Dec. 15

Priceless

Serving Greater Delmarva Since 1984

December 15, 2023

www.mdcoastdispatch.com

Christmas Tradition: It’s been a week since the Berlin Christmas Parade but the images from the beautiful night in the historic town and the 80 entries remain of note today. For more pictures, see the newspaper’s Facebook page.

Photos by Nick Denny and Charlene Sharpe

Page 2

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

SERVING DELMARVA FOR 60 YEARS

December 15, 2023

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 3

BREAKFAST

HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS

Monday-Friday 9-11am Saturday & Sunday 9am-Noon

HLIVE ENTERTAINMENTH FRIDAY 12/15 • 5 PM FIL RHYTHM WEDNESDAY 12/20 • 5 PM JOHN REMY

Monday-Friday Drinks Noon-5pm Food 2-5pm

WE HAVE THE NFL TICKET With In-House Sunday Specials 1-7pm

MINGO MONDAY, TRIVIA TUESDAY & BAR BINGO THURSDAY 6-8PM

OFF SEASON SPECIALS MONDAY 11 AM-CL: Philly or Chicken Cheesesteak w/ Hand-Cut Fries $12 TUESDAY 2-8PM: Crabcake Combos ... Crabcake w/Chicken, Ribs OR Brisket $25 WEDNESDAY 2-8PM: Prime Rib w/2 Sides $20

THURSDAY 2-8PM: Burger w/Hand-Cut Fries $12 or Full Rack Of Ribs w/FF & Slaw $22 FRIDAY 11 AM-CL: Burley Oak Battered Rockfish w/FF & Slaw $20 SUNDAY 2-8 PM: 2 Original Classic Crabcake Dinners (5 Oz. $30 |8 Oz. $45) w/ Hand-Cut Fries, Slaw & Beignets

Dine-In With Beverage Purchase • Subject To Change and/or Availability • NO SUBSTITUTIONS

DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS 11 AM-4 PM • CHECK OUR FACEBOOK NEW! PAGE DAILY! ONLINE ORDERING AVAILABLE CCFBAYSIDE.COM OPEN EVERY DAY FROM 9AM TO 9PM

37314 LIGHTHOUSE ROAD | RT. 54, SELBYVILLE, DE • 302-988-5000/302-993-6959

OPEN EVERY DAY AT 11 A.M.!

AN OCEAN CITY TRADITION SINCE 1976!

SPORTS ON 70+TVS!

116th St. & Coastal Hwy., Ocean City, Md. 21842 • 410-723-2120

www.originalgreeneturtle.com

instagram: theoriginalgreeneturtle

facebook.com/theoriginalgreeneturtle

Council Approves Partnership For Monster Truck Event

Page 4

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – The town will pursue a partnership with a local company to coproduce a monster truck event scheduled for next fall.

On Tuesday, Ocean City Special Events Director Frank Miller presented the Mayor and Council with a request to partner with The Metal Shop, a Delmarbased business, to co-produce the first annual Monsters of Metal Beach Brawl.

Scheduled for Oct. 18-20, Miller said the event would fill a vacant weekend on the special events calendar and offer a family friendly activity that would benefit both the organizer and the town.

“Ultimately, what I want to try to get across today is this is a little different than what we normally bring in front of

you in terms of a private event application,” he said. “What we’re going to be looking for here is more of a partnership between the town and the event organizer.”

During a presentation Tuesday, Miller told the council the monster truck event would be held between Cruisin weekend and Sunfest weekend next October.

He said the event would utilize a portion of the Sunfest grounds, located on the Inlet parking lot, as well as the downtown beach located just north of the pier.

“There will be an access road between the two locations, it goes underneath the pier …,” he explained. “The monster trucks will fit under that pier in terms of height and width.”

Miller said the event would feature both a pit area and an arena, which would accommodate more than 5,000

people using grandstands. While the endeavor would be costly, he said he was proposing a partnership with the Metal Shop.

“This really is all about partnerships … ,” he said. “We would share in the time and financial investments, as well as the profits.”

In terms of safety, Miller said monster trucks would not reach speeds of more than 45 mph. He added that the arena would also have a 100-foot buffer between the grandstands and the racecourse.

“It’s all about safety first,” he said.

The Metal Shop’s Rick Disharoon said the trucks themselves are also equipped with safety features, including fire suppression systems and shutoff mechanisms. When asked about noise, he said all trucks were equipped with mufflers.

EAT HERE EVERY DAY - ALL YEAR

60th street in the bay • 410-524-5500 • fagers.com

December 15, 2023

Councilman Frank Knight questioned if the event would be contained to the Inlet parking lot and downtown beach.

Officials said there would be a parade from the convention center to the pit area at the Inlet parking lot. They noted the monster trucks would be transported on open flatbed trucks.

“If they didn’t buy a ticket, it might entice them to buy a ticket,” Disharoon said.

Mayor Rick Meehan praised the event, but shared his concerns about the activities it could generate throughout town.

“Does this have the potential to turn into a motor vehicle event throughout town?” he said. “Following Cruisin, the followers of this event, are we going to have Coastal Highway full of jacked up pickup trucks and a lot of that going on throughout town? That’s something we should be concerned about, or at least be aware of as part of the approval.”

Miller acknowledged Meehan’s concerns but noted that some elements of the monster truck event, such as alcohol, had been eliminated to ensure a family friendly atmosphere.

“As a standalone monster truck event, you are going to find these are more families that are coming to it and not so much those other entities,” he replied.

Councilman Peter Buas questioned if the event would use town staff.

“I just want to make sure it doesn’t fall back on public works,” he said. “Whatever the partnership is, there needs to be the appropriate third parties to do it.”

Councilman Will Savage agreed.

“We keep tacking on more and more events especially in the fall, which is fine, we want to expand to be a year-round event,” he said. “But we only have limited resources with our public works, our police, our fire.”

With no further discussion, the council voted 7-0 to approve a partnership for the Monsters of Metal Beach Brawl and to have the town co-produce with a terms sheet to be presented in January.

“We’ll come in front of you with a lot more details in the terms sheet,” Miller said.

The council on Tuesday also approved a request to hold the Race World Offshore Boat Race June 7-9, 2024.

Miller said the event would feature an offshore race area from Sunset Avenue to 29th Street, a dry pit area at the convention center and a wet pit area at Sunset Marina. Since the layout spans into West Ocean City, Miller said the event must seek approval from Worcester County.

“We would be going in front of the county with an application, which would get sent to their consent agenda,” he explained.

Miller added that the event would also feature a parade and block party, which would include alcohol sales, and two days of racing. With no further discussion, the council voted to approve the target date in June, pursue the appropriate county applications and to continue developing an execution plan and terms sheet, which will be presented in January.

Council Denies Bike Rack Request

December 15, 2023

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Resort officials this week voted to deny a developer’s request to place bike racks on a portion of Upshur Lane after learning he would not install or remove them.

On Tuesday, the Ocean City Council voted 7-0 to deny a request from developer Mike Ramadan to replace parking and loading zones along the north side of Upshur Lane with bike racks. While a motion was initially made to accept Ramadan’s request, it was withdrawn after learning he could not meet one of the town’s conditions to install the racks and remove them during the winter months.

“Staff feels pretty strongly that we want them out of there during the winter because of the issue with snow removal,” said City Manager Terry McGean. “And I don’t believe we want to have the responsibility of pulling out 300 feet of bike racks and putting them back every year. Honestly, if the developer is not willing to do that then staff would recommend not approving this.”

In November, Ramadan, principal of LUX QOZP Properties LLC, came before the Ocean City Police Commission with a request to replace parking and loading zonings along the northerly side of Upshur Lane with bike racks. He said the installation of bike racks would complement the former Phillips Crab House property, located just north of Upshur, where he plans to develop workforce housing.

As part of that project, the required parking would be placed across the street, adjacent to the Islander Motel.

Ramadan told commission members he would rather have bike parking along Upshur Lane.

“We’re just trying to make it so they don’t go across the street,” he said at the November meeting. “Our parking lots are actually across the way. I foresee a lot of accidents happening by just crossing the street to get their bikes.”

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

A week later, the issue was revisited at a Mayor and Council meeting.

And after further discussion, council members agreed to add Ramadan’s request to a future work session for further discussion.

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

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

debate,” Councilman John Gehrig said.

Back on the agenda Tuesday, McGean told council members that staff had recommended the town accept Ramadan’s request with four conditions, one of which would be for the developer to install and maintain the bike racks and to remove the bike racks during the offseason.

Councilman Tony DeLuca then made a motion to approve Ramadan’s request with the four conditions.

Meehan, however, argued the bike racks could be placed at the Phillips Square shopping center, which Ramadan has leased.

He said the center had 165 parking spaces and 85 excess parking spaces.

He said the lot could accommodate the racks.

“My recommendation or thoughts were that these bike racks could be placed on that property to the north, thus not having to take away any public parking from the street, Upshur Lane,” he said. “I still think that is the way to go. I understand bike racks would be a nice accommodation, and I do support that. But if there’s an alternative to removing public parking, I think we should look to that first. And I believe in this case there is an alternative.”

For his part, Ramadan told the council Tuesday he initially wanted to place the bike racks at the shopping center, but that his landlord wouldn’t allow it. City Solicitor Heather Stansbury added that the council could not get involved in matters between Ramadan and his landlord.

“The inner workings between Mr. Ramadan and his leaseholder is not something the city can get in the middle of,” she said. “But I guess what he is inferring is his lease holder won’t let him do that.”

When asked how many bike racks would be placed on the north side of Upshur Lane, Ramadan said as many as 150. He noted, however, that he had recently consulted with his attorney and had learned that installing or removing the bike racks posed a liability issue, as they were placed on public right-of-way and could be used by anyone.

“This is something the city would have to provide,” he said. “I’d be more than happy to fund the bike racks, but we cannot take any responsibility afterwards. It becomes a liability issue … If I’m released from that liability, I’m willing to do it.”

Not being able to meet the conditions set by town staff, DeLuca then withdrew his motion. For his part, James said the town would not waive liability.

“Our legal team’s not going to do that,” he said.

After further discussion, Councilman Will Savage made a motion to deny Ramadan’s request. The motion passed unanimously.

Page 5

HOME OF THE ORIGINAL FRESH -SQUEEZED “ORANGE CRUSH”

WE’RE BACK! Monday Dec 18 Open 11AM Daily SPECIALS TUESDAY:ALL DAY $9.99 BYO Burgers & Chicken Breast Sandwiches

HAPPY HOUR

Monday-Friday 3-6 p.m.

$3.50 Domestic Drafts & Rail Drinks $5.50 Glasses Of Wine $7 Original Orange Crush $9.99 Jerk Chicken $11.99 Wings $9.99 1/2-Lb. Steamed Shrimp $11.99 Steamed Mussels $21.99 2 Dozen Steamed Clams (Mussel Style Add $2)

WEDNESDAY: ALL DAY: Fiesta $3 Off Margaritas, 1/2 Off Tacos, Quesadillas, Nachos & More THURSDAY: 3 P.M.: $23.99 AYCE Ribs & Steamed Shrimp Specials are not to be combined with any other offer, discount or coupon. Some restrictions apply. No substitutions, dine in only. Excludes holidays & holiday weekends.

South Harbor Rd • West End, Ocean City • 410-213-1846 Waterfront WiFi • www.weocharborside.com

Page 6

Berlin Commission Tables Wawa Site Plan Approval

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The rendering above shows the proposed Wawa convenience store, to be located on the corner of routes 50 and 818, from multiple viewpoints. Submitted Image

BERLIN – Traffic concerns prompted officials to delay approval of plans for a Wawa at the intersection of Route 50 and North Main Street in Berlin.

The Berlin Planning Commission this week voted unanimously to table consideration of a site plan revision for a Wawa on Route 818 at its intersection with eastbound Route 50. Officials said they wanted traffic at the busy intersection reviewed and improvements made to the site layout.

“We raised our hands to protect the

December 15, 2023

people of Berlin, not the convenience of people going to Ocean City,” commission member Ron Cascio said. “This is a nightmare traffic situation.”

Representatives from Bohler Engineering met with the commission Wednesday to review plans for a Wawa on a site previously expected to be a 7Eleven. In 2021, the commission approved a site plan for Athena Properties, the parcel on the corner of routes 818 and 50, that included a 7-Eleven and a hotel. Bohler Engineering representatives told the commission this week that little had changed except the brand of the convenience store.

“We’re swapping a convenience store and gas station use for a convenience store and gas station use,” Bohler’s Jamie Andruzzi said.

Commission members were quick to point out that the store’s garbage enclosure was right on Route 818.

“It’s not a good feature for the entrance to town,” commission member Newt Chandler said.

Cascio agreed.

“Why would you put that on a Main Street?” he said.

Project representatives said the enclosure had been put where it was shown on the plan because employees would be able to easily access it there.

They added that it was not just a fenced enclosure but was made up of painted blocks with a cap on it.

“It’s still right on Main Street,” commission member Austin Purnell said.

Officials also questioned the 23-foot sign shown on the store’s plans. Project designers said the town’s code allowed signs up to 25 feet. Purnell said that the commission had made designers of the Hebron Savings Bank, which will be directly across Route 818 from this project, decrease the size of its sign.

“A 23-foot monstrosity,” Purnell said, “that’s a lot.”

Bohler Engineering representatives said they could take that feedback back to Wawa.

As far as access to the store, Bohler representatives said there was no access on Route 50, just Route 818. They explained that the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) had labeled the property as denied access along Route 50.

Commission member Matt Stoehr asked if there were sidewalks planned for the property. Bohler Engineering’s Liz Celko indicated there were not.

“We did not touch anything in the state maintained right-of-way because those plans were already approved,” Celko said.

Stoehr said he felt this was an opportunity for more sidewalks in town, particularly since people are more likely to walk to a Wawa than the medical ofSEE PAGE 48

Local School System Joins Lawsuit

December 15, 2023

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

NEWARK – An Eastern Shore school system has filed a lawsuit against several major social media companies for their role in the youth mental health crisis.

Somerset County Public Schools announced late last week that it has filed suit against Meta, Google, ByteDance, Snap Inc. and TikTok. The effort, part of a nationwide movement to hold the companies accountable for social media’s impact on children’s mental health, has not yet been discussed by the Worcester County Board of Education. “…to date there have been no discussion here in Worcester of this case,” said Carrie Sterrs, the school system’s coordinator of public relations and special programs.

According to a news release from Somerset County Public Schools, the lawsuit alleges that the addictive nature of social media has created a pressing need for the school system to provide mental health support, “depleting resources, necessitating extra training for faculty and staff, and negatively impacting” the school environment. Exposure to social media has allegedly increased rates of bullying, eating disorders, depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.

The school system has had to redirect funds meant for essential education to counter the detrimental effects of social media. Joining in the legal action is an attempt to pursue financial compensation to reduce reliance on taxpayer funding.

“Our primary goal is to provide the best education and learning opportunities for our students in a safe environment," Somerset County Board of Education Chairperson William McInturff said in the release. "The significant increase in mental health needs among our students, exacerbated by harmful social media platforms, complicates the job of educators, challenges parents, and impacts student instruction. It's crucial for

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

these tech companies to acknowledge their responsibility in this crisis and understand how profoundly it is affecting our youth.”

The school system is part of a coalition of school districts, individuals and state attorneys general to attempt to hold social media companies accountable. The lawsuit argues that the social media giants design their platforms to target children without warnings to users and their parents about the potential dangers.

“The case alleges that these tech companies prioritize financial gains over the safety and well-being of children, despite being aware of the harmful consequences,” the release reads. “With advertising-driven business models, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat, and TikTok generate substantial profits, while Somerset County Public Schools, parents, and children grapple with the aftermath. The school district has been compelled to redirect funds meant for essential educational resources to counter the detrimental effects of social media.

Through this legal action, Somerset County Public Schools seeks to hold these corporations accountable for exploiting children and pursue financial compensation to reduce reliance on taxpayer funds.”

Somerset County Public Schools is represented in the lawsuit by Baird, Mandalas, Brockstedt & Federico and Carney Kelehan.

“Schools across the country are facing the complex task of attending to students' mental health requirements, delivering high-quality education, and cultivating a secure learning atmosphere,” said Philip Federico, an attorney representing the school district. “This legal action is designed to hold social media companies accountable for their contribution to aggravating the mental health crisis among young individuals. Furthermore, it seeks compensation to alleviate the financial strains imposed on school districts by the exploitative platforms of the defendants."

Page 7

Page 8

Eastern Shore Physical Therapy Council To Discuss The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Give Us A Try. We Promise To Be Different!

You Will Get The Following:

• A Detailed Musculoskeletal Exam • Manipulation Treatment If Needed • A Compehensive Stretching And Exercise Program • Therapy Treatments Will Consist Of Procedures That Can Not Be Done At Home • Deep Tissue Laser Therapy If Patient Wishes (As Not Covered By Insurance) We Do Offer A Free Laser Trial With Your Evaluation 410-641-2900 • WWW.EASTERNSHOREPT.COM 314 FRANKLIN AVENUE, SUITE 405 (NEXT TO LAB CORP), BERLIN, MD. 21811

CHOSEN MARYLAND’S BEST ICE CREAM BY FOOD & WINE MAGAZINE

A Family Tradition For 83 Years!

WEST OC: CORNER OF ROUTE 611 AND ROUTE 50 EAST BOARDWALK: CAROLINE STREET, WICOMICO STREET AND SOUTH DIVISION STREET LUNCH AND DINNER AT DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND NORTH, 12305 COASTAL HWY.

DUMSER’S DRIVE-IN, 4901 COASTAL HWY. NEWLY RENOVATED!

ICE CREAM MADE DAILY IN OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND Ice Cream Our Specialty. Stop By Any Dumser’s Location For A Wide Variety Of Homemade Ice Cream, Milkshakes, Sundaes, Floats And Much More.

December 15, 2023

Parking Solutions

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Elected officials acknowledged the town’s parking issues this week and are expected to meet in closed session regarding a potential solution in early 2024.

On Monday, members of the town council agreed that parking problems continued in Berlin and said they wanted to find a solution.

Councilman Jay Knerr said a possible solution had been presented and could be discussed in a closed session meeting.

“There is an opportunity to lease some parking that I talked to you about previously Mr. Mayor,” he said. “That opportunity still exists.”

At the end of Monday’s meeting, Knerr said the town had a severe parking problem that he felt the council should try to address. He said that even when events aren’t happening visitors can’t find parking in town.

“I was up there Saturday, we didn’t have an event going on but people were driving in circles,” he said. “I think we need to have a conversation about how we could provide additional parking, whether we purchase property, lease property, wherever that discussion takes us, we need to have it.”

He said there was a leasing opportunity that would provide 100 to 150 spaces.

Mayor Zack Tyndall said that officials could discuss a specific opportunity in closed session if it was formally presented.

“It can’t just be brought out of left field,” he said.

Councilman Steve Green echoed Knerr’s frustration with the parking situation.

“I feel like our parking dearth is creating a cap for our businesses,” he said. “If you talk to them, this hasn’t been the best year with the weather and the cancellation of events. I think it’s incumbent on us to hear concerns and try to address them.

If we know that parking is a major problem in the Town of Berlin, which it is, providing some sort of other options would be a great idea.”

He added that merchants and employees who parked on Main Street were contributing to the problem.

“That is not helping,” he said.

He said it was time for the council to do what it could to improve the parking situation.

He noted that a similar proposal was brought forward a few years ago and wasn’t approved but pointed out the makeup of the council had changed since then.

Tyndall, who was on the council then, said he’d voted against it because there wasn’t a way to fund it.

“If there is an appetite to do this then there needs to be a way to fund it. It can’t just be on the citizens with a tax increase …,” he said. “We’ve got to have a clear pathway to paying for it, which was what was missing before.”

Council Approves Conditional Use For 18-Hole Miniature Golf Course

December 15, 2023

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Resort officials this week voted in favor of a conditional use application that will allow an 18-hole miniature golf course to proceed.

On Tuesday, the Mayor and Council had before them a conditional use application for an 18-hole miniature golf course to be located in front of the Montego Bay Shopping Center. Planning and Community Development Director Bill Neville said the application was supported by the Ocean City Planning Commission with three conditions.

“The planning commission held a public hearing regarding this request on November 21 and is forwarding a favorable recommendation with findings of fact and three conditions to the Mayor and City Council,” he said. “The planning commission found this to be a favorable application, meeting the standards for conditional use.”

In November, the planning commission held a public hearing for a conditional use application submitted by Jay Taustin of Taustin Group. The applicant’s attorney, Joe Moore, said the conditional use would allow his client to construct an 18-hole miniature golf course on a vacant piece of property in the SC-1 shopping center district.

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

Planning and zoning staff told the commission last month that the miniature golf course would be placed between Ocean City Fire Department Station Four and the Farmers Bank of Willards, on the west side of Coastal Highway. They noted the site was the home of a former gas station, which had been demolished in 2020.

“It’s currently a vacant parcel.” Neville told the council Tuesday. “It was formerly a Sunoco gas station, and it’s

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

located just south of Fire Station Four.”

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

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

Gordy said Taustin is no stranger to golf course developments. She noted the applicant was also granted a conditional use permit in 2001 to construct a 36-hole miniature golf course in conjunction with The Embers Restaurant.

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

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

After further discussion, the commission in November voted to forward the conditional use application to the Mayor and Council with a favorable recommendation and the conditions outlined by planning and zoning staff.

On the agenda for Tuesday’s work session, Councilman Tony DeLuca made a motion to approve the conditional use application by adopting the findings of fact and the three conditions placed on the project.

The motion passed 6-0, with Councilman Peter Buas absent at the time of the vote.

With a conditional use now approved, the project will go back to the planning commission for site plan review.

Wastewater Project Bids Under Budget

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Bids for two water treatment plant projects in Ocean City came in under budget this week.

On Tuesday, the Mayor and Council opened bids for two planned projects at the Gorman Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant.

The first project, to be paid for with a $2 million bond, is the addition of ferric chloride facilities. Officials say the facilities will enable the plant to utilize ferric chloride to improve the water treatment process.

This week, the town received two bids to complete the project. M2 Construction submitted a total bid of $1,930,750, while Johnston Construction submitted a total

bid of $1,784,826.

“The budget for this was $2 million and that was a bond,” said City Manager Terry McGean.

Councilman Peter Buas then made a motion to accept the bids and send them back to town staff for further review. The motion passed in a 7-0 vote.

The council on Tuesday also opened bids for the rehabilitation of two existing clarifiers at the treatment plant.

Public Works Director Hal Adkins said the project was bonded at $11.25 million.

The first bid, submitted by M2 Construction, came in at $6,374,690, while the second bid, submitted by Johnston Construction, came in at $4,975,514.

A motion to accept the bids and send them back to staff for further review also passed by a unanimous vote.

Page 9

d HOLIDAY SCHEDULE d Closed Christmas Eve Dec. 24 & Christmas Day Dec. 25 Re-Open Wednesday, Dec. 27 - Jan. 1 Nantuckets: In The M Of Fenwick Island Lobster Shanty: Fenwick Island,U.S.A.

54

Town, Fire Co. To Discuss Capital Request Next Week

Page 10

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Municipal officials are expected to discuss a capital funding request with Berlin Fire Company representatives next week after delaying a decision Monday.

Elected officials had mixed feelings this week regarding a capital funding request from the fire company presented by Mayor Zack Tyndall. The issue, which relates to capital funding from the town’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant, is expected to come up at a previously

scheduled Dec. 20 work session with the fire company.

“Because the conversation is scheduled for next week, not next month, that’s why I’d say put a pin in this,” Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols said.

Earlier this year, the council agreed to give the fire company $220,000 in ARPA funds to purchase self-contained breathing apparatus. The town provided the agency $83,000 but then a federal grant enabled the agency to purchase the gear.

As a result, fire company leadership asked the town for the remainder of the $220,000 so it could be used to help pay down

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION CHRISTMAS PARTY: Thursday, Dec. 21 With Nina’s “Not So Famous” Egg Nog

GT Apparel & Gift Cards Make Great Stocking Stuffers ...

For Every $25 You Spend On A Gift Card, You Get $5 Back!

We Have The NFL Sunday Ticket!

West OC Ravens, Caps & Terps Headquarters NCAA Bball, ESPN Game Plan & PGA Packages On 54 NEW Hi-Def TVs In Stereo Sound RAVENS VS. JAGUARS: SUNDAY, 8:20 P.M. EAGLES VS. SEAHAWKS: SUNDAY, 8:15 P.M.

December 15, 2023

the loan associated with two new fire trucks.

“I think we should hold off on acting on this request, not indefinitely but until we hear back regarding the FY25 contract amounts,” Tyndall said.

Councilman Jack Orris pointed out that the ARPA funding was referenced in the town’s contract with the fire company.

Councilman Jay Knerr suggested the town was holding the funds hostage.

“We’re not holding anything hostage,” Tyndall said.

He said the town wasn’t a signatory to the fire company’s debt. He said if the town wanted to give the fire company money to pay down its loan a memorandum of understanding was needed first.

“If that’s a route the council wishes to take we need to explore how we establish an understanding about the use of equipment that’s being funded with town dollars, whether that’s ambulances, fire trucks, we need to have something in place, an MOU or something, that makes sure capital equipment can be used for fire suppression or EMS response in the Town of Berlin,” he said. “I don’t think it’s smart to release it just yet.”

Councilman Steve Green asked if the town was in violation of the contract if it didn’t release the funding. The town’s attorney said the town was not in violation because it was going to release the funding at some point during the fiscal year.

Knerr said he was ready to grant the fire company’s request.

“We seem to have this rocky relationship with the fire company,” he said. “I think we need to put our best effort forth and improve this relationship. I think this would help.”

Councilman Jack Orris said he too was having a hard time delaying the decision.

“I think if you’re going to release it you’ve got to have an MOU in place,” Tyndall maintained.

Nichols pointed out that the council was meeting with the fire company leadership in a work session Dec. 20 and could discuss the issue with them then.

Green said that while he wanted to improve the town’s relationship with the fire company he felt a discussion could be held at the work session.

“I’m fine with pausing this until the 20th, discussing it with them,” he said, adding that the town’s last work session with the fire company had been productive.

Knerr and Orris said they disagreed but noted that with Councilman Dean Burrell absent a motion now would result in a split vote which would allow Tyndall to break the tie. Tyndall maintained that he wasn’t ready to approve the release of the funds.

“They entered into the acquiring of that equipment knowing what their interest and principal payments would be,” he said. “If we can help them, by all means I want us to help them, but we’re not bound by them saving $10,000 in interest to make a quick decision.”

“OCEAN CITY CHRONICLES” Makes A Great Christmas Gift

Winter Food & Drink Specials Monday: Lunch Special: 11am-4pm $9.99 Meatloaf & Mashers 5pm: $12.99 Meatloaf Dinner 8pm: Tailgate Menu

Tuesday: All Day $9.99 Burgers & Cheesesteaks 7pm: $4 Twisted Teas, $4 Green Tea Shots

Wednesday: All Day $1 Wings (6 minimum) 7pm: $5 Import Drafts, $5 Jacks

Thursday: Lunch Special: 11am-4pm $9.99 Pot Roast 5pm: $12.99 Pot Roast Dinner 7pm: Ladies Night w/ $5 House Wines, $5 Surfsides, $5 Coffee Drinks

Friday: Lunch Special: 11am-4pm $9.99 Fried Oyster Po Boy or Fried Fish Sandwich Dinner: $14.99 Fried Oyster Dinner

Saturday: 12-7pm 20 oz Draft Specials $9.99 Sloppy Joe w/ Tots or Slaw

NFL Tailgate Menu Available During NFL Sunday & Monday Night Football (In House Only)

KIDS’ MENU • CARRY-OUT • APPAREL SHOP • GAME ROOM • KENO • FUN FOR EVERYONE

ROUTE 611 • WEST OCEAN CITY • 410-213-1500 www.greeneturtle.com

OCEAN CITY CHRONICLES Reminiscing Maryland’s Beach Resort

BY HUNTER “BUNK” MANN

BOOK SIGNING AT CAPRICHO’S BOOKS

OCEAN PINES • SATURDAY, DEC. 16 • 11 A.M.-1 P.M.

“Ocean City Chronicles” is the final book in Bunk Mann’s 3 volume historical series which began with “Vanishing Ocean City’ in 2014 and continued with ‘Ghosts In The Surf” in 2019. Centered around his articles in Ocean city’s award-winning newspaper the Maryland Coast Dispatch, his latest book features 285 of the most popular ones over the past 11 years. It includes hundreds of photos of long vanished hotels & restaurants, the great storms & fires, deep sea fishing, boardwalk attractions & amusements, and stories of the people who turned a small 19th-century fishing village into a modern, year-round destination. “Ocean City Chronicles” is a comprehensive history of Maryland’s famous oceanfront resort in a hardbound coffee table book featuring cover art by noted artist, Paul McGehee. Supplies are limited so order your copy today!

Ocean City Chronicles can be ordered online at vanishingoceancity.com.

Visit the website for further information and photos.

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 11

RAVENS VS JAGUARS SUNDAY 8:20 P.M.

DRINK SPECIALS DURING CAPITALS GAMES

Open Daily 11 a.M. KiTcHen Open Til’ 1 a.M.

Happy HOur MOn.-SaT. 3-6 p.M.

all Day SunDay

$2 DOMESTICS • $2 RAILS

28th Street • 410-289-2020 pitandpub.com

Off-SeaSOn SpecialS Sunday:

Wednesday:

Happy Hour All Day

25% Off Beef

Tuesday:

friday:

Monday:

25% Off Meatloaf

Thursday:

25% Off Pork

25% Off Chicken 1/2-Price Burgers Saturday:

1/2-Price Smoked Wings

NOW BOOKING CHRISTMAS PARTIES northside Open Daily 11 a.m. • 127th Street • 443-664-7482

Berlin Officials Approve Transfer For Stormwater Project

Page 12

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Town officials approved a funding transfer to allow a stormwater project to go forward.

The Berlin Town Council this week voted unanimously to adjust the budget for stormwater improvements to Pine Street, Franklin Avenue and Nelson Street. The change will allow crews to address infrastructure issues uncovered once the project was already underway.

“We actually have to change some of the material out to make this work,” said Jamey Latchum, the town’s water resourc-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

es director.

In November, the town began a $1.3 million stormwater improvement project in the area of Pine Street, Franklin Avenue and Nelson Street. The project is being funded with a $400,000 grant, $383,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and $500,000 in ARPA funding that was initially allocated for a wastewater treatment plant upgrade. Latchum told the council this week that the project would need another $100,000 for additional materials and work on the project.

Essentially he said the town needed to use a different type of piping than previously planned. Doing so will allow the town

to avoid a Verizon fiberoptic line that would be extremely costly to relocate. He said the town was going to try to do more investigative work before starting projects in the future. He said test pitting was an option though it typically cost more than $1,500 to do one hole.

“It’s unfortunate,” Latchum said. “We’re going to do our due diligence on future projects and try to budget money ahead and do test pitting.”

Despite the increase in cost, he said he really thought the project needed to proceed. He added that he didn’t want to cut corners on other aspects of it, such as by not redoing the sidewalks, for example.

Gold is up to an All Time High!

December 15, 2023

Staff recommended that the $100,000 be funded with $50,000 in ARPA funds currently allocated for audio visual improvements in council chambers and $50,000 in ARPA funds allocated for the digitization of town documents.

Councilman Jack Orris suggested the town use the ARPA funding that had been allocated for Rails to Trails, as that project wasn’t proceeding.

Tyndall said those funds could be reappropriated later to cover some of what was being spent from the digitization and audio visual funding.

“I think that’s probably better to do in January,” he said.

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 13

Page 14

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BETWEEN CAROLINE & TALBOT STREETS ON THE BOARDWALK 410-289-6953

APPAREL SHOP

PURPLEMOOSE.COM OPEN 11 AM DAILY

Spain Wine Bar Founder To Open New Eateries

December 15, 2023

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

TUNNELS END SATURDAY, DEC. 16 9:30PM

WAZZUP SATURDAY, DEC. 23 9:30PM

JPARIS

SATURDAY, DEC. 30 9:30PM

THUNDERBALL SUNDAY, DEC. 31 10PM

SNOW HILL – The founder of a popular Ocean City restaurant is hoping to bring French fine dining and Lebanese cuisine to the area as he takes over two more local establishments.

Peter Elias, founder of Spain Wine Bar, will also be taking over the former Whiskers space in Ocean Pines, which he plans to make a Lebanese restaurant, and the former Cowboy Coast property, which he will transform into a fine dining facility. Elias acknowledged that his plans were ambitious but stressed that he had a team of capable staff and would remain focused on providing quality experiences for diners.

“The most important thing is God’s grace and showing love to my guests,” he said. “That is the mission statement, that’s what I live for. That’s what these restaurants for me are about.”

Elias met with the Worcester County Board of License Commissioners, the body that grants beer, wine and liquor licenses, on Monday. He told the board his initial focus would be Sand and Cedar, the restaurant he will open in the Pines Plaza. Elias said the cuisine would be Lebanon-centric but that he would work in some Greek, Moroccan and Turkish foods as well.

“This’ll be a scratch kitchen the same way Spain is,” he said.

He said he was flying two renowned chefs in to work on the menu, which will change daily. At least half of the wines served at Sand and Cedar will be from the Lebanon region.

Elias asked the board for permission to have live entertainment seven nights a week.

“I’d like to be able to have the flexibility,” he said, adding that he envisioned musicians as well as potentially a belly dancer.

Board members said they’d like to see a less frequent entertainment schedule to start and approved live music two nights a week with the license transfer.

Elias went on to share his plans for the Cowboy Coast property with the board. He said the large space would be completely transformed into Bistro Cotiere, a white tablecloth, fine dining restaurant. Bistro Cotiere will feature a seafood station as well as a wine room and aging room for steaks.

“We’re not just providing a meal, we’re focusing on curating a unique experience,” Elias said. “This is a restaurant I want to focus on a James Beard (award) or something even more down the road.”

Because he’s planning such a change to the facility, he said there was a lot of structural work to be done, knocking SEE NEXT PAGE

… French, Lebanese Restaurants Planned

December 15, 2023

down walls and installing French doors and windows.

“We’re bringing light into the concept,” he said.

Elias, who has operated restaurants and lounges in New York and Washington, D.C., in the past, wants the space to serve as a wedding venue as well.

When complete, it will be laid out in such a way that it can be broken up into different spaces so that the restaurant could be open while a portion of the facility was rented out for a special event.

“The idea of the space being so large, and the history it’s had, is to refine it,” Elias said. “The idea is to be proud of this particular building.”

Because the space is large, Elias wants to work a lounge concept into it as well.

After 10 p.m., he told the board he wanted to have entertainment. He said he wanted to host DJs and have permission to have live music, particularly if he was renting spaces to wedding parties.

“What I’m trying to do is integrate concepts,” he said, adding that he wanted to bring in international DJs from Europe.

While late night noise near residential areas and roadways is always a concern for the board, Elias asked the board to trust him.

“I want to elevate this place,” he said.

“These concepts are to help do that.”

David Rosenblit, whose family owns the property, spoke in support of Elias’ proposal. Sgt. Doug Smith of the Ocean City Police Department also offered positive comments. He said police had responded to noise complaints there in the past when the establishment hosted hip hop bands.

“We had issues with the last lessee,” he said. “We are encouraged to hear this is not going to be a hip hop nightclub.

Hopefully if there are issues we’ll have a good rapport and not have the animosity we had with the last tenant.”

Board member Charles Nichols said Elias had an impressive plan but asked how he’d be able to accomplish opening both new restaurants in the coming months. Elias said his immediate focus would be on Sand and Cedar while Bistro Cotiere would likely open in the fall.

He said he had a team of four managers and several chefs that would enable him to run both facilities.

“I don’t do anything if I don’t have the team to do it,” he said.

Board member Marty Pusey said she was worried about the potential noise impact on area residences.

The board agreed to approve the transfer but limited entertainment to fivepiece bands seven nights a week. Elias did not get permission to have a DJ. Board members said Elias could always come back and ask for more entertainment in the future after the restaurant had opened.

“You’ve got a lot of work ahead,” Nichols said.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 15

West OC’s Newest Mexican Grill

CANTINA

LOS AGAVES OFF SEASON SPECIALS

SUNDAY NFL SPECIALS

MARIACHI NIGHT THURSDAY, DEC. 21 • 6-9 P.M.

43243242432432

We Have The Ticket!

• Nacho Supreme $6.50 • Choriqueso $5.25

Authentic Mexican Cuisine

Monday Mucho Tacos Ground Beef, Shedded Chicken or Beef.

(Soft or Hard)

3 for 6 • Grilled Grande .......................

R U O H Y PP A H Quesadilla (Steak or Tuesday 2 For 1 . m p.

6 Chicken) $5.50 3y Da y 2 Combo Dinners $19.25 Ever .......................

• Mexican Draft (16oz.)

Wednesday Fajita Night 1/2-PRICE MARGARITAS $ $3.75, (25oz.) $6.75 5 Off Fajitas OPEN DAILY 11 A.M. .......................

• 1/2-Price Margaritas SUN.-THURS. KITCHEN OPEN TIL’ 9 P.M. Thursday Burrito Night FRI. & SAT. TIL’ 10 P.M. $5 Off Specialty Burritos (16oz. & 27oz.)

BAR OPEN NIGHTLY TIL’ 11 P.M. $

Park Place Plaza Shopping Center • 12720 Ocean Gateway #7, Route 50 East • 410-390-3914

Sunday • Wednesday • Thursday

$29.00 Special Entrée Menu Reservations Recommended

Happy Hours Through Out! Cheers!

4-6 p.m. Daily

Wino Wednesdays $10 OFF All Bottles Of Wines

Open Wednesday-Sunday • Reservations Recommended 302-539-2607

IN THE M OF FENWICK ISLAND

Page 16

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 15, 2023

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 17

Page 18

Speed Cameras Coming To Berlin

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – The town is moving forward with plans to add speed cameras to Flower Street and Seahawk Road.

Elected officials told Police Chief Arnold Downing this week they supported adding speed cameras to locations on Flower Street and Seahawk Road.

The locations were recommended after speed studies throughout town.

“We’ll definitely keep you up to date,” Downing said. “We wanted you to know these were the locations.”

The Town of Berlin approved a contract with RedSpeed, a company that works with municipalities to provide automated traffic enforcement initiatives, in August. In the months since, Downing has been working with the company to conduct speed studies at various locations in town. He presented the council with the results of those studies on Monday and recommended the town move forward with installing cameras on Flower Street and Seahawk Road.

Other streets that were suggested as locations, including West Street, Main Street and William Street, didn’t have the numbers to merit cameras, he said.

In order to receive a ticket through the automated speeding system, motorists have to be at least 12 mph over the speed limit. The northbound William Street speed study, for example, showed 139 drivers going more than 5 mph over

December 15, 2023

the limit but only 15 speeders going more than 10 mph over the limit. Northbound Seahawk Road, on the other hand, had 970 drivers going more than 5 mph over the speed limit and 296 drivers going more than 10 mph over the limit. ““We’re talking about volume—when you look at Seahawk we have volume— and we also look at speed thresholds,” Downing said.

Because there is so much speeding on those roads, Downing said the town might approach county officials for permission to lower the speed limit there.

Mayor Zack Tyndall pointed out that if speeding became a problem in other areas in town RedSpeed could evaluate them in the future. Downing agreed that there could be additional evaluations but added that there were some areas that would always need to be monitored by police. He said on West Street, for example, there were problems with people running stop signs more than speeding.

“We know certain areas we are going to have to use other manners of enforcement,” he said.

Officials indicated they were eager to see the cameras installed in hopes that it would reduce speeding.

“This is a win,” Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols said.

Downing said he’d sign the necessary paperwork and determine the signage and electrical needs to proceed.

Council To Review LEOPS Funding

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Town officials committed this week to finding a way other than casino revenue to fund law enforcement pensions.

The Berlin Town Council voted unanimously this week to acknowledge the Local Development Council’s request that the municipality phase out the use of casino funds for the Law Enforcement Officers Pension System (LEOPS). Instead, the town will gradually make LEOPS a general fund expense.

“The key is the intent, not so much the dates,” Town administrator Mary Bohlen said.

This fall, when Berlin officials presented the Local Development Council (LDC) with a multi-year plan for casino revenue spending—highlighted by the fact that the town would use most of its casino revenue to fund LEOPS—LDC officials made it clear they didn’t think the town should depend on casino impact grants as the sole source of funding for the pension program. The LDC approved the town’s fiscal year 2024 2026 casino revenue spending plan but made it clear that the town should work to decrease the casino funding being used to pay for LEOPS over time.

In acknowledgement of that request, staff presented the council with a mo-

tion addressing the issue on Monday.

The motion recognizes the LDC’s request and states that officials are “committed to working toward this goal and to continue to give due consideration to other areas of funding commitment for these funds.”

Councilman Jay Knerr suggested the town begin phasing out the casino revenue as the sole funding mechanism for LEOPS sooner rather than later.

Mayor Zack Tyndall said that wasn’t necessary, as the town’s fiscal year 2024-2026 plan had been approved by the LDC. He also questioned how another funding source could even be identified in the interim.

“I think the time to look at that is through the budgeting process,” he said.

Councilman Jack Orris said he thought the LDC wanted to see a date when the town would begin phasing out the funding that was prior to submission of its next spending plan. Tyndall disagreed, stressing that the town’s current spending plan was approved and a new plan wasn’t needed until fiscal year 2027.

At the suggestion of Councilman Steve Green the council agreed to compromise to include in the motion the town’s intention to submit a new casino revenue plan by the end of fiscal year 2025.

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 19

Page 20

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Armed Robbery POCOMOKE – Authorities are investigating an auto parts store’s armed robbery in Pocomoke.

On Dec. 7, deputies from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and detectives from the Worcester County Bureau of Investigation responded to Advance Auto Parts, 509 Linden Ave., Pocomoke City, to assist members of the Pocomoke City Police Department with a strong-arm robbery investigation.

It was learned that the suspects entered the business, assaulted an employee, and left with an undisclosed amount of U.S currency. A vehicle description was shared with allied agencies to include Virginia authorities as the vehicle was last seen southbound on US 13.

A short time later it was learned that

COPS & COURTS Virginia authorities were involved in a vehicle pursuit southbound on US 13 with a vehicle matching the suspect vehicle.

Ultimately the suspects were taken into custody at the end of the pursuit in Exmore, Va. Detectives and members of the Pocomoke City Police Department are working collaboratively with police agencies

From Our House To Yours...

Family & Friends Near & Far Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

AND

in Virginia to determine if these suspects are involved in other robberies that have occurred in Virginia.

The Worcester County Bureau of Investigation has assumed the Advanced Auto Parts investigation, and anyone that may have relevant information is asked to contact Detective Keith Layton. He may be reached by email at klayton@co.worcester.md.us or by calling 410-632-1111.

November Police Stats OCEAN CITY – At this week’s Police Commission meeting, statistics for the Ocean City Police Department’s month of November were reviewed.

The report, prepared by Police Crime Analyst Brandon Reim, was highlighted by a 21% drop in total calls for service this November compared to last November with a combined 2,568 officer and citizen calls. Last November there were 3,097 total service calls and in November 2021 there were 2,915.

The top 10 calls for service in November (percentage difference noted from last November) were traffic stops, 391 (a 30% decrease); assist fire/EMS, 110 (19% decline); assist citizen or motorist, 98 (31% drop); 911 hang up, 56 (6% in-

December 15, 2023 crease); suspicious person or activity 48 (9% jump); premise alarm, 40 (2% decrease); check on welfare, 38 (16% decline); assist other agency, 36 (3% decrease); disorderly, 34 (13% decrease); and animal complaint, 30 (23% decrease).

Additional service calls in order with November 2022 figures included parking complaints/violations, 24 (36); warrant attempt or arrest, 23 (13); collisions, 20 (21); BOLO (Be On The Lookout), 15 (15); protective/summons service, 14 (16); city ordinance violation, 12 (five); domestic assault/dispute, 11 (13); theft already occurred, 10 (13); trespassing, seven (13); assault already occurred, six (12); malicious destruction of property, six (11); breaking and entering, five (two); civil dispute, four (10); fight in progress, 3 (zero); and CDS violations, 3 (26).

On the enforcement front, custodial arrests declined 27% in November, from 73 last November (83 in November 2021).

There were four drug arrests (from six last November), 11 DUI arrests (13 last November) and three weapons arrests (six last November).

Also included in the November report was a review of smoking citations in 2023. Through November, there have been 111 smoking citations issued on the Boardwalk, representing an 86% decline from 2022 and a 90% decrease from 2021. There were 424 smoking citations issued in 2020 and 104 in 2019.

Additionally, there have been zero littering citations issued in 2023 compared to 12 in 2022, 14 in 2021 and seven in 2020.

Friday Customer Appreciation Christmas Party Happy Hour Specials All Day Long 5 1 Teenage Rust & The Rustettes 6-9pm Bring Canned Goods or Donation at the Door For Diakonia Santa Paws Will Be Visiting!

Have You Been Naughty Or Nice?

Santa Paws Is Coming To Town!

Great Gifts For Stocking Stuffers

Your Countertop Specialists

Shop In Our Barkin’ Boutique or Online at www.buxys.xom

Steelers vs Colts

Saturday Dec. 16 • 4:30pm

Gates Open at 11am

Open Friday thru Sunday Dec. 15-17 Closed Monday Dec. 18 thru Thursday Dec. 28 Reopen Friday Dec. 29

Fabricating & installing quartz, granite and solid surface tops Up to date, state of the art equipment

28th Street • 410-289-BUXY • buxyssaltydog.com • drydock28.com • 410-289-2828

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

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 21

MEATS MAKE A GREAT GIFT • GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE 101 Williams St. 443-513-3194

J&M MEAT MARKET

The Butcher’s Table Lunch Menu Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Evening Dinner Thursday-Saturday 5-8 p.m.

House Of Beef • Locals’ Favorite Burger

PRE-ORDER FOR THE HOLIDAYS

• Bone-In Prime Rib Roasts

• Whole Tenderloins

Home of Berlin’s Official Dessert

THE ORIGINAL PEACH DUMPLING

Scratch Made Food • Handcrafted Desserts Coffee • Wine • Fine Art Get Baked For The Holidays 4C Bay Street • Berlin, MD 410-641-1800 www.bakeddessertcafe.com

Give The Gift Of Health This Holiday Season!

Visit Our Tasting Room To Sample Our Many Varieties 14 Broad Street Berlin, MD 21811 410-641-2300

RAYNE’S REEF EST. 1901

SODA FOUNTAIN & GRILL 410-641-2131 • 10 North Main St. Historic Downtown Berlin, Md. Open Monday-Saturday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Open Late Select Fridays

Cool Clothes & Accessories For Kids And Their Mamas

27 North Main St. • 443-513-4811

Homemade Ice Cream Ice Cream Cakes 120 North Main St. 410-973-2839 www.islandcreamery.com islandcreameryva

Cheers!

Give The Gift Of Beer, Wine, Liquor Gift Sets Available Open 7 Days A Week For All Your Needs

• Artisan Cheese • Charcuterie • Pickles • Cured & Fermented Goods • Sourdough Bread

410-641-2366 Main St. & Old O.C. Blvd.

116 N. Main Street Berlin, MD 410-973-2334

Fenwick Eyes New Ambulance Accord With Bethany Beach Service Fees For Residents To Increase

Page 22

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – The Town of Fenwick Island will enter into a new ambulance agreement with the Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company.

On Friday, the Fenwick Island Town Council voted unanimously to approve a new agreement with the Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company. Mayor Natalie Magdeburger said the agreement will increase ambulance service fees to $60 over the next three years.

“You are taxed every year for an ambulance tax and it's been $53 for a number of years,” she said. “They wanted to increase it to $75, escalating to $100 over a five-year period. They were very kind in sharing information with us, and we with them, and I believe that they have agreed to accept $60 as the new

fee for a three-year period.”

Years ago, the town entered into an agreement with the Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company for ambulance services.

With an agreement up for renewal in 2024, the town entered into negotiations.

In an update last Friday, Magdeburger said the town was nearing a new agreement.

She noted it would include an additional charge for anyone who rents.

“So if they are not a resident or an owner of the property, they feel like they want to collect that additional fee above and beyond whatever insurance would

pay,” she explained. “And they wanted to have the agreement for three years as opposed to five, so that we can further assess.”

Magdeburger noted, however, that the town had planned for an increase in ambulance services and had included a $60 ambulance fee in the recent tax bill.

She said property owners would not see a change.

“We've actually collected $60 from your taxes last season, understanding that that contract was about to expire, and we were likely to have an increase,” she said. “We didn't know what it would be, but we wanted to make sure we had money in hand. So you're not going to

December 15, 2023

feel anything different because you got pinched before you even knew it.”

Magdeburger added that the way property owners are charged for ambulance services could change in the coming years, as proposed legislation would give counties the authority to collect such a tax.

“The good news is the state is considering a bill that would cost centralize all the volunteer fire departments to the counties so that the counties will be able to assess a countrywide fire department tax,” she said. “If and when that occurs, then obviously any tax that we're paying individually as a municipality will become null and void and you get your tax bill from Sussex County as opposed to Fenwick.”

Magdeburger said the state bill was supported by the Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company.

“They do spend a lot of money trying to get volunteer payments,” she said.

“They rely on the big contracts with us and the other municipalities, but they'd like to have 100% participation and they don't get that … So I think they would be very much in support of it. At least that's what they've told us.”

After further discussion, the council voted unanimously to move forward with the new agreement.

“They've come to a number that we had sort of thought was a fair resolution for everybody concerned,” Magdeburger said.

Fenwick Island County Increases Reserve Fund To 15% To Review Town Manager Candidates

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – A subcommittee will soon begin vetting applicants for the position of town manager.

During a report at last Friday’s Fenwick Island Town Council meeting, Mayor Natalie Magdeburger presented an update on the search for a new town manager. She said the town has received 40 applications to fill the roll currently held by Pat Schuchman, who will retire in April.

“We have started our search,” she said. “We have gotten approximately 40 applications of interest, and we are going to start by inviting those candidates that we feel are sort of the top of the class back for an interview session with a subcommittee of the council.”

Magdeburger said the interviews would begin in early January.

“The interview process will be both a sort of oral exchange of information and ideas,” she said. “And we are also going to have a written exchange of information as well that will help us discern a lot of different things - how we communicate, how we write and what our management style might be.”

Magdeburger said the top candidates would then advance to an interview with the full town council. She said she would keep the community informed as the search process continued.

“Hopefully we will have candidates that we decide we want to bring back to interview with the entire council,” she said. “Then after that we will be in a position to make a recommendation.”

In October’s meeting of the town council, Magdeburger announced Schuchman’s retirement.

Schuchman began working for the Town of Fenwick Island in January 1997 as an administrative assistant. And in 2000, she became the town’s building official, interpreting and enforcing the town’s building and zoning regulations and reviewing permit applications.

“During this time, I worked on many different aspects of governing the town as building official and code enforcement officer with a working knowledge of the town code and charter as well as a variety of position requirements of other staff members,” Schuchman said in a statement last month.

In 2021, following the resignation of former town manager Terry Tieman, Schuchman was appointed. She came into the role with more than 40 years of administrative experience and more than two decades of service in municipal government. Prior to joining the Town of Fenwick Island, Schuchman worked for 17 years as an executive secretary for Westinghouse Electric Corporation.

During October’s meeting, Magdeburger said Schuchman would be assisting the town in finding her replacement.

SNOW HILL – Worcester County will boost its reserves following an increase in fund balance.

The Worcester County Commissioners last week voted unanimously to move forward with adjusting the county’s reserve fund from 12% of budgeted general fund expenditures to 15%. The jump was made possible with a $9.6 million increase in fund balance in FY 2023.

Budget Officer Kim Reynolds told the commissioners last Tuesday that the annual audit was underway and in order to finalize the financial statements, the use and assignment of fund balance had to be determined. The county ended

FY 2023 with a fund balance of $47.5 million, an increase of $9.6 million.

She said that while assigned fund balance amounts were meant to show the commissioners’ intent, the funds weren’t technically restricted.

“Although we assign funds to a particular project, these are not restricted unless done so by resolution,” she said.

Reynolds said the county was fortunate to see a $9.6 million increase in fund balance in FY 2023. Of that $9.6 million, $1.2 million was previously designated for reserve while $326,445 was set aside for prepaid expenses.

“It is important to point out that the surplus is primarily attributable to a strong labor market and the related income tax revenues as well as a better

Page 23

than expected return on investments,” Reynolds wrote in her report to the commissioners. “Staff would like to consider an opportunity to increase reserve this fiscal year to invest in the future and our long-term financial stability.”

Staff recommended increasing the reserve fund from 12% of budgeted general fund expenditures to 15%. The fund was last increased in 2021, when it went from 10% to 12%.

“This would require a one-time investment of $7 million,” Reynolds said of the increase to 15%.

The commissioners voted unanimously to approve the list of projects Reynolds presented, totaling $47.5 million, and to move forward with increasing the reserve fund to 15%.

Page 24

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 15, 2023

People in Society Mayor Zack Tyndall and the Berlin Town Council are pictured with their float and family members prior to the Berlin Christmas Parade.

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

Kirby Cosby, Asa Cosby, Hannah Sassong and Aubrey Sassong were on the Harrison Group’s float in the parade.

Sen. Mary Beth Carozza and supporters are pictured in the parade lineup.

John Diehl, Del. Wayne Hartman, Dave Diehl, Dave Peterson and Dawn Peterson are pictured in the parade lineup.

Councilmembers Jack Orris and Shaneka Nichols paused for a photo before the Christmas parade.

Berlin Police Department’s Kevin Lloyd, Arnold Downing and Avery Marshall paused for a photo at the Berlin Christmas Parade.

Jimmy Charles and Chief Arnold Downing both played key roles in keeping the parade running smoothly.

Sheriff Matt Crisafulli and Chief Deputy Nate Passwaters represented the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office at the parade in Berlin.

Santa’s “Seacrets Elf” was among this year’s parade participants.

Stephen Decatur Middle School marching band members Nadia Menendez and Katherine Carcamo Diaz are pictured at the parade.

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 25

OC Ad Agency Highlights 2024 Marketing Plans

Page 26

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A review of next year’s marketing plan highlighted a special meeting this week.

On Monday, the Mayor and Council hosted representatives from the town’s advertising agency, BVK, to review 2023 marketing campaigns and to learn more about the company’s plans for 2024. Officials say the coming year will focus on growing the town’s brand.

“From a growth opportunity and strategic goals perspective, our main goal going into 2024 is to continue to build on the success and awareness of the launch of the Somewhere to Smile About brand,” said BVK’s Stephanie Barkow. “We’re going to be adding in more focus on outdoor rec, nature and well-rounded wellness. We’re going to increase our seg-

ment-focused marketing, focus on unique food experiences and local feel, immersive live music for those young travelers and the accessible and approachable atmosphere.”

In a presentation Monday, BVK’s Victoria Simmons said the town witnessed a successful brand launch in 2023. Since that time, she said room tax collections have increased $5 million and visitation has increased 4%.

“That’s really important because in year one of a brand launch, brand awareness was central to our strategy,” she said. “So we’re happy to see those numbers. As we think about moving into the 2024 plan, we’re really building upon that strong strategic foundation.”

Barkow said the advertising agency worked with a third-party research firm, Zartico, to track visitation and consumer spending. She noted that Baltimore, Phila-

delphia and Washington, D.C., continue to be strong markets for the town.

“This year we understood that Baltimore, Philadelphia, and D.C. are great markets for us year-round,” she said. “So as we look at driving the shoulder season and fall visitation, we’re going to focus on those areas.”

Barkow added that travelers without children spend more time in Ocean City during the shoulder seasons, while middle-aged travelers are spending more money.

“We’re seeing travelers age 35 to 44 and 55-plus are spending at a higher level but visiting at a lower level,” she explained. “So we’re going to look to increase visitation from these healthy spending audiences while also balancing growing our awareness and understanding with younger audiences, knowing that if they come one they will likely to come

11:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. y p p a Daily H .00 s $23 Big Bite Hour Through Out!

Wednesday Thru Sunday

Special Menu 54

Food & Drink Specials

Open Wednesday-Sunday Reservations Recommended 302-436-2305

FENWICK ISLAND • DE

December 15, 2023

back.”

Barkow said the agency looked at demographic trends to develop Ocean City’s brand persona. She said that data will be used to develop campaigns for four types of visitors – millennial moms, curious and active Gen Xers, action-oriented males, and connected young females.

“Something we are bringing forward in 2024 is taking that macro persona and breaking it four subsegments, which is going to allow us to develop even more targeted communications based on the unique interests of these subsegment groups,” she said.

Barkow said marketing campaigns will focus on things such as family amusements, cultural activities, land and water recreation, live music and dining. She said the agency will also be looking into the effectiveness of its advertising in 2024.

“Something we’re adding into the media budget next year is to do advertising effectiveness research,” she said. “This will help us understand the return on investment of our marketing campaigns and also to understand how effective it is with our target audiences and increasing the perception of the destination in the way we want.”

In terms of paid media, BVK’s Niki Kaylor said the agency would focus more on digital audio and AI in 2024. She said paid media campaigns would run throughout the calendar year and would focus mainly on adults ages 25-54.

“As we’re creating our media plan, we really want to think through all of our objectives, all of our insights and how we can pull all of that in to deliver the most optimized plan,” she said.

Following Monday’s presentation, Councilman John Gehrig questioned the agency’s use of Zartico. Simmons said the company was a third-party independent research firm that collects information on visitors.

“It takes in data from various resources,” she explained. “One is geolocation data, which allows us to understand visitor movements … and it’s attached to some credit card spending so we can understand where they are spending and how much they are spending.”

Simmons added that BVK would partake in an advertising effectiveness study in 2024.

“That advertising effectiveness study will give us even more data,” she said.

Gehrig applauded BVK for creating a strong brand. He said several officials have received pictures from people who have seen the Somewhere to Smile About logo in different cities.

“There’s been a fair amount of chatter this past year about the creative. I just appreciate the good job on the creative …,” he said. “What our competitors are doing versus what we are doing is a night-andday difference.”

Mayor Rick Meehan also thanked BVK for their efforts.

“I want to thank you for a very detailed presentation and some follow up to what we’ve done in 2023 and where we’re going to be in 2024,” he said. “I think it’s exciting, and you are continuing to try and keep ahead of the game and keep us in a position to be successful. I look forward to working with you in 2024.”

Okla. Man’s Guilty Plea Results In More Online Warnings

December 15, 2023

(Editor’s Note: The following is a press release from the Ocean City Police Department printed in its entirety.)

OCEAN CITY – As winter break approaches, the Ocean City Police Department wants to remind parents and caregivers of the dangers children face with social media and online chat applications.

The Ocean City Police Department and the Worcester County State Attorney’s Office just successfully closed an investigation regarding inappropriate sexual conversations that took place between a juvenile located in Ocean City and an adult in Tulsa, Okla.

Wyatt Andrew Johnson, 24, of Tulsa, Okla., pleaded guilty to one count of publishing/distributing obscene material on Nov. 27. The Ocean City Police Department began investigating Johnson in June 2020 when Child Protective Services (CPS) referred the case.

During the investigation, detectives learned the juvenile (14 years old at the time) and Johnson were having an online sexual relationship through numerous chat applications, such as Discord, Facebook Messenger, Instagram and iMessage. Utilizing various law enforcement databases, detectives were able to positively identify Johnson and obtain several months of conversations and records.

Detectives learned they met in a group chat specifically for individuals in-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

terested in diaper-wearing and baby role-play. Johnson was aware of the juvenile age. Over several months, the juvenile and Johnson engaged in inappropriate conversations, and Johnson gave “commands” to the juvenile for sexual humiliation.

Detectives applied for charges through the Maryland District Court Commissioner in October 2020. An arrest warrant was issued for Johnson.

The warrant was eventually served in October of 2023, and Johnson was held without bond until his court appearance on November 27, 2023. Johnson entered into a plea deal to plead guilty to one count of publishing/distributing obscene material. Johnson was sentenced to one year in jail with all but 39 days suspended. Johnson has been released from custody.

Social media has become a prevalent part of everyone’s life, even our children. Online access can come with risks, like inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and online predators. Using social media applications and websites where kids interact, predators may pose as a child or teen looking to make a new friend.

The National Children’s Advocacy Center provides the following internet safety tips for kids and teens: 1. Spend time having fun with your parents online and helping them understand technology.

2. Never post your personal information, such as a cell phone number, home number, home address, or your location, on any social networking site or through mobile apps like Snapchat or Instagram.

3. Never meet in person with anyone you first “met” on the internet. If someone asks to meet you, tell your parents or guardian right away. Some people may not be who they say they are.

4. Check with your parents before you post pictures of yourself or others online. Do not post inappropriate pictures of anyone.

5. Never respond to mean or rude texts, messages, and emails. Delete any unwanted messages. You may need to delete friends who continuously bother you or post things that are not appropriate.

6. Never share your password with anyone, including your best friend. The only people who should know your password are your parents or guardian.

7. If you wouldn’t say something to another person’s face, don’t text it or post it online.

8. Do not download or install software or anything on your computer or cell phone before checking with your parents or guardian.

9. Use the privacy settings of social networking sites.

10. Talk with your parents or guardian immediately if anything makes you

Page 27

feel uncomfortable online, while gaming, or using your cell phone.

If you are aware of the sending, use, or viewing of child pornography online, you can contact the Ocean City Police Department or call the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 800-843-5678 or go online to their CyberTipline. They’ll ensure the info is forwarded to law enforcement officials for investigation.

Watch for warning signs of a child being targeted by an online predator.

These can include: 1. Spending long hours online, especially at night 2. Phone calls from people you don’t know 3. Unsolicited gifts arriving in the mail 4. Your child suddenly turns off the computer or other device when you walk into the room.

5. Withdrawal from family life and reluctance to discuss online activities.

The Ocean City Police Department is prepared and proactively handling criminal violations and citizen complaints of illegal activity to ensure the safety of our residents and visitors. We want to remind citizens that if they see something suspicious or have concerns about possible criminal activity in Ocean City, contact us. We encourage you to call our Tip Line at 410-520-5136, email us at crimetips@oceancitymd.gov, or contact the Police Department at 410-723-6610.

Page 28

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 15, 2023

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 29

Atlantic General Gearing Up For 30th Annual Penguin Swim

Page 30

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BERLIN – Preparations are well underway for Atlantic General Hospital’s 30th Annual Penguin Swim set for Monday, Jan. 1, 2024.

The plunge will once take place in front of the Princess Royale Oceanfront Hotel at 91st Street in Ocean City.

All participants are required to register either online or in person and check in on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day to receive a wristband that allows access to the swim area. Advance online registration is recommended. Participants can register online by visiting www.aghpenguinswim.org. The registration fee is $30 per participant if registering on or before Dec. 30. The registration fee is $35 per participant if registering on Dec. 31 or Jan. 1.

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

Event day registration and check-in will begin at 9 a.m., ending promptly at 11:30 a.m., with the main event at noon on the beach at 91st Street. The time in between will be full of fun activities the whole family will enjoy like costume contests, face painting, mermaids and more.

The Bull on the Beach team will parade down the beach at 11:45 a.m. from 94th Street to the swim area in front of the Princess Royale. Spectators are welcome.

December 15, 2023

Participants in the New Year’s Day Penguin Swim are pictured taking the plunge for Atlantic General Hospital.

Photo by Chris Parypa

The awards ceremony will take place in the atrium immediately following the swim. Special recognition awards will be given to the oldest and youngest penguins and the Penguin who traveled the furthest.

Trophies for first, second and third place will be awarded to those who raise the most money in divisions for: Adults (19 & Over); Youth (18 & Under); Teams/Busi-

nesses; Community Groups/Organizations; Youth/Family.

If you are unable to attend in person, you can still participate in the Cyber Swim.

Register online, then take an ice-cold dip wherever you are and post a photo or video of your personal Penguin Swim on social media using #OCPenguinSwim.

Make sure your post is public so we can

see it.

Proceeds from the event, gathered through corporate sponsorships and participant fundraising, support the strategic plans undertaken by Atlantic General Hospital to uphold their mission to improve individual and community health.

Atlantic General Hospital is a 501(c)3 organization.

Berlin Liquor Store

NEW TO TOWN?

Largest Liquor Store In OC Area!

Cold & Warm Beer

Make sure your estate planning documents are up-to-date!

BEER•LIQUOR•WINE

Power of Attorney

Every Thursday And Sunday Senior Citizens Get

10% OFF

Advance Directive

10% OFF

(On Orders Of $50 Or More)

Liquor And Wine

Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Must bring in coupon. Expires 1.5.24 • MCD

Liquor And Wine

10% OFF ALL CASES OF WINE! 7 DAYS A WEEK (Must Be Same Size Bottles 750 ML or 1.5 L)

10818 Ocean Gateway, Berlin, MD 21811 410-973-2873

Living Will 9748 Stephen Decatur Hwy. #112 Ocean City, MD 21842 NEW LOCATION

Wills & Trusts

1321-B Mt. Hermon Rd. Salisbury, MD 21804

443-856-4676 Monday-Friday www.batielaw.com

Call us for a free 30 minute phone consultation.

NOEL Christmas Dinner Announced

December 15, 2023

OCEAN CITY – The 26th Annual NOEL (Nothing Other than Eating and Loving) Christmas Day Dinner, a feeding ministry of St. Paul’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, welcomes all.

This will be a safe, loving place to gather whether you are hungry for food or companionship. The dinner unites a diverse community – from those who are in need of a meal, to homeless brothers and sisters, to those who find themselves alone on Christmas Day. We all become one family at one table.

This year, there will not be a need to distribute pantry items, toiletries, hats, gloves, scarves, etc., to those who attend this dinner. Instead, all these items are available regularly, four days a week, through the church’s food pantry, Shepherd’s Crook.

The church is requesting help with the desserts and side dishes: mashed potatoes, green beans, stuffing, or any special dish that you make and would like to donate. If anyone is willing to donate food, please let the church know in advance so that representatives can keep track.

Food donations will be accepted on Saturday, Dec. 23 from 9 a.m.-noon. If you’d like to donate food or volunteer to set up the dinner, please call Jody Farley at 410-289-3453 ext. 101.

Monetary donations are always welcome. Please send them to St. Paul’s bythe-Sea Episcopal Church, 302 N. Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Md. 21842.

Be sure to note NOEL on your check.

Holiday Special For Reflections Tree

OCEAN CITY – The Ocean City Beautification Committee is offering a holiday special to memorialize a loved one on the Reflections of Life bronze tree sculpture located in the lobby of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center at 40th Street bayside.

A loved one can be honored with a gold, silver or bronze leaf or stepping stone on the sculpture for a tax-deductible donation. Each leaf or stone can be engraved to honor an individual, commemorate a special occasion or celebrate other important events or people.

Through Dec. 31, the OCBC is offering the leaves at 50 percent off their regular prices. You can now purchase gold leaves for $250 instead of $500, silver leaves for $175 instead of $350, and bronze leaves for $125 instead of $250.

The Reflections of Life program has funded such projects as the custom water feature outside at the entrance to the convention center, the memory garden bayside at the convention center and the lighted trees in the downtown area. Funds raised in the future will go toward other beautification projects in town.

Donation forms are located on www.oceancitymd.gov as well as at the Visitors Center at the Convention Center and at Northside Park. Or go to www.oceancitymd.gov/oc/city-hall/mayor-and-citycouncil/beautification-committee/

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 31

WHOLE HOUSE ELECTRICAL ASSESSMENT & SAFETY INSPECTION

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

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

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

Page 32

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 15, 2023

Students Create Ornaments: The After School Art Club at Berlin Intermediate School led by Joanne Guilfoil created holiday ornaments. The club is a

program of the Art League of Ocean City. Pictured, top left, are Carly Coldiron, Emmie Smith, Blake Richardson and Kaleb Gordon; top right, Maleah Maness, Jacob Biden and Alisha Sethi; bottom, from left, Katie Holloway and Eva Greenlaw; Emmie Smith; and Kaleb Gordon and Blake Richardson.

Submitted Photos

KNITTING AND WEAVING

HERE’S MY CARD For More Information, Contact Pamela Green PHONE: 410-641-4563 • FAX: 410-641-0966 EMAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@MDCOASTDISPATCH.COM UROLOGY SPECIALIST

ROOFING

licensed & Insured Ocean City #35727 Maryland #95090 Delaware #2007214173

• All New Roofs Carry 10-Year Warranty • All Jobs Inspected By Owner At Completion • Customers’ Satisfaction Guaranteed Over 25 Years Experience In Roofing & Siding

PIANO TUNING

QUALIFIED MECHANICS TO HELP WITH YOUR ROOFING NEEDS!

fOR a fRee estIMate Call OffICe: 410-289-1115 OR Call the OWneR DIReCt: 443-366-2786

302-212-9800

HOME, LAWN & PATIO SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL HOME ORGANIZER

Nick French • 443-783-8255 Nfrenchti@gmail.com CARPET CLEANING

meckservicesanddesigns@gmail.com MHIC #135919 DE #2018608353

hOMe, laWn & PatIO seRvICes

• Upholstery Cleaning • Carpet Cleaning • Oriental Rug Cleaning & Repair • Tile & Grout Cleaning

• General Repair & Maintenance • Pavers • hardscaping • Decking • landscaping • Outdoor living Contact us today for a free estimate!

LAWN CARE

Quality Service by Certified Technicians Since 1983

(302) 436-5652 www.brasurescarpetcare.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT

LANDSCAPING

Ken Walsh – 410-641-3762 est. 1977 • MhIC 8465 www.WalshHomeImprovementInc.com

LANDSCAPING • IRRIGATION HARDSCAPING • FREE ESTIMATES Full Service/Yearly Maintenance Contracts Available

Specializing In: Custom Additions, Kitchens, Baths

443-783-2224 • edgarcjr@aol.com

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 33

Toys collected, Donated:

Worcester Preparatory School (WPS) students gathered with the gifts they collected to be donated to Worcester County GOLD (Giving Other Lives Dignity) during this holiday season. This year along with supporting the SGA Food Drive, the Middle and Upper School volunteers gave back to those in our community who are less fortunate. Worcester Volunteers collected toys to be donated to Worcester County GOLD. Front row, from left, are Kaylin Zervakos, Rani Yonker, Head of Middle School Megan Wallace, Emery Hammonds, CJ Labin, Reed Corron, Will Schlesinger, Michael Hall, Kyler Phillips, Cooper Staples, Elliot Mason, Elena Kappes, Jack Tunnell, Estelle Damouni, Abby Ferguson and Isabella Forman. Back, from left, are Alex Gjoni, Artur Bogatyrev, Jack Adkins, Avi Bouzaglo, Jack Wells, Darren Lockard, Emma Nordstrom, Lara Owens, Jackson Griffin, Kayley Adkins, Haven Harrison, Lily Mathews, Vincent Submitted Photo Cappello, Head of School Dr. John McDonald and Head of Upper School Carol Evans.

HERE’S MY CARD For More Information, Contact Pamela Green PHONE: 410-641-4561 • FAX: 410-641-0966 • EMAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@MDCOASTDISPATCH.COM MVA LICENSED

BLINDS/SHADES

PERSONAL TRAINING

WAINWRIGHT’S TIRE CENTER INC.

PORCH COVERS

AMA Consulting & Business Svcs, Inc

AUTO

TAX RESOLUTION/CREDIT SERVICES We Solve Your Problems

Mae Phillips

SALES & SERVICE Custom Wheels Computer Wheel Alignment Lube & Oil Change Shocks & Struts

Exhaust Systems Air Conditioning & Brake Service Road Service – Truck & Farm

(434) 382-8920 11806 Sheppards Crossing Road Whaleyville, MD 21874 amaconsultingandbusiness@gmail.com www.amaconsultingbusiness.com

410-641-2000 • 18 Broad St. • Berlin

BOB NAILS IT

MHIC#76938

Del.#2007215731

HOME REPAIRS & IMPROVEMENTS

Quality You Can Depend On!

OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 410-430-6817 bobnailsit@gmail.com

no appointments needed!

Open Tues.-Fri.: 8am-4:30pm Sat.: 8am-1pm 11022 Nicholas Lane, Unit #7 Ocean Pines, MD

MHIC# 142762

We now acccept

Walk-Ins Welcome,

MEN’S HAIR SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HANDYMAN SERVICES

443-235-6249 • ARTISTICRENOVATIONS.COM

410-973-2430

Page 34

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Director Appointment OCEAN CITY – The Maryland Building Officials Association (MBOA) has appointed the Town of Ocean City’s chief building official, James Metzgar, to serve as director-at-large.

As a dedicated and accomplished professional in the field, Metzgar brings a wealth of experience and expertise that will undoubtedly contribute to the association's mission and objectives.

Metzgar has an impressive background in the construction industry, working in both the public and private sectors over the last 30 years. As the chief building official for the Town of Ocean City, he leads a team of dedicated and professional staff who ensure the safety and compliance of all building projects in town.

Metzgar is a certified building official, and holds over 18 certifications through the International Code Council. He has a strong background in mentoring, teaching, and restructuring development services departments previously in Fort Worth, Texas, and in Macon, Ga. He has previously held positions as building official for SAFEbuilt, deputy building official/assistant director for the City of Dallas, Texas, and senior building inspector/plans examiner for Centre Region Code, State College Pa. In his new role on the Board of Directors, Metzgar will actively participate in shaping the strategic direction of MBOA, promoting professionalism and consistency in the application and enforcement of building codes throughout the state. His dedication to professional development and continuous learning will undoubtedly strengthen the association’s programs and initiatives.

“James is invaluable to the Town of Ocean City and most deserving of this role as serving on the Board,” said Deputy City Manager Elton Harmon. “He is efficient, extremely knowledgeable, and holds his responsibilities and services to the highest level.”

The Maryland Building Officials Association is a leading organization dedicated to supporting building officials, inspectors, and professionals involved in the enforcement of building codes. With a focus on education, advocacy, and collaboration, MBOA plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and integrity of the built environment in the state of Maryland.

Leadership Change SALISBURY – The Board of Directors of SHORE UP!, Inc. has announced that effective Oct. 2, 2023, Dr. Tyrone Chase has assumed the role of executive director, following the retirement of Freddy L.

BUSINESS And Real Estate News

Chesapeake Health Care was recently recognized by the Health Resources & Services Administration with five prestigious Community Health Center Quality Recognition badges. These accolades, standing as a testament to the organization’s unwavering commitment to top-quality health care provision, highlight Chesapeake Health Care’s outstanding performance in advancing access, quality, health equity, health information technology, and addressing social risk factors.

Above, from left, are Brian Holland, CEO, Dr. Lee Jennings, chief medical officer, and Joshua Boston, chief operations officer.

Submitted Photo

Mitchell.

Mitchell has been in a leadership role at the agency since he began employment there in December of 1969. He was hired as the program director for Head Start and after about five years in that position, he took on the role of executive director. He has led the agency for approximately 50 years.

“Mr. Mitchell has led this agency through good times and through challenging times. Despite the challenges, SHORE UP has expanded its programs and services many times under his leadership, and we are grateful for his dedication and service,” said Board Chair Rev. Dr. Craig Mathies.

Chase was selected by the board to be Mitchell’s successor because of his wealth of experience. Chase worked at SHORE UP for over 30 years and has served on its board. Chase is a firm believer in the important role of education in achieving success, and he has served on the Wicomico County Board of Education.

After leaving his employment at SHORE UP, Chase took a position at the Univer-

sity of Maryland Eastern Shore, where he was an associate professor in the Organizational Leadership Doctoral Program.

His civic involvement also includes positions on the Shore Housing Resource Board, which sought to expand housing options for lower income households.

“Dr. Chase knows SHORE UP, knows the communities we serve, and he has a heart for helping others,” Mitchell said of his successor. “He is exactly the right person to take SHORE UP forward into the future.”

Mitchell is assisting Chase with the transition of leadership thru the end of 2023.

Warden Named SNOW HILL – The Worcester County Commissioners named Tim Mulligan to serve as the new warden for the Worcester County Jail (WCJ).

“Tim has been an asset to county jail operations for many years,” Commissioner President Chip Bertino said. “His experience, coming up through the ranks of the organization, will serve the jail, its dedi-

December 15, 2023 cated staff, and the county well as he assumes the responsibilities of warden.”

Mulligan has a proven record of success overseeing WCJ operations, and his skills, training, and professionalism make him ideally suited to lead the WCJ team.

He brings 13 years of experience overseeing all aspects of the WCJ and four years of military leadership to his new position. Mulligan earned corrections certification from the Eastern Shore Criminal Justice Academy at Wor-Wic Community College and joined the WCJ team as a correctional officer in 2010 and rose through the ranks. He was promoted to sergeant in 2016 and then served as a lieutenant from 2017 until his appointment to warden.

Throughout his career, Mulligan has earned numerous public safety certifications, including certification as an Eastern Shore Criminal Justice Academy Certified PREA TIM Investigator, and a Depart- MULLIGAN ment of Public Safety and Correctional Services Corrections Firearms Instructor.

He is part of the outstanding team whose ongoing commitment to excellence has played a pivotal role in the WCJ earning multiple, consecutive Recognition of Achievement Awards from the Maryland Commission on Correctional Standards (MCCS) for achieving 100% compliance.

“I am excited to take on my role of warden and look forward to continuing the mission of the Worcester County Jail with my team,” Mulligan said. “I am honored to serve the citizens of Worcester County.

I will lead from the front, while remaining fair, firm, and impartial. I would like to thank the commissioners, Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young, and retiring Warden Fulton Holland for their confidence in me.”

Mulligan is a 2020 graduate of the University of Maryland Global Campus where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice. Prior to entering the field of corrections, he served from 2006 to 2010 as a specialist in the United States Army, where he supervised a team of infantry soldiers in combat situations during Iraqi Freedom. Mulligan is a decorated military soldier. In addition to numerous ribbons, he earned two Iraq Campaign Stars, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Global War on Terror Service Medal.

Mulligan will take over for current WCJ Warden Fulton Holland, who will retire in February 2024.

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 35

Page 36

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 15, 2023

COMMUNITY News In Photos

The Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club recently donated coats to Berlin Intermediate School. Bill Hickey, chairman of the coat donation program for the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club, is pictured delivering the coats to Principal Amy Gallagher, middle, and school counselor Michelle Bankert.

Submitted Photos

Salvation Army’s “Love Beyond Christmas” campaign includes donations, gifts and bell ringing. Wicomico Retired School Personnel Association (WRSPA) donated toys and winter-wear at their November luncheon. Pictured from left to right is Michael Murray, guest, Allen Brown, WRSPA executive board, Pam Gregory, United Way representative, and Carla Duls, Maryland Retired School Personnel Association president.

Germantown School Community Heritage Center hosted its second “Veteran Voices” talk with Korean War veteran Wallace Purnell on Nov. 25. Pictured at the event, which was well attended, are Gabe Purnell (left) and Wallace Purnell.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City received enormous support for its annual coat and toy drive. Coat drive co-chairs, Kitty Wrench and Sue Wineke collected over 300 coats while toy drive chair, Dave Landis, collected 3 full SUV loads of toys. All toys sewer delivered to Worcester G.O.L.D. in Snow Hill for distribution.

Members of the Ocean Pines Garden Club gathered in late November to create numerous swags and wreaths to decorate neighborhood entrances throughout Ocean Pines.

The Ocean Pines Department of Parks and Recreation held its annual "Breakfast With The Grinch" on Dec. 2. As customary, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean PinesOcean City cooked the pancakes, sausages and scrambled eggs. From left to right is Buddy the Elf, Dave Landis, Ed Ahlquist, The Grinch, Barbara Peletier and Mike Castoro.

Fenwick Exploring $400K Grant For Engineering Study

December 15, 2023

BY BETHANY HOOPER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – A Fenwick committee will move forward in seeking a $400,000 grant for a new engineering study.

Last Friday, the Fenwick Island Town Council voted unanimously to authorize the town’s infrastructure committee to proceed with a $400,000 grant for a micro-level engineering study that will focus on bayside flood mitigation. Councilman Richard Benn, committee chair, said the engineering study would be one step toward making Fenwick Island more resilient.

“I just want permission to proceed with using the grant assistance program at the University of Delaware to proceed with writing the grant proposal,” he said.

“We should have the proposals from the engineering firms back in mid-January.”

In 2021, the town contracted with AECOM to conduct a resiliency study, which outlined short- and long-term solutions to sea level rise and flooding.

And in August, the infrastructure committee held an information session, during which officials collected feedback from the public on topics such as drainage, bulkhead height and funding.

In a November update regarding the town’s resiliency efforts, Benn told the infrastructure committee he and com-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

mittee member Susan Brennan had met with the University of Delaware’s grant assistance program regarding grant funds that had recently become available. He said that funding could allow the town to complete an engineering study.

In order to seek grant funding, however, the town must first seek cost estimates from engineering companies. In last week’s town council meeting, Councilman Ed Bishop said requests for proposals would be sent to interested engineering firms. He explained the town would have cost estimates by Jan. 8.

“That will give us the pricing we need for the grant,” he said.

While the infrastructure committee has requested proceeding with a $400,000 grant, which would require a 25%

match from the town, Benn said it remained unclear how much the study would cost.

“My best guess right now is it's going to be around a quarter of a million, but it could be $400,000,” he said.

In regard to the matching funds, Benn said the town had excess realty transfer tax funds available, as well as $100,000 in American Rescue Plan Act money.

However, he said the committee could provide more specifics at the council’s January meeting.

“We'll be able to come back and vote on the exact amount at the January meeting …,” he said. “But this would be an engineering study that would come in and look at literally all the lots on the west side of town and how we could make ourselves resilient against sea

Page 37

level rise.”

Benn said the study would explore topics such as bulkhead heights, stormwater removal and more. For her part, Mayor Natalie Magdeburger applied the idea of an engineering study.

“It’s a lot more money, but it's gonna give us the answers to what we need to do …,” she said. “This is probably one of the biggest things we hear from bayside residents, do something.”

After further discussion, the council voted 7-0 to authorize the infrastructure committee to move forward in its efforts to secure grant funding.

“Because of what you all are doing, we are ahead,” Magdeburger said of the committee. “But it's still a race because we are going after the same pot of money.”

Page 38

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 15, 2023

Best Beats On The Beach Who’s Where When CAPTAIN’S TABLE 410-289-7192 15th & Boardwalk In The Courtyard Marriott Fridays & Saturdays: Phil Perdue on Piano COINS PUB 410-289-3100 28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy. Sunday, Dec. 17: Christmas Party w/DJ Wax

DJ ROBCEE Fager’s Island: Friday, Dec. 15

BEATS BY WAX Coins Pub: Sunday, Dec. 17 Pickles Pub: Tuesdays & Thursdays

DJ GROOVE Fager’s Island: Saturday, Dec. 16

CORK BAR Wicomico St., Downtown O.C. Saturday, Dec. 16: Wes Davis CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE 302-988-5000 37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54 Selbyville, DE Friday, Dec. 15: Fil Rhythm Wednesday, Dec. 20: John Remy CRAWL STREET TAVERN 443-373-2756 Wicomico St., Downtown O.C. Friday, Dec. 15: Dust N Bones Saturday, Dec. 16: Flipside FAGER’S ISLAND 410-524-5500 60th St. In The Bay Friday, Dec. 15: DJ Greg, DJ RobCee Saturday, Dec. 16: DJ Groove, Tuesday, Dec. 19: Latin Night

PHIL PERDUE Captain’s Table: Fridays & Saturdays

JOHN REMY Crabcake Factory Bayside: Wednesday, Dec. 20

WES DAVIS Cork Bar: Saturday, Dec. 16

DJ TUFF Seacrets: Friday, Dec. 15

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

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 39

Who’s Where When

FLIPSIDE Crawl St. Tavern: Saturday, Dec. 16

TUNNELS END Purple Moose Saloon: Saturday, Dec. 16

MARIACHI REY AZTECA Cantina Los Agaves: Thursday, Dec. 21

MARLIN CITY MADMEN Pickles Pub: Saturday, Dec. 16

TEENAGE RUST & THE FABULOUS RUSTETTES Buxy’s Salty Dog: Friday, Dec. 15

NO RIGHT WAY Seacrets: Friday, Dec. 15

HIGHER EDUCATION Pickles Pub: Friday, Dec. 15

DUST N BONES Crawl St. Tavern: Friday, Dec. 15

Are You Getting Your Daily Buzz?

Local News Articles Delivered Daily To Your Inbox

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING …

“I really enjoy getting the Daily Buzz articles.

They are informative, helpful and well-written.

This was a great idea. Thank you.”

“Love the Daily Buzz” “I very much enjoy the daily news updates.”

“I love your emails. ... Keep them coming!

“Thank you so much for keeping us aware for those of us not in Ocean City.”

“I love getting The Dispatch by email daily (or just a little taste of it!). Thank you!”

SIGN UP AT WWW.MDCOASTDISPATCH.COM AND JOIN THE 15,000-PLUS WHO RECEIVE THE NEWS BEFORE IT’S PRINTED

PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8th St. & Philadelphia Ave. Fridays: Beats By DeoGee Saturday, Dec. 16: Marlin City Madmen Sundays: Beats By DeoGee Mondays: Karaoke w/ Wood Tuesdays: Beats By Wax Wednesdays: Beats By Deogee Thursdays: Beats By Wax PURPLE MOOSE SALOON 410-289-6953 Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards Saturday, Dec. 16: Tunnels End SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49th St. & Coastal Hwy. Friday, Dec. 15: Christmas Party DJ Tuff, DJ Bobby O, Nelly, Howie Spangler, No Right Way, The Rogue Citizens, Love Seed Mama Jump Saturday, Dec. 16: DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz, John McNutt Band, The Benderz Thursday, Dec. 21: Southpaw Duo, DJ Connair

OCEAN CITY

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 40

Things I Like...

vanishing

December 15, 2023

WITH BUNK MANN

By Steve Green

Thinking about my son driving soon Respectful disagreements Morning caffeine

Student art on display

Energy of a high school basketball gym Days off during the holidays

A parking space next to the grocery cart return area Personalized photo calendars Apples and peanut butter Meeting someone new Brunch after church

HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 21 to April 19): At this time, you might want to resist that otherwise admirable Aries penchant for getting to the heart of a matter quickly.

Keep in mind that a delicate situation calls for patience.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): Your aspects favor more diplomacy and fewer direct confrontations when dealing with a relationship problem. Avoiding hurt feelings can help in your search for the truth.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Positive aspects are strong this week. Although you still might have to deal with some problems caused by a recent period of turmoil, you are making progress, and that's what counts.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): A family matter could benefit from your counsel. But don't bring yourself into it unless you're invited, and don't stay if you feel uneasy. Just remember to reassure one and all that you'll be there for them.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): As the truth about an ongoing situation emerges, you could find that you were right to defer judgment before you had all the facts. Now would be a good time to move on to other matters.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): Your plans to take control of a personal situation because you feel the most qualified could create resentment. It's best to hear what everyone else involved in the matter has to say about it first.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): Uncovering some surprising background

The 64th Street Super Market was the first strip shopping mall in what was in those days the lightly populated northern section of Ocean City.

This photo, circa 1967, is from a postcard. The shopping center still exists but, thanks in part to the opening of the Route 90 Bridge in 1971, the surrounding area has experienced tremendous growth.

Today over half of the year-round population of Ocean City lives north of the Route 90 Bridge.

To purchase one of Bunk Mann’s books, click over to www.vanPostcard image by Fred Brueckmann ishingoc.com.

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

facts about that ongoing personal matter could make you reconsider the extent of your involvement. A neutral family member offers advice.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Religious or spiritual themes start to dominate your aspect this week. This can serve as a counterweight to the mounting effects of the season's growing commercialization.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): Taking on that recent challenge impressed a lot of important decisionmakers. Meanwhile, proceed with your holiday plans, and don't forget to include you-know-who in them.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): Disagreeing with an opinion that you can't accept could be dicey, and your motives might be questioned. It's better to wait to mount a challenge until you have support for your position.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): Getting involved in helping others during this increasingly hectic period makes the generous Aquarian feel good. You could also gain a more substantive benefit from your actions.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): The Piscean way of thinking clearly and objectively helps you resolve a complex situation without creating any ill will. Don't be surprised if your counsel is requested on another matter.

BORN THIS WEEK: You have a way of persuading people to look at the positive possibilities that make up for any hard choices they might face. © 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

ANSWERS ON PAGE 54

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 41

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

HELP WANTED POOL: General Maintenance, Outdoor work, lifting heavy objects.

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

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

410.289.4902 Ask for Suzanne.

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

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Boutique family Dental Practice looking for a

RDH and a

Certified Dental Assistant Flexible Days/Hours available Please call 410-208-9009

Now Hiring For:

•FOOD RUNNERS •EXPO Stop in to fill out an application!

Downtown Berlin 119 N. Main Street

RENTAL

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

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

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

THE DISPATCH IS ON FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM & TWITTER

INDIAN RIVER MARINA IS NOW HIRING! •GENERAL CLERICAL •BOAT YARD ATTENDANT •NIGHTWATCH

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

Currently Hiring Manpower For:

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

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

Or Contact Our Office at 410-352-9800

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

AIR B & B RENTAL IN WEST OC AVAILABLE DIRECT! NO EXTRA FEES 4 Bed 3.5 Bath Home Walking distance to all West OC restaurants!

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

Only $199 a night and we allow Pets!

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

NORTH OC Year-round X-Large home 4 Master BR 1 Regular BR 4 Full Baths Large Kitchen, Back Porch, Washroom.

$3,200/mo. + util’s Call John 443-880-2486 WATERFRONT BAYSIDE: Newly remodeled 2BR, 2BA condo in North OC. 4 steps to ground level off of your private balcony. Full Kitchen, LR, DR, W/D, balcony w/tables + seating for 6. Seasonal-monthly.

Dec-April, $2,000, util’s incl.

443-223-4623.

––––––––––––––––––––––––

ROOMMATE

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

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

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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

Call 443-497-4200.

–––––––––––––––––––––––

REAL ESTATE CAREGIVER FOR SALE OCEANSIDE MOTEL 5 story building: 28 large efficiency units with elevator and pool.

Principals only.

866-872-9159

YARD SALE MOVING SALE Everthing Must Go! Sat 12/16 & Sun 12/17 8am-12noon Furniture, rugs, antiques, paints, kitchenware, clothing, etc.

11602 South Hills Dr Berlin, MD 21811

Trees must stand naked, Just as I will at the Gates, With their hearts in hand.

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

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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

The deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon.

For more information call 410-641-4563 or email classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com

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

Full house privileges, all utilities included.

Only $800 month No smoking. No pets.

Call 443-880-2317 HOUSE SHARING: Nice house, 94th Street area. Enclosed hot tub room, other amentities. Nice pets considered. Seeking employed males 20-30 years old who have their life together. Winter or year round. $600/month plus utilities. Text Rob, 410-726-5200.

CHECK HERE FIRST!

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Wishing all of our readers and customers a wonderful holiday season! May it be filled with joy and happiness!

The staff of The Dispatch Newspaper

COMMERCIAL

Third Insertion NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19868 To all persons interested in the estate of LAWRENCE JOSEPH MCCARTY, Estate No. 19868. Notice is given that MICHAEL L. MCCARTY, whose address is 145 S. HAVILAND AVENUE, AUDUBON, NJ 08106, was on NOVEMBER 21, 2023, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of LAWRENCE JOSEPH MCCARTY, who died on JULY 22, 2023, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 21ST day of MAY, 2024.

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 1, 2023 MICHAEL L. MCCARTY Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102, COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 12-1, 12-8, 12-15

Second Insertion NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19991 To all persons interested in the estate of CALVIN MARTIN, AKA: CALVIN EDWARD MARTIN, Estate No. 19991.

Notice is given that BEVERLY MARTIN, whose address is 14 POPLAR TRAIL, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on NOVEMBER 29, 2023, appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of CALVIN MARTIN, who died on SEPTEMBER 25, 2021, without a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by con-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 42

December 15, 2023

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

The deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon.

For more information call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966. tacting 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 29th day of MAY, 2024.

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 8, 2023 BEVERLY MARTIN Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102, COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 12-8, 12-15, 12-22

the estate of DANIEL STERLING GOOD, Estate No. 19908. Notice is given that JACQUELINE GRIMMER GOOD, whose address is 5 DUCK COVE CIRCLE, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on DECEMBER 4, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DANIEL STERLING GOOD, who died on OCTOBER 27, 2022, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 4th day of JUNE, 2024.

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 8, 2023

Second Insertion MARIANNA BATIE, ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HIGHWAY SUITE 112 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19908 To all persons interested in

JACQUELINE GRIMMER GOOD Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102, COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 12-8, 12-15, 12-22

Second Insertion ARLETTE K BRIGHT, ESQ

THE LAW OFFICES OF ARLETTE K. BRIGHT, PC 1002 EASTERN SHORE DRIVE, #B SALISBURY, MD 21804 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19992 To all persons interested in the estate of JOHN J. ANDERSON Estate No. 19992.

Notice is given that JOHN L. ANDERSON, whose address is 2602 PARIA CANYON CONVERSE, TX 78109, was on DECEMBER 4, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN J. ANDERSON, who died on MAY 20, 2023, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 4th day of JUNE, 2024.

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 8, 2023 JOHN L. ANDERSON Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102, COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 12-8, 12-15, 12-22

First Insertion JAMES W. ALMAND ESQ AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND, PA 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20000

To all persons interested in the estate of RICHARD C MEURER, SR. Estate No. 20000. Notice is given that BETH A GRIFFITH, whose address is 810 SHIRLEY DRIVE, ABERDEEN, MD 21001, was on DECEMBER 7, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of RICHARD C MEURER, SR, who died on NOVEMBER 8, 2023, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 7th day of JUNE, 2024.

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 15, 2023 BETH A GRIFFITH Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102, COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 12-15, 12-22, 12-29

First Insertion AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P A VICTORIA L. O'NEILL ESQ. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 20003 Notice is given that the SURROGATE COURT of KINGS COUNTY, NY, appointed ABRAHAM SHILOACH, 2315 AVENUE S, BROOKLYN, NY 11230 and JOSEPH SHILOACH, 1627 EAST 3RD STREET, BROOKLYN, NY 11230 as the PERSONAL CO-ADMINISTRATORS of the Estate of ELIYAHOO SHILOACH, who died on AUGUST 05, 2020, domiciled in NEW YORK, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is VICTORIA L. O'NEILL, whose address is 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, SUITE 200, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: WORCESTER. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the credi-

tor 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 15, 2023 ABRAHAM SHILOACH JOSEPH SHILOACH 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 12-15, 12-22, 12-29

First Insertion IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO.: C-23-CV-23-000260 Subject Property: 9500 COASTAL HWY, UNIT 6F SHOREAL ESTATE HOLDINGS, LLC C/O KENNY LAW GROUP, LLC 11426 YORK ROAD, 1 ST FLOOR COCKEYSVILLE, MARYLAND 21030 Plaintiff vs.

JOHN D. HICKS 118 SW 15TH TERRACE CAPE CORAL FL 33991 AND WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND S/O ROSCOE R. LESLIE, COUNTY ATTORNEY ONE WEST MARKET STREET, ROOM 1103 SNOW HILL, MARYLAND 21863 AND All persons having or claiming to have an interest in the property situate and lying in Worcester County and known as: 9500 COASTAL HWY, UNIT 6F OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 43

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

The deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon.

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

21842 AND UNKNOWN OWNERS OF THE PROPERTY: 9500 COASTAL HWY, UNIT 6F OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842 The unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and Personal Representatives anq their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest.

Defendants ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below in the State of Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding: List No. 15, Parcel No. 10113679, Property Description: U 6F BEACH HWY PYRAMID CM, Assessed to JOHN D HICKS and, also known as 9500 COASTAL HWY, UNIT 6F, OCEAN CITY, Maryland 21842, on the Tax Roll of the Director of Finance.

The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid although more than six ( 6) months and a day from the date of sale has expired.

It is thereupon this 6th of December, 2023 by the Circuit Court for WORCESTER County: ORDERED, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks , warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by February 6th, 2024, and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a Final Judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights ofredemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff a title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 15, 2023 BRIAN D. SHOCKLEY JUDGE

SUSAN R. BRANIECKI CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT WORCESTER COUNTY, MD TRUE TEST COPY 3x 12-15, 12-22, 12-29

First Insertion IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO.: C-23-CV-23-000264 Subject Property: 644 GULF STREAM DR

OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842 AND WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND S/O ROSCOE R. LESLIE, COUNTY ATTORNEY ONE WEST MARKET STREET, ROOM 1103 SNOW HILL, MARYLAND 21863 AND UNKNOWN OWNERS OF THE PROPERTY: 644 GULF STREAM DR OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21842

SHOREAL ESTATE HOLDINGS, LLC C/O KENNY LAW GROUP, LLC 11426 YORK ROAD, 1 ST FLOOR COCKEYSVILLE, MARYLAND 21030 Plaintiff

The unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and Personal Representatives anq their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest.

Defendants

vs.

ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below in the State of Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding: List No. 18, Parcel No. 10318459, Property Description: LOT 78 GULF STREAM DR, MONTEGO BAY MOBILE HM PK SEC 8C, Assessed to JAMES M. WALKER, also known as 644 GULF STREAM DR, OCEAN CITY, Maryland 21842, on the Tax Roll of the Director of Finance.

The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid although more than six ( 6) months and a day from the date of sale has expired.

It is thereupon this 6th of December, 2023 by the Circuit Court for WORCESTER County: ORDERED, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks , warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by February 6th, 2024, and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a Final Judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights

TESTATE AND INTESTATE SUCCESSORS OF JAMES M. WALKER, BELIEVED TO BE DECEASED, AND ALL PERSONS CLAIMING BY, THROUH, OR UNDER THE INDIVIDUAL BELIEVED TO BE DECEASED 1806 STRINGTOWN RD SPARKS, MD 21030 AND MANUFACTURERS ANDTRADERS TRUST COMPANY F/K/A ALLFIRST BANK SERVE: CSC-LAWYERS INCORPORATING SERVICE COMPANY, RESIDENT AGENT 7 ST. PAUL STREET, SUITE 820 BALTIMORE; MD 21202 AND MONTEGO BAY CIVIC ASSOCATION, INC. SERVE: JAMES W. ALMOND, RESIDENT AGENT 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY STE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 AND (All persons having or claiming to have an interest in the, property situate and lying in Worcester County and known as:) 644 GULF STREAM DR

CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811 of redemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff a title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 15, 2023 BRIAN D. SHOCKLEY JUDGE SUSAN R. BRANIECKI CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT WORCESTER COUNTY, MD TRUE TEST COPY 3x 12-15, 12-22, 12-29

First Insertion IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO.: C-23-CV-23-000265 Subject Property: 917 YACHT CLUB DR SHOREAL ESTATE HOLDINGS, LLC C/O KENNY LAW GROUP, LLC 11426 YORK ROAD, 1 ST FLOOR COCKEYSVILLE, MARYLAND 21030 Plaintiff vs.

MARTIN A FERRIS, III, VERONICA S. FERRIS, RONALD S. DEUTSCH, ESQ., TRUSTEE, BANK OF AMERICA, NA, UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MARCIA L. FUDGE, SECRETARY, STEPHANIE L. STAATS, TRUSTEE AND BALTIMORE FIELD OFFICE DIRECTOR, WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND, SERVE: ROSCOE R. LESLIE, COUNTY ATTORNEY AND (All persons having or claiming to have an interest in the, property situate and lying in Worcester County and known as:) 917 YACHT CLUB DR OCEAN PINES, MARYLAND AND UNKNOWN OWNERS OF

THE PROPERTY: 917 YACHT CLUB DR OCEAN PINES, MARYLAND The unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and Personal Representatives anq their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest.

Defendants ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below in the State of Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding: List No. 11, Parcel No. 03136167, Property Description: LOT 48 2491 SQ FT YACHT CLUB DRIVE SEC I MARINA VILLAGE THS SC, Assessed to MARTIN A FERRIS, lll and VERONICA S. FERRIS, also known as 917 YACHT CLUB DR, OCEAN PINES, MARYLAND on the Tax Roll of the Director of Finance.

The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid although more than six ( 6) months and a day from the date of sale has expired.

It is thereupon this 6th of December, 2023 by the Circuit Court for WORCESTER County: ORDERED, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks , warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by February 6th, 2024, and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a Final Judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights ofredemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff a title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

First Insertion IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MARYLAND FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CASE NO.: C-23-CV-23-000261 Subject Property: 115 NOTTINGHAM LN SHOREAL ESTATE HOLDINGS, LLC C/O KENNY LAW GROUP, LLC 11426 YORK ROAD, 1 ST FLOOR COCKEYSVILLE, MARYLAND 21030 Plaintiff vs.

GARY PISNER 6451 SPRINGHOUSE CIRCLE CLIFTON VA 20124 and WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND SERVE: ROSCOE R. LESLIE, COUNTY ATTORNEY ONE WEST MARKET STREET, ROOM 1103 SNOW HILL, MARYLAND 21863 AND (All persons having or claiming to have an interest in the, property situate and lying in Worcester County and known as:) 115 NOTTINGHAM LN OCEAN PINES, MARYLAND 21811 AND UNKNOWN OWNERS OF THE PROPERTY: 115 NOTTINGHAM LN OCEAN PINES, MARYLAND 21811

BRIAN D. SHOCKLEY JUDGE

The unknown owner's heirs, devisees, and Personal Representatives anq their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, grantees, assigns, or successors in right, title and interest.

Defendants

SUSAN R. BRANIECKI CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT WORCESTER COUNTY, MD TRUE TEST COPY 3x 12-15, 12-22, 12-29

ORDER OF PUBLICATION The object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of all rights of redemption in the following property described below in

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 44

December 15, 2023

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

The deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon.

For more information call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966. the State of Maryland, sold by the Collector of Taxes for Worcester County and the State of Maryland to the Plaintiff in this proceeding: List No. 26, Parcel No. 03101622, Property Description: LOT 1-10-190 8734 SQ FT NOTTINGHAM LA PL OCEAN PINES SEC 10, Assessed to GARY PISNER and , also known as 115 NOTTINGHAM LN, OCEAN PINES, Maryland 21811, on the Tax Roll of the Director of Finance.

The Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid although more than six ( 6) months and a day from the date of sale has expired.

It is thereupon this 6th of December, 2023 by the Circuit Court for WORCESTER County: ORDERED, That notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in some newspaper having a general circulation in Worcester County once a week for three (3) successive weeks , warning all persons interested in the property to appear in this Court by February 6th, 2024, and redeem the property described above and answer the Complaint or thereafter a Final Judgment will be entered foreclosing all rights ofredemption in the property, and vesting in the Plaintiff a title, free and clear of all encumbrances.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 15, 2023 BRIAN D. SHOCKLEY JUDGE

SUSAN R. BRANIECKI CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT WORCESTER COUNTY, MD TRUE TEST COPY 3x 12-15, 12-22, 12-29

First Insertion REENA J PATEL ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD STE B SALISBURY, MD 21804 IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN THE ESTATE OF: GEORGE F. CARROLL ESTATE NO. 19462 NOTICE OF JUDICIAL PROBATE To all persons interested in the above estate: You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by TENLEY A CARROLL-SELI, 2809 EMERYWOOD PARKWAY, STE 380, RICHMOND, VA 23294 and RICHARD A STANLEY, 3008 ARUNDEL HILL, SW, SHALLOTTE, NC 28470, for judicial probate of the will dated 2/4/1999 and for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at WORCESTER COUNTY COURTHOUSE COURTROOM 4, ONE W. MARKET ST. SNOW HILL, MD. 21863

The Dispatch Can Be Viewed In Its Entirety

ONLINE

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

on 1/16/2024 at 10:00 A.M.

without a will.

This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time. Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills.

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.

Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 15, 2023 TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 2x 12-15, 12-22

First Insertion REENA J PATEL ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD STE B SALISBURY, MD 21804 SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20001 To all persons interested in the estate of BRENDA J BRITVICH, Estate No. 20001.

Notice is given that JOSEPH M BRITVICH, JR. whose address is 2102 ST HEATHER LANE GAMBRILLS, MD 21054 , was on DECEMBER 7, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of: BRENDA J BRITVICH, who died on AUGUST 10, 2022

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

DECEMBER 15, 2023 JOSEPH M BRITVICH JR Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 12-15

First Insertion SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO.19997 To all persons interested in the estate of MELODY ANN JOHNSON, Estate No. 19997. Notice is given that PATRICK LEE JOHNSON, whose address is 28384 MASTERS COURT, EASTON, MD 21601, was on DECEMBER 5, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the small estate of: MELODY ANN JOHNSON, who died on NOVEMBER 26, 2023 with a will.

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

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

Zoom In And Out For Easy Viewing Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication

Search, Print And Share Functions At Your Fingertips

of publication of this Notice.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 15, 2023 PATRICK LEE JOHNSON Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 12-15

ALL ADS LINKED TO ADVERTISERS’ WEBSITES Updated By Every Monday At www.mdcoastdispatch.com

Easy Navigation Featuring Latest Page-Flip Technology

Pink Lady Tourney Donates Funds To AGH Women’s Health

December 15, 2023

BERLIN – The 12th Annual Ocean Pines Pink Lady Tournament, hosted by the Ocean Pines Ladies Golf Association (OPLGA) and Ocean Pines Men’s Golf Association (OPMGA), recently raised $5,674 for Atlantic General Women’s Imaging and the Eunice Q. Sorin Women’s Diagnostic Center at Atlantic General Hospital.

The funds raised by the tournament, held at the Ocean Pines Golf Club on Oct. 18, will help pay for and provide mammograms and other cancer-related care for local individuals who are unable to afford such services.

Over the past 12 years, the tournament has raised more than $18,000 for these critical screening services.

“The Pink Lady Tournament stands as a beacon of support for the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation, dedicated to making mammograms and related healthcare accessible to women in our community who face financial barriers,” said Chanelle Lake, director of the John H. ‘Jack’ Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center.

This year, for the first time in its history, the tournament was open to the public and featured a field of 67 players.

Berlin Offers Two Listening Sessions For Strategic Plan

BERLIN – Salisbury University’s Business Economic and Community Outreach Network (BEACON) is currently seeking Berlin resident input on a new strategic plan.

Town residents are invited to community listening sessions to share their opinions and ideas as the town plans for the future.

There are currently two sessions planned, including Wednesday, Jan. 10, 10:30 a.m.-noon at the Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, Berlin and Wednesday, Jan. 17, 6-7:30 p.m. at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower Street, Berlin.

BEACON is assisting the town through a three-phase process to assess community sentiments and goals to ultimately develop an action plan of projects and initiatives.

For more information, call 410546-6001 or email BEACON at beacon@salisbury.edu.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 45

Pictured, back from left, are Steven Tyson, AGH donor relations officer; Jessica Jersey, AGH grant operations officer; Chanelle Lake, director of Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center; Steve Green, AGH Foundation board chair; Brooke Williams, AGH director of imaging; and Toni Keiser, AGH vice president of public relations. Front, from left, are Laura Powell, AGH event coordinator/development assistant; Charlotte Cathell, AGH Board chair; OPLGA members Ann Shockley, Janet Stoer, Susan Morris and Bob Long; and Don Owrey, AGH president and CEO. Submitted Photo

Page 46

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 15, 2023

OBITUARIES Richard Leonard Ponton BERLIN – On Monday, Dec. 4, 2023, Richard Leonard Ponton, known as Richie/Dick to many, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family including his grandson, Chase. Richie was born Dec. 26, 1934, in RutRICHARD PONTON land, VT, one of 15 children to the late Raymond S. Ponto and Marion B. (Soulia) Ponto.

In his younger years, Richie loved baseball and listening to the Boston Red Sox on the radio. He served eight

years as a United States Marine, including a tour of duty in Japan. He is a veteran of the Korean War. In 1964, Richie was honorably discharged and shortly thereafter began his retail career. Richie started his career with Hechinger as a salesperson in Falls Church, Va. According to John Hechinger, he was a remarkable and valuable contributor to the success of the company over his 26-year career retiring as Senior Vice President, Director of Stores. His ability to lead and motivate people, during his career, was unmatched. When he retired at the age of 54, he realized that happiness was more important than

money. Retirement afforded him the opportunity to spend more time with his family and travel for leisure. It also allowed him the opportunity to live full time at the Eastern shore in Maryland and Delaware. Over his lifetime, Richie was very committed to his family. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. He would do anything for his family and was quick to provide support whenever needed. In his later years, he loved golfing and spending time with his beloved pets – Duke, Duchess and Princess and later, Rusty.

Richie will surely be missed by all who knew him both personally and professionally.

Sending much respect and gratitude to those that took the time to care for Richie over the past couple of years, as they say, it takes a village. Your generosity, compassion, care, kind words, sweets and prayers did not go unnoticed.

He is survived by his sons Richard J. (Eileen) Ponton with whom he lived and James L. (Shilvenna) Leskanich; grandchildren Chase Ponton, Ana Leskanich, Somya (Leskanich) Moore, Robbie Grover, Steve Grover and 4 great grandchildren. Richie is also survived by his siblings, Robert Ponto, Arnold Ponto, Mary McDevitt, Barbara Lamke and Margaret Singleton.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years,

Jane Marie (Trilling) Ponton; daughter Margaret “Peggy” (Leskavich) Wright; and several siblings including his brothers Arthur, Maurice, David, Harold, and Raymond Jr and sisters Marie, Theresa, Aline, and Mildred.

A memorial service with military honors will be held on Friday, Dec. 29, 2023 at 11 a.m. at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro, Del. Kim Tephabock, Clergy, will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to Delaware Hospice at delawarehospice.org/donate or 100 Patriots Way, Milford, Del. 19963.

To send condolences to the family, visit www.easternshorecremation.com.

Rita M. Tindall OCEAN PINES – Rita M. Tindall, age 93, passed away peacefully on Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, at the Macky and Pam Stansell House in Ocean Pines.

Born in Revere, Mass., she was the daughter of the late George J. Stella (Giorgianni) and Mary (Barone) Stella. She was predeceased in death by her first husband, Anthony T. Andreadis and second husband, Sidney E. Tindall.

Rita was caring, fun RITA TINDALL loving and special in so many ways.

SEE NEXT PAGE

December 15, 2023

... OBITUARIES She was a devoted wife, loving mother and a proud grandmother. She grew up in Boston and raised her family on Cape Cod. As a young girl she danced and modeled. Her career began as a dental technician and during that time, she became interested in horseback riding.

From there, she purchased and managed her own equestrian shop. When it was time to sell her business, her love of fashion landed her another successful career at Sak’s Fifth Avenue in Boston, Chevy Chase and Gaithersburg.

Rita’s dedication to her loyal clients gained her recognition and numerous awards.

Retirement took her and her husband, Sid, to the Maryland Shores where she loved living in Ocean Pines. She enjoyed spending many hours gardening and was delighted to showcase her flowers on the garden tours. She participated in the Ocean Pines annual festivals and was a member of the Ocean Pines Line Dancers. For 10 years, she volunteered her time as Membership Chair for the Sons of Italy and enjoyed the many friendships she made there.

She is survived by her son, Theodore Andreadis and wife Peg; her daughter, Kathy Osborne and husband Richard; two grandchildren, Katherine Paronich and Timothy Andreadis; and two great-grandchildren, Cameron and Cora Paronich.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, Jan. 19, 2024, at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, 14401 Sinepuxent Church, Ocean City. A visitation will be held at 10:30 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. Letters of condolence can be sent via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

Bonnie G. Banks BERLIN – Bonnie G. Banks, age 80, of Berlin, died Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023 at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.

She was born in Roxana, Del. and was the daughter of the late George Gibbs and Pauline (Lynch) Gibbs.

She was a retired bookkeeper for Shelby Trucking.

Bonnie is survived by her husband of 42 years, David A. Banks; one daughter, Kimberly Griffith and husband Erik of Shippensburg, Pa.; one son, Craig Wainwright and wife Sandra of Whaleyville; one sister, Joan Ihle of Texas; four grandchilBONNIE G. dren, Amy Griffith, Katie BANKS Taulton, Adam Kriner and Lauren Wainwright; and three great grandchildren, Damon Wilson, Noah Taulton and Maddie Taulton.

No services are planned at this time.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, Md. 21804 or Atlantic General Hospital Foundation, 10320 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin, Md. 21811.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.

Bonnie Marie Legnaioli BERLIN – Bonnie Marie Legnaioli, age 63, passed away on Monday, Dec. 11, 2023, at Tidal Health Hospital in Salisbury. Born in Baltimore, she was the daughter of the late Anthony Farnella and Doris Huff Farnella.

Bonnie showed her love deeply as a wife, mother and friend. It was one of her greatest joys to open her home, cook too much food, and be surrounded by the people she loved. Her grandchildren always brought the biggest smile to her BONNIE face. Bonnie cherished family and friends and LEGNAIOLI always went out of her way to help others. She had a beautiful heart and had a way of making everyone feel like family. When she wasn’t taking care of everyone around her, she found her peace in gardening, her sweet dogs, baking, and woodworking. To know her, was to love her and to be loved. Heaven gained a beautiful soul, this world won’t be the same without her.

She is survived by her husband, Lance Legnaioli; son, Vincent Legnaioli (Amanda); daughter, Jenna Esposito (William); and grandchildren, Luca, Nico, Isabella, and Annmarie.

A private family visitation will take place on Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, from 2-4 p.m. at The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. A Celebration of Life will be

Page 47

held at a later date.

Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.

Walter Dodd Redden BISHOPVILLE – Walter Dodd Redden, age 79, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023, at his home in Bishopville. Born in Florida, he was the son of the late Herbert Redden and Ruth Martin Redden.

Dodd enjoyed watching NASCAR, and one of his hobbies was racing cars at US13 in Delmar. He was known as the “Six Cylinder Superman.” Another one of his hobbies was woodworking.

After years of running his business in Ocean City, many of his clients became personal friends, almost family. He also enjoyed taking his yearly cruise.

He is survived by his fiancé, Dianne Cooper; son, Greg Redden (Julie); his daughter, Shelly Celia (Salvo); a brother, Raymond Redden (Joan); four grandchildren, Alfio, Daniella, Marisa, and Paige; two great-grandchildren, McCoy and Zena; and Dianne’s grandchildren, TJ and Sophie, who were really involved in his life.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Bruce Redden.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, Dec. 18, 2023, at 11 a.m. at Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery in Bishopville. Letters of condolence can be sent via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

… Planners Share Concerns Over Traffic, Design

Page 48

FROM PAGE 6 fice already in the area.

When the commission asked for public comment, town staff read a letter that had been submitted by Berlin resident Ryan Nellans.

“I'm writing as a resident to oppose the construction of the proposed Wawa on the corner of Main Street and MD Rt 50 …,” Nellans wrote. “The jobs it would create are generally low to minimum wage. That's not a living wage in Berlin or even northern Worcester County, where we are experiencing the same housing crisis that impacts us at state and national levels. The people it would employ are unlikely to be Berlin residents, nor would be the corporation to which it belongs. Money that goes into those businesses leaves our commu-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

nity, as well as negatively impacting existing businesses who provide many of the same goods and services while actually engaging with our community.”

Resident Gina Velong told the commission she didn’t like the trash enclosure location and also had significant traffic concerns.

“I don’t see how any of this is going to work if we don’t have a traffic light,” she said.

Developer Fred Wittig said Wawa had no control over whether there was a light at the intersection but said he’d support the town if it wanted to make a request for a signal to SHA. When Velong asked about how much of the town’s wastewater capacity the store would use, Andruzzi said he’d have to look that up but could provide the infor-

mation later. He added, however, that the store would use the same capacity the 7-Eleven that was already approved would use.

Resident Marie Velong questioned the number of cars that would be going in and out of Wawa every day. The engineers weren’t able to provide a figure but said they could look it up. She also reiterated Stoehr’s concern about sidewalks and her daughter’s concerns about the need for a light at the intersection.

“The State Highway Administration has rose colored glasses on when it comes to intersections around here,” Velong said. “It takes people dying before they ever do anything.”

Wittig suggested the store wouldn’t bring many new cars to the area. He in-

December 15, 2023

dicated shoppers would be those who were already on the road, passing by.

“C-stores, or convenience stores as they’re called, they’re not destinations,” he said. “They pull off existing traffic.”

Berlin resident Kate Patton said she was worried about all the light pollution the store would create.

“Wawa doesn’t shut down at night,” she said. “We’re moving so far away from what Delmarva provided as a dark sky … We’re turning into the same old same old everywhere with light pollution everywhere. Our community is changing.”

The engineers said the project would use light that was cast downward so it would stay on the site.

Stoehr said his major issue with the Wawa proposal was the impact on traffic and pedestrian safety.

“Whether it’s you guys’ fault or not that we can’t get a light I don’t really care,” he said. “I think we need something we can look at, current traffic on that road at different hours on different days, and then estimate what this brings … I have a major concern of this many increased cars on that road … I feel like we’re dancing with the devil saying yeah let’s go ahead and do this.”

Chris Denny, chair of the commission, suggested an updated traffic study. Commission member Pete Cosby said he’d been driving by the site daily for 40 years and had seen how dramatically traffic had increased. He said he wanted to see a Wawa on the property but that he too had concerns about access and the impact on the already busy Route 818.

Celko said a traffic study had been done and provided to SHA when the site plan had been approved in 2021.

“There was a SHA study done when this was previously done by Parker and Associates,” she said. “The convenience store and gas station were on there. We have communicated with MDOT, they have seen the plan. If they ask us to do any changes, we will supply those changes.”

Commission members nevertheless said they wanted a new traffic study.

Denny also told the engineers that he’d like to see other Wawa design options.

His peers quickly agreed.

“We in Berlin have come to understand that we’re unique and that we want to promote more uniqueness and not sameness—anywhere USA,” he said. “And just the general architecture of any 7-Eleven or Wawa, it’s just corporate stuff. Some corporations have detailed drawings for special places. I’d like to think we’re special.”

Cosby echoed that.

“Make it something special,” he said.

The commission agreed to table the project until the concerns expressed were addressed.

Wittig said he would work with Wawa to see what could be done to address the commission’s comments.

“We’ll see what we can do,” he said.

“I appreciate everyone’s comments.”

Worcester Schools Proud Of Results On State Report Card

December 15, 2023

NEWARK – The Maryland State Department of Education released its annual update to the Maryland Report Card website this week, containing performance data for every school in the state, including 11 schools in Worcester County.

In Worcester County, 73% of eligible schools earned a four-star rating with the remaining earning three-star status. In this year’s release, which includes additional measures, only 37% of all schools in the state earned a four- or five-star rating. The state also identified a significant decrease in the number of schools that earned five-star status from the prior year’s report.

In looking at specific metrics that comprise the ratings, all schools in Worcester saw strong performance in academic achievement indicators, which directly aligns with the school system’s success on state assessments. In light of Worcester’s already strong performance on state assessments, indicators related to student growth progress negatively impacted some school’s earned points. Additionally, minimal increases in student chronic absenteeism contributed to some schools’ lower earned points.

To receive a star rating, a school must have 45 or more possible points. Some schools may not have possible points for every measure or indicator. In Worcester County, Snow Hill Elementary School did not reach this possible point threshold, which is why the school was not issued a star rating. Additionally, Worcester Technical High School and Cedar Chapel Special Schools do not meet the qualifications for a star rating.

These scores reflect school performance on multiple components. For elementary and middle schools, the system includes academic achievement, academic progress, progress in achieving English language proficiency, and measures of school quality and student success. For high schools, the system includes academic achievement, graduation rate, progress in English language proficiency, readiness for postsecondary success, and measures of school quality and student success. All schools’ calculations incorporate school composite scores on a statewide School Survey.

“I am very proud to report that our schools continue to perform well in Maryland’s accountability system,” said Superintendent of Schools Louis H. Taylor. “I hope our families understand that the adjustments to this year’s ratings reflects the fact that our students are already performing so highly academically that it makes annual progress that much more challenging, but we will continue pursuing high achievement for all.”

The full breakdown of the 11 schools eligible to receive star ratings in Worcester County ratings include: Berlin Intermediate School, 64.9 points earned of possible 98.5 points, 66%, four stars.

Buckingham Elementary School, 51.1 points earned of possible 73 points, 70%, four stars.

Ocean City Elementary School, 52.7 points earned of possible 73 points, 71%, four stars.

Pocomoke Elementary School, 28.1 points earned of possible 48 points, 59%, three stars.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Pocomoke High School, 57.4 points earned of possible 90 points, 64%, four stars.

Pocomoke Middle School, 111.7 points earned of possible 180 points, 62%, four stars.

Showell Elementary School, 44.5 points

earned of possible 63 points, 71%, four stars.

Snow Hill High School, 61.7 points earned of possible 90 points, 69%, four stars.

Snow Hill Middle School, 94.5 points earned of possible 180 points, 52.5%,

Page 49

three stars.

Stephen Decatur High School, 57.7 points earned of possible 100 points, 58%, three stars.

Stephen Decatur Middle School, 64.9 points earned of possible 98.5 points, 66%, four stars.

Page 50

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

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

Every Monday: Overeaters Anonymous Meetings are from 7-8 p.m. at the Ocean Pines Library branch. No dues or fees.

Call 410-459-9100.

Every Monday: Acapella Chorus All ladies who love to sing are invited to

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 15, 2023 space for people experiencing grief of some kind during the holiday season. In a time of joy, we acknowledge loss too. Together we will pray and light candles of remembrance and hope. Light refreshments will be served after.

Things To Do the Delmarva Woman’s Acapella Chorus, Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Contact Mary 410-629-9383 or Carol 302-242-7062.

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

You’ll Find Lots Of Holiday Decorations And Gift-Giving Ideas In Our Local Antique And Country Craft Stores Visit Us For An Incredible Selection Of Estate Jewelry In Gold, Platinum And Sterling Silver

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

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

Kitchen open for light fare. 410-250-2645.

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

2nd and 4th Thursdays: Caregiver Support Meeting The Caregiver Support Group will continue to meet on the second and fourth Thursdays in the Ocean Pines Library.

Meetings will run from 3-4:30 p.m. The meetings are private and confidential.

Dec. 17: Blue Holiday All Faith Join the All Faith Friendship Association at 4 p.m. at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Berlin for a special interfaith holiday service. Blue Holidays: A Service of Remembrance, Hope, and Light will hold

Dec. 17: Live Concert On Your Feet, an inspiring true story about heart, heritage, and two people who believed in their talent & each other to become an international sensation: Emilio & Gloria Estefan. 40th Street Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m. ococean.com.

Dec. 29: Cher Tribute Band The Beat Goes On-Cher Tribute Show at 40th St. Performing Arts Center at 7pm American singer/actress LisaMcClowry's one-woman Broadway show of the Goddess of Pop. ococean.com.

Dec. 31: Berlin New Year’s Two New Year’s Eve ball drop celebrations. Kids Ball Drop at 6 p.m. on the corner of Pitts and Main Streets. Adult celebration starts at 10 p.m. with DJs Big Al Reno and Schwab on the stage with music and a ball drop at midnight. Event by Town of Berlin and Berlin Main Street, Berlin Arts and Entertainment.

Dec. 31: OC New Year’s Ring in the New Year in Ocean City with fireworks at two locations. Ocean City’s large fireworks display will take place downtown on the beach at midnight near Dorchester Street. The show will be accompanied by music at the Caroline Street Stage starting at 9 p.m. A smaller fireworks display will be available uptown at Northside Park.

1

Visit Our 1950s Retro Texaco Station!

Monday-Saturday 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

11731 Somerset Avenue Princess Anne, MD 21853 410-651-2238 www.somersetchoiceantiques.org

2

Find Us On Facebook

“Somerset Choice Station”

This space could be yours for the Holidays Call Chantal to reserve your advertising space today 410-641-4561

We Buy Gold, Silver and Platinum, Broken or Unwanted Jewelry!

105 Market Street • Historic Downtown Pocomoke City, MD 410-957-4653 Open Wednesday - Saturday 10-6 Monday & Tuesday by Appointment Only ClassicCollectionsattheVault.com 3

1 2 3

(410) 641-2200 3 Harrison Avenue, Berlin, MD 21811

donations collected to help vulnerable Families

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Schools and organizations like Showell Elementary and Stevenson United Methodist Church gave back in a grand way to Worcester Navigation, a program of Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services, Inc. (WYFCS). Worcester Navigation held the drive from Oct. 17 to Nov. 16. The donations were provided by Principal Ryan Cowder and the staff at Showell, as well as the hardworking volunteers at Stevenson. The donations included six boxes of canned/non-perishable food items, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products, shampoos and more. All the assembled goods will be donated to the unhoused population of Worcester County. This program is designed to assist vulnerable families, in some way, shape, or form, this holiday season. The generosity and altruism of those who contributed to the drive will make a difference.

At right, Jaryn Griggs, WYFCS intern, poses with donations from Showell Elementary School representatives.

Page 51

Ugly Christmas Sweater Party

Friday, Dec. 15 • 9 p.m.

Live Music From Higher Education

8th street & philadelphia ave.

410-289-4891 •picklesoc.com open year-round every day 8th st. liquors open every day

WE HAVE THE NFL SUNDAY TICKET Happy Hour During All NFL Games

Submitted Photo

HAPPINESS HAPPY HOUR MONDAY-FRIDAY 3-6PM

MONDAY ALL DAY/NIGHT: 1/2 Price Wings (Some Flavors Not Available) TUESDAY ALL DAY/NIGHT: $2 Beef, Pork Or Chicken Tacos $3 Tecate WEDNESDAY ALL DAY/NIGHT: 1/2-Price-1/2-Pound Hand-Pattied Burgers (Some Burgers Do Not Apply) (Food Specials With Purchase Of Beverage Some Restrictions Apply) Friday 9:30pm Higher Education 80’s & 90’s $5 Crushes 9:30pm Saturday 9pm Marlin City Madmen Sunday 9:30pm Beats By Deogee Late Night Happy Hour Drinks 10pm Monday 9:30pm Karaoke w/ Wood

WE’RE GROWING! (*Not pictured... Nina Littleton and Sara Zetzer)

• Botox • Dermal Fillers • Weight Management • Semaglutide & Tirzepatide • PDO Thread Lift • Evexipel • Hormone Replacement Therapy

• Laser Hair Removal, Tattoo Removal & Resurfacing • IPL • Pixel RF Microneedling • Medical Skin Care • Skin Pen • ZO Skin Care • Ozempic

$2 Natty Lights $3 Grenades 9:30pm Tuesday 9:30pm Beats By Wax

• Diamond Glow • Chemical Peels • IV Therapy • B-12 Shots • Hair Restoration • EltaMD • Jane Iredale

9748 Stephen Decatur Highway Unit 104 • West OC • 410.390-5954

$4 White Claw $4 Deep Eddy 9:30pm Wednesday 9:30 pm Beats By Deogee $4 Select Craft Beer & $5 Bulletts 6pm Thursday 9:30pm Beats By Wax $2.50 Domestics $3 Grenades $4 White Tea 9:30pm

Page 52

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 15, 2023

Letters To The Editor Creating Problems Where There Are None Editor: After listening to the Nov. 21, 2023 Board of Education meeting in its entirety, I along with many others, was appalled by the unkind comments of several speakers, especially Bobby Cowger and Grant Helvey.

I believe that there is far more being asked here than the professed claim of protecting our children from rude language or sexual topics in books. The two speakers in particular made it clear by their own words and tone that they see promoting equality of religions, races and sexual orientation as somehow being a bad thing; that diversity of people in the US is not to be condoned or accepted; and that including and accepting individuals for who and what they are is not to be tolerated. This view smacks heavily of Christian nationalism and the desire to impose a particular religious viewpoint on the rest of us.

They speak of the Board's fascination with LGBTQ issues. I believe it is they who are trying to focus attention on this issue because they want to start “culture wars". They want to create a huge problem where there is actually none.

As it stands now, any parent can question the teachers, the principals, the administration and the school board if they have a particular concern. That includes questions about a particular

book if they feel their child is being compelled to read something harmful to them. The huge outcry is not coming from parents who feel their children are being forced to read particular books, but by outsiders who have particular religious or political views. They spoke as if homosexuality isn’t a reality, which it has been throughout history. There have been cultures and time periods when homosexuals have been treated cruelly and denied their freedoms and rights. Let this not be one of them.

These comments demeaned trans people as if they were somehow contagious and would spread their “affliction” to someone else. We all know this isn’t true. And the issue of bathrooms in the schools is also a non-issue. SDMS, where I worked for over 20 years, has at least four single person bathrooms (just as there are in many doctor’s offices) that can be made available to any student who might want or need privacy, especially eighth grade girls going through puberty. The only reason for less private multiple person bathrooms is due to the large number of students who must be accommodated.

It seems that organizations have spread from extremist conservatives in Florida to Worcester County via such groups as “Moms for Liberty.”

Brenda Barbado touted this organization at least three or four times by name and claimed it was nonpartisan.

This could not be further from the truth.

Look it up, but you may find that the founder of the group is involved in her own sordid affairs. The founder is Bridget Ziegler, the wife of Florida Republican Party Chairman Christian Ziegler.

Public Schools are to be made available to all children. And all children should be treated kindly and with respect. We do not have to agree with their religious views or sexual orientation even if we don't understand it or agree with it.

What I say to these outside groups or individuals, who like Bobby Cowger, are running for office so they can impose their beliefs on us, is please show kindness, empathy and charity to everyone. No one is hurting you or your children. If you want a particular religious viewpoint taught, please send your child to a private school. Allow teachers, parents and children the same consideration as you seek. Allow us freedom of speech and the right to read books that we believe show empathy, kindness and consideration for all. Stop using inflammatory words such as indoctrination when you have not one single piece of evidence to show it is happening. Because it isn’t.

And by the way, I sincerely doubt that most students are reading the 56 books or so that you object to. But if you put them all in one place, I'm sure they will find them. I believe that your creation of a problem when there is none is only to get a foothold in the door for you to try to impose restrictions on the rights and freedoms of public schools when views do not conform to yours.

The hypocrisy shown by these groups that so often claim to be the victims of too much government is that they are trying to use the Board to restrict the rights of parents, teachers and children to read and express views that differ from their own. We cannot allow this to happen.

Jan L. Adamchak Berlin

Irony Exists Behind Book Ban Requests Editor: As an ardent supporter of Free Speech, the movement to ban books in our Public Schools angers me dearly.

I stand in full support of the Maryland Association of School Librarians who seek to provide access to literature for all, regardless of content. I admire the many Teachers and residents of Worcester County who are determined to see that our kids get a well-balanced education and one that will provide real life skills that they will need to function and prosper in society. The creation of organizations like Tom Simon’s Worcester United gives me hope and encouragement that the very vocal minority will not succeed in robbing our kids of reading materials of their choice.

In a day and age when we are lucky if kids are bothering to read anything at

all, we should be doing what we can to expand the wonders of reading to our population. The closed-minded demand for book bans makes me cringe. Nobody will ever convince me that our society would be better served if kids were not allowed to read classics such as: A Catcher in the Rye, Huckleberry Finn, Tom Sawyer, Anne Frank, Beloved, Call of The Wild, Gone with the Wind, The Kite Runner, 1984, The Color Purple, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Outsiders, Handmaid’s Tale, and even Charlotte’s Web. The Moms for Liberty group, which has made its way to the Southern Poverty Law Center’s list of hate groups, has an agenda that is not much to do about liberty, but rather taking the rights and freedoms away from those they differ. Book bans and censorship are wrong and have no place in a free and just society.

My observations of the library controversy (how sad that a library could be controversial) are that we have countless advocates of book banning who may be the biggest hypocrites I have ever witnessed in my life. This is a rather harsh statement, so I would like to explain.

Again, Free Speech is near and dear to me. Personally, I absolutely despise seeing the countless political signs in town, especially when it is not even election season. There is the guy who thinks it is funny and patriotic to place ugly signs on our beach deifying our twice impeached former president.

Then there are some very wealthy yacht owners who fly their flags displaying their hatred for our current president. We are a family friendly town, yet we have these flags that display the foulest of language that should trouble just about any sane person.

Why should a parent have to explain to their kids why the former president equates to no additional bovine excrement or why it is acceptable to use the F word to our current president? I think these actions are childish and even contribute to the decline of tourism in town. But, it is free speech and while I detest it, I respect their rights to act like morons.

However, I have noticed the folks that display these objectionable and profane flags happen to be the very same people that are calling for book bans. I find this to be ironic and even a tad humorous if it were not so infuriating. Apparently, it is ok for a yacht owner to display the F word on a flag to all in Ocean City, yet a kid should not be able to read Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye because of the use of the same word? How absurd.

You book banners need to get a dose of realism. This is 2023, not 1923. But, I do thank you for helping me with my Christmas shopping list this year because each time you place a new book on your target list, I gain a new gift idea.

Again, more irony.

M. Scott Chismar Ocean City

December 15, 2023

The Dispatch Forever In Memory Of Our Founder, Dick Lohmeyer (May 25, 1927-May 5, 2005) “Iron Man” Shawn Soper (July 24, 1963-February 15, 2023) The Dispatch, Serving Greater Ocean City Since 1984, Is Published By Maryland Coast Dispatch Inc. Weekly On Friday Mornings MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811 PHYSICAL ADDRESS: 10012 Old Ocean City Blvd.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Tabling Berlin Wawa Plans Best, For Now How We See It

The Berlin Planning Commission did what it was supposed to do this week when it scrutinized the specifics surrounding a Wawa convenience store at the intersection of Route 50 and Main Street.

A site plan for the property was approved by the commission back in 2021 for Athena Properties. At that time, a 7Eleven and a Marriott hotel were identified as the anchors for the future development. On Wednesday, connections to the property returned with a site plan revision to swap out the 7-Eleven for a Wawa.

As the conversation continued among the commission members, it appeared as if the votes were not there to approve the site plan revision. Before a vote was taken, a motion was made to table the request to allow the developer time to adjust the design to fit Berlin’s historic look as well as to get answers to questions about sidewalks and a potential traffic light that has been sought for years at the intersection.

There are clearly improvements that can be made to the store’s plan. Some changes should be simple, such as moving a garbage collection area off Main Street toward the western side of the property and using a monument style sign rather than the proposed 23-foot tall one proposed.

Other and more significant changes to the design of the structure could be more difficult. How far Wawa is willing to customize its design for the store is unknown, particularly after recently announcing a new “next generation” store design, such as the one that opened in September in Henrico, Va. Wawa has shown a past willingness to localize their designs, such as in Wildwood, N.J. where a “doo wop” style was created to fill into its surroundings. Some historic adaptations were made to a Wawa in Williamsburg, Va. as well to match architectural themes in that town with smaller signage than typically seen.

Throughout the meeting, planning commission members raised valid concerns with the project at one of the gateways to Berlin. The beauty of buildings, especially those commercial in nature, is judged by the eye of the beholder. One design may pass the test of one group of folks while another subset may find it appalling. These are inevitable issues.

What cannot be dodged, however, is public safety. An updated traffic study and further conversations with the state about a light at the dangerous intersection should immediately follow. It was wise of the planning commission to stall the project this week, and we look forward to seeing design revisions and answers to traffic concerns in the near future.

(Editor’s Note: The writer of this piece is Steve Green, who serves as a councilman for the Town of Berlin.)

Page 53

Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green It was great to see all the tributes to Greg Bassett this week.

When I first heard of Greg Bassett’s passing Sunday, I immediately thought of Shawn Soper, who was a reporter and editor for this newspaper for 20 years before his passing in February. Like Soper, Bassett worked right up until his death. He had a page one story last week headlined, “Did judge read the wrong charter?” Newspaper people are just different and a tremendous work ethic and dedication to the job are usually the hallmark qualities.

As was said in this space about Soper, Bassett was everything a community journalist should be. It's said journalists know a little bit about a lot of subjects because of all the different stories and experiences we cover. In Greg’s case, he knew a lot about a lot. He possessed tremendous retention of past news and happenings. It’s this perspective and knowledge that served him so well as a respected community newspaper editor.

A tribute piece in the Salisbury Independent this week by Darel La Prade, who cofounded the paper with Greg, said, “no one had a deeper store of knowledge about Salisbury, Wicomico and Worcester counties.” It’s tough to argue with that statement.

I had the privilege of doing many radio segments with Bassett with Bryan Russo and Don Rush. It was a privilege to share time with Bassett and we almost always laughed hard at some point. While Bassett spent most of his professional career covering Salisbury and Wicomico County, he loved Worcester County and Ocean City. His family roots went deep on the lower shore, and he had accumulated a tremendous historical knowledge base that deepened his writing. He was a good guy who will be missed. Heaven surely has two solid, dedicated journalists and I sure hope they are watching football games and drinking beers together. Soper rooting on his Ravens, while Bassett cheers his Chargers.

The concept of book bans continues to be a hot button issue in the community, as evidenced by this week’s letters to the editor section. I read with interest a blog by local high school librarian Brittany Tignor about the process behind how a book is placed for circulation in a school. The blog was featured on the website of the Maryland Association of School Libraries (MASL), for which Tignor serves as a treasurer. The procedures are important to highlight due to these recent efforts and requests for books to be removed by individuals across the nation. The full blog is available on the MASL website, but I found this information worth sharing here.

“For each title, I review the publisher’s suggested audience and interest level and read available reviews. To order a book, the title has to have at least 2 positive reviews, unless it meets the Principles of Selection in Specific Areas. School Library Journal (SLJ) is the gold standard of reviews for school libraries, so I usually ensure that there is an SLJ review before even adding it to the list. Some titles have 5 or more reviews, but others have none. I read every available review for every book I order. If the review suggests that there are other titles that do a better job covering the topic or if the title is not well written, then I will remove it from the list.

If the book didn’t have 2 reviews, there are specific criteria to follow. Often nonfiction books do not have 2 reviews and some topics have few if any titles written for school aged children. In this case, the book can be purchased, “based on student interest, curricular and content standards connections, grade-level recommendations, and/or professional recommendations in addition to the general selection criteria.” At times, only the first book in a fiction series will be reviewed; in this case a title, “may still be approved for selection based on student interest, curricular connections, and grade-level recommendations in addition to the general selection criteria.” Due to the visual nature of graphic novels, our selection criteria requires that every graphic novel should be reviewed page by page before adding it to the collection. If a specific title has been requested and another titles can’t meet the need, the title might be approved once the material is, “reviewed in its entirety by at least two certificated individuals in the school system (i.e.- school librarian, English teacher, administrator, coordinator, etc.) and deemed appropriate for the collection based on the general selection criteria.”

Depending on how many books were added or removed from the list and what the budget needs are, sometimes I have to go back through the list and remove or add more titles. I continue to approve titles and adjust the list until the budget is satisfied. When the list is finalized, I send it to the principal and school library coordinator for approval. When I send in my list, I also send a justification for any books that were approved using the Principles of Selection in Specific Areas. Once my order has been approved by both the principal and the school library coordinator, I generate a PO and monitor my vendor account for shipping notifications.

When the books come in, I check the packing slip against my original order and ensure that the processing was done correctly (barcodes and spine labels added, book jackets taped on). If any book needed to be physically reviewed (graphic novels, nonfiction titles, etc.) before adding to the collection, I do it at this time. Finally, I import the MARC records into my system and shelve the books.

So, when someone questions why a book has been chosen, school librarians have a very good answer for why it was ordered.”

Page 54

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Puzzle Answers

I

December 15, 2023

The Adventures of Fatherhood

by Steve Green

PUZZLE ON PAGE 40

St. Paul’s

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

JOIN US FOR SUNDAY WORSHIP In Person Services 8:30 a.m. (no music) 10:30 a.m. (with music) With Livestream On Our Facebook Page St. Paul’s Episcopal Church - Berlin, MD www.stpaulsberlin.org

t’s interesting how we change through our lives.

I think individual experiences have a way of molding us as we make our way through life. My perspective on everything today is much different than it was 10 years ago, for example, five years ago or maybe even two years ago. Some of these changes can be chalked up simply to personal maturation driven by timing, but I credit my kids, Beckett, 15, and Carson, 14, for most of my different viewpoints on things today.

Raising kids changes you. It’s inevitable. Through the journey, there are numerous ups and downs as well as scares and delights, sometimes all in one day. There’s much to celebrate but also to fret. Throughout it all, I mentally serve up constant reminders to enjoy the current day because kids grow up so fast.

Over the course of the last couple months, I have found myself marveling over how different life is with my kids.

Dare I say things seem to be leveling off for the most part, as they are maturing and placing value on many of the same things we do. As they have changed, I feel I have as well. Things that used to drive me crazy no longer do in most cases. Don’t get me wrong, I still get hot and bothered over certain things, such as snack wrappers beside the trash can and empty water bottles being lined up along a wall outside a bedroom.

While those ridiculous teen antics will always get under my skin, I have noticed a general change in my approach as my kids have matured. It seems I have matured some as well along with them. Some other thoughts on this point: •There was a time when I really cared how my kids did in school, especially Beckett. While I still monitor his grades weekly, I’m far less absorbed by it. There was a time when I would

$ 00

1 OFF

Any 3-, 4-, 5-Litre Wine Not Valid With Other Offers Or Discounts Exp. 12-31-23 • MCD

15% OFF

Cheers!

Any Case Of Wine

Not Valid With Other Offers Or Discounts Exp. 12-31-23 • MCD

10% OFF

750 ml/1.5 L Bottle Of Wine Not Valid With Other Offers Or Discounts Exp. 12-31-23 • MCD

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.

check his grades through the school’s online system daily.

At this point in his school life (10th grade), Beckett knows how to handle his schoolwork. He seems to have figured out the juggle required to succeed as a student while playing three sports.

What’s most encouraging is seeing the pride in himself when he succeeds.

While the special needs of Carson, 14, are different, Beckett has become increasingly independent. I have enjoyed watching his evolution. He now wants to do things on his own, especially with school (not so much with laundry and cleaning his room, interestingly enough). When he does well on something in school, the immense pride he feels is obvious. It has boosted his confidence. It has been great to watch him evolve.

An example would be recently I was reviewing his grades online and saw he had a test in a certain subject that he never mentioned to his mom or me.

When I asked Pam if she knew anything about it, she said she did not.

I think she was a little irritated initially until I told her he crushed it. I think we both came to the same conclusion – this is how it should be.

•Today, I don’t like to hover over my kids. Both my boys know their parents are always there for them. They know how important they are to us. The reality now is they don’t need us as much for everything.

There’s still plenty of parenting and in Beckett’s case a lot of “P-Ubering” – a term I am stealing from a friend about parent driving to and from places.

Some of our best conversations come when I am running here or there for this or that. These are short 10-minute chats and I follow his lead on what he wants to talk about. I place more value today on these sorts of casual conversations as his father than I do the small slips in judgment that inevitably come along the way.

•It was always a problem for me that Beckett prefers to hang out in his room than with us. This is now the case with Carson as well. I am fine with it now.

It occurs to me this is their space to call their own. I was like this when I was their age as well. Most of the time the doors to their room aren’t even closed.

The boys are just in there relaxing and decompressing.

Sure, as their parents, we wish they would socialize more with us. The fact is there is plenty of communication. They are just wrapped up in their own stuff with school as well as social lives in Beckett’s case and they need alone time. I can respect that.

Last Sunday afternoon, however, was one of those times when Beckett was in and out of his room throughout the Ravens game. At one point, he must have gotten wind of the close nature of the game with just a little bit of time left. He came flying downstairs to watch the last 90 seconds of the game.

He had so much to say I could not even hear the commentators. I couldn’t even follow what he was saying at one point because he was talking so fast while I was into the game. Once the game ended, I was perfectly fine with him going back upstairs.

•Late-night eating after barely having anything for dinner has always been a pet peeve. It still annoys me, but today I realize in the big picture it’s not a big deal. Does it really matter if Beckett eats a piece of chicken at dinner and then three hours later before bed inhales three Cliff bars? It’s truly not a big deal, but I can’t say the same for when I find the wrappers and crumbs all over the place. I see that as forever bothering me.

(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.)

Locally INSIDE SEATING & CARRYOUT Famous OPEN 7 A.M. DAILY For 45 Years!

Cafe

Breakfast Try Our Casino Omelette SUBS • SANDWICHES Rt. 50-West Ocean City • 410-213-1804

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

December 15, 2023

Open Thursday-Sunday At Noon 131st Street • Ocean City 410-250-2000 Albertinosoc.com

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

OFF SEASON SPECIALS

1/2-PRICE PASTA Cheese • Pepperoni • Margarita • Veggy Bianco ENTREES Quattro Formaggi (white pizza) • Albertino (Add $5 To Seafood Entrees)

— All day during open hours —

“WHERE EVERY HOUR IS HAPPY HOUR”

$5 orAnge crushes $2.95 dom. drAfts, bottles & select rAils $3.95 wine by the glAss $1.75 nAturAl light cAns

(No sharing, no carry out, no changes. Subject to availability)

HAPPY HOUR ALL DAY $2.95 Dom. Drafts, Bottles & Select Rails • $1 Off Craft Drafts

Hot Steamed Crabs choice of

choice of

n.y. striP or filet mignon

n.y. striP or filet mignon w/ jumbo lump crab cake

w/ 4-5 oz. cold water lobster tail & jumbo lump crab cake

(Includes roasted potatoes & veggie)

(Includes roasted potatoes & veggie)

(Includes roasted potatoes & veggie)

w/ 4-5 oz. cold water lobster tail

Happy Hour Specials

THE BEST BRICK OVEN PIZZA IN OCEAN CITY

Friday & Saturday 4-9 p.m. Thursday-Saturday Noon-3 p.m.

—— All Day Sunday —— PRIME RIB NIGHT $12.95 ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT-MENU Queen $22.95 • King $29.95 French Onion Soup • Garden —— Thursday 4 p.m. —— or Caesar Salad • Marinara with Choice of Pasta Pizza By The Slice

choice of

13005 coastal hwy. • 410-250-3337 • fri.-sun. 11 a.m. • mon. & thurs. 4 p.m.

Page 55

$39.95

smoked jumbo wings

3 whole jumbo wings & onion straws

$12.95

$39.95

Pretzels with beer cheese

Melted craft beer cheese served with warm pretzel rods

$12.95

n.y. striP or filet mignon $49.95

4-5 oz. cold wAter twin lobster tAils $39.95

(Includes roasted potatoes & veggie)

—— bbQ PlAtters ——

brisket And burnt ends: served with baked beans, coleslaw and cornbread $19.95 smoked brisket: large portion of brisket served with coleslaw, baked beans and cornbread $22.95 1/2 ribs, brisket And burnt ends: served with baked beans, coleslaw and cornbread $29.95

Page 56

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 15, 2023