Dec. 20

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Serving Greater Delmarva Since 1984

December 13, 2019

www.mdcoastdispatch.com

Council Approves Parking Changes

See Page 4 • Photo by Chris Parypa

Long-Time Football Coach To Retire

Local Parade Fun: The annual Christmas parades in Berlin and Ocean City were held last week. Above, the

Assateague Coast Kids entry of an octopus made of reusable plastic bags took the top youth sponsored float honor in Berlin. Below, the Ocean City Elementary School entry won best float in the resort parade. See pages 29 and 34 for more Photos by Charlene Sharpe, above, and Steve Green pictures.

See Page 8 • Submitted Photo

Emergency Response Times Discussed

See Page 13 • Photo by Chris Parypa

Cutest Pet Of The Month The winner of last month’s Cutest Pet of the Month Contest was Sophie, a 9-yearold terrier mix owned by Nancy Hendricks. See page 59 for this month’s contestants.

Submitted Photo

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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December 13, 2019

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Council Agrees To Changes In Paid Parking

December 13, 2019

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

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OCEAN CITY – Elected officials this week approved the parking task force’s recommendations to hike some rates during the peak season while offering concessions in the shoulder months, though they are open to further discussions in the future about expanded paid parking.

Everything was on the table when the task force appointed by the Mayor and Council last year began exploring options to gain more revenue and improve efficiency for the resort’s existing parking system. One stated objective was tweaking the hourly parking rate structure in areas where paid parking already existed including the Inlet lot, onstreet in the downtown areas and in the various municipal lots.

The “thornier” objective, as City Engineer Terry McGean referred to it, was exploring the possibility of expanding on-street paid parking. As it stands now, paid parking is mostly confined to the Inlet lot, the municipal lots in the downtown area and on the streets south of 10th Street. After multiple meetings last spring before reconvening this fall, the task force had before it options that could have expanded onstreet paid parking in the ocean block from 11th to 33rd streets or perhaps even from 34th Street to the Delaware line.

However, while the task force recommended tweaking the existing pay structure in areas where paid parking already exists, it voted not to explore more paid on-street parking at this time.

On Tuesday, the Mayor and Council approved nearly all task force recommendations, although the majority of the elected officials left the door open for future renewed discussions on expanding paid on-street parking.

By way of background, paid parking is currently in effect from April 1 through Oct. 31. The current flat rate is $2 per hour in the municipal lots and on the street and $3 per hour at the Inlet lot.

Option C, ultimately recommended by the task force and approved by the Mayor and Council on Tuesday, will nudge those hourly rates slightly higher, but would give something back to the consumer through free parking at the Inlet lot, the municipal lots and on the street where paid parking already exists below 10th Street.

In simplest terms, the goal of the task force’s undertaking is to explore ways to increase revenue from parking to help offset growing budget demands and shift some of the responsibility for mainSEE PAGE 26

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Extending Summer Weekends A Goal For Ocean City

December 13, 2019

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Expanding the resort’s stranglehold on weekend summer travel was a topic of discussion this week during the Ocean City Tourism Commission meeting.

During Monday’s meeting, Bob Rothermel of TEAM Productions outlined the proposed special events calendar for next summer and the discussion inevitably came back around to how to expand weekday visitor numbers. With close proximity to several major metropolitan areas within a few hours drive, Ocean City has dominated the weekend summer travel market in the region, but it’s no secret the resort still struggles to fill in the weekdays through much of the summer.

A report released last month confirmed as much with a survey revealing the average stay is just two-and-a-half days. During Monday’s meeting, Councilman John Gehrig suggested chipping away at that ominous number by finding a way to promote the midweek dates.

“I’d like to get that average length of stay from two-and-a-half days to three-and-a-half days,” he said. “I know that doesn’t sound like much, but that would be a 20% increase.”

Gehrig said figuring a way to increase visitor numbers during the week could start with promoting Thursday as a means to start the weekend early.

“We need to figure out a way to extend the weekend, so maybe we need a weekend kick-off party of some sort on Thursday nights,” he said. “We already own the weekends, so let’s brainstorm and figure out how to extend it. It could be beach concerts punctuated by fireworks or something like that. Let’s figure out how to market ‘summer rules’ and encourage people to take Friday off.”

Gehrig said ramping up Thursday with some special events coupled with deals from lodging establishments could result in an uptick for extended weekends.

“It would be a way to kick off the weekend early,” he said. “Let’s reclaim Friday night and figure out how to get some action on Thursday. We always talk about increasing weekday visitor numbers, so let’s start with Thursday and work back from there. We already dominate the weekends.”

There was some discussion about the timing for the proposed Thursday weekend kick-off events. Councilman and tourism commission chair Matt James said later might be better if the goal is encouraging people to start their weekends on Thursdays.

SEE NEXT PAGE

… Officials Weigh Alternative Bay Bridge Route Promotion

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

“We’re talking about marketing this as take off Friday and start your weekends early,” he said. “Maybe later is better because they will be leaving work and coming here on a Thursday.”

The tourism commission was generally receptive to the idea and directed Special Events Director Frank Miller and Tourism Director Donna Abbott to work with Rothermel to begin exploring some potential Thursday event packages. Even some potential catch phrases were bandied about.

City Manager Doug Miller suggested “Thursday is the new Friday,” while Abbott suggested “Make Casual Friday Really Casual.”

Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association Executive Director Susan Jones said her organization has been closely following the ongoing re-decking project on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, which has snarled weekend travel for many visitors to the resort in recent weeks. Although the project is slated to be suspended during the summer months, Jones said it could be utilized as part of the come early, stay late weekend marketing strategy for Ocean City.

“I think this is a great idea,” she said. “We’ve been talking about the Bay Bridge and encouraging people to

Page 7

come early and this ties right into that.”

In terms of the Bay Bridge project in real time, commission member Michael James said it is already causing an impact on offseason visitor numbers in the resort.

“It’s imperative that we learn how long it will go on,” he said. “We’ve heard March, April and even May. I know so many people that have gotten stuck in back-ups. I’ve had friends tell me they aren’t coming down because they don’t want to deal with it.”

Mayor Rick Meehan said he has made recent trips to the state’s western shore utilizing the roundabout way through Delaware and down Route 95.

He suggested a marketing campaign illustrating that route as a means to avoid the Bay Bridge altogether.

“I think we need to promote there is another way to Ocean City,” he said.

“It is an easy trip and they are great roads. It really is a pleasant trip.”

Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce Executive Director and CEO Melanie Pursel agreed the alternative route could be marketed.

“Maybe we need a concentrated effort to promote the alternative route,” she said. “Maybe we can get the right message out there and turn a negative situation into a positive one.”

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Long-Time SD Football Coach’s Career Celebrated

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 13, 2019

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

Pictured, seated from left, are Stephen Decatur Athletic Director Don Howard, retiring Coach Bob Knox and Principal Tom Sites; standing, county Athletics Supervisor Tyrone Mills, Chief Safety Officer Steve Price and Superintendent Lou Taylor.

Photo by Shawn Soper

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BERLIN – After three decades-plus on the sidelines under the bright Friday night lights at Stephen Decatur, longtime fixture Bob Knox on Tuesday announced he was stepping down as head football coach at the Berlin school where he has taught for 46 years.

Knox’s announcement came during a brief and solemn press conference on Tuesday at Decatur. Knox began teaching history at Decatur 46 years ago and started as an assistant football coach before taking over the reins in 1983. In the 36 years since, Knox has compiled a 237-154 record at Decatur and led the Seahawks to 10 state playoff appearances including two trips to the state semifinals.

In 2018, Knox was inducted into the Maryland Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame during a special ceremony at the University of Maryland.

He is among the top 20 all-time for high school football wins in Maryland and at the time of his induction into the Hall of Fame, his 232 wins ranked him second among active coaches in the state.

Decatur Principal Tom Sites led off Tuesday’s press conference with a brief introduction, but those few in the room were familiar with the subject matter.

“This has been a long time coming,” said Sites. “Bob has been here 46 years including 35 as head coach and we’re sad to see him leave. His legacy will last around here for many, many years.”

Worcester County Public Schools Superintendent Lou Taylor played football for Knox as a student and later became an assistant coach and ultimately principal at Stephen Decatur.

“As a former player and a former assistant coach for 11 years and as a former principal, today is a bittersweet day for this school and this entire community,” he said. “It’s been an honor and a privilege to be a part of this for all of these years.”

For his part, Knox was his typical, humble self during the proceedings.

While soft-spoken would never be used to describe Knox on the football sideline, or in the classroom for that matter, he was decidedly sullen during the announcement on Tuesday.

“It’s been an honor and a pleasure to be the head coach at Decatur,” he said. “I’ve seen a lot of changes over the years and all of them have been positive.”

Knox said he knew the time was right after some soul searching, consulting with his family and even listmaking. He considered stepping down SEE NEXT PAGE

… knox; ‘it’s Been an Honor, a pleasure’

December 13, 2019

four years ago when his grandson was ill and did take a season off, but returned for three more seasons.

“Four years ago, when my grandson got sick, I sat down and made a list of all of the things I enjoyed the most about this job including interacting with the kids, game days, the atmosphere on Friday nights and all of those things, and I also made a list of some of things I didn’t completely enjoy -- the tedious administrative kinds of things,” he said.

“At that time, the first list far outweighed the second list. In the last year, I revisited those lists and talked it over with my wife and I just think now is the time.”

Knox said he told his players of his decision last week. He will continue to teach history at Decatur, and while he won’t be wearing the headset on Friday nights, he won’t stray far from the program he has nurtured for three decades-plus.

“It’s been a great ride,” he said. “All of those Friday nights on the sidelines are what I will miss the most. I’ll be around. I’m not going anywhere. It’s just time to spend more time with my family.”

While he has been amassing wins and making trips to the state playoffs for 30-plus years, Knox said it has always been about his young players.

“As you all know, I’m old school,” he said. “I’m the same way in the classroom and you have to adjust and adapt to the times. The things kids need the most from sports, things like respect, responsibility and teamwork, all of those are ingredients of football and I hope I have instilled those things in my players over the years.”

Knox has assuredly implanted those attributes in his young players over the years, attributes that likely carried over for generations for more than a few of his former players. After three decades on the sidelines, many of Knox’s former players had sons and nephews come through the program.

Knox’s list of favorite moments on the sidelines at Decatur for three decades-plus were too numerous to mention, but he did recall one from the 1980s that was particularly memorable. Knox said old rival Bennett was on a two-year unbeaten streak including two state championships and faced Decatur when the teams were number one and number two in the standings.

“It was tied at 0-0 late in the game and we got an interception return for a touchdown to win the game 6-0 and end their streak,” he said. “I had a young assistant up in the press box to be my eyes in the sky and he ran down the stands, ran across the field and leaped into my arms. That assistant coach was Lou Taylor.”

Knox and Taylor are intrinsically linked in Decatur football lore. When the new turf field was installed this year, former Seahawk Stadium was renamed the Robert G. Knox Field at Louis H. Taylor Stadium.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 9

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Resort Police To Request More Cameras Off Boardwalk

Page 10

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – A proposal to expand the City Watch surveillance camera system received a favorable recommendation from the town’s police commission this week.

In the interest of public safety, the Ocean City Police Commission voted unanimously this week to forward a request from Police Chief Ross Buzzuro to expand the City Watch program to the Mayor and Council with a favorable recommendation.

“This is the way of the future and we

have to be proactive,” Mayor Rick Meehan said. “If our chief is requesting that and it will assist the department, I think we should support his request.”

Nearly six years ago, the town developed its City Watch surveillance camera system. Buzzuro said since that time the program has become a valuable asset for law enforcement and emergency services.

Last summer, for example, the City Watch program was credited with the apprehension of a suspect wanted in connection with a double stabbing on the Boardwalk. Officials added the system is frequently used in the sum-

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mer months to locate lost children.

“The Boardwalk is covered in terms of cameras in the City Watch program,” Buzzuro said. “It’s worked very, very well.”

To that end, a request was made this week to expand the program.

“Our vision is to see the expansion, the next phase, cover Baltimore Avenue and move west and north, and take it from there incrementally in phases moving forward,” Buzzuro said. “I can tell you there is a great deal of upside. It’s additional eyes and ears 24/7 … Whether it’s 105 degrees or 5 degrees, those cameras generally don’t shut down from the task they’ve been given. Whether it’s before an incident happens, during an incident or after an incident, the cameras have been very useful to us as a resource.”

Emergency Services Director Joe Theobald supported the expansion.

“We’re covered very well on the Boardwalk at this point, and it’s time to start moving west and covering Baltimore, getting up to the 3rd Street corridor and some of the alleyways,” he said. “It’s proven itself, it’s on 24/7, and it’s made a difference.”

Meehan noted the expansion would become a budgetary issue moving forward. But he said efforts to grow the City Watch program aligned with the town’s focus on public safety.

“We talked about it even in the strategic planning …,” he said. “Public

December 13, 2019

safety is our number one priority.”

Buzzuro said between 10 and 15 camera locations have been identified through site surveys. He said the expansion would also include streets between the Boardwalk and Baltimore Avenue.

“There are countless success stories and we want to continue on with the next phase, or phases, to increase the City Watch program …,” he said. “We know from a technology standpoint and from a fiber standpoint we have the ability to move forward.”

The commission this week also approved a request from the owners of Red Red Wine Bar and Dry 85 to close a section of 48th Street east of Coastal Highway to accommodate its second annual block party.

The temporary road closure – scheduled for March 14 – will coincide with the Ocean City St. Patrick’s Day Parade and will include road closure and crowd control barriers, traffic access at 47th and 49th streets, extra parking, and an extension of the premises for serving patrons.

“We are asking for the same thing we asked for last year, a partial shutdown of 48th Street for a limited time on St. Patrick’s Day parade day,” owner Brian Bolter said. “It went super smooth last year.”

With the commission’s approval, the traffic regulation will go before the Mayor and Council on Dec. 16.

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Berlin Building Permits Hit New Heights This Year

December 13, 2019

A new home construction site is pictured in Berlin this week.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – A record number of permits and nearly double the number of new homes built over last year have kept the town’s planning department busy in 2019.

Berlin Planning Director Dave Engelhart said this week his department had permitted 10 new single-family homes and issued a total of 236 permits so far this calendar year.

“I think it’s a function of the economy,” Engelhart said.

Engelhart, who with permit coordinator Carolyn Duffy makes up the entire planning department, says they’ve been kept busy this year. Engelhart said permits issued were up 21% over last year.

While permits are issued for a variety of projects, ranging from fence construction to sign installation, Engelhart said the increase didn’t come in any specific area.

“They’ve been across the board,” he said.

Ten new single-family homes were permitted in Berlin this year. There were six new homes built in 2018 and six built in 2017.

“Things have been busy,” Engelhart said. “Where there are lots, people are building on them.”

Aside from developments such as Purnell Crossing and Walnut Hill that have lots available, there are few vacant lots left in town.

“There’s not an overabundance of lots remaining,” Engelhart said.

As far as new commercial buildings, one was approved for Main Place while another, a mixed-use building, was approved for Stevenson Lane. I.G. Burton Jeep got a permit for two additions to its current building and the ongoing renovation/remodeling project at Atlantic General Hospital continues.

Engelhart said he believes construction is active in Berlin because the town has the sewer capacity for new development.

“I think we continue to be a destination, even a target, for development because we have the water and wastewater capacity other places don’t,” Engelhart said.

OCFD Response Challenges Exist

December 13, 2019

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Ocean City Fire Department (OCFD) officials presented a comprehensive five-year strategic plan this week aimed at continuing to provide timely and efficient service to the community, but the biggest takeaway was staffing and funding challenges remain.

Ocean City Fire Chief Richie Bowers presented the department’s strategic plan to the Mayor and Council on Tuesday. The comprehensive planning document outlines the department’s key objectives in several areas over the next five years and includes several goals for how to achieve those objectives.

“This is the plan going forward, barring any disaster or emergency,” he said. “It’s a road map for future success. This strategic plan will serve as a living document and a work in progress, subject to change under evolving circumstances. This strategic plan has created a framework that will guide the OCFD’s policies, budget and operations for the next five years and help ensure that the OCFD continues to provide highquality and reliable service to the community while at the same time ensuring the effective use of city resources and funds.”

While the weighty strategic plan outlines many of the department’s successes, it also points to some of the challenges that remain. Bowers pointed to the Oct. 20 fire at the Seaway condominium building as an example of some of the challenges the department faces.

“There was an incident that happened recently on which we really focused some of our efforts with this strategic plan,” he said. “Some of the challenges we face include an increased year-round population, increased incident responses and continued out-of-crew status challenges.”

The fire broke out in a condo on a rainy, windy Sunday afternoon. The OCFD responded with what resources it immediately had available with just seven crewmembers on the scene within minutes of the call.

Bowers said with a fire of that magnitude, the department has to complete 22 critical steps to begin battling a blaze and getting water on the fire.

He said those seven initial first-responders set about completing those critical steps and began fighting the fire until additional crews arrived.

“We need to operate with efficiency to maintain that four-minute response time and that hasn’t changed,” he said. “What has changed are some of the challenges we face. There are 22 critical steps to complete to begin starting to fight a fire and we do have resource challenges sometimes. It has created some gaps in our level of service sometimes.”

Bowers said those first seven crew-

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members on the scene at the Seaway fire did a remarkable job until more people arrived, but it created challenges.

“We have seven on the scene within minutes, but two of those crewmembers had to operate the pump,” he said. “That left us with only five people to complete those 22 critical on-ground steps. We got water on the fire after the flashover and they did one heck of a job, but it was a dangerous situation.”

A similar situation has been occurring with the department’s firefighterparamedic crews. In October, Bowers requested from the Mayor and Council funding for an additional three-member ambulance crew for the offseason, known as Paramedic 7. The request came after a recent review revealed there were numerous times during the offseason last year when the department had two or fewer ambulance crews available to respond to calls including 44 times when no crews were available.

The Mayor and Council approved the request at a cost of around $160,000 and the new ambulance crew became available in October.

Bowers said on Tuesday the additional crew was already achieving the desired result although challenges remain and there are still occasions when ambulance crews are stretched to the limit.

“Paramedic 7 has made a great impact, but it still hasn’t entirely fixed the problem,” he said. “We do have some gaps in town on occasion and we often have serious gaps in West Ocean City.”

Bowers said the ambulance crew response issues were largely related to the increase in the number of people in the resort area during the offseason. He also attributed the increase in number of calls to the unincorporated West Ocean City area.

There has been a 21% increase in the number calls for service in the offseason including a 13% increase in the West Ocean City area alone in the last year.

To that end, Mayor Rick Meehan last month fired off a letter to Worcester County requesting some financial assistance to serve West Ocean City or a reconfiguration of the first-due response areas in the county of a combination of both. Meehan said he has not yet had a response from the county.

“We do face funding and personnel challenges,” he said. “This is a critical department and we need to supply you with the resources you need. When we first served the West Ocean City area, it was done by volunteers, but that’s no longer possible because of the tremendous growth out there. We need to work together and follow up with that letter and see if we can make some progress. We can’t be in a position where we don’t have crews available. That’s the bottom line.”

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 13, 2019

Promoter Eyes Significant Acts For Two Summer Beach Concerts

December 13, 2019

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – While mum’s the word on potential acts, the resort’s 2020 special events package presented this week could include two significant concerts next summer.

During Monday’s Tourism Commission meeting, TEAM Productions’ Bob Rothermel outlined plans for a series of fireworks shows, special events and summer concerts potentially slated for next year. On Monday, although he played the details close to his vest, Rothermel outlined plans for two potential ticketed concerts on the beach in the downtown area.

“I have offers in for beach concerts for the first weekend in July and the last weekend in August,” he said. “Unfortunately, I can’t divulge any names at this point, but I can tell you the acts I’ve had cursory discussions with could be significant additions to the town’s special events calendar.”

Rothermel recalled a time in the 1990s when he planned to bring significant beach concerts to Ocean City as part of the larger special events calendar during the summer season. He said he was at a critical point in the contract negotiations with the major acts when he was pressed by a thencity councilmember to divulge the name and it ended up backfiring on him and the town.

“After getting pressed for a name, I gave up that it was Alan Jackson, who was extremely popular at the time,” he said. “All of the papers reported Alan Jackson was coming to Ocean City and I got a call from his agent that very day and it all fell through. That’s why I can’t publicly divulge any names at this point.”

Mayor Rick Meehan said he remembered that situation from the 1990s very well.

“We were trying to bring Alan Jackson and the Beach Boys for two different concerts, but the council at that time turned them down,” he said.

“There was such a public backlash that we were able to bring the Beach Boys back, but we never were able to bring Alan Jackson back.”

While it was too soon to divulge any names associated with the potential concerts, Rothermel said the acts with which he has had contact represented considerable draws for the resort. In the 1990s, the Beach Boys concert on the beach drew close to 10,000 and Rothermel said the tentative acts with whom he has had discussions could approach that number.

“I’m estimating each artist would draw around 6,000 to 7,000 attendees,” he said. “I’m not sure at this point if we would want to have the concerts at night or in the daylight.

When we brought in the Beach Boys

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in the 90s, we did a mid-afternoon show and people were really receptive to that.”

Rothermel said if it all worked out, he would consider bringing back the popular beach chair concept from the Beach Boys concert back in the 1990s. Attendees who paid a premium ticket price for that concert was given a beach chair for reserved seating with the artist’s name on it and the date along with the logo for the summer concert series.

“I’d like to bring back the reserved seating beach chair concept,” he said.

“We might not have the artist’s name on it, but we could have the town’s logo and the summer concert series logo.”

Meehan said those reserved seating beach chairs from the Beach Boys concert decades ago still popped up on the beach 20 years later.

“For I’d say 20 years, those chairs kept showing back up on the beach,” he said. “That’s how long people held onto them. I think that’s a great idea.”

While not finalized, the first proposed beach concert would be held during the week following the Fourth of July from July 5 to July 10 with a preferred date of Thursday, July 9.

The second ticketed beach concert is tentatively slated for the last week before Labor Day from Aug. 30 to Sept.

3 with a preferred date of Thursday, Sept. 3. The package proposed by Rothermel on Monday also includes the usual free concert at Northside Park in connection with the ArtX 2020 event on Aug. 22, but the act for that free concert has not yet been nailed down.

The summer concerts are just part of the larger package of special events proposed by Rothermel and TEAM Productions next summer. The package also includes fireworks every Sunday night in the north end of town in conjunction with the popular Sundaes in the Park event from June 14 to Sept. 6, along with fireworks in the downtown Boardwalk area every Monday night from June 15 to Sept. 7.

In addition, Rothermel on Monday proposed changes to the increasingly popular OCtoberfest events next fall.

In recent years, OCtoberfest has been spread over two weekends loosely around Halloween including the beach maze, the pumpkin races and Boardwalk pet parade along with other events.

However, because Halloween falls on a Saturday next year, Rothermel proposed consolidating the OCtoberfest events on a single weekend. The thinking is many families that typically attend the events will be trick-or-treating or going to other Halloween events on the actual holiday and consolidating the events might draw more visitors while reducing costs.

Page 15

“GHOSTS IN THE SURF” OC Looks To Join Senior Program

Page 16

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

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

• Ocean City memories from the summer of 1945 to the spring of 2019 • Over 700 photos and 340 pages

• Hardbound coffee table book with cover art by Paul McGehee • Special sections on the lost buildings of Ocean City, the March Storm of ‘62, Frontier Town, Trimpers Rides, Shanty Town, Hurricanes Gloria and Sandy, the White Marlin Open, Surfing, the Ocean City Beach Patrol, Phillips Crab House, the Commander Hotel, the Segregation Era, the Arson fires of the 1970’s, Characters and Personalities, and much more Ghosts in the Surf is available for $54.95 at select locations in Ocean City, Berlin, Ocean Pines and Salisbury.

It can also be ordered online at vanishingoceancity.com.

Visit the website for further information and photos.

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STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – Ocean City is looking to be included in a membership program that offers support services to senior citizens in northern Worcester County.

On Tuesday, the Ocean City Transportation Committee voted unanimously to write a letter to the county asking for the town to be included in the Community for Life program, which provides senior citizens an opportunity to live independently at home by offering round trips to destinations with its service area, as well as simple home repairs, telephone check-ins and more.

“It’s offered in certain parts of the county …,” Mayor Rick Meehan said.

“It’s certainly optional. So, it’s something that if it was offered to our residents, they would have the option of participating in it.”

Discussion on the Community for Life program began at last month’s committee meeting when Public Works Director Hal Adkins updated members on the city’s Medical Appointment Transportation (MEDTRN) service, which provides medical transportation services to individuals with disabilities residing in Ocean City.

The service costs $5 to board the MEDTRN vehicle, $5 to be picked up, and $5 to be returned. Through a

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memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Shore Transit, the town also receives $16 per one-way trip to cover the cost of the service. In 2018, Adkins said operating costs for the MEDTRN service totaled $15,475, while revenue totaled $17,359.

“Of that $17,359 $12,928 was a subsidy through Shore Transit, which participates in our MEDTRN program through an MOU in which they compensate us $16 per one-way trip …,” he said. “So it paints the picture that it’s revenue positive because as long as the MOU continues to exist it is revenue positive.”

Adkins, however, noted future funding challenges. The upcoming replacement of the MEDTRN vehicle, a 2009 transportation van, will have to be fully funded by the town.

To that end, officials began to explore the Community for Life program and how any expansion of the program could affect the city’s MEDTRN service before spending $76,000 on a new van.

“We were charged with the responsibility to dig into it further to gain a better understanding and then to do a comparison of what it can offer versus our MEDTRN,” Adkins told the committee this week.

Community for Life is a program of the Worcester County Commission on Aging and offers services to seniors from the Maryland-Delaware line to Newark and west of the Route 50 bridge. But Adkins said the grantfunded program is subsidized by residents who pay membership fees and services those ages 65 and older.

“The program they are running is really apples and oranges in comparison to our current MEDTRN,” he said.

“It was created to provide a greater level of service to the Worcester County seniors, not those that are ADA disabled.”

Transit Administrator Brian Connor added the program provided more than just transportation services.

“It’s way beyond taking people to medical appointments,” he said. “It’s calling you to see how you are doing.

It’s a friendship. These folks are aging in place, so it’s a relationship.”

Committee members, however, agreed the program could benefit Ocean City residents wishing to join.

Meehan said he attended a recent AARP meeting, and individuals had mentioned the Community for Life program.

“I think we should write a letter to the county asking to be included in the program with other county residents,” he said.

The committee voted unanimously to send a letter to the county seeking the town’s inclusion into the program.

“I know it started with grants on a trial basis,” Meehan said. “But if it’s going to continue, I would hope we would be included.”

Adkins told the committee the town would continue to explore options for the replacement of the MEDTRN vehicle.

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Fenwick Council Officially Opposes State Park Deal With Wind Developer

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BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

FENWICK ISLAND – In another public stance last week, officials in Fenwick Island approved a resolution opposing plans for improvements at Fenwick Island State Park in exchange for the construction of an onshore power transmission station.

Last Friday, the Fenwick Island Town Council voted unanimously to pass a resolution outlining the town’s objections to a proposed project that, if approved, would allow Orsted – a Danish offshore wind developer – to construct an onshore interconnection facility at Fenwick Island State Park in exchange for $18 million in park improvements.

Orsted is one of the two companies holding permits for offshore wind energy farms off the coast. While its Skipjack project is considered a Maryland project, and went through the Maryland Public Service Commission for regulatory approval, Orsted must bring its transmission lines ashore to connect to the power grid. To that end, the company has targeted the Delaware state park as a future home for the interconnection facility.

While the town has no say in the decision-making progress, council members have shared their objections to the proposed plans. Town officials said they were not consulted when the state of Delaware and Orsted signed a memorandum of understanding in July.

Mayor Gene Langan said town officials and representatives from the Association of Coastal Towns (ACT) met with DNREC Secretary Shawn Garvin and Governor John Carney in November. That same month, ACT fired off a letter to Garvin and Carney outlining the community’s concerns and requesting the public comment period regarding the Fenwick Island State Park project be extended.

The public comment period for the park improvement project has since been extended through Wednesday, Jan. 15. But DNREC encouraged those with comments on the wind farm to contact the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) Office of Public Affairs.

Langan said the town was making every effort to be involved in the offshore wind and park projects and to share their concerns. He noted officials also met with Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan last week in the hopes of working together.

“We haven’t been sitting on our hands with regard to the wind farm and the park,” he said.

In the resolution passed last week, the town council voiced opposition to current plans for the state park.

“Even though the Town of Fenwick

December 13, 2019

Island and its Council Members have no jurisdiction or control over the decision-making process, Council Members met with officials from DNREC, first on September 27, 2019 and again on October 2, 2019, to review plans for a partnership between DNREC and Orsted, proposing to bring power cables into Delaware from the wind turbines by way of an interconnection substation at the Fenwick Island State Park, directly adjacent to Fenwick Island town limits …,” the resolution reads. “The Fenwick Island Town Council is opposed to the current park plans as presented and the impact of those plans on adjacent Fenwick Island property owners.”

The council also called for a thorough review of the park project and the offshore wind project. While they supported the development of clean energy, they said they did not support a project that did not respect the natural environment and ocean views.

“It is important the park project and the offshore wind project be thoroughly reviewed and studied to ensure it is in the best interest of the environment, our economic vitality, and the quality of life we cherish,” the resolution reads. “The Council is concerned with the substation location in an environmentally sensitive area and with the distance of the wind turbines to Fenwick Island shores. The Town Council requests and desires input into any future revisions of the park plans, substation plans and windfarm plans. The Town Council requests that all windfarms be located so they are not visible from the Town of Fenwick Island shorelines.”

The council voted 7-0 last week to pass the resolution, which will be sent to the governor, federal and state representatives and members of the Sussex County Council.

“I think it’s a good idea to move to the U.S. senators and representatives,” Councilwoman Vicki Carmean said. “I think pretty much everybody has written something to the local officials, but I think we need to reach higher.”

Councilman Bill Weistling agreed.

“If you stop it at the federal level, then all of this is stopped,” he said. “All of our concerns are done.”

Many residents in attendance at last week’s meeting applauded the council members for their efforts.

“You worked very diligently on our behalf on this wind farm issue, and it’s really appreciated,” resident Janet Dudley-Eshbach said.

The offshore wind project, however, did have the support of some in the audience.

“I am for clean energy,” resident Mary Ellen Langan said. “I’m for windmills on land, off land. It’s a lot safer than coal and oil.”

Commission OKs Proposed East Berlin Annexation

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 19

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – The Berlin Planning Commission gave the proposed annexation of property on Route 50 a favorable recommendation this week.

On Wednesday, the commission voted 5-0 to forward a request to annex the former McDonald’s property and the Myers Tool Rental property on to the town council with a favorable recommendation.

“Our property is adjacent to and adjoining the corporate limits of Berlin,” attorney Joe Moore told the commission.

Moore, representing the owners of both parcels, told the commission that the sites were already in a growth area.

He said he’d modeled the proposed annexation agreement on the one he did a few years ago for the Royal Farms on the other side of Route 50.

He introduced Bob Mitchell, the county’s director of environmental programs, who explained that the septic system for the McDonald’s property had already failed and that the system for Myers Tool Rental would likely follow suit. He said he’d like to see both properties hooked up to the town’s water and sewer, since it was the closest public system.

“That is an area that is really in need of public service,” Mitchell said.

“It’s on borrowed time.”

Moore said the property couldn’t be redeveloped unless it did get public service.

“In order for us to get any beneficial use of this property, which is zoned commercial right now, we’re depending on the town to help us by annexing so we can have the use of those properties,” Moore added.

Resident Marie Velong asked whether the town had the EDUs (equivalent dwelling units) needed to serve the properties.

Planning Director Dave Engelhart said there was sufficient capacity and added the proposed use for the McDonald’s property, which he’s previously indicated could be an Auto Zone, would be retail and would not need many EDUs. Velong also asked if the infrastructure needed for the properties to hook up to the town’s system was already in place.

Moore said it was not but that his clients would pay for the costs associated with installing it.

“Whatever is required for us to hook up we’re going to have to pay for it,” Moore said, adding that the issue would be addressed further along in the process.

The commission voted 5-0 to send the annexation request to the town council with a favorable recommendation.

All Quiet On The Boards: A peaceful Boardwalk scene is pictured last week looking south from 14th Street.

Photo by Chris Parypa

Council Supports More Police Take-Home Vehicles

Page 20

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – An expansion of the Ocean City Police Department’s takehome vehicle program to a year-round initiative was approved this week, but not before a discussion of whether the vehicles should be new ones.

At the budget wrap-up session last spring, the Mayor and Council voted to establish a year-round take-home vehicle policy, or Saturation Patrol Program, for Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers who live within city limits. The concept is to have OCPD officers who live in town use department-issued police vehicles to and from work and its benefits are multi-fold.

On the one hand, having marked OCPD vehicles in the residential areas

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

can help deter crime in those areas. In addition, having take-home vehicles provides an incentive for officers to live in town. Finally, the take-home program can and does improve response times in the event an off-duty officer has to quickly respond to an emergency.

Currently, the saturation patrol program is strictly a winter program with four OCPD police officers who live in town taking home their vehicles while off duty. In the summer, those takehome vehicles are put back into the department’s fleet because they are needed around the clock during the peak summer season.

After the council approved an expansion of the program last year, City Manager Doug Miller, Budget Director Jennie Knapp, Procurement Manager Catrice Parsons and OCPD Lieu-

tenant Glen McIntyre came up with several options and potential funding scenarios, which were presented to the Mayor and Council on Tuesday.

The plan calls for the purchase of four new vehicles for the OCPD complete with all of the appropriate uplift kits, in-car radios and laptop computers to make them full-fledged police vehicles.

The total cost of the four new vehicles including the complete police package comes in at just under $240,000. Two funding options have been identified including over $200,000 the OCPD returned to the general fund at the end of the fiscal year when it came in under budget. The second option was drawing from the income tax surplus returned to the town from the county when the amount came in over budget.

After hearing the presentation, the

December 13, 2019

council appeared poised to approve the proposal with little further discussion.

“We’ve discussed this a long time,” said Council President Lloyd Martin. “I think everybody on the council agrees with it. It makes sense to do this if the cost is right.”

Councilman Dennis Dare, long an advocate for an expanded take-home policy, agreed.

“It enhances public safety in town,” he said. “It also encourages employees to live in town and it can reduce response times for some of our responders. It just has a lot of upside.”

While he supported the expanded program, Councilman John Gehrig said it was his understanding the take-home vehicles would be existing OCPD vehicles nearing the end of their useful life as full police patrol vehicles.

“My thinking is when vehicles get into retirement phase, they become the take-home vehicles,” he said.

“When we need to replace them, we replace them. As it stands now, the officers drive to work and drive home in their own vehicles.”

However, McIntyre said the new vehicles were needed because the takehome vehicles had to be ready-to-go police vehicles. He said the take-home vehicles were not to be used to run to the grocery store or to the movies because the officers could be called into service.

“We’re buying four vehicles for this program,” he said. “I can’t dumb down the vehicle to save on the expense because they will be full police vehicles.

If they’re in an OCPD vehicle, they are obligated to respond, even if they are on their way to or from work and they come upon an incident. We can’t have people out there in substandard and unsafe vehicles. They aren’t just shells with OCPD logos on them.”

Gehrig questioned if the existing vehicles in the fleet could be moved into the take-home program.

In terms of determining when an OCPD vehicle is nearing the end of its useful life as a full-fledged active vehicle, Parsons said there were many variables.

“You can’t look at a vehicle in terms of the number of years,” she said. “It’s the mileage and the idle time. Some have less than 100,000 miles on them, but might have 200,000 miles of idle time. I just don’t want anyone to think we’re getting rid of vehicles before they reach the end of their useful life.”

Councilman Tony DeLuca said it was his understanding expanding the take-home program would not require new vehicles.

“I’m going to vote for this and I support it, but I agree with John,” he said.

“When this was discussed, I wasn’t aware it would require new vehicles. It always seems like we need another $200,000 for something.

The council voted 7-0 to approve the purchase of the four new police vehicles and agreed to utilize the income tax windfall to pay for them.

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 21

Page 22

22nd Annual Chili Cook-Off Will Boost Holiday Spirit For Many

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 13, 2019

Pickles Pub repeated as this year’s first place and best in show winners. Pictured, from left, are kitchen manager Keil June, Colin Topping, owners Brittney and Justin Acita and David Casteel.

Photos by Terri French

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

WEST OCEAN CITY – For the second year in a row, Pickles Pub took first place and best in show in the 22nd Annual Hots for Tots Chili CookOff at the Greene Turtle in West Ocean City on Sunday, but the real winner was the local community and its typical generosity.

For the record, Pickles Pub repeated as first-place winners at the Hots for Tots Chili Cook-Off at the Greene Turtle in West Ocean City on Sunday and also won best in show for its display and set-up. Ocean’s 13 took second place and the Lazy

River Saloon, located at Frontier Town, finished third in the ballots collected from the hundreds on hand who sampled chili offered by all of the contestants.

Hosted by HergGroup Horizon and the Greene Turtle West staff, the 22nd annual event raised over $2,000 along with a mountain of unwrapped toys collected for the Toys for Tots program. Attendees were asked to make a $10 donation at the door or bring an unwrapped toy.

In addition, the event included a One Warm Coat donation sponsored by the local Absolut Vodka distributor, during which dozens of new or gently used coats were collected.

Event coordinators and support staff Boz Jefferson, Bethany Didricksen, Rick Coleman, Chad Rogers, Worcester GOLD executive director Sandy Sipes, Joel Feldman, Tracy Lynch, Sam Woodley, Lydia Woodley and Cori Butler are pictured outside collecting donations from attendees last Sunday.

OPA Board Extends GM Viola’s Contract

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Eastern Shore Physical Therapy New Arthritis Workshop Find Out The Answers To The Following:

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN PINES – The Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors approved a two-and-a-half-year contract extension for General Manager John Viola last week.

The board voted unanimously to approve a contract extension with Viola, who has led the association since April, at its latest meeting. In an interview this week, Viola said he got his first glimpse of the Ocean Pines management team during a stint as chief financial officer two years ago and was happy to continue serving the association.

“I saw what a great team we had and I wanted to be part of that team,” he said. “I love Ocean Pines. I live here and I love the people.”

After naming Viola temporary general manager in April, the board approved a six-month agreement with him in June. His new contract runs to June 30, 2022. According to a news release issued by the association, the contract is similar to the one the Novak ConsultJOHN VIOLA ing Group developed for the last general manager except for the fact Viola waived medical benefits to save the association money.

Viola, a New York native, has been an Ocean Pines homeowner for nine years. Prior to moving to Ocean Pines he worked in the private sector as a certified public accountant.

In Ocean Pines, Viola served as chairman of the budget and finance advisory committee for four years and also served on a volunteer basis as the association’s chief financial officer.

Since becoming general manager, he’s focused on improving the association’s finances. The last monthly financial report showed the association more than $550,000 ahead of budget.

“Financially, we’re showing what we can do for the people,” he said.

Viola is also making the most of local expertise. He’s created work groups made up of knowledgeable staff as well as community residents with skills in particular areas to study issues such as employee compensation, building a new golf clubhouse and expanding the police station.

“We’re getting stuff done,” he said.

“It’s a team effort across the board.”

Doug Parks, president of the association, said Viola’s efforts were appreciated.

“We’ve mutually agreed to terms and we’re very, very happy to have John continue on in his role in Ocean Pines,” he said. “We’ve already seen the success of the partnership he’s forged with the Ocean Pines workforce and the board and I are very anxious to continue that, and maintain not only the progress we’ve already made, but to continue our planning for the future.”

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Cops & Courts The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Woman Kicks Ill Man OCEAN CITY – An Ocean City woman was charged with assault last week after allegedly kicking a reportedly terminally ill local man in the stomach during a dispute.

Around 6:50 p.m. last Wednesday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer patrolling in the downtown area observed a male individual banging on the door at fire department headquarters on 15th Street. The officer approached the individual, who reportedly told police his friends were fighting in a unit at a nearby apartment complex.

The officer responded to the apartment and found multiple individuals in the residence. The officer learned an assault had occurred and made contact with the male victim. The victim told police he and his girlfriend, who OCPD officers were familiar with as Rebecca Cakar, 47, of Ocean City, were arguing and that Cakar had kicked him in the stomach. The victim told police Cakar had first kicked him, and then began punching and kicking him until others in the room pulled her off of him.

OCPD officers interviewed Cakar’s daughter, who told police the couple had been in a verbal argument before Cakar began attacking him by punching him and kicking him in the stomach. The witness told police she called a taxi for Cakar and asked her to leave the residence.

Meanwhile, the victim told police he has stage four pancreatic cancer. According to police reports, the officer knew from previous encounters with the victim his doctors had told him he only had a few months to live. The officer reportedly knew the victim had been admitted to hospice care, but advised he did not want to live the last few months of his life in hospice.

According to police reports, the victim told the officer the strikes to his stomach caused him internal pain and the officer noted in his report the victim moved about the apartment slowly with a pained expression on his face.

Based on the evidence and witness testimony, Cakar was charged with second-degree assault.

Bar Melee Ends In Arrest OCEAN CITY – A Pocomoke man was arrested last weekend after allegedly trashing a downtown Ocean City bar and scrapping with employees.

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Around 8:20 p.m. last Saturday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer responded to Somerset Street for a reported disorderly male who refused to leave an establishment. As the officer arrived, he was flagged down by a female patron outside the bar along with a bartender who had called police. The bartender reportedly asked the officer to assist him in removing an intoxicated male who was fighting with an employee and refusing to leave.

According to police reports, the officer observed a bar security staffer holding the suspect, later identified as Joseph Edwards, 56, down on the floor of the bar. Several bar patrons told police Edwards had tried to assault the security staffer when he had been asked to leave.

The officer reportedly told Edwards to calm down and asked the security staffer to let Edwards up from the floor.

When the bouncer let Edwards up, Edwards immediately swung his arm and struck the bouncer in the side with a closed fist. Edwards was reportedly screaming obscenities and the bouncer and the police officer took him back to the ground.

At that point, Edwards was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct and assault on the bouncer. According to police reports, the bouncer later told the officer he did not wish to pursue charges, but merely wanted Edwards out of the bar and not to come back.

Bar staffers told the officer prior to the police being called, Edwards had broken a bar stool and swept and knocked several drinks off the bar and onto the floor. When he was asked to leave, Edwards became combative with employees, which is when the po-

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lice were called.

OCPD officers got Edwards out of the bar and attempted to load him into a patrol car for transport, but he continued to resist and scream obscenities, according to police reports. The bar manager came out and issued another trespass warning to Edwards, who reportedly threatened the manager and continued to scream obscenities. Edwards was ultimately subdued and charged with disorderly conduct and other counts.

Hotel Eviction Leads To Arrest OCEAN CITY – A Delaware man was arrested on multiple charges last week after being found with a weapon and drugs during an eviction from a hotel room.

Around 3 p.m. last Tuesday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer was dispatched to a hotel on 11th Street for a reported disturbance.

The officer met with hotel employees who advised two men had been staying in a unit on the fifth floor for two days and were supposed to check out last Tuesday by 11 a.m. When the employees went to check on the room, the two men became belligerent and refused to leave, according to police reports.

The employees called police and advised they wanted the two men evicted. The OCPD officer responded to the hotel room and made contact with a suspect later identified as Michael Gardiner, 28, of Delaware City, Del. According to police reports, Gardiner first provided a different name to the officer and a background check revealed the name provided was wanted on an outstanding warrant for drug-re-

December 13, 2019 lated charges and resisting arrest in Elkton, Md. While the OCPD officer was speaking with Gardiner, he reportedly observed him wearing multiple necklaces, one of which included a knife concealed in a plastic cover. The knife necklace was partially concealed by the other necklaces and a scarf Gardiner was wearing, according to police reports.

Meanwhile, information to the officer by Ocean City Communications led the officer to believe he was not interviewing the suspect with the name and date of birth provided by Gardiner.

At that point, Gardiner was taken into custody for carrying a concealed deadly weapon and on suspicion of providing a false name to police in order to conceal his identity.

During a search incident to the arrest, the officer located a key chain around Gardiner’s neck containing a small metal vial. In the vial, the officer located five blue pills that turned out to be amphetamines and alprazolam, which are considered controlled dangerous substances.

According to police reports, Gardiner continued to maintain he was the person he said he was. Through further investigation, it was learned the name provided by Gardiner belonged to a man wanted on active warrant in Cecil County and a fugitive warrant in Delaware for being involved in a burglary during which he was armed with an explosive deadly weapon.

After police accurately identified Gardiner, he was charged with carrying a concealed dangerous weapon, making a false statement to police concerning his identity, knowingly and willingly assuming the identity of another individual and possession of CDS.

Traffic Stop Then Charges OCEAN CITY – A local woman was arrested on multiple charges last week after getting pulled over for a routine traffic violation and allegedly scrapping with police attempting to question her.

Around 2 p.m. last Thursday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer patrolling in the area of 59th Street observed a vehicle with a crack on the driver’s side of the windshield, which was reportedly obstructing the driver’s field of vision. The officer pulled SEE NEXT PAGE

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the vehicle over and determined the crack was 10 to 12 inches in length.

When the officer made contact with the driver, later identified as Jazmine Snell, 21, of Ocean City, he detected an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle, according to police reports. As a result, the officer asked Snell to exit the vehicle, but she refused and said, “you’re not searching my car,” according to police reports. Snell reportedly refused to step out of the vehicle at last three different times, stating “I’m not getting out of the car,” and “you can’t make me get out of the car.”

The officer reportedly asked Snell to turn off the vehicle’s ignition for safety purposes and to keep her from leaving the scene, but she refused multiple times. Another officer arrived on the scene and opened the vehicle’s passenger side door and attempted to reach across to turn off the ignition.

According to police reports, Snell forcibly pushed the officer’s arm away to prevent him from reaching over to the driver’s side of the vehicle.

At that point, the initial officer on the scene forcibly pulled Snell from the vehicle and ordered her to put her hands behind her back. As the officer attempted to put handcuffs on Snell, she reportedly pulled away and twisted her body to the point OCPD officers had to push her to the ground in order to gain control of her. A search of the vehicle turned up a baggie of marijuana.

A background check revealed Snell’s Delaware driver’s license was suspended. The check also revealed Snell had been cited for driving while suspended four times in the last year. All in all, Snell was charged with second-degree assault, obstructing and hindering, resisting arrest and multiple traffic violations. According to police reports, when Snell was advised she was being charged, she said “Don’t charge me with assault,” and “I’m driving without a license, but I didn’t assault anyone.”

Bridge Collision Arrest OCEAN CITY – An Ocean City man was arrested on multiple charges last week after allegedly running into the Route 50 bridge while intoxicated and later being found in possession of a knife.

Around 6:20 p.m. last Saturday, Ocean City Communications broadcasted information about a possibly intoxicated driver who had struck the Route 50 bridge. A description of the vehicle was provided and an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer located the suspected drunk driver stopped in an alley near 14th Street.

The officer followed the vehicle until it stopped at a red light on 13th Street facing east in the westbound lane. The officer approached the vehicle and identified the driver as Byron Maghan, Jr., 49, of Harper’s Ferry, W.Va. When the officer approached, he detected a strong odor of alcohol coming from the vehicle, according to police reports.

Maghan told police he was heading to a hotel on 112th Street, but the

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch name of the hotel he provided was not on 112th Street. Maghan reportedly told the officer he had not had any alcohol. During the interaction, the officer observed a knife protruding from Maghan’s pocket and took possession of it for safety reasons.

Maghan did not complete field sobriety tests to the officer’s satisfaction and was taken into custody on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. He was ultimately charged with driving while impaired and driving under the influence, possession of a dangerous weapon and other traffic offenses.

Jail For Choking Incident OCEAN CITY – An Ocean City man, arrested in October after strangling his girlfriend at a resort residence, pleaded guilty to second-degree assault last week and was sentenced to 29 days in jail.

Around 12:10 a.m. on Oct. 24, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer responded to a residence on 5th Street for a reported assault that had already occurred. As the officer approached the unit, he could hear a male and a female arguing inside, according to police reports. The officer knocked on the door and a male suspect, later identified as George Ruark, Jr., 36, of Ocean City, answered and let he and other officers in.

OCPD officers entered the unit and observed the female victim on an exterior porch still on the phone with Ocean City Communications. As an OCPD officer walked through the unit, he observed a wooden end table that was broken, glass dishes broken on the floor and several empty beer cans strewn throughout, according to police reports.

The officer spoke with the female victim, who told police she was in bed attempting to sleep while Ruark was on the couch in the living room drinking, which he had been doing all day, according to the victim. The victim reportedly told police Ruark came into the bedroom to demand money and more alcohol.

The victim told police she brought up Ruark communicating with other women on social media and he began enraged and began smacking her.

The victim told the officer Ruark then grabbed her by the neck and began strangling her. The victim told police she was unable to breathe and that her vision was starting to go dark.

The victim reportedly told police Ruark had screamed he was going to kill her. Only after the victim was able to scratch Ruark’s neck was she able to free herself from his grasp. The victim had red marks and abrasions consistent with being choked, according to police reports. She was taken to Atlantic General Hospital to be evaluated.

OCPD officers then interviewed Ruark, who was still on the couch in the living room. Ruark admitted to police he was drunk and had scratch marks on his neck consistent with the victim’s story. Based on the evidence and testimony, Ruark was arrested and charged with first- and second-degree assault. Last week, he pleaded guilty to second-degree assault and was sentenced to 29 days in jail.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

FROM PAGE 4 taining the beach and Boardwalk to the day-trippers, all while keeping a paid parking fee schedule fair and palatable to all consumers.

Under the approved plan, parking at the Inlet lot would be free during the week from Monday to Thursday in April and May and again in October. The hourly rate at the Inlet lot on weekends in those shoulder months would be $3, while the hourly rate would go to $3.50 per hour in June, July, August and September.

At the municipal lots and existing onstreet paid parking areas, the same formula would be applied. In those areas, parking would be free during the week in the shoulder seasons and $2 per hour on the weekends. The hourly rate would then jump to $3 per hour in June, July, August and September. The recommendations would result in an estimated $980,000 in new net parking revenue.

Councilman Mark Paddack thanked McGean and the task force for its diligence in reaching the recommenda-

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tions, but said the resulting 141-page report with several options for each facet of the city’s paid parking system needed more review. He made a motion to table the discussion and bring it back to a future work session for further review. That motion died for lack of a second.

Councilman Matt James then made a motion to accept the task force recommendations, a motion seconded by Councilman Tony DeLuca. Before any vote was taken, however, McGean pointed out the task force, albeit a rather small sampling of its membership, had voted not to consider expanding paid parking to areas where it does not already exist. McGean said that decision would ultimately fall on the Mayor and Council.

“The task force did not recommend expanding parking beyond where it already exists,” he said. “There are no more task force meetings slated and the committee is basically done.

Everything else is up to the Mayor and Council.”

Council Secretary Mary Knight, who served on the task force, pointed out a slim majority of the members voted not to recommend any consideration of expanded paid parking at this time. When the question was called at the last task force meeting, the vote was 4-2 with one abstention not to recommend ex-

December 13, 2019

panding paid parking.

“Just for the record, there wasn’t always a quorum,” she said. “To be honest, I was often on the losing side.”

Councilman Dennis Dare, who also served on the task force, agreed the 4-2 vote not to expand paid parking was not exactly a mandate. For the record, Dare was the one abstention, not because he favored expanding paid parking, but rather because he did not want to shut the door on it entirely.

“There were 14 voting members on the task force including three from the council,” he said. “Four people voted not to expand paid parking anywhere. I don’t think that’s conclusive.”

DeLuca appeared to be taken aback when he learned the task force recommendations presented on Tuesday were final and the committee was not scheduled to convene any more meetings.

“I think this shouldn’t be the end of it,” he said. “I think we need to consider expanding paid parking in 2020 and 2021.

Maybe the task force reconvenes, or maybe we do it as the Mayor and Council. I just don’t think the task force should be one and done.”

Dare said the three pillars of resort’s transportation system were parking, mass transit and the roadways and that SEE NEXT PAGE

… Free Weekly Parking Planned For Spring, Fall

December 13, 2019

they were each intricately linked. He praised the task force recommendations, particularly the section about tweaking the existing rate structure, but said the door should not be slammed shut on expanding paid parking in the future.

“I think the task force accomplished quite a bit and it was a worthwhile exercise,” he said. “As far as the part about not expanding paid parking, maybe it’s not the right idea right now, but it could be in the future. I’m not sure we should dismiss it.”

Dare said the point of the exercise all along was to explore ways for the daytrippers, or those who use the beach and Boardwalk perhaps the most, to share in the growing cost of their upkeep and maintenance.

“The beach and Boardwalk cost $4.8 million to protect and maintain annually,” he said. “That’s six cents on the property tax rate. Maybe that segment of the population that uses those amenities the most should step up and pay their share. As it stands now, that’s a cost borne by the property tax and the room tax.”

The motion to approve the task force recommendations was still on the floor, but before any vote could be taken, Knight questioned the Park-and-Ride component. As part of the effort to give something back to the consumers while hiking the parking rates slightly, the task force recommended eliminating the $3 shuttle rate from the Park-and-Ride into Ocean City, with the exception of the major special events.

That measure would cost the city an estimated $80,000 in revenue from the shuttle fees, reducing the overall estimated net revenue from the task force recommendations to $900,000.

“I’d like to vote on the motion while taking the section about the Park-andRide out,” she said. “I don’t feel there is a real incentive to make the Park-andRide shuttle free. I’d like to talk about that part some more.”

After considerable debate, the council voted unanimously to take out the section regarding the Park-and-Ride shuttle for future consideration and approve the rest of the task force recommendations. However, the elected officials did want future discussions on expanding paid parking.

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Berlin Mulls Small Changes For Next Year’s 50th Parade

Page 28

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 13, 2019

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – In the wake of another successful Berlin Christmas Parade, officials praised those who worked behind the scenes to make it happen.

At Monday’s meeting of the town council, officials thanked the law enforcement agencies, town staff and the more than 40 volunteers that made the annual event possible.

“I’d like to say thank you to all of the volunteers and everyone who helped assist with the wonderful Christmas parade we had on Thursday with zero incidents,” said Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director. “It was a really awesome parade.”

Councilman Dean Burrell said he’d heard nothing but positive comments about the parade.

“Folks say Berlin has the best parade in the area,” he said.

Burrell asked if the parade could be televised in the future.

“My neighbor is homebound,” he said. “She said to me it really would be good if she would be able to watch the parade on TV.”

Berlin Mayor Gee Williams is pictured in last Thursday’s Christmas Parade, which attracted thousands to Berlin for the annual tradition.

Photos by Charlene Sharpe

Wells said that WBOC had filmed the parade the last three years and that it could be viewed on the station’s website. Councilman Zack Tyndall asked if the town could show that video on its public access channel.

Mary Bohlen, deputy town administrator, said that could not be done with the town’s current system.

“Obviously other communities do it but it’s quite more of an undertaking than it seems on the surface,” she said. “It’s certainly something we can look into.”

Mayor Gee Williams asked her to go ahead and research the possibility, as next year’s budget development process was not yet underway.

“We’ve certainly got some time …,”

he said. “Let’s just find out.”

Tyndall agreed.

“It’s a public access channel,” he said. “If people can’t access things like the parade I think we should at least look into it.”

This year’s Berlin parade featured 80 entries, ranging from marching bands to motorcycle clubs. Wells said the parade was full — with a waiting list — by September. She even had calls as late as last week from people interested in participating. She said she wasn’t surprised, as the parade had been increasingly popular in recent years.

“It’s at night and visually it’s a beautiful parade,” she said.

While this year’s parade was successful, Wells said organizers would

be making a few minor changes for next year, when the town will mark the 50th anniversary of the parade. She said simple work trucks with no accompanying float or marchers would no longer be permitted.

“We have so many people that want to enter we’ll pick and choose,” she said. “You’ve got to step up your game.”

Confetti will also not be allowed.

Wells said some onlookers voiced concern after one of this year’s floats left confetti all over the street.

“Some say no confetti you’re littering, then you have the other contingent that says it’s a parade there should be confetti,” she said, adding that town officials had opted to not allow it going forward.

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Berlin Holds Annual Parade Berlin’s 49th Annual Christmas parade featured 80 unique entries. The parade was sponsored by the Town of Berlin and Berlin Main Street. The following winners and runners up were announced in order of finish.

Marching Bands: Snow Hill High School and Pocomoke High School; Youth Sponsored Floats: Assateague Coast Kids and Berlin Little League; School Sponsored Floats: Ocean City Elementary and Showell Elementary; Adult Sponsored Floats: Buckingham Presbyterian Church and Bearded Men Society; Fire Units: Ocean City Fire Department and Berlin Fire Company; Commercial Units: Sun Communities (Frontier Town) and Harrison Group; Adult Marching Units: Ocean City Honor Guard & Mounted Unit and Boggs Disharoon American Legion Post 123; Youth Performing: Seaside Dance Academy and OC Stars; Vehicle Clubs: East Coast Car & Truck and Bikers Without Borders; ROTC Marching Units: Snow Hill High School and Pocomoke High School; and Antique Cars: Bad Monkey and 3 Guys Fire Apparatus.

Pictured, clockwise from top, are entries from Stevenson United Methodist Church, Trimper’s Rides, Snow Hill High School, Worcester Prep’s Musical Mallards and Jolly Roger Amusements.

Photos by Charlene Sharpe

Page 29

Party Set County Evaluating Potential Shared Library Site Launch For New Book

Page 30

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – Library officials are evaluating property offered by the City of Pocomoke as a potential site for a new facility.

The Worcester County Commissioners last week approved library plans to consider accepting a piece of property near the Discovery Center and to hire an architect to do a preliminary design of a shared facility that would serve as a library and senior center. The commissioners said they supported the concept of a shared facility and praised the potential location.

“I think it’d be really great to have it in that area,” Commissioner Diana Purnell said.

Worcester County Library Director Jennifer Ranck told the commissioners that the Pocomoke branch, at 6,700 square feet, was the smallest facility in the library system. It was built in 1970 and benefitted from an addition in 2004. Nevertheless, a 2013 facilities study showed that behind Berlin, it was the branch most in need of improvements.

Two building schemes were developed early last year.

“We came back with two proposals, one at 2,500 square feet and one at 4,000 square feet,” she said.

Cost estimates, however, revealed

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that either option would come at a price of more than $5 million.

“At that point we took a step back,” Ranck said. “We hit the pause button last spring and thought about how should we move forward with this project—what can we do that’s the most cost effective.”

She said it was then that officials began considering a completely new building.

“Last month the City of Pocomoke sent a letter to county administration offering some parcels kind of behind the Discovery Center across from the Sturgis schoolhouse museum in downtown Pocomoke,” she said. “That seemed exciting to us.”

Ranck said she recommended moving forward with a site study, including environmental testing, of the property offered by Pocomoke. She also proposed engaging Jeff Schoellkopf to complete preliminary design concepts of a shared facility that would include roughly 11,000 square feet for a library and 4,000 square feet for a senior center. She said shared facilities were being created elsewhere.

“It’s certainly been done in other libraries across the state,” she said.

Commissioners Josh Nordstrom made a motion to move forward with the library’s recommendations.

“We looked at a few different sites

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December 13, 2019

this summer,” he said. “This looked like it had the most potential for a new library or a new library coupled with senior center.”

Commissioner Chip Bertino suggested the library also explore the possibility of sharing a facility with the Worcester County Health Department.

“I like the idea of partnering with other agencies,” he said.

Ranck said that possibility could be considered and said it made sense for agencies to partner so they could share things like parking and public restrooms.

Nordstrom, whose motion passed unanimously, said that if a new branch was built near the Discovery Center it would help revitalize the area.

“We’d like to see more facilities, more businesses come in,” he said.

“It’s just the perfect spot for it.”

The commissioners last Tuesday also accepted a $46,543 bid from Value Carpet One for replacement of the carpet at the Worcester County Library’s Ocean Pines branch. Ranck said the branch would likely be closed briefly at the end of December and beginning of January.

“What we plan to do is close the main library for five or six days,” she said. “We’ll create sort of a mini library in the large meeting room so we can set up some computers, people can pick up their holds, that sort of thing.”

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – Two Ocean City residents will celebrate their new book, “Old Dogs, New Chapters,” with a launch party this Saturday.

On Dec. 14, the Original Greene Turtle will host a launch party for the new book “Old Dogs, New Chapters: Uplifting Stories of Senior Rescue Dogs.”

Written by Ocean City residents Alison Clary and Jason Pappas, “Old Dogs, New Chapters” shares the true stories of senior rescue dogs that receive a second chance at life.

A description of the book reads, “’Old Dogs, New Chapters’ shares the touching stories of nearly thirty senior rescue dogs, all of whom found themselves, for various heartbreaking reasons, in need of a permanent home when they were eight years old or older. Fortunately, compassionate people from different walks of life stepped forward to provide these wonderful senior dogs with loving forever homes and blissful new life chapters.”

Clary – a professional writer – said she and Pappas, her fiancé, began a joint effort to write a collection of short stories on senior rescue dogs after adopting their own elderly canine, StanSEE NEXT PAGE

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… authors Feature rescued dogs’ Stories

December 13, 2019

ley, nearly three years ago.

“He’s really changed everything for us, and I think a lot of times people tend to overlook the older dogs in the shelter,” she said. “They look at them and think they have limited time left, that they won’t get the full dog-ownership experience. So the whole point of the book is to raise awareness and show that these dogs have had really happy lives after being adopted at an old age.”

Clary said “Old Dogs, New Chapters” features the stories of 29 senior rescue dogs – including Stanley – from the U.S. and Canada.

Using the internet, social media and personal connections, Clary said she and Pappas interviewed each of the owners and created a collection of short stories. Each dog’s story features a photograph and roughly three written pages.

“We tell the reader a little bit about their background, how they found themselves in the shelter – for some of them, we don’t even really know what happened – how they found their dog parent, and how they are enjoying their new chapters in life,” she said.

Clary noted that the book features inspiring stories. For example, one senior dog with almost 30,000 Instagram followers was reposted on Ellen Degeneres’ Instagram account. And another canine, who has since passed away, found a forever home after his story was featured on Good Morning America.

“Every single dog has a story to tell,” she said. “Some of them are pretty Instagram famous and there are some of them who don’t even have an Instagram that we found through family friends.”

A book launch party for “Old Dogs, New Chapters” will take place on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 4-7 p.m. on the second floor of the Original Greene Turtle on 116th Street. The event is free and open to the public.

Copies of “Old Dogs, New Chapters” will be on sale for $20 at the party. The event will also include author signings, giveaways and a raffle to benefit the Worcester County Humane Society.

“We are also putting out some informational displays about the senior dogs that are available for adoption at the humane society,” she said. “Hopefully we can get them a home for the holidays.”

For more information on the book, or the book launch party, visit the “Old Dogs, New Chapters” Facebook page or follow “@olddogsnewchapters” on Instagram.

After the launch party, copies of “Old Dogs, New Chapters” will be available for sale at Greene Turtle Apparel on 116th Street.

To order a book directly, email olddogsnewchapters@gmail.com.

“Old Dogs, New Chapters” is now available for purchase online at mascotbooks.com. In January, the book will also be available on Amazon and other major book retailers.

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to organizations that support senior rescue dogs.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 31

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Council Supports OCFD Request To Replace Rescue Truck

Page 32

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A $1.2 million purchase of a replacement Ocean City Fire Department (OCFD) workhorse vehicle passed at City Hall this week amid some concerns about the department’s priority system.

The Mayor and Council reviewed Tuesday a request for a new heavy rescue truck for the fire department at an estimated cost of around $1.2 million. The apparatus is a workhorse for the department and does much of the heavy lifting in the case of an emergency and also carries much of the department’s heaviest gear along with needed supplies.

The current heavy rescue truck has been in service since 1975 and is nearing the end of its useful life. Since

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

taking the reins last spring, Ocean City Fire Chief Richie Bowers has been systematically renewing the department’s apparatus replacement schedule and the heavy rescue truck is the next on the priority list.

“It’s a primary unit for us,” he said.

“We have to handle the emergencies because no one else is coming in a short amount of time. It is a hefty price tag, but it will last us many, many years.”

Assistant Chief Eric Peterson explained the unit is essentially a heavyduty wrecker with winches, heavy-duty jacks, stabilization equipment, lifesafety equipment such as spreaders and the “jaws of life,” large-area search equipment and even hundreds of feet of rope.

“It is everything and anything under the sun that we don’t carry on our engines,” he said. “It’s literally a tool box

on wheels for every situation we could imagine.”

There is funding for the new truck available in the vehicle fund account to which the OCFD and the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company make annual contributions. Councilman John Gehrig questioned if the department’s current heavy rescue truck was still active and in use.

“Is this an emergency situation?” he said. “We just did the motors on the fire engines because that was a dire emergency. I’m just trying to figure out what we’re going to need next. This seems like a ‘nice to have.’ It seems like there are things on here we need and want, but might not be critical.”

However, Bowers pointed out the heavy rescue truck was next on the department’s priority list and would be needed sooner rather than later. He

December 13, 2019

said there were other needs further down the priority list.

“There is no other immediate need,” he said. “There will be more needs down the road. We’re going to have to replace Tower 6 in two years.”

Gehrig pointed out the department in September requested and received $300,000 to replace the motors on two of its front-line fire engines. With the request to replace the heavy rescue truck, he wondered what might be coming next.

“I’d like to know what equipment we’re going to need in the next five years or so,” he said. “We need a plan for that fund. We need you to prioritize the equipment you need and how we’re going to fund it.”

Bowers assured the council Tuesday’s request was not frivolous.

“I did evaluate our needs and the plan to replace the heavy rescue truck has been in place for years,” he said. “If it breaks down tomorrow, I’ll be right back here asking to replace it. This is our priority. It’s a 1975 unit and we’re trying to avoid it becoming an emergency.”

Councilman Mark Paddack made a motion to approve the purchase. The motion was seconded by Councilman Matt James, who suggested getting this major expenditure off the books and re-evaluating the OCFD’s future priority list for apparatus replacement.

“I’d rather get this done,” he said.

“Then, you and your staff go back and prioritize your list for the future.”

While Gehrig supported the department’s request, he said it shouldn’t just be rubber-stamped without some hard questions about the need and the financing. He said he resented how the council often tip-toed around requests from public safety departments because it is politically unpopular to ask the hard questions.

“One of the most annoying things up here is when we politicize public safety,” he said. “It seems like we’re afraid we’re not going to get re-elected or we’re going to get written up in the paper that we don’t support our employees. You just said it wasn’t a priority. It’s business and no business would run this way. I don’t know why we have to pre-empt everything we say with ‘I support public safety but… ’ We all do. That’s a given.”

However, James asserted the request was rooted in improving and assuring public safety and was not a political football as Gehrig suggested.

“The money is in the fund and that vehicle needs to be replaced. It’s the oldest vehicle in the fleet,” he said.

Paddack believed Bowers and his department would not be requesting the purchase if they did not believe it was a top priority.

“I do feel the same way about some of these major purchases,” he said.

“Maybe we need a better system to predict what our future needs will be.”

The council approved the purchase of the heavy rescue truck with a 7-0 vote and instructed Bowers to review the priority list.

December 13, 2019

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 13, 2019

Ocean City Christmas Parade More than 70 entries including high school bands, holiday floats, antique cars and much more were featured in last Saturday’s 37th Annual Ocean City Christmas Parade.

Professional judges reviewed the participating units and presented awards in various categories, including Coca Cola’s Award for the most energy and fun and the Carousel Award for the Best “Ocean Vacation” themed entry. The following is a complete look at the results.

School Band: Snow Hill High School Band, first place; Pocomoke High School Marching Band, second place; and Stephen Decatur High School, third place; Top Parade Float: Ocean City Elementary School, first place; Showell Elementary School, second place; and Seaside Christian Academy, third place; Marching Unit: O.C. Stars, first place; Snow Hill High School Marine JROTC, second place; and Pocomoke High School NJROTC, third place; Coca Cola Award-Most Energy & Fun Award: Chincoteague Pony Drill Team; Carousel Award-Best “Ocean Vacation” Entry: “Where the Elves Go for Fun” By Sun Communities.

Above, clockwise from left, are entries from the Carousel Hotel, Showell Elementary School, a marching band from Baltimore, the Harrison Group, and Stephen Decatur High School.

Photos by Steve Green

Committee Reviews Resort’s Annual Transportation Requests

December 13, 2019

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – A construction project at the public works campus, vehicle replacements and a development study highlighted a review this week of the resort’s draft Annual Transportation Plan for fiscal year 2021.

On Tuesday, Public Works Director Hal Adkins presented the Ocean City Transportation Committee with the proposed fiscal year 2021 Annual Transportation Plan, a list of funding requests that will be submitted to the Maryland Transit Administration.

“Annually we are required to submit what is known as the ATP, the Annual Transportation Plan, which is fancy terminology for our operating and capital grant submission to the state,” he said. “We are required to put together a capital list, and I’m sure you all have seen it before.”

Adkins said proposed funding requests for the coming fiscal year include $2 million for construction at Ocean City’s public works campus.

For nearly a decade, the town’s Public Works Department has been working with the Maryland Transit Administration on a plan to upgrade the campus in phases. The overall project has an estimated price tag of $25 million.

“The first item is the final financial commitment previously promised by the state toward the overall campus construction project,” he said. “That final allocation of $2 million will wrap up their total commitment.”

Adkins said the proposed plan also included a line item for construction management oversight of the public works campus project, but the cost has yet to be determined. He explained the request would cover any oversight costs acquired by extending the timeline of the construction project from July 2020 to January 2021.

“This place runs 24/7, 365 [days] as you know, and we’ve had to incrementally adjust their schedule as we’ve gone along …,” he said. “Therefore, it has extended the duration of the overall project. It has not increased the cost of the construction project from a bricks and mortar standpoint. It has simply extended the schedule. By that schedule extension, it requires some extension of oversight and management fees that the state is willing to participate in and willing to pay for. We are simply trying to finalize that issue as we speak.”

Other funding requests include $68,000 for the replacement of an ADA paratransit van, $785,000 to support maintenance work on the town’s bus fleet, $3.2 million for the replacement of four heavy duty 60foot buses and $7,098,000 for the replacements of 22 heavy duty 40-foot buses.

“Do we realistically think we are going to get 22 buses? No, we don’t,”

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

City Looks To Allocate $100,000 On Future Development Plan Study

Adkins said. “But we are informed and instructed to continue submitting this by our state representative, that when we have buses that meet the federal definition of useful life criteria both on age or on mileage that we need to identify that.”

Adkins said the proposed transportation plan also includes $260,000 for four ADA-accessible transit supervisor support vehicles, $300,000 for an on-board announcement system on the bus fleet and $350,000 for an

automated passenger counter system.

“The current TransLoc system is expandable to add that feature,” he said, “and we are currently counting our passengers by hand with the clickers.”

The list also features $100,000 for a transportation development plan study. Adkins said he was optimistic funds for the study would be approved by the state.

“At some point we need to scope

Page 35

out what the transportation development plan will be studying …,” he said.

“We may have our own laundry list of potential scope, but please be thinking about if there are certain things you would like us to be looking at – broad brush, long range – because that issue will be coming up in about six months.”

Adkins said he was hoping for projects on the town’s list to be funded once the public works campus project was completed.

“I’m not overly optimistic we will get much of this list at all,” he said. “It’s just reality, but we have to submit it on an annual basis. For the last couple of years, the focus has been to pay for a $25 million project. The first couple of items wrap that up. Once we get that over with we hope the floodgates will open once again to assist us with these other items that are further down the list.”

Page 36

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Page 37

Two New Walking Tours Expected In Berlin Next Year

Page 38

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 13, 2019

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Two new walking tours are expected to come to town in 2020.

Spring will bring a new foodie tour to Berlin as well as a “Runaway Bride” walking tour. Several local officials participated in a test run of the foodie tour, hosted by Sandy Gillis of OC Foodie Tour, on Tuesday. They enjoyed food and drinks at nine downtown establishments and were introduced to historic Main Street and its array of shops.

“Yesterday turned out even better than I expected,” said Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director. “Our restaurants really do have the best food.”

Wells said both tours were expected to be offered in Berlin starting in the spring. The “Runaway Bride” tour will be orchestrated by Mindie Burgoyne, whose Chesapeake Ghost Tours already offers walks in Berlin.

She said she was eager to build on the popularity of the handful of “Runaway Bride” walks held last year as the town celebrated the 20th anniver-

OC Foodie Tour organizer Sandy Gillis, second from left, is pictured with attendees on Main Street this week.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

sary of the filming of the hit movie.

“We already have a walking tour so we were all set up for it and we’re always looking for new products,” Burgoyne said.

She said the tour would likely be offered starting in March once a month.

“We’ll work it up to once a week,” she said.

The foodie tour is also expected to

launch in the spring, following a successful trial run this week.

“It’s being done by Sandy Gillis who also does the OC Foodie Tour,” Wells said. “It’s basically a tasting tour around town and almost all the restaurants are participating. She hopes to implement this starting in the spring.”

The three-hour tour of downtown eateries also gives participants a chance to

take in local landmarks.

“When I went on the foodie tour in Ocean City last year, I thought, ‘wow, we should do this in Berlin,’” Wells said. “For those who aren’t familiar with the 10-plus dining and dessert destinations we have, this gives them the opportunity to get a taste of Berlin — plus I’m sure they’ll stay for the day to enjoy all the town has to offer.”

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Fenwick Selects Engineering Firm For Sidewalk Work

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 39

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

FENWICK ISLAND – Officials in Fenwick Island last week voted to approve a contract with Century Engineering for the first phase of a sidewalk construction project.

Last Friday, the Fenwick Island Town Council voted unanimously to approve a contract with Century Engineering for the first phase of a sidewalk construction project along Coastal Highway.

The firm’s proposal received a favorable recommendation from the Fenwick Island Pedestrian Safety Committee on Dec. 2.

“I’m happy to report that after several months of looking over engineering proposals the committee met this past week and finalized a decision,” said Councilwoman Vicki Carmean, chair of the committee. “We are going to go with Century Engineering.”

Carmean said the town’s solicitor had reviewed the contract and made the necessary changes. She noted the selection of an engineering firm would put the town one step closer to completing the first phase of sidewalks, which will be installed in the five bayside blocks south of James Street.

“It’s not the same as digging the shovels into the dirt and turning things over,” she said, “but we are getting closer.”

Earlier this year, Fenwick Island received $250,000 in the state bond bill to begin the first phase of a sidewalk construction project.

Instead of pursuing a state-led sidewalk project – which had a cost estimate of roughly $10 million – town officials decided to handle the first phase of the project themselves and worked alongside state legislators to secure the bond bill funding.

The town also set aside $90,000 from its realty transfer tax fund to complete the project.

Carmean told the committee last week that both Kercher Engineering and Century Engineering submitted proposals to the town.

She noted that Century’s services came in at $97,234, or roughly 39% of the $250,000 in bond bill money, and included a spending cap. Kercher’s proposal required 49% of the $250,000.

“What you have to look at with the engineering proposals was the percentage that’s being charged by the engineering firm,” Carmean said. “And Century Engineering was more reasonable than the other one.”

The council voted 7-0 to approve an engineering contract with Century Engineering.

Toys For Tots Donation:

The over 150 members of the Coastal Association of REALTORS® (Coastal) who attended the association’s 2019 Holiday Party at Seacrets donated over 200 toys to Toys For Tots. Members also donated $275 to the Coastal REALTORS® Foundation, which supports local charities. Pictured, from left, are Coastal Director Steven Parsons, Director Brandon Johnson, President Joe Wilson, Director Cameron Drew, Vice President Grace Masten, Secretary/Treasurer Brigit Taylor and Director Austin Whitehead.

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Page 40

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 13, 2019

Pictured, from left, are Donna Altvater, executive director of the Richard A. Henson Foundation; Victor H. Laws III and Gordon D. Gladden, trustees of the Richard A. Henson Foundation; Steve Miller, director of Wicomico County Recreation, Parks & Tourism; Wicomico County Executive Bob Culver; and, front, Cheyanne and Heather Shrieves.

Submitted Photo

SALISBURY – The Richard A. Henson Foundation this week presented Wicomico County with a $20,000 donation for the Project 7.5 initiative at the Easter Seals offices in Salisbury on Tuesday.

Announced in the spring, Project 7.5 is designed to provide individuals with physical or mental disabilities the opportunity to play the sport of baseball. With a location between existing fields seven and eight at the Henry S. Parker Athletic Complex, field 7.5 will serve as a host facility for Challenger Little League on the Eastern Shore and other inclusive programs. Construction of field 7.5 will start within

the next month and completion is expected this spring.

“The response we have received from the community has been encouraging,” said, Wicomico County Recreation, Parks and Tourism Director Steve Miller. “We are looking forward to the opportunity to serve this segment of the population.”

Donations for this initiative are still being accepted. As more funds are collected, the opportunities to enhance the field’s amenities increase. Donations can be made online through the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore’s website at https://www.cfes.org/donate.

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ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Frank Clement Conforti, 63, of St. Petersburg, Fla., cracked his last joke and lost his short battle to cancer on Nov. 23, 2019.

Frank was born on May 29, 1956 in Torrington, Conn., to Clement and AnnaMae (Peterson) Conforti. He is survived by his daughter, Jayme Conforti, and her mother, Katie, his much older sisters Judy Romaniello, Jane (Stir) Holmgren, Fran DiFronzo, and Donna (Bumper) Sullivan and FRANK many nieces, nephews CLEMENT and friends. He is pre- CONFORTI deceased by his parents and his sister Karen (Koots) Oleskewicz.

Frank graduated from Torrington High in 1974 and obtained his bachelor’s degree at Southern Connecticut

State College. He went on to be coowner of the Moosehead Tavern in Torrington and later on became a successful salesman. Frank was loved by all he met as he had an infectious personality. Although a less than average life span, Frank did not live an average life. He did what he wanted to do, laughed inappropriately at every chance, and always had something to say. He loved fishing and boating along with his Bud Light, but the joy of his life was his daughter Jayme.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2020 at Whiskers Bar & Grill, 11070 Cathell Rd, Unit 13, Berlin, Md. 21811.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Gregg Romaniello Endowment for Epilepsy Research at the Yale School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, P.O. Box 208055, New Haven, Conn.

06520-8055.

Students

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 41

In The News

Worcester Prep soccer coach Carol Hartnett recently presented senior Emily Copeland with the United Soccer Coaches “Senior Excellence Award.� Copeland was honored for her exceptional contributions to the team while exemplifying the finest attributes of a high school student-athlete.

The Worcester Preparatory School Math Team placed third at the 36th Annual Eastern Shore High School Mathematics Competition hosted by Salisbury University Department of Mathematics and Computer Science on Nov. 14. Upper School math teacher Linda Bragg coached the three-person team consisting of seniors Eli Prushansky and Max Huber and junior Daniel Chen. The annual contest celebrates students who have an aptitude and enthusiasm for mathematics.

Submitted Photos After extending an invitation to him, Ocean City Elementary School third grader Carly Watts received a special visit during American Education Week from Board of Education member Todd Ferrante.

Students from Berlin Intermediate School worked together last month to create decorations for the BIS Christmas Float. Students pictured above are Brody Olsen, Lily Fogle, Abby Bunting, Paxton Jack, Micah Hill, Jayden Garton and Brooke Warren.

Ocean City Elementary School celebrated College and Career Spirit Day last month. Students were encouraged to wear a college shirt or dress in a career they might like to pursue in the future. Pictured, from left, are pre-kindergarten students Carter Justice, Amelia Purnell and Aubrey Newcomb.

The board of trustees at Wor-Wic Community College recently recognized the recipients of scholarships awarded to local high school graduates from Wicomico, Worcester and Somerset counties. The scholarship recipients, seated from left, are Miranda Atkins from Crisfield High School and Academy, Brooklyn Carey from Parkside High School, Kylie Mohler from Pocomoke High School, Justin Smith from Snow Hill High School, Scottie Tawes from Holly Grove Christian School, Lee Beauchamp from Washington High School, Ryan Byers from Mardela Middle and High School, Jordan Ferguson from Stephen Decatur High School and Anna Webster from Delmar Middle and Senior High School. Standing, from left, are Andrew W. Booth, a member of the board of trustees, Kimberly C. Gillis, vice chairperson of the board of trustees, Bob Culver, Wicomico County Executive, and Chip Bertino, Worcester County Commissioner, who serve as county liaisons to the board, Martin T. Neat, board member, Russell W. Blake, chairperson of the board of trustees, Dr. Ray Hoy, president of Wor-Wic, and William H. Kerbin and Lorraine Purnell-Ayers, board members. Not pictured are scholarship recipients Bailey Colwell from Wicomico High School and Brooklyn Revel from Salisbury Christian School.

Page 42

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.

Berlin, Md. 21811 PHONE: 410-641-4561 FAX: 410-641-0966 WEBSITES: www.mdcoastdispatch.com www.facebook.com/thedispatchoc J. STEVEN GREEN Publisher/Editor editor@mdcoastdispatch.com

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 13, 2019

A Reasonable Parking Rate Increase In Resort HOW WE SEE IT

The hourly parking rate increase approved by the Ocean City Mayor and Council is entirely appropriate and reasonable.

At its simplest, the council-approved and task force-recommended increases will raise the hourly parking rates at the Inlet lot in the peak season by 17%, from $3 an hour to $3.50. The hourly rate at other downtown municipal lots and on the streets will increase 50% during the summer months, from $2 an hour to $3.

In an obvious effort to respond to critics who will inevitably argue the increase is an attempt to gouge tourists, the city will allow parking at the Inlet lot, downtown lots and onstreet spaces to be free MondayThursday in April, May and October.

On the weekends, the Inlet’s hourly rate will be $3 and $2 an hour at other downtown lots and on-street paid parking areas. The new hybrid park-

ing plan will result in approximately $1 million in new estimated revenue for the town.

Over the last year, the mayor-appointed task force has studied parking in Ocean City. The result was a 141page report and the approved rate recommendations. The clear goal for the task force was to find a fair way to raise rates to bring new revenue to the city. There were varying opinions expressed during the meetings, but the consensus seemed to be not to grow paid parking on ocean blocks north of 10th Street at this time and to instead focus on increasing existing fees to ensure the day-trippers pay their fair share of the town’s beach and Boardwalk maintenance costs.

Councilman Dennis Dare, who served on the task force, put it well, saying, “The beach and Boardwalk cost $4.8 million to protect and maintain annually. That’s six cents on the

property tax rate. Maybe that segment of the population that uses those amenities the most should step up and pay their share. As it stands now, that’s a cost borne by the property tax and the room tax.”

We believe the summer parking rate increases are fair. For a family of four from Salisbury coming to the Boardwalk for five hours of fun in July, it will cost $17.50 to park steps away from the amusements. For the family from Selbyville looking to spend a beach day under the Pier – as is a popular spot in the summer – it will cost $28 for eight hours to park a short walk from the beach. We don’t find these costs to be exorbitant for a tourist destination.

The parking plan approved this week will help the budget, while not crushing tourists or locals. It’s a reasonable increase for prime parking at a beach resort.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Commissioner Misleads On Education Successes Editor: Worcester County Commissioner Chip Bertino in his commentary last month asked the question, “What will Kirwan mean for Worcester?” The answer is that the Kirwan Commission recommendations will result in an increase of some 30% or more Worcester students being college and career ready when they graduate from high school.

Mr. Bertino asserts that “From the time the children of Worcester County first walk through the doors of … elementary schools we as a community have the responsibility to ensure that by the time they walk out the doors of … high schools, they are prepared and equipped to successfully embrace the opportunities of college or career.”

That admirably describes the responsibility of Worcester County and the state of Maryland. The problem, however, is that Worcester County and the state are not currently meeting that responsibility.

The facts are as follows. College and career readiness in Maryland is defined as being able to pass a 10th grade English exam and an algebra I exam. In the case of English, only 57.6% of Worcester students succeed.

In math, only 46.9% or Worcester students succeed. Those results are for all Worcester students. African American and Hispanic students are even more ill-served. While 67.8% of white students are college and career ready, only 29.4% of African Amerian students and 52.6% of Hispanic students meet that relatively low standard. In the case of math, 57.8% of white stu-

dents pass algebra I while only 19% of African Americans and 40.5% of Hispanic students meet the standard.

It should be noted that Worcester County students perform better than the state average (which is below 40%). It is also true that Worcester has been relatively generous in school funding, having chosen over the years to put more into school funding than state law requires. But any county in which only half of their high school graduates are college and career ready, should be asking the question, “What should we do differently to meet the needs of our children?” That is precisely the question Kirwan has answered based on evidence from the best performing countries and states in the world.

Many correctly observe that money by itself will not make the difference.

And that is true. That also distinguishes the Kirwan recommendations from the past. The Kirwan Commission identified education practices for which there is evidence of success with all students (a highly professional teaching force meeting higher standards with pay based in part on merit, 3- and 4-yearold prekindergarten, increased mental health supports, higher graduation standards and career-technical education, help from Kindergarten through grade three for struggling students to ensure all can read by the 3rd grade, extra support for low-income students, especially those attending school where most of their fellow students are also low-income). Many of the proven practices will be required but the point of the new funding is that they will not be unfunded mandates. It is clear, based on student outcomes, that accountability for the faithful implementa-

tion of proven practices and for student outcomes must be much more specific than has been the case.

Mr. Bertino correctly identified our responsibilities. Unfortunately, he misstated our success with our children.

Now we have the opportunity to get it right.

Debra Fisher Ocean Pines (The writer is a retired teacher.)

Recent Research Flawed Editor: Maryland’s family farmers raising chickens have played a key role in achieving the state’s well-documented progress in reducing nutrients in the Chesapeake Bay and improving water quality. Maryland has met its waterquality goals for reduced phosphorus seven years ahead of the 2025 deadline, in part because of reduced phosphorus loads from agriculture and despite rising phosphorus loads from cities and suburbs. Farmers in the watershed have reduced their nitrogen contribution to the bay by 24 percent since the 1980s, even while nitrogen runoff from developed areas has risen.

Recent research supported by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and performed by North Carolina State University modeled ammonia emissions from a hypothetical chicken industry that bears little resemblance to Maryland’s actual community of chicken farmers.

The research assumes farmers use no litter amendments — particles spread on chicken house litter that soak up ammonia from the air. In reality, the use of litter amendments is widespread on U.S. chicken farms because they reSEE NEXT PAGE

December 13, 2019

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR duce ammonia, producing a better environment for chickens and farmers.

The research also assumes that every Maryland chicken house contains birds 365 days a year, without pause. In reality, all chicken farmers have “layout” periods between flocks several times a year, when the houses are empty so farmers can perform maintenance and upgrades. The model also doesn’t account for any forested land on Delmarva, assuming all of Maryland’s Eastern Shore is farmland. In reality, forests absorb ammonia, as do vegetative buffers on chicken farms.

As the researchers acknowledged in a published paper, these assumptions were “not a realistic approach” and caused their model to overestimate ammonia levels. The researchers did not approach DPI or our members to get data about the use of litter amendments or the frequency of layouts before publishing conclusions based on their incomplete model. We look forward to working with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation to correct those flawed assumptions in the model.

Even with these flawed assumptions in place, the model’s predicted ammonia levels on Delmarva fell far short of concentrations noticeable by people, or concentrations with any effect on human health. When the researchers performed limited air monitoring on Delmarva, they recorded the highest levels of ammonia in a city and at a waterfront point close to southern Maryland – not in rural, farmed areas. That’s no surprise to Delmarva family farmers raising chicken who live and work on their farms, right alongside their flocks – after all, they care deeply about air quality, since they breathe the same air their neighbors do.

Holly Porter (The writer is the executive director of the Delmarva Poultry Industry, Inc.)

A Look Ahead To 2020 Editor: I would take a quick moment to identify what we will have to talk about in 2020. With no sign of a recession yet, it looks to be an exciting year.

We should take a moment to discuss the three wannabe mayors currently sitting on the Ocean City Council: John Gehrig, Matt James, and Mark Paddack.

The job of mayor is time-consuming and John has a young family and a business. He may not be able to free up the considerable time it will take to get a complete understanding of the issues so he is not over-reliant on his staff. Matt is in a similar position with time, however he doesn’t have a family yet. Matt is very calculated about his decision making, while John reacts more from the heart, but both are time-restricted.

On the other hand, Mark Paddack is retired and has demonstrated that he will take all the hours in his life to work for the town. The problem is Mark’s background, like Dennis Dare’s, is all in government. When the

Between The Lines

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

only tool in your kit is the hammer of legal action, everything begins to look like a nail. Maybe the future mayor should be a successful businessman this time. Sorry, Mayor Meehan.

The fact is, barring a sudden health issue, there is no indication that Rick won’t run again and none of these candidate wannabes appear likely to beat Rick. I will give you a sleeper for the future as mayor: Emily Nock, who most certainly will run for Council this year.

There are many other things we will discuss that are exciting about 2020, and here are just a few: Under our current government, committees have flourished, but are they a sign of progress? Mancur Olson, the smartest academic economist ever at the University of Maryland, and his best student Jonathan Rauch both say “no” and that the formation of committees by local governments takes away some duties from the council and is a symptom of governmental decline. Why? Our local government has populated Ocean City with endless unproductive committees that have no clear accountability. Rauch further says society will not realize this mistake until decades in the future.

At a time when the economy is flourishing, why is the rich-poor gap growing nationally and on the Eastern Shore?

How may the upcoming elections (November of 2020) bring on a significant change in Ocean City politics?

Why might a change be needed?

Particularly, why have the local rich guys gotten so much richer while everyone else is treading water or sinking.

How have the barriers to entry in Ocean City created many similarities to a feudal state? What can be done to change it?

There are many more things to talk about, but right now our concert for children, Brian’s Christmas Songbook is this week at 10 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 13 at the convention center. We have spared no expense for these kids, even including music by the Mid-Atlantic Orchestra out of Baltimore. We are preparing to give them an uplifting memory for life. We have given their teachers study guides entitled, “What is freedom?” It calls for exercises like “Draw a picture of freedom? What are choices? What are consequences?”

Each child will get a Certificate of Attendance delivered to them by George Washington. Brian’s Christmas Songbook will have a public concert at 7 p.m. on Friday for all you children at heart, too.

Although the town gave us the venue, and we very much appreciate it, businesses are funding the concert rather than the town. Most of the money to pay for the children’s concert came from outside of town. Why? We have plenty of multimillionaires right here in Ocean City. We will talk about that, too. Yes, 2020 promises to be a very interesting year.

Tony Christ

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By Publisher/Editor Steve Green

There seems to be good news and bad news on the OC Air Show front. The good news is next summer’s event will feature the entertaining U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds as the featured headliners.

Looking beyond next year to 2021, there seems to be some bad news and serious questions about the event. It was learned this month neither the U.S. Navy Blue Angels or the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds have Ocean City on their 2021 schedule of events. The trend in recent years has been for the premier demonstration teams to alternate stops in Ocean City every other year. With the Thunderbirds appearing at the 2020 event, expectations were high for the Blue Angels in 2021. It was learned this week the Blue Angels will be making 29 appearances in 2021 but Ocean City is not among them. For its 75th Anniversary air show year, the Navy team will appear in June 2021 in Lake Charles, La., June 5-6; La Crosse, Wis., June 12-13; Niagara Falls, N.Y., June 19-20; and Duluth, Minn., June 26-27. For their part, the Thunderbirds’ June 20-21 schedule features stops in Smyrna, Tenn., Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., Tinker Air Force Base, Okla. and Quebec, Canada.

The 2021 event would not be the only year the air show has not featured a major U.S. jet team. In 2013, major federal spending cuts through “sequestration” resulted in all jet teams being grounded for much of the year.

The resort’s air show that year was marketed that year as an “all-star, all civilian lineup.” Attendance was still strong on the beach, but there is no question the air show was not the same without a marquee jet team as a headliner. Organizers will most likely beef up the lineup with respected civilian acts, but it’s clear at this point the 2021 show will not feature the jets everyone has become accustomed to seeing over Ocean City.

On the 2020 event front, the OC Air Show announced this month the A-10 Thunderbolt II demonstration team will appear with the Thunderbirds next summer. More acts will be announced in the coming months for the June 13-14, 2020 weekend.

Though last summer was by and large a solid one for most businesses, there’s no disputing a concern once again was Ocean City has become a predominately weekend resort. The shortened vacation trend didn’t happen overnight and there are no easy fixes, but the thoughts outlined at this week’s Ocean City Tourism Commission meeting to attempt to extend the weekends with Thursday and Monday promotions seem logical.

The town’s subcommittee meetings often become brainstorming sessions among elected and appointed officials. This was certainly the case this week when the topic surfaced about addressing a recent survey concluding the average stay in Ocean City last summer was two-and-ahalf days. Ocean City Councilman John Gehrig suggested a reasonable short-term goal for the resort would be to get that average length of stay to three-and-a-half days in the near future.

“I know that doesn’t sound like much, but that would be a 20% increase,” Gehrig said. “We need to figure out a way to extend the weekend, so maybe we need a weekend kick-off party of some sort on Thursday nights. We already own the weekends, so let’s brainstorm and figure out how to extend it. It could be beach concerts punctuated by fireworks or something like that. Let’s figure out how to market ‘summer rules’ and encourage people to take Friday off … We always talk about increasing weekday visitor numbers, so let’s start with Thursday and work back from there. We already dominate the weekends.” Ocean City Councilman Matt James added, “We’re talking about marketing this as take off Friday and start your weekends early.”

During this discussion, Ocean City Manager Doug Miller suggested a promotion revolving around “Thursday is the new Friday” while Tourism Director Donna Abbott pitched, “Make Casual Friday Really Casual.”

Whatever is decided the key is moving quickly and getting this integrated into an ad campaign soon.

For the last 20 years, the most powerful man in Maryland politics has been Senate President Mike Miller.

WJZ-TV anchor Vic Carter conducted an interesting on-camera interview this week with Miller, who will officially step down next month as Senate president due to a terminal illness with stage four prostate cancer. In the interview, Miller, who often ruled over the dominant Democratic Party with a heavy hand, was unbelievably candid about his preparations for death.

“I don’t ask for healing because I think it’s selfish quite frankly,” Miller said. “I just thank God for his graces, and I thank God for all the blessings he has bestowed upon me already. Whatever he decides, that’s what we are going to live with. That’s what we are going to accomplish. I feel it would be selfish to ask for anything more than what I have already received because I have been blessed. Abundantly, over and over again. … It gives me comfort to think that God is directing me into this path, so it’s not Mike Miller making a decision. There is a savior out there who is saying this is what’s best for you and this is what’s best for the people of Maryland.”

Page 44

Business

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And Real Estate News

The Worcester County Health Department presented Atlantic General Hospital with a certificate of appreciation for their collaborative efforts in launching Worcester County’s first Safe Station. The safe station is located at the 15th Street Fire Station in Ocean City and is available 24-hours, 7 days a week to any individuals seeking addiction treatment services. The station provides resources for those struggling with addiction and is able to help connect individuals with the help they need. Pictured, from left, are Mike Trader, WCHD Behavioral Health Program Assistant Director, Donna Nordstrom, director of community health at Atlantic General Hospital, and Sandy Kerrigan, WCHD Community Based Services Manager.

Submitted Photo

Resident Director Named 28th St. Plaza • 410-289-3100 • www.coinspuboc.com

December 13, 2019

OCEAN CITY – Merrill announced Zach Newton has been appointed resident director of Merrill’s Ocean City office.

Newton will lead the Ocean City office’s team of Merrill financial advisors to continue to deliver individualized wealth management strategies to local individuals, families and businesses.

“I believe Zach’s leadership skills make him the perfect candidate to lead our Ocean City local office,” said Jeff Adams, market executive and managing director. “Zach’s experience will help enhance our ability to offer ZACH NEWTON the high-quality service that Ocean City’s investors have come to expect from Merrill.”

Newton, a resident of Berlin, joined Merrill in 2016.

Hospital Earns Recognition BERLIN – Among the state-based regulations that affect all 45 Maryland hospitals is their performance under the Quality-Based Reimbursement program administered by the Maryland Health Services Cost Review Commission (HSCRC).

In this evaluation, hospitals that achieve higher quality ratings benefit in the form of higher reimbursement rates for medical services according to the Global Budget Revenue (GBR) model.

In the most recent evaluation period covering quality and patient experience data from 2017 and 2018, Atlantic General Hospital was one of just seven Maryland hospitals to receive positive revenue adjustments. In the case of AGH, the calculation resulted in nearly $200,000 of additional GBR rate adjustments.

Contributing to this outcome, AGH

was ranked No. 1 in the entire state for patient experience and tied for No. 5 in patient safety measures.

“The HSCRC’s most recent report supports our belief that a commitment to delivering a safe and caring healthcare environment will result in an uncommonly excellent experience for our patients,” said Michael Franklin, president and CEO of Atlantic General Hospital.

“We are committed to staying in the top tier of Maryland hospitals in achieving high quality ratings that demonstrate our values and our unwavering commitment to meeting every patient’s need.”

Grant Announced SALISBURY – The Lower Eastern Shore Heritage Area (LESHA) announced they received a $22,500 grant from the Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF).

“We are honored to receive an award of this size and excited to be able to hire a consultant to facilitate our strategic planning, analysis, branding and marketing,” said executive director Lisa Ludwig. The LESHA marketing committee, under the leadership of Ann McGinnis Hillyer, spearheaded the grant application to allow the organization to convene stakeholders, assess progress, identify opportunities, and set priorities in order to reflect and represent the breadth and depth of the Lower Shore’s heritage.

“After 10 years in operation, we want to obtain critical insight and input from stakeholders, influencers and citizens in order to define a branding platform aligned with our regional identity, environment and traditions,” Hillyer said.

The grant allowed LESHA to retain Choptank Communications, an Eastern Shore-based marketing firm with broad experience in tourism and economic development, to facilitate the process.

December 13, 2019

Firefighters Planning To Adopt Senior Citizens OCEAN CITY – In the spirit of giving back to the community, the Ocean City Fire Department is spreading some holiday cheer by adopting seniors at the Berlin Nursing Home. Last year, Ocean City Firefighters adopted nearly 60 seniors, giving each resident a brand-new warm blanket.

Ryan Whittington, president of Ocean City Firefighter’s Association, started “Adopting Seniors” at the Berlin Nursing Home, where his dear friend Dolores Kenny is a resident.

Elected by her fellow residents, Kenny serves as president of the Residential Council. She enjoys visits from friends and family, and she occasionally leaves for trips out on the town. Her wish this Christmas is to keep spreading holiday cheer to her fellow senior residents of the nursing home.

“The blankets are wonderful, we absolutely love them, they’re soft, and they’re lightweight and warm,” said Kenny.

Ocean City firefighters would like to help Kenny with her goal by providing each resident with a small blanket to use on their beds and in their wheelchairs. Last year’s blankets need to be replaced due to the frequency and high temperatures that they are washed in.

If you would like to help make it a special Christmas for the residents of Berlin Nursing Home, the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company is supporting the holiday cheer and donations can be dropped off at Ocean City Fire

Regional Digest The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

headquarters on 15th Street or via GoFundMe. Checks can be made payable to Ocean City Firefighters.

Attorney General Looks To Help Tipped Employees OCEAN CITY – Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh this week submitted a letter to the Department of Labor (DOL) opposing its proposed revocation of protections for tipped workers, an issue near and dear to many in the resort’s hospitality industry.

Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, employers are required to pay their employees the federal minimum wage. For decades, tipped workers have been protected by what is known as the “80/20 Rule.” The rule ensures that any worker being paid $2.83 per hour due to their employer utilizing the “tip credit” spends at least 80 percent of their work time doing tipped work.

Under DOL’s proposal, the “80/20 Rule” would be eliminated and employers would be able to assign virtually unlimited amounts of non-tipped work, such as cleaning, cooking and other “back of the house” tasks, while still taking a tip credit and paying workers a lower wage.

“This proposal will further erode wages for thousands of Marylanders who rely on tips to make a living,” said

Frosh. “We will work to ensure workers get the wages they’ve rightfully earned and rely on to support their families.”

The letter states the proposed rule would further erode the already low wages of tipped workers and leave them more vulnerable to wage theft.

Casino Revenue Released BERLIN – Maryland’s six operating casinos, including the Ocean Downs Casino in Berlin, generated roughly $141 million in November, which was almost exactly the same amount generated in the same month last year.

Maryland Lottery and Gaming last week announced the state’s six operating casinos generated $141 million in November, or about $763,000 more than the same month last year, representing an increase of just half a percentage point. Closest to home, the Ocean Downs Casino, with its 892 slot machines and 18 table games, netted $5.4 million in November, or roughly $196,000 more than the same month last year, for an increase of around 4%.

Although the MGM National Harbor Casino led the state with nearly $54 million in November, it saw a decline of about 6% over the same month last year. The Live Casino and Hotel in

Page 45 Anne Arundel County generated $53 million last month, representing an increase of about 9% over the same month last year.

Stop Smoking Classes Near SNOW HILL – With the calendar flipping over to a new year in a couple of weeks, the Worcester County Health Department is offering free winter smoking cessation classes to help local residents get off to a fresh start.

Worcester Health is committed to helping smokers establish new behavior patterns that lead to a tobacco-free lifestyle. With the smoking cessation class, Chantix, gum, patch, lozenges and other aids to help individuals quit tobacco are available through a voucher program for individuals meeting specific requirements.

Professionally trained instructors can help participants break the smoking addiction. The smoking cessation course consists of seven sessions covering stress management, weight control, assertive communication, how to develop a quit plan, relapse prevention, and physical activity.

The health department’s smoking cessation classes start in mid-January and run into early April. The classes will be offered at the Atlantic Club on Route 50 on Thursdays starting Jan. 16 from 5-6 p.m.; at the Snow Hill Health Center on Tuesdays starting Jan. 14 from 5-6 p.m.; and at the Pocomoke Health Center on Wednesdays starting Jan. 15 from 45 p.m. For more information, call 410-632-0056.

Page 46

Sports

Decatur Boys Jump Out To 2-0 Start

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

Seahawks Open With Win In Rough Rider In The News

Stephen Decatur’s varsity wrestling team opened the season last weekend with a first-place finish in the Rough Rider Tournament in Pennsylvania. Pictured above, the team shows off its championship trophy and individual awards.

Submitted photo

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s varsity wrestling team got its season off to a great start last weekend with a first-place team finish in the prestigious Rough Rider tournament in Pennsylvania along with several outstanding individual performances.

The Seahawks traveled to host Catasauqua High School in Pennsylvania last weekend to compete against some of the top prep programs in that area in the regular season opener and came away with an impressive team win. Decatur finished first overall in team points with 176.5, while Archbishop Ryan was second

with 157 and Catasauqua was third with 121.

Four Seahawks finished first in their respective weight classes and eight placed out of the 14 weight divisions overall. Nico D’Amico finished first at 132, Noah Reho finished first at 138, Alex Koulikov finished first at 160 and Johnny Hoffman finished first at 195.

Jagger Clapsadle finished second at 126, and Micah Bourne finished second at 182. D.J. Taylor finished third at 170 and Mason Howell finished fourth at 106. The Seahawks face Mardela this week in the Bayside Conference opener before a dual meet with Kent County and CambridgeSouth Dorchester next week in the last match before the holiday break.

Worcester Girls Off To Fast 3-0 Start

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Worcester Prep’s girls’ varsity basketball team is off to a fast start after following a win in the season opener last week with a pair of wins in a tournament in Delaware last weekend.

The Mallards cruised past St. Thomas More, 66-1, in their season opener last week to start 1-0 heading into the Tip-Off Classic at Delmarva Christian last Saturday. In its tournament opener, Worcester routed Delmar, 46-17. The Mallards led 11-2 after the first quarter and built the lead to 26-

5 by the half. Worcester never looked back as it cruised to the 46-17 win.

In its second game of the Tip-Off Classic last Saturday, Worcester got more of fight from Indian River, but the outcome was the same. The Mallards led 16-6 at the end of one and built their lead to 33-18 at the half before cruising to the 53-30 win.

The Mallards will play three straight road games starting on Friday at Gunston, followed by road games against Delmarva Christian and Sussex Academy before the holiday break.

Worcester has two games scheduled during the Governor’s Challenge Holiday Tournament on December 30-31.

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s boys’ varsity basketball team is off to a fast start with a thrilling, come-from-behind overtime victory over Kent Island in the opener last week followed by another home win against county rival Snow Hill on Tuesday.

The Seahawks opened on the road at Kent Island last week and got a stiff early test from the Buccaneers. Kent Island got out to a fast start and built a 12-point lead by the end of the first quarter. By halftime, the Buccaneers’ lead expanded to 14 points at 37-23.

The Seahawks went on a 15-4 run in the third quarter to close the gap on Kent Island. The two teams battled down the stretch until Decatur’s Trae Bunting nailed a three-pointer as time expired to send the game into overtime.

In the overtime period, the Seahawks made their shots down the stretch and escaped Kent Island with

December 13, 2019

a thrilling 58-56 win in overtime. Drew Haueisen lead the Seahawks with 28 points in the contest including key baskets in the overtime period.

Back in action on Tuesday, the Seahawks faced Worcester County rival Snow Hill at home. The Seahawks jumped out to a fast start and led 30-18 at the half. Snow Hill battled back in the second half with sharp shooting from behind the three-point line at least keeping the Eagles in the contest. In the end, Decatur proved to be too much for Snow Hill and pulled away for the 62-50 win.

Decatur faces Crisfield on the road next Tuesday and then Pocomoke on the road next Thursday in the last game before the holiday break. The Seahawks will compete in the Governor’s Challenge holiday tournament again this year, their first game coming against Georgetown Day on December 26. The Seahawks get a tough early test against Wicomico in the first conference game after the holiday break on January 7.

Seahawks Edge Bucs, Rout Eagles

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur girls’ varsity basketball team swept two games to start the season with a nice win at home against Kent Island and a rout of Snow Hill on the road on Tuesday.

The Seahawks got past Kent Island in the season opener last week on the road, 41-35, in a relatively tight game.

Mayah Garner led Decatur with 15 points, while Jessica Janney scored 12 and Nadia Bullock added six.

Back in action on the road on Tuesday at county rival Snow Hill, the Seahawks cruised past the Eagles, 52-16. Decatur got out to an early lead and never looked back against Snow Hill. Janney led the way with 14 points, while Garner scored 11 and Bullock and Sarah Engle each contributed 10. The Seahawks face Crisfield on the road next Tuesday followed by a home game against Pocomoke. The Decatur girls will compete in the North Caroline Holiday Tournament again this year, their first contest coming against the host.

Seahawks Solid In First Indoor Meet

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s varsity indoor track teams turned in a solid performance in the first conference meet of the season last week with good overall team scores and several standout individual outcomes.

In the boy’s 300, Raul Gault finished 18th, Gavin Weeks finished 39th, and Garrett Herr finished 43rd.

In the boys’ 500, Gavin McCabe finished 13th, Kai Ross came in 23rd, and Rife Leonard finished 42nd.

George Cheynet finished 13th in the 800, while Tristan Dutton was 22nd.

In the 1,600, Sam Rakowski finished 13th, Dutton was 24th and Grant Cheynet finished 32nd. Liam Foley finished fourth in the 3,200, while Philip Becnel came in 13th.

Samuel Oates finished 17th in the 55meter hurdles and Zachary Fuchsluger was 25th. In the relays, the

Decatur boys finished 12th in the 4x200, eighth in the 4x400, and third in the 4x800. In the field events, Fuchsluger was 12th in the high jump, while Oates finished 14th. Zachary Hickman finished 15th in the shot put.

In the girls’ 300, Amelia Kemp was 17th and Skylar Griffin was 28th. In the 500, Alyssa Romano was seventh, Caroline Gardner was 10th and Julia Carson was 23rd. Mary Mergott finished fifth in the 800, while Carolina Novelli was 20th. Mergott also finished seventh in the 1,600, while Devon Kramer was 15th.

In the 55-meter hurdles, Ivorie Helmbright was 21st, Jabria Lewis was 22nd and Alexandria Urbanski was 26th.

In the relays, the Decatur girls were ninth in the 4x200, eighth in the 4x400 and third in the 4x800. In the field events, Mia Andersen was 11th in the high jump, while Taya Price was 12th. Zoriah Shockley was second in the shot put.

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 47

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BEER•LIQUOR•WINE Copeland Earns Senior Excellence Award Worcester Prep standout athlete Emily Copeland last week was recognized with a Senior Excellence Award from the United Soccer Coaches.

Submitted photo

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN- Worcester Prep standout student-athlete Emily Copeland was honored last week with the Senior Excellence Award by the United Soccer Coaches after an exceptional fall soccer season for the Mallards.

Each year, United Soccer Coaches (USC) recognize outstanding senior student-athletes around the country with Senior Excellence Awards. The award was created to allow USC member coaches to honor student-athletes based on exceptional contributions to

the team while exemplifying the finest attributes of a high school student-athlete.

Copeland certainly fit the bill for Worcester Prep this year.

A multi-sport varsity athlete at Worcester, Copeland was named the most valuable player for the Mallards’ soccer team this fall and was also named to the Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference (ESIAC) All-Conference team. Copeland was recognized with the Senior Excellence Award after consistently projecting a positive attitude, displaying team leadership and exemplifying the standards set forth in the USC player code of conduct and ethics.

Mallards Drop Two In Tip-Off Classic

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – After routing St. Thomas More in the season opener last week, 83-40, Worcester Prep’s boys’ varsity basketball team dropped two games during the Tip-Off Classic at Delmarva Christian last weekend.

The Mallards got off to a fast start last Wednesday with the 83-40 win over St. Thomas More, but the level of competition ramped up quickly last Saturday in the Tip-Off Classic at Delmarva Christian against a couple of Delaware schools.

In its tournament opener, Worcester faced Laurel and fell, 74-18. The Mallards trailed 21-3 after one quarter and 39-10 at the half and never really got untracked against Laurel. Brugh Moore led Worcester with five points, while Ryan Cronin scored four and Brice Richins and Michael Wehberg each added three.

Against Indian River in its second tournament game, Worcester played much better but the outcome was the same. The Mallards fell to Indian River, 66-43. Mason Brown led Worcester with 14 points, while Graham McColgan added 10 and Moore pitched in eight.

First-Ever Lax Drop-In Program Offered

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – For the first time ever, the Ocean City Recreation and Parks Department is offering a winter boys’ high school lacrosse drop-in to allow local players to keep sharp and stay in shape this winter in advance of next spring’s season.

The high school lacrosse drop-in program will be offered at Northside Park on six Tuesdays throughout January and early February starting at 8:15 p.m. The program is open to players in high school and teams will be picked each week. The program is limited to 40 players. The cost is $41 for non-residents and $30 for Ocean City residents.

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Page 48

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Puzzle Answers

PUZZLE ON PAGE 51

T

The Adventures Of Fatherhood

By STEVE GREEN

hough there are examples to prove the contrary, I am generally amazed at how understanding people are when it comes to our special needs kid.

Carson has come incredibly far with his behaviors. When I compare him today to how he was a few years ago, it’s impossible to not be incredibly proud of his progress. It’s equally difficult to not be emotional about it.

He’s so much better and easier to be around now. He’s much more predictable and does what’s expected most of the time. A clearly verbalized road map of expectations from him is a huge help in daily life circumstances.

Nonetheless, with his Autism, there will always be struggles in certain situations. Right or wrong, we do not refrain from taking him places that could result in negative experiences. We refuse to simply not subject him to scenarios that could cause him anxiety.

What we do avoid are rock concerts, laser tag birthday parties and long musicals, which will be too much sensory for him (and also viewed as boring).

He has limits and we know what they are in most cases.

For the most part, however, we think he does well in most situations.

If things get a little hairy, we have enough confidence in him and our abilities to quell situations to redirect him on a productive track.

One of these instances was last weekend’s Christmas parade in Ocean City. We were unable to get to the parade as early as we liked, resulting in us not getting an area to sit curbside on Coastal Highway. Most of the prime areas had already been reserved. From the vantage point we chose near the judge’s stand to watch his brother perform with his school, there were dozens of unoccupied chairs reserving spaces.

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This set Carson off. He did not understand the whole reserving spaces concept when the people were not there at that time. He wanted those chairs out of his way. In his mind, they were in his spot.

Some people nearby started asking him questions expecting a response. Are you okay? What’s the matter, easy buddy? I had to briefly explain quietly to them what was happening and how he cannot verbally respond. I had to turn away from him because he doesn’t like being talked about, particularly if it’s in a fashion he perceives as embarrassing. Anxiety is the enemy with Carson because it brings unexpected and irrational behaviors. We were in full blown anxiety attack at this point. There was no reasoning with him for a few minutes. I had to physically hold him back from removing the chairs. At one point, I was wondering what his mom would do. She was walking the parade with Beckett. At one point, I thought about relocating altogether. I wondered how I could pick up our belongings, carry this 100-pound kid across the highway and watch the parade from the top of the Carousel parking garage. It would have been a difficult chore mentally and physically.

In this instance, what our 10-yearold boy wanted was simple – he wanted to watch the parade along the curb as he has done every year as long as I can remember. Though the wish was clear and simple, I was getting tense because I couldn’t find an easy solution as I looked around.

There was one kind couple who cleared out an area near them for Carson to look over the people who would be sitting in front of him. That was incredible of them and it settled him for a few minutes. In hindsight, they should be credited with staving off a complete meltdown. Meanwhile,

Rt. 50-West Ocean City • 410-213-1804

Located Between Comfort Inn Suites & Starbucks Across From Outback Steak House

(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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the problem remained the numerous unfolded chairs in front him without people in them. He just couldn’t understand. It didn’t seem fair to him.

The horn sounding the start of the parade only exacerbated the situation.

Once the parade started, the family who had smartly reserved their places returned. One woman (clearly the maternal leader) in the group seemed to immediately sense what was happening with my son. The teary eyes and red face probably gave it away. She was my angel on this day. She saved us. Seemingly against some of her relatives’ wishes, she squeezed her group together allowing enough room for Carson to sit on the curb. Since I had seen some poor decisions and concerning reactions from him during his challenging period, I was on guard the entire parade, always keeping him right next to me. Working the parade and taking pictures would have to be backburned for his sake. Instead I stood in the exact same spot for 90 minutes over him on the curb taking pictures from the exact same vantage point. It may have robbed me of getting more creative shots, but he needed my legs to lean against and hit repeatedly with his back. It was a coping mechanism for him.

I thank all these Good Samaritans who helped me on this day. While it’s true there are many people in this world who have little patience with kids on the spectrum because they are different and their issues cannot always be identifiable, I encountered the opposite among this small group of people. Without their empathy, I doubt Carson and I would have made it through the parade incident free.

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Community

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 49

News In Photos

The winner of the Ocean City Elks Lodge 2645 Ladies Auxiliary drawing was drawn by Shellie Gronsbell and the winner was lodge member Dick Scarborough.

The funds raised will be used for various worthy causes including the Cricket Center and cancer research organizations. Pictured, from left, are fundraiser chair Peg Atkins, Scarborough and Auxiliary President Patti Halsey.

Brigadier General Janeen L. Birckhead, Assistant Adjutant General, Maryland National Guard, spoke to members of the General Levin Winder Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) about national defense at a recent luncheon meeting. Following her remarks, Janet Simpson, the chapter’s American History chair, presented Birckhead with a DAR American Women in History award for having been one of the first-ever-all-female command staff of a National Guard in the nation. Pictured, from left, are Simpson, Birckhead and her mother, Submitted Photos Fannie.

The last day of the Kiwanis Annual Toy Drive was last week. After the last collection at the Dec. 4 meeting, the toys were delivered to Worcester G.O.L.D. (Giving Other Lives Dignity) in Snow Hill for distribution in conjunction with needs verified through Worcester County Social Services. Pictured, from left, are G.O.L.D. Executive Director Sandy Sipes with Rita and Dave Landis, who delivered the goods on behalf of the club.

SoDel Cares, the philanthropic arm of SoDel Concepts, recently donated $10,000 to the Harry K Foundation. Pictured, from left, are Lindsey Barry, comptroller for SoDel Concepts; Stephanine Manning-Roash, chair of the Harry K Foundation fundraising committee; and Harry Keswani, founder and president of the foundation.

Eighty-four golfers participated in this month’s Coats for Kids Golf Tournament that is held annually at Eagle’s Landing. The money raised by this tournament is used to purchase coats for kids who are in need and this year's tournament raised $8,000. The coats will be distributed to multiple schools in Delaware and Maryland. Pictured are tournament co-chairman Bill Thompson, Eagle’s Landing’s Dan Stearman and co-chairman Nick Costa.

Page 50

Every Monday: TOPS Meeting 5:30-6:30 p.m. Atlantic General Hospital, Berlin. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a support group promoting weight loss and maintaining a healthy life-style.410-641-0157.

Every Monday: Delmarva Chorus Meeting 7 p.m. Ocean Pines Community Center.

Women of all ages invited to sing with the group. 410-641-6876.

Second Monday Of Month: Ocean Pines Camera Club 7 p.m. Ocean Pines branch library. Monthly get-together to share photos, tips, programs.

Group goes on a photo shoot the Saturday following meeting and hosts a hands-on workshop the last Thursday of each month.

Professional and amateur photographers and new members welcome. Meets second Monday of each month.

Every Tuesday: TOPS Meeting 5:30-7 p.m. Worcester County Health Center, 9730 Healthway Dr., Berlin. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a support and educational group promoting weight loss and healthy lifestyle. jeanduck47@gmail.com.

Second Tuesday of Month: Eastern Shore Stamp Club Meeting 6 p.m. Salisbury branch, Wicomico County Library. Meetings held in basement.

Every Wednesday: Delmarva Hand Dance Club Dance To Sounds of ’50s And ’60s Music 5:30-9 p.m. Ocean City Elks Lodge, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave. $5 donation per person to benefit veterans and local charities in the Delmarva region. Members and guests welcome. dance@delmarvahanddancing.com or http://-

Things To Do The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Every Wednesday: Rotary Club The Ocean City-Berlin Rotary Club meets Wednesdays on a weekly basis at the Residence Inn in Ocean City at 6 p.m. delmarvahanddancing.com. 410-208-1151.

Second Wednesday: Polish American Club Of Delmarva Meeting 2-4 p.m. Columbus Hall. Anyone of Polish or Slavic descent is welcome. No meetings June, July, August. 410-723-2639 or 410-250-2548.

Every Thursday: Beach Singles 45 Plus, happy hour 4-7 p.m., Clarion Hotel, 10100 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City. 302-4369577, 410-524-0649, beachsingles.org.

Second Thursday: Ocean Pines Garden Club 10 a.m. Ocean Pines Community Center. Visitors and new members welcome.

Every Friday: Knights Of Columbus #9053 Bingo Doors open at 5 p.m., bingo at 6:30 p.m. 9901 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City. Possible to win the $1,000 big jackpot each week. 410-524-7994.

Every Friday: FORGE Contemporary Youth And Family Ministry 6:30-8:30 p.m. FORGE Center, 7804 Gumboro Rd., Pittsville. Designed for kids ages 5-65, the

program provides a meal, music, games, activities and a life lesson that can be of use to anyone. Christian-based program but does not require the practice of faith to attend. 443-3662813.

First Saturday Of Month: Writers Group 10 a.m.-noon. Berlin branch, Worcester County Library. Anyone interested in writing is invited to join the group and share a story, poem or essay or just come and enjoy listening to others. This is a free activity. New members are always welcome. The group is comprised of amateur as well as professional, published writers willing to share their knowledge and offer tips on being creative with words.

December 13: Christmas Concert A Christmas Concert, benefiting the CASA program, will be held at Stevenson United Methodist Church 7-8:30 p.m. Local musicians and children performing favorite holiday tunes as well as the Stevenson UMC hand bell choir and director and organist Ty Thompson.

December 13: Christmas Concert Pines Tones Chorus will perform at 7:30 p.m. at Atlantic United Methodist Church. Admission is free. An offering will be received. Refresh-

December 13, 2019 December 13-15: Children’s Play Ocean Pines Players will perform ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas Friday, Dec. 13 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church at 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15 at 2:30 p.m. at the Red Doors Community Center. Tickets for the play are $15 for adults and $10 for children 3 to 16, payable at the door, although seats can be reserved in advance on the Ocean Pines Players website at www.oceanpinesplayers.com. ments after in the church hall. All welcome.

December 14: Shoppers Bazaar Salisbury Elks Lodge #817 holding from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Forty local vendors and familyfriendly event with Santa’s Workshop, gift wrapping, refreshments and prizes.

December 14 And 21: Advent Organ Recital Series Organ concerts at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in downtown Salisbury at 4 p.m. each day. Admission is free. 410-742-5118.

December 16: Holiday Lunch The Ocean City Senior Center will hold at 11 a.m., sponsored by the Bank of Ocean City.

RSVP by Dec. 9 to Laura at 410-289-0824 or laura.madara@worcoa.org December 28: Breakfast Buffet Whaleyville United Methodist Church will host an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet from 7-10 a.m. Adult, $8; child, $4.

January 3: Cash Bingo Doors open at the Bishopville Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary at 5 p.m. with game beginning at 5:45 p.m. $25 in advance; $30 at the door. Call 619-922-9950 to reserve ticket.

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

The Dispatch Crossword Puzzle

Things I Like ...

Page 51

By Steve Green

When a song sparks a memory The first night after hanging Christmas lights

Extended cab pickup trucks

Music videos from the 1980s

The occasional mornings when there is no need to rush Lamar Jackson’s humility

Kids who know the Lord’s Prayer by heart Snow Hill High’s marching band

A parade with a lot of creative floats The expression, “win or learn” Falling asleep fast at night

ANSWERS ON PAGE 48

WEST OCEAN CITY

NORTH OCEAN CITY

HAPPY HOUR 3 P.M.-6 P.M.

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SUNDAY THRU FRIDAY SATURDAY NOON-4 P.M.

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$1.25 CRUNCHY TACOS (Beef, Bean, Chicken Or Pork)

$1.25 CRUNCHY TACOS (Beef, Chicken, Bean Or Pork)

$3 SOFT TACOS

$3 SOFT FISH TACOS

(Mahi Or Rock)

(Fried Rockfish Or Grilled Mahi)

$5 HOUSE MARGARITAS $3 TECATE AND TECATE LIGHT

$5 MINI NACHOS (Beef, Chicken, Pork, Bean Or Chili)

$7 TRIPLE SAMPLER SUNDAY FUN DAY ALL DAY FOOD AND DRINKS

MONDAY TACO NIGHT 5 P.M.-10 P.M.

TUESDAY FAJITA NIGHT 5 P.M.-10 P.M.

WEDNESDAY BURRITO NIGHT 5 P.M.-10 P.M.

THURSDAY BURGER NIGHT

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 11 A.M. 5 P.M.-10 P.M.

SUNDAY THRU THURSDAY KITCHEN CLOSES AT 10 P.M. 12720 OCEAN GATEWAY #7-PARK PLACE PLAZA WEST OCEAN CITY • 410-390-7721

THURSDAY NIGHT SPECIALS 3 P.M.-10 P.M. • DINE IN ONLY $10 CHICKEN, STEAK OR MUSHROOM OR COMBO OF ANY 2 $13 SHRIMP FAJITAS OR COMBO WITH SHRIMP

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OPEN 5 DAYS A WEEK (CLOSED MONDAYS & TUESDAYS)

MONTEGO BAY SHOPPING CENTER 130TH ST., OCEAN CITY, MD. 410-250-4424 • www.octequila.com Reservation For Parties Of 8 Or More

Best Beats

Page 52

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 13, 2019

on the beach

Who’s Where When 28th/127th st. Pit & Pub 410-289-2020 • 443-664-7482 28th st. & cOastaL hWy. & 127th st. & cOastaL hWy. Friday, Dec. 13: Otto Grundman Wednesdays: DJ Wax (28th St.) atLantic hOteL 410-641-3589 2 nOrth main st., berLin Friday, Dec. 13: Zander Jett Mondays: Earl Beardsley Tuesdays: Bob Miller on Piano buxy’s saLty dOG/ dry dOck 28 410-289-0973 28th st. & cOastaL hWy. Friday, Dec. 13: DJ Wax Saturday, Dec. 14: DJ Tops Cut Off

The One You've Been Waiting For! Washington Street, Berlin … Where All The Fun Happens!

This one-of-a-kind property’s features include:

• Two homes ideally located on Washington Street • Short walking distance to downtown shops and restaurants • Easy access to all special events, including Christmas Parade, Fiddlers Convention & Bathtub Races.

Property in middle of all of Berlin’s Halloween Festivities • Expansive deck connecting two homes perfect for parties • Cottage has huge potential for a small home business, in-law suite or boomerang adult kids • Large in-ground pool with slide and large patio area • Five total bedrooms, three full baths on property (outdoor shower, too) • Huge backyard with bonfire pit, in-ground trampoline, beach play area and three separate storage sheds

$510,000

cLariOn hOteL 410-524-3535 10100 cOastaL hWy. Ocean Club: Friday & Saturday, Dec. 13 & 14: On The Edge Fridays & Saturdays: DJ Dusty

crabcake factOry bayside 302-988-5000 rt. 54 fenWick isLand, de Friday, Dec. 13: Smooth & Remy Wednesday, Dec. 18: Smooth & Remy

OttO Grundman 28th st. Pit & Pub: friday, dec. 13 crabcake factory: thursdays

dJ rObcee fager’s island: saturday, dec. 14

dJ dusty clarion/Ocean club: every friday & saturday

zander Jett atlantic hotel: friday, dec.13 & mondays

dJ bk Greene turtle north: friday, dec. 13

dJ biLLy t harborside: fridays & thursday, dec. 19

faGer’s isLand 410-524-5500 60th st. in the bay Friday, Dec. 13: DJ Greg, DJ Hook Saturday, Dec. 14: DJ RobCee

Greene turtLe nOrth 410-723-2120 11601 cOastaL hWy. Friday, Dec. 13: DJ BK, 10 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 14: The Rockoholics

Jimmy charLes harpoon hanna’s: friday, dec. 13

dave sherman harpoon hanna’s: saturday, dec 14

Greene turtLe West 410-213-1500 rte. 611, West Oc Tuesday, Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve: Lime Green Band

Gussie Sholtis 410-713-2771 gussiesholtis@gmail.com

19 North Main Street

Berlin, MD

www.sheppardrealty.com Your Main Street Realtors

harbOrside 410-213-1846 sOuth harbOr rOad, West Oc Fridays: DJ Billy T Saturday, Dec. 14: Chris Button/ Side Project, DJ Jeremy

randy Lee ashcraft & sWc Johnny’s Pizza & Pub: Wednesdays smitty mcGee’s: thursdays & fridays beats by Wax buxy’s salty dog: friday, dec. 13 28th st. Pit & Pub: Wednesdays Pickles Pub: saturday, dec. 14 & thursdays

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 53

Who’s Where When Sunday, Dec. 15: Opposite Directions, 2 p.m., Chuck D, 7 p.m.

Thursdays: Opposite Directions

ON THE EDGE Clarion/Ocean Club: Friday & Saturday, Dec. 13 & 14

FULL CIRCLE Seacrets: Friday & Saturday, Dec. 13 & 14

HARPOON HANNA’S 302-539-3095 RT. 54 & THE BAY, FENWICK ISLAND, DE Friday, Dec. 13: Dave Hawkins, Jimmy Charles Saturday, Dec. 14: Dave Sherman Thursday, Dec. 19: Kevin Poole HOOTERS 410-213-1841 12513 OCEAN GATEWAY, RTE. 50, WEST OC Friday, Dec. 13: TBA

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Harborside: Sundays & Thursdays

SMOOTH & REMY Crabcake Factory Bayside: Friday, Dec. 13 & Wednesday, Dec. 18

JOHNNY’S PIZZA & PUB 410-723-5600 RT. 54 FENWICK ISLAND, DE Wednesdays: Randy Lee Ashcraft & The Saltwater Cowboys PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8TH ST. & PHILADELPHIA AVE. Friday, Dec. 13: Beats By Jeremy Saturday, Dec. 14: Beats By Wax Mondays: Karaoke W/ Jeremy Wednesdays: Beats By Styler Thursdays: Beats By Wax

LOWER CASE BLUES Seacrets: Friday, Dec. 13

THE ROCKOHOLICS Greene Turtle North: Saturday, Dec. 14

THE BENDERZ Seacrets: Saturday, Dec. 14

JOCELYN & CHRIS ARNDT Seacrets: Friday, Dec. 13

Come Join Us On Sunday

UPCOMING EVENTS Saturday, December 7, Christmas Bazaar 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Friday, December 13, Christmas Concert benefiting C.A.S.A. 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Stevenson United Methodist Church 123 North Main St., Berlin, Md. 410-641-1137 • www.stevensonchurch.org

EVERY SUNDAY

8:30 a.m.: Fellowship 9:00 a.m.: Worship Service 9:30 a.m.: Sunday School

SMITTY MCGEE’S 302-436-4716 37234 LIGHTHOUSE RD., WEST FENWICK IRELAND, DE Thursdays & Fridays: Randy Lee Ashcraft & The Saltwater Cowboys SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49TH ST. & COASTAL HWY. Friday, Dec. 13: DJ Tuff, Lower Case Blues, Full Circle, Jocelyn & Chris Arndt, Brandon Hardesty, Howi Spangler, High Five Swan Dive Saturday, Dec. 14: Full Circle, The Benderz, DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz

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BEER • WINE • SODA Open 7 Days A Week Mon.-Thurs., 7 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 7 a.m.-10 p.m. & Sun., 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Gas • Ice Cigarettes 410-641-2366 • Main St. & Old O.C. Blvd., Berlin, Md.

Page 54

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 13, 2019

It was a fun and festive week of events, including the Locals Christmas Party at the Original Greene Turtle, the 22nd Hot for Tots Chili Cookoff at the Greene Turtle West and the Holiday Winter Market at The Shark on the Harbor.

The Original Greene Turtle: Cindy D’Alfonso, Owner Steve pappas, Karen Connolly & Mean Jean Taylor

By Terri French

Faces

SpOTLIGHT On THE REGIOnAL RESTAuRAnT AnD BAR SCEnE

The Shark On The Harbor: Clint Dempsey, Owner Jody Wright, Sherri & Marc Custodio at the Monthly Winter Market

In Places

The Original Greene Turtle: Barb Elek, Jean Taylor, Rosanne pezzola Forestal, pat Downey, Jim Bresnahan, Shirley Watkins, Joan Matters, Jim Watkins, Bill Matters & Eddie Murray

The Original Greene Turtle Staffers: Cindy D’Alfonso, Carly Deickman, Shawn Sturgis & Will Jenkins

GreeneTurtle West: 45th St. Taphouse Chef RJ Stargel & Owner Zev Sibony

Greene Turtle West: Tequila Mockingbird West’s Kevin Hooker, pete Eppig & Co-owner Chase Ryan

The Shark On The Harbor: Amanda Lanier & Brandi Mellinger

Greene Turtle West: DJ BK & Owner Tommy Dickerson

Greene Turtle West: Chili Servers Emily LeMaster & Bayleigh Impink

The Shark On The Harbor: Beth Hannon & Frank Fetter

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 55

Page 56

In the sweet shop of the Atlantic United Methodist Church Christmas Bazaar were Joanne Harner, Jackie Sterling and Pat Harman on Friday Night.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

People

By Jeanette Deskiewicz

FEATURING THOSE HELPING CAUSES IN THE RESORT AREA

Providing quite a spread for the Pocomoke Chamber November Business After Hours were Michelle Steininger and Sheila Coulbourne of Atlantic Union Bank.

In Society

December 13, 2019

Taking their oaths of office at the annual installation dinner were Ray Robinson and Vi Candeloro, serving one-year terms on the Board of Directors for the OC Downtown Association.

The Pocomoke Chamber November Multi-Chamber Business After Hours was hosted by Steve Selby (vendor) and Dean Guy (owner) of Flea Market 13 and Antiques.

Assisting with the Silent Auction were Donna Derg and Sharon Rutherford at the Atlantic United Methodist Church Christmas Bazaar.

It was a family affair at the Atlantic United Methodist Church Christmas Bazaar with Joann Waysz and granddaughter Ronin Brooks serving desserts at the dinner service.

Long-standing treasurer of the OC Downtown Association, Amy Rothermel, with husband, Bob, got ready to renew her position for 2020 at the annual installation dinner.

Sales Associates Sheila Banks and Lydia Kinsell helped out on the floor during The Country House Annual Christmas Open House event.

Behind the candy counter at their Christmas Open House were Amanda Andrews and Kristy Graves of The Country House in Salisbury.

Serving the Italian dinner in conjunction with the annual Christmas Bazaar were Sharon and Rick Manick at Atlantic United Methodist Church.

Horoscopes

December 13, 2019

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): Make your holiday preparations one step at a time in order to avoid being overwhelmed and leaving things undone. That confusing family situation continues to work itself out.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): Ease this year's holiday money pressures by letting your thrifty side guide you as you look for those perfect gifts that typically reflect your good taste and love of beauty.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): You'll have a good handle on potential holiday problems if you delegate tasks to family members, friends or co-workers -- most of whom will be more than happy to help out.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): Right now you are especially vulnerable to holiday scams that seek to take advantage of your generosity. Best advice: Check them out before you send out your checks.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): The upcoming holiday season gives the Big Cat much to purr about. Relationships grow stronger, and new opportunities loom on the horizon, just waiting to be pounced on.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): A changing situation brings conflicting advice about how to go forward with your holiday plans. Your best bet: Make the decision you feel most comfortable with.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): Holiday plans get back on track after some confusion about the direction you expected to take. A potentially troublesome money matter needs your immediate attention.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Your holiday preparations are on track. But you need to confront a personal situation while you can still keep it from overwhelming everything else.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): Tight financial matters ease a bit during this holiday season. But the sagacious Sagittarian is well-advised to keep a tight hold on the reins while shopping for gifts.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): Don't put off making decisions about this year's holiday celebrations, despite the negative comments you've been getting from several quarters. Do it NOW! AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): The holidays will bring new friends and new opportunities. Meanwhile, be careful to use your energy wisely as you go about making holiday preparations.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): There's good news coming from a most unlikely source. And it could turn out to be one of the best holiday gifts you have had in years. Remember to stay positive.

BORN THIS WEEK: You are respected for your honesty and loyalty.

You make friends slowly -- but with rare exceptions, they're in your life forever. Š 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

CHRISTMAS DAY PLAY FREE AT 68TH STREET 11AM-4PM

Page 57

Page 58

Common Questions Answered

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Wealth Of Knowledge

BY KRISTIN COANE

SPECIAL TO THE DISPATCH

BERLIN – This week we take a look at some frequently asked questions the advisors at Key Financial Services routinely receive.

Q. How much more does it cost for permanent insurance versus term?

A. A general idea is that permanent insurance is in the range of two to five times more expensive than term insurance. This is dependent upon your specific situation and health rating. No two people’s situation is exactly the same. We recommend getting multiple quotes before making a decision.

Q. Do I still need long term care insurance if I have living benefits on my life insurance policy?

A. This answer, like most of our responses, depends on your personal situation. While living benefits provide financial assistance for many of the same illnesses covered by traditional LTC insurance, living benefits may have annual maximum limits for withdrawal. Long term care will provide an additional benefit but comes at a cost – one that many cannot afford. Generally speaking, the assistance available through living benefits is enough but you should always consider your health history, family history, etc.

Q. Can I access the cash value in

December 13, 2019

my permanent life insurance policy?

A. The beauty of permanent life insurance that accumulates cash value is that you do have access. Cash accumulation can be accessed through policy loans, sometimes in the form of tax-free income.

Q. Can I have more than one life insurance policy?

A. Absolutely. There is no limit on the number of policies an individual may have although to qualify for any life insurance policy there must be an insurable interest. As part of the underwriting process, a team of underwriters will look at the applicant’s need for insurance and financial background to ensure the insurance benefit and premium are within their means. Beyond this there could be a need for both permanent and term insurance to cover long and short-term needs.

Clarification

In last week’s article, “Berlin Kicks Off Holiday Season With A Bang,” the town’s new snow machine was referenced. The $600 snow machine was purchased by the town thanks to a $300 donation from the Atlantic Hotel and a $300 donation from Burley Inn Tavern’s corn hole tournament.

St. Paul’s

Episcopal Church 3 Church Street Berlin MD 410~641~4066

WORSHIPING SUNDAYS At 8:30 and 10:30am

CHRISTMAS EVE

3pm Historic St. Martins 5pm Family Eucharist 11pm Solemn Eucharist

CHRISTMAS DAY

10am Holy Eucharist www.stpaulsberlin.org

THE DISPATCH’S PETS OF THE MONTH

December 13, 2019

Pet’s Name: Norris Pet’s Age/Breed: Two-month-old mixed Pet’s Owner: Judy Boston

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Pet’s Name: Brie Pet’s Age/Breed: 3-year-old calico Pet’s Owners: Dave & Eileen Seamen

Pet’s Name:Theo Pet’s Age/Breed: 4-month-old Persian/Himalayan mix Pet’s Owner: Jude Al-Hamad

Page 59

Pet’s Name: Lucky Pet’s Age/Breed: 8-year-old Wire Fox Terrier Pet’s Owner: Cathy Helmick

STEVE GREEN EDITOR

Pet’s Name: Sebastian Pet’s Age/Breed: 5-year-old Aussie/Border Collie Pet’s Owners: Jackie & Rick Alban

Pet’s Name: Mason Pet’s Age/Breed: 2-year-old mutt Pet’s Owner: Scott Murrell

NOW TAKING TRANSFER STUDENTS INSTITUTE OF COSMETOLOGY

The Dispatch presents the latest edition of its Pets of the Month Contest.

Each month one special animal, or two, in some cases, is picked as the cutest photo of the bunch through a private vote of our staff. Here we present this month’s pets, submitted by our readers.

On the front page is last month’s winning entry, Sophie, owned by Nancy Hendricks.

Those interested in participating in future months’ contests are invited to send their lovable pet photo to us at editor@mdcoastdispatch.com (preferred) or to P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811 or drop it off at our office in Berlin at 10012 Old Ocean City Blvd.

Please be sure it’s a high-quality photo suitable for reproduction and to include your mailing address, the pet’s name, age and breed and the owner’s first and last name. The next series will appear in this space on Jan. 10.

Pet’s Name: Windsor Pet’s Age/Breed: 4-year-old Shih Tzu Pet’s Owners: Andy & Barbara Loffler

Pet’s Name: Bubu Pet’s Age/Breed: 10-year-old adoptee Pet’s Owners: Arlene & Jim Beebe

Pet’s Name: Riley Pet’s Age/Breed: 2-year-old tabby Pet’s Owner: Kim Rutlin

Pet’s Name: Bella Pet’s Age/Breed: 12-year-old Yellow Labrador mix Pet’s Owners: Bob & Joan Faszczewski

Page 60

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 13, 2019

Public Works Complex Opens:

Resort officials cut the ceremonial ribbon Tuesday on Ocean City’s new downtown public works complex between 2nd and 3rd streets along St. Louis Avenue. The new facility, which comes in at just over 19,000 square feet and a price tag of around $3.8 million, will house the Boardwalk tram operation and the beach and Boardwalk cleaning operations among other things. Pictured, at right from left, are Ocean City Council members John Gehrig, Tony DeLuca, Matt James, Dennis Dare and Mary Knight and Mayor Rick Meehan and Public Works Director Hal Adkins.

ADOPT A PET FROM THE SHELTER Photo by Shawn Soper

These Loving Animals, Sponsored Each Month By Local Businesses, Are Available For Adoption At The Ocean City Humane Society: 410-213-0146.

To Sponsor A Pet, Call 410-641-4561 • Annually, 10% Of The Proceeds From This Page Are Donated To The Shelter

The Humane Society Desperately Needs Volunteers To Help Care For The Cats And Dogs. Any Amount Of Time You Can Spare Will Be Appreciated.

GINGER

JUNO

HONEYSUCKLE

BURTON

STAR

The Shark Restaurant 12429 Sunset Ave., WOC 410-213-0294

Bank Of Ocean City Ocean Pines 410-208-9380

The Dispatch www.mdcoastdispatch.com Subscribe For Email Articles

Maryland Title Service 11500 Coastal Hwy., Suite 7, OC 410-723-2000

Shore Results Realty Kim McGuigan, Broker, OC 443-992-4990

ELSA

DELIAH

BAHAMA MAMA

KEATON

BLUE

Adkins Of Berlin Harrison Avenue 410-641-2200

Taylor Bank Main Street, Berlin, Md. 410-641-1700

Barefoot Mailman Motel 35th Street, Ocean City 410-289-5343

Casual Designs Rte. 54, Fenwick 302-436-8224 Rte. 50, Berlin 410-629-1717

BJ’s On The Water Inc. Ocean City 410-524-7575

LOUISE

TRUFFLE

CATALINA

DIAMOND

SASHA

Hooters of Ocean City Ocean City/West Ocean City www.hootersofoc.com

Atlantic Plumbing Specialist Inc. 410-208-3600

Elliott’s Hardware Rte. 611, West Ocean City 410-213-1088

Park Place Jewelers-Boardwalk & 2nd & 3rd St. And OC Factory Outlets • 410-213-9220

The Dough Roller Five Locations In Ocean City

Intersection Work Eyed On Route 1

December 13, 2019

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

FENWICK ISLAND – A permanent easement will allow Delaware’s transportation agency to complete a drainage project at a busy resort intersection.

Last week, the Fenwick Island Town Council voted unanimously to grant a permanent easement near Island Street and West Maryland Avenue to the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) for a drainage project at the intersection of Route 1 and Route 54.

Stewart Magee, a representative with DelDOT, told the council the easement – consisting of approximately 16,900 square feet or 0.388 acres – would allow crews to reconstruct the drainage systems and reduce the severity of flooding at the busy intersection.

“As everybody knows, we’ve been having some really torrential downpours lately,” he said. “Of course, that greatly impacts the intersection here at Route 1 and Route 54. With that being said, we are trying to go back and see how we can make it better.”

Magee said the project would include the installation of a larger pipe.

The water would then be carried west to a drain system on West Maryland Avenue and out into the bay.

“The existing drainage system runs up Route 1 almost up underneath the sidewalk, which is 18-inch reinforced concrete pipe,” he said. “I’m proposing to do an elliptical pipe, carry that water back toward the west and go in between the waterslide and go-kart track ... Whatever the 18-inch line can’t take, I’ve now created additional storage during peak discharge.”

Magee said the project was cost efficient and had the least impact on drivers. He added it would also alleviate flooding issues.

“Realistically I’m never going to say I can fix it, that you’re never going to see water there,” he said. “But I think we can make a drastic improvement in that line.”

Magee said the permanent easement would allow DelDOT to reconstruct and maintain the drainage system.

“In order to accomplish this, we would need an easement from you guys to be able to construct the actual pipe system itself, starting at the outfall and working our way upstream …,” he said. “After that, with the easement, we’ll be able to fix, maintain, flush, repair anything on the existing line.”

Councilman Bill Weistling questioned if the project would also include the installation of additional drains, particularly in the area behind Fenwick Crab House.

“For right now I’m going to say we don’t have it in our plan …,” Magee replied. “I won’t rule out being able to tie in things down the road, but for right now it’s not my intention in the design.”

Officials noted the project will be completed in the off-season.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 61

Fenwick Approves Funds For Inland Bays Requests

Page 62

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

FENWICK ISLAND – Officials in Fenwick Island voted last week to support two funding requests from the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays.

Last Friday, the Fenwick Island Town Council voted 6-0, with Councilman Richard Mais abstaining, to contribute $3,000 toward two initiatives from the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays.

Executive Director Chris Bason told the council last week the organization was seeking financial support from agencies and coastal towns to complete a study on the economic value of the inland bays. He said the project’s goal is to target federal and state funding and to garner support from local agencies and the public.

“The idea is that this study would be directed toward the appropriators, both at the state level and the federal level,” he said. “Although we can’t guarantee it, we feel this information will be very helpful for those appropriators to allocate more money to clean-

ing up our waters in the inland bays and also for waterway management, including dredging.”

Officials noted that contributors included the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, University of Delaware Sea Grant and Henlopen Acres. Sussex County has also agreed to match dollar for dollar any funds contributed by local municipalities.

To that end, Bason said he was seeking support from coastal towns to help fund the study, which would cost $53,749 to complete.

“It needs to be a team effort,” he said. “All the coastal towns need to be in on this effort to get better waterway management and more clean water funding.”

The Center for the Inland Bays last week requested a $2,000 contribution from Fenwick Island. The council ultimately voted 6-0 to use money from the town’s Community Outreach Program to fund the request.

“I think we have money in that Community Outreach Program that we have not used,” Councilwoman Vicki

December 13, 2019

Carmean said. “So I am in favor of giving you that money.

Mais, a member of the Board of Directors for the Center for the Inland Bays, abstained.

The council this week also voted 60 to contribute $1,000 to the organization’s Oyster Gardening Program. The Center for the Inland Bays sought funding to expand its program to Fenwick Island.

“Currently, the Town of South Bethany participates, and I think some of our own residents participate,” Town Manager Terry Tieman said. “South Bethany gave a $1,000 donation and the Center does require a $50 participation donation from each gardener.

So the gardener has some skin in the game too.”

Since 2003, the Oyster Gardening Program has employed the use of volunteers to raise small amounts of oysters in the waters that surround their docks and bulkheads. The Center provides juvenile oysters and gear to raise them, while the volunteer gardeners provide basic husbandry to grow the oysters, which are used in

restoration projects.

The program originally started through a grant from the national Fish & Wildlife Foundation’s Five-Star Restoration Challenge Grant Program. However, the program is currently supported through a cooperative effort among the Center, the Sea Grant Marine Advisory Program, the Town of South Bethany and the volunteers.

Tieman noted the program improves water quality through restoration efforts, protects young spat, creates habitats for other marine species and educates volunteers and the public, among other things.

“I do believe this contributes to the health of the bay as well,” she said.

Bason told the council last week the program was one of two initiatives to grow the oyster population. Currently, the program includes 150 volunteer gardeners at sites around the inland bays.

“This is one part of a larger effort to bring the oysters back to the inland bays,” he said. “Without this program, we wouldn’t be able to do that.”

HERE’S MY CARD

LAWN CARE

For More Information, Contact Pamela Green PHONE: 410-641-4561 • FAX: 410-641-0966 EMAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@MDCOASTDISPATCH.COM

CARPET CLEANING

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West Ocean City Commercial Project Moves Ahead

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – Plans for the development of Sea Oaks Village moved forward last week with site plan approval for the commercial portion of the project.

Last Thursday, the Worcester County Planning Commission voted 6-0 to approve a site plan for the commercial portion of the Route 611 project.

“I think it’s a great looking project,” attorney Hugh Cropper told the commission. “It’ll be an asset to the area.”

Cropper and Bob Hand, the project’s designer, outlined plans for the buildings — a 12,000 square foot structure for contractor shops and a 12,570 square foot structure for office and retail space — to the commission last week. The overall project, which will be located on the west side of Route 611 and north of Sinepuxent Road, is set to include the commercial space as well as 59 townhomes.

Though county staff pointed out that the proposed commercial buildings were lacking some of the landscaping mandated by code, Cropper

said the developer was seeking a waiver to that requirement considering the attractiveness of the buildings.

“We want to buffer but we don’t want to screen the project from the view along Route 611 because it is a very pretty project,” Hand explained. “The architecture is outstanding and I think it’s an asset to the neighborhood.”

Cropper said he was also asking for a waiver to the requirements for building projections and recesses cited by county staff.

“I think if we add more details it’ll

Page 63

get a little too busy…,” Cropper said.

“We have significant architectural design, it’s just not projections and recesses that exactly comply with the design guidelines.”

The commission voted 6-0 to approve the site plan as presented by Cropper.

Following that vote, they considered a rezoning request regarding a small portion of the Hooper’s Crab House property. Cropper, representing the property owners, said that while most of the property is zoned commercial, a quarter

of an acre is zoned R-3 residential.

Cropper said he considered the zoning a mistake, since that portion of the site had been in use by Hooper’s for close to 30 years, sometimes as parking area and sometimes for special events.

“It’s really a very small piece of property but it’s important to Hooper’s because it’s part of their use and they need it,” Cropper said.

The commission voted 6-0 to forward the rezoning request to the Worcester County Commissioners with a favorable recommendation.

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The Dispatch Classifieds

Page 64

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

$15/Week For Minimum Of Five Lines • $2 Thereafter Per Line Display Classified Ads: $20/Week Per Column Inch (Contract Discounts Available)

December 13, 2019 PUT YOUR LOGO IN COLOR FOR JUST $10

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

Deadline For Insertions, Cancellations And Payment Is 3 p.m. Tuesday.

Pre-Payment Is Required. We Accept Visa & MasterCard.

Work With the Best Ocean City has to Offer ...

We Invite You to be a Part of our Family!

HELP WANTED WAREHOUSE / RECEIVING CLERK

YR MAINTENANCE: 32-40 hrs/week. Handy in all areas. Must have own tools and trans. Send resume to fred@paradiseoc.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– CENTURY TAXI: Now hiring Taxi Driver. 443-235-5664.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– RENTAL ASSISTANT: Must have good customer service skills. Good benefits. Knowledge of Ccean City a must. Send resume to: keti@shorepro.com.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SOUTHSIDE GRILL WOC: Hiring Line Cooks, Kitchen Help, Dishwashers. YR, FT or PT. Ambitious, willing to work individuals only. Pay neg. based on performance. 9923 Stephen Decatur Hy. 410-2131572.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– GO-CART SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC NEEDED: FT/YR. Call 410-289-4902 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––

We are currently hiring a full time, year round warehouse / receiving clerk for our busy hotel. Responsibilities include maintaining inventories, and product distribution to internal outlets. Moderate to heavy lifting required. Must have excellent references.

Excellent benefits package.

Please apply within or send resume to:

CLARION RESORT FONTAINEBLEAU HOTEL 10100 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD. 21842 Phone: 410-524-3535 Fax: 410-723-9109

EOE M/F/D/V Now hiring

YR,SERVERS ALEX’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT APPLY IN PERSON Rt 50 in West OC

Assawoman Ale Shoppe Hiring for all positions.

Apply within store.

52nd Street, Bayside, OC.

SALES & DESIGN CONSULTANT Be the next Designer to bring a customer’s vision to life! Every person, home, and space have their own story. California Closets has built exceptional design transformations for people’s lives. A home is more than a place – it’s a source of comfort and refuge, a space for connection and celebration. Do you have a PASSION for DESIGN? Are you ready to DESIGN BETTER LIVES? We’ll provide: Autonomy – Work-life balance and flexible work schedule Ongoing Support – Extensive new hire training and inv estment with on-going future training programs Technology – Ipad, CAD program, Laptop and more Generous Compensation package – Performance-based compensation, commission, and bonuses Benefits –Medical, Dental, Vision after 30 days of employment and 401(k) after 1 year Qualifications: •Design education, direct industry experience, or proven passion for home décor preferred •Outside sales experience with a proven track record of meeting metrics and known as a “closer” •Valid Driver’s License to commute to customer’s homes for appointments •Ability to kneel and stoop for on-site measuring with measuring tools •Detail Oriented in handling multiple projects at one time •Experience with computer software and the ability to learn California Closets Proprietary Design Software.

Work With the Best Ocean City has to Offer ...

We Invite You to be a Part of our Family!

Hiring for all positions.

For Both Locations Apply Online www.mygcjob.com

Work With the Best Ocean City has to Offer ...

We Invite You to be a Part of our Family!

Part-time

Year Round - Full/Part Time ~HOST/HOSTESS ~BANQUET SERVER ~SERVER ~BARTENDER ~BUSSER ~FOOD RUNNER ~LINE COOKS ~FRONT DESK ~LOBBY ATTENDANT ~POOL ATTENDANTS ~MAINTENANCE ~SECURITY GUARDS ~WASH ROOM ~HOUSESTAFF ~ROOM ATTENDANTS

CLEANING SPECIALIST

FREE EMPLOYEE MEALS AND EXCELLENT BENEFITS!

DINING ROOM MANAGER We are currently recruiting an experienced Dining Room Manager to oversee and be responsible for our busy dining room & convention center. Must have strong management experience in a large restaurant, banquet and/or convention services experience, ability to train staff, excellent communication skills and ability to solve problems. Must be able to work a flexible schedule including weekends and holidays.

Our current F&B Manager is retiring after 26 years.

Excellent salary and benefits package.

Send resume and salary requirements to:

CLARION RESORT FONTAINEBLEAU HOTEL 10100 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD. 21842 Phone: 410-524-3535 Fax: 410-723-9109

EOE M/F/D/V

Sea Play Homes is currently hiring for year round, part-time cleaning specialists in Ocean City, Berlin, and lower Delaware. • No experi-

LOOKING EVERYWHERE

ence necessary, will train. Be a part of a great team with an established, fast growing company • Top pay with opportunities for advancement..

• Must be flexible and dependable.

• Must have reliable transportation & cell phone.

• Background check & drug testing required.

The Dispatch classified pages can point you in the right direction.

Please send resumes to info@seaplayhomes.com or call 302-317-1390.

Salary: $40,000.00 to $100,000.00 /year Commission Please email your resume to tyoast@calclosets.com

Selbyville Goose Creek Fenwick Goose Creek

FAX RESUME & SALARY REQ. to: 410-723-9109 Online at www.clarionoc.com APPLY IN PERSON Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

CLARION RESORT FONTAINEBLEAU HOTEL 10100 COASTAL HWY. OCEAN CITY, MD. 21842 EOE M/F/D/V

The Dispatch Classifieds

December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch PUT YOUR LOGO IN COLOR FOR JUST $10

$15/Week For Minimum Of Five Lines • $2 Thereafter Per Line Display Classified Ads: $20/Week Per Column Inch (Contract Discounts Available)

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

Deadline For Insertions, Cancellations And Payment Is 3 p.m. Tuesday.

Pre-Payment Is Required. We Accept Visa & MasterCard.

RENTALS

Currently hiring manpower for

•STUCCO & EIFS MECHANICS • CARPENTERS •CONCRETE BLOCK • FLAT CONCRETE •CONCRETE REPAIRS •COMMERCIAL CAULKING •COATINGS SPECIALISTS •DELIVERY DRIVER •WINDOW & DOOR INSTALLERS Experience Preferred. Tools, transportation & a valid driver’s license are a plus.Competitive benefit package available.

Please apply in person at 11935 Hammer Rd, Bishopville, MD, or apply online: http://allstatesconst.com/delmarva-renovations-careers

Real Estate Agents

Training / Technology / Culture

WEEKLY RENTALS Pool Front Room $199 Family Room $235 2 BR Apartment $315.

3 BR Suite $400.

1210 Philadelphia Ave.

WEEKLY RENTAL:4BR, 2 1/2BA. Fully furnished. W/D, Pool, Tennis court. Quiet community. 7 miles from the beach. $2,500 per wk. Call Mike for details. 410-877-3894.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

410-289-8581

Ride the B in OC!

Burgundy Inn

Don’t Settle for Average

Century 21 New Horizon 410-723-4500 EXT 758

Classified Holiday Schedule Week of Fri 12/27 Deadline Monday( 12/23) 10am Week of Fri 1/03 Deadline Monday (12/30) 3pm

WINTER-SHORT TERM RENTALS until April 15, 2020

SUNSET Dr: 2BR 1.5BA, Apt $700.mo TIBURON 139 St: 3BR, 2BA, Condo $900.mo GOLF COURSE Rd, WOC: 2BR, 1BA, Apt $600.mo SILVERPOINT LANE, WOC: 3BR, 2BA, Hm. $950.mo ALL units are fully furnished, include cable & TV, Wi-Fi, washer/dryer ALL units require: Sec. dep., electric, references 410 213-8090 email: events@oceanpromotions.info

The Dispatch LEGAL RATES: Legal advertising rate is $7 per column

inch. Deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon. For more information, call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966.

THIRD INSERTION MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & LESLIE, LLP PO BOX 910 115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18071 To all persons interested in the estate of ROSEMARY

CAROLYN PEARSON, aka: ROSEMARY C. PEARSON, ESTATE 18071. Notice is given that FRANCES CAROLINE PEARSON, 18839 BIRDSEYE DRIVE, GERMANTOWN, MD 20874, was on NOVEMBER 21ST, 2019, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of ROSEMARY CAROLYN PEARSON, who died on OCTOBER 4, 2019, 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

WINTER RENTAL: WEEKLY OR MONTHLY: CUTE 2BR, 1BA Condo.

28th St. area. Avail. 12/15-4/15/2020.

CALL 443-812-8409.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– NORTH OC: Spacious 4BR, 2BA. Unfurn. Lrg. Kitch., LR, florida Rm. New Appl’s. On water. $1600 per mo. + util.’s No pets. 443-856-5693 (text only) or 718-986-7382.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– FURNISHED WINTER RENTALS 2BR, 1BA Bayshore Dr. $900 per mo.

3BR, 2BA Jamestown Rd. $1,100 per mo. Tenant pays elec. & cable. 410202-2632 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Page 65

ROOMMATES

ROOMS FOR RENT: Downtown, Good location. $350 & $375. Females only, prefer 20-30 yr olds to share Apt with other females. No drugs, no pets. 202-641-6166.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– YR OR SEASONAL ROOMMATES: North OC. Looking for female roommates to share 3BR, 2BA Condo. Call Tricia 443-6104665.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

SERVICES J-N-J PAINTING: Free estimates.

Residential and light commercial.

Joe 443-610-4644.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Baybridge Construction, LLC.

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Affordable pricing!

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Call 410-430-5907

REAL ESTATE

FSBO-LOT-FENWICK AREAKEENWICK SOUND: Lot on Roy Creek, adjacent to golf course.

Water & sewer. $89,900. Call 302270-1894.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

COMMERCIAL WEST O.C. OFFICE/RETAIL SPACES AVAILABLE: 1 OfficeRetail and 1 Warehouses. Plenty of Parking. 443-497-4200.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

OCEANFRONT STORE FOR LEASE 1,100 sq. ft. with patio Space is immaculate!

7th St. & Bdwlk.

Ceja’s Landscaping & More!

•YARD MAINTENANCE •PAINTING •POWER WASHING 410-251-3425 410-202-2545

FOR SALE FIREWOOD: Seasoned, split hardwood. $150/cord + delivery.

410-726-2887. Please lv. message ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– A/C WINDOW UNITS : 3 available (2 5000 BTU, 1 8000 BTU). GE Brand. Good working condition. $50/each. Will make deal on all 3.

302-270-3653.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– VINTAGE MAGAZINES: 50’s & 60’s magazines. Great/good condition. Most kept in sleeves. Life, Look, Womans Day, Good Housekeeping, Playboy and many more.

Call for more info. 410-251-1098.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Legal Notices

(or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 21st day of MAY, 2020.

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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the

decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the 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 tha date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Name of Newspaper:

Avail. now or for 2020 season

443-880-5323

Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 29, 2019 FRANCES CAROLINE PEARSON Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-29, 12-06, 12-13

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. 18074 To all persons interested in the estate of ALEXANDER V. ROSELLINI, ESTATE 18074.

Notice is given that JOANN C. ROSELLINI, 704 TWIN TREE ROAD, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on NOVEMBER 22, 2019, appointed Personal Representatives of

The Dispatch

Page 66

LEGAL RATES: Legal advertising rate is $7 per column

inch. Deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon. For more information, call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966.

the estate of ALEXANDER V. ROSELLINI, who died on MAY 29, 2019, 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.

Legal Notices

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication NOVEMBER 29, 2019

sentative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

CRAIG STEVEN SIMPSON DAVID WILLIAM SIMPSON Personal Representative

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

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 MAY, 2020.

ESTATE NO. 18028 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 22ND day of MAY, 2020.

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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the 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 tha 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 29, 2019 JOANN C. ROSELLINI Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-29, 12-06, 12-13

THIRD INSERTION

THOMAS K. COATES, ESQ COATES,COATES, & COATES, P.A.

To all persons interested in the estate of MILDRED M SIMPSON, ESTATE 18028.

Notice is given that CRAIG STEVEN SIMPSON, 401 SUMMIT LANE, MIDDLETOWN, DE 19709 and DAVID WILLIAM SIMPSON, 405 21ST AVENUE NE, ST. PETERSBURG, FL 33704, were on NOVEMBER 22, 2019, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of MILDRED M SIMPSON, who died on OCTOBER 5, 2019, 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 22ND day of MAY, 2020.

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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the 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 tha date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

December 13, 2019

True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 11-29, 12-06, 12-13

FIRST INSERTION B. RANDALL COATES, ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES P.O. BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

(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 DECEMBER 13, 2019 SANDRA L. COSTON Personal Representative True Test Copy

ESTATE NO. 18091 To all persons interested in the estate of LESSIE MAE COSTON. Notice is given that SANDRA L. COSTON, 266 S WASHINGTON ST. APT. 203, SNOW HILL, MD 21863, was on DECEMBER 06, 2019, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of: LESSIE MAE COSTON, who died on APRIL 29, 2019 without a will.

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

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal repre-

TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 12-13

SECOND INSERTION HEATHER R. KONYAR, ESQ. 313 LEMMON HILL LANE SALISBURY, MD 21801 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18082 To all persons interested in the estate of CHRISTOPHER M. TRIMPER. ESTATE NO. 18082. Notice is given that MICHELLE A. TRIMPER, 10708 PAR 5 LANE, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on NOVEMBER 27, 2019, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of CHRISTOPHER M. TRIMPER, who died on OCTOBER 24, 2019, without a will.

Further information can be

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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the representative personal 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 tha 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 DECEMBER 06, 2019 MICHELLE A. TRIMPER 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 12-06, 12-13, 12-20

FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18078

To all persons interested in the estate of JOSEPH H. MAYCOCK, ESTATE NO. 18078. Notice is given that WILLIAM E. MAYCOCK, 31901 SHAVOX RD, SALISBURY, MD 21804, was on NOVEMBER 25, 2019, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of JOSEPH H. MAYCOCK, who died on OCTOBER 26, 2019, 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 MAY, 2020.

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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the 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 tha 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 DECEMBER 06, 2019 WILLIAM E. MAYCOCK Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street

The Dispatch

December 13, 2019

LEGAL RATES: Legal advertising rate is $7 per column

inch. Deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon. For more information, call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966.

Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 12-13, 12-20, 12-27

FIRST INSERTION B. RANDALL COATES, ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES P.O. BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18095 To all persons interested in the estate of KATHLEEN GAIL BEEBE, ESTATE NO. 18095. Notice is given that MATTHEW ROBERT BEEBE, 303 COULBOURNE LANE, SNOW HILL, MD 21863 , was on DECEMBER 10, 2019, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of KATHLEEN GAIL BEEBE, who died on AUGUST 14, 2019, 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 10th day of JUNE, 2020.

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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the 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

Legal Notices

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before tha 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 DECEMBER13, 2019 MATTHEW ROBERT BEEBE 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 12-13, 12-20, 12-27

FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18086 To all persons interested in the estate of JEANETTE ELLA MCCULLEN, ESTATE NO. 18086. Notice is given that TIMOTHY WALTER MCCULLEN, 3311 ALLEN ROAD, EDEN, MD 21822, was on DECEMBER 02, 2019, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of JEANETTE ELLA MCCULLEN, who died on NOVEMBER 14, 2019, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2ND day of JUNE, 2020.

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, ex-

cept if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine 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 tha 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 DECEMBER 13, 2019 TIMOTHY WALTER MCCULLEN 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 12-13, 12-20, 12-27

FIRST INSERTION B. RANDALL COATES, ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES P.O. BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 18088 Notice is given that the SUPERIOR COURT of OCEAN COUNTY, NJ, appointed ROSANNE O'DONNELL, 1746 WHITCOMB ROAD, FORKED RIVER, NJ 08731, as the EXECUTOR of the Estate of MARIE G. TAGLIALAVORE, who died on JULY 21, 2019, domiciled in NEW JERSEY, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is B. RANDALL COATES, whose address is PO BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: WORCESTER. All persons having claims

against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice.

Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 13, 2019 ROSANNE O'DONNELL 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 12-13, 12-20, 12-27

FIRST INSERTION NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18092 To all persons interested in the estate of MARIAN M. DORE, ESTATE NO. 18092.

Notice is given that PATRICIA LYNN DUNKLIN, 413 LYNCH DRIVE, BULLARD, TX 75757, was on DECEMBER 09, 2019, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARIAN M. DORE, who died on NOVEMBER 30, 2019, 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

Page 67

decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 9TH day of JUNE, 2020.

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, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the 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 tha 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 DECEMBER 13, 2019 PATRICIA LYNN DUNKLIN 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 12-13, 12-20, 12-27

FIRST INSERTION SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

MD 21811, was on DECEMBER 02, 2019, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of: RAYMOND A. RICHARDS who died on NOVEMBER 20, 2019 with a will.

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

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

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 13, 2019 RAYMOND A. RICHARDS, JR Personal Representative True Test Copy

ESTATE NO. 18085 To all persons interested in the estate of RAYMOND A. RICHARDS. Notice is given that RAYMOND A. RICHARDS, JR., 1346 OCEAN OCEAN PARKWAY, BERLIN,

TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 12-13

Page 68

WeSt OCeaN City-BerliN-OCeaN PiNeS aSSateague DiNer rte. 611 & Sunset ave., West Ocean City 443-664-8158 www.assateaguedinerandbar.com Inspired by a classic diner culture, this new hotspot offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu here features classic comfort foods prepared and executed with a modern coastal trust.

Be sure to check out the exceptional coffee program and the Westside Bar within features delicious craft cocktails throughout the day.

BlaCKSmitH reStauraNt & Bar 104 Pitts St., Berlin • 410-973-2102 Located in the heart of America’s Coolest Small Town, Berlin, Md., Blacksmith has established itself as one the area’s most loved dining and drinking destinations for foodies and wine, spirt and craft beer enthusiasts. Chef owned and locally sourced, Blacksmith keeps the main focus on Eastern Shore tradition. Everything here is homemade and handmade. Cakes and baked goods are delivered daily from down the street.

Cozy and modern, traditional and on trend; Blacksmith has risen to the ranks of the area’s finest casual eating and drinking establishments.

Visit and see why folks from Baltimore, D.C., Chincoteague and locals alike think Blacksmith is worth the trip. Open daily at 11:30 a.m. for lunch, dinner and bar snacks. Closed Sunday.

BreaKfaSt Cafe Of OCeaN City 12736 Ocean gateway, West Ocean City 410-213-1804 Open 7 days a week between Sunsations & Starbucks, across from Outback, come join us at the “Breakfast Cafe” (formerly Rambler Coffee Shop) we are a family-friendly restaurant that’s been family owned for 30 years passed from mother to son in 2001. We believe that fair pricing, putting out quality food as fresh as we can make it and a nice atmosphere makes a meal. I like to think we have many “House Specialties” which include our Crab Omelet, real crab meat, cheddar cheese and mushrooms, our Sunfest Omelet, Swiss cheese, ham and mushrooms; Cafe or French Sampler, pancakes or French toast, with eggs, bacon and sausage.

Homemade creamed chipped beef on toast and sausage gravy on biscuits with browned potato home fries, with onion, excellent cheesesteak subs and fries and more! We use Rapa Scrapple fried on the grill the way you like it for all our breakfasts, sandwiches and sides. Summer hours, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Come enjoy!

CariBBeaN jOe’S Bar & grille 12614 Ocean gateway Next to alamo Hotel 443-664-8509 Completely renovated and under new ownership, we are proudly located at the first ever motel in Ocean City, “The Alamo.” You truly will not believe what we’ve done! Thursday we have fresh 1/2-lb. burgers served on a delicious Hawaiian Roll for only $5. Wash it down with a natural light for only $1. We also have tender pulled-pork sandwiches and unique chicken salad to die for. We’re open 7 days a week when the season kicks in. Come see our Caribbean atmosphere, 7 flat-screen TVs and the coolest pool bar in Ocean City.

CraB alley golf Course rd., West Ocean City Head Of Commercial fishing Harbor 410-213-7800 • www.craballey.com Just close enough to be out of the way-located at the head of the commercial fishing harbor in West Ocean City, Crab Alley has it all! Spectacular view, casual and fun atmosphere, super service and mouth-watering food combine to make “The Alley” a true locals’ favorite. Enjoy our light fare and full menu of unbelievably fresh seafood, chicken and steaks indoors or on our upper deck. We offer appetizers, sandwiches and a children’s menu too. Our name says it all -”crack’em and attack ‘em”. Big Fat Crabs both by the dozen and all you can enjoy specials. Check out our website for our fantastic happy hour food and drink specials or find us on Facebook. Having a special affair? We can handle your group, large party or special occasion. Make Crab Alley your first stop! tHe DOugH rOller West Ocean City, 410-213-7655 S. Division St. & Boardwalk, 410-289-3501

Dining Out The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

3rd St. & Boardwalk 410-289-2599 41st St. & Coastal Hwy • 410-524-9254 70th St. & Coastal Hwy • 410-524-7981 Ocean City’s favorite family restaurant for 40 years! Open 8 a.m. breakfast, lunch and dinner, great kid’s menu. Breakfast and lunch specials offered during the week at WOC, 41st Street and 70th Street locations. At same locations, Tuesdays are half-price pizza nights; Wednesdays are Dollar Days with special offers for breakfast and dinner. Thursdays are half-price Italian dinner nights. Order online DoughRollerRestaurants.com

DumSer’S DairylaND West Ocean City, Boardwalk locations, 501 S. Philadelphia ave., 49th St. & 123rd St. www.dumsersdairyland.com This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.'s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser's is celebrating 80 years of serving the shore, and the ‘40sstyle décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 49th and 124th streets locations offer vast lunch and dinner menus (breakfast too at 124th) in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats. You’ll find an impressive array of kid-favorites, along with fried chicken and seafood options, wraps, subs, sandwiches, salads and sides like sweet potato fries and mac-and-cheese wedges. fOx’S Pizza DeN 11328 Samuel Bowen Blvd., West Ocean City 410-600-1020 • www.foxpizzamd.com Enjoy a brand new, spacious dining room.

Happy hour every day from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with $5 food specials and awesome drink specials. Enjoy incredible weekly chef specials along with our extensive regular menu. Check out foxspizzamd.com for a list of our regular menu items

full mOON SalOON 12702 Old Bridge rd., West Ocean City 443-664-5317 Locally owned and operated, this moderately priced casual restaurant/bar has freshly caught seafood, BBQ, and pork entrees, giant sandwiches as well as a variety of homemade soups.

Locally we are known for our jumbo lump crab cakes, pork and beef BBQ, cream of crab soup, and 100% angus burgers as well as a variety of other sandwiches and entrees that are cooked with a local flair. Open daily at 11 a.m. for lunch and open until midnight. Sundays breakfast offered 8 a.m.-noon. Fifteen televisions and a big screen available for all sports events.

greeNe turtle-WeSt rte. 611, West Ocean City • 410-213-1500 Visit Maryland’s No. 1 Sports Pub and Rest-aurant, the World-Famous Greene Turtle. Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80-seat dining room, large bar area with 54 TVs with stereo sound and game room with pool tables.

With an exciting menu, The Greene Turtle is sure to please with delicious sizzling steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, raw bar, homemade salads and more. Live entertainment, Keno, Turtle apparel, kids menu, carry-out. Something for everyone! Voted best sports bar, wings and burgers in West OC. Great happy hour and plenty of parking.

HarBOrSiDe Bar & grill South Harbor rd. • 410-213-1846 They take their mantra, “Where You Always Get Your Money’s Worth,” seriously here with daily food and drink specials during happy hour as you watch the boats come in from a day offshore. Delicious daily chef specials are always worth a try or stay with any of the house favorites, such as the calamari and ahi bruschetta for appetizers or any of the homemade tacos and fresh off the dock seafood selections as

sandwiches or entrees. It’s the home of the original fresh-squeezed orange crush, of course.

HOOterS reStauraNt rt. 50 & Keyser Point rd., West Ocean City 410-213-1841 • www.hootersofoc.com New mouthwatering smoked wings with half the calories. Traditional wings and boneless wings with 12 sauce selections. Burgers, quesadillas, tacos, and healthy salads. Extensive seafood selections with raw bar and Alaskan crab legs.

Children's menu and game room. Apparel and souvenir shop. Sports packages on a ton of TVs and live entertainment. Wing-fest every Tuesday from 6 to 8 with 50 cent wings. And of course, the world famous Hooters Girls. Large parties welcome. Call for private party planning.

ligHtHOuSe SOuND St. martin’s Neck rd. • 410-352-5250 Enjoy the best views of Ocean City at the newly renovated, Lighthouse Sound. Come relax and dine overlooking the bay and the beautiful Ocean City skyline. Savor entrees such as local rockfish, tempura-battered soft shell crabs, char-grilled filet mignon and jumbo lump crabcakes. Open to the public, we serve Sunday brunch, lunch and dinner. One mile west of Ocean City, Md., just off Route 90 on St. Martin’s Neck Road. Reservations recommended. rutH’S CHriS Within the glenriddle Community 410-213-9444 • www.ruthschris.com Ruth’s Chris specializes in the finest customaged Midwestern beef. We broil it exactly the way you like it at 1,800 degrees to lock in the corn-fed flavor. Then we serve your steak sizzling on a heated plate so that it stays hot throughout your meal. Many of our recipes were developed by Ruth, favorites such as shrimp Remoulade, Crabtini and Ruth’s chop salad. Located five miles west of Ocean City in the GlenRiddle Golf clubhouse. Extensive wine list. Reservations recommended.

tHe SHarK ON tHe HarBOr 12924 Sunset ave., West Ocean City 410-213-0924 • ocshark.com We make real food from scratch. We believe that great food and healthful ingredients are not mutually exclusive of each other. Featuring local organic produce and seafood. All natural products – clear of preservatives and antibiotics. Whole grains and whole foods are used in the preparation of our menu – which our chefs write twice daily, based on what's fresh, available and delicious. Fresh. Local. Organic.

Taste the difference. Open Daily Year Round, Monday through Saturday for Lunch & Dinner and Sundays for Brunch, Lunch & Dinner.

Reservations suggested. iNlet tO 94tH Street

28tH St. Pit & PuB 28th St. & Coastal Hwy. 410-289-2020 • www.pitandpub.com Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub is known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties. Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy Hour daily, 3-6 p.m. Family friendly atmosphere. Weekend entertainment.

32 Palm 32nd St. Oceanside in the Hilton 410-289-2525 • www.32palm.com Executive Chef Rick Goodwin has introduced an exciting new menu. A favorite among many is the Bermuda Triangle, featuring cinnamon seared scallops finished with an ancho mango coulis along with house broiled crabcake with a sweet chili remoulade and finally, applewood smoked bacon wrapped around jumbo shrimp, grilled to perfection with jalapeno barbecue

December 13, 2019 sauce. Other wonderfully delicious dishes cover the land and sea as well and each have a special touch that makes this restaurant unique among its peers. Children’s menu available.

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

45tH Street taPHOuSe 45th St. & the Bay • 443-664-2201 At the newly remodeled 45th Street Taphouse, the best views of bayside Ocean City, MD are the backdrop where craft beer meets Maryland cuisine. This is vacation done right, all year long.

Wash down a Crabby Pretzel or homemade crabcakes with one of our 35+ craft beers on tap, all made right here in the USA. Not feeling crabby?

Pair your craft brew with our award-winning wings or even our brand new breakfast menu. Anyway it’s served, come get tapped with us.

BONfire 71st St. & Coastal Hwy. • 410-524-7171 www.thebonfirerestaurant.com 150 ft. Seafood & Prime Rib Buffet. A famous Ocean City Restaurant for 37 years. It’s all here.

The service, the atmosphere and the finest, freshest food available. Fresh seafood, snow crab legs, prime rib, BBQ ribs, raw oysters, raw clams, steamed shrimp, fish, homemade soups & salads. Decadent dessert selection – homemade donuts & bread pudding, soft serve ice cream with hot fudge topping and lots more!

Large selection of children’s favorites – chicken tenders, hot dogs, burgers, macaroni & cheese and pizza. A la carte menu available featuring fresh cut steaks and seafood. Open Friday, Dec. 27 through Tuesday, Dec. 31. Plenty of free parking.

Buxy’S Salty DOg 28th St. • 410-289-0973 • www.buxys.com Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes. House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, piero-gis,egg-rolls and homemade crab dip. Don’t miss our daily specials.

COiNS PuB & reStauraNt 28th St. Plaza • 410-289-3100 Great mid-town location offering a complete dinner menu, lunch and lite fare. Coins features the freshest seafood, shrimp, scallops, clams, fresh catch and lobster plus the best crab cake in Maryland, hand cut steaks cook-ed to your liking, succulent veal and chicken dishes. Also authentic pasta selections. Enjoy live entertainment and dancing in the lounge nightly. Happy hour daily 3-6 p.m. Casual dining in a relaxed atmosphere.

Special kids menu. Lots of free parking.

Dry 85 OC 12 48th St. • 443-664-8989 • dry85.com Steps from the beach. Gourmet "stick to your ribs" Lowcountry cuisine. A made-from-scratch kitchen with every sauce and every dressing hand crafted. It's that attention to detail that takes the concept of burgers, fries, ribs and wings and turns them completely on their head. Charcuterie boards. Late night bar. 120+ Whiskies. Craft beer. Artisanal craft cocktails. Seasonal outdoor seating. Named one of the Top 40 Whiskey Bars in America by Whiskey Advocate.

Dry DOCK 28 28th St. & Coastal Hwy. • 410-289-0973 The new kid on the dining scene in Ocean City features eclectic pizzas, delicious sandwiches, soups, salads and hot steamers in a modern, nautical themed atmosphere. A beautiful boat bar is featured inside and features craft cocktails and brews. Outdoor seating is available. Carry out available and beer and wine to go. Live music is also offered in this kid-friendly establishment. fager’S iSlaND reStauraNt & Bar 201 60th St. On the Bay 410-524-5500 • www.fagers.com Fager’s Island is an award-winning popular bay-front restaurant where lunch is a forgivable habit, dinner an event and sunsets unforgettable. Lite fare lunch served from 11 a.m.-9 p.m., dinner from 5 p.m., famous raw bar, festive Sunday Jazz Brunch, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and children’s menu. Complete house wine list and award-winning proprietor’s list available upon request. Outdoor decks and bar. Nightly enterSee Next Page

December 13, 2019

tainment in-season, Friday-Saturday, off-season. Open every day, year-round. A Fun Place!

hooterS reStaurant 5th St. & the Boardwalk ocean city 410-289-2690 • www.hootersofoc.com Mouthwatering traditional and boneless wings with 12 sauce selections. Burgers, quesadillas, tacos, and healthy salads. Extensive seafood selections with Alaskan snow crab legs and Maryland steam pots. Kids’ menu. Pet-friendly oceanfront patio. Official Hooters merchandise and of course, the world-famous Hooters Girls.

Johnny'S Pizza & SPortS PuB 56th St. & coastal hwy.

410-723-5600 • www.johnnyspizzapub.com The Official Pizza of OC, Johnny's Pizza & Sports Pub serves families throughout Ocean City and its surrounding communities 365 days a year. Eat in, carry out or have it delivered right to your doorstep. Our comfortable dining room features ample seating for small groups or large parties and our speedy delivery service will deliver your hot, delicious pizza right to your home, hotel or condo for your added convenience. From steaming homemade pizzas to lightly tossed salads and fiery hot wings, we have something for everyone. Live entertainment every weekend all winter and live entertainment four nights in the summer.

marlin moon reStaurant 33rd St. in the doubletree oceanfront 410-289-1201 • www.marlinmoonocmd.com Eat where the locals eat. Marlin Moon is back in town with the talented Executive Chef, Gary Beach, creating his legendary food magic. Marlin Moon combines an eclectic atmosphere of ocean views and a fresh vibe with creative seafood and steak dishes you won’t forget. Winner of the Maryland People’s Choice Award, Marlin Moon delivers the culinary combinations you’re craving and uses only locally sourced seafood, meats and vegetables. Some of the original classics, such as Mom’s Shrimp and Freddy’s Seafood Pasta, are back as well as a raw bar, small plate appetizers, fresh salads and entrees sure to satisfy any food mood. Open daily serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner from 7 a.m.-11 p.m.

red red wine Bar oc 12 48th St. • 443-664-6801 • redredwinebar.com Steps from the beach. Fresh coastal cuisine with a focus on locally sourced seafood and hand tossed pizzas. Artisanal cheeseboards. 35+ Wines By the Glass. Full bar. Craft beer. Late night bar. Luxurious colors and custom built couches. Casual atmosphere. Seasonal outdoor seating. Named Best Wine and Beverage Program in Maryland by the Restaurant Association.

PickleS PuB 8th St., ocean city • 410-289-4891 It’s pub food with a twist and a special emphasis put on quality and large portions. The big juicy burgers and oven baked wedge sandwiches are locals’ favorites as are the pub wings (in a variety of styles) and tacos (choose from thai pulled pork, grilled chicken and blacked ahi avocado).

There are numerous unique craft pizza options to choose from as well with the house favorite here being the blackened shrimp and arugula.

SeacretS • on the Bay at 49th St.

Dining Out The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

410-524-4900 • www.seacrets.com We are Jamaica USA! Serving our world famous jerk chicken, along with a full menu of appetizers, soups, sandwiches, salads, entrees, desserts and a children's menu. Enjoy happy hour drink prices everyday until 7 p.m.and live entertainment in a tropical atmosphere. Please check our website www.sea-crets.com for a complete list of live bands and daily food and drink specials or call 410-524-4900. Find us and get lost!

94th St. north-Fenwick-Bethany

aBBey Burger BiStro 410-250-2333 • 12601 coastal hiwy.

An enticing selection of flavors are offered for any burger palate, from rotating exotic meats like antelope to locally raised Dry Aged Black Angus to Delicious Handmade Vegetarians and even Vegan options. All are hand-pattied and made to order. If you’re feeling creative, you can build your own using our signature ‘Build A Burger’ checklist, or simply choose one of the tested and proven classics and leave it to the chef. A wide selection of local, domestic, and imported beers and micro-brews as well as an expansive bar are featured. Also offered are adult and children’s arcade games as well as a children’s play area. carouSel oceanFront hotel & condoS 118th St. & the Beach • 410-524-1000 Reef 118 Oceanfront Restaurant located in the Carousel Hotel offers beautiful oceanfront dining in a casual atmosphere. Enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet or try one of our specialty omelets including lump crab and asparagus. Our menu offers a wide variety of Succulent Seafood along with steaks, pastas & ribs. $5.95 kids’ menu available. Stop by the Bamboo Lounge serving happy hour daily 4-6 p.m. with super drink prices and $4.95 food specials. Visit the Carousel and get served by the friendliest staff in OC! the craBcake Factory uSa 120th St./Beachside (Serene hotel) 410-250-4900 Voted “Best Crabcakes in Maryland, DC and Virginia” by The Washington Post. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out and sports bar.

Outside seating available. Menu selections include prime rib, chicken Chesapeake, steamed shrimp, beer battered fish, real Philly cheesesteaks, burgers, and a kids menu. Casual attire, full liquor bar, no reservations. Open Year Round. The Crabcake Factory started out as a breakfast house in 1996 and still serves one of the best and most creative breakfast menus in Ocean City. Try Eastern Shore favorites prepared daily by Chef-Owner John Brooks including a chipped beef, skillets, omelettes and their famous lump crab creations. World-Famous

“Your Friends At The Beach”

Resort Property Management

DCMA PCAM® ◘ AMS® CMCA Certified MHIC #68055

•Administrative Management •Financial Management •Building Maintenance Service •Custodial Services •Pool Services •24-Hour Emergency Service

410-213-7144 9923 Stephen Decatur Hwy., Suite D-6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Steve@OceanPointLtd.com • www.OceanPointLtd.com

Crabcakes are served all day starting at 8 a.m. and can be packed on ice for you while you are eating breakfast. Try Sue’s Spicy Bloody Marys to start the day with a kick. Full breakfast menu available for carry-out. Online at: www.CrabcakeFactory-USA.com. See other listing (Crabcake Factory USA). Open year-round.

craBcake Factory BaySide rt. 54, Selbyville, de • 302-988-5000 Under new ownership but SAME award-winning crab cakes and bloody marys! Enjoy WATERFRONT dining. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside seating available.

Open daily at 9 a.m. YEAR ROUND. Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Philly-style cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu. visit us online at crabcakefactory-online.com or on our Facebook page. Casual dress, full liquor bar, no reservations.

Fenwick craB houSe 100 coastal hwy., Fenwick island, de 302-539-2500 Along with all-you-can-eat crabs every day, the full menu is available daily for eating in or eating out. Daily dinner specials are offered along with favorites such as fried chicken and baby back ribs. Check out the new lunch menu, which is available until 3 p.m. daily. A fun and popular happy hour is also offered daily until 6 p.m. with food and drink specials.

greene turtle-north 116th St. & coastal hwy • 410-723-2120 www.facebook.com/originalgreeneturtle This is the Original Greene Turtle, an Ocean City Tradition, since 1976! A fun and friendly Sports Bar & Grille, where every seat is a great spot to watch sports with 50+ High Def. TVs up & downstairs! Menu favorites include homemade crab cakes, kids’ menu, salads, burgers, wings and more! Join them for weekday lunch specials 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and happy hour 3-7 p.m. Popular features are game room, gift shop, carry-out, party trays, nightly drink specials, MD Lottery-Keno, Powerball and DJs with dance floor. Something for everyone! Open 11 a.m-2 a.m., year-round. harPoon hanna’S reStaurant & Bar rte. 54 & the Bay, Fenwick island, de www.harpoonhannasrestaurant.com 302-539-3095 No reservations required. Harpoon Hanna’s features a children’s menu & full bar. We are a casual waterfront restaurant serving lunch & dinner including fesh fish, seafood, steaks, sandwiches and all-you-can-eat Alaskan crab legs. Open year-round.

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Horizons Oceanfront Restaurant is proud to have Chef Rob Sosnovich creating beach-inspired dishes in both our oceanfront restaurants, Horizons and Breaker’s Pub. Our new all day menu, available 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m., features many of your favorites and some exciting new creations with a local flare – from Lite Bites to Big Bites and everything in between. Our deluxe Sunday breakfast buffet is open year-round and our “famous” all-you-can-eat prime rib, crab legs and seafood buffet is available most weekends throughout the year and daily in season. The Ocean Club Nightclub features top-40 dance music every weekend and nightly this summer. We’ve added some popular local bands to our lineup, so come join us “where the big kids play!” Lenny’s Beach Bar & Grill: enjoy surf, sun and live entertainment 7 days a week on the deck, from Memorial day through Labor Day during our afternoon beach parties. Enjoy something to eat or drink from our extensive menu. Try our “Bucket of Fun”, or a fresh “Orange Crush”–two of our favorites!

LIGHTHOUSE SOUND RESTAURANT 12723 St. Martin’s Neck Road, Bishopville, MD • 410-641-1199 Join us for dinner tonight and enjoy the best views of Ocean City, overlooking the Assawoman Bay and the Ocean City skyline. We feature our signature crab cakes, sizzling steaks and fresh fish entrees. Join us for lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch. Specializing in weddings and banquets. For more info visit www.lighthousesoundrestaurant.com or call 410-641-1199.

nantucketS rte. 1, Fenwick island • 302-539-2607 Serving the beach great food and spirits for over 20 years. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty. There’s the memorable steaks, fresh seafood, famous quahog chowder and the chef’s daily specials, just to name a few.

Smitty mcgee’S rte. 54-west Fenwick ireland 302-436-4716 • www.smittymcgees.com Smitty McGee’s is the place to be for fun. Best wings on the beach for 28 years and counting.

Enjoy great food and drink specials in a casual atmosphere. Happy hour daily. Come enjoy the live entertainment Thursday and Friday. Full menu served unil 1 a.m. Banquet facilities available. Open seven days a week. We never close!

SurF’S edge deli & Pizzeria 100 coastal hwy., Fenwick island 302-537-5565 Best Salads award by Coastal Style 4 years in a row. Healthy, casual dining featuring homemade salads, fresh salads, subs, paninis, sandwiches and pizza. Open for lunch and dinner.

Children’s menu, take-out and delivery available. twining’S loBSter Shanty rte. 54, Fenwick island • 302-436-2305 www.twiningshanty.com “A funky little place at the edge of town.” Classic New England Fare, Lobsters, Steaks & Burgers, Children’s menu. Bird watching, magical sunsets await. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are suggested.

RACETRACK AUTO SALES

horizonS oceanFront reStaurant located inside the clarion resort 101st St., ocean city • 410-524-3535

WE PAY CASH!

We Buy Like-New And Used Cars, Trucks, Trailers

(410) 641-4600

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

OCEAN CITY vanishing

Grand Opening!

December 13, 2019

WITH BUNK MANN

Your Countertop Specialists

Fabricating & installing quartz, granite and solid surface tops Up to date, state of the art equipment

Family Owned & Operated

SINCE 1982

Call: 443.856.4437 or See Us On Facebook 34407 Dupont Blvd., Unit 9 • (Rt. 113 North) Frankford, DE Visit our website for showroom hours • www.creativeincounters.com

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’s y d San DOCKSIDE FOOTWEAR

CLEARANCE

Jackson’s Casino was Ocean City’s most popular nightclub in the late 1930s and throughout the 1940s. Music, drinks and slot machines were the main attraction at the big wooden building on the Boardwalk between 9th and 10th streets.

Jackson’s was where the locals hung out and many still recall the special façade built to meet blackout requirements during World War II. Slot machines were prevalent in Ocean City during that period and when State’s Attorney Jack Sanford cracked down on gambling in the early 1950s it is said over 30 slots were put out of commission at Jackson’s Casino.

Jackson’s became the Ocean Casino in 1953 and was then a popular pinball arcade and teenage gathering spot on the mid-town Boardwalk. Heavily damaged in the March Storm of 1962, the iconic frame building was demolished and replaced by the masonry building that sits on the same site today.

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

Photo courtesy Stacy Crockett, The Baltimore Sun

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December 13, 2019

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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December 13, 2019