March 20

The Dispatch Priceless

Serving Greater Delmarva Since 1984

March 20, 2020

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Restaurants Trying To Stay Positive

See Pages 4, 13 • Photo by Steve Green

Community Rallies To Offer Meals

Offseason Projects Continue: While most thoughts centered on the ongoing pandemic this week, infrastructure work continued in Ocean City, including repairs to the Route 50 Bridge, above, and milling work on Photos by Chris Parypa Philadelphia Avenue.

See Page 10 • Photo by Chris Parypa

School Officials Mum On Reopening

See page 8 • File Photo

Rehabbed Seal Returns To Ocean

See Page 18 • Submitted Photo

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

SERVING DELMARVA FOR NEARLY 60 YEARS

March 20, 2020

March 20, 2020

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Area Restaurant Operators Trying To Stay Positive

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

St. Patrick’s Day weekend revelers are pictured at the 45th Street Tap House last Saturday.

Photo by Steve Green

OCEAN CITY – Many resort businesses are facing a challenging and uncertain future during the ongoing pandemic crisis, and, as usual, it will take a generous local community to keep the area’s restaurants afloat in the coming weeks.

After seeing large crowds out and about celebrating last weekend, Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan on Monday announced all restaurants and bars and most other places where people gather in large groups must close to stem the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. For many, the governor’s order was anticipated and not necessarily shocking, and most agree it was the proper thing to do to help protect the safety of

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March 20, 2020

guests and staffs and begin reining in spread of the virus.

Nonetheless, the almost immediate closure – the night before St. Patrick’s Day – is causing challenges for many business owners to keep the cash flow coming in, continuing day-to-day operations to some degree and, perhaps most importantly, keeping employees working and earning some wages. To that end, the local business community, as it is known to do, began immediately coming up with creative methods to keep the doors open on a limited basis and continue to raise some revenue until the crisis ends, from carryout and delivery specials to gift card sales with incentives and other means.

Organizations, such as the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association (OCHMRA) and the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, along with other local government and support agencies, almost immediately began trying to align its members with available resources such as low-interest small business relief loans and bulk unemployment insurance application processes, for example.

OCHMRA Executive Director Susan Jones said the situation was changing almost hourly, and her association and other support agencies were keeping abreast of the federal, state and local resources available and reaching out to members to put them in touch with those very resources. Jones said the uncertainty of the situation and just how long it would last was causing angst for many.

“It’s certainly a very fluid situation and things change by the minute,” she said. “What has most anxious, including me, is the longevity of the closure, and the inability to foresee an end to this.”

Indeed, it is uncertain when the crisis will end, or at least abate, but local businesses are rallying to stay afloat, keep people working and meet the needs of residents and visitors. It will likely take those residents and even some visitors doing their part during the crisis. Ocean City has a long history of rallying during crises and this one will likely be no different.

Up at the original Greene Turtle, owner Steve Pappas said his establishment will continue to offer carryout and curbside pickup for those who don’t want to come inside.

“We’ll just try to cut spending and raise some money and keep things going the best we can,” he said. “We’ll just try to keep the cash flowing a little and keep people working the best we can. That’s all we can do right now.”

At Buxy’s Salty Dog and Dry Dock 28, similar stop-gap measures are in place with daily carryout specials. Owner Doug Buxbaum said the intent is to continue to provide a service for the community while keeping employees working and earning tips and wages.

“We’re going to take it week to week, day to day really,” he said. “We have a lot of carryout options available, and SEE PAGE 6

March 20, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 5

… OC Restaurants Adjusting To ‘Uncharted Waters’

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FROM PAGE 4 we’re going to continue to serve the community in any way we can.”

Buxbaum said the concern was naturally for his business and his employees, but also for those in need in the community who may have been laid off or don’t have a lot of resources.

He agreed the local community has always looked out for its own and would continue to shine in the current crisis.

“There are people right in our neighborhood in need of help and we’re going to reach out to them and help in any way we can,” he said. “The great thing about this community is that everybody is concerned about each other. We’ve seen it time and time again. We’re just going to do the best we can and try to keep things going.”

Pickle’s Pub and new Sello’s Italian Oven and Bar owner Justin Acita agreed

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

it would take the community’s support to keep many of the small businesses up and running until the crisis is averted.

“A few weeks closed has a substantial impact on owners and employees,” he said. “There are so many businesses in this town that are owned and operated by so many amazing families that have put their heart and soul into making their dreams a reality.

We are strong as a community and will help each other through this together.”

Acita encouraged local residents to support businesses by getting carryout and buying gift cards, for example, so they will still be in place when the situation eases and restaurants, bars and other businesses reopen.

“When you can venture back out, be sure to support local businesses because we’ll all need help to get back on our feet,” he said.

Crab Cake Factory owner Johnny Brooks said his company was trying to stay out in front of the crisis the best way it could under the circumstances.

“I am trying to be very proactive and positive as possible,” he said. “We immediately started carryout and delivery seven days a week at the original location and will open our poolside location for carryout and delivery on Friday and Saturday.”

Brooks said the resort has weathered hurricanes and severe storms in the past and would get through this current crisis, which he characterized as unprecedented.

“I am trying to keep employees and give my core people as much as I can,” he said. “We are adjusting on virtually an hourly basis. These are uncharted waters in my 28 years in Ocean City.

Hopefully, this too shall pass.”

March 20, 2020

Zev Sibony, whose company owns the 45th Street Taphouse among other businesses, agreed the closures mandated this week were creating hardships and challenges.

“Basically, everything is touch and go,” he said. “We almost immediately began coming up with ways to best offer carryout and delivery options. My goal in all of this is to keep my employees and allow them to be whole. I have a lot of people that rely on this business for their livelihood.”

Sibony said he and his staff are examining creative twists on carryout business during the closure including what he characterized as an old-style car-hop service. He said with technology such as hand-held point-of-sale systems available, a new twist on an old concept could work. Whatever incarnation of the carryout process is implemented, it’s only likely a stop-gap measure, however.

“It’s not going to be the end all, be all, but it will keep people working,” he said. “I’ve always surrounded myself with great people and I want to and need to keep them. This will help. The frustrating thing is it’s 60 degrees today and it’s supposed to be 80 degrees this weekend. This is the time when we should get rolling.”

While there are many resources being made available to help small businesses through the crisis, not all will make their way to local restaurants and bars affected by the crisis and some will come with hefty paybacks.

“A lot of the relief programs that are being offered are essentially loans,” said Sibony, who pointed to federal bailouts of the banking industry and the auto industry in years past, for example. “A lot of our small businesses aren’t looking for a loan at this point. I don’t think anybody is looking for a handout, but now seems like the right time for restaurants and the service industry to get what others have gotten in the past.”

In the days before Monday’s order closing dine-in areas for restaurants and bars, many resort-area restaurants enjoyed a solid weekend despite the St. Patrick’s parade being canceled, which afforded them a little cushion to help sustain them during the pending closure that would come two days later.

Brooks said the strong weekend will help lessen the blow to some degree as the crisis continues and the closures wear on.

“Thankfully, we had a good St. Pat’s weekend or, honestly, I’m not sure I’d stay open, but our customers and employees rely on us,” he said. “We plan to stay the course.”

Anecdotally, most resort businesses at least attempted to adhere to the 250person limit urged under state and federal guidelines over the weekend with strict “five out, five in” policies and under creative measures. While many enjoyed a strong weekend fueled by good weather and large crowds that came despite the cancellation of the parade, others chose not to open as planned under the guidelines.

March 20, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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Will Schools Be Closed Longer?

March 20, 2020

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

NEWARK – Local education officials said there was nothing new to report Tuesday as far as the two-week school closure currently underway.

Steve Price, chief safety officer for Worcester County Public Schools, said Tuesday that while there were conference calls scheduled later this week, there was not yet any new information as far as school operations. As of now, the statewide school closure announced

by Gov. Larry Hogan to slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) is set to run through March 27.

“Right now there’s no new update on the school closures,” Price said.

He said that Superintendent Lou Taylor was in constant communication with superintendents across the state as well as State Superintendent Karen Salmon. He said the school system was also working closely with the Worcester County Health Department through the evolving situation.

“It’s changing almost hourly,” he said. “This is uncharted water for all of us. The key is to communicate and do the best we can.”

Carrie Sterrs, the school system’s coordinator of public relations and special programs, said she was receiving questions on how the two-week closure would impact the school calendar.

“At this point we can’t give any detail,” she said. “The situation’s changing day to day and hour to hour. We’re just asking the community and the school system family to be patient with us. As soon as we’re able to make a decision we’ll communicate that.”

Following last week’s announcement of the mandated school closure, students were provided with educational activities that can be completed at home to support learning. A school closing meal plan is also in place — with the support of many local organizations — to provide bagged lunches to children in need throughout Worcester County.

The SAT Day scheduled for March 25 will be rescheduled at the discretion of The College Board. Pre-kindergarten and kindergarten registration has been moved to mid-April.

At a press conference on Monday, Salmon admitted it was likely schools would be closed longer than March 27.

“We are actively looking at the modeling that shows where this virus is going and so we will be making some decisions about that," Salmon said at a press conference Monday. “The reason I closed schools for two weeks is to assess the situation.”

Maryland State Education Association President Cheryl Bost told The Baltimore Sun Monday, “Closing schools for the rest of the year should be on the table. The most important thing right now is to follow the guidance of public health officials to limit and ultimately stop the spread of this virus.”

Approved Bill Allows Restaurants To Carry EpiPens

March 20, 2020

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

ANNAPOLIS – A bill allowing certain food-service operations to administer auto-injectable epinephrine, or EpiPens, in an emergency breezed through the General Assembly this week as the abbreviated session expired.

After a tragedy last October that claimed the life of a popular local man and business owner, some questioned if the outcome could have been different if restaurants and other foodservice operations were allowed to obtain, store and utilize EpiPens and had certain staff trained and available to utilize them in the case of an emergency. Maryland is currently one of just 14 states that does not allow most food-service operations to obtain, store and utilize EpiPens.

Urged by resort officials, State Senator Mary Beth Carozza introduced Senate Bill 477, which would “authorize food service facilities to store and make available for administration auto-injectable epinephrine for a certain purpose under the program, authorize participating food service facilities, except under certain circumstances, to obtain a certain prescription for and supply of auto-injectable epinephrine, and require par-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

ticipating food service facilities to store a supply of auto-injectable epinephrine in a certain manner.”

Over in the House, Delegate Wayne Hartman (R-38C), along with other state delegates, introduced sister legislation House Bill 1462. Both bills passed unanimously in their respective chambers and crossed over where they were returned passed by both the Senate and the House.

The full Senate passed the legislation with a 47-0 vote on Monday and the full House followed suit with a 1300 vote on Wednesday as the General Assembly session abbreviated by concerns over the ongoing coronavirus pandemic neared its close. The legislation is now headed to Gov. Larry Hogan’s desk for signing and will become effective on Oct. 1.

The bill requires eligible food service institutions to obtain a certificate allowing them to obtain, store and administer auto-injectable epinephrine in an emergency situation. The certificate holder would designate certain eligible agents certified in administering the EpiPens. For example, the agents would have to be at least 18 years of age and would have to successfully complete an educational training program.

Under the legislation, the participating facilities will designate the em-

ployees who are certificate holders who will be responsible for the storage, maintenance and control of the supply or auto-injectable epinephrine.

A participating facility would not be able to obtain or store auto-injectable epinephrine unless it has at least two employees or designated affiliated individuals who are certificate holders.

Participation in the EpiPen program would be strictly voluntary. In addition, provisions in the bill would provide immunity from liability under the state’s Good Samaritan laws.

Page 9

In late October, local resident and pillar of the community Chris Trimper suffered an extreme allergic reaction during a reception at a local food service facility and did not survive.

In the wake of the tragedy, local elected officials and resort business leaders called on their delegation in Annapolis to introduce legislation that would allow certain food service operations under certain specified conditions to store and administer epinephrine in the event of an emergency.

Community Rallies For Meal Pickups While Schools Closed

Page 10

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Local businesses, organizations and churches are spearheading efforts to ensure no child goes hungry while schools are closed amid the coronavirus pandemic.

When Governor Larry Hogan announced last week that all Maryland public schools would close from March 16 to March 27 to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), members of the community began mobilizing support to ensure students that typically benefit from school meal programs continued to receive food.

Within hours of Hogan’s press conference, for example, Baked Dessert Cafe owner Robin Tomaselli and her staff launched an initiative to provide free food to students in need during

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

the two-week closure.

“Many people don’t know that some students rely on school programs for breakfast, lunch and dinner …,” she said. “Our knee-jerk reaction was to do something to help.”

That effort, however, quickly grew.

And by the next morning, Tomaselli said she was inundated with offers of help and messages from those wishing to donate nonperishable items.

“The response has been completely overwhelming …,” she said. “Our community has been generous and kind.”

Now, the café is working with several community partners – including SonRise Church, the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, Pittsville Volunteer Fire Department, The Iron Horse, Boxcar 40, Willards Lions Club and Uncle Willies – to collect and distribute nonperishable items to stu-

dents in need.

“We are trying to make as big of an impact as possible,” Tomaselli said, “and we know we can’t do this alone.”

Donations will be collected at select locations Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Lunch will be distributed at select locations Tuesday through Friday from 1-2 p.m.

For more information, or for a complete list of drop-off and distribution locations, visit the “Baked Dessert Cafe” Facebook page or call Robin Tomaselli at 301-785-6161. “The situation is evolving by the minute,” she said. “We’ll continue to keep everyone updated.”

Buckingham Presbyterian Church’s blessing box – stocked with nonperishable foods and toiletries – will also be open 24 hours near the entrance of the church parking lot. Donations to the blessing box are also encouraged.

March 20, 2020

And at Coastal Community Church in Berlin, leaders are partnering with Showell Elementary School, Ocean City Elementary School and Designing Windows to deliver food to students.

Bryan Pugner, lead pastor at Coastal Community Church, said both schools have backpack programs that supply food to at-risk children on a weekly basis. Each Friday, those students are sent home with food to eat throughout the weekend.

“We are now looking to extend the backpack program during the two weeks students will be out of school,” he said.

To provide meals each day, officials are collecting nonperishable food items that are easy for young children to open and eat.

“It’s been pretty amazing,” Ocean City Elementary School counselor Linda McGean said. “We have some scary and negative things going on right now, and the community has reached out to us without us even asking.”

Officials are hoping to collect two weeks’ worth of donations by March 19. The bags will then be packed on Thursday morning and delivered by volunteers.

“For people that don’t know what to do or how to help, this is an opportunity to link arms and help the community,” Pugner said. “It’s disappointing in the world we live in that there are students in our own backyard that are hungry … That’s the heart behind where this started.”

School systems in Worcester and Wicomico counties will also provide meals to children in need during the two-week mandatory school closure.

Worcester County Public Schools will provide bagged lunches at Snow Hill Elementary School and Ebenezer United Methodist Church in Snow Hill, Pocomoke Middle School and Windy Gardens apartments in Pocomoke and Buckingham Elementary School in Berlin on March 17, 18, 20, 23, 25 and 27 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Please note that the public will not be permitted to enter the buildings, and the appropriate staff will be prepared to bring bagged lunches outside. For more information, contact Odtis Collins at 410-632-5015.

Wicomico County Public Schools will provide meals to all WCPS children from birth to age 18, and to individuals over the age of 18 who are mentally or physically disabled.

Meal pickup began March 17 and will be available each weekday though March 27.

A lunch and snack will be available for pickup from noon to 1 p.m. on weekdays at East Salisbury Elementary School, Fruitland Primary School, Pemberton Elementary School, Pinehurst Elementary School, Prince Street Elementary School and Salisbury Middle School.

For more information, visit www.wcboe.org or send inquiries to comments@wcboe.org.

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New Cell Tower Talks Heat Up

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – Talk of a new cell tower near Route 90 continues at the county level.

The Worcester County Commissioners agreed to send Verizon a letter this week asking company officials to meet to discuss options for a new tower near Route 90. The commissioners have voted down previous requests for a tower at the Ocean Pines Wastewater Treatment Plant.

“As somebody who drops a call every time I go across Route 90, I can tell you there is a need for a tower somewhere along that corridor,” Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said.

At the close of Tuesday’s meeting, Commissioner Josh Nordstrom said he wanted to reopen the discussion on a Route 90 cell tower. A motion by Commissioner Bud Church to approve a request from Verizon to install a pole at the Ocean Pines Wastewater Treatment Plant failed to get a second in February. Commissioners Chip Bertino and Jim Bunting, who represent the Ocean Pines area, have been vocal in their opposition.

“The public, the people that live in that district, do not want it,” Bunting said.

He added that the county did not

March 20, 2020

yet know what effect the new tower on Gum Point Road would have and that the county had another site — its Isle of Wight facility — that could be explored as a tower location.

“To bring this back, which we’ve already discussed in my district and Chip’s district, is wrong,” he said. “It should be dead. It should be over with and it shouldn’t be brought up anymore.”

Bertino asked Nordstrom if he wanted to reopen the discussion regarding a tower at the wastewater treatment plant specifically. Nordstrom said he did.

“We’ve had that conversation multiple times,” Bertino said. “How many times does this thing have to be pushed down? We have discussed it, we have voted on it, it’s not up to the county do decide where Verizon is going to get the best reception. That’s up to them. The county’s already made its decision multiple times. I think it’s just a waste of effort and time.

Nothing has changed.”

Church said Verizon had identified the best location for a tower — at the wastewater treatment plant.

“So what…,” Bertino said. “They’re not doing anything to find another place to put it because they think that’s the easiest way and they’ll be able to charge for rent on that tower to other providers.”

Bunting said he’d walked the wastewater treatment plant property with staff when the Ocean Pines Association had been in search of a bulkhead staging area. He said there was no free space on the property.

Bertino stressed the Ocean Pines residents, as well as their county representatives, had spoken twice against putting a tower there.

“It appears from what I’ve heard there’s a push to push this into Ocean Pines so Verizon will acquiesce to put towers in other locations in this county that would be beneficial to other districts,” Bertino said. “If that’s the case I don’t think that’s fair to Ocean Pines.”

Mitrecic suggested inviting Verizon to discuss the feasibility of a tower at the Isle of Wight facility or elsewhere along Route 90. Nordstrom said he would support that. Bertino agreed that he would too but stressed the site in the Pines should be off the table.

“I don’t think it’s incumbent upon the county to solve their problem since we’ve already said no to this particular location,” he said.

The commissioners agreed to send the company a letter asking for a discussion. In an interview after the meeting, Nordstrom said he brought the issue up because he wanted Worcester County to be a top priority for Verizon.

“There are lots of areas in this county that have poor cellphone coverage or no cellphone coverage,” he said. “This needs to be a total county approach. Every inch of Worcester County should have strong signal.”

Salisbury, Berlin Restaurants Adjust To New Normal March 20, 2020

BY BETHANY HOOPER & CHARLENE SHARPE STAFF WRITERS

SALISBURY – Several restaurants in Salisbury and Berlin continue to operate this week with perseverance and a little ingenuity.

On Monday, Governor Larry Hogan ordered the closure of all Maryland bars, restaurants, gyms and movie theaters and prohibited gatherings of more than 50 people in an effort to slow the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

For the most part, however, many local restaurants will continue to operate by offering carryout, drive-thru and delivery services, which are still permitted under the governor’s order.

At the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce, President and CEO Bill Chambers said the organization is gathering a list of restaurants offering carryout and delivery. In a Business Roundtable event this week, he told community leaders local businesses were already feeling the economic hardship of closing dine-in services.

“The local impact is already being felt with our restaurant and hospitality partners,” he said. “The greatest fear immediately is layoffs and furloughs.”

Manager Chris Burrows of The Greene Turtle Salisbury said several employees are currently out of work.

“It’s definitely hurting us a lot,” he said. “We have 45 workers that are making no money.”

Burrows said The Greene Turtle Salisbury remains open for carryout and delivery. He noted, however, that he was frustrated by the situation.

“There could have been a lot more done to prepare us for this, and there are questions we still don’t have the answers to …,” he said. “We elected people into office that are still getting paid when we aren’t. They failed us.”

Market Street Inn and MoJo’s owner Rob Mulford, who attended this week’s Business Roundtable, told leaders Market Street Inn had received one online order as of early Tuesday afternoon. He added it was critical to use perishable foods already in their inventory.

“Restaurants and businesses, most of us operate on paper-thin margins day to day …,” he said. “In payroll costs, I’ll be in the hole $75,000 in seven days.

It’s pretty critical.”

Despite the many unknowns, Mulford said he was taking it day by day.

“Today, tomorrow and the next day it’s probably not really thinking about ordering online …,” he said. “It’s thinking about how I’m going to take care of my family first, how I’m going to get supplies, what is my plan … We’re crushed right now.”

Andrew Hanna, who owns and operates Kellyn’s Kafe in Salisbury, said he remains optimistic despite the closure of dine-in services. He noted that to-go orders for breakfast, lunch, and the cafe’s homemade doughnuts make up a vast majority of his business.

“Today I did pretty well,” he said in an

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

interview Tuesday. “I didn’t feel too much of the effects. I think that will continue as long as [Hogan] doesn’t close nonessential businesses.”

Hanna said full-time staff continue to work in the cafe and added that he will try to maintain normal business hours.

“We’ll continue to be here,” he said.

“But when I have to shut down I will.”

Hanna also recognized community members who continue to patronize local businesses.

“We are appreciative of everyone that has come out to support small businesses,” he said.

In Berlin, most restaurants are offering carryout and have even added downtown delivery service since the dine-in restrictions were announced.

There have been some closures, however.

DiFebo’s Restaurant will be closed as long as the government restrictions are in place. Fins Ale House and Raw Bar has closed permanently, according to Wells.

Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director, said that though the Fins restaurant’s connections initially planned for a temporary closure, they thought it was too difficult to keep the operation in limbo for what might be eight weeks.

Nevertheless, Wells remains positive. Referencing the Berlin Restaurant Week promotion held each winter, she said she was promoting the current situation as carryout week.

“People are going to get tired of being in the house and cooking,” she said.

Wells said she’d encouraged businesses that were offering carryout to

Page 13

develop a family size meal option so people could pick it up quickly on the go. She’s also pushing the sale of gift cards, which could be used in the future.

“So far it’s going well,” she said.

“They’re definitely receiving some phone calls.”

While she acknowledged that the town’s restaurants would still take a financial hit with the closure, she remains optimistic.

“Think positive,” she said. “We’re going to get through this.”

Wells is already planning an “Over the Rainbow” town-wide party — in homage to “The Wizard of Oz” — for a time when COVID-19 is no longer a concern.

“I always try to give people something to look forward to,” she said.

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trimper Family announces Changes in Leadership

Page 14

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A change in the management of the historic Trimper’s Rides was announced this week, but the branch of the iconic family taking over the reins has vowed continuity at the fixture on the south end of the Boardwalk for over 125 years.

Since 1890, the Trimper family has owned and operated the historic Trimper’s Rides amusement park and other businesses at the south end of the Boardwalk, collectively known as Windsor Resort Inc. At different times during the park’s rich 125-year-plus history, various branches of the Trimper family, extending out in a long family tree from founder Daniel B. Trimper and his wife Margaret, have managed the park.

On the eve of the 2020 season, a season marked with uncertainty at

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the moment due to the coronavirus pandemic, the management of Trimper’s Rides is changing again.

The Granville Trimper family, which has operated the park since 1980, announced this week in a formal statement, a different branch of the same historic tree will be running Trimper’s Rides going forward in 2020.

“For over 25 years, the Trimper family has been putting smiles on the faces of children of all ages,” the Granville Trimper family’s statement reads. “As we prepare for the 2020 season, we have undergone a change in management here at the park. The Granville Trimper family will

be stepping aside to allow a different branch of Trimpers to take Trimper’s Rides into a new decade.”

The Granville Trimper family extended thanks to the many generations that have made the iconic park such an important part of their Ocean City experience for well over a century and wished the best of luck to the new management team.

“It has been our distinct pleasure to bring happiness and joy to all who walked through our doors for over 125 years,” the family’s statement reads. “We would like to thank you all for letting us be a part of your family’s memories and we wish all the best to the new management team on their

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future.”

With change comes uncertainty and it is not yet clear what the Trimper family’s new management team has in store for the park. For generations, the family has tip-toed a fine line between maintaining the nostalgia enjoyed by generations and keeping the park new and fresh for future generations. Although the branch of the Trimper family taking over the management of the park has not made any official statement, the latest addition to the history of the park on the Trimper’s Rides website suggests the nostalgic elements will remain along with some new additions.

“A new generation of shareholders have taken over the park and are excited for its new plans for Trimper’s Rides of Ocean City’s 2020 season,” the latest section of the park’s history on the website reads. “The new management of Windsor Resort Inc. is proud to announce the addition of 11 new and exciting rides including Madagascar and Hang Ten coming to the park this spring, while still maintaining historic favorites such as our 1902 Herschel-Spillman carousel, Himalaya and Tidal Wave that have been enjoyed for generations.”

Daniel Trimper and his wife Margaret opened the park in 1893 with a pair of hotels and a handful of amusements. In 1900, after a severe storm, Daniel Trimper rebuilt the Sea Bright Hotel and modeled it after the Windsor Castle in Great Britain and the two hotels coupled with the growing amusement park became known as the Windsor Resort.

In 1912, Trimper’s purchased the massive carousel that still operates today from the Herschell-Spillman Company in New York. The massive carousel is 50 feet in diameter and was driven by a steam engine in the early days. The unique carousel features 45 animals including, of course, a variety of horses, but also includes a menagerie of other animals such as a cat, dog, frog, rooster, deer, goat, lion, tiger, ostrich, pig and dragon, for example.

Over the years, the Trimpers added numerous rides in the historic indoor portion of the park and several have historical significance, including the smaller carousel and the kiddie Ferris wheel, which date to the 1920s. Trimper’s also has one of the largest collections of antique kiddie rides manufactured by kiddie ride pioneer William F. Mangels and the park is recognized for its vintage haunted house and pirate’s cove attractions.

In the 1950s, the Trimper family began adding outdoor rides and the pace of expansion increased through the 1960s with new rides being added nearly every year. One of the most popular rides in the park, the doubleloop Tidal Wave roller coaster, was added in 1985 and has become a fixture on the downtown skyline.

March 20, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 15

Officials Plan Weekly Business Roundtable Meetings

Page 16

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

SALISBURY – Discussions on the current business climate and other local challenges highlighted an Emergency Business Roundtable meeting this week.

On Tuesday, the Greater Salisbury Committee, the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce and Salisbury-Wicomico Economic Development hosted a special Emergency Business Roundtable with government, health care, education and business development leaders to discuss the various challenges facing local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic and to develop goals and strategies for supporting the business community.

By and large, the roundtable discussion focused on actions both government entities and community members could take to minimize the economic impact on small businesses, including restaurants, cafes and retail establishments.

“This is yet another example of how this community rallies,” Greater Salisbury Committee’s Mike Dunn said. “We may not be able to solve any crises today or answer all the questions, but I can tell you that our business community today – those reaching out to me and those that I’ve been reaching out to – are incredibly grateful for this.”

Salisbury Area Chamber of Com-

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

merce President and CEO Bill Chambers said the organization had received dozens of emails and phone calls from local businesses since news broke that Governor Larry Hogan had issued an emergency order closing restaurants, bars, gyms and movie theaters to slow the spread of COVID19. He encouraged businesses to prepare for further disruptions.

“Given the long-range outlook, I think all business sectors are going to see some impacts,” he said, “and everyone needs to be prepared, to start attempting to do more business remotely online.”

Chambers said the chamber of commerce was providing guidance to all businesses on state and local government information and on possible assistance programs. He noted he was also working with both Maryland senators and Congressman Andy Harris to try and push through federal legislation that would exempt federal payroll taxes for the remainder of 2020, as well as a federal aid package to assist new unemployed workers.

“We are also going to be directing businesses to state and federal resources for business recovery services once we are past this crisis,” he said.

“And the chamber here locally will be offering business recovery services for all business sectors once we get to the end of this crisis. This is a fluid situation, and our business community is

the lifeblood of our region.”

Dave Ryan, executive director of Salisbury-Wicomico Economic Development, said his agency is exploring resources and potential federal assistance programs for local businesses experiencing economic hardship. He said the state and county would also seek assistance through the U.S. Small Business Administration.

“The state of Maryland has the necessary paperwork for Wicomico County to submit that application for assistance through the Small Business Administration already,” he said. “So we are a little bit ahead of the curve on that.”

Salisbury officials said they would continue to support small businesses.

Mayor Jake Day advocated for federal and state assistance to help the local economy.

“That is precisely where I think federal and state assistance should be going,” he said. “This is not the time for top-down distribution … This is the time to get the dollars on Main Street, to get the dollars back in our community to the extent possible.”

Community Weighs In The roundtable, provided online through livestreaming services, also gave businesses, nonprofits, municipal leaders and citizens an outlet for sharing their questions and concerns.

Joe Wright, president of Vernon Powell Shoes, said business at his Salisbury and Rehoboth locations was down 30%

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March 20, 2020

last Friday and 50% on Monday. “[We] anticipate 60-70% decreases until some of the bans are lifted,” he wrote. “We plan on staying open.”

Resident Donnie Waters questioned how community members could access assistance.

“Families are experiencing immediate need and angst,” he wrote.

Local nonprofits and companies were also quick to offer assistance to online commenters during Tuesday’s roundtable session. For example, Chesapeake Utilities’ Jared Shelton said his company would suspend disconnects for non-payment and late fees for businesses and residents until at least May 1, and several nonprofits offered their support in advocating for small businesses. MAC Inc.’s David Hanlin noted that Meals on Wheels services would continue.

Hospital Provides Update Steve Leonard, president and CEO of Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC), told community leaders this week the hospital is preparing for future COVID-19 cases.

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County Earmarks $1M For Outbreak

March 20, 2020

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – County officials agreed to put aside $1 million for potential expenses associated with the coronavirus outbreak.

After declaring a local state of emergency and proclaiming COVID-19 a “catastrophic health emergency” Monday, on Tuesday the Worcester County Commissioners agreed to designate $1 million of the county’s fund balance for costs related to the outbreak.

“This isn’t something we’re going to go out and just spend this money on nothing,” Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said.

Chief Administrative Officer Harold Higgins asked the commissioners to consider setting aside the funding to allow for expenses associated with the virus. Higgins said he was thinking about costs related to cleaning as well as overexpenditures in various departments. The school system, he pointed out, was bound to have overexpenditures, particularly since it was operating a meal program during the current two-week school closure.

Higgins said the county’s emergency operations center was also open, as a state of emergency had been declared Monday. The center will be staffed with emergency services personnel as well as health department staff.

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if possible. If they don’t need care, the recommendation is to go home … You will see some changes on campus with the use of tents for screenings.”

Leonard said PRMC has also limited visitation at the hospital, and all visitors will be screened upon entry for cold, flu-like or respiratory symptoms, and possible exposure.

“Concurrently we are still treating patients,” he said. “Many patients are still coming in for the flu, but we are going through appropriate screening protocols for COVID-19.”

The hospital has no confirmed cases of COVID-19 as of Wednesday afternoon. Leonard said the health care system is working with various state and local agencies to promote education and awareness.

“The vast majority of people, should they experience this, are going to be okay,” he said.

Additional Meetings Planned Day said city and county officials would continue to hold Business Roundtable meetings weekly.

“We’ll be back next Tuesday at 2 p.m.,” he said.

To view the Business Roundtable visit www.youtube.com/svnmiller. For more information, or to submit comments on ways to help local businesses, email coronarecovery@salisbury.md.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Commissioner Chip Bertino asked if the commissioners would still have the opportunity to review significant expenditures. Higgins said that when a state of emergency had been declared, the president of the board — Mitrecic — would be able to authorize some actions.

“With that said I would certainly enlist the opinions of each and every commissioner one way or the other,” Mitrecic said.

Emergency Services Director Billy Birch said the funding would be needed because even though the county would be working with state health agencies and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency the county would be expected to pay for certain needs such as masks, gowns and gloves.

Mitrecic said that because the county had declared a local state of emergency regarding COVID-19 officials hoped the federal government could provide the county with some reimbursement.

According to Kathy Whited, the county’s budget officer, the $1 million would be set aside from the unassigned fund balance, which had a balance of $15.2 million as of June 30, 2019. Whited pointed out the county also has a reserve fund — totaling $19,893,268 on June 30, 2019 — that is set aside for contingency and emergency situations.

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Rescued Seal Set Free On Assateague

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

March 20, 2020

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

ASSATEAGUE – A tiny harp seal rescued from the beach in Ocean City late last month was quietly released from Assateague this week, while two other seals rescued recently from area beaches remain on the mend.

On Sunday, Feb. 23, a juvenile female harp seal hauled out on the beach at 67th Street and appeared to be in need of attention. Each winter, migrating seals of various species and sizes pass through the mid-Atlantic region as part of their normal migratory patterns and more than a few haul-out on the beaches in and around Ocean City and Assateague. Many are simply resting or sunning themselves along their journey, while others are ill or injured.

In the case of the juvenile female harp seal that hauled out on the beach at 67th Street, Maryland Coastal Bays Program (MCBP) seal stewards responded and stayed with the juvenile harp seal until National Aquarium Marine Animal Rescue Program (MARP) staffers could evaluate the seal’s condition and form a plan of action for her rehabilitation.

National Aquarium MARP officials determined the seal was underweight and dehydrated. The decision was then

The juvenile female harp seal, recovered last month in Ocean City, is pictured on the beach at Assateague Tuesday.

Submitted Photo

made to transport the seal to the Animal Care and Rescue Center for rehabilitation. The juvenile female harp seal was named Amelia Bedelia. Each rescue season, the National Aquarium chooses a theme to name the various seals and other marine animals that come through its rehabilitation facilities.

This year’s theme is beloved children’s book characters thus the juvenile harp seal is now known as Amelia Bedelia.

Amelia Bedelia spent just over three weeks at the aquarium’s Animal Care and Rescue Center recovering

from severe dehydration. Early Tuesday morning, a small team from the aquarium traveled to Assateague State Park to successfully release Amelia Bedelia back into the ocean.

Two other seals rescued from area beaches over the last few weeks are still recovering at the Animal Care and Rescue Center.

On Feb. 27, the aquarium’s animal rescue team transported a stranded juvenile grey seal from Assateague State Park to the animal care and rescue center. That seal, later named Huckleberry

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Tougher Special Event Bill Passed

March 20, 2020

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Legislation strengthening the resort’s motorized special event zone prohibitions, including arrestable offenses, was passed by state lawmakers late Wednesday before the abbreviated General Assembly session ended.

Law enforcement will have a new hammer in the toolbox when the next motorized event requiring the implementation of a special event zone rolls around. State lawmakers late Wednesday approved legislation adding several violations under the larger umbrella of “exhibition driving” for which offenders could be arrested, fined heavily and have their vehicles impounded.

State Senator Mary Beth Carozza filed Senate Bill 878 and Delegate Wayne Hartman filed the sister legislation House Bill 1493 early in the session. Senate Bill 878 was passed by the full Senate over the weekend and crossed over to the House of Delegates where it passed Wednesday in a 132-0 vote.

Carozza said with the coronavirus pandemic, state lawmakers had plenty on their plate, but legislators pushed through to the end to get many pieces of legislation passed before the session was halted.

“During this national emergency,

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

we’ve been pushing hard to ensure the ‘must do’ bills are finished before this early adjournment with the special events exhibition driving prohibitions bill as my top local emergency public safety bill,” she said. “I am grateful that we all worked together to push it over the line. It’s a real public safety win for our local residents, visitors, business operators and law enforcement.”

After yet another troublesome unsanctioned motorized special event last September, resort officials promised everything was on the table in terms of possible solutions to some of the reckless and wanton activity. A first step was taken in January when Ocean City announced it was moving its signature Sunfest event to the first weekend in October after nearly 50 years According to the bill’s language, among the offenses under the umbrella of exhibition driving are operating a vehicle in a manner that produces abrupt acceleration of deceleration, skidding, swerving, raucous engine noise, gear grinding or wheels losing contact with the ground. For the first time in the evolution of the special event zone legislation, the potential penalties described in the bill include potential jail time. For example, violations could result in a term of imprisonment not exceeding 60 days, or a fine of $1,000 or both.

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Storm Drain Cleaning Underway

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – The second year of a storm drain cleaning project is expected to wrap up next week, according to resort officials.

Public Works Deputy Director Woody Vickers said crews will soon finish the second year of an expansive project to clean Ocean City’s drainage system.

Despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and delays related to workloads and weather, he said work would likely conclude next Tuesday or Wednesday.

“If the weather holds, we will be finished by then,” he said.

In January of last year, the town’s public works department began the difficult task of cleaning out the resort’s storm drain system for the first time in several years. Over the course of two months, crews cleaned out more than 20,000 linear feet of piping, 117 catch basins and 27 manholes in three phases.

This year, officials said crews again divided the project into three phases.

The fourth phase focused on storm drains from 120th Street to the bay – including North Heron Drive, South Heron Drive, White Heron Court, Blue Heron Court, North Her-

March 20, 2020

on Gull Court and South Heron Gull Court. The fifth phase focused on storm drains from South 1st Street to 9th Street from Baltimore Avenue to St. Louis Avenue, 10th Street from Baltimore Avenue to Philadelphia Avenue and Philadelphia Avenue to St. Louis Avenue, 11th and 12th streets from Baltimore Avenue to Philadelphia Avenue, 12th Street from Baltimore Ave to the bay, 14th Street from Philadelphia Avenue to Jacqueline Avenue, and the slot drain in the Inlet Parking Lot. The sixth and final phase of this year’s project focused on storm drains at Convention Drive from Coastal Highway to the bay, 41st Street from Coastal Highway to the bay, and 42nd Street from Coastal Highway to the bay.

“What we’ve found in the last few months is far worse than what we found last year,” Public Works Director Hal Adkins told members of the Ocean City Green Team last week. “Last year was bad enough. It was even worse this time around.”

Vickers said data from this year’s cleaning project – including the volume of sediment and debris collected from the drainage system – would be compiled in the coming weeks. He noted, however, that the public works department has already identified what will be phases seven, eight and nine in the coming fiscal year.

The last time the town completed an extensive, citywide storm drain cleaning project was in September 1985, shortly after Hurricane Gloria passed through Ocean City. Since that time, the drainage system – which includes roughly 46 miles of pipe, 2,400 catch basins and 330 outfalls – has clogged with sediment and debris, contributing to the town’s chronic flooding problems.

“Due to a lack of funding and other workload, we really didn’t focus on it over the years,” Adkins said.

To that end, the town has committed $100,000 for each year of the project.

Vickers said efforts to clear pipes and catch basins have greatly improved drainage in town. He added it has also allowed public works crews to identify deteriorating infrastructure.

“It’s well worth the $100,000 we’ve been spending over the last few years …,” he said. “It’s doing so many things. It’s not only removing sediment and debris that takes away pollutants from the bay, but it also allows us to inventory structural issues.”

Adkins told Green Team members last week the public works department will explore a yearly maintenance program after the third year of the drain cleaning project is complete.

“At the end of that effort, and having spent over $300,000, we plan to pause and reassess what we’ve got left to do to see if we can create an annual maintenance program, potentially of a smaller dollar value,” he said.

March 20, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 21

New Butt Hutt Receptacles Added At OC Street Ends

Page 22

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

March 20, 2020

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – The resort has expanded its cigarette disposal program with the addition of more than 20 new receptacles north of the Boardwalk.

Last week, Public Works Director Hal Adkins updated the Ocean City Coastal Resources Legislative Committee (Green Team) on efforts to expand the resort’s cigarette butt disposal program.

While the initial hope was to expand the program to each street end from the end of the Boardwalk to the Delaware line, committee members agreed in January to select roughly 20 locations for the first phase of an expansion.

Last week, Adkins announced more than 20 new cigarette butt receptacles – or butt huts – had been installed at the street ends at select locations in town.

“At one point, the discussion was do we install cigarette butt receptacles at the head of every street at the beach from 28th Street to the Delaware line,” he said. “That evolved into a smaller

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quantity.”

Last summer, resort officials implemented a two-pronged initiative to install butt huts on the side streets to the west of the Boardwalk in Ocean City.

In doing so, officials had hoped the containers would encourage smokers to properly dispose of cigarette butts after learning the town’s Boardwalk

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smoking ban had led to a larger issue of cigarette butt litter accumulating at the street ends adjacent to the Boardwalk.

At the same time the town installed its butt huts near the Boardwalk, a partnership with the Maryland Coastal Bays Program (MCBP) provided similar butt huts to private businesses throughout the resort.

Cigarette butts collected from both efforts were then shipped off to be recycled. To date, nearly 400,000 cigarette butts have been recycled through the two-pronged program.

By and large, officials have deemed the town-led initiative a success. And late last year, the committee agreed to expand the program to include more street ends before the start of the next summer season.

Councilman Tony DeLuca, Green Team liaison, told committee members last week the installation of butt huts at additional locations was the first step in an effort to expand the town’s program.

Adkins, however, noted the manpower needed to empty the butt huts.

“We have no problem, no issue installing them at the head of every single street from 28th Street to the Delaware line,” he said. “That’s a one-time effort.

Our issue then becomes we don’t have the manpower to dump them.”

Gail Blazer, the town’s environmental engineer, said volunteers, including those with the town’s Dune Patrol, will be responsible for monitoring and emptying the additional butt huts.

“It’s going to take some time to figure out how often they need to be cleaned, how active it is …,” she said.

“I think we selected them very strategically.”

Adkins told the committee last week the public works department will also replace some butt huts to the west of the Boardwalk with larger containers.

“Now that we completed the ones we just discussed we have gone back to our notes from last summer, and at a number of locations we are expanding the capacity of some of them down by the Boardwalk …,” he said. “There were a number of them that were overflowing.”

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Page 24

Construction Trailer Break-In OCEAN CITY – It didn’t take long for an Ocean City man, who a week earlier caught a break on a first-degree assault charge from an incident last December, to return to his old tricks last week with an alleged Boardwalk construction trailer break-in.

On Feb. 28, Walter Everett, 57, of Ocean City, was convicted of theft for a Dec. 26 incident on the Boardwalk, but the first-degree assault charge against him was not prosecuted because the victim has since died from health issues not related to the alleged attack. Less than a week later, Everett was arrested again on the Boardwalk after allegedly breaking into a construction trailer.

Around 8:15 p.m. March 5, an Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) officer patrolling near the Inlet observed a parked construction company trailer at South 1st Street and the Boardwalk with its rear doors open. There were no construction workers in the area, nor

Cops & Courts The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

was any construction work being done in the area at that time at night.

The officer approached the trailer and observed Everett inside. The officer was familiar with Everett from numerous previous encounters with the suspect.

According to police reports, Everett was inside the trailer and appeared to be rummaging through the tools and bags that were on shelves inside the vehicle.

The officer approached and ordered Everett to come out of the trailer, an

order Everett either did not hear or ignored. Because it was dark inside the trailer, and because of the potential for sharp, dangerous tools inside, the officer drew his Taser and activated it. According to police reports, the officer told Everett “walk forward out of the trailer or I’m going to tase you,” to which Everett reportedly replied, “you will have to tase me if you want me to come out.”

The officer called for backup and again ordered Everett to come out of

March 20, 2020 the trailer. According to police reports, the officer activated the Taser to the point electricity arced out of the weapon as a means to convince Everett to come out. At that point, Everett walked out of the trailer and stood on the Boardwalk, which is when backup officers arrived to assist.

According to police reports, Everett refused to cooperate and launched into an expletive-laced tirade at the OCPD officers and refused to comply with their demands. He was ultimately handcuffed and placed in a patrol vehicle for transport, but continued to resist and refuse to cooperate through that process.

A search of Everett revealed an open plastic bottle of vodka, of which about one-third had been consumed.

Everett was also found in possession of a wrench set, although it could not be immediately determined if the tools had been taken from the construction trailer.

Meanwhile, Ocean City Communications advised the officers the entire alleged trailer break-in had been captured

by City Watch surveillance cameras in the area. The surveillance video reportedly showed Everett walk behind the construction trailer and open the door wide enough for him to enter it.

A background check revealed Everett had been released from the Worcester County Jail about a week earlier after serving 63 days for an assault and theft case on the Boardwalk in December. In that case, Everett was charged with first-degree assault, theft and other charges after allegedly stomping a homeless man on the Boardwalk and taking a bottle of liquor from him.

On Feb. 28, Everett was found guilty of theft under $100 for the Dec. 26 incident and was sentenced to 63 days, or the time he spent in jail awaiting trial.

The first-degree assault charges and other counts against him for that incident were not prosecuted because the victim in the case passed away between the time the incident occurred and the trial. The victim did not die from injuries sustained in the Dec. 26 incident.

Around 7:15 p.m. on Dec. 26, an Ocean City Police Department officer met with the victim, a local homeless individual with whom the OCPD was familiar and who had recently fallen into ill health and was physically disabled.

The victim told police he was lying on the ground and there was a plastic bottle of vodka next to him, according to police reports. The victim told police while he was lying under the blanket, he was approached by another man later identified as Everett.

The victim told police he poked his head out from under the blanket and observed the man he knew only as “Walt.”

According to police reports, Everett told the victim “give me that [expletive deleted] bottle” and angrily kicked an aluminum can at the victim, striking him.

The victim reportedly told police Everett kicked him in the left side of his face three times. The OCPD officer located Everett crossing Philadelphia Avenue between 15th and 16th Streets and he was carrying the plastic bottle of vodka allegedly stolen from the victim.

According to police reports, Everett admitted taking the bottle from the victim, SEE NEXT PAGE

... Cops & Courts

March 20, 2020

but denied any physical altercation had occurred.

Chronic Bike Thief Gets 90 Days OCEAN CITY – An Ocean City man, arrested twice in the span of about a week after stealing bicycles in and around the resort area, pleaded guilty to theft last week and was sentenced to 90 days in jail.

Around 10:30 a.m. on Feb. 10, Ocean City Communications stated a bicycle had been reported stolen a few days prior and reported a bike matching its description had been seen riding 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 who was currently 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. on February 15, 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 of which was gray.

The owner told police he had put the two bicycles in the unlocked storage shed about a week earlier before leaving Ocean City after the weekend.

In addition, the owner reportedly told police there was a washing machine in the same closet with the machine unplugged and the breaker turned off.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch The officer checked the closet and found the machine was plugged in and the breaker was on, according to police reports.

Another OCPD officer reported seeking Alexis allegedly riding the blue bicycle on Baltimore Avenue the day before.

The officer knew Alexis because he was the same officer who had arrested the suspect from the prior bicycle theft case almost a week earlier.

On Saturday, another 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 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.

Last week, Alexis pleaded guilty to

theft under $1,500 and was sentenced to 90 days in jail.

Cocaine Dealer Found Guilty SNOW HILL – One of four local residents indicted on various drug distribution charges after a months-long investigation in the Berlin area was found guilty last week and sentencing was deferred until next month.

In November, the Worcester County Criminal Enforcement Team completed a three-month cocaine distribution investigation culminating with the execution of a search and seizure warrant at a residence on Flower Street in Berlin.

The search resulted in the recovery of 147 grams of cocaine, a handgun and various packaging items consistent with drug distribution.

Simultaneously, a traffic stop was conducted related to the investigation at Old Ocean City Road and Main Street in Berlin, resulting in the arrest of another suspect wanted in connec-

Page 25 tion with the investigation. All told, four local suspects were arrested in connection with the investigation and each was indicted by a Worcester County grand jury.

Among those indicted following the investigation was Dashon Drummond, 27, of Berlin, who was charged with possession and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Last week, Drummond entered an Alford plea to the charge. In an Alford plea, a defendant does not admit guilt, but acknowledges the state has enough evidence to prosecute the case. Sentencing in Drummond’s case has been set for April 17.

Also indicted by the grand jury on charges of possession and possession with intent to distribute cocaine were Charles Johnson, 31, of Berlin; Elizabeth Rosario, 25, of Berlin; and Joshua King, 24, of Snow Hill. Rosario is scheduled to appear for trial on April 14, while Johnson and King are both scheduled to appear on May 4.

Page 26

Students

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

March 20, 2020

In The News

Seaira Carven, Nathan Broussard and guidance intern Mr. Travers work together to create a bird’s nest after careful observation and planning at Showell Elementray School.

Thirteen Worcester Prep Students were inducted into the school’s International Thespian Society chapter on March 5. The International Thespian Society (ITS) is the Educational Theatre Association’s student honorary organization to recognize high school student achievement in theatre. New members of the Worcester Preparatory School International Thespian Society include, front from left, Natalie Foxwell, Waverly Choy, Summer Walker, Lexi Willey and Hannah Perdue; middle, Bryn Elliott, Will Mears, Nathan Oltman, Chipper Becker and Joseph Schwartz; and, back, Upper School Dance/Drama Director Paulette DeRosa-Matrona, Cole Lamson-Reich, Daniel Chen, Teague Quillin and Middle/Upper School Music Director Christopher Buzby.

Submitted Photos Mary Waegele’s second grade class at Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School recently worked on science experiments. To visualize how air expands, students participated in an experiment to show what would happen to a balloon on a beaker when heated. Middle school science teacher Audrey Moshfeghian and second-grade teacher’s assistant Kathleen Meisten helped the class perform the experiment in the science lab.

Hundreds of Stephen Decatur High School students and staff members pledged to "Say Something" during a week-long campaign to establish a more inclusive and friendly school environment. The campaign was inspired by the Sandy Hook Promise organization, whose mission is to prevent shootings, violence and other harmful acts. Pictured, back from left, are Henry Lynch, Samantha McManus, Delaney McIntosh, Safira Alli, Barbara Furst, William Barrett, Griffin Luzier, Dylan Arnold and Eric Cropper, and, front, Victoria Mueller, Brittyn Leonard, Kai Camilleri, Jeremy Mitchell and Earl Detter.

Black Hawk downing on the grounds of Stephen Decatur High School was one of the exciting events students and staff members experienced last month.

The NJROTC program hosted several military leaders of all ranks to discuss leadership skills and career opportunities with the armed forces. The program is run by Lieutenant Commander Robert Stewart and Staff Sergeant Joshua Au-

Berlin Intermediate School student entries from the Worcester County Media Expo have been on display in the school’s media center. Parker Brittingham is pictured by some entries.

Stephen Decatur High School senior Jacob Fuchsluger signals all is well while giving blood during the school's biannual Key Club Blood Drive on March 3. With 150 pints donated on average, Stephen Decatur High School is typically one of the largest high school donation sites on the shore.

Worcester Tech Students Create Assistive Device

March 20, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 27

Equipment Benefits Those With Disabilities

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – A collaboration between two schools has resulted in a new tool for students with disabilities.

On Friday, Worcester Technical High School senior Austin Cheynet presented Cedar Chapel Special School with a piece of equipment that will help students with disabilities try different sports.

“It allows students with disabilities to play sports like baseball, golf and hockey,” Cheynet said.

Cheynet and fellow Worcester Tech students Nathanial Bradford and Kyle Elliot created the assistive device last spring in Valerie Zienty’s pre-engineering program.

“We came last May and interviewed teachers and asked about the problems they had,” Zienty said. “Mr. Johnson said they always needed assistive devices.”

Zak Johnson, physical education teacher at Cedar Chapel, said that because of the individual needs of the students at the school, they couldn’t always take advantage of traditional physical education practices. To help change that, Cheynet and his peers created a device made of PVC pipe to which a bat can be attached. A student can then pull a handle on the other end of the pipe to make the bat swing.

“You strap the sports equipment on and then they can grab the other end and rotate it,” Cheynet said. “It has adjustable height too.”

While Zienty always has her students focus on innovations and inventions for their capstone projects, in advance of last spring’s projects she reached out to other schools to see if there were ways her students could help them. She’s thrilled that Cheynet and his peers were able to help Johnson enhance his physical education program.

“Austin’s graduating this year so I wanted him to create a legacy he could leave behind,” she said. “It makes me proud.”

Cedar Chapel 12th grader Rasaan Revels was the first student to try the device Friday. Johnson said he was just one of several students who would be able to benefit from the new equipment.

“It takes away having to hold the weight of the bat so they can concentrate on movement,” he said. “We can use it for a variety of applications.”

Cedar Chapel Special School student Rasaan Revels is pictured with a new tool designed by Worcester Tech students.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

GOD BLESS BIG MIKE CADY ...

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Virus Concerns Slow Budget Process

Page 28

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

CA N

CE

LL ED

STAFF WRITER

SNOW HILL – Despite concerns about the financial impact of coronavirus, a motion to move forward with a flat budget failed with a split vote by the Worcester County Commissioners.

As staff presented the county’s proposed $221 million budget for fiscal year 2021 on Tuesday — a budget featuring a shortfall of $11 million — Commissioner Chip Bertino was quick to voice his worries over the unknown impact of coronavirus.

His motion to have staff instead prepare a flat budget, with no increases other than the increased maintenance of effort funding due to the school system, failed with three votes in favor and four opposed.

“I think this is going to have a farreaching impact on us,” Bertino said.

“I’d much rather be prepared and be overly conservative than to work on something we might not be able to fulfill.”

As Chief Administrative Officer Harold Higgins presented the budget, which as proposed includes revenues of $209,931,786 and expenditures of $221,258,000, he acknowledged that coronavirus would have a significant impact on the county financially.

“You need to let the smoke clear and figure out what’s going to happen in the next 30 days,” he said.

Bertino said that considering the uncertainty he thought the county should plan on a flat budget and made a motion to that effect.

When Commissioner Bud Church asked what county staff thought of that proposal, Higgins said there would be benefits at the state and federal level. He added that the county could end up with a flat budget but he’d rather wait before making that determination.

“This is kind of a needs based budget,” he said.

Commissioners Josh Nordstrom and Diana Purnell said they agreed with Higgins and didn’t think the county needed to lock itself into a flat budget now.

Commissioner Ted Elder, however, disagreed.

“Your best plans are made beforehand and not afterwards in trying to correct shortfalls and things after it’s too late,” he said.

Bertino said the budget Higgins proposed included more than needs.

“There are a lot of wants in this budget and we’re still $11 million over,” he said. “This is not a bare bones budget.”

Higgins said a flat budget would mean no pay increases for county employees when the school system had already negotiated raises with its workforce.

“We usually couple that recommendation to our own staff,” he said.

Commissioner Jim Bunting pointed out that as proposed the budget included an increase in revenues and

March 20, 2020

said that could likely cover salary increases.

Higgins asked if the commissioners could make the flat budget a goal and not a mandate.

“I think it’s already a goal,” Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said.

Bertino agreed.

“We’ve asked you for the past several years to present a balanced budget…,” he said. “I’d much rather err on the side of caution and reduce the expectations of ourselves, of county government, and our taxpayers as opposed to going full ahead like nothing’s happening.

That’s what this current budget as presented does. It doesn’t even take into account what we’re facing now.”

Mitrecic said that in his 18 years of working on budgets, he’d learned to budget to needs rather than a number.

“To hem our staff into a number today isn’t a very good idea,” he said, adding that significant cuts had been made last year. “Those needs are all still there. None of those needs went away.”

Bertino’s motion for a flat budget failed, with three votes in support and four — Church, Purnell, Mitrecic and Nordstrom — in opposition.

Park’s Groundwater Tests ‘Favorable’

BY CHARLENE SHARPE

STAFF WRITER

BERLIN – Groundwater testing at Heron Park revealed no lingering effects from last year’s chemical spill, according to town officials.

Town Administrator Jeff Fleetwood said testing showed that pH and chloride levels were normal at Heron Park.

The testing was done at the request of the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) following a chemical spill that occurred last June.

“Those results came back favorable,” Fleetwood said. “The findings have been submitted to MDE.” In January, town leaders were contacted by MDE and advised to have groundwater testing performed at Heron Park. The testing was meant to determine whether chemicals lingered at the site from the June spill that occurred.

The town contracted EA Engineering to handle the work, which involved drilling shallow water wells where the spill happened as well as some perimeter wells.

Fleetwood, who did not anticipate bad test results, is pleased the spill did not have a lasting effect on the property.

“We’re back to ground zero,” he said. “A fresh new start.”

Though Heron Park was closed for months in the wake of the spill, it was reopened to the public in February.

Mayor Advises Against OC Trips

March 20, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 29

Weekend Visitor Reports Positive Test

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – The resort’s mayor is encouraging potential visitors to Ocean City to delay their plans amid the current pandemic.

“To further protect our residents, visitors and town employees we request that visitors postpone trips to Ocean City beginning immediately,” said Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan.

“This action is necessary to ensure compliance with social distancing and flatten the curve of this dangerous Coronavirus. At this point, the only weapon we have to combat this potentially fatal virus is to take drastic measures. All of us have to work together to outlast and shorten the cycle of this pandemic…. “While we look forward to the time when we can welcome you again, now is not the time to visit Ocean City. We are urging citizens to stay home, be responsible and avoid large crowds, including on our beach and Boardwalk. We will continue to monitor this changing situation and will not hesitate to take additional actions necessary to protect our community.”

It is now believed at least one individual who has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus was among the thousands of revelers that poured into resort establishments for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations last weekend.

After a whirlwind exchange of social media posts, the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) on Thursday acknowledged a woman’s claim to have tested positive for the coronavirus, or COVID-19, and to have been out among hundreds of others at various establishments in the resort last weekend are likely true. The OCPD’s statement came after a back-and-forth exchange of social media posts late Wednesday during which the individual reported she had tested positive and had been out socially in Ocean City, followed by a post from the OCPD asserting the individual’s claim was untrue, followed by an admission on Thursday it likely is true.

“The original post came from an Ocean City visitor who stated she tested positive for COVID-19,” the OCPD statement reads. “The health department is working to confirm the report. However, we believe that it is likely true. Remember, this health crisis is changing rapidly. We are working hard to protect the health and safety of our residents and visitors.”

In the statement, the OCPD regretted the initial response claiming the individual’s assertions on the social

Expanding Our Reach.

Broadening Our Commitment.

media post were patently false, instead blaming its response somewhat on semantics.

“We apologize for the misinformation that occurred last night regarding a report of COVID-19,” the statement reads. “We admit we should have more carefully worded our post. Rather than stating there was a ‘false report,’ we should have said ‘there are no confirmed cases in Worcester or Wicomico County’.”

As of Thursday morning, the number of individuals testing positive for the coronavirus, or COVID-19, virus across Maryland had reached 107.

The only officially reported case anywhere east of the Chesapeake Bay or anywhere on the Eastern Shore as of Thursday morning was still just a single case in Talbot County.

However, on Wednesday, a woman, who lives in Maryland, posted a video on social media asserting she has tested positive for COVID-19 and was among the thousands of revelers who turned out for St. Patrick’s Day festivities in the resort last weekend, mentioning specifically a couple of popular establishments in the midtown area. That video post was taken down quickly for unknown reasons, but it was circulated long enough to raise a considerable amount of angst around the resort community which had heretofore been immune from actual reported cases of the virus.

The OCPD through its own social media platforms, quickly responded, asserting the woman’s claim to have tested positive for the virus and to have been out among the weekend revelers was false.

“We have been made aware of the video from a female Salisbury resident claiming to have COVID-19 and visiting several establishments in the Ocean City area this past weekend,” the OCPD’s original response read.

“We have consulted with our emergency management partners locally and at the state level along with the health department. Her claim has been ruled false through official channels.”

The OCPD later retracted that statement, citing the hundreds of responding comments violated, or at least threatened, the individual’s Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA, rights.

It can be argued the individual who tested positive ceded her HIPAA rights when she posted her condition and where she had been in and around Ocean City on social media. The woman also shared screenshots of her official hospital diagnosis.

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What Are Mutual Funds And How Do They Work?

Page 30

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

March 20, 2020

Wealth Of Knowledge

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SPECIAL TO THE DISPATCH

BERLIN – Mutual funds are one of the most popular investment vehicles used for consumers to build wealth.

You may own them through retirement plans, such as IRA’s or employer sponsored 401ks, or you may own them individually through a brokerage account.

No matter the ownership, do you understand what a mutual fund is?

Simply stated, a mutual fund is a pool of money from you and other investors that is used to purchase securities – stocks, bonds, and other investment vehicles – that are publicly traded throughout world-wide financial markets. Mutual funds are run by a team of investment professionals who invest money based on the fund’s investment objective. The very first domestic mutual fund was created in 1924 by three securities executives from Boston. They collaborated to form the Massachusetts Investors’

Trust which is still in existence today.

Mutual funds can earn money by one of three ways: appreciation, capital gains distributions and dividends.

By appreciating, a mutual fund share increases in value when the securities owned by the fund increase in total value. When money managers sell some of these securities owned for a profit, the result is a capital gain distribution to the shareholders. If the underlying securities are owned by a COLLIN company that distributes a portion of its MACOMBER profits, the mutual fund is said to pay a dividend.

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bought, traded or sold. Upon selling funds, the value is available to the investor in their account within days. Because of this accessibility, mutual funds are thought of as liquid assets.

This liquidity feature makes them popular for the least committed investor.

An estimated 96 million individuals and 55 million households in the United States owned mutual funds over the past decade.

Four basic types of funds make up the mutual fund market. Stock, or equity funds, invest primarily in shares of U.S. stock or even a specific industry or sector. There are varying degrees of risk and return potential available among equity funds. Bond funds invest primarily in corporate, municipal or government bonds and are typically designed to protect the investors principle investment. Bond funds are further classified

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Lastly, money market funds are those which are invested within Treasury bills and CD’s generally maturing in one year or less. These funds are ultra conservative and generally earn just slightly more than the average saving account.

Mutual funds have varying objectives ranging from conservative to aggressive. Conservative funds generally assume less risk and have smaller returns while aggressive funds generally have great returns but with added risk.

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Ocean City Eyes Partnership On Pollinator Gardens

March 20, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

BY BETHANY HOOPER

STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – Resort officials are looking to partner with a local nonprofit to offer residents a pollinator plant rebate program.

Last week, members of the Ocean City Coastal Resources Legislative Committee (Green Team) discussed plans for a new rebate program.

Through a partnership with the Lower Shore Land Trust, Environmental Engineer Gail Blazer said the resort would be able to offer residents a rebate on pollinator plants purchased through the nonprofit’s native plant sale, which occurs annually each May. “One of our action items on the Green Team for the future is to have pollinator gardens …,” she said.

“Putting in a pollinator garden is like having a bayscape garden, but really geared toward a habitat for pollinators.”

Currently, Ocean City offers incentives – including rebates for beach district plants and rain gardens – to participating residents. Such programs, Blazer said, are paid for using critical

area mitigation funds, or money collected from property owners and developers who could not meet the town’s stringent landscaping criteria in the critical area.

Blazer explained it would be those same funds that are used for the pollinator plant rebate program.

“You have to pay for them upfront,” she said. “It will be a rebate program.

You have to show that they were planted in the ground … There will be a couple extra steps to get your money back, but it will be worth it for

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Page 31

people if they want it.”

Kate Patton, Lower Shore Land Trust’s executive director, said the nonprofit was eager to work with Ocean City. Officials said residents would be able to pre-order pollinator plants through the native plant sale and receive a rebate from the town of up to $50.

“We do a native plant sale as part of our Pollinator Festival, and we work with a lot of organizations to help them install pollinator gardens on their property,” Patton said. “We also put together packages, so they can do, say, 10 to 12

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plants that are either for a sunny and dry area, or a wet and shade area, or wet and dry areas. There’s a lot of things we can do.”

Patton said the rebate program would educate residents on the benefits of pollinator gardens, as well as the nonprofit’s pollinator certification program.

“It seems to me like a really good educational campaign that will put plants in the ground and raise awareness,” Patton said.

Blazer said participation in the rebate program is first come, first served.

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Page 32

Stephen Decatur High School student Nadia Bullock, with her parents Jason and Amie, had her charcoal and pencil piece on display in the Shirley Hall Memorial Youth Art Show at the Art League of Ocean City in March.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

People

By Jeanette Deskiewicz

FEATURING THOSE HELPING CAUSES IN THE RESORT AREA

Always a crowd favorite, Dogfish Head’s Taylor Smith and Justin Legenos kept the beer flowing for all the zythophiles at the Love on Tap Festival put on by Shore Craft Beer.

In Society

March 20, 2020

For their Annual First Responders Awards Program, The American Legion Synepuxent Post #166 officers John Bussard, Robert Smith and Bo Spicer presented the awards.

The American Legion Synepuxent Post #166 family chaplains Teddi Rozzano (auxiliary) and Bed Dawson (legion) led the blessing and benediction at the Annual First Responders Awards Program.

Backshore Brewing Company’s Nate Todd and Mathew Shockley sampled their “Sofa King Sexy” Chocolate Stout at the Shore Craft Beer Love on Tap Festival.

In the Art League of Ocean City Spotlight Gallery for March was Kal Dupchen, with his wife, Ruth, during the First Friday Opening Reception.

Representing Wicomico County Tourism and the Good Beer Festival were Kristen Goller and Niki Wheatley at the Shore Craft Beer Brewers, Bloggers & Beercations Roundtable Discussion.

FeBREWary came to a close at the Shore Craft Beer Love on Tap Festival with Tom Little and Mickey Diefenderfer of Crooked Hammock Brewery pouring their brews.

Particpating in the Brewers, Bloggers & Beercations Roundtable Discussion as part of Shore Craft Beer Love on Tap Weekend were Suellen Vickers (3rd Wave Brewing Co.) and Tom Knorr (Evolution Craft Brewing Co.).

During the Shore Craft Beer Love on Tap Festival Jimmy Valm and Sean Attridge got the word out about the new Thompson Island Brewing Company, which opened Fall 2019.

Community

March 20, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 33

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The Worcester County Commissioners presented a proclamation recognizing March as Women’s History Month to Commission for Women (CFW) members, honoring the contributions of these and other exemplary women to the economic, cultural and social well-being of Worcester County. Pictured, front from left, are Laura Morrison, Gwen Lehman, Chair Tamara White and Commissioners Diana Purnell and Bud Church; second row, Commissioner Jim Bunting, CFW members Vanessa Alban and Coleen Colson; and, back, Commissioners Joe Mitrecic, Chip Bertino, Ted Elder and Joshua Nordstrom.

On March 3, 2020, the Worcester County Commissioners, back, presented a proclamation recognizing March as National Social Work Month to Julie Rayne and Rhonda Bavis of the Health Department and Jamie Manning, Assistant Director of Services for the Department of Social Services (DSS) and other DSS staff members to honor social workers for striving to improve lives locally.

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Business And Real Estate News

Page 34

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Firm Announces Partners

The Dispatch Crossword Puzzle

BERLIN – PKS & Company, P.A. has announced James D. Maybury, CPA and Ashley M. Stern, CPA, CGFM®, have been admitted as partners with the firm.

Their admission is a direct result of their continued commitment to client service, business acumen and technical proficiency.

“We are proud of our new generation of partners, all of whom live up to our firm’s promise of superior client service,” said Dan O’Connell, Managing Partner of PKS. “It is exciting to see young professionals succeed and we look forward to their leadership for years to come.”

Maybury has 13 years of experience in auditing and taxation, specializing in nonprofit organizations, uniform guidance and single audits, medical practices, income tax planning for individuals and owners of small and medium sized businesses, and Institutions of Higher Education. A graduate JAMES D. of Salisbury University MAYBURY with Bachelor of Science degrees in both Personal Financial Planning and Accounting, he is licensed to practice in the State of Maryland. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Maryland Association of Certified Public Accountants. He is also active in the community serving as treasurer of the Salisbury Zoo Commission.

Stern joined the firm in 2007 and specializes in government and nonprofit auditing, uniform guidance audits, and small business and personal tax services. A graduate of Salisbury University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration, she is licensed to practice in the ASHLEY M. State of Maryland. She is a member of the ASTERN merican Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Maryland Association of Certified Public Accountants, Maryland Government Finance Officers Association and the Association of Government Accountants. She is also active in the community as the audit committee chair and treasurer of the Salisbury University Foundation, Inc., a co-founder of the SU Women’s Circle, and a volunteer for Operation We Care, Inc.

Bank Promotes Employees

ANSWERS ON PAGE 36

OCEAN CITY – Reid Tingle, President & CEO of Bank of Ocean City along with the Board of Directors, announced the recent promotion of two employees. Nancy Bradford and Amy Catlin have been promoted to the position of vice president.

March 20, 2020

Bradford joined Bank of Ocean City in September of 2008 and works in the West Ocean City branch as a consumer lending officer. During her 12 years with the bank, she has served in various roles including branch manNANCY ager. In addition to her BRADFORD work at the bank, Bradford is active in the community. She is treasurer of the Worcester County Junior Achievement Board, sits on the boards of the Ocean City Downtown Association and the Berlin/OC Rotary Foundation and is a member of the Advisory Committee for Maryland Community for Life.

Amy Catlin joined Bank of Ocean City in February of 2019 and works in the Berlin branch as the bank’s co-compliance officer and oversees the internal audit function. Catlin has 10 years of banking experience and is a Certified Community Bank AMY CATLIN Compliance Officer and a Certified Fraud Examiner. As part of the bank’s commitment to community service, Catlin has been a speaker at fraud presentations sponsored by the bank.

Catlin is a 2019 graduate of Maryland Banking School and holds a BS in Business from Salisbury University.

Gold Award Recognition OCEAN CITY – Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in the Ocean City region has been named a Gold Award winner by Cartus Broker Services for its outstanding performance during the past year.

The Gold Award is the highest of three levels of the Excellence Awards presented to principal brokers. Excellence Award recognition is based on performance results related to a wide variety of metrics including customer service, cost management, and effective analysis and marketing of homes.

“We’re pleased to recognize Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in the Ocean City, Md. region for their outstanding performance over the past year,” said Scott Becker, Cartus Global Product and Innovation Officer. “Because of their expertise and dedication, our clients, their transferring employees, and the members of our Affinity organizations received excellent customer service and outstanding results in achieving their real estate goals.”

“We’re honored to receive the Cartus Broker Network’s Gold Excellence Award,” said Richard Fleischer, president of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in the Mid-Atlantic Region.

“This recognition places us in great company, with the best real estate brokers in our industry.”

Horoscopes

March 20, 2020

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): A pesky health problem should clear up soon. Meanwhile, travel -- both for personal as well as for business reasons - is strong in the Aries aspect this week, and well into the next.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): Look for Bovines to be on the move this week, whether it's traveling for fun or for business. Other "moves" include workplace adjustments and, for some, relationship changes.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Geminis who have just gone through a hectic period involving job and/or family matters might want to take some wellearned time out to relax and restore those drained energy levels.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): A romantic situation seems to have stalled, just when the Moon Child was expecting it to go forward. Could that be a bad case of miscommunication going on. Talk it over openly and honestly.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): Showing a genuine interest in something that's important to a friend, family member or colleague could open a communication line that had been pretty much shut down for a while.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): Making a potentially life-changing decision takes as much knowledge as you can gather, plus determination and patience. Take your time working it out. Don't let anyone rush you.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): You should be back on schedule and heading in the right direction after clearing up a misunderstanding. But there could still be some setbacks. If so, correct them immediately.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): A business matter keeps you pretty busy, but try to squeeze in time to be with family as well as close friends.

You need the good vibrations you get from people who care for you.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): Investing in an attractive prospect (business or personal) with little or no information can be risky. Avoid future problems by getting all the facts before you act.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): Someone close to you might have an unexpected reaction to a decision you feel you're prepared to make. Listen to his or her point of view. It could prove to be surprisingly helpful.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): Don't give up yet. That once warm, personal relationship that seems to be cooling off fast could recover with some tender, loving care, and who better than you to provide it?

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): Career matters are strong this week. You might want to enter a training program to enhance your skills. Also, consider getting professional help in preparing a brilliant resume.

BORN THIS WEEK: You have a way of respecting the feelings of others, which is one reason people feel comfortable having you in their lives. Š 2020 King Features Synd., Inc.

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 35

Page 36

Puzzle Answers

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

M

The Adventures Of Fatherhood

By STEVE GREEN

arch 2020 will not be forgotten anytime soon in our country.

For my kids, it will be known as the year a virus cancelled our vacation plans to Universal in Florida.

Of course, there is much more to this virus, but kids think in simplistic ways.

My boys, 11 and 10, will remember this pandemic for two things – ruining our vacation before it started and causing schools to close unexpectedly for a long time.

Right or wrong, up until last Thursday, we were still planning on driving to Florida for a week-long stay. As the news intensified last week and the government announced serious changes and increased restrictions on crowds, we decided the night before we were to leave it was best to cancel the vacation. It was not a difficult call in the end.

When Pam and I made the decision, we immediately called a family huddle. We had to tell them the dangers of going away at this time. We knew they would be upset, but I was pleasantly surprised by their reactions. Prone to the dramatic, Beckett does what he normally does, questioning why God would do this to us.

He then quickly said, “I am fine with it, I don’t want anyone to die.”

For his part, Carson was clearly disappointed but smiled as soon as he learned the trip being canceled did not mean he now had to go to school.

Given what has taken place over the last week, it was the right thing to do. The day after we decided to cancel our plans the amusement park shut down indefinitely followed by the associated amenities. Further restrictions were put in place on a daily basis by the federal and state governments. It was no time to be

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traveling.

At one point this past week, Pam and I got the kids together again to let them know this is a time in their lives they will never forget. It’s an unprecedented time with far reaching ramifications. This virus has led to youth, college and professional sport seasons being postponed and likely canceled, the longest unexpected closure of school I can remember, jeopardized the livelihoods of many families and caused the biggest disruption to daily life I can remember.

While trying to explain the magnitude of the situation, we told the boys there are moments in history you will always remember. I will never forget where I was when the Challenger space shuttle exploded on Jan. 28, 1986 (sitting in a Salisbury classroom) and the second plane flew into the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001 (at my desk in my office).

Though this was not a single shocking event, I think my kids will always remember the time their parents had to tell them the vacation they had been looking forward to for months had to be canceled as a result of a virus.

Additionally, they will never forget the long period of time when everything was closed. Their favorite restaurants were shut down with no open date in sight. There were no arcades, trampoline parks or movie theaters to frequent during their days off. There were several trips to the beach, but there aren’t a lot of kids who enjoy long walks on the beach as much as their parents, no matter if footballs and soccer balls are involved.

There have been strange feelings all week about this new life forced upon us. There have been many questions we have not been able to answer from our kids. We don’t know how long this whole quarantine and social distance thing will continue. The rub for

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all of us is the uncertainty.

For the most part, we are focused on ensuring the boys’ lives are largely unchanged. Aside from the occasional request to go somewhere that we can’t, they are enjoying their time off.

We prefer to keep things simple for our kids. They don’t need to know all the layers to the current world crisis.

In Beckett’s case, he needs to know he is off for spring break this week and will be working through assignments from his school next week. Some sort of virtual learning is in his immediate future.

For our spectrum child, Carson needs to adapt to a new routine.

School is not his favorite place in the world, but he doesn’t mind the work.

He was to be missing the entire week of school for our vacation and had assignments to keep him busy this week. He also has some online tools to utilize from home. If school remains closed longer than initially expected, the challenge will be creating a daily routine that’s manageable for us as well as him. There was a lot of trial and error this week because of work.

Once the vacation was ended and the reality of no school for a couple weeks set in, Pam and I immediately focused on how to juggle work and the kids. If we weren’t going to be going away, we needed to save our vacation week for a traveling opportunity.

Therefore, we needed to work. Taking turns shortening our days worked this week. It might not next week.

We just kept telling ourselves to take it day by day. It’s likely the safest daily mantra for all moving forward.

(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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William Thomas Meadows OCEAN VIEW – William Thomas Meadows “Billy,” age 48, died on Monday, March 9, 2020 at his home.

Born in Baltimore, he was the son of Susan Spangler Baer of Ocean View, and the late Glen E. Meadows.

He is survived by his daughter, Emma Layne Meadows; sister, Michelle Badolato and her husband James, of WILLIAM THOMAS Cherry Hill, N.J.; and niece, Addison Badola- MEADOWS to. Also surviving is Nicole Meadows, mother of his daughter.

An Eagle Scout and honor student all through school, he received his bachelor’s degree from Lehigh University, attended Bucknell University, and his law degree from Weidner School of Law in Newark, Del. He practiced law for 10 years in Camden County, N.J. He played several sports in college including wrestling and rugby, but his favorite

Access Limits Set For Assateague

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

ASSATEAGUE – Assateague Island National Seashore officials have announced the national park’s visitor centers, ranger stations and campgrounds are closed until further notice In response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

However, many of the open areas of the Assateague Island National Seashore will remain accessible on a limited basis. For example, public parking areas, trails and the oversand vehicle zone (OSV) remain open, the latter for current permit holders only. Assateague Island National Park officials announced the closures in a statement.

“The decision was made in consultation with public health authorities,” the statement reads. “The health and safety of our visitors, employees and volunteers have always been our top priority and we are taking this step for their protection and help prevent the further spread of the virus.”

The AINS statement left open-ended a possible return to normalcy on the barrier island.

Obituaries

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

pastime was hunting and fishing. He later earned his captain’s license so he could run a charter boat.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin.

George Michael Fowler OCEAN CITY – George M. Fowler, 71, of Ocean City, passed away peacefully with his family at his side, on Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin.

Born Aug. 24, 1948 in Havre de Grace, he was the son of the late James Nicholas Fowler and Mary Belle Hash Fowler.

George attended the local schools in Bel Air and graduated from Bel Air High School with the class of 1966. After graduating, he attended Hartford Junior College for one year then transferred to the University of Maryland where he achieved a BS degree in Business Management and Advertising Design.

Following college, George joined

the U.S. Army National Guard in 1970 and was honorably discharged in 1976.

George was owner and operator of Today’s Catch, Inc for 14 years, a waterman, merchandiser for the American Tobacco Co., production manager for The Framing Place, Inc, purchaser, sales and delivery for Choptank River Seafood, Inc, and broker, sales and distribution for Terrapin Fish Co., LLC. He was a member of the Cambridge Elks and American Legion Post #91.

On April 19, 2004, George married the former Karen Marine and they were just one month shy of celebrating their 16th anniversary. George and Karen were soul mates and enjoyed spending every moment together. When he was not with his wife, George enjoyed hunting, fishing, especially surf fishing. He was also a certified diver.

George loved his family and when his grandsons would come to visit this would always put a huge smile on his face. He enjoyed attending their baseball games and was their biggest cheerleader.

He will be missed by all who knew him and his sense of humor which he

Page 37 had right up to his last day.

He is survived by his wife, Karen; daughter Kristen Fowler of Columbia, Md.; son Billy Abey (Angie) of Hurlock; grandsons Trey, Landon and Lane Abey; four great grandchildren; sisterin-laws Terri Rosta and Bonnie Rogers (Hobart); several nieces and nephews; and special friends.

Preceding him in death besides his parents is a brother, Nicholas Fowler.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 21, 2020 beginning 3 p.m. at Sunset Point, 63rd St., Condo 306, Ocean City, Md. A Memorial Service will be held on April 3, 2020 beginning 6 p.m. at Newcomb and Collins GEORGE Funeral Home, P.A., MICHAEL FOWLER 308 High St., Cabridge, Md. A visitation will be held an hour prior to the service. Officiating will be George’s brother-in-law, Hobart Rogers.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent in George’s name to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 417005, Boston, Mass. 002241-7005 or Sunnyside Christian Missionary Alliance Church, P.O. Box 9, Secretary, Md. 21664.

To share online condolences with the family please visit www.newcombcollins.com

Page 38

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 dhooks@mdcoastdispatch.com

PAUL HALLAM Graphic Artist phallam@mdcoastdispatch.com

BUSINESS OFFICE PAMELA GREEN Bookkeeper/Classifieds Manager classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com

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

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

Subscription rates are $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.

Natural To Worry About Unknown Future The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

March 20, 2020

HOW WE SEE IT

As a disclaimer, this is not a hard-hitting editorial criticizing a certain government’s direction or policy decision. We look forward to those critiques soon. In the meantime, this comes from this newspaper’s heart and in many ways is the exact opposite of what a newspaper editorial should represent. We don’t care. We need to work through what’s on our mind. Perhaps you do, too. Writing is how we do it in our line of work.

We are worried. We are concerned for our business community. Restaurants and bars are facing an unprecedented challenge in the days and weeks ahead. These businesses have been shuttered by the government due to the ongoing health crisis, but other operations able to be open have their own challenges. People are being ordered to stay home, be cautious and stay away from other people. While it’s right to curb the spread, social isolation will carry disastrous fiscal consequences for small businesses, governments, employees and families.

In our case, this newspaper will face the biggest financial challenge in its 36-year history over the coming weeks as dependable advertising revenue has evaporated with restaurants and bars being forced out of business temporarily the day before the bar holiday of St. Patrick’s Day. We, like the many restaurants managing scaled down carryout operations, will not be the same until this virus has run its course and government mandates are lifted. Our typical newspaper for this time of year is 80 pages. This week’s issue is 48 pages. We hope to get creative with our product in the coming weeks to continue serving this community, but 40% revenue losses for weeks will be impossible to shoulder.

We are needed to provide the news to our community. We will continue to

do that online during the week and every Friday in print so long as we can.

We can’t guarantee we will survive a long stretch like this in print. We might need to go online only at some point until this health scare has abated. Our printer might cease operations at some point to protect their employees. Anything can happen. That much we have learned over the last week. Adjustments must be made and tough decisions loom. We don’t know the path forward, but we will continue to be of service. It just might look different.

There is no road map out of this pandemic. It’s going to take time, which tourism-based resort businesses cannot spare right now.

The Ocean City community has gone through tough times before, namely after Mother Nature’s wrath.

Those situations were rebuildable, however, and short lived. There was progress to be had each day in physically bouncing back and recovering the monetary loss associated with a lost week of revenue. The fallout of this pandemic is another matter altogether.

This is going to require patience, maturity and balance. It’s unknown when all will be right. It’s this lack of clarity that makes obtaining the proper perspective and optimism the greatest challenge of our generation from an economic, psychological and wellness standpoint.

Rather than gearing up for the summer season, focusing on staffing and booking entertainment for summer weekends, many businesses are culling through websites for financial relief through government agencies.

There can be no assumptions about anything currently.

In times like this when all seems off, we find comfort in faith. We do not wish to offend, but perhaps it will bring solace to many struggling today to come to

terms with what might be our new normal for some time to come. In times of extreme distress, we find comfort in knowing there is more at play in life than the material world. John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John 16:33 says, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Philippians 4:6 says, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.”

Dramatic is not in our nature as a media company. However, after speaking with multiple business owners this week bracing for the realities to come, we know the stress of life right now is real and intense. Though we are concerned and unsure of many facets of our own business operations, we will overcome through seeking new opportunities. It’s survival mode.

Some type of normal will eventually return. It might not be this summer. There might not be a real tourism season this year. It’s a scary proposition. We hope it’s not the case. We optimistically dream by Memorial Day all will be right. We realize though it might be more like the Fourth of July.

It’s impossible to know today and it’s disheartening.

Amid this apprehension and doubt, our hope for all is peace, understanding, health, optimism and patience.

We will get through this hell in time.

Until more promising days come, we will be thinking about and praying for everyone in our business community as well as the mental, physical and social well-being of our populace. We will be ready to rally to help as soon as safely able.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Pastor Deserves A Listen Editor: You and your readers are aware that our nation is now divided. We the people are no longer represented by the government elected officials. It doesn't matter which party you may side with there is no unity in how to approach the problems we are presently faced with in our nation and throughout the world.

There is presently a division I've never in my life have ever seen before.

We have an election coming up this year and if people vote a party instead of what they feel and know what we have in our daily lives we could lose this country and a government that most of us older people have grown accustom to. We have a choice to make and I have

a suggestion. There is a pastor in a small church who has an understanding of the problem. I know you may not be able to come to the small church in Berlin but you can watch and listen him on his YouTube site: JNBAP on Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m. or in the evening at 7 p.m.

On Sunday morning you can listen to his service that always looks at the present world conditions and relates them to various chapters in the Bible. If you can't do that then take the time in the evening to watch and listen to his "Watches Report" from 7 to 8 p.m. This report looks at the world’s present conditions and based on his investigation and evaluation what we may experience due to all the division in the world.

I promise you, you won't be sorry and it may make you stop and think not so much about yourself and what you want and feel you need but instead start thinking about our world and how wrong it presently is. It will require all of us during this voting cycle to no longer think party when voting but instead think about what our creator would like us to do. To no longer think about ourselves but instead start thinking about what's best for the world. If we all start thinking this way maybe the world could become a better place not just for us but for everyone.

Think about it and take the time to listen in to Pastor John on Sunday morning or evening. You'll be glad you did. I

SEE NEXT PAGE

March 20, 2020

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR know I am and will continue to do so.

Paul St. Andre Ocean City

Turn To God These Days Editor: It might seem counter-intuitive: at a time when Christians instinctively turn to God, church services and other religious gatherings are suspended. But even this can be an opportunity for grace. For us Catholics, not being able to receive the Eucharist can increase our hunger for the Lord; enforced absence from Mass can draw us to a deeper appreciation for what is actually happening in that sacred encounter.

For all women and men of good faith – no matter their religion or denomination – this can be a time for us to realize just how much we depend on the goodwill, the affection, the spiritual support and the concrete good works we normally experience in each other (even if we don’t appreciate them at the time).

These things we know: God is good.

God hears every prayer we make in earnest, whether we are by ourselves or with others, in our homes or in our places of worship. God is worthy of our trust. And God will give us the graces and blessings we need to survive this pandemic.

Rev. Joseph MPR Cocucci Berlin (The writer is the pastor at St John Neumann Church.)

Sentencing Disturbing Editor: Would someone please explain to me how an individual who gets his sixth DWI is out of jail right now (Cops and Courts, March 13)?

Brian Bierley was cited for his sixth DWI on Nov. 13, 2019 after police responded to a single vehicle accident, and it was determined he was “allegedly impaired.” He was sentenced to one year with all suspended except for time served while awaiting trial – 115 days.

How is this even possible? We are going to hear some time in the not too distant future that this guy has killed someone and everyone is going to wonder why.

It’s because judges are not holding criminals responsible. This idiot should not be out on the street. He obviously has a problem, which he has no intention of fixing, and he has obviously not been deterred from continuing to drive.

All of us are in danger from this lunatic as long as he is on the street.

The article did not say if his license had been revoked, but if it had, it obviously didn’t stop him from driving. God forbid that we hear of him causing a crash and killing some innocent person, but I am afraid it’s coming. If and/or when it does, I hope that the judge who put him back out on the street can live with themselves and can explain to a grieving family why this man is back on the streets.

Wendy Sevier Ocean City

Film Fest Appreciation Editor: On behalf of the Art League of Ocean City (ALOC), thank you to everyone who

Between The Lines

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

supported and made the 4th Annual Ocean City Film Festival (OCFF) a huge success. This year’s festival welcomed a diverse group of 74 filmmakers, who allowed us to share 100 compelling films to more than 1,000 attendees.

The festival showcased industry professionals as well as university students, young filmmakers, and local talent and gave them opportunities to network with others who share their passion. While the event is only in its fourth year, the overwhelming response will ensure its growth in the future.

The highlight of the festival for many was the premiere of “Reggie’s Forest” by filmmaker Dave Messick of Unscene Productions that chronicled the life of A. Reggie Mariner II and Mariner’s Country Down, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share this story with the community.

We are grateful to all of the venues that screened the films for their hospitality: Flagship Cinemas, Clarion Resort, Fox Gold Coast Theater, The Carousel Hotel, and Seacrets. The weekend began with a red carpet reception at the Residence Inn by Marriott Ocean City, continued with First Friday at the Ocean City Center for the Arts and a happy hour at the Aloft Hotel, and culminated with an award ceremony and reception at Seacrets Morley Hall.

Thank you, as well, to our additional supporting sponsors: The Town of Ocean City, Peter Glenville Foundation, The Maryland Film Office, BB&T, Fager’s Island, Marlin Moon/Harrison Group, Ocean City HMRA, Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, Preston Automotive Group, Princess Royale, Real Hospitality Group, Ruark Group/Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse/Lighthouse Sound Restaurant, Shenanigans, ShoreCraft Beer, Sunsations, Thrashers/Jolly Roger, Ward Museum, and Worcester County Tourism.

Our appreciation also goes out to our valued media partners for helping get the word out: WBOC and WRDE, Coastal Style Magazine, Ocean City Today, Maryland Coast Dispatch, Delmarva Public Radio, Ocean 98.1, and Clear Channel.

We are grateful to Jack Gerbes of the Maryland Film Office who led a filmmaker panel discussion, and Ken Skrzesz, executive director of the Maryland State Arts Council, who brought greetings from the State of Maryland to the awards ceremony.

Our sincere gratitude to our Film Festival committee who worked endlessly to coordinate the event and the volunteers who gave of their time to staff the screening locations.

Finally, to our audiences who laughed, shed a tear, asked insightful questions, and enthusiastically applauded, we appreciate you choosing to spend your time with us.

Mark your calendars for the 5th annual festival in March 2021.

Rina Thaler William Strang-Moya (Thaler is the executive director of the ALOC, and Strang-Moya is the director of the OCFF.)

Page 39

By Publisher/Editor Steve Green

(The first piece here is an article written yesterday afternoon by Staff Writer Charlene Sharpe. It was too late to include in an article format.)

Health officials confirmed the first positive case of COVID-19 in Worcester County Thursday.

Worcester County Health Department officials announced Thursday afternoon that the county’s first confirmed positive COVID-19 case was a male in his 30s who lives in Worcester County. He is recovering at home.

“Worcester County Health Department is conducting a contact investigation and appropriate close contacts will have arrangements made for testing if indicated,” the department’s release reads.

Health Officer Rebecca Jones urged people to practice prevention strategies.

“This is a time when we all need to work together,” she said. “Please do your part in controlling the spread of this virus. Basic prevention strategies such as washing your hands often, covering your cough and sneeze, staying home when you are sick, and practicing social distancing can help us all keep one another safe and healthy during this time.”

Shortly after noon on Thursday, Berlin daycare Bundles of Joy University advised parents to pick up their children “after a family member of our Berlin location has tested positive for COVID-19,” according to a text alert sent to clients. The alert went on to state “this case was reported to the Worcester County Health Department.” The daycare said it would be closed for quarantine until March 30. According to a text from the day care facility, the enrolled child of the family member has not attended since March 11.

The health department opened a call center Thursday for questions regarding coronavirus. Callers can reach the center during health department business hours (8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday) by dialing 410-6321100 option #8. General information on COVID-19 is available 24/7 through Worcester Health’s Public Information Line (410-632-4321) and WorcesterHealth.org. Officials advise people to protect themselves by washing their hands often, covering coughs and sneezes and staying home if sick.

Gov. Larry Hogan deserves credit for leading the charge against the coronavirus pandemic. Maryland has been a leader in taking serious efforts to reduce the spread. Though the restrictive precautions were not received favorably by all, it’s difficult to argue against being overly cautious. It was effective leadership, and Hogan’s swift actions were repeatedly followed by other states taking the same measures. Hogan’s communication has been clear and concise.

Some sources in government were reporting privately as early as last Saturday evening restaurants and bars in the state were going to be closed first thing Monday to avoid crowds on St. Patrick’s Day. It was clear last weekend revelers were out in force celebrating the weekend in Ocean City and other places. The crowds were generally lighter in Ocean City than usual for the weekend before St. Patrick’s Day, but it was evident people were not as concerned as they probably should have been about the virus. The attitude seemed to be if the people were not going to be responsive and adhere to the government’s requests for social distancing leaders would take away the choice. In a press conference Monday, Hogan referred to the weekend crowds at bars, saying, “we are not playing around anymore” with his announcement bars and restaurants would be shuttered Monday at 5 p.m.

On Thursday morning, Hogan enacted several more closures, including indoor malls. He said, “This is truly one of the most daunting challenges our state has ever faced. I know the actions we have been taking may seem extreme and frightening, but they are necessary to save lives. We are all in this together. If we all do our part and rise to this challenge to meet this moment, we will get through this together. I ask you continue to pray for each other and our state and our nation.”

More preventative measures will likely be coming, but Hogan has stopped short of saying a “shelter in place” order is imminent.

The question many currently have is whether schools will reopen at all this school year. My guess is they will not, but there is still time to consider this thoroughly.

In Worcester County’s case, a logical assumption is the closure will extend beyond March 27. At this point, it’s in the governor’s hands because he mandated the two-week closure. The governor has been asked at each press conference about schools, and he admitted it’s just too early to tell at this point when or if they will open. He finds a different way to answer the question each time, but the bottom line is he doesn’t know what he’s going to do yet. With the situation so fluid each day, it’s understandable no commitment is coming anytime soon.

As far as Worcester goes, a look at the school calendar shows a long spring break is planned for April 6-13 currently. Concerns have been the county might take that planned week off away from students. Those concerns are silly because they assume schools will reopen before that week.

My guess is it will be at least a month before it’s known if schools will reopen at all this year.

The Dispatch Classifieds

Page 40

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)

HELP WANTED KITCHEN: Exp kitchen personnel. Must have exp in Mexican or Tex Mex Cuisine for a new Mexican restaurant opening in West OC. Contact for interview scheduling:Info@hooperscrabhouse.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– CLEANERS: Cleaners needed.

Male or Female. High School students welcome to apply. PT, but can lead to FT beginning in May. Call 410-422-4826.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– COOK: Now hiring, Cook. Send resume to American Legion, Post #166, Po Box 63, Ocean City, MD 21843 or for info call Post Steward 717-756-8552.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

ALL KITCHEN POSITIONS

•HOST/HOSTESS •SERVERS •BUSSERS •BARTENDER APPLY IN PERSON AT THE SHANTY

ALL KITCHEN POSITIONS

•HOST/HOSTESS •SERVERS •BUSSERS •BARTENDER APPLY IN PERSON IN THE OF FENWICK

NOW HIRING Looking for experienced staff to join our team at Lighthouse Sound Restaurant in Bishopville MD. A full-service restaurant & wedding venue on an 18th hole golf course (yes golf privileges are a perk to this job!).

We serve lunch and dinner daily and a Sunday brunch. Now hiring prep cooks, dishwashers and front house staff for our upcoming season.

Please stop in to apply or send your resumes to stambourine@lighthousesound.com Serious inquiries only.

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)

- Oil Lube & Tire Techs - 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

Immediate opening Good driving record.

Electrical and/or computerrelated experience a plus To apply call FIREPRO, INC 410-213-1880

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 410-723-5565

Now accepting applications for the following positions:

FRONT DESK ASSOCIATE FRONT DESK SUPERVISOR EVENING/OVERNIGHT HOUSEPERSON Seasonal with year-round potential!

No phone calls, please All candidates must go through a satisfactory background check.

Storm Shutter & Window Installers

2 15th Street, Ocean City, Maryland

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

www.courtyardoceancity.com

DELIVERY DRIVERS

Assistant General Manager

MAKE $13-$20/HR. FLEXIBLE HOURS, GREAT WORKING ATMOSPHERE.

Please email resume to: tmacintosh@legumnorman.com

Fire Alarm Technician Entry Level

Behind Chauncey’s Surf Shop

Apply in person or email resume to duran.showell@marriott.com

FT position with benefits. Property Management experience a plus.

Duties include, but not limited to, committee oversight, inspections and rental tracking. Berlin, MD location.

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.

DYLAN’S LAWN CARE: Exp. grass cutting & landscaping. Call 443-944-3559.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SUMMER CLEANERS: Now hiring Summer cleaners for 2 condo’s. 2x wk or more, min.

Must be dependale & have own trans. 267-254-0111.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– FULL MOON SALOON: Now hiring FT,YR Exp. only Bartender, great salary! Apply by email to: mategrit@gmail.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– KITCHEN STAFF: Coins Pub now hiring All Positions, Full & PT. Apply within 2pm Thurs-Sun. 28th St & Coastal Hwy. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– GO-CART SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC NEEDED: FT/YR. Call 410-289-4902 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SKILLED CARPENTERS & LABORERS NEEDED: Construction company. Must have own transportation. Call 443-880-4327 or 443-373-3687.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– LANDSCAPE WORKERS NEEDED: Must have valid Driv. Lic. Reliable transportation to work. Call 410-641-2177. The Moore Companies.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

March 20, 2020

NOW HIRING SUPERVISORS Seeking seasonal Supervisors for the summer season. $18-$20 per hour. 30-40 hours per week. Supervise international summer students in folding linens. Must be physically fit and will be standing most of the day. Must be organized.

ASSISTANT MANAGER Seeking seasonal Assistant Manager for the summer season. $20 per hour. 30-40 hours per week. Saturdays are mandatory. Office position.

DRIVER

NOW HIRING!

EMAIL RESUME TO OCPIZZAMAMBO@YAHOO.COM OR CALL 410-289-1200

Now Hiring for All Locations:

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

Competitive Pay. 401K. Submit all inquiries to

tom@irseafood.com

Seeking seasonal Delivery Drivers for the summer season. $15-$18 per hour. 10-20 hours per week. Will have summer student as an assistant during deliveries. Must be physically fit and able to lift 30 lbs. Saturdays are mandatory.

302-539-6244 randy@galeforceinc.com.

14 ATLANTIC AVE, OCEAN VIEW DE 19970 Come join the vacation linen rentals industry leader.

We work and play hard! Join us for our end of season seafood festival and trip to Cape May!

The Dispatch Classifieds

March 20, 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)

TECHNICIANS

Call 410-352-5252

Circuit Court for Worcester County

Selbyville Goose Creek Fenwick Goose Creek Hiring for all positions.

For Both Locations Apply Online www.mygcjob.com

NOW HIRING For The Best Job in Town

Sous Chef Line Cook

Positions Available

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

Currently hiring manpower for

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

SALES ASSOCIATES Monogram Furniture has exciting opportunities available for both Full-Time and Part-time Sales Associates. These positions require flexible scheduling to include weekends and holidays.

Proven successful sales experience is a must; however training will be provided. We offer competitive pay, paid time off to FullTime Associates and a beautiful work environment.

The successful candidate will have outstanding communication skills and interpersonal skills with the ability to ask questions to determine a clients needs and the confidence to work with them to create interior spaces that compliment their style.

12319 Ocean Gateway Ocean City, MD 21842 410-213-2520

EOE M/F/D/V

SMI Services of Delaware, a growing Erosion & Sediment Control Company located in Selbyville, DE is looking to hire reliable

LABORERS: Daily reporting to shop by 7am, loading materials for days work, working with crew to complete daily tickets, unloading materials. This position requires lifting up to 50 lbs. Must have reliable transportation.

DRIVERS: This position REQUIRES a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. Daily reporting to shop then driving company vehicle to job site. Must be able to pull trailers, properly load & unload equipment from trailer. Skid Steer experience a huge plus. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. All drivers are subject to DOT physical and driving record check.

OPERATORS: Skid Steer Operators must be well skilled in using equipment in tight & high traffic areas.

Must be able to properly load and unload equipment from trailer and have trencher attachment experience.

Sweeper experience a huge plus.

All positions are full time, year-round, outside work. Working hours are 7am until work tickets are complete (usually by 4pm, but not guaranteed) Monday - Friday.

SMI Services offers Health, Dental & Vision Insurance as well as 401K. Pay will be based on experience. Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus!

Please apply in person at: 20 E. Railroad Ave. Selbyville, DE 19975

Senior Judiciary Clerk The Circuit Court of Worcester County is seeking a Senior Judiciary Clerk to provide courtroom assistance, process files, dockets mail, orders and scans documents. Assist the jury process. Requires HS diploma/GED and 2 years of exp.

For full details and to apply https://www.mdcourts.gov/careers

CHECK OUT

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

Please stop by our showroom to complete an employment application or email a resume to kclark@monogrambuilders.com

Laborers, Drivers & Equipment Operators

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.

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.

Page 41

SOMERSET JEWELERS,INC. NOW HIRING MATURE, RESPONSIBLE

YEAR ROUND

SALESPERSON Please call 443-880-3791

Assawoman Ale Shoppe Hiring for all positions.

Apply within store.

52nd Street, Bayside, OC.

Ride the B in OC!

IND IA N RI VER MA RINA NOW H IRING !

•RAMP ATTENDANT •CUSTODIAL/GROUNDS •FUEL DOCK •BOATYARD For additional information, please contact the Marina office at 302.227.3071 AA/EOE

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

The Dispatch’s

CASHIER/ SALES ASSOCIATE Must be friendly & dependable FT/PT-Year Round Various shifts Competitive hourly wage Benefits available To Apply-go online www.petromg.com *Employment *Retail *OC MD *Cashier Wine Rack *Search *Cashier Sales Assoc.-Wine Rack Rt. 50 Wine Rack 12827 Ocean Gateway West OC, MD

E-DITION ONLINE

mdcoastdispatch.com

Expanding Our Reach.

Broadening Our Commitment.

The Dispatch Is On

Facebook!

Become A Fan Today And Get The Daily News Updates

The Dispatch Classifieds

Page 42

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)

RENTALS

WEEKLY RENTALS Pool Front Room $199 Family Room $235 2 BR Apartment $315.

3 BR Suite $400.

Burgundy Inn 1210 Philadelphia Ave.

410-289-8581

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

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

ROOMMATES OP ROOMMATE: Spacious Master BR w/BA in quiet home. 5 mi. from the beach. Prefer mature female, long term. $950 per mo. + shared util’s. 410-963-4366.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– WOC ROOMMATE: Prof. person seeking RM. Priv. gated. comm. w/ammenities. Priv. upstairs, BR, BA. 410-251-6977. $800/mo.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––– WINTER ROOM FOR RENT: $600 for ea month March & April. Summer Rental May 1-Sept 1. $3,500 per person + sec. dep. & elec. 4 spots available. 443-610-4665.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Upcoming Yard Sale?

The Dispatchis the best way to get the word out!

Print & Online

inch. Deadline for all legal advertising is Tuesday at noon. For more information, call 410-641-4563 or fax 410-641-0966.

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18202 To all persons interested in the estate of EDNA M. BOWDEN, ESTATE NO. 18202.

N o t i c e is given that VIRGINIA BOWDEN, 102 ANN DRIVE, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on, FEBRUARY 24, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of EDNA M. BOWDEN, who died on JANUARY 18, 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 ob-

jection 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 24th 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 credi-

SERVICES Ceja’s Landscaping & More!

•YARD MAINTENANCE •PAINTING •POWER WASHING 410-251-3425 410-202-2545 HANDYMAN SPECIALIST: General maintenance of all types, All powerwashing. Build/Stain/PWash Decks. Drywall repair. Painting.

Property Management. Call for any other odd jobs! Joe 443-610-4644.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––--–

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING …

“I really enjoy getting the Daily Buzz “I love your emails. ... Keep them coming! articles. They are informative, helpful “Thank you so much for keeping us aware and well-written. This was a great idea. for those of us not in Ocean City.”

Thank you.”

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LEGAL RATES: Legal advertising rate is $7 per column

THIRD INSERTION

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Local News Articles Delivered Daily To Your Inbox

The Dispatch

SEASONAL BAYSIDE RENTAL, Sleeps 4-6, 2BR 2BA W/D/ fully furn.

13,500. +sec.dep & util's Call Mike 410-603-6120 avail May-Sept 12th www.mbjcproperties.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

COMMERCIAL

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.

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 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

March 20, 2020

tor 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.

HELEN M. WHELAN, ESQ. 200-A MONROE STREET SUITE 110 ROCKVILLE, MD 20850 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 18208

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication MARCH 06, 2020 VIRGINIA BOWDEN 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 3-06, 3-13, 3-20

THIRD INSERTION

LANDSMAN LAW GROUP

Notice is given that the CIRCUIT COURT of FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA, appointed ANNE M. AGUILERA, 1624 DEMPSEY STREET, MCLEAN, VA 22101, as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of WILLIAM S. KREMIDAS, who died on OCTOBER 29, 2019, domiciled in VIRGINIA USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is HELEN M. WHELAN, whose address is 200-A MONROE STREET, SUITE 110, ROCKVILLE, MD 20850.

At the time of death, the decedent owned real or

leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: WORCESTER. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent's death; or 5 (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice.

Claims filed after that date

or after a date extended by law will be barred.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication MARCH 06, 2020 ANNE M. AGUILERA 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 3-06, 3-13, 3-20

SECOND INSERTION NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

The Dispatch

March 20, 2020

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.

ESTATE NO. 11631 To all persons interested in the estate of MARK PATRICK STARLIPER, ESTATE NO. 11631. Notice is given that AMIE STARLIPER, 29 DEE STREET, APT 102, BUCKHANNON, WV 26201, was on, MARCH 05, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARK PATRICK STARLIPER, who died on SEPTEMBER 25, 2004, 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 5th day of SEPTEMBER, 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 MARCH 13, 2020

Legal Notices

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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 3-13, 3-20, 3-27

SECOND INSERTION

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18177 To all persons interested in the estate of JUNE E. STARLIPER, ESTATE NO. 18177.

N o t i c e is given that AMIE STARLIPER, 29 DEE STREET, APT 102, BUCKHANNON, WV 26201, was on, MARCH 05, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JUNE E. STARLIPER, 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 5th day of SEPTEMBER, 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 MARCH 13, 2020

relief sought.

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

AMIE STARLIPER Personal Representative

SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court for Worcester County Room 104 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 1x 3-20

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 3-13, 3-20, 3-27

FIRST INSERTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MD 1 WEST MARKET STREET SNOW HILL, MD 21863 C-23-FM-20-000117 IN THE MATTER OF

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication MARCH 20, 2020

SECOND INSERTION WILLIAM E. ESHAM III ESQ AYRES, JENKINS, GORDY & ALMAND, PA 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY, STE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18216

BERTO BROCK KUCUK FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO BURAK UNAL KUCUK NOTICE (ADULT) (DOM REL 61) The above petitioner has filed a Petition for Change of Name in which he seeks to change his name from BERTO BROCK KUCUK to BURAK UNAL KUCUK. The petitioner is seeking a name change because: HE WANTS TO RETURN TO HIS BIRTH NAME. Any person may file an objection to the Petition on or before the 27th day of APRIL 2020. The objection must be supported by an affidavit and served upon the Petitioner in accordance with Maryland Rule 1-321. Failure to file an objection or affidavit within the time allowed may result in a judgment by default or the granting of the

To all persons interested in the estate of MARION M DI FILIPPO, ESTATE NO. 18216.

N o t i c e is given that MARGARET D. CLAIR, 560 GULLYSVILLE LANE, FABER, VA 22938, was on, MARCH 10, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARION M DI FILIPPO, who died on FEBRUARY 11, 2020, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of SEPTEMBER, 2020.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal repre-

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sentative 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.

STOCKTON, MD 21864, was on, MARCH 13, 2020 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MABEL CAROLYN ISEMANN, who died on FEBRUARY 9, 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 13th day of SEPTEMBER, 2020.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication MARCH 13, 2020

(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

MARGARET D. CLAIR 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 3-13, 3-20, 3-27

FIRST INSERTION DEBORAH ULLMANN ESQ 203 2ND STREET POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

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:

(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 MARCH 20, 2020 BONNIE CAROL CLAUSS Personal Representative

ESTATE NO. 18222 To all persons interested in the estate of MABEL CAROLYN ISEMANN, ESTATE NO. 18222.

Notice is given that BONNIE CAROL CLAUSS, 727 GREENBACKVILLE ROAD,

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, 3-20, 3-27, 4-03

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

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

AMIE STARLIPER Personal Representative

Page 44

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

March 20, 2020

Though the parade was canceled, people were still out and about celebrating St. Patrick’s Day weekend all over the area, including at Shenanigans on the Boardwalk, Buxy’s Salty Dog on 28th Street and Harborside in West ocean City.

Shenanigans: Angie and Carol with their two babies

By Tyler Horton

Faces

SPOTLIGHT ON THE REGIONAL RESTAURANT AND BAR SCENE

In Places

Buxy's: The Patrick Family

Harborside: Chuck, Frank, Jody, Judy and Dana

Harborside: Sandy, Anna, Laura and Paul

Buxy’s: Tammy Little, Pam Arbogast and Rob Greene

Buxy’s: Clark Fleming

Harborside: Charlene, Marty, Diane and Marty

Shenanigans: Alyssa Fix and John & Laura Wulff

Shenanigans: Joaquin Davis and Mike Schening

Shenanigans: Tim & Marybeth Eichorn

Sports

March 20, 2020

Pines Swimmers Set Records In State Meet

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Page 45

First Flounder Of Season Caught Off OC In The News

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – While not much is going on in the local sports world onshore, an unseasonably warm late winter is causing action to start to heat up offshore including the first flounder of the year last weekend.

Local angler Butch Walter and his wife Pam were trolling in the Thorofare last Saturday when they hooked up the first official flounder of the 2020 season in Ocean City. The flounder, which came in at 19 inches and well past the minimum keeper size, hit on a Gulp four-inch swimming mullet on a one-hook flounder rig, according to Fish in OC. The Walters were fishing in water four- to six-feet deep with water temperatures around 52 degrees, which is unusually high for this time of year. It’s not unusual for the first flounder to be caught in late March or early April, but the March 14 date this year was the earliest in recent memory.

For the record, the current state regulations for summer flounder in the Atlantic and in and around the coastal bays is a 16.5-inch minimum keeper size and a creel limit of four fish.

There are no current seasonal limitations for summer flounder, which is open year-round.

Ocean Pines Swim Team members Trista Harner, Daniel Karcheuski and Breyden Wright (pictured above) recently competed in the Maryland Under-14 State Championships. OPST members Gavin Stearn and Adam Diehl (not pictured) also competed in the Maryland Senior Championships.

Submitted photo

BY SHAWN J. SOPER

MANAGING EDITOR

Local angler Butch Walter last week caught the first record flounder of the season off the resort coast. The 19incher was well above the minimum keeper size and was the earliest in recent memory.

Photo courtesy Fish in OC

Earning the MVP award for Worcester Prep’s boys’ junior varsity basketball team was Austin Cannon (left), while Jordan Willey (right) earned the Coach’s Award. Ayush Batra (not pictured) was named Most Improved.

Submitted photo

OCEAN PINES- The Ocean Pines Swim Team (OPST) sent five swimmers to the Maryland State Championships recently and several came back with club and personal bests.

OPST swimmers Adam Diehl and Gavin Stearn each qualified for the Maryland Senior Championships in late February, while Trista Harner, Daniel Karcheuski and Breyden Wright each qualified for the Maryland Under14 Championships in the first week of March. Both meets were held at St. Mary’s College in southern Maryland.

Diehl and Stearn each had their first competitive experience at the Maryland Senior Championships and both qualified for the open competition, which has no age limit. Diehl competed in the 200-yard breaststroke and the 100-yard backstroke.

Stearn competed in the 100-yard breaststroke, the 50-yard freestyle, the 200-yard freestyle and the 200-yard breaststroke. He broke OPST records with his swims in the 50-yard freestyle and the 200-yard breaststroke.

Harner competed in a handful of

events in the 13-14 girls’ meet and all of her times in four different events were new team records. Karcheuski, competed in several events and set a new OPST record with his time in the 200-yard butterfly. Wright competed in eight events over the three-day meet and swam his way to six new club records. Head Coach Kim Wanner said she could not be prouder of her team’s performance.

“These competitions are not only qualifying meets, but the best of the best in Maryland swimming,” she said. “Your finish at these meets is your rank in the whole state of Maryland in that particular event and age group. The swimmers from OPST are being noticed in a very strong Maryland swimming community. Swimmers competing in these events are trailblazers and are setting the tone for a very young team.”

The OPST was set to send a total of 40 swimmers to Maryland Championship meets over the course of the next month or so. However, USA Swimming has suspended all competition through at least the end of April out of an abundance of caution over the coronavirus pandemic.

Worcester Prep recently doled out its winter sports awards to players on the varsity and junior varsity basketball teams and cheerleading teams. Pictured above are the winners from the girls’ junior varsity teams including, from left, Kathy Zhang (Most Improved), Annie Carter (Coach’s Award), and Ava Nally (Most Valuable Player.)

Submitted photo

Page 46

OCEAN CITY

vanishing

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

Things I Like ...

By Steve Green

Overhearing a fishing story

People who don’t change with success Elderly couples dancing

Browsing at a liquor store at all the unique products Old churches

Steamed crabs anytime of year

Criticism that’s not condescending Calling out a liar Early daffodils

Watching dogs walk their owners

Remembering a mistake years later

March 20, 2020

WITH BUNK MANN

Russell “Bo” Ruggerio was one of Ocean City’s most recognizable characters for over 30 years. He owned the Dutch Bar on the Boardwalk, The Kitchen restaurant and numerous rental properties in the downtown area. Bo had a white Rolls Royce and reminded some of the television character known as “Mister T” because of the gold chains and rings he liked to wear. He had a cat that slept in a box filled with dollar bills.

Bo’s gruff exterior hid a heart of gold.

He’d take homeless people to the doctor, pay medical and dental bills for those who couldn’t afford to and even pick up funeral expenses for the less fortunate. He was particularly good to the foreign kids that worked summer jobs in Ocean City, many of whom rented from him. Bo would buy phone calls for them and made sure they called their families in Russia and Eastern Europe on a weekly basis.

When he passed away in 2008, Bo Ruggerio had become a Boardwalk legend.

He was greatly missed by many.

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

Photo courtesy Ron Ihle

March 20, 2020

The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

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The Dispatch/Maryland Coast Dispatch

March 20, 2020