyzing and interpreting accounting systems, records and reports by applying generally accepted accounting principles in order to maintain health department accounting systems and prepare financial reports/statements. This also includes the preparation and management of budgets, management of the agency’s corporate purchasing card program and management of inventory.

Background check required.

APPLY ONLINE at www.jobapscloud.com/md

by November 9, 2022.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or disability. Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request by calling 410-632-1100 ext. 1221.

Now Hiring For: EXPEDITORS FOOD RUNNERS

Call Matt at 302-593-4141 or email thesterlingtavern@gmail.com

OPERATIONS MANAGER Bay Forest Community, a fast growing Homeowners Association, in Ocean View Delaware, is looking for a full time Operations Manager who must demonstrate proficiency in some or all of the following areas: grounds management, facilities management, and community operations. Operations Manager must exhibit good interpersonal skills, have good written and oral communication skills, basic computer knowledge, and ability to perform small repairs and maintenance.

If you are a team player, looking for a challenging yet rewarding position, please send resume to

Stefanie .Minemier@casinc.biz Salary dependant on experience.

Currently Hiring Manpower For:

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

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

Or Contact Our Office at 410-352-9800

AUTOMOTIVE PARTS SALES ASSOCIATES Busy Auto & Marine parts store with locations in Ocean Pines, Clarksville and Long Neck, is now hiring for Full and Part Time Sales Persons.

Experience a plus but will train the right person.

CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY ASSIGNMENT COMMISSIONER Full-Time Position Monday – Friday; 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Starting Salary Range: $42,661 to $47,091 annually (Starting salary may be higher depending on experience) Application Closing Date: Open Until Filled Join the talented, collegial Assignment and Jury Team of the Circuit Court. The position is responsible for calendar assignment and coordination of civil matters and is also involved in criminal case assignment and jury management. Strong organizational, communication, technical and interpersonal skills are required.

Apply through the Worcester County Human Resources Department: https://worcesterhr.co.worcester.md.us/

Great Pay & Benefits !!

Call Joel 302-344-9769

CUSTODIAL STAFF

AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIANS

We are currently looking for Part Time custodial employees.

Hours are 3:30pm-6:30pm. Monday through Friday.

Busy Tire & Service Centers with locations in the Rehoboth, Bethany and Ocean City areas, is now hiring for experienced

Apply to Linda Watson at lwatson@worcesterprep.org or mail application to Linda Watson 508 S Main St Berlin, MD 21811.

Apply Online at delawarestatejobs.com For additional information, please contact the Marina office at 302.227.3071 AA/EOE

RENTALS WINTER RENTAL: 3BR/2BA. 117th St. $1350 per mo. + Utlil.’s (no pets,no smoking) Call 410202-2632.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

WINTER WEEKLY RENTALS Utilities Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com 410-289-8581

ROOMMATE ROOM(S) FOR RENT: Seeking Roommate(s). YR or Seasonal. Indoor Hot Tub. Non smoking, pets welcome. Single Family Home, 94th St. area. Rent negotiable.

Call/text for more info. 410-7265200.(Job inhibits phone calls, text if can’t reach by calls).

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Check Here First!

COMMERCIAL

Technicians Must be dependable.

LOOKING EVERWHERE? CHECK HERE FIRST!

Excellent Pay & Benefits !!

The Dispatch Classified Pages Can Point You in the Right Direction!

Call Matt 302-344-9846

INDIAN RIVER MARINA IS NOW HIRING! •NIGHTWATCH

WEST O.C. OFFICE/RETAIL SPACES AVAILABLE: 2 Office/Retail Spaces for Lease.

Plenty of Parking. 443-497-4200.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Office Space for Rent

Berlin (2nd floor) Available 11/1 Approx 650 sq. ft. $600 mo. + util's Please call/text 443-513-0392 or email ereid57@hotmail.com

FOR SALE READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS? DINING ROOM SET FOR SALE!

Beautiful solid wood dining set.

Table seats 8-10 with two leaves. Lighted China Cabinet with glass shelving. (Chairs not incl’d.)

Selling because moved & too big for dining area. 500.

Must see! $575.

Berlin. 443-880-8885

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 4, 2022

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

The deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon.

For more information call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966.

Third Insertion RAYMOND D. COATES JR, ESQ COATES,COATES, & COATES, P.A. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19419 To all persons interested in the estate of SUSAN M PIZZA Estate No. 19419 Notice is given that THOMAS F PIZZA whose address is 4042 EAST AZALEA DRIVE GILBERT, AZ 85298 was on OCTOBER 18, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of SUSAN M PIZZA, who died on SEPTEMBER 24, 2022 without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 18TH day of 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 creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication OCTOBER 21, 2022 THOMAS F. PIZZA

Personal Representatives True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 10-21, 10-28, 11-04

Third Insertion NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19359 To all persons interested in the estate of MAGDALENE MAVRAKIS AKA: MAGDALENE DAWN MAVRAKIS, Estate No. 19359 Notice is given that DONNA SHRADER, 9235 WHALEYVILLE ROAD, WHALEYVILLE, MD 21872 snd THOMAS NICHOLAS MAVRAKIS, 9235 WHALEYVILLE ROAD, WHALEYVILLE, MD 21872 were on OCTOBER 11, 2022 appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of MAGDALENE MAVRAKIS, who died on JULY 12, 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 11TH 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 creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim

forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication OCTOBER 21, 2022 DONNA SHRADER THOMAS NICHOLAS MAVRAKIS Personal Representatives True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 10-21, 10-28, 11-04

Second Insertion B. RANDALL COATES ESQ 204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 19420 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the CLERK OF CIRCUIT court of VIRGINIA BEACH, VA appointed CAROL ANN HAYNES SLOSS, whose address is 5005 FINN ROAD, VIRGINIA BEACH, VA 23455, as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of JEAN BUNTING HAYNES, who died on DECEMBER 02, 2004 domiciled in VIRGINIA, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is B. RANDALL COATES, whose address is 204 W GREEN STREET, SNOW HILL, MD 21863. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER COUNTY. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication OCTOBER 28, 2022 CAROL ANN HAYNES SLOSS Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 10-28, 11-04, 11-11

by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication OCTOBER 28, 2022 JOY BARKER Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 10-28, 11-04, 11-11

Second Insertion

First Insertion

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE: 19421

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

To all persons interested in the estate of ROY MITCHELL BARKER, JR. Estate No. 19421. Notice is given that: JOY BARKER, whose address is 12942 HARBOR ROAD, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on OCTOBER 19, 2022, appointed personal representative of the estate of ROY MITCHELL BARKER, JR., who died on SEPTEMBER 18, 2022 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 19th 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 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

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19432 To all persons interested in the estate of FRED F. TIMBOL Estate No. 19432 Notice is given that: STEVEN D. TIMBOL whose address is 3762 PRAIRE RIDGE COURT SIMI VALLEY, CA 93063 was on October 27, 2022 appointed personal representative of the estate of FRED F. TIMBOL who died on October 16, 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 27th 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 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 04, 2022 STEVEN D. TIMBOL 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 11-04, 11-11, 11-18

First Insertion B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19430 To all persons interested in the estate of MARGARET ANN TAYLOR, Estate No. 19430 Notice is given that: WENDY TAYLOR LINTON whose address is 18409 HART DRIVE, PARKSLEY, VA 23421, was on October 26, 2022, appointed personal representative of the estate of MARGARET ANN TAYLOR, who died on April 11, 2022 without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 26th day of APRIL, 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

November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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

The deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon.

For more information call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966. 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 04, 2022 WENDY TAYLOR LINTON 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 11-04, 11-11, 11-18

First Insertion

lished 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 04, 2022 REBECCA C. SHOCKLEY 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 11-04, 11-11, 11-18

First Insertion

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19410

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19416

To all persons interested in the estate of MARY TWILLEY CONNER, Estate No. 19410 Notice is given that: REBECCA C. SHOCKLEY whose address is 1143 KESTEREL WAY, SALISBURY, MD 21804 was on October 25, 2022, appointed personal representative of the estate of MARY TWILLEY CONNER, who died on September 27, 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 25th 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 creditor a copy of this pub-

To all persons interested in the estate of DON MICHAEL WIMBROUGH, SR, Estate No. 19416. Notice is given that: MEGAN KOERNER, whose address is 302 TIDEWATER DRIVE, HAVRE DE GRACE, MD 21078 was on October 17, 2022, appointed personal representative of the small estate of DON MICHAEL WIMBROUGH, SR, who died on October 05, 2022, without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(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 04, 2022 MEGAN KOERNER Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 1x 11-04,

First Insertion B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET P O BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 16060 To all persons interested in the estate of JEFF MARTIN CHANDLER, Estate No. 16060. Notice is given that CAROLANN CHANDLER, whose address is 2404 LILAC LANE, POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851, was on NOVEMBER 01, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JEFF MARTIN CHANDLER, who died on

DECEMBER 14, 2014, 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 withhe Register of Wills on or before the 1st 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 writ-

ten 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 04, 2022 CAROLANN CHANDLER 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 11-04, 11-11, 11-18

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 4, 2022

Truck-Or-Treat: The Town of Berlin’s utilities department hosted a Truck-or-Treat event last Saturday at Stephen Decatur Park, featuring equipment from the

electric, water resources, public works and police departments. The Berlin Fire Company was on hand. The event was a spinoff for the Halloween weekend after the planned Touch-a-Truck event was canceled due to inclement weather.

Photos by Charlene Sharpe

November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Every Monday: TOPS Meeting 5-6:30 p.m. Atlantic General Hospital, Berlin. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a support group promoting weight loss and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Call Rose 443-880-8444.

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

Every Tuesday: TOPS Meeting Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle.

Meetings are held at the Worcester County Berlin Health Department at 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin from 3:30-4:30 p.m. every Tuesday. 410-2894725.

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

Every Wednesday: Bingo Elks Lodge 2645, corner of Sinepuxent Avenue and 138th Street in Ocean City. Has bingo all year. Doors open 4:30 p.m. with first game sharply at 6:30 p.m.

Kitchen open for light fare. 410-2502645.

Every Thursday: Beach Singles Join the club, 55 plus, at Harpoon Hanna’s in Fenwick Island, 4-6 p.m. 302436-9577 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. 4: Berlin Glow Walk This year’s Fall Just Walk event will begin in Stephen Decatur Park and follow a 4.5-mile route around and through downtown Berlin. Participants are asked to bring and wear glow-in-the-dark items to light up the night in a walk around the community. Limited supplies will also be available at registration. Pre-registration is available at justwalkworcester.org.

Day-of registration starts at 5 p.m. in Stephen Decatur Park, 130 Tripoli Street,

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Things To Do and the walk starts at 5:30 p.m. Strollers and friendly, leashed dogs are welcome.

All participants will receive a free raffle entry for a Berlin Basket.

Nov. 5: Holiday Craft Fair The Pine’eer Craft Club of Ocean Pines will host the 11th annual event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Ocean Pines Community Center. The event is free and open to the public. Local artisans, crafters and many Craft club members will display and sell their hand-crafted items. The fair is a juried event, meaning organizers will limit the number of similar products.

Nov. 5: Christmas Bazaar The Community Church at Ocean Pines will hold its annual Christmas Bazaar from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Family Life Center of the church at 11227 Racetrack Road. The bazaar will feature Christmas decorations and trees, linens and things, new and gently used clothing, gifts and potpourri, children’s books and toys, and a bake sale. Proceeds from the event will support the Shepherd’s Nook outreach ministry.

Nov. 5: AYCE Fried Chicken Buffet Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church will hold from 11 a.m. until sold out.

Adults, $15; children, $7.50; children under 6, free. 443-614-9898.

Nov. 6: Church Homecoming Powellville United Methodist Church will celebrate its 193rd anniversary at 2 p.m. at 35606 Mount Hermon Road, Powellville. The homecoming message will be shared by Rev. Paul Sherwood and special music will be provided by Heaven 4 Shore. A fellowship meal will be enjoyed after the worship service.

Nov. 9: AARP Meeting Ocean City AARP Chapter 1917 will meet at 10 a.m. in the Ocean City Senior Center located on 41st Street. Please arrive early at 9:30 for a social half-hour and refreshments. Guest speaker will be from the Sierra Club. New members are welcome. Call Bob McCluskey at 410-250-0980 with questions.

Nov. 11: Crab Cake Dinner Stevenson United Methodist Church will hold its monthly crab cake dinner from 4-6 p.m. Carryout but dine in option available. Cost is $14 for one crab cake sandwich with sides; $24 for two crab cake sandwiches and sides; and $10 for just a crab cake sandwich. Bake sale table also a must.

Nov. 11: Free Shots For Vets TidalHealth will offer free flu shots and free COVID-19 boosters to all veterans and their spouses from 9-11 a.m. at the American Legion Wicomico Post 64, 1109 American Legion Road, Salisbury.

The same vaccinations will be available from noon to 2 p.m. at the American Legion Nanticoke Post 6 in Seaford, Del.

Nov. 12: Shopper’s Fair The Willards Ladies Auxiliary will hold from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Willards Fire Hall. Vendors will be on hand. Breakfast and lunch items will be available for sale and also baked goods. 757-408-3170.

Nov. 12: Drive-Thru Lunch Powellville Volunteer Fire Department’s Ladies Auxiliary will hold a drive-thru lunch from 10 a.m. until sold. Lunch options include oyster fritter sandwich, $12; chicken salad sandwich, $5; pint of Maryland crab soup, $7; pint of chili, $6; and peas and dumplings, $6.

Nov. 12: 5K Run/Walk Storm Warriors 5K Run/Walk will take place on the Ocean City Boardwalk and will consist of an out-and-back course, perfect for the speediest of runners, or those who just want a casual walk.

Awards will be presented. Proceeds benefit the Ocean Cty Lifesaving Station Museum.

Nov. 12: Christmas Bazaar Atlantic United Methodist Church’s 44th annual event will be held from 10 a.m.2 p.m. at the church on 4th Street. Event proceeds support local missions. There will be a silent auction, bakery delights, gifts, Christmas items, vintage and new jewelry and carry out lunch. Event hosted by the Martha Circle.

Nov. 12: Christmas Concert The Magi Fund will hold an all-new holiday concert, “The Wonder of Christmas,” for one performance only at 3 p.m. in the 2,000-seat Emmanuel Church Auditorium on Beaglin Park Drive in Salisbury. It will feature the renowned National Christian Choir and the Salisbury Children’s Choir. Tickets are $15 in advance. If any remain on the day of the concert, they will be $20 at the door. Visit www.magifund.com.

Nov. 12: 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.

Nov. 13: Annual Fall Dinner The Worcester County Historical Society is planning its annual fall dinner at 1 p.m. at the Atlantic Hotel in Berlin. This year’s speaker will be Gordon E. Katz, an award winning author, who will speak on The Henry Hotel. The menu will include a choice of grilled chicken caesar salad, shrimp salad or a crab cake with the trimmings on each order. The crab cake will be an additional $5. Lemon Lust will be included as the dessert.

Tickets are $40 (or $45 for the crab cake) per person and can be purchased by sending a check to Judi Menavich, 9 Drawbridge Road, Berlin, Md. 21811.

The deadline for reservations to the din-

November 4, 2022

ner, which is open to the public, is Monday, Nov. 7. Please indicate your dinner choice.

Nov. 16: Breast Cancer Support Group From 1-2 p.m. at the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center. For survivors and current patients battling breast cancer.

Call Women Supporting Women at 410548-7880 for more information.

Nov. 16: Town Meeting Worcester County Commissioner Chip Bertino will host a town meeting at 6 p.m. at the Ocean Pines library. Bertino will give an update on what is going on around the county and will lead a panel discussion on the newly formed Police Accountability Board with Worcester County Sheriff Matthew Crisafulli, Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser and Worcester County Attorney Roscoe Leslie.

Nov. 17: Shopping Trip The Ocean City 50+ Senior Center plans a trip to the Rehoboth Outlets followed by lunch at Fin's Ale House. 410-2890824.

Nov. 17-Dec. 31: Winterfest of Lights The 2022 Winterfest of Lights will be an expanded 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. 19-20: Christmas Carnival Trimper Rides at the Inlet will hold from noon-5 p.m. with festive foods, artisan gifts, indoor rides for $2, free petting zoo, ice skating, pony rides and raffles.

Fundraiser for OCDC.

Nov. 24: Thanksgiving Dinner The 43rd Annual Free Thanksgiving Dinner will again be held at the Ocean City Baptist Church from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Anyone who is looking for a good home cooked meal this Thanksgiving Day is invited to dinner.

Come and receive a great meal at no cost. The men and women of the church and community will be preparing and serving the dinner. Please call Ocean City Baptist Church to inform organizers of plans or sign-up online at OCBaptist.com. Dinner will also be taken to shut-ins if address can be provided.

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 themed 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.

1st Pumpkin Putt Benefits JAES

November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

A festive team is pictured in last week’s charity golf event.

Submitted Photo

The event included a costume contest, awards for best and scariest scores, raffle prizes and a hole-in-one competition. An awards banquet followed the event at BLU Crabhouse & Raw Bar. JA Pumpkin Putt attracted over 100 mini-golfers, including local business owners, community leaders, students and families.

The event was sponsored by CMG Home Loans, Eastern Title & Settlement, X Squad Dancers, True North Group of Keller Williams Realty, Community Title Network, The Giardina Family, Eastern Shore Distributing, Wildflower Estate Venue, Duffie Boatworks and The Dough Roller.

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OCEAN CITY – Junior Achievement of the Eastern Shore (JAES) raised just over $7,500 at its inaugural Pumpkin Putt event on Oct. 27 at Embers Island Miniature Golf in Ocean City.

The funds will go toward ensuring students in Worcester County continue to receive JA programs.

“The first-annual JA Pumpkin Putt was a huge success for JA, not only in its execution and turnout, but in the significant funds it raised which will directly benefit the education of financial literacy and entrepreneurship to the students of Worcester County," said Hank Fisher, JA chair for Worcester County.

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Fisher’s Popcorn 146th St. O.C. MD

Page 56

Charges After Serious Hotel Assault

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

TRUSTS

November 4, 2022

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

Trust Planning To: • Protect Assets • Protect Children • Protect Privacy • Simplify, and 9748 Stephen Decatur Hwy. #112 Ocean City, MD 21842 www.batielaw.com

443-856-4676 Monday-Friday

• Avoid Probate

Call us for a free 30 minute phone consultation.

OCEAN CITY – A Davidsonville, Md., man was arrested on multiple charges after strangling his girlfriend and trying to flee the scene.

Around 9:55 p.m. last Saturday, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers responded to a downtown hotel for a reported domestic assault. Upon arrival, the officer located a female victim sitting on a bench outside the hotel. According to police reports, the victim was bleeding from her nose and had a swollen upper lip. All of her clothing was covered in blood, and she was fighting back tears while grimacing in pain, according to police reports. The victim told police she believed her shoulder was dislocated.

When asked who had caused her injuries, the victim told police it was her boyfriend, whom she identified only as Benjamin and did not provide a last name. The suspect was later identified as Benjamin Bray, 38, of Davidsonville, Md. The victim reportedly told officers she had been with Bray at a Boardwalk bar and Bray left with her purse and wallet, according to police reports.

The victim reportedly told police she had not seen Bray for about an hour and became upset because he had her belongings, and she couldn’t pay her bar tab. When the couple reconvened at their hotel room, the victim told police she was upset because he had left her at the bar and began cussing out Bray and packing her belongings to leave, according to police reports.

The victim reportedly told police Bray became angry and began abusing her, first fish-hooking her cheek and then pinning her to the bed and strangling her.

When asked if she feared for her life, the victim told police she did.

When asked how long Bray had allegedly strangled her, the victim told police she was not certain, but she nearly blacked out. According to police reports, the victim had multiple abrasions on her throat, corroborating

her story. The victim told officers Bray had punched her multiple times prior to strangling her and that she believed she dislocated her shoulder while attempting to get away from him.

The victim gave officers consent to search the hotel room and the officers observed extensive blood spattering on the walls, floor, sheets, pillows and couch. According to police reports, it was clear the victim had been assaulted in various areas of the hotel room.

A short time later, Ocean City Communications advised Maryland State Police troopers had conducted a traffic stop for speeding on the Route 50 bridge and the driver matched the description of the suspect wanted in connection with the assault in the downtown Ocean City hotel room. The trooper had observed Bray run through a red traffic signal and reach speeds of over 60 mph in the 35-mph zone on the bridge.

The OCPD officer responded and placed Bray under arrest. During a search of Bray’s wallet, the officer located two labeled suboxone strips, a scheduled controlled dangerous substance. Bray was not able to provide proof he had a prescription for the suboxone. Bray’s truck was impounded and during an inventory of its contents, officers located a fixedblade knife in the pocket of a shirt on the front seat, according to police reports.

A background check revealed Bray had been arrested roughly 14 times prior to last Saturday’s incident. He was previously sentenced to eight years for distributing heroin, oxycodone and possession of a pipe bomb. He also had a conviction in Anne Arundel County for second-degree assault for which he served 136 days.

For the Ocean City incident last Saturday, Bray was charged with firstand second-degree assault, possession of suboxone and possession of a dangerous weapon. Because of his criminal past and for the safety of the victim, he was ordered to be held without bond.

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BOATER’S PARADISE 401 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, MD Sat 11a-3p 3 Bed / 2 Bath $599,000 David Miller Shore 4U Real Estate 410-713-1730/443-497-3001

November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 4, 2022

Best Beats On The Beach Who’s Where When buxy’s salty dog 410-289-0973 28th st. & Coastal hwy.

Saturday, Nov. 5: TBA Coins Pub 410-289-3100 28th st. Plaza on Coastal hwy.

Saturday, Nov. 5: Lennon LaRicci & The Leftovers

dj robCee Fager’s island: Friday, nov. 4

beats by wax Pickles Pub: tuesdays & thursdays

Cork bar Saturday, Nov. 5: Going Coastal

CrabCake FaCtory bayside 302-988-5000 37314 lighthouse rd., rte. 54 selbyville, de Friday, Nov. 4: Carley Twigg Wednesday, Nov. 9: Brian Bishop Crawl street tavern 443-373-2756 wicomico st., downtown o.C. Friday, Nov. 4: Lennon LaRicci & The Leftovers Saturday, Nov. 5: DJ Willdabeast

Fager’s island 410-524-5500 60th st. in the bay Friday, Nov. 4: DJ Greg, DJ RobCee, Saturday, Nov. 5: DJ Groove, Sweet Leda, Twisted Flags

greene turtle west 410-213-1500 rt. 611, west o.C. Friday, Nov. 4: TBA harborside 410-213-1846 south harbor rd., west o.C. Fridays: DJ Billy T

dj groove Fager’s island: saturday, nov. 5

beats by deogee Pickles Pub: Fridays, sundays, & wednesdays

dj billy t harborside: thursdays & Fridays,

dj tuFF seacrets: Friday, nov. 4

Carley twigg Crabcake Factory bayside: Friday, nov. 4

brian bishoP Crabcake Factory bayside: wednesday, nov. 9

November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 59

Who’s Where When Saturday, Nov. 5: The Dunehounds, DJ Jeremy Sunday, Nov. 6: Opposite Directions Thursdays: DJ Billy T TWISTED FLAGS Fager’s Island: Saturday, Nov. 5

LENNON LARICCI & THE LEFTOVERS Crawl St. Tavern: Friday, Nov. 4 Coin’s Pub: Saturday, Nov. 5

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Harborside: Sunday, Nov. 6 Seacrets: Thursday, Nov. 10

THE DUNEHOUNDS Harborside: Saturday, Nov. 5 • 1 p.m.

Pickles Pub: Saturday, Nov. 5 • 9 p.m.

SWEET LEDA Fager’s Island: Saturday, Nov. 5

LATE LAST NIGHT Seacrets: Friday, Nov. 4

GOING COASTAL Cork Bar: Saturday, Nov. 5

GYPSY WISDOM Seacrets: Saturday, Nov. 5

OC EATERIES 443-252-3700 12849 Ocean Gateway, Rte. 50, West OC Friday, Nov. 4: Karaoke w/Kennedy Wednesdays: Trivia w/ Kennedy PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Fridays: Beats By Deogee Saturday, Nov. 5: 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. 4: DJ Tuff, The Wayouts Duo, Late Last Night Saturday, Nov. 5: DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz, John McNutt Band, Gypsy Wisdom Thursday, Nov. 10: DJ Connair, Opposite Directions

Page 60

Decatur Falls To Bennett In State Playoffs

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

SPORTS

Worcester Prep Doles Out Fall Sports Awards

November 4, 2022

In The News

Decatur’s Dane Olsen centers the ball during last Friday’s win over Chesapeake in the opening round of the state playoffs. The Seahawks fell to Bennett in the second round on Tuesday.

Photo by Nick Denny

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

Worcester Prep’s Upper School boys fall sports awards recipients, starting in the front row from the left, are Luke Loeser, Jason Todorov, Dylan Simons, Mike DePalma, Briar Parsons and Aleksey Klimins. In the back row from the left are Travis Netting, Ryan Mann, Austin Gentry, Dylan McGovern, Jack Gardner, Harrison Humes, Will Wells, Carson Raynes and Owen West.

Submitted Photo

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Worcester Prep last week doled out its awards for its fall sports teams in a special ceremony.

For the boys’ varsity soccer team, the MVP award went to Dylan McGovern, while the Coach’s Award went to Austin Gentry. Ryan Mann was named most improved, and Jack Gardner was named most outstanding teammate.

On the girls’ varsity soccer team, Claire Windrow was named MVP, while the Coach’s Award went to Annie Carter. Summer Vent was named most improved, while the most outstanding teammate award went to Ava Wilsey.

Mike DePalma was named MVP of the varsity golf team, while the Coach’s Award went to Vanesska Hall. Aleksey

Klimins was named most improved, while the most outstanding teammate award went to Harrison Humes.

Natasha Richter was named MVP for the varsity volleyball team, while the Coach’s Award went to Sara Freih. Natalie Chadwell was named most improved, while the most outstanding teammate award went to Haris Gjikuria.

On the boys’ varsity cross-country team, Jason Todorov was named MVP and Travis Netting earned the Coach’s Award. Luke Loeser was named most improved, while Dylan Simons was named most outstanding teammate.

For the girls’ cross-country team, Caitlyn Hoen was named MVP, while Sydney Tingle earned the Coach’s Award.

Most improved honors went to Ayla Yonker, while Catherine Cullen was named most outstanding teammate.

BERLIN – An amazing run for Stephen Decatur’s boys’ varsity soccer team ended this week with a 3-1 loss to Bayside South rival Bennett in the state regional championship.

The Seahawks went 7-1 in the regu-

lar season and captured its first Bayside Conference championship in 11 years.

Decatur earned the top seed in its section in the state 3A tournament and edged Chesapeake, 2-1, in the opening round last Friday. That win set up a rematch with old rival Bennett at home on Tuesday, but the Seahawks fell to the Clippers, 3-1, in the region championship.

Decatur Girls Bow Out Of State Tourney

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s girls’ varsity soccer team bowed out of the state 3A playoffs last week with a 62 loss to Chesapeake in the opening round.

The Seahawks had an impressive regular season, going 10-2. Decatur’s only regular season losses came at the

hands of Bennett, first on Sep. 14 and then on Oct. 12. Decatur earned the fourth seed in their section of the state 3A regional bracket and a playoff opener at home against fifth-seeded Chesapeake of Anne Arundel County at home last Wednesday.

The Seahawks fell behind early and lost to the Cougars, 6-2. The loss did little to tarnish what was otherwise a remarkable season for the Seahawks.

Seahawks Rout Eagles, Advance To States

BY SHAWN J. SOPER MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s varsity football team closed out its regular season last weekend with a 49-6 rout of county rival Snow Hill on Senior Night.

The Seahawks dismantled Snow Hill largely on the ground. Brycen Coleman did complete four passes on four attempts for 25 yards and a touchdown, but it was Caden Shockley who led Decatur on the ground.

Shockley had 11 carries for 183 yards and three rushing touchdowns.

Coleman and Gavin Solito also had rushing touchdowns. Jamien Purnell had three catches for 15 yards and a touchdown. With the win, the Seahawks improved to 7-2 overall on the season. Decatur is the threeseed on its side of the state Class 2A bracket and will face sixth-seeded C. Milton Wright at home on Friday. If Decatur advances, the Seahawks will face the winner of the first-round game between Easton and North Caroline, both of whom they have beaten this season. Lurking on the other side of the bracket is top-seeded Kent Island.

Tough Guy Of The Week: This week’s Hammond Family “Tough

Guy of the Week” award was shared by Luke Mergott and A’zavion Manuel, who combined for 13 tackles for a loss and three sacks last week. Pictured above, from left, are Bobby Hammond, Mergott, Manuel, and Coach Jake Coleman.

Submitted Photo

… Group Requests Bike, Walking Path For Route 90

November 4, 2022

FROM PAGE 6 had the fewest miles of separated road trail of any county on the Eastern Shore. She also pointed to MDOT SHA design guidelines, which she said require newly constructed or reconstructed to bridge to accommodate bike and pedestrian access where appropriate and financially feasible to do so.

“Not only is it a good idea, but it’s law,” she said.

Stevens pointed out that all preliminary concepts for the Route 90 improvement project show an option for a separated bike and pedestrian path, but only on the portion of Route 90 that spans from Route 589 to the first bridge. She encouraged attendees this week to reach out to project engineers and local elected officials to advocate for bike and pedestrian accommodations along the entire corridor.

“The key is we don’t have to figure out how to do it,” she said. “We just have to convince the MDOT engineers to do it.”

Stevens also highlighted the need for trail improvements in and around Ocean Pines and a pathway that would connect the community to the Route 90 trail, which runs parallel to Route 90.

“You have to get to the bridge from someplace,” she said. “So we have to have trails that lead from our community at the North Gate and South Gate to the bridge access.”

During public comments, Del. Wayne Hartman said he supported the concept, as it would benefit those who live and work in the area.

“It’s going to be a very effective, economical way for people to commute from Ocean Pines and other places to Ocean City to work,” he added. “So I really think this would benefit everyone.”

Ocean Pines resident Josette Wheatley, a former member of the Ocean Pines Association (OPA) Board of Directors, agreed.

“As part of the association, I really feel this is an important way of bringing both communities together …,” she said. “It’s a win-win for all.”

Wheatley questioned, however, if the association had shared its input with MDOT SHA. “As of today, I understand OPA has not given any feedback,” she said.

Stevens noted that the Ocean Pines Recreation & Parks Committee and the Ocean Pines Strategic Planning Committee had requested the association provide its input, but that it had not been done.

“I have not heard of any associationlevel communication on this project,” she replied.

OPA Director Steve Jacobs encouraged attendees to email their board members and present the issue at monthly board meetings.

“In order for the board to elevate this to the appropriate level of importance, I think there has to be more coming from the community saying this is something we need to address,” he said.

Stevens also encouraged attendees to complete the MDOT SHA Route 90 corridor survey, which will remain open for public comment through Nov. 10. Design concepts, planning timelines and survey link can be found on the MDOT SHA website, under the project portal page.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 61

The Worcester County Bike and Pedestrian Coalition met with community members this week to discuss bike and pedestrian accommodations along the Route 90 corridor, pictured above on a busy fall day.

Photo by Chris Parypa

Local Teenager Takes Stage With National Artists

Page 62

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – An Ocean City teenager, known locally for his musical talent, was recently given the opportunity to play alongside national acts in a Floridabased concert series.

Late last month, 15-year-old Gavin Hades made his way to Panama City Beach, Fla., to perform at the Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally. With his guitar in tow, the aspiring musician spent the week performing the National Anthem and opening for major acts such as Bret Michaels, 3 Doors Down and Shinedown. He also joined Michaels and his band for a performance of “Nothin’ But a Good Time.”

“It was absolutely phenomenal,” Hades said in an interview this week.

“Being there and feeling this sense of belonging, like knowing this is what I want to do in life, and having people in the audience cheer me on, it was incredible.”

While he had always messed around with his father’s guitar, Hades said he first started learning to play the instrument when he was 11 years old. Starting out on a ukulele, Hades soon transitioned to guitar.

“There's nothing more amazing than sharing my love of music with Gavin,” said Jeremy Brink, Hades’ father and member of the local band Side Project.

Gavin Hades, a local teenager, took to the stage late last month at Florida’s Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally. Pictured, from left, are Jonah Ridgely, Norman Voss, bass player for Bret Michaels Band, Jeremy Brink, Hades, Meri Schaefer, drummer for Bret Michaels Band and Nicole Charvat.

Submitted Image

“Whether we're finding new music together, playing live music together, or just discussing music, it's just the best feeling. It's a dream come true for me to see Gavin so passionate about playing and learning. I couldn't be more proud of him.”

While he has been playing guitar for the last four years, Hades rose to local prominence when he was asked to perform alongside Michaels and his bandmates at the 2021 OC BikeFest.

Since that time, Hades said he has been busy.

In addition to performing at local ven-

ues throughout much of the summer season, he was invited back to this year’s OC BikeFest to perform the National Anthem.

“I was then asked to go to Panama City Beach, Florida, and open all four days with the National Anthem there,” he explained.

And when he found out that Michaels would also be performing at the Thunder Beach Motor Rally, he said he decided to reach out.

“I contacted their guitar player to see if I could jam with them again …,” he said. “His whole band is fantastic. They

November 4, 2022

treated me with such kindness.”

Hades said he was also able to spend time backstage with Jasmine Cain, Jared James Nichols, the lead guitar player and drummer for 3 Doors Down, and the bass player and drummer for Shinedown.

He also met country music singer Dierks Bentley.

“I was pretty much there with all of my idols,” he said.

Since his return from Panama City Beach, Hades said he has started focusing on forming a band of his own and creating original music. When asked about the experiences he’s had over the last year, Hades summed it up into one word – surreal.

“Even in the beginning, being asked to go down to Florida and people recognizing this was something I was serious about … it’s been absolutely incredible,” he said.

Hades said community members can follow his music journey by visiting his Facebook page, Gavin Hades, or his website, gavinhades.com.

“Gavin is exceptional in more ways than I can count,” said Nicole Charvat, Hades’ mother. “He is as humble and kind as he is insanely talented and driven. Watching him perform is an indescribable joy — he was truly born to entertain … I cannot wait for what the future has in store, he is going to set the music world on fire — that’s for sure.”

VOTERS ASK THE MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL Why they are letting the OCPD use a made-up, fake ordinance that says police tows cannot go to tow court to get their $400 tow fee back?

Heather, the city solicitor, says there is no such Ocean City ordinance.

The city has towed over 3,000 vehicles. Multiply the number of vehicles towed by the $400 fee and that equals $1.2 million the city has made using this made-up, fake ordinance.

I have been arrested twice for DWI, vehicle towed twice, blew a 0.0 twice. I cannot go to tow court to get my $800 tow fees back. I need your help.

Paid Advertisement By George Leukel

November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

OBITUARIES George Edward Hollendersky OCEAN PINES – George Edward Hollendersky, age 90, passed away at Tidal Health Peninsula Regional in Salisbury on Sunday, Oct. 30, 2022.

Born in Gates, Pa. he was the son of the late George and Anna Hollendersky of Bethlehem. George was married to Marie for 61 years before her passing in 2017. Upon his retirement to Ocean Pines in 2001 there was no greatGEORGE E. HOLLENDERSKY er joy for George than working with Marie in their yard planting flowers.

Upon graduation from Moravian College, Bethlehem, Pa. in 1959, George served in the U.S Navy. He then entered the Secret Service as a Special Agent.

Although many of his initial assignments had to do with tracking down money counterfeiters his forte came in protecting our Presidents. During his career, he was assigned to the President's Protective Details for Dwight Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan. In fact, when President Reagan was shot, he was the agent that stood over him during his operation. Because of his keen sense of duty and attention to detail he was the Agent in Charge of Pope John Paul II’s visit to the United States and President Fidel Castro’s visit to the United Nations. Mr. Hollendersky retired from the Agency in July, 1986 as the Special Agent in Charge of the New Jersey Field Office.

From 1986 to 1991 Mr. Hollendersky was employed as Director of Security for the Rockefeller Family.

Church Will Host Cemetery Workshop

BERLIN – St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Berlin invites citizens to join Preservation Maryland and its The Campaign for Historic Trades for our Cemetery Preservation Workshop program on Saturday, Nov. 5 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Attendees will learn basic preservation techniques to care for cemetery monuments, including cleaning the site, maintaining landscaping and cleaning gravestones. This workshop will require participants to stand or crouch while completing the preservation work in outside weather.

From 10 a.m.-noon, there will be introduction to cemetery preservation followed by a snack break. From 12:30-2 p.m., there will be guided practice and a question-and-answer session.

Participants are welcome to park in the municipal lot on Church Street or find near-by street parking. Bathrooms will be available on site.

In case of inclement weather, this workshop will have to be rescheduled.

To register, which is not required, visit preservationmaryland.org and scroll down to cemetery preservation workshop.

George was a quiet person in retirement. However, he was always there to help others. Many a days Marie and George would take seniors to their medical appointments or spend time working at Diakonia, in West Ocean City.

George was always a great athlete and played sports up until the time he retired. He enjoyed watching football and especially baseball which he excelled in at Moravian College. He also enjoyed old time westerns especially John Wayne movies from 1930 and 1940.

He is survived by his daughter, Beth Ann Mount; three grandchildren, Breanne Ruffin, Jordan Mount and Kelsi Mount; and three sisters, Mary Jane Pickard, Annamae Kita Eileen Burkhardt.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Marie Hollendersky; his son Scott; and granddaughter Chelsea Ann Mount.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in George’s name to Diakonia, 12747 Old Bridge Rd., Ocean City, Md. 21842.

A visitation was held on Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022 at the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, Nov. 4 at 11:30 a.m. at St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Ocean Pines. Interment will be Monday, Nov. 7, 2022, at 11:30 a.m. at Holy Savior Cemetery in Bethlehem, Pa. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

Marvin Ellis Chaney OCEAN PINES – Marvin Ellis Chaney, 82, of Ocean Pines, passed away peacefully at home after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Frostburg, Marvin was the son of the late Marx Ellis Chaney and Viola Irene (Jackson) Chaney. After graduating from State Teachers College at Frostburg, he began his 31-year teaching career in Glen Burnie. As a first-year teacher, he took a summer job at Montgomery Ward and found the love of his life, Mary Beth (Kearney) Chaney working behind the register in the women’s department. Through 57 years of marriage, they went on many adventures together traveling the world from Ireland to Morocco and every- MARVIN E. CHANEY where in between.

Marvin loved being on the water and was an avid fisherman, well known for his world’s best homemade crab soup.

When he wasn’t on the water or traveling the globe, Marvin enjoyed playing cards with friends and beating his grandchildren at billiards.

In addition to his wife, Marvin is survived by his children, Kevin Chaney and Lisa (Chaney) Hodge, her husband Gabriel Hodge, and his five grandchildren.

Services will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

November 4, 2022

STUDENTS In The News Worcester Prep seventh grader Chase Thompson acted as Head of School on Oct. 14. His parents purchased “Head of School for a Day” during the annual WPS Gala fundraiser auction in April. As Head of School, his schedule was busy with leadership meetings, visiting classrooms, touring campus, and security and athletic field checks. His fellow seventh graders were treated to donuts for breakfast and pizza and ice cream for lunch. Faculty also enjoyed a complimentary breakfast and students were treated to additional recess.

Stephen Decatur Middle School’s seventh grade Gecko student team traveled to the Maryland Food Bank with social studies teacher Anne Cook last month to perform community service work for the charity. Above, students are pictured sorting food during their volunteer shift.

Submitted Photos The 10th grade held the annual Fall Fun Festival at Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) last week for lower school students to enjoy. Sophomores created their own game stations for the lower grades to play, including the equipment, rules of play and the number of tickets per game. They also brought in candy, treats and prizes. Above, striking a pose with 10th grade advisor Hunter Causey are third graders Madelyn Tull, Amalia Gjikuria, Kingsley Giardina and Nora Rafinski.

Ocean City Elementary held its annual Heavenly Hats Spirit Day last month.

For a $1 donation, students, faculty and staff were able to wear hats to school that day. This year, $633 was collected for the Heavenly Hats Foundation. Students are pictured above and below showing off their charitable spirits.

During October’s Fall Fun Festival fundraiser, Worcester Prep fifth grader Michael Giardina, 10th grader Ryan Mann, second graders Emily Leiner and Isla Pippin, fifth grader Jack Hornung and third grader Knox Luttrell waited in line to have their fortunes told.

A partnership between students in Salisbury University’s Franklin P. Perdue School of Business and the SU field hockey team provided marketing students with hands-on experience through the team’s annual “Corners for Cancer” fundraising initiative to benefit the American Cancer Society. Above, the students are pictured at Sea Gull Stadium during this year’s “Corners for Cancer” game.

November 4, 2022

Berlin Celebrates Halloween:

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Mother Nature provided a warm evening and the rain held off for the thousands of trick-or-treaters who walked the streets of Berlin. Pictured are some scenes from around the town.

Photos above of Washington Street by Patrick Davis and below by Charlene Sharpe

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

The Dispatch Forever In Memory Of Our Founder, Dick Lohmeyer (May 25, 1927-May 5, 2005) The Dispatch, Serving Greater Ocean City Since 1984, Is Published By Maryland Coast Dispatch Inc. Weekly On Friday Mornings MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811 PHYSICAL ADDRESS: 10012 Old Ocean City Blvd.

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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.

November 4, 2022

Endorsements For Next Week’s General Election How We See It

After extensive evaluations and observations for months, the following recommendations are put forward in the local contested races of importance and referendum questions posed for citizens.

Worcester County Commissioners Most of the activity with the commissioners took place in the primary election over the summer with Commissioners Chip Bertino, Jim Bunting, Diana Purnell and Ted Elder being re-elected. Additionally, with Commissioner Bud Church retiring after 20 years in office, Commissioner-Elect Eric Fiori will fill the District 3 seat. Commissioner Joe Mitrecic was unopposed for the Ocean City district seat he has held since 2014.

District 1: The only seat remaining to be filled is for the southern representative seat currently held by one-term incumbent Josh Nordstrom. The campaign has turned toward the negative in recent weeks with Nordstrom and challenger Caryn Abbott questioning each other’s personal backgrounds, morals, and judgments on social media. In the end, it’s the candidate’s aptitude to serve the citizens of the district worthy of judging for voters.

Nordstrom gains the support here based on his public service and commitment to his district during his first term. He has worked hard during his campaign and those efforts are praiseworthy.

Worcester Board of Education We do not see the need for a radical change with the Worcester County Board of Education and therefore support the bids of the three incumbent members. Board member Todd Ferrante is unopposed once again for his Ocean City representative seat and the lack of opposition confirms support among the constituency for his efforts and leadership.

District 1: Bill Buchanan is a lifelong educator, spending 40 years inside Worcester County public schools working with young people. He knows the good, the bad and the ugly when it comes to public education. He also has witnessed the county’s rise to being one of the top school systems in the state. We support another term for Buchanan whose opinions are valued in Newark.

District 4: Bill Gordy has proven himself to be a respected school board member over his previous two terms. Gordy identified the ongoing achievement gap in local schools as one of his top concerns moving forward during a campaign interview. He taps the “equity recognition” aspect as a key component to closing the gap among the highest achieving and lowest achievers. Gordy deserves another term as a school board member to see his goals reached for public schools.

District 6: Nate Passwaters is seeking a full, four-year term after being appointed to the role of a school board member after the tragic passing of Eric Cropper at the age of 48 in July of 2021.

Passwaters has a 28-year law enforcement background, providing a unique perspective on public education. In an interview, he said, “I answer to the people

of Worcester County,” not the superintendent, teacher’s union or administration.

He wants to serve his district and address the concerns he hears that the “school board is accountable not to the voters but to the administration and unions.” A full four-year term will allow him time to do just that.

Question A The wording of Question A is important. It reads on the ballot, “The purpose of this question is to determine whether the County Commissioners may finance a portion of the costs of designing and constructing a Worcester County Sports Complex by issuing a bond.”

Though we have opposed the site and the process all along because we feel it was rushed, we recommend a for vote for the referendum because government needs to have the flexibility to decide if the bond market is the best option to carry a project of this magnitude forward.

We have long supported a sports complex for northern Worcester County for two primary reasons – economic development and supporting the youth.

There is a need and there’s no denying sports tourism is a booming business for many regions throughout the mid-Atlantic. We believe a sports complex developed the right way in the best site can be a game changer for our county. It’s frustrating to leave the beach in the summer months to travel annually to a sports tournament in Lancaster, Pa. as many locals do routinely. Millions of dollars are leaving the marketplace while the influx of new funding cannot be denied with a sports complex developed the right way.

We are recommending voting for this ballot question because we want to see this project happen eventually. However, we are adamantly against a sports complex at the selected site to the east of the high and middle schools. We find many faults in this process to date. We believe this is the wrong site and remain baffled at the lack of inclusion in the process with the Town of Berlin, which will be needed if an indoor facility is constructed on the site. Aside from the troubling location, even the most ardent of sports complex supporters must acknowledge the site is far too small to become a major player in the regional sports tourism market. It’s the wrong size site in a problematic location with unknown traffic mitigation plans.

Despite our concerns with the location, the high price point for the property and the lack of due diligence by the county to this point, we believe a for vote is best for our county. Government needs to have the flexibility to use the bond market for large projects that serve the community’s greater good. If the ballot question is turned down, the county will not be able to use the public financing option for the development of a sports complex in the future. We believe a sports complex is a positive addition to the county in a different location. The bond market will ease the county taxpayers’ burden in the short term and allow for flexibility over the long run as far as funding re-

straints.

State Senate District 38: Mary Beth Carozza deserves another term in Annapolis. The reality in Maryland is the Eastern Shore delegation – no matter who the representatives are and their party affiliation – is largely irrelevant to impact state legislation. It’s a numbers game based on the western shore’s larger population. However, the value in representatives like Carozza lies in constituent service. Carozza excels on these efforts of serving the public because of her accessibility and passion. Her impact to address shore needs through legislative bills with Democratic-controlled chambers is limited to local courtesy type measures and will be especially so with the next governor being a Democrat, but Carozza is there for her constituents when called upon. She’s proactive and visible in the community and shares the shore’s conservative values. She’s what the district needs over her inexperienced challenger.

House of Delegates District 38A: Charles Otto has been a delegate since 2010 and his experience in Annapolis gives him the edge over Todd Nock, a Pocomoke councilman. Otto faces the same upward challenges in the House as Carozza does in the Senate. Therefore, his value to his community is through constituent service while also articulating the needs of the shore even if they largely go unheard.

Ocean City Council With Mayor Rick Meehan receiving the ultimate vote of confidence by being unopposed for another term, the attention in Ocean City is squarely on the three council seats up for grabs and the three municipality-only referendum questions.

It’s a ho-hum election truly, but Lloyd Martin’s retirement after 20 years in office assures there will be at least one new face behind the dais at City Hall.

There are three seats open with just four candidates. Our endorsements are as follows: •Matt James made Ocean City history in 2014 when he was the top vote getter at the age of 21. Now seeking his third term on the council, James has proven to be a strong elected official, serving well the last several years as council president. A unique background as a member of the hospitality industry and service as a first responder provides him a unique perspective that serves him well in office. Though not one to filibuster at meetings with long thoughts, James will chime in when he feels passionate on a subject. Because he picks and chooses when he speaks on matters, it means more when he does weigh in. James deserves another term in office.

•Will Savage will be a good addition to the council. He’s a family man who has experience operating businesses in Ocean City and has experience with the fire department. He will bring a new small SEE NEXT PAGE

November 4, 2022

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Letters To The Editor Sports Complex Support Editor: We can’t just print money like the federal government.

I have read the letters to the editor by Mr. Gisriel, Mr. Christ, and now my colleagues in opposition to the sports complex.

There has been a great deal of conjecture as to the purchase agreement we have signed, namely that I had acted

hastily, or even without the proper authority. These assumptions are patently false, and I can assure the citizens of Worcester County that I could not have acted without the majority vote of the commissioners.

As for the timing involved in the signing of the purchase order, I believe that anyone who was an elected official would know that a contract must be in place beSEE PAGE 68

How We See It business owner perspective to the council that is valuable in government. Savage has been attending government meetings since filing and keeping up to speed on current events, demonstrating a commitment and desire to serve his community. We support his candidacy and are grateful for his willingness to serve his hometown.

•As a result of his controversial first term, we cannot support Mark Paddack for a second term in office. Paddack made history in Ocean City when the council voted to publicly censure him over a racist comment made on a resident’s social media story. An extensive probe was unable to confirm Paddack himself posted the comment, but it did report the post was made from his home IP address.

The forensic technology probe was an unnecessary waste of taxpayer dollars.

Later, there was bizarre incident when Paddack verbally berated his son inside a restaurant after an accident in a parking lot. The teenage son would later go to describe his father on social media in a disturbing fashion. An elected official’s integrity and genuineness should never be questioned to the degree Paddack’s has been multiple times in recent years. It’s all just too much, and time for a change.

Carol Proctor will have a learning curve because of her lack of government experience, but all new elected officials need to be educated to some degree.

She has owned her shortcomings in interviews but pledges to bring a passion and work ethic to the job that should serve her well moving forward. We think she deserves a chance to hold a council seat.

Ballot Question 1: We think the increase of the mayor’s annual salary from the current $30,000 to the proposed $50,000 is far too much too soon. It’s difficult to argue with the data comparing the pay of other mayors in similar municipalities, but a 67% increase is too much at once. Nonetheless, it has been 33 years since the wage has been changed and an adjustment is needed.

When considering this question, it’s important to take the individual currently in office out of the equation. Current Mayor Rick Meehan works hard at his job and does a solid job of representing Ocean City on all fronts. We believe the same could be said for his predecessor, Jim Mathias. Both Meehan and Mathias have devoted full-time energy and effort into what is intended by charter to be a part-time post. What lies in the future

when leadership changes hands is unknown. We believe the increase should have been $10,000 but we would go with a for vote since it’s been the same pay dating back to 1989.

Ballot Question 2: The amendment deals with doubling the council member’s pay from the current $10,000 to $20,000 and increasing the council president’s stipend from $11,000 to $23,000. Our position is similar to the mayor’s compensation – the increase is too much too fast.

However, research shows that municipalities with similar sized budgets pay their elected officials more. Recent history has also shown there’s paltry interest in serving in elected office. Increasing the rate may help foster greater involvement for those contemplating the sacrifices associated with public service. We say go for the adjustment, albeit wishing the increases were more conservative.

Ballot Question 3: The issue deals with how Ocean City spends the 2% of gross room tax revenue it collects. Currently, of that 2% of gross room tax revenue 60% goes to the general fund to help with expenses associated with tourism, such as public safety, and 40% goes to marketing the resort. The ordinance passed last year – and subsequently petitioned to referendum – allows the city to spend more of the room tax revenue on marketing, incrementally increasing the marketing share by 2% each year in fiscal year 2024 and fiscal year 2025. Stated in the referendum is a key clause that says when the room tax rate exceeds the current 5% – as it’s proposed to do next year – the resort will return to the 40% figure for marketing in the split with the operating budget.

It’s an intricate matter for city voters to understand. It’s further complicated by the likelihood the county’s room tax rate will be increased to 6% next year, making the ordinance passed in Ocean City last year moot because of the clause stating if the room rate increases beyond 5% the marketing share will stay at 40%.

We see no reason for a change to the room tax revenue distribution and recommend a vote against the ballot question.

Ocean City spends enough money on marketing and advertising and does not need a larger slice of the room tax distribution. We prefer to see the formula remain as is.

The room tax rate is likely to be increased next year and there will be more dollars already included under the current formula distribution. The ordinance is not needed.

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Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green Stephen Decatur High School will host a playoff football game Friday evening. I attended last year’s playoff game and it was an exciting and electric atmosphere with the stands full of parents and students. I observed a few poor decisions by students, but nothing out of line and unexpected. It was a safe and fun environment overall.

Ahead of Friday night’s game between the Seahawks and C. Milton Wright, Stephen Decatur Middle School, and presumably other schools, sent out a text reminder to students and parents about unchaperoned minors in attendance. It read, “Students planning to attend SDHS football game this Friday. Everyone needs to behave appropriately while having a good time and staying safe. If your child is planning to attend, you must attend with them! That means that they may NOT be dropped off. You may not go into the stadium and then leave without your child. Also, one parent cannot be responsible for children other than their own. Please help us by complying with these guidelines to help keep our students safe.”

Some read this stern message as a direct reaction to the Laurel-Seaford football game being closed to the public due to safety concerns stemming from “credible intelligence from law enforcement.” In that case, only parents and/or guardians of the Laurel players listed with the respective schools could attend. In addition, only Seaford’s football players and coaching staff would be permitted to attend. There does not appear to be any direct connection with this week’s message in Worcester County. The county’s message was seemingly trying to cut down on the number of minors in attendance without any adult supervision as a result of concerns in the past.

It's been more than three months since Maryland’s primary election, but the consequences of the Republican Party’s support for Dan Cox as the gubernatorial choice in the primary will not be truly felt until next week. Because of his extremist positions, Cox is going to get smashed

by Democratic nominee Wes Moore. It’s going to be ugly. Moore will be predicted the winner within an hour of polls closing. This is more about Cox’s shortcomings than Moore’s prowess.

The only way former Republican Governors Bob Ehrlich and Larry Hogan were able to get elected in Maryland, a strongly Democratic state, was through moderate views and appealing to Democrats. Cox seems to be as defiant as political idol, Trump, taking the opposite approach and alienating anyone with realistic views about the pandemic and the 2020 election. Hogan referred to Cox recently as a “QAnon whack job.” I predict Cox will receive less than 30% of the vote in next week’s election.

Unfortunately, Cox seems unwilling to waver from his extremist positions. A mailer I got this week from Cox read, “Maryland is our home. We must keep it free. On day one of my administration as your next Governor, I will end the vaccine and health mandates and restore freedom by restoring the Constitution’s protections to all the people of Maryland.

And our Five-Point Contract for Maryland will be just the beginning of a new birth of prosperity for our Free State.”

On the official ballot before statewide voters next week will be Question 4, which will ask citizens, “do you favor the legalization of the use of cannabis by an individual 21 years of age on or after July 1, 2023 in the State of Maryland?”

Polling has shown over the last several months a majority of Marylanders will vote for the constitutional amendment. A poll conducted last week of 1,000 voters by The Baltimore Sun and the University of Baltimore found 63% of likely voters surveyed statewide agreed with legalizing the drug, 25% opposed it and 12% undecided. The survey consisted of 562 registered Democrats, 247 Republicans and 180 unaffiliated voters. In the poll, it was interesting to note 54% of the Republican voters said they would vote for legalization. It shows how progressive most people have become about recreational pot use.

Maryland, and many states really, have been trending toward legalizing marijuana possession, but the question is how it will be regulated and how easy will it be to purchase. The legislature’s take was all these details would be worked through if Marylanders pass the referendum.

There are many states Maryland could look to when crafting the regulations. If the ballot question passes, it will be legal to possess 1.5 ounces of cannabis for those 21 years and older. Marylanders would also be able to grow their own weed at home.

What a special treat it is to live in a town like Berlin where Halloween pride and spirit runs deep year after year. The amount of time, effort and resources allocated by dozens of homeowners was tremendous to see. This remains serious business for many residents. Some property owners go all out, decorating themselves as well as their homes for the occasion. All the tremendous efforts combine to create a memorable evening for the kids, young and old alike. One year I look forward to being able to walk around town myself and take in the sights and sounds. In the meantime, it’s fun to host (and spook) about 1,000 people each year to our annual Halloween creation.

Page 68 FROM PAGE 67 fore you release the information on the purchase to secure the governments interest. Speaking to the idea that the sports complex is being rushed, this project was brought to us by Mr. Perlozzo over 4 years ago and has continued to move forward methodically.

The rest of the accusations leveled in previous letters to the editor are just smoke and mirrors to enhance the writer’s position. I would have hoped that the national trend of throwing falsehoods and personal attacks out there and seeing if it will stick would not have filtered down to local politics.

The county is soon to face a great deal of costs. Due to the State’s unfunded mandates on education (Kirwan), we are looking at a 20% raise in starting teacher salaries. Assuming the whole Board of Education salary scale moves up we are looking at an increase of about 16 million or roughly 4 million per year for the next four years. The Board of Education just submitted their CIP 2024-2028 detailing the future needs of our school repair/replacements totaling 101 million dollars. We can all agree the importance of funding our schools and our educators, but how can we turn a blind eye to the future financial needs of the county?

The commissioners voted today to authorize a bond sale of over 28 million dollars that includes money for the jail project, a public safety facility, and a wastewater project. Also included in that sale will be over 10 million for the expansion of the Stephen Decatur Middle School. This is the same classroom space that was cut to save a million dollars when the school was taken to referendum by another short-sighted, “financially concerned” group.

As for the concern of the project paying for itself, The MSA “Maryland Stadium Authority” has a preliminary projection that could potentially support debt service between $142 and $169 million of a 20-year revenue bond. These numbers far exceed the anticipated cost to purchase and build-out the property.

Whether it is their intention or not, I don’t believe my colleagues take into consideration that property taxes on hotels/ motels are calculated on the revenue they bring in; to put it simply if rooms are occupied more nights, there’s more revenue, and more property tax.

The argument to place the sports complex in the south end of the county is not viable, and my colleagues know this.

There is not enough infrastructure in place to house these visitors, they would end up staying in Wicomico County or down in Virginia, not benefitting Worcester County. To place the sports complex there would fulfill the prophecy of my colleagues and detractors of the complex and set it up for failure.

I have said many times, we either increase revenue or we increase taxes.

The cost of running government is increasing just like the cost of running your household. Government is in the service business; we supply services to the residents. There is nothing to cut out of the budget, the next cuts will be to the services enjoyed by our county residents.

The youth sports market is projected to continue to grow to over 77.6 billion dollars a year by 2026. Vote to secure

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Letters To The Editor a piece of that revenue for Worcester County, Vote yes on question A. Joseph Mitrecic Ocean City (The writer is the president of the Worcester County Commissioners.)

‘Witchy Women’ Response Editor: I was very disappointed to read Mr. Christ’s letter to the editor – “Changing Seasons” – published in last week’s edition of The Dispatch.

Setting aside Mr. Christ’s numerous errors in his recollection of our school system’s assistance with his program and his perpetuating misinformation on gender identity and social emotional learning in our schools, he used this platform to demean me and the other female leaders within our school system by insinuating impropriety and calling us “witchy women.” To this, I take great offense. Yes, our superintendent often shares how he relies on the expertise of those around him, but it is incredibly unfortunate that because we are women, we are vilified by people like Mr. Christ.

It is unfortunate that Mr. Christ feels he cannot continue his program without our participation, but his disappointment with the school system’s decision should not result in lashing out in a public forum with conjecture, misinformation, and damaging insults.

While I have dedicated a lot of time to helping Mr. Christ advertise and then facilitate our participation in his program since his first requests in 2017, I have notified our Superintendent that I will not engage with Mr. Christ any further. I will not be bullied or vilified, and I hope that Mr. Christ recognizes that his words and actions have consequences.

Carrie Sterrs Berlin

sports complex. Vote against Question A. To the voters of the Town of Ocean City, vote against a second Question A on the town ballot to reign in excessive advertising and marketing expenditures, already at $10.2 million in Fiscal Year 2022 alone.

Vincent dePaul Gisriel, Jr. Ocean City

A Vote For Question A Editor: I am writing this to encourage everyone to vote yes on Question A, which involves the construction of a first-class sports complex in our county.

Organized sports competitions are year-round events, so the demand for such facilities will be steady, especially in convenient and family-oriented places such as the Delmarva coastline.

When you have other places on the shore for family entertainment from New Jersey to the Outer Banks, you need an attraction that sets you apart from others, and that would include a first-class sports facility for both regional and national competitions. Obviously, local business interests would profit as well, whether they be hotels, restaurants, or entertainment locations.

In the years that I was involved in soccer organizations, both in our region and across the country, quality sports complexes, like the one proposed here, were always in demand. They were profitable, in demand, and they still are today. Start-up costs should not scare us away from long-term financial gain, for the county and private businesses.

Again, I urge all of you to vote yes on Question A. Vote yes for this project, a positive financial move for our future.

Martin Branagan Ocean City

Vote Against Question A

Commissioners Explain Sports Complex Position

Editor: In a recent ad published by some individuals pushing for a Worcester County Sports Complex, it reads, in part, "Question 'A' is a vote for: lower taxes...".

How so, when the Bond Bill obligates our County Commissioners by providing for "... an irrevocable pledge of the full faith and credit and unlimited taxing power of the county ..." for the payment of the bonds? Furthermore, the consultants pointed out that most government owned sports facilities require about a 25% operating subsidy before debt service and capital reserve funding.

The ad further states that "Question A is not about the location, those details will be finalized at a later date." If that was the case, why did four commissioners vote to purchase the land next to Stephen Decatur High School to build a sports complex? And, why did the Commission President sign a Contract of Sale to purchase the land for nearly $75,000 per acre, when land was readily available throughout the county for $10,000 to $19,000 per acre?

Do not be misled by the proponents of the sports complex. Vote against the

Editor: Worcester County voters have the opportunity to vote on Question A, a local referendum by petition to determine whether the County Commissioners may finance a portion of the costs of designing and constructing a Worcester County Sports Complex by issuing a bond.

It should be understood this question has nothing to do with how the Commissioners would pay for the $7.2 million land acquisition. To date, that has not been discussed or decided upon by the Commissioners. Should a majority of Commissioners decide, the money could come from reserves or fund balance or some other source yet to be determined.

Whatever is decided, county taxpayers will foot the bill. And should the referendum pass and a majority of Commissioners proceed with a bond issue, taxpayers will pay for that as well. The term of the bond would likely be 15 years with an annual debt service of about $800,000 depending on what market rate is available at issuance.

The idea of a sports complex being built in our county is appealing, more so if it were built in the southern part of the

November 4, 2022 County where economic development is long overdue. Although we recognize the economic possibilities of such an endeavor, we believe strongly that taxpayer money should not be involved.

We don’t believe taxpayer money should fund the project because doing so mitigates any revenue growth the County treasury will realize. This should be a private sector endeavor.

While we respect those advocating for this project, believing it will be a boon, a relatively easy way to increase tax revenue, we disagree. A look beneath the surface reveals the financial concerns when a taxpayer money is used.

Presently, no business or marketing plan has been made available or prepared. No partnership details or discussions between the Commissioners and Ocean City and/or Berlin have occurred nor been outlined or agreed upon. Nor has County government applied for or requested grants or loans from the Maryland Stadium Authority.

Arguments that a sports complex would eliminate, or lower future possible County tax increases do not square with reality.

The County collects a 5% tax for all room rental activity in the county and earns a 1% collection fee on room tax collections on behalf of incorporated towns such as Ocean City and Berlin.

Room Tax collections in the un-incorporated areas including West Ocean City are retained by the county.

So, for example, if there was a $1 million increase in overall lodging revenue in West Ocean City because of the new facility, the County would receive an additional $50,000 in direct room tax revenue.

If a guest decides to stay in Ocean City and the overall increase in lodging for the season is $1 million, the additional revenue to the County would be $500.

So, using this example, a sports complex would generate $50,500 in additional room tax revenue for the County.

The County also collects a one half of one percent tax for food sales only in Ocean City and retains a 5% administrative charge for the collection fee.

So, an increase in food sales of $100,000 for the season attributable to the sports facility would yield the county $25.

Combined, the county would net about $50,525 in additional tax revenue which is much less than the estimated annual $800,000 bond debt service and the amount used to purchase the land.

Several years ago, a study concluded that a sports complex would compete with established complexes in nearby Wicomico County and Delaware. How will competition impact bookings for a Worcester complex?

One final point. Who in County government would be responsible for the success of this undertaking? Even if a third party is hired to manage the facility, who would be the person held responsible for the management, maintenance and marketing of the complex? Who would be the person held accountable to ensure that the conceptual financial assertions currently bandied about are achieved? And how much would a thirdparty operator charge? There is no way SEE NEXT PAGE

November 4, 2022 of knowing because no research has been done.

Based on available information, here is our take of what will happen if a taxpayer-funded complex moves forward: responsibility and accountability will be murky, promised results will be elusive and future subsidy allocations will be necessary. Eventually, the financial performance of the operation will be folded into the County’s general fund budget, becoming another line item for which taxpayers will be responsible.

This is certainly a project that begs for questions to be asked and answered before taxpayer money is spent.

Government has neither the expertise nor the entrepreneurial passion to sustain a business effectively and profitably. Inevitably, taxpayer subsidies will become part of the operation.

With so many blanks yet to be filled in, it would be interesting to learn whether a private lending institution would spend its money for this project as taxpayers may soon do.

As was mentioned above, the results for or against Referendum Question A will not answer all the questions yet to be answered. The only certainty is that County taxpayers will ultimately be financially responsible.

Chip Bertino, Jim Bunting and Ted Elder (The writers are Worcester County Commissioners.)

Sunfest Date Hurt Vendors Editor: (The following letter was addressed to members of Ocean City’s Tourism De-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Letters To The Editor partment.)

Hopefully y'all have recovered from Sunfest 2022. I really appreciated all the blood, sweat and tears that go into putting on such a huge event. I do know about some of the behind-thescenes mechanics that go with putting on such a huge show, doing about 35 shows/year, so I am thankful for all of the efforts of everyone involved. I am writing because I care deeply about Sunfest and its future. I hope that this email gets received before the next meeting about Sunfest.

I will get right to my main point: Sunfest date change was not beneficial, in fact it was quite detrimental to me and most other artists/vendors that I spoke to. I am sure you are starting to hear a chorus of similar comments from other vendors about the Sunfest 2022 date change. First and foremost, my sales were way down from 2021. In fact, they were the lowest they have been since I started selling at Sunfest. Even when I compare the first three days of 2022 to the first three days of the previous years the sales were way down, even my average sale was about 50% of previous years. The crowds were about the same for Thursday and Friday this year.

However, the Saturday crowd was enormous, and I had high hopes upon seeing the throngs of people Saturday. There were thousands of people enjoying the free concerts Saturday, however they were not the “art or craft buying” crowd

and my Saturday sales were just “average.”

I only got a fraction of the repeat buyers that I normally get at Sunfest. I contacted all of my “collectors” beforehand about the Sunfest date change, and I wanted to get them excited about my new art. Most of them said that either they had not heard about the date change or that they had other plans that fall in late October that conflicted. I think that they had made a tradition of coming to Ocean City at the end of September and that shifting it a month later broke that tradition. And many of my customers who did come by my booth were bewildered by the change and also complained that it was so cold. A few even commented that they should change the name to "Fallfest" or "Winterfest" and I will say that I kind of agree with them.

I can understand the desire to try to get more tourists at the end of the season into Ocean City but I feel y'all messed with the wrong event. You don't mess with the "Grandfather Of All Festivals" that has been around for 50-plus years.

If you feel you need to move an event into late October you could move "Bike Week" or that music festival that was planned for this year. In my career as an artist, I have discovered that the number one way to kill an art show/festival is to change the dates. A show or festival that has been around only a few years can survive a date change, however a show that has been around for decades rarely

Page 69 survives a date change on this magnitude.

Perhaps other factors were not considered when this change was proposed.

Please understand that this is not a static equation, rather it is a dynamic equation: you change one variable the other variables will change. When you change the date drastically the artists and vendors will not stay the same. You will get fewer artists and crafters and also lower quality art and crafts. I saw a lot less artists that I know and a lot more new artists/vendors this year. We make our schedule a year, or more, in advance and when we get into a successful show we will stick with it. When Sunfest changed dates it created conflicts with other shows that are in late fall that we also find successful. For example, the Boardwalk Art Show in Virginia Beach was also last weekend and that probably drew a lot of the fine artists away from Sunfest.

Most artists I know want to do both shows and have done so in the past but when you try a date change you force some hard choices. I am sure there are other examples, with other conflicts, where previous Sunfest artists did not send back their contract for 2022 because of a conflict with another good show on their schedule. You may be able to book the same music, food and activities for October 2023 but you will find it hard to fill the artists/vendors booths in late October.

So please, please, please end the experiment with Sunfest/Fallfest/Winterfest and return Sunfest 2023 to its original dates in September.

Kyle Wilson

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Puzzle Answers

C

November 4, 2022

The Adventures of Fatherhood

by Steve Green

PUZZLE ON PAGE 47

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arson turns 13 years old tomorrow. This makes me the father of two teens now as his older brother, Beckett, turned 14 in May. Carson is not much for celebrating these sorts of things. In fact, he can’t come up with one thing he wants for his birthday. It says a lot about him.

He’s just not into a whole lot of material things, aside from his iPad. He loves puzzles and games but seems to lack the cognitive ability to express his wants and desires. If we hand him a magazine or brochure, he will circle some items, but I think he does it just to satisfy us. I truly doubt he wants a Disney blowup pool that he no longer fits in after all.

While we will figure out ways to make his special day unique without causing him anxiety, birthdays provide all parents an opportunity to reflect on their kid. In Carson’s case, I always come back to my supreme pride.

It may sound crazy because he’s my son, but I think Carson has been the most influential person in my life. My parents, of course, top the list as their commitment, love and support have been boundless from the beginning.

However, I give Carson credit for changing me forever.

Autism presents itself uniquely in each kid, confirming the term “spectrum” is apt. The traits of each special needs individual can vary greatly. Carson is nonverbal and has horrible social anxiety that results in concerning behavior extremes. Some days are better than others. To be honest, we have been having a lot of rough days lately. Pam and I are living in a state of bewilderment as we try to find ways to help Carson function. He seems of late to be in turmoil, especially in school. There are more good days than bad days, I think, but it’s far closer a margin than we wish.

We know he has a team of teachers and special educators who want the best and have proven their genuine commitments.

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As we navigate some uncertain times with him, Carson’s gifts to me, and I like to think my son and wife, are patience, perspective and gratitude. He has come so far and overcome so much. I will never underestimate him because he proves us wrong whenever we do. However, I also do not want to burden him with the same expectations we have his for neurotypical older brother. It would be unfair. His life will be different, but I know Carson will write a wonderful story.

One of the reasons I write this column is to document he and his brother’s lives for them. One day – probably after I am gone – they will read these columns with an appreciation because most of what’s included on a weekly basis they will forget. I selfishly write it for a similar reason – to remind me of what we have gone through together every step of the way.

Through this column’s 14 years, honesty has been the goal through the good and the bad. I hope it never comes across as boasting because it’s not intended to be. It’s just an open diary of sorts, and I learn something new every day about parenting.

Autism is not the parenting journey I would have picked if given a choice. Nobody would intentionally choose this difficult life. Naturally, I do have moments of anger and pity at times, but there’s never regret. My frustrations, at times, arise more over my own inability and shortcomings to always help Carson.

It’s never about him. There are many instances in life when choices are not ours to make because of the difficulties of our individual journey. I believe God made the decision to put Autism in our lives through Carson. The fact he was adopted at birth only deepens our faith he’s with us for a reason.

On our bad days, I occasionally reflect about what Carson’s life will be like without Pam and me. He has our heart and our focus. We are as committed to him today as we were when we walked

out of that rural hospital in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. in November of 2009. We sensed something different about him from the beginning when compared to his brother who was born 19 months earlier in West Chester, Pa. Some signs were presented even if we didn’t understand what they meant.

I knew next to nothing about Autism and the special needs world back then.

I have learned a ton along the way and our teacher has been our kid. The best lesson I have taken from Carson is the importance of living day to day. Each morning represents a new start. It’s how he seems to approach his life and I admire and emulate that. It requires flexibility on his family’s part.

Let’s take Tuesday morning for example. It was the day after Halloween and he was not right. He would not get out of bed for school. He was awake but he would not do anything. It was frustrating me because we were running late. All the tricks that typically work to get him jumpstarted were unsuccessful.

It was as if he was sick, which he said was not the case. He just didn’t want to get moving and go to school. He was exhausted.

Pam and I ultimately decided forcing this issue would not result in an unproductive day at school. The challenges seen in school have already been worrisome and we opted to give him a personal day at home. The day off came with an acknowledgement it was a special occasion. The next day he got up for school without any trouble. I was proud of for being flexible with him but then upset later with him when he had some terrible and poor behaviors at school.

The day sums up life with him. It’s a journey for certain but it all centers on pride because he has overcome more in his young life than anyone I know.

(The writer is the publisher and editor of The Dispatch. He and his wife, Pamela, are proud parents of two boys. This weekly column examines their transition into parenthood and all that goes along with it. E-mail any thoughts to editor@mdcoastdispatch. com.)

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November 4, 2022