June 23

Photo by Dawn Webb

SERVING DELMARVA FOR 60 YEARS

BLC Reviews Plans For Oceans Calling Festival

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – County officials reviewed the proposed layout and security measures for the Oceans Calling Festival this week.

While promoters and Ocean City officials will return for formal approval next month, the Worcester County Board of License Commissioners (BLC) reviewed plans for the three-day festival at a meeting on Wednesday.

“No decisions are made today,” said Tom Coates, the board’s attorney. “This is totally information gathering.”

Attorney Mark Cropper, representing resort officials and festival organizers, told the board he’d be returning to seek the newly created promoter’s license to

allow for alcohol sales at the event after the law went into effect July 1. For now though, he said he wanted organizers to share event information with the board so they’d have an idea of what the plan was for the massive music festival.

The biggest change for this year’s event, as opposed to what was approved last year, is that this year a portion of the Boardwalk will be included in the fenced-in festival grounds. Cropper said the town had obtained consent from 100% of the businesses in that area. Those businesses will be within the festival area and will operate under the same hours as the event, which ends at 11 p.m.

“The merchants very much want to be in the arena,” he said. “They don’t want to be fenced out.”

He explained that there would be a limited number of entrances into the event and that if businesses weren’t included, it would be hard for festival attendees to get to shops now within the fence.

“What C3 and Spectrum are trying to create here is a more inclusive arena,” he said. “This is the largest event Ocean City will ever have experienced.”

Tim Sweetwood of C3 Presents told the board his company produced the NFL draft and organized large music festivals all across the country. Dave Smalley of Spectrum Concessions said his company worked with C3 to provide hospitality for many of those events as well as other large-scale programs such as the PGA Tour and Cirque du Soleil.

Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan said

he’d spent the last several months meeting with downtown merchants to address their questions and concerns about the impact Oceans Calling would have on them. He said he felt all their concerns had been addressed, something evident in the fact that all 65 businesses in the proposed festival area had agreed to be involved. He said that with the shops being within the fenced area, festivalgoers could go in and out with their purchases.

“I think it’s very important to recognize all of these merchants see a distinct advantage to being part of that footprint,” Meehan said.

Cropper noted that attendees would not be permitted to carry drinks from one establishment to another. He said C3 would be providing security for every business within the footprint to ensure that drinks purchased in a bar like Purple Moose, for example, weren’t carried out of the building and that drinks purchased at one of the festival bars weren’t carried into Boardwalk bars.

Cropper asked Smalley to address how organizers would ensure minors didn’t have access to alcohol during the event.

Smalley said there would be identification checks and wristbands, which will change daily, to identify patrons over the age of 21. He also showed the board the ID reader his staff would use, which can differentiate real IDs from fake IDs.

“This is a huge deterrent,” he said.

Smalley added that adults would only be able to purchase two drinks at a time and that he had a company from New Jersey coming in to help his staff ensure no one under 21 was able to drink alcohol.

“He and his team will be with us to hunt down these minors and expel them from the festival,” he said.

Sweetwood added that because C3 and Spectrum worked on these large events all across the country they made efforts to be extremely proactive when it came to avoiding problems.

Cropper told the board that while Oceans Calling had been capped at 37,500 tickets last year, this year C3 was selling up to 50,000 tickets and because of the increased attendance wanted the Boardwalk included in the festival grounds to help with the flow of traffic once the event is over.

“If you have the Boardwalk inclusive in the arena, patrons have the width of the Boardwalk to aid in that migration,” he said.

Cropper noted that the pier would be included in the festival grounds as well but that no alcohol would be sold on it. He added that Oceans Calling would likely attract attendees of all ages.

“From ticket sales it’s showing an average age of mid 30s,” Sweetwood said, adding that ticket sales appeared to be on par with last year, as Friday and Saturday are sold out and Sunday is close.

When asked about security at the gates, Sweetwood said there would be

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OC Council Adopts Moratorium On Cannabis Businesses

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Officials in Ocean City voted this week to establish a moratorium on businesses that grow, process or sell cannabis.

After voting Tuesday to prohibit the issuance of on-site cannabis licenses, the Mayor and Council had before them a resolution establishing a moratorium on the acceptance or processing of applications or site plans or the issuance of other zoning approvals or business licenses for businesses that grow, process or sell cannabis. City Solicitor Heather Stansbury said the temporary ban will allow officials to study and consider zoning and other regulations permitted under the new Cannabis Reform Act.

“Our new governor signed that act into law on May 3 of this year and subsequently towns, municipalities, counties are permitted to adopt certain zoning regulations that work in conjunction with that act,” she said. “This council, I believe, was very diligent in its efforts and direction in having staff look into that. But the reality is this is a new horizon. This is not a matter without tentacles and of course this council’s primary concern is for the safety, welfare and health of not only its residents but its visitors.”

In the November election, two-thirds of voters supported a statewide referendum to legalize recreational marijuana. And in May, Gov. Wes Moore signed Maryland’s cannabis reform bill into law, paving the way for recreational sales beginning July 1. The legislation essentially establishes an adult-use cannabis industry through the creation of tax rates and licensing framework.

“Within the act, there are various committees and administrations formed, primarily the Maryland Cannabis Administration,” Stansbury told the council this week. “Amongst other things, that administration is tasked to adopt various regulations. As that administration is working through those regulations, as are we. And we simply believe there is not enough time for you all to make informed, meaningful decisions about cannabis and the cannabis zoning that you are permitted to consider.”

To that end, town staff on Tuesday pre-

sented council members with a resolution establishing a moratorium on cannabis businesses.

“As you know, this law goes into effect July 1,” City Manager Terry McGean said. “However, there is a long period of time –I believe until January – for the state to actually promulgate the regulations that further refine what can and cannot happen under this law. Once we know that, then we are able to work on zoning regulations and business license regulations.”

He continued, “I think here, it’s important we proceed with caution. There are many unknowns. I believe this moratorium is a prudent thing to do right now. Right now, it is a nine-month moratorium, or until such time the planning commission and council produces the appropriate zoning regulations.”

Stansbury noted that the town would need time to produce zoning regulations, as they must be referred to the town’s planning commission for consideration, public hearing and recommendations.

“At the conclusion of a public hearing, it would come back on a separate planning commission meeting, and then the planning commission would make recommendations to this council,” she said. “So those are steps that still need to be undertaken. And a careful study and review of all the tentacles that come along with the Cannabis Reform Act should be considered by this council before making any zoning decisions. That’s our recommendation.”

With no further discussion, the council voted 5-0, with Council President Matt James and Councilman John Gehrig absent, to approve the moratorium on cannabis businesses.

For his part, Mayor Rick Meehan said he fully supported the moratorium.

“I think it’s the right thing to do,” he said. “Every jurisdiction is a little different, but in Ocean City I think we really need to walk before we run with this and be very diligent in how we do this and waiting until all the loose ends are tied up. There are so many unknowns out there right now with regard to this legislation and potential regulations that it would be premature for us to even move forward at this time. I think the moratorium gives us some time.”

Meehan added that other jurisdictions

had taken similar action.

“I think there’s concern throughout the state and about this law altogether and there’s a lot of unknown by the general public about exactly what’s going to take place …,” he said. “So hopefully we’ll be able to clarify some of that and get the message out to our residents and potential visitors.”

The council also voted this week to approve code amendments on second reading that prohibit the issuance of on-site cannabis consumption licenses within city limits.

The changes also feature a compan-

ion ordinance establishing fines of no less than $25 and no more than $1,000 for any violation.

“Ocean City finds that in order to promote and protect the public’s health, safety and welfare, a prohibition of the operation of on-site consumption establishments and the prohibition to the issuance of any license that would permit on-site consumption of Cannabis is just and proper,” the amendment reads. “Ocean City finds that it is within its right, as a political subdivision, to prohibit the operation and licensing of on-site consumption establishments.”

School Board Members Discuss Budget Process After Approval

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

NEWARK – School system officials approved an updated budget this week before sharing their frustrations regarding the process.

The Worcester County Board of Education voted 6-1 this week to approve a $127.5 million budget for the coming fiscal year. The budget includes cuts the board made last week in response to the maintenance of effort (MOE) budget approved by the Worcester County Commissioners.

Following the budget’s approval several board members took the opportunity to address the relationship between county officials and the school system.

“Let’s move forward,” school board member Donald Smack said. “Stop attacking one another. Love one another.

Put God first and we’ll be alright.”

Vince Tolbert, the school system’s chief financial officer, presented the board this week with an updated budget that reflected cuts made in response to the county allocation of about $101 million that was approved by the commissioners this month. Tolbert said the proposed budget initially adopted by the school board in March included a requested increase in county funding of $4.1 million. The county, however, approved an MOE budget that provides about $280,000 less than the school system got this year. Tolbert said the MOE funding resulted in a budget shortfall of $4.4 million.

The board identified $1.7 million in cuts last week and will be renegotiating with teachers and bus contractors regarding salary increases. Cuts approved by the school board in closed session on June 9 and announced last week were

all local-funded student tutoring programs; all afterschool programs and summer academies at Ocean City Elementary, Showell Elementary, Berlin Intermediate, Stephen Decatur Middle and Stephen Decatur High schools; the Haven House afterschool program at Snow Hill Elementary; outdoor graduation ceremonies; and the teacher kickoff event for staff. Reductions of 50% were made to all schools’ instructional supply and material of instructions, special education materials for instruction and field trip funding. Reductions of 25% were made to central office supplies and travel and matching funds for a grant.

Board member Katie Addis asked if her peers had been able to dive into the detailed budget information provided to the board in early June. School board member Jon Andes said he had and that his 16 years of experience as superin-

tendent had helped him understand the information.

“I was able to dissect and understand exactly what was going on,” he said.

Addis went on to question hotel stays, meals and budgeting practices.

“As we all know we had to make cuts this year,” she said. “I’m just curious if we were able to make cuts ‘trimming the fat.’”

She pointed to $50,000 in food expenditures as an example.

“There were high end travel expenses to resorts and spas and boutique hotels,” she said. “I’m wondering if these are appropriate expenditures.”

Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor clarified he stays in a Westin in Annapolis for his monthly state superintendent meetings and that other staff attended conferences and retreats periodically.

Staff pointed out that often times food was provided by Worcester Technical High School students for events held by the school system.

“Any profit that was realized goes back into the program for those kids,” Tolbert said.

Addis went on to make a motion to have staff send the school board monthly expenditure reports to allow officials to see how the dollars are being spent. The motion passed unanimously.

“We have never been given this information before and it’s nice to see where the money is being spent. It’s nice to have a conversation to ask questions, not pointing fingers, just to see how the taxpayers’ money is being spent,” said Addis.

When it came time for a motion to approve the budget, school board member Bill Gordy asked if it was appropriate for the board to approve a budget when the school system was still renegotiating salaries with teachers, support staff and bus drivers as a result of the change in county budget funding.

Tolbert said the school system had to submit a budget to the Maryland State Department of Education by June 30. He said that if spending categories had to be adjusted later they could be as long as they were approved by the school board and the commissioners.

The board voted 6-1, with Addis opposed, to approve the budget.

Later in the meeting, several board members addressed the budget process, which this year included requests from the commissioners for detailed, line-item spending reports and resulted in approval of a minimum maintenance of effort budget.

Board member Elena McComas said she’d been quiet but felt she needed to speak now.

“I truly need to address some major concerns that include the constant accusations and smears against our district personnel and us as a board,” she said. “From numerous texts and emails, I’ve been asked more than once why I’ve abandoned my principles and why I’m not supporting Ms. Addis in her quest here. I’ve lost friends, I’ve been labeled a traitor and actually vilified in emails, blogs and even letters to the editor … To all my conservative friends, because I am con-

servative, the answer is no. I haven’t abandoned my principles. I’m as conservative now as I always was but I am for a sane and prudent approach to overseeing and reviewing our budget, not one filled with insinuations and half-truths.”

McComas objected to the way Tolbert has been treated throughout the budget process.

“Obviously it would be nice to get some lead time from the commissioners to present the detailed line-item budget they suddenly requested after we completed negotiations and mere weeks before their budget consideration, but it also would have been nice to have Ms. Addis’ concerns presented professionally in the last few months without tearing down valued reputations of our people, especially our CFO… He’s one of the most honest dedicated Christians I have

ever met. In all my years as an educator, department chair and in my district leadership roles, he’s also a consummate professional and I resent the attempt to smear him and others to make your point … somehow Mrs. Addis, you can’t make an argument without smearing others so no I can’t support you because I refuse to associate with anyone who attacks others unfairly to get their point across. … although I agree with many of your precepts, I refuse to destroy others to make the argument. Anytime you throw mud some always splashes back … my heartfelt suggestion is we find a way to work together to find solutions because the slash and burn approach has actually in many ways done more harm than good.”

Board member Bill Buchanan addressed the cuts that had been made last week, which included programs like

Find A Path

summer school as well as outdoor graduations and numerous other items.

“We felt like this was the best way, the humane way, so people would have a job and people would be able to pay their bills,” he said.

Buchanan referenced Commissioner Caryn Abbott’s recommendation that the school system be subject to a forensic audit during a recent public meeting.

“This was a reckless accusation with the implication of criminal fraud, embezzlement and misappropriation of funds,” he said. “The definition of forensic audit. This was insulting to question honesty and integrity of people and departments who have dedicated their lives and careers to this noble profession we call education and teaching.”

Buchanan said the school system was audited multiple times a year and always received a clean opinion.

“That clean audit denotes the educational system is beyond reproach,” he said, thanking Tolbert and his department for their efforts.

Andes recounted the history of budgeting practices for the school system and the county commissioners. He pointed out that OPEB (other post employment benefits), a major cost for the school system, was required by the state after several private companies went bankrupt. Government wanted to be sure there would be enough money to pay for healthcare costs for retirees.

“We’re very fortunate that our county government has and continues to put money into our OPEB,” he said. “I never anticipate Worcester County going bankrupt. But it’s still there.”

He added that the school system’s financial concerns related to the unfair funding formula used by the state.

“For every dollar we send up to the state in tax revenue, we get 34 cents back,” he said. “Somerset, for every dollar they send, they get $3.58 back from the state. Let’s take Wicomico. For every dollar Wicomico sends up, they get $3 back. That’s quite a deal when you think about it.”

He added that he loved Worcester County and the school system.

“I love everything about it,” he said. “It’s a rural community that comes together day in and day out. Yes, we argue. Yes everything doesn’t go as we want. Yes we do that, but that’s what communities do, it’s what families do. They come together and make it right. So I am hoping that somehow some way we can get past this whole rigmarole over the last four to six months, or whatever it’s been, because I can’t take it anymore. It’s déjà vu all over for me from back to 2003. I am hoping we can find a path forward. I am hoping we can send a message to the state we are tired of getting 34 cents. We want our dollar.”

Andes suggested the superintendent and president and vice president of the school board meet with the county’s chief administrative officer and the president and vice president of the commissioners.

“I will pay for it,” he said. “Sit down and have lunch and try to work this thing out because we can’t go on like this to maintain the system we have today. It just doesn’t can’t happen.”

Smack, who said he’d been involved with the school system for 30 years, praised staff, particularly Tolbert.

“I feel like I’ve got tears in my eyes because you did a very good job managing the budget,” he said.

Todd Ferrante, president of the school board, also expressed his gratitude for the school system and the work put in every day by central office staff as well as teachers and staff within the schools.

“I have a daughter in the school system,” he said. “She’s flourished in the school system. She’s overachieving in my opinion and that’s due to all the hard work everyone in the school system is involved in.”

Parents, Players Question SDHS Basketball Coach Decision

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

NEWARK – A handful of students and parents approached school system officials this week to question a coaching change at Stephen Decatur High School.

Members of the school’s girls varsity basketball team spoke to the Worcester County Board of Education this week regarding Stephen Decatur High School’s announcement that Brittany Tracy, a teacher at the school, would be the new coach. Those in attendance said they didn’t understand why Aaron Wyatt, the team’s assistant coach for the past sev-

eral years, didn’t get the job.

“They are devastated a man they’ve been playing for, a man they’ve been trained by, is no longer their coach,” said Kim Tucker, a parent of a boys team member who was there to support girls team members. “Everyone is looking for some transparency and accountability as to why he is no longer the coach.”

On June 15, Decatur announced on social media Tracy, the school’s 2023 teacher of the year, would be the new head coach for the girls basketball program. Tracy worked as assistant coach under Amy Fenzel-Mergott, Kate Coates and Scott Kurtz over a six-year span.

She left coaching to spend more time with her young sons but now that they’re older is ready to return to athletics, according to the school.

“Having played herself in high school, participated in intramural programs in college, and studied under some of the great coaches at SDHS, she is ready to leave a positive mark on the program,” the school’s announcement reads. “Tracy is thankful to the previous coaching staff for caring deeply about the players and the game, and she carries that sentiment with her today.”

Students came to this week’s school board meeting to ask why Wyatt, who they said essentially acted as head coach for the past few years, wasn’t appointed.

“I find it to be my duty to stand up for him based on everything he has done for me,” student Paityn Tyre said. “He has made me a better basketball player and most importantly a better person. This is just sad and devastating that the person my teammates and I have grown to trust is being ripped away, potentially tearing the team family we’ve developed apart. I believe we need a clear understanding of why we don’t have a coach anymore.”

Teammate Makenzee Purnell agreed.

“Everything he did was out of love for the players and game,” she said.

Tyre’s mother, who pointed out that the two seasons Wyatt had guided the team were its most successful seasons, also expressed her frustration. She praised the impact Wyatt had on players.

“They have learned a great deal about life and basketball skills,” Lyndsay Greenan-Tyre said. “They were given this opportunity because that coach has the experience and the mindset that Stephen Decatur has not had prior. We are very blessed to have a local leader who has played professional sports and has experience and provides our girls with a different element they weren’t given before.”

Stephen Decatur Principal Tom Sites said in an interview after the meeting that school officials had interviewed a variety of people for the coaching position following Kurtz’s resignation this spring.

“Dr. Bunting, the athletic administrator, and Athletic Director Dan Dobronz conducted extensive interviews with a number of fantastic candidates,” Sites said.

They narrowed the field down and a selection committee offered the position to Tracy.

“She has a passion for the game,” Sites said. “She’s developed great relationships with our student athletes here at Decatur.”

When asked about the assistant coach position, Sites indicated that this month’s decision related only to the head coach role.

“All we’ve done so far is name the head coach,” he said. “No other staffing determinations have been made at this time.”

attorney maintains Decision on fenwick Chief Violates rights

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – Fenwick Island’s police chief has hired an attorney in an effort to restore his employment contract.

On Tuesday, attorney Thomas Neuberger issued a letter to the Fenwick Island Town Council demanding his client, Fenwick Island Police Chief John Devlin, be reinstated and his contract restored through Aug. 31, 2025.

The action comes more than a month after the town announced it would not renew Devlin’s employment agreement and weeks after allegations of a security breach within the Fenwick Island Police Department came to light.

“After our careful investigation it appears that his employment was terminated recently just seven days after he chose to enforce the rule of law against your mayor who it appears has illegally had unlimited

access to secure areas of the Police Department containing highly confidential and sensitive ‘Criminal Justice Information’ which is strictly protected by Delaware and Federal law from unauthorized access and risk of disclosure,” the letter reads. “Your actions terminating Chief Devlin because he refused to violate the criminal and other statutory laws of this State violate (a) the ‘public policy’ protections contained within the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing of his contract, and also (b) the implied term of his contract that he apply the law evenhandedly to all citizens, opening the Town up to a State court breach of contract lawsuit for his lost wages and benefits.”

The letter continues, “But more importantly, his federal constitutional rights also have been violated which opens each of you personally up to a civil rights lawsuit in federal court for unlimited compensatory and punitive damages, as well as the attor-

ney’s fees he will have to spend to obtain justice.”

In a hand-delivered letter issued May 1, the town notified Devlin it would not renew his employment contract, which was extended in August 2021. To that end, Devlin’s employment with the town will terminate on Aug. 31.

“The Town expects that Chief Devlin will finish out his term in accordance with his employment agreement,” Mayor Natalie Magdeburger said at the time. “The Town Council of Fenwick Island is commencing a search for a Police Chief and the position will be advertised in the near future.”

The news came as a surprise to several community members, who went before the town council on May 26 to express their support for the police chief. Their comments, however, soon turned into questions regarding an alleged security breach at the police station.

“If there is a breach of security with the police station, I’d like to know what it was,” resident Faye Horner said last month.

In a June interview, Devlin claimed Magdeburger used a security access code on the evening of April 23 to enter the police station without permission and without an escort. He said only personnel certified by the Delaware Criminal Justice Information System (DELJIS) can enter the police station without an escort.

Magdeburger has since denied the allegations, stating she did not unlawfully enter the police station and had used a pass code the police chief had given to her to obtain a copy of the police schedule for upcoming ride-alongs with officers. She said she was escorted by an officer the entire time.

“I’m just trying to do my job and do it as well as I can,” she said in an interview earlier this month. “It’s unfortunate an allegation like this was made in that circumstance. At the end of the day, I don’t believe I did anything wrong. I did not get any information I wasn’t entitled to receive.”

In the wake of the incident, Devlin has sent an ethics violation report to the Delaware attorney general’s office and DELJIS.

The demand letter issued this week opines that the reporting of the alleged security breach and Devlin’s termination were linked.

“Seven days after the report of a security breach on April 24, Chief Devlin on May 1 in writing was advised that the Town, acting through the entire Town Council, had decided not to renew for its second two year term its employment contract with the chief,” the letter reads. “He has been sidelined since that date and his duties are executed by a Lieutenant. The temporal causal link between the report of a security breach and this termination is unmistakable.”

In a statement this week, Magdeburger said, “It is unfortunate Chief Devlin and his new counsel are using the media to discuss this matter. We would like nothing more than to respond and discuss the numerous discussions that occurred with Chief Devlin during the last two years. However, we will refrain from discussing personnel matters publicly at this time, as it is not in the best interests of Chief Devlin or the Town of Fenwick Island to do so.” Magdeburger added that Devlin had not been terminated.

“Rather, Council unanimously decided to forgo exercising the Town’s option, per the Chief’s employment agreement, to extend his term of service for an additional two years beyond August 31, 2023,” she said. “The timing of the notice, May 1, 2023, was dictated by the terms of the employment agreement. Nor have we limited Chief Devlin’s duties; to the contrary, we continue to expect him to perform his duties in a competent and professional manner, as he agreed to do, including, but not limited to ensuring that Fenwick Island has adequate police coverage. There are officers within the department who will and have endeavored to make sure Fenwick Island remains safe during the transition.”

She continued, “We are actively searching for a Chief of Police and are currently conducting interviews of qualified candidates. We will notify the public once a new Chief of Police is selected.”

Future Cost Concerns Lead To County Not Accepting Pre-K3 Grant

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – County officials opted not to accept a grant to expand prekindergarten in Worcester County.

The Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday did not offer concurrence to the school system on plans to accept a Pre-K expansion grant. While the grant would have funded expanded Pre-K3 for one year, costs going forward would have been worked into the school system’s operating budget.

“We do need to be working together on these sorts of things, so taxpayers know exactly where their dollars are going,” Commissioner Chip Bertino said.

Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young on Tuesday presented the commissioners with a request for concurrence regarding a Pre-K3 expansion grant. The grant would have added an additional Pre-K3 classroom at Buckingham Elementary School, Pocomoke Elementary School and Snow Hill Elementary. The grant would provide salaries for seven staff members as well as furniture, supplies, curriculum and technology needed for the first year.

“After the first year of this Pre-K expansion grant the program would require approximately a $600,000 increase to the board’s operating budget to continue these classrooms,” Young said.

Bertino asked if the county had received information regarding ESSR grants the school system had accepted.

“I don’t know what we’re obligated to pay as far as grant committals,” he said.

Young said the county had received ESSR information among the more than 1,000 pages of financial detail recently provided by the school system but that it was still being reviewed by staff.

None of the commissioners made a motion to support the board’s acceptance of the grant. At the end of the meeting, Bertino said this was the first time he could remember that the school system shared information like that regarding a grant they were considering. He said speaking for himself, he hadn’t supported the request because he didn’t know what other grant funded program costs would have to be absorbed by the school system’s operating budget.

“The opportunity to work with the board of education on these grants is helpful and productive and I don’t want it to be missed that in fact this was the first time the board of education provided us with this information,” he said. “I want to thank them for that, but we do need to know exactly what we’re on the hook for moving forward because as was stated once that grant goes away it would be additional $600,000 that would be part of the board of education’s budget.”

At Tuesday’s meeting the commissioners also voted to approve the updated budget category amounts provided by the board of education in response to the maintenance of effort

budget approved for the coming fiscal year. The school board met last week to adjust the budget to address the fact that the county approved maintenance of effort funding of $100 million, which is about $4.5 million less than the school system requested. That meeting came just days after the school sytem provided the county with more than 1,000 pages of financial information sought through a Public Information Act request.

Commissioner Caryn Abbott said she appreciated the information but that staff members were still reviewing it. She said she was hopeful that level of detail could be provided in the future.

“What we have asked this year is not political but prudent,” she said. “We answer to all the taxpayers in Worcester County.”

County Commissioners Jim Bunting, Chip Bertino and Ted Elder are pictured at Tuesday’s meeting in Snow Hill.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

Building Dept. Workshop Questioned

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Concerns about an upcoming meeting with building industry professionals were shared this week as efforts continue to improve the permit review and inspection process in Ocean City.

At the end of Tuesday’s Mayor and Council meeting, Council Secretary Tony DeLuca shared his concerns about an upcoming meeting between the town’s building department and local builders.

As officials consider adjustments to the permit review and construction inspection process, builders are being asked to provide input in two, hour-long workshops scheduled for next Wednesday. DeLuca, however, said he had received calls about the meeting and had

concerns about what would occur.

“When we met last time, we all agreed that we would bring all the stakeholders together for a meeting,” he said. “This says there’s a presentation first, and we agreed it would be a collaborative workshop. And it’s only an hour, once from 8 to 9, and then from 5 to 6. It should be a couple of hours.”

DeLuca said he also had concerns about the length of notice provided to builders.

“If it goes in the paper this Friday for the stakeholders, they only have until Wednesday. I think a benchmark we normally use is about 20 days …,” he said. “Those couple of issues I would like to see considered for Wednesday’s meeting.”

In a work session last week, Chief Building Official James Metzgar presented the Mayor and Council with a new plan submission guide, which includes new forms aimed at improving the building permit review and construction inspection process. While the intent of the presentation was purely informational, local builders came before the council to share their objections to the proposal. To that end, Deputy City Manager J.R. Harmon shared the town’s plans to hold a meeting with local builders to review the proposed improvements.

“I think it’s important based on the previous comments to remind everybody the intent of this presentation today is informational and that our building department intends to have a public hearing with the builders after this for public comment and work with them in developing this guide,” he said.

At the end of this week’s meeting, Harmon told the council the town’s building department would hold a workshop next Wednesday, with two timeslots for which local builders could attend. The workshop, he noted, would not only have a presentation, but a back-and-forth discussion with attendees.

“It is going to be a back-and-forth,” he told DeLuca, “But there will be a presentation on what is currently required.”

Harmon said the goal of the presentation would be to inform builders of the current submission process.

“What we’re experiencing is there are many incomplete packets and projects that were turned in that make it almost impossible to approve the permit because we’re missing something …,” he said. “The whole purpose of this is to reorganize that so that the builders know what needs to be turned in so the site approval and permit process can smooth out.”

City Manager Terry McGean said he hoped the workshop would address any concerns or misconceptions. He noted that some of the comments made by local builders at last week’s work session were not accurate.

“I think once the facts get out there, we’re going to ease a lot of minds as to what’s going on,” he said.

Above, Deputy City Manager J.R. Harmon is pictured addressing the Mayor and Council at Tuesday’s meeting. Photo by Bethany Hooper

Town Street Proposal Advances To Council

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – A street maintenance proposal from an engineering firm will advance to the town council with the support of a Fenwick Island committee.

Last week, members of the Fenwick Island Infrastructure Committee voted unanimously to accept a street maintenance proposal from Mott MacDonald and forward the document to the Fenwick Island Town Council with a favorable recommendation.

After receiving proposals from two firms – Mott MacDonald and AECOM – Councilman Richard Benn, committee chair, said the plan submitted by Mott MacDonald was much more comprehensive.

“They are literally going to put it out for bid, post the bids and oversee the work and make sure the work is done properly,” he said. “They also list all the streets we need to do, and they estimate the cost to be $26,000. This proposal is quite a bit more than what AECOM’s is. It pretty much covers what we need.”

Benn told committee members last week the town had budgeted funds for street maintenance to be completed this fall and next spring. He said money set aside in the town’s dedicated street fund, as well as grant funding, would finance the project.

“The good news is between our dedicated street funds and what we already have saved up, we have enough money projected to cover all our street maintenance for the next 10 years, which is great,” he said. “We also get $37,000 from the state in assistance, so we should be in good shape, even with inflation.”

Benn said he believed the Mott MacDonald proposal was the better proposal and made a motion to accept it with a favorable recommendation. Public Works Director Mike Locke agreed the proposal offered more services, including bids and pre-bid meetings.

“Everything from start to finish is what they are proposing,” he said.

After further discussion, the committee voted unanimously to accept the proposal and forward it to the town council with a favorable recommendation.

“I feel the Mott MacDonald proposal is superior in every way …,” Benn said. “Since Mott MacDonald has done street work for us in the past, I think they are the preferred provider of this service.”

The committee last week also discussed plans to host a symposium on the town’s resiliency plan, produced by AECOM. Members agreed to host the meeting the Thursday before Labor Day at town hall.

“I don’t know if we should call it a symposium or open house,” Benn said, “but we really need to educate the town about what AECOM’s resiliency proposal is recommending.”

Benn said the symposium would allow officials to gather input from residents and discuss ways to implement the resiliency plan, should it be adopted.

“I think those are the main things we need to address,” he said.

Berlin Electric Looks To Sponsor Training Program

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – The Town of Berlin could become the first municipality in the state to sponsor an electrical line worker program.

The Berlin Town Council last week approved a request from the town’s electric department to pursue an opportunity to become the first municipality in the state to sponsor an electrical line worker/meter technician training program.

“It still needs to go before the state board,” said Kelsey Jensen, the town’s human resources director.

Tim Lawrence, the town’s electric utility director, told the council last week that Berlin currently had three apprentices attending a linemen training program. The course they’re enrolled in is recognized nationwide but is not recognized by the state of Maryland. Lawrence reached out to officials at the Maryland Department of Labor to see if that could be changed.

“I went through how we could possibly move toward becoming the first municipality in the state of Maryland to sponsor an apprenticeship training program officially,” he said.

According to Lawrence it wouldn’t be that difficult to do and would mostly involve him tracking the training hours of apprentices.

“There wasn’t that much to it really, it just creates more paperwork and keeping up with the amount of hours because you have to have so many working hours in certain categories, that type of thing,” he said, adding that he was familiar with the work because he’d done it in Virginia before he came to work in Berlin.

Lawrence believes that sponsoring the program would help with grant opportunities, would expand training opportunities for workers and would help with employee recruitment and retention. Lawrence added that it would not have a financial impact on the town beyond normal employee salaries, benefits and training costs.

Mayor Zack Tyndall thanked Lawrence for spearheading the research into the program.

“It goes a long way,” he said.

Councilman Dean Burrell asked if there would be any liability to the town if it sponsored the program. Lawrence said there would not be, as the town was simply ensuring that its employees were properly trained.

“In the state’s eyes, they look at it as we’re taking it one step further to make sure we’re doing everything properly,” he said.

The council voted unanimously to enter into an agreement with the Maryland Department of Labor for participation in the line worker/meter technician apprenticeship sponsor program.

“Thank you both for your work on this it goes a long way,” Tyndall said.

OC Offering Fireworks, Live Music For Holiday Celebrations

OCEAN CITY – Ocean City will light up the night sky with two simultaneous fireworks displays on Tuesday, July 4 in celebration of Independence Day.

The northern display at Northside Park, 125th Street and the bay, will kick off at 8 p.m. with DJ musical entertainment followed by a spectacular fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.

“Northside Park is the perfect place for families to watch the colorful displays light up the evening sky and lagoon,” said Mayor Rick Meehan. “We encourage spectators to get there early to claim their spot to watch the fireworks.”

The soccer field and walking path on the northwest side of the park will be closed from viewing due to state and local safety precautions as the fireworks display will move off the west pier into the park to bring the experience closer than ever before.

On the south end of town, guests can head to Ocean City’s Boardwalk with its bright lights, an assortment of food, family fun and more. The U.S. Army military band Downrange will kick off a special music performance on Caroline Street Stage at 7 p.m. followed by DJ music and the official fireworks show at 9:30 p.m.

“The July Fourth Celebration in Ocean City is a unique opportunity to watch fireworks over the ocean,” Meehan said. “Our Caroline Street Stage allows visitors to bring beach chairs or blankets and claim a spot on the sand where they can enjoy the live performance and capture a special and patriotic firework display set to

music. If you wish to experience the music of the Downrange military band a second time, the band will offer a second free show on July 5 at Sunset Park beginning promptly at 7:45 p.m.”

Parking operations for the Inlet Parking Lot will stay the same for the holiday, Tuesday, July 4, however; the parking rate for the Inlet Lot will increase to $5 per hour for the day.

Coastal Highway bus service will be available from 6 a.m. to 3 a.m. Patrons can ride for only $4 for a ride-all-day pass and are reminded to anticipate delays, limited services, and full buses due to an ongoing shortage of bus drivers. The West Ocean City Park & Ride on Route 50 is another transportation alternative, offering free parking and $4 ride-all-day shuttle service downtown at Dorchester Street and St. Louis Avenue. The service running to and from the West Ocean City Park & Ride to Dorchester Street and St. Louis Avenue will be available from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. The West Ocean City Park & Ride will have a limited number of buses and major delays are expected. West Ocean City Park & Ride passes are valid on Coastal Highway buses.

Finally, area boaters should note that on the evening of July 4, the span of the Route 50 Bridge will remain closed to marine traffic at the usually scheduled 10:25 p.m. and 10:55 p.m. opening times. The Route 50 Bridge will reopen for boaters at 11:25 p.m. on the evening of July 4.

With safety in mind, the Ocean City

Fire Marshal’s Office (FMO) is also urging spectators to leave the fireworks to the professionals.

“The power and danger of fireworks should not be underestimated,” said Ocean City Fire Marshal Josh Bunting. “In addition to causing damage, fireworks can cause injuries and we want people to be safe during their holiday stay in Ocean City. The safety and wellbeing of all residents and visitors of the Town of Ocean City is the primary goal of the Ocean City Fire Department.”

Although the state has approved the use of ground-based sparkling devices

such as cylindrical and cone fountains, these are not legal to use or possess in Ocean City. Further, all other fireworks that may be sold in neighboring states are not legal for use by the public anywhere in Maryland.

“The Fourth of July holiday is a great opportunity for residents and visitors to stay and play in Ocean City,” Meehan said. “With a beautiful setting and two great fireworks events, we hope our guests will come early and stay late to celebrate America’s birthday at the beach and leave knowing that Ocean City gave them something to smile about.”

Staff To Review Playground Bids For Downtown Complex

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Six proposals for a new playground build at the Downtown Recreation Complex will be reviewed following bid openings this week.

In a Mayor and Council meeting Tuesday, six bids were opened for a new playground build at the Downtown Recreation Complex. With a budgeted amount of $502,000, bids ranged from just over $495,000 to $502,000.

“Typically what we do with these playground bids is we do provide them a guidance budget and tell them to show us what you can do with that amount of money,” City Manager Terry McGean told the council this week. “So it would not be unheard of for a couple of bids to come in exactly at the budgeted amount.”

Located between 3rd and 4th streets bayside and bounded by Philadelphia and Chicago avenues, the Downtown Recreation Complex is being redeveloped in phases to include various recreation opportunities.

For the east section of the complex, the plan includes an expanded skate park, relocating the existing basketball courts and an improved inclusive playground area.

The section to the west would be less developed and more passive. It includes a vast flexible lawn in the center surrounded by trees for pickup sports and other events, a playground area, new restrooms and more. The recreational fishing areas

along the bulkhead would also be retained.

A key element in the overall park complex redevelopment is the expansion of the decades-old Ocean Bowl Skate Park.

The plan calls for upgrading the existing facility along with the addition of popular street-skate elements. The expansion will take the skate park from its existing 10,000 square feet to 17,000 square feet.

As the project moves forward, the town

this week received bids from six vendors for its playground build at the complex. Miracle Recreation submitted a bid of $495,167, Playground Specialists Inc. submitted a bid of $498,000, River Valley Landscapes submitted a bid of $500,000, GameTime submitted a bid of $501,839, and both West Products and Services and Commercial Recreation Products submitted bids of $502,000.

“I believe many of these bids have different designs,” McGean said. “So it would require staff evaluation.”

With no further discussion, the council voted 5-0, with Council President Matt James and Councilman John Gehrig absent, to acknowledge the six bids and remand them to staff for further review.

“We got six bids,” McGean said. “That was very good.”

Town staff opened bids this week for a playground build at the Downtown Recreation Complex in Ocean City. Above, a rendering shows planned improvements at the site. Submitted Image

Berlin Officials To Discuss Heron Park Future Next Week

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Municipal officials are expected to discuss the potential sale of a portion of Heron Park next week.

Mayor Zack Tyndall confirmed this week that he and the council would be discussing Heron Park at the meeting scheduled for June 26.

“It will be a discussion item between the mayor and council,” Tyndall said.

Last year, the town entered into negotiations with Palmer Gillis’s Coastal Ventures Properties LLC — one of two entities that submitted a proposal for the Heron Park property. The initial proposal from Gillis offered the town $1.5 million for three parcels — parcel 410, 57 and 191 — and would involve partial demolition of the existing structures to create a commercial project on the site. The trails and pond on the north end of the property would be unaffected. Since then, Tyndall, Councilman Jack Orris and Councilman Jay Knerr, along with Town Administrator Mary Bohlen and Town Attorney David Gaskill, have served on a subcommittee to work with the company to negotiate an agreement.

In recent weeks, however, two residents have filed complaints with the Open Meetings Compliance Board (OMCB) regarding closed meetings town officials held regarding Heron Park. In April, resident Jason Walter filed a complaint with the OMCB regarding closed session council meetings that had been held regarding Heron Park on March 21, 2022, July 25, 2022, and March 23, 2023. He also said meetings by the Heron Park subcommittee — meetings that consisted of the mayor, two council members, the town administrator and the town attorney — should have been advertised and open to the public. More recently, resident Edward Hammond wrote to the OMCB alleging that the town used the RFP process to evade the Open Meetings Act. He supplemented his complaint last week after he said Gillis reached out to him to talk about his proposal. Hammond doesn’t believe Gillis should get a year’s worth of “secret meetings” with town officials when the public will only have a few days before the June 26 meeting to share their thoughts with elected officials.

“The town got the cart before the horse,” Hammond wrote in his amended complaint. “It needed to have decided what it wanted to do with the land before issuing an ‘RFP.’ Since the town did not have a clue what it wanted to do with the land when it issued the ‘RFP,’ unless there was a secret understanding between the mayor and Mr. Gillis who were already negotiating, the ‘RFP’ simply functioned as a manner to avoid public input and public meetings.”

Gillis, however, said he doesn’t understand exactly what Hammond’s concern is. He said the RFP was available to the public on the town’s website and, once municipal officials decided to pursue his proposal, his meetings with the subcommittee only addressed technical

details. He said they talked about issues such as traffic studies, environmental issues and public roads.

“I believe we stayed within the guardrails of our response to the RFP,” he said. “Everything we talked about stayed within the lane of what we submitted. It just took forever to do it.”

While he’s heard concerns from the public in recent weeks about the price his proposal put on the land, he said that initial price had increased. He added that even when the property was a functioning processing plant, it had been listed at $1.9 million. The town purchased the property for $2.5 million in 2016.

“The town is retaining 70% of it,” Gillis said. “It seems like we’re paying double what they paid.”

Knerr said the subcommittee met with Gillis several times to discuss the sale and development of the portions of Heron Park Gillis plans to buy.

“Although there seems to be disagreement among town residents as to whether the town should keep or sell the properties, the committee is ready to make a recommendation to the full council,” Knerr said. “There are definitely pros and cons to keeping it versus selling it, and the committee kept that in mind throughout our discussions.”

Knerr added that there was a deadline associated with the $500,000 strategic demolition grant the town received for the property so a decision needs to

be made soon.

Orris said that after the months of meetings he was eager to share the details of the subcommittee’s efforts with the public.

“I believe that we are finally ready to present to the residents and council what the group has been working on for their review and comment,” he said. “I think we should have an open discussion with public comment. I’d hate to have the topic pushed to the end of the meeting so I’m hopeful the mayor will place it on the agenda as a specific item.”

Orris said that as far as the subcommittee meetings, town officials had simply been trying to nail down an agreement with Gillis.

“Speaking for myself, from the beginning of this, my mode of operation and understanding was to drill down topics of the RFP with the developer, discuss possible uses of the parcel(s) up for sale and ultimately, a sale price,” he said. “The intention was then to present a package to the council and the public for review.”

He says that moving forward, he doesn’t want the town to relive what has already been done.

“In the disposition discussion and learning from the purchasing experience, we held a public listening session and public updates throughout the past year. I believe we could’ve done a bit

better on the substance of those updates, but the product of doing - what I believed to be - our due diligence will hopefully be presented at Monday’s meeting. The best course will be presenting all options to the public, timelines/process of selling if that’s how the council chooses to go, and possibly a ballot measure would be appropriate and let the people have a direct say. That all should be discussed Monday night.”

Gillis said he’d be in attendance Monday though Tyndall hadn’t made it clear whether he’d be permitted to be involved in the discussion.

“We’re going to be there to listen and be available for questions and answers if possible,” he said.

In March of 2022, the Town of Berlin received two bids for the disposition and development of Heron Park. Gillis presented plans for a commercial development. The company would give the town $1.5 million and two acres for an amphitheater in exchange for parcels 57, 410 and 191. Natelli Communities presented plans for 78 singlefamily homes and some commercial space. The Natelli proposal offered the town $1.6 million and five parcels near Stephen Decatur Park. Town staff graded the proposals, giving Natelli a score of 100 and Gillis a score of 90, but the council ultimately decided to work with Gillis on his proposal.

Serious Bicycling Collisions

OCEAN CITY – Two separate bicycling collisions with automobiles resulted in two people being hospitalized in the resort.

On Saturday, June 17 around 6:19 p.m., Ocean City police responded to a motor vehicle collision involving a bicyclist that occurred in the area of 36th Street and Coastal Highway. The bicyclist, an adult female, was flown to R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland. The female has since been released. Members of the Traffic Safety Unit are investigating the cause of the collision. Northbound Coastal Highway at 36th Street was reduced to two lanes of travel for approximately two hours.

On June 19, around 9:30 a.m., a motor

COPS & COURTS

vehicle collision involving a bicyclist and an Ocean City municipal bus was reported. The collision occurred in the area of southbound Coastal Highway and Old Landing Road in north Ocean City. The bicyclist, a juvenile male from the Baltimore area, was flown to Johns Hopkins Children’s Center. The juvenile was listed as in critical but stable condition as of

Tuesday afternoon. Members of the Traffic Safety Unit are investigating the cause of the collision. Southbound Coastal Highway at Old Landing Road was reduced to two lanes of travel for approximately three hours.

Drugs, Weapons Found

OCEAN CITY – Two Maryland men were arrested last weekend when a traffic stop in the resort led to drugs and weapons.

Around 8 p.m. on June 17, an Ocean City bike officer initiated a traffic stop after noticing a black Honda Accord being driven by a motorist not wearing a seatbelt. An odor of marijuana led police to remove the driver, Illijah Roberts, 18, of Baltimore, and passenger, later identified as Jaden Harris, 19, of Baltimore, for a search that resulted in drugs and weapons being seized.

Police located in the center console of the vehicle a 9 mm handgun without any serial numbers. The gun had three live rounds in the magazine, according to the police report. Also in the center console were two bags of marijuana. A digital scale was found in the driver’s side door.

Another loaded handgun with 11 rounds in the magazine was located in a red backpack on the passenger side. There were no serial numbers on the gun as well. Police noted in the report handguns without serial numbers, known as “ghost guns,” are often carried by individuals in the drug distribution trade. Inside the bag were also several bags of marijuana, another digital scale and two plastics bags of psilocybin mushrooms, a Schedule I controlled dangerous substance (CDS).

Inside the vehicle’s trunk was another backpack containing multiple plastic bags of mushrooms and a second backpack with three rounds of loose ammunition.

Roberts and Harris each face 11 charges including CDS possession with intent to distribute cannabis, CDS possession with intent to distribute not cannabis, firearm/drug trafficking, loaded handgun on person, possession of a firearm without a serial number and possession of a firearm as a minor.

Serious Assault Charges

OCEAN CITY – A local man faces two counts of first-degree assault for threatening to stab two individuals during an argument.

A 911 hang-up at approximately 2:25 in the morning on June 18 led Ocean City police to a Trimper Avenue apartment. Upon arrival police heard a loud argument from outside. A female occupant of the unit gave police permission to enter the unit, directing officers to a back bedroom where two men were arguing. The female and her boyfriend were reportedly asleep when Yonatan Yoseph, 34, of Ocean City, who police were familiar with from previous encounters, banged on

their bedroom door repeatedly. Upset over a crab that had been eaten two weeks before, according to police reports, Yoseph entered the bedroom with a steak knife and was blocking the two individuals from leaving. The male victim told police Yoseph held the tip of the knife at his stomach while continuing the argument. Yoseph eventually threw the knife down the hall once he heard police knocking at the door.

Yoseph complied with police during questioning but told police the argument never got physical and was only verbal over food being stolen regularly.

Hennessy Bottle Assault

OCEAN CITY – A fight with a juvenile resulted in a Maryland man facing a second-degree assault charge.

On June 13 at 8:25 p.m., Ocean City police responded to 9th Street for a reported fight in progress. A juvenile was quickly apprehended and put in handcuffs to be arrested.

A witness told police two groups were originally joking with each other before four different fights broke out. As the fight ensued, the witness said a man, later identified as Jullian Haddix, 19, of Dundalk, smashed a Hennessy bottle over another individual’s head.

Charges filed against Haddix were second-degree assault, affray and disorderly conduct.

Fighting, Weapon Charges

OCEAN CITY – Five charges were filed against a Pennsylvania man after a dispute that ultimately resulted in emergency officials having to extinguish a small fire on a roof.

On June 15, around 9 p.m., an Ocean City police officer on uniform bike patrol responded to a Boardwalk hotel for an assault that had occurred. Police came upon the scene and saw a hotel manager with a disorderly group. The manager told police the group was lighting lanterns and releasing them into the sky. The litter left behind led the manager to address the group and a verbal argument ensued.

The manager reported to police he was grabbed from behind, lifted off the ground and surrounded by the group. The incident ended when the manager said police would be called. The man who grabbed the manager and fled the area was identified as Malik Dyer, 18, of Dallastown, Pa. A description was broadcast for the suspect, and Dyer was located along the bayside with a backpack, which he dropped as soon as he was spotted by police and continuously denied was his during a conversation.

Inside the backpack was a loaded Polymer 80 handgun with no serial number and eight rounds in the magazine.

Dyer was charged with second-degree assault for his handling of the hotel manager, carrying a handgun and a loaded handgun under 21 years of age and possession of a handgun without a required serial number.

Meanwhile, shortly after the initial call, the lanterns set off by the group led to an emergency response by the Ocean City Fire Department (OCFD) to the nearby Hooters Restaurant at 10 p.m. Firefighters arrived at the scene, laddered the building and extinguished a small fire on SEE PAGE 24

HAPPINESS

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the roof. Investigators from the Office of the Fire Marshal have determined that the cause of the fire was a sky lantern.

The OCFD is now cautioning citizens against the use of sky lanterns within the city limits. Sky lanterns are airborne paper lanterns typically made from rice paper with a bamboo frame. They contain a waxy combustible fuel cell that, when ignited, heats the air inside the lantern, causing it to ascend. However, these lanterns are known to travel significant distances once released.

Fire Marshal Battalion Chief Joseph Sexauer stresses the potential risks associated with sky lanterns, stating, "Once released, sky lanterns can travel on an uncontrolled flight path, which may lead to unintended property damage and burn injuries.”

Sexauer hopes that this public warning will serve as a means to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. To further reinforce the message, it is important to note that the use of sky lanterns within Ocean City and the State of Maryland is strictly prohibited by adopted Fire Prevention Codes. Violation of this regulation may result in the issuance of civil citations, with penalties of up to $1,000 for each offense.

Residents and visitors are urged to familiarize themselves with the regulations and to refrain from using sky lanterns or any other recreational fire devices that pose a potential risk to public safety. Instead, the fire department encourages the community to explore alternative ways to celebrate that do not endanger lives or property.

For additional information regarding sky lanterns or the use of any other recreational fire, contact the Office of the Fire Marshal at 410-289-8780.

Assault, Indecent Exposure

OCEAN CITY – A man was allegedly assaulted after refusing to engage in a challenge to compare body parts on a public sidewalk.

Ocean City police officers were on routine patrol on June 16 at 1:51 a.m. when they were dispatched to 33rd Street for a reported assault. A group of individuals told police of a physical altercation led by a male aggressor, later identified as Colby Starheim, 23, of Gaithersburg, Md. A bar employee reported to police a group of about 15 people were walking south on the sidewalk when they engaged with a smaller group of five individuals. One victim told police, “he had been punched approximately 20 times”

by the stranger, according to a police report, after leaving a nearby bar.

At one point during the exchange prior to the alleged assault, Starheim challenged the group to a body part comparison by pulling down his pants to expose himself. When the victim refused and said, “that’s weird,” per the police report, Starheim and others attacked him. Starheim was located nearby and positively identified as the primary aggressor.

Starheim was charged with seconddegree assault and indecent exposure.

Teen Caught With Stolen Bike

OCEAN CITY – A Maryland teen was apprehended after allegedly stealing a beach cruiser.

On June 15, an Ocean City bike officer noticed a male, Jonathan Travis, 18, of Germantown, riding a bike eastbound on the ocean block of Worcester Street. The bicycle was covered with stickers from local businesses. When police questioned Travis, he admitted the bike was not his and he took it from a nearby municipal parking lot. The man also gave a false name and birth date initially. A search of the man’s wallet confirmed the name and birth date provided were fabricated.

Travis was charged with obstructing and hindering an officer, assuming a false identity and theft of at least $100 but less than $1,500.

Loaded Gun Recovered

OCEAN CITY – A Pennsylvania man faces handgun charges after a traffic stop last week.

On June 13, around 12:15 p.m., Ocean City police initiated a traffic stop after a 2011 Mazda was observed on Coastal Highway making a lane change that nearly caused a head-on collision. As the police officer was getting out of his patrol car, the driver, Christopher B. Taylor, 25, of Pittsburgh, immediately moved to exit his vehicle. Police advised Taylor to remain inside the car. The motorist immediately informed police he had a gun on the passenger seat and was licensed with a carry permit in Pennsylvania. Another officer arrived on the scene to handle the firearm, identified as a Smith and Wesson M&P 40 Shield with rounds in the magazine but not in the chamber.

Taylor advised police he was unaware “Maryland does not have reciprocity,” when it comes to carrying a gun. Taylor was charged with knowingly transporting a loaded handgun on a public road and knowingly transporting a handgun on a

public road.

Bread, Fireball Stolen

OCEAN CITY – Two individuals were charged for breaking into a hotel bar and stealing bread and a bottle of liquor.

On June 16, around 4:42 in the morning, Ocean City police were dispatched to a mid-town hotel for a premise alarm activation in the bar area. When police reached the bar, officers found a juvenile sporting a T-shirt as a makeshift mask in the closed bar area. The juvenile from Pennsylvania was ordered off the brick wall he was sitting on and another Tshirt-masked individual, Jonah Wuertz, 18, of Royersford, Pa., was seen hiding behind the bar. Wuertz and the juvenile were placed in handcuffs while police investigated the matter. Both individuals admitted they were not hotel guests and were simply being “playful.”

During questioning, Wuertz admitted to taking bread from behind the bar and police noticed a bottle of Fireball liquor had been taken. Wuertz was charged with breaking and entering and theft under $100 for the Fireball liquor and bread.

Fatal Crash Investigated

POCOMOKE – Maryland State Police are investigating a fatal crash in Worcester County that claimed the life of a 34year-old man.

The deceased is identified as Alexander Prince, 34, of New Jersey. Prince was operating a white Nissan Rogue at the time of the crash. He was pronounced deceased at the scene by emergency medical service personnel. There were three passengers in the vehicle, all of whom were transported from the scene.

The injured are identified as Vanessa Piquant, 33 and her two children, ages 6 and 8, of New York. All three were transported by ambulance to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in Salisbury.

Shortly after 12:30 a.m. June 16, Maryland State Police from the Berlin Barrack responded to a single vehicle crash on Route 113 at Betheden Church Road in Pocomoke. The preliminary investigation indicates Prince was traveling southbound on Route 113 when, for reasons unknown at this time, the vehicle left the roadway and struck a tree.

Deputies from the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office responded to provide assistance. Personnel from the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration were also on scene to assist with traffic.

The crash remains under investigation.

GM Reviews Proposed FY25 Capital Projects

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – An ADA-compliant playground, a new firehouse and a new racquet building highlight just some of the capital projects being proposed for the Ocean Pines community.

In a meeting of the Ocean Pines Board of Directors last Saturday, General Manager John Viola presented association members with a list of proposed capital projects for the next fiscal year. While the budget process typically kicks off later in the year, Viola said officials have already begun looking at potential capital projects that could be funded in fiscal year 2024-2025.

“Obviously we’re in the second month of our fiscal year,” he said. “But that doesn’t mean our team, all of us, aren’t already working on capital items. That’s the way to do it, not in October, November, December.”

Viola said he is currently meeting with committees and gathering input as he begins to plan for certain capital projects. He said those projects would then be reviewed by budget and finance.

“What I’ll do next is start talking to budget and finance on them,” he said.

Proposed capital items for the fiscal year 2024-2025 budget include a new irrigation system at the golf course, a pavilion for Veterans Memorial Park and a new fire station for the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department.

“The workgroup will probably come to this board in August …,” he said. “We’re hoping to get more grants, and we want to see the results of that before we come forward. But we do have sketches.”

Viola added that an ADA-complaint playground is also being eyed for Bainbridge Park. He said a survey on the Bainbridge Park playground has been distributed to association members.

“We’re going to try to get as much input as we can,” he said. “We’re certainly looking into wherever we can get grants … It is a big initiative.”

Viola also shared plans for a new racquet center.

“I will sit down with our team and talk to some contractors, high level, and see what is viable and what we actually need,” he said. “It’s either renovation or a completely new building, one-story or two-story.”

During public comments, however, resident Dave Tanner shared his objections to building a new racquet center.

He argued the current building was in good shape and met the community’s needs.

“Why do we need the racquet center?” he said. “Nobody seems to really be able to answer that question. I hear the old building is fully depreciated on the books, so we need a new one … There’s just no justification to spend over $1 million for a new building, not even close.”

A design concept shows ideas for both a one-story and two-story racquet center in Ocean Pines. Submitted Image

Learning To Fish: The Ocean Pines Anglers Club hosted its annual Teach A Kid To Fish Day last Saturday at the South Gate Pond. Children learned fishing skills and techniques from club members and the Department of Natural Resources. Scenes from the event are pictured. Photos by Charlene Sharpe

WCDC Director To Retire June 30

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

NEWARK – After more than a decade leading the Worcester County Developmental Center, Executive Director Jack Ferry will step down at the end of this month.

Ferry, who started at the Newark facility in 2008, will retire June 30. While he’ll miss his daily interactions with developmental center clients, Ferry believes he’s leaving the agency at a good time.

“It’s the right time,” he said. “We’ve never been stronger.”

Ferry said he was working in a similar facility in Pennsylvania when he became aware of the opportunity to join the Worcester County Developmental Center (WCDC) as it rebuilt following the 2007 fire that destroyed the original

center. With a summer house in Ocean Pines and family in the area, Ferry said he was eager to help WCDC—which serves clients with intellectual disabilities—move forward.

“It was a challenge,” he said. “They were in temporary housing at the time. We did as much as we could.”

When the new building opened, the nonprofit had the space to offer a variety of new employment programs for clients. It featured a full-service laundry and kitchen for catering. There was also space for the assembly of equipment, another job that clients enjoyed.

“What set us apart was the variety of jobs we had,” he said.

While new federal guidelines ended the facility-based employment programs in 2016, Ferry and his staff of 144 remained committed to helping WCDC clients find a way to stay busy.

“There are jobs out there but not as many our clients could do,” he said, adding that many struggled with communication.

WCDC leadership decided to transition the facility to more of a center for the arts once the facility-based employment stopped. Ferry said art was a way the clients could keep busy and express themselves regardless of their communication skills.

The success of the center’s clients, first with the employment program and now with the art program, is what makes Ferry proud as he looks back on his years at WCDC. He said he’s glad he was able to assist in the creation of the two programs, as they’ve allowed clients to thrive.

“Whatever it is they like to do, we try to make their dreams come true,” Ferry said.

Ferry, who’s always eager to talk about WCDC and its initiatives with community groups, said interacting with the clients was his favorite part of leading the developmental center.

“It’s such a joy working with them,” he said.

If he runs into someone having a bad day, he often encourages them to stop by the center.

“Spend five minutes with our clients and your whole attitude has changed,” he said. “It’s just so exciting when you see how they’re learning and growing. I tell staff all the time, it’s not easy but it is the most rewarding job. There’s not a lot of jobs where you can make somebody’s life better every day.”

Ferry added that WCDC was strongly supported by the Worcester County community, something that made his job easier.

“People are very generous in supporting our mission, and they go out of their way to make our clients feel welcome,” he said.

While Ferry will miss WCDC staff and clients, he says he’s stepping down at just the right time, as the agency marks its 50th anniversary later this year.

“The agency is in fantastic shape,” he said. “It’s time to let some new ideas come in.”

Executive Director Jack Ferry, left, and clients Aaron Hoskins and Donta Smith are pictured at the facility last week. Ferry will step down at the end of June after more than a decade at Worcester County Developmental Center. Photo by Charlene Sharpe

Annual

Summer Kickoff: The Germantown School Community Heritage Center celebrated the end of school last weekend with its annual Summer Fun Kickoff, a traditional celebration held at the historic Rosenwald School. This year’s free celebration featured arts and crafts, face painting, a moon bounce, animal encounters, train rides, museum tours and more. Photos by Charlene Sharpe

Carozza Responds To New Public Safety Strategy

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – While state officials say a new public safety strategy will target information sharing and early intervention, one local representative argued it will do nothing to address violent crimes and repeat offenders.

Last week, Gov. Wes Moore revealed his administration’s new vision to address public safety in Maryland. The strategy, featuring an “all-of-the-above” approach, focuses on supporting law enforcement, building stronger, more vibrant communities, improving government coordination and investing in Maryland’s youth through a Safe Summer initiative.

“An all-of-the-above approach to improving public safety in Maryland requires preventing crime, holding crimi-

nals accountable, and addressing the root causes of crime,” Moore announced last Thursday. “Good government is about making strong choices. And we are going to make the choice to act on public safety – in a way that is robust, strategic, and moves with an urgency that the issue demands; in a way that doesn’t just react to crime, but actually prevents crime.”

Through the Maryland Department of State Police, the administration has plans to improve coordination with local and federal law enforcement agencies through the Maryland Coordination and Analysis Center (MCAC), which provides critical data, analysis, and insight into criminal activity.

Since the beginning of the year, the administration reports MCAC has worked with 275 federal, state and local agencies on issues such as homicide,

robberies, fraud and retail theft.

“No single police department has all the necessary resources and intelligence to combat the diverse range of criminal activities that we are seeing today – that’s why collaborative enforcement initiatives across every sector of law enforcement are more important than ever before,” said Maryland Department of State Police Superintendent Col. Roland L. Butler. “I am proud to stand with the members of the State Police and public safety partners who come to work each day and make a positive impact on our quality of life as Marylanders.”

As part of its new strategy, the administration also announced plans to launch a Safe Summer initiative through the Department of Juvenile Services.

The program will focus on improving opportunities for youth in the juvenile

justice system by directing more resources to Baltimore City and surrounding counties, launching an initiative focused on 25 youth under state supervision who are at the highest risk of shooting someone or being shot, and creating partnerships with state agencies.

In partnership with the Department of Natural Resources and the Maryland Department of the Environment, the agencies are implementing a series of youth development projects that will provide young people with the tools they need to thrive in communities across the state.

“To meet this moment we need all hands on deck. And I’m here to say that the Department of Juvenile Services stands ready to do our part,” said Maryland Department of Juvenile Services Secretary Vinny Schiraldi. “By prioritizing early interventions, we can meet our goal of building a more effective, less expensive, and better long-term approach to improving public safety.”

Following the governor’s announcement last week, Sen. Mary Beth Carozza – representing Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset counties – issued a statement voicing her concerns regarding the new public safety strategy. She opined the initiative would do nothing to target violent crimes or repeat offenders, particularly for communities on the Eastern Shore.

“During a week where we on the Eastern Shore were honoring the life of Corporal Glenn Hilliard on the one-year anniversary of his brutal murder by a repeat, violent offender, the Governor’s public safety announcement struck a raw nerve in my district where two of our finest law enforcement, Delmar Police Corporal Keith Heacook and Wicomico County Sheriff Corporal Glenn Hilliard, were savagely murdered by repeat, violent criminals over the last two years,” she said. “My constituents are demanding accountability and real consequences when it comes to dealing with repeat, violent offenders, and they are frustrated that there are no bold plans in addressing the violent crime in our communities.”

Carozza said that while the governor’s plan concentrated on information sharing and a new summer youth program, it did not introduce measures to reduce drug trafficking, armed robberies, carjackings or homicides, nor did it increase penalties against repeat violent offenders.

She added that the plan did not propose initiatives that reduced the number of illegal guns in the hands of criminals or held juveniles accountable for their crimes.

“Public safety should be the number one priority for anyone involved in public service, whether elected or not, or whether directly involved or not,” she said. “You can’t truly move forward with excellence in education, more affordable housing and healthcare, or a cleaner environment if Marylanders are not safe in their homes, neighborhoods, and communities. And public safety can only work if you have real accountability and real consequences.”

ARPA Fire Spending Approved

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL– County officials approved the use of federal relief funds by a trio of local fire and EMS companies this week.

On Tuesday, the Worcester County Commissioners approved American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) spending requests submitted by Pocomoke City EMS, the Newark Volunteer Fire Company and the Stockton Volunteer Fire Company.

“I think they’re using this money prudently,” Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said.

Last summer, the commissioners agreed to allocate $1.5 million of the county’s ARPA funds to fire and EMS throughout the county. Fire company representatives were asked to determine their highest priority items.

In recent months, the commissioners have approved requests from various agencies. Ocean City EMS is using its ARPA funding for medical devices, for example, while Bishopville Volunteer Fire Company is putting its funding toward a new ambulance and Ocean Pines EMS is using the funding toward the purchase of new heart monitors.

On Tuesday, the commissioners were presented with three more funding requests. Pocomoke City EMS, which as the farthest transport distance of any Worcester County EMS service with hospitals at least 30 miles away, wants to use $70,000 toward the purchase of a replacement ambulance. The vehicle would replace a 2016 ambulance that has more than 160,000 miles on the odometer and has been seen increasing maintenance costs.

Newark Volunteer Fire Company submitted a request to use $136,000 toward the purchase of a replacement ambulance.

Stockton Volunteer Fire Company submitted a request to use $150,000 toward the purchase of a new pumper engine, which could replace the agency’s 1994 engine.

Commissioner Chip Bertino said he didn’t think Stockton’s request was helping the county’s EMS response, which fire company officials have said in the past is fragile and in need of support.

Jerred Johnson, Stockton’s executive officer, said the fire company needed to replace its current engine, which was purchased in 1994 and is approaching the maximum age of 30 years. By using the ARPA funding for the new fire truck, the company will be able to put its savings toward expanding its medic assist services.

Weston Young, the county’s chief administrative officer, pointed out that the commissioners had approved a firerelated ARPA request from the Showell Volunteer Fire Company.

“With Showell, we approved the ARPA being used for a fire apparatus as well, and with the interest savings

they anticipated to get they were going to use that to help acquire an ambulance,” Young said.

Johnson said the medic assist vehicle was very similar to an ambulance.

“It’s designed exactly like an ambulance it just doesn’t have the stretcher,” he said.

Other Stockton representatives said it allowed first responders to expedite critical care and had been helpful in saving lives.

When asked if the company needed an ambulance, Stockton Fire Chief Tim Jerscheid said it was not financially feasible for the agency to purchase one.

“We’d be a minimum of $274,000 in the hole if we got every dollar of every billing of every patient we’d transport,” he said.

Jerscheid added that the Stockton crews were known for their quick response times when emergencies were called in. He said the average response time by Stockton was less than one minute.

“We provide the best service we can for our community,” he said.

Bertino asked that Stockton representatives put the information they’d shared justifying their request in writing and provide it to county staff. The commissioners went on to vote unanimously to approve the three ARPA requests.

Cash For College Awards: Ocean 98.1 WOCM-FM recently awarded its annual "Cash for College" Award to three, highly impressive and deserving graduates from Worcester, Wicomico and Sussex Counties. Each college-bound student was awarded $5,000 that may be used in any way they see fit. Award winners for the school year were, above from left, Ethan Gell (Snow Hill High School), William Creese IV (Parkside High School) and Thomas Gibbs II (Cape Henlopen High School). Pictured with the recipients are Promotions Director Bill Fuhrer and Bulldog, general manager and host of BullDog and The Rude Awakening Show. Gell is headed to McDaniel College, Creese is headed to Virginia Tech and Gibbs to Delaware State University. Submitted Photos

Pines Board OK’s Resolution Changes

BY BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITER

OCEAN PINES – Officials in Ocean Pines last week approved changes to the association’s elections resolution, allowing for ballots to be counted by an independent contractor and for the process to be viewed remotely.

Last Saturday, the Ocean Pines Board of Directors voted unanimously to approve a second reading of revisions involving Resolution M-06, elections and referendums.

The proposed changes, reviewed by the Ocean Pines Elections Committee, would give either the committee or an independent contractor the ability to count ballots and would allow for association members to view the ballot counting process remotely.

“If I’m a betting man, and I’m not, I would expect this would not be the final change to M-06,” said Association President Doug Parks, “that more changes would come and frankly more changes should be expected.”

In May, the board voted to hire Washington-based company Election Trust as the association’s new voting contract. At the time, however, it was learned Resolution M-06 would need to be changed to address some inconsistencies.

Specifically, the existing resolution required the elections committee to count the ballots and for the association to open the ballot counting process to association members. After Election Trust was hired to print and handle all election materials for the 2023 board election, the committee began working with legal counsel to amend the resolution and allow for outsourced and remote ballot counting.

When the second reading was introduced last week, Director Steve Jacobs shared his concerns regarding the changes. While he said he would vote for the amendments, he said some of the suggested edits were inconsistent with the association’s bylaws.

“These are small issues, but it reflects the fact that we are perhaps rushing to get this done as opposed to putting everything in the correct order

and having a review in place where we have all of our ducks in a row,” he said. “I’ll vote for this resolution, but I would strongly suggest that we take steps to make sure that we’re not faced with this problem again after this election is over.”

Jacobs said members of the Ocean Pines Bylaws and Resolutions Committee had reviewed the proposed changes and were left with several questions.

He suggested both the bylaws and resolutions committee and the elections committee form a group to review Resolution M-06 after the 2023 election concludes.

“My interest at this point, with the election coming up, is we probably need to get this put away, at least for this election,” he said. “But I do think it is incumbent upon the elections committee, however it’s constructed, shortly after this next election, to sit down and align M-06 and all the attachments to M-06 with our bylaws, with our procedures and with an eye looking forward to what we’re going to be facing in the future as best as we can. I will run the risk, frankly, of saying the bylaws committee should do the same.”

He continued, “This situation, where we are faced with trying to get this done with the election coming up in the next months, should not reoccur next year.”

Parks agreed, noting that the two committees and the new board would need to do more work after the 2023 election was finished.

“This isn’t the end,” he said. “I would expect a couple things to happen after the next election. Number one, after conducting the election itself, both the bylaws and resolutions committee, the new board and the elections committee will have information pursuant to how the election was conducted. So I think it’s incumbent on all three of those to work together to see what we learned after this election.”

With no further discussion, the board voted unanimously to accept the changes to Resolution M-06 on second reading.

Young Local Surfers Compete in California

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Two young surfers are representing Ocean City on the West Coast this week at a national competition.

Area residents Christian Winter,11, and Gavin Bren,13, are competing this week at the 2023 USA Surfing Championships in San Clemente, Calif. They’ll surf the famed Lower Trestles.

“This is like the Super Bowl for these guys,” said Laura Bren, Gavin’s mother.

The boys, who are members of the KCoast surfing team, will be competing June 20-24 in the USA Surfing Championships at the iconic Lower Trestles, the same break where some of the world’s most famous surfers have shown off their skills. This is Bren’s third year competing at the invitation-only event for the best under 18-year-old surfers in the nation, while Winter will be attending for the first time. They’ll compete against surfers from all across the country. Bren will compete in the under-14 division while Winter will show his skills in the under-12 division.

Winter’s parents are hopeful the boys’ trip to the event will give Christian the chance to meet other kids who love surfing and might even inspire other young surfers from the Ocean City area.

“It’s truly remarkable that at such a young age he has the opportunity to travel and explore new surf breaks, while

also competing at a higher level of surfing,” Renee Winter said. “The friendships he’ll form with other surfers from around the world will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience that he’ll cherish for a lifetime.”

For Bren, this is a chance to gauge his skills against his peers from across the country.

“He’s committed,” his mother said. “This is his sport.”

Bren has now competed in various national surfing competitions and has been honing his skills by facing off against the best surfers in the country in his age group.

“He gets to be a part of competing against the best of the best,” she said. “For

him, this is the opportunity to shine.”

She added that surfing had given him so many valuable opportunities during the past few years. He was recently one of four kids in the country invited to surf in Kelly Slater’s wave pool.

“This sport has given him so many opportunities to do different things in different places,” she said.

Christian Winter, 11, left, and Gavin Bren, 13, right, are competing this week in the USA Surfing Championships in San Clemente, Calif. Submitted Images.

People in Society

by Charlene Sharpe

Featuring Those Helping Causes In The Resort Area

Tom Pitts and Rudy Wright are pictured at the Germantown School on Saturday.

Erin Myers, Susan Barnard and Yerica Valverde sold tickets at Fish Tales Kids Carnival for Special Olympics.

Berlin Fire Company’s David Fitzgerald and Joe Pylypczuk brought a firetruck for kids to explore at the summer kickoff event.

India Bandorick and Johanna Hoch helped out at the kids carnival for Special Olympics at Fish Tales.

Ryan Hourihan is pictured with his son at the Fish Tales Kids Carnival for Special Olympics.

Pat and Pat Bowen attended the Germantown School Community Heritage Center’s summer kickoff.

Debbie Gousha and Jacky Grindrod are pictured at the Germantown School Community Heritage Center’s summer kickoff.

Barbara Purnell and Dr. Clara Small helped out at the summer kickoff event at Germantown School Community Heritage Center.

Lamar Sturgis and Eboni Kilgoe attended the summer kickoff at Germantown School.

Marielle Ramirez paused for a photo at the kids carnival benefitting Special Olympics at Fish Tales.

Pines GM Addresses Cell Service Issues

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – Officials are working with Verizon to address cell service in Ocean Pines.

During last Saturday’s board meeting, General Manager John Viola shared an update on ongoing efforts to address poor cell service in Ocean Pines. He said planned upgrades should address community members’ concerns.

“We have reached out to Verizon, and they have confirmed there is an issue of poor reception,” he said. “We’ve given them examples, specific places, people to call, phone numbers they can keep track of, so they are working on it. They also told us we will receive updates within the next few weeks on when the upgrades will occur this year. They do have upgrades planned. They believe that will help.”

Earlier this year, association member Tom Janasek came before the Ocean Pines Board of Directors requesting some action be taken to address cell service in the community. With a commitment from Association President Doug Parks to explore the issue, officials began reaching out to Verizon.

“As we know, we’ve had a request,” Viola explained. “Tom came in and challenged us – which is a good challenge –on cell service. Doug asked me to look into it.”

Viola told community members last week the association would receive regular updates from Verizon on their efforts to improve cell service in Ocean Pines. He said population could be to blame for poor cell service.

“Yes, in the summertime we do have problems with cell service …,” he said. “They’re blaming it on the trees, on the branches, or whatever. We just think there’s a lot of people here.”

Viola said the association would also work with Worcester County to add cell towers.

“They are also looking at, and we’re going to work with the county on, zonings to try to get us cell towers,” he said. “So that will be part of the workgroup and hopefully I’ll have some good information over the next couple of months.”

Viola last week also provided an update on the new marina gas docks. He said work concluded ahead of Memorial Day.

“The good news is that the team, everybody completed it on time,” he said, “maybe a day or two before the Memorial Day weekend.”

He noted, however, that he had received complaints about the safety of the aluminum dock.

“I’ve got some questions about having an aluminum dock out there on the water,” he said. “The safety I talked about is there, all the grounding, everything is there. You have a product that lasts way longer and is more efficient and effective than the wooden docks … We have the five pumps. They are all pumping. Everything is fine. We just need some good weather.”

WHOLE HOUSE ELECTRICAL ASSESSMENT & SAFETY INSPECTION A $249 VALUE FOR ONLY $99

• Check the electrical service panel and wiring

• Tighten screws and lugs on circuit breakers to ensure proper functioning

• Apply Noalox on branch circuits’ aluminum wires

• Check all outlets with tester for loose connections, open grounds, neutral wires, proper polarity

• Test/inspect GFCI outlets and breakers

• Check for double tapped breakers to eliminate overloading a circuit breaker

• Survey for proper surge protection

• Check smoke detectors and make recommendations for compliance with local electrical codes

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Townhomes Eyed For Berlin Property

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – The town’s planning officials told developers to improve the design of townhouses planned for Bay Street.

Members of the Berlin Planning Commission last week provided input on townhouses proposed on Bay Street across from the Homes and Berlin II. While they said they’d be happy to see the site improved, several suggested design changes for the project.

“It doesn’t look good,” commission member Ron Cascio said. “It doesn’t look like it’s anywhere near deserving of the neighborhood.”

Chris Carbaugh of the Atlantic Group presented the commission last week with concept plans to build 20 townhouse units on a roughly 2.8-acre lot on Bay Street.

“The property currently accommodates several single-family residences that are utilized as rental properties,” he said.

According to Carbaugh, the developer plans to build one-story townhouses that are about 780 square feet. Each unit would have two designated parking spaces and more than 30% of the property would be retained as open space.

“We’re here looking to assist the town with a housing shortage, not only in Berlin but Worcester County,” Carbaugh said.

He added that the units would be rented. The target price would be $1,400 to $1,500 a month for a two-bedroom unit, he said.

Planning Director Dave Engelhart noted that the property had been for sale for

some time.

“The property just keeps sitting there,” he said. “The three units are not up to anywhere near code, they haven’t been maintained properly over many years, but they’re still rented.”

Carbaugh added that the developer behind the project had done similar projects successfully throughout the region.

Cascio said he didn’t believe the renderings showed construction suitable for a major entrance from Assateague to Berlin.

Chris Denny, chair of the commission, said maybe a two-story townhouse development would look better. Carbaugh said there were improvements that could be made to the front but the developer noted that building two-story structures would send the rent past $2,000.

Commission member Matt Stoehr said he’d like to see the plans for the project include some overflow parking. Commission members Newt Chandler and Austin Purnell said they weren’t bothered by the fact that the proposed townhouses were one story.

“We need housing, that’s for sure,” Purnell said.

Cascio said designers should still look at local architecture to create buildings with some character that fit the community.

Commission member Pete Cosby said there were certainly ways the developer could improve the appearance of the buildings’ façade to make them fit the area better. Purnell agreed and encouraged the developer to add some extra parking and spiff up the proposed townhouses.

Members of the Berlin Planning Commission told developers last week to improve their design for a proposed townhouse project on Bay Street. Above, a rendering of the proposed townhouses is shown. Submitted Image

Advice On What To Pack, What To Leave Behind At Home Guarding the Beach

BY DAMIEN SANZOTTI SPECIAL TO THE DISPATCH

OCEAN CITY –A trip to the beach is always better when you have everything you need. Taking the time to make sure you have everything will undoubtedly make your day at the beach more enjoyable.

First and foremost, make sure you bring sunblock and water. These two items are not only essential for a good beach day, but for your health. The key to avoiding sunburn and dehydration begins before you leave your room. Bring plenty of water to make sure you stay hydrated all day. One trick that a lot of lifeguards use is freezing a container of water. The container will melt as you enjoy cool water throughout the day.

I cannot over emphasize the importance of wearing plenty of sunblock. Severe sunburn will put a damper on at least a few days of any vacation. Every summer we see cases of sunburn that are so severe medical treatment is required. To help prevent painful and damaging sunburn you should apply sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 right out of the shower and before getting dressed (making sure all areas of skin are protected). This allows the sunscreen to be absorbed and provides better protection, and even more importantly is the need to reapply frequently throughout the day especially if you are in and out of the water.

All too often people get so preoccupied with playing on the beach and in the water that they forget to reapply. Sunscreen with a higher rating than an SPF of 50 does not offer much more protection and often leads to a false sense of not needing to re-apply as often. Make sure you purchase a high-quality sunscreen that is classified as “broad spectrum” and apply liberally and re-apply often. Also, typical clothing does not block as much of the harmful UV rays as a quality sunscreen, so don’t skip the sunscreen because you are wearing a Tshirt.

Another time when people seem to get severe sunburn is on a cloudy day. The clouds filter out the infrared (warming) radiation but allow the ultraviolet (burning) radiation to pass through, resulting in unprotected skin getting a severe burn. A simple sunburn may not seem like a big deal, however, the more sunburns a person receives in a lifetime the greater risk is associated with developing “skin cancers.”

While on vacation also make sure you have any medications that you might need throughout the day, especially items that may be needed in an emergency such as heart medication, insulin, asthma inhaler, epi-pen, etc. Every summer the beach patrol responds to emergencies that could have been avoided if the person brought their medication. Increased activity, loss of fluids through sweating or lack of adequate hydration may cause your medications to affect you differently than normal, so be aware of changes in how you are feeling. If you are having any type of a medical issue let the Surf Rescue Technician on your beach know immediately.

Beach patrons sometimes make the mistake and bring some unnecessary items

to the beach. At the top of that list is alcohol and smoking materials (including vaping). Alcohol, smoking and vaping are illegal on the beach in Ocean City and are citable offenses that will be enforced by the Ocean City Beach Patrol and Ocean City Police Department. Besides being illegal, alcohol increases your chances of being stricken by a heat related illness, as hundreds of beach patrons are each season.

We also recommend that people do not bring items of value to the beach. Every summer our supervisors are involved with beach patrons who are frantically

searching for lost jewelry that is sentimental or of extremely high value. Losing something like car keys, an engagement ring, expensive eyeglasses, passport, or wallet can be upsetting. People lose prescription eyeglasses in the surf almost daily (because they forgot to remove them), never to be recovered. Furthermore, we deal with thefts on the beach every summer. Keep it simple and just bring the basics to the beach. Remember to “Keep your feet in the sand until the lifeguards in the stand!”

Captain’s Note: Not only do we want you to protect yourself and your family, but we are concerned with protecting our employees. That is why we provide unlimited quality sunscreen to all of our staff as well

as headwear and clothing that has an SPF rating. Thanks to Panama Jack who has supplied sunscreen to the Beach Patrol for many years at no cost to the Patrol, We are able to make sure our SRTs are protected as they protect you. Another very important protective device, are quality sunglasses that not only protect the eyes of your guard but also allow them to actually see better while keeping you safe. Because of our sponsorship with Hook Optics we are able to provide individually fitted high quality sunglasses to all of our employees.

(The writer has been with the beach patrol for 19 years and is currently a sergeant. He is a physical education teacher for the Worcester County Public School system.)

DAMIEN SANZOTTI

New Deputy Director

SNOW HILL – The Worcester County Commissioners named Patricia Walls as the deputy director of human resources. She stepped into her new position on March 1, 2023.

“I am thrilled to have Pat join our team,” Human Resources Director Stacey Norton said. “Her experience and leadership will be a tremendous asset to the Human Resources Department and will enable us provide exceptional customer service to our employees.”

Walls, a strategic planner recognized for maximizing corporate, team, and individual goals through successful human resources management, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal studies from Salisbury University. She brings over 20 years of analytical, decisionmaking, and problem-solving skills in human resources to Worcester County Government (WCG). From 2016 to 2023, she served as the corporate director of human resources for Marshall Hotels & Resorts in Salisbury, Md. Prior to that time, she served as the associate relations representative in human resources for Perdue Farms and director of human resources for the SRG Woolf Group, Inc.

“I am honored to be working for the County Commissioners and residents of Worcester County,” Walls said. “The entire Worcester County Government team has been very welcoming, and I look forward to working with and supporting them.”

Walls resides with her husband, Jay, in Wicomico County. They have one grown son. During her time off, she enjoys camping, reading, and spending time at the beach with her family.

Walls will assist the director in the overall management of human resources. Her responsibilities include providing guidance to county officials and other department heads in personnel matters. These include development and oversight of human resources programs, with an emphasis on employee relations, to include recruitment, hiring, training, performance evaluation, counseling, discipline, classification and benefits administration, and ensuring compli-

ance with all employment-related laws and county policies.

Facility Recognized

SALISBURY – Salisbury Center, a skilled nursing facility located in Salisbury, announced that it has been recognized as a 2023 recipient of the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award by the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL).

This award recognizes a commitment to improving the lives of patients and residents through quality care. The distinction is the first of three progressive award levels through the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program. The program honors providers across the nation that have demonstrated their commitment to improving quality of care for our nation’s elders and individuals with disabilities.

“We are so proud of Salisbury Center for being honored with a Bronze award,” said Melissa Powell, chief operating officer. “Quality care is at the core of everything that we do. This facility team has demonstrated its commitment to delivering ever-improving quality care to patients, residents and other customers. We are incredibly proud of their achievement.”

The AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program is a rigorous three-level process that is reviewed and evaluated by trained experts against a set of nationally recognized standards for organizational excellence. The standards of the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program help organizations achieve superior performance over time to improve quality of life and care of long term care patients, residents and staff.

Providers begin the quality improvement process at the bronze level, where they develop an organizational profile with essential performance elements such as vision, mission statement, understanding of key customers, and key strengths and challenges. Bronze applicants must also demonstrate their ability to implement a sustainable performance improvement system. Trained examiners review each application to determine if a center has met the demands of the criteria. As a recipient of the Bronze - Commitment to Quality award, Salisbury Center may now move

forward to the Silver - Achievement in Quality award criteria.

“Earning this award is a milestone to be proud of,” said Cathy Bergland, AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Board chair. “It’s at this point that providers see what is possible by committing to the process of improvement. Congratulations to Salisbury Center for this achievement. I encourage you to continue your quality improvement journey.”

The awards will be presented during Delivering Solutions 23, the AHCA/NCAL Convention & Expo, Oct. 1-4, 2023 in Denver, Colo.

Marketing Director Welcomed

OCEAN VIEW – Carl M. Freeman Companies, a real estate company specializing in land acquisition, land planning, development, and redevelopment as well as management of various properties such as residential communities, neighborhood shopping centers, commercial properties and golf courses, is proud to announce the promotion of Erika Cook to the position of director of marketing.

Since joining Carl M. Freeman Companies in 2016, Cook has been an essential part of the team as sales and marketing coordinator, marketing manager – sports and hospitality, and most recently overseeing the company’s community and wellness programming as director of life enrichment. In 2022, she was recognized with a Lt. Governor Award as a Delaware Health Leader, and in 2023 she received a silver award for Lifestyle Director of the Year at The Nationals. As director of marketing, Cook will lead the marketing strategies for the communities division, collaborate with other departments on promotion and branding, and oversee the life enrichment program.

“Erika’s consistent growth within the company, creative vision, and team player attitude makes her an ideal candidate for the role.” said Josh Mastrangelo, senior vice president of development.

“She will be a vital component of expanding the company’s marketing initiatives, and we look forward to her success.”

License Awarded

OCEAN PINES – As the premier and local hospice residence located in Ocean Pines, Md., the Macky & Pam Stansell House of Coastal Hospice is now licensed to offer General Inpatient Care (GIP) to the community of Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties.

On top of providing hospice-eligible individuals with a specialized, comforting, and safe long-term residential plan, starting mid-June we will offer shortterm acute care intervention for hospice patients who need intensive symptom management including but not limited to pain, anxiety, and shortness of breath. Along with that, we are now offering respite care, which provides caregivers with much needed breaks.

Our GIP facilities provide: 24-hour nursing services; a home-like atmosphere where patient areas provide comfort and privacy for patients and their families; accommodations for family members to remain with the patient throughout the night.

With this licensure, Coastal Hospice now has two facilities able to provide GIP care and respite for the community, including Coastal Hospice at the Lake, located in a dedicated wing of the historic Deer’s Head Hospital in Salisbury, Md.

Direct referrals to Coastal Hospice are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Referral direct lines: phone, 410-742-7878; fax, 410-7427866.

The Macky & Pam Stansell House of Coastal Hospice is a state-of-the-art hospice residence and community outreach center in Ocean Pines, Md., that provides care for terminally ill patients, palliative care, counseling, grief support, and community wellness programs. Founded in 1980, Coastal Hospice is a nonprofit health care organization that cares for individuals facing life-limiting conditions but who want to remain as active and engaged as possible. Coastal Hospice cares for patients in their home, assisted living, nursing home, Coastal Hospice at the Lake or the Macky & Pam Stansell House. The organization serves Wicomico, Worcester, Dorchester, and Somerset counties.

PATRICIA WALLS

ERIKA COOK

COMMUNITY News In Photos

The Worcester County Arts Council is pleased to award 2023 Arts Scholarships totaling $5,500 to four deserving Worcester County students who will be majoring in the arts in college. Scholarship recipients were Savannah Chisholm, Keeley Catrino, Kayla Halbig and Cayden Wallace, not pictured.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City inducted two new members in May. Pictured from left to right are new members Ron and Bette Wildgust, their sponsor John Hulit and Tim Lund, past president, who inducted them. Submitted Photos

Belinda Gulyas, left, principal of Cedar Chapel Special School, accepts a check for $11,000 from Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club President Christina Dolomount Brown. The check will fund a wheelchair accessible basketball net, rubber decking and benches for the school’s playground.

A Dine and Donate event by the Ocean City Chapter of the Sons and Daughters of Italy at Bethany Blues in Bethany Beach raised $635 for Justin’s Beach House. The proceeds were donated to the Justin W. Jennings Foundation that operates Justin’s Beach House, a respite home for families with cancer, in Bethany Beach. Pictured are, from front to back, Jane and Nick Bartolomeo, Judy and Joe Zanetti, and Kathy and Dan Milhalisin.

The Worcester County Arts Council is pleased to award $22,700 in the Community Arts Development Grants program for art projects and events to be presented by local nonprofit organizations. Grantees pictured in the front row include Rina Thaler of the Art League of Ocean City, Alison Early, administrative assistant for the Town of Berlin and Sally Hendon, music director for Community Church of Ocean Pines. Grantees pictured in the back row include Carol Rose of the Berlin Heritage Foundation and Ellie Scott of the Pines Tones Chorus.

OC Berlin Optimist Club member Christopher Thomas (left) is pictured presenting $1,500 to Coastal Community Church Pastor Tom Turing to support the MEGA Kids camp this summer.

OCFD Eyes Awareness With 2nd Public Safety Expo

OCEAN CITY – The Ocean City Fire Department is hosting a Public Safety Expo, offering a unique opportunity for families to engage with first responders and learn about the importance of public safety. The event will take place on Friday, June 23 at Northside Park, starting at 1 p.m.

The Ocean City Public Safety Expo promises an exciting lineup of activities and exhibits that will captivate attendees of all ages. Families can explore fire trucks and ambulances during engaging tours, while children will have the chance to learn how to dial 911 through an interactive simulator. Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to tour emergency boats, mobile command centers, and other crucial equipment utilized by first responders.

The highlight of the event will be the thrilling landing and take-off of the Maryland State Police Trooper 4 helicopter. Witness the awe-inspiring sight of this magnificent aircraft as it graces the event with its presence. Once the helicopter touches down, families will have the exclusive opportunity to embark on an up-close and personal tour, gaining

insight into the workings of this essential aerial unit that serves the state of Maryland.

"We are thrilled to invite everyone to the Ocean City Public Safety Expo,” said Ocean City Fire Chief Richie Bowers. “This event provides a unique platform for the community to meet our first responders, learn about public safety, and enjoy a fun-filled day of activities. We encourage families to attend and engage with us as we showcase the vital work we do to keep our community safe."

In addition to the various exhibits and tours, attendees will be treated to light refreshments and have the chance to witness an impressive water rescue demonstration performed by the Ocean City Beach Patrol and the Ocean City Fire Department Water Rescue Team. This thrilling display of skill and teamwork underscores the importance of water safety, making it an educational and exciting experience for all.

This is the second annual Ocean City Public Safety Expo that aims to promote public safety awareness and foster a strong connection between the community and local first responders. The expo

offers a range of interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and activities, provid-

ing an educational and enjoyable experience for attendees of all ages.

A visitor is pictured at last year’s expo learning about CPR. Submitted Photo

Bread sale Proceeds Donated: Worcester Preparatory School teachers Annie Seipp and Hannah Showell and their students presented the Atlantic General Hospital with a donation raised from the annual 3rd Grade Bread Sale. The annual sale is part of a hands-on learning lesson combining English, Science, Social Studies (civics and community), Mathematics and Philanthropy. The project is modeled like a small business, with the young entrepreneurs baking bread, selling it to Lower School classmates in a “café,” and donating the proceeds to charity.

The project involved researching ingredients, creating posters, giving verbal presentations, and rotating jobs - from baker to cashier - to learn all the facets of running a business. The class partnered with Bad Monkey in West Ocean City where they learned how to make and bake the bread. The students raised $388 and donated the proceeds to AGH.

The students are pictured with Head of Lower School Dr. Sara Timmons, third row from left; AGH President/CEO Donald Owrey, Donor Relations Officer Steven Tyson and Vice President of Public Relations Toni Keiser; and third grade teachers Annie Seipp, third row, far right) and Hannah Showell (back row, far right). Submitted

OC Bay Hopper Offering Summer Ocean Pines Service

OCEAN PINES – The OC Bay Hopper water taxi and water shuttle service will once again offer service from Ocean Pines.

Beginning Monday, June 19, the water shuttle – like a bus on the water – will make regularly scheduled stops throughout the day at several locations along the bay, including Ocean Pines. The water taxi is a point-to-point service that riders can schedule at their convenience.

OC Bay Hopper Co-founder Steve Butz said the water transportation services provided by the company make it easy for people to get to and from Ocean Pines.

“It takes the hassle out of driving and parking in Ocean City. The water shuttle and taxi services can pick-up or drop-off at most restaurants and bars on the bay,” he said.

Butz said the response last year – the

first in Ocean Pines – was positive.

“Ocean Pines had more traffic in and out on our boats on Saturday than any other location by far. People seem to be eating it up,” he said.

This summer, the water shuttle is scheduled to travel from Ocean Pines to

locations southbound each day at 12:45 p.m., 3:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. Boats will return to Ocean Pines heading northbound at 2:15 p.m., 5:15 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. The shuttle will make stops in Ocean City and West Ocean City.

One-way shuttle tickets cost $15 per person and round-trip tickets run $30 per person.

This year, OC Bay Hopper has expanded its water taxi service by adding an additional boat and expanding service to every night of the week. The boats travel as far north as Fenwick Island and south to Assateague Island.

There is an $80 minimum for the water taxi, which will cover up to four passengers for a one-way trip. For groups of five or more, there is an added $15 charge for each additional passenger. There is also a small surcharge per passenger.

OC Bay Hopper also offers a sightseeing trip from Ocean Pines to Assateague Island on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. These trips are bookable online at www.ocbayhopper.com, or through the OC Bay Hopper app.

“We pick up riders at the docks in Ocean Pines at 9 a.m. and whisk them down to Assateague for a tour of the island by water,” Butz said. “They’ll get an amazing view of the wildlife and then return to the Yacht Club at about 11:15 a.m., just in time for lunch.”

For more information or to book a seat on the OC Bay Hopper, download the OC Bay Hopper Mobile App. The OC Bay Hopper Mobile App is available for both Apple and Android devices.

Family Nights, Concerts In Park Schedule Released

OCEAN PINES –Two major Recreation and Parks events return this week, with Family Fun Nights at the Yacht Club Pool and Concerts in the Park at White Horse Park.

Family Fun Nights run on Wednesdays, June 21 to Aug. 23, from 6-8 p.m.

The event features food, games, music and more, all set in the picturesque locale of the Yacht Club Pool overlooking the Isle of Wight Bay.

Cash-only entry is $3 for Ocean Pines swim members with a membership card, $5 for Ocean Pines residents, or $7 for nonresidents. Entry is free for non-swimmers.

Concerts in the Park are scheduled each Thursday, June 22 to Aug. 24, from 7-9 p.m. under the White Horse Park Pavilion.

This free event features family friendly live music each week:

June 22: Uptown Band

June 29: Marsh Lovers Band

July 6: 229th Military Band

July 13: Breath of Fresh Air

July 20: Delmarva Big Band

July 27: "Elvis"

Aug. 3: The Tribe

Aug. 10: Still Rockin'

Aug. 17: Club Fred

Aug. 24: Dusty Vinyl

Concertgoers are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets. BYOB is permitted and concessions provided by the Kiwanis Club will be available for sale.

Recreation and Parks Director Debbie Donahue said both events are geared toward giving Ocean Pines families more to do during the summer.

“Our goal is to create memorable moments and foster a sense of community through our family-friendly summer events,” Donahue said. “We strive to offer a wide variety of engaging activities, and each event is designed to provide a safe and welcoming environment where families can create lasting memories. We hope everyone will join us this summer.”

The OC Bay Hopper will offer service to and from Ocean Pines three times a day this summer. File Photo

with Scott Lenox

Hello everybody and welcome to another Fish in OC fishing report here in The Dispatch. Except for some wicked thunderstorms, we had some pretty good weather last week, and except for a few slow tuna days, we had some pretty good fishing too.

Last weekend we had the 3rd Annual Tuna and Tiaras ladies only tuna tournament and it was a huge success. There were 57 boats and 288 lady anglers and at the end of the week there were some pretty impressive checks written. The two biggest checks went to the first place stringer winner Pumpin Hard, who weighed in 191 pounds of yellowfin tuna, and received a check for over $31,000. The big winner in the Tuna and Tiaras Tournament was the crew of the Roncito who weighed in a 183-pound bigeye good for over $38,000. Congratulations to all of the lady anglers.

Outside of the ladies tournament, tuna fishing was okay, but not awesome. Boats were traveling to the Poorman’s and Baltimore Canyons and catching anywhere from three to five yellowfin with the occasional box of 10. They were also a few bigeye tuna caught in the Baltimore in Wilmington canyons. Spreader bars and skirted ballyhoo are still the baits of choice.

Ocean bottom fishing was good again this past week with plenty of sea bass ending up in coolers and better flounder fishing on ocean structure. The ocean party boat fleet saw more and more flounder with some fish to over 5 pounds. Captain Kane Bounds of the Fish Bound has been seeing some great flounder fishing with limits of four fish per person on most trips with some fish to as big as 7 pounds. Back bay flounder, fishing was decent again with larger fish being caught in deeper water around the Ocean City inlet and East channel areas. Live spot was the bait of choice for the larger fish with some nice flounder coming in at 25 or better inches.

We’ve got a busy tournament weekend coming up this weekend with the small boat tournament at the Ocean City, Marlin Club, the kids catch all tournament at Indian River Marina, and the fish and paddle Saltwater slam at Atlantic Tackle. I’ll be bringing you the winners in another fishing report next week. Until then, tight lines.

(The writer is the owner of Fish in OC and host of Ocean City’s fishing television show Hooked on OC. He has worked in the fishing industry and been fishing the waters in and around Ocean City for over 25 years.)

SEE PAGES 56-57

The crew of the Pumpin’ Hard with Captain Mike Burt took first place stringer in the Tuna & Tiaras with 191 pounds. Submitted Photos

Above top left, Kevin McNelis was fishing with his dad when he landed two nice flounder and some triggerfish on ocean structure. Above left, this jumbo sea bass came over the rail of the Angler with Captain Chris Mizurak. Above top right, Rich Daiker and Reece Schindler found a 24” flounder and bluefish to 30” at the Route 50 Bridge. Above right, middle, Big Bird Cropper is still killing the big bluefish at the route 50 bridge using Roy Rigs. Above right, Luke Wrye caught this big 25” flounder on a live spot in the east channel.

Opposite page, top left, the first swordfish of the season was caught by the crew of the Wrecker with Captain Bobby Layton. Opposite page, top right, this shooter was right on target with this big hound fish while on board Dusk to Dawn Bowfishing with Captain Marc Spagnola. Opposite page, middle left, the crew of the Pumpin’ Hard with Captain Mike Burt took first place stringer in the Tuna & Tiaras with 191 pounds. Opposite page, middle right, Owen West caught and released this big 40” rockfish while fishing the Route 50 Bridge at night. Opposite page, bottom left, Matt Stauch caught his limit of flounder over ocean structure on Gulp baits. Opposite page, bottom right, Captain Monty Hawkins of the Morning Star has been putting folks on some big sea bass over the past couple of weeks.

Chris Parypa’s Photo Of The Week: Each week staff photographer Chris Parypa is tasked with submitting a photo from his vast library to be featured in this space. Above is a scene from the Inlet last weekend. To purchase any of Parypa’s photos, click over to www.chrisparypa.com.

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 82

HOROSCOPES

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): You might have to turn your Arian charm up a few degrees if you hope to persuade that persistent pessimist to see the possibilities in your project. Whatever you do, don't give up.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): A "tip" about a co-worker's "betrayal" might well raise the Bovine's rage levels. But before charging into a confrontation, let an unbiased colleague do some fact-checking.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Although a relationship still seems to be moving too slowly to suit your expectations, it's best not to push it. Let it develop at its own pace. You'll soon get news about a workplace change.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): A continually changing personal situation makes you feel as if you're riding an emotional roller coaster. But hold on tight; stability starts to set in early next week.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): Believe it or not, someone might dare to say "No!" to the Regal One's suggestion. But instead of being miffed, use this rebuff to recheck the proposition and, perhaps, make some changes.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): You might find it difficult to make a decision about a family matter. But a delay can only lead to more problems. Seek out trusted counsel and then make that important decision.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): Concentrate your focus on what needs to

be done and avoid frittering away your energies on less important pursuits. There'll be time later for fun and games.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Although the conflicts seem to be letting up, you still need to be wary of being drawn into workplace intrigues. Plan a special weekend event for family and/or friends.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): Your quick wit helps you work through an already difficult situation without creating more problems. Creative aspects begin to dominate by the week's end.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): Be patient. You'll soon receive news about a project that means a great deal to you. Meanwhile, you might want to reconsider a suggestion that you previously turned down.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): There are still some aspects about a new job offer that you need to resolve. In the meantime, another possibility seems promising. Be sure to check it out as well.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): Opening up your emotional floodgates could leave you vulnerable to being hurt later on. Watch what you say in order to avoid having your words come back to haunt you.

BORN THIS WEEK: You're usually the life of the party, which gets you on everyone's invitation list. You also have a flair for politics.

© 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

Fabricating & installing quartz, granite and solid surface tops Up

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

A grill full of hamburgers and hot dogs

The Orioles closer The series, “Seven Seconds”

The personal notes I got from my kids on Father’s Day Teens working out together

The outpouring of love for Baby Ava

Berlin Farmers Market vibes

Spotting a fox in an OC sand dune

Strawberries and chocolate

Assateague beach days

Half-day Fridays in the summer

As the summer of 1954 began, Ocean City was still a small seasonal resort. Town limits ended at 26th Street and only a few commercial establishments stayed open in the off-season. The Fireman’s Convention signaled the start of the tourist season with a parade that lasted over two hours.

Large frame hotels lined the Boardwalk and “Blue Laws” (no alcoholic beverages sold or served on Sundays) were in force. The Sea Scape, the first Boardwalk motel, was built by Ridge Harman, Sr. on 16th Street while Mario’s, the famous Italian restaurant, opened on 22nd Street. The Shore Drive-In, an iconic movie theater in West Ocean City, also launched in 1954.

Finally, direct dial telephone service began on Sept. 9, 1954. Prior to that a phone call from Salisbury was operator-assisted and long-distance rates were charged.

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

Image from Bunk Mann’s collection

Friendly boutique dental practice, with great patients, looking for a PART TIME HYGIENIST and a PART TIME ASSISTANT. Please send resume to dentistryinthepines@gmail.com

FULL-TIME

BANKER

WILLARDS

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

Please send resume to: kris.derickson@fbwbank.com or call Kris at 410-835-8906

“Equal Employment Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer”

Maintenance Technician

OC Hotel/Restaurant group seeking Maintenance Tech to perform preventative, routine & emergency maintenance. Prior experience with restaurant equip., refrigeration, electrical and plumbing necessary. Company vehicle provided-with valid driver’s license.

Great pay& Benefits based on experience. Health Insurance, 401K, sick leave, & vacations included 410-289-4444 Forward resume to : Restaurant Maintenance, PO Box 160, Ocean City, MD 21843 or email: jeb@harrisongp.com

Housekeeper Full Time

INSIDE SALES

The Adkins Company is now accepting applications for an Inside Sales position. Hours are Monday- Friday 7:30AM4:30PM. Sales experience or experience in the construction industry preferred but not necessary as we will train the right individual. Must be comfortable using computers on a daily basis.

Pickup an application at The Adkins Company, 3 Harrison Ave, Berlin, MD 21811 or email Rick@Adkinscompany.com

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

2-3 days per week

Perfect for retiree Friendly atmosphere

Call for appointment 410- 641- 5102

Eastern shore resident is seeking a mature, responsible and experienced person to perform various housekeeping duties at a Berlin, MD estate five days weekly. Full time position with benefits and 401K. Reliable transportation necessary.

Call 410-803-4135, fax resume to 410-272-2249 or e-mail: tgreaver@bscamerica.com

Cleaning services need not apply

o

o

o

Sales Associates

Carquest Auto Parts & Marine

Now has openings for FULL AND PART TIME ASSOCIATES

Exc. Pay and Benefits including Retirement Plan, Friends & Family Discounts and much More!! Located in Ocean Pines, MD Call : 302-344-9769

FULL-TIME PERSONAL BANKER FLOATER

Farmers Bank of Willards has a Full-time Personal Banker Floater position available to cover all Salisbury locations. Looking for professional and motivated individuals with extraordinary customer service skills. Cash handling experience & excellent computer skills a must. Please send resume to: kris.derickson@fbwbank.com or call Kris at 410-835-8906

“Equal Employment Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer”

and incentives. 443-497-6463 or email Chris@AMGMD.com

CLASS A OR B CDL DRIVER

SMI Services of Delaware, a Sediment and Erosion Control Company located in Selbyville, DE is looking for a Class A or B CDL driver. This position will be a working driver / loading / unloading position. You may not just be hauling / driving all day. MUST have a clean driving record and be able to pass a DOT Physical and drug screen. Applicant shall be reliable, able lift up to 50lbs, able to perform physical labor and have great work ethic. Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus. Please apply in person at 20 E. Railroad Ave, Selbyville, DE 19975 www.smicompanies.net

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE

FULL-TIME PERSONAL BANKER SALISBURY

Farmers Bank of Willards has a full-time Personal Banker position available for one of our Salisbury locations. Looking for professional and motivated individuals with extraordinary customer service skills. Cash handling experience & excellent computer skills a must.

Please send resume to: kris.derickson@fbwbank.com or call Kris at 410-835-8906

“Equal Employment Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer”

CAREGIVER

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

RENTALS

SEASONAL BAYSIDE CONDO: 2BR/2BA, W/D. Fully furn. Sleeps 4-6. $14,000./season, Cable & WiFi incl. Located near Jolly Roger. Call 410-603-6120 or mbjcproperties@gmail.com

WEEKLY RENTALS: Oceanfront Home 5BR/3BA, Private beach, huge decks, rent by the week. Bethany Bch. DE. Avail: 9/1-9/8, 9/8-9/15 Starting at $5,000. Call Holly 586-242-8824

COMMERCIAL ROOMMATE

ROOMMATE: Furnished room in south gate OP. Full house privileges. All util’s incl’d. No pets. No smoking. $200 sec. dep. $800 mo. 443-880-2317.

WEST O.C. OFFICE/RETAIL SPACES AVAILABLE: 1 Office or Retail Space for Lease. 1,656. Sq. feet. Plenty of Parking. 443-4974200.

INDUSTRIAL WAREHOUSE SPACE: 2,100 Sq. Ft., 1,500 Sq. Ft., and 1,867 Sq. Ft. Masonry construction. 18’ high ceilings, large garage door & bathroom. Rt. 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.

FOR SALE

SCHWINN 215P: Recumbent bike. Good condition. $75. 410-2081315.

DINING ROOM SET: Beautiful solid wood Dining set, table seats 8-10, Lighted China Cabinet with glass shelves. Lined drawers. Table has two leaves. Must see: 443-880-8885

Trees softly whisper, “She’s not here, you should move on”. My heart...just not...yet.

The Dispatch Legal Notices

LEGAL RATES

Legal advertising rate is $7 per column inch. The deadline is Tuesday at noon. For more information call 410-641-4563 or email classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com

Third Insertion

HEATHER R. KONYAR, ESQ.

COCKEY, BRENNAN & MALONEY, PC 313 LEMMON HILL LANE SALISBURY, MD 21801

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19754

To all persons interested in CHRISTINE GAIL REMMELL, Estate No. 19754. Notice is given that GREGORY A. BALASUS, 1010 TAMWORTH ROAD, BEL AIR, MD 21015, was on JUNE 02, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CHRISTINE GAIL REMMELL, who died on APRIL 24, 2023, with a will.

Further information can be

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2ND day of DECEMBER, 2023.

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

Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the

Check Here First!

The Dispatch Legal Notices

LEGAL RATES

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

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 JUNE 09, 2023

GREGORY A. BALASUS

Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

3x 6-09, 6-16, 6-23

Third Insertion

RAYMOND D. COATES, JR., ESQ. COATES, COATES & COATES, PA 6200 COASTAL HWY SUITE 300 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19757

To all persons interested in JOHN C. STALEY,Estate No. 19757. Notice is given that JOHN A. STALEY, 2725 CARSINS RUN ROAD, ABERDEEN, MD 21001, was on JUNE 02, 2023, appointed

Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN C. STALEY, who died on MAY 11, 2023, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2ND day of DECEMBER, 2023.

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

Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication JUNE 09, 2023

JOHN A. STALEY Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

3x 6-09, 6-16, 6-23

Second Insertion

PHILIP C. WIDDOWSON ESQ. 11791 SOMERSET AVENUE PRINCESS ANNE, MD 21853

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19763

Notice is given that the ORPHANS COURT of NEW CASTLE COUNTY, DE, appointed VINCENT J. MARTONE JR., 4665 HOLLETTS CORNER ROAD, HOCKESSIN, DE 19707 and WILLIAM LAWRENCE MCDORMAN, 3800 BOCA POINTE DRIVE, SARASOTA, FL 34238, as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES of the Estate of CONSTANCE L. MCDORMAN MARTONE, AKA: CONSTANCE LAURETTA MARTONE, who died on APRIL 2, 2023, domiciled in DELAWARE, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is PHILIP C. WIDDOWSON, whose address is 11791 SOMERSET AVENUE, PRINCESS ANNE, MD 21853. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND

counties: WORCESTER COUNTY AND SOMERSET COUNTY.

All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the 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 JUNE 16, 2023

VINCENT J. MARTONE JR. WILLIAM LAWRENCE MCDORMAN

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 6-16, 6-23, 6-30

Second Insertion

CALDWELL & WHITEHEAD, P.A.

KATHRYN A WHITEHEAD ESQ 109 CAMDEN STREET P O BOX 4520 SALISBURY, MD 21803-4520

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19769

Notice is given that the ORPHANS COURT of YORK COUNTY, PA, appointed DARREN E. WILSON, 3121 BEECHWOOD BLVD, PITTSBURGH, PA 15217, and DAVID E. WILSON JR, 10705 PAR FIVE LANE, BERLIN, MD 21811, as the EXECUTORS of the Estate of DONNA M. WILSON, who

died on NOVEMBER 13, 2022, domiciled in PENNSYLVANIA, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is DAVID E. WILSON, whose address is 10705 PAR FIVE LANE BERLIN, MD 21811. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: WORCESTER COUNTY. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

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

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the 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 JUNE 16, 2023

DAVID E. WILSON, JR DARREN E. WILSON

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 6-16, 6-23, 6-30

Second Insertion

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO: C-23-CV-23-000081

ALEKSEJS BUINOVSKIS Plaintiff V. LELIA M. ROWE Defendant

All Unknown owners of property and all persons that have or claim to have any interest in the property

CONTACT INFORMATION

Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966

Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811

describe as the “James B. Collins Tract”, containing three (3) acres of land, more or less, which was owned by James B. Collins, and was conveyed by the said James. B. Collins by deed dated February 17, 1918 and recorded among the land records of Worcester county, Maryland in Liber ODC 31, folio 270, et seq. to Marion Row and Lelia M. Rowe, his wife, the Unknown Owner’s heirs, devisees, and personal Representative and their or any of their heirs, devisees, executors, administators, grantees, assign or successors in right title and interest.

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this proceeding is a Complaint for Quiet Title for the property known as the James B. Collins Tract, recorded by deed February 17, 1918 and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland in Liber ODC 31, folio 270, et seq., in which Plaintiff is seeking that fee simple interest in the subject property be vested in Alesksejs Buinovskis, and that the interst in all other claimants be extinguished, for the real prperty described as: The said land being a part of a tract of land known as Piney Island, or Robins farm, or whatsoever the names and the same may be known, it being a part of the same land that was conveyed to the said James B. Collins by deed from Elwood Tull and Nina K. Tull, his wife, and beginning for Survey at marked gum, standing in branch, and on the south side and west side of said run, from said gum South twenty six (26) west forty poles and ten links (40 p's 10 links) west to a line laid out fir a road, and ten feet on the North Side of said line excepted for a part of said Road, thence with said line North Sixty two degrees (62) West fourteen poles and twenty links (40 p's, 20 links) to a stob, said stob being about twenty yards south east of said Marion A. Rowe's dwelling, thence with line of said Rowe's land north twenty five degrees and thirty minutes (25' 30"), East thirty four poles (34 poles) to another stob, thence south Eighty six and thirty (86' 30") East Sixteen poles (16 p's) to the place of beginning, containing three acres.

It is thereupon this 7th JUNE 2023, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland,

ORDERED, that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this Order in a newspaper of general circulation in Worcester County, Maryland, a newspaper of general circulation in Sussex County, Delaware, and a newspaper of general circulation in Kent County, Delaware, once a week for three successive weeks, warning all persons interested in the property that the relief sought in the aforementioned Complaint may be granted, unless cause be shown to the contrary. Defendants are to file a response to the Complaint on or before August 6, 2023 . Failure to file a response within the time allowed may result in a judgment by default or the granting of the relief sought.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication JUNE 16, 2023

BEAU H. OGLESBY JUDGE

SUSAN R. BRANIECKI CLERK CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MD 3x 6-16, 6-23, 6-30

First Insertion

B. RANDALL COATES, ESQ. COATES, COATES & COATES, PA 204 WEST GREEN ST PO BOX 293 SNOW HILL, MD 21863

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19774

To all persons interested in CYNTHIA PAULINE AYERS, Estate No. 19774. Notice is given that STEVEN MILLS, JR, 605 YOUNG STREET, POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851, was on JUNE 15, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CYNTHIA PAULINE AYERS, who died on MAY 7, 2023, 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 be-

The Dispatch Legal Notices

LEGAL RATES

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

fore the 15th day of DECEMBER, 2023.

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

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication JUNE 23, 2023

STEVEN MILLS, JR

Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

3x 6-23, 6-30, 7-7

MORRIS L. GARTEN

FEDDER AND GARTEN PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION

10096 RED RUN BOULEVARD SUITE 200

OWINGS MILLS, MD 21117

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN

HEIRS ESTATE 19776

To all persons interested in the estate of J. DANIEL

MAGNES,AKA: JOHN

DANIEL MAGNES, Estate No. 19776. Notice is given that JACQUELINE MAGNES, 11616 PRINCESS

LANE, ELLICOTT CITY, MD 21042, and DANIELLE

SCOGLAND, 14182 DAY FARM ROAD, GLENELG, MD 21737, was on JUNE 20, 2023, appointed Personal

Representative of the SMALL estate of J. DANIEL MAGNES, who died on FEBRUARY 3, 2023, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

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

All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JUNE 23, 2023

JACQUELINE MAGNES DANIELLE SCOGLAND

Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County

ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

1x 6-23

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19761

To all persons interested in the estate of LORNA ELIZABETH PEARRE, AKA: LORNA BYRON PEARRE, Estate No. 19761. Notice is

given that STACY SHAW, 307 MARQUIS COURT, MIDDLETOWN, DE 19709, was on JUNE 16, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL estate of LORNA ELIZABETH PEARRE, who died on MAY 7, 2023, with a will.

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

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

All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JUNE 23, 2023

STACY

CATHERINE B. KIRK,Estate No. 19775. Notice is given that BRIAN KIRK, 606 LEE WAY, BEL AIR, MD 21014, was on JUNE 16, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CATHERINE B. KIRK, who died on MAY 16, 2023, with a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 16th day of DECEMBER, 2023.

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

Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JUNE 23, 2023

To all persons interested in the estate of JUDITH CECILIA FALLON, Estate No. 19719. Notice is given that STEVEN MICHAEL DROCELLA, 13299 ROLLIE ROAD, EAST BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813 was on JUNE 13, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL estate of JUDITH CECILIA FALLON, who died on APRIL 17, 2023, with a will.

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

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

All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

(2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claims will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

SYKESVILLE, MD 21784

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19778

To all persons interested in SHARON ENSLEY DLUBALA,Estate No. 19778. Notice is given that STEVEN DILLY, 768 SUSSEX COURT, ELDERSBURG, MD 21784, was on JUNE 21, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of SHARON ENSLEY DLUBALA, who died on MAY 8, 2023, 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 21st day of DECEMBER, 2023.

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

Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or

for

BRIAN KIRK Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication

JUNE 23, 2023

STEVEN MICHAEL DROCELLA

Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 1x 6-23

(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

Manners Matter: A curriculum of learning proper manners and etiquette for this day and age ends in a special event for Worcester Preparatory School’s (WPS) fifth grade students. Prior to the school year ending, the class studied the American Academy of Etiquette curriculum. An array of topics was discussed, such as when it is appropriate to text or make a phone call, proper dining etiquette, how to formally introduce yourself to the host of a party, the ins and outs of writing a thank you note, and much more. The completion of the lesson was celebrated during a Manners Banquet on June 1 at The Hyatt Place in Dewey Beach with a presentation of manners and etiquette followed by dinner. Above, the students performed skits and songs at the Manners Banquet to show what they have learned. Above right, student Alessia Ziman spends time dancing with her father, Jeremy. At right, Taj Sands offers his hand to his mother, Shannon. Submitted Photos

OC

Surf Fest Snapshots:

The Ocean City Surf Club sponsored the OC Surf Fest Anything Goes Team Challenge last Saturday, featuring an all skill levels welcome event to benefit the club’s scholarship fund. Pictured are scenes from the event that was held in front of the Castle in the Sand Hotel.

Photos by Nick Denny

In The News

Ladies Tourney Draws 288 Anglers

Last weekend’s 3rd Annual Tuna and Tiaras ladies only tuna tournament attracted 57 boats and 288 anglers. Taking the top prize of $38,000 for the heaviest fish weighed was the Roncito team, above, with a 183-pound bigeye tuna. Rounding out the heaviest fish category were the Turnin’ Fins with an 87 pounder and the Chaser, right bottom, with a 45 pounder. In the stringer category, the top honor and a check for $31,000 went to the Pumpin Hard, below, with 191 pounds; the Playmate, right top, 183 pounds; and Chain Reaction, right middle, 183 pounds. There were 2,285 pounds of fish weighed in total. A portion of the event proceeds are donated to Women Supporting Women.

Who’s Where When

BUXY’S/DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, June 23: Aaron Howell

Sundays: Local’s Night

w/DJ Tops Cut Off

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

410-289-7192

15th & Boardwalk

In The Courtyard Marriott

Fridays & Saturdays:

Phil Perdue on Piano

COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL

410-289-6846

37th & 38th St. Oceanside at Castle In The Sand Hotel

Friday, June 23: Darin Engh, Zion Reggae Band

Saturday, June 24:

Kevin Poole & Joe Mama, The Clockwork Band

Sunday, June 25:

Rick & Regina, Top Shelf Duo

Monday, June 26:

Sean Loomis, Fil Rhythm Duo

Tuesday, June 27:

Ben Davis, On The Edge

Wednesday, June 28:

Kevin Poole, Full Disclosure

Thursday, June 29:

Shortcut Sunny, Lime Green Band

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy.

Friday, June 23: Dust & Bones

Saturday, June 24:

Jim Long & First Class

Tuesdays: Karaoke w/DJ Jeremy

CORK BAR

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Friday, June 23: DJ Wax

Saturday, June 24: Going Coastal

Sunday, June 25: Rogue Citizens

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54 Selbyville, DE

Sunday, June 25: Tear The Roof Off

Wednesday, June 28: Lauren Glick

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Friday, June 23: No Brakes

Saturday, June 24: LNJ Sessions

Sunday, June 25: DJ Wax

Thursdays: Dance Party w/ DJ Magellan & Tommy

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St. In The Bay

Friday, June 23: DJ RobCee, Glamour Kitty, Red Dirt Revolution

Saturday, June 24: DJ Hook,

Glamour Kitty, Shake The Room

Sunday, June 25: The 1974

Monday, June 26: DJ Hector, The 1974, It’s All Good

Tuesday, June 27: Global Dance Party

w/DJ RobCee & Guest

Wednesday, June 28:

Latin Night w/DJ Patana

Thursday, June 29: DJ Groove, Josh Christina

FISHTALES

410-289-0990

22nd St. & Bay

Friday, June 23: Maryjane

Saturday, June 24: Connair

Best Beats On The Beach

THE 1974 Fager’s Island: Sunday & Monday, June 25 & 26

ALTER EGO

Purple Moose: Friday & Saturday, June 23 & 24

ROASTJOHN Pier 23: Saturday, June 24

Who’s Where When

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Rt. 611, West O.C.

Friday, June 23: TBA

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West O.C.

Thursdays & Fridays: DJ Billy T

Saturday, June 24:

Cecilia’s Fall, DJ Jeremy

Sunday, June 25:

Pickin’ Party, DJ Billy T

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By Deogee

Saturday, June 24: Mercury Agenda

Sunday, June 25: Beats By Deogee

Mondays: Karaoke w/Wood

Tuesdays: Beats By Wax

Wednesdays: Beats By Deogee

Thursdays: Beats By Wax

PIER 23

410-289-3323

12817 Harbor Rd. West O.C.

Friday, June 23: Blake Haley

Saturday, June 24: Roastjohn

Sunday, June 25: Rymac & AJ

Wednesday, June 28: Aaron Howell

Thursday, June 29: Full Circle

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards

Friday & Saturday, June 23 & 24: Alter Ego

Sunday & Monday, June 25 & 26:

Social Drinking

Tuesdays: DJ Madame Dutchess

Wednesdays: DJ Papi Roisterous

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, June 23: DJ Tuff, DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz, Full Circle, Jah Works, Turning The Tide

Saturday, June 24: DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz, DJ Tuff, Dr. Fu, Jah Works, Feel Free, Turning The Tide

Sunday, June 25: DJ Davie, DJ Connair, DJ Bobby O, DJ Tuff, Triple Rail Turn, New Directon, Love Seed MamaJump

Monday, June 26: DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, DJ Tuff, Blake Haley, New Dircetion, Joe Samba w/Crooked Coast

Tuesday, June 27: DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, DJ Tuff, Opposite Directions, Yawd Lynk, Party Fowl

Wednesday, June 28: DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, DJ Connair, Full Circle Duo, Yawd Lynk, Stealing Savannah

Thursday, June 29: DJ Davie, DJ Cruz, DJ Bobby O, John McNutt Band, STORM, Go Go Gadjet

THE ORIGINAL

GREENE TURTLE

410-723-2120

116th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Fridays: DJ Magellan

Saturday, June 24: Bo Brakes

Every Sunday: Farmers Market Berlin will host along Main Street with 35plus vendors from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Rain or shine. TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com.

Every Monday: TOPS Meeting

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

Every Monday: Acapella Chorus

All ladies who love to sing are invited to the Delmarva Woman’s Acapella Chorus, Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6-8 p.m. Contact Mary 410629-9383 or Carol 302-242-7062.

Every Monday: Bridge Games

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

Every Monday: Overeaters Anonymous

Meetings are from 7-8 p.m. at the Ocean Pines Library branch. No dues or fees. Call 410-459-9100.

Every Tuesday: TOPS Meeting

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

Every Tuesday: Beach Cleanup Beach Heroes, a volunteer Ocean City group, holds cleanups 9-10 a.m.

Things To Do

year-round. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page "Beach Heroes-OC" for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.

Every Wednesday: Bingo

Elks Lodge 2645, corner of Sinepuxent Avenue and 138th Street in Ocean City. Has bingo all year. Doors open 4:30 p.m. with first game sharply at 6:30 p.m. Kitchen open for light fare. 410-250-2645.

Every Thursday: Beach Singles

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

2nd and 4th Thursdays: Caregiver Support Meeting

The Caregiver Support Group will continue to meet on the second and fourth Thursdays in the Ocean Pines Library. Meetings will run from 3-4:30 p.m. The meetings are private and confidential.

June 23: Public Safety Expo

The Ocean City Fire Department is hosting a Public Safety Expo, offering a unique opportunity for families to engage with first responders and learn about the importance of public safety. The event will take place at Northside Park starting at 1 p.m. The expo promises an exciting lineup of activities and exhibits that will capti-

vate attendees of all ages. Families can explore fire trucks and ambulances during engaging tours, while children will have the chance to learn how to dial 911 through an interactive simulator. Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to tour emergency boats, mobile command centers, and other crucial equipment utilized by first responders. The expo offers a range of interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and activities, providing an educational and enjoyable experience for attendees of all ages.

June 24-Aug. 19: Furnace Town Music

Get ready to groove this summer at Furnace Town, showcasing a lineup of talented musicians and artists from around the shore. Enjoy live performances in a stunning outdoor venue. Bring your friends, family and loved ones for an evening filled with music, food, drinks, and fun. Cost is $10/adults, $5/kids 5-15. The schedule is:

June 24: 5-8 p.m., Flatland Drive Bluegrass Band

July 8: 5-8 p.m., Bryan & The Barn Owls-Americana

July 24: 5-8 p.m.,

The Folk Heroes & The Folk Villains

Aug. 5: 5-8 p.m., Hoedown with DJ Kay

Aug. 19: 5-8 p.m., Ampersand – Traditional American Music.

June 24: Fashion Show

United Women in Faith and United Methodist Men of Christ will host a fashion show along with light fare from 4-6 p.m. at Calvary Pentecostal Church along Route 113 in Bishopville. Tickets are $15 per person. For tickets and information, contact Priscilla Postley at 443366-2298 or Bruce Showell at 443-2352907.

June 24: Ordination

At 11 a.m., The Ordination of the Rev. Susannah Southern to the Priesthood will take place at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 3 Church St., Berlin. All are welcome.

June 28: Monthly Meeting

The First State Detachment of the Marine Corps League meets the fourth Wednesday each month at the Ocean City American Legion Post 166 on 23rd Street and Coastal Highway at noon. Any Marines and Navy Corpsman who have served in our Corps, living in Worcester and Sussex Counties, are welcome to join us to meet their fellow veterans and consider joining the Detachment and support our mission for community service through camaraderie and volunteerism. You can contact us by phone at 410-430-7181 or email websergeant@firststatemarines.org.

July 3: Full Moon Paddle

Pocomoke River Canoe Company will host at 2 River Street, Snow Hill. A great evening paddle on the summer's first full moon. Open until 9 p.m. Call 410-6323971 to reserve a canoe, kayak or paddleboard.

July 6-7: Beach Patrol Book

Live the Ocean City experience from the ’50s to the ’70s with Mark Landry, author

of Beach Patrol: Lifeguarding in Ocean City, MD 1966-1974, spent summers growing up in unincorporated north Ocean City. In 1965, Ocean City expanded to the Delaware line increasing the need for guard services. Landry responded and served through high school, college, and medical school.

Landry will present his perspective of that time capsule and share stories from his recent book and sign purchased copies at the Ocean Pines Library at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 6 and at the Ocean City Library at 100th Street and Coastal Highway at 9 a.m. July 7.

July 22: One-Day VBS

One-Day, All-Day Family Vacation Bible School, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin. VBS Theme: "The Parables of Jesus." Complimentary meals and snacks, Bible lessons, games, crafts, music, and more. An ice cream sundae social and family registration will be held Wednesday, July 12 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Bethany Church. You may also register by going to "contact us" at www.bethanyberlin.org. For more information, contact Megan Cooke at 443-614-3870 or mjcooke11@gmail.com.

July 24-28: Vacation Bible School

Stevenson United Methodist, Buckingham Presbyterian, Friendship United Methodist, St. Paul’s Episcopal and St. Paul United Methodist are partnering on a Vacation Bible School at Stevenson United Methodist Church from 6-8 p.m. Register online by July 1 and receive a free T-shirt at www.stevensonchurch.org/VBS. Call 410641-1137 for more information.

Aug. 5: Flounder Tourney

The Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce will host their 16th Annual Flounder Tournament and Auction on Saturday, August 5, 2023, with the weigh in and auction at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club and Marina from noon-430 p.m. This is the largest Maryland coastal flounder tournament and will feature an expected purse of over $8,000.

“Our region gets tournament fever every summer, especially the first week in August. We are the little guy tournament. A great day on the water and a chance to win big without breaking your bank to enter,” said Ocean Pines Chamber President Kerrie Bunting.

Registration is $55 per angler or $50 each when registering more than one. Calcuttas are available for $20 per angler. The longest flounder brought in by any angler 13 or under wins $100 and is also eligible for the main cash prizes. Make sure to register before noon on August 4. Collectable T-shirts are free for the first 250 registered. Sponsorships are available and we are seeking donations for the auction which is held during the weigh in. For tournament rules or to register as sponsor or angler go to: https://business.oceanpineschamber.org/events/details/16th-annualflounder-tournament-14865.

Things To Do activities are printed free of charge. To ensure that an event is listed in a timely manner, please submit information as early as possible, since all items will be listed in advance as space permits. Be sure to include the date, name of event, time, location, address and a contact number. Email to editor@mdcoastdispatch.com; fax to 410-641-0966; or mail to The Dispatch, P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811.

OBITUARIES

Ava Marie DelRicco

OCEAN VIEW – Ava Marie DelRicco, age 13, of Ocean View, Del., passed away peacefully in her sleep and gained her heavenly wings on Thursday, June 15, 2023.

Ava was born at Franklin Square Hospital in Baltimore on May 5, 2010 to George William DelRicco and Annmarie DelRicco. She was affectionately known as “Baby Ava” in the Ocean City and Ocean Pines communities.

She was involved in a serious car accident in December of 2011 from an impaired driver that plowed into the back of the car that was carrying Ava. Ava suffered severe injuries particularly to her head. She was flown to Johns Hopkins, where she had immediate surgery to relieve the swelling of her brain. The entire resort community embraced “Baby Ava” with vigils, fundraisers and prayers. Her strong resilient personality allowed her to survive the accident, but the severe brain damage limited her quality of life. Her mother and father became her around the clock caregivers to provide Ava with as much love and support as possible.

Although Ava’s tragic accident quickly changed the DelRicco household she still brought such a bright light of sunshine to anyone that was around her. She just finished seventh grade at Georgetown Middle School through Howard T. Ennis. Ava loved music and would move her legs to the beat of the music in her roller-walker. She also was a beach girl. Ava loved being on the beach and spending time with her loving family.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Richard Aldo and Cherie DelRicco. She is survived by her parents, George and Annmarie DelRicco; a sister, Sage; a brother, Mark and his fiancé, Amanda and their child Caleb; and maternal grandparents, Jerry and Carolyn Menagias. Ava is also survived by her aunt and godmother, Lisa DelRicco; aunt Dena Hollingsworth and her husband, Bubby; and two uncles, Ronald DelRicco and his wife Diana and Michael DelRicco; and 12 cousins, Nicole, Alyssa, Bubby, Brenden, Devin, Demi, Dillion, Ashlan, Tessa, Chase, Alexander and Enzo.

Services were held followed by interment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Dagsboro, Del.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Ava’s name to the Epilepsy Foundation by visiting www.epilepsy.com.

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

Kelley Dee Maitha Green

BERLIN – Kelley Dee Maitha Green, born on July 9, 1961 in Bucks County,

Pa., passed away on June 16, 2023. She is survived by her treasured daughter, Allyssa Foreman, son in love Terik Foreman and grandchildren Kaydence, Melody, Amelia and Thomas. Also survived by a “sister from another mister,” Anne Plummer as well as her “wasband”, Larry Green; sisters Kim Lynch (Charles Derrickson) and Karen Maloch (Paul); and several special nieces, nephew and cousins.

Kelley was preceded in death by her son, Darron Green in 1998, her father Kermit Maitha in 2000 and her mother Kitty Maitha in 2015.

Kelley’s greatest delight was spending time as a mother and “Gammy”. She enjoyed scouting with her children, children’s theatre, working with YRSPP, WOW etc., church and time with friends. A celebration of life service will be held in the future, for which the location and date are still to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jesse Klump Foundation for Youth Suicide Prevention, 10737 Piney Island Dr., Bishopville, Md. 21813 or Scholarship Fund for Mindfulness Retreats at Your Calmness Center, 314 Franklin Ave Suite 306, Berlin, Md. 21811.

KELLEY GREEN

AVA MARIE DELRICCO

Book Signing: The Ocean City Lifesaving Station Museum hosted Bunk Mann and his wife, Shari, recently for a signing of his third book, “Ocean City Chronicles.” The Manns are pictured greeting Senator Mary Beth Carozza and another visitor. Submitted Photo

A rendering of the Oceans Calling layout shows 65 businesses and staging areas within the festival footprint, which runs from Trimper’s Rides to North Division Street. Submitted Image

… 65 Businesses Within Oceans Calling Area

FROM PAGE 4

magnetometer screenings and that attendees would have to bring in clear bags like they did at many major sports games. He said there would be security personnel at each gate as well as roving security throughout the festival grounds.

City Manager Terry McGean praised the wide-ranging plans of C3.

“C3, of all the promoters we deal with, has been the most professional and the most prepared,” he said.

Police Chief Ross Buzzuro said he’d been impressed as well.

“We believe we’re going to have a good event,” he said.

William Esham, chair of the BLC, asked about businesses on the Boardwalk that were permitted to have carryout alcohol sales. Cropper said they’d have to agree not to offer carryout during the event if they were within the festival grounds.

Esham asked why organizers wanted to include the Boardwalk. Meehan responded that it was for a number of reasons, one of which was safety.

“One is the safe flow of traffic,” he said. “It creates a safer corridor. Also because the merchants want to be included.”

He said that if the businesses were fenced out, it would be hard for people to leave Oceans Calling to shop. Sweetwood added that the fence would be going up overnight so as not to impact merchants’ business on non-festival days.

BLC member Marty Pusey asked roughly what it would cost for a family of four to attend Oceans Calling. Sweetwood said it would be about $750.

Pusey said that might disappoint visitors who were in Ocean City that weekend.

“I just would expect to walk the Boardwalk but I can’t because what is normally public is no longer public,” she said.

Meehan stressed that the public would be notified that a portion of the Boardwalk would be closed well in advance. Jessica Waters, Ocean City’s communications and marketing director, added that Oceans Calling was in late September, not one of the resort’s busiest times.

“We have people traveling from I think every state to come to this event,” she said. “We think offering the Boardwalk creates a safer experience for them, a more enjoyable experience for them.”

She added that resort partners such as the Ocean City Development Corporation and the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce would help spread the message.

Oceans Calling organizers are expected to return to the board after July 1 for formal approval for the event. Coates said this was too large of an event for the board to review all of the information in one sitting. He added that board members would have the next month to advise him of any questions they had regarding what has been proposed for the festival.

Mary Statue Returned To OC Church

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A statue of Mary has been returned to a local church after a property manager reportedly found the stolen figure on a lot between Robin Drive and Sunset Drive.

This week, the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) announced a statue of Mary had been returned to St. Mary Star of the Sea with the help of a concerned citizen. The statue, which was located on a lot between Robin Drive and Sunset Drive, was reported stolen last week, leading the police department to post a social media message seeking the community’s assistance.

“With the help of a concerned citizen the statue of Mary has been returned to the Church,” a social media post from the OCPD reads. “On June 20, 2023, officers were approached by a property manager in the 200 block of Sunset Drive. The property manager located the statue in a lot between Robin Drive and Sunset Drive. The property manager knew that the statue did not belong in that area and he had seen OCPD’s Facebook post.”

On June 13, the OCPD posted a Facebook message seeking the public’s assistance with a theft that occurred during the night of June 12 at a church in the area of 17th Street and Philadelphia Avenue. The missing object was described as a heavy, 3-foot statue of Mary,

which typically requires more than one person to move.

The search for the missing statue soon gained traction, and the department’s Facebook post was shared by more than 800 people in the days that followed. In an update this week, the OCPD said it was still seeking the community’s assistance to determine how the statue ended up in the Sunset Drive area.

“We are still looking for anyone with information regarding how the statue found its way to the Sunset Drive area,” a social media post reads. “If anyone knows about this theft or saw any suspicious activity in the area from Kingfish Ave. to Sunset Drive, please contact Ofc. R Walker at Rwalker@oceancitymd.gov, or contact the Ocean City Police Department at 410-723-6610.”

Anonymous tips can also be made by calling 410-520-5136 or submitting them via https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/police/crime-tips. Please reference CC# 2023-00-2068.

“Thank you to everyone who prayed for the return of our stolen Blessed Mother statue and those who volunteered to pay for a new statue,” a Facebook post from St. Mary Star of the Sea reads. “Thanks to the OCPD, she has been returned. We will need to touch up a finger that was damaged and the base of the statue, so it will not be back immediately. Once the statue is all cleaned up, we’ll have a rededication of her.”

A statue of Mary, pictured above, has been returned to St. Mary Star of the Sea after it was found this week in the area of Sunset Drive. Submitted Photo

BLC Approves Limited Entertainment For OC Restaurant

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

NEWARK – After several failed attempts, an Ocean City bar will be able to host some live entertainment following a decision this week.

The Worcester County Board of License Commissioners (BLC) voted 2-1 this week to allow the Wicomico Street restaurant Toast to have limited entertainment four nights a week. Toast will now be able to have one piece entertainment amplified inside and one-piece entertainment non-amplified outside from 5-8 p.m. Toast’s Michael Berardinelli said the eatery was seeking entertainment to better serve its guests.

“We’re not putting on rock concerts,” Berardinelli said.

Last summer, the BLC gave Berardinelli a liquor license for the restaurant at 221

Wicomico St., which was once Buddy’s Crabs. In response to concerns from neighbors, however, no entertainment was approved for the establishment. The board told Berardinelli he could come back and seek permission to offer music if operations went well.

Berardinelli returned two months later and was given permission to have background music but not live music. He didn’t give up, however, and went to the board again in April and again this week seeking live entertainment privileges. This week he told the board he’d scaled back his request and was asking for approval to have background music inside and outside, live entertainment inside and outside, a piano, karaoke and the ability to offer off-sale beer and wine.

William Esham, chair of the BLC, asked Berardinelli what had changed since the board’s last denial of the request.

“What do you think is going to change our mind?” Esham said.

Berardinelli said the requested timeframes for the music were different. He added that he was only asking for entertainment four days a week. He added that some neighbors had also come to support the request.

Bob Greenwald, a resident of the building next door, said he thought Toast was a good business.

“I don’t feel he can make it without some type of entertainment,” he said, adding that the board could remove any entertainment permissions if they were abused.

Simone Reddington, a resident of the building Toast is in, said she’d owned a unit there since 2015 and had watched the restaurant space sit empty and develop problems with rodents and vagrants.

“We’re thankful we have a business that wants to be here,” she said. “As an owner I can’t understand why they have to prove themselves first.”

She said previous tenants of the space had live music. She added that the building the restaurant was in, Emerson Towers, had 13 units and most of them were rentals. As a result, she said there was a ton of traffic coming in and out of the building at all times so noise from Toast wasn’t likely to be a problem.

She said she was worried Toast would move out if it wasn’t successful.

“We’re going to have this hamster wheel of not having a tenant…,” she said. “I don’t want a decrepit place just sitting there.”

Esham asked if Berardinelli really considered a request for entertainment from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. to be reasonable, particularly when some neighbors had attended every BLC hearing to voice concerns.

Berardinelli said he was just trying to enhance the experience for Toast’s guests.

BLC member Marty Pusey said she’d visited the restaurant on Sunday and had been surprised by the amount of noisy boat traffic passing by the bayfront facility. She added that there hadn’t been any music playing outside when she was there but that there had been reasonable background music on inside.

“I think he could have inside music if it was limited,” she said.

BLC member Charles Nichols said if having entertainment was so important to Berardinelli he should not have missed the meeting he had scheduled with the board’s inspector.

“Our county inspector goes down there and you don’t make the meeting,” he said.

Berardinelli said he’d had a scheduling conflict.

Nichols asked why Berardinelli hadn’t spent the last year building a better relationship with his neighbors. Berardinelli said the issue of Toast and its entertainment had become politicized within the condominium.

“I don’t know why you can’t work out an arrangement with your neighbors,” Nichols maintained.

He added that Berardinelli knew when he rented the space it was surrounded by condos.

Berardinelli acknowledged that but said the prior licensee had music and live entertainment privileges so he’d thought Toast would get them too.

“What are we doing wrong that we’re getting penalized?” he said. “Why are we not being given a chance?”

Esham recalled the very first meeting Berardinelli had with the board, in which a neighbor complained about his behavior on site. He also mentioned the missed meeting with the inspector.

“You did it to yourself,” Esham said.

Pusey said she felt like things had gotten off on the wrong foot but that perhaps the business should be given some leeway.

“It’s unfortunate your request is so extensive,” she said.

The board voted 2-1, with Nichols opposed, to support her motion to let Toast have one piece entertainment 5-8 p.m. four days a week.

White Marlin Open Will Join Billfish Series

OCEAN CITY – The White Marlin Open (WMO), the world’s largest offshore billfish tournament held annually in Ocean City, announced this week it will join Sport Fishing Championship’s (SFC) Billfish Championship series beginning in August.

SFC, the governing body of saltwater tournament fishing, will host its annual Atlantic Division Championship at the White Marlin Open tournament, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

“The White Marlin Open is thrilled to join Sport Fishing Championship,” said White Marlin Open Tournament Director Madelyne Motsko. "We are a proud industry leader in tournament competition, conservation, and fan experience. By teaming up with SFC, we can further showcase our iconic event and the Ocean City, Maryland, community to an international audience while reaching more fans across the globe."

The White Marlin Open will join SFC as its newest legacy tournament, serving as the finale to the Billfish Championship circuit's four Atlantic Division events. It is

Retirees Recognized: On June 20, the Worcester County Commissioners extended their thanks and congratulations to five retiring staff members for their lasting contributions to the residents and visitors of Worcester County. Pictured, front from left, are Recycle Worker III Sylvester Byrd (20 years), Vehicle & Equipment Mechanic III Johnnie Lewis (18 years), Benefits Manager Hope Carmean (47 years), Transfer Station Attendant Wade Hudson (10 years) and Human Resources Specialist Ann Hankins (15 years); and, back from left,

the last domestic stop on the tour before the conclusion of the overall 12-event series at the International Billfish Tournament in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

“This is a historic day for our sport and industry,” said Mark Neifeld, commissioner and CEO of Sport Fishing Championship. “We are honored to showcase the rich fishing history and world-class competition that the White Marlin Open brings to SFC. This momentous partnership signifies our joint efforts, and the efforts of all of our tournament partners, to

create a legacy championship for the sport of saltwater fishing that will be passed down for generations to come."

The White Marlin Open will join SFC's internationally televised Billfish Championship event alongside a roster of some of the most notable tournaments across the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Seaboard, and the Caribbean.

To learn more about the Sport Fishing Championship or view the 2023 season schedule, visit www.sportfishingchampionship.com.

The WMO is a 50-year-old offshore fishing tournament that awards prize money for white marlin, blue marlin, tuna, wahoo, dolphin, and swordfish catches. Long known as the “World’s Largest Billfishing Tournament,” the WMO has awarded over $95 million since 1974 to the lucky winners among more than 105,000 anglers aboard over 14,000 registered boats. The WMO holds the world record for prize money payouts for any fishing tournament. To learn more, visit https://whitemarlinopen.com.

Commissioners Caryn Abbott, Joe Mitrecic, Jim Bunting, Chip Bertino, Eric Fiori, Ted Elder and Diana Purnell. File Photo

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It’s been interesting to observe Ocean City anticipating the changes of July 1 on marijuana legalization. The stance has been to be proactive and careful with perceived consequences of the state’s new direction.

Being a beach resort full of people of all ages, Ocean City officials are wise to apply scrutiny and buy some time with a nine-month moratorium. The ordinance reads, “the Town considers the public interest to be best served by the adoption of zoning and licensing code amendments and regulations that establish appropriate locations for facilities for growing, processing and selling of cannabis; and … the town requires additional time to undertake appropriate

Editor:

Short Moratorium Wise Course In Resort

study and obtain desired public input before establishing effective Town ordinances and other necessary regulations applicable to businesses engaging in the growing, processing and/or selling of cannabis…” The moratorium was approved at the same meeting an ordinance was approved prohibiting onsite cannabis consumption within city limits.

All these moves may appear hasty, but they are necessary after the state created regulations to allow individuals 21 years and older to purchase cannabis products legally from licensed dispensaries that convert their licenses. Additionally, there are numerous changes to the amount of pot a person can

How We See It Letters To The Editor

Voter ID Reflections

As a follow-up to the letter from Dennis Evans last week and anyone else in the community confused about voter ID. Whenever this subject comes up, we tend to hear a lot of arguments about certain parties receiving disadvantage when voting does not require ID, mailin votes are popular, early voting is allowed, etc. It's a repetitive pity party that almost always revolves around one complaint: the existence of fake votes due to these provisions.

The one major thing we never hear is about the real and actual prevalence of fake votes in any large-scale election. Every one of the countless recounts, investigations, etc. are dead ends where nary a handful of possibly faulty cast votes are discovered so far into the probabilistic margins of the bell curve that they are clearly anomalous. Shocking, I know.

The issues with requirements of voter ID have some origins in discriminatory actions or settings of the past, but that's not really an argument made by too many anymore. The idea that voter ID should not be required is quite simply to create a hurdle-less pathway for every citizen, regardless of stature or circumstance, to participate, cast their vote with ease, and take part in the democratic practice that we all love so much.

Our local, state, and federal election boards and workers have created myriads of systems to fairly and accurately count votes, check voter rolls, etc. These constant attacks on the system are a clear and distinct attack on the integrity of these folks. Why? Because you read an unverified story that was grounded in no actual evidence, just hearsay?

Voting should be easy and without hoops. Systems are in place to ensure this is all done with integrity and fidelity. There is no actual evidence of any such widespread fraud and any argument

that it exists without proof is just wasted air.

Let everyone vote. Let the people speak. Encourage any and all to vote. Make it easier for them to do so. Then true democracy exists.

Thom Epps

School Not About The Money

Editor:

In 1970, the graduating class of Stephen Decatur High was quite accomplished, with over 68% going to fouryear colleges and proficiency scores well above 75% in all academic areas. So, what happened? In 2012, I compared the 1970 graduating class with the 2010 graduating class and was assisted by Superintendent Andes. More alarming than the drop off in achievement was the increase in cost. In 2010, the cost per pupil, after adding in inflation, had increased an additional 300%. I would not have been able to determine that without Superintendent Andes’ cooperation.

On Feb. 16, 2022, Carol Menzel, Director of Institutional Research for WorWic Community College released the following: Of 71 graduates of Worcester County High Schools entering Wor-Wic Community College in the 2022 school year, 13 students (18%) required remedial training in reading, 17 students (24%) required remedial training in writing and 36 students (51%) required remedial training in mathematics. This meant they could not take college level courses until they successfully completed their remedial training work.

Of the 71 Worcester County graduates 39 (55%) required remedial training before starting college level courses. Of all first-time college students 46% required remedial training. This should not be acceptable in one of the richest education systems in the state and the nation. Its not about the money.

When we compare Worcester to it-

carry without ramifications. What the law did not do was make smoking cannabis legal in public places or in motor vehicles.

The immediate issue for local governments is whether to allow pot smoking in businesses. In Ocean City, two code amendments were introduced in the spring to specifically tackle on-site cannabis consumption. The state legislation allows municipalities to pass specific amendments to its code to prevent on-site marijuana use.

Worcester County and Berlin governments have also discussed moves related to the state’s decision regarding on-site consumption. These are smart processes to undertake.

self, many years ago there has been a complete decline in competence. If the 300% increase in cost after adding in inflation from 1970 through 2010 held up to 2023, I have every reason to believe that to educate a student today costs 300% more than it did, after inflation cost, in 1970. Why was education so much more effective in 1970 and less expensive? Why are we spending more and getting less? Why is education not working today?

A large part of the problem is our feckless Board of Education that has miserably failed by allowing these runaway costs and declining academic performances to go unchecked for decades. They have simply rubber stamping every budget the Education Bureaucracy gives them.

The fact that similar problems plague most of the school systems in the nation is not a reason to tolerate them here. I often noticed in Fairfax County (a similarly rich county), that when the education bureaucracy wanted more money, they would cancel the science fair, an event that didn’t cost much, but sent a message to parents. Recently, Mr. Taylor’s education bureaucracy canceled materials in special ed, sending a similar message. Our administrators are concealing a bloated administration that the record shows has hindered and retarded our county’s education for too long, harming many youngsters.

The Commissioners that stood up, Abbott, Bunting, Elder, Fiori and Bertino should be applauded for their recent intervention and modest reductions in the education budget. The public should view it as a first step toward a merit based academic system of education as it existed 50 years ago.

In my tertiary review of the original budget by focusing on unnecessary administrators I reduced the 2024 budget

Letters To The Editor

to $94,863,206 but included $4,000,000 of merit bonus pay for the 507 teachers and $1,250,000 in merit bonus pay for the 89 special ed teachers.

Classroom teachers must be unshackled and supported, given the ability to teach academics. Katie Addis is in a fight for the children and it’s just beginning. The feckless Board of Ed must be replaced, except for Katie if we have any hope of overcoming the tragic unleashing of ignorance, at a huge expense.

Tony Christ Falls Church, Va./Ocean City

Offshore Wind Facts

Editor:

Sometimes I wonder if Americans are interested in knowing the truth anymore. It’s out there, but not always easy to find.

Specifically, I wonder if people are aware of the following facts about Offshore Wind:

1. Offshore Wind is a very expensive technology - three times as expensive as land-based wind - and is not in any way harmless to the environment. Fifty mayors along the East Coast are calling for a moratorium until environmental impacts, including damage to sea life and bird life, can be studied. The Board of Commissioners of Cape May County, New Jersey voted unanimously in opposition to an offshore wind farm proposed near its coastline.

2. Because it is so expensive, tax credits to the developers are necessary - and those developers are not American companies - American taxpayers are giving millions and millions of dollars in OUR tax money (actually our great-great-grandchildren’s tax money) to foreign companies. I have a problem with this.

3. Speaking of sea life - how many people are aware that there are no natural loud noises in the ocean? Watch a nature program of the ocean (such as “Planet Earth”) and you will see that the ocean is very quiet. What do you think happens to a whale or dolphin when its sonar system is impacted by the incredibly loud noises due to the pile driving and construction of these monstrous turbines? Do you think perhaps they may do everything they can to get away from the source of these noises? I’m pretty sure life does not go along as usual. Also, the vibration the huge blades on these enormous machines create in the water - how can this not affect the migratory patterns of these beautiful creatures? Common sense tells you they will change their routes, most likely to their detriment.

4. And to top it off - some of the “data” used to justify the need for “green energy” to combat climate change is corrupted - this is according to a new study “Corrupted Climate Stations: The Official U.S. Surface Temperature Record Remains Fatally Flawed” published by the Heartland Institute. The report finds that 96% of U.S. temperature stations used to

measure climate change fail to meet what the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration considers to be “acceptable” and uncorrupted by its own published standards. The research shows that 96% of these stations are corrupted by their “close proximity to asphalt, machinery, and other heat-producing, heat-trapping or heat-accentuating objects”. One has to ask oneself why on Earth one would place a temperature station in a location that will most definitely cause higher than actual temperature readings?

Unfortunately, I could go on and on, but then, of course, few would bother to read this letter. I just want people to be aware of the facts - that these machines being proposed for our coast are not cute windmills - they are monstrously huge machines that will create (and as far as sea life and bird life is concerned already are creating) an environmental disaster.

Carol Frazier Ocean Pines

Praise For Community

Editor:

The community around Ocean Pines is due recognition for their continuing support of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines - Ocean City, Maryland. The local club is part of an international organization of volunteers in over 80 countries which focuses on "Serving the Children of the World". The local club has nearly 50 members from Ocean Pines, Ocean City, Berlin and Southern Sussex County who volunteer tirelessly to raise funds in support of local youth and also perform community service, none of which could be accomplished without the support of the community. Some of the efforts are an annual "Pick 3" Lottery Raffle sold by members and weekly at the Ocean Pines Farmers Market, Springfest beer sales, selling concessions in Ocean Pines for their annual Car Show, Summer Concerts in the Park, the 4th of July celebration and craft shows to name a few. A major part of these funds are budgeted for annual scholarships awarded to local graduating senior students. This year $16,000 was awarded.

Local businesses also support the Kiwanis Club, as was the case for the June 3 Annual Car Show. A big thank you to Red Sun Custom Apparel, The Foard Lund Wilson Group of Merrill Lynch, Danzi Brothers, Dan Franklin Plumbing, The DV Robertson Group (Seafloor Carpet & Hardwood), Eagle Roofing, Yasmin, LLC (Paradise Grill & Pizzaria), Baby Boomer Insurance, Fenwick Hardware, OC Eyecare, Bank of Ocean City, Sherrie Clifford, JHT, Berlin Autowash, Go Glass of West OC. Rayne's Reef and the Treasure Chest for sponsoring the event.

Kiwanis is grateful for the community support and will continue to strive to help make a difference.

Kiwanian David J. Landis, Sr.

Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green

Blunt talk is not commonplace in government, but there was a heaping dose of it on display at this week’s Worcester County Board of Education meeting. Following an emotional prepared statement by Board of Education member Elena McComas, Worcester County Board of Education member Dr. Jon Andes shared a few things on his mind. Andes knows education, having served 16 years as superintendent of schools in Worcester County and before that a teacher, coach and administrator in Harford County. A current professor at Salisbury University, Andes also understands the finances surrounding public schools in the state, having authored a book titled, “Taking the Mystery out of Funding Maryland Public Schools.”

During the board comments period of Tuesday’s meeting, Andes was as frank as I have ever heard him in his career here. Known for his reserved, humorous and polite ways, Andes said the recent budget discourse with the county reminds him of challenges faced 20 years ago between the school board and county commissioners. He was highly critical of state-funded mandates being passed on to the local school system, referring to exorbitant increases in locally required spending. He said at one point the state paid for all transportation within public schools. It’s paid now by the counties. He said, “I am tired and fed up of,” what is happening at the state level and the impact it has on the public school system. Andes stopped short of direct criticism of the commissioners’ decision to level fund the school system, but aired many other thoughts.

“Along with these unfunded mandates from the state, another thing that really frustrates me is Worcester County is the golden goose that lays the egg for the state every year. As an example, for every dollar Worcester County sends up to the state in tax revenue, we get 34 cents back, 34 cents back. For Somerset, every dollar they send to the state, they get over $3.58 back from the state. … For every dollar Wicomico sends, they get $3 back. That’s quite a deal, think about it,” Andes said. “We have 10 miles of beachfront that provides a tremendous amount of tax dollars to our community … that’s the reason our tax dollars – both our income and property – are so low. It’s because of that 10-mile strip of land up there. If we didn’t have that 10-mile strip and that was Wicomico County, this would be a very different story I am telling today.”

Andes apologized a couple times for taking so much time of the meeting, but continued, “… I am hoping that somehow some way we can get past this whole rigmarole over the last four to six months, or whatever it’s been, because I can’t take it anymore. It’s déjà vu all over for me from back to 2003. I am hoping we can find a path forward. I am hoping we can send a message to the state we are tired of getting 34 cents. We want our dollar. All politics is local and sometimes politics becomes personal. My experience has been whenever politics becomes personal it doesn’t help anybody. Over these last four to six months, it has become personal. I am hoping at some point in time the president of the County Commissioners, the vice president of the County Commissioners, the president of the Board of Education, the vice president of the Board of Education, the county administrator and our superintendent of schools can sit down and have lunch … and try to work this thing out because we can’t go on like this to maintain the system we have today. It just can’t happen.”

A colorful new “I Support Public Education” logo has been widely circulating on social media. The logo was created by well-known graphic designer/illustrator Brian Robertson, who wrote on his personal Facebook page, “The public education system drives the futures of the majority of children in the United States. In Worcester County it is being purposefully underfunded by a handful of county commissioners who disagree with its policy of inclusiveness.” His logo has become popular in profile photos across social media this week.

The logo was likely a direct result of the divisive budget conversations at the county level that resulted in $4.4 million needed to be cut from the school system this month. Additionally, and most recently, there has been a controversial Facebook post by Worcester County Commissioner Caryn Abbott turning some heads. Accompanying a graphic, her post read, “For all the parents that have talked to me over past 2 years about other options for your children and needing more information: Register for free workshop if you have questions about other options than public school. Home school, private school, this is the meeting to attend to get your questions answered. Since the needs of our students are diverse, it would be equitable considering the needs of all students, and that is having options that fit them best.”

The workshop being referred to is sponsored by the Delmarva Parent Teacher Coalition. A Facebook post on the graphic reads, “Our free workshop will explain your options on how to exit the public school system and find an alternative education for your child. If you think that's impossible, then this workshop is for you! Learn all about: Private School, Homeschool, Financial Planning, Advice, and a Q&A panel.”

The graphic has been shared far and wide and bashed by most teachers. It’s fascinating that a commissioner would share this post, which has further enraged most parents with kids in the public education system as well as the teachers within it. More information about the Delmarva Parent Teacher Coalition is available on its website.

Puzzle Answers

by Steve Green

Earlier this month, Beckett finished ninth grade and Carson put a wrap on seventh grade. I needed a couple weeks to process it.

Maybe it was Father’s Day last weekend or just winds of nostalgia blowing through me, but of late I have been doing double takes of my kids. I am in a bit of shock over how old they are and how much they are changing physically. I see them every day, but there are random moments when I can’t seem to process all these personality and appearance changes. I find comfort in knowing all parents have these realizations as their kids are growing up.

I try to live the mantra “the best ability is availability.” I don’t want to miss much in their lives if anything at all. My goal since becoming a dad was always to put family first and be present. No matter what life throws at me, everything starts and ends with my family in my heart. The last thing I do every night before going to bed is check on my kids in their rooms. Among the first things I do every morning after waking up is check on my boys. Many of my close friends feel the same, and one of my favorite things in life is to catch up with buddies and share parenting stories. These reflections are not always roses and sunflowers, and there are times when it’s a commiseration session among friends. This is parenting and the journey is full of trials and tribulations.

When it comes to my sons, who are now 15 and 13 years old, the last week of school was especially chaotic this year, and I did not have a lot of time to reflect on it until this week. Each of them had unique experiences this year.

When I think about Beckett’s freshman year, it was quite the adventure, beginning with his desire to try something new with boarding school in Virginia. We approached this new chapter with excitement for him but also a broken heart. I will never forget the drive

back home last August when we dropped him off for pre-season soccer. Those first weeks at home without him there were difficult. As happens in life, we adjusted to a new normal and a long-distance relationship with our kid. It was essentially college, but four years earlier. All was fine, even great most days, for the first few months until it wasn’t. Things changed with him slowly but surely. We could see his feelings and approach wavering. Beckett realized home is indeed where he wanted to be after all around the holidays. He returned for the second semester to Worcester Prep, where he had attended since pre-kindergarten, with a fresh perspective and appreciation for his hometown.

It was a significant year in his life. It’s one he nor his parents will ever forget. Nothing about it was easy but life rarely is no matter your age. When I hear him reflect with other people about his experience, he often is blunt, saying he doesn’t regret going to boarding school because it made him appreciate home. A life lesson was learned indeed. If he doesn’t have any regrets, neither can Pam or me.

For our Carson, who is special needs and nonverbal, each school year brings newness and challenges.

This was arguably our most complex school year ever, and it says a lot because school has always come with a lot of anxiety for our special guy. There were many days when the disability won, and it wasn’t even close. I view just about everything through a sports lens, and there were days when we got slaughtered. The game, or in the case of school, was called early. There were a few days when something was off with our kid, and it was not a good day. Things became so difficult the day had to be cut short.

If I am being honest, and always am in this space for better or worse, we would have never picked the special needs journey if given the choice. You

would have to be demented to choose this difficult, emotional and sometimes impossible track, but this tour guide of ours teaches us every day about perseverance and resiliency. The lessons I have learned from him about perspective and empathy the last 13 years serve me well each day.

The fact Carson is adopted has also deepened my faith and made me more comfortable talking about my beliefs. I think God placed him with us to make us better people. There was something spiritually divine at play when it came to our adoption story with Carson. Of all the kids we could have been matched with at any given time, it was our Carson who was chosen for us. I truly find peace in accepting there was more at play in our process of becoming Carson’s parents.

In our current stage of life, autism plus puberty equals tremendous challenges. Some school days it was too much to bear, and we didn’t even make it out of the truck in the school parking lot. I could sense it wasn’t meant to be. I second guess those calls, but it was best in the end. The good news is there were far more successful days than bad, in large part to our partnership with our education team. Every day was met with positivity, despite the day before.

Embracing every day is a new day was all we asked of Carson and our team of caring professionals. School is certainly not about awards for him. He would not want the recognition anyway. The goal is simply to walk into school in a good place and make it through the day with success, albeit with his trusted Pooh teddy bear. Pam and I celebrate the wins and learn from the losses, thanks to our faith and sense of humor.

(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.)

PUZZLE ON PAGE 59