Feb, 12

February 12, 2021

Priceless

Serving Greater Delmarva Since 1984

www.mdcoastdispatch.com

February Beach Day: This seemingly healthy seal took a break on the beach in Ocean City this week before returning to the ocean by the end of the day.

Photo by Tyler Horton

Memorial Day Weekend Plans Eyed

Berlin Weighs Selling Park Parcels

OC Summer Events Lineup Proposed

See Page 4 • File Photo

See Page 8 • File Photo

See Page 6 • Photo by Chris Parypa

Page 2

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

SERVING DELMARVA FOR NEARLY 60 YEARS

February 12, 2021

February 12, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 3

LOCAL DELIVERY FROM MARYLAND/DELAWARE LINE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK MINGO Monday 6-8 P.M.

BAR BINGO Thursday 6-8 P.M. OPEN EVERY DAY 9 A.M.-9 P.M. BREAKFAST MON.-FRI. 9-11 .A.M., SAT. & SUN. 9 A.M.-NOON

TAYLOR KNOX LIVE WEDNESDAY 5 P.M. OFF SEASON SPECIALS WITH BEVERAGE PURCHASE Dine-In or Carryout

Monday: Noon-Close

Friday: Noon-Close

CHEESESTEAK w/Chips $10

STEAK & CAKE, RIBS & CAKE OR CHICKEN & CAKE $25 BAYSIDE COMBO $18

Tuesday: Noon-Close

TACO TUESDAY Wednesday: Noon-Close

CHEF’S CHOICE

Saturday: Noon-Close

PRIME RIB & LOBSTER TAIL $30 PRIME RIB & CRABCAKE $25 Sunday: 2-8 p.m.

Thursday: Noon-Close

2 CRABCAKE PLATTERS $25

BURGER w/Fries $10

w/Fries & Slaw. Add Beignets for $3

$7 Breakfast Special Monday-Thursday

HAPPY HOUR MON.-FRI.: DRINK SPECIALS NOON-6 P.M. FOOD SPECIALS 3-6 P.M. (AVAILABLE INSIDE OR OUTSIDE)

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

TOGO ALSO AVAILABLE THRU CHOW NOW Go To Our Website To Check Out Our All New Menus! Carryout Available

AN OCEAN CITY TRADITION SINCE 1976!

APPAREL SHOP OPEN FRI. 4-9PM SAT. 10AM-9PM • SUN. 11AM-6PM

WINTER SALE:

50% OFF GREG NORMAN

Open Sunday -Thursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. • Friday & Saturday 11 a.m.-Midnight

Celebrate The Weekend With Us! 2 Pork Chops with Starch & Veg Only $12

MONDAY: 1/2 Off Cheesesteaks & Chicken Tender Wrap • $4 Craft Drafts TUESDAY: 1/2 Off Tacos & Salads $4 Margaritas & Coronas WEDNESDAY: 1/2 Off Entrees $5 Orange Crushes THURSDAY: 30% Off Burgers & Chicken $4 Guinness Drafts FRIDAY: $10 Crab Cake Sandwiches $4 Cruzan Rum SATURDAY: 30% Off Wings $4 Deep Eddy Flavors SUNDAY: 30% OFF Appetizers (Specials cannot be combined with any other coupon or special.

Not valid on holidays or holiday weekends)

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

www.originalgreeneturtle.com

instagram: originalgreeneturtle

facebook.com/originalgreeneturtle

Summer Season Kickoff Could Include Big Flag’s Return

Page 4

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Cautiously optimistic there will be some semblance of a return to normalcy by then, resort officials this week discussed tentative plans for a Memorial Day celebration, including the return of the giant American flag on the beach.

Last year, in the midst of the COVID pandemic, Memorial Day weekend passed quietly and unceremoniously as few were ready to celebrate the traditional start to the summer season amid

such gloom and doom. This spring, with many of Maryland’s key COVID metrics in steady decline and vaccines rolling out, albeit painstakingly, the hopes of a return to some semblance of a normal summer appear to improve each day.

To that end, the resort’s Tourism Commission on Monday discussed ramping up Memorial Day celebrations this year, including the possible return of the giant American flag on the beach.

The giant flag measures over 45,000 square feet and is the one of the largest in the country. During Monday’s review of proposed special events this sum-

AMERICAN & REGIONAL DINING with Global Influence

• Saturday Ticket

February 13 ~ $30 Ticket:

3 Draft Beers (with choice of one): • 12 Raw Oysters • 1 LB. Steamed Shrimp • 1 LB. Wings • BBQ Ribs

• Bryan Clark On Stage Monday, February 15

• 1/2 Price Lunch Every Tuesday 11-4

• Italian Night

Every Thursday (regular menu available)

• 1/2 Price Prime Rib or Local Fresh Fish Sunday & Monday (2/21-2/22)

• 1/2 Price Appetizers Every Friday

60th Street in the Bay • 410-524-5500 • fagers.com

February 12, 2021

mer, TEAM Productions’ Bob Rothermel outlined tentative plans to bring the giant flag back this year after its absence in recent years.

“It’s time to bring back the big flag on Memorial Day,” he said. “We think it adds something very special. It’s a giant flag in the shape of the outline of the U.S. on the beach and the plan is to shine a bright blue light on it for the entire weekend.”

Mayor Rick Meehan said he hoped to recreate an iconic ceremonial planting of the first beach umbrella with Gov. Larry Hogan to signal the start of another, and hopefully safe and prosperous, summer season. In 1946, Governor Harry O’Connor and Ocean City Mayor Daniel Trimper, Jr. kicked off the summer season by meeting on the beach and planting the first ceremonial umbrella in the sand.

Over 70 years later, Meehan and Hogan re-created the famous photo-op and the mayor said during Monday’s meeting the plan was to bring it back again this year to kick off the Memorial Day weekend dedicated to first responders and healthcare workers.

“We talked about bringing the big flag back, and maybe something with the governor where we re-create the 1946 event with the ceremonial planting of the first umbrella,” he said. “We didn’t do any of that last year because of CO-

VID. We’d like to really kick off the season and really celebrate Memorial Day this year and recognize our first responders.”

Meehan said it was appropriate to honor healthcare workers and first responders this year in addition to the traditional honoring of servicemen and women who have lost their lives. The tentative plan includes having first responders and front-line healthcare workers holding the giant flag on the beach. The giant flag could be first displayed on Memorial Day Friday and again on actual Memorial Day. “We owe a debt of gratitude to our first responders and our healthcare workers on the front lines,” he said.

“This could really recognize those on the front lines during this crisis. I think it would really resonate with people.”

Meehan suggested coordinating with the resort’s private-sector hospitality industry perhaps on special room rates for first responders and other frontline healthcare workers on the holiday weekend.

“We should coordinate with our hotel partners to offer special deals for our healthcare workers on the front lines and out first responders,” he said. “I think we should do all of these things. It will be a nice way to kick off the season on a positive note and show some positivity heading into June.”

M M M M M M M M M M M M

REALTORS® to the COOLEST SMALL TOWN IN AMERICA

M M M M M M M M M M M M

9025 MARSHALL CREEK ROAD, NEWARK

Tranquility! Every window has a water view.

Side covered porch, patio with pavers, small pier with dock, 8X12 shed with playhouse, some fencing, screened porch with soothing hot tub. Large living room opens to kitchen with large island with seating, a coffee station, double ovens, and a breakfast nook.

Built-in bookshelves, gas fireplace. 3BR/2BA + 2nd floor loft. $515,000

10547 GRIFFIN ROAD, BERLIN

Great location on corner lot, easy access to Route 50 and the beach. Lots of parking with driveway on Friendship Road or on Griffin Road by 2-car garage. Almost 1 acre of land.

Covered front porch to enjoy the outside.

Plenty of room with 4-5 bedrooms. Enter from back deck to mud room with storage.

Spacious living room. Separate laundry room. Attic has pull down stairs. $280,000

9821 KEYSER POINT ROAD, OCEAN CITY

Great location only a few miles to OC! This 2BR/2BA home has the wow factor. Floor to ceiling built-ins in the living room. Open concept kitchen and dining area. Bar seating in kitchen. Screened porch off dining area.

Split bedroom plan has master bedroom and bath on one side and second bedroom and hall bath on other. Separate laundry room.

New heat pump in 2018. $189,900

Call Cam Bunting 410-713-2065 24 Broad Street, Berlin, MD • 410-641-3313 www.buntingrealty.com

February 12, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 5

Tentative Summer Special Events For Ocean City Discussed

Page 6

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Among the biggest takeaways from Monday’s presentation of planned special events this summer was a change in the number and size of the beach fireworks displays and the addition of some drive-in concerts and movies at the Inlet lot.

During Monday’s Tourism Commission meeting, TEAM Productions’ Bob Rothermel introduced a working plan for special events throughout the resort this summer with the emphasis on the planning document as a draft. As usual, the plan includes weekly fireworks shows at Northside Park in conjunction with the Sundaes in the Park event.

The tentative plan also included a total of 11 fireworks shows on the bea-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

ch downtown on Thursdays from midJune to late-August along with another on Labor Day Monday. However, after some debate from commission members, the beach fireworks could see the number of shows reduced in favor of targeted longer and bigger displays.

TEAM Productions’ tentative plan also includes some new wrinkles, such as a series of drive-in concerts at the Inlet lot and drive-in movies at the Inlet lot through much of the summer. The plan also includes the return of the popular OCtoberfest events coordinated around Halloween.

Summer Fireworks Debate The plan for fireworks presented by TEAM Productions and Rothermel on Monday loosely followed a typical summer schedule. For example, it includes

the 12 shows on Sundays throughout the summer at Northside Park and 11 more beach fireworks shows in the downtown area near the Boardwalk.

However, committee member Kevin Gibbs pointed out recent discussions with the various associations and organizations, such as the Downtown Association, for example, appeared to favor an altered plan for the beach fireworks.

“In our discussions, it was decided we’d like to see fewer shows, but better quality and larger shows,” he said. “Instead of 11 shows, maybe cut back to five or six and condense the fireworks into bigger and better shows. We could have theme nights for the reduced number of beach fireworks shows such as the air show, Christmas in July and the White Marlin Open, for example.”

February 12, 2021

Gibbs said discussions called for earlier start times for the beach fireworks downtown, perhaps as early as 9:30 p.m. The beach fireworks in recent years have gone off at 10:30 p.m.

Roughly four years ago, the beach fireworks start time boiled to a head, with some Boardwalk merchants favoring a 10 p.m. start time, or around dusk.

Others favored pushing the beach fireworks start time back to 11 p.m. After considerable debate, including a merchant survey that saw participants split almost directly down the middle, the 10:30 start time was reached as a compromise.

Some Boardwalk merchants voiced concern the 10 p.m. start time occurred right in the middle of the busiest time of the night in the summer to the detriment of their bottom line. Others advocated moving the start time to 11 p.m. to keep business flowing on the Boardwalk and provide a crescendo of sorts on a typical summer evening.

Still others said an 11 p.m. start time for the fireworks was too late for families with children and advocated for staying with 10 p.m. After all of that discussion came the compromise of 10:30 p.m. Now, it appears the downtown merchants, according to Gibbs’ updates on their recent meetings, are in favor of going back to the early start time, perhaps as early as 9:30 p.m.

Ultimately, the committee voted to forward a favorable recommendation to the full Mayor and Council for the proposed summer fireworks schedule with the various tweaks discussed including fewer, but larger and better shows, targeted theme nights for the fewer shows and the earlier start time.

“We need to pick dates we can build on,” said Mayor Rick Meehan. “I think it all sounds great. I’ve been in favor of the earlier start time all along.”

The recommendation included keeping the plan for the north-end fireworks at Northside Park the same. The plan calls for 12 Sunday shows from June 13 to Sept. 5 in conjunction with the popular Sundaes in the Park events.

Those shows begin at 9 p.m. following Sundaes in the Park.

Summer Concert Series The plan presented on Monday also includes a summer-long concert series at various venues throughout the resort. Rothermel said the plan was for small beach concerts that would be free and socially-distanced at North Division Street with targeted dates in June, July and August.

The plan also includes a major ticketed concert during the ArtX event at Northside Park on Aug. 21, followed by another major concert on the beach at North Division Street targeted for Aug. 29. He said he has been in negotiations with major artists for the two larger concerts, although he was not at liberty to divulge with whom he had discussions because the negotiations are still sensitive.

SEE NEXT PAGE

… Drive-In Concerts, Movies Planned

February 12, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

A new wrinkle this summer could be the addition of drive-in concerts at the Inlet lot. According to Rothermel, a portable sound stage could be set up at the Inlet lot for ticketed concerts with dates in early June. Throughout the pandemic, drive-in events including significant concerts became increasingly popular because of their ability to keep people distanced socially while allowing them to enjoy live music. Rothermel said the concept for Ocean City would be to schedule three such ticketed events at the Inlet lot in June.

“We want to really frontload events in early June with drive-in tourism,” he said. “We’ve had negotiations with artists for drive-in concerts at the Inlet lot. We expect to draw as many as 500 to 600 cars for the drive-in concerts.

The parking revenue loss for the town would be built into the cost of the tickets.”

Drive-In Movies Another side effect of the pandemic last year was the popularity of drive-in movies at the convention center lot, and the private sector got in on the action later in the season when some of the COVID-related restrictions were eased.

Rothermel said the plan for this summer called for a series of 12 drive-in movies at the Inlet lot running from June 14 to Aug. 30. The family-friendly films would be shown on a bright LED video wall that would allow the movies

to be shown at earlier, non-peak times at the Inlet lot and the attendees would get the sound through their vehicle’s FM radios.

He said the drive-in movie program at the convention center last summer was popular, but the lot would not be available this summer because the venue will likely be back to hosting conventions, concerts and other events.

“We had great success with the drive-in movies at the convention center,” he said. “We would expect to recreate that at the Inlet lot. It’s not going to take up a lot of space and, again, you’d get the parking revenue back through the ticket cost.”

OCtoberfest To Return Rothermel said the special events planned for 2021 include the return of the popular OCtoberfest. The event, spread over three days from October 22-24 includes the Halloween-themed beach maze, the wildly popular Pet Parade on October 23, and the Great Pumpkin Race set for October 24.

In recent years, the fall event has been spread over two weekends, but Rothermel said recent history shows at least one of the weekends gets wiped out by fall storms or inclement weather.

He said the concept is to condense all of the elements of the fall event into one spectacular weekend with a rain date in place in case of storms or inclement weather.

VERTIGO RED

–– DJ ADAM DUTCH SATURDAY 2 PM –– FRIDAY & SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 12 & 13

OPEN FRIDAY-SUNDAY 11 AM

BETWEEN CAROLINE & TALBOT STREETS ON THE BOARDWALK 410-289-6953 • WWW.PURPLEMOOSE.COM • FIND US ON FACEBOOK APPAREL SHOP • LOTTERY • KENO

Page 7

Berlin Council Discusses Selling Portion Of Heron Park

Page 8

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Elected officials are considering selling a portion of Heron Park to help offset its costs.

After receiving inquiries from multiple parties interested in buying various portions of the 62-acre park property, Mayor Zack Tyndall told the town council this week he wanted their input. Council members said they wanted more information and to hear from Berlin’s citizens.

“I really would like to hear what the public thinks or what they would have to say before I could entertain a thought of yay or nay,” Councilman Dean Burrell said.

Town Administrator Jeff Fleetwood told the council during Monday’s meeting that potential buyers had expressed

interest in parcel 410, roughly 10 acres that sits between the park’s ponds and the businesses on Route 346, as well as in parcel 57, which is where the old production plant building sits. Both parcels are currently zoned residential. Fleetwood said one of the entities interested in parcel 410 — who owns adjacent property — had even paid for an appraisal of the land. That section of the park, which is slightly less than 10 acres and includes two storage buildings, is valued at $770,000. Fleetwood added that the town currently used the buildings to store things like tractors and snowplows.

“Prior to us acquiring that property, we were storing our snowplows, woodchippers and things of that nature out in the elements,” he said. “Now they are being stored out of the weather. That

February 12, 2021

The 10-acre parcel of Berlin’s Heron Park under consideration to be sold is pictured in yellow.

Submitted Photo

adds value to our equipment.”

Fleetwood said that the parcel’s appraised value dropped to $660,000 if the

OPEN 49TH STREET, 125TH STREET & ROUTE 50

A Family Tradition For 80 Years!

WEST OC: CORNER OF ROUTE 611 AND ROUTE 50 EAST BOARDWALK: CAROLINE ST., WICOMICO ST., & SOUTH DIVISION ST.

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES WITH AN 80-YEAR-OLD OCEAN CITY BUSINESS GREAT PAY! SEASONAL OR YEAR-ROUND • DUMSERSDAIRYLAND.COM

buildings were not included.

While there has also been interest in parcel 57, the site of the big building to the left of the park entrance, Fleetwood said an appraisal on that was underway.

Councilman Jay Knerr said he thought parcel 410 was valuable to the town for future growth at Heron Park, as it could be used for an entertainment venue or a skate park.

“Parcel 57, on the other hand, I think we should definitely sell that,” he said.

Councilmember Shaneka Nichols asked whether the town could sell just a portion of parcel 410.

“Does it have to be all or none?” she said.

Tyndall welcomed council opinions on a potential sale, which he said was why the issue had been included on the agenda.

Burrell said he wanted to hear from the public and also find out the cost associated with setting up new vehicle storage if the town were to sell parcel 410 and lose access to its buildings.

Councilman Jack Orris said he was open to selling some of the park but cautioned against selling parcel 410 in its entirety.

“While I’m open to suggestions for every opportunity I do feel the space to the right when you walk in is important,” he said. “Dividing this parcel up might be a consideration.”

Councilman Troy Purnell agreed that more input was needed.

“Now that everybody understands what we’re contemplating I definitely need to hear from some other people,” he said.

Tyndall said that based on the council’s comments the town would move forward with a public hearing and with getting more information, such as the appraisal value for parcel 57 and the cost of building a new equipment storage shed. He suggested two public hearings — one to gauge interest in any potential property sale and a second to display potential lot lines and easements involved in any sale. The mayor encouraged citizens to weigh in directly with their council representative if not in a formal public hearing.

“If there’s something on your mind, whether it’s this issue or the budget coming up, make sure you let us know,” he said. “It goes a long way.”

Committee Talks Tram Modifications

February 12, 2021

Eastern Shore Physical Therapy The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Balance/Fall Risk Workshop Find Out The Answers To The Following:

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – With the decision to run the Boardwalk tram this summer firmed up, resort officials this week began discussing some of the operational procedures that will be in place.

During Tuesday’s Transportation Committee, members discussed a variety of issues related to the Boardwalk tram including the potential elimination of one of the fare-paying options. The Mayor and Council last week agreed to restore the Boardwalk tram service on May 28, or the Friday before Memorial Day. The Boardwalk tram service was eliminated entirely last summer amid concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic. On Tuesday, the transportation committee began discussing what the resumption of the Boardwalk tram operation for this summer might look like. For example, one agenda item included potentially eliminating one or more of the fare-paying options, including the discount purchase cards.

There are several options for purchasing passes for the Boardwalk tram including buying tickets at the stations at either end of the promenade. The trams will also stop at practically any point along the Boardwalk to pick up or discharge passengers. In either case, with the pandemic ongoing, the committee on Tuesday discussed eliminating the discount punch card in the interest of reducing interactions between the passengers and the conductors.

The standard Boardwalk tram fare is $4 per person for a one-way ride. There is also available to riders a discount punch card for $26 that includes eight tram rides. With the discount punch card, the rate per ride reduces from the standard $4 to $3.25. However, Public Works Director Hal Adkins said on Tuesday there has been consideration given to eliminating the discount punch card altogether in the interest of public safety during the pandemic.

“We have some concerns about the multiple fare options available,” he said.

“We didn’t run at all last year, and we’re going to run on a limited basis this year.

Given the desire to limit contact, should we limit the number of options to pay the fare?”

Mayor Rick Meehan said more often than not, the discount punch cards are a point-of-sale opportunity at the trams themselves, as opposed to purchasing tickets in advance at the stations with social distancing and other directives observed.

“With the discount punch card, my understanding is it isn’t something that is purchased in advance,” he said. “It’s more like something offered by the conductors. It creates more interaction between the passengers and the conductors, and that’s something we’re trying to avoid.”

SEE PAGE 12

Page 9

• The Single Biggest Mistake Patients At Risk Of Falling Make Which Actually Stops Them From Improvement In Balance • A Surefire Way To Pick The Right Treatment For The Cause Of Your Imbalance • How A Problem In Your Hip And Legs Can Cause Imbalance

FREE WORKSHOP SATURDAY, FEB. 27 • 11 A.M. CALL 410-641-2900 TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT NOW

410-641-2900 • WWW.EASTERNSHOREPT.COM 314 FRANKLIN AVENUE, SUITE 405 (NEXT TO LAB CORP), BERLIN, MD. 21811

Spreading Love For 30 Years!

Your Romantic Table Awaits You ...

Now Taking Reservations For Valentine’s Day Sunday February 14 !

Oh Lovers Staying In For The Night ...

Valentines Nantuckets Carryout!

Cheers!

Happy Hour s 4-6 p.m. Dail y Throughout

Now Open Wednesday–Sunday Daily @ 4 p.m.

Reservations Recommended • Face Masks Required

IN THE

OF FENWICK ISLAND • 800-362-DINE • 302-539-2607

Resort Police ‘Optimistic’ About Seasonal Recruitment Efforts

Page 10

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – With one testing date remaining, Ocean City’s police chief said his department is optimistic more will apply for the resort’s seasonal law enforcement program.

In Monday’s meeting of the Ocean City Police Commission, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) Chief Ross Buzzuro told resort officials he remains optimistic about the agency’s ongoing recruitment efforts for the coming summer season.

For decades, the OCPD has enhan-

ced its workforce with seasonal officers and public safety aides (PSA) during the summer months. And while interest in the seasonal program has waned in recent years, officials say recruitment statistics for this year are better than anticipated.

“We remain optimistic,” he said.

“We’re surprised to see more this year than last year.”

Applications for new seasonal officer positions had increased from 109 last year to 156 this year, according to Buzzuro, and the number of failures had decreased from 61 to 53. To date, the OCPD has hired 26 new seasonal offi-

WE CANNOT TELL A LIE ... THE ONLY PLACE TO BE IN WEST OC

West

West OC’s Terps, Caps & Wizards Headquarters. NHL, NBA, PGA, NCAA Lax & NCAA Packages On 54 Hi-Def TVs In Stereo Sound

LOVE THE ONE YOU’RE WITH ...

BUY ONE ENTREE, GET 2ND 1/2-PRICE

SUNDA Y FEB. 14

(Equal Or Lesser Value)

WINTER SPECIALS MONDAY-THURSDAY NOON - 4 P.M. $8.99 Mon: Meatloaf & Mash Tues: French Dip Wed: Pot Roast & Mash Thurs: Chicken Salad BLT or Hot Turkey w/Mash or Fries 11 A.M. - 4 P.M. $8.99 Fri: Fried Oyster Po’ Boy

NIGHTLY 5 P.M. Monday: 1/2 Price Shareables Tuesday: 2 For Tuesday Tacos Wednesday: Pot Roast Dinner (Includes 2 Sides) Thurs: BYOB Burger Fri: Fish Friday

HAPPY HOUR MONDAY- FRIDAY 4-7 P.M. FRIDAY 4-7 P.M.: 60¢ CLAMS • 75 ¢ OYSTERS KIDS’ MENU • CARRY-OUT • APPAREL SHOP • GAME ROOM • KENO • FUN FOR EVERYONE

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

cers, although 53 remain in the testing process.

But officials noted the number of applications for new PSAs had decreased from last year.

“This year so far we had 57,” Buzzuro said. “Last year we had 71. There were less failures this year than last year. We hired 10, and 39 remain in the process.”

Buzzuro told commission members this week those who applied for PSA and seasonal officer positions continue to make their way through the testing process. He said the police department would hold one more testing date in February.

“We’re optimistic, weather permitting, that they do show up in good number,” he said.

Commission member and Council President Matt James questioned if the decrease in PSA applications related to advancements within the seasonal program.

“Is it possible with the increase in officer applications and the decrease in PSA applications that a lot of the PSAs that we had previously are applying for officer positions?” asked James.

Buzzuro said he believes that to be the case for some of the officer positions.

“We do have some that have matriculated to officer positions,” he said.

“That’s the trajectory of what we’re seeing. We’re seeing public safety aides move into officer positions. Year after

February 12, 2021

year, that continues to increase.”

When asked about returning seasonal officers, officials said 19 of the 45 seasonal officers would stay with the department this year. However, nine of those 19 individuals have since been hired fulltime.

“We hired nine of them for full-time officers,” said Capt. Elton Harmon. “It went from 19 to 10.”

Officials also attributed the decrease in returning officers to the department’s eligibility requirements.

“We do have a number of returning officers,” Buzzuro noted. “Their shelf life is two years so those that worked with us last year, we are seeing an interest in those coming back with us to some degree.”

James agreed.

“Some of those 45 weren’t eligible to come back because it’s their second year,” he said.

Buzzuro on Monday also presented the commission with a report on police activity for the month of January.

From January 2020 to January 2021, officer calls for service decreased 50.4% while citizen calls for service decreased 6.2%. In the top 25 calls for service, traffic stops decreased from 411 to 219, citizen assists decreased from 109 to 77 and EMS assists decreased from 67 to 58.

“This is directly correlated to COVID19,” he said, “less visitors this year versus last year at this time.”

OPeN DaiLy 11 a.m. • kiTcHeN OPeN mON.-THuRS. TiL’ 11 P.m. fRi.-SuN. TiL’ 1 a.m. ~ BOTH LOcaTiONS

February 12, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Off SeaSON SPeciaLS

7 1/2 LB. Ribs $ 1 7 /2 LB. Shrimp

(DINE IN ONLY • SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY)

$

RIB & SHRIMP FRIDAY

ALL DAY/NIGHT

7 Roast Beef Sandwich $ 1 5 /2 Dozen Oysters On The Half Shell

BULL & OYSTER SATURDAY $

ALL DAY/NIGHT

Happy Hour Drink Prices

SUNDAY FUNDAY

NOON-CLOSING

25% Off

MEATLOAF MONDAY

Page 11

famiLy meaL DeaL

2 POuNDS Of SmOkeD meaT (CARRY OUT SPECIAL ONLY)

YOUR CHOICE OF PORK, BRISKET, CHICKEN OR RIBS, 4 SIDES

Your Choice Of • French Fries • Sweet Potato Fries • Coleslaw • Baked Beans • Collard Greens • Mashed Potatoes • Mac & Cheese • Roasted Corn • Potato Salad • Tomato/Cucumber Salad • Corn Bread • Hushpuppies • Garden Salad

..........................

$

30

& 12 SLIDER ROLLS ALL DAY EVERY DAY 11 A.M.-10 P.M. BOTH LOCATIONS Not valid with any other special

28th Street • 410-289-2020 ~ 127th Street • 443-664-7482 PitandPub.com

ALL DAY/NIGHT

… 10-16 Tram Seats Will Be Eliminated

Page 12

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Your Countertop Specialists

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

Family Owned & Operated

SINCE 1982

Call: 443.856.4437 or See Us On Facebook 34407 Dupont Blvd., Unit 9 • (Rt. 113 North) Frankford, DE Visit our website for showroom hours • www.creativeincounters.com

FROM PAGE 9 According to recent data compiled by Budget Manager Jennie Knapp – again the tram did not run last year – roughly 230,000 passengers, or 66%, rode the tram at the regular $4 rate, while another 14,000, or 27%, purchased the discount punch cards. There is also a local resident senior pass available, but that fare’s contribution to the overall picture was negligible. Adkins said the discussion about eliminating the discount pass was more about limiting the interaction between passengers and conductors than it was about the bottom line.

“It’s a discount card,” he said. “I don’t think eliminating it will adversely affect revenue. If anything, it could create an uptick in revenue.”

Meehan said eliminating the discount pass, often purchased mid-trip, could improve the tram’s efficiency.

“It will speed up service,” he said. “I think it will ease some of the anxiety for the riders. I just think it’s a good idea.

We also have to remember they are brand-new trams because we didn’t run last year.”

The committee ultimately voted to forward a favorable recommendation to the Mayor and Council to eliminate the discount punch card in the interest of limiting contact. In terms of improving public safety on the trams this summer, Operations Manager Steve Bartlett said plans are already in place to reduce the number of seats available in the passen-

February 12, 2021

ger cars.

“We’re eliminating 10-16 seats,” he said. “There will be no back-to-back seating. In other words, there won’t be any passenger heads back-to-back.

We’re also going forward with the messaging of ride at your own risk and social distance where possible.”

Finally, there was some discussion about the altered plans for getting the trams to and from the Boardwalk each day. The new public works facility at 2nd Street and St. Louis Avenue will house the trams, creating a change in the pattern for how they reach the Boardwalk.

As a result, the trams will have to cross Philadelphia Avenue each day to reach the ramp at 3rd Street.

Ocean City for years petitioned the State Highway Administration (SHA) to install a traffic signal at 3rd Street to no avail. As a result, the Boardwalk trams are now equipped with state-of-the-art equipment that will synchronize the existing traffic signals at 5th and 2nd Streets. When the trams are ready to cross Philadelphia Avenue, the light at 5th Street will turn red and the light at 2nd Street southbound will trip to green, allowing the tram to cross at 3rd Street.

Bartlett said the new traffic-signal equipment has been tested and is ready to go.

“Every tram is equipped,” he said. “I have personally checked every one. It’s pretty cool equipment and it works as planned.”

‘A Whole Network Of Opportunities’

February 12, 2021

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – Local officials celebrated the completion of Salisbury Regional Airport’s new unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) hangar with a ribbon cutting ceremony last week.

Last Friday, government officials, politicians and business representatives joined airport leadership for a ribbon cutting at the new UAS hangar, located within the airport business park.

Calvin Peacock, chair of the Wicomico County Airport Commission, told attendees the new facility – comprised of a larger hangar bay and office space – will be a hub for drone operations throughout the region.

“This is the definition of SalisburyWicomico County Regional Airport,” he said, “to be a leader in the growth of the Delmarva peninsula.”

Officials said the new drone facility will drive economic development with the creation of aviation-related jobs and the expansion of aviation operations at the airport.

Airport Manager Tony Rudy noted the building is the first of its kind for UAS operations. He said he envisions the facility to focus on aircraft certification and development, as well as educational outreach.

“If you think about all the different aspects, all the different roles that UAS can play, it’s almost limitless,” he said. “It’s only limited by our imagination. To have

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

that here now, and what it’s going to offer in the future, is just amazing.”

Two companies, Sentinel Robotic Solutions and Kilroy Aviation, will be stationed at the new UAS hangar.

Sentinel Robotic Solutions CEO Peter Bale told attendees last week he was excited to see new opportunities with the construction of the UAS facility.

“We see this as an autonomous systems area that doesn’t just integrate air vehicles, but you have ground robotics, and we’ve got an ocean 25 miles away,” he said. “So there’s a whole network of opportunities here for this facility.”

Bryce King, the company’s director of aviation programs, added Sentinel Robotic plans to utilize the space by bringing in large corporations to test and operate drones, working with local schools and universities, and building the airport into a commercial hub.

“We intend to do this in a three-phased approach,” he said, “bringing innovation and economic development here to Wicomico County.”

King also recognized Wicomico County and the Salisbury airport for their contributions to the project.

“I want to thank Wicomico County and the Salisbury airport for having the vision to build this beautiful hangar here and giving Sentinel Robotic Solutions the opportunity to turn it into something great,” he said.

The new hangar was funded by Wicomico County and the Maryland Department of Commerce.

Page 13

Officials gathered this month to celebrate the completion of a new unmanned aircraft hangar at the airport in Wicomico County.

Photo by Bethany Hooper

Page 14

Berlin Chamber Organizes First ‘Hearts For Heroes’ Weekend

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 12, 2021

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – A new “Hearts for Heroes” promotion is giving local shops a chance to honor the pandemic’s essential workers this weekend.

The Berlin Chamber of Commerce is hosting Hearts for Heroes Feb. 12-15.

Participating businesses will display hearts in their windows to show support for local heroes while offering special prices and promotions.

“We want to encourage folks to take a break, get some fresh air, and come to Berlin,” said Steve Frene, deputy director of the Berlin Chamber of Commerce.

“All of our shops and restaurants are open, operating safely and are ready to show some love.”

Frene said the idea of a promotion that combined Valentine’s Day and Presidents Day was something he and his wife had latched onto when they used to own the Victorian Charm retail store. As current head of the chamber, he suggested a variation of that promotion for Berlin’s downtown businesses to do together in recognition of those who have worked so hard during the pan-

demic.

“Now, the word hero has new meaning and includes a large group of essential workers and essential customers,” Frene said. “I started thinking about all the positive feelings and possibilities associated with using the heart to symbolize our love and support for all of these folks...not just the workers but the customers too, who have followed CDC guidelines for almost a year and continued to support local businesses.”

In addition to merchant displays, Berlin Intermediate School students have provided “heartwork” that will decorate downtown shops.

The chamber has even partnered with Bank of Ocean City, Taylor Bank and First Shore Federal for an added attraction — cash giveaways. Those will take place Feb. 13 between noon and 3 p.m.

“Just look for our costumed characters; Uncle Sam and Cupid walking around downtown Berlin giving way ‘pictures of presidents’ for correct answers to trivia questions,” Frene said.

For more information visit www.BerlinChamber.org or visit the organization’s social media pages.

Two Private Homes Located Just A Block To The Beach!

104 Bering Rd | Ocean City, MD 21842

8

4

2,508 sq. ft.

OPEN HOUSE | SATURDAY, FEB 13TH | 10 AM-NOON FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT ANNIE BUXBAUM | REALTOR® AnnieBuxbaum@NorthropRealty.com

Cell: 443.235.0878 Office: 302.539.0800 37077 Coastal Highway | Fenwick Island, DE 19944

February 12, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 15

Page 16

Voluntary Program Seeks To Light Up Resort’s Downtown Dark Spots

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – A voluntary program for installing new light fixtures is expected to prevent crime and improve public safety in downtown Ocean City.

On Monday, Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) President Kevin Gibbs and Reserve Officer Mark Pacini presented the Ocean City Police Commission with an overview of the Light Up Downtown Program.

“The real reason we’re doing this is to really light up these dark areas …,” Gibbs said.

The OCDC, in partnership with the resort and its police department, recently launched a voluntary lighting program that reimburses property owners and business owners up to 50% of the cost of purchasing and installing light fixtures, up to $500.

“That means if you spend $500, we’re going to provide you $250,” Gibbs said.

Officials said the intent of the program is to improve lighting in alleys, streets and side streets, which, in turn, would improve crime prevention and public safety for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Most recently, the OCDC expanded the program to include target areas from

February 12, 2021

the Inlet to 17th Street and to 15th Street along the Boardwalk.

Gibbs told commission members this week Pacini had worked alongside the OCDC to provide a map of hotspots, or areas with little to no lighting. He said the first step of the program would be to contact those property owners, although any property owner in the designated target area could apply for the reimbursement program.

“We’ve streamlined the process to really get this going,” he said.

Light fixtures installed through the Light Up Downtown Program must be LED for energy efficiency, according to Gibbs. Applicants will also be responsible for getting estimates from a licensed electrician.

“We try to keep it as flexible as possible …,” he said. “We want you to light it up, but we don’t want to be so specific that we are telling you exactly what to use and who to use.”

Gibbs noted the online application has been posted on the town’s website with a list of qualifications and procedures. He added that larger reimbursements for larger installations would be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Councilman Lloyd Martin questioned if the OCDC had considered adding Ring doorbells cameras, or any other home security system, to its program.

“It really helps a lot of times to solve crimes in the neighborhoods,” he said.

Gibbs said OCDC staff had not discussed adding cameras to its reimbursement program, but added it could be a possibility once the lighting program was fully implemented.

“I don’t see why we can’t promote smart doorbells, smart technology, to try and help,” he replied. “I think that can definitely work.”

Mayor Rick Meehan said he liked the idea of adding cameras to the reimbursement program. He also encouraged the OCDC to recognize program participants.

“My hope is maybe we can even give recognition to those that are part of the program …,” he said. “I think that’s a good incentive for other property owners.”

The promotion of Light Up Downtown comes years after the corporation launched a pilot program to improve lighting in alleyways throughout the resort.

In 2018, the OCDC partnered with the town and the police department to create a voluntary reimbursement program for installing LED lights in downtown alleyways.

Meehan noted this week the Light Up Downtown initiative was a direct result of the Downtown Alley Lighting Program.

“I think people are going to be on this and they will like it a lot better,” Gibbs added.

For more information, or to apply online, visit oceancitymd.gov/oc/light-updowntown-program/.

Weekend In Jail For Doughnut Driver

February 12, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 17

Breakfast Every Sunday 8 a.m.-Noon $

5.95 BLOODY MARYS & MIMOSAS

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – The motorists who was caught on video spinning out on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge following the pop-up car rally in Ocean City last September was found guilty this week and will spend a weekend in jail.

There were several serious incidents during the pop-up car rally in Ocean City last September, but perhaps the most notorious one came roughly 100 miles away on the Bay Bridge. Video footage circulated widely on social media captured the driver of a vehicle linked to the pop-up rally in Ocean City doing doughnuts on the Bay Bridge in the middle of a busy Sunday afternoon.

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) Police obtained the video footage of the incident and began an investigation. The investigation confirmed the incident occurred on the westbound span of the Bay Bridge on Sept. 27.

Through the investigation, MDTA officers were able to identify the driver as Gary Montague, Jr., 22, of Dumfries, Va. After consultation with the State’s Attorney’s Office in Queen Anne’s County, where the incident occurred, Montague was charged with four counts of disorderly conduct and 23 total traffic violations, including reckless driving, willfully damaging a highway and driving a motor vehicle in a manner to cause skidding.

This week, Montague entered an Alford plea to one count of disorderly conduct. In an Alford plea, a defendant does not plead guilty, but acknowledges the state has enough evident to prosecute a case. Montague also pleaded guilty to one count of reckless driving.

Montague was sentenced to 60 days for the disorderly conduct conviction, all but 58 days of which were suspended.

He will reportedly begin his two-day remaining sentence on Friday in Queen Anne’s County. He was also placed on supervised probation for 18 months.

For the last few years, a special event zone with increased penalties, jail time and hefty fines has been implemented during the pop-up rally and other motorized special events in Ocean City. During a motorized special event task force meeting in Ocean City last fall following the pop-up rally, Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser advocated for stronger traffic enforcement along highways throughout the state to curb some of the illicit behavior before they even get to Ocean City.

“It really is bigger than our town and even our county,” Heiser said at the time. “We need to coordinate efforts throughout the state. That’s the goal here. Everything along the way on Route 50 and even everything along the way through Delaware would be extremely beneficial. We can rebrand that week as traffic safety week.”

‘TIS THE SEASON FO FRIED OYST R ERS & OYSTER STEW!

VALENTINE’S DAY SPECIAL ~ SUNDAY, FEB. 14 STEAK & CAKE $29.99 ~ PETITE FILET & CRAB CAKE • INCLUDES 2 SIDES

OYSTER BASH SUNDAY 1-5 P.M. 90¢ OYSTERS ON THE HALF SHELL Shucked by Local Watermen Eddie & Rich

SUNDAY FUN DAY 1 P.M.-TIL $ 5

CRUSHES • 75¢ WINGS • $4.99 BIG HOT DOGS $ .99 6 1/2-LB. LARGE STEAMED SHRIMP $ .95 7 PITCHER OF DOMESTIC DRAFT

DAILY SPECIALS 11 A.M.-TIL

MONDAY: 1/2-LB. CERTIFIED ANGUS BEEF CHEESEBURGER $7.99

TUESDAY: SPAGHETTI WITH SALAD $13.99

WEDNESDAY: EARLY BIRD SPECIALS ~ 11 A.M.-9 P.M.

THURSDAY: AUNT LIL’S FAMOUS JUMBO LUMP CRAB CAKE SANDWICH $13.99

(LTO INCLUDED)

EARLY BIRD PLATTER SPECIALS $15.95 DAILY 2-5 P.M. ~ YOUR CHOICE OF/INCLUDES 2 SIDES OYSTERS • SHRIMP • CLAM STRIPS • FRESH FLOUNDER GRILLED TUNA • PORK CHOPS • 1/2-RACK OF RIBS

HAPPY HOUR 3-7 P.M. EVERY DAY

Aunt Lil’s Famous Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes Fresh Seafood & Great BBQ

SEAFOOD HAND CUT BY LOCAL WATERMAN

TRY OUR HOMEMADE DESSERTS

OPEN MONDAY-SATURDAY 11 A.M.-TIL’ • SUNDAY 8 A.M.-TIL’

12702 OLD BRIDGE ROAD • WEST OCEAN CITY • 443-664-5317

Berlin Planning Comm. Tables Auto Zone Site Plan Approval

Page 18

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Town officials delayed approval of plans for an Auto Zone on Route 50 to give the developer time to improve the appearance of the store.

The Berlin Planning Commission tabled a decision regarding a site plan for an Auto Zone near the intersection of Route 50 and Seahawk Road. Commission members asked developers to soften the design of the store, which as proposed looks like the majority of Auto Zone locations.

“It doesn’t have to look like a Frankenstein to attract your business,” commission member Pete Cosby said. “I just think that us bending over to corporate logos and corporate designs is not good practice for Berlin. We’ve got something special going on and we want to keep it

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

that way.”

Applicant Kevin Murphy told the commission Auto Zone was planning to tear down the old McDonald’s on the site and build a new store. The design he presented represented the classic Auto Zone store.

Commission members were quick to ask if there were alternatives. Chris Denny, chair of the commission, asked if a pitched roof was an option. Murphy said it was not.

“Going to a pitched roof would be a complete budget buster,” he said, adding that the town’s code did not require it.

Cosby said the proposed design wasn’t really representative of the town.

“This is a nightmare as far as what Berlin’s trying to do with its buildings,” he said.

Murphy said there were a couple things he could do to improve the appear-

ance of the store. He said he could add parapets to the building and a decorative cornice to the roof line. He also said he could add faux windows to the bare walls of the building. Murphy said that while Auto Zone typically used a gray color scheme, the store also had an earth tone color scheme.

Cosby suggested Murphy return with renderings illustrating the proposed design changes as well as images of the store in both possible color schemes.

“We’re not here to rubber stamp everything,” Cosby said.

Because the meeting was held via Zoom, Murphy said he could show commission members a store very similar to what Berlin’s would look like with the proposed changes. He said that store was done in Westminster, Md. Upon seeing the Westminster store, Cosby said it was an improvement but

February 12, 2021

still not ideal. He went on to bring up the lack of proposed landscaping on the site.

“These plans are done per town code,” Murphy replied. “If there was interior landscaping we had to incorporate we would have incorporated that into the plan.”

Denny suggested the commission reconvene in two weeks with renderings showing the changes proposed for the store.

“I don’t think that’s an unreasonable request,” he said. “This is something we’re going to look at for 25 years potentially.”

Commission member Austin Purnell said that he agreed some changes could make the building more appealing but thanked developers for their interest in Berlin.

“I’m happy it’s going to get redeveloped and something new will be there,” he said. “That’ll be refreshing to see.

We’ve been staring at that dilapidated building for too long. “ The commission agreed to table the discussion and reconvene on Feb. 24.

“I hate to discourage developers but we’ve got to hold the line in Berlin if we’re going to keep what we’ve got,” Cosby said.

Local Man Killed In Route 50 Crash

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – A local man perished in a single-vehicle accident on westbound Route 50 near Berlin last Friday evening.

Around 6:10 p.m. last Friday, Maryland State Police (MSP) troopers from the Berlin barrack responded to the area of westbound Route 50 east of Friendship Rd. for a reported single-vehicle collision.

Upon arrival, MSP troopers discovered an overturned Chevy Tahoe with a single occupant entrapped inside.

The Berlin Fire Department responded and was able to extricate the driver, later identified as James Eric Johnson, 62, of Berlin, who was pronounced deceased at the scene. The cause of the collision is currently under investigation by the MSP.

Cheers!

To Rich (75) & Mike (40) Happy Birthday Guys!

Live, Love, Laugh Forever.

February 12, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 19

Page 20

Berlin Boy’s Hopes To Install Wood Duck Boxes At Park OK’d

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

A sample of one of the three wood duck boxes proposed by 11-year-old Ewan Betz for Heron Park is pictured.

Submitted Photo

BERLIN – Town officials approved a local boy’s plan to install wood duck boxes at Heron Park this week.

On Monday, the town council voted unanimously to approve a request from Worcester County 4-H member Ewan Betz, who wants to install duck boxes near the ponds at Heron Park. Betz plans to build them with his father.

February 12, 2021

“I love birding at Heron Park because it is near my house and wood ducks are beautiful creatures and we could attract more of them to the park,” Betz said.

Betz, 11, presented the council with a proposal to build and install two or three wood duck boxes in the area of Heron Park nearest the ponds. The boxes would be made of cedar planks and placed on posts about six feet off the ground. When asked how long the boxes would last, Betz said he expected them to last 25 years because they’d be made of quality materials and would be checked regularly to ensure they weren’t in need of repairs.

He committed to ensuring they were cleaned as needed and said he was working with local birding expert Dave Wilson to determine the best locations for the boxes.

Betz added that there could be an added benefit to attracting more birds to the park.

“It would also bring birders to town and they might stay and get some lunch and shop,” he said.

Mayor Zack Tyndall acknowledged the possibility of secondary economic benefits.

“Your wood duck boxes could help drive some revenue to downtown businesses,” he said. “That’s good to hear.”

Mary Bohlen, deputy town administrator, said that the Berlin Parks Commission hadn’t had time to officially weigh in on the project but that they’d support it.

“This is definitely something they’d very much be in favor of,” she said. “I have no doubt about their support.”

The council went on to vote unanimously to support the proposal. Bronwyn Betz, Ewan’s mother, said her son was looking forward to the project.

“He is an avid birder who enjoys regularly birding at Heron Park,” she said.

When Wilson mentioned to him that wood duck boxes would be a great addition to Heron Park, Ewan Betz jumped on the idea, as he and his dad built dozens of house wren boxes last year.

“He is excited to help even a few ducks have a better life and to help ensure a good breeding season,” she said.

February 12, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 21

OCFD Outlines Pandemic Challenges, Vaccine Distribution

Page 22

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – For much of the last year, the Ocean City Fire Department (OCFD) has been on the front lines of the pandemic, including taking an active role in administering the vaccines as they become available.

For about 11 months, the department has seen its daily operations altered significantly as the pandemic continues.

How to respond to endless calls for service, from medical emergencies and traumas to fires and rescues, has changed significantly since the outset of the pandemic. COVID-19 has altered the department’s daily operations from the personal protective equipment (PPE) worn daily to the constant decontamination of the equipment, apparatus and facilities.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Fire Chief Richie Bowers and core staff on Tuesday briefed the Mayor and Council on how the OCFD’s operations have changed and how they are now on the front lines of vaccine distribution in the community.

“It is very important for the council and the community to know what we’re doing, how we’re doing it and who we are working with,” he said. “This is a deadly virus and it’s not going away. … This particular pandemic has been extremely challenging. Our men and women have really stepped up throughout this. We’re all working together as a team and that’s how we’ve been successful.”

Last winter Bowers said he and his command staff were keeping a close eye on the spread of the coronavirus nationally and even internationally well in advance of its widespread arrival in Maryland. By the time COVID-19 really star-

ted to ramp up locally in mid-March, when Gov. Larry Hogan declared a state of emergency and issued the first of his many executive orders, the OCFD had already been implementing new protocols and procedures to combat the virus.

“We witnessed early on this could be a national and international pandemic,” he said. “We loaded up with PPE ahead of time because we saw the potential.

We educated our men and women, so they knew what was coming and we trained for this. You all made some tough decisions along the way and we did the same.”

The OCFD was already facing some staffing challenges long before the pandemic hit, and COVID only exacerbated some of those issues. The OCFD includes both career and volunteer divisions, and even in “normal” times, there

February 12, 2021

are often challenges in covering every shift with the appropriate level of personnel.

The OCFD relies on part-time paramedics and EMTs who work in other departments and fill in their downtime by picking up shifts in Ocean City. It’s a common practice, which has been curtailed during the pandemic, according to Bowers.

“The challenges of staffing really reared its head during COVID,” he said.

“A lot of our part-time people that work elsewhere were not able to come in to work with us. We had 30 part-time personnel discontinue their service to the OCFD.” Deputy Chief Chris Shaffer said the OCFD was proactive in terms of gathering needed supplies in advance of the pandemic including critical PPE. Masks, disposable gowns, gloves and face shields have become the uniform of the day for the town’s firefighters and paramedics throughout the pandemic.

After responding to any incident, large or small, the firefighter-paramedics, their protective equipment, the apparatus and the facilities all must be decontaminated to help prevent the potential spread of COVID. At times, the great lengths to which the department has gone to prevent the potential spread has created challenges with response times and getting crews back into service. According to Shaffer, the OCFD was proactive in acquiring the necessary PPE and developing protocols and procedures. He also said the local business community stepped up and assisted with PPE and other necessary supplies.

Bowers said the OCFD has been willing to share PPE and other resources with neighboring departments, but remains reluctant to share personnel.

“Some of our neighboring departments weren’t as fortunate as we were with planning for PPE,” he said. “We did share some of our supplies, but we have been cautious about sharing personnel.

We don’t want personnel from other departments that were doing less in terms of exposure coming in to work with the OCFD. They could contribute to the spread within our department and in the community.”

Bowers said despite the recent decline in some of the state’s key COVID metrics, the battle is far from over.

“We’ve been on the front lines for 48 weeks and six days,” he said. “It’s been challenging, but we’ve been out in front of it.”

Early this year, the state of Maryland began rolling out two COVID vaccines, but the process has largely been slow and fraught with challenges. The state relies on vaccination supplies distributed by the federal government and those doses are then sent to each county health department for local distribution.

Worcester has been steadily administering the COVID vaccines as they have become available through various clinics and other venues throughout the county.

In Ocean City, vaccine distribution has largely fallen on the OCFD. Early on, it SEE NEXT PAGE

… Crews Hosted 12 Clinics, Provided 800-Plus Vaccinations

February 12, 2021

was determined paramedics and EMTs could be trained as efficient administrators of the COVID vaccines and the OCFD has been on the front lines locally.

“The state recognized paramedics could administer the vaccines when they became available,” said Bowers. “When the EMTs were trained and certified to do it, that was a force multiplier for us. We quickly developed and implemented a plan of action.”

The first phase of the state’s COVID vaccine distribution plan included healthcare workers, first responders and individuals over the age of 75. The OCFD

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

has been administering the vaccines to those groups, with clinics largely for the latter group at Northside Park and clinics for first responders at the Ocean City Police Department substation at Worcester Street. To date, the OCFD has hosted 12 clinics and has administered close to 800 vaccines.

“That’s the good news,” said Bowers.

“We’re getting vaccines into the people who need them the most.”

OCFD Battalion Chief Rick Koch said scheduling the clinics and then having the vaccines available to meet the demand has been a moving target. Such

Page 23

was the case this week for Thursday’s scheduled clinic.

“We had 100 available for public safety personnel and residents over 75,” he said. “Then we learned that changed to 40. Just yesterday, the county called and said they had 300 more, so now we’re back up to 100 for Thursday. We’re chasing the ball, but sooner or later we’re going to catch it.”

In response to a question about the challenges of distributing the required second dose of the vaccine for those who have received the first, Koch said that has been a big concern in some

areas, but not locally.

“This pandemic is not going away,” he said. “We’re have to be vigilant. We’re going to continue to do whatever we have to do.”

After the lengthy presentation, the Mayor and Council praised the OCFD and its command staff for having a plan in place to battle the pandemic and executing it.

“We’re all certainly proud of each and every one of you,” said Mayor Rick Meehan. “Thanks for stepping up and being proactive. We’ve seen what has happened in other areas.”

Ocean Pines: 11001 Manklin Meadows Lane • 410-208-3500 West Ocean City: 9748 Stephen Decatur Highway #109 • 410-520-2600 Ocean City: 5000 Coastal Highway Suite 6 • 410-524-7000

www.PenFedRealty.com

WATERFRONT NEW LISTING! 3BR/3BA waterfront contemporary with many new updates and great water views! Large 25x4 dock with easy access to river, bay, ocean.

Short walk to White Horse Park with community center, playground, skate park, craft shop, walking trails, farmers market, boat ramp.

8 Crows Nest Lane $597,750 1 Year Cinch Home Warranty Included

Marlene Ott

Associate Broker, CRS LTG

Marleneott.com

Marlin Park, Keyser Point Road, West Ocean City

Like Us.

Watch Us.

Happy Valentine’s Day! Sandy Dougan, REALTOR, LICENSED IN MD & DE 410-726-6557 • sdouganrealtor@yahoo.com Located in Beautiful West Nithsdale!

5481 Abbey Drive

4BR/2.5BA with 3332 sf and 2-car garage in sprawling country community with the finest homes! Truly spectacular with many interior feature updates! For outdoor enjoyment there is a rear screened porch, TREX decking, rear yard with newer fencing, wood burning fire pit, updated landscaping. $429,900

Coastal Living At Its Finest PRESENTED BY ED BALCERZAK YOUR HOME COULD BE HERE-CONTACT SANDY TODAY!

443-497-4746 • opsales@comcast.net

12938 SUNSET AVENUE, WEST OCEAN CITY

Wonderful opportunity to build your dream home on a beautiful lot! NO HOA Fees or City Taxes, located only minutes from the beaches of Ocean City, Assateague Island National Seashore, and many restaurants and shopping. There are endless possibilities of building your home on either Keyser Point Road or Bonita Road whichever you prefer! Home could have a circular driveway or a driveway through both sides. Lot survey on file. It is all about location of the lot and the convenience of living in West Ocean City, MD. Aggressively priced to sell quickly. Call now for more details! $135,000

Rare Opportunity to Own One of the Finest Bay and Ocean Views Homes available in West OC. Spectacular 6 Bedroom, 4 Full Bathroom, 2 Half Bath, 6300 SF Coastal Waterfront Masterpiece Situated on Deep Water Bulkhead within eyesight of the Atlantic Ocean and Inlet! Will Accommodate Deepwater Dockage for 80' Sport Fishing Yacht. Grand Open Vistas of Bay, Ocean and Assateague are Truly Stunning and Available from All 3 Levels of this Magnificent Coastal Home. $2,150,000 ©2021 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

Page 24

Cops & Courts The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Three Arrested After Outdoor Drug Transaction OCEAN CITY – Three suspects were arrested on various drug distribution and possession charges last week after Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) narcotics officers observed a plain-view drug transaction behind a downtown convenience store.

Last Wednesday, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) Narcotics Unit detectives were conducting surveillance in the area of Lark Lane near the residence of Brianna Flint, 31, of Ocean City, an alleged dealer with whom local police are familiar, according to police reports. Around 4 p.m., the detective reportedly observed Flint and a male suspect, later identified as Matthew Patchett, 31, of Laurel, Del., exit the residence and begin walking in the direction of a convenience store at 26th Street.

According to police reports, Flint and Patchett walked to the rear parking lot of the convenience store and appeared to be waiting for someone. As Flint and Patchett arrived at the convenience store, a female known to police as Danielle Dodson, 25, of Bishopville, arrived in a white Ford Excursion, according to police reports. OCPD detectives were reportedly familiar with Dodson and her involvement in the use of distribution of controlled dangerous substances inclu-

ding heroin, cocaine and fentanyl, according to police reports.

OCPD detectives observed Flint and Patchett walk to the driver’s side of Dodson’s vehicle in the convenience store parking lot, where they reportedly observed the three suspects engage in a hand-to-hand drug transaction. While Flint and Dodson completed the transaction, Patchett reportedly remained by the driver’s side door looking for law enforcement personnel.

During the alleged transaction, Flint and Dodson met for roughly 30 seconds before parting ways. Flint and Patchett then left the area after going into the convenience store for a brief period of time and walked back toward the residence on Lark Lane, according to police reports.

OCPD detectives reportedly maintained surveillance on Flint and Patchett as they walked back to the residence,

SUNDAY

HAPPINESS MON.-FRI. 3-6 P.M. TONS OF FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS

LATE NIGHT HAPPY HOUR DRINK SPECIAL 10 P.M. MONDAY ALL DAY/NIGHT

1/2-PRICE WINGS TUESDAY ALL DAY/NIGHT

$2 TACOS WEDNESDAY ALL DAY/NIGHT

HALF-PRICE 1/2-LB. HAND-PATTIED BURGERS

while also maintaining surveillance on Dodson. Once Flint and Patchett were out of the area, OCPD detectives approached Dodson’s vehicle and detained her without incident. The detectives had obtained a search warrant for Dodson’s vehicle prior to the stop.

During a subsequent search of the vehicle, the detectives observed two small bags of suspected powder cocaine on the center console. OCPD detectives also allegedly located a small plastic bag of suspected heroin along with two wax folds of heroin. Dodson was arrested at that point for possession of cocaine and heroin.

Meanwhile, OCPD detectives maintained constant visual surveillance on Flint and Patchett as they walked back toward Lark Lane. The detectives knew Flint had an active warrant through the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office for

OPEN EVERY DAY 11:30 A.M.-2 A.M. FOOD SERVED ‘TIL 1 A.M. CARRYOUT AVAILABLE 8TH ST. LIQUORS OPEN 24/7 YEAR ROUND

NIGHTLY ENTERTAINMENT 9:30 P.M. FRIDAYS– BEATS BY STYLER SATURDAY– HONEYSHINE SUNDAYS– BEATS BY STYLER MONDAYS– KARAOKE W/WOOD TUESDAYS– BEATS BY WAX WEDNESDAYS– BEATS BY STYLER THURSDAYS– BEATS BY WAX

8TH STREET & PHILADELPHIA AVENUE • 410-289-4891

February 12, 2021 failure to appear for a malicious destruction of property and second-degree assault charge.

Based on the observation of the handto-hand drug transaction with Dodson, detectives detained Flint and Patchett.

The warrant for Flint was confirmed and she was placed under arrest. A search of Flint revealed a small bag of crack cocaine and an amount of currency consistent with a drug transaction. Flint was charged with distribution of heroin and cocaine and possession of heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine.

Patchett was charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine and heroin.

While Patchett was being processed, it was determined he had recently removed a GPS ankle monitor illegally while in the state of Delaware. OCPD detectives contacted Delaware Parole and Probation and determined the department was actively seeking an arrest warrant for Patchett.

Hotel Burglary Arrest OCEAN CITY – A local man was charged with burglary and other counts last weekend after allegedly bumbling around a downtown hotel uninvited while intoxicated.

Around 8:45 a.m. last Saturday, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers were dispatched to a hotel at 25th Street for a reported 911 call hang-up.

Prior to police’s arrival, Ocean City Communications advised a man in a room on the fourth floor, later identified as Trevor Peters, 26, of Ocean City, attempted to call the front desk of the hotel and that he couldn’t leave his room because he had no pants.

OCPD officers arrived on scene and made entry into the building through an unsecured door. The officers arrived at the room on the fourth floor, knocked on the door and ordered Peters to lay down on the floor, according to police reports.

He was placed under arrest at that point.

Peters reportedly told police he woke up in the room with no pants.

According to police reports, Peters told police he had been out at a bar with a female and remembered having one alcoholic cocktail and one shot and didn’t remember anything after that. OCPD officers located Peters’ clothing at the end of a hallway on the fourth floor. They also observed damage to two light fixtures and a thermostat on the fourth SEE NEXT PAGE

... Cops & Courts

February 12, 2021

floor, according to police reports.

The hotel’s owner was able to pull up surveillance video, according to police reports. The footage showed that shortly after 2 a.m., Peters was allegedly seen at the end of the hotel’s southside hallway on the fourth floor with no clothes on. The surveillance footage reportedly showed Peters closely hugging the wall, during which he ripped two light fixtures off the wall in the hallway.

The surveillance footage reportedly shows Peters sitting on the floor in the hallway, taking apart the thermostat. He was later seen proceeding down the hallway to the room on the fourth floor where he was ultimately located. The hotel owner confirmed the damage to the light fixtures and the thermostat at around $500. The hotel owner also confirmed Peters did not have permission to be in the hotel. He was ultimately charged with fourth-degree burglary and intoxicated endangerment.

Couple Arrested For Fighting OCEAN CITY– A York, Pa., couple was arrested last weekend after allegedly getting into a physical fight outside a downtown hotel in an alleged dispute over a missing hotel key.

Around 3:40 p.m. last Saturday, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers were operating in a plainclothes capacity in an unmarked car in the area of 15th Street when they allegedly observed two disorderly indi-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch viduals. The couple was arguing as they crossed the street and the officers heard the male, later identified as Derrick Williams, 40, of York, Pa., shout expletives and gesture aggressively by waving his arms in the air.

The male and female, later identified as Amanda Delauder, 33, also of York, walked slowly toward the lobby of a hotel on 15th Street and continued shouting each other at the front door of the hotel. According to police reports, the couples’ shouting could clearly be heard by the OCPD officers in their patrol vehicle with the windows up. According to police reports, the commotion drew the attention of multiple passersby.

The officers reportedly heard Williams yell for help and that he was being hit. Williams then walked from the front of the hotel to the parking garage where the officers observed Delauder hit him multiple times in the face. The couple began pulling on each other and a plastic bag that later turned out to contain shirts and alcoholic beverages.

According to police reports, Williams initially walked away from Delauder, but returned to the parking garage and waved at her aggressively before pushing her back. The couple then engaged in a mutual physical fight in the public street in front of several onlookers. The altercation reportedly began over who had the key to the hotel. They were both ultimately arrested and charged with affray and disorderly conduct.

After their arrest, the hotel key was located in Delauder’s pants pocket.

Page 25

CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY M • Free Indoor Cornhole • Arcade • Billiards

OPEN DAILY Mon.-Fri.: 3 pm-12am Sat.: 12pm-12am Sun.: 12pm-10 pm

M Heart Shaped Cheese Pizza $15 M Steak & Cake, 2 Sides $28.99 M Prime Rib Au Jus, 2 Sides $26.99 M Stuffed Rockfish, 2 Sides $27.99 SPECIALS Monday: 1/2-Price Large Pizza Tuesday: 1/2-Price Tacos (Beef Brisket, Pork, or Chicken) Wednesday: 1/2-Price Build-Your-Own Burgers Thursday: 1/2-Price Wings & Billiards Friday: Beer Battered Atlantic Cod with Hand-Cut Fries $13.99 (All Specials In-House Only)

HAPPY HOUR MONDAY-FRIDAY 3-6 P.M. SATURDAY & SUNDAY NOON-6 P.M. $2.50 Domestic Bottles • $3 Cocktails/House Wine 12445 Ocean Gateway • 410-213-7717

Week-Long Virtual Ocean City Film Festival Set For March

Page 26

OCEAN CITY – The 5th Annual Ocean City Film Festival will be virtual in 2021, streaming to homes March 4-11.

The festival is an initiative of the Art League of Ocean City that produces the festival along with broad community sponsorship.

“We have extended the festival to a week-long event in 2021 to give viewers more time to view all the films,” said B.L. Strang-Moya, Film Festival director. “In past years, festival attendees physically couldn’t get to see every single film. An advantage to this year’s virtual festival is viewers can watch almost all the films anytime they want during that week,

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

in the comfort and safety of their own homes.”

Over the week of March 4-11, the festival will stream more than 80 independent films on the proven Eventive platform with menus and interactions similar to Netflix. The festival received more than 103 entries from around the world, and judges selected 72 films representing 15 U.S. states, including Hawaii, and 11 countries: Argentina, United Kingdom, Turkey, Canada, Iran, Belgium, France, India, Brazil, Spain, and Vietnam.

“This is a very high acceptance rate,” Strang-Moya said, “and indicates the quality of entries we received. These

February 12, 2021

submissions are from filmmakers who were able to persevere despite the pandemic challenges facing the film industry.

Ten of our films also come from the 2020 OC Film Challenge plus several invited films to be announced.”

Strang-Moya added, "We are grateful to have recently been named members of the Sundance Industry Office, a testament to the rapid growth and interest in our festival locally, nationally, and internationally. We will announce the full schedule of our invited feature films upon the completion of the 2021 Sundance Film Festival.”

The festival will stream independent films in multiple genres: animation, dramatic shorts, environmental and aquatic, feature length, funny shorts, horror/sci-fi, short documentary, youth short films, and short feel-good films. Many of the shorter films will be grouped into blocks for easy viewing.

Salisbury-native Eric Walter will come home with a showing of “My Amityville Horror,” named one of the top 10 festival horror films, in anticipation of his upcoming feature, “Dark Side of the Mountain.”

Walter who previously worked at WBOC, is a director, editor, and documentary filmmaker in Los Angeles, known for producing investigative non-fiction films. He has produced and consulted on numerous documentaries for film and television with a focus on cold cases and unexplained phenomena.

The feature-length documentary, “The Friendliest Town,” about racial injustice

in Pocomoke City, will also stream during the festival. The film was directed and produced by Baltimore journalists Stephen Janis and Taya Graham and follows the career, firing, and court trials of former Police Chief Kelvin Sewell as well as town reaction.

The festival will include Zoom workshops, virtual filmmaker get-togethers, and other special events. The festival has also planned a follow-up in-person drive-in movie event on March 26-27 at the Ocean City Inlet Parking Lot, featuring “The Best of the Fest 2021,” weather permitting.

The films have not been rated, and some feature adult content. Viewer discretion is advised.

For the fifth year, Bishopville artist Ian Postley designed the official festival poster, incorporating iconic local landmarks with fantastical characters. This year’s design features a cast of robots parading under the Ocean City Boardwalk arch, marking a transition from an in-person event to an exclusively electronic event.

Festival passes go on sale Feb. 1, 2021 at OCMDFilmFestival.com or by calling 410-524-9433. Prices allow customization to create a personal viewing experience. Passes start at $10 per feature film or film block. Multi-film packages are also available: 6 features and/or film blocks, $49; 13 features and/or film blocks, $99. Virtual fans can see everything with an all-access pass for $149.

How Can We Help You?

All of us need a little help from time to time.

Here are some of the ways we enrich our clients lives.

ACCUMULATE Growth of Investments • Maximization of Benefits Company Sponsored Plans - Pension, 401(k), 403(b), ect.

ADDED PROTECTION Market Risk & Loss • Estate Protection • Die Too Soon Live Too Long • Long Term Illness or Injury

DISTRIBUTE Pensions • IRAs/401(k)/403(b) • Social Security Legacy - Next Generation & Charitable Donations

Let Us Help You Succeed

Investment Advisory Services offered through Retirement Wealth Advisors, (RWA) a Registered Investment Advisor. Key Financial Services and RWA are not affiliated. Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

9928 Old Ocean City Blvd., Suite 2 Berlin, Maryland 21811 410-629-0357 • keyfinancialservices.com

February 12, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 27

No State Grant For Library Project

Page 28

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

M MM Valentine Special Menu M M M

R E S TA U R A N T & B A R

THE FINEST SEAFOOD, STEAKS AND POULTRY

LOCALS’ FAVORITE SINCE 1955

Located In The Courtyard by Marriott 15th Street & Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Md. For Reservations, Call: 410-289-7192/7191 captainstableoc.com

Q BREAKFAST/LUNCH SAT., SUN. & MON. 8 A.M.-NOON Q DINNER & LITE FARE FRI., SAT. & SUN. 5-9 P.M. Q BAR OPEN TIL’ 10 P.M.

DAILY CHEF SPECIALS

KIDS MENU

CARRY OUT AVAILABLE

BERLIN – Library officials will reevaluate plans for a new Pocomoke branch after learning grant funding for the project was not included in the governor’s proposed capital budget.

In a virtual board meeting Tuesday, Worcester County Library Director Jennifer Ranck told trustees that library officials would continue to explore options for a new Pocomoke branch.

While plans for a new facility have been included in the county’s capital improvement plan, and money has been set aside for the project, Ranck said the library’s application for state grant funding had not been awarded.

“The governor released his budget the second week in January,” she said.

“In his capital budget, the Pocomoke project was not included. That means the FY2022 grant I applied for is not going to happen.”

Last year, county officials began moving forward with plans for a new library in Pocomoke after selecting a building scheme for a shared facility on a vacant lot offered by the City of Pocomoke. The proposed site would not only house the Pocomoke branch, but a senior center as well.

But in October, Ranck announced the library’s decision to forego the construction of a new branch on the downtown parcel after receiving the results of

February 12, 2021

a phase two environmental study, which identified several underground storage tanks on the site.

“We determined that site wasn’t viable,” Ranck told board members this week. “If that played a factor in not receiving the grant, I’m not sure.”

Ranck, however, said plans for a new – or even renovated – library were not off the table. She said the library could explore other locations near downtown Pocomoke, or construct a 4,000-squarefoot addition at the existing facility.

“There is room to have a senior center on the current site if the commissioners want to move forward with that plan,” she said. “But that would be really tight.”

Ranck said she planned to meet with county administration in the coming days to discuss the Pocomoke project.

She said she would also want to seek approval from the Worcester County Commissioners to apply for state grant funding in fiscal year 2023.

“I’m going to keep applying for state grant money and see where we land,” she said.

Ranck also told board members this week she would meet with Pocomoke’s mayor and city manager to provide them with an update on the project.

“It’s in our strategic plan, it’s definitely on my to-do list, but it’s in a holding pattern right now and it’s frustrating,” she said. “We are going to try and move forward any way we can.”

New Storage Facility Eyes Route 611

February 12, 2021

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – The Worcester County Planning Commission approved plans for a new storage facility on Route 611.

The site plan for Salt Grass Point Farms Mini Storage, an eight-building facility proposed in West Ocean City, was approved by the commission last Thursday. The project’s connections said mini storage would be a low impact use for a piece of property long zoned commercial.

“It’ll generate very little traffic compared to a restaurant or hotel,” attorney Hugh Cropper said.

Cropper told the commission the 75,000-square-foot facility was proposed for property on Route 611 south of Snug Harbor Road. He said the land was “imminently developable” but as self storage would not have a huge impact on traffic or sewer. He added that extensive thought had been put into the design of the facility so that it would be attractive.

“We think it’s a great addition to the community,” Cropper said.

Chris Larmore, one of the project’s partners, acknowledged that it was difficult to make mini storage look like anything other than what it was. Nevertheless, he said he’d latched onto the idea of modeling the facility’s ap-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

pearance on that of an attractive horse barn.

“I actually went online and looked at different farms and barns…,” he said.

“The goal was to bring to the table what would appear to be a family horse farm out in the country.”

Larmore said feedback he’d received from various parties regarding the proposed design had been positive.

“Everyone really likes the appearance,” he said.

Commission members agreed.

“It does look very favorable,” said Jerry Barbierri, chair of the commission.

Commission member Ken Church said he was excited for the project but questioned the quality of the building materials.

Larmore said he wanted to make sure the facility was built with material that would hold up for years. He said the reason he’d submitted renderings in two possible colors — green as well as white with blue — was because he was concerned the green might fade.

“We all seem to like the green, but greens just don’t do well,” he said.

He added that he was waiting for guarantees and examples from the manufacturer before he made a final decision on color.

“It’s going to be predicated on it being able to stay that way,” he said.

The commission voted unanimously to approve the project’s site plan.

Page 29

The developer of the Salt Grass Point Farms Mini Storage project is considering between color schemes.

Submitted Renderings

5

1

You’ll M Shopping For Gifts & Decorations In Our Local Antique & Country Craft Stores

3&4

2

One Of A Kind

Handmade Gifts, Country Crafts And More

Open Thursday Thru Sunday

2

BISHOPVILLE, MD. (ACROSS FROM POST OFFICE)

1

410-352-5323

OPEN YEAR-ROUND SATURDAY& SUNDAY

Park & Flea

Downtown Salisbury, Md. On Busy Rte. 13 Between Rte. 50 And Main St.

Antiques, Collectibles, Yard Sale, Plants And Produce

Buy, Sell, Trade

WINTER MARKET-ALL SPACES ONLY $5 NO RESERVATIONS-COME EARLY 3 410-603-3930 www.parkandflea.com

4

Charlene Upham Antiques

Steve Blumenauer & Charlene Upham

(410) 742-1392

“We Actively Buy, Sell & Appraise Investment Quality Antiques From Fine Eastern Shore Homes”

5

Fine Jewelry * Sterling Silver * Coins MD DLLR #2579 * Email: ctupham@aol.com 25542 Ocean Gtwy, Mardela Springs, MD 21837

Page 30

Norma Jean Bull OCEAN CITY – Norma Jean Bull (Tyson), 86, of Ocean City, made her transition to be with her Lord on Jan. 26, 2021.

Born in Felton, Pa. on Dec. 1, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Chester B. Tyson and Helen A. Tyson (Bailey) of Red Lion, Pa. Norma was a graduate of Red Lion Area High School, class of 1952, and Thompson’s NORMA School of Business, York, Pa. She was of- JEAN BULL fice manager of her husband’s business, Ed Bull Beer Distributor, York, Pa. for more than 20 years. Norma then worked in the Accounts Payable Office of the Bon Ton Corporation, York, Pa., until her retirement to Ocean City.

A welcoming face at Bethany United Methodist Church in Berlin, Norma

Obituaries

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

chaired and was involved in many committees. She also had been active in the Widow and Widowers Club as well as the local AARP chapter.

Norma was married for 49 years to the late Richard C. Bull, in Felton, Pa. on Sept. 30, 1956. She is survived by a daughter, Roxanne Davenport, of Chambersburg, Pa.; three grandchildren, Jennifer Swank, Ronkonkoma, N.Y., Thomas Dennis Jr., Shippensburg, Pa. and Matthew Dennis, Chambersburg Pa.; three great-grandchildren, Everett, Renton, and Reid; and a

brother, C. Eugene Tyson of Williamsburg, Va. A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at Bethany United Methodist Church in Berlin on Feb. 27, 2021 at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bethany United Methodist Church.

Carolyn E. Smith OCEAN CITY – Carolyn “Cookie” Smith, born April 13, 1932, passed away at home on Jan. 31, 2021 with her family by her side.

Obituaries cost $50 to appear in The Dispatch and photos are no extra charge. Direct all inquiries to editor@mdcoastdispatch.com, fax to 410-641-0966 or mail to P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811.

February 12, 2021

Cookie’s family was the most important thing in her life. She enjoyed cooking and baking for her family and friends. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Ron Smith, Sr. Left to cherish her memory are her devoted children, Ron (Butch) Smith, Jr., Sharon Orbin, Judith Howard and Eva Hitchens-Stephens. She CAROLYN E. SMITH was blessed with nine grandsons and 12 great grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021 at 10 a.m. at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 32112 Vines Creek Road, Dagsboro, Del. 19939.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Carolyn E. Smith’s name be made to Coastal Hospice at the Lake, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, MD 21802-1733.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Michael G. Andrews SELBYVILLE – Michael G. Andrews, age 97, passed away peacefully on Monday, Feb. 1, 2021 at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Baltimore, he was the son of the late John S. Andrews and Anna Goffus Andrews. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Mary V. Andrews; daughter Patricia A. Andrews; and SEE NEXT PAGE

... Obituaries

February 12, 2021

granddaughter Stephanie C. Andrews.

He was preceded in death by three brothers, Joe, Ed and John, and sister, Agnes.

Mike was a proud World War II veteran, serving as a Navy Flight Engineer and Pilot. He was a member of Combat Air Crew 159 stationed at Whidbe, Washington from 19431946.

MICHAEL G. As a self-taught enANDREWS gineer, Michael worked in aviation for Martin-Marietta, Lockheed Martin, and Westinghouse Aerospace. As a Senior Technical Writer at Westinghouse, Mike helped to write the manual that created the camera for the famous Moon Landing of 1969.

Michael married Mary Velma Massie on Nov. 11, 1950, a mercurial day of rain, thunder, snow and sunshine – a cosmic declaration of a marriage that was as tempestuous as it was devoted.

Michael and Mary had one daughter, Patricia, who still believes the moon rises and sets in her father’s beautiful smile. Patricia remembers how proud she was to walk into school with her Dad, always the most handsome man in the room. Blessed to have a dad who was always kind and loving, Patricia has never known a greater man than her father.

Michael also had a granddaughter,

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Stephanie, who is and will always be a professed “Pop Pop’s girl.” Stephanie attributes her ability to craft the world’s greatest paper airplanes and her eternal love for travel and adventure to the man that inspired her each and every day. She will continue to live by his motto, “Always do the right thing,” and hopes that she will always make him proud.

Mike loved flying, boating, and fishing, and taking care of ‘his girls,” Mary, Patty, Stephanie and Callie, the family dog. He always had a soft spot for dogs, and all the family pets – Jesse, Jessa, Shorty, and Callie – loved their Alpha Dad. Michael will always be remembered as a friend to all, with his charming smile and helpful hand, readily extended to help anyone in need.

Witty, intelligent, charismatic and kind, Michael was a blessing to family and friends, and his strong and gentle spirit will never be forgotten.

A mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in north Ocean City on Wednesday, Feb. 10.

Rev. Paul Jennings officiated. Interment followed at the Delaware Veteran’s Cemetery in Millsboro, Del. The prolific gardener in Michael would welcome flowers or plants. Letters of condolence may be sent via www.burbagefuneralhome.com

Walter Edward Watson, Jr. BERLIN – Walter Edward Watson, Jr., age 70, died on Wednesday, Feb.

Lauren A. Smith Realtor

®

Selling Shore To Shore

Licensed MD and DE • 410-245-9915 • LaurenASmith@KW.com

MMMMMMLLove Is At The Beach!LMMMMM Open House Friday, Feb. 12 11-1 and Saturday, Feb.13 10-12

21148 Arrington Drive, Arrington Woods, Selbyville

Gorgeous 4BR (2 Master Suites), 3.5BA End Townhome in Coastal Community. Boasting Over 2,600 sf. Upper Level Master Suite Features Balcony with Amazing Pond View, Walk-In Closet, Master Bath with Dual Sinks, Walk-In Shower and Soaking Tub. Lower Level Master with Walk-In Closet and Full Bath. Kitchen with New Granite and Appliances, Ample Counter and Cabinet Space, Great for Entertaining. Spacious Family Room with Vaulted Ceilings, Soaring Windows, Gas Fireplace Opening into Kitchen and Dining Area. Entire 1st Level New LVT Flooring. Walk out Dining Area Slider to Enjoy 3 Season Enclosed Sunroom with Pond View. 2nd Level Loft Area perfect for kids or Office Area. 2nd Level Covered Balcony.

Plenty of Storage in Oversized 1 Car Garage with New Opener. Community Pool. Updates Include: Granite Kitchen Counters 2020, Appliances 2019, Luxury Tile Floor 1st Level 2020, Water Heater 2017. Dual Zone Heating and Air. Short drive to Atlantic Ocean. Walking Distance to Harris Teeter, Freeman Stage, Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Convenient to many restaurants and shopping. Beautifully Decorated, Sold Partially Furnished.

Move in by Spring ! LOW DE Taxes. $409,900

3, 2021 at Tidal Health Peninsula Regional Medical Center.

Born in Berlin, he was the son of the late Walter E. Watson, Sr. and Edna Hitchens Watson. He is survived by his wife, Linda Harman Watson, and children, Walter R. Watson of Pittsville, Eric M. Watson of New York, N.Y., Hunter D. Watson of San Diego, Calif., and Jennifer W. Scott and her husband A.C. of Pittsville. There are WALTER EDWARD two grandchildren, Alan WATSON, JR. C. Scott and Samatha R. Scott. Also surviving is a brother, David Watson and his wife Gail, of Laurel, Del., and two sisters, Linda Cindrich and Gary Hoeler, Sr. of Parsonsburg and Barbara Robertson and her husband Bill of Salisbury, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mr. Watson was a graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, and had served in the United States Army. He had been employed by Top Notch Drywall in Hebron. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, taking them hunting and telling them stories. He enjoyed boogie boarding at the beach, gardening, mini golf, and listening to music.

A graveside service was held on Monday, Feb. 8 at Sunset Memorial Park near Berlin. A donation in his memory may be made to Pittsville Fire Company, 7442, Gumboro Rd., Pittsville, Md. 21850, or the American Cancer Society, 1315 Mt. Hermon Rd.

Page 31

Salisbury, Md. 21804. Letters of condolence may be sent via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.

Carl A. VanHekle, Jr. BERLIN – Carl A. VanHekle, Jr. of Berlin passed away on Feb. 5, 2021.

He was born Dec. 12, 1939, to Carl VanHekle, Sr. and Elsie Shane VanHekle. He graduated from Wilmington High School in 1957. Carl married the love of his life, Elizabeth, on Feb. 5, 1960, exactly 61 years before his death. He started a masonry business in 1960 and worked up to just a few months beCARL A. fore he passed away.

Carl loved and enjoyed VANHENKLE, JR. life to the fullest, making the most of every minute. He loved the sea, fishing, boating, traveling, time spent with his family, and his work.

Carl is preceded in death by his mother, Gladys VanHekle, and father, Carl A. VanHekle, Sr. He is survived by wife Elizabeth; sons Carl A. VanHekle III and David A. VanHekle; daughter Shari and husband John Jones; and eight grandchildren, Jennifer, Michelle, Chrissy, David, Kevin, Brian, Michael and Matthew; and five great-grandchildren.

Due to concerns over COVID, the family has elected to defer services at this time. Arrangements are in the care SEE PAGE 32

6200 Coastal Highway, Suite 101 Ocean City, Maryland 21842 410-524-6400

Ben Dawson 410-603-2205 • BenDawson@beachin.net

Make Your New Beach Home At The Makai!

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 2/13 10:30-2:30

#602-Very nicely furnished and maintained 2 BR/2 BA condo with large private balcony providing a great bay view. Situated on 42nd Street, next to the O.C. Convention Center and just one block to the beach, makes this one of the most desirable rental units on the beach.

Amenities include but not limited to indoor/outdoor tropical pool, sauna, sun deck, fitness center, billiards room, T.V. lounge, activity room, bicycle storage, security cameras, coded entry, private storage closets, and so much more. Shop and compare. You will love it here! $269,000

. . Obituaries

Page 32

FROM PAGE 31 of the Burbage Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.

Robert Lowe BERLIN – Robert Lowe of Berlin passed away on Feb. 7, 2021.

He was born Jan. 16, 1939 to William Lowe and Marie Brautigan Lowe. He was married to Deanna Lowe for 58 years. Robert enjoyed a career as a salesman where he was well respected and ROBERT had the ability to form LOWE long lasting relationships with clients.

Robert was very involved in the community and his country. He served in the United States Air Force for six years. He was a member of the American Legion in Ocean City Lodge #166

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

and attended St. John Neumann’s Catholic church where he served as an usher for many years.

Robert is survived by his loving wife, Deanna Lowe; son Robert Lowe Jr. and wife Lisa; daughters Kimberly and husband Gerard Barbero Jr. and Cheryl and husband John Esposito; grandchildren Jennifer and Sean Lowe, Gerard and wife Kelly, Brandon and wife Kelsey, and Hope Barbero, Nicholas and Brianna Esposito; and great grandchildren MacKenly and Kacelynn Barbero. Robert was predeceased by his brother, William Lowe, and sister, Marjorie Lowe.

Visitation was held at the Burbage Funeral Home on Feb. 10 with services held Feb. 11 with Rev. Edward Aigner at St. John Neumann Church. Burial will follow at a later date at the Garden of the Pine.

Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

Anna Groff Sirman SNOW HILL – Anna Groff Sirman, 94, of Snow Hill, passed away peacefully on Monday, Feb. 8, 2021 while residing at the Chesapeake Manor Assisted Living in Willards.

CARPET CLEANING

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

Quality Service by Certified Technicians Since 1983

(302) 436-5652 www.brasurescarpetcare.com

She was born Oct. 23, 1926 in Pocomoke City, a daughter of the late Herbert Groff, Sr. and Mollie Mills Groff.

Anna’s strong work ethic began in her early days as she started her career as a secretary at Nock’s Hatchery in Snow Hill, while still a senior in high school and continued until having children. Later she worked as a bookkeeper for E. Maurice Jones Insurance Co. and then continued her work, as the business went through changes, until retirement from Associated Insurance Co. She was a longtime member of Trinity United Methodist Church and Bowen United Methodist Church in Newark. Favorite pastimes were reading, crocheting, playing Canasta, crossword puzzles, dominos, making afgans as gifts and delicate lace tablecloths for very special friends. She loved dining out with her best friend Betty Bradford Groton and playing cards with Lola Marie Bradford, Edith Dryden and Virginia Timmons. She will be remembered as a child of God, who touched so many lives as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, mommom, great grandmother, aunt, and to everyone a friend.

She is survived by her son, William G. Sirman, Jr.; a daughter, Cordie Sirman Pearson and husband Harry;

HERE’S MY CARD

grandchildren, Michelle Sirman Wells, Christina Pearson Lindstrom and husband Ric, Daniel W. Pearson, and Michael W. Sirman and wife Jennifer; great grandchildren, Trey Wells, Colbey Sirman, Lane Sirman, and Wyatt Sirman; brother, Ron Groff and wife Renee; sister-in-law, Joanne Trader Groff; two local nieces and a nephew; and her Baltimore nieces and nephews. She also leaves her good friend, Loretta Purnell, and an honorary “grandson,” Lewis Bilbrough.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, William G. Sirman, Sr., as well as a brother, Herbert Groff, Jr., sisters-in-law, Mary Jane Groff and Ellen Sirman LiPira and husband Dr. Joseph LiPira, and nephew Joseph V. LiPira.

Due to current COVID-19 restrictions services will be private for family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Trinity United Methodist Church, c/o Nancy Bounds, 10445 Mason Road, Berlin, Md. 21811 or to Bowen United Methodist Church, c/o Janet Coughlin, P.O. Box 87, Newark, Md. 21841.

Services are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.

ROOFING

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT PAMELA GREEN

PHONE: 410-641-4561 • FAX: 410-641-0966 EMAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@MDCOASTDISPATCH.COM

PORCH COVERS

ROOFING

February 12, 2021

ATTORNEY Free & Flexible Consultation Call Today!

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

Matthew S. Farr

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

QUALIFIED MECHANICS TO HELP WITH YOUR ROOFING NEEDS!

11032 Nicholas Lane, Suite A202 Berlin, MD 21811 Phone: (410) 430-7887

Work Injury Claims Personal Injury Claims

FOR A FREE ESTIMATE CALL OFFICE: 410-289-1115 OR CALL THE OWNER DIRECT: 443-366-2786

HOME & PATIO SERVICES

302-212-9800 meckservicesanddesigns@gmail.com MHIC #135919 DE #2018608353

HOME & PATIO SERVICES/INTERIOR & EXTERIOR • General Repair • Tile • Pavers • Hardscaping & Maintenance • Painting • Drywall • Landscaping • Flooring Contact us today for a free estimate!

LAWN CARE

HANDYMAN SERVICES

mfarr@matthewfarrlaw.com www.MatthewFarrLaw.com

ROOFING

BOB NAILS IT

HOME REPAIRS & IMPROVEMENTS

Quality You Can Depend On!

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT

”Over 30 Years Experience” PROMPT, PROFESSIONAL SERVICE SATISFACTION GUARANTEED LICENSED & INSURED FREE ESTIMATES

• Decks Built & Restored • Vinyl Railings • Custom Porch Enclosures • Power Washing • Property Maintenance

410-208-9233

LANDSCAPING

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

443-783-2224 • edgarcjr@aol.com

Wicomico Schools Stats Confirm Lower GPA, Enrollment

February 12, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – A review of school system statistics this week highlighted a decrease in enrollment and grade point averages during the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Tuesday, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Dr. Rick Briggs, Assistant Superintendent for Student and Family Services Kim Miles and Chief Finance and Operations Officer Micah Stauffer presented the Wicomico County Board of Education with an update on grade point averages, enrollment, attendance and personal protective equipment (PPE) supply for the 2020-2021 academic year.

As Wicomico County students transition back to hybrid in-person learning, Superintendent Dr. Donna Hanlin said she wanted the assistant superintendents to provide an overview of school system metrics.

“We’ve been doing a lot of work,” she said, “and we still have a lot of work to do.”

Miles told board members this week

fall enrollment in Wicomico County Public Schools had decreased from 15,203 students in 2019 to 14,354 in 2020. She added that the number of students enrolled in homeschooling had increased.

“Some are students who came from Wicomico County Public Schools into homeschooling and some are students who came from other educational settings in Wicomico County and transitioned to homeschooling,” she said. “As we see this decrease, this is what we’re seeing with other school systems across our state, and perhaps beyond, as well.”

High school enrollment in the fall decreased 2% while elementary school enrollment decreased 10%, Miles said.

Middle school enrollment, however, was up by 1.3%.

She also noted that officials continue to monitor attendance and work with families to address areas of concern.

According to school system data, 12 schools reported a year-to-date attendance rate of 90% to 95%, while six schools reported an attendance rate of greater than 95% and seven schools reported an attendance rate of less than

Page 33

90%.

“We are very much focused on the attendance of students …,” she said.

“Attendance is what leads us to opportunities for engagement and the opportunities for success.”

Briggs told board members this week a review of school year data also highlighted the pandemic’s effect on academic achievement.

“We know that while some students have been thriving in a virtual learning environment, others are not meeting the success we would like,” he said.

Briggs noted first-term grade point averages (GPA) decreased in every grade level when compared to prior years.

“You can see that we indeed saw a decline in average GPA across the board, with the largest decreases occurring in grades 5 through 7,” he said.

“Teachers, counselors and administrators are continuing to closely examine their school-level data and are strategically targeting students needing additional supports and interventions through tutoring opportunities on Wednesdays and after school.”

Briggs said that as the transition to

HERE’S MY CARD

hybrid in-person learning continues, those students would receive additional support within the classroom. He added the school system will also provide learning opportunities to students over the summer months.

“We are extremely focused on addressing any learning gaps caused by the pandemic during this second semester,” he said. “And during this same time, we’re planning for a variety of summer learning opportunities to ensure students have the skills and knowledge to be successful moving forward.”

Briggs also provided board members with the number of students planning to return to the classroom in the hybrid format. According to school system data, 5,918 students in prekindergarten through 12th grade have indicated they would return to school.

“Keeping in mind we have about 1,100 students per grade level, in the elementary grades the percentage of students returning is about 45% to 50% while in the secondary grades it’s smaller with about 30% to 35% of students wishing to return,” he said.

MVA LICENSED

For More Information, Contact Pamela Green PHONE: 410-641-4561 • FAX: 410-641-0966 EMAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@MDCOASTDISPATCH.COM

WAINWRIGHT’S TIRE CENTER INC. AUTO

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

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

410-641-2000 • 18 Broad St. • Berlin

BLINDS/SHADES

CLUTTER ANGELS “Anything you don’t have time to do CLEANING SERVICES

WASTE & SEPTIC SERVICE SEPTIC PUMP OUTS AS LOW AS $225

Clutter Angels can do For You!”

HOME SERVICES & PERSONAL ASSISTANTS

• Move In/Move Out Cleaning • Housekeeping • Packing/Unpacking • Errands

• Transporting/Donations • Downsizing/Organizing • Grocery Shopping • Dry Cleaning/Laundry

Septic Installation, Service & Pumping Hydro Jetting | Drain Fields & Pump Stations Porta Potty Rentals | Roll-Off Dumpsters | Grease Traps

2kuzlandonseptic.com

2kuzlandonsepticservices@gmail.com | 410.957.0379

VETERAN & SENIOR SERVICES

• Companion Care • Mail/Help with Bills • Meal Preparation

HOME IMPROVEMENT

• Laundry • Shopping/Errands

Jackie Sarbu, Owner • 410.422.4826

ONE FREE HOUR

WITH 5 HOUR PURCHASE

MAINTENANCE SERVICES

10% OFF

SENIORS & VETERANS

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

Specializing In: Custom Additions, Kitchens, Baths

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HANDYMAN SERVICES

443-871-6643

MHIC#76938

Del.#2007215731

sro2handymanservices.com

ASSEMBLE ANYTHING HANDYMAN SERVICES Residential • Commercial • Vacation Home • Rentals

443-235-6249 • ARTISTICRENOVATIONS.COM

Page 34

6-Month Berlin Finances Reviewed

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – A six-month financial review yielded no major surprises, according to municipal staff.

On Monday, Finance Director Natalie Saleh reviewed six-month financial figures with Mayor Zack Tyndall and members of the town council.

“Overall nothing outstanding,” Saleh said.

Saleh reviewed the town’s figures for the six months ending Dec. 31, 2020. As is typical, taxes accounted for the bulk of the town’s more than $6 million in annual revenues.

“As of December we have collected $3.3 million of $4.2 budgeted,” she said.

“We have another 20% to collect.”

She said the amount of funding the town received from Worcester County exceeded what was budgeted by 37% because of CARES Act funding that had been provided.

Saleh said one area of revenues that was not at the level budgeted was impact fees. The town budgeted $30,000 in revenue from impact fees and halfway through the fiscal year has only received $4,000.

“We might not be able to collect all of them by the end of the year,” she said.

As far as expenses, the town has $6.6 million budgeted and six months in has spent close to half of that.

“I feel it’s very good,” Saleh said.

February 12, 2021

The majority of the town’s expenses, 28%, are in the police department.

Administration accounts for 16% of expenses, as does capital outlay. Debt service accounts for 8% of the town’s expenses.

In sanitation, Town Administrator Jeff Fleetwood said the town was spending more in landfill tipping fees.

“We attribute the higher numbers to the COVID — folks being at home,” he said.

Saleh said the water fund was not quite where the town wanted it to be, as it was currently operating at a loss.

The fund’s revenues are budgeted at $777,250 for the year while expenses are expected to be $941,475.

“Hopefully the revenues will improve,” she said.

Councilman Dean Burrell said he found Monday’s report enlightening but suggested one improvement for the future. He said line items greater than $100,000 should include additional information if they were more than 10% off what was budgeted.

He said that would provide officials with more information in situations where spending or revenues were not at the expected level.

Tyndall encouraged any officials with questions regarding the town’s finances to reach out to Saleh.

“If you have any questions as it relates to this or other financial matters feel free to ask,” he said. “She’s a wealth of knowledge.”

Business And Real Estate News

February 12, 2021

County Adds Specialist SNOW HILL – The Worcester County Commissioners named Michele Burke as the new business development and retention specialist within Worcester County Economic Development (WCED).

“This new role will truly complete the Economic Development and Tourism team that we have been building for Maryland’s Coast,” Tourism and Economic Development Director Melanie Pursel said.

“Michele has extensive MICHELE BURKE sales and customer service experience, which is exactly what we need to assist existing businesses with growth and to attract new investors in the county.”

In her new role, Burke will oversee the county’s business attraction, retention, and expansion program and serve as the county’s business ambassador to help existing business owners and operators identify services and resources that support their goals. She will also be the primary liaison with local, state, and federal partners, including the area chambers of commerce, Maryland De-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 35

partment of Commerce, Small Business Development Center, and the Small Business Association.

Realtor Earns Honor BERLIN – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty announced Debbie Bennington of the Ocean Pines office has been named to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ Chairman’s Circle-Gold Level for 2020.

The Chairman’s Circle-Gold Level is awarded to the top two percent of the company's network’s sales professionals.

"She is knowledgeable, has a strong work ethic and is a natural leader. Debbie strives to provide the best possible real estate experience for all her clients,” said Sharon Curtiss, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty.

Bennington entered the real estate industry in 2002 and joined Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty in 2011. She has been a consistent award winner of the President’s Circle and Chairman Gold Circle Award.

Practitioner Joins Office BERLIN – Atlantic General Hospital

The more than 200 staff members of Coastal Hospice presented a check for $10,000 to the United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore. The proceeds were from the organization-wide employee campaign held in late 2020. Above, Claire Otterbein, second from right, Community Impact Manager for the United Way, accepts the $10,000 donation from Renee Smith, manager of Volunteer Services: Alane Capen, president; and Bob Miller, senior director.

Submitted Photos

and Health System officials recently announced a new family nurse practitioner has joined the health system’s Pocomoke primary care office to provide care alongside Dr. John Whittaker Christina Hargis, DN- CHRISTINA HARGIS P, earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner certification from Salisbury University in May 2020. Prior to that, she

earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Salisbury University. She is board certified in family medicine by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Hargis started her career in nursing at The University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle, Wash., where she worked on the cardiothoracic surgical unit. In 2015, she joined the team at The Johns Hopkins Hospital’s Progressive Care Unit. Hargis recently worked as an RN and case manager at Peninsula Regional’s wound center.

Page 36

Berlin Continues Skate Park Talk

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Berlin Liquor Store

Largest Liquor Store In OC Area!

Cold & Warm Beer

BEER•LIQUOR•WINE Every Thursday And Sunday Senior Citizens Get

10% OFF

10% OFF

Liquor And Wine

Liquor And Wine

(On Orders Of $50 Or More) Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Must bring in coupon. Expires 3.7.21 • MCD

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

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

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Town officials again talked about the potential for a skate park this week.

In the wake of a discussion of potentially selling one or more portions of Heron Park, council members again brought up the issue of a skate park.

Councilman Jay Knerr said he wanted to see the town make some efforts after the police department offered the first $1,000 toward the effort.

“We have to start somewhere,” he said.

Knerr said that since the issue came up last month, he’d done some research regarding Salisbury’s skateboarding facility. He said the city had received more than $400,000 in Community Parks and Playgrounds grants to help set up a skate park.

“With that they’ve been able to build a 10,000 square foot skate park,” he said.

“It’s like the Super Bowl of skate parks.”

He said that Salisbury’s experience showed that there was funding out there to help the project.

“It’d be nice to see Berlin get started on this project,” he said.

Deputy Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said the town applied for a Community Parks and Playgrounds grant each year. Its most recent grant applications have focused on getting funding to help bring permanent restrooms to Stephen

February 12, 2021

Decatur Park.

“We have to prioritize the projects we want to apply for,” she said.

She added that the town also had to spend some money to get the data to include on its application, such as the potential design and cost of a project.

“It will cost some money upfront,” she said.

When Knerr asked if the town could apply for funding for more than one project at once, Bohlen said that was not recommended.

“They don’t care to see projects spread all over town,” she said.

Mayor Zack Tyndall said Knerr’s questions were part of a larger discussion on grants as a whole. He said that in talking to Economic and Community Development Director Ivy Wells he’d realized that the town should really have a dedicated grant writer.

“I’ve seen some municipalities in our area acquire a grant funded position for somebody whose sole purpose is to write grants,” he said. “That is something we’re looking in to.”

Tyndall added that as far as a shortterm skateboarding fix, the town had reached out to the individuals who’d brought pop-up skateboarding events to Berlin in the past. He said doing it again would be possible but that volunteers would be needed.

“There is still a sense for doing that but there is a lot of labor that goes into it,” he said.

Truck’nAmerica

H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

COVID-19 Meeting Clients Remotely For Your Health.

Reduced Rates Apply

Estate Planning Wills & Trusts Powers of Attorney Medical Directives

GOLF CART

443-783-2570 Sales H Repairs H Accessories

PICK UP & DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE

WOULD YOU LOVE SOME LAND? 7109 Parsonsburg Road Parsonsburg, MD 21849

2.09 acres in a rural location with a well and septic on site. Mobile, modular or stick built homes permitted. The 12x28 shed with riding mower conveys. This lot offers cleared space to build plus a wooded area along the back of the property.

Elder Law 9748 Stephen Decatur Hwy. #112 Ocean City, MD 21842 www.batielaw.com

443-856-4676 Monday-Friday

Bankruptcy

$64,900 - MLS MDWC110438

Flat Fee Available Home Visits Available Upon Request

.com

CarolSue Crimmins GRI, Broker 410-726-2999

3906 Coastal Highway, 1S Ocean City, MD 21842 Office: 410-524-6300 www.carefree-realtor.com Licensed In MD & DE

The Dispatch Classifieds

February 12, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

$15/Week For Minimum Of Five Lines • $2 Thereafter Per Line Display Classified Ads: $20/Week Per Column Inch (Contract Discounts Available)

Deadline For Insertions, Cancellations And Payment Is 3 p.m. Tuesday.

Pre-Payment Is Required. We Accept Visa & MasterCard.

DRIVER: Needed to make short trips around the local area for quick errands 3-4 times per month until end of 2021. Perfect for a retiree. Call or Text 443-727-9018.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

HELP WANTED MAINTENANCE: F/T, Y/R, 32-40 hours/week. Dependable. Handyman with good skills. Must have transportation/tools. Send resume to fred@paradiseoc.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– PARAMOUNT CONSTRUCTION SERVICES: Seeking experienced professionals to join our organization in Ocean City, MD. Applicants should have several years of experience with knowledge of kitchen and bathroom remodeling for residential homes and condominiums.

Paramount is currently looking for Project Managers, cabinet installers, tile setters, painters/drywall, electricians, and plumbers.

Please call 443-664-7689 or send resume to ocjobs@paramountserv.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– LANDSCAPE WORKERS NEEDED: Must have valid DL. Reliable transportation to work. Call 410-641-2177. The Moore Companies, Berlin, MD. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC: Needed for local landscape company in the Bishopville-Berlin area.

FT/PT. The Moore Companies.

410-641-2177.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ADMINISTRATIVE ASST: For busy Landscape Contractors office in Berlin. This is a multi-tasking position for detail oriented individual including customer scheduling & routing crews. Strong computer skills and have a pleasant personality. Call The Moore Companies, 410-641-2177.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– MASONRY/CONCRETE LABORERS: Experience preferred. Must have valid drivers license and transportation. Text Kevin at 443859-2437.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– CLEANERS: For condo rentals.

Good pay. Spring, Summer, and Fall. Some experience required.

Call 443-953-0544.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– FT/YR CLEANER: For OC, Bethany, Fenwick areas to start March 1st. Also taking applications now for Sat. & Sun. work JuneSept. Text 443-513-0412 with your information to be contacted back.

No Calls, Please.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––—

GENERAL HANDYMAN Off the Hook Restaurant Group operates five restaurants in the Ocean City, MD and Bethany Beach, DE market.

We are seeking a professional General Handyman to assist in maintenance and general upkeep. The successful candidate will possess general knowledge in electricity, plumbing, HVAC, restaurant equipment and appliances and general carpentry.

We offer a competitive salary commensurate with experience, benefits, vacation and 401(k).

Please apply to Gary at: gbowers@irseafood.com EOE

AUTOMOTIVE POSITIONS

We have openings for Parts & Service Associates with locations in the Millsboro, Bethany, and Ocean City areas.

Offering Great Pay and Benefits.

Please Call: 302-344-9846

NOW HIRING - YEAR ROUND EXPERIENCED BARTENDER Call 410-726-7061 for Interview POSEIDON PLUMBING & HOME SERVICES NOW HIRING PLUMBERS. We offer paid training, vacation, and personal days, as well as a quality benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance. Wage is BOE from $12-$30/hour.

Based in the Berlin/OC area.

What we require: -Min. 4 Years Experience -Valid Drivers License -Reliable Form of Contact -Background Check -Ability to Pass a Drug Test -Positive Attitude & Willingness to Learn If you feel that you can fill one of these positions, please call us to set up an interview. We can be reach at 410-251-1096.

POSEIDON PLUMBING & HOME SERVICES

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Hiring For The Summer Season!

May 1 - Sept 30 Weekday and Weekend Hours Available.

Start At $15/Hour.

Must Have Reliable Transportation.

Attention Independent Cleaning Contractors in the Ocean City area. Coldwell Banker Vacations is looking for experienced, energetic individuals to deliver Truly Remarkable Service by providing quality cleaning services in a limited time window for the 2021 season. Weekend hours, license, insurance, references and a great work ethic required. Smartphone for Cleaning Portal Access.

Contact Kay, Jen or Sue at 410.723.8507 or email cclean@cbvacations.com

(We Reimburse .40/mile)

End Of Season Bonus!

Text or Call 443-640-7983

I NDI A N R I VER MA R I NA I S NOW HI R I NG! •MAINTENANCE •NIGHT WATCH 3PM-11PM SHIFT

•GENERAL CLERICAL

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

Currently hiring manpower for

•STUCCO & EIFS MECHANICS •CARPENTERS •CONCRETE BLOCK •COATINGS SPECIALISTS •FLAT CONCRETE •CONCRETE REPAIRS •PT WELDER •COMMERCIAL CAULKING •WINDOW & DOOR INSTALLERS •WAREHOUSE HELP (DRIVER’S LICENSE REQ’D) Experience Preferred. Tools, transportation & a valid driver’s license are a plus. Competitive benefit package available.

Please apply in person at 11935 Hammer Rd, Bishopville, MD, or apply online: http://allstatesconst.com/delmarva-renovations-careers

Page 37

PUT YOUR LOGO IN COLOR FOR JUST $10

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

MARYLAND STATE INSPECTOR

We have an opening for an Automotive Maryland State Inspector at our Ocean Pines Goodyear.

EXCELLENT PAY & BENEFITS! Please Call 302-344-9846

CARPENTERS & CARPENTERS HELPERS

Must have: Tools, Transportation, Driver’s License

Exp. Required!

PATTERSON & SONS BUILDERS

Call 410-641-9530

I NDI A N RI VER MA R INA NOW HI R ING SUMMER POS I TIONS!

•FUEL DOCK ATTENDANT •DOCK HANDS •RAMP ATTENDANTS

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

PART-TIME FRONTLINE ASSOCIATE Farmers Bank of Willards has a Part-Time Frontline Associate position available at the North Ocean City location. Looking for professional and motivated individuals with extraordinary customer service skills. Cash handling experience & excellent computer skills a must.

Please email your resume to kelly.drexel@fbwbank.com or call Kelly Drexel at 410-250-1512 Application cut off is 02-22-2021 “Equal Employment Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer”

The Dispatch

Classifieds

Page 38

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

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

FULL-TIME PERSONAL BANKER Farmers Bank of Willards has a full-time Personal Banker position available at our West Ocean City location. Looking for professional and motivated individuals with extraordinary customer service skills. Cash handling experience & excellent computer skills a must.

Please send resume to 12641 Ocean Gateway, OC, MD 21842 or email: jennie.rice@fbwbank.com Application cut off is 02-22-2021 “Equal Employment Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer”

Sunset Island, Ocean City, MD Accepting Resumes for a

Clubhouse Facility Manager

PART-TIME FRONTLINE ASSOCIATE

Full-Time Seasonal Position Personnel Management experience is required. The job would require management of a seasonal staff of 15 people, and oversight of contractors and scheduling. Weekends and Holidays are mandatory.

Excellent people skills a must!

Salary based on experience.

Fax Resume to 410-520-0398 or Email: linda.horensavitz@ casinc.biz

February 12, 2021

RENTALS

PETS

WINTER RENTAL: 122nd St., ocean side, 1BR, 1BA condo.

Clean, Cozy, Furnished. Non smoking. $700/mo + elec. & sec. dep. Water incl. 443-373-5638.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

STUD SERVICES: 10 month old Labradoodle. Extremely well tempered. Breeding papers available.

Please contact Ben at 443-4930686.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

WEEKLY RENTALS Poolfront Room $215.

Efficiency Room $245.

2 BR Apartment $350.

3 BR Suite $400.

Burgundy Inn 1210 Philadelphia Ave.

410-289-8581

The Dispatch Is On Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!

The Dispatch

Legal Notices THIRD INSERTION

MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ. WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP PO BOX 910 115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910

NOW HIRING

“Equal Employment Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer”

AWESOME PEOPLE

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18570

(Starting Feb. 12th-March 19th)

To all persons interested in the estate of PHILOMENA MILLACE NACKE, ESTATE NO. 18570. Notice is given that DALE ALAN NACKE, 4866 HAPPY HOLLOW ROAD, ATLANTA, GA 30360 was on, JANUARY 20, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of PHILOMENA MILLACE NACKE, who died on APRIL 19, 2018, without a will.

Holding open interviews

EVERY SAT & SUN 11am-2pm for:

Come by and join our 2021 family!

54th ST OCMD 410-723-5565

Behind Chauncey’s Surf Shop

COLLECTIBLES: 10 Hummel Plates Exc. Cond. ($125/set). 8 German Steins ($100/set), Tyrolia Mega Shadow Skis w/ bag & poles (BO). Cocktail Ring, 18K yellow gold, .75 TCW diamonds, GHSI 1 (BO). Rocking Chair ($75). Text for pictures 443-727-9018.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– CAREER CLOTHING: Upscale wardrobe items sizes 10/12/14/L/XL incl. suits, gowns, pants, blouses and shoes (7,9,10) by high end designers. Priced from $5-$50. Call or Text 443-727-9018.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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.

Farmers Bank of Willards has a Part-Time Frontline Associate position available at the Talbot Branch, Ocean City location. Looking for professional and motivated individuals with extraordinary customer service skills. Cash handling experience & excellent computer skills a must.

Please send resume to 12641 Ocean Gateway, OC, MD 21842 or email: jennie.rice@fbwbank.com Application cut off is 02-22-2021

•SERVERS •HOSTS •BUS STAFF •KITCHEN STAFF •SECURITY

FOR SALE

COMMERCIAL FOR LEASE: Retail Banking Center with drive thru. Contact Brian Gamm. 443-880-2225.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– WEST O.C. OFFICE/RETAIL SPACES AVAILABLE: 1 OfficeRetail and 1 Warehouses. Plenty of Parking. 443-497-4200.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– UPSCALE MIDTOWN OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT: 2,130 sq.ft.

No CAM fees. 443-880-2225.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

SERVICES Ceja’s Landscaping & More!

•YARD MAINTENANCE •PAINTING •POWER WASHING 410-251-3425 410-202-2545

The Dispatch classified pages can point you in the right direction.

LOOKING EVERYWHERE? CHECK HERE FIRST!

Register of Wills on or before the 20th day of JULY, 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

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.

(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.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JANUARY 29, 2021

The Dispatch

February 12, 2021

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.

DALE ALAN NACKE 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, 01-29, 02-05, 02-12

THIRD INSERTION

MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ. WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP PO BOX 910 115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18572 To all persons interested in the estate of ROBERT F MAZUK, ESTATE NO. 18572.

Notice is given that ROBIN MILLER, 109 CANTERBURY LANE, LANSDALE, PA 19446 was on, JANUARY 21, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ROBERT F MAZUK, who died on SEPTEMBER 04, 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 21ST day of JULY, 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 JANUARY 29, 2021 ROBIN MILLER 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, 01-29, 02-05, 02-12

SECOND INSERTION

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch fore 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 FEBRUARY 05, 2021 KATHLEEN MCGOLDRICK 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, 02-05, 02-12, 02-19

SECOND INSERTION

TERESA M COONEY, ESQ THE LAW OFFICE OF JAMES L. MAYER, P.A. 2500 WALLINGTON WAY STE 102 MARRIOTTSVILLE, MD 21044

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18582

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18583

To all persons interested in the estate of JAMES D. MCGOLDRICK, ESTATE NO. 18582. Notice is given that KATHLEEN MCGOLDRICK, 10850 BELLERIVE LANE, BERLIN, MD 21811 was on, JANUARY 25, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JAMES D. MCGOLDRICK, who died on JANUARY 11, 2021, with a will.

To all persons interested in the estate of LEILA MAY BEDARD, ESTATE NO. 18583.

Notice is given that CHERYL BISSELL, 240 CHARLESTON ROAD, BERLIN, MD 21811 and DEAN CLARK, 8301 WHITEBARK COURT, ELLICOTT CITY, MD 21043 was on, JANUARY 27, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LEILA MAY BEDARD, who died on DECEMBER 19, 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 25TH day of JULY, 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 be-

Page 39

(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 FEBRUARY 05, 2021

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication FEBRUARY 05, 2021

CHERYL BISSELL Personal Representative

LINDA POWELL CUTTONE Personal Representative

DEAN CLARK 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, 02-05, 02-12, 02-19

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, 02-05, 02-12, 02-19

SECOND INSERTION

JAMES H. PORTER JR, ESQ 111 VINE STREET POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18592 To all persons interested in the estate of MARY LOUISE HILLARD, ESTATE NO. 18592. Notice is given that LINDA POWELL CUTTONE, 31821 WILDWOOD DRIVE, PRINCESS ANNE, MD 21853 was on, FEBRUARY 01, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARY LOUISE HILLARD, who died on NOVEMBER 15, 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.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 27TH day of JULY, 2021.

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 1ST day of AUGUST, 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:

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:

SECOND INSERTION JAMES H. PORTER JR, ESQ 111 VINE STREET POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18593 To all persons interested in the estate of DEAN ALAN BUNDICK, ESTATE NO. 18593. Notice is given that WILLIAM L. BUNDICK, 1949 CEDAR HALL ROAD, POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851 was on, FEBRUARY 01, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DEAN ALAN BUNDICK, who died on JANUARY 04, 2021, 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 1ST day of AUGUST, 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 FEBRUARY 05, 2021 WILLIAM L. BUNDICK 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, 02-05, 02-12, 02-19

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-21-000012 VILLAS OF OCEAN PINES BORDERLINKS TIMESHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 Plaintiff v.

DOROTHY MATCHETT, 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-21-000012, 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, February 22, 2021 at 11:00 a.m., the

The Dispatch

Page 40

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast 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.

following timeshare intervals: Condomimium Unit Ag7 Am13 Am13 Bb28 Bb28

Time Interval 18 14 49 9 43

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, 2021 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 FEBRUARY 05, 2021 3x, 02-05, 02-12, 02-19

SECOND INSERTION LESLIE LOBOS, TRUSTEE PINES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MD C-23-CV-20-000291 VILLAS OF OCEAN PINES BORDERLINKS TIMESHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 Plaintiff

SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x, 02-05, 02-12, 02-19

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-21-000016 VILLAS OF OCEAN PINES BORDERLINKS TIMESHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. 11029 CATHELL ROAD BERLIN, MD 21811 Plaintiff v.

DEBORAH ERTAFA, ET AL. Defendants

JOHN COUTURE, et al.

Defendants

TRUSTEE’S SALE OF TIME SHARE INTERVALS IN THE VILLAS OF OCEAN PINES, BORDERLINKS CONDOMINIUM, OCEAN PINES, MD

NOTICE ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 1st day of February, 2021, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceeedings, made and reported by Leslie Lobos, Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 1st day of March, 2021, provided a copy of this Order be inserted in some daily newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before the 22nd day of February, 2021.

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-21-000016, 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, February 22, 2021 at 11:00 a.m., the following timeshare intervals:

vs.

The Report of Sale filed in the above case states the amount of the sales to be as indicated below for the referenced time-share intervals: Timeshare

Price

Wk 08, #Bh34 Wk 13, #Bh34 Wk 39, #Bh34 Wk 05, #Bn40

$50.00 $50.00 $1000.00 Not Offered For Sale Not Offered For Sale $50.00 $1000.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00 $50.00

Wk 16, #Bn40 Wk 09, #Bq43 Wk 40, #Bq43 Wk 43, #Bq43 Wk 01, #Br44 Wk 08, #Br44 Wk 09, #Br44 Wk 42, #Br44 Wk 04, #Bx50 Wk 11, #Bx50 Wk 16, #Bx50

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication FEBRUARY 05, 2021 TRUE TEST COPY

Condomimium Unit Am13 Bf32 Bg33 Bg33 An14 An14 Br44

Time Interval 19 45 5 7 8 44 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.

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, 2021 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 FEBRUARY 05, 2021 3x, 02-05, 02-12, 02-19

FIRST INSERTION

MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ. WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP PO BOX 910 115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910 SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18598 To all persons interested in the estate of RONALD THOMAS LYNCH. Notice is given that ROXANNE DAVIS WILLIAMS, 9307 PEERLESS ROAD, BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813, was on FEBRUARY 03, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL ESTATE of: RONALD THOMAS LYNCH, who died on NOVEMBER 13, 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 shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having any objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills

February 12, 2021 within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication FEBRUARY 12, 2021 ROXANNE DAVIS WILLIAMS Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 02-12

FIRST INSERTION

HASSANI, FOCAS & FIFER, P.A. ERIC T. FIFER ESQ. 22 WEST PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE, SUITE 606 TOWSON, MD 21204 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 18599 Notice is given that the REGISTER OF WILLS AND ORPHANS’ COURT of YORK COUNTY, PA, appointed DELOYCE V. BARNHART, 2019 ROSEWOOD LANE, YORK, PA 17403 as the EXECUTOR of the Estate of JACOB A. BARNHART, who died on SEPTEMBER 7, 2020, domiciled in MARYLAND, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is ERIC T. FIFER, whose address is 22 WEST PENNSYLVANIA AVE STE 606, TOWSON, MD 21204.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: WORCESTER. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication FEBRUARY 12, 2021 DELOYCE V. BARNHART Foreign 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, 02-12, 02-19, 02-22

FIRST INSERTION

MARIANNA BATIE ESQ LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 9748 STEPHEN DECATUR HIGHWAY, SUITE 112 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18601 To all persons interested in the estate of MARGARET WOOLLEN REHKEMPER, ESTATE NO. 18601. Notice is given that MARGARET WOOLEN RUSH, 4 OXMORE FLINT ROAD SW APT. B1, DECATUR, AL 35603 was on, FEBRUARY 08, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARGARET WOOLLEN REHKEMPER, who died on JANUARY 25, 2021, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 8th day of AUGUST, 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 be-

The Dispatch

February 12, 2021

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. fore 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

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

Do You Know 7,000 People Read The Dispatch’s Daily Buzz Every Day? Sign Up At www.mdcoastdispatch.com And Get Local News Each Day.

(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.

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 8th day of AUGUST, 2021.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication FEBRUARY 12, 2021 MARGARET WOOLEN RUSH 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, 02-12, 02-19, 02-22

FIRST INSERTION

THOMAS P. DOWNS ESQ. THE DOWNS LAW FIRM, P.C. 322 MAIN STREET, SUITE 102 LAUREL, MD 20707 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18602

To all persons interested in the estate of JOAN M. WILSON, ESTATE NO. 18602.

Notice is given that DIANA RUTH WHELAN, 7619 SUNFLOWER DRIVE, MARGATE, FL 33063 was on, FEBRUARY 08, 2021, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOAN M. WILSON, who died on DECEMBER 09, 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.

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 FEBRUARY 12, 2021 DIANA RUTH WHELAN 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, 02-12, 02-19, 02-22

FIRST INSERTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY CIVIL NO. C23-FM-20-000378 IN THE MATTER OF JADEN DANIEL GRIMES FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO JADEN DANIEL HANNA NOTICE (ADULT) (DOM REL 61) The above petitioner has filed a petition for Change of Name in which he seeks to change his name from JADEN DANIEL GRIMES to JADEN DANIEL HANNA. The petitioner is seeking this name change for the following reasons: Changing to mother’s surname.

Any person may file an objection to the Petition on or

Page 41 before the 19th day of March 2021. The objection must be supported by an affidavit and served upon the Petitioner in accordance with Maryland Rule 1-321. Failure to file an objection or affidavit within the time allowed may result in a judgment by default or the granting of the relief sought.

A copy of this notice shall be published one time in a newspaper of general circulation in the county at least fifteen (15) days before the deadline to fine an objection.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication FEBRUARY 12, 2021 SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court for Worcester County Room 104 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 02-12

Page 42

Best Beats

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 12, 2021

on the beach

THREE ON THE TREE Crawl Street Tavern: Saturday, Feb. 13

CHERRY CRUSH DUO Seacrets: Saturday & Sunday, Feb. 13 & 14

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Seacrets: Thursday, Feb.18

GOING COASTAL Crawl Street Tavern: Sunday, Feb. 14

BEATS BY WAX Pickles Pub: Tuesdays & Thursdays

OTTO GRUNDMAN The Globe: Thursdays

BEATS BY STYLER Pickles Pub: Sunday, Wednesday & Friday

TRIVIA W/ BIGLER The Globe: Monday, Feb. 15

February 12, 2021

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 43

Page 44

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 12, 2021

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Questions To Consider

$ 00

1 OFF

Any 3-, 4-, 5-Litre Wine Not Valid With Other Offers Or Discounts Exp. 2-28-21 • MCD

15% OFF

Cheers!

Any Case Of Wine

Not Valid With Other Offers Or Discounts Exp. 2-28-21 • MCD

10% OFF

750 ml/1.5 L Bottle Of Wine Not Valid With Other Offers Or Discounts Exp. 2-28-21 • MCD

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

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

“Your Friends At The Beach”

Editor: Part 1: Inflated property values: My question to the public and city council is, do you only want wealthy property developers to build in Ocean City? The reason for my question is that with bigger price tags on inflated property values equals more taxes. The result is higher costs for tourists that come here.

About $3,000 a week or more.

Part 2: The more bang for your buck: What the City Council does not comprehend is how much more you can get at other resorts with $3,000 or more a week. The $3,000 a week can give the tourists a 2021 experience along many other attractions and events, too, instead of 1979 amusement experiences.

Part 3: City Council ignorance: I have watched community members at City Hall meetings beg for answers. The community wanted to have electric bikes on the Boardwalk because it helps with exercise, most importantly for individuals with disabilities, too. They literally voted and without physically doing it gave the middle finger to the community and did not even acknowledge the comments from the community either. Is that really helping the future of Ocean City?

Part 4: Rules are killing the tourism, and health department is acting like it runs the town. We have more ordinances, and no you can not’s than most resort towns. This is why tourists will go elsewhere because of the high prices, ignorant City Council members and foolish ordinances. Another thing: does the Ocean City Mayor and Council run Ocean City or does the drill sergeants of the health department? They seem to be in charge of every business in telling them if you don’t follow my rules, I’m going to shut you down. What happened to freedom? Or are we following Chinese law now? It’s a legitimate question that nobody can answer.

I challenge the health department to invite the public to a community meeting to answer questions from the public.

The health department needs to stand behind its dictating actions and answer to the community. Most importantly answer to the businesses they shut down and put a sword in their hearts. The community, the businesses have a right

this week’s

open houses

CALL AGENTS FOR DIRECTIONS

Resort Property Management

DCMA PCAM® AMS® CMCA Certified MHIC #68055

•Administrative Management •Financial Management •Building Maintenance Service •Custodial Services •Pool Services •24-Hour Emergency Service

410-213-7144 9923 Stephen Decatur Hwy., Suite D-6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Steve@OceanPointLtd.com • www.OceanPointLtd.com

to the answers in which they seek.

Part 5: The tram services returning with neck tight restrictions. And a real pandemic? So masks must be worn right? But your breathing the same air on the Boardwalk if you walk or take the tram. You’re still walking next to people or sitting next to people. It is the same air. Do you think things could open up, restrictions being lifted if it was truly a pandemic? I doubt it. Educated fools continue to fall for the cat and mouse game. My point is hospitals are supposed to be filled right? The medical professionals would be in biohazard suits right? Well that’s not what’s really going on. The local hospital is empty. So the numbers don’t add up. Hospitals are filled to capacity? How’s that work?

My father-in-law was in the hospital because of a medical condition two weeks ago and got a room right away. I walked in to use the bathroom and it’s empty.

Nobody is wearing biological warfare outfits. So I ask anyone to prove me wrong. The virus is a flu with a 99% survival rate.

For my final statements, I ask the public these questions?

Q. What’s the difference between the big pharmaceutical companies and drug dealer?

A. There is no difference between the legal and illegal distribution of the product. You don’t know what’s in the product, the masses go by what the experts say. Did you know the experts get paid to sell that product for kickbacks? I again ask the public to prove me wrong.

A drug dealer will say yes this will make you feel better and take all your pain away. No difference what the experts are telling you.

Q. Are the pharmaceutical companies responsible if someone gets sick, injured, becomes disabled or dies?

A. The answer is no. They are not responsible for damage control of the product they are putting in your arm.

This is very important to know.

Q. Remember 15 years ago everyone was pushing people to take medication?

A. And now you have over a decades long battle over the opioid (a real pandemic) pandemic.

Daniel Hagan Ocean City

View more open houses at www.mdcoastdispatch.com/open_houses.php

SELBYVILLE 21148 Arrington Dr. Arrington Woods Fri 11-1, Sat 10-12 4BR/3.5BA/2600+SF Gorgeous Townhome Community Pool Lauren A. Smith Keller Williams 410-245-9915

OCEAN CITY Makai #602 42nd St., Bayside Sat 10:30-2:30 Great Bay View 2BR/2BA Condo 1 Block to Beach Ben Dawson Keller Williams 410-603-2205

OCEAN CITY 104 Bering Road Sat 10-12 2 Houses/1 Lot 8BR/4BA Total 1 Block to Beach Annie Buxbaum Northrop Realty 443-235-0878

OCEAN CITY The Latitudes New Construction 25th Street Bayfront Open Daily 10-3 3BR/3BA/Garage Townhomes Bayfront w/ Slip 200’ Waterfront 410-723-1895

The Dispatch

February 12, 2021

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

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

NEWS DEPARTMENT SHAWN J. SOPER Managing Editor ssoper@mdcoastdispatch.com CHARLENE SHARPE Staff Writer/Copy Editor csharpe@mdcoastdispatch.com BETHANY HOOPER Staff Writer bhooper@mdcoastdispatch.com CHRIS PARYPA Photographer

SALES DEPARTMENT TERRI FRENCH Account Executive Entertainment Editor terri@mdcoastdispatch.com JEANETTE DESKIEWICZ Account Executive jeanette@mdcoastdispatch.com

ART DEPARTMENT COLE GIBSON Art Director cole@mdcoastdispatch.com DAVID HOOKS Graphic Artist/Webmaster dhooks@mdcoastdispatch.com

BUSINESS OFFICE Bookkeeper/Classifieds Manager classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com

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

The Maryland Coast Dispatch, 10012 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin, Md. 21811, is published weekly on Friday mornings, 52 weeks a year.

Subscription rates are $75 per year, $55 for six months.

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.

Between The Lines

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

HOW WE SEE IT

Reducing Park’s Size Wise For Berlin

It helps when weighing the future of Berlin’s Heron Park to realize it’s not really a park currently. It’s an industrial site with some green space on the outskirts.

Back when Berlin purchased the 60acre property – for about $2.75 million in 2015 – one of the reasons was to protect the land from being developed in a fashion detrimental to the town. The purchase was largely supported at the time by citizens because of the potential options for the open space. There was not a lot of consideration given to the dilapidated buildings on the property. It’s these structures that are problematic because they need to be razed and the town cannot afford it.

Berlin should sell portions of Heron Park, beginning with the areas along Old Ocean City Boulevard, but it needs to be done strategically. The parcels under consideration for sale – especially parcel 57 where the former production facility sits – deserve the town’s full attention.

The other piece, the 10-acre parcel 410, is valued at $770,000, but is situated close to the park’s pond and green area.

There is much to weigh with these deals, and the town needs to consider all options with the park, especially anything that will cut down on the $200,000plus annual debt payment the town owes as a result of the purchase six years ago.

We have always seen potential in the open space and pond areas toward the north end of the property. There are ample birding opportunities and without a lot of money improved recreational trails and low-use amenities could be installed on the site.

Before the town fully vets the sale aspects, a clear direction on the skate park concept needs to be decided. If the parcels along the road are sold, we think a skate park would be best suited near the green space on the property or at Decatur Park in the underutilized parking area. There is much to decide on that front, and it was nice to hear some further dialogue on the matter this week.

The Berlin Police Department’s $1,000 commitment toward a skate park is a gesture requiring the town to continue moving forward with discussing and planning.

With serious interest now being fielded on the purchase of park parcels, the town is looking to hold a public hearing while also getting an appraisal on parcel 57. Mayor Zack Tyndall has encouraged Berlin citizens to express their opinions now or at the public hearing about selling portions of the so-called “park.”

A major question we have involves what the prospective buyers are considering for the parcels. The price needs to be right as well as the proposed usage.

Portions of the park should be sold but only with the right intentions from the buyers.

Page 45

By Publisher/Editor Steve Green

June will be here in no time, and it’s going to be interesting to hear what Ocean City has been planning to prevent a repeat of last summer. Due to the nature of law enforcement, not all advanced directives and operations can be revealed to the public. Ocean City has, however, learned in the past (the college takeover weekend comes to mind a few years ago) proactive messaging ahead of time about a strong and enhanced police presence can prove effective.

It’s fair to say Ocean City was fortunate to escape last June without fatalities and more serious injuries. There was a large amount of serious crime over a five-week period from late-May to late-June – including multiple stabbings, dozens of serious assaults, shots fired and more than 15 guns confiscated. It was described by many as a perfect storm of confluence factors, including cheap rentals typically held by J-1 foreign students, unemployed individuals fueled with more money than normal and pandemic cabin fever.

It was learned this week the Ocean City Mayor and Council over the last few months have held several closed session discussions about how to handle the June situation. Police Commission meetings also feature some sort of dialogue on June as well as September’s horrible pop-up rally weekend. The January police commission meeting minutes read, “We continuously review information received through intelligence. We have continued to discuss the logistical measures for both events.”

There will likely come a time when the gist of those closed meetings will be made public. In fact, during the same police commission meeting in January, Committee Chairman and Councilman Lloyd Martin requested the OCPD attend a future work session to speak with the entire council. It also references another future meeting of the motor event task force sometime this month.

This week, during a police commission meeting, a brief statement about the plans to avoid another June like 2020 came from Communications Director and Acting Tourism Director Jessica Waters. She said her department is working on a public awareness plan for June.

“I think June has been on all of our minds since last year,” she said. “We have a plan for it and we have to communicate to the public about it. We are going to have better communication and we’re going to be better prepared this year.”

Maryland is looking to join Ohio in allowing bars and restaurants to continue to sell off-premise alcohol drinks with carryout orders. This was instituted last spring when restaurants were forced to close and only offer carryout. The carryout drinks, such as margaritas with Mexican fare, helped many restaurants stay afloat as many adapted their business models with much success.

In Ohio, upwards of three drinks per meal can now be sold in covered cups. No carryout drink can be sold without a meal being ordered along with it. Pennsylvania and numerous other states are also expected to consider making the rule change permanent to help restaurants adjust to the currently restrictive climate.

In Maryland, there are companion bills in the House and Senate modeled after Ohio’s version where cocktails are tied to a carryout prepared meal.

The legislation is supported by the Restaurant Association of Maryland.

The bills would limit carryout or delivery alcohol to no later than 11 p.m.

Though viewed as a major benefit to restaurants still struggling amid capacity restrictions, changes to liquor laws are typically controversial with strong sides forming on both sides of the issue. Maryland State Licensed Beverage Association Legislative Co-Chair Jack Milani told The Baltimore Sun this week he did not see any serious opposition to the bill, however. “We’re in this business of accommodating people, and we have to figure out what that is and just adjust,” he said.

In this age of operational rules changing all the time, especially for the hospitality industry, this is one pivot I think should be made permanent.

Ocean City continues to be planning for as much normalcy as possible this summer with its special events. It’s a good tact to take and officials need to look beyond some inevitable criticism about their efforts to bring past favorites, like concerts and fireworks.

Another example came this week when special events promoter Bob Rothermel discussed plans for a festive Memorial Day weekend to kick off the season, including the return of the big flag that has been spread out over the beach in the past. Rothermel said the concept was to spread the flag out across the beach in the shape of the country and to illuminate it with a bright blue light all weekend. Several commenters on our story posted on Facebook immediately chimed in with careless accusations amid a pandemic. One commenter said, “six feet? Where will masking be?”

Another said, “And this is a safe event, how?”

The time has come to embrace a return to some normalcy. Health safety precautions are the norm and they will continue for the foreseeable future.

They are a given. I embrace the return of events like fireworks, patriotic displays and concerts, all the while accepting there will be crowd limitations and safety mandates. This coming summer is all about inching back to the middle. It’s still going to look different and it should, but let’s start taking some healthy steps, albeit with some minimal risk involved.

Page 46

Puzzle Answers

PUZZLE ON PAGE 47

St. Paul’s

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

JOIN US FOR LIVESTREAM WORSHIP SUNDAYS At 10:30 a.m. On Our Facebook Page St. Paul’s Epsicopal Church - Berlin, MD

www.stpaulsberlin.org

A

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

The Adventures Of Fatherhood

By STEVE GREEN

kid doctor’s appointment is not the ideal way to spend a day off from work, but Carson makes it enjoyable by being himself.

Full travel days with our 11-year-old special needs son for medical appointments provide an opportunity to remember and reflect on how far he has come in his life.

These sort of take-stock moments are critical for us, as they provide a pause on the hectic pace of life.

This particular doctor’s appointment was at Wilmer Eye Institute in Baltimore. Next month we go to Wilmington for a cardiac checkup.

Since birth, Carson’s eyes have always been a concern. He has astigmatisms and strabismus in both eyes. Both issues, especially the wandering eye, have improved as he’s gotten older without surgeries.

After years of local doctors, we were referred to Wilmer for care with the recommendation surgery would likely be needed if we ever wanted Carson to be able to potentially drive.

The doctor at Wilmer has been unable to conclude during our previous three visits to Wilmer if surgery would help our guy. For me to be okay with eye surgery for my child, I am going to need definitive answers, or at least assurances there is a great chance it will benefit him. At this point, the doctor remains unsure of whether surgery will help his vision. Another inconclusive visit but a lot to feel positive about nonetheless.

Throughout the three-hour drive to Baltimore and back and the two-hour eye doctor appointment featuring dilation and a battery of different tests, measurements and screenings, there was not one complaint from Carson. He was such a trooper, and we were not the only ones who noticed. Each of the nurses and the doctor remarked how wonderfully compliant he was throughout the process.

Locally INSIDE SEATING & CARRYOUT Famous OPEN 7 A.M. DAILY For 40 Years!

February 12, 2021

Cafe

Breakfast Try Our Casino Omelette SUBS • SANDWICHES Rt. 50-West Ocean City • 410-213-1804

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

We do not take smooth interactions like this for granted. For one, kids on the spectrum often struggle with the unknown as well as transitions. There was little we could do to prep him for this appointment. We knew some of the tests they would run, but we didn’t know exactly what it would involve. We also could not tell him at what exact time the doctor would see us or whether everything would go smooth in the health care facility with the COVID-19 protocols. We would all have to roll with it as it comes. With Carson’s disabilities, being flexible is certainly easier said than done.

This long day was an opportunity to consider how far we have come with our journey with Carson, who has Autism, apraxia of speech, ADHD and a complicated genetic disorder called duplication syndrome. Because his life generally and health concerns specifically are so complicated, we try to keep things with Carson simple. This is not difficult in daily life with him because we follow a pre-planned schedule. For instance, he knows in the morning when I tell him to come have breakfast it’s go time for school. He has his breakfast at 7:10 a.m. and gets dressed and usually stands by the door waiting for me to get my stuff together by 7:30. A similar set of events plays out at night with dinner, shower and bedtime. It works with him and he’s happiest when he knows what is coming his way. It works for all of us.

When plans cannot specifically be made, Pam and I worry. However, we do not fret as much as we once did.

There was a time when the struggles were real. Rewinding back five years, or even three, I could never have imagined a three-hour ride in a car without Pam in the backseat to entertain him. This week he read his Guinness World Records book the entire way. There was a time when I never would have imagined us pulling into a parking garage running a few minutes late and him immediately be compliant in jumping out of the car

and hurrying with us. There would have been a tantrum for interrupting something or difficulty stopping what he was doing to transition. Add wearing a mask and screenings, and it’s remarkable how far he has come.

Finding inspiration in your own child is a true blessing. When I am having a difficult day (not going to lie there have benn more bad than good since last March), I often reflect on Carson and his daily challenges. I think to myself often Pam and I can do anything if we can successfully raise a child with Carson’s difficulties successfully. Of course, measuring success fluctuates daily. We still have tough days, but they are rare and not as serious. He’s doing so much better in all aspects of life. His progress is truly remarkable.

This week’s doctor appointment was just one of the latest times he has proven he will continue to overcome. This week’s appointment was challenging.

Along with the COVID protocols to navigate, he had to wait for 30 minutes because the doctor was running late. He then went through about a dozen different assessments. He had his eyes dilated and then had to wait another 30 minutes for the drops to kick in. He then saw the actual doctor, who did his own battery of tests.

At one point, the doctor, who seemed agitated, told Carson he needed to keep looking at the video following at least six similar instructions. Pam and I looked at each other, wondering if we should tell the doctor the video stopped. Carson’s palm finally went up and we could tell he was getting frustrated. We told the doctor the video was not playing, and he replied, “oh I’m sorry, that makes sense.” Carson shrugged his shoulders and giggled. It was a symbolic moment.

(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.)

Allen And Connie Davis’s Home Of The

Stay Healthy! Let us Deliver to you!

Heavyweights Philly-Style Cheesesteaks & Hoagies OPEN MONDAY-WEDNESDAY, SATURDAY, NOON - 8 P.M. THURSDAY, FRIDAY 10:30 A.M. - 8 P.M.

Available 410-742-0094 106 TRUITT ST. • SALISBURY, MD. 21804 Delivery

Free Fries ($3.99 VALUE)

WITH PURCHASE OF REGULAR-PRICED SUB • MUST PRESENT COUPON • MCD

February 12, 2021

Horoscopes

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): Doing something nice for others is typical of the generous Arian. But be prepared for some jealous types who might try to question one of your more recent acts of kindness.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): You're eager to take on new responsibilities. But before you do, you might want to check out exactly what would be required of you so that you don't face any "surprises" later.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): It might be best to put off an important decision until a fluctuating situation becomes more stable. Recently received news could help resolve a long-standing family matter.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): If you still have a problem getting that information gap closed, you might consider asking a higher authority to resolve the matter, leaving you free to move on to another project.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): A family matter needs to be dealt with at the start of the week. Once it's resolved, the Big Cat can devote more attention to that new opportunity that seems to hold so much potential.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): Pay attention to those niggling doubts. They could be warning you not to make any major decisions until you've checked them out -- especially where money matters might be involved.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): A business venture might need more of your

OCEAN CITY vanishing

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

attention than you are able to provide.

Consider asking a trusted friend or family member to help you work through this time crunch.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): A more-positive aspect helps you get a clearer focus on how to handle your time so that you can deal with several responsibilities that are just now showing up on your schedule.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): A very close friend (you know who that is!) has advice that could help you work through a confusing situation. So put your pride aside and ask for it. You'll be glad you did.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): A workplace situation could turn a bit tense. The best way to handle it is to confront it and deal with it openly. Doing so can help reveal the underlying reasons for the problem.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): A colleague's remarks appear to be especially cutting. But don't waste your time or your energy trying to deal with the situation. You have more important things to do.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): Support for your work comes as a surprise from someone you thought was critical or, at least, indifferent. Your spouse or partner has big plans for the weekend.

BORN THIS WEEK: Your spiritual strength often acts as an inspiration to help others make decisions about their lives. © 2021 King Features Synd., Inc.

Things I Like ...

Page 47

WITH BUNK MANN

The Sandpiper was one of the most popular restaurants in town from the 1950s through the 1970s. Located on 33rd Street and Coastal Highway in a building with a big white chicken on the roof, it featured seafood and some of the best fried chicken ever served in Ocean City.

Robe and Mary Belle Holland opened the Sandpiper in 1953 in a building that had once housed a nite club known as the Swan Club. With the growth of the area that became known as “Motel Row” in the next decade, the Sandpiper became a favorite destination.

The business was sold to the Davis family in 1965 and they continued the restaurant’s reputation for good food and friendly service. In the 1970s, they opened the popular Sand Bar there as well as an after-hours club known as the Penthouse.

The Sandpiper ceased operation in 1979 and the building became the home of several different restaurants in subsequent years. Today it is the site of Guido’s Burritos.

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

Photo courtesy of Susan Cropper

The Dispatch Crossword Puzzle

By Steve Green

A great movie based off an even better book

Celebrities who leave huge tips Hot burgers fresh off the grill

Scanning magazine covers at a store A sunny day after a snow storm Hand-written thank you notes

Good news at a doctor’s appointment The joy in a dog chasing a ball on the beach Old album collections

Memorial services who celebrate the deceased

A well-timed storm on a ski trip ANSWERS ON PAGE 46

Page 48

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 12, 2021