Dec. 18

The Dispatch December 18, 2020

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Health Officials Talk COVID Issues

See Page 4 • Photo by Bethany Hooper

Week-Long Lax Festival Proposed

Holiday Spirit: The winners in the inaugural Light Up Berlin were announced this week, including the brightest house award winner, above, and the most spirited, below. See pages 30-31 for results and pictures.

Photos by Chris Parypa

See Page 17 • File Photo

Senators Briefed On Area Concerns

See Page 6 • Photo by Bethany Hooper

New OC Restaurant’s Plans Advance

See Page 20 • Rendering by Fisher Architecture

Page 2

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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December 18, 2020

December 18, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Local COVID Spike Heightens Holiday Concerns

Page 4

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – As Worcester County’s COVID-19 positivity rate jumped above 9% this week, health officials can’t say for certain why local rates are now exceeding state positivity levels.

On Sunday, Worcester County’s positivity rate inched ahead of the state rate. By Thursday, the rate in Worcester County was 9.65% while statewide it was 7.73%. The daily positivity hit its December high on Thursday at 9.65%, up from 6.43% last Tuesday, Dec. 8. The

last time the positivity rate exceeded 9% in Worcester County was on May 31.

As for the seven-day moving average case rate per 100,000 metric, another one closely watched by health officials, Worcester County’s number hit 37.99 on Thursday. The county figure is far below the state average of 45.17 as of Thursday. However, the rate is the highest it has been in Worcester County since early August.

Officials say there’s no clear cause associated with the local increase.

“In our contact tracing interviews, we are identifying community spread, in oth-

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er words, no particular one event or outbreak can account for the daily differences of increases and decreases,” said Debra Stevens, nursing director for the Worcester County Health Department.

According to the state’s coronavirus website, on Wednesday Worcester County was up to 1,787 total cases with 41 confirmed deaths and one probable death.

“Community spread is occurring among family members and some coworkers, but most often with no specific known source,” Stevens said. “Avoiding large gatherings, maintaining a minimum of a six-foot distance between persons, proper hand hygiene and maskwearing are critical to prevent transmission in the community.”

At Atlantic General Hospital (AGH), health care providers are seeing an increase in patients as the county’s positivity rate increases. As of Thursday, there were 21 inpatients, the most the hospital has had since the pandemic began. AGH is a 62-bed facility with six critical care beds.

“I’m really worried about the holidays,” said Nicole Morris, the hospital’s infection prevention manager. “We’re still feeling Thanksgiving. Our census increased because it’s two to three weeks past Thanksgiving.”

One positive note, however, is that generally the hospital’s COVID patients are not in the ICU.

December 18, 2020

“We’ve really refined treatment so we’re able to keep people off the ventilator,” Morris said.

Along with community spread, Worcester County’s COVID-19 figures are also impacted by an outbreak at the Worcester County Jail (WCJ). Sixteen inmates tested positive for COVID-19 during testing that took place Dec. 10 and 11, according to Worcester County Public Information Officer Kim Moses.

While family members of inmates have expressed concern regarding the outbreak and COVID-19 response at the facility, Warden Donna Bounds said there were protocols in place to protect inmates and staff.

“We are committed to protecting the health and well-being of staff, inmates, and detainees at the Worcester County Jail,” Bounds said. “We’re working closely with the Maryland Department of Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS), the Worcester County Health Department, and other state agencies to continue implementing and revising safety procedures associated with the evolving COVID-19 pandemic.”

According to Bounds, the jail has issued masks to inmates and staff, each newly arrived inmate is quarantined, staff members are screened and receive temperature checks before entering, and in-person visitation has been temporarily suspended. The jail has also “inSEE PAGE 28

December 18, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 5

Officials Share Concerns At Senator’s Roundtable Meeting

Page 6

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – A discussion on broadband infrastructure, hospitality challenges and education funding highlighted a roundtable discussion last week with Maryland Senate Minority Leader Bryan Simonaire.

On Dec. 11, State Senator Mary Beth Carozza hosted a roundtable discussion with special guests Simonaire and State Senator Doug Peters to hear about Worcester County’s challenges and priorities.

“I thought this would be an outstanding opportunity for you to basically show off District 38, show off Ocean City and all of Worcester County,” she told local leaders last week. “This is our opportunity to shine.”

Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan told Simonaire and Peters last week the re-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

sort’s priorities included the introduction of state legislation requiring third-party rental platforms – such as Airbnb, Vrbo and HomeAway – to pay state sales tax and county room tax. He said Ocean City and jurisdictions around the state continued to lose millions in uncollected revenue each year.

“Locally, we have no way to require payments of those taxes,” he said.

“We’d have no way to enforce such as requirement. What we can do, and what we do, is enforce that requirement for our brick-and-mortar companies and our hotels and motels and all rental properties located here in Ocean City. This on its own has created an uneven playing field for our local businesses.”

Ocean Pines Association President Larry Perrone also highlighted his community’s priorities for the coming year. In addition to funding for drainage system

improvements, he noted that the association was also seeking improvements to Route 589.

“We believe it has gotten to a point where this is a safety issue,” he said.

Those in the tourism and hospitality industries also outlined their top priorities and issues to state leaders last week.

Worcester County Tourism Director Melanie Pursel noted that the county continued to focus on business retention, the development of a state-of-theart sports complex, and the need for broadband infrastructure, among other things.

“If we don’t have connectivity, we cannot grow,” she said.

Ashley Harrison, vice president of operations for The Harrison Group, told state leaders last week labor shortages and minimum wage increases continued

December 18, 2020

to plague local hoteliers and restauranteurs. She asked legislators to keep the minimum wage at $11 an hour through the end of 2021.

“This upcoming summer small business owners everywhere across the state are going to face a strong headwind without the rising minimum wage,” she said.

Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association Executive Director Susan Jones told officials the hospitality industry was one of the hardest-hit sectors during the COVID-19 pandemic. She said the introduction of a Maryland tourism tax credit could help.

“It would be a way to help Marylanders travel throughout Maryland,” she said. “We think if we can fuel tourism and really push people to travel, we can keep travel within our state and we can keep the tax dollars in our state.”

Worcester County Health Officer Rebecca Jones provided representatives last week with an update on the county’s COVID-19 testing efforts and vaccination plans. She was joined by Atlantic General Hospital President and CEO Michael Franklin, who highlighted challenges associated with high-deductible health plans and telemedicine access in rural communities.

Worcester County Public Schools Superintendent Lou Taylor also underscored the area’s technology issues.

“Broadband infrastructure is paramount if we are going to continue to have issues such as this pandemic …,” he said. “Technology is the thing for our school systems now, and we have to be able to provide not only for our kids but for our teaching staff as well.”

Taylor also noted that 43% of Worcester County students lived in households of poverty, but its school system received the least amount of state funding. He encouraged state leaders to review the Maryland’s school funding formula.

“I would ask if that ever comes across your desk that you would take a look at that, to move us forward as well,” he said.

State leaders last week also heard reports from the Ocean City Police Department, the Maryland Coastal Bays Program and the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, among other local agencies, before attending another roundtable meeting with officials in Wicomico County. For his part, Simonaire thanked local leaders for their input.

“It was very informative,” he said, “and you have given me a lot of information to bring back to Annapolis.”

Peters, chair of the state’s Capital Budget Subcommittee, also took the time to outline the state’s funding challenges in 2021.

“Operating money is going to be very, very difficult to come by,” he said. “If you get what you have last year, you are in good shape.”

However, Peters encouraged local leaders to pursue funding for capital projects, including broadband infrastructure and Route 589 improvements.

“That’s something you need to go for right away,” he said.

Retaining Key Employees Weighed

December 18, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Resort officials this week signed off on a key senior employee retention program aimed at providing incentives for longtime employees eligible for retirement to continue working with the town.

There has clearly been an experience drain at the top of Ocean City’s senior workforce in recent years with retirement ceremonies practically a weekly feature at City Hall. The town already has in place a Deferred Retirement Option Program, or DROP, providing an option for long-term employees to continue to work for the town while setting in motion their pension and benefits packages for a prescribed amount of time.

On Tuesday, City Manager Doug Miller introduced key senior employee retention plan, the intent of which is similar to DROP, but the components of which are slightly different, and in some cases more advantageous for both the employee and the town. According to Miller, as an unintended consequence, the town’s attractive pay and benefits practices could induce a valuable tenured employee to retire before they otherwise would.

“We saw it today with two more retirements of long-time employees,” he said. “We should be proud we are such good employers, but we are seeing a lot of retirements.”

Of course, the town welcomes senior employees with decades of service to enjoy their retirement and the fruits of their many years of labor in most cases. However, there are some employees who have reached their salary cap, so to speak, and have maxed out their post-employment benefits package, that could otherwise retire and double down by beginning a new career.

For example, there are currently 35 town employees capped at their grade maximum and another 40 who are within 5% of being frozen at their grade maximum. Miller said many of

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them are key staff members in the midst of important projects who are otherwise eligible for retirement. The loss of those key personnel could be detrimental to the town at a critical time, which is why the proposed key senior employee retention plan is so important.

“While the town government wishes for its deserving employees to enjoy a fruitful retirement, sometimes due to the timing of specific projects or initiatives, the retirement of a key senior employee may place a hardship on the town and put the completion of a high-impact project at risk,” said Miller. “It is for these most valued employees and certain conditions that the town must have the flexibility to incentivize these individuals to stay until the important project, issue or initiative they are leading is complete or can be successfully transitioned to another employee.”

Miller explained a long-tenured employee might have the incentive to take early retirement even before they have reached the end of their working days because of the town’s attractive salary and benefits package. For example, after 30 years of service to the town, an employee in the defined benefit retirement plan can retire and receive 50% of their departing salary for the rest of their life.

“For those who wish to truly retire, this is a great benefit and with the addition of Social Security and proper planning, this can provide the employee with a very secure retirement,” he said. “But for employees who still have working years left, they may be induced to retire when they reach that milestone not because they no longer want to work, but because they don’t want to leave money on the table. Some employees have the ability to retire, take their pension benefit of 50% of their salary, and then obtain another comparable position elsewhere and make as much or more than with their position with the town.”

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OC Police Report Uptick In Interest For Summer Cop Jobs

Page 8

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – Ocean City’s police department is reporting an increase in the number of applicants for seasonal law enforcement positions.

On Monday, Ocean City Police Chief Ross Buzzuro presented the Ocean City Police Commission with the most recent testing statistics for new seasonal officers and public safety aides (PSAs).

“If you take a look at police applications, this actually looks more promising than we would have thought,” Buzzuro told the commission this week. “But we are still in this, so there’s a little bit of trepidation there with getting too overly optimistic.”

For decades, the Ocean City Police

Caution Optimism With Application Bump

Department (OCPD) has enhanced its workforce with seasonal officers and PSAs during the summer months. However, the number of applicants for both programs have declined in recent years.

But Buzzuro told commission members this week the number of police applicants for the seasonal officer program had increased for 2021. During July, October and November testing dates, the department received 106 applications, marking a significant increase from the 42 applications received during the same time last year.

Buzzuro also noted that the department had six conditional offer hires for

the coming season. And while 34 applicants had failed during the testing process, he told officials the percentage of failures had decreased from 50% last year to roughly 30% this year.

“We’ve been a little bit better as far as the movement through the process,” he said.

On the PSA side, the department had 22 applicants, four failures and two conditional offer hires during testing dates in July, October and November.

While the number of PSA applicants had decreased slightly, Buzzuro reiterated that the number of failures had also decreased.

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“We’re about half-way through our hiring this year,” Buzzuro said. “On top of that, we don’t have definitive numbers as to who will be returning and will join us again … We’ll know more what that looks like in the next couple months. It’s just too early to tell.”

Mayor Rick Meehan questioned how the department handled recruitment efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We haven’t been able to do on-site recruiting,” he said. “Are we doing virtual?”

Buzzuro replied that the police department had been in constant contact with universities and the administrators for college criminal justice programs. He attributed the increase in applicants to the department’s outreach efforts.

“That higher number is really the result of trying to get out as much as we can, putting out information and feelers and trying to get people to come back and join us,” he said.

Council President Matt James also questioned the percentage of failures.

“Did anything change in the testing guidelines or requirements from 2019 to 2020?” he asked. “It went from a 50% failure to a 30% failure.”

Buzzuro replied that nothing about the testing process had changed. He argued that if anything it was more stringent.

“We lost an entire (testing) date last year because of a weather event in October,” Capt. Elton Harmon added.

“That’s reflected a little bit in those numbers. But really nothing has changed.”

Officials told commission members that testing statistics would be updated as testing dates in December, January and February conclude.

“Let’s keep pushing, pushing, pushing,” Meehan said.

Buzzuro this week also reported on the number of municipal and parking citations issued by PSAs and officers from April to December.

Over the course of nearly nine months, PSAs issued 265 payable municipal citations while officers issued 502.

During that same time, PSAs issued 4,658 parking citations while officers issued 379.

Buzzuro noted that a bulk of those citations were issued during the months of June and July. In those two months, for example, the number of written citations accounted for 66% of all municipal and parking citations issued by PSAs and officers during the season.

“You can see the numbers really jump up in June and July,” he said.

Meehan stressed the importance of enforcing all of the city’s ordinances – particularly on the Boardwalk – going into the 2021 summer season.

“When we walk down the Boardwalk, if there’s somebody smoking or on a bike that’s not supposed to be, we engage,” he said. “It doesn’t mean you have to give citations, it doesn’t mean you have to arrest them … From the PSA point of view, they really need to be trained to do that, and not just walk by.”

OC’s Bayside Boardwalk Bids Vary

December 18, 2020

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Construction bids for the future bayside boardwalk around the waterfront at the new Cambria Hotel downtown ran the extremes this week.

The Cambria Hotel at the foot of 1st Street and the bay opened in August after its certificate of occupancy was delayed because a condition of approval required the developer to provide a $165,000 contribution to the development of a bayside boardwalk along the property’s waterfront. Ocean City has long desired to create a boardwalk along the bayside to connect downtown waterfront businesses and the Cambria’s section is a significant link in the chain.

As a condition of the zoning amendment that allowed for the development of a hotel on the old industrially-zoned Cropper Concrete plant and as a condition of the site plan approval for the project, the developer agreed to convey a 10-foot wide public access easement along the bayside and contribute $165,000 to the construction of the bayside boardwalk. The Town of Ocean City handled the design of the boardwalk and has already purchased the lumber at around $29,000.

As a result of COVID-19, the developer sought to defer the $165,000 payment for the bayside boardwalk until the

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

hotel opened and began taking in revenue. Those issues were eventually resolved, and the Cambria opened in August after making the $165,000 contribution.

On Tuesday, the construction bids for the bayside boardwalk in the area fronting the Cambria were opened and they were all over the map. The original estimate for the project was around $177,000, of which the developer contributed $165,000.

However, when the bids were opened on Tuesday, there couldn’t have been a much larger spread. For example, the low bid came in at around $124,000, while the highest bid came in at around $478,000. Most of the bids opened Tuesday were below or near the budgeted amount for the project, but a handful, including the high bid of $478,000, were considerably higher than the budgeted amount.

The council voted unanimously to remand the bids to staff for review and recommendation. City Engineer Terry McGean, who is overseeing the project, said if the low bid, or any of the bids lower than the budgeted amount, are chosen, it could result in a rebate for the hotel developer.

“When we did the design, I adjusted the estimate,” he said. “It looks like we’ll be under that. If it comes in under, the balance would revert back to the developer.”

Page 9

Berlin Enterprise Funds Continue Operating Losses

Page 10

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – The town’s annual audit revealed the sewer fund remains a cause for concern.

Leslie Michalik of PKS & Co. told the Berlin Town Council Monday that while the town was essentially in good financial position, its sewer fund had an operating loss during the last fiscal year. She noted that while last year’s rate increases had helped, more action needed to be taken.

“Work is not done,” she said. “Going forward you really need to continue to

monitor the sewer fund. You need to continue monitoring your rates to make sure they’re set at a high enough level to cover not only your operating expenses but your capital expenses and your debt service costs.”

Michalik and Michael Kleger, a partner with the company, said the town’s financial statements presented fairly and offered a clean or unmodified opinion.

“This is the highest level of assurance that we can give as auditors,” Kleger said.

Michalik provided an overview of the town’s general fund, which is broken into various categories.

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“A lot of readers of financial statements focus on the fund balance,” she said. “And so if the fund balance is low, they feel like the town is in financial difficulty, if it’s high, then the town’s in good shape. It’s true that a low fund balance or a deficit in your fund balance means that you’re probably having some financial difficulties, however it’s not necessarily true that a high fund balance means that you’re financially strong. You have to dig down a little bit deeper.”

The town’s general fund balance of $6,168,982 consists of $3,375,304 that’s nonspendable, $994,629 that’s restricted, $791,005 that’s assigned and $1,008,044 that’s unassigned. The town’s total unrestricted funds (assigned and unassigned) is $1,799,049, which represents 3.75 months of operating expenditures.

“That three and three-quarter months is your cushion or your buffer for future unanticipated needs,” Michalik said.

She added that while the Government Finance Officers Association recommended a buffer of no less than 60 days, the town should likely have more than that on hand to deal with things like nor’easters or flooding.

The town’s biggest source of revenue continues to be property taxes, which make up 60% of revenues, while Berlin’s biggest expense is public safety, which makes up 39% of expenditures.

As far as the enterprise funds, Michalik stressed that they were to be run like a business.

December 18, 2020

“Your fees are intended to be set high enough they cover your expenses,” she said.

The town’s electric fund operated at a $144,054 loss in fiscal year 2020 while the water fund operated at a loss of $127,494. Sewer operated at a loss of $140,924 and stormwater operated at a loss of $74,430.

While the sewer fund’s operating loss was $140,924 in fiscal year 2020 versus more than $900,000 the prior year, Michalik encouraged officials to continue to monitor the fund closely.

According to Michalik, the Government Finance Officers Association recommends no less than 45 days of working capital — current assets less current liabilities — for enterprise funds. That means the town’s electric and water funds are in pretty good shape.

“The sewer fund has negative working capital which means it might not be able to pay its debts because its current liabilities exceed its current assets,” she said.

Michalik added that for all the funds, the need for capital improvements would have to be taken into account as well.

Mayor Zack Tyndall asked if other towns had capital reserves within their enterprise funds.

“Generally most towns struggle with this,” Kleger said. “They do have enough to cover current operating expenses but when it comes to capital projects there’s typically not reserve funds for those. It is an area the towns seem to struggle with.”

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Ocean City Advances New Economic Development Post

Page 12

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Apart from some semantics and the fine-tuning of the titles, resort officials this week moved closer to a major overhaul of Ocean City’s economic development and marketing teams, including the creation of a new position to direct the town’s strategy.

After expressing the need to place more emphasis and resources on economic development and sales in order to attract more family-friendly events, teams and groups to Ocean City to fill the resort’s hotel rooms and accommodations, the Mayor and Council earlier this year directed City Manager Doug Miller to begin developing a job description for a future director of economic de-

velopment and sales.

On Tuesday, Miller outlined his proposal for the new Director of Economic Development and Sales, although the official title is yet to be determined. He also proposed an overhaul of the communications and marketing departments with a familiar face in current Communications Manager Jessica Waters poised to lead that reconfigured department.

Miller’s proposals create a new Director of Economic Development and Sales position, which would work with each of the town’s various departments and go out and sell the town’s many amenities to future family-friendly special events, sports tournaments and other groups.

The occupant of the position would serve as the chief strategist for all the town’s marketing and sales efforts and coordinate with other departments on all

things related to tourism.

Miller also pitched the concept of creating an essentially new position of Director of Communications and Marketing. When long-time Tourism Director Donna Abbott passed away last year, Waters stepped into the breach and assumed her duties along with her own responsibilities as communications manager and handled the interim arrangement with aplomb. Miller’s plan calls for eliminating the old tourism director position and forging it with Waters’ role under the larger title of Director of Communications and Marketing. Under the plan, Waters will continue to work with her team with her increased responsibilities.

“During strategic planning, we developed the concept of a business development director who would go out and sell Ocean City as a destination,” said

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Miller. “When we lost Donna Abbott, Jessica Waters picked up the tourism director duties and we saw a synergy between communications and marketing.

Jessica has done an amazing job. She has had people step and has created a great team.”

Therefore, a new Director of Economic Development and Sales position, a post Miller characterized as a “czar” of sorts for all things related to economic development and tourism, will be created. In addition, the new Director of Communication and Marketing position will handle all messaging and other marketing responsibilities as well as managing the town’s advertising budget.

Councilman Tony DeLuca said he embraced both concepts, particularly the economic development director, or whatever title is eventually attached to it.

“I strongly support the concept of an economic development director,” he said. “We need a heavy, heavy hitter.

We need a big hitter that brings the big stuff to us.”

DeLuca also questioned if the discussion about creating a new tourism and marketing structure including the creation of new positions, should have been done in closed session.

“We’re discussing a few things that should probably be discussed in closed session,” he said. “We’ve gone too far the other way. We’re discussing personnel matters and we haven’t even approved this yet.”

However, Miller said, and City Solicitor Heather Stansbury concurred, that it was appropriate to discuss the overhaul of the departments in the open public session.

Overall, the Mayor and Council supported Miller’s proposals, although there were some questions about where the new positions would fall in the town’s hierarchy. As City Manager, Miller would remain at the top of the food chain as essentially the town’s CEO. The new director of economic development and sales would fall somewhere just below Miller in the town’s pecking order, along with Waters and the other department heads. Miller emphasized the overhaul would not impact the town’s operations overseen by the current department heads.

“The department heads will still report to the city manager,” he said. “The only things that go through this new person are sales. It doesn’t change anything we do operationally.”

Mayor Rick Meehan said the salary and benefits package for the new position would need to be commensurate with the job description to attract the right candidate.

“We need to make sure it’s the right salary to attract the right person,” he said. “We need the right person to do this job.”

Councilman John Gehrig, who has pushed the sales position from the beginning, said the new position should be more strategic. He said currently the convention center is a separate entity, SEE NEXT PAGE

State Superintendent Seeks First Priority Vaccines For Teachers

December 18, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BALTIMORE – Maryland Schools Superintendent Dr. Karen B. Salmon has requested the Maryland Department of Health include teachers, school staff and early child care professionals as the first priority in the plan to start COVID-19 vaccinations for essential employees in Maryland.

Acknowledging many factors influencing the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccines, “the safety and education of our children demand immediate attention,” said Salmon in a letter addressed to Dr. Jinlene Chan, Maryland Department of Health Acting Deputy Secretary of Public Health Services.

Salmon added, “It is essential that we return to full or hybrid instructional models for the overall wellbeing and success of our prekindergarten through grade 12 students. Prolonged school closures have resulted in our children experiencing diminished academic achievement and social-emotional distress. We care about all of our education and child care professionals, many of whom have continued to work on the frontline throughout the pandemic, and we are requesting that they be prioritized for the COVID-19 vaccine in the

earliest stages of distribution to essential employees.”

Clarence C. Crawford, president of the Maryland State Board of Education, said, “Continued school closings impact all of our children, especially those in underserved communities and vulnerable to abuse. Prioritizing distribution of this vaccine to our teachers and school staff will help expedite the return of full in-person instruction for our students.”

The request includes early child care workers who are providing critical education and care services. “Child care professionals have played a crucial role in the State’s frontline pandemic response and recovery efforts,” said Salmon. “The safety of these programs must be maintained to protect child care staff and the families they serve.”

Salmon praised Chan and the Maryland Department of Health for “tireless efforts in securing the public health and safety of our schools and child care facilities.

“Our partnership is especially invaluable now,” said Salmon, “as we redefine education and child care environments as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.”

along with special events and recreation and parks, among others. Gehrig said the new position would create a strategy for selling all those amenities under one umbrella.

“I put too much emphasis on sales,” he said. “This is really a strategic role.

This person dictates the strategy for the whole town. Right now, all of our products are in different stores. Maybe we need a department store to bring all of our products together. This position manages that department store. The department heads still manage their departments. This isn’t a sales job, it’s a strategy job.”

After considerable debate, the Mayor and Council directed Miller to create a

flow chart of sorts that will clearly define each position’s role. There were also suggestions on subtle changes to the title of the new position. Miller will more clearly define the proposals and bring back a more detailed plan in a future work session.

Councilman Lloyd Martin said those details can be ironed out, but urged moving forward with the plan sooner rather than later as the town prepares to re-emerge from the current pandemic.

“We need to move forward with something,” he said. “Doug has put together a good plan and we need to move forward with it. We want to come out of COVID with a strong sales and marketing plan.”

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 18, 2020

December 18, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 15

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Traffic Points System Proposed In OC

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – In response to recent concerns raised about speeding along some main streets in north Ocean City, a point-based rating system has been developed to identify resort streets in need of traffic-calming.

Earlier this month, City Engineer Terry McGean outlined for the Mayor and Council some short-term and longterm solutions for an ongoing problem of speeding and reckless driving on some of the main streets in the Caine Woods community, including 142nd Street and 139th Street in particular.

There are varying degrees of trafficcalming, including non-physical changes such as increased enforcement, public outreach and more signage.

There are also rather passive traffic-calming measures available such as speed humps, curb bump-outs and rumble strips, for example. Finally, there are more active, and likely far more expensive, traffic-calming measures such as traffic circles, roundabouts, raised crosswalks, and even, in some cases rerouting traffic or making certain streets one-way, for example.

“The traffic-calming policy came out of the Caine Woods discussion,” he said. “We want to come up with a formal way to evaluate the streets, determine if there is a problem and, ultimately, fixing the problem.”

McGean said he researched what other communities around the state and region were doing in terms of evaluating streets for traffic-calming measures and found two basic approaches.

One is a strict “yes or no” approach in which a particular street is evaluated and a determination is made as to whether traffic-calming is warranted.

The other approach is a point-based system in which a street is given points on various prevailing traffic issues and the level of traffic-calming needed is commensurate with the number of points scored. McGean said after conducting his research, his recommendation was establishing a point-based system on which to base the need for traffic-calming on particular resort streets.

“I’m recommending a point-based system,” he said. “It creates more flexibility to evaluate each street on its merits. The type of calming measure solution warranted for a given street is based on the points awarded, which also establishes the priority of the street in relation to others.”

Points would be assigned to a street based on a variety of factors, including the 85th percentile average speed. For example, if the average speed recorded above the posted speed limit was in the five- to seven-range, the street would be assigned five points. If the average recorded speed above the posted speed limit was 15 mph over the speed limit, the street would be assigned 25 points and so forth.

December 18, 2020

Other factors for which points could be assigned, and traffic-calming measures would be recommended, include average daily traffic volume, the frequency of accidents along a given stretch and whether or not the street is used by non-local traffic as a cut-through to other major arteries, for example.

McGean also outlined how the various traffic-calming measures would be implemented. Most major changes would fall under the purview of the Mayor and Council, but only after significant opportunities for the public to weigh in.

“It would ultimately be decided by the Mayor and Council,” he said. “I would recommend having a public hearing, gaining approval from the various community association boards in affected areas and approval from 75% of the residents in the areas where possible, especially on physical, active measures.”

After some debate, the council decided the 75% goal was probably too high given the town’s seasonal resort nature and said about two-thirds was likely more realistic. Even that level of community participation in the decision-making process could be too lofty, according to Council President Matt James.

“I’m concerned about reaching those quotas with so many non-resident property owners,” he said. “They might see a piece of mail and not respond, and then there’s a problem when they come back and see the changes to their street.”

Complicating the evaluation process further are certain streets designated as primary response routes for emergency services, fire and police, for example. Many of the streets in Ocean City would qualify as primary response routes where significant traffic-calming measures could affect safety and response times. Councilman Mark Paddack said the list of primary response routes provided by Ocean City Fire Chief Richie Bowers was extensive.

“When you look at this list, it has pretty much wiped out the entire town,” he said. “Most streets would qualify as primary response routes.”

McGean said anything further than very passive traffic-calming measures wouldn’t be allowed on the primary response routes.

“Active measures would be eliminated on primary response routes,” he said. “Anything that can physically slow an emergency vehicle down wouldn’t be allowed.”

For his part, Bowers said traffic alterations can cause significant problems for emergency responders.

“Traffic-calming devices do work, but they can cause injuries to firefighters and paramedics and damage equipment,” he said. “You don’t always see them or know that they are there, and they can also increase response times.”

Week-Long Lacrosse Festival For Youth, Adults Eyed

December 18, 2020

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Ocean City could get a three-for-one lacrosse tournament deal with a single investment after resort officials this week approved an agreement with some of the sport’s heavyweights.

At a Tourism Commission meeting last month, Tourism Advisory Board (TAB) President Steve Pastusak briefed members on a proposed expansion of the Ocean City Lacrosse Classic, held every August since 1993. The tournament includes men’s and women’s elite divisions featuring some of the top collegiate players in the country, along with masters and grand masters and other divisions. However, due to competing tourneys, the Ocean City Lacrosse Classic has seen its popularity wane in recent years and is in need of an overhaul.

Pastusak pitched the concept of an expanded Ocean City Lacrosse Classic to the Mayor and Council during Tuesday’s work session. He explained the Legendary Sports Group, which produces many of the larger lacrosse tournaments in the region and around the country, is coming on board with the Ocean City Lacrosse Classic and is bringing a couple of the sport’s heavyweights with it.

Pastusak said TAB met recently with Dave Cottle, who coached at University of Maryland and Loyola University and was inducted to the U.S. Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 2017. Also on board is Dave Pietramala, who coached Johns Hopkins for 19 years and won two national championships at the Baltimore school. Pietramala played at Hopkins and was a three-time All-American and national champion.

“The Legendary Sports Group is involved in some of the biggest tournaments in the country,” he said. “The idea is to make it a week-long festival. We already have the adult tournament on that weekend, and the concept is to bring in the kids’ tournament during the week.

The kids would play during the week and their parents would play on the weekend.

It would essentially be two separate tournaments. The adult tournament already exists and the kids’ tournament is new.”

Pastusak said the Legendary Sports Group was seeking a three-year commitment from the town at $50,000 per year for the expanded Ocean City Lacrosse Classic tournament. However, TAB was recommending a $50,000 investment in the first year, followed by a $40,000 investment the second year and $30,000 in the third year.

In addition to the annual summer week-long lacrosse festival, the promoters have agreed to host a major indoor lacrosse tournament in each of the three years of the commitment. In a recent development since Pastusak pitched the idea to the tourism commission last month, U.S. Lacrosse, the sports’ governing body, has expressed interest in coming on board with a youth tournament in June, essentially creating three significant lacrosse tournaments in Ocean City where there is currently one.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

In essence, the expanded Ocean City Lacrosse Classic would be held next August as planned, with an indoor tournament in December 2021 for the first of three years. Legendary Sports Group and U.S. Lacrosse have been amenable to moving the August tournament to June in the out years, a concept the Mayor and Council supports. Mayor Rick Meehan embraced the concept of a partnership with Legendary Sports Group, but urged the tournament be moved to June in future years.

“When you look at occupancy rates in August at around 85%, we’re looking to groom these events for June,” he said. “I think it would be much more advantageous for us in June.”

Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Executive Director Susan Jones, who has worked with TAB on the proposed

tournaments, said she also pushed for moving the event to June.

“That’s why we said we were not thrilled with August,” she said. “They said they were locked in for August in 2021, but would work with us to move the tournament to June in the future.”

Jones said the Legendary Sports Group, including Pietramala and Cottle, brought a lot of clout to the Ocean City lacrosse tournaments.

“These guys are the real deal,” she said. “If we’re serious about becoming a sports destination, these are the types of promoters we want to partner with.”

Councilman John Gehrig, who has been a staunch advocate of promoting Ocean City as a youth sports destination, said getting the indoor tournament each year was a bonus in the arrangement.

Page 17

“Indoor lacrosse is extremely popular,” he said. “We have an opportunity to dominate that market. Are we who we say we want to be?”

Pastusak said the intent is to put the Ocean City Lacrosse Classic back on the map and restore its former stature among the major tournaments around the country.

“The hope is to draw people back that went to Lake Placid,” he said. “Lake Placid has a lax festival-feel with the kids playing during the week and the dads playing on the weekend.”

The council voted unanimously to approve the expanded tournament format with the aforementioned financial commitment from the town. The details on future dates will be outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the promoters.

Suspect Arrested Twice In 10 Days On Assault Charges

Page 18

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – An Ocean City man was arrested on serious charges twice in less than two weeks after first allegedly choking his girlfriend to the point she nearly passed out and returning to allegedly assault her once an active protective order was issued.

Around 1:25 p.m. on Nov. 30, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers were dispatched to a residence on 5th Street for a reported domestic assault. The 911 caller told police her fe-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

male neighbor came over to her house after being assaulted by her boyfriend, later identified as Michael Larock, 37, of Ocean City.

The officer met with the victim, who reportedly was upset and crying. The officer noticed the victim’s neck was red and she had difficulty speaking. The victim reportedly told police she walked to the store to get some food around noon.

When she returned from the store, Larock was angry because she had not brought him food, according to police reports.

The victim reportedly told police she

December 18, 2020

was speaking on her phone to a man about getting her car repaired when Larock snatched the phone from her hand.

The victim told the officers Larock then grabbed a pillow and smacked her across the face with it repeatedly.

According to police reports, Larock then pushed the victim onto a bed and pressed on her neck with both of his hands. The victim reportedly told police Larock pushed down on her neck so hard she had difficulty breathing. During the interview, the officer noted the victim had difficulty speaking because of the pain in her throat. The officer also noted the victim’s entire neck was red along with a scratch on the left side. She also had scratches on her forearm, according to police reports.

Larock had left the scene before police arrived. However, OCPD officers observed him several minutes later walking across the Route 50 Bridge. He was taken into custody and was charged with first- and second-degree assault. He was held initially without bond, but was later released on a $25,000 bond.

On Dec. 9, Larock was arrested again after an alleged altercation with the victim. OCPD was dispatched back to the same residence on St. Louis Avenue for a reported domestic assault. The victim reportedly told police Larock had assaulted her and attempted to steal her phone just prior to their arrival.

The victim had a protective order a-

gainst Larock issued on Dec. 7 after the initial incident prohibiting him from entering the residence or having any contact with the victim. The victim told police she received a call from a “No Caller ID” phone the night before, and when she picked it up, she recognized Larock’s voice, according to police reports. The victim told police she received 15 more “no caller ID” incoming calls that night.

The next day, around 8:45 a.m., Larock allegedly entered the residence through the opened front door and the victim told Larock to leave because he was in violation of the protective order. At that point, Larock allegedly became angry and attempted to forcibly pull the victim’s cell phone from her hand.

The victim reportedly told police Larock scratched her during the incident and had two lacerations on her hand to corroborate the story, according to police reports. The victim told police Larock then pushed her to the ground and she fell on a cat litter box. There was a broken plastic box on the floor with litter scattered around, according to police reports.

The victim was able to flee to a neighbor’s house and called police. A bulletin was put out and an Ocean Pines Police officer located Larock at a residence in that community. For the Dec. 9 issue, Larock was charged with assault, theft and violating a protective order. After the second incident in as many weeks, Larock was ordered held without bond.

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New Restaurant Planned To Replace BJ’s In Ocean City

Page 20

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – For four decadesplus, the iconic BJ’s on the Water has been a fixture on the resort’s culinary and nightlife landscape, but it will eventually be replaced with a new restaurant after resort planners approved the site plan for the project this week.

Established by Billy and Maddy Carder on 75th Street and the bay in 1979, BJ’s on the Water is closing. The property has been sold to another popular resort restaurant group, owner Chris Reda and his team with the Ropewalk properties.

On Tuesday, the Ocean City Planning Commission reviewed a site plan for the proposed new establishment that will eventually replace the old rest-

December 18, 2020

Proposal Includes Rooftop, Beachfront Area

aurant and bar. The proposal calls for a new two-story bayfront establishment on the same site with a sandy beachfront area along the water, nearly 9,000 square feet of dining areas, including over 700 square feet on a rooftop terrace and other amenities.

According to the site plan and staff notes, the new establishment, to be called Windward OC, meets the zoning requirements although the restaurant will occupy a smaller physical footprint because of critical area requirements.

BJ’s on the Water practically sat in the water, but it was built well before critical area laws were established. As a re-

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sult, while the original restaurant was set back just about five feet from the water, Windward OC will sit back about 25 feet from the bay.

Satisfied the Windward OC site plan met the zoning and parking requirements, along with other requirements for height and density, the planning commission ultimately approved the site plan on Tuesday. The town’s planners approved the site plan after hearing some concerns from future neighbors about potential noise and parking problems. Other neighbors on hand for Tuesday’s virtual Zoom meeting also raised concern about potential impacts

on local wildlife in the area.

Planning Commissioner Chris Shanahan first brought up the potential noise issue with the new establishment and its impact on neighboring properties.

“I’ve heard from residents concerned about the noise from the rooftop area,” he said. “How will you mitigate that concern from the neighbors?”

Heather Morrison with Fisher Architecture, which is designing the new restaurant, said the potential noise shouldn’t be a concern for neighbors and there would be constraints put on the project from other agencies in the approval pipeline.

“I’m sure there will be time constraints and other conditions related to noise,” she said. “Those kinds of things are pretty standard and will likely be handled by the liquor board.”

Local resident Frank Vernet said he still had concerns about the potential noise.

“It looks like you’re going to have 250 people down on the beach and another 100 to 150 on the terrace,” he said. “It’s going to be very noisy. It’s going to be a major nuisance for residents.”

Ropewalk principal owner Chris Reda said the company was prepared to address any potential concerns about noise.

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“We have talked about sound and we’re very much aware of our neighbors,” he said. “If it becomes a problem, we can build a sound wall like we did with Ropewalk. We want to be good neighbors. When we did Ropewalk, we were actually in the stairwells of the neighboring condos with walkie-talkies checking the sound levels.”

Reda said Windward OC was not intended to have a nightclub atmosphere with the associated noise problems they potentially bring.

“It’s really more of a restaurant,” he said. “We’re not going to have bands or loud music out there. We can use a sound wall if we have to. We’ll address every concern that comes up right away.”

Shanahan said the town has ordinances in place to handle potential noise issues.

“They have to comply with the noise ordinance and I’m certain the liquor board will put on some other restraints,” he said. “They have been great neighbors with their other properties and I believe they’re going to be proactive with any issues.”

Another local resident raised the issue of parking. Based on the code, the new Windward OC is required to have 86 parking spaces, but the site plan calls for 88 along with four handicap spaces. Nonetheless, the local resident voiced concern it still might not be enough.

“Thanks for proactively addressing our concerns about noise,” she said.

“My concern is with the parking. We have not had a problem with BJ’s, but they need all of the parking they have and your capacity is two-fold. We know as a practical matter it isn’t enough.”

Reda said the developer and architect carefully considered the amount of parking needed to accommodate the new establishment and were confident what was planned will be sufficient.

“We have the parking required by the code,” he said. “We believe with more people using Uber and ride-sharing these days, we’ll have more than adequate parking. We will also look into having a valet service if we need that. We’re also always searching for different areas for parking.”

Shanahan said it was in the developers’ best interest to get along with its new neighbors.

“The developer seems like a good neighbor in the community,” he said.

“This has been a good exercise in bringing these groups together to address some of the concerns. They are investing a lot of money in this project and I’m sure they are going to be good neighbors.”

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 21

A new two-story bayfront establishment is proposed for the old BJ's property with a sandy beachfront area along the water, and nearly 9,000 square feet of dining areas.

Rendering by Fisher Architecture

Page 22

Ruth Marie Cook OCEAN CITY – Ruth Marie Cook, age 89, passed away peacefully on Friday, Dec. 11 at Coastal Hospice at the Lake in Salisbury.

She was born on June 4, 1931 in the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, Pa., to Benjamin Cloud and Ruth Marie Glassmeyer. Services were held at the Maryland Eastern Shore Veterans Cemetery where she will rest in peace with her beloved RUTH MARIE husband, Harry Raymond COOK Cook. The local hotelier had just completed her 55th season at Long Acres Motel and Cottages in West Ocean City this past summer, where she lived on site, working and raising a family since 1965.

Obituaries

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

She is survived by her brother, Ben; sister, Lilian; two sons, Paul and Bruce; grandchildren Ethan, Jacob, Holli, Heidi and Emily; as well as 13 great grandchildren.

The property along picturesque Herring Creek was Ruth’s sanctuary, her stage, her American Dream. Hatched on the streets of Philly and fueled by the sands of Ocean City, Long Acres was the brainchild of her late husband, Harry.

Together in 1965, they purchased the Stoney Anchor, a five-cottage operation they renamed Long Acres and grew alongside the expanding resort area.

Ruth was a strong student in her youth, something she was very proud of- even being named valedictorian of her class at John Bartram High School in Philadelphia.

She took great pride in her penmanship.

Her handwritten notes and cards to family and friends were lessons in calligraphy.

Ruth’s ability to remember guests by name and recall stories of the years gone by with such detail after greeting thousands looking for a bed at the beach over more than a half century in business was truly remarkable. A thing of Ocean City folklore for those family, friends and many guests who knew her.

Anita Louise Coolidge OCEAN CITY – Anita Louise Coolidge, age 91, of Ocean City, went to her heavenly home on Thursday, Nov. 26, 2020.

No service will be held at this time.

Anita was born in Hendersonville, N.C. She is the daughter of Pearce and Myrtle Cox and mother to Edward Lee Lancaster and Sheila Rae Colman.

Anita loved to laugh and make others laugh with her. She loved the Lord, singing and crossword puzzles. Anita touched many lives and will be greatly missed.

Theresa Raleigh OCEAN PINES – On Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2020, Theresa Raleigh, nee Hannon, entered into God’s eternal care at the home of her daughter in Kansas City, Mo. Mrs. Raleigh was born on June 12,

December 18, 2020 1929 to the late Luke and Catherine Hannon. She graduated from Academy of the Sacred Heart of Mary High School in 1947. She was a long-time communicant of St. Raymond’s Parish in the Bronx, N.Y., where she worked and volunteered for many years at both the church and the boys’ high school. She retired from Watson Avenue Day Care Center where she impacted the lives of many children and families. She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Kenneth Raleigh, and her children, Catherine Budington and husband Walter of the Bronx, N.Y., THERESA RALEIGH Theresa Ann Quisenberry and her husband Lee of Kansas City, Mo., Kenneth Raleigh and his wife Lauri of Hanover, Pa. and Robert Raleigh and his wife Suzanne of Kendall Park, N.J. Her legacy includes eight grandchildren, Catherine Catanese, Thomas Budington, Elizabeth Perricelli, Edward Raleigh, Stephen Raleigh, Kelly Ann Raleigh, Leeanne Raleigh, and Victoria Raleigh, and nine great grandchildren and a plethora of nieces and nephews. Also surviving are her sisters, Mary Ann Lyons and Margaret Harlin, and her brother, Anthony Hannon. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Martin, Luke and Kevin. Nothing made Theresa happier than cooking for her family and everyone was welcome in her home on Hone Avenue in the Bronx or Ocean Pines, where she spent her retirement years, always with a full candy dish.

Theresa was an avid card player and enjoyed many games with family and friends.

Donations in Theresa’s memory can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

December 18, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 23

Page 24

Cops & Courts The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Rape Suspect Arrested OCEAN CITY – A Nottingham, Md., man who allegedly raped and sexually assaulted his juvenile niece at a resort hotel in July 2019 was taken into custody last week and formally charged.

On May 15, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer was assigned to investigate a reported sexual assault of a 13-year-old juvenile female at a resort hotel in July 2019. Child Protective Services advised the juvenile victim had disclosed to her therapist that her uncle, identified as Arlin Duley, now 31, of Nottingham, Md., had touched her under her shorts during a family vacation at an Ocean City hotel in July 2019.

According to police reports, the victim disclosed to her therapist she was vacationing at a resort hotel room with her family and had been sharing a bed with her mother. However, on the night of the alleged incident in July 2019, the victim had an argument with her mother and slept instead with Duley, her uncle, in a different bed in the hotel room.

According to police reports, the victim said she was sleeping when she awoke to find Duley lying on his side with his leg wrapped around her leg while he was hugging her torso with her right arm. The victim reportedly told police shortly after she awoke, Duley allegedly put his hand under her shirt and began rubbing her back. Duley reportedly then put his hand

under the waistband of the victim’s shorts and then under her underwear and sexually assaulted her manually for “about two minutes,” according to police reports.

On May 28, the OCPD officer met with the victim’s mother, who reportedly told police her child had told her the similar version of the events that night in July 2019. The victim’s mother said she and her daughter were sharing the hotel room with the victim’s uncle and her grandmother and that she slept with Duley that night because of an argument she had with her daughter.

During the course of the investigation, the OCPD detective interviewed Duley, who reportedly confirmed the events leading up to his sharing a bed with the victim, but would only say he had “no recollection” of the incident. Duley repeatedly said it was possible he touched

the juvenile, but that he did not remember or could not recall doing it, according to police reports. Duley reportedly said if it did, in fact, happen, then he was likely asleep and could have engaged in the described contact while he was sleeping.

Duley later contacted the OCPD detective by phone roughly six times to inform the officer he remembered tossing and turning in his sleep and accidentally hit the victim with his arm, which caused both of them to wake up. After Duley’s conflicting stories of the incident, the OCPD detective filed charges of seconddegree rape, third-degree sex offense, fourth-degree sex offense and seconddegree assault.

A warrant was sworn out for Duley’s arrest and he was taken into custody last Wednesday. He was held initially without bond before being released after posting

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December 18, 2020 a $25,000 bond.

Domestic Assault Arrest OCEAN CITY – A Selbyville, Del., man was arrested on various charges last weekend after allegedly assaulting his girlfriend and destroying her cell phone and smart watch during an altercation at an uptown condo.

Around 7:50 p.m. last Friday, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers were dispatched to a condo at 122nd Street for a reported domestic assault.

The officers met with a female victim, who advised she had been assaulted by her boyfriend, identified as Kirk Smith, 35, and that he had also damaged her property.

The victim reportedly told police the couple had returned from an uptown restaurant when Smith grabbed her cell phone and smashed it on the ground.

The officers reportedly observed the front and back of the phone shattered and bent in the middle, rendering it inoperable.

The victim said Smith allegedly then punched her in the head, and the officers observed a red mark on the side of her forehead. The victim told police Smith then grabbed her wrist, damaging her Galaxy Smart Watch in the process.

According to police reports, the victim spontaneously told the officers, “I fear for my life,” and “he will kill me,” and “he has tried.”

OCPD officer searched for Smith to no avail. A short time later, the officers observed Smith walking toward the condo building and detained him for questioning. Smith reportedly told police he had been in an altercation with the victim, but that she had attacked him unprovoked and punched him in the face.

The officers observed a fresh bruise under Smith’s eye, according to police reports.

A background check revealed Smith had multiple outstanding warrants. Based on the testimony and evidence, Smith was arrested and charged with second-degree assault, malicious destruction of property and the outstanding warrants. According to police reports, the value of the destroyed cell phone was around $800 and the value of the smart watch was estimated around $200.

Jail For Assault, Leaving Scene OCEAN CITY – A Silver Spring, Md., SEE NEXT PAGE

. . Cops & Courts

December 18, 2020

man, arrested in September after first leaving the scene of a vehicle collision and then assaulting several police officers attempting to detain him, pleaded guilty this week to various counts and was sentenced to six months in jail.

Around 4:10 a.m. on Sept. 26, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer responded to the area of 22nd Street to assist an Maryland State Police trooper with a hit-and-run investigation.

The trooper was conducting a traffic stop in the area of 16th Street when he was approached by two females who reported their vehicle had been struck in the parking lot of a nearby hotel by a white pick-up truck and the suspect then fled the area.

The trooper observed the suspect vehicle traveling north on Baltimore Avenue and followed it. The driver of the white pick-up, later identified as Danilo Cativo, 18, of Silver Spring, Md., turned off its lights and turned onto the ocean block of 22nd Street. The officer detained Cativo, who exhibited signs of intoxication, according to police reports.

Cativo reportedly admitted striking a vehicle in the parking lot and that he was sorry. The two female victims who were in the vehicle when it was struck by Cativo were brought to the scene and positively identified him as the suspect, according to police reports.

Officers were detaining Cativo when he reportedly demanded that he be given tests. He reportedly became hostile and angry and repeatedly demanded he be given tests. He reportedly was screaming and flailing his arms and body from side to side, striking multiple officers in the process.

While the OCPD was attempting to detain the reportedly violent and agitated Cativo, he allegedly bit one officer’s leg and scratched another female officer. He was ultimately subdued and charged with driving under the influence and hitand-run. During the booking process, Cativo reportedly kicked another officer and spit saliva on another. It was later learned he drove over the foot of one of the female victims when he was fleeing the hit-and-run collision.

All in all, Cativo was charged with four counts of assault on police officers, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and possession of a fake ID. This week, he pleaded guilty to second-degree assault and failure to remain at the scene of an accident involving bodily injury and was sentenced to six months in jail.

Disorderly Conduct Arrest OCEAN CITY – A local woman was arrested for disorderly conduct last weekend after allegedly going on a yelling and screaming tirade at an uptown hotel.

Around 2 a.m. last Sunday, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer responded to a hotel at 112th Street to assist with an eviction. The officer met with a male individual who reported he was staying in a third-floor room with his fiancé, identified as Baelie Gaudioso, 20, of Bishopville, and that he called police to have Gaudioso evicted from his room

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch because she was yelling and screaming.

The officer located Gaudioso on a bench outside the hotel and she was crying and visibly upset, according to police reports. She also exhibited signs of intoxication, according to police reports.

Gaudioso reportedly told the officer she was upset because her fiancé no longer wanted to marry her and that he believed she cheated on him. According to police reports, Gaudioso repeated numerous times that she was “extremely drunk.”

Throughout the interaction, Gaudioso was very loud and continued to yell and scream at her fiancé, according to police reports. She was told repeatedly to keep her voice down or she could be arrested for disorderly conduct. The OCPD officer escorted Gaudioso to the room on the third floor to gather her belongings.

Along the way, she continued to yell and scream, despite being ordered to stop and to not disturb other hotel guests. Gaudioso continued to plead her case about the eviction and screamed

and yelled for several minutes. By now, guests in other hotel rooms came out to see what the disturbance was. Gaudioso ultimately arrested and charged with disorderly conduct.

Loaded Handgun Sentence OCEAN CITY – A Pennsylvania resident pleaded guilty last week to two counts of possession of a firearm by a minor and one count of possession of over 10 grams of marijuana and was sentenced to three years, all but 18 months of which was suspended.

On June 10, Ocean City police officers located several individuals sleeping in a vehicle in violation of a town ordinance. Upon making contact with the occupants, the officers detected an odor of marijuana. The officers also learned Ty’ant Gibson, now 19, of Harrisburg, Pa., was wanted on an active warrant out of Harrisburg, Pa., for allegedly discharging a firearm into an occupied building.

OCPD officers began searching the

Page 25 vehicle and located bullet holes in the rear tailgate. OCPD officers also located marijuana, a Glock .40-caliber handgun and a Century Arms Micro Draco assault-style handgun.

In that case, four suspects including two juveniles were arrested on various drugs and weapons charges. Gibson was charged with possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance (CDS), loaded handgun on his person, possession of a firearm by a minor, possession of an assault weapon and magazine, and possession of a firearm in the commission of a drug-trafficking crime.

Ijahmiere Miquel McKinney, 19, of Harrisburg, was charged with possession of CDS with intent to distribute. McKinney appeared in court in October and had the charges against him put on the stet, or inactive docket. Two juveniles, ages 16 and 17, were also charged with possession with intent to distribute CDS and the dispositions of their cases are unknown.

County To Give $150K More In CARES Funds For Fire Companies

Page 26

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – Worcester County officials are in the process of awarding CARES Act funding to local fire companies.

After fire company officials voiced frustration over unanswered requests to the Worcester County Commissioners last week, county staff are now preparing to issue fire companies checks with what’s left of the county’s CARES funding.

“We are definitely heading in a good direction,” said Tim Jerscheid, who serves as president of the Worcester County Fire Chiefs Association.

Last Wednesday, representatives from the county’s fire service met with the commissioners to express frustration over unanswered requests for funding from the county’s $4.5 million CARES Act allocation. The commissioners instructed staff to meet and review fire company requests as a result. While $80,000 had been allocated for fire companies, the commissioners said at the meeting that there could be other unused CARES funds available as well.

Weston Young, the county’s assistant chief administrative officer, said staff spent several days late last week reviewing all the companies’ COVID-19 requests. In addition to the $80,000 previously set aside, the county also identified an additional $150,000 that had been put aside to purchase permitting software that will now be used for fire companies instead.

“While we will not be able to address every request, this will be very helpful to the companies receiving funds,” Young said.

Jerscheid said that while the companies hadn’t yet received funding, fire officials were satisfied with the progress now being made.

“It’s heading in a better direction than it was last week,” he said.

Jerscheid said last week’s meeting was the result of a “major breakdown” in communication with county staff.

“We knew the money was there,” he said. “I just think from the fire service standpoint our seat at the table was forgotten about.”

He’s hopeful that fire companies will now get much needed funding that will help them cover primarily the personnel

Council Suspends Public Comments

costs associated with adjusting operations because of COVID-19.

Going forward, fire chiefs are planning to meet with the commissioners in the spring regarding annual funding, as

even before the pandemic fire companies were facing financial difficulties.

“It’s a bad situation,” Jerscheid said.

“This year we’re going to try to come up with a better funding formula.”

BY BETHANY HOOPER

said. “It’s because we want to make sure our meeting is working without introducing another element to the thing.”

Langan went on to add that councilmembers had been advised to limit their comments as a result of a pending lawsuit against the town. In August, a group of Fenwick Island property owners filed a petition in Superior Court demanding the town enforce its code related to outdoor bars.

“Also be aware since there is a pending lawsuit our lawyers have advised us to be quiet about a lot of things,” he said.

“So that’s why we can’t talk about a lot of things.”

The mayor’s announcement came months after residents first voiced their concerns surrounding the limitation of public comments and council interactions at town meetings.

In late September, for example, the town limited its public comment period to 30 minutes, as well as the length of time each participant could speak. Individual comments were ultimately lowered to 2 minutes.

“We do not allow speakers to give their time to others, we review the guidelines at the beginning of each comment period, which we do, and explain that the council will not engage in dialogue with the public at this time,” Town Manager Terry Tieman said at the time.

Residents, however, were quick to share their frustration with the lack of communication among councilmembers and residents.

“You need to be aware of the fact that you are our elected representatives and you are not doing your job properly,” resident Peter Frederick said. “You need to communicate properly. The lack of communication is what’s causing all of our problem and what is increasing our legal bills.”

STAFF WRITER

FENWICK ISLAND – Citing the use of a new digital format, the Fenwick Island Town Council suspended public comments at its meeting earlier this month.

In a virtual meeting of the Fenwick Island Town Council this month, Mayor Gene Langan announced the council would not be taking public comments, citing a new meeting format in which all councilmembers attended virtually through the videoconferencing platform Zoom.

“With this particular meeting we’re not taking comments, and the reason we are not taking comments is very simple, nothing sinister or anything like that,” he

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 27

SHA Seeks Berlin Property To Widen Road At Intersection

Page 28

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – The Maryland State Highway Administration approached town officials this week regarding a piece of property needed to widen Route 376.

The Berlin Town Council on Monday heard from representatives of the State Highway Administration (SHA) regarding plans to widen Route 376 near its intersection with Route 113. The improvements, however, would require the town to deed a small piece of property to SHA. “We’re widening this section so there’ll be more room for people to take the left or go straight and still allow traffic to bypass that queue to take a right onto 113,” said Dallas Baker, assistant district engineer for SHA. Baker and other SHA representatives

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

met with the town council virtually via Zoom on Monday to discuss the potential property transfer, which would need to be formally approved after public advertising.

Judd Vickers, SHA’s real property supervisor, told the council that in order to widen the section of Route 376, SHA would need the town to transfer a small portion of property at the intersection of Route 376 and Decatur Street. He said SHA would also need a temporary easement for construction purposes on adjacent land and then a perpetual easement for utilities on the other side of Route 376.

SHA’s Doug Sommers said the transfer would allow the agency to improve the flow of traffic in the area. It would also not interfere with the town’s eventual plans to align Decatur Street and Flower Street.

“It’s not often I get to say this — we’re being proactive to the community of Berlin,” he said.

He added that the queuing that occurred on Route 376 near Route 113 was not something SHA wanted to see.

Baker agreed and said the property transfer would allow SHA to essentially add a third lane.

When Mayor Zack Tyndall asked if the council was ready to publicly advertise the transfer so that it could be voted on in January, Councilman Dean Burrell expressed concern.

“The advertising doesn’t commit us to anything,” Town Administrator Jeff Fleetwood clarified.

Councilmember Shaneka Nichols said she couldn’t picture the proposed improvements and wanted more information.

“It doesn’t really sit well with me be-

December 18, 2020

cause my mind is still thinking about how congested and crazy that spot already is,” she said.

Councilman Troy Purnell suggested the town’s concept plans for the alignment of Decatur Street and Flower Street be provided to Nichols and her fellow newly elected council members.

Tyndall said that when the proposed transfer was formally considered in January, additional information could be presented as well. The State Highway Administration representatives agreed.

“It won’t be hard for us to send you a before and after sketch,” Baker said.

… 16 County Jail Inmates Test Positive

FROM PAGE 4 creased and expanded cleaning and sanitizing procedures” and as of Dec. 10 all inmates have been confined to their cells.

In accordance with DPSC directives, the jail conducts mandatory COVID-19 testing of staff, inmates and detainees and “is committed to providing accurate data regarding the number of positive COVID-19 cases” among correctional staff and within the inmate population.

Information regarding the overall cases at the jail since its outbreak began in November is available at https://coronavirus.maryland.gov/pages/hcf-resources and is updated weekly.

“We are working with facilities that have outbreaks to assure recommended guidelines are followed and support facilities with infection control practices and assure testing is completed to monitor the resolution of the outbreak,” Stevens said.

As the county’s numbers have increased in recent weeks, health care officials are excited about the distribution of the new COVID-19 vaccine. At AGH, which is sharing its distribution of the Pfizer vaccine with TidalHealth Peninsula Regional, staff vaccinations begin Friday.

Morris expects a third of the hospital’s staff to be vaccinated by Tuesday.

She stressed that the arrival of the vaccine didn’t mean folks should relax their efforts to prevent the spread of the virus. She pointed out that the first phase of vaccine recipients would essentially only include frontline workers. She’s hopeful the vaccine might be available to the public in the spring. In the meantime, she stressed that citizens should continue to social distance and wear masks covering their nose and mouth.

“Hopefully once production ramps up it’ll be more readily available,” she said.

Even once the vaccine is available to the public, Morris says it will be challenging to ensure everyone gets vaccinated properly, as it is a two-step process.

“Immunity comes seven days after the second vaccine,” she said.

While the hospital is not making the vaccine mandatory for staff because of its emergency use authorization, AGH officials are encouraging all employees to get vaccinated.

December 18, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Hall Of Fame Recognition:

Katie Naughton and Kristie Naughton of Autumn Grove Stables in Berlin were selected to the Combined Eastern Horse Shows Hall of Fame this month. Katie and Kristi Naughton were nominated to the CESHS Hall of Fame for their efforts in providing horse show venues and for participating with many of their riders. The inductees have joined the ranks of trainers and volunteers who were previously nominated for this high honor. Pictured, from left, are Katie, Dennis, Kristie and Allison Naughton.

Analyst: Utility Rate Hikes Needed Photo by Patsy Bell

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – A projection of water and sewer costs and revenues shows the town will have to increase rates to avoid deficits in the coming years.

On Monday, Jean Holloway of the Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project Inc. (SERCAP) presented elected officials in Berlin with a review of financial projections for the town’s water and sewer utilities. Holloway said changes needed to occur in order for the utilities to be sustainable.

“You definitely need to go up on rates across the board,” Holloway said.

Holloway, who first talked with town leaders in 2019, said SERCAP provided its services for free to rural communities with fewer than 10,000 residents.

Though she was initially planning to do a rate study for Berlin, after speaking to town staff she opted to start with financial projections.

Holloway said before considering a rate increase, the town needed to do three things – get a handle on collections, reduce gallons included in the minimum bill and get a handle on nonrevenue water.

“Sometimes when you hear about non-revenue water, water loss, it seems like just numbers but I’m trying to translate that into dollars to give you an idea of the impact of that,” she said.

Holloway said systems should not have more than 10% non-revenue water. Berlin currently has 25% non-revenue water. She said that during an 11-month period, the town produced 147,676,489 gallons and billed for 110,533,996 gallons, which resulted in more than 37 million lost gallons. She said that equated to $157,482 in lost water revenue and $252,565 in lost sewer revenue.

“The number one culprit when there’s a gap that wide is the age of your meters and that your meters are under-registering,” she said.

Holloway said 70% of the town’s meters were 30 years old even though the life of a meter is typically 10-15 years.

She said other sources of water loss, such as leaks and unauthorized use, were hard to determine if meters weren’t accurate.

She said the money being lost from non-revenue water could be used to cover some of the deficit the water utility is projected to have going forward.

While the water utility’s deficit is expected to increase in the next few years, Holloway said the sewer utility was already at the height of its deficit. Holloway pointed out that a third of the sewer utility’s costs went to debt service.

In conclusion, Holloway said the town needed to plan on raising rates.

She said that a complete rate study should be done and the town should come up with a plan to replace its old water meters.

In the long-term, Holloway suggested the town create an operations plan that looks toward sustainability of the two utilities.

“They’re not sustainable under the present circumstances,” she said.

As for new water meters, Holloway said SERCAP could help the town look for funding assistance.

“My recommendation is to come up with a plan at this point, not that you have to do it tomorrow,” she said. “I preach the gloom and doom to make an impression of how significant these losses are. The sooner you can address it the better.”

Finance Director Natalie Saleh said the town had been looking into purchasing new water meters for the last seven years but didn’t have the funding.

“We have a clear picture of what needs to be done but how to get there is the problem,” she said.

Officials thanked Holloway for the presentation and said they planned to discuss the potential for a full rate study in January.

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Homeowners Show Off Holiday Spirit In Berlin’s First Light Contest

Page 30

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 18, 2020

326 William Street #201

114 Maple Drive

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Residents’ bright ideas and creative cheer shined through in the first ever Light Up Berlin contest.

Officials announced the winners of the Light Up Berlin contest this week after more than 30 homes entered the new competition. The home decorating contest was created to give local families something festive to enjoy this holiday season when the pandemic has prompted the cancellation of so many traditional activities.

“Thank you to everyone who entered the contest,” said Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director. “So many families had a wonderful time on their magical journey through town.”

In the weeks leading up to the competition, participants strung lights, set up yard decorations and even configured setups to play holiday tunes for passersby. Though 36 homes entered the competition, the contest motivated many of the town’s residents to light up their homes whether or not they were competing.

“It really seemed the entire town was lit up,” Wells said.

She was pleased at the strong amount of interest in the contest, which awarded prizes to several different homes. Wells said judges were overwhelmed with how creatively the homes were decorated.

“The judges had a difficult time deciding and there were a few ties,” she said.

The Clark Griswold Award for the brightest house in Berlin went to 114 Maple Dr. while 326 William St. #201 and 208 Broad St. earned honorable mention.

The Kevin McCallister Award for the most creative house in Berlin went to 101 Middle St. with honorable mention to 113 Davis Ct. and 102 Tingle Rd.

The George Bailey Award for the most traditionally decorated house went to 414 S. Main St. with 108 Cedar Ave. and 294 Powell Circle earning honorable mention.

The Charles Dickens Award for the most spirited house in Berlin went to 108 Bryan Ave. with 7 Burley St. and 614 William St. earning honorable mention.

On Maple Drive, Devon Voisine and his family started decorating the weekend after Thanksgiving and have been adjusting their display ever since. The home, which judges named the Clark Griswold Award winner, has lights adorning its roof, countless illuminated yard displays and several inflatable characters, highlighted by Baby Yoda and, fittingly, Clark Griswold.

“Christmas is my dad’s favorite time of year,” Voisine said. “He has always gone above and beyond to make it memorable for my siblings and I. This year I wanted to pay it forward. We wanted to share a sense of hope and holiday spirit given the chaos of this past year.”

While there’s plenty that catches the eye at the Maple Drive home, Voisine said the part of the display he likes the best is the arch that features a projection of various holiday scenes, including a juggling snowman and Santa’s workshop.

The hardest aspect of the display to put up though was the lights on the roof, as Voisine formed triangles, working from the outside in, all while being careful not to step on any bulbs during the process. The effort was worth it, however, as passersby are continually awed by the home’s display.

“People have been very enthusiastic about our decorations,” Voisine said.

“We have had people take photos in front of the house while others roll down the window and yell a friendly ‘thank you.’ One family even left us a homemade ‘Best Lights Award’ that we now have hanging on our tree.”

208 Broad Street

101 Middle Street

113 Davis Court

December 18, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 31

294 Powell Circle

102 Tingle Road

108 Bryan Avenue #1

108 Bryan Avenue #2

614 William Street

7 Burley Street

108 Cedar Avenue

414 S. Main Street

Page 32

Business And Real Estate News

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

AGH A Treatment Site For Antibody Therapy BERLIN – Atlantic General Hospital announced it is one of the first six treatment sites within the state of Maryland to offer the monoclonal antibody therapeutic bamlanivimab for high risk patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 infection.

Bamlanivimab is an infusion therapy granted emergency use authorization by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treatment of individuals with COVID-19 before severe symptoms occur, to reduce the chances of the infection worsening and requiring hospitalization.

Due to the limited doses available nationwide, treatment is only offered for adults and children ages 12 and older at greatest risk of progressing to severe COVID-19, based upon specific criteria established by the FDA. These criteria include being over the age of 65, having an underlying chronic condition like diabetes or severe obesity, and/or having a compromised immune system.

Bamlanivimab should be administered as soon as possible after a positive COVID-19 test, as it is most beneficial when given early in symptom progression. It is administered via a single intravenous infusion and mimics immune system antibodies that block viruses.

Not all individuals who test positive for COVID-19 are recommended to receive bamlanivimab. Bamlanivimab infusion is provided through physician referral only, after it is determined that a patient is a good candidate and at high risk of severe onset.

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SALISBURY – Matthew Trader of Rinnier Development Company recently closed on the sale of the North Bay Shopping Center located on 127th Street in Ocean City for $3.825 million.

The transaction was an off-market deal that Trader negotiated and closed from start to finish in approximately three weeks. The center was purchased by a local investor. The North Bay Shopping Center was built in 1985 and is home to local and national tenants that have helped make it a staple of North Ocean City for nearly three decades. The parties in the transaction will remain confidential.

For Trader this transaction becomes part of an impressive resume of shopping centers and net lease deals that he has closed both recently and during his career.

“At Rinnier Development Company, we don’t just focus on what’s on the market,” Trader said. “We are constantly looking at everything and talking to everybody. If our clients can’t find what they are looking for, we will use all of our energy and resources to find them an asset that fits their needs. We have a 24/7/365 mindset when it comes to Commercial Real Estate Brokerage. It’s at the core of everything we do. I believe that is what leads us to deals like this. Speaking of

December 18, 2020

which, I appreciate the opportunity I was given to bring this deal to fruition. I believe both parties accomplished their goals and more importantly achieved great value. I believe the asset traded in this deal is an exceptional product that will provide great dividends for years to come”.

Doctor Joins Health System BERLIN – Atlantic General Hospital officials announced today that Dr. Freaw Dejenie joined Atlantic General Health System’s medical staff this month to provide care at Atlantic General Gastroenterology.

Prior to moving to the Eastern Shore, Dejenie practiced at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Ind., and then Medstar Health’s Southern Maryland Hospital and Montgomery Medical Center.

Dejenie completed his internship and residency in internal medicine as well as his gastroenterology fellowship at Howard University Hospital in DR. FREAW DEJENIE Washington, D.C. He received his medical degree from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia. Dejenie is board certified in gastroenterology, and has been diagnosing and treating ailments of the digestive system since 2013.

To improve access to gastroenterology care, Dejenie provides consultations at Atlantic General Gastroenterology in Berlin, as well as Atlantic General Specialty Care, in Ocean View, Del.

Lease Deal Reached SALISBURY – SVN | Miller Commercial Real Estate Advisors Brent Miller and Tonney Insley have announced the new Salisbury location of MISSION BBQ. The restaurant will be located in the Salisbury Promenade Shopping Center joining Barnes and Noble, Eyemart Express, Pivot Physical Therapy, and Great Clips. This is the first location for MISSION BBQ on the Eastern Shore with a proposed opening in spring 2021.

MISSION’s website reads, “MISSION BBQ is unlike any other restaurant concept in the country. We serve the most authentic, mouth-watering all-American food anywhere - with a side order of patriotism! Our team is on a mission to make a difference across the country and in our communities.” MISSION BBQ utilizes multiple methods to support the military and veterans, such as fundraisers preceding the opening of new locations, giving free food to veterans on their wars' remembrance days, and hiring local veterans. “We look forward to serving Salisbury,” said Stephen Newton, founder of MISSION BBQ. Insley previously worked to bring Aldi Grocery Store to the area, and has worked with national retailers Panera Bread and McDonalds to secure locations on the shore. Insley is currently the tenant representative for 7-Eleven Convenience Stores in the region.

Chipotle Planned For Former Blue Ox Site In North OC

December 18, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – An old north-end steakhouse will soon be coming down and will be replaced with a stand-alone restaurant after resort planners this week approved the site plan for the project.

For years, the Blue Ox Steakhouse stood at the north end of the Williamsburg Plaza shopping center between 125th and 127th streets in north Ocean City, but the business has long since closed its doors and has been largely vacant. On Tuesday, the Planning Commission reviewed a site plan for the redevelopment of the parcel, which includes demolishing the old restaurant and replacing it with a new Chipotle restaurant.

“A large portion that formerly housed the Blue Ox is going to be demolished,” Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy told the planning commission on Tuesday. “In its place is going to be a 2,325-square-foot free-standing restaurant with a drivethru.”

The new stand-alone restaurant with a drive-thru will be about 2,300 square-feet, compared to the 9,000-squarefoot-plus establishment that currently sits on the parcel. Planning and Community Development Director Bill Neville said there were concerns early about the potential impact of the popular drivethru restaurant on the parking for the

An aerial rendering shows the standalone Chipotle with a drive-thru envisioned for north Ocean City.

Submitted Rendering

surrounding businesses.

“We had some concern with the drivethru lane conflicting with the existing parking areas,” he said. “Those concerns have been addressed. You’ll actually end up with more parking than what was there before.”

Still, Planning Commissioner Peck Miller voiced concern about cars stacking up while waiting to order and pick up their meals at the drive-thru. However, developer David Sullivan said the

Chipotle business model differed considerably from the traditional fast-food drivethru with menu boards and intercom ordering and pick-up.

“The site is designed for a Chipotle restaurant and drive-thru,” he said.

“With their business model, they don’t have the traditional menu boards from which you order. You order through the app and if it isn’t ready when you arrive, you’re instructed to pull into a parking space. Stacking is not going to be an

Page 33

issue with this project.”

Architect Patrick Desmone said the proposed project is less than a third of the size of the old Blue Ox, alleviating any concerns about parking impacts.

“It’s only around 2,300 square feet of space, which is down from the 9,000 that was there before,” he said. “We’ve actually added parking for what is a much smaller space. We’re going to dress up the property with landscaping. It’s going to be a nice-looking building and a significant upgrade of what was there before.”

Northside Hotel Limited Partnership principal owner Fred Wine said his company also owns a nearby hotel and every consideration was given to alleviating any concerns about parking or vehicles stacking up at the drive-through.

“We also own the Holiday Inn Express right there,” he said. “The last thing we want to do is put something there that is detrimental to the hotel, in which we’ve invested a lot of money. We’re super happy to have Chipotle coming in. It’s a great company.”

Satisfied the project met the zoning and parking requirements along with other sections of the town’s code, the planning commission voted unanimously with Palmer Gillis absent to approve the site plan for the project.

“Good luck with this project,” said Miller. “It’s going to be a vast improvement over what was up there before.”

Ten Thousand Flowers Mural Project Installed At Library

Page 34

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 18, 2020

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – A mural, created late last year as part of a national art project, is now on display at the Berlin library.

A multi-paneled mural painted in collaboration with the Ten Thousand Flowers Project was recently installed at the Berlin branch of the Worcester County Library.

In a Worcester County Library Board of Trustees meeting this month, Library Director Jennifer Ranck told members the mural was mounted onto the wall of the second-floor balcony with the assistance of Worcester County’s maintenance department.

“I really think this is a great spot to put it,” she said, noting that the mural overlooked the branch’s periodicals section.

“The county maintenance department was amazing in installing this. It wasn’t easy to install by any stretch.”

Late last year, community members joined Tim Gibson, artist and founder of the Ten Thousand Flowers Project, to create public art installations for the town of Berlin and the Worcester County Developmental Center. The Ten Thousand

The new multi-panel mural is pictured at the Berlin library branch.

Flowers Project, formed in June of 2018, is an initiative to bring communities together by creating one large mural consisting of 10,000 flowers spread over hundreds of small towns across the country.

Gibson began his East Coast tour in

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One of those murals was installed along a wall at the developmental center.

And with community input, Berlin Arts & Entertainment selected the Berlin library as a potential site for the second art installation.

“The installation transformed a room at the developmental center into a happy space,” Berlin Arts & Entertainment member Robin Tomaselli said earlier this year.

“I think it will do exactly the same thing at the library.”

In February, the Worcester County Library Board of Trustees agreed to move forward with having the mural installed along a wall in the branch’s upstairs meeting room, with the possibility of moving the mural to an exterior location in the future.

And while the mural’s installation has since moved within the library, Ranck told board members this week the artwork could still be relocated outside as the property is developed.

“If we ever do something with the other four acres – maybe a walking path – it’s possible we can take it down and make it an entrance to that,” she said.

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Team Honored:

December 18, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Worcester Preparatory School girls’ varsity soccer team was recognized with the United Soccer Coaches Team Academic Award and the Team Pinnacle Award for the 2019-20 academic year. Coached by Carol Hartnett and Allison Bescak, this is the fourth year the team has earned the Team Academic Award, which recognizes student athletes for their commitment to achievement on the field and in the classroom. This is the first time the girls team has been awarded the Team Pinnacle Award, which was given to 24 high school and nine college teams nationwide to recognize teams that achieve a high level of fair play, educational excellence and success on the pitch. To be considered for this award, teams must have previously received the Team Academic Award, earned a Team Ethics and Sportsmanship Award, and achieved a winning percentage of .750 or higher during the respective season.

Pictured, front from left, are Hannah Brasure, Izzy Huber and Ava Nally; second row, Grace Baeurle, Brooke Emeigh, Lily Baeurle and Megan Waller; Charlotte Catapano, Sumira Sehgal, Morgan Schoch, Waverly Choy, AnnaMarie Buas, Annie Carter and Anna Carpenter; fourth row, Hanna Zajdel, Claire Windrow, Lebby Becker and Anna Williams; and, back row, Assistant

HERE’S MY CARD Coach Allison Bescak, Anna McDonald, Ava Wilsey, Reagan Sterrs, Olivia Mat-

Page 35

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

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The Maryland Coast Dispatch (USPS #015125) is an official and legal newspaper for Worcester County. Periodical postage paid at Berlin, Maryland, and additional mailing offices.

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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.

Expanded Lacrosse Festival Better Fit For June The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 18, 2020

HOW WE SEE IT

June is the better time of year for a week-long lacrosse festival in the longterm, but the good news is a new and broader focus will be shined on an event that was once a highlight on the sport’s summer calendar.

Adding a youth component to the college and adult competition will bring an added element to the Ocean City Lacrosse Classic, which has for years attracted about 100 teams in a variety of age divisions for men and women. In the mid- to late-90s and early-2000s, the tournament attracted some of the best collegiate lacrosse players in the world who would often come to Ocean City for the White Marlin Open and stay through the lacrosse festival. There was highquality lacrosse on the field on the men and women side.

Due to competition from larger tournaments elsewhere, the event has lost some luster, despite the best efforts of the individuals who have managed and organized it for many years. It’s clear some help was needed, and it appears to be on the way with some lacrosse heavyweights, Dave Cottle and Dave Pietramala namely, stepping in to add some influence.

While it will be nice to have household names in the lacrosse world bolstering the weekend adult competition, the smartest move by organizers is adding a youth component during the week. It may take a few years to grow it

into a large event with hundreds of youth teams, but the effort is worthwhile. With its beach and top-notch accommodations and amenities, Ocean City should easily be able to welcome the youth teams. It’s also a wonderful concept of the adult players competing on the weekends and their children hitting the fields during the week prior.

Though the event will be held in August in 2021, the week-long event needs to be find a new home in June. What week should be decided strategically around the air show weekend, existing events and when the large Memorial Day and Fourth of July weekends fall each year. The town’s tourism folks are certainly capable of maximizing the timing to suit the needs of the resort business community.

Adding the newly reinvented lacrosse tournament to the existing beach sand soccer tournament, which has grown into a solid drawing event, could be the early stages of transforming June into a youth sports month. While bringing families to the area is always a positive, especially when schools are still in session, it could potentially be tremendously beneficial in pushing out the criminal elements who have found Ocean City attractive in June for the last 30 years.

As is the case with the last weekend in September when the pop-up vehicle rally has become entrenched, it’s going

to take bold action to take June back from the miscreants. We must look beyond the acceptance of June crime spiking for a few weeks each year. There should be no tolerance for this sort of behavior. There is a feeling among many the town in recent years have simply become accustomed to crime spiking in June under the assumption it will quiet down around the Fourth of July weekend. It’s a bad thought process.

Adding new and fresh events with the continued bolstering of police manpower could be a recipe for ridding the town of these annual crime spikes.

June is clearly the better month for the rebranded lacrosse tournament.

Mid-August does not need the event and its economic impact has barely been felt for a few years because the tourism season is still in full swing. With occupancy rates at hotels around 85% in mid-August, the economic punch of the broader event should be welcomed in June.

We support the town’s three-year funding commitment to bolster and expand the lacrosse tournament – $120,000 over three years starting with $50,000 the first year. We also encourage the town to include in the Memorandum of Understanding language in the deal requiring the event to find a permanent home in the June calendar after 2021. It’s paramount the event be moved to the slower month of June.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Reform Concerns Inflated Editor: It is disappointing to read the inflated concerns of the Worcester County Sheriff with regards to the several legislative police reforms bills in Maryland.

Rather than express reservations and denials that exist in our law enforcement departments across the nation, it would be more receptive and productive to collaborate with the law makers and draft productive law reform in policing in Maryland.

Facts not scripted dogma should drive police reform. Our society can’t continue to have our police engage in dangerous and ineffective policing while ignoring their primary objectives which is to ‘protect and serve.’

Greg Thrasher Selbyville and Upper Marlboro

Lack Of Leadership Heightened Virus Crisis Editor: On the evening of Feb. 8, 2020, President Trump placed a telephone call to Bob Woodward of The Washington Post newspaper (Bob recorded this call, with the president’s permission, as

he did with many calls with the president). In this call, he acknowledged that the coronavirus was a terrible health issue and that he would not reveal this information to the American people in order to avoid creating a panic. It is my strong opinion that, if informed of the severity of this virus, the American people would have rallied around this information and done what they were directed to do in order to control the spread of the virus.

Unfortunately, there was a total lack of leadership from the president which meant that the governors of the states were left to fend for themselves. Fast forward to today (Dec. 11, 2020) when it was reported that another 2,893 more people had succumbed to the COVID-19 virus bringing the total number of deaths in this country to 295,830. Now the President is urging in no uncertain terms that he wanted the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine approved by midnight Dec. 11 or the Chief of the FDA should submit his resignation. As of this writing, the FDA has approved the Pfizer vaccine. Given President Trump’s intervention in the approval process, some people may see this approval as politically motivated as op-

posed to being based on scientific evidence.

Oh, how I wish that President Trump had given the same level of time and energy to combatting the virus in this country in its early days as compared to the time that he has spent on contesting the results of the free and fair election that occurred on Nov. 3, 2020.

Just today he lost another frivolous lawsuit in the United States Supreme Court in which 126 Republican members of Congress (including Congressman Andy Harris) signed on in support of this action.

Where are their brains? This means that President Trump and the Republican Party have lost more than fifty sham lawsuits in their efforts to steal the election for President Trump.

Dare I mention his invitation to the Republican members of the Michigan Legislature to come to the White House where he could pressure them to do his bidding. Fortunately, they had the moral courage to say “No, Mr. President.”

In closing, rumor has it that President Trump will be spending the upcoming holidays at Mar A Lago and will SEE NEXT PAGE

December 18, 2020

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR not return to the White House to work with President-Elect Biden on a peaceful transition of power. How unAmerican.

Harry Yeich Ocean City

Harris Should Step Aside Editor: Last night, I read that our Congressman Andy Harris supported President Trump’s attempt to reverse the election results in which President-Elect Biden won handily, fair and square.

I have attended a number of Mr. Harris’ local town hall meetings over the last few years and heard him promote and defend his congressional record. I often disagreed with him; but he appeared to care about this country’s norms, and he claimed to believe in our democratic process.

Now he appears to resist verified election results. Biden won the election vote by a significant margin anyway you look at it. Representative Bill Pascrell Jr. of New Jersey stated, “Men and women who would act to tear the United States government apart cannot serve as members of Congress.” I wonder if Mr. Harris clearly understands his oath to uphold our constitution, and I will remember his stand on the 2020 presidential election if he chooses to run again.

Paul Lojewski Berlin

576 Meals Served On Thanksgiving Day Editor: I want to take a minute to thank the community of Ocean City for helping Ocean City Baptist Church continue our yearly tradition of serving an annual Thanksgiving Dinner on Thanksgiving Day. For the last 41 years we have served the entire community a Thanksgiving meal. This year was different because we were unable to host the dinner inside our building. But regardless of the government restrictions we were able to continue this tradition because of the generosity of this community.

This year we had 10 volunteers come in and help on Tuesday prepare for the meal. On Thursday another 50 came to prepare, serve, and deliver meals. These volunteers were asked to come at different times, in two-hour shifts, throughout the day so we could keep numbers down and practice social distancing. The volunteers ranged in all ages from 5 years old to 85 years old. By the end of the day, we had served 576 meals by take out or delivery. The meals included turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, sweet potatoes, a roll, and the choice of a pumpkin pie or an apple pie.

I would like to thank the Humphrey’s Grant, Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645, the American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, Dicarlos Printing, Benchmark Property Services, Bank of Ocean City, Wednesday Night Ladies Bowling Lea-

Between The Lines

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

gue, and Fager’s Island Restaurant for their generous donation in making this meal possible. I also want to thank the members of the Ocean City Baptist Church for all their love and support to make this meal possible every year.

They worked hard to create an environment that made sure all people were safe and in the process, we had a lot of fun. I especially want to thank Melanie Corbin, Margie Wilson and Chef Paul deHuarte of Ristorante Antipasti who made sure this meal happened.

2020 has brought many challenges, but I was reminded this year that we have so much to be thankful for. It was an amazing day that I was privileged to be a part of. All the glory goes to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Sean Davis Ocean City (The writer is a pastor of Ocean City Baptist Church.)

Voter Fraud Issues Editor: Now that the Supreme Court said there was no voter fraud committed in the election, it is time to fix the voter fraud problem.

Larry Biddle Brooksville. Fla.

Vaccine Trial Process Flawed Editor: It’s both disappointing and inaccurate that people who participated in COVID-19 vaccine trials — and those who will be first to receive the vaccines once they are available — are being casually referred to as “guinea pigs.”

Unlike animals used in experiments, these individuals volunteer to participate. They get to go home to their families, sleep in their own beds, and carry on with their lives as usual. And they may stand to benefit from their involvement.

Guinea pigs and other animals who are used in experiments are unwilling victims. They are caged, isolated, infected with diseases, tormented in painful procedures, and almost always killed afterward.

Subjecting animals to this misery isn’t only cruel, it’s an impediment to scientific progress. Part of the reason why scientists were able to develop multiple COVID-19 vaccine candidates so quickly is because they bypassed the typical years of preclinical animal trials before starting any human clinical trials. They know that diseases and vaccines affect different species in very different ways. Experimenting on animals squanders time and resources we can’t afford to waste.

As we’ve seen in the race to stop the coronavirus pandemic, ethical, humanrelevant research is where real hope lies.

Shalin Gala Norfolk, Va. (The writer is the vice president, International Laboratory Methods, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).

Page 37

By Publisher/Editor Steve Green

Gov. Larry Hogan gave some welcome news to businesses during last Thursday’s press conference. More than likely most business owners who had to downsize through employee layoffs this year have not thought a lot about unemployment rates or paying back a loan from the state.

Many businesses laid off employees in the spring to offset severe reductions in operations. The consequence for this contraction would come next month when the state administers a tax on each employee’s wages up to $8,500. The business pays this tax and the taxable rate depends on the company’s experience rating, which is calculated through a formula involving chargeable benefits. Hogan’s announcement last year excludes 2020 from being used in that three-year experience rating calculation, resulting in businesses seeing their rating staying flat from last week. If this was not authorized last week, many Maryland businesses would face significant increases in tax liabilities in what is expected to be a disastrous first quarter for most operators. It’s welcome news from the governor, albeit I’m assuming this was not on the minds of many business owners. I know I hadn’t thought about it a lot.

The second announcement rolls the emergency loans doled out by the state last spring into a grant. Back in the spring Hogan announced a grant and loan program for businesses. Within weeks, the grant program dried up because the state was fast in expending $10,000 funding injections to businesses. While the loan program took longer to give out finds, hundreds of businesses in Maryland received flat $10,000 or more loans, which were 0% for the first year and 2% for the next 36 months. The loans were impressive because they were easy to apply for and receive and were given with no accountability needed. They were for operation purposes only. Similar to the unemployment announcement, this is a welcomed move but one most likely not on the minds of business operators since the interest didn’t get in until next year (one year after loan issuance).

In these two cases, the governor did Maryland businesses a major solid and should be commended for it.

The fallout of an Anne Arundel County judge’s temporary restraining order blocking the county executive’s ban on limited indoor and outdoor dining should be followed.

Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman’s ban was set to take effect this week, but the restaurants and bars in Anne Arundel got a stay and will remain open on a limited basis with capacity restrictions until at least Dec. 28 when a final hearing in the case is set.

“The restrictions on the plaintiffs’ businesses were applied in an inconsistent manner from other businesses that contribute significantly to COVID contact sources,” Anne Arundel County Circuit Court Judge William Mumford II wrote in his opinion. “In other words, there appears at this stage to be an arbitrary and capricious application of restrictions to the plaintiff’s businesses when compared to other business activities.”

Currently, most restaurants in Worcester County and around the state are limited to 50% capacity, socially-distanced tables, a 10 p.m. closing time and mask requirements for employees and guests, among other things. Local jurisdictions must, at the very least, follow the governor’s directives, but can make policies and issue orders that are more stringent.

Such was the case in Anne Arundel County, and in Baltimore City, where a ban on indoor and outdoor dining has been applied.

In a statement after the ruling, Pittman said, “We believe the science from public health experts is clear and it shows that taking actions to limit situations where people gather without masks will prevent the spread of this virus and ultimately save lives. We look forward to a full hearing on the merits of the case.”

When asked about potential further restrictions last week, Hogan said the state was carefully watching the metrics, but more restrictions on restaurants and bars were not immediately in the offing. In fact, Hogan said the state’s contact tracing data indicated family gatherings were the largest generators of new cases and restaurants and bars were somewhere near fifth on the list.

Locally, the Anne Arundel decision on Wednesday was met with relief.

Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association Executive Director Susan Jones said on Thursday she and her other colleagues around the state were closely watching the Anne Arundel case unfold.

“I was pleased to learn of the judge blocking the ruling in Anne Arundel County and hope that other jurisdictions follow suit,” she said. “I’ve talked extensively with the president of the Restaurant Association of Maryland over the last few months and we’ve always believed that restaurants are being unfairly targeted.”

Jones agreed with Hogan the contact tracing data does not suggest restaurants and bars, operating at limited capacities while following all of the existing state directives, were a clearly identified source of spreading the coronavirus.

“All around the nation, contact tracing is pointing to large gatherings in homes as a source,” she said. “Restaurants have always been super compliant from the beginning and done everything possible to keep employees and customers safe.”

Page 38

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Adventures Of Fatherhood

By STEVE GREEN

y boys vary greatly in their approaches to food and the stark dichotomy never ceases to amaze me.

Eating is one of the highlights of Carson’s day.

Despite having gluten- and dairy intolerances, Carson, 11, has a love for a variety of foods. It can be challenging with the diet restrictions to diversify his eating habits, but he makes it easier because he’s not picky. He will try anything. If he doesn’t like it, we know immediately because he will literally spit it back out.

The youngest in the house will sample anything we ask, but he will give the stink eye to green foods in general. With his dinner the other night I gave him corn with asparagus and green beans in it. He ate the green beans and corn, but left the asparagus behind. When I asked about it, he put his finger in his mouth and motioned like he was throwing up.

Among Carson’s favorite foods currently are wings, steamed shrimp, strawberry pie, sorbet, bananas, French fries and chicken anyway at all. Carson thoroughly enjoys the act of eating. He seems to cherish it. For example, I left Carson with his lunch on the table the other day while I ran upstairs. When I returned, he had his six wings lined up from smallest to biggest. He was waiting for me to come back to show off how big the last one was, flexing his muscles to indicate that chicken must have been a big one.

For Beckett, 12, eating is akin to pumping gas -- something to get done with as quickly and be happy when it’s over. He’s a great eater, but he does not grasp the whole concept of enjoying the food. It’s something to shovel in and be done with. He’s much pickier than his little brother. It’s a shame because he’s missing out on some great foods. Hopefully, he will grow out of his stubborn phase and believe us when we tell him crab imperial, barbecue wings, steamed

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Nonetheless, we are fortunate because he really likes vegetables. The only veggie I don’t think he likes is Brussel sprouts, and I can’t say I blame him there for one bit.

Beckett’s favorite foods these days are bagels, cheeseburgers, pizza, ice cream, crab cakes, beef tacos, broccoli, corn and cookies. He’s also a nut for candy; so much so we found him one time stashing his Halloween candy under his bed so he could have easier access than going down into the kitchen.

The candy bag has mysteriously disappeared, but I’m responsible for hiding that in a place I can’t remember.

F

inding humor in challenging things is a good recipe for life.

If you like to explore the lighter side and enjoy refreshing perspectives mixed in with comedy, Lexington, Ky., Elementary School Principal Gerry Brooks deserves a Google search.

He often posts of his Dollar Tree Lessons where he talks about everyday items he has purchased. One video I found of note recently involved the harsh realities associated with virtual learning. As we stumble through the trials and tribulations of virtual learning, I found this educator’s perspective appropriate.

In this video (partially transcribed here), Brooks is sincere rather than his comedic self. Prior to posting the video, he posted a message the night before saying, “The frustration levels that come with virtual learning are sometimes so overwhelming that I can’t breathe. And if I am feeling that, I can’t imagine how stressful it is for parents.”

I assume his parents found this transparent and honest message refreshing because all too often hot air ruminates from leaders. Blunt talk and

ownership of how absurd the current education model is due to the pandemic would be appreciated. Our kids and families are struggling terribly with home school learning. Each family has its own account of how difficult and overwhelming the whole concept is at times.

Brooks has a good way with words so I wanted to share some of his message because I talk with parents constantly who are nearing their wit’s end with balancing work, virtual school, social concerns with their kids and difficult daily decisions to make involving keeping their kids safe versus not being a prisoner to a virus.

“My object lesson for today is we have to put on other people’s lenses. I was able to put a parent’s lenses yesterday and I was able to put on a student’s lenses this week,” he said in the video. “(Putting his glasses on) I am very aware of the frustrations parents are going through. I know my frustrations. Oh my gosh it’s so frustrating right now, I want to cry right in the middle of my lesson. I just can’t imagine what teachers are going through that are doing this all day long because my hour teaching is so stressed out.”

He added, “I want to remind the kids out there to put on the lenses of your parents. Put on the lenses of your administrator. Do you know how stressful this is? Some administrators put on this air … but they are going through as much stress as you are going through. … We are all going through the same impossible thing. I put these lenses by my computer to remind myself these parents, kids and teachers are going through unimaginable stresses. We have to understand what all of us are going through. We are all going through the same thing.”

(The writer is the publisher and editor of The Dispatch. He and his wife, Pamela, are proud parents of two boys. This weekly column examines their transition into parenthood and all that goes along with it. E-mail any thoughts to editor@mdcoastdispatch.com.)

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December 18, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 39

News In Photos

Wicomico Retired Educational Personnel (WREP) contributed to the Salvation Army's Holiday Campaign by donating toys and educational gifts during a Toy Drop-off. Pictured are retired special educators Cheryl Kennedy and Judy Davis with science teacher of 44 years, Sammy Everett.

The General Levin Winder Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) recently donated lap robes for Coastal Hospice’s “We Honor Veterans” program. Lap robes were donated at the Macky and Pam Stansell House in Ocean Pines. Pictured are Bob Miller, Sr., Coastal Hospice director of business development, and Gail Weldin, Chapter Regent.

Submitted Photos

Ravens Roost #58 helped a local family with some holiday joy this year. Treasurer Jeanette Deskiewicz is pictured above giving the gifts to Debbie Smullen of Worcester Youth and Family Counseling for delivery.

On Dec. 10, staff members of the Art League of Ocean City Katie Brown, Cassie Wait, Rina Thaler and Megan Burak delivered 21 bags containing 146 winter coats, plus a box of hats, gloves and scarves, to Diakonia for its annual coat drive. Members of the Art League and other community members donated the coats.

The Atlantic Coast Sportfishing Association (ACSA) recognized its 2020 Angler of the Year in both bay and ocean divisions at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club.

ACSA mugs, a certificate of recognition and a cash award were presented to each top angler by ACSA Secretary John McFalls. Pictured, from left, are Angler of the Year Ocean Division, Dale Christensen of Ocean Pines; ACSA Secretary John McFalls; and Angler of the Year Bay Division, Budd Heim of Ocean Pines.

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Unprecedented PC Surge Continues Amid Pandemic

Page 40

BY SAM CARD

SPECIAL TO THE DISPATCH

BERLIN – Due to the pandemic that took the world by surprise in late March of this year, the demand for notebook computers increased dramatically and unexpectedly. The need for computers grew so fast that PC makers were caught off guard and struggled to keep up with production. In a typical year the second quarter is ordinarily slow for PC sales, which PC makers plan for and react by reducing their unit orders and readjust in early Q3 to ramp up production in order to meet the fall back-to-school demand and be ready for the holiday buying season but this year that was not the case.

Q&A WITH SAM CARD

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Just like everything else 2020 was not a “typical” year and we have all been thrown for a loop including PC manufacturers. The fact is that it has been forecasted that the industry will sell between 300-310 million units this year and at least 285-295 million PCs in 2021. As a reference point the peak of computer sales was in 2011 where PCs and desktops sold 365 million units.

SAM CARD It is abundantly clear to us “techies” why PCs and laptops are so valuable, and most business users of all types see them as essential business tools. However, the biggest realization, since the

COVID-19 pandemic, has been that now everyone else has embraced PCs as their window-to-the-world. With computers people have been able to work, learn, play games, stream media for entertainment, and most importantly, stay close to friends and family who they could not get together with due to lockdowns and travel bans.

PCs have also become the must-have tool for families with children in the home who no longer are able to attend classes in person and instead have had to move to a virtual classroom environment at home.

What is interesting for the PC industry is the resurgent interest in PCs. While the COVID-19 upward surge is tied to the

December 18, 2020

pandemic, it has brought the role of PCs and laptops back into our collective thinking. This resurgence means PC manufacturers need to continue to innovate and integrate better technologies and capabilities into their machines in order to keep their captive audience’s attention into 2021. Therefore, be on the lookout for better designs and features like even more extended battery life.

The fact computers can be designed for every budget and capability make them the must have 2020 holiday gift. The flexibility to provide work functionality, a connection to loved ones, entertainment and education resources make PCs and notebooks the prize of the pandemic and with no true end in sight we expect the desire for them to continue into 2021.

(The writer can be reached at SCard@cards-tech.com. To learn more about Cards Technology, visit www.cards-tech.com.)

Fenwick Extends Workforce Policy

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

FENWICK ISLAND – A work policy protecting Fenwick Island employees from the COVID-19 virus will continue through May of next year.

Earlier this month, the Fenwick Island Town Council voted unanimously to extend a workforce policy first established in April, at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The policy – set to expire on Dec. 31 – will be extended through May 31, 2021.

“The COVID policy that is currently adopted expires the date that council extended this to, December 31,” Town Manager Terry Tieman said. “Unfortunately, we believe it needs to be extended at least until May 31, or whatever time the emergency order is lifted from Governor (John) Carney.”

In late March, the town council agreed to adjust its workforce policy in response to the pandemic. And in August, the council agreed to extend its employee practices through December.

As part of the COVID-19 policy, employees will not be required to use their accrued sick leave or vacation time if they or a dependent family member are diagnosed with, or under quarantine for, COVID-19. However, well employees are still expected at work unless they have been caring for someone with COVID-19, instructed to refrain from attending work by their physician or public health officials, or are in a CDC Level 3 area of concern for COVID-19.

“It complies with the federal guidelines,” Tieman said in September. “In fact, it’s more generous than the federal guidelines.”

The workforce policy is one of several measures taken by town officials in recent months to stop the spread of COVID-19.

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Page 42

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch

Legal Notices

LEGAL RATES Legal advertising rate is $7 per column inch. Deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon. For more information, call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966.

TOWN OF SNOW HILL - PUBLIC NOTICE

This is an MDE-required notice. The Town of Snow Hill routinely monitors its drinking water system for the presence of contaminants. Testing results from April - June 2020 show that our system exceeds the maximum contaminant level (MCL), for TTHM at 84 parts per billion (ppb), the standard being 80 ppb. This is not an emergency, and is limited to the area by the County Jail. To correct this problem, the frequency of hydrant flushing procedures has been increased. For more info., please contact Russell Harrison at 410-463-3314 or harrison@snowhillmd.com.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 18, 2020

THIRD INSERTION VICTOR H LAWS ESQ LAWS, INSLEY & BENSON, P.A. 209 E. MAIN STREET P.O. BOX 75 SALISBURY, MD 21803-0075 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18508 To all persons interested in the estate of M. WAYNE HOLLAND, ESTATE NO. 18508.

Notice is given that JUDITH M. HOLLAND, 4001 WHITESBURG ROAD, POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851 was on, NOVEMBER 30, 2020, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of M. WAYNE HOLLAND, who died on NOVEMBER 2, 2020, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 30TH day of MAY, 2021.

Any person having a claim

against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before 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 04, 2020 JUDITH M. HOLLAND Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street

The Dispatch

December 18, 2020

Legal Notices

LEGAL RATES Legal advertising rate is $7 per column inch. Deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon. For more information, call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966.

Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x, 12-04, 12-11, 12-18

THIRD INSERTION

LESLIE LOBOS, ESQ. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL PINES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-20-000291 VILLAS OF OCEAN PINES BORDERLINKS TIMESHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 Plaintiff v.

JOHN COUTURE, ET AL. Defendants TRUSTEE’S SALE OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN THE VILLAS OF OCEAN PINES, BORDERLINKS CONDOMINIUM, OCEAN PINES, MD By virtue of a certain Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-20-000291, the undersigned Trustee, will offer for sale at public auction at the entrance of the Villas of Ocean Pines, located at, 438 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, Maryland, the following described property located in Ocean Pines, Worcester County, Maryland, on Monday, December 21, 2020 at 11:00 a.m., the following timeshare intervals: Condomimium Unit Bh34 Bh34 Bh34 Bn40 Bn40 Bq43 Bq43 Bq43 Br44 Br44 Br44 Br44 Bx50 Bx50 Bx50

Time Interval 8 13 39 5 16 9 40 43 1 8 9 42 4 11 16

Each time interval being one

week per year in the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Villas of Ocean Pines, including an undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Declaration of Condominium and Timeshare recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, as to each condominium unit and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties and guarantees.

A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to withdraw any interval from the sale and/or to reject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of the sales price per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, 2020 maintenance fees and all other settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be within fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.

For more information, call: Leslie Lobos, Esq., Trustee, at 240-449-8862.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 04, 2020 3x, 12-04, 12-11, 12-18

THIRD INSERTION

LESLIE LOBOS, ESQ. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL PINES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-20-000292 VILLAS OF OCEAN PINES BORDERLINKS TIMESHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 Plaintiff v.

DANNY WAYNE MEANS, ET AL. Defendants TRUSTEE’S SALE OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN THE VILLAS OF OCEAN PINES, BORDERLINKS CONDOMINIUM, OCEAN PINES, MD By virtue of a certain Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-20-000292, the undersigned Trustee, will offer for sale at public auction at the entrance of the Villas of Ocean Pines, located at, 438 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, Maryland, the following described property located in Ocean Pines, Worcester County, Maryland, on Monday, December 21, 2020 at 11:00 a.m., the following timeshare intervals: Time Condomimium Unit Interval Ay25 Ay25 Ay25 Ay25 Ay25 Bb28 Bb28 Bb28 Bc29 Bc29 Bc29 Bf32 Bf32 Bg33 Bg33 Bg33 Bh34

44 45 47 50 52 18 36 47 14 46 50 5 20 3 49 50 7

Each time interval being one week per year in the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Villas of Ocean Pines, including an undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Declaration of Condominium and Timeshare recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, as to each condominium unit and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties and guarantees.

A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to

withdraw any interval from the sale and/or to reject any and all bids.

Page 43 Condomimium Unit

Time Interval

Bh34 Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of the sales price per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, 2020 maintenance fees and all other settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be within fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.

For more information, call: Leslie Lobos, Esq., Trustee, at 240-449-8862.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 04, 2020 3x, 12-04, 12-11, 12-18

THIRD INSERTION

LESLIE LOBOS, ESQ. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL PINES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-20-000296 VILLAS OF OCEAN PINES BORDERLINKS TIMESHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 Plaintiff v.

LARRY ALLIO, ET AL. Defendants TRUSTEE’S SALE OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN THE VILLAS OF OCEAN PINES, BORDERLINKS CONDOMINIUM, OCEAN PINES, MD By virtue of a certain Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-20-000296, the undersigned Trustee, will offer for sale at public auction at the entrance of the Villas of Ocean Pines, located at, 438 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, Maryland, the following described property located in Ocean Pines, Worcester County, Maryland, on Monday, December 21, 2020 at 11:00 a.m., the following timeshare intervals:

38

Each time interval being one week per year in the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Villas of Ocean Pines, including an undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Declaration of Condominium and Timeshare recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, as to each condominium unit and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties and guarantees.

A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to withdraw any interval from the sale and/or to reject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of the sales price per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, 2020 maintenance fees and all other settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be within fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.

For more information, call: Leslie Lobos, Esq., Trustee, at 240-449-8862.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 04, 2020 3x, 12-04, 12-11, 12-18

THIRD INSERTION

LESLIE LOBOS, ESQ. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL PINES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-20-000297 VILLAS OF OCEAN PINES BORDERLINKS TIMESHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 Plaintiff

v.

JOHN C. DREXEL, ET AL. Defendants TRUSTEE’S SALE OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN THE VILLAS OF OCEAN PINES, BORDERLINKS CONDOMINIUM, OCEAN PINES, MD By virtue of a certain Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-20-000297, the undersigned Trustee, will offer for sale at public auction at the entrance of the Villas of Ocean Pines, located at, 438 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, Maryland, the following described property located in Ocean Pines, Worcester County, Maryland, on Monday, December 21, 2020 at 11:00 a.m., the following timeshare intervals: Condomimium Time Unit Interval Bx50 Bx50 Bx50 Bx50 Bx50 Bx50 By51 By51 By51 By51 By51

17 36 43 46 47 52 2 15 43 44 52

Each time interval being one week per year in the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Villas of Ocean Pines, including an undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Declaration of Condominium and Timeshare recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, as to each condominium unit and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties and guarantees.

A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to withdraw any interval from the sale and/or to reject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of the sales price per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, 2020 maintenance fees and all other settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be within fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the

The Dispatch

Page 44

LEGAL RATES

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Legal Notices

Legal advertising rate is $7 per column inch. Deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon. For more information, call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966. essence; otherwise the deposit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.

For more information, call: Leslie Lobos, Esq., Trustee, at 240-449-8862.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 04, 2020 3x, 12-04, 12-11, 12-18

SECOND INSERTION

ALEX R. HOUSLEY ESQ 658 KENILWORTH DRIVE SUITE 203 TOWSON, MD 21204 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18474 To all persons interested in the estate of JAMES A. BROWN, ESTATE NO. 18474.

Notice is given that RYAN T. BROWN, 10 VALLEY RIDGE LOOP, COCKEYSVILLE, MD 21030 was on, DECEMBER 03, 2020, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JAMES A. BROWN, who died on AUGUST 31, 2020, without a will.

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

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 3rd day of JUNE, 2021.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the

personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before 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 11, 2020 RYAN T. BROWN 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, 12-11, 12-18, 12-24

SECOND INSERTION

B. RANDALL COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES 204 WEST GREEN STREET SALISBURY, MD 21863 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18511 To all persons interested in the estate of CURTIS E. SHOCKLEY, ESTATE NO. 18511.

Notice is given that ROBERT E. SHOCKLEY, 6820 SHOCKLEY ROAD, SNOW HILL, MD 21863 was on, DECEMBER 02, 2020, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CURTIS E. SHOCKLEY, who died on NOVEMBER 16, 2020, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2ND day of JUNE, 2021.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the un-

estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2ND day of JUNE, 2021.

dersigned 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:

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

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

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

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

(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 11, 2020

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 11, 2020

ROBERT E. SHOCKLEY Personal Representative

MITCHELL M. PARKER 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, 12-11, 12-18, 12-24

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, 12-11, 12-18, 12-24

SECOND INSERTION

THOMAS K. COATES ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21843 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18512 To all persons interested in the estate of EUGENE R. PARKER JR., ESTATE NO. 18512.

Notice is given that MITCHELL M. PARKER, 12449 SELSEY ROAD, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 was on, DECEMBER 02, 2020, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of EUGENE R. PARKER JR., who died on NOVEMBER 24, 2020, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the

SECOND INSERTION

EDMUND L WIDDOWSON JR., ESQ 11791 SOMERSET AVE PRINCESS ANNE, MD 21853 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18515 To all persons interested in the estate of DOLORES MAY WHITE, ESTATE NO. 18515.

Notice is given that ANDREW LEE WHITE, 172 NORTHSLOPE II ROAD, EAST STROUDSBURG, PA 18302 was on, DECEMBER 07, 2020, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DOLORES MAY WHITE, who died on SEPTEMBER 29, 2020, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the

December 18, 2020 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, 2021.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before 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 11, 2020 ANDREW LEE WHITE 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, 12-11, 12-18, 12-24

SECOND INSERTION LESLIE LOBOS, ESQ. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL PINES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-20-000271 BORDERLINKS I TIME INTERVAL OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 Plaintiff v.

SHARON PRETTYMAN, ET AL. Defendants TRUSTEE’S SALE OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN THE BORDERLINKS

CONDOMINIUM, OCEAN PINES, MD By virtue of a certain Claim of Lien recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, and pursuant to the Order of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, Case No. C-23-CV-20-000271, the undersigned Trustee, will offer for sale at public auction at the entrance of the Borderlinks Condominium, located at, 438 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, Maryland, the following described property located in Ocean Pines, Worcester County, Maryland, on Monday, December 28, 2020 at 11:00 a.m., the following timeshare intervals: Condomimium Time Unit Interval Bi35 Bi35 Bj36 Bj36 Bj36 Bj36 Bj36 Bk37 Bk37 Bk37 Bo41 Bo41 Bo41 Bo41 Bo41 Bz52 Bz52 Cb54 Cb54 Cb54

20 40 5 8 10 14 19 18 47 48 4 14 40 41 44 1 2 11 19 48

Each time interval being one week per year in the corresponding unit, each unit being part of the Borderlinks Condominium, including an undivided interest in the common elements thereof, as established pursuant to a Declaration of Condominium and Timeshare recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland and subsequent Declarations of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, as to each condominium unit and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records.

The property will be sold in an “as is” condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranties and guarantees.

A secured party may bid and shall be excused from deposit requirements. The Trustee reserves the right to withdraw any interval from the sale and/or to reject any and all bids.

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the full amount of the sales price per time interval will be required at the time of sale, such deposit to be in cash or check. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, 2020 maintenance fees and all other settlement costs shall be borne by the purchaser. The date of settlement shall be within fifteen (15) days after final ratification by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, time being of the essence; otherwise the de-

The Dispatch

December 18, 2020

Legal Notices

LEGAL RATES Legal advertising rate is $7 per column inch. Deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon. For more information, call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966.

posit will be forfeited and the property will be resold at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser, or in any manner designated by the Trustee; or, without forfeiting deposit, the Seller may exercise any of its legal or equitable rights against the defaulting purchaser.

For more information, call: Leslie Lobos, Esq., Trustee, at 240-449-8862.

Do You Know 15,000 People Read The Dispatch’s Daily Buzz Every Week?

Sign Up At www.mdcoastdispatch.com And Get Local News Each Day.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication DECEMBER 11, 2020 3x, 12-11, 12-18, 12-24

(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

FIRST INSERTION

EDMUND L WIDDOWSON JR., ESQ 11791 SOMERSET AVE PRINCESS ANNE, MD 21853 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18520

To all persons interested in the estate of REGINALD T. HANCOCK, ESTATE NO. 18520. Notice is given that EDMUND L WIDDOWSON JR., 11791 SOMERSET AVE., PRINCESS ANNE, MD 21853 was on, DECEMBER 10, 2020, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of REGINALD T. HANCOCK, who died on DECEMBER 01, 2020, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10TH day of JUNE, 2021.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch 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 18, 2020 EDMUND L WIDDOWSON 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 3x, 12-18, 12-24, 12-31

FIRST INSERTION

RAYMOND D. COATES JR., ESQ COATES, COATES, & COATES, P.A. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY

SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18523 To all persons interested in the estate of HAYWOOD PURNELL AKA HAYWARD PURNELL, ESTATE NO. 18523. Notice is given that GARNETT H. PURNELL, 2855 PHEASANT FIELD DRIVE, HILLARD, OH 43926 was on, DECEMBER 14, 2020, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of HAYWOOD PURNELL, who died on SEPTEMBER 19, 1985, without a will.

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

Page 45 All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 14TH day of JUNE, 2021.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other

written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before 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 18, 2020 GARNETT H. PURNELL 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, 12-18, 12-24, 12-31

Page 46

Horoscopes

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): Although taking advice isn't always easy for the headstrong Sheep, you might want to consider what someone you respect says about an upcoming decision.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): A new offer is tempting, but don't be bullied into a quick decision. Rely on your keen Bovine business sense to alert you to anything that might be questionable.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Your Gemini Twin nature rallies to help you deal with this week's hectic schedules, both in your personal and professional lives. One caution: Watch your diet.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): Avoid rushing to make up for time lost on a stalled workplace operation. Best to set up a schedule and pace yourself. Welcome the help of colleagues.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): Despite those glittering holiday distractions you love so well, be sure to keep your feline senses set on high to alert you to anything that might require fast action.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): Making an effort to restore fraying relationships proves to be more successful than you dared hope. The holidays also bring new friends into your life.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): Pri-

OCEAN CITY vanishing

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

vate and professional matters compete for your attention. Be honest in your assessment of which should get more of it, and for how long.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): A seemingly endless list of must-do tasks is best handled by tackling them one by one, and taking energy-restoring timeouts between each job.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): A vexing relationship seems destined to deteriorate no matter what each side tries to do. A third party's advice just might prove helpful.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): Reach out to ease any tensions caused by home or workplace pressures before they threaten the relationship-building progress you've made.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): You often go out of your way to show kindness to others. So, don't be surprised if other people want to do something nice for you this week.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): People in your life respect your Piscean wisdom, so don't hesitate to speak up about a matter that you feel isn't being handled quite the way it should be.

BORN THIS WEEK: Your personal warmth helps you make friendships, and your sense of fair play helps you keep them. © 2020 King Features Synd., Inc.

Things I Like ...

December 18, 2020

WITH BUNK MANN

Edwards 5 and 10 was a fixture on the Boardwalk at North Division Street for 75 years. The original store opened in 1937 and was one of just a handful of Ocean City businesses that stayed opened year-round.

Managed for many years by Al Harmon, who also served as Ocean City’s fire chief for part of that time, Edwards had a little bit of everything in stock. It was often said that “if you couldn’t find it at Edwards, you probably didn’t need it.” Many still recall the sloping wooden floor and how it creaked. Legend has it that the floor had been built over the old Showell swimming pool and hence its odd configuration.

The original building, shown circa 1964, was razed in 1988 and replaced by the modern masonry building that stands there today. Edwards 5 and 10 continued in that location until last year. The space is now occupied by an expansive Quiet Storm Surf Shop.

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

Photo from Bunk Mann’s collection

The Dispatch Crossword Puzzle

By Steve Green

When a snow storm misses our area

The sound of the carriage rides in Berlin Looking forward to vacationing again Old childhood photos

Working on a rainy Monday Thick coffee mugs

When my work desk is clear

Personalized photo calendars

Seeing a kid reading for pleasure Old storm pictures

Fresh flowers in a house

ANSWERS ON PAGE 38

December 18, 2020

Directing families into the Residence Inn for the Breakfast with Santa benefitting Believe in Tomorrow were Joe Baumann and Rob Baker of Bikers Without Borders.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

People

By Jeanette Deskiewicz

FEATURING THOSE HELPING CAUSES IN THE RESORT AREA

Treasurer Jamie Bailey and Executive Director Lisa Taylor represented the Pocomoke Chamber of Commerce during the Miracle on Market Street last Friday night.

In Society

Page 47

The JR Women’s Club of Pocomoke held a gift card raffle at the Miracle on Market Street with Amanda Krants, Jr. Miss Pocomoke Samantha Lambertson, Norma Howard and Micaela Shelton selling the tickets.

OC Life-Saving Station Museum Curator Christine Okerblom and Assistant Curator Cara Downey greeted visitors as they came into the gift shop for the holiday open house.

Logan and Jess Hall had their photographs and paintings for sale at the Chesterfields Heirlooms Christmas Market.

Audrey’s Delmarva-lous Soaps pioneer Audrey Davis, had her proud papa, Tommy, by her side while selling her bath products during Pocomoke’s Miracle on Market Street.

Chesterfield Heirlooms owner Stephanie Barfield and Anna Smith welcomed shoppers into the farm stand for the Christmas Market last Saturday.

Residence Inn employee Carlie Bozman and volunteer Mellisa Colimore checked diners into the Believe in Tomorrow Breakfast with Santa fundraiser.

At the Chesterfields Heirlooms Christmas Market, Grace Kreger helped local Clare Shockley in selling the homemade Clare’s Nutty Concoctions.

Shelly Daniels and Cathy Julian sold a variety of items during the Miracle on Market Street in Downtown Pocomoke to support the town’s Samaritan Shelter.

Page 48

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

December 18, 2020