February 21, 2020

The Dispatch February 21, 2020

Priceless

Serving Greater Delmarva Since 1984

Boardwalk Stroll:

www.mdcoastdispatch.com

This year’s mild winter has afforded numerous opportunities to walk the Boardwalk for people and pets of all ages. Above, this group took advantage of high temperatures in the 50s Tuesday.

Photo by Chris Parypa

Two-Day Jellyfish Event Approved For OC This Summer Without City Funds See Page 6 • File Photo

Private Sector Rallies To Support Proposed Great Inflatable Race Event In West OC See Page 12 • Submitted Photo

Drunk Driver In Fatal Accident Gets Maximum Sentence From County Judge

See Page 7 • Photo by Campos Media

Cutest Pet Of The Month

The winner of last month’s Cutest Pet of the Month Contest was Autumn, a 12-year-old Brittany owned by Rebecca Carbaugh. See page 49 for this month’s contestants.

Submitted Photo

INSIDE PAGES

Cops & Courts PAGE 24

Faces In Places PAGE 28

People In Society

PAGE 30

Business PAGE 38

Things I Like

PAGE 39

Editorial PAGE 42

Sports

PAGE 46

Fatherhood PAGE 48

Community PAGE 51

Music

PAGE 52

Things To Do PAGE 55

Classifieds PAGE 56

Crossword PAGE 62

Vanishing OC PAGE 62

Page 2

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SERVING DELMARVA FOR NEARLY 60 YEARS

February 21, 2020

February 21, 2020

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County To Spend $57K On Broadband Service Evaluation

February 21, 2020

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

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SNOW HILL – County officials agreed this week to spend close to $60,000 to test the broadband service currently available in Worcester County.

The Worcester County Commissioners voted unanimously to have CTC Technology & Energy test broadband service in the county at a cost of $57,500. The testing is meant to determine whether Bloosurf, the company that has received federal grants to bring high speed internet to Worcester County, has actually delivered the service.

“The information obtained by CTC will be invaluable to the county and any potential broadband provider, including Choptank,” said Brian Jones, the county’s director of information technology.

The commissioners asked Jones to get a quote from CTC Technology regarding broadband testing after company officials recommended that as the county’s next step when they presented a broadband feasibility study last month. Jones outlined what the testing would involve Tuesday.

“The scope of work has been broken down into seven major tasks,” he said.

CTC will facilitate discussions with U.S. Department of Agriculture and Federal Communications Commission officials, conduct signal strength testing to document Bloosurf’s coverage, design an online speed test, conduct premises-based speed testing, conduct in-field testing and prepare a final report. The company will also prepare a request for proposals to identify a potential partner.

“It could take several months to complete all the tasks I spoke of,” Jones said. “The tests are typically done in the summer months when the leaves are full.”

Commissioner Ted Elder asked if there was a way to hasten the process.

Jones said he wouldn’t recommend doing the testing before the proposed timeframe.

“It’s a lot of money,” he said. “I feel let’s wait until it benefits us the most.”

Commissioner Jim Bunting agreed.

“It's probably not going to be an easy thing to be done with Bloosurf so every bit of information we have that shows what our point is, is going to help us,” he said.

Jones said that in addition to moving ahead with CTC Technology, he also recommended the county continue to support Choptank Electric Cooperative’s efforts to expand rural broadband to Worcester County.

February 21, 2020

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Page 5

Revised Jellyfish Festival Concept Approved In Resort

Page 6

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A scaled-back second annual Jellyfish Festival, a weekend special event featuring live music, interactive sports and other familyfriendly components, was approved this week.

Last year, Jellyfish Festival featured national, regional and local acts with themed-based entertainment over the weekend along with action sports including surfing competitions, skateboarding, motocross, ultimate frisbee and other interactive, family-friendly amenities all surrounding the Jellyfish Tentacle Village on the beach in the downtown area.

On Tuesday, local event promoter Brad Hoffman and his private-sector company Live Wire Media came before the Mayor and Council seeking approval for a reduced version of last year’s Jellyfish Festival on the beach downtown scheduled for June 27-28.

Hoffman said he was working with the town’s special events staff on a scaled-back version of the Jellyfish Festival for the last weekend in June.

“We learned a lot from last year,” he said. “We’ve been working with town staff on some changes we believe will make the event just as good or better than last year.”

For one thing, Hoffman was seek-

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ing no major financial contribution from the town for the 2020 Jellyfish Festival other than in-kind services such as public works and public safety assistance, for example. Last year, the town dedicated nearly $200,000 to the inaugural event.

In addition, the 2020 Jellyfish Festival will not be held on the same weekend as the popular Firefly Music Festival in Delaware this year. Last year, the Jellyfish Festival competed somewhat with the well-established Firefly Music Festival for largely the same demographic.

In addition, the 2020 event will focus less on attracting major nationally-known bands and music groups and more on the interactive sports such as surfing, motocross, frisbee competitions, fat-tire beach bicycle areas and other family-friendly amenities such as a fitness zone obstacle course. Hoffman did say he was working to secure significant regional and local live entertainment for the 2020 festival, but was decidedly mum on the details at this point.

“Last year was fairly ambitious with three stages,” he said. “This year, we will tone it down a little with two stages to make it more manageable. We are also going from three days last year to two this year. We’re also going to shrink the event’s entire footprint by about one third.”

Hoffman said email addresses and other information were collected from attendees at last year’s inaugural event, painting an accurate picture of the reach of the 2019 Jellyfish Festival. For example, while a large number of attendees came from in and around the mid-Atlantic region, there were also visitors from as far away as Kansas, California and even Canada.

“People came from all over the country,” he said. “There were a lot of regional visitors, but we had a lot of people come to the event from all over the country.”

Last year, Jellyfish Festival promoters promised a “wow factor” in terms of entertainment and featured several nationally-known acts such as Ballyhoo and Badfish on Friday; Styx, Crack the Sky and the Rayvns on classic rock Saturday and familyfriendly music with a message acts such as the Newsboys and Crowder on Sunday. Hoffman said he would target an audience more in keeping with the crowds at last year’s event.

“The demographic was a little younger than what I expected last year,” he said. “It was kind of in the 2535 range. We’re skewing the music for a younger audience this year. Those classic rock groups were awesome, but we learned they didn’t quite fit our demographic. The town already does a great job with special events such as

February 21, 2020

Springfest and Sunfest that target that older demographic.”

After hearing the detailed presentation, the council voted unanimously to support the 2020 Jellyfish Festival as presented. Mayor Rick Meehan praised Hoffman for making the adjustments to improve the event this year.

“I know your passion for this,” he said. “I think that some of the changes you’ve presented here will really make the event better.”

Hoffman said with the council’s blessing he was ready to move forward with event planning.

“I am thrilled to be moving forward with the Jellyfish Festival in 2020,” he said. “My 25-year history of event production in this town speaks for itself. I can see a clear path to success with the support of the Mayor and Council, the larger tourism community and visitors and tourists alike. It takes a community to make the Jellyfish swim and I look forward to your help and support.”

Last year Hoffman partnered with Endless Summer Surf Shop owner Joe “Salty” Selthoffer and Illusion Sound and Lighting owner Brian Gilpin on the event. Hoffman is now on his own with this event.

“Brian and I have parted ways with the Jellyfish Festival and are pursuing other projects,” said Selthoffer. “We wish the festival well.”

17-Year Sentence For Driver In Fatal Ocean City Collision

February 21, 2020

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

SNOW HILL – A Cockeysville, Md., man, who pleaded guilty in November to negligent manslaughter by motor vehicle after causing a fiery crash in Ocean City claiming the life of a Princess Anne man, was sentenced last week to 17 years in prison, the maximum allowable sentence.

In November, Todd Pivec, 41, of Cockeysville, pleaded guilty to negligent manslaughter by motor vehicle and driving a vehicle not equipped with ignition interlock as required by an earlier conviction. After an emotional, often gut-wrenching hourslong hearing, Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Beau Oglesby sentenced Pivec to 15 years for the negligent manslaughter count, or the maximum allowed under the agreedupon guidelines, and another two years for the ignition interlock conviction, which was also the maximum allowed under the statute.

According to details that emerged during Friday’s sentencing hearing, the victim in the case was working as a Lyft driver at the time of the crash.

Pivec had allegedly turned down repeated offers by bar staffers to call a cab for him or arrange a ride-share just prior to the incident.

Around 1:15 a.m. on June 21, the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) received a call about a reported drunk driver leaving an uptown bar and a description of the vehicle.

OCPD officers located the suspect’s vehicle, a white Lexus LX570, in the area of 59th Street and Coastal Highway and attempted to stop it.

According to crash investigators, the driver, later identified as Pivec, failed to stop and continued southbound on Coastal Highway. Pivec was speeding and the vehicle failed to stay in its designated lane at different times during the pursuit during a heavy rainfall.

OCPD officers briefly lost sight of Pivec’s vehicle according to police reports. Moments later, Pivec’s vehicle struck another vehicle heading south on Coastal Highway in the area of 46th Street. According to court documents, Pivec’s vehicle was traveling at 93 miles per hour at the time of the collision.

The force of the collision caused the victim’s vehicle to become engulfed in flames. The victim, identified as Seifeldawla Alfaki, 51, of Princess Anne, could not get out of the burning vehicle and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Following the collision, Pivec’s vehicle overturned and eventually came to rest after crashing into a utility pole at 45th Street.

According to police reports, Pivec then crawled from the wrecked vehicle and attempted to flee on foot, but was immediately taken into custody

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by OCPD officers. According to police reports, Pivec resisted the OCPD’s attempts to handcuff him and ultimately had to be tackled to the ground by officers, according to police reports.

Pivec, who was not injured in the crash, exhibited signs of intoxication and stumbled as he walked. It was also noted in the police report Pivec defecated TODD PIVEC on himself at some point during the incident. He was taken to Atlantic General Hospital for a mandatory blood draw, which later resulted in a bloodalcohol content of .20, or well over double the legal limit.

A background check revealed a long history of drunk-driving offenses

for Pivec, including some for which he was able to avoid jail time and instead received probation. According to court records, on at least two occasions he had been required to install an ignition interlock in his vehicle, but on that night he was driving a company vehicle without the drunk-driving deterrent installed.

Prosecutor, Victim’s Family Press For Max Sentence At the outset of Friday’s sentencing hearing, Worcester County Assistant State’s Attorney Jared Monteiro outlined some of Pivec’s prior criminal history leading up to the tragic incident in June.

“It paints a troubling picture,” he said. “His record certainly shows a history of reckless behavior behind the

Just For You ...

Page 7

wheel of a car and a disregard for supervision. Through all of these cases, Mr. Pivec has not been amenable to rehabilitation and the state is not convinced that will change in the near future.”

Monteiro did not discount Pivec’s clear and widely accepted history of addiction and alcohol abuse.

“The danger he presents could be attributable to some underlying mental health issue,” he said. “Regardless, at some point an individual becomes such a danger it becomes necessary to remove them from society for a lengthy period of time. I’m not sure he will be any different if he is shown any leniency.”

Monteiro said a review of the defendant’s past points to a collision course SEE PAGE 31

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county schools moving To Apple

February 21, 2020

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – Worcester County schools will be outfitted with Apple products this fall following approval of a new technology plan this week.

The Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday approved school system officials’ plan to enter into a multi-year lease agreement with Apple. The agreement will bring Apple TVs and iPads to the county’s schools.

In 2014, the school system launched a digital conversion with the goal of bringing a digital device to every student. Last spring, however, officials were advised the Chromebooks being used for state assessments would no longer be supported. That news, paired with the fact that many of the school system’s devices were “aging out,” prompted Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor to create a technology task force.

“We feel we have crafted a sustainable long-term plan for technology in Worcester County that will not only address this looming problem but provide a transformative solution to our technology needs that will enhance student learning for years to come,” Taylor said.

At the recommendation of the committee, which met with both Microsoft and Apple, Taylor said the school system wanted approval to enter into a multi-year lease with Apple. Taylor said the county already provided the school system with $500,000 annually to go toward digital devices. The lease with Apple would require an additional $150,000 the first year and an additional $375,000 in fiscal year 2022, fiscal year 2023 and fiscal year 2024. No funding is required until after July 1.

“First time according to Apple that they’ve done this with a school system — 0% financing for the life of the contract,” Taylor said. “A four-year cycle — of which they’ve never gone to four years it’s always been three — with us we negotiated a four-year cycle which will stretch out the cost.”

At the end of the four years, the school system will purchase the leased devices for $1 each.

“But that is built into our lease so it’s not actually going to be an additional amount,” said Carrie Sterrs, the school system’s coordinator of public relations and special programs. “We would be paying them a dollar for us to physically own the devices.”

Taylor said if desired the school system could then sell the devices back to Apple at an estimated $100 a device.

“At the conclusion of this multi-year lease in fiscal year 2024, the school system, through a buyback process, will utilize the residual value of the cycle one iPad fleet to fund, in part, the first year of the cycle two multi-year agreement,” Taylor wrote in a report to the commissioners.

The commissioners voted unanimously to approve the technology plan and funding outlined.

Evidentiary Hearings Granted On Wind Turbine Height

February 21, 2020

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Following a fivehour-plus public hearing on the issue last month, the Maryland Public Service Commission late last week issued a pair of orders granting evidentiary hearings strictly limited to the potential turbine size of two offshore wind energy projects.

In 2017, the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) approved two offshore wind energy projects off the coast of Ocean City. Technically, the PSC awarded Offshore Renewable Energy Credits (ORECs) to the two companies seeking to develop wind farms off the coast of the resort including the US Wind project and the Skipjack project. The awarding of ORECs was a necessary first step in what has become a lengthy approval process.

However, with advancements in technology, the height of the propos-ed turbines has increased exponentially since the original PSC approval in 2017, prompting Ocean City officials and the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) last fall to request a reopening of the original approval proceedings. As a result of that request, the PSC on Jan. 18 held a public hearing on the issue of the increased size of the proposed turbines for both project.

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For over five hours, the PSC panel heard from local and state elected officials along with countless residents, property owners and other stakeholders throughout the hours-long hearing. In addition, the written comment period was left open for about two weeks following that public hearing during which the PSC received hundreds more comments.

During the hearing in January, the PSC also heard from representatives of US Wind and Orsted, the developer of the Skipjack project, who testified the proposed increases in the size of the turbines represent the “best available technology” on which the original PSC approvals were awarded. When the PSC granted the ORECs to the two projects in 2017, the best available offshore wind technology allowed for turbines with a capacity of around four megawatts.

However, in the years since, technology has advanced to the point significantly larger turbines are now available. For example, Orsted’s Skipjack project has now committed to using 12-megawatt wind turbines described as the “world’s largest offshore wind turbine.” US Wind has also said going with the larger model would allow the company to reduce the number of turbines by half from 64 to 32, which, in turn, would give the company more

leeway in the distance the turbines would be constructed from the shoreline.

Late last week, the PSC issued a pair of orders granting evidentiary hearings on the turbine heights. The PSC orders caution the scope of the evidentiary hearings will be limited to the turbine height issue alone.

“Based on the record in this proceeding, including comments by parties and members of the public, the commission finds that it is appropriate to conduct an evidentiary hearing regarding impact related to the change in turbine size selected by US Wind,” the order reads. “The evidentiary hearing is limited to potential impacts related to the change in turbine selection. The commission will not reconsider issues unrelated to that topic, including the issue of whether to grant offshore renewable energy credits (ORECs).”

The PSC order for Orsted’s Skipjack project includes the exact same language with the appropriate wording changes. In terms of the US Wind project, the PSC announced a date for the evidentiary hearing has not been determined.

“In its most recent communication regarding turbine size, U.S. Wind indicated that it has not reached a final determination regarding turbine selection, but that it is considering turbines

Page 9

between eight and 12 megawatts in size,” the order reads. “U.S. Wind has also indicated that BOEM’s review of its project is ongoing. Given the uncertainty regarding final turbine selection, the commission will not schedule a date for evidentiary hearings at this time. Instead, U.S. Wind is directed to file with the commission proposed dates for holding evidentiary hearings to address impacts related to change in turbine size selection.”

Although Orsted has chosen the 12-megawatt turbines for its project, the PSC order last week also stated a date for the proposed evidentiary hearing has not been set.

“In its most recent communication regarding turbine size, Skipjack communicated that it has selected the 12megawatt General Electric Haliade-X turbines to utilize in its project,” the order reads. “Skipjack has also indicated that BOEM’s review of its project is ongoing. In order to ensure efficient use of administrative resources, the commission will not schedule a date for evidentiary hearings at this time.

Instead, once Skipjack has determined that its selection of the turbine for this project is final, it is directed to file with the commission proposed dates for holding evidentiary hearings to address impacts related to change in turbine size selection.”

Proposed Education Budget Seeks 3.7% Spending Increase

Page 10

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

NEWARK – A proposed budget approved by school system officials this week includes raises for teachers, a variety of new positions and $900,000 for one-time capital projects.

On Tuesday, the Worcester County Board of Education approved a proposed $119 million budget for the coming fiscal year.

“The budget review with our county commissioners is set for March 31,” said Vince Tolbert, the school system’s

Teacher Raises, New Positions Included

chief financial officer.

As proposed, $98,479,334, or 82%, of the budget consists of county appropriations. The state is expected to provide slightly more than $20 million, or 17%, of the proposed budget.

Tolbert said the school system was seeking a $3.4 million increase, 3.71%, in its operating budget. The bulk of that, $2.4 million, is related to salary increas-

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es — a step increase, a 2% cost-of-living-adjustment for certificated employees and a 2.5% cost-of-living-adjustment for support staff. Bus contractors are also expected to see a 2% increase in the coming year.

“We’re not anticipating any increase in health insurance rates this year which is great,” Tolbert said. “This’ll be the second year in a row with no health insurance increase.”

The proposed budget includes $468,104 for new positions. Tolbert said there were plans to hire two new behavioral health workers as well as some employees for the new Showell Elementary School. He said that since the new facility — which is nearly double the size of the existing school — would be taking in some of the students currently at Berlin Intermediate School, it would need an art teacher, guidance counselor, secretary, parttime nurse and two more custodians.

As far as the $900,000 incorporated into the budget for one-time capital projects, that’s expected to cover schematic and design development fees for an addition at Stephen Decatur Middle School, replacement of HVAC units, central office improve-

February 21, 2020

ments and a variety of minor improvement at various schools.

“Our one-time capital improvement request includes $267,000 in funding for other projects at several schools,” Tolbert said. “These projects include replacement of the intercom system at Snow Hill Middle School, resurfacing the gym floor at Pocomoke High School, a fence to enclose the early childhood area at Snow Hill Elementary School, increasing the electrical capacity in the welding shop at Worcester Technical High School and minor projects at other schools.”

The budget also includes a $2.5 million county increase to OPEB — other post-employment benefits.

“Last year the county commissioners increased the income tax to fund OPEB liability for both the county and board of education employees,” Tolbert said.

The county put $2.5 million in the budget for OPEB last year and are expected to do the same this year. Tolbert said that ensured health insurance for retirees would continue to be covered.

“When one of our employees retires that liability for health insurance continues on as long as the employee lives,” Tolbert said. “That liability is huge.”

The board will review the proposed budget with the Worcester County Commissioners March 31. The county is set to adopt a budget June 2.

February 21, 2020

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Page 11

Private Sector Steps Up To Fund Great Inflatable Race

Page 12

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Some resort officials relaxed their opposition this week to providing funds to a proposed special event planned in West Ocean City, but the private-sector business community has already stepped into the breach.

Last week, the Ocean City Council had before it a request for a one-time seed-money contribution of $25,000 to partner with the Worcester County Recreation and Parks Department to bring the Great Inflatable Race to West Ocean City on the last Saturday in June. After considerable debate, the council voted unanimously to support the event, but only if it could be moved into Ocean City.

The council’s collective logic for the decision was, among other things, skepticism about the proposed event moving the needle in terms of roomnights in Ocean City, especially with the recent hotel and lodging building boom in West Ocean City. Although not publicly stated, also part of the decision was the simmering feud between Ocean City and Worcester County over issues such as tax differential and the resort providing emergency services to the at-large area of West Ocean City without adequate compensation.

Worcester County Recreation and

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Parks Director Tom Perlozzo, as a result of the council’s vote, was to go back to the promoter to determine if there was a way to move the event to Ocean City proper.

The Great Inflatable Race is a roughly two-mile fun run over large, inflatable obstacles. It is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, June 27, at the Seaside Christian Academy, which was chosen because it has the land needed to accommodate the race and because of its proximity to Ocean City, lodging, the beach and Boardwalk and other amenities the resort area has to offer.

However, in the week since the council’s conditional approval, the resort area’s private-sector business community has promised to find the $25,000 share to bring the event to the area in June, whether it was held in Ocean City or in West Ocean City at the Seaside Christian Academy. Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association (OCHMRA) Executive Director Susan Jones on Wednesday confirmed the organization’s board this week agreed to find the funding share for the Great Inflatable Race regardless of which side of the bridge it was held.

“This event is produced all over the country and in locations that are highly desirable, including neighboring Virginia Beach,” she said. “And, it is truly a family event, not one with any motors. Given all of the above, we voted to support the event in whatever fash-

ion is needed, including utilizing rainy day funds. There is potential that if the popularity draws more numbers than the conservative number proposed, the total amount may be less.”

Councilman John Gehrig alluded to the private sector stepping up to the plate during Tuesday’s meeting. Gehrig prefaced his remarks by referring to the ongoing situation in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., where failing infrastructure has led to over 200 million gallons of sewage spilling into waterways and streets in that resort community, killing fish and fouling the environment.

“It’s a disaster of their own doing,” he said. “We talk about spending a lot of money up here, but we’ve been proactive with upgrading our infrastructure. This is a reminder of what can happen. If that happens here, we’re out of business.”

Gehrig said Ocean City has been able to avoid situations such as Fort Lauderdale by consistently investing in infrastructure upgrades and public works projects.

“We also have to find a way to fund that and we do that with economic development,” he said. “Last week, we talked about the Great Inflatable Race and supporting it only if it is moved to the island, but they can’t just easily move these events around. We have to do it with partnerships.”

Gehrig’s comments on Fort Lauderdale were a roundabout way to circle

February 21, 2020

back to last week’s discussion of partnering with the county on the Great Inflatable Race. He suggested it was perhaps short-sighted to turn the resort’s back on the partnership over concerns about room-nights being lost to hotels in West Ocean City, or even the larger provincial issues.

He referenced the town’s partnership with Wicomico and Worcester counties on the Mid-Atlantic Amateur Sports Alliance, which among other events brings the highly successful USSSA Eastern World Series softball tournament to the region each year.

That event attracts 400 teams and thousands of players from all over the country.

“All we have to do is look at our partnership with Wicomico County on that major softball tournament every summer,” he said. “Around 40% of those room-nights are in Ocean City proper. They drive through Berlin and they drive through West Ocean City to get to Ocean City because this is where they want to be. That’s because our brand is so strong.”

In terms of the Great Inflatable Race, Gehrig said that special event with national appeal has the potential to be equally successful for all partners, but Ocean City is hung up on the location.

“Tom Perlozzo comes to us with an event that solves our problem and we SEE NEXT PAGE

… Funding Support Likely To Keep Event In West OC

February 21, 2020

hold his feet to the fire because it’s not in Ocean City,” he said. “This will bring 4,000 people to the area. How much of the pie do we need? Do we really need the whole damn event? He came to us with a great event and we basically sent him packing. Does he even want to do business with us in the future?”

Councilman Mark Paddack said the council last week voted to support the project and the $25,000 share only if the event was moved to Ocean City.

He said that point could be moot if the private sector had stepped up.

“We voted to support the event with the caveat it is moved to Ocean City,” he said. “Now, we’re hearing the private sector is going to come up with the $25,000. If they found the funding for it from the private sector to hold it in West Ocean City, that’s great.”

Mayor Rick Meehan was not present during the debate on the Great Inflatable Race last week, but said he understood both sides of the issue.

“I think the council made the right decision to try to get it to come to Ocean City if we’re able to do so,” he said. “I don’t think that should have stopped us from supporting the event if it couldn’t take place in Ocean City.”

Meehan said the town’s requested $25,000 share would result in a substantial return on investment regardless of where the event is held.

“When you talk about the $25,000, the advertising alone that we would

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get out of that for the Town of Ocean City is considerable,” he said. “People don’t know when they’re watching these events the distinction between Ocean City and West Ocean City. The video alone that will appear in all of our markets in the mid-Atlantic will be worth well more than $25,000 and it will be showcasing a family-oriented event that we’re trying to continue to have here.”

If Ocean City desires to rebrand as a major sports and special events marketing destination, Meehan said partnerships with Worcester and other jurisdictions will be needed.

“If we’re going to have these large events, whether it’s this type of event or athletic tournaments whether it be soccer or softball or whatever, we don’t have the room to have them always right in Ocean City,” he said.

“We’re going to have to partner with the county or anybody else in the general area where that makes sense.

Meehan acknowledged the issues with the county on duplicated services and tax differential, for example, but said those issues could be set aside when it came to the greater good.

“I know we talk often about the issues with the county,” he said. “They are big issues that need to be resolved, but we shouldn’t let those things stop us from doing other things that are mutually beneficial. This is one of the first times I can remember when somebody from the county actually came to us to work with the Town of Ocean City and I hope we remain open to taking advantage of that.”

OCHMRA’s Jones said on Wednesday the board’s decision to support the event was based on the belief all

Page 13

members would benefit from having the event.

“Given the national exposure this event offers, our board felt that we should support this event regardless of the proposed location,” she said.

“Additionally, our members are in the 21842 zip code, so we do have hotels and restaurant members in West Ocean City.”

Jones said the event will provide plenty of business for everybody.

“In reflecting on potential room-night generation, in years past, the trend was that downtown hotels would fill first, and then trickle up to the north end,” she said. “Now, it seems to go West Ocean City, downtown and then uptown. Additionally, with West Ocean City hotel rates similar to those on the strip, there would be potential that visitors would want to be on the beach anyway.”

Page 14

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February 21, 2020

Poll Finds Shorter Breaks Favored

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

NEWARK – School system officials on Tuesday approved a calendar for the 2020-2021 school year.

The Worcester County Board of Education voted unanimously to approve a calendar that begins the school year on Sept. 8, the day after Labor Day, and ends the year on June 15. The calendar, which features the earliest possible last day of school, was selected over a calendar that featured slightly longer breaks.

“The proposals themselves were very similar in nature,” said Carrie Sterrs, the school system’s coordinator of public relations and special programs. “There were only one or two dates that were a little bit different.”

Sterrs said a calendar committee was formed in the fall to come up with two calendar options — one focused on a calendar with frequent, lengthier breaks and the other aimed at ending the school year as early as possible.

The options were presented to the public for input in December. An online survey yielded 659 responses, 91% of which were from parents and employees.

“Four percent of responses came from students and bus contractors and nearly 5% identified themselves as just community members,” Sterrs said.

She said there were 365 votes — about 55% of those cast — in favor of the calendar featuring the earlier dismissal and shorter breaks. There were 294 votes — 44% — for the calendar featuring more frequent breaks.

The recommended calendar starts school Sept. 8 and features a weekand-a-half long winter break, a spring break of Good Friday and Easter Monday (with a half day on the Thursday before Good Friday) and a tentative last day of school on June 15. The final day of school will depend on whether inclement weather make-up days are needed.

Superintendent Lou Taylor thanked Sterrs for her leadership in developing the calendar and praised her efforts to get feedback from as many stakeholders as possible.

“I know there’s a lot of input you take to make this come to fruition,” he said.

The school board voted unanimously to approve the recommended calendar.

February 21, 2020

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Page 15

Beach Hot Dog Contest Approved

Page 16

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Ocean City will host a qualifying event this June for a world-renowned hot dog eating contest on the beach after resort officials approved the special event this week.

During last week’s Recreation and Parks Committee meeting, Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs Ocean City Boardwalk franchisee Russell Laurenzano told committee members he was in discussion with bringing a qualifying event for Nathan’s famous contest at Coney Island to Ocean City in June. Each year, the famed contest takes place at historic Coney Island in New York and is televised nationally.

In the months leading up to the popular annual event, 12 pre-qualifying

Student A National Merit Finalist

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events are held at different venues in cities all over the country. For example, the list of last year’s qualifying events included Washington, D.C., Norfolk, St. Louis, Cincinnati, Salt Lake City and Santa Cruz, N.M. Laurenzano has been in discussion with the event’s promoter, Major League Eating, to bring a Nathan’s hot dog contest qualifying event to the beach in Ocean City not far from his Nathan’s franchise on the Boardwalk near 3rd Street on Saturday, June 13, which is also the Saturday of the Ocean City Air Show this year. Last week, the recreation and parks committee voted to send a favorable recommendation to the Mayor and Council for approval.

On Tuesday, the council unanimously approved the event on the.

The field of contestants will be select-

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – A Stephen Decatur High School student has advanced to finalist standing in a national scholarship competition.

Earlier this month, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) issued Certificates of Merit to principals across the country, notifying them of the students who have advanced to finalist standing in the 2020 National Merit Scholarship Program.

ed and signed up by Major League Eating and the contest will not be open to walk-up contestants.

February 21, 2020

Grayson Wolf, a senior at Stephen Decatur, was one of the roughly 15,000 semifinalists named in September to have met all the requirements to advance to finalist standing in the competition.

Wolf was one of more than 1.5 million students in nearly 21,000 high schools to enter the 2020 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the Preliminary SAT (PSAT) qualifying test in the fall of 2018.

And in September, he was named as one of approximately 16,000 SEE NEXT PAGE

The Ocean City event will include a stage on the Boardwalk with the contestants lined up at tables filled with Nathan’s hot dogs and the requisite big cups of water, for example.

The event will also include all of the appropriate signage, banners and other marketing materials provided

by Nathan’s. The contestants and the famous Nathan’s emcee will face the ocean and spectators will be required to come down from the Boardwalk and onto the beach, according to Special Events Coordinator Lisa Mitchell.

“The competitors would have their backs to the Boardwalk and people would have to come onto the beach to view the events,” she said. “There would be no impact on Boardwalk traffic or the tram operation.”

Councilman Tony DeLuca embraced the concept, but questioned why it was proposed in conjunction with the air show.

“I’m certainly in favor of the event,” he said. “I’m just curious why it has to be held during the air show.”

Laurenzano explained the date was provided by Major League Eating and Nathan’s offered little flexibility. However, there will be flexibility in the start time for the contest in conjunction with planned lulls in the air show festivities.

“The date the company has given me is the only one available,” he said.

“I made them aware it is during the Ocean City Air Show. They said it could be a great complement to the air show in the first year. The thinking is it can be a stand-alone event in the future.”

Council Secretary Mary Knight agreed coupling the contest with the air show was a good idea.

“I think it’s very commendable,” she said. “There are times during the air show when there is a lull for 45 minutes to an hour. If you can coordinate the timing right, this could help fill in some of those gaps and might really enhance that larger event.”

Mayor Rick Meehan agreed, saying, “This is very exciting. It will get a lot of play and generate a lot of excitement. I think this has the potential to grow and become a really special event for Ocean City in the future.”

… Wolf: ‘All Of My Teachers Are Very Important’ February 21, 2020

semifinalists in the program.

The nationwide pool of semifinalists includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. Qualifying scores vary from state to state and from year to year, but the scores of all semifinalists are extremely high.

More than 15,000 students advanced to finalist standing this month. All finalists will now be in the running for National Merit Scholarships.

“It’s pretty much a waiting game at this point,” Wolf said.

Wolf said he learned he had made it to the final round in the competition late last week. He noted, however, that he won’t learn if he’s a scholarship recipient until later this year.

Between March and mid-June, the NMSC notifies approximately 7,600 finalists that they have been selected to

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receive a Merit Scholarship award.

While Wolf was the only student at Stephen Decatur to be named a finalist this year, two other students, Madison Birckett and Maxwell Ewancio, earned the Commended Scholar title for placing in the top 3% of all test takers.

Since 2012, 17 students from Stephen Decatur have been named Commended Scholars. GRAYSON And last year, student WOLF Dana Kim was named a National Merit finalist.

In addition to being named a National Merit finalist, Wolf is an active member of the National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society. He is also captain of the Academic Team and a member of the

Science Olympiad team.

Wolf said he plans to attend a fouryear college and major in computer science and mathematics and minor in linguistics.

“It’s an interesting field to me,” he said.

Wolf said he has applied to Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University, Princeton University, California Institute of Technology, University of California, Berkeley and Johns Hopkins University, among others.

Wolf also recognized his current and former teachers – specifically Kirsten Danisavich, Sherryl Olson and Mary Berquist – for their support.

“All of my teachers are very important,” he said. “I wouldn’t be anywhere without them, so I would have to thank them.”

Page 17

Concerns Over Road Closure aired at town Hall meeting

Page 18

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – Concerns over a permanent road closure near the airport highlighted a town hall meeting this week.

On Tuesday, county leaders met with concerned residents on the east side of Wicomico County to share plans for a permanent road closure on a portion of Walston Switch Road in Salisbury.

District 5 Councilman Joe Holloway said he decided to host a town hall meeting at Mt. Hermon United Methodist Church this week after receiving several questions from community members about the proposed road closure.

“We’ve had a lot of questions about Walston Switch Road closing,” he said. “A lot of things were said that we

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really didn’t have the answers to.

Instead of having a public hearing in council chambers, which is kind of inconvenient for a lot of people, I thought we’d have it here.”

Weston Young, Wicomico County’s assistant director of administration, told community members this week the closure would occur where Walston Switch intersects Airport Road.

He noted that the intersection is located within a Runway Protection Zone designated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

“It is typically what the FAA has designated as the area where most planes crash trying to land or take off,” he said. “One of the things the FAA told us in a recent airport master plan update is that they do not want any traffic stopped, so any cars that stop or yield, in the RPZ.” Young said the county was in the

February 21, 2020

Wicomico County Assistant Director of Administration Weston Young and Councilman Joe Holloway are pictured during this week’s town hall meeting.

Photo by Bethany Hooper

process of updating its 10-year master plan for the airport when officials learned the FAA would not approve the planning document until stop-andgo traffic was addressed in the Runway Protection Zone. Without that

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master plan, he said, the county could lose out on federal funding for improvement and maintenance projects at the airport.

“The master plan is key for several things at the airport,” he said. “It’s critical for any future federal funding.”

Instead of rerouting Walston Switch, or its intersection with Airport Road, Young said the most cost-effective solution was to close Walston Switch Road before it enters the Runway Protection Zone.

“When it came down to dollars and cents, what we proposed to the FAA, and what they were generally okay with, would be a cul-de-sac …,” he said. “We are not cutting off anybody.”

Young said a proposed date of March 1 has been set for closing a portion of Walston Switch. However, the cul-de-sac would be installed after the county completes its airport water main extension project.

“At this point, we are not talking about tearing the road up,” he said.

Parsonsburg Volunteer Fire Company Deputy Chief Vance Webster told Young the department responded to emergencies in the area of Walston Switch Road. He asked that the closed road remain accessible to first responders.

“We would actually like to see the road stay down and have a gate …,” he said. “So our OptiCom [system] would open the gate and it wouldn’t slow down our route of travel and response times.”

Young noted that he would present the idea to the FAA. “Seconds matter when it comes to a fire or a heart attack, so I hear you loud and clear,” he said. “We just need to coordinate with the FAA to see what is acceptable.”

Officials noted the partial closure could alleviate some traffic issues at the intersection of Walston Switch and Mt. Hermon Road. Community members, however, said those traffic issues would only migrate to the intersection of Mt. Hermon Road and Airport Road if Walston Switch was converted to a cul-de-sac.

They encouraged the executive’s office to review the effects of a potential increase in traffic at that intersection before closing a portion of Walston Switch.

“What I’m hearing is there needs to be a lot more work done before this road is closed,” Holloway said.

Young told the audience this week the FAA was close to approving the airport master plan. One of the final requirements would be to address the intersection of Walston Switch Road and Airport Road.

“They are ok with Airport Road, where traffic is moving through,” he said. “However, the fact that a vehicle could remotely be stopped in this zone, they said they were not going to allow it if we wanted to get approval for the master plan.”

Energy-Efficiency Projects Expanded

February 21, 2020

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Pleased with the savings from the first phase, Ocean City officials this week approved a request to expand a retrofitting to energy-efficient LED light fixtures at several municipal facilities in and around the resort.

Back in 2015, Ocean City contracted with Energy Systems Group (ESG) on a number of energy savings projects at city facilities including building exterior improvements, heating and cooling efficiency improvements and LED lighting retrofits.

Under the terms of the contract, the town front-funded the projects, which would be paid back and then some through the cost savings associated with improved energy-efficiency.

For example, during the initial phase, which was completed in 2017, the estimated savings was around $264,000, while the actual savings came in at around $385,000. Buoyed by the success of the initial phase, City Engineer Terry McGean on Tuesday presented a proposal to amend the initial contract with ESG in order to complete similar retrofits at other municipal facilities.

McGean said the upfront cost of expanding the energy-efficient programs came in at around $541,000, which would be lowered to about $478,000 with rebates from Delmarva Power. However, the annual savings from the energy-efficient retrofits would be around $93,000, meaning the project would essentially pay for itself in the first five years and then the savings would be realized in future years.

“The savings have exceeded expectations,” he said. “We’ve had some requests from other departments and we’d like to move forward with those and take advantage of the savings.”

Town facilities targeted for the energy-efficient retrofits include each of the water plants at 15th Street, 44th Street and Gorman Avenue, the wastewater treatment plant, solid waste and recycling facilities, the Ocean City municipal airport, the Park-and-Ride in West Ocean City and the exhibit halls at the expanding convention center. McGean explained the convention center was left out of the original contract.

“The main exhibit halls at the convention center were not included in the initial work because the LED lights required in those spaces were not cost-effective at the time,” he said.

“New LED fixtures are now available with acceptable payback. We want to do the LED lighting in all of the exhibit halls because we want it to be consistent.”

The staff recommendation was to pay for the amended contract and associated retrofits as a pay-as-you go project from the town’s line of credit. Last summer, the Mayor and

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Council approved a line of credit from the Bank of Ocean City at $2.5 million as a rainy day fund of sorts for larger projects or property acquisitions, for example. Councilman Tony DeLuca asked with utilizing the line of credit was the best option for the $478,000 energy-efficiency upgrades.

“The recommendation is to pay for this with the line of credit,” he said. “Do we have to do it that way?”

Finance Director Chuck Bireley said the short answer is no and that using the line of credit to pay for the retrofits was just one option. Budget Manager Jennie Knapp said the project could be funded in a number of different ways.

“We agreed we can do it out of fund balance,” she said. “It could also be folded into the upcoming budget.

Of course, we can save on the interest if we don’t finance it. As far as the $173,000 for the convention center, I would probably do that with fund balance.”

After some debate, the council voted 7-0 to approve the contract extension with ESG to complete the projects. Because the city partners with the Maryland Stadium Authority on the convention center, a question was raised if state funding was available, but it was learned a state share in the cost was not likely.

Page 19

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SALISBURY – Questions and concerns continue to surround proposed legislation on public marijuana consumption.

On Tuesday, Wicomico County NAACP President Mary Ashanti came before the Wicomico County Council opposing legislation that would prohibit smoking marijuana in public areas and in vehicles.

“Passing this ordinance will create more problems between law enforcement agencies and people of color,” she said. “I’ve talked to different segments of the community and they all feel the same way. We urge you to not pass this proposed ordinance.”

In January, Wicomico County State’s Attorney Jamie Dykes, Deputy State’s Attorney Bill McDermott and Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis presented the council with proposed legislation that mirrored a recently

adopted ordinance in Fruitland.

Not only does the legislation prohibit marijuana consumption in vehicles and public areas, but makes it a misdemeanor charge punishable by a fine of up to $500 and/or imprisonment not to exceed 90 days.

“Just because marijuana now has an exception and you can possess marijuana legally by way of a medical marijuana card, it doesn’t mean you should be allowed to consume marijuana in public, as the statute says, on public street fares, sidewalks, in a shopping center or, more importantly, in your vehicle,” McDermott told the council last month.

After that initial meeting, officials with the state’s attorney’s office reached out to members of the community and those in the medical marijuana industry to address their concerns. From those discussions, McDermott presented the council late last month with new verbiage in the legislation.

“The last time we met there were some concerns that the definition of consumption would prohibit the application of certain topical medications that certain patients needed to alleviate their medical conditions …” he said. “We are proposing to change the word consume to smoke.”

At a council meeting on Feb. 4, however, Salisbury resident Steve Merritt said he still had concerns and questions about the proposed legislation. He urged county leaders to consider his concerns.

“I would like to see more information,” he said. “I would like to see more community involvement.”

In a public comment portion of Tuesday’s meeting, Ashanti said the NAACP supported the use of medical marijuana, but opposed the use of recreational marijuana as well as the legislation being proposed by county officials.

“We do not support the proposed marijuana ordinance by State’s Attorney Jamie Dykes and Sheriff Mike Lewis …,” she said. “African Americans are arrested for violating marijuana possession laws at nearly four times the rate of whites, yet both ethnicities consume marijuana at roughly the same rate.”

February 21, 2020

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Pa. Man Sentenced To 20 Years For Violent Resort Attack

Page 22

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

SNOW HILL – A Pennsylvania man, who pleaded guilty in December to first-degree assault following a violent attack on his girlfriend in downtown Ocean City, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison.

In December, Nacqueese Humphrey, 27, of Wilkes-Barre, Pa., pleaded guilty to first-degree assault for his role in the incident last August that resulted in a fractured skull and shattered jaw for the female victim and a pre-sentence investigation was ordered. Last Friday, following a dramatic sentencing hearing, Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Beau Oglesby sentenced Humphrey to 25 years in prison with five years suspended, resulting in 20 years of active incarceration.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

The agreed-upon guidelines called for a sentence of six to 12 years, but because of the violent nature of the attack and because Humphrey has a history of violent crime in Pennsylvania, the judge sentenced him to the maximum. Humphrey will be required to serve at least half of the 20-year sentence, and Oglesby vowed to keep a close eye on pending parole reviews.

In addition, the judge ordered strict supervised probation following Humphrey’s eventual release because of his violent tendencies.

According to details from last Friday’s sentencing hearing, Humphrey and the female victim, who were in a relationship, arrived in Ocean City around 9 p.m. last Aug. 24. The victim went to the Boardwalk to get something to eat while Humphrey parked the vehicle and checked into the hotel.

The couple then went to a midtown bar without first unpacking the vehicle and drank alcoholic beverages until closing time, according to the agreedupon facts. Humphrey and the victim then took a bus back to their vehicle to collect their belongings, but got off at the wrong bus stop.

According to the agreed-upon facts, the couple began arguing as they searched for their vehicle. They ultimately found the vehicle, and by that point, Humphrey had become enraged to the point he kicked in one of the vehicle’s windows, shattering the glass and setting off its alarm.

The victim, fearing for her safety, walked away from Humphrey and soon after was located by a group of bystanders, who feared for her safety and stayed with her until help arrived. One of the bystanders called 911 and an

February 21, 2020

Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) public safety aide working in the downtown area arrived quickly, followed shortly thereafter by an OCPD officer.

While the police and the bystanders were tending to the victim, Humphrey arrived on the scene, pushed his way past the police officers and punched the victim in her head. The victim collapsed unconscious on the ground, striking her head and face on the concrete.

The victim was lying faced down in a growing pull of blood and police officers had to turn her over in order to make sure she was alive and breathing. Ocean City EMTs arrived and the victim was flown first to Peninsula Regional Medical Center and NACQUEESE later to Shock Trauma HUMPHREY in Baltimore. The victim suffered a fractured skull, a shattered jaw and other injuries.

In the months since, the victim has slowly been working through the physical healing process, according to Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office prosecutor Lynn Nixon, who represented the state during Friday’s sentencing hearing. For five weeks following the incident, the victim’s jaw was wired shut and she had to carry wire cutters with her at all times in case she had a choking incident or other emergency.

She also suffered debilitating injuries that prevented her from even walking for a long period of time following the attack. The victim was in the courtroom with her family during the sentencing hearing and was able to walk, but she later said there was a long period of time when she was in a wheelchair and had to have her father and mother help her with the simplest of daily tasks including bathing.

Nixon said the victim continues through the physical healing process with countless visits to doctors and specialists, although she doubted if the victim would ever be completely healed emotionally.

“This was a traumatic event, not just for the victim, but for those who witnessed it,” she said. “The victim has been slowly heeling through the process. Now, she is trying to heel emotionally and mentally.”

When it was her turn to address the court, the victim recounted the events leading up to the incident and her life in the healing process since the attack.

“If it wasn’t for the police officers and the EMTs, I would have died that night,” she said. “I was face down and unconscious in a puddle of blood and he was still trying to come after me.”

During the sentencing hearing, it was learned Humphrey had a history of violent attacks in the past in Pennsylvania. In one incident, an argument on a basketball court resulted in Humphrey punching another individual in an attack similar to the incident in SEE NEXT PAGE

Judge: ‘You Deserve To Be Removed … For A Long Time’

February 21, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Ocean City last August.

In another incident, Humphrey was involved in an armed robbery during which he pulled a handgun and racked the slide before punching the victim and going through his pockets. For that case, he was sentenced to two to four years although it was uncertain just how much time he served.

In her address to the court, the victim said she was uncertain if she would ever fully recover from the attack in Ocean City last August.

“This has impacted all aspects of my life,” she said. “This has affected me physically, emotionally and financially. He is a violent person and he’s never going to change. This is for the rest of my life. It’s not going away.”

Nixon agreed the victim might not ever fully recover from the incident.

“She has come a long way through the process, but she has a long way to go,” she said. “As she has said, this will stay with her for the rest of her life.”

Defense attorney Anders Randrup III told the court Humphrey clearly has anger management and substance abuse issues and suggested any sentence meted out include rehabilitation opportunities.

“He is the father of two children and he is employed regularly. He believes he has depression issues and was self-medicating with cocaine, ma-rijuana and alcohol. He’s obviously in need of some help with alcohol and

drug counseling.”

For his part, Humphrey apologized to the victim and her family and appeared to be contrite.

“I want to apologize again,” he said.

“My apology won’t be enough for the damage that was caused. She is a good person and her family should not have to go through that.”

Humphrey acknowledged his substance abuse issues and that he and the victim had numerous arguments and physical altercations in the past fueled by alcohol.

“Drinking is the problem and it has led to prior situations with us fighting,” he said. “It just seems to escalate and there is no justification for this. I want my apology to be the last thing I say. I hope she can move on and have a happy life.”

Oglesby listened to the testimony and Humphrey’s apology before weighing in. He said there have been other incidents involving fights in Ocean City going terribly wrong, as it did in this case.

“Every summer, we can expect a certain number of fights in Ocean City,” he said. “It can be cauldron of bad things at times. In some cases, the result has been the death of an individual with a single punch. Sometimes, the result is life-changing circumstances, which is the case here.”

Oglesby characterized Humphrey’s attack on the victim as a sucker punch in front of police officers and a group

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Page 23

of Good Samaritan bystanders.

“This is at the far end of the spectrum,” he said. “I’m not sure a sucker punch describes the level of violence in this incident. You ran past police officers and punched her in the presence of several individuals. That is an amazing lack of self-control.”

Oglesby also pointed at Humphrey’s violent past as he prepared to mete out the sentence.

“You served the better part of four years in Pennsylvania for armed robbery,” he said. “There was the other incident when you punched another person during a basketball game. You’ve

apparently learned nothing from those experiences. There is no excuse for your behavior. The victim has had her life changed forever.”

For all those reasons, Oglesby sentenced Humphrey to 25 years, or the maximum allowable, but suspended five years for a net 20-year sentence.

“I’m not impressed with your effort at an apology,” he said. “This case demonstrates to me that your actions cannot be excused. Your hope is that she can move on. I consider you to be a real danger and you deserve to be removed from the community for a long time.”

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Page 24

Cops & Courts The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Bike Thief Nabbed Twice OCEAN CITY – An Ocean City man was arrested twice this month after allegedly stealing bicycles around the resort area.

Around 10:30 a.m. on Feb. 10, a bicycle matching the description of one reported stolen was seen northbound on Coastal Highway around 43rd Street.

Ocean City Communications provided a detailed description of the stolen bicycle along with a detailed description of the individual riding it, according to police reports.

An Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer who handled the original bike theft complaint three days earlier at a Boardwalk hotel at 17th Street had submitted a picture of the suspect, believed to be Alex Alexis, 31, of Ocean City, from prior run-ins with police in the resort, to his colleagues who were on shift.

Another OCPD officer detained Alexis on the bicycle around 70th Street. Alexis was asked where he got the bicycle and told police he had found it in the street around 16th Street a few days earlier.

OCPD officers made contact with the bike’s owner, who provided a detailed description down to the cup holder and phone holder.

The owner was also able to provide the combination to the lock attached to the bike, and when the officers entered the numbers, the lock opened. At that point, Alexis was arrested for theft.

Alexis reportedly asked the officer what would happen to the bike and the officer told him it would be returned to the owner. Alexis then told the officer to let

the owner know he was sorry and that he knew the bike did not belong to him.

Around 3:30 p.m. last Saturday, an OCPD officer responded to a residence on 23rd Street for a reported burglary. The officer met with the complainant, who told police he noticed two bicycles had been stolen from a storage closet on the back patio area of the residence. The complainant noticed the bikes had been stolen sometime the day before and notified the property owner of the alleged theft.

The officer contacted the homeowner via telephone and the owner provided detailed descriptions of the two bikes. The descriptions of the style of the bicycles were nearly identical except for the colors, one of which was light blue and the other was gray.

On Saturday, an OCPD officer observed Alexis allegedly riding the stolen blue bicycle on Coastal Highway near 45th Street and detained him. The blue bicycle matched the exact description down to the same serial number provided by the victim. According to police reports, Alexis told the officer he had

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found the bike near the Ocean City Library, which is dozens of blocks away from the alleged theft scene at 23rd Street, and that he took it even though it did not belong to him.

However, the investigation determined Alexis climbed over the door to the enclosed patio at the residence on 23rd Street sometime on Feb. 14 and had taken the bicycles. He was arrested again and charged with two more counts of theft.

Assault Over Social Media Post OCEAN CITY – A Washington, D.C. man was charged with assault last weekend after allegedly slapping his girlfriend in a resort hotel room in a dispute over a social media post.

Last Saturday, Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officers were dispatched to a hotel on 16th Street for a reported disturbance. Ocean City dispatchers advised responding officers a woman had been screaming for help from a room on the fifth floor.

OCPD officers arrived and met with a

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hotel employee, who had just walked the suspect, later identified as Duane McKinney, 49, of Washington, D.C., off the property. The employee reportedly told police McKinney told him, “she’ll be calling me to come back soon,” according to police reports. McKinney was detained a short time later on the Boardwalk at 19th Street.

OCPD officers went to the hotel room to interview the victim, who reportedly told police she and McKinney were a couple and were staying in Ocean City.

The victim reportedly told police she was sitting on the hotel balcony and posted a picture on social media, which angered McKinney. The victim said an argument ensued, resulting in McKinney allegedly slapping her in the face. The victim told police McKinney hits her with an open hand because he does not believe that is the equivalent of punching someone with a fist, according to police reports.

According to police reports, the victim attempted to use the hotel phone to call for help, but he placed his hand on the phone to prevent her. McKinney then allegedly shoved the victim to the floor and held her down with his forearm across her throat, according to police reports.

The victim told police she began to scream for help in the hopes McKinney would get off her. The suspect eventually stood up and left the room, which was roughly the time the officers arrived, according to police reports. The victim had a fresh cut on her lip, which SEE NEXT PAGE

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... Cops & Courts

February 21, 2020

officers believed was the result of McKinney striking her. Ocean City EMTs were summoned, but the victim refused treatment, according to police reports.

Other OCPD officers interviewed McKinney, who acknowledged there was a verbal argument between the couple, but denied it ever turned physical. Based on the evidence and testimony, McKinney was arrested and charged with second-degree assault.

A background check revealed McKinney had been charged with either second-degree assault or battery 10 times previously.

Hoax Device Brought To School SNOW HILL – Worcester County Public Schools and the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office last week investigated what turned out to be a hoax device brought to school by a Snow Hill Elementary student.

Last Wednesday, the fire marshal’s office was requested to assist the Board of Education and a school resource officer at Snow Hill Elementary with a hoax device that a six-year-old student brought to school. The school resource officer reported the incident and a Worcester County deputy fire marshal confirmed it was a hoax device.

The device was primitive-looking structure that contained batteries taped together along with a wire. The investigation revealed the six-year-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch old student had constructed the device and brought it to school that morning.

Failure To Appear Arrest Warrant Issued OCEAN CITY – A Delaware man, arrested in November after allegedly being found with a weapon and drugs during an eviction from a hotel room, failed to appear for trial last week and a warrant was sworn for his arrest.

Around 3 p.m. on Nov. 26, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer was dispatched to a hotel on 11th Street for a reported disturbance. The officer met with hotel employees who advised two men had been staying in a unit on the fifth floor for two days and were supposed to check out last Tuesday by 11 a.m. When the employees went to check on the room, the two men became belligerent and refused to leave, according to police reports.

The employees called police and advised they wanted the two men evicted. The OCPD officer responded to the hotel room and made contact with a suspect later identified as Michael Gardiner, 28, of Delaware City, Del. According to police reports, Gardiner first provided a different name to the officer and a background check revealed the name provided was wanted on an outstanding warrant for drug-related charges and resisting arrest in Elkton, Md. While the OCPD officer was speaking with Gardiner, he reportedly observed him wearing multiple necklaces, one of which included a knife concealed

Page 25

in a plastic cover. The knife necklace was partially concealed by the other necklaces and a scarf Gardiner was wearing, according to police reports.

Meanwhile, information to the officer

by Ocean City Communications led the officer to believe he was not interviewing the suspect with the name and date of birth provided by Gardiner. At that point, Gardiner was taken into custody for carrying a concealed deadly weapon and on suspicion of providing a false name to police in order to conceal his identity.

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

gerous substances.

According to police reports, Gardiner continued to maintain he was the individual belong to the name he provided to the officer throughout the entire booking process. Through further investigation, it was learned the name provided

by Gardiner belonged to a man wanted an active warrant in Cecil County and a fugitive warrant in Delaware for being involved in a burglary during which he was armed with an explosive deadly weapon.

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

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Students Try Out County’s New Synthetic Ice Rink

Page 26

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

Pocomoke Middle Principal Matthew Record and students are pictured trying out the synthetic ice rink earlier this month.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

POCOMOKE – Students at Pocomoke Middle School are skating into some new skills with access to the county’s new ice rink this month.

Worcester County’s synthetic ice rink was set up at Pocomoke Middle School last week. Students are now being treated to skating opportunities throughout the school day.

“This is a unique opportunity for our kids, a chance for middle school kids to try something they’ve never done,” Principal Matthew Record said.

Record said he was approached this winter by county officials, who were looking for a location in Pocomoke to set up the Glice synthetic ice rink the county purchased at the end of 2019.

February 21, 2020

Though the rink debuted at the Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill, county officials want to keep it moving, setting it up in new locations to provide residents all over the county with the chance to use it.

Record said he was thrilled to have the rink at the school.

“How could you not want an ice skating rink for your kids in the month of February?” Record said. “Sometimes when working with kids you have to ask why not. It’s giving kids an opportunity that is truly unique.”

Because the rink is more than 50 feet long and more than 30 feet wide, school officials opted to leave out a few of the panels in order to set it up on the stage in the cafeteria. This way, students have access to it during lunchtime.

“It’s great cardio, a full body workout, it’s fun and you do it in school, which speaks to something special for our kids,” Record said.

While students are able to try the rink during the school day, Pocomoke Middle will host two community nights to give local kids and families the chance to skate. In addition, Record hopes to set up the entire rink in the school’s gym sometime this summer.

Most kids who stepped onto the rink last week had never skated before.

“I’ve done roller skating before but I’ve never ice skated,” seventh grader Ashtan Hopkins said as he strapped on his skates.

Sixth grader April Dashiell said she was surprised by how stiff the skates made her legs feel but loved the experience.

“If you never get to do this again at least you can enjoy it once in your life,” she said.

Landon Makinen, another sixth grader, had been on the ice before but nonetheless enjoyed donning skates at his school.

“It’s also beneficial to kids who have never skated before because they can see what ice skating’s like without being bruised and wet,” he said.

The rink will remain at Pocomoke Middle School through the first week of March. Kelly Rados, director of recreation and parks for Worcester County, said staff would be setting it up March 10 at the Berlin Fire Company.

“Open skating will be offered while it’s set up in Berlin,” she said. “We don’t have specific days/times as of yet as we are still coordinating this, but we will post them once the rink is set up.”

She added that the rink was being well received by area residents.

“All of the feedback we have been getting has all been positive,” Rados said. “We are seeing a lot of the participants are first time ice skaters, so we are pleased that we are able to offer this new opportunity to the citizens of Worcester County.”

The county is still looking for a site to set up the rink in April. Anyone interested should contact Allen Swiger at aswiger@co.worcester.md.us.

Change In Parking Regs Sought Before Mad Fish Rebuilding

February 21, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 27

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SNOW HILL – County officials have introduced emergency legislation that could help with the redevelopment of Mad Fish Bar & Grill following a fire last summer.

The Worcester County Commissioners this week agreed to introduce a bill that would loosen parking requirements in the commercial marine district — the area around the West Ocean City Commercial Harbor. The bill would allow Mad Fish, which was closed indefinitely after being destroyed in an August fire, to be rebuilt with more of its parking across the street rather than on-site.

“You’ve been requested to introduce and adopt this legislation as quickly as possible for a pending project in the commercial marine district of the West Ocean City Harbor area,” said Kelly Shannahan, the county’s assistant chief administrative officer.

According to Shannahan, the bill would increase the percentage of offpremises parking permitted in the commercial marine district from 50% to 90%.

The change would ease the redevelopment of Mad Fish, which in the past utilized 19 on-site parking spaces as well as a parking lot across South Harbor Road. “[Co-owner] Cole Taustin has designed a new building,” attorney Hugh Cropper wrote in an email to county officials. “The new building is smaller, but it is pushed back from the water, to provide open space along the harbor.”

As a result, Cropper said there would be about 10 on-site parking spaces instead of 19. He stressed that the restaurant would have plenty of parking, but 90% of it would be across the road.

“This is a situation with all of the lots on the West Ocean City Harbor,” he wrote. “They are surrounded by a road, so any substantial parking is across the road.”

Cropper urged the commissioners to approve the suggested change so the redevelopment of Mad Fish — which connections hope will reopen in the summer of 2021 — could move forward.

Shannahan told the commissioners the Worcester County Planning Commission had reviewed the bill.

“You will see that the planning commission has presented a unanimous unfavorable recommendation for the proposed amendment due to concerns regarding persistent illegal parking and traffic congestion in the West Ocean City Harbor area and the excessive nature of this request,” he said.

The commissioners voted unanimously to set a public hearing on the proposed change for March 3.

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 21, 2020

It was great fun to get out and about and see familiar as well as new faces this week at Nantuckets, Hooked and Buxy’s Salty Dog.

Hooked: Cindy and Tommy Hall (celebrating 17th wedding anniversary) with Mike and Nancy Long

By Tyler Horton

Faces

SPOTLIGHT ON THE REGIONAL RESTAURANT AND BAR SCENE

In Places

Buxy’s Salty Dog: Paula Gibson, Leslie Barrett and Jessica Farinholt

Hooked: Herb and Amanda Geary

Buxy’s Salty Dog: John Bradford and Mike Goodbrod

Hooked: Erik and Elise Cloyd

Buxy’s Salty Dog: Ken Wood and Sally Bergeron

Buxy’s Salty Dog: Martina Burger and Marty Potter

Nantuckets: Art and Dawn Carey

Nantuckets: Michele Nace and Linda Rosencrance

Nantuckets: Don and Sasha

February 21, 2020

Leno To Perform In Resort OCEAN CITY – Former late night talk show host Jay Leno is coming to the Performing Arts Center in Ocean City on Thursday, May 14, resort officials announced this week.

Widely characterized as “the hardest working man in show business,” Leno is an acclaimed TV late-night show host, admired stand-up comedian, best-selling children’s book author, much-in-demand corporate speaker, TV and movie voice-over artist, pioneering car builder and mechanic and philanthropist. His late-night television ratings domination included two decades as the host of “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.”

Leno is the recipient of many honors, including Emmy, People’s Choice and TV Guide awards, Harris Poll selection as most popular star on television, the Hasty Pudding Award at Harvard University, The Mark Twain Prize, recipient of the Patriot Award given by the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.

Leno’s show times are 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. For tickets visit the O.C. Box Office, call Ticketmaster at 1-800-551SEAT, or go online at DelmarvaConcerts.com.

Special Needs Ballfield Under Construction SALISBURY – The construction of Field 7.5 began this week at Wicomico County’s Henry S. Parker Athletic Complex in Salisbury.

Located between existing fields 7 and 8 at the complex, Field 7.5 is designed to provide individuals with physical or mental disabilities the opportunity to play the sport of baseball. The field should be playable in April. Officials are hoping to announce an opening day in the coming weeks.

Field 7.5 will serve as a host facility for Challenger Little League on the Eastern Shore. Wicomico County’s recreation department plans to offer adaptive Wiffle ball and drop-in bocce ball at the field in the spring. All programs will be offered at no cost to participants.

The capital campaign for this project kicked off in mid-August with a goal of $400,000. Since then, businesses and private donors have committed over $280,000. Additional funding came from Wicomico County and a grant from the state of Maryland’s Program Open Space.

Donations for this initiative are still being accepted. As more funds are collected, the opportunities to enhance the field’s amenities increase. Officials hope to phase in an inclusive playground and a sensory trail.

Power Substations Energized SALISBURY – Delmarva Power is energizing two major substation projects in Salisbury this year as part of ongoing efforts to deliver safe and reliable service for customers across the Eastern Shore.

The new Beaglin substation and upgraded Fruitland substation will enhance electric service for more than 21,000 customers across Wicomico County.

“To provide customers the safe and reliable service they expect, it is important to continue strengthening our

Regional Digest The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

energy infrastructure,” said Tyler Anthony, senior vice president & COO, Pepco Holdings, which includes Delmarva Power. “The dedicated work of our crews, engineers and others on critical projects like these is a driving force behind our success in delivering record electric service reliability for our customers.”

The new substations are part of a broader reliability improvement effort Delmarva Power is implementing on the Eastern Shore to reduce outages and enhance the resiliency of the local energy grid. This effort includes modernizing the infrastructure, such as transmission and distribution lines, and adding greater automation on the local energy grid with new substations and equipment.

Substations reduce the voltage of electricity as it is delivered across the region to homes and businesses. Built

by Delmarva Power and local contract crews, the new, modern substations will help deliver energy more efficiently and create new configurations on the local energy grid that allow Delmarva Power to automatically restore service more quickly by isolating damage.

Beach Patrol Testing Next Week OCEAN CITY – The Ocean City Beach Patrol (OCBP) will hold preemployment physical skills evaluations on Sunday, March 1, to fill the 2020 employment roster.

The pre-employment evaluation is

Page 29 being held at the Salisbury YMCA. There are no pre-certification requirements and experience in ocean rescue is not necessary to apply.

Registration for the test begins at 10 a.m. and will be followed by a brief orientation. Candidates should prepare for a full day of testing, which includes a 400-meter swim, a 300-meter run, and various simulated swimming rescues which demonstrate the capacity to run fast in timed sprint races.

Although pre-registration is not required, candidates are strongly encouraged to pre-register for the test by visiting www.ococean.com/ocbp. The beach patrol requires acceptable proof of age of all candidates, which can be a driver’s license, birth certificate or U.S. passport. Without proper proof of age, applicants will not be permitted to participate. In addition, applicants must be 17 years old or older by June 22, 2020, and those under 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian during the entire testing process.

Page 30

The darlings of desserts, Peggy Nicastri and Jean “Bean” Keagle, made sure everyone got their piece of the pie at the Play It Safe Italian Feast Fundraiser.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

People

By Jeanette Deskiewicz

FEATURING THOSE HELPING CAUSES IN THE RESORT AREA

Keeping the pasta boiling were Karen McIntosh, Bob Weinhold and Caroline Ruggieri at the Play It Safe Italian Feast Fundraiser which supports alcohol and drug free activities for high school graduates this summer.

In Society

February 21, 2020

Helping out with dinner service at the Play It Safe Italian Feast Fundraiser were Morelia Camacho-Arriola, Morgan Carlson, Jayden Johnstone, Madison Birckett, Emma Meyer, and Annabelle Derby of Stephen Decatur High School.

The heads behind “Originals Only,” held the last Wednesday of each month at the OC Center for the Arts, are talent organizer Dylan Jones and emcee Josh Quillen.

Christine Hunter and Joanne Davis were all glammed out while selling tickets at the door to the Believe in Tomorrow Children’s Foundation 7th Annual Prom Night.

Believe in Tomorrow Children’s Foundation volunteers Terry and Bill Levins were in charge of the mystery box raffle at the 7th Annual Prom Night.

Big supporters of the Believe in Tomorrow Children’s Foundation Annual Prom Night include Brittany and Justin Acita, 2019 and 2020 Prom Court Candidates.

The 7th Annual Prom Night attendees included owners of the Sail Alyosha and Bayhopper, Steve and Lisa Butz, to benefit Believe in Tomorrow Children’s Foundation Beach Respite Housing Program.

Keeping an eye on things with the silent auction at this year’s Believe in Tomorrow Children’s Foundation Annual Prom Night were Katie Norman and Alexandra Jakuvowski.

Local band Frasier Fir, with Bry Colliton and Zach Davis, had the crowd moving with their rocking set at the OC Center for the Arts Wednesday Night Originals Only.

… Pivec: ‘I’ve Brought Great Shame On Myself And My Family’

February 21, 2020

FROM PAGE 7 that led to the June crash.

“It was almost inevitable that this would eventually be the outcome,” he said. “It’s hard to imagine this would not always be the outcome. It’s nothing less than troubling. None of this has had any effect in thwarting his behavior and he has shown no healthy respect for consequences. What other option do we have but removing him from society for a lengthy period of time.”

At the end of the day, the victim is deceased and Pivec’s life will go on, regardless of the pending sentence in the case, Monteiro pointed out.

“The end result of all of this is a life has been taken in the most senseless way,” he said. “The victim’s life is gone and his family is paying for Mr. Pivec’s decisions. His family now has to live an entirely different life. Unfair does not begin to describe these circumstances.”

Monteiro also pointed out the irony of the victim being a working Lyft driver at the time and Pivec reportedly turning down offers to get a cab or a ride-share.

“He was given the opportunity by the bar staff to take a cab or an Uber and he chose to drive anyway,” he said. “He put himself before everybody else that night. The sad irony is the victim was working as a Lyft driver that night. If Pivec had taken that opportunity, it would have been someone like the victim or maybe the victim himself picking him up and getting him home safely.”

For all of those reasons, Monteiro said the maximum was the only sentence that made sense in the case.

“When you consider all of the aggravating factors, I don’t believe anything less than the maximum is appropriate in this case,” he said. “I have zero confidence he will not engage in the same behavior. Removal from the community is the only remedy in this case.”

Next, the victim’s wife addressed the court through an interpreter in perhaps the most gut-wrenching element of the hours-long sentencing hearing.

“The most difficult thing in life is to talk about someone who is no longer with us,” she said. “He was my husband and my friend. He was everything to me in life.”

Alfaki’s wife said her husband was scrambling to scratch out a living to support her and their infant child at the time of the incident in June.

“He was working two jobs so I didn’t have to work outside the home and I could take care of our newborn child,” she said. “He wanted me to be a full-time mother. All he did in life was work hard to provide for us.”

The victim’s wife related details of that fateful morning when she heard the tragic news.

“One day, I was awakened by oth-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 31

for leniency in sentencing and that Pivec and his family along with the defense team were prepared for the worst. However, he said Pivec has expressed a desire to seek help, serve his time and begin to make amends.

“When I talk to Todd, his goal more than anything else is to get healthy and begin to find a way to help other people,” he said. “He knows he needs to make good on this somehow. I’m just trying to plant a seed for hope. At some point, regardless of the sentence, he will be out of jail and ablebodied. Isn’t it better to have him come out of this healthy and rehabilitated?”

Todd Pivec is pictured after being apprehended by police last June after an explosive collision killed a Maryland motorist.

Photo by Campos Media

ers who told me my husband was gone,” she said. “How can I continue life without the husband I loved very much. I cannot find any excuse that a man would drink and drive and put others’ lives in danger. He was the only family I have here and I don’t have him anymore.”

Defense Team Paints Alternative Picture When it was their turn to address the court, defense attorneys John Turnbull III and Adele Brockmeyer attempted to paint the defendant in a more flattering light and expressed the tragic loss felt by family and friends on both sides of the courthouse following the devastating loss in June.

“One of the most important aspects of sentencing in these cases is they rip the heart out of both families,” Turnbull said. “I urge the court to resist looking at Mr. Pivec as all bad, because it would be very easy to do when they look at the totality of the circumstances.”

Oglesby assured the defense attorneys he would not in this case, nor in any of the cases before him, look for just the bad in a defendant. Turnbull then set about outlining some of the background that led to the tragic collision that night.

“It is not lost on Todd that he has derailed the life of his family and friends, certainly not to the extent the lives of the victim’s family and friends have been derailed,” he said. “How did the train get to this station? Where does it go from here?”

Turnbull did not hesitate to paint a rather idyllic image of Pivec’s upbringing and the success of his family business and later the company he started on his own. He said all of that began to unravel following Pivec’s divorce from his wife in 2009.

“His family did not want for anything,” he said. “He was probably overindulged even by today’s standards. How did that train leave the station? Todd learned at a young age to cope with problems with alco-

hol. Following his divorce, you begin to see a consistent pattern of criminal and traffic offenses and the common denominator in all of them has been alcohol.”

The defense called on a family friend who has acted as a big sister of sorts to Pivec’s young daughters and related how he has essentially been a father and mother to them since his divorce and there was no disputing by either side he has not been a devoted father and family man.

Brockmeyer spoke on behalf of Pivec’s daughters, who were not present at sentencing but wrote lengthy messages to the judge on his behalf. Perhaps the biggest takeaway from those written sentiments was one of the children’s assertion, “Dad puts everyone else first before his own problems,” an ironic statement that was referenced several times during the proceeding.

Turnbull also presented other two witnesses, ministers who have met with Pivec several times in the months during which he has been incarcerated. Each said Pivec has been contrite and has expressed a desire to change and rehabilitate.

Turnbull pointed out although many incarcerated individuals find religion or seek spiritual guidance, he believed Pivec was sincere about it.

“I don’t believe this is an act,” he said. “I have no reason to believe he is not sincere. He was done something that can’t be undone and it has shaken him to his core.”

Somewhat oddly, the defense attorney essentially admitted Pivec has been able to skirt around previous run-ins with the law, but could not in this tragic case.

“He has been able to talk, work or charm his way out of everything,” he said. “This incident has a finality he can’t cure with his charisma. I don’t sugarcoat a lot. I think his charming personality has allowed him to mask some serious underlying mental and addiction issues.”

Turnbull said he was not asking

Defendant Gets Chance To Speak, Appears Contrite For his part, Pivec listened attentively to the testimony, both against him and on his behalf, and appeared anguished, judging by his body language. When it was his turn to address the court, Pivec did not shy away from responsibility and vowed to make amends.

“There is very little I can say,” he said. “I am 100% guilty of the charges against me and I take full responsibility for everything I’ve done. My decisions that night took a life and created a lifetime of pain for many others. I can’t change the past. It’s what a man does in the wake of a tragedy that defines his character.”

Pivec said he was remorseful for the pain and anguish he caused his family and friends.

“I’m ashamed of what I’ve done,” he said. “For all of the success I’ve had in life, I’ve brought great shame on myself and my family. I’m a good person who made bad decisions. I’m the person you’ve read about in all of those letters, not the person you’ve read about in the papers.”

Pivec also appeared genuinely remorseful for the victim’s family.

“I can’t imagine the pain the victim’s family is feeling,” he said. “I want his wife to know just how extremely sorry I am and if I could take it back somehow, I would.”

Judge Weighs In Before Sentencing Oglesby started by recounting the details in the case, from a night of excessive drinking at an uptown bar to the point he was cut off by the bartenders. He pointed out the bar staff asked, rather practically begged, Pivec to let them call a cab or an Uber for him, and yet he chose to drive. He provided details about Pivec’s vehicle barreling down Coastal Highway at speeds reaching 93 mph before colliding with the victim’s vehicle, causing it to leave the roadway, strike a building and burst into flames.

“I don’t know if this can be described as an accident,” he said. “This was a crash that was entirely preventSEE PAGE 34

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 21, 2020

February 21, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 33

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FROM PAGE 31 able. I can never characterize this as an accident.”

Oglesby then presented Pivec’s laundry list of offenses from his criminal history, including burglary and assault, to his lengthy number of drunk -driving arrests.

“This is a lengthy criminal history and a long history of probation,” he said. “The terms of probation in nearly every case included requiring you to get the help you need. You failed to take advantage of those opportunities at every turn.”

Oglesby pointed out by Pivec’s own admission he was a chronic drunk-driver.

“Your traffic history reveals a lot of contact with law enforcement for drinking and driving,” he said. “I’m confident you were intoxicated or at least impaired in all of those cases regardless of the outcome. You’ve admitted yourself in interviews you have driven drunk thousands of times.”

Oglesby said if at any time during Pivec’s established checkered past he had taken advantage of the treatment and rehabilitation opportunities

February 21, 2020

afforded him, that night in June could have been avoided.

“I point out these cases because you’ve been the recipient of good fortune, good luck, a good attorney or some other circumstances that resulted in you walking away from those cases,” he said. “Had you been prosecuted and had treatment been a part of that, it might have prevented how we got here today.”

The judge said the current case and Pivec’s prior history did not disparage his personal life as a father, family member and friend, as evidenced by the dozens of letters he received on the defendant’s behalf.

Nonetheless, he pointed out nobody had the opportunity to write similar letters on the victim’s behalf because he is now gone.

“I’ve read all of the letters,” he said.

“No one is being critical of you in your capacity as a good father. People love you and most said they respect you.

With every letter I read, I could imagine a similar letter being written on behalf of the victim, including how good a father he was and how much he was loved in the community. I can’t escape that fact.”

Oglesby said Pivec had been afforded every opportunity to avoid that fateful night in June. He also pointed to the irony of a comment made in the letter from his daughters.

“You have a history of flashing lights in your face telling you “Todd, you have a problem,’ and you never took advantage of the support system to address it,” he said. “Your daughter wrote you always put everyone else first and I’m sure she’s sincere. On that date, you didn’t care about anyone else but yourself.”

Oglesby said the forthcoming sentencing was not about Pivec’s personal and family life, but rather about the specific incident at hand.

“This sentence is not an indictment of you as a father, a son or a brother,” he said. “It’s an indictment of what you did that day. You could have avoided this entire incident if you had been strong enough to address your problem. This was entirely preventable. My job with sentencing is punishment, yes, public safety, absolutely, and the hope for rehabilitation, certainly.”

Oglesby said the case before him, like so many others, was fraught with difficulties.

“I take no joy in imposing this sentence,” he said. “I seriously considered everything. You have a life beyond today and you have a responsibility to make the very best of it and I wish you luck. I believe this sentence is appropriate under the circumstances.”

Wicomico Hears Update On New Lobbyist’s Efforts

February 21, 2020

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – Months after calling into question the hiring of a county lobbyist, officials this week received their first update on the lobbyist’s efforts.

On Tuesday, Assistant Director of Administration Weston Young presented the Wicomico County Council with an update on efforts taken by the county’s new lobbyist since his hiring last June.

“We’ve contracted with State and Local Advisors to assist us with our interests at the state and federal level,” he said. “This provides us a permanent presence in Annapolis.”

Last fall, the council held a work session with representatives of the Wicomico County Executive’s Office after learning that the county had hired lobbyist Paul Ellington of State and Local Advisors earlier in the summer.

At that meeting, officials questioned the administration’s reasoning for hiring the lobbyist and spending $30,000 upfront for his services.

“We have several things we need to get through …,” County Executive Bob Culver told the council in October. “He can open doors we can’t open.”

Obituaries

Johnie Charles Derrickson PARSONSBURG – Johnie Charles Derrickson, age 73, of Parsonsburg, died Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020.

Johnie was born in Roxana, Del. and was the son of the late Charles Elmer and Roselie (Parker) Derrickson.

He was employed by Trimper’s Rides in Ocean City as a mechanic and worked with his son Johnie Derrickson II in his many entities.

He is survived by his wife, Janice B. Derrickson; one son, Johnie C. Derrickson II and wife Dana of Berlin; one daughter, Sandra L. Wainwright and husband Craig of Whaleyville; one step-son, David T. Brooks and wife Amy of Willards; one sister, Mary L. Wood of Millsboro; five grandchildren, Adam Derrickson, Bradley Derrickson LauJOHNIE ren Wainwright, Jakob CHARLES Brooks and Dylan Bro- DERRICKSON oks; one great-grandchild, Leonardo Derrickson; the mother of his children, Lorraine L. Derrickson; and his faithful canine companion, Lucky.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Rodney Derrickson.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to National Kidney Foundation, 30 East 33rd Street, New York, NY 10016 or www.kidney.org.

Condolences may be sent to www.bishophastingsfh.com.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Back on the agenda this week, Young highlighted Ellington’s efforts in Annapolis during the current session of the Maryland General Assembly. He noted that the lobbyist has focused on legislation and funding related to the airport, Wicomico River maintenance dredging and several capital projects, including Field 7.5 at the Henry S. Parker Athletic Complex.

“He’s using his existing contacts and relationships and making our time in Annapolis much more efficient,” he said. “We have a few bills this year that threaten some of our revenue sources and we’re working to counter those, especially in light of Kirwan.”

Council members this week, however, questioned Ellington’s effectiveness.

Councilman Joe Holloway said Ell-

ington’s services include promoting the interests of both the legislative and executive branches in Wicomico County.

But he noted that the council had yet to receive communication from Ellington himself.

“We’ve never seen him, had any emails from him or had any updates on what he’s done other than what you’ve done today,” he said.

Holloway also questioned the justification for spending $30,000 for Ellington’s services.

“One of the harder things to conceptualize with a lobbyist is you won’t always have instant results …,” Young replied. “There’s a lot of work that goes into that, so it’s not a defined product in the end besides representing us and helping us in getting our initiatives put forward.”

Page 35

When asked if Ellington’s contract would be renewed later this year, Young said officials haven’t yet discussed the issue.

“I’m confident we’ll have a very positive return on investment for what he’s been doing,” he said.

Young added that he wanted to seek the council’s support and input in the future.

“A few minutes ago, you said you wanted our buy-in, and I agree with that,” Council President Larry Dodd said. “I think we can accomplish a lot more if we’re all on the same page.

We need to work together while it’s going on, not after the fact. When it comes to issues our council is facing, our county is facing, this is about as low on the bar as it gets. Nonetheless, it’s worth talking about.”

46th Annual Trade Show Eyes Ocean City Return March 8-9

Page 36

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

OCEAN CITY – It’s time to come out of winter hibernation and make plans to attend the 46th Annual Ocean City Spring Trade Expo on March 8-9.

Designed to bring hospitality buyers and sellers together for two days of discovery and non-stop networking, this event is produced by the nonprofit trade group, the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association (OCHMRA). The expo has become the mid-Atlantic’s longest running and largest trade show of its kind. The OCHMRA welcomes the return of many loyal exhibitors and showcases new and emerging regional and national companies and products. Attendees have the opportunity to utilize their senses to see, touch, taste and experience the latest trends in every component of the hospitality business.

Celebrity speaker Ryan Estis will take the stage as the keynote speaker on Monday, March 9 at 9:30 a.m. prior to the expo floor opening for its second day. Estis has more than 20 years of experience as a topperforming sales professional and leader. As the former chief strategy

officer for the McCann Worldgroup advertising agency NAS, he brings a fresh perspective to business events.

As a keynote speaker, he is known for his innovative ideas on leading change, improving sales effectiveness and preparing for the future of work.

He was recently recognized as one of “the best keynote speakers RYAN ESTIS ever heard” by Meetings & Conventions magazine alongside Tony Robbins, Bill Gates, Colin Powell and Mike Ditka.

Estis delivers keynote speeches, courses and online learning with an emphasis on actionable content designed to elevate business performance. His curriculum emphasizes emerging trends influencing corporate culture, communication, collaboration, leadership, sales and brand experience. He helps participants prepare to thrive in today’s ultracompetitive, hyper-connected business environment.

Estis supports the world’s leading brands, including Liberty Mutual, Dar-

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This keynote speaker is being brought to Ocean City through a partnership with the Restaurant Association of Maryland and is just one of

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several educational sessions planned for the industry expo. The Expo is not open to the public, therefore to walk the show floor, you must be a buyer or guest in the industry and you must be at least 21. For example, hotel, motel, restaurant, catering, concessions, bed & breakfast, condo/property management, campground, coffee house, ice cream store, nightclub, liquor store, convenience store, cafeteria, nursing home, schools/colleges, hospital. Expo management reserves the right to determine if your registration fits these parameters. If you sell to these types of businesses, you would be considered an exhibitor and must purchase a booth to attend the expo.

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‘Financial Swiss Army Knife’

February 21, 2020

Wealth Of Knowledge

BY MATT REPASS

SPECIAL TO THE DISPATCH

BERLIN – Americans are polled each year about their greatest fears. For years now, topping the list of fears is “running out of money in retirement,” but coming in a close second is the fear of “becoming ill” and needing to spend my lifesavings on my care.

Fortunately, using the income tax exemption of life insurance, we have a way to alleviate both these fears. Referred to as the “Financial Swiss Army Knife,” this isn’t the “kitchen table” life insurance policies you bought when you were young. No, I am talking about permanent insurance, spe- MATT REPASS cifically, Indexed Universal Life or “IUL,” not term insurance.

There are three basic things, which can occur in our lives -- die too soon, live too long or become ill.

Die too soon: IUL policies pay a taxfree death benefit in the event of your

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

death, which we are all guaranteed to do. When you make your first deposit, your money is “leveraged” immediately 20 to 30 times your deposit, guaranteeing a tax-free legacy to your heirs at death.

Live too long (or fear of running out of money): I refer to these IUL policies as “super Roth IRA’s” because, like Roth’s, these policies are funded with after tax money and the cash value grows free from tax. This cash value can then be accessed in retirement

Page 37

tax-free, just like your Roth, but the similarities end there. Unlike the Roth, these policies don’t have contribution limits and, no waiting till 59 1/2 to access your money. With tax rates destined to increase and the awareness of folks that taxes aren’t lower in retirement, tax-free income guaranteed throughout your life is quite attractive.

Become ill: Folks who worked hard to save for retirement only to witness one spouse needing home health, assisted living or nursing home care destroy their nest egg in a matter of months. Traditional long-term care policies are expensive, hard to qualify for and premiums increasing yearly. Today’s IUL contracts come to the rescue once again. Giving you the ability to ac-

HERE’S MY CARD

cess your death benefit tax-free to pay for these long-term care costs, you never lose the money you have saved.

Why then with clients the average age of 70 am I discussing life insurance? Qualifying for life insurance is much easier than long-term care insurance! Giving the fact that studies show 70% of Americans will need some form of long-term care and last I checked, 100% of Americans will die, we need to make the money we’ve saved do more than ever before. Want to learn how to get your money to perform “triple duty”?

Hive us a call to discuss the options.

(The writer is a senior Investment Advisor with Key Financial Services. He has over 30 years of experience with the benefits of life insurance.)

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Business And Real Estate News

Page 38

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 21, 2020

At this week’s presentation of the America’s Best 250 Hospitals Award from Healthgrades were Dr. Mark Edney, Peninsula Regional’s Medical Staff President; Steve Leonard, Ph.D., MBA, FACHE, President/CEO of the Peninsula Regional Health System; Cindy Lunsford, PRHS Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer; Maggie Foley, Healthgrades Director of Quality Solutions; and Dr. C.B. Silvia, Peninsula Regional Vice President of Medical Affairs and Chief Medical Officer.

Submitted Photo

Executive Director Named

Estate Planning Wills & Trusts Powers of Attorney Medical Directives Medicaid Planning Elder Law & Tax Flat Fee Available Home Visits Available Upon Request

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

443-856-4676 Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

BERLIN – Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services, (WYFCS) has announced Dr. Jennifer Leggour as the new executive director.

Leggour, is an Ocean City native, who currently resides locally with her husband and children. She graduated from Stephen Decatur High School, then obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Salisbury University. She moved to Baltimore to complete her education and training, knowing that she would return to Ocean City one day to raise a family at the beach. She attended Loyola College, and finished her first Doctor of Psychology program in 2000. After DR. JENNIFER graduation, she imme- LEGGOUR diately moved back to the Eastern Shore and has practiced as a psychologist for 20 years. During that time, she expanded her family and her career, finding WYFCS along the way. She has been employed at WYFCS for 11 years, serving as the clinical director for eight years. While she has always valued the science and study of human behavior, she is just as passionate about humanitarian efforts and the essence of giving back to the community.

Leggour believes in the mission of the organization, which has assisted thousands of people by providing mental health services, advocating for abused and neglected children, finding resources for those in challenging situations, and offering many outreach programs to youth within the community.

“On behalf of the WYFCS Board of Directors, I want our community to know how thrilled and fortunate we are to welcome Dr. Jennifer Leggour into her role as our new Executive Director,” said WYFCS Board of Directors President Robin Walter.

“Her experience and demeanor make her a terrific match for her selection into this professional role. She has already exhibited her leadership capabilities and our board members look forward to working with her and supporting her as she enhances and grows WYFCS. She is fully committed to the organization and is dedicated to ‘Helping People Shine.’”

Advisor Joins Office SALISBURY – The principals of NAI Coastal announce the growth of their team with the addition of Advisor Eric Cropper to the Salisbury office.

Cropper specializes in investment and hospitality acquisitions and leverages over 20 years of experience in the real estate industry.

“Having owned and sold my own properties for nearly 30 years, I understand the unique challenges and rewards of commercial real estate,” said Cropper. “As an advisor with NAI Coastal, I look forward to providing exceptional service to my current and future clients.”

Cropper is a native to the Eastern Shore and is well versed in the local economy. His real estate knowledge is amplified by years of experience in financial and insurance advising. Outside of his career, Cropper is active in his community and was recently elec- ERIC CROPPER ted to serve as the president of Worcester County’s Board of Education.

“As NAI Coastal continues to expand its footprint on the Shore, we remain steadfast in our commitment to growing with the right group of people,” said Principal Chris Davis. “Eric has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the local hospitality industry and we foresee him being a great resource for our clients as they weigh their investment options.”

February 21, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 39

Things I Like ...

By Steve Green

No-jacket weather in February Festive birthday parties for young kids Playing board games with my kids without arguments Staying in a new hotel Thick coffee mugs Trying out a restaurant while visiting an unfamiliar town Well done scrapple Hitting Nacho Mama’s whenever in Baltimore Learning the sounds of a new house Watching an expert clean a fish Being stumped by a diverse menu

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$1.75 CRUNCHY TACOS (Beef, Bean, Chicken Or Pork)

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MONDAY TACO NIGHT 5-10 P.M.

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Page 40

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Inlet Dredging Work Scheduled

February 21, 2020

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – The Army Corps of Engineers hopper dredge Currituck is expected to arrive in Ocean City next week for a scheduled routine dredging project around the Inlet.

Three or four times a year, the Army Corps of Engineers-Baltimore District sends the Currituck, or its sister ship Murden, to Ocean City to conduct routine dredging in and around the Inlet.

The Currituck, based at the Army Corps’ Wilmington, N.C. district, is scheduled to arrive in Ocean City late next week and begin dredging operations on or about March 1, depending on weather and other variables.

The plan is for the Currituck to spend five days specifically dredging known trouble spots in the Inlet. The Inlet and other channels in and around the commercial harbor naturally fill in and are in constant need of maintenance dredging, but the problem has become more acute in recent years to the point the Inlet is often impassable and unnavigable for larger vessels on even the highest of tides.

The Currituck will spend the balance of its time in Ocean City, or about 25 days, on the continued Assateague bypass project, which removes material in and around the navigation channel with an emphasis on the ebb and flood shoals that traditionally trap sand moving southward toward Assateague. Dredged material is placed south of the inlet, just offshore of Assateague Island where it counteracts erosion.

The Currituck and its sister ship Murden arrive in Ocean City a couple of times each year to perform routine dredging projects and occasionally emergency repairs after storms. The dredge hoppers perform similar work at navigation channels all over the region and are much in demand, which makes a visit to Ocean City an important one, according to Army Corps of Engineers Corporate Communications Manager Chris Gardner.

“We’re excited the Currituck and her crew are slated to be working in Ocean City for around a month or so in this cycle,” he said. “It should be a good opportunity to get a lot of important dredging done just in time for the spring as well.”

Congressman Andy Harris (R-Md.) also praised the Army Corps for sending the Currituck in advance of the spring and summer seasons.

“I am pleased that the Army Corps will again be conducting dredging operations in anticipation of the upcoming busy summer season,” he said.

“Keeping the channels open and navigable is crucial to the economy of Ocean City and I applaud the Corps for their continued efforts.”

OC Scavenger Hunt To Benefit Paramedics Foundation

February 21, 2020

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – An inaugural resort-wide scavenger hunt to benefit local first responder organizations will take place in Ocean City next month.

On Saturday, March 28, Shore Community Connections will host its first annual OC Quest for Heroes, a scavenger hunt to benefit the Ocean City Paramedic Foundation.

From noon to 6 p.m. teams of 2-6 people will have the opportunity to collect clues from various landmarks, restaurants, hotels and retail locations throughout Ocean City for a chance to win prizes and bragging rights.

Trish Seitz and Rick Coleman, event co-founders and organizers, said efforts to organize a resort-wide scavenger hunt began in September. They explained the goal is to make OC Quest for Heroes an annual event to raise money for local first responder organizations.

“The reason we called it a Quest for Heroes is because we figure each year we can pick a different first responder group,” Coleman said. “We can do a fire department, a beach patrol, a police department, whatever it may be.”

All proceeds from this year’s scavenger hunt will go to the Ocean City Paramedic Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to the training of resort paramedics and the purchasing of equipment through fundraising efforts.

“We want to use that money to give back and help our community,” Seitz said.

Since its formation in 2017, Shore Community Connections – a local networking group covering the lower Eastern Shore – has donated thousands of dollars to local nonprofits, including Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services and the Good Ole Boy Foundation.

“Our networking group has 20 members and we pay dues,” Seitz said. “We wanted to use that due money to give back to the community, so every year we donate or do some kind of fundraiser.”

Seitz said she and Coleman presented the group’s members with the idea for a scavenger hunt last summer.

“There was an event in West Ocean City that kind of prompted or sparked the idea, and we decided to make it bigger and adults-only …,” she said. “It has just evolved from there.”

Event festivities the day of the scavenger hunt will begin with a mandatory registration and packet pickup from 10 a.m. to noon at the 28th Street Pit & Pub. “At least one person from your team has to show up to pick up the registration packets,” Coleman said. “The first 300 participants will receive a bag to carry everything around in, a wristband and a cosy.”

The Quest will then take place from noon to 6 p.m. Organizers said teams will be given clues that will lead them to locations from the Inlet to 146th Street. Team members must travel to-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

gether and take a picture with the answer to the clue.

“We’ve come up with a bunch of trivia questions about the town and its history, and the hotels, restaurants, bars and retail locations are going to be the stops,” Seitz said. “You have to figure out what place we’re talking about, and once you are there you have to take a picture of your full team in front of whatever we’ve designated. They then have to email it to us to get credit for completing that clue.”

Organizers said the scavenger hunt is not a race, but simply a challenge to see what team can complete the most clues and earn the most points within the six-hour time limit. Teams also can enjoy happy hour pricing and discounts from participating businesses throughout the day.

“It’s really a win-win for everybody,”

Seitz said.

Organizers said the scavenger hunt will conclude with an after party from 6-8 p.m. at Dry Dock 28. Festivities will include food and drink specials, entertainment from DJ BK, giveaways, a 50/50 raffle and prizes for first-, second- and third-place teams.

Bonus point will also be awarded to the teams that dress up in costumes, and the best team costume will be awarded a prize at the after party.

“It will be a fun time,” Coleman said.

“We’ll also present a big check to the Ocean City Paramedic Foundation that night for the total amount raised.”

A participation fee of $75 per team can be made online at eventbrite.com (search “OC Quest for Heroes”). Participants must be 21 years of age.

The last day of team registration is March 13. However, donations to the

Page 41

Ocean City Paramedic Foundation will be accepted up to the day of the event.

“We’re still looking for more stops, but we are mainly looking for donations,” Seitz said. “They can be written directly to the Ocean City Paramedic Foundation, and we are holding onto those monies and present it to them the night of the event.”

For more information, visit Shore Community Connections’ Facebook page, or the “OC Quest for Heroes” Facebook event page. For questions or to make payments, contact Seitz at ocquestforheroes@gmail.com or 717891-4277.

“We’d love to have everyone come out and join in the fun for the day, while visiting new places, having fun with their team and in the process giving back to the community through the Ocean City Paramedics Foundation,” Seitz said.

Page 42

The Dispatch

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

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

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

MANETTE CRAMER Account Executive manette@mdcoastdispatch.com

ART DEPARTMENT COLE GIBSON Art Director cole@mdcoastdispatch.com

DAVID HOOKS Graphic Artist/Webmaster

Expanding Sales Tax Not Right Call In Maryland The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 21, 2020

HOW WE SEE IT

How to fund the Kirwan Commission’s recommendations to improve Maryland public school question continues to be the biggest issue in Annapolis for the General Assembly.

A proposal to create new revenue by expanding the state’s sales tax was unveiled this week to raise the new revenue needed. We don’t believe the foolish plan deserves any attention at all, but over the coming weeks it will get a thorough review because it’s supported by many Democratic leaders.

Maryland has an expense problem. Many people believe it’s too expensive to live and do business in Maryland currently, while many lawmakers maintain that’s perception and not reality. There are a bevy of financial comparisons proving the case living and doing business in Maryland is more expensive than neighboring states. There are numerous examples of people opting to move to nearby states a short drive away to save on property and income taxes, and businesses deciding to relocate due to expenses being too high in this state. We believe there is merit to these concerns.

Any change to existing laws by the state to heighten the expensive perception, or reality, must get the most careful review. The good news is that will happen as the legislature’s session continues.

The bad news is if the majority of the state’s Democratic Party legislators support the plan to broaden the sales tax’s reach to new services, which were previously untouched, it will likely happen. There will be nothing Republican Gov. Larry Hogan can do to stop it because his veto is irrelevant and simply symbolic. It’s worth noting

House of Delegates Speaker Adrienne Jones and Senate President Bill Ferguson, the new Democrats in charge of the chambers this year, have said publicly Kirwan’s recommended changes will be largely funded without major increases to the sales, income or property tax rates.

The proposed legislation unveiled this weeks seeks to broaden the sales tax to several industries, namely legal, accounting and engineering services. The proposed change, however, does reduce the existing sales tax from 6 cents on the dollar to 5 cents. It was suggested by Montgomery County Democrat Del. Eric Luedtke, majority leader of the House, the change would grow sales tax revenue by $2.6 billion by 2025, according to The Baltimore Sun. Sales tax revenue currently amounts to $4.9 billion for Maryland. In the same article, Luedtke estimated an average family with a $80,000 salary would pay approximately $156 more annually under the new plan. The cost for businesses is unknown at this point.

It’s a safe assumption any new expenses incurred by businesses will be handed down to consumers in some fashion. The new funds raised through the tax change would be directed to carryout the Kirwan Commission’s suggested overhaul of public schools, according to supporters.

The Kirwan Commission’s recommendations deserve attention by legislators. Among the vast calls for change are an expansion of pre-K programs, increased teacher pay, requiring more teacher certifications, improvements to college and career readiness pathways, more rsources for at-risk students and heightened governance and accountability. It’s

important for Worcester County citizens to know the commission’s recommendations do not address the top problem local schools face. Due to an unfair and unrealistic funding formula, which considers Worcester one of the richest counties in the state, local schools are woefully underfunded by the state. This disparity results in Worcester County government having to fund an unusually large percentage of the school system’s budget. Unlike most counties in Maryland, Worcester County annually funds more than 80% of the school system’s budget. In many jurisdictions, the state funds a majority of the local school system’s budget due to the state’s funding formula.

It took the commission more than two years to offer its insights on how to improve education in Maryland.

Its unrealistic to think in one year the state would be able to fund all the overhaul proposals. It will have to be phased in over several years if the goal is to minimize the impact on Marylanders’ expenses. Surely, a majority of Maryland residents and businesses want to see improvements to education to ensure students and teachers are given the best opportunities to succeed. However, it would be wrong to assume residents and businesses want to see that goal accomplished at the expense of their livelihoods being jeopardized by increases in taxes and fees.

If it’s found the Kirwan recommendations must all advance – debatable in education circles -- we would prefer the option of directing funds raised through legalizing sports betting or increasing the state’s cigarette tax to the effort. Whatever funding mechanisms are identified, there must be a balanced approach to achieving the revenue goals over multiple years.

dhooks@mdcoastdispatch.com

PAUL HALLAM Graphic Artist phallam@mdcoastdispatch.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

BUSINESS OFFICE PAMELA GREEN Bookkeeper/Classifieds Manager

Proposed Legislation Will Harm Way Of Life

classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com

Editor: It’s Deja vu all over again. At least as far as legislation in Maryland is concerned.

Most of the bad legislation that we have fought so hard over the last few years is back again, with the addition of the “Blueprint for Maryland’s Future – Implementation of Kirwan Recommendations” which expands state control over education and requires $32 billion in additional spending over 10 years. Please keep in mind that this bill calls for no accountability as to student performance or behavior.

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.

Additionally, has anyone noticed how the more involved state and federal governments become with education and the more money spent, the worse the results? The bill numbers for the “Blueprint” are SB1000 and HB1300.

A good bill to support is SB78 which would require county Boards of Education to implement regulations on remedial behavior expectations of students; to require restitution to students and teachers who have been harmed by the offending student; and modify the schedule of the individual who violated so that contact with the person harmed is minimized.

Of course, our Second Amendment rights are under attack in several bills.

One of the worst is SB208/HB4 which would require background checks on a person (including family members) to whom you might loan a weapon (such as loaning your rifle to your cousin to try out). And SB422 requires that every person with a permit issued or renewed must complete on separate calendar days each year an approved course on situational awareness and a course on competent handling of a firearm.

That’s two days out of your life and two fees out of your pocket, every SEE NEXT PAGE

Between The Lines

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 21, 2020

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR year.

Physician Assisted Suicide is back again this year. It was defeated last year by only one vote.

Sanctuary State Legislation is up again this year. SB850 and HB677 would prohibit state and local government entities from entering into agreements facilitating immigrationrelated detention by private entities and would prohibit government entities from entering into certain agreements to house immigration-related detainees. This would also require governmental entities to terminate existing contracts for the detention of immigration related detainees. I don’t know how many times we have to say it before it sinks in: “We are in favor of and enthusiastically support legal immigration. Illegal immigration is exactly that – illegal”.

In opposition to this legislation is SB197 which would require a state or local correctional facility to notify the US Department of Homeland Security that an individual subject to an immigration detainer is ready to be released – the notice would need to be provided 72 hours before the individual is released. Had this been in place, several terrible crimes with young victims could have been prevented.

I urge my fellow Eastern Shore citizens to take the time to research these bills and others and to let our elected representatives know where we stand. You can find out all about current proposed bills by going to mgaleg.maryland.gov. You can call or email the senators and delegates with your opinions.

I hope we can work together to defeat some of these proposed bills which will harm our way of life if passed.

Carol Frazier Ocean Pines

OC’s Wind Turbine Renderings Questioned Editor: For at least two months, the Ocean City government has known wind farm renderings on their taxpayer funded web pages that contain major inaccuracies. This point was also made quite clear in a letter to the editor published in this paper on Dec. 25, 2019.

Ocean City government has had plenty of time to fix these inaccuracies, but instead, they are now doubling or even tripling down on their lies.

Up to now, I have been kind and called these inaccuracies rather than

lies. However, given the fact that the mayor is publishing new web pages and used these known inaccurate renderings at the Public Service Commission hearing, I believe we are well past the point of being kind and calling these inaccuracies.

I hope that people in the Ocean City community will speak up to their politicians about this issue. Ocean City is rightly concerned with issues that may have an adverse effect on their economy. I can think of few worse things a tourist destination could do to their economy than convince their customers that they are dishonest.

Doug Miller Jessup

Harris Positions Need Voters’ Attention

Editor: 1st District of Maryland Representative, Andy Harris, recently was one of 11 members of congress to vote against House Bill H.R. 2932. This bill — the Homeland Security for Children Act — would require the Dept. of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Office of Strategy, Policy, and Plans to review and incorporate policy feedback from organizations representing the needs of children into DHS policy. Additionally, it would direct the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to identify and integrate the needs of children into activities to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate against the risk of natural disaster, acts of terrorism, and other man-made disasters. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimated that enacting the bill would require no additional costs. The vote was 374 yea and 11 nays. Harris voted nay.

What is wrong with our representative in congress? Harris has recently voted against the interests of senior citizens, women veterans and now children. What happened to President Bush’s 1,000 points of light? Where is compassion in our government? Contact Harris’ D.C. office at 202-225-5311 or his Eastern Shore office at 410-643-5425 and voice your displeasure with Harris’ voting record on H.B. 2932.

We do have a choice in who represents us. Vote. Running against Harris in 2020 is a Republican from Ocean City, Jorge Delgado, or Democrat Mia Mason.

For more information on this bill visit: https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/2932 Christopher A. Koch Easton

To Our Readers: The Dispatch welcomes any and all letters from our readers. All letters are encouraged typed, but not required, and we reserve the right to edit each letter for clarity, accuracy and brevity. Letters should include writer’s name, address and day and even-ing telephone numbers.

If we are unable to reach the writer, we will have to withhold the letter. Due to space restraints, letters under 500 words in length will be given top priority.

Letters can be mailed to The Dispatch, P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811, emailed to editor@mdcoastdispatch.com or faxed to 410-641-0966.

Page 43

By Publisher/Editor Steve Green

When I last took exception to Ocean City Councilman Mark Paddack’s social media rants, he let it be known to me in a voicemail he would not be standing down. After many years in a police uniform and being unable to weigh in on matters on social media, Paddack said he will continue to express himself and utilize his freedom of speech. I understand his position. Nonetheless, I still believe blustering on Facebook about current affairs is not a professional route for an elected official. I may be old fashioned, but bringing up these concerns at an open council meeting seems more appropriate to me. Nonetheless, here’s an unedited version of one of his two tirades this week regarding the Great Inflatable Race coming to West Ocean City.

“Something does not smell right with a county employee asking Town of Ocean City elected officials to approve a proposal in West Ocean City?

Why were none of the elected County Commissioner in front of Town City Councils requesting the $25,000 funding? What Quid Pro Quo is taking place here in the county? Why did an OC Councilman speak on the request for town tax payer funding go to the county employee's Inflatable Race idea? When the OC Councilman was involved in the business venture?

Only after being confronted on the Conflict of Interest, the OC Councilman agreed to donate profits to charity? This entire situation stinks of cronyism with buddy's. I heard the Tourism Advisory Board member that voted to send the county employee to the city to ask for funds, suddenly and without warning one of the TAB members found the $25,000 to make the proposal happen in West Ocean City. They came through with the $25,000 to bring the event to Worcester County and keep the event on a private school property,” the post read. “The County employee still refuses to bring the event into the epicenter of tourism in Ocean City. Good luck while Ocean City tax payers fund Fire and EMS services in West Ocean City and County Commissioner refuse to reimburse Ocean City for the $500,000 expense.

Worcester County Commissioners are the Bernie Sander's of wealth distribution at the expense of Ocean City Property owners to West Ocean City. Sad but West Ocean City (Berlin District) will have one day of bouncy houses. Whoo Hooo. Good luck.”

Over the two years he has been a Worcester County Circuit Court judge, Beau Oglesby has garnered a reputation for being tough when it comes to sentencing. Last Friday Oglesby handed out 37 years of jail time for two serious crimes.

While an argument could be made Oglesby lived up to his reputation as a heavy-handed judge when it comes to prison time, it seems to me both sentences were fair under the law. Back in February 2018, after being sworn in to his current post after seven years as county state’s attorney, he talked about what he would attempt to do in the years ahead as a judge.

“The bench is elevated so that our perspective could be the very best, that we could see as much we possibly could so that our decisions can be informed and educated,” he said. “Every time I take those steps I will strive to see each issue from that elevated perspective of fairness and justice.”

The more high-profile of the two cases last week involved a negligent manslaughter by motor vehicle case involving the death of a man working in Ocean City as a ride-share driver. The defendant, Todd Pivec, had a history of problems with alcohol including driving while intoxicated offenses and was given numerous reprimands throughout his life. He got in his car on Coastal Highway last summer after drinking all day and killed a man with a family.

“This sentence is not an indictment of you as a father, a son or a brother,” he said. “It’s an indictment of what you did that day. You could have avoided this entire incident if you had been strong enough to address your problem. … My job with sentencing is punishment, yes, public safety, absolutely, and the hope for rehabilitation, certainly. … I take no joy in imposing this sentence. I seriously considered everything. You have a life beyond today and you have a responsibility to make the very best of it and I wish you luck. I believe this sentence is appropriate under the circumstances.”

Earlier in the day, Oglesby was even more pointed with his comments to 27-year-old Nacqueese Humphrey, who nearly killed his girlfriend in front of police when he punched her in the face, breaking her jaw and fracturing her skull. Oglesby sentenced the man to 20 years in jail.

“This is at the far end of the spectrum. I’m not sure a sucker punch describes the level of violence in this incident. You ran past police officers and punched her in the presence of several individuals. That is an amazing lack of self-control,” Oglesby said. “You served the better part of four years in Pennsylvania for armed robbery. There was the other incident when you punched another person during a basketball game. You’ve apparently learned nothing from those experiences. There is no excuse for your behavior. The victim has had her life changed forever. I’m not impressed with your effort at an apology. This case demonstrates to me that your actions cannot be excused. … I consider you to be a real danger and you deserve to be removed from the community for a long time.”

Page 44

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 21, 2020

Students

The annual Junior Ring Ceremony took place in the Guerrieri Library at Worcester Prep on Feb.12. It’s tradition that seniors present the juniors with their rings along with a few insightful comments as to why the recipient is special to them. The ring ceremony is always an inspiring event showing the bond and friendship between peers. Members from the Class of 2021 who participated in the Junior Ring Ceremony are pictured above.

Submitted Photos

In The News

During the Worcester Prep Junior Ring Ceremony, senior Eli Prushansky placed the new class ring in the hands of junior Caroline Anderson.

After reading “Kindness is Cooler, Mrs. Ruler” and “Kindness A-Z,” students in Julie Vorsteg's kindergarten class at Ocean City Elementary did kind deeds and recorded them on hearts. The goal was 100 good deeds by the 100th day of school. Pictured are Chase Harkins, Kendal Gulshen, Lily Tsvetanov, Franny Bergeman and Sarah Wall.

Students in Ms. Powell's science class at Berlin Intermediate dissected owl pellets to learn about the transfer of energy through a food chain. The owl pellets allowed students to discover the animals that owls consume through the bones that they cannot digest. Pictured are Kruti Patel and Megan Sandt.

Worcester Prep juniors Sophia Ludt, Summer Walker, Meredith Cummings, Grace Hopkins and Waverly Choy display their new Class of 2021 rings.

Three juniors from the Class of 2021 show off their new class rings along with their parents who are also alums of Worcester Prep, Abby Reynolds and Mark Tingle ’87, Chipper and Tara Becker ’91, Alex Moore ’86 and Brugh.

February 21, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 45

Page 46

Sports

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Seahawks Soar In Regionals, Prep For States

February 21, 2020

In The News

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s varsity swim teams turned in great performances in the state 3A-2A-1A East Regional meet last weekend including a handful of individual regional championships.

The Decatur boys finished second as a team in the regional meet with 319, not far behind first-place finisher Easton, which finished with 364 team points. Kent County was third with 261 team points. The Decatur girls finished third overall in the regional meet with 295 team points.

Kent Island was first with 362, while host Queen Anne’s was second with 342. Decatur is now preparing for the state championship meet at the University of Maryland. The Seahawks’ boys and girls are entered in 15 individual events along with five relays.

On the boys’ side last weekend, in the 200-medley relay, the Decatur team of Caleb Vaxmonsky, Jack Slaysman, Richard Poist and Gavin Stearn finished first. In the 200-freestyle relay, the Decatur team of Nicholas Cardamone, Jonathan Franklin, Addison Hommel and Patrick O’Halloran finished eighth. In the 400-freestyle relay, the Decatur team of Stearn, Slaysman, Poist and Vaxmonsky finished second.

Poist finished first in the 50-freestyle, while Slaysman was third. Poist also finished second in the 100-butterfly, while Cardamone was seventh.

Vaxmonsky finished first in the 500freestyle, while Patrick O’Halloran was fourth. Vaxmonsky also finished first in the 100-backstroke, while Gideon Plamondon finished ninth.

Slaysman was second in the 100breaststroke, while Franklin was ninth.

In the 200-freestyle, Cardamone finished fifth, while Gideon Plamondon finished 13th. In the 200-individual medley, Stearn finished second and O’Halloran was sixth. Stearn also finished second in the 100-freestyle, while Franklin was 14th.

In the 200-medley relay, the Decatur team of Natalie Canham, Mikayla Denault, Emma Sperry and Gracie Coker finished third. In the 200-freestyle relay, the Decatur team of Coker, Kayden Hamby, Sperry and Canham finished fourth. In the 400freestyle relay, the Decatur team including Kayden Hamby, Kiley Hamby, Pizlo and Denault finished fourth.

In the 200-freestyle, Canham finished third and Katelyn Pizlo finished eighth. In the 200-individual medley, Emma Coyman finished fourth and Denault was fifth. Sperry finished sixth in the 50-freestyle, while Coker was ninth.

Kayden Hamby was third in the 100-butterfly, while Sperry finished fifth. Kayden Hamby also finished sixth in the 100-freestyle, while Kiley Hamby finished seventh. Pizlo finished third in the 500-freestyle and Kiley Hamby was sixth. In the 100backstroke, Canham finished fourth and Coker was fifth. Denault was seventh in the 100-breaststroke.

Decatur senior captain Jagger Clapsadle last week first tied and then broke the school’s all-time career wins mark with 149. The previous record was 147 held by Andy McKahan. Pictured above, Clapsadle takes care of a Bennett wrestler in the recent match.

Photo by Earl Campbell Photography

Stephen Decatur’s unbeaten varsity wrestling team last week captured its second straight state championship. Pictured above, the Seahawks wrestlers, coaches and staff show off the state championship trophy.

Submitted Photo

Decatur Wrestlers Repeat As State Champs

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s unbeaten varsity wrestling team steamrolled through two dual matches last weekend to capture an unprecedented state Class 2A championship for the second straight year.

The Seahawks have been dominant all year on their way to a perfect regular season. Along the way, they also captured championships in the prestigious Rough Rider and Iron Horse Duals tournaments. Despite all of that success, Decatur still had unfinished business and it began last week with the state 2A-East region championships.

The Seahawks were relatively untested in the region championships last Wednesday, rolling past Queen Anne’s, 62-12, and Kent Island, 57-6, in the championship meet. During the region championship meet, Jagger Clapsadle captured his 147th career win, tying the previous Decatur school record held by Andy McKahan.

With the region banner in hand, Decatur traveled to southern Maryland last Saturday for the state 2A championships and the results were more of the same. In the state semifinals, the Seahawks beat Sparrow’s Point, 38-27, to advance. During the Sparrow’s Point match, Clapsadle, wrestling at 126, beat Wayne Brooks to pass McKahan with his 148th career win to set the new school record.

In the championship, the Seahawks beat Glenelg, 42-24, to capture their second straight state championship, a feat never accomplished by a Bayside Conference school before.

During the championship meet, Clapsadle captured win number 149, adding to his new school record.

Clapsadle’s record is impressive to be sure, but he is only one piece in the Seahawks’ juggernaut puzzle. Just last week, Nico D’Amico captured his 100th career win and could challenge the school record. In fact, there are 21 wrestlers at Decatur who have earned at least 100 wins in their career.

Against Sparrow’s Point in the semi-

finals, at 106, Austin Miller beat Tyler Maynor, while Shamar Baines beat Dom Ambrosino at 113. Logan Intrieri beat Aiden Argueta at 120 and Jagger Clapsadle beat Wayne Brooks at 126.

Nico D’Amico kept it going with a win over Richard Davis at 132, but Kyle Elliott fell to Sparrow’s Point’s Luke Koenig at 138.

Noah Reho got Decatur back on track with a win over Matt Laubach at 145 and Alex Koulikov beat Kendrik Emani at 152. James Parana beat Jake Lure at 160 and Micah Bourne beat Jake Rallo at 170. With enough points in the bank to secure the semifinal win, the Seahawks forfeited matches in the four heaviest weight classes.

In the finals against Glenelg, the Seahawks got off to a slow start, but stacked wins in the middle weight classes to secure the 42-24 win to repeat as state champions. At 113, Glenelg’s David Ridenour topped Baines, while Intrieri fell at 120 to Jaegon Hibbitts. Clapsadle got the Seahawks on the board with a win over Taegon Hibbitts at 126, and D’Amico beat Ethan Sotka at 132.

Elliott kept it going with a win over Trey Fleece at 138 and Reho beat Kevin Yang at 145. Koulikov beat Kian Payne at 145, Parana beat Ethan Mackey at 160 and Bourne beat Nicholas Kingsbury at 170 to keep the streak going.

The two teams swapped wins in the heavier weight classes down the stretch, but the Seahawks had amassed enough points to secure the 42-24 win and earn their second straight state crown. Adham Labwam lost to Glenelg’s Drew Sotka at 182, but D.J. Taylor responded with a win over Jake Durkin at 195. Glenelg’s Lucas Suri beat John Hofman at 220, but T.D. Ortega beat Dominic Magnolia at 285. In the final bout, Glenelg’s Kyle Hansberger beat Miller at 106.

With the second-straight state championship banner secured, there are still plenty of individual accolades to pursue. Several Decatur wrestlers will still compete for individual titles in the Bayside Conference, regional and state championships.

February 21, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

WELCOME REACH THE BEACH

Page 47

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Haueisen Reaches 1,000th Milestone Decatur’s Drew Haueisen last week reached his milestone 1,000th career point during a win over Bennett. Pictured above, Haueisen was honored along with family, teammates and coaches.

Submitted Photo

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s boys’ varsity basketball team split two games this week, but the big news is Seahawk Drew Haueisen collected his milestone 1,000th career point.

The Seahawks beat Bennett, 7366, last Friday at home as Haueisen collected his 1,000th career point.

Haueisen entered the contest needing just two points to reach the milestone

and made quick work of hitting the mark. The game was paused to celebrate the accomplishment. Haueisen has led the Seahawks on both ends of the court all season.

Back in action on Tuesday, Decatur fell to Easton, 68-66, in a close one to drop to 11-10 on the season. The Seahawks played Parkside at home on Thursday on Senior Night in a game played too late to be included in this edition. The Seahawks won four straight games prior to the loss.

Worcester Girls Advance, Boys Bow Out

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Worcester Prep girls’ varsity basketball team held on in a thriller to advance to the Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference (ESIAC) tournament on Wednesday while the Worcester boys bowed out in their semifinal.

The Worcester girls battled back and forth all afternoon in their ESIAC semifinal at home on Wednesday. The lead changed hands multiple times in the fourth quarter before the Mallards eventually prevailed, 58-56. The win over the Dragons propelled the Worcester girls into the ESIAC championship game on the road on Friday against Delmarva Christian, which

presents a tall task for the Mallards.

The Worcester girls just lost to Delmarva Christian, 37-24, last Wednesday in their last game before the tournament. The Royals also handed the Mallards their only other regular season loss back on December 16.

Delmarva Christian went 19-1 on the season, their only loss ironically coming to Worcester’s crosstown neighbor Decatur in a holiday tournament in December.

Meanwhile, the Worcester boys bowed out of the ESIAC tournament with a road loss to Salisbury School, 64-47, on Wednesday. The Mallards had a streaky season during which they won four in a row at one point and lost four in a row at another to finish 10-9.

Decatur Girls Fall To Bennett, Easton

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

BERLIN – Stephen Decatur’s girls’ varsity basketball team dropped a pair of games this week to fall to 13-6 on the season.

The Seahawks fell to Bennett, 62-43,

last Thursday, ending a stretch during which they won six out of seven contests. Back in action on Tuesday, the Decatur girls fell to Easton, 57-28, on the road. The Seahawks will face Crisfield at home on Friday on Senior Night in the final regular season game of the year.

The Seahawks’ record stands at 14-6.

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Puzzle Answers

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The Adventures Of Fatherhood

By STEVE GREEN

highlight of coaching kids is the raw emotion often on display.

Every kid is different, and each player reacts in different ways to certain situations. Emotions run high because there is passion.

I’m currently coaching my son’s soccer and basketball teams. The sports are incredibly different. To a player, basketball brings more emotions for a variety of reasons. Basketball features more scoring on a smaller field of play, less players on the field, shorter time of play and is much more contingent upon the referees’ calls.

At the under-12 age, soccer simply doesn’t bring out the same raw reactions that basketball does in my experience.

Since basketball season is wrapping up this week, it’s fresh on my mind. Of the seven players on my team, I think only one didn’t cry at some point during the season. Some of the tears were due to injury, but most a result of a foul call not going their way, a viscous block from an opponent, an errant air ball that embarrassed them, a dribble off the foot or missing an easy shot.

The thing about basketball is there’s no hiding on the court. The players are visible to spectators and what they say can be heard. Since my son talks too much and has difficulty controlling himself, Beckett is often heard loud and clear. He received at least two warnings this season from referees for complaining too theatrically about foul calls.

At one point, a referee came over and asked if No. 1 was my kid. He said I gave him a warning. I replied, “go ahead and give him a technical if you need to please.” He laughed but I was serious.

My kid is certainly not alone when it comes to controlling his emotions on

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the basketball court. It’s an excitable game and feelings flow. I can’t recall one game this season when a kid did not have a poor reaction to something.

One kid slammed a ball and then violently threw it toward a ref. One player cried uncontrollably on the sideline after a foul was called. Another screamed at his father who was coaching and was ordered off the court mid-play. Another player was flattened from behind when he suddenly stopped mid-run on the court to say hello to a classmate.

All these are learning experiences, most of which are not exactly fun memories to live through at the time. I know I learned a lot about patience for sure.

W

atching my kids around their little niece is something special. However, when they are done, they are done.

Pam has a son from a previous marriage. He’s married with a family in New York. Their daughter, who made us grandparents (young ones if I do admit), celebrated her first birthday last weekend with a grand party.

Beckett, 11, was faced with a decision the week before the five-hour road trip. He had a school dance on Friday night. He could attend the dance, and we would leave early Saturday morning to arrive in time for the party. Or he could skip the dance, and we could leave school early Friday to spend time with Zoe the night before her party.

At first, he wanted to go to the dance because he didn’t want to miss the fun with friends. We were fine with that and planned to leave bright and early the next morning. One night he announced he was okay missing the dance and would rather spend some quality time with Zoe before the party.

It was a mature decision. I was honestly surprised. His reasoning for not

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

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wanting to miss the middle school dance was understandable and we supported the decision. We gave him a couple days to think it over. He wanted to skip the dance.

Around 10 p.m. the night of the dance, after spending several hours with Zoe, he heard from some of his friends about how fun the dance was that night. He was a little regretful of his decision when he went to bed that night. Come the next day when a crowd of family had come to enjoy the festivities he said he realized then he had made the right call because so many people were fussing over his niece.

It was fun to watch Beckett with Zoe. After about an hour the first night of being with her, he remarked how surprised he was I had not taken any pictures yet. Not one to enjoy having his picture taken, he was willing to make an exception for Zoe. That was all the cue needed to get busy. I appreciated the reminder.

For his part, Carson is smitten in his own way over his little niece. He seems reluctant to touch her too much. I like to think it’s because he doesn’t want to be too rough. However, whenever his big brother would hold Zoe, you can bet Carson was sidling next to him waiting for his turn.

He doesn’t seem to trust himself too much with her. He only wants to hold her for a few seconds and he’s good.

Both boys seem to have a commonality on that front. When they are excited to be with Zoe, they are all in.

When they are done, especially when it comes to diaper changes or feeding or any sort of whininess, they are moving on. I can understand that.

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THE DISPATCH’S PETS OF THE MONTH

February 21, 2020

Pet’s Name: Ash Pet’s Age/Breed: 2-year-old chessie Pet’s Owners: Michael and Anne Giusti

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Pet’s Name: Louie Pet’s Age/Breed: 2-year-old French bulldog Pet’s Owner: Lynn Papa

Pet’s Name: Maxie Pet’s Age/Breed: 2-year-old standard poodle Pet’s Owner: Lisa West

Page 49

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

STEVE GREEN EDITOR

Pet’s Name: Hemi Pet’s Age/Breed: 11-year-old Jack Russell terrier Pet’s Owners: Michael & Melanie Conaway

Pet’s Name: Elmer Pet’s Age/Breed: 3-year-old springer spaniel Pet’s Owners: Rob & Carina Dowling

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

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

On the front page is last month’s winning entry, Autumn, owned by Rebecca Carbaugh.

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

Please be sure it’s a high-quality photo suitable for reproduction and to include your mailing address, the pet’s name, age and breed and the owner’s first and last name. The next series will appear in this space on March 13.

Pet’s Name: KC Pet’s Age/Breed: 2-year-old golden retriever Pet’s Owner: Kevin Honchar

Pet’s Name: Lilly Marie Pet’s Age/Breed: 1-year-old golden retriever Pet’s Owner: Bonnie Honchar

Pet’s Name: Belle Pet’s Age/Breed: 6-year-old German shepherd Pet’s Owner: Camden Eberly

Pet’s Name: Cinder & Ash Pet’s Age/Breed: Chessies, 3 and 2 years old Pet’s Owners: Michael and Anne Giusti

Berlin Planning Work Session On Potential Rental Regs

Page 50

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Berlin officials will host a work session next week to discuss potential short-term rental regulations.

A Berlin Town Council work session regarding short-term rentals is set for Monday, Feb. 24 at 6 p.m. at town hall.

“We want to have a public work session so everyone can hear the information that’s being discussed,” Mayor Gee Williams said.

At the request of the town’s planning commission, town staff have spent the past several months resear-

ching short-term rental regulations in other communities and working toward drafting an ordinance that would work in Berlin. While the Coast-al Association of Realtors has expressed concern regarding short-term rental regulations, as have some citizens, Planning Director Dave Engelhart stressed that the town needed to get something on the books.

“We are not trying to prohibit or promote this,” Engelhart said last month.

“We’re trying to have an ordinance — we don’t have any at all — and kind of catch up to the 21st century here.”

Williams said that since staff began

February 21, 2020

researching the issue, the town had received input from many residents with a broad range of opinions.

“What we’re trying to do is find a median between the ideas,” he said.

“Something that would be appropriate for our town.”

He said the town would need to define exactly what qualified as a shortterm rental, what zoning district such rentals should be permitted in and then decide on parking, licensing and inspection requirements. Officials will also need to determine what should happen when there are violations.

“My hope is by the end of the work

session we’ll come to agreement so staff can put together a proposed ordinance,” Williams said, adding that the public would have a chance to comment on any ordinance once it was introduced.

He added that by implementing some regulations on short-term rentals Berlin would be able to retain its character.

“We don’t want our bedroom community to become an extension of the coastal resorts,” Williams said. “I believe we can find a responsible middle ground…. Doing nothing, I think, is very irresponsible.”

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February 21, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 51

News In Photos

The Republican Women of Worcester County collected over 1,400 Valentine cards this month and distributed them to Veterans Homes and VA Hospitals in Maryland. Pictured, from left, are Linda Dearing of Copy Central who generously boxed and mailed the cards again this year and Vera Beck, RWWC Caring for America chair.

The Worcester County Commission for Women (WCCW) has chosen former Worcester County Commissioner Judy Boggs of Ocean Pines as its Woman of the Year. The WCCW will hold its annual Women's History Luncheon on March 25 at the Clarion Hotel in Ocean City when Boggs will be honored for her service to the county and for bringing the idea of forming the WCCW to the county in 1995.

The public is invited to attend the luncheon. Boggs, right, is pictured with WCCW Co-Chair Tamara White.

Submitted Photos

Barbara Entwistle, coordinator for Pillowcase Ministry, was recently awarded the 2020 Jefferson Award by WBOC TV news anchor Kimberly Wiggins. Family and volunteer participants enjoyed refreshments while sharing in the surprise announcement at the Clarion. Since its inception in 2011, Pillowcase Ministry has grown from sundresses made from pillowcases to shorts, market bags, backpacks, shower and feminine kits, crocheted items and sleep mats.

Ocean Pines officials on Feb. 12 presented a check on behalf of BJ’s Wholesale Club to the Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation. Pictured, from left, are Ocean Pines Association General Manager John Viola, Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation President Marie Gilmore and Ocean Pines Association President Doug Parks.

Ralph Chinn was recently presented a "Distinguished Service" Recognition Award for his many years working and chairing the address sign program in Ocean Pines from Kiwanis Club President Roy Foreman.

Page 52

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e sav e sav Sperry • Sebago • Docksides • New Balance e sav Naturalizer • Grasshoppers • Clarks Women’s e MEN’S & LADIES’ SHOES sav e SIZES ve sav M: 7-12, 13, 14, 15;MEN’S W: 8-12, 13, 14; WW: 8 1/2-13 sa WOMEN’S SIZES e sav save N: 7-10; M: 5-10, 11; W: 6-10, 11 e Located At Rte. 1 At West Virginia Ave. sav (4 Streets North Of MD Line, Ocean Side) ave e s v a s Fenwick Island, DE • 302-539-4599 e e v e sa save savOPEN DAILY 10 A.M.save sav save

February 21, 2020

on the beach

Who’s Where When 28Th/127Th ST. PiT & Pub 410-289-2020 443-664-7482 28Th ST. & CoaSTal hWy. 127Th ST. & CoaSTal hWy. Wednesdays: DJ Wax (28th St.) aTlanTiC hoTel 410-641-3589 2 norTh main ST., berlin Mondays: Earl Beardsley Tuesdays: Bob Miller on Piano

oTTo grundman Crabcake Factory: Thursdays

darin engh Crabcake Factory bayside: Friday, Feb. 21

buxy’S SalTy dog/ dry doCk 28 410-289-0973 28Th ST. & CoaSTal hWy. Friday, Feb. 21: Aaron Howell Duo Clarion hoTel 410-524-3535 10100 CoaSTal hWy. Ocean Club: Friday & Saturday, Feb. 21 & 22: Half Moon Fridays & Saturday: DJ Dusty

CrabCake FaCTory baySide 302-988-5000 rT. 54, FenWiCk iSland, de Friday, Feb. 21: Darin Engh Wednesday, Feb. 26: Chris Button Fager’S iSland 410-524-5500 60Th ST. in The bay Friday, Feb. 21: DJ Greg, DJ Hook Saturday, Feb. 22: Storm Over Seattle, DJ Groove

greene TurTle norTh 410-723-2120 11601 CoaSTal hWy. Friday, Feb. 21: DJ BK, 10 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 22: DJ Wood, 10 p.m.

dj duSTy Clarion/ocean Club: every Friday & Saturday

blake haley greene Turtle West: Tuesdays

dj bk greene Turtle north: Friday, Feb. 21

dj TuFF Seacrets Friday, Feb. 21

dj billy T harborside: Fridays & Saturdays

dj bigler greene Turtle West: Sundays

greene TurTle WeST 410-213-1500 rTe. 611, WeST oC Tuesdays: Bingo w/Blake Haley Friday, Feb. 21: The Rogue Citizens Sundays: Trivia w/DJ Bigler

harborSide 410-213-1846 South harbor road, West oC Fridays: DJ Billy T, 4 p.m.

Saturday Feb. 22: Dust N Bones, 2 p.m., DJ Billy T, 9 p.m.

aaron hoWell dry dock 28: Friday, Feb. 21 45th St. Taphouse: Wednesdays

beaTS by Wax Pickles Pub: Thursdays 28th St. Pit & Pub: Wednesdays

February 21, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 53

Who’s Where When Sundays & Thursdays: Opposite Directions Wednesday, Feb. 26: Dust N Bones, 6 p.m.

HALF MOON Clarion/Ocean Club: Friday & Saturday, Feb. 21 & 22

STORM OVER SEATTLE Fager’s Island: Saturday, Feb.22

HARPOON HANNA’S 302-539-3095 RT. 54 & THE BAY, FENWICK ISLAND, DE Friday, Feb. 21: Dave Hawkins, Full Circle Saturday, Feb. 22: Dave Sherman Thursday, Feb. 27: Kevin Poole HOOTERS 410-213-1841 12513 OCEAN GATEWAY, RTE. 50, WEST OC Saturday, Feb. 22: Blake Haley Sunday, Feb. 23: Trailer Park Romeo

FULL CIRCLE Harpoon Hanna’s: Friday, Feb. 21 Seacrets: Saturday, Feb. 22

STEAL THE SKY Seacrets: Saturday, Feb. 22

RANDY LEE ASHCRAFT & THE SALTWATER COWBOYS Smitty McGee’s: Thursdays & Fridays Johnny’s Pizza & Pub: Wednesdays

THE ROGUE CITIZENS Greene Turtle West: Friday, Feb.21

OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Harborside: Sundays & Thursdays

UNTIL SUNRISE Seacrets: Friday, Feb. 21

$ 00

1 OFF

Any 3-, 4-, 5-Litre Wine Not Valid With Other Offers Or Discounts Exp. 2-29-20 • MCD

15% OFF

Cheers!

Any Case Of Wine

Not Valid With Other Offers Or Discounts Exp. 2-29-20 • MCD

10% OFF

750 ml/1.5 L Bottle Of Wine Not Valid With Other Offers Or Discounts Exp. 2-29-20 • 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.

JOHNNY’S PIZZA & PUB 410-723-5600 RT. 54, FENWICK ISLAND, DE Wednesdays: Randy Lee Ashcraft & The Saltwater Cowboys PICKLES PUB 410-289-4891 8TH ST. & PHILADELPHIA AVE. Friday, Feb. 21: Beats By Jeremy Saturday, Feb. 22: Wilder vs. Fury Mondays: Karaoke W/ Jeremy Wednesdays: Beats By Skyler Thursdays: Beats By Wax SMITTY MCGEE’S 302-436-4716 37234 LIGHTHOUSE RD., WEST FENWICK IRELAND, DE Thursdays & Fridays: Randy Lee Ashcraft & The Saltwater Cowboys SEACRETS 410-524-4900 49TH ST. & COASTAL HWY. Friday, Feb. 21: DJ Tuff, Until Sunrise Saturday, Feb. 22: Full Circle, Steal The Sky, DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz

Page 54

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Horoscopes

February 21, 2020

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): There could be some negative reaction to your tough stance when making a recent decision. But overall, your efforts result in well-earned recognition and all that can follow from that.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): Your financial situation seems confusing, even for the fiscally savvy Bovine.

Maybe it's the conflicting advice you're getting. Check it out before things get too tangled to unknot.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): A relaxed attitude goes a long way in helping you deal with any of life's irritants that might be popping up this week. You're also a reassuring role model for others in the same situation.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): Your aspect favors creativity, which should persuade you to work on your artistic projects. If time is a problem, prioritize your commitments so that your work isn't compromised.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): Scrutinize all the job offers that interest you.

Most are honest and worth considering. But a few might not be completely forthcoming about what the job is and what the salary and benefits are.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): An unexpected snafu could delay the completion of a project you're eager to finish. Find out what's causing it, fix it, and if you need help, don't be shy about asking for it. Good luck.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): An idea that could be helpful to you comes from an unlikely source. Listen to it. Discuss it. If necessary, adjust it.

If it looks as if it might work out quite well, go ahead and use it.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Be careful about allowing someone to share a very personal secret with you.

This could cause problems down the line with others who are involved in that person's private life.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): A cooling down of a relationship could be the result of neglect, unintended or not. To save it from icing over, you need to warm it up with a large dose of hot Sagittarius passion.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): This is a good time to get involved with a number of family matters that involve money and other issues that might jeopardize the closeness between and among family members.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): Cheer up. That difficult person who appears to be deliberately stalling your project might just need to be reassured of the value she or he brings to it.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): Good news! Expect to feel re-energized now that you've gone through that stressful energy-depleting period involving a lot of changes. Now, go out there and show them what you can do.

BORN THIS WEEK: You have a warm, giving nature that inspires many to follow your example. Š 2020 King Features Synd., Inc.

February 21, 2020

Every Monday: TOPS Meeting 5:30-6:30 p.m. Atlantic General Hospital, Berlin.

Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a support group promoting weight loss and maintaining a healthy life-style. 410-641-0157.

Every Monday: Delmarva Chorus Meeting 7 p.m. Ocean Pines Community Center. Women of all ages invited to sing with the group. 410641-6876.

Second Monday Of Month: Ocean Pines Camera Club 7 p.m. Ocean Pines branch library. Monthly gettogether to share photos, tips, programs. Group goes on a photo shoot the Saturday following meeting and hosts a hands-on workshop the last Thursday of each month. Professional and amateur photographers and new members welcome. Meets second Monday of each month.

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

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

Every Wednesday: Delmarva Hand Dance Club Dance To Sounds of ’50s And ’60s Music 5:30-9 p.m. Ocean City Elks Lodge, 13708 Sinepuxent Ave. $5 donation per person to benefit veterans and local charities in the Delmarva region. Members and guests welcome. dance@delmarvahanddaning.com or http://delmarvahanddancing.com. 410-208-1151.

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

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

Every Thursday: Beach Singles 45 Plus, happy hour 4-7 p.m., Harpoon Hanna’s, 39064 Harpoon Rd., Fenwick Island, DE. 302436-9577, 410-524-0649, beachsingles.org.

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

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

Every Friday: FORGE Contemporary Youth And Family Ministry

Things To Do The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

6:30-8:30 p.m. FORGE Center, 7804 Gumboro Rd., Pittsville. Designed for kids ages 5-65, the program provides a meal, music, games, activities and a life lesson that can be of use to anyone.

Christian-based program but does not require the practice of faith to attend. 443-366-2813.

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

February 21: Fish Dinner Bowen United Methodist Church in Newark will hold from 4;30-7 p.m. Dinners are $10 each.

Beverages included for those eating in.

February 22: Pancake Breakfast Kiwanis will host in the Ocean Pines Community Center Assateague Room, 8-11 a.m. Carryout available.

February 22: Gospel Sing & Dinner Powellville United Methodist will serve BBQ or crab cake platters from 4-6 p.m. followed by music from Pastor Danny Travers in the sanctuary.

February 22: Family Fun Day American Legion Auxiliary Unit 166 will host 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Come learn about the legion family through fun, games and demonstrations featuring face painting 11 a.m.-1 p.m., prizes, arts and crafts and more.

February 22: Bingo Willards Volunteer Fire Company will hold at the Willards Lions Club with doors opening at 5 p.m. and early bird games at 5:30, 6 and 6:30 p.m. Regular bingo starts at 7 p.m. with $125 payouts per game. Food and desserts for sale.

February 22: Health Horse Seminar University of Maryland Extension, through a grant from the Maryland Horse Industry Board, is offering a Healthy Horse seminar from 9:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. at the Berlin Lions Club. This program is open to youth and adults. Speakers include Dr. Amy Burk, UMD Horse Extension Specialist, Dr. Amanda Grev, UME Pasture & Forage Specialist, and Equine Veterinarian, Dr. Jessica Yankus from Layfield Veterinary Serv-

ices. Topics include pasture management, nutrition, dental care, internal parasites, and horse emergencies. Register at https://healthyhorses.eventbrite.com February 24-27: Boating Course The Ocean City Power Squadron will present a four-night comprehensive safe boating court at the Ocean Pines Library. The nine-hour course includes a review and exam on final day. Registration on Feb. 24 will be from 6-6:30 with class starting at 6:30-9:30 each evening.

February 25: Retirees Meeting Wicomico Retried Educational Personnel’s winter meeting will be held at the Salisbury Moose Lodge. Social time from 11:30 a.m.-noon followed by lunch. The cost is $10 person, with Wicomico County School staff receiving a complimentary meal if this is their first time attending. Call 410-883-2292 to RSVP by Feb. 10.

Please bring school supplies to this meeting to replenish local latch-key tutoring programs.

February 25: Pancake Supper All Hallows Episcopal Church in Snow Hill continues a decades tradition with its annual Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, 4:30-7 p.m. Tickets for dine-in service, $8 for adults, $5/kids. All take-out orders are $8. Advance tickets only, call 410-632-1216.

February 25: Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper From 4-6 p.m. Whaleyville United Methodist Church will offer pancakes, sausage, scrapple and beverages in the church hall.

February 25: Pancake Supper Stevenson United Methodist Church will host from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Eat in or carryout. Proceeds benefit the youth. Cost $7 for adult, $5 for ages 6-12 and under 5 free.

February 26: Meditation Program A free introductory lecture on the Transcendental Meditation program will be held at 4 p.m. at the Ocean Pines Library. Learn about a natural, effortless technique of meditation that can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and increase energy and creativity. Contact Kim Bemis at kimbemis@tm.org or call or text 302-236-8001.

February 27: Luncheon, Meeting The Republican Women of Worcester County will host luncheon and general meeting at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club. Cost of the luncheon is $20/person. Doors open at 10:30 am

Page 55 with meeting beginning at 11 am. To make your reservation, go to www.gopwomenofworcester.org.

February 29: Delmarva Kids Expo Returns to the Wicomico Civic Center from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission discounted online at website and $5 at door for adults and $2 for children.

Exhibitor opportunities available by emailing delmarvakidsexpo@gmail.com

February 29: Indoor Yard Sale The MOMS group will hold from 8 a.m.-noon at the Community Church at Ocean Pines on Racetrack Road.

March 3-5: Md. Basic Boating Course The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering at the Ocean Pines Library. There is $15 fee for all three evenings. Register by calling Barry Cohen at 410935-4807, or Email CGAUX1205@Gmail.com March 5: Chorus Open House At 1 p.m., the Pine Tones Chorus will hold an “Open House” for new singers, along with beginning their weekly spring rehearsals at the Ocean Pines Community Center. Guest singers, who have vocal talent, will be welcomed with refreshments and a short video showing some of the chorus history. Both ladies and gentlemen of all singing parts – soprano, alto, tenor and bass, -- are invited.

March 5-8: OC Film Festival Tickets are available for the fourth annual event showcasing 100 films by regional and international filmmakers at venues throughout Ocean City. Tickets on sale through Eventbrite.com March 7: Quarter Auction Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company’s Ladies Auxiliary will host at the OCVFC headquarters on 14th Street. Doors open 5 p.m. with auction at 6 p.m. Tickets $5 in advance or $7 at door.

For tickets, call Kathy Kaluzienski 202-2569868 or Breanda Parker 443-235-7693.

March 12: AARP Meeting The local Ocean City AARP chapter will meet at 10 a.m. in the Ocean City Senior Center. Arrive at 9:30 a.m. for social half hour and refreshments.

St. Paul’s

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

WORSHIPING SUNDAYS At 8:30 and 10:30am

www.stpaulsberlin.org

The Dispatch Classifieds

Page 56

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)

Work With the Best Ocean City has to Offer ...

We Invite You to be a Part of our Family!

Higgins Crab House North 128th Street

KITCHEN STAFF: Coins Pub now hiring Kitchen Staff, Full & PT. Apply within 2pm Thurs-Sun. 28th St & Coastal Hwy. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– DENTAL HYGENIST: Family friendly dental office seeking Registered Dental Hygienist. Please email resume to: dentistryinthepines@gmail.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SOUTHSIDE GRILL WOC: Hiring Line Cooks, Kitchen Help, Dishwashers. YR, FT or PT. Ambitious, willing to work individuals only. Pay neg. based on performance. 9923 Stephen Decatur Hy. 410-2131572.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– GO-CART SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC NEEDED: FT/YR. Call 410-289-4902 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BARTENDER: FT,YR Exp. only Bartender. Apply within. Full Moon Saloon.12702OldBridge Rd,WOC –––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Now Hiring EXPERIENCED KITCHEN HELP Please Contact Ray at 443-497-1256

•Hostess •Bartender •Server •Bus/Runner •Kitchen •Dishwasher •Floor Manager •General Manager Benefits Package.

Competitive Pay. 401K. Submit all inquiries to

Apply in Person IN THE OF FENWICK

Peninsula Irrigation, Inc. is expanding &currently seeking exp. installation & service technicians.

Exp. pref., but will train right person.

Must be self-motivated, have drivers license & transportation.

Call 410-352-5252 SOMERSET JEWELERS,INC. NOW HIRING MATURE, RESPONSIBLE

EOE M/F/D/V

Please call 443-880-3791

Selbyville Goose Creek Fenwick Goose Creek Hiring for all positions.

For Both Locations Apply Online www.mygcjob.com

Ride the B in OC!

NOW HIRING For The Best Job in Town

FLOOR MANAGER Positions Available

Salary, Health Insurance, and Profit Sharing for the Right Candidate!

Please Email cbozick@mackys.com for Details!

54th ST OCMD

Behind Chauncey’s Surf Shop

WORCESTER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AIDE Duties include conducting water quality analysis at public swimming pools/spas in Ocean City, Maryland. Some evening and weekend work a possibility. Applicant must be a high school graduate or possess a GED. Valid driver’s license required. Pool Operator Certification preferred. Background check is required.

Please send resume and cover letter by March 13, 2020 to Bart Dorsch, 13070 St. Martin's Neck Bishopville, MD 21813, e-mail bart.dorsch@maryland.gov or fax to 410-352-3369 Resumes will also be accepted at the March 4, 2020 Job Fair at Salisbury University from Noon – 4:00 p.m. in the Maggs Gym. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or disability.

Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request by calling 410-632-1100 ext. 1221.

SECURITY/MAINTENANCE Memorial Day through Labor Day 7pm–3am, Wed–Sun For a local condo association. Applicant is required to perform security, light building maintenance, and property inspection.

Call 410-524-5781 Ext 16

Come Join Our Winning Team!

FRONT DESK SUPERVISORS We are looking for experienced front desk supervisors to manage our growing hotel portfolio.

Must be able to work all shifts including weekends and holidays. Prior hotel supervisory experience preferred.

YEAR ROUND

SALESPERSON

Assawoman Ale Shoppe Hiring for all positions.

Apply within store.

52nd Street, Bayside, OC.

410-723-5565

FAX RESUME & SALARY REQ. to: 410-723-9109 Online at www.clarionoc.com APPLY IN PERSON Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

CLARION RESORT FONTAINEBLEAU HOTEL 10100 COASTAL HWY. OCEAN CITY, MD. 21842

tom@irseafood.com

TECHNICIANS

•ALL KITCHEN POSITIONS •HOST/HOSTESS •SERVERS •BUSSERS •BARTENDER

Year Round - Full/Part Time ~NIGHT AUDITOR ~FRONT DESK ~ROOM ATTENDANT ~AM HOSTESS ~SERVER FREE EMPLOYEE MEALS AND EXCELLENT BENEFITS!

Now Hiring for All Locations:

PUT YOUR LOGO IN COLOR FOR JUST $10

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

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

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

HELP WANTED

February 21, 2020

Email resume to: jobs@carouselhotel.com or come in and complete an application at the front desk. We require satisfactory pre-employ-

ment drug testing and background check.

Carousel Resort Hotel & Condominiums 11700 Coastal Highway Ocean City, MD 21842 EOE

AUTOMOTIVE POSITIONS TOP PAY & BENEFITS We are a full tire & Service Center that has been in business for 36 years. We have a clean, completely remodeled work environment with State of the Art equipment.

We are now hiring for:

- Technicians (Earn up to $34/per hour)

- Service Advisers We offer many benefits including company matched retirement plan, health insurance reimbursement, employee discounts and more!!!!!

We have locations in Ocean Pines, Long Neck and Clarksville.

Exc. Pay & Benefits! 302-228-2353

REAL ESTATE SETTLEMENT PROCESSOR Ocean City law firm has a position for a Real Estate Settlement Processor. Experience with the Title Express Program preferred but not required. Monday through Friday 9:00 to 4:30.

Salary will be based upon qualifications.

To apply, please send resume to Williams, Moore, Shockley & Harrison, LLP 3509 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842

Come Join Our Winning Team!

The Carousel Group will be holding an onsite Job Fair Wednesday, February 26th from 12 noon to 6pm for the following positions:

Night Auditor Front Desk Housekeeping Supervisors Room Attendant Houseperson Maintenance Restaurant Supervisor Hostess/Cashier Banquet Service Staff Restaurant Server Line Cook We are looking for experienced personnel with customer service skills. Must be flexible with hours. If unable to attend the Job Fair, email resume to jobs@carouselhotel.com or stop by and complete an application at the Front Desk. We require satisfactory pre-employment drug testing and background check.

Carousel Resort Hotel & Condominiums 11700 Coastal Highway Ocean City, MD 21842 EOE

The Dispatch Classifieds

February 21, 2020

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.

NOW HIRING AWESOME PEOPLE

Holding open interviews

EVERY SAT & SUN (Starting Feb. 15th)

11am-2pm for:

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

Come by and join our 2020 family!

54th ST OCMD

NOW HIRING

Salary, Health Insurance, and Profit Sharing for the Right Candidate!

Please Email cbozick@mackys.com for Details!

54th ST OCMD 410-723-5565

Behind Chauncey’s Surf Shop

410-723-5565

WEEKLY RENTALS RENTALS

Local specialty contractor seeking individuals for our storm shutter division and window division. Experience in storm shutters, windows & doors, and garage doors is a plus, but training is available. Driver’s license and transportation required.

Please forward resume to: paola@masterjackwindows.com.

Applications available on site at 11935 Hammer Road, Bishopville, MD

FULL-TIME PERSONAL BANKER Farmers Bank of Willards has a full-time Personal Banker 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 send resume to 12831 Coastal Highway, OC, MD 21842 or call Kelly Drexel at 410-250-1512 Kelly.drexel@fbwbank.com Application cut off is 3-02-2020 “Equal Employment Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer”

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

For The Best Job in Town

Sous Chef and Line Cook Floor Manager Positions Available

Behind Chauncey’s Surf Shop

Storm Shutter & Window Installers

Page 57

YEAR ROUND OCEAN PINES 3BR/2BA unfurnished house. $1500/month + utilities. Call or text 410-390-9131.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SEASONAL RENTAL: 2BR, 1.5BA, newly renovated. Available May 10th-Sept 10th. Special Student Rate: $13,500 for season. $2000 sec. dep. 312 Sunset. Call 410-428-7333 www.sunsetterracerentals.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SHORT TERM RENTALS-Until April 15: 3BR, 2BA, TIBURON 139 St. Condo $900.mo. Fully Furnished plus Cable & TV, Wi-Fi, W/D 410-213-8090. events@oceanpromotions.info ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– YEAR ROUND TOWNHOUSE: 3BR 2.5 BA, Furn. Modern appl’s, W/D, 117th ST. Bayside on canal. $1500. per mo. No pets, call 410-848-1767. dougherty35@aol.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– YR BRAND NEW 4BR/3.5BA Villa in West Fenwick. Maintenace Free.

Community Pool. Water View. Many Amenities. $1950/month. Call Frank 443-286-7467.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– NORTH OC: Spacious 4BR, 2BA. Unfurn. Lrg. Kitch., LR, florida Rm. New Appl’s. On water. $1600 per mo. + util.’s No pets. 443-856-5693 (text only) or 718-986-7382.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– FURNISHED WINTER RENTALS Feb-April. 2BR, 1BA Bayshore Drive $700 per mo. 3BR, 2BA Jamestown Road $900 per mo. Tenant pays elec. & cable. 410-202-2632.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– WEEKLY RENTAL: 4BR, 2 1/2BA. Fully furnished. W/D, Pool, Tennis court. Quiet community. 7 miles from the beach. $2,500 per wk. Call Mike for details. 410-877-3894.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Pool Front Room $199 Family Room $235 2 BR Apartment $315.

3 BR Suite $400.

Burgundy Inn 1210 Philadelphia Ave.

410-289-8581

REAL ESTATE

FOR SALE

FOR SALE: Timeshare, Club Ocean Villas II. 2BR, 2BA Sleeps 6, Hot Tub, Balcony. Unit 211.

Week 47, Fri to Fri $500. Principals only. Call 301-375-0821.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– FSBO DIRECT OCEANFRONT Lrg. 1BR Condo. Fab. view of Ocean & Bay. Furn. Top Flr. New stainless appls.Realtors Welcome.

Firm at $255,000. 717-580-8261.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

FIREWOOD: Seasoned, split hardwood. $150/cord + delivery.

410-726-2887. Please lv. message –––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Ocean Pines Early Bird 4 Large bedrooms and great room w/ cathedral ceiling and fireplace.

Master bdrm. & bath w/jet tub & seperate shower.

Large kitchen with lots of cabinets. All-purpose room. 2 car garage and large deck.

Overlooks golf course.

SERVICES J-N-J PAINTING: Free estimates.

Residential and light commercial.

Joe 443-610-4644.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Ceja’s Landscaping & More!

$359,950 Showing by Appt.

Call 410-726-0698

RIDE THE B.

ANYWHERE IN OC

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

ROOMMATES WOC SEASONAL ROOMMATE: Prof. person seeking RM. Priv. gated. comm. w/ammenities. Priv. upstairs, BR, BA,& sitting rm. 410251-6977. $1200/mo.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– YR OR SEASONAL ROOMMATES: North OC. Looking for female roommates to share 3BR, 2BA Condo. Call Tricia 443-6104665.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Looking Everywhere?

Check Here First!

DO YOU KNOW ... 15,000 PEOPLE RECEIVE THE DISPATCH’S DAILY BUZZ EACH WEEK? SIGN UP NOW: WWW.MDCOASTDISPATCH.COM

The Dispatch

Page 58

LEGAL RATES: Legal advertising rate is $7 per column

inch. Deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon. For more information, call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966.

THIRD INSERTION J. HARRISON PHILLIPS III ESQ 115-72ND STREET OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18156 To all persons interested in the estate of IRVIN WALTER KUNZE, ESTATE NO. 18156.

N o t i c e is given that BARBARA A. ROSS, 11645 MANKLIN CREEK ROAD, BERLIN, MD 21811was on, JANUARY 29, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of IRVIN WALTER KUNZE, who died on JANUARY 16, 2020, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 29th day of JULY, 2020.

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

Legal Notices

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

FEBRUARY 07, 2020 BARBARA A. ROSS 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 2-07, 2-14, 2-21

THIRD INSERTION S. MICAH SALB ESQ. LIPPMAN, SEMSKER & SALB, LLC 7979 OLD GEORGETOWN ROAD SUITE 1100 BETHESDA, MD 20814 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18171 To all persons interested in the estate of JOHN J. MATTA, ESTATE NO. 18171.

N o t i c e is given that ELIZABETH JENNINE MATTA, 406 MAPLE FOREST DRIVE, BALTIMORE, MD 21228, was on, FEBRUARY 03, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN J. MATTA, who died on NOVEMBER 21, 2019, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 3RD day of AUGUST, 2020.

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

written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before 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 07, 2020 ELIZABETH JENNINE MATTA 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 2-07, 2-14, 2-21

SECOND INSERTION

JOEL J. TODD, ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF TODD & CORREA, LLP P.O. BOX 4060 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18005 To all persons interested in the estate of JOAN M. HARPER, ESTATE NO. 18005.

Notice is given that HARRELL HARPER JR., 12634 OLD BRIDGE ROAD, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on, FEBRUARY 10, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOAN M. HARPER, who died on MARCH 11, 2019, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of AUGUST, 2020.

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

dersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (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 14, 2020 HARRELL HARPER JR. Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 2-14, 2-21, 2-28

SECOND INSERTION CHRISTOPHER S ROBINS ESQ ROBINS & ROBINS, P.A. 128 EAST MAIN STREET PO BOX 506 SALISBURY, MD 210830506 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18180 To all persons interested in the estate of FRANK J GEPPI, ESTATE NO. 18180.

N o t i c e is given that STEVEN F. GEPPI, 4310 BECKLEYSVILLE ROAD, HAMPSTEAD, MD 21074, was on, FEBRUARY 10, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of

February 21, 2020

FRANK J GEPPI, who died on FEBRUARY 1, 2020, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of AUGUST, 2020.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before 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 14, 2020 STEVEN F. GEPPI 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 2-14, 2-21, 2-28

FIRST INSERTION DIRK W. WIDDOWSON ESQ WIDDOWSON AND DASHIELL, P.A. 312 W. MAIN STREET, SUITE A-SOUTH SALISBURY, MD 21803

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 17506 To all persons interested in the estate of HARRY COVINGTON BISHOP, JR., ESTATE NO. 17506. Notice is given that WILL ABRAHAM BISHOP, 1210 MARKET STREET, APT F1, POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851, was on, FEBRUARY 18, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the small estate of HARRY COVINGTON BISHOP, JR, who died on MAY 13, 2018 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 pulication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims to 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 claims 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 21, 2020

The Dispatch

February 21, 2020

Legal Notices

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

LEGAL RATES: Legal advertising rate is $7 per column

inch. Deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon. For more information, call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966.

WILL ABRAHAM BISHOP 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 2-21

FIRST INSERTION MICHAEL B MATHERS ESQ, WEBB, CORNBROOKS,

WILBER, VORHIS,DOUSE & LESLIE, LLP PO BOX 910 115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 218030910 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18195 To all persons interested in the estate of GEORGE INGEBRIGTSEN, ESTATE NO.

18195.

Notice is given that JOSHUA LANIER, 10503 CASH ROAD, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on, FEBRUARY 18, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GEORGE INGEBRIGTSEN, who died on DECEMBER 19, 2019, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the

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decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 18th day of AUGUST, 2020.

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

Page 59

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 21, 2020 JOSHUA LANIER 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 2-21, 2-28, 3-06

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WeSt OCeaN City-BerliN-OCeaN PiNeS aSSateague DiNer rte. 611 & Sunset ave., West Ocean City 443-664-8158 www.assateaguedinerandbar.com Inspired by a classic diner culture, this new hotspot offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu here features classic comfort foods prepared and executed with a modern coastal trust. Be sure to check out the exceptional coffee program and the Westside Bar within features delicious craft cocktails throughout the day.

BlaCKSmitH reStauraNt & Bar 104 Pitts St., Berlin • 410-973-2102 Located in the heart of America’s Coolest Small Town, Berlin, Md., Blacksmith has established itself as one the area’s most loved dining and drinking destinations for foodies and wine, spirt and craft beer enthusiasts. Chef owned and locally sourced, Blacksmith keeps the main focus on Eastern Shore tradition. Everything here is homemade and handmade. Cakes and baked goods are delivered daily from down the street. Cozy and modern, traditional and on trend; Blacksmith has risen to the ranks of the area’s finest casual eating and drinking establishments. Visit and see why folks from Baltimore, D.C., Chincoteague and locals alike think Blacksmith is worth the trip. Open daily at 11:30 a.m. for lunch, dinner and bar snacks. Closed Sunday.

BreaKfaSt Cafe Of OCeaN City 12736 Ocean gateway, West Ocean City 410-213-1804 Open 7 days a week between Sunsations & Starbucks, across from Outback, come join us at the “Breakfast Cafe” (formerly Rambler Coffee Shop) we are a family-friendly restaurant that’s been family owned for 30 years passed from mother to son in 2001. We believe that fair pricing, putting out quality food as fresh as we can make it and a nice atmosphere makes a meal. I like to think we have many “House Specialties” which include our Crab Omelet, real crab meat, cheddar cheese and mushrooms, our Sunfest Omelet, Swiss cheese, ham and mushrooms; Cafe or French Sampler, pancakes or French toast, with eggs, bacon and sausage. Homemade creamed chip-ped beef on toast and sausage gravy on biscuits with browned potato home fries, with onion, excellent cheesesteak subs and fries and more! We use Rapa Scrapple fried on the grill the way you like it for all our breakfasts, sandwiches and sides. Summer hours, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Come enjoy!

CariBBeaN jOe’S Bar & grille 12614 Ocean gateway Next to alamo Hotel 443-664-8509 Completely renovated and under new ownership, we are proudly located at the first ever motel in Ocean City, “The Alamo.” You truly will not believe what we’ve done! Thursday we have fresh 1/2-lb. burgers served on a delicious Hawaiian Roll for only $5. Wash it down with a natural light for only $1. We also have tender pulled-pork sandwiches and unique chicken salad to die for. We’re open 7 days a week when the season kicks in. Come see our Caribbean atmosphere, 7 flat-screen TVs and the coolest pool bar in Ocean City.

CraB alley golf Course rd., West Ocean City Head Of Commercial fishing Harbor 410-213-7800 • www.craballey.com Just close enough to be out of the way-located at the head of the commercial fishing harbor in West

Dining Out The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Ocean City, Crab Alley has it all! Spectacular view, casual and fun atmosphere, super service and mouth-watering food combine to make “The Alley” a true locals’ favorite. Enjoy our light fare and full menu of unbelievably fresh seafood, chicken and steaks indoors or on our upper deck. We offer appetizers, sandwiches and a children’s menu too.

Our name says it all -”crack’em and attack ‘em”.

Big Fat Crabs both by the dozen and all you can enjoy specials. Check out our website for our fantastic happy hour food and drink specials or find us on Facebook. Having a special affair? We can handle your group, large party or special occasion.

Make Crab Alley your first stop!

DumSer’S DairylaND West Ocean City, Boardwalk locations, 501 S. Philadelphia ave., 49th St. & 123rd St. www.dumsersdairyland.com This classic ice cream shop is a tradition for many families. Voted O.C.'s “Best Ice Cream” for the past 20 years, Dumser's is celebrating 80 years of serving the shore, and the ‘40s-style décor takes you back in time. With locations throughout Ocean City, treating your tastebuds to this signature homemade ice cream is easy. The 49th and 124th streets locations offer vast lunch and dinner menus (breakfast too at 124th) in addition to a wide variety of ice cream treats. You’ll find an impressive array of kid-favorites, along with fried chicken and seafood options, wraps, subs, sandwiches, salads and sides like sweet potato fries and mac-and-cheese wedges.

fOx’S Pizza DeN 11328 Samuel Bowen Blvd., West Ocean City 410-600-1020 • www.foxpizzamd.com Enjoy a brand new, spacious dining room. Happy hour every day from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with $5 food specials and awesome drink specials. Enjoy incredible weekly chef specials along with our extensive regular menu. Check out foxspizzamd.com for a list of our regular menu items.

full mOON SalOON 12702 Old Bridge rd., West Ocean City 443-664-5317 Locally owned and operated, this moderately priced casual restaurant/bar has freshly caught seafood, BBQ, and pork entrees, giant sandwiches as well as a variety of homemade soups. Locally we are known for our jumbo lump crab cakes, pork and beef BBQ, cream of crab soup, and 100% angus burgers as well as a variety of other sandwiches and entrees that are cooked with a local flair. Open daily at 11 a.m. for lunch and open until midnight. Sundays breakfast offered 8 a.m.-noon. Fifteen televisions and a big screen available for all sports events. greeNe turtle-WeSt rte. 611, West Ocean City • 410-213-1500 Visit Maryland’s No. 1 Sports Pub and Rest-aurant, the World-Famous Greene Turtle. Proudly serving West Ocean City since January 1999, The Greene Turtle features a beautiful 80-seat dining room, large bar area with 54 TVs with stereo sound and game room with pool tables. With an exciting menu, The

RACETRACK AUTO SALES

WE PAY CASH!

Greene Turtle is sure to please with delicious sizzling steaks, jumbo lump crab cakes, raw bar, homemade salads and more. Live entertainment, Keno, Turtle apparel, kids menu, carry-out. Something for everyone! Voted best sports bar, wings and burgers in West OC. Great happy hour and plenty of parking.

HarBOrSiDe Bar & grill South Harbor road • 410-213-1846 They take their mantra, “Where You Always Get Your Money’s Worth,” seriously here with daily food and drink specials during happy hour as you watch the boats come in from a day offshore. Delicious daily chef specials are always worth a try or stay with any of the house favorites, such as the calamari and ahi bruschetta for appetizers or any of the homemade tacos and fresh off the dock seafood selections as sandwiches or entrees. It’s the home of the original fresh-squeezed orange crush, of course.

HOOterS reStauraNt rt. 50 & Keyser Point rd., West Ocean City 410-213-1841 • www.hootersofoc.com New mouthwatering smoked wings with half the calories. Traditional wings and boneless wings with 12 sauce selections. Burgers, quesadillas, tacos, and healthy salads. Extensive seafood selections with raw bar and Alaskan crab legs. Children's menu and game room. Apparel and souvenir shop. Sports packages on a ton of TVs and live entertainment. Wingfest every Tuesday from 6 to 8 with 50 cent wings.

And of course, the world famous Hooters Girls. Large parties welcome. Call for private party planning. ligHtHOuSe SOuND St. martin’s Neck rd. • 410-352-5250 Enjoy the best views of Ocean City at the newly renovated, Lighthouse Sound. Come relax and dine overlooking the bay and the beautiful Ocean City skyline. Savor entrees such as local rockfish, tempurabattered soft shell crabs, char-grilled filet mignon and jumbo lump crabcakes. Open to the public, we serve Sunday brunch, lunch and dinner. One mile west of Ocean City, Md., just off Route 90 on St. Martin’s Neck Road. Reservations recommended. rutH’S CHriS Within the glenriddle Community 410-213-9444 • www.ruthschris.com Ruth’s Chris specializes in the finest custom-aged Midwestern beef. We broil it exactly the way you like it at 1,800 degrees to lock in the corn-fed flavor. Then we serve your steak sizzling on a heated plate so that it stays hot throughout your meal.

Many of our recipes were developed by Ruth, favorites such as shrimp Remoulade, Crabtini and Ruth’s chop salad. Located five miles west of Ocean City in the GlenRiddle Golf clubhouse. Extensive wine list. Reservations recommended. tHe SHarK ON tHe HarBOr 12924 Sunset ave., West Ocean City 410-213-0924 • ocshark.com We make real food from scratch. We believe that great food and healthful ingredients are not mutually exclusive of each other. Featuring local organic

iNlet tO 94tH Street

28tH St. Pit & PuB 28th St. & Coastal Hwy. 410-289-2020 • www.pitandpub.com Ocean City’s home of Pulled Pork and the finest barbecue, the legendary 28th Street Pit & Pub is known for serving up delicious smokehouse specialties.

Grab a brew and enjoy the live sports action on one of the big screen TVs. Happy Hour daily, 3-6 p.m.

Family friendly atmosphere. Weekend entertainment.

32 Palm 32nd St. Oceanside in the Hilton 410-289-2525 • www.32palm.com Executive Chef Rick Goodwin has introduced an exciting new menu. A favorite among many is the Bermuda Triangle, featuring cinnamon seared scallops finished with an ancho mango coulis along with house broiled crabcake with a sweet chili remoulade and finally, applewood smoked bacon wrapped around jumbo shrimp, grilled to perfection with jalapeno barbecue sauce. Other wonderfully delicious dishes cover the land and sea as well and each have a special touch that makes this restaurant unique among its peers. Children’s menu available. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

45tH Street taPHOuSe 45th St. & the Bay • 443-664-2201 At the newly remodeled 45th Street Taphouse, the best views of bayside Ocean City, MD are the backdrop where craft beer meets Maryland cuisine. This is vacation done right, all year long.

Wash down a Crabby Pretzel or homemade crabcakes with one of our 35+ craft beers on tap, all made right here in the USA. Not feeling crabby?

Pair your craft brew with our award-winning wings or even our brand new breakfast menu. Anyway it’s served, come get tapped with us.

BONfire 71st St. & Coastal Hwy. • 410-524-7171 www.thebonfirerestaurant.com 150 ft. Seafood & Prime Rib Buffet. A famous Ocean City Restaurant for 37 years. It’s all here.

The service, the atmosphere and the finest, freshest food available. Fresh seafood, snow crab legs, prime rib, BBQ ribs, raw oysters, raw clams, steamed shrimp, fish, homemade soups & salads. Decadent dessert selection – homemade donuts & bread pudding, soft serve ice cream with hot fudge topping and lots more! Large selection of children’s favorites – chicken tenders, hot dogs, burgers, macaroni & cheese and pizza. A la carte menu available featuring fresh cut steaks and seafood. Currently closed.

Opening in February. Plenty of free parking.

Buxy’S Salty DOg 28th St. • 410-289-0973 • www.buxys.com Destiny has a new home in Ocean City. From the ‘burgh to the beach, Buxy’s is your home away from Pittsburgh. Come see what all the locals already know and have known – Buxy’s is the place to come to meet friends, relax and be social with no attitudes.

House specialties include “The” Cheesesteak Sub, Primanti-styled sandwiches, piero-gis,egg-rolls and See Next Page

“Your Friends At The Beach”

We Buy Like-New And Used Cars, Trucks, Trailers

(410) 641-4600

February 21, 2020 produce and seafood. All natural products – clear of preservatives and antibiotics. Whole grains and whole foods are used in the preparation of our menu – which our chefs write twice daily, based on what's fresh, available and delicious. Fresh. Local.

Organic. Taste the difference. Open Daily Year Round, Monday through Saturday for Lunch & Dinner and Sundays for Brunch, Lunch & Dinner.

Reservations suggested.

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

February 21, 2020

homemade crab dip. Don’t miss our daily specials.

COINS PUB & RESTAURANT 28th St. Plaza • 410-289-3100 Great mid-town location offering a complete dinner menu, lunch and lite fare. Coins features the freshest seafood, shrimp, scallops, clams, fresh catch and lobster plus the best crab cake in Maryland, hand cut steaks cook-ed to your liking, succulent veal and chicken dishes. Also authentic pasta selections. Enjoy live entertainment and dancing in the lounge nightly. Happy hour daily 3-6 p.m. Casual dining in a relaxed atmosphere. Special kids menu. Lots of free parking.

DRY 85 OC 12 48th St. • 443-664-8989 • dry85.com Steps from the beach. Gourmet "stick to your ribs" Lowcountry cuisine. A made-from-scratch kitchen with every sauce and every dressing hand crafted.

It's that attention to detail that takes the concept of burgers, fries, ribs and wings and turns them completely on their head. Charcuterie boards. Late night bar. 120+ Whiskies. Craft beer. Artisanal craft cocktails. Seasonal outdoor seating. Named one of the Top 40 Whiskey Bars in America by Whiskey Advocate.

DRY DOCK 28 28th St. & Coastal Hwy. • 410-289-0973 The new kid on the dining scene in Ocean City features eclectic pizzas, delicious sandwiches, soups, salads and hot steamers in a modern, nautical themed atmosphere. A beautiful boat bar is featured inside and features craft cocktails and brews.

Outdoor seating is available. Carry out available and beer and wine to go. Live music is also offered in this kid-friendly establishment.

EMBERS RESTAURANT 24th St. & Coastal Hwy. 410-289-3322 • www.embers.com The Embers is stepping it up again with their Famous All-You-Can-Eat Seafood and Prime Rib Buffet. New buffet selections from our Executive Chef and Sous Chef paired expertly with all the old favorites! Massive crab legs, large shrimp, crab cakes, and over 100 additional items including our Raw Bar, Steamed Clams, various fish selections and a continuous array of delicious surprises from the kitchen daily. The Embers also offers an excellent happy hour with some of the lowest drink prices and discounts on selected items from the buffet until 6 p.m. in our bar! Open Friday-Sunday at 4 p.m. Happy hour from 3-6 p.m.

FAGER’S ISLAND RESTAURANT & BAR 201 60th St. On The Bay 410-524-5500 • www.fagers.com Fager’s Island is an award-winning popular bay-front restaurant where lunch is a forgivable habit, dinner an event and sunsets unforgettable. Lite fare lunch served from 11 a.m.-9 p.m., dinner from 5 p.m., famous raw bar, festive Sunday Jazz Brunch, 10 a.m.2 p.m. and children’s menu. Complete house wine list and award-winning proprietor’s list available upon request. Outdoor decks and bar. Nightly entertainment in-season, Friday-Saturday, off-season. Open every day, year-round. A Fun Place!

GENERAL’S KITCHEN 66th St. & Coastal Hwy. • 410-723-0477 Join us at our new bigger and better location.

Everybody likes breakfast, but for too many it comes too early in the morning. Not so at this sunshine-happy delight. Breakfast is what it’s all about, from 6:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. The menu is a breakfast lover’s dream. From juice, cereal and eggs, to corned beef hash, waffles, hot cakes,

Dining Out The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

bacon, sausage, to the best creamed chipped beef on the coast (try it on french fries). This is definitely the place. House specialties: creamed chipped beef, O.C. No. 1 breakfast, own recipes.

HIGGINS CRAB HOUSE 31st St. & Coastal Hwy. • 410-289-2581 There is no doubt about it. Higgins offers traditional Eastern Shore favorites for the entire family to enjoy.

Of course, the house special-ties include all-you-caneat crabs, crab legs, fried chicken, steamed shrimp and baby back ribs. In addition, there is a full menu offering a variety of delicious soups, appetizers and entrees. Open Friday at 2:30 p.m., Saturday & Sunday at noon. North location reopens mid-March.

JOHNNY'S PIZZA & SPORTS PUB 56th St. & Coastal Hwy. 410-723-5600 • www.johnnyspizzapub.com The Official Pizza of OC, Johnny's Pizza & Sports Pub serves families throughout Ocean City and its surrounding communities 365 days a year. Eat in, carry out or have it delivered right to your doorstep.

Our comfortable dining room features ample seating for small groups or large parties and our speedy delivery service will deliver your hot, delicious pizza right to your home, hotel or condo for your added convenience. From steaming homemade pizzas to lightly tossed salads and fiery hot wings, we have something for everyone. Live entertainment every weekend all winter and live entertainment four nights in the summer.

MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT 33rd St. in the DoubleTree Oceanfront 410-289-1201 • www.marlinmoonocmd.com Eat where the locals eat. Marlin Moon is back in town with the talented Executive Chef, Gary Beach, creating his legendary food magic. Marlin Moon combines an eclectic atmosphere of ocean views and a fresh vibe with creative seafood and steak dishes you won’t forget. Winner of the Maryland People’s Choice Award, Marlin Moon delivers the culinary combinations you’re craving and uses only locally sourced seafood, meats and vegetables. Some of the original classics, such as Mom’s Shrimp and Freddy’s Seafood Pasta, are back as well as a raw bar, small plate appetizers, fresh salads and entrees sure to satisfy any food mood. Open daily serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner from 7 a.m.-11 p.m.

RED RED WINE BAR OC 12 48th St. • 443-664-6801 • redredwinebar.com Steps from the beach. Fresh coastal cuisine with a focus on locally sourced seafood and hand tossed pizzas. Artisanal cheeseboards. 35+ Wines By the Glass. Full bar. Craft beer. Late night bar.

Luxurious colors and custom built couches. Casual atmosphere. Seasonal outdoor seating. Named Best Wine and Beverage Program in Maryland by the Restaurant Association.

PICKLES PUB 8th St., Ocean City • 410-289-4891 It’s pub food with a twist and a special emphasis put on quality and large portions. The big juicy

burgers and oven baked wedge sandwiches are locals’ favorites as are the pub wings (in a variety of styles) and tacos (choose from thai pulled pork, grilled chicken and blacked ahi avocado). There are numerous unique craft pizza options to choose from as well with the house favorite here being the blackened shrimp and arugula.

SEACRETS • On The Bay At 49th St. 410-524-4900 • www.seacrets.com We are Jamaica USA! Serving our world famous jerk chicken, along with a full menu of appetizers, soups, sandwiches, salads, entrees, desserts and a children's menu. Enjoy happy hour drink prices until 7 p.m.and live entertainment in a tropical atmosphere. Please check our website www.seacrets.com for a complete list of live bands and daily food and drink specials or call 410-524-4900. Find us and get lost!

94TH ST. NORTH-FENWICK-BETHANY

CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS 118th St. & the Beach • 410-524-1000 Reef 118 Oceanfront Restaurant located in the Carousel Hotel offers beautiful oceanfront dining in a casual atmosphere. Enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet or try one of our specialty omelets including lump crab and asparagus. Our menu offers a wide variety of Succulent Seafood along with steaks, pastas & ribs. $5.95 kids’ menu available. Stop by the Bamboo Lounge serving happy hour daily 4-6 p.m. with super drink prices and $4.95 food specials. Visit the Carousel and get served by the friendliest staff in OC! CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE Rt. 54, Selbyville, DE • 302-988-5000 Under new ownership but SAME award-winning crab cakes and bloody marys! Enjoy WATERFRONT dining. Full-service family restaurant, carry-out & sports bar. Outside seating available.

Open daily at 9 a.m. YEAR ROUND. Menu selections include crab cakes, prime rib, Philly-style cheese steaks, various seafood, kids menu plus full breakfast menu. visit us online at crabcakefactory-online.com or on our Facebook page. Casual dress, full liquor bar, no reservations.

GREENE TURTLE-NORTH 116th St. & Coastal Hwy • 410-723-2120 www.facebook.com/OriginalGreeneTurtle This is the Original Greene Turtle, an Ocean City Tradition, since 1976! A fun and friendly Sports Bar & Grille, where every seat is a great spot to watch sports with 50+ High Def. TVs up & downstairs!

Menu favorites include homemade crab cakes, kids’ menu, salads, burgers, wings and more! Join them for weekday lunch specials 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and happy hour 3-7 p.m. Popular features are game room, gift shop, carry-out, party trays, nightly drink specials, MD Lottery-Keno, Powerball and DJs with dance floor. Something for everyone!

Open 11 a.m-2 a.m., year-round.

Page 61 HARPOON HANNA’S RESTAURANT & BAR Rte. 54 & The Bay, Fenwick Island, DE www.harpoonhannasrestaurant.com 302-539-3095 No reservations required. Harpoon Hanna’s features a children’s menu & full bar. We are a casual waterfront restaurant serving lunch & dinner including fesh fish, seafood, steaks, sandwiches and allyou-can-eat Alaskan crab legs. Open year-round.

HORIZONS OCEANFRONT RESTAURANT Located Inside The Clarion Resort 101st St., Ocean City • 410-524-3535 Horizons Oceanfront Restaurant is proud to have Chef Rob Sosnovich creating beach-inspired dishes in both our oceanfront restaurants, Horizons and Breaker’s Pub. Our new all day menu, available 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m., features many of your favorites and some exciting new creations with a local flare – from Lite Bites to Big Bites and everything in between. Our deluxe Sunday breakfast buffet is open year-round and our “famous” all-you-can-eat prime rib, crab legs and seafood buffet is available most weekends throughout the year and daily in season.

The Ocean Club Nightclub features top-40 dance music every weekend and nightly this summer.

We’ve added some popular local bands to our lineup, so come join us “where the big kids play!”

Lenny’s Beach Bar & Grill: enjoy surf, sun and live entertainment 7 days a week on the deck, from Memorial day through Labor Day during our afternoon beach parties. Enjoy something to eat or drink from our extensive menu. Try our “Bucket of Fun”, or a fresh “Orange Crush”–two of our favorites!

LIGHTHOUSE SOUND RESTAURANT 12723 St. Martin’s Neck Road, Bishopville, MD • 410-641-1199 Join us for dinner tonight and enjoy the best views of Ocean City, overlooking the Assawoman Bay and the Ocean City skyline. We feature our signature crab cakes, sizzling steaks and fresh fish entrees. Join us for lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch.

Specializing in weddings and banquets. For more info visit www.lighthousesoundrestaurant.com or call 410-641-1199.

NANTUCKETS Rte. 1, Fenwick Island • 302-539-2607 Celebrating our 30th season serving the beach great food and spirits. David and Janet Twining will wow you with the finest foods and drinks in the area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what one of the coast’s finest dining establishments has in store for guests. Everything here is a house specialty. There’s the memorable steaks, fresh seafood, famous quahog chowder and the chef’s daily specials, just to name a few.

SMITTY MCGEE’S Rte. 54-West Fenwick Ireland 302-436-4716 • www.smittymcgees.com Smitty McGee’s is the place to be for fun. Best wings on the beach for 28 years and counting.

Enjoy great food and drink specials in a casual atmosphere. Happy hour daily. Come enjoy the live entertainment Thursday and Friday. Full menu served unil 1 a.m. Banquet facilities available.

Open seven days a week. We never close!

SURF’S EDGE DELI & PIZZERIA 100 Coastal Hwy., Fenwick Island 302-537-5565 Best Salads award by Coastal Style 4 years in a row. Healthy, casual dining featuring home-made salads, fresh salads, subs, paninis, sandwiches and pizza. Open for lunch and dinner. Children’s menu, take-out and delivery available. We are currently closed. We will reopen in mid-April.

Come Join Us On Sunday

EVERY SUNDAY 8:30 a.m.: Fellowship In The He Brews Cafe

Stevenson United Methodist Church

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

9 a.m.: Blended Sunday Worship Service

9:30 a.m.: Children And Youth Sunday School

Page 62

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

The Dispatch Crossword Puzzle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 48

OCEAN CITY vanishing

February 21, 2020

WITH BUNK MANN

There were several reasons that Caroline Street was Ocean City’s primary swimming beach in the 1920s and early 1930s. The beach was narrow in those days and Caroline Street was its widest part. It was also the site of Showell’s Bathhouse where tourists could rent lockers and bathing suits for 25 cents a day.

The most important reason was that the U.S. Coast Guard was located there and in that era the Coast Guard served as the town’s unofficial lifeguards. They manned a 20-foot tall wooden tower on the Boardwalk and the rope stretched from there to a stake out in the surf. Non-swimmers would hang on the rope and walk out into the water to go “fanny-dunking.” A small lifeboat was nearby for deep-water rescues.

The lifeguard duties of the Coast Guard ended in the 1930s following the formation of the Ocean City Beach Patrol.

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

Photo courtesy of Clifford Dypsky

February 21, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

February 21, 2020