June 30

SERVING DELMARVA FOR 60 YEARS

Negotiation Period For Heron Park Extended

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Elected officials agreed to extend negotiations for the sale of Heron Park after hearing countless questions and concerns from residents this week.

The Berlin Town Council on Monday heard hours of input regarding the potential sale of a portion of Heron Park to developer Palmer Gillis. The council agreed to extend the negotiating period to give the Berlin Planning Commission and the Berlin Parks Commission time to weigh in on the issue.

“I think we need to step back, solicit the input of our community,” Councilman Dean Burrell said.

Mayor Zack Tyndall told those at Monday’s council meeting that the majority of the subcommittee that had been negotiating with Gillis for months no longer wanted to continue with negotiations.

“That’s why it’s a discussion item for this evening,” he said.

Councilman Jay Knerr, who with Tyndall and Councilman Jack Orris made up the subcommittee, said he wanted to hear from the public. Orris pointed out the public didn’t have any of the details of the negotiations.

Tyndall said the two items that hadn’t been agreed to were the purchase price as well as the duration of a specialized commercial use. He said officials wanted $1.7 million from Gillis but that Gillis wanted to see $200,000 of that price dedicated to particular issues.

“The subcommittee came to the conclusion we should not move forward,” Tyndall said, adding that the entire council would have to decide whether negotiations should continue.

Orris said he’d objected when Gillis mandated that $200,000 of the price be used for certain projects.

“If we couldn’t agree on a sale price everything else is a bit moot,” he said.

Knerr said overall the proposal from Gillis was nice but that the town still owed a significant amount of debt on the property and Gillis purchasing a portion of it wouldn’t eliminate that debt.

“For me that’s a big problem,” he said.

Councilwoman Shaneka Nichols pointed out that a lot on Flower Street had been part of the Heron Park purchase and was technically contributing to the town’s debt service as well.

Orris reminded his peers that the park had been discussed frequently for the past seven years and at one time had been the focus of a citizen committee and had even had a town employee dedicated to it. He said that he’d felt good about negotiations with Gillis initially but that back and forth on the price and the fact that the town had a deadline tied to its $500,000 demolition grant for the property he was ready to abandon negotiations. He said he wanted the town’s commissions to discuss possibilities for the park while the town used its demolition grant to clear what it could of the dilapidated structures on the site.

Weather Provides Slow Summer Start

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Officials say they are optimistic about the resort’s summer season as they prepare for warmer weather and Independence Day festivities.

While cooler, rainy weather provided a slower start to the summer season, officials in Ocean City say they are eager to see the trend change, particularly as Fourth of July celebrations near.

“So the season thus far has been feeling a little slow; however, given the weather, not completely unexpected as weather drives business,” said Susan Jones, executive director of the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association. “Now that it is almost July, we should see the heat and business should pick up.”

Jones reported this week that there are still plenty of hotel rooms available ahead of the July 4 holiday.

She said years in which Independence Day falls on a weekday are never ideal for the resort, as many do not have time off on the day before or the day after. She also pointed to shortterm rentals and their impact on reservations and dining.

“Increased supply of short-term rentals is having an effect on hotel/motels,” she added. “If someone rents shortterm rental, they are cooking in the units and not dining out as much.”

Jones said other factors have played a role in visitation to Ocean City. Jones noted that destination analysts and recent webinars all point to a mild economic slowdown, which tends to feed consumer fears of spending. She added that inflation has also impacted travel.

“They are also noting that the most effected are the lower income earners as inflation has gobbled up any wage increases,” she said. “Higher wage earners continue to seek experiences and are still traveling so there is resilience in travel in those catering to higher household earners.”

Jones also highlighted the post-COVID climate and the return of air and cruise travel.

“We fared so well in 2021 and 2022

“OCEAN CITY CHRO NICLES ”

as cruise and air industries suffered greatly; travel to cities also slowed in that time but we excelled due to outdoor options,” she said. “Travel via air, cruise and city exploring is taking some of that share now and we’ve leveled off. In general, Expedia reported that travel demand is strong and spending in this category has outpaced others as folks are seeking adventure.”

Jones noted, however, that there is some positive news to be found.

“Good news is that growth will come in the business travel as people are seeking face-to-face interactions,” she said.

Resort officials say they are also eager for the return of Independence Day celebrations, which typically bring more people into town.

While COVID restrictions, accidental detonations and labor issues prompted the cancellation of fireworks displays the last three years, officials are hoping the two July 4 shows will proceed as planned.

“Although I can’t control the weather, I look forward to two terrific fireworks displays at Northside Park and Downtown this July 4th,” City Manager Terry McGean said. “I would remind everyone to come early, stay late, be patient with the traffic, and enjoy the shows.”

Ocean City Marketing and Communications Director Jessica Waters said the town’s celebrations will include a downtown show featuring the U.S. Army Band Downrange and DJ Kutt. At Northside Park, DJ Knappy and Gizmo will provide a family friendly show.

“Excitement is brewing for the upcoming July 4th weekend,” she said. “At the Tourism Department, we are thrilled to invite visitors to celebrate our vibrant coastal paradise.”

She added, “Of course, Mother Nature is one thing we cannot control, although early forecasts look like great beach days.” she said. “Overall we expect the town to be busy with families and friends spending America's birthday in Ocean City. After the holiday, we have several weeks of summer left to enjoy free events, the beautiful beach and bay, and all of our outstanding businesses, which genuinely make Ocean City Somewhere to Smile About.”

OCEAN CITY CHRONICLES

BUNK MANN’S NEWEST BOOK O N OCEAN CITY HISTORY

“Ocean City Chronicles” is the final book in Bunk Mann’s 3 volume historical series which began with “Vanishing Ocean City’ in 2014 and continued with ‘Ghosts In The Surf” in 2019. Centered around his articles in Ocean city’s award-winnning newspaper the Maryland Coast Dispatch , his latest book features 285 of the most popular ones over the past 11 years. It includes hundreds of photos of long vanished hotels & restaurants, the great storms & fires, deep sea fishing, boardwalk attractions & amusements, and stories of the people who turned a small 19th-century fishing village into a modern, year-round destination.

“Ocean City Chronicles” is a comprehensive history of Maryland’s famous oceanfront resort in a hardbound coffee table book featuring cover art by noted artist, Paul McGehee. Supplies are limited so order your copy today!

Ocean City Chronicles can be ordered online at vanishingoceancity.com. Visit the website for further information and photos.

“Ocean City Chronicles” will be available at select location in Ocean City, Berlin, Ocean Pines and online. If you liked “Vanishing Ocean City,” & Ghosts In The Surf’ then you will love Bunk Mann’s third book of photos and OC history.

BOOKS AVAILA BLE AT THES E LOCAT IO NS:

OC Lifesaving Museum

F ager’s Island

Donaway Fur niture

Mann Proper ties

Seacrets

Crab s To Go

Wockenfuss Candies

Berlin Auto Wash

Har poon Hanna’s

T he Buzzed Wor d

OC Chamber Of Commer ce

M.R. Ducks

M alib u’s Surf Shop

OC Ar t League

Caprichos Books

Kitty ’s F lowers

Victorian Char m

Park Place Jeweler s

Cop y Central

Toy Town/ Snow Hill

Ocean Galler y Mann & Gray Insurance

T he Bay Country Shop, Camb ridge, MD

Violations Found At OC Restaurant; Music Hours Reduced

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – County officials reduced entertainment hours at an Ocean City restaurant in response to noise complaints from neighbors.

After a lengthy hearing Monday, the Worcester County Board of License Commissioners (BLC) found that two violations occurred at Saltwater 75 and subsequently adjusted the music and entertainment hours at the 75th Street establishment.

“Near the bustle and excitement of OC, there are peaceful neighborhoods of wonderful year-round residences,” neighbor Carol Armstrong said. “Our neighborhood was one of these peaceful places until BJ’s indoor music was replaced by Saltwater’s outdoor music. We appreciate the county liquor board’s action to protect our

homes.”

The BLC convened Monday to hold a hearing regarding alleged violations of the Alcoholic Beverages Article by Saltwater 75, the new restaurant at the former site of BJ’s on the Water. Numerous neighbors were in attendance to share their concerns about the noise emanating from the facility and its bayfront beach. Armstrong said the outdoor music started at 10 a.m. and went until midnight. She added that when the restaurant hosted live music, it wasn’t the acoustic guitars neighbors had expected, as it was amplified. When asked by Joe Moore, Saltwater 75’s attorney, if she’d called the restaurant or the police about the noise, Armstrong said she’d called the restaurant twice and she’d called the police when the app on her phone said the music was beyond 70 decibels. She said that by the time police arrived, however, the music had been turned

down. Moore pointed out that phone apps weren’t capable of accurate measurements.

“Those devices are not allowed to recognize decibels because of ambient noise,” he said.

Neighbor Ruth Vernet said the restaurant’s owners hadn’t kept their promises about being cognizant of noise in the neighborhood.

“We are being disturbed by this music,” she said, adding that it was on 14 hours a day.

Moore said Sgt. Doug Smith of the Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) had visited the area 28 times to check noise levels.

“It has not registered any violation of the Ocean City noise ordinance,” he said.

Neighbor Frank Vernet said that while the levels might be within allowable limits, when the music was on 14 hours a day it

was intense. Other neighbors said they hadn’t had problems when BJ’s was open but that entertainment had been inside and the doors had been closed. Neighbor Nancy Burdett said she could hear the lyrics of every song played at Saltwater 75.

“It is a ridiculous nuisance,” she said. “We’d like you to support and respect our homes.”

Smith, who’s been with OCPD more than 20 years, said he’d visited the neighborhood numerous times to do baseline testing of the noise.

“Ocean City is not a quiet town,” he said, referencing highway traffic, boat engines and car doors slamming. He said in many cases the ambient noise exceeded the allowable decibel level.

Smith told the board he’d attended a meeting between the restaurant’s leadership and the neighbors and felt Saltwater 75 owners were making efforts to address concerns.

“In my opinion they’re trying to work with the neighbors,” he said. “I don’t think they’re there yet.”

Moore said the restaurant was in a commercial district and that staff had been careful to end live entertainment by 7:45 p.m., even though the specified time was 8 p.m. He also introduced two musicians, who said they were acoustic performers but that they used speakers. They said that was the norm in the Ocean City music scene.

“In this day and time with large groups it’s impossible to go completely acoustic,” one musician said.

Neighbors, however, said they felt acoustic music shouldn’t have any electric amplification.

Saltwater 75’s Marc McFaul said he’d opened more than a dozen restaurants through his career and always made an effort to work with neighbors regarding any concerns.

“We’ve tried to answer every call,” he said. “We’ve turned down the music. We’ve moved the stage … This is definitely a tough one but we will do it and become successful in being friends with our neighbors. We will do everything we can.”

Saltwater 75’s Chris Reda agreed. He said restaurant management had tried to make themselves available to neighbors.

“We’re going to keep moving stuff around to see what works,” he said.

After hours of testimony, the board found that two violations occurred. The property operated in such a manner that it disturbed the peace and tranquility of the neighborhood and the property also hosted music on its second-floor deck when it wasn’t supposed to. The BLC went on to alter the hours Saltwater 75 can play music. Background music outside is now only allowed from noon until 9 p.m. All outside speakers must be turned off after 9 p.m. and all doors and windows must be closed. Acoustic music through speakers will be permitted on the beach from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. No live entertainment is allowed on the second floor of the restaurant.

Armstrong said the reduction in hours of background music, which had previously played from 10 a.m. until midnight, was expected to make a huge difference for residents of the area.

Appeals Board Grants Boardwalk Bike Rental Request

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A special use exception will allow the connections of Bike World to establish a new rental operation at the north end of the Boardwalk.

Last Thursday, the Ocean City Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) approved a special use exception request from Bike World LLC to allow a leased bicycle rental at 26th Street with storage inside the Flagship Hotel. Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy said the operator, John Barrett, was looking to establish a new location at the north

end of the Boardwalk, in the R-3 residential zoning district.

“Basically, because it’s a public use rental, he has to come for a special use exception,” she said.

In her presentation last week, Gordy told the appeals board that Eden Roc bicycle rental had operated at the Flagship Hotel since 2001. While a rental business license was issued to the owner, William Salvatore, there was never any record of him receiving a special use exception from the board of zoning appeals.

“Since 2001 this rental business license to William Salvatore actually was operat-

ed for the convenience of the occupants of the building,” she explained. “So as an accessory use, it was allowed without special use exception.”

Gordy noted, however, that Barrett’s business would be open to public rentals.

“People can rent, even though it is associated with a hotel, and their storage is going to be inside the hotel …,” she said. “Because of it being a public rental business, that is why he is before you this evening.”

Gordy said the applicant would have a display area between the north-end tram station and 2611 Atlantic Avenue. When the business is closed, bikes would be stored within the north side of the Flagship Hotel.

“The 700 square feet of storage for the bicycles is on the north side, inside the building itself,” she explained. “The display area has always been on their parking lot, at the head of the Boardwalk. It is not on the Boardwalk.”

To that end, Gordy said staff was recommending that the board approve the special use exception with the condition that business be conducted on private property and only during times allowed by town ordinance. She said bicycles are allowed on the Boardwalk from 2-11 a.m. the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, and at any time from the Tuesday after Labor Day through the Friday before Memorial day, with the exception of Springfest and Sunfest.

“The comprehensive plan, as you all

well know, is very well supportive as far as bicycle transportation is concerned, and we allow that all over town,” Gordy added. “In fact, there are plans for bike paths and so forth. This is going to be on the Boardwalk, but it is very well supported by the economic development and transportation chapters of the comprehensive plan.”

For his part, Barrett said his operation would be similar to the rental business that previously occupied the space.

“It’s really nothing different than what has been there for over 20 years,” he told the board. “We’re just looking at improving inventory. We have online reservations with all our shops now, and it makes it more advanced than what was previously there.”

He said he was asking the board to grant his request for a special use exception.

“We’d love to open up this last month or so, and we’d love to get going,” he said.

After further discussion, the board voted 3-0 to approve the special use exception with staff conditions.

“I think this is pretty straightforward,” said BZA Chair Chris Rudolf.

The board last week also adopted the findings of face for a special use exception request presented in May. The BZA voted unanimously to deny a special use exception for a private boat dock with no established principal use at 11614 Shipwreck Road. Officials noted the applicant failed to substantially comply with the requirements of the town code.

School System Moves Forward With Pre-K3 Expansion

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

NEWARK – The school system will accept a grant to expand prekindergarten despite concerns from the Worcester County Commissioners.

Worcester County Public Schools (WCPS) officials said this week the school system would accept a $600,000 Pre-K expansion grant. The decision comes after the commissioners declined to offer concurrence regarding the PreK3 funding.

“We certainly appreciate the commissioners' careful consideration of this matter, and at this time, school system leadership has decided it is in the best interest of the students in our Title I schools to accept the grant for this year with the express knowledge that at the conclusion of the grant year, we will ei-

ther end the program or repurpose positions through attrition to sustain these programs,” said Carrie Sterrs, the school system’s coordinator of public relations and special programs. “We also hope should the county's financial position improve over the course of the next year that the commissioners may reconsider supporting this program.”

Last week, the commissioners reviewed a request for concurrence regarding the school system’s plan to use a $600,000 grant to expand Pre-K3 at Buckingham Elementary School, Snow Hill Elementary School and Pocomoke Elementary School. Officials told the commissioners the funding would add an additional Pre-K3 classroom at each of those schools, as it would provide salaries for seven staff members as well as the furniture, supplies, curriculum and technology needed for one year. The

school system is pushing prekindergarten to ensure local children are ready for kindergarten.

None of the commissioners last Tuesday made a motion to support the school system’s acceptance of the grant. Commissioner Chip Bertino noted that it was the first time he could remember the school system providing grant information.

“I want to say that is the first time I can remember for a program like that the board of education approached the commissioners letting us know something like this was what they were considering,” Bertino said last week. “There was no concurrence from the commissioners. For myself I will say that I don’t know what we’re on the hook for with other programs in regards to ESSER grants that have been accumulated by the board of education.”

Bertino said taxpayers needed to be aware of the fact that once the grant funding was gone, the additional $600,000 would become part of the school system’s operating budget.

“I do recognize that we didn’t provide concurrence which I certainly agree with but we do need to be working together on these sorts of things so the taxpayers know exactly where their dollars are going,” he said last week.

While county officials are still reviewing the information the school system provided them regarding the millions in ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) funds WCPS received and what those funds are being used for, school system leadership confirmed this week that the Pre-K3 expansion was moving forward. Sterrs said WCPS had already received the grant.

“School system leadership felt it was prudent to formally seek concurrence from the commissioners on the potential to sustain the program beyond the grant, as it would provide a clearer picture in determining the best course of action for the program moving forward,” Sterrs said.

According to Dee Shorts, chief academic officer for grades Pre-K3 through eight, there are waitlists for Pre-K3. With the expansion grant, Buckingham, Snow Hill and Pocomoke will each be able to accept 40 3-year-olds, rather than the 20 they’d have been able to take with just one Pre-K3 classroom.

“We’re really trying to get in our priority students, which is why the Title I schools were so important,” Shorts said, adding that while in-home childcare worked for some kids, others needed the structure school provided. “Some of the kids need more.”

She said parents appreciated the opportunities offered to students through Pre-K3 and that students in the program had access to services and resources they needed. With the extra classroom, she said each of the schools would be able to take 40 3-year-olds. There are 50 signed up at Buckingham, 48 signed up at Pocomoke Elementary and 38 signed up in Snow Hill. Parents were advised the schools would be establishing rosters by June 30.

“There’s a great need,” Shorts said.

She said that as WCPS had implemented Pre-K3 in all of its schools, officials had seen the benefits of the program.

“We’re getting great results,” she said. “Our kids are flourishing in these programs. A lot of kids need these programs.”

Shorts said that while WCPS leaders “absolutely wanted to hear from” the commissioners regarding the expansion grant, in the end they’d decided not to decline the grant funding.

“We just felt we wanted to move forward and it was what we needed to do for these kids,” she said.

Shorts said if the school system needed funding for the program in the future and the commissioners felt it wasn’t sustainable, education officials would look at attrition.

Sundaes In The Park: The weekly Sundaes In The Park free concert series on Sundays continued last weekend with the Saved By Zero “80’s New Wave” band performing at Northside Park.

Photos by Chris Parypa

Fire Closes West OC Restaurant

The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office investigated a commercial structure fire at Smokers BBQ Pit in West Ocean City early Tuesday morning. The Ocean City Fire Department was dispatched for a reported structure fire at 4:12 a.m. Upon arrival, crews experienced fire conditions on the exterior of the structure. Crews brought the fire under control quickly with fire and smoke damage extending throughout the interior as well. Additional assistance was provided by the Berlin Fire Company. Deputies from the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office responded to the scene and conducted a fire scene examination. The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation with severe weather believed to have been a contributing factor.

In a statement on its Facebook page, Smokers wrote, “We are closed until further notice. It is with a heavy heart that we share with all you that the building was struck by lightning last night and caused a massive fire. The fire has destroyed the whole inside and part of the side building. We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident from Mother Nature. While this stinks, it’s not a total loss. We need time to rebuild and come back better than ever! We will see you soon.” Photos courtesy of OCFD and Smokers

County Eyes Berlin Land Purchase

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – State officials approved Worcester County’s plan to buy land from the Berlin Lions Club to add to the Northern Worcester Athletic Complex.

The Maryland Board of Public Works (BPW) last week approved a recommendation from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to commit $1,268,400 in Program Open Space (POS) funding for the acquisition of 12 acres from the Berlin Lions Club.

“We’re excited,” said Kelly Rados, the county’s director of recreation and parks. “It’s something that’s been talked about for awhile.”

Rados said the county had been in conversations with the Berlin Lions Club regarding the property for some time.

She said the club wasn’t initially sure how much land it wanted to sell so the county agreed to purchase the 12 acres where the Little League fields are now.

“We wanted to purchase the entire property but the Lions Club was back and forth about what they wanted to do,” she said. “We moved forward with purchasing the 12 acres which is where the Little League fields are. Us purchasing the 12 acres was giving them time to decide what to do.”

The Board of Public Works approved the county’s plan to use Program Open Space funding to buy the land last Wednesday. Along with purchasing the 12 acres, county officials are also hoping to buy six more acres from the Lions Club. The Worcester County Commissioners last week approved the FY2024 Program Open Space Annual Program, a document that includes plans to purchase six more acres from the Lions Club. The six acre parcel is currently being farmed, Rados said.

“The additional six acres to be purchased is comprised of undeveloped land that adjoins the 12-acre parcel that Worcester County is currently in the process of purchasing from the Berlin Lions Club,” the document reads.

The POS plan also includes a proposal to hire an engineer to create a master plan for the entire facility once both Lions Club parcels are owned by the county.

“We’ll upgrade the fields and look at reconfiguring them,” Rados said, adding that staff were already talking about more fields and additional parking spaces as well as possible walking trails. “We’ll list our must haves and throw out a bunch of ideas.”

One of the projects that will hopefully occur in the near future is replacement of the playground equipment at the complex, as it is more than 20 years old.

“Across the county our playgrounds are aging,” Rados said, adding that they were being replaced in order of age. “We’re doing Bishopville in July and then Newark. Northern Worcester will be after that.”

She said recreation and parks officials were looking forward to being able to improve the Northern Worcester Athletic Complex with the addition of the land from the Lions Club, which will retain ownership of the property its building sits on.

She said that while the club could have sold the land to a private entity, selling it to Worcester County ensured a future for the Berlin Little League.

“It made sense,” she said. “It’s already right next to one of our parks. This way we can make sure the integrity of Berlin Little League stays.”

She added that once the land was owned by the county, POS funding could be used for upgrades.

“We’ve done renovations at our other fields,” she said. “We haven’t been able to do that here because we didn’t own the land.”

The Maryland Board of Public Works last week approved the county’s plans to acquire 12 acres where the Berlin Little League fields, pictured above in a dated photo, are currently located. File Photo

Minor Neglect, Assault

OCEAN CITY – A late-night visit to a bar led to charges against a woman for leaving her young child alone in a vehicle for over an hour.

On June 25 around 1:15 a.m., Ocean City police were informed by witnesses around 50th Street there was a child left alone inside a vehicle with the windows cracked about an inch. The temperature recorded outside was 70 degrees. Police located a child about 2 to 3 years old in the vehicle. “I could see that the child’s chest was raising and falling and he was not in obvious distress however he was unsupervised and reportedly screaming

prior to police arrival,” the police report read. Police were able to gain access to the vehicle and remove the child. A witness told police the child had been alone for at least 20 minutes, but bar personnel reported the vehicle entered the parking shortly after midnight. After the vehicle was opened, police noticed an odor of urine from the car seat. While the child was being evaluated by paramedics, the mother, Dandy Orozco Castanon, 22, of Alexandria, Va., and another man, who was not the father, returned to the vehicle about 1:44 a.m. from the nearby bar. While speaking with the woman, it was clear to police she

was inebriated and was carrying an alcoholic beverage. The woman told police she only left the child to locate her boyfriend, who was celebrating a birthday, before yelling at him and slapping him with her right open hand on the shoulder. The police investigation confirmed it had been at least an hour the child was alone.

During police questioning, other patrons began to film Castanon and police because she was screaming and acting erratically. The entire incident was recorded on body worn camera, according to police records.

Castanon was charged with seconddegree assault for hitting her boyfriend, neglecting a minor in parent permanent custody, disorderly conduct and failure to obey a lawful order.

Assaulting Officers

OCEAN CITY – A Pennsylvania woman faces assault charges after striking two Ocean City police officers.

On June 22, shortly after midnight, Ocean City police observed Lyla Wallis, 18, of Villanova, Pa., walking on 7th Street with a piece of fence she had picked up from a nearby property. Police observed her soon after picking it up toss the piece of fence onto a condominium building property and continue walking north. Wallis admitted to taking the fence and offered to return it to the original site.

During police questioning, Wallis refused to provide her home address and it was clear to police she was intoxicated. When she was being placed under arrest for theft, Wallis pulled away from the handcuffs and fled the scene north on Baltimore Avenue. Police followed in pursuit, while Wallis failed to comply with orders to stop. The woman ran into a residence that was not her own on Baltimore Avenue through a balcony door and tried to exit through a door to continue evading arrest. Occupants of the home ordered her out of the house, confirming for police it was not where the suspect lived or was staying.

When Wallis exited the home, she was apprehended by police officers who attempted to put her in handcuffs. Wallis again resisted and kicked two officers trying to apprehend her. Wallis was even-

tually placed in handcuffs, but she continued to scream.

In addition to two second-degree assault charges against the officers, Wallis was charged with theft $100-$1,500 for stealing the fence piece, fourth degree burglary, obstruction and hindering, littering, resisting arrest and a noise violation.

Weapons Found In Traffic Stop

OCEAN CITY – A traffic stop for speeding led to weapons charges this month.

On June 21, Ocean City police was alerted by Delaware State Police (DSP) to be on the lookout for a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed without taillights from Delaware. DSP reported to Ocean City Police Communications the vehicle had fled from a traffic stop in Delaware. Around 116th Street, police pulled the vehicle over.

When police asked the motorist, Christopher Reardon, 52, of Lewes, whether there were any weapons in his possession, he admitted to having a knife on him. Police found an assisted opening knife in his pants pocket. Reardon’s vehicle was impounded after investigation found it to be unsafe.

An inventory of the vehicle found a pair of metal knuckles concealed inside a sunglass container. The metal knuckles and assisted opening knife are violations under Ocean City’s weapons ordinance.

Drug, Assault Charges

OCEAN CITY – A Delaware man’s combative actions resulted in police filing drug possession and other charges last weekend.

Ocean City police were tending to an alcohol violation on the Boardwalk and Dorchester Street on June 24 around 12:30 a.m. when Matthew Moesle, 29, of Laurel, Del., refused to obey orders to leave the scene multiple times. Police reports indicate Moesle was intoxicated and attracting attention with his vulgar protests of his friend’s arrest for an alcohol violation.

Moesle’s actions escalated to the point police placed him under arrest for disorderly conduct. Moesle resisted arSEE NEXT PAGE

... COPS & COURTS

rest and called the officer offensive names repeatedly before pushing the officer with both hands in the chest multiple times. The police officer took Moesle to the ground, but the suspect continued to battle with officers, screaming obscenities the entire time.

Once Moesle was placed in handcuffs finally, police found two doses of Suboxone films in his pants pocket.

Moesle was charged with disturbing the peace, resisting arrest, second-degree assault and possession of CDS of Schedule III (suboxone).

Late-Night Assault

OCEAN CITY – A late-night assault led to multiple charges against a Delaware man last weekend.

Around 2:14 a.m. on June 24, Ocean City police were alerted to an assault that occurred outside a restaurant around 56th Street. Witness statements and video surveillance showed Brian Boyer, 29, of Rehoboth Beach, Del., instigating a fight with other individuals. Video shows Boyer punch a man three times in the face in a pouring rain, resulting in the victim dropping the pizza he was carrying. The suspect fled the scene north after assaulting the individual. Witnesses told police Boyer referenced being in possession of a gun during the assault.

Police located Boyer two blocks from the assault, but the suspect would not obey orders to stand still for questioning. At one point, a police officer grabbed Boyer to keep him on the site, and Boyer slapped his arm away. Boyer’s girlfriend was also assaulted during the exchange during her attempts to quell the situation.

Boyer was ultimately subdued and arrested. He was charged with two counts of second-degree assault, obstructing and hindering a police officer, disorderly conduct and disturbing the peace.

Electric Scooter On Boards

OCEAN CITY – A Pennsylvania man’s use of a scooter on the Boardwalk landed him in jail last Saturday afternoon.

On June 24, around 12:30 p.m., two Ocean City police officers were on bike patrol on the Boardwalk when it was observed a male, later identified as Elijah Gonzalez, 20, of Middletown, Pa., operating an electric scooter at a high rate of speed on the Boardwalk. A police officer attempted to stop Gonzalez on the scooter around Caroline Street and the Boardwalk, but he refused to stop and rode north, ignoring voice commands to “get off the scooter” for safety reasons, according to charging documents. Electric scooters are not permitted on the Boardwalk. According to the police report, “The Boardwalk was crowded with pedestrian traffic and the Boardwalk Tram was in operation.”

Police followed Gonzalez to address the ordinance violation, but he turned at N. Division Street to head west before crashing his scooter on the concrete pad near the Boardwalk Arch. The bike officers were able to catch up with Gonzalez, who would not comply with orders to sit down. When handcuffs were at-

tempted to be applied to Gonzalez, he immediately became more combative and resistive.

While Gonzalez was being tended to by police, he was asked for identification. Saying he would retrieve it from his pants pocket, Gonzalez stood up and was able to remove his left wrist from the handcuff and fled the scene. Three hours later, Gonzalez was located near the attempted site of the arrest at N. Division Street and Baltimore Avenue.

Gonzalez is charged with obstructing and hindering, refusing to provide proper identification, intentionally resisting arrest and fleeing custody after being arrested.

Public’s Assistance Sought

SNOW HILL – The Snow Hill Police Department is seeking the public’s help in locating a wanted individual as well as information in an active investigation.

The Snow Hill Police Department currently holds active warrants for Maquia Tene Briddell, 41, who is wanted on an

active arrest warrant after being charged with first-, third- and fourth-degree burglary and conspiracy to commit home invasion.

Anyone with any information about Briddell’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Snow Hill Police Department at 410-632-2444.

Additionally, Snow Hill police officers are seeking information on a home invasion last month on Maple Street around 4:30 p.m. Information provided by the victim indicated there was a knock on the door and he observed an adult female and female juvenile attempting to sell cookies. As the victim had a conversation with the female, a male was observed enter the open front door of the home. The male suspect then assaulted the victim and threatened the victim with a hammer. The suspect then fled from the residence after robbing the victim of

his wallet, cell phone and money.

Officers were able to obtain a suspect description from the victim. Law enforcement then responded to a Ross Street address in Snow Hill and located the suspect, Craig Lamont Jackson, who was identified by the victim as the person who had entered his home and assaulted him. Jackson was placed under arrest without incident and charged with home invasion, first-, third- and fourthdegree burglary, armed robbery, first- and second-degree assault, reckless endangerment and theft under $1,500.

Jackson was taken before a judicial officer and held without bond pending a bail review in District Court. The Snow Hill Police Department was assisted by the Worcester County Sheriff's Office, Worcester County Bureau of Investigation, and Worcester County State's Attorney's Office. The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information on the above referenced case is asked to contact the Snow Hill Police Department at 410-632-2444.

MAQUIA TENE BRIDDELL

Best of ocean city contest Winners announced

BERLIN – OceanCity.com has announced the winners in the 12th Annual Best of Ocean City® contest.

The 71 winners led all participants of each poll in a contest that included over 230 businesses in four broad categories. Seacrets, Fisher’s Popcorn, Thrasher’s Fries, Odyssea Watersports and Old Pro Golf were among the first-place winners who have won an award every year for the last 11 years. The 2024 Best of Ocean City® polls will be posted online on Friday, June 30 to start the voting for 2024 winners.

The Best of Ocean City® contest, where visitors and locals alike nominate and vote for their favorite Ocean City businesses, is the longest running and largest local popular vote poll to celebrate the best businesses in the Ocean City area. OceanCity.com’s contest is the only best of competition not tied to advertising or sponsorship. Instead, the Best of Ocean

City® contest relies on the enthusiasm and support of the one million-plus visitors on OceanCity.com and the 216,000-plus Facebook fans to propel the most engaged businesses to the top. In addition to the voting, OceanCity.com presents an editor’s choice winner as another option in most categories. These winners are chosen by a panel of locals, and they offer an additional recommendation to visitors looking for the best places to go in Ocean City.

“This contest started when hotels were coming to us wanting this information -guests in the hotels wanted recommendations for the best businesses in a variety of categories. That is why it’s imperative that the Best of Ocean City not be related to advertising,” said OceanCity.com CEO Ann McGinnis Hillyer. “We want to provide every visitor in Ocean City with real, honest recommendations for the best businesses in town.”

Winning an OceanCity.com Best of Ocean City® award is a true triumph because it shows that their fans are willing to take the time to vote. Winners are prominently recognized within the local community and receive a coveted photo award plaque printed on metal and a distinctive window decal to display.

The background photograph on the 2023 winners’ awards was taken by Vincent Pierotti, a local businessman whose entry depicts an aerial photo of north Ocean City. The awards depict a different photo each year, but they all commemorate the winning businesses.

For a complete list of winners, visit www.OceanCity.com/Best-of

A business that is not listed in the 2024 contest category can still encourage their friends and fans to write them in under “Other.” Businesses can also email beseen@oceancity.com to be considered for inclusion in one of the polls.

DNR, Land Trust Confirm Former Golf Course Purchase

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – The state’s purchase of a former golf course is expected to allow for restoration, reforestation and public access on hundreds of acres of land outside Berlin.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) this week, in partnership with Lower Shore Land Trust, announced the purchase of the former Bay Club from Carl M. Freeman Companies. The purchase will help preserve 672 acres in the headwaters of the Pocomoke River.

“The purchase of this property will provide significant water quality and habitat benefits in addition to public recreational opportunities,” said Department of Natural Resources Land Acquisition

and Planning Director Hilary Bell. “The department is grateful to our partners at the Lower Shore Land Trust for their work, and to the Carl M. Freeman Companies for their commitment to conservation.”

In late 2020, DNR proposed the purchase of two parcels — the Bay Club and a neighboring farm — totaling 672 acres. This week the agency reported that the purchase had been completed. According to a news release, going forward DNR will coordinate on watershed restoration projects that meet departmental goals for bay restoration and climate resiliency. Portions of the property may also provide for pollinator habitat demonstration, forest management and fulfill goals for meeting Maryland’s 5 Million Trees Initiative, which is a directive to plant 5 million native trees on public and

private land by 2031. The Bay Club purchase also adds significant acres of new pines and mixed hardwood forest to the Chesapeake Forest Lands, which now total 76,000 acres in Caroline, Dorchester, Somerset, Talbot, Wicomico and Worcester counties.

The Bay Club was purchased using funds from Maryland’s Program Open Space. According to DNR, the seller recognized the conservation value of the property and worked diligently with Lower Shore Land Trust to meet the requirements of the state.

“We are delighted to have been part of preserving such a critical resource in the Chesapeake Bay watershed and have appreciated our partnership with the Lower Shore Land Trust and the State of Maryland,” said CEO of the Carl M. Freeman Companies Michelle Free-

man.

Kate Patton, executive director of Lower Shore Land Trust, said the purchase took some time because of the multiple parcels and parties involved. She credited the various agencies involved as well as Mike Schofield, Chesapeake Forest manager, and Worcester County, with making the purchase a reality.

“We had to work through a lot of hurdles to make this happen but all our partners were focused on the same goal,” she said. “It really is all about the partnerships.”

Patton is particularly excited about the restoration possibilities that will be available on the immense property.

“We have an opportunity to work with the state and those partners in terms of developing trails as well as potential grassland and pollinator habitat,” she said.

She added that while the land would be managed by the Maryland Forest Service, there would be potential for a variety of demonstration projects. She said it was still too early to say when the public might have access to the property.

“It’s hard to say what the timeline will be for the public to have access but we’ve already set up an initial planning meeting,” she said.

Patton noted that while the rural Eastern Shore appears to have plenty of open space, there aren’t as many public trails as the community would like.

“There appears to be open space but we have limited access to hike, ride horses or get off road with bicycles,” she said. “This is an opportunity to add a large parcel.”

The Bay Club, a popular local golf course for three decades, closed in early 2019. Though the property was considered as the site for a campground at one time and as a housing development another time, in late 2020 the Maryland Board of Public Works approved DNR’s plan to purchase the former golf course as well as a neighboring farm. The price listed for the 437-acre Bay Club was $3,150,000 while the price for the adjacent farm was $1,075,000.

Berlin officials supported the project as soon as it was proposed, highlighting the fact that preserving the land would help establish a buffer of green space around town limits.

“The conservation efforts of the DNR will help the Town of Berlin work toward establishing a greenbelt around our town, a vital component of our comprehensive plan,” Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall wrote to the Board of Public Works in 2020. “Additionally, the proposed passive recreation activities by the DNR will add to the growing economic trend associated with environmental tourism and work seamlessly with the hospitality industry that thrives so well in Worcester County. As a town, we look forward to possible partnerships with the DNR to help with their effort to conserve the natural beauty of our area. We hope that this acquisition will be the beginning of great things for the greater Berlin area.”

BLC Approves Legion Deck Plans

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – The Worcester County Board of License Commissioners approved plans for a new deck at the American Legion Post 166 in Ocean City.

The board last week approved the legion’s plans for a second story deck on

the south side of Post 166.

“We want to enhance the membership experience,” a representative of Post 166 told the board.

Bob Thompson, the project’s contractor, met with the board last Wednesday to present plans for what the legion is referring to as a rooftop patio. Thompson said the plan was to erect a second story deck that would feature about 40 seats around a bar as well as additional space for dining at tables.

“It’ll be located on the south side of the building,” Thompson said. “There will be parking underneath.”

Post 166 officials said the post’s membership had approved the plans for the deck, which is meant to enhance the experience for patrons, alleviate crowding and potentially encourage younger members to join the post.

In response to questions from the board, Thompson assured them the deck would be adequately fenced, with railing 42 inches high. The board subsequently voted unanimously to approve the deck, which will be open from noon until 11 p.m.

At last week’s meeting the board also approved an upgrade in the license for Burley Oak Brewing Co. in Berlin. Attorney Chris Woodley said the brewery, which has been in operation 12 years, wanted to upgrade to a beer, wine and liquor license because it was going to begin distilling liquor. Woodley said the brewery’s connections wanted to distill their own liquor and be able to sell it to patrons. Customers will be able to visit the brewery, try some products and then will have the option of purchasing Burley’s liquor to take home with them. Woodley said the brewery had been selling its line of beer in growlers and cans for years.

When the board asked if the brewery would serve liquor other than its own, owner Bryan Brushmiller indicated the brewery would serve other brands of liquor in the establishment but wouldn’t sell it to go.

A second story deck is pictured under construction at the American Legion Post 166 in Ocean City.

Photo by Bethany Hooper

State Board Issues Opinion On Berlin Closed Sessions

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – A state board found no issues with closed session meetings held by Berlin officials regarding Heron Park but believes the town’s salary study should have been discussed in open session.

The Open Meetings Compliance Board (OMCB) issued an opinion last Friday identifying no violations with three meetings held to discuss the potential sale of Heron Park. The board did, however, state the town council violated the Open Meetings Act on March 27, 2023, when it excluded the public from discussion of a pay study that didn’t address individual employees.

“We find no violation with respect to the closed sessions on March 21, 2022, July 25, 2022, and March 23, 2023, as the Council’s discussions fell within the procurement exception of § 3-305(b)(14),” the opinion reads. “But the Council violated the Act on March 27, 2023, by excluding the public from a discussion about a personnel study that did not touch on the personal attributes of any individual employee and, thus, fell beyond the scope of the personnel matters exception of § 3 305(b)(1).”

Resident Jason Walter submitted the complaint to the OMCB because he has been frustrated with the council’s meetings related to Heron Park for some time. He said there was no reason a subcommittee—made up of the mayor and two council members—should have met privately and that the procurement exception should not have been used to close council meetings related to the park because those meetings were closed after negotiations had already been entered with developer Palmer Gillis. He was also concerned that the lengthy negotiations will result in the town losing the ability to use the $500,000 demolition grant it received for Heron Park.

According to the OMCB, the March 21, 2022, meeting, which was closed based on the procurement exception, was held appropriately. The board said that during the meeting the council met first with one developer interested in Heron Park and then another.

“As we have repeatedly recognized, the procurement exception permits a public body to “close a meeting to hear competing offerors’ presentations of their proposals, because that information, if made public, would give an advantage to the offerors who have not yet presented their proposals and would thereby compromise the process,’” the opinion reads.

The other two closed meetings held about Heron Park were more complicated because the procurement process was ongoing and the town had entered an extended negotiating process with Gillis, one of the developers who’d presented proposals for the park.

“Here, because a contract had not been awarded, and because there was still the possibility that the Council could enter negotiations with a different developer, we think the Council had discretion to invoke the procurement exception on July 25, 2022, and March 23, 2023,” the opinion reads.

As far as the subcommittee that has

met with Gillis regarding Heron Park, the OMCB states that the Public Information Act applies only to meetings of “public bodies.” A public body is a group created by rule resolution or bylaw, a group appointed by the governor or the chief executive authority and includes at least two members of the public, or if the body is appointed by a gubernatorially appointed public body and includes two members of the public.

“The subcommittee at issue here satisfies none of these tests…,” the OMCB opinion reads. “Neither of the other tests apply, as the members of the subcommittee were not appointed by the Governor, the chief executive authority of the Town, a public body in the Executive Branch, or anyone subject to the policy direction of the Governor, the Town’s chief executive authority, or an Executive Branch public body.”

The board found a violation did occur

on March 27, when the council conceded that it had improperly closed the meeting to discuss personnel.

“We have previously explained that this exception applies only to discussions about ‘personnel matters concerning identifiable individuals,’ 6 OMCB Opinions 180, 184 (2009), and ‘does not extend to discussions about broadly applicable personnel policies,’ … or to conversations ‘with respect to a broad category or class of personnel, where there is no discussion of the particular individuals who hold positions within the class,’” the opinion reads.

The board wrote that the council conceded that because the study was about all town employees it fell beyond the scope of personnel matters.

While the board has now ruled on Walter’s complaint, resident Ed Hammond has also reached out to the board with

concerns about Heron Park meetings. He believes the town used the RFP process to evade the Open Meetings Act. He has supplemented his initial complaint to advise the board that Gillis reached out to him directly. He’s also objected to the fact that the public only had the chance to weigh in on the Gillis proposal for Heron Park at Monday night’s meeting.s

“The Town appears to think that a proper approach to open government is to solicit public comment on Monday night at the very same meeting, perhaps within moments, of the actual deal finally be made available to the public,” Hammond wrote to the board. “The governmental body that adopts such a process is obviously not serious about open government. It asks the public to offer comment on a complex deal that took two years to negotiate with only moments to see the details?”

Worcester Asks To Retain State Library Funding

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – Worcester County officials are hoping to retain state funding for a new Pocomoke library despite the recent location change.

Worcester County representatives asked the Maryland Board of Public Works (BPW) last week not to defer the $2.2 million in capital funding dedicated toward the new Pocomoke branch. Weston Young, the county’s chief administrative officer, told the board the funding could be used to begin construction of a new library at the existing library site.

“Pocomoke City is a disadvantaged community,” Young said. “They need a new library, and the commissioners ask you do not delay this project by deferring funding.”

Approval of more than $9 million in funding for libraries across the state was among the items on the BPW agenda June 21. Gov. Wes Moore addressed the importance of the institutions that play such a vital role for Maryland’s residents.

“Public libraries, they serve really as the heartbeat of our communities,” Moore said. “They are completely woven into the fabric of our state and the fabric of our society.”

Officials said the library grants included in the $9 million in spending would allow for important updates and renovations to facilities throughout Maryland. Young said he and Commissioner Chip Bertino were in attendance to ask the board not to defer funding for the Pocomoke branch.

“When we originally started this project, we planned to build the new library where the current, over 50-year-old library is now,” Young said. “After discussions with Pocomoke City leadership, we tried to do a win-win and put it where they have an old armory building.”

The city wasn’t able to obtain demolition funding for the armory, however, and Young said county officials wanted to return to their original plan of building a new library on the site of the existing facility.

“The design of the building perfectly fits on both sites,” he said. “We’re not losing any time in the design of the building. Our design team firmly believes that the funding allocated by the state as well as the county’s match can be adequately dispersed in fiscal year 2024.”

Moore thanked the Worcester officials for attending.

“We look forward to working closely with you to get this project moving,” he said.

Following the meeting, Young said state officials were interested in seeing the project move forward and would be working with Worcester County Library leadership regarding the new branch.

Worcester County Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young is pictured speaking to the Maryland Board of Public Works on June 21. Photo courtesy of Maryland GovPics

Comprehensive Plan Approved, Advances To State

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – A draft comprehensive plan will advance to the state for review following a favorable vote last week.

Last Friday, the Fenwick Island Town Council voted to approve the comprehensive plan as a final draft and permit the Fenwick Island Planning Commission to submit the document to the Delaware Preliminary Land Use Service (PLUS) for review.

“It is a 10-year plan, and it is the plan for the town,” said Susan Brennan, commission chair. “I think it is usable and digestible and understandable.”

Last year, the town council agreed to hire consultants to assist the planning commission in rewriting Fenwick Island’s comprehensive plan. And in the months since, officials have worked with Univer-

sity of Delaware Institution for Public Administration advisors to collect data, maps and demographics and develop a vision for the town’s future.

“The reason for this choice was that, in accordance with Delaware code … at least every five years a municipality shall review its adopted plan to determine if its provisions are still relevant, given changing conditions in the municipality or in surrounding areas,” Brennan told the council last week. “This particular part was really important and was part of the decision to create a 10-year plan.”

As part of the planning process, the commission also hosted listening sessions and symposiums and launched a public survey, the results of which were reviewed by the planning commission in April. Officials say the town received responses from 338 part-time residents, 105 full-time residents, 13 business owners, and 26 vis-

itors. The survey results, which were used to shape the town’s draft comprehensive plan, highlighted community members’ opposition to wind turbines, their concerns about bayside flooding, and their desires to maintain the town’s quiet, family oriented character, among other things.

Brennan told the council last week the planning commission began drafting the town’s new comprehensive planning document in January. And earlier this month, the commission held a special meeting to present the draft to property owners.

Brennan noted the plan not only highlighted the history and community profile of Fenwick Island, but addressed issues, goals and recommendations for the town. She pointed out that public comments gathered from engagement opportunities were also included in the draft document.

“As members of the planning commission, we were and are tasked with being

the community’s voice or compass relative to the future planning of the town and preservation of what we all love …,” she said. “Public engagement is critical to the plan.”

However, Brennan said the commission was not finished. She pointed out commission members would be available at the town’s 70th birthday celebration on July 1.

“This has been a terrific process, but we are not over …,” she said. “We will have a table there, and we love to talk about the comprehensive plan.”

For his part, Councilman Richard Benn applauded commission members for their efforts in drafting the comprehensive plan.

“This is homegrown, home-written and reflects the character and charm of Fenwick Island …,” he said. “It is the basis for all our zoning decisions.”

Councilwoman Jacque Napolitano agreed.

“This encompasses our town, who we are and what we want to be,” she said, “a quiet resort.”

The council ultimately voted 5-0, with Councilman Paul Breger absent and Mayor Natalie Magdeburger recusing herself, to approve the final draft of the comprehensive plan, and to forward the document to the state for review.

“Obviously this is a plan, as a committee member, I’m very much in support of,” Magdeburger said. “So if you hear me recuse myself, please do not take it as something nefarious there. It is not. I’m doing this out of an abundance of caution.”

Gov. Wes Moore, in town for the 2023 Maryland Municipal League Summer Conference, visited the Ocean City Boardwalk Tuesday for a tour with local elected officials. Above left, Moore meets with Ocean City representatives at the Inlet. Above right, Moore walks and talks with Mayor Rick Meehan and Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller. Below, the governor stops for a picture in front of the tram station. Photos by Bethany Hooper

Route 90 Roadwork To Resume July 10

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Citing weather conditions, state highway officials say a milling and patching project on Route 90 has been suspended until mid-July.

This week, the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (SHA) announced work on the Route 90 corridor has temporarily stopped. The agency will resume the overnight milling and patching project on Monday, July 10.

“Due to weather, our crews had to temporarily stop paving work on MD 90,” said Shanteé Felix, SHA media relations manager. “They will return on July 10, with expected completion of July 14.”

Starting July 10, crews will work overnight, from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., Monday through Thursday. During the work hours, Route 90 will be closed in both directions, with detours in place.

Motorists traveling east on US 50 should continue east on US 50 to MD 589 (Racetrack Road), turn left onto MD 589 and follow to MD 90, and turn either east or west onto MD 90.

Motorists traveling west on MD 90 should continue west on MD 90 to MD 589, take a right onto the ramp to MD 589 south (left at light), and follow MD 589 to US 50, and take US 50 west.

“The State Highway Administration understands detours and roadwork can be an inconvenience, but this work is necessary to maintain a safe and reliable transportation system,” a press release reads.

Earlier this month, the SHA announced it would begin an overnight milling and patching project along Route 90, from Route 50 to Route 589. The agency initially reported the roadwork would be completed by the end of the month, weather permitting, but that motorists could expect overnight closures

of the Route 90 corridor throughout the course of the project.

“During recent pavement inspections, our crews noticed sections of pavement that need rehabilitation in the median surrounding the rumble strips,” Felix said earlier this month. “We needed to initiate the project now to assure a safe and reliable system for the increased traffic MD 90 will experience during the summer season. The State Highway Administration conferred with the Town of Ocean City before scheduling this work, and it was determined that closing MD 90 for overnight work was the best solution for lessening the impact to the traveling public. Motorists may want to consider using US 50 into downtown Ocean City to MD 528 (Coastal Highway) as an alternate until the project is complete.”

For more information, visit roads.maryland.gov, or visit the agency’s project portal page for a list of all major State Highway Administration projects.

Eastern Shore Physical Therapy

Berlin Speed Camera Ordinance Introduced

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – An ordinance introduced this week would allow the Town of Berlin to install speed cameras near schools.

A first reading of an ordinance that would establish the use of speed cameras in designated school zones was held during Monday’s meeting of the Berlin Town Council. Citizens will have a chance to weigh in on the proposed ordinance next month.

“A public hearing will be held on Monday, July 10, 2023, at 7 p.m.,” Mayor Zack Tyndall said.

In February, the council met with representatives from RedSpeed, a company that works with municipalities in various states to set up speed cameras. In Maryland, the state only allows for the installation of cameras in school zones.

Police Chief Arnold Downing told the council Monday the ordinance being introduced would give the town the right to set up speed cameras in school zones.

“This ordinance is just one piece of the puzzle,” he said.

The ordinance designates school zones as roads located within a half mile radius of Buckingham Elementary School, Berlin Intermediate School, Stephen Decatur Middle School, Stephen Decatur High School and Worcester Preparatory School.

Councilman Dean Burrell asked if the area around Head Start could be considered a school zone. Downing said it could not, as the state permitted the cameras in areas around public and private schools that offered kindergarten through 12th grade education.

“That’s a state law,” Tyndall said. Burrell asked if Flower Street would qualify, as it was near Stephen Decatur Middle.

“It possibly could,” Downing said. “It’s something that has to be reviewed a little bit more.”

Burrell said he felt cameras should be installed on Flower Street as well as Branch Street.

Downing said locations would be discussed once a vendor was selected.

“The vendor, whoever we select, would monitor the sites,” he said. “They won’t choose sites that aren’t applicable or they don’t believe will be successful.”

He added that the company would take input from elected officials as potential sites were identified. RedSpeed representatives told the council when they visited that they’d set up cameras at possible locations for a test period. Assuming there’s enough speeding to merit camera installation, RedSpeed then works with the Maryland State Highway Administration for the necessary approvals to install the cameras.

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Commissioners Approve Rt. 611 Zoning Change

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – Commercial property in West Ocean City will be reclassified as residential following approval of county officials.

The Worcester County Commissioners last week voted unanimously to approve a request to rezone slightly more than three acres on Route 611 in West Ocean City. The property, which was classified as C-2 general commercial, will now be zoned R-4 to allow for multifamily development.

“This property falls between several residential subdivisions,” attorney Hugh Cropper said.

Jennifer Keener, the county’s director of development review and permitting, told the commissioners Cropper’s client had petitioned for a rezoning based on a change in the neighborhood surrounding the property. She said the rezoning request had received a favorable recommendation from the Worcester County Planning Commission.

“They concluded that there has been a change in the character of the neighborhood, primarily as a result of the Mystic Harbour Sanitary Service Area expansion to serve a greater number of properties,” she said.

Keener added that the property was considered suitable for infill development, consistent with the purpose and intent of the R-4 district. She said the proposed zoning was also more consistent with the “existing developed area” category of the comprehensive plan.

Cropper said his client, Ocean 8 Group LLC, wanted to downzone 3.29 acres from commercial to residential to allow for multifamily development, which he pointed out would be more consistent with neighboring properties. He noted that while under Maryland law you could request a rezoning based on a mistake or based on a change in the neighborhood, in this case he was basing the request on a change.

“We define the neighborhood and then assert a change,” he said. “If you find a change in character of neighborhood, then we have to prove secondly that it’s more consistent with the comprehensive plan.”

He stressed that residential zoning would fit the neighborhood better and was consistent with the existing developed area in the comprehensive plan.

“This is classic infill residential development, being right in between three major subdivisions,” he said.

Surveyor Gregory Wilkins and landscape architect Steve Engel also testified in support of the rezoning.

“A residential development works on this property,” Engel said.

The commissioners voted unanimously to approve the rezoning request.

The Worcester County Commissioners voted last week to reclassify a parcel of land on Route 611 from commercial to residential. Submitted Image

New OC Committee Explores Parking

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – While agreeing that a fee-in-lieu parking concept is worth exploring, members of a new resort committee say more information on financing and public-private partnerships is needed.

Last Thursday, members of a new resort committee kicked off discussions on a fee-in-lieu-of-parking (FILOP) concept in Ocean City. Presented by the Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC), Board President Joe Wilson said a FILOP program would consolidate parking, encourage economic development and walkability, and address parking problems, particularly in the downtown area.

“There seems to be a trend downtown where developers are able to build or redevelop an economically feasible site but they may not be able to meet their parking requirement, which results in roadblocks for positive redevelopment in town …,” he said. “We thought a FILOP program in place would provide a really good solution and would help streamline the development process.”

Simply put, a FILOP program would allow developers an alternative for meeting the town’s minimum parking requirements. The concept allows property owners to pay a fee to the town instead of providing some or all of the necessary

off-street parking required by code. The town then uses those fees to pay for public parking.

Wilson told committee members last week a recent study conducted by Walker Consultants proposed several options for implementing and managing a FILOP program. He said the concept would not only encourage redevelopment downtown but would address nonconformities.

“The town is consistently put in a position where it is forced to give consideration to parking concessions, allowing properties to carry forward large parking nonconformities,” he said. “Fee in lieu of parking would help reduce parking stress the town is adding on a continual bases by providing for centralized parking in certain areas of town.”

Proposed locations for introducing a FILOP program include the 100th Street parking lot, the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, the 4th Street parking lot and the Worcester Street parking lot. Wilson noted cost estimates for FILOP parking structures were also included in the Walker Consultants study. Estimates for an above-grade parking structure totaled $50,300 in upfront costs per space and $890 in annual costs per space, while estimates for an above-grade parking structure with a rooftop amenity level totaled $58,800 in upfront costs per space and $920 in annual costs per

SEE PAGE 54

Mayor Rick Meehan addresses members of a new Fee-In-Lieu-Of-Parking Committee last week.

Photo by Bethany Hooper

Fenwick Council Approves FY24 Budget, Fee Schedule

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – Town officials last week voted to approve a $2 millionplus budget for the coming fiscal year.

Last Friday, members of the Fenwick Island Town Council had before them a recommendation from the town’s budget and finance committee to approve the fiscal year 2024 budget.

The proposed spending plan features $2.2 million in total revenues and $2.6 million in total expenses. Councilman Bill Rymer, town treasurer, said the operating loss would be funded through realty transfer tax (RTT) and general operating reserves.

“The $495,000 operating loss will be funded by transfers from the RTT reserves, as well as the general operating reserve fund,” he said. “The RTT transfers for this coming year, will be the same amount as what was provided last year. So the differential will come out of the general reserve.”

In May, Rymer presented the budget and finance committee with the town’s draft spending plan. With $2.17 million in projected revenues and $2.71 million in projected expenses, the town initially faced an operating loss of more than $541,000.

In an update last month, however, Rymer noted that certain revenue projections had increased, and some operating

expenses had moved to capital expenditures. As a result, the deficit had narrowed.

Rymer told council members last week the proposed budget was essentially the same as what was presented to committee members in June. The only change, he noted, was an increase in the trash collection charge.

“There was a slight change related to anticipated costs of the trash collection agreement, so the fee schedule included a $15 increase because of cost being charged by the trash collection firm resulted in a higher charge to the residents,” he explained. “It’s budget neutral. The costs went up, but the fee went up … so the exact same $495,000 operating loss is what’s being presented to the council. I’m comfortable presenting this budget because it’s budget neutral.”

Rymer added that the budget included no increase in property taxes.

“There is no increase in property taxes, as the budget and finance committee felt it was appropriate to use the strong cash flows from past house sales and building permits over the last few years to continue to offset the inflationary pressures, primarily coming from increased salaries and increased employee benefits,” he said.

Rymer also noted that the town’s cash balances would decrease from $4.5 million at the end of fiscal year 2023 to roughly $3 million at the end of fiscal year 2024. However, he said the projected balance would continue to exceed the

recommended level of cash reserves recommended by the town’s auditing firm.

“The largest usage of cash for this upcoming year relates to our goal of completing the $1 million dredging project,” he said. “We start the year with $4.5 million, and a million of that spread comes out of, hopefully, completing the dredging project.”

For her part, Mayor Natalie Magdeburger questioned the use of RTT funds.

“In terms of pulling from RTT … has that been done in the past?” she asked. Rymer said it had.

“Historically, our operating shortfalls have come from RTT funds …,” he said. “The upcoming budget will be a combination of RTT and funds that are in the general reserve, which grew over the last couple of years because operations have done better than expected.”

Magdeburger also questioned the town’s operating losses.

“How many years have we been operating at a loss and pulling from RTT, generally?” she asked.

Councilman Richard Benn said he had been a member of the budget and finance committee since 2015. He noted that town has operated at a loss for as long as he could remember.

“We’ve been operating at an operating loss of greater than $250,000 for as long as I can remember …,” he replied. “It’s always been a significant number.”

After further discussion, the council voted 6-0, with Councilman Paul Breger absent, to approve the fiscal year 2024 budget as presented.

The council this week also approved the town’s fee schedule for the coming year. Rymer noted the schedule included a $15 fee increase associated with the town’s trash collection.

“The only change that’s being proposed to the fee schedule that exists as of right now is the amount being charged for waste collection,” he said. “There’s an increase of $15 which reflects the increase of charge coming from our waste collection group and the additional pickup schedule.”

Magdeburger also noted that the fee schedule did not yet include changes to the emergency medical services fee. She said contract negotiations with the Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company were ongoing, and that she expected the fee to increase.

“The coastal communities – Bethany, Fenwick, Sea Colony and South Bethany – negotiate a contract that goes on for a set period of time with the Bethany Volunteer Fire Department,” she explained. “The contract we’ve been working under for the last three or five years expires at the end of December. So we’ve already started meetings with the volunteer fire company, and they are asking for an additional increase in the fee. They have not raised it in the last five years.”

For Fenwick Council Election

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – The Town of Fenwick Island will have an election this year after it was announced eight candidates have filed to run for four council seats.

Last Wednesday, the Fenwick Island Board of Elections voted to certify eight candidates for this year’s town council election.

“We have eight candidates this year for the election, and all are qualified,” Colleen Wilson, board member, announced.

In a special town council meeting following the vote, officials voted unanimously to accept the nominees – Janice Bortner, John Gary Burch, Kristina Clark, Natalie Magdeburger, Bernie Merritt, Jacque Napolitano, James Simpson and Kurt Zanelotti.

“There will be an election on August 5, 2023,” Magdeburger confirmed.

On Aug. 5, Fenwick Island will hold its annual election to fill four positions on the town council with terms expiring in 2023. All council members serve twoyear terms and are tasked with adopting ordinances and resolutions and determining the general goals and policies of Fenwick Island.

The deadline for voter registration has also been set for July 6, while the absentee ballot request deadline has been set for Aug. 4.

Any Town of Fenwick Island eligible

Survey Eyed For Resiliency Efforts

registered voter who needs to obtain an absentee ballot by mail should call the Town Hall at 302-539-3011, ext. 1, and a form will be mailed to you. The request form to receive the absentee ballot must be filed with the Town no later than 12:00 p.m. on August 4, 2023. Absentee ballots must be received prior to the close of the election, 5 p.m. on Aug. 5.

The election will be held on Aug. 5, from 1-5 p.m. in town hall.

This year, four council seats currently held by Borner, Magdeburger, Napolitano and Councilman Paul Breger will be up for grabs. Breger’s name was not among the eight candidates announced last week, and it appears he will not be running in this year’s election.

The four officials were first elected to the dais in 2021, in what can only be described as a divisive campaign season highlighted by misconduct allegations, resignations and record-breaking voter turnout.

The four newcomers ultimately unseated the four incumbent candidates on the town council. And during their swearing-in ceremony, the town manager, town solicitor and two of the three remaining council members – Gardner Bunting and Bernie Merritt – submitted their resignations.

Merritt will join Birch, Clark and Simpson as challengers in the 2023 election.

Residents are encouraged to visit the town’s website, fenwickisland.delaware.gov for more information on election procedures.

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – Officials in Fenwick Island last week agreed to fund survey work that will support recommendations from the town’s resiliency study.

Last Friday, the Fenwick Island Town Council voted unanimously to approve up to $4,000 for survey work related to the town’s resiliency study. Councilman Richard Benn, chair of the Fenwick Island Infrastructure Committee, said a recent resiliency study from AECOM recommended the town raise its bulkhead heights in preparation for sea level rise and future flooding events. He said the survey will allow the town to identify its existing bulkhead heights.

“One of their recommendations is that we raise all of the bulkhead heights in town to a level of 4 feet,” he said. “We first want to find out what’s the average height of our existing bulkheads.”

Benn noted that the infrastructure committee will hold an information session on Aug. 31 to present recommendations from the town’s resiliency study. He said the survey work will allow attendees to visualize bulkhead heights and where the town must make improvements.

“We want everyone to be able to visualize that this is where we need to get to, and we need to decide how we are going to get there,” he said. “We have 460 lots, and it’s going to cost between $12,000 and $15,000 a lot. So we as a community

need to get together and decide how we are going to fund this, how we are going to get grants to do it, can we get grants to do it. It’s a daunting task, but we’ve got time to do it.”

Benn noted the study suggested the town could experience twice-daily flooding in the coming decades if it takes no action to address sea level rise. He said addressing bulkhead heights could be one of the first measures.

“We need to get it done before that happens,” he said.

Mayor Natalie Magdeburger agreed. She pointed out the town was making strides to address resiliency issues in Fenwick Island, and that the information session scheduled for August would allow community members to provide feedback.

“We want to start to educate and let people know what the recommendations are and then we want to seek people’s input on how this town wants to respond,” she said.

Magdeburger added that resiliency was being addressed not only through the town’s resiliency study, but through its newly drafted comprehensive plan. She said those efforts would put the town in a better position when state and federal dollars became available.

“We want to be the first in line when they are handing out money,” she said.

With no further discussion, the council voted 6-0, with Councilman Paul Breger absent, to approve the committee’s funding request for survey work.

Monday: History of our Surfmen

Tuesday: Beach Safety (OC Beach Patrol)

Wednesday: Knot Tying (Coast Guard)

Thursday: All About Sharks

Friday: Land, Sky, & Sea

Saturday: Aquarium Feeding Daily Aquarium Feeding Through August 31, 2023 At 11:30 a.m.

Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman made her first planned visit Monday to the Town of Berlin, where she joined elected leaders for tours of the Mermaid Museum, above left, the North Main Street building currently under construction, the Island Creamery, above right, and The Inn Berlin. Below, Lierman is pictured strolling Main Street with Mayor Zack Tyndall and wife Chelsea.

Photos by Bethany Hooper

People in Society

Featuring Those Helping Causes In The Resort Area

Members of the Ocean Pines Association Environmental and Natural Assets Committee volunteered at Teach a Kid to Fish Day in Ocean Pines.

Kip Johnson is pictured with Velda and Patrick Henry at the Rise Up Foundation’s picnic at the Taylor House Museum.

Bob Woodward and Buddy Siegal showed kids how to make different knots at Teach a Kid to Fish Day in Ocean Pines.

Bill and Raven Wheatley attended the Rise Up Foundation’s picnic in Berlin on Sunday.

Department of Natural Resources representatives Joe Nye and Patricia McMichael are pictured at Teach a Kid to Fish Day.

Eric and Ashley Stewart attended the Rise Up Foundation picnic at the Taylor House Museum.

Nadia Lowery and Alayah Fisher attended the Rise Up Foundation picnic in Berlin.

Denise and Adam Baker are pictured at a picnic hosted by the Rise Up Foundation.

Clara Cramer, left, and Charlotte Hulme are pictured with Craig Tallman at the Ocean City Airport. Tallman leads the Young Eagles program, which gives kids a chance to experience flight.

by Charlene Sharpe

Marc Slavin, a volunteer with the Young Eagles program—which gives kids a chance to fly for free—is pictured with Charlotte Hulme at the Ocean City Airport.

Fireworks, Live Music Planned For OC’s July 4 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.”

The fireworks display at Northside Park in a previous year is pictured. File photo by Chris Parypa

Text Amendment Targets Residential Development

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – County officials approved a bill that will allow more flexibility when it comes to residential development in the C-3 commercial district.

The Worcester County Commissioners last week approved a text amendment that will allow multi-family dwellings in the C-3 district. The change will affect a handful of properties near Home Depot.

“This text amendment, as indicated, would retain the C-3 zoning classification of those properties,” attorney Mark Cropper said. “We’re not seeking to take the zoning away, all we’re seeking to do is make more flexible the development of those properties and incorporate a high density residential component into high intensity commercial.”

Jennifer Keener, the county’s director of development review and permitting, told the commissioners this week that the Worcester County Planning Commission had voted unanimously to give a favorable recommendation to a proposed text amendment that would allow multi-family dwellings in the C-3 district. Keener said it would mean that a developer could have 65% of a property commercial and then use the remaining 35% for high density residential. She pointed out that of that 35%, 15% would be required to be open space.

Cropper told the commissioners there were just five properties zoned C-3 and that two of them were already developed.

“The remaining three have not been touched,” he said. “They have remained vacant. There’s a reason for that.”

He explained that when the county’s land use plan was adopted in 2009, it was believed that big box retail development was going to be the wave of the future.

“That has simply proven to be untrue,” he said. “Now with the advent of Amazon and other shopping websites, most people actually prefer to shop online or use small mom and pop shops versus big box. Big boxes have kind of lost their favor with the shopping public.”

At the same time, he said Worcester County was experiencing a shortage of affordable housing. Cropper said the text amendment would address that need and at the same time give more flexibility to developers.

“I don’t want anybody to think we’re here trying to substantially change your zoning code,” he said. “We’re not. Your zoning code already allows residential in the C-3 zoning district. It simply requires that residential be incorporated into and made a part of the commercial

structure itself. What we’re seeking here is essentially the same thing but the residential doesn’t have to be part of and located within the commercial structure itself. It can be separate. A separate community but part of the overall parcel.”

He added that in West Ocean City, the Seaside Village development abutted the outlets.

“Those projects have been some of the most popular residential projects in Worcester County,” he said. “People love living there. They’re full now and I think they will forever stay full. That is evidence in my opinion that co-mingling or combining high intensity residential with intense commercial obviously works and it’s consistent with the comprehensive plan.”

Cropper showed the commissioners a potential layout of a development such as the one the text amendment would allow and pointed out that its density was less than what was currently permitted. The commissioners voted unanimously to approve the text amendment.

Guarding the Beach

Surveying Ocean Conditions Smart Way To Start Each Day

BY DAMIEN SANZOTTI SPECIAL TO THE DISPATCH

OCEAN CITY – If you ever watch experienced surfers before they go out, you will notice they spend some time on the beach studying the waves. Beachgoers should follow suit by spending the first 10-15 minutes after arriving surveying the conditions and speaking to the lifeguard on duty.

Often people come out to the beach, drop their belongings and head straight into the ocean. As soon as they attempt to swim, they find themselves confronted with a dangerous set of waves or strong currents. Not only may the waves and currents cause problems, but the depth of the water is also a concern when diving headfirst or riding waves. Please take your time. Remember to check the depth of the water by entering “feet first, the first time,” and never turn your back to the incoming waves.

You may not realize the true danger of letting a wave hit you in the back as

you stand facing shore, but the impact force of a wave is no less severe than being in a rear-end collision in your car and no one wants that to happen. Make sure you and your family are aware of the dangers before entering the water. Daily conditions of the ocean are governed by swell direction, wind velocity, tides, ocean bottom (bathymetry) and prevailing weather conditions. Since conditions can vary drastically from day to day, and even from morning to afternoon, it is a good idea to make sure you discuss the conditions with the lifeguard on duty and as they change throughout the day. Always remember the ocean is very dynamic and constantly changing, unlike the familiar neighborhood pool.

It is only after you have sufficiently surveyed the scene, gathered information on ocean conditions, talked with your Surf Rescue Technician (lifeguard) and you feel it is safe based on your ability, that it is appropriate to go swimming. Remember, what is safe for one person is not necessarily safe for every-

The OCBP trains and prepares for all conditions. Last week the patrol held its second Surf Rescue Training Academy of the summer with 32 rookies preparing to keep visitors and locals safe. Submitted Photo

Lifeguards Available To Offer Insights

one. Make sure that you know your own ability and ocean knowledge. If you are in doubt of the current conditions, do not go out and never rely on an artificial flotation device rather than your swimming ability. There is a good chance you could lose that flotation in a wave and suddenly find yourself in severe danger of drowning.

Make sure you give even more consideration to children before letting them go with a flotation device that they could easily lose. If you are sure it is safe and decide to venture out into the waves, take the time to study the waves once you’re out there. The experience of being in the ocean and studying the swell is invaluable. It gives you a better understanding of the waves. Each day is different, and it is important to know the speed, steepness and strength of the waves that are coming in before attempting to ride a wave, whether it is body surfing, boogie boarding or surfing.

I have 20 years of experience as a beach lifeguard, and I still do not hit the surf without making sure everything is safe. Everyone should take precautions before attempting to surf, body board, swim, or do whatever it is you’re going to do in the waves. Although I have spent numerous childhood vacations at the beach and spent my adult life working for the beach patrol, I always spend time surveying the waves and getting as much information about the beach and water conditions as I can from the local lifeguard on duty whenever I travel to unfamiliar beaches.

To get more information about beach patrol employment opportunities, current beach conditions, our Junior Beach Patrol camps as well as daily statistics, ask the Surf Rescue Technician on your beach, or you can follow the beach patrol on Instagram or “like us” on the Official OCBP Facebook page. We can’t wait to be a part of your wonderful experiences in Ocean City, because we are glad you are here, and always remember, “Keep your feet in the sand until the lifeguard’s in the stand.” As added protection for you and your family, always locate the nearest stand with a guard and swim on that beach.

(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

Director Announced

SALISBURY – Rick Leibowitz recently was announced as the new program director for the Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Eastern Region at Salisbury University.

Leibowitz comes to Salisbury from Oregon with more than 12 years of experience supporting small businesses as an SBDC director in six states. In the private sector, he has held executive-level positions in the food manufacturing, hospitality and professional services industries. He began his professional career as a small business owner, operating retail and wholesale bagel bakeries in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Alaska.

Most recently, Leibowitz served as the chief financial officer of Business Impact NW, a community development funding institution in the Pacific Northwest providing lending and technical assistance to small businesses in Alaska, Oregon and Washington state. There, he worked with the institution’s investment team to help support organizational strategy, grant compliance and management, and budgeting fiscal resources.

“The type of outreach Rick has spent much of his career providing to small business owners is instrumental to our entrepreneurs on the Delmarva Peninsula,” said Dr. Christy Weer, dean of SU’s Franklin P. Perdue School of Business. “We welcome his expertise in continuing the positive work of the SBDC in our region.”

“Rick brings a strong background in assisting entrepreneurs and solid business ownership experience that will be impactful for the business community of the Eastern Shore,” added John Hickman, director of SU’s Business, Economic and Community Outreach Network (BEACON).

Leibowitz earned his M.B.A. from Western Governor’s University and his B.S. from Rutgers University.

An outreach of the Perdue School, the SBDC Eastern Region serves the citizens of Maryland by improving the success of small businesses through low-cost training, no-fee consulting and

research, with offices at SU, Chesapeake College in Wye Mills, Md., and the Dorchester Chamber of Commerce in Cambridge, Md.

President Named

SALISBURY – Steve Leonard, Ph.D., MBA, FACHE and president/CEO of TidalHealth, has announced Sarah Arnett, DNP, MS, RN, NEA-BC, CPHQ, has been named president of Your Doc’s In (YDI), the leader in urgent and immediate care on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. She assumed her new role on June 5.

Arnett, as YDI president, will be responsible for the regulatory compliance, strategic operation, financial viability, physician and staff recruitment and retention, growth and clinical mission of all YDI offices in Salisbury, Ocean City, Easton, Cambridge and Pocomoke.

“As the incoming President of Your Doc’s In, I look forward to demonstrating how the partnership between TidalHealth and YDI can positively impact the accessibility of healthcare within our

community, while improving the patient experience,” said Arnett. “Both of these organizations bring complementary strengths to the partnership providing a strong foundation for growth.”

Peninsula Health Ventures, an existing company of TidalHealth, purchased a 50% share of the urgent care franchise in February and is providing administrative oversight for the partnership.

“Urgent Care Services are an important part of the healthcare continuum as we seek to support the health and wellness of this region. We look forward to Dr. Arnett leading this organization while integrating care between our Your Doc In locations and the entire system,” added Leonard.

Arnett returns to TidalHealth where she had previously served as vice president of patient care services/chief nursing executive, leading the professional practice of nursing, and before that as the director of emergency/trauma services at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional. She originally joined the health system in 2013.

ical leadership and direct clinical care.

All YDI practices have extended hours and are equipped with digital X-rays and on-site labs to diagnose and treat patients who have illnesses, injuries from work or motor vehicle accidents, provide occupational health services and everything in between. With a noappointment-necessary policy, Your Doc’s In is committed to convenience, comfort and care.

Licenses Awarded

SALISBURY – Becker Morgan Group recently announced that staff members Trevor Smith, PE, and Kelsey Segraves, AIA, have earned their professional engineering and architecture licenses.

Smith and Segraves have met the requirements set out by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying and the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, including education, experience, and rigorous professional exams.

Smith graduated from the University of Delaware, earning his Bachelor of Civil Engineering. He joined the firm as a civil designer in 2019 and has been an integral member of the firm’s civil engineering department in the Newark, Del., office.

Segraves graduated from Marywood University, earning her Bachelor of Architecture. She joined the firm as an architectural designer in the Salisbury, Md., office in 2018. Segraves has been a valuable member of the firm and has supported various project types, giving her a diverse and rich skill set.

Further, Civil Designer Andrew Sabine, EIT, recently passed the Fundamentals of Engineering exam. This allows him to pursue licensure by taking the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam. Sabine is a 2020 graduate of the University of Delaware with his Bachelor of Civil Engineering.

Becker Morgan Group applauds these individuals for taking the next step in their professional careers and enhancing the firm’s professional service offerings to clients and community partners.

Established in 1983, Becker Morgan Group is a leader in architecture, engineering, surveying, land planning, and

Walter Gianelle, MD, will remain as the YDI medical director, providing med- SEE NEXT PAGE

SARAH ARNETT

The Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated the grand opening of Bank of Ocean City’s new location in Selbyville. Above, Reid Tingle, president and CEO of Bank of Ocean City, is pictured with bank representatives cutting the ribbon in front of the newly constructed Selbyville branch. The ceremony was held in conjunction with other festivities. Submitted Image

... BUSINESS NEWS

interior design in the mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions of the United States.

Food Donation

SALISBURY – Salisbury Urban Ministries has received $4,000 from the Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation to help feed neighbors in their time of need. Salisbury Urban Ministries will use the gift to purchase food for the Lazarus Food Pantry.

The agency appreciates the generous gift, which enables them to provide nutritious food items to individuals and families residing in Wicomico County who are in need of food assistance.

Salisbury Urban Ministries Executive Director Debbie Donaway shared, “The food we provide to struggling individuals and families in our community has an impact that reverberates throughout our county. Well-fed children learn more, struggling working families get back on their feet, seniors thrive and individuals are able to focus on more productive pursuits rather than finding food.”

The Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation is committed to supporting families facing food insecurity across its 10-state footprint. Established in 2001, the foundation provides financial support for programs and organizations dedicated to feeding local neighbors in the communities it serves. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded more than $17.8 million in grants.

New Member

PITTSVILLE – Kelly Jeter, advisor with SVN Miller Commercial Real Estate, has joined Pittsville’s, Maryland Economic Development Commission.

The commission’s inaugural meeting was held in April.

At the initial gathering, Jeter and other commission members were able to establish their collective vision, goals, and action plans for the upcoming months. By leveraging their expertise and engaging with the Pittsville community, the commission aims to make a meaningful and lasting impact.

The Pittsville Economic Development Commission (PEDC) is a newly formed organization dedicated to en-

hancing the viability and vitality of the Pittsville community.

With a focus on supporting local businesses, attracting investments, and fostering economic opportunities, the commission aims to create a sustainable and thriving environment for residents.

“I am excited about the opportunity to serve on the PEDC to facilitate business growth in the Town of Pittsville, contribute to economic prosperity, and to learn more about the Town’s background and its foundational pillars,” said Jeter.

Director Retires

SALISBURY – After nearly 15 years at the Salisbury Zoo, Director Leonora Dillon has decided to retire.

She joined the Salisbury Zoo, which is part of the City of Salisbury, in 2008 as the education curator after working at the EdVenture Children’s Museum in Columbia, S.C. She became the director of the Salisbury Zoo in 2020.

“When Leonora took the zoo director position, she was tasked with reorganizing a department that needed to be updated and revitalized. And she did a fantastic job combining her skills in management, curation and education,” said Mayor Jack Heath. “She excelled at the task, bringing our event and educational offerings at the zoo to another level, and we will miss her dearly.”

“It’s been a great 15 years at the Salisbury Zoo,” Dillon said. “I’ll miss working with everyone here and being able to walk out and see so many people that I’ve gotten to know over the years. Of course, I’ll also miss the animals I’ve connected with.”

As director, she brought on a fulltime veterinary team, which includes Dr. Tameeka Williams and Veterinary Technician Ally Wright. Dillon made animal welfare a focus during her time as director, and having a veterinary team allows for preventative care for the animals.

“Leonora has been such a dedicated member of our team, and the Salisbury Zoo has made great strides under her leadership,” said Allen Swiger, director of the City’s Arts, Business and Culture Department. “We will certainly miss her, but we wish her the best.”

Dillon is retiring effective June 30 and will head back to South Carolina to be closer to her family. A national search will be conducted for the next director of the Salisbury Zoo.

KELLY JETER

Fee-In-Lieu Parking Concept Eyed For Ocean City

space. Estimates for surface parking totaled $67,500 in upfront costs per space and $150 in annual costs per space.

“The thing to emphasize here, more than anything else, is we are not married to these costs of what we are going to charge a developer,” he said. “That’s something to be hammered out in this room.”

Wilson noted, however, that OCDC was a proponent of a downtown parking garage, either at Worcester Street or 4th Street.

“Basically what we are trying to do here is create a template that we can use for the rest of the town,” he said.

For his part, local developer Palmer Gillis said he believed the town should spearhead efforts to implement a FILOP program.

“Number one, the town is exempt from real estate taxes so that lowers operating costs. And the town can finance it a lot better, longer term …,” he said. “The town has a lot of unique advantages. That means they can either manage a parking garage or they can subcontract it to somebody. But the town, in my

thought process, needs to be the entity that does it.”

City Manager Terry McGean, however, said that would require more research.

“The concern is at what point do we lose tax-exempt status through financing a parking garage …,” he said, adding that a certain percentage of parking spaces would also need to be open to the public. “I don’t think we can build a parking garage at Worcester Street and set aside all the spaces for developers. Somehow, there’s going to have to be some sort of combination … When it’s open, it’s got to be open to everybody.”

Palmer also questioned if the city could provide financing for upfront space costs. OCDC board member Igor Conev said it was worth considering.

“There is a lot of upfront cost with any development, so if you can spread that out over a few years would be a lot easier than paying it all upfront,” he said. “That may be a good idea.”

Ocean City Councilman Peter Buas questioned if a parking garage should be constructed first, or if fees should be collected first. Shenanigan’s owner Greg

Shockley said the town should first build a garage.

“They want to see where they will be able to park …,” he said. “I think the city will have to say, ‘we’ll build it’ and hopefully they come.”

Mayor Rick Meehan disagreed. He said he first wanted to see some commitment or interest from developers before moving forward with a FILOP program.

“We need to find out if that’s viable before we just surge ahead,” he said.

McGean said he also had concerns about building a parking structure first.

“It would be good to have a partner, an anchor when we build it,” he said, “somebody committing to 50, 100 spaces.”

Hotelier G. Hale Harrison said publicprivate partnerships should be explored. He said similar partnerships could be found in other resort communities, including Virginia Beach.

“I’d start by looking at their model and see if that model is adaptable for us,” he said.

When asked if the town’s streets could handle traffic associated with a

parking garage, Wilson said it could improve traffic in the downtown area.

“I feel like we already bottleneck everyone down there in that [Inlet] parking lot …,” he said. “If we go with the 4th Street property, in my opinion it will probably reduce the problem.”

McGean agreed.

“When you go to Disney World, you don’t drive through Cinderella’s castle to park,” he said. “When you come to Ocean City, you drive through Cinderella’s castle, you literally park in Disney World. The bottleneck is the Route 50 bridge … If we’re going to add another 400 or 500 parking spaces downtown, the place to go, in my opinion is north of the Route 50 bridge.”

Some committee members last week shared their concerns about constructing a parking garage and its potential lack of use in the offseason. However, The Hobbit Restaurant owner and Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association representative Garvey Heiderman disagree.

“I will tell you point blank we are not a four-month community anymore …,” he said. “Those days are over, and we need to be forward-thinking.”

The Freeman Arts Pavilion hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony last month with the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce at its new box office building and entrance. Friends, fellow chamber members and community members were in attendance.

The Freeman Arts Pavilion is a nonprofit whose mission is to advance arts access for all through performance, education, and advocacy. The new box office offers more opportunities for guests to interact with the Freeman Arts Pavilion Team through information needs, ticket purchasing and more. The new entrance offers even more convenience for guests arriving for performances.

To learn more about the Freeman Arts Pavilion and to see their lineup of summer shows, visit freemanarts.org, call 302-436-3015, or visit 31255 Americana Parkway, Selbyville, Del. 19975

Pictured, front from left, are Patti Grimes, Dwight Miller, Joe Groves, Michelle Freeman, John Tiberi, Mike Wigley, Molly Williams and Keith Raffensberger; and, back, Lindsay Richard, Ali Bishop, Melissa Rizer, Darren Silvis, Michael Vadella, Chelsea Warren and Lauren Kuzminsky. Submitted Photo

COMMUNITY News In Photos

The Maryland Retired School Personnel Association (MRSPA) Individual Community Service Award was presented to Allen Brown, Wicomico Retired School Personnel Association (WRSPA) member. Allen is the pre-retirement chairperson for WRSPA, encouraging new retirees to join the local association. Pictured with Brown is MRSPA Community Service chair, Kathy Campagnoli, and president, Carla Duls.

Submitted Photos

The Ocean City Lodge of the Sons and Daughters of Italy has awarded $2,000 scholarships to three graduating seniors from two area high schools. From left, recipients Isabela Scharp, Samantha Teoli, and Kelly Catrino prepare to cut their scholarship celebration cake at the June meeting of the Ocean City Sons and Daughters of Italy.

At the Rotary Club of Wicomico County's meeting on June 20, outgoing President Tracy Hajir announced and recognized Lacey Messick, left, as the club’s 2022-2023 Rotarian of the Year. Messick was recognized for her many contributions to Rotary and the club which included chairing the Holiday Party and the First Annual Disc Golf Tournament.

Christy Gordon, executive director of the Delmarva Discovery Museum, was a recent guest speaker at a meeting of the Kiwanis Club. Gordon is pictured with Bob Wolfing, club president.

The Ocean City Surf Club awarded two $5,000 scholarships at its OC Surf Fest Kick-Off Party on June 16th. Pictured, from left, are Stephen Decatur High School senior Kameron Harris, Stephen Decatur High School senior Jacob Urbanski, OC Surf Club Event & Media Chairman Brad Hoffman and OC Surf Club President Tommy Vach.

The Republican Women of Worcester County held their annual “Red, White and Blue” general luncheon meeting at the Lighthouse Sound Restaurant in Bishopville on June 22. Standing left to right: Monica Kozlowsky, National Federation of Republican Women Region 7 director, Maryland State Senator and RWWC member Mary Beth Carozza, Vanessa LaFranco, 1st vice president, National Federation of Republican Women, Sandy Zitzer, president, Republican Women of Worcester County and Sharon Carrick, president, Maryland Federation of Republican Women.

Celebrity Golf Tourney Planned

OCEAN CITY – A date has been announced for the first annual Ocean City Celebrity Golf Tournament.

The tournament, slated for Oct. 2, will be hosted by golf pro and veteran golf broadcaster David Feherty at The Links at Lighthouse Sound.

The tournament will be held the day after the inaugural Oceans Calling Festival, taking place the weekend beforehand, Sept. 29-Oct. 1. Teams of four plus one celebrity will play 18 holes at The Links at Lighthouse Sound course. The tournament will be emceed by Ocean City golf ambassador Feherty, as an extension to his two-year partnership with the golf destination, and will include a long drive, closest to the pin, putting contests, Hole in One and more, plus swag bags, club fittings, and Manufacturer’s “Demo Days.”

“In addition to an incredible music lineup on our award-winning Boardwalk and beach with Oceans Calling, extending the festivities with our first celebrity golf tournament will allow our visitors to also experience our incredible golf scene,” said Tom Perlozzo, director of tourism and business development for Ocean City Maryland Tourism. “We’re excited to have a host like David Feherty for the tournament, along with several participants including Oceans Calling’s performers and sport celebrities to build anticipation

for an amazing day on the course.”

Oceans Calling performers O.A.R, The Lumineers and Noah Kahan are scheduled to appear at the tournament, among others from the entertainment and professional sports industries.

“Ocean City is one of the fastest growing golf destinations on the east coast and the place to go for championship golf,” said Feherty. “I look forward to collaborating with Ocean City to host this exciting tournament and share with other avid golfers why this coastal town is one of my favorite golf destinations.”

The day of the tournament schedule includes breakfast, a pre-tournament meeting and drawing, an awards ceremony and happy hour. Space is limited for the tournament. Teams of four are encouraged to sign up today to save their spot at oceancitycelebritygolf.com.

Fundraising efforts are focused on the Ulman Foundation and Believe in Tomorrow’s House by the Sea, whose mission is to create a community of support for young adults and their loved ones, impacted by cancer.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for the event. For those looking to get a jump start on planning their Ocean City golf getaway, check out oceancitygolf.com.

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Boardwalk Beauty: The photographer was able to highlight an oyster catcher on the Boardwalk last week amid the typical sea gulls and pigeons.

Photo by OCYachtShots.com

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To purchase any of Parypa’s photos, click over to www.chrisparypa.com.

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 members of the Ocean City Beach Patrol lead a Surf Rescue Academy last week.

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 94

HOROSCOPES

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): You are self-reliant and rarely ask anyone for help. But this time, you might want someone you trust to be there for you while you deal with a difficult matter. Cheer up. Things improve soon.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): Your patience begins to pay off. Look for the first sign that your goals are in plain sight. Also, take time out from all your hard work for some fun with someone special.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): There could be some lingering effects from a recent setback. But it's all for the best, as you're now beginning to appreciate. Use the lessons you've learned to start over.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): What seemed to be a difficult goal to reach is now -- or soon will be -- all yours. Congratulations. An unexpected travel opportunity holds an intriguing new prospect.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): A chilly reception to your presentation shouldn't cause you to abandon your ideas. Instead, do tweak up those weaker parts and then, once again, show them what you have.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): Hiding your feelings might make you feel safer against rejection. But this could be the time when you'll need to speak up or risk losing out on an important event in your life.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): Some co-workers might try to talk you out of

accepting a promotion. But you need to follow your own instincts -- and if you believe you're right for the job, then take it.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Some changes are in order, as you come to realize that you need to sort out several areas in your life. Your remarkable insight helps you make the right decisions.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): It's time to act on your own behalf and separate yourself from those whose selfish needs threaten your personal and/or professional survival.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): Resist your tendency to close yourself off from unpleasant situations. Instead, open up to how things are so that you can help change them to what they could be.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): An unspoken problem could be driving a deep wedge between you and that special person. Some honest talking between the two of you starts the healing process.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): You might feel you've been going around in ever-widening circles trying to deal with recent workplace problems. Lighten up. A successful end is finally in sight.

BORN THIS WEEK: You're authentic and unafraid of using thr large emotions that overtake your heart. Originality is your super power.

© 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

People watching on the Boardwalk

Biking to dinner in Berlin

How humbling parenting can be Watching lifeguards communicate A kid with a glove at a baseball game

Young artists

Grilling on the weekend

Shoes with no laces that fit well

A fast computer

Looking forward without regret

When a poor weekend forecast does not play out

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY WITH BUNK

MANN

Billy Heaton Whitworth and his wife Agnes opened Heaton’s Karmel Korn on the Boardwalk near Wicomico Street in 1944. Specializing in saltwater taffy and caramel popcorn, Heaton’s changed both its name and its menu when sonin-law Fred King purchased the business from Agnes after Billy’s death in 1953. Cotton candy, snow balls and candy apples were added and a Boardwalk landmark — King’s Cotton Candy — was born.

The business has undergone a few changes in the past 70 years. Pretzels and funnel cake have replaced the caramel popcorn and inflation has raised the cost of cotton candy from the original 15 cent a serving. The season has increased as well. It no longer begins on Memorial Day and ends on Labor Day as it did in 1944.

Today Fred’s son Danny runs the business and his kids have worked with him making King’s Cotton Candy a four-generation Ocean City tradition. To purchase one of Bunk Mann's books, click over to www.vanishingoc.com.

Photo courtesy Danny King

Local Firefighters Showcase Culinary Skills At Competition

OCEAN CITY – Firefighters from the Ocean City and Salisbury fire departments recently took part in the highly anticipated Restaurant Association of Maryland's "Cooking With Fire" Culinary Competition.

The event, which served as a qualifying round for the prestigious World Food Championship, brought together talented firehouse chefs to showcase their culinary skills and creativity.

Representing the Salisbury Fire Department was firefighter Tri Townsend, while firefighters Ryan Whittington and Mike Hill represented the Ocean City

Fire Department. The men stepped into the kitchen to demonstrate their passion for cooking.

During the competition, Townsend, Whittington and Hill crafted exquisite dishes that celebrated the local seafood delicacies provided by JJ McDonnell and MD's Best. Their culinary creations were aimed at celebrating the rich flavors and abundance of the Maryland coast.

The competition was fierce, as each firehouse chef demonstrated their talent and expertise in the kitchen. Whittington from the Ocean City Fire Department won first place. Whittington's dish earned him the coveted Seafood Golden Ticket, granting him a place in the World Food Championship finale to be held in Dallas, Texas in November 2023.

The participation of these firefighters in the "Cooking With Fire" Culinary Competition serves as a reminder of their multifaceted abilities and commitment to serving the community in various capacities. It also highlights the camaraderie and teamwork that exists among these firehouse chefs.

Tri Townsend, Ryan Whittington, and Mike Hill are pictured at the culintary competition last week. Submitted Photo

with Scott Lenox

Hello everybody and Happy 4th of July week. We had more good weather than bad this past week so anglers were able to get out in full force both inshore and offshore. The flounder fishing improved in the back bays, Spanish mackerel and bluefish showed up on the inshore lumps and tuna showed back up in the canyons so there were fish boxes full all over the place.

Congratulations to the participants and winners of last weekend’s Fish N Paddle Saltwater Slam kayak tournament. Third place went to Brian Scharle, second to Gary Ward and first place was won by Tyler Clazey, who also received a check for $4,000. The offshore fleet was elated to find some good tuna fishing in the Poorman’s and Baltimore Canyons this past week. There were several bigeye tuna caught and a bunch of yellowfin tuna with some boats even limiting out with three yellowfin per person. The best baits have been Squidnation and Sterling Tackle spreader bars, skirted ballyhoo and ballyhoo with weighted heads like the MagicTails Outfitters Hoomagic.

Bottom fishing over ocean structure was solid again this past week with good sea bass fishing and more flounder showing up. Anglers that are specifically target-

ing flounder have been doing well over wrecks and reefs in 50 to 100 feet of water with some nice fish coming over the rail. Sea bass are eating squid, clams, Gulp and Otter Tails on top and bottom rigs while the flounder are being caught on bucktail or jig rigs with a teaser baited with Gulp. Captain Kane Bounds of the Fish Bound has been on fire with limits on every trip with some fish to as large as 7 pounds. The inshore lumps like Fenwick Shoal, the Bass Grounds and the first and second lump have attracted some Spanish mackerel and bluefish recently and anglers are taking advantage of these fun, toothy critters. Trolling small spoons on small planers is the best way to entice a bite with fish from 15 to 20 inches.

Back bay fishing for flounder improved this week with some clean water conditions and more bait moving in. The Thorofare is still holding some fish, but the East Channel and Route 50 Bridge have become the better spots to find a keeper using live spot, bunker or mullet fished on a live bait rig in 15” to 30” of water. The tide doesn’t really matter as long as the water is clean and moving a little.

This weekend is the OC Marlin Club’s Canyon Kick Off Tournament at Sunset SEE PAGES 64-65

Marina. I’ll have all the winners in my nightly fishing report at www.FishinOC.com. Until next week, 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.)

Haleigh Davis was fishing with her father, Dennis, using the Deadly Tackle Deadly Double in chartreuse when she landed this 27”, 7.5 pound flounder over ocean structure. Submitted Photos

Opposite page, top left, this group had an insane day with Captain Andrew Dotterweich when

landed six

tuna from 140 to 195 pounds. Opposite page, top right, Captain Kane Bounds of the Fish Bound has been putting crews like this on limits of fat flounder over ocean structure. Opposite page, middle left, Blake Gunther and Derek Yobst had their limit of flounder with nothing under 20” fishing over ocean structure. Opposite page, middle right, this group had an insane day with Captain Andrew Dotterweich when they landed six bigeye tuna from 140 to 195 pounds. Opposite page, bottom left, Blake Gunther and Derek Yobst had their limit of flounder with nothing under 20” fishing over ocean structure. Opposite page, bottom right, Blake Gunther and Derek Yobst had their limit of flounder with nothing under 20” fishing over ocean structure.

Above top left, Captain Joe Drosey of Rhonda’s Osprey treated this group to three beautiful bigeye tuna and seven yellowfin tuna. Above left, Captain Chris Watkowski of the Spring Mix II put this group on five yellowfin tuna from the Poorman’s Canyon. Above top right, this young angler was surprised by a small cobia while fishing on board the Tortuga out of Bahia Marina. Above middle right, firs place honors in the Fish N Paddle Saltwater Slam and a check for $4,000 went to Tyler Clazey who scored over 31 points in the event. Above right, Shaun Flaherty donned his Gorton’s Fisherman gear and caught countless rockfish and bluefish in a northeast monsoon

they

bigeye

Ocean Pines To Host Annual 4th Celebrations

OCEAN PINES – The Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks Department will once again host a Fourth of July fireworks celebration at Veterans Memorial Park on Route 589 and Cathell Road.

The event this year is scheduled from 5-8:45 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4, with carnival games, dry slides and bounce houses for children, plus live music and food and drink vendors.

Children’s wristbands are $10 and are good for all slides and bounce houses. Wristbands will be required for those attractions only. All sales will be cash only. General admission is free and open to the public.

Fireworks are scheduled to start at 9:15 p.m. and go until roughly 9:45 p.m.

The fireworks will launch from the north side of the pond, by Cathell Road. A viewing zone will be fenced off from Manklin Creek Road to the Veterans Memorial. Additional viewing will be available at Manklin Meadows Park. There will be no viewing along Ocean Parkway, from Cathell Road to Manklin Creek Road.

There will also be a “safe zone” marked by an orange fence, from the pond to the firehouse. No one may enter the marked area.

Guests may bring lawn chairs and blankets.

Parking will be available in the area near the Ocean Pines Library and Taylor Bank. Parking will not be allowed along Ocean Parkway. Limited handicapped parking will be available at the Sports Core Pool and the library parking lots. A handicap-accessible shuttle will be available between the library and the event area. Overflow parking will be available at the Ocean Pines Library parking lot.

Police will close Ocean Parkway from Manklin Creek Road to Offshore Lane about 30 minutes before the fireworks begin. That area will remain closed until all fireworks have been launched and the fire marshal deems it safe.

Additionally, police will close the south end of Cathell Road from Ocean Parkway to the entrance of the Sports Core Pool at around noon, when the fireworks company is scheduled to arrive. The area will remain closed until the fireworks equipment is loaded back up. Cathell Road will remain open from the Sports Core Pool to Route 589 for the entire day.

Police and fire department personnel will help direct traffic throughout the day. Pedestrian traffic is highly encouraged. At the conclusion of the fireworks, pedestrians will have preference over motorists. Residents and guests should expect delays throughout the day.

In case of inclement weather, the fireworks display will move to Wednesday, July 5.

• 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

Beach Patrol: Four members of the Ocean City Police Mounted Unit are pictured working the beach on Sunday evening.

Photo by Chris Parypa

Be Safe And Thanks For Visiting Ocean City

PAGE SPONSORED BY THE DISPATCH

Photo credit: Joe Lamberti/Freeman Arts Pavilion

Every Sunday: Farmers Market Berlin will host along Main Street with 35-plus 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 410-629-9383 or Carol 302242-7062.

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. 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. 410250-2645.

Every Thursday: Beach Singles

Join the club, 55 plus, at Harpoon Hanna’s in Fenwick Island, 4-6 p.m. 302-436-9577 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 30-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.,

Things To Do

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.

July 2: Community Celebration

From 5:30-8:30 p.m., a free live concert, food, games and family fun at Seaside Christian Academy behind the White Marlin Mall. Stop by for a patriotic picnic and the future West OC Youth & Sports Complex Project Reveal.

July 2: Ocean Pines Players Show

The Ocean Pines Players (OPP) is expanding its offerings in the local community. After 49 years of providing local live theater and musical revues, it is now branching out with singing engagements. First up is a show at Windmill Creek Vineyards and Winery at 11206 Worcester Hwy, Berlin from noon to 3 p.m. As with most winery events, admission is free, bring a chair and purchase refreshments there. The quartet (Patrick Lehnerd, Dorothy Leslie, Donna Pasqualino and Jim Ulman) will present standards and easy listening favorites. Each singer stands out in solo work, but the duets and ensemble numbers are where silken harmonies can be enjoyed. A second performance is scheduled for Sunday, September 10 in the same time slot. Oceanpinesplayers.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 410-632-3971 to reserve a canoe, kayak or paddleboard.

July 4: Hot Dog Eating Contest

Fish Tales Bar and Grill located on 22nd Street Bayside in Ocean City will host its annual Hot Dog Eating Contest in their south parking lot at noon. This amateur competition is open to anyone over the age of 18. The winner will receive at least a $1,000 cash prize, a trophy, and bragging rights for an entire year. Contestants can enter until noon on July 4. The competition will start at 2 p.m. and there will be seating available to watch the competition. The first 20 people to preregister will be the contestants. To register, please visit the Bahia Marina Tackle Shop or Fish Tales Small Bar to sign up. A registration fee of $10 is required

to hold your spot. You must sign a waiver to participate.

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

9: Arts Day In Pines

Due to inclement weather, the Art League of Ocean City has rescheduled the free “Arts Day in the Pines” event, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park in Ocean Pines. Free parking with complimentary shuttle service is available at Ocean Downs Casino.

The event will feature more than 40 artisans offering their original arts and crafts including pottery, paintings, glassware, fiber art, jewelry, and more. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the artists and buy directly from them.

“Veterans Memorial Park is a new location for us this year, and we are so excited to expand and grow this event even bigger than before,” Aubrey Sizemore, Art League event coordinator, said. “We had over 7,000 people attend Arts Day last year, so everyone loves the fun they’ll have for the whole family. Bring a chair and stay all day.”

Musical artists will perform original pieces throughout the day. Chino Rankin plays from 11 a.m.-noon; Jeremiah Coyne, 12:15-1 p.m.; Radio Ocean City will DJ from 1:15-2 p.m.; Parker’s Garden, 2:25-3 p.m.; eScape hAtch, 3:15-4 p.m.; and Marissa Levy, 4:15-5 p.m.

During their time on stage, Radio Ocean City will feature kids' contests with prizes including gift cards to area businesses, Fisher’s popcorn, and items from their business.

Food trucks will offer a variety of fare including Sandy’s Dog Gone Good Eats, Kona Ice, Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ, Sweet Addiction, and The Street Kitchen. Beer and wine will also be available.

Children’s and family activities include bouncy houses, youth plein air painting,

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.

bubbles, coloring, geocaching, face painting, pipe cleaner art, planting, and tie dying. Special art classes for adults, including creating mini mosaic jewelry pendants and paint-alongs are also being offered for an extra fee.

July 15: Chicken Platters To Go

Calvary United Methodist Church fundraiser sale of fried/baked chicken platters to go, 10:30 a.m. until sold out. Platters are $10 and include two sides and a roll. Side choices include homemade potato salad, mac ‘n cheese, greens and seasoned string beans. Dessert table available. 8607 Ironshire Station Road, Berlin.

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 410-641-1137 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.oceanpines chamber.org/events/details/16th-annual-flounder-tournament14865.

Cleaners

Conscientious

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Castle in the Sand 37th St. Coastal Hwy call or email: 410-289-6846 bob@castleinthesand.com

INDIAN RIVER MARINA IS NOW HIRING!

•MAINTENANCE

•GENERAL CLERICAL

Apply Online at delawarestatejobs.com

For additional information, please contact the Marina office at 302.227.3071

Now

NOW

The Hideaway Restaurant at River Run Golf Club is seeking to build a dynamic team for FOH and BOH. This is your chance to be a part of our exciting rebranding.

Experienced Bartender and Server positions available. Also seeking experienced BOH that enjoys working with a small, talented team, with a willingness to learn. Experience in a professional kitchen desired, but not required

APPLY IN PERSON or call KIM at 410-258-3516

•

•

HELPERS

Must possess knowledge in multiple areas regarding interior/exterior repairs and renovations. Competitive Wages 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”

Currently Hiring Manpower For:

Carpenter | Laborer | Painters

Stucco & EIFS Mechanics

Concrete Work

o Experience preferred.

o Tools, transportation & valid driver’s license are a plus.

o Excellent pay and a competitive benefits package available.

Please Apply Online: https://www.allstatesconst.com/delmarva-renovations-careers Or Contact Our Office at 410-352-9800

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”

The Dispatch Classifieds

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

FULL-TIME PERSONAL 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”

HYGIENIST/ASSISTANT

Friendly boutique dental practice, with great patients, looking for a PART TIME HYGIENIST and a PT/FT DENTAL ASSISTANT

Please send resume to dentistryinthepines@gmail.com

THUNDERBIRD

NOW HIRING!

• BARTENDER

•COOK

•DELIVERY DRIVERS

•SERVERS Call Pam 410-726-7061 or apply within 56th Street

LOOKING

APPLY IN PERSON Mon-Fri 10am-2pm 32nd St & Baltimore Ave Ocean City

CAREGIVER

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

YARD SALE

TAYLORVILLE CHRISTIAN CHURCH YARD SALE: Fri 7/7 & Sat. 7/8. 7am-3pm. Last Big Yard Sale! Everything Must Go! Taylorville Christian Church, 11252 Adkins Rd, Berlin, 21811

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.

PETS

YORKIE PUPPIES: Yorkshire Terrior Puppies, home raised. To Pet homes only. Beautiful puppies, had 1st shots. Call 302-934-8913.

COMMERCIAL FOR SALE

BEAUTIFUL HUTCH AND DINING TABLE: Must see to appreciate! Solid wood, seats 8-10 people, two leaves. Lighted China cabinet with glass shelving. 4 Glass doors, tons of storage below. Cabinet is two pieces. Selling because moved and didn’t fit in new Dining room. 443-880-8885.

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

The Dispatch Legal Notices

fax 410-641-0966.

Third 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, HOCK-

ESSIN, 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

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,

(2)

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

Third 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

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.

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

Third 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 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, Mary-

land, 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

Second 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 before 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 218631074 3x 6-23, 6-30, 7-7

Second Insertion

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

ESTATE 19775

To all persons interested in 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 be-

fore 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

BRIAN KIRK 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

Second Insertion

LEO J. KEENAN III 1121 LIBERTY ROAD 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

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

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

STEVEN DILLY 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

First Insertion

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19780

To all persons interested in the estate of SHARON M. PARSONS, Estate No. 19780. Notice is given that PATRICIA L. CROPPER, 10120 WATERVIEW DRIVE, OCEAN CITY, MD 21842, was on JUNE 23, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the SMALL estate of

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.

SHARON M. PARSONS, who died on JUNE 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 30, 2023

PATRICIA L. CROPPER

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 6-30

9927 STEPHEN DECATUR HWY SUITE F12 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19782

To all persons interested in LYNNE TAYLOR MURRAY, AKA: ALMA LYNNE TAYLOR MURRAY,Estate No. 19782.

Notice is given that TERESA L. MURRAY, 12349 VIVIAN STREET, BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813, was on JUNE 22, 2023, appointed

Personal Representative of the estate of LYNNE TAYLOR MURRAY, who died on MARCH 26, 2022, 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 22ND 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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication JUNE 30, 2023

TERESA L. MURRAY 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 6-30, 7-7, 7-14

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

HUGH CROPPER, IV, ESQ.

(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.

JORHEA N. WRIGHT, ESQ. ARMISTEAD, LEE, RUST& WRIGHT, PA 114 BAY STREET, BUILDING C EASTON, MD 21601

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19784

To all persons interested in ROBERT Y. TORREY,Estate No. 19784. Notice is given that DONNA L. TORREY, 12344 SOUTHHAMPTON DRIVE, BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813, was on JUNE 26, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ROBERT Y. TORREY, who died on JUNE 13, 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 26TH 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

(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 30, 2023

DONNA L. TORREY 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 6-30, 7-7, 7-14

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 estate of GEORGEANN MAGNES, who died on APRIL 14, 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 20TH 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

JOHN B. ROBINS, ESQ ROBINS & ROBINS, PA PO

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-22-000199

PAUL GARNER, Plaintiff V. ELAINE EVANS, Defendant NOTICE

MORRIS L. GARTEN, FEDDER AND GARTEN PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION 10096 RED RUN BOULEVARD SUITE 200 OWINGS MILLS, MD 21117

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19777

To all persons interested in GEORGEANN MAGNES,Estate No. 19777. Notice is given that JACQUELINE Y.

(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 30, 2023

JACQUELINE Y. MAGNES

DANIELLE SCOGLAND

Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County

TAKE NOTICE that the sale of the property situate in Worcester County, Maryland, known as Unit I, 15 43rd Street, Ocean City, Maryland, 21842, made and reported in these proceedings by John B. Robins, IV, Trustee, and more specifically described in the Report of Sale filed in these proceedings, will be ratified and confirmed unless cause to the contrary be shown on or before the 31st day of JULY, 2023, provided a copy of this Order be inserted in some newspaper published in Worcester County, Maryland, once in each of three successive weeks before the 24th day of July, 2023. The Report states the amount of sale to be $291,000.00.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

2022 Town Of Willards Annual Drinking Water Quality Report

April 2023 • PWSID #0220007

We’re pleased to present to you this year's Annual Water Quality Report. This report is designed to inform you about the quality water and services we deliver to you every day. Our constant goal is to provide you with a safe and dependable supply of drinking water. We want you to understand the efforts we make to continually improve the water treatment process and protect our water resources. We are committed to ensuring the quality of your water. Our water source is two (2) wells drilled three hundred twenty feet (320’) into the Manokin Aquifer.

We have a source water protection plan available from our office that provides more information such as potential sources of contamination. This plan is also available from Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) or at the Wicomico County Public Library. For more information call 1-800-633-6101.

I’m pleased to report that our drinking water is safe and meets all federal and state requirements. As you can see by the table which follows below, our system had no violations. We constantly monitor for various contaminants in the water supply to meet all regulatory requirements.

Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immuno-compromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. EPA/CDC guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by cryptosporidium and other microbiological contaminants are available from the Safe Water Drinking Hotline (800-426-4791).

If you have any questions about this report or concerning your water utility, please contact Pete Merkl at 410-835-8192. We want our valued customers to be informed about their water utility. If you want to learn more, please attend any of our regularly scheduled meetings. They are held on the second Monday of each month at the Town Hall Building at 7:00 p.m.

The Town of Willards routinely monitors for contaminants in your drinking water according to Federal and State laws. This table shows the results of our monitoring for the period of January 1st to December 31st, 2022. As water travels over land or underground, it can pick up substances or contaminants such as microbes, inorganic or organic chemicals, and radioactive substances. All drinking water, including bottled drinking water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. It’s important to remember that the presence of these contaminants does not necessarily pose a health risk.

In this table you will find many terms and abbreviations you might not be familiar with. To help you better understand these terms, we’ve provided the following definitions:

Parts per million (ppm) or Milligrams per liter (mg/l) – one part per million corresponds to one minute in two years, or a single penny in $10,000.

Parts per billion (ppb) or Micrograms per liter – one part per billion corresponds to one minute in 2,000 years, or a single penny in $10,000,000.

Parts per trillion (ppt) or Micrograms per liter - one part per trillion corresponds to one minute in 2,000,000 years, or a single penny in $10,000,000,000.

Action Level – the concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements which a water system must follow.

Maximum Contaminant Level – The “Maximum Allowed” (MCL) is the highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. MCLs are set close to the MCLGs as feasible using the best available treatment technology.

Maximum Contaminant Level Goal – The “Goal” (MCLG) is the level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety.

Note: Test results are for year 2022 or as otherwise indicated; all contaminants are not required to be tested for annually.

We have learned through our monitoring and testing that some contaminants have been detected. The EPA has determined that your water IS SAFE at these levels.

All sources of drinking water are subject to potential contamination by substances that are naturally occurring or man made. These substances can be microbes, inorganic or organic chemicals, and radioactive substances. All drinking water including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that the water poses a health risk. More information about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the Environmental Protection Agency's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. Willards is responsible for providing high quality drinking water and removing lead pipes, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components in your home. You share the responsibility for protecting yourself and your family from the lead in your home. You can take responsibility by identifying and removing lead materials within your home plumbing and take steps to reduce your family’s risk. Before drinking tap water, flush your pipes for several minutes by running your tap, taking a shower, doing laundry or a load of dishes. You can also use a filter certified by an American National Standards Institute accredited certifier to reduce lead in drinking water. If you are concerned about lead in your water and wish to have your water tested, contact Willards at 410-835-8192. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available at http://epa.gov/safewater/lead.

If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. The Town of Willards is responsible for providing high quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. If you are concerned about lead in your drinking water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

PFAS - or per - and polyfluoroalkyl substances - refers to a large group of more than 4,000 human-made chemicals that have been used since the 1940s in a range of products, including stain - and water-resistant fabrics and carpeting, cleaning products, paints, cookware, food packaging and firefighting foams. These uses of PFAS have lead to PFAS entering our environment, where they have been measured by several states in soil, surface water, groundwater, and seafood. Some PFAS can last a long time in the environment and in the human body and can accumulate in the food chain. Beginning in 2020, the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) initiated a PFAS monitoring program. Our water system was not tested for PFAS in 2022. In March 2023, EPA announced proposed Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) of 4 ppt for PFOA and 4 ppt for PFOS, and a Group Hazard Index for four additional PFAS compounds. Future regulations would require additional monitoring as well as certain actions for systems above the MCLs. EPA will publish the final MCLs and requirements by the end of 2023 or beginning of 2024. Additional information about PFAS can be found on the MDE website: mde.maryland.gov/PublicHealth/Pages/PFAS-Landing-Page.aspx

MCL’s are set at very stringent levels. To understand the possible health effects described for many regulated contaminants, a person would have to drink 2 liters of water every day at the MCL level for a lifetime to have a one-in-a-million chance of having the described health effect.

The Maryland Rural Water Association’s State Circuit Rider assisted with the completion of this report.

We at The Town of Willards work around the clock to provide top quality water to every tap. We ask that all our customers help us protect our water sources, which are the heart of our community, our way of life and our children’s future.

West OC Practice Prioritizes Results, Relationships

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

WEST OCEAN CITY – Results and relationships.

It’s what owner Shannon Foley, CRNP, said patients can find at the Institute of Aesthetic Medicine.

“People feel comfortable coming here and spending time with us,” she said. “And they know that we have their best interests at heart.”

In December, the Institute of Aesthetic Medicine (IAM) opened at its new location on Stephen Decatur Highway. With services ranging from laser treatments and Botox to clinical skin care and weight loss, Foley said her practice takes a holistic approach to beauty and wellness.

“It’s very comprehensive, very customized treatment plans,” she said. “It’s a team approach too, and very results driven.”

Foley is no stranger to the practice of aesthetic medicine. With more than 20 years of experience, Foley has worked as a field-based trainer and clinical educator for two of the leading aesthetic companies and is recognized as one of the top Botox injectors in Delaware. She also holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees and a certification as an adultgerontology nurse practitioner.

“She’s one of the best in the area,” said Hadley Leishman, IAM patient concierge. “That’s why people choose to

come here.”

Foley said IAM offers a unique approach to aesthetic medicine. While some facilities focus on specific treatments, her practice offers a wide range of services. Kerry Bergeman, practice manager, added that IAM is focused on educating patients and offering treatment plans that lead to better outcomes and shorter healing times.

“They get on a protocol to prep their skin, they come in for the service, and there’s plenty of follow-up to make sure

Shannon is truly giving them the best care and that they see the best results possible,” she said.

Foley noted, however, that it isn’t just results that drive business at IAM, but relationships. IAM representatives say it is not uncommon for patients to come for treatment and stay for conversation.

“They get used to us, and we chit chat and talk about the kids and stuff,” Bergeman said. “It’s really about building a family atmosphere.”

Foley said her practice serves clients

of all ages, from teenagers to grandparents and everyone in between. Services include Botox and dermal fillers; laser resurfacing and laser hair removal; microneedling; red- and blue-light therapy; customized medical skin treatments; medically assisted weight loss; IV hydration; chemical peels, Diamond Glow; and much more.

“I really listen to our patients, and I try to deliver the services they are requesting,” Foley said.

Foley noted that IAM is a Diamondlevel Allergan account and carries brands such as ZO Skin Health, Jane Iredale and EltaMD. The practice also hosts on-site and off-site private parties and collaborative events with local businesses.

“We do like to network and be involved with our community,” she said.

The Institute of Aesthetic Medicine is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Evening appointments are also available upon request.

“Really, the vision of IAM is that you can have healthy, beautiful skin at any age,” Foley said.

For more information, visit iamoc.net or call 410-390-5954. Other IAM representatives include Carrie Reed, clinical esthetician, Nina Littleton, patient concierge and makeup artist, Leah Powell, patient coordinator, and Sara Zetzer, RN and laser technician.

Shannon Foley, owner of the Institute of Aesthetic Medicine, Kerry Bergeman, practice manager, and Hadley Leishman, patient concierge, are pictured at the West Ocean City practice, located on Route 611.

Photo by Bethany Hooper

Who’s Where When

BUXY’S/DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, June 30: Bond & Bentley

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 30: Darin Engh, Junior Moment

Saturday, July 1: Kevin Poole & Joe Mama, The Banana Hammer Band

Sunday, July 2:

Heatehr Vidal, Low Tide Lovers

Monday, July 3: Nate Clendenen, Remy & Lyons

Tuesday, July 4: Josh Pryor Duo, The Beach Bandits

Wednesday, July 5: Aaron Howell Duo, Colossal Fossil Sauce

Thursday, July 6: Moonstone, Chris Diller Duo

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy.

Friday, June 30: One Night Stand

Saturday, July 1: Jim Long & Wes Davis

Sunday, July 2: Jim Schwartz

CORK BAR

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Saturday, July 1: TBA

Sunday, July 2: TBA

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

37314 Lighthouse Rd.,

Rte. 54 Selbyville, DE

Sunday, July 2: Kevin Hurricane

Wednesday, July 5: Chris Diller

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Friday, June 30: Elephants Dancing

Saturday, July 1: Scrapple

Sunday, July 2: DJ Magellan

Thursdays: Dance Party w/ DJ Magellan & Tommy

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St. In The Bay

Friday, June 30: DJ RobCee, Sons Of Pirates, Here’s To The Night

Saturday, July 1: DJ DNial, The Loop, Here’s To The Night

Sunday, July 2: DJ Groove, Crushing

Day, The Loop

Monday, July 3: DJ DNial, Crushing

Day, Pineapple band

The 1974, It’s All Good

Tuesday, July 4: DJ RobCee, No Go

Romeo

Wednesday, July 5: Jimmy Charles, Latin Night w/DJ Patana

Thursday, July 6: DJ Groove, Blue Miracle FISHTALES

410-289-0990

22nd St. & Bay

Friday, June 30: Groove

Saturday, July 1: Wax

Best Beats On The Beach

Who’s Where When

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Rt. 611, West O.C.

Friday, June 30: TBA

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West O.C.

Thursdays & Fridays: DJ Billy T

Saturday, July 1:

Dunehounds, DJ Jeremy

Sunday, July 2:

Opposite Directons, DJ Billy T

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By Deogee

Saturday, July 1: Dunehounds

Sunday, July 2: 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 30: The Bilenki Duo

Saturday, July 1: Reform School, Rick & Regina

Sunday, July 2: Rymac & AJ, Shortcut Sunny

Monday, July 3: Bell Bottom Blues Duo

Tuesday, July 4: Endless Embers

Wednesday, July 5 Lime Green Duo

Thursday, July 6: Full Circle Duo

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards

Friday & Saturday, June 30 & July 1: Doc Marten & The Flannels

Sunday & Monday, June 30 & July 1:

Awaken

Tuesdays: DJ Madame Dutchess

Wednesdays: DJ Papi Roisterous

Thursday, July 6: High Voltage (AC/DC Tribute)

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, June 30: DJ Tuff, DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz, Full Circle, STORM, The Malones

Saturday, July 1: DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz, DJ Tuff, The Malones, STORM, Fish Out Of Water, Steal The Sky

Sunday, July 2: DJ Davie, DJ Connair, DJ Bobby O, DJ Tuff, Triple Rail Turn, Cheezy & The Crackers, Tunnel’s End

Monday, July 3: DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, DJ Tuff, Blake Haley, Cheezy & The Crackers, Kristen & The Noise

Tuesday, July 4: DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, DJ Tuff, Opposite Directions, Cheezy & The Crackers, Garden State Radio

Wednesday, July 5: DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, DJ Connair, Full Circle Duo, Bumpin Uglies, Zion Reggae, Kono Nation

Thursday, July 6: DJ Davie, DJ Cruz, DJ Bobby O, John McNutt Band, Jah Works, Go Go Gadjet

THE ORIGINAL

GREENE TURTLE

410-723-2120

116th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Fridays: DJ Magellan

Saturday, July 1: DJ Cuban Fire

County Grant Will Fund Police Cars, Sidewalks

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – A county grant of $100,000 will allow the Town of Fenwick Island to fund sidewalks and police vehicles.

In a Fenwick Island Town Council meeting last Friday, officials approved the final allocation of $100,000 in grant funding from Sussex County.

Councilman Bill Rymer, town treasurer, said the funding would be divided between the town’s sidewalk construction project and the purchase of police vehicles.

“Over the last 10 months we’ve discussed a couple of different times the allocation of $100,000 that the town received from Sussex County,” he said. “Originally the funds were reserved for the sidewalk project. Ultimately the sidewalk project will only need $50,000 of that $100,000.”

This spring, the town began construction on a long-awaited sidewalk project. Using $600,000 in allocated funding, crews spent weeks installing sidewalks along five bayside blocks, beginning in front of Warren’s Station restaurant at Indian Street

and moving south toward Dagsboro Street.

“We are so excited that we could bring this 20-year-in-the-making project to a successful completion,” Mayor Natalie Magdeburger said this spring. “This is a great addition for Fenwick and our businesses on the north side as well as our entire community.”

With the project now complete, officials say they will continue to work with the Delaware Department of Transportation (Del-

DOT) to install walkways along the remainder of Coastal Highway. The town is also looking to add landscaping to the areas between the newly constructed sidewalks and the adjoining bayside properties.

Rymer told council members last week the grant funding from Sussex County has now been divided into two tranches. He said he was seeking the town council’s approval to allocate $50,000 toward two projects.

“So I would like the council to approve a final allocation of $50,000 for the sidewalk project and then $50,000 to help offset the cost of the two police vehicles that we purchased during the year,” he explained. “So the funds will be used for the sidewalk and the police vehicles.”

With no further discussion, the council voted 6-0, with Councilman Paul Breger absent, to approve the requested allocations.

Beach Afternoon: The beach in the late afternoon after the lifeguards have called it a day can be peaceful and beautiful, but the reminder is to stay safe and do not swim in the ocean once the beach patrol has ended its day at 5:30 p.m. Photo by Chris Parypa

Board Candidates Share Views At Pines Forum

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – Four candidates for the Ocean Pines board shared their views on various association issues last week.

Last Wednesday, the Ocean Pines Elections Committee held a forum for the four candidates running in the 2023 Ocean Pines Board of Directors election.

Over the course of an hour, candidates John Latham, Jerry Murphy, Elaine Brady, and Jeffrey Heavner took time to share their views on issues facing the association and provide opening and closing statements.

Latham, an Ocean Pines homeowner since 2013, said he was eager to bring his experience as a businessman, volunteer and committee member to the board.

“If elected, my goal would simply be to make a great community even better,” he said. “I will use my business background, leadership and communication skills and financial acumen to help drive decisions that are most important to our community.”

For his part, Murphy, a local Realtor, said he has been a member of the community since the 1970s. He said he would bring his knowledge of boards to the role of director.

“I’ve been successful in the real estate business,” he said, “and I have an opportunity now to serve the community that

has served me so well the last 49 years.”

Brady said she also became familiar with the community in the 1970s, when her parents purchased a lot in Ocean Pines. She said she and her family now reside in Ocean Pines, and that her experience gives her a unique perspective.

“That has helped me develop a perspective of not only what retirees like, enjoy and want in the community, but also what the young families that are raising their children here want,” she said.

If elected, Heavner, a former Naval intelligence officer and businessman, said he would work with the board to make decisions that are important to the community.

“I stand for kindness, I stand for unity, I stand for integrity and I stand for conviction,” he said. “I am an independent thinker. I bring leadership that has been developed over a 37-year career.”

Last week, candidates answered questions on topics ranging from boat ramp access and amenities to electronic signage and growth.

When asked how advisory committees could support the board and Ocean Pines staff, Heavner said he would like to see committee chairs attend board meetings.

“The board makes the final decisions, but I would absolutely endorse more of a presence of our committees at board meetings,” he replied. “I know the liaisons are supposed to speak for them, but I

would love to see the chairs of these committees report to the board during regular board meetings, regular updates on very big issues that they are working on, like our elections, like the firehouse.”

Murphy was asked if he would support raising assessments to maintain the community and its infrastructure. He said he would, but only after other funding sources, including grants, were explored.

“Raising assessments would be my last option,” he said. “I would first look at other options and exhaust those.”

When asked about the divisiveness of a proposed roundabout in north Ocean Pines and his thoughts on the efficiency of a roundabout, Latham said the proposal required more research.

“Quite honestly, I would want to understand it a little bit more …,” he said. “I’m not sure I have enough data to say that would work. If it helps for us to stay safe … I would support that if it helps the community.”

Brady was asked to clarify her views on run-down properties. She said she supported making changes to the association’s governing documents to allow for better enforcement.

“I live in a community where there’s a secondary HOA, and many of those communities within Ocean Pines, as they age, remain very well kept, and they do because there are fines …,” she said. “It's not fair for property values, having to live next to a dump that is falling apart … It’s not the

kind of community we want.”

Candidates were not asked the same questions at last week’s forum. Instead, they were asked to pick a number out of a hat and answer the corresponding question. Attendees also had an opportunity to ask questions at the end of the forum. The entirety of last week’s candidate forum is posted on the association’s YouTube channel.

Officials say Election Trust, the Washington-based contractor hired earlier this year, will be mailing ballots to property owners the week of July 11, with ballots due back by 4 p.m. on Aug. 8.

Officials pointed out the contractor would notify voters once their ballot has been received, so long as their membership information is up to date.

Ballots will be counted and vote totals will be announced on Thursday, Aug. 10. The annual meeting is set for Saturday, Aug. 12.

For more information on the 2023 Board of Directors election, email elections@oceanpines.org, call 410-208-3989, or visit oceanpines.org and click “2023 OPA Board Election” at the top of the page.

This year, three board seats will be up for grabs – two currently held by Doug Parks and Colette Horn and one left vacant following the resignation of Frank Daly. The seven-member volunteer board is the governing body of Ocean Pines.

…Berlin Citizens Share Questions, Ideas For Heron Park

FROM PAGE 4

Councilman Steve Green asked if Gillis, who was among those in attendance at the meeting, had been advised that the subcommittee would be recommending ending negotiations.

“He was informed we were going to have a discussion…,” Tyndall said. “The specifics, I didn’t know what they would be.”

When Green asked if the subcommittee’s decision was unanimous, he was advised it was not, as Tyndall wanted to continue negotiations.

“For a year’s worth of work I think it’d be nice to have a contract to review,” Green said.

Green added that the original proposal from Gillis had featured a purchase price of $1.5 million for the roughly 17 acres of the park and that officials had known since that point that they wouldn’t be recouping enough to eliminate the debt associated with the park. He said he’d like to hear from the public regarding the issue.

Patricia Dufendach, a member of the town’s parks commission, asked if a skate park was still a possibility for Heron Park.

“There are so many things we have not had a chance to talk about,” she said.

Resident Edward Hammond said the public was being asked to comment with no more than a few garbled details re-

garding what Gillis proposed for the property. He said Gillis had even told him that he’d started talking with Tyndall about his plans before the town had issued a request for proposals for the park.

“What about the toxic waste that’s there?” Hammond said, referencing the property’s history as a chicken processing facility. He said Gillis could purchase the land and then sue the town if an en-

vironmental issue was identified. “This is something that’s potentially a huge liability.”

Resident Gina Velong said she felt the town should have pursued the other proposal it received from Natelli Properties, which would have put residential development on the property. She added that Gillis was a developer interested in making money.

“I don’t think we need a second Main

Street,” she said.

Gillis told the council he thought he was still negotiating with the town on the project and that he had no idea the subcommittee didn’t want to continue. He stressed that the town would be retaining about 70% of Heron Park if he purchased the parcels outlined in his proposal. He stressed that he loved Berlin.

“It is not in my blood to jeopardize this Main Street,” he said.

He added that a phase two environmental study had to be completed before he could purchase the land.

In response to questions from resident Mary Hedlesky, officials confirmed that the town purchased the whole park property for $2.5 million in 2016 and spent about $160,000 a year on debt service. Hedlesky pointed out the town also spent money on upkeep such as grass cutting at the site.

“Let’s not keep going backward,” she said, advocating for some sort of compromise.

Blair Carey told the audience he was working with Gillis and would be developing a garden center on the property if Gillis purchased it. He said it would fit the community, which he appreciated for its nostalgia. He added that there was a need for more commercial space in town, as he’d been looking for a location in Berlin for a year.

“Berlin to me is like a real life May-

Dozens of residents attended the Berlin Town Council meeting Monday to talk about plans to sell a portion of Heron Park.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

…Council Members Want Input From Town Commissions

berry…,” he said. “I have a passion for this and I know it can be successful.”

Resident Tyler Betz, who said he saw dozens of people using the park property every day, said officials had missed an opportunity for a good community discussion by not providing the public with details regarding the Gillis proposal and the contract being negotiated.

“I really think some more details would help,” he said, adding that citizens for example had no idea why Tyndall wanted to sell and the other committee members did not.

Resident and local business owner Megan Hines said she too would have liked more detail about the proposal. She noted that the town was already oversaturated with restaurants but that she liked the possibility of a skate park and amphitheater at the park property. She said she’d love to see the park no longer an eyesore.

“I’d like to see it taken care of,” she said. “I don’t think the town can do that on its own.”

Ron Cascio, a member of the town’s planning commission, said he’d talked to Gillis two years ago about his interest in developing a portion of the park property. Cascio said he didn’t oppose what Gillis wanted to do with the site but he did think the price was too low.

“We’re talking about 17 acres of land,” he said. “The largest contiguous piece of property left in town limits.”

He said Gillis was offering roughly the same amount of money it would take to buy two houses in Walnut Hill.

“That property is worth a lot more money,” Cascio said.

He added that as residents were indicating they also felt like they hadn’t yet had their say on the plan.

“The value’s established by what the market will pay,” Gillis responded.

Tyndall, referring to Betz’s question regarding his support of the proposal, said the reason he favored it was because the subcommittee had developed an eight-page contract with Gillis and there were only two items on which the parties disagreed.

“It has always been my goal to present something that is viable,” he said.

Green said the community input shared throughout the evening was great. He said Berlin had changed for the better in recent years.

“Preserving that is front of mind for all of us,” he said.

Green said he agreed with a lot of what he’d heard but didn’t want to abandon negotiations.

“I’m not in favor of throwing this whole thing away and starting over,” he said. “I think there’s some sort of middle ground we can find here.”

Green added that he didn’t think it was fair that Gillis wasn’t advised by the town that the subcommittee no longer supported negotiations. He added that the subcommittee had spent the past year working on a contract.

“I’m not ready in two-and-a-half hours to abandon the effort either,” he said.

Tyndall said the negotiating period ended in July and that officials could

continue working on the contract until then.

“There is merit in looking over this a little bit further but I do think we need to pause the whole situation,” Knerr said, adding that the town needed to hear from its planning and parks commissions as well as more from its citizens. He went on, however, to commend Gillis for his proposal.

“He basically is repurposing this whole plant,” Knerr said. “If you’ve ever been inside, its deplorable. To rehab this building is nothing short of a miracle.”

Burrell said that if Monday’s meeting had been held earlier in the process Gillis could have worked citizen input into his proposal. He said he agreed that the town needed to take a step back and reminded those present why the council had approved the purchase of the property in 2016.

“The reason it was purchased was to give the town control of what went there,” he said. “We wanted to ensure what went there had the support of the community.”

Tyndall said the issue could be put on the ballot to give every voter a say.

“There’s only one way to find out how everybody feels,” he said.

Staff advised him that a referendum question would have to be worded very carefully so that it couldn’t unintentionally backfire on the town.

“I would not recommend that course,” Town Administrator Mary Bohlen said.

Knerr made a motion to pause the negotiation process until the parks and planning commissions were consulted and two public meetings were held. That motion passed unanimously. A subsequent motion to ask Gillis to agree to extend the negotiating period until the end

of the year passed 3-2, with Nichols and Orris opposed.

Hammond said the public meetings should allow for more engagement.

“This notion of just a listening thing where you guys sit up there and say nothing and any member of the public says anything they want I don’t think is really going to get us anywhere,” he said.

Nichols said Hammond and other interested residents were welcome to work together and create a park proposal for officials to review.

Gillis indicated he was willing to listen to ideas as well. He said his proposal was based on the request for proposals the town initially released for Heron Park

“I’m willing to have more input,” he said. “This is a very Jell-o plan. We want to do what the community reflects. Help me help you.”

Charles H. Jerscheid, Jr.

BERLIN – Charles H. Jerscheid, Jr. passed away on Monday, June 19, at Tidal Health in Salisbury at the age of 83.

He is remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather with many friends and acquaintances. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Emma (Rivero); his son, C. Timothy Jerscheid (Lisa) from Stockton; his daughter, Jeannine Lampe (James) from Girdletree; and grandchildren Timothy Jerscheid (Abbie) from St. Augustine, Fla. and Miranda Jerscheid (John) from Snow Hill. He is preceded by his father, Charles, mother, Juanita and brothers Myron and Ronald. Services will be private. Memorial donations in his memory can be sent to the Snow Hill Volunteer Fire Dept., EMS service, 4718 Snow Hill Rd., Snow Hill, Md. 21863.

Donald W. Godfrey

DELMAR – Donald W. Godfrey, age 80, husband of Patricia Savage Godfrey of Delmar, passed away on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at his residence, following a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Donald was born March 4, 1943, in Salisbury, a son of the late Everett H. and Clara (Bunting) Godfrey.

In addition to his parents, Donald was preceded in death by his brothers, Everett B. Godfrey Jr., Merrill A. Godfrey and Bobby W. Godfrey. Additionally, he was preceded in death by nephew Ev-

erett H. Godfrey and a very special nephew, Jeffrey E. Godfrey, Sr.

He was a U.S. Air Force Veteran of five years, having served during the Vietnam War. He was employed by Campbell Soup Company in Salisbury for 25 years prior to its closure and his retirement.

In addition to his wife of 58 years (high school sweetheart and love of his life), he is survived by sister-inlaw Alberta C. Godfrey; nieces Lisa A. Nugent (Todd) and Tammy D. Kane (Bobby); as well as special brother-in-law and his wife, William C. Savage, Jr. and Raye B. Savage, and their children, William C. Savage, III (Candace), Michael F. Savage and Rachel B. Savage.

He is a member of Melson United Methodist Church and is a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, the VFW Post 194 in Salisbury, the Salisbury Gun Club and the Loyal Order of Moose.

Cremation followed his death. A graveside service will be held for family and friends at Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery, 11707 Back Creek Road, Bishopville, Md. on Saturday, July 8, 2023, at 11 a.m. Pastor John Oltman, Sr. will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Donald to Melson United Methodist Church, 32705 Melson Road, Delmar, Md. 21875 or Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, Md.

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21802.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com.

Geraldine P. Mitchell

BERLIN – Geraldine Elizabeth Pruitt Mitchell passed away peacefully at her home on June 15, 2023.

She was born on Jan. 15, 1931, the daughter of the late Howard Sylvester Pruitt and Dorothy Quillin Pruitt.

She was preceded in death by her husband Harry Mitchell in 2017. She is survived by her children, Bill Mitchell and his wife Linda of Whaleyville and Betsy Bergey and her husband Jay of Berlin. She was an adored grandmother to five grandchildren, Jennifer Zemo (Jon), Heather Salta (Brenden), Jason Mitchell (Rebecca), Ryan Bergey (Kristin) and Ross Bergey (Ashley), and 18 great grandchildren Jonathan, Christopher and Katie Zemo, Jayden and Avery Dudash, Blake, Tyler, and Aspyn Salta, Ella, Lyla, and Maya Mitchell and James, John, Chase, Luke, Drew, Cole and Jake Bergey. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her sisters and brothers, Mabel Rhodes, Dorothy Hudson, John Pruitt, Howard T. Pruitt, Doris Donoway, June Livingston, and Dale Pruitt.

Jerry had been a bookkeeper/secre-

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tary with Berlin Milling Co. and later Abbot Laboratories and Ceva Labs. She was a lifetime member of Friendship United Methodist Church and served as church treasurer for many years. She loved her church family and was dearly loved by them. Together Jerry and Harry loved Disney World and vacationed there quite often. Jerry was an avid reader.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Annie Ayres, Germeka Timmons, Tammy Timmons, and Tammie Tindley, her very dedicated and loving caregivers and the caring staff of Coastal Hospice especially her loving nurse Stacey Hart.

A funeral will be held on July 6, 2023, at 11 a.m. at the Friendship United Methodist Church in Berlin. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until 11 a.m. Pastor Pam Ward will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations may be mailed to Friendship Church Memorial Fund, c/o Lou Taylor, 12329 Vivian St., Bishopville Md. 21813 or Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, Md. 21802. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. Condolences can be shared via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com.

Charles Spoerer, III

OCEAN CITY – Charles “Bucky” Spoerer, III, 76, a long-time resident of Ocean City, passed away peacefully on Jan. 18, 2023, after a brave fight with recurrent cancer.

He will be greatly missed by his siblings, Jeanne S. Thompson of Pennsylvania; Barrie H. Islev-Petersen of Maryland; Tyler P. Houck and John L. Spoerer, both of Florida; his niece Lauren H. Madsen; and nephew Edward (Ted) J. Hoffman.

A well-respected member of the restaurant industry in Ocean City for over 40 years, Bucky will be remembered for his wit, hard work and independent spirit.

In his early years, he was the manager of the Mug & Mallet and worked in the offices of the original Phillips Crab House on 21st St. Later, he was part of the workforce and camaraderie of the Greene Turtle, Tom & Terry’s and The Island Café.

He loved the ocean, from his early days of surfing up and down the East Coast, to his retirement days of sitting on the beach to watch the sunrise.

He is a graduate of Baltimore Polytechnic Institute and Catonsville Community College and served in the Maryland National Guard during the late 1960’s. We will miss you, Bucky.

Joan Malstrom Robbins

WOODFORD, Va. – Joan Malstrom Robbins, 92, of Woodford, formerly of Chincoteague, passed away peacefully at her residence on Sunday, June 11, 2023.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Edward A. Robbins, Jr. Joan is survived by her four children, Patrick A. Robbins (Traci) of Chincoteague, Va., Deborah R. Young (Richard) of Georgetown, S.C., William E. Robbins (Monica) of Woodford, Va. and Victoria R. Kelso (Thomas) of Southport, N.C.; 12 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Wounded Warriors Project.

DONALD W. GODFREY

JOAN ROBBINS

CHARLES H. JERSCHEID, JR.

GERALDINE P. MITCHELL

Graduating Cops: Thirty-six law enforcement officers from Wicomico, Worcester, Somerset, Dorchester, Talbot, Caroline, Allegany and Queen Anne’s counties graduated in the 90th entrancelevel class of the Eastern Shore Criminal Justice Academy (ESCJA) operated by Wor-Wic Community College at the corner of Route 50 and Walston Switch Road in Salisbury. Graduation exercises, which were held in the Roland E. Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, featured a commencement address by Krah Plunkert, chief of the Fruitland Police Department. At right, new Worcester officers pictured front from left, are Nicolas Centeio, Timothy Chaykosky Jr., Ja-Quez Harrell, Ian Williams and Ezra Wong of the Ocean City Police Department; and, back, Hunter Nelson and Andrew Ortiz of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office. Submitted Photo

The Dispatch

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Comedian Jerry Seinfeld’s line

“There’s no precedent baby” came to mind flipping through the Oceans Calling Festival schematics and reviewing new details associated with the event, which is set for late September in downtown Ocean City.

There were several new pieces of information reported last week, including the news 50,000 tickets will be sold for each day. The per-day sales were capped at 37,500 for last year’s event, which was canceled the day before it was to begin due to a coastal storm. Before the poor weather rolled in, it was clear the music festival was going to be unlike anything Ocean City has ever seen.

Three months before this year’s event, Friday and Saturday, Sept. 29-30, are sold out at 50,000 each day, while some tickets remain for Sunday, Oct. 1. It’s tough to put some perspective around that crowd size, but safe to say Ocean City is entering a new frontier with this event.

Perhaps the best news to come out of last week’s Board of License Commissioners meeting in Snow Hill was the decision on the festival grounds. Last year festival organizers wanted to

Consensus On Music Festival Layout Good News

include a large swath of the Boardwalk in the event grounds but pulled back ultimately based on the city’s concerns. The topic has been revisited with merchants and some concessions appear to have been made to gain unanimous buy-in from businesses from Trimper’s Rides to North Division Street.

Over the winter, there seemed to be a number of concerns among Boardwalk businesses near the festival grounds over the proposed footprint. In exchange for being part of the festival grounds. the concert promoter wanted 15% of total sales and for operators to use a different point of sale system to track revenues. After hearing the concerns of impacted businesses, the concept was tweaked, and a cooperative spirit prevailed, confirming good faith by the event promoters and the city’s ability to work through a conflict.

The new and agreed upon approach is the entire area from about the Inlet to North Division Street will be fenced and only available to those attending the festival. The general public will not have access to those 65 businesses that weekend. It may sound harsh, and some members of the public could take umbrage, but for the businesses the

How We See It Letters To The Editor

Retired County Teacher Refutes Letter’s Claims

Editor:

I am writing in response to Tony Christ of Falls Church, Va.’s letter to the editor published in the June 23 edition of The Dispatch Lest Mr. Christ leave readers with the impression that 1970 was the “golden age” of education in Worcester County, let me share some of my experiences at Stephen Decatur High School in the academic year ’69-’70, the first year of my 46-year tenure at SDHS. In the fall of 1969, Stephen Decatur High School was just coming out of a tumultuous period during which a principal was either fired or forced to resign mid-year. Teachers at SDHS had been resigning prior to that principal’s departure.

A new principal had taken over and was hiring new staff as teacher turnover remained high. I was hired to teach 8th and 9th grade English and 12th grade psychology. In 1969-70 SDHS was on a split schedule serving students from grades 7 through 12. We had no teacher aides, one vice-principal, one guidance counselor (that I can remember.) I do not remember if we had a school nurse. There was no special education department. Special ed students were bused from the school after homeroom and educated elsewhere. SDHS homeroom teachers took

their attendance. All records, including attendance and grades, were entered by hand. Student load per year was approximately 180 students. Students were tracked into eight levels, with level one being the highest level and level eight the lowest. There were few “advanced” courses being offered, no AP courses or their equivalent, no dual enrollment.

Many of our male teachers had entered the teaching profession to avoid the draft. The war in Vietnam was still very active and deadly. You could not get a teaching position if you were openly gay. There was no accommodation at SDHS for students with a diagnosis of autism or who were on the autism spectrum; likewise for students with hearing deficits, visual deficits, dyslexia, dysgraphia, or other learning disabilities. Pregnant students were not allowed to attend classes or, if pregnant at graduation time, receive their diplomas at a graduation ceremony.

Worcester County’s public schools were not yet fully integrated. There were limited opportunities for students in the arts, most of those in music. There was no football team or program. There was no golf team, swim team, lacrosse team. There were limited team sports opportunities available for girls. That year, my salary was $7,200. Let me repeat. With a bache-

benefits appear to far outweigh the negatives. The concept of 50,000 people having access to their food, drinks, amusement rides, arcades and retail wares won the businesses over, especially once the concept of a universal register system was evidently dropped.

One large encompassing footprint should make for a tremendous festival scene and benefit the Boardwalk businesses. There would have been a missed opportunity for revenue if there was a fence where the Boardwalk meets the beach. Including these businesses was a wise decision, but the better call was showing a willingness to be flexible and cooperative.

The festival will be incredible to witness, albeit there are numerous practical concerns involving transportation and public safety connected to moving that many people, many of whom will be under the influence, out of the downtown area largely at once. In the first year, there will likely be lessons learned along the way. One thing is for sure, event preparation is well underway and all indications are there is a strong public-private partnership between Ocean City officials and the promotion company.

lor’s degree, fully licensed and certified, I was paid $7,200 (seven thousand two hundred dollars) for the year.

My salary when I retired in 2015 was significantly higher. This may be attributed, at least in part, to the accumulated rate of inflation. From 1970 to 2020, according to Inflation Calculator, the rate of inflation in the U.S. was 620.93%. (That’s six hundred and twenty point ... okay, 621%.)

Over my 46 years at SDHS, I saw an expanded curriculum, special education services provided through an inhouse credentialed special education department, the introduction of new courses in the arts, as well as new opportunities in athletics; the complete re-imagining of VoTech to include high level courses in engineering, technology, and science along with more traditional trades that require highly trained and skilled employees; the introduction of Advanced Placement courses offering college credit to students who earn a 3, 4, or 5 on AP exams, dual college enrollment, the inclusion of classes for non-English speakers, and the full integration of Worcester County Public Schools.

A degree from WCPS is no longer referred to as a “terminal” degree, as it was in 1970. No longer are some of our students the first in their families to graduate from high school or go on to

Letters To The Editor

college. The dropout rate in Worcester County stood at 7% in 2022, two points lower than the state average of 9%. I went from teaching students my first year at SDHS in the lowest level English classes who could not name the ocean that their home county bordered on to teaching AP Psychology students who could pass the AP exam with a 5 and theatre students who could understand, explicate, and perform Shakespearean plays in an outdoor courtyard theatre they had built themselves.

Rather than show dismay and disdain that 71 students need remedial help as they enter our local community college, I see this as a continual striving on the part of these students to achieve what they have struggled to achieve throughout their academic careers. I do not know their backgrounds or why they have struggled academically. Neither does Mr. Christ. These 71 may never be headed to Johns Hopkins or UPenn or NYU like some of our graduates, but there is no shame for them or our schools that they are still striving, still determined to succeed in a world that too often makes that success easy for some and nearly impossible for others.

Gwen Freeman Lehman

Ocean Pines

(The writer was a teacher at Stephen Decatur High School from 1969 to 2015.)

Reflections On Recent School Board Comments

Editor:

I would like to comment on board member Elena McComas’ remarks directed at board member Katie Addis. I have attended most of the Board of Education meetings, specifically the meetings this spring when the County Commissioners began requesting a line-item budget. The Board of Education did not have the line-item budget request sprung on them, with only a few weeks notice, following the budget articles in The Dispatch and on social media would establish the request were reported on as early as March.

Also, I have never heard Katie Addis speak a disparaging word about Mr. Tolbert or his staff. Mrs. Addis has only questioned the "process and product" a budget lacking itemized expenditures and details, a budget process that I am sure Mr. Tolbert inherited when he assumed the CFO position, a problem easily resolved given the software and technical expertise on staff at the board. Nor do I recall Mrs. Addis "smearing" other board members. She has attempted to introduce and discuss subjects and information that she feels the citizens, parents, teachers and taxpayers should be aware of or are entitled to know about.

Mrs. Addis has endured many condescending comments from other board members and superintendent, accused of wasting the board’s time, reproached for bringing up off limit topics. Katie Addis wisely pushed the board to issue a second letter to State Board of Education Superintendent Choudhury, reiterating their opposition to H.B. 119, a revised House Bill, which had it passed, would be the first step in forcing individual Maryland counties to relinquish their power to make local decisions for our children and students to the state of Maryland. Dr. Andes very prudently seconded Katie Addis’ motion. Fortunately, the house bill died. It will be presented again and our Board of Education, the citizens of Worcester County and all of Maryland must voice our opposition as state mandates effectively negate local Board of Education’s power.

If the Board has no power, there will no reason to elect a Board of Education for Worcester County. And let’s not forget what is at the center of all the controversy, the Blueprint for Maryland, which mandates the counties of Maryland to subsidize a 10-year escalating education budget over and above what the county already funds. Are the taxpayers of Worcester County concerned that we will probably face rising Real Property taxes to afford the ever-rising cost of the services the county currently provides the residents of Worcester County, let alone what cost will be incurred with the Blueprint's 10-year incremental budget? Can all county departments present burgeoning budget wish lists to the Commissioners with no accountability and expect the commissioners to fund every department request?

The Board of Education has been fortunate to be fully funded, consistently, obviously, there must be budget constraints. Yes, the Board of Ed budget has become a heated topic and could have been so easily and quickly resolved by providing the requested budget. When attending Board of Education meetings, I present my timed, two-minute statements, the Board courteously listens, thanks me, offers a board policy response and occasionally one of the board members will offer an opinion. Nothing resolved. That’s usually it, the next board meeting, the board and I do the same thing again. Wouldn't it be great if the board, teachers, parents could all sit down at the table together and share ideas and curriculum, discuss concerns and issues to produce the best learning experience for our Worcester County students?

Patricia G. Barbely Newark

TO OUR READERS: The Dispatch welcomes any and all letters from our readers. All letters are encouraged typed, but not required, and we reserve the right to edit each letter for clarity, accuracy and brevity. Letters should include writer’s name, address and day and evening telephone numbers. If we are unable to reach the writer, we will have to withhold the letter. Due to space restraints, letters under 500 words in length will be given top priority. Letters can be mailed to The Dispatch, P.O. Box 467, Berlin, Md. 21811, emailed to editor@mdcoastdispatch.com or faxed to 410-641-0966.

Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green

It has been a strange summer season so far. June has been weird on most fronts, but especially on the weather and its impact on reduced crowds on the weekends.

There are also appear to be some trends associated with the economy and post-pandemic travel corrections worthy of monitoring as the summer continues. Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association Executive Director Susan Jones touched on the latter travel subject this week, saying, “We fared so well in 2021 and 2022 as cruise and air industries suffered greatly; travel to cities also slowed in that time but we excelled due to outdoor options. Travel via air, cruise and city exploring is taking some of that share now and we’ve leveled off. In general, Expedia reported that travel demand is strong and spending in this category has outpaced others as folks are seeking adventure.”

The only good news associated with June was the lack of major crime incidents. Though everything is relative when it comes to measuring crime levels, a weekly review of all the arrests and calls for service confirm a tame month on the police beat front. There were the typical weapons and assault arrests commonplace when Ocean City is overtaken with late-teens and early20s types, but for the most part it was an uneventful senior week season.

There were two significant pieces of news involving land in and around Berlin this week.

First, it’s taken three years to get the deal done, but the state’s purchase of the former Bay Club golf course property and neighboring farm is now official. Located west of Berlin on Libertytown Road, the two parcels total 672 acres and were purchased for about $4 million through Maryland’s Program Open Space. At one point, back in 2017, the seller, Carl M. Freeman Companies, was considering a 434-site camping and RV resort for the property. Concerns about campers rolling through town quickly led to the concept being shelved, and the golf course closed for good in 2019, “due to increasing costs and decreasing revenues,” according to a Freeman press release at the time. As to what this week’s preservation through Program Open Space actually means, there seem to be several possibilities, but development will now never be one of them. Restoration possibilities of the property include walking trails, pollinator habitat, watershed restoration projects and tree plantings. Public access to the property will continue to be restricted for the foreseeable future.

Secondly, the Maryland Board of Public Works last week approved the county’s $1.26 million request to use Program Open Space funds to purchase the 12-acre Berlin Little League fields. Owned by the Berlin Lions Club, the purchase ensures the future of the baseball fields and will allow the county to upgrade the playing surfaces and add new amenities. The county could in the future purchase another six acres nearby owned by the Lions Club that is currently being farmed. This seems like a positive purchase for all involved.

There continue to be reverberations throughout the community over Worcester County school system funding decisions made as a result of the County Commissioners keeping funding flat for public schools. Most of what I heard about this week involved the school system’s decision to cut outdoor graduation ceremonies and summer academy services next year. These moves were a result of the commissioners’ funding restrictions. Outdoor graduations came about due to the pandemic and have been cheered by most graduates and their families. Word the school system was cutting the outdoor graduations with plans to return in Stephen Decatur’s case to the convention center in Ocean City have been jeered. In fact, some Decatur families appear unwilling to accept the change and are reportedly looking to raise the funds throughout a grassroots campaign to ensure the football stadium continues to be the site as it has for the last three years. Driven by passion for their kids, I am sure this will be a successful effort.

On the flipside is the matter of summer academy. For most students, the concept of summer school is understandably frowned upon. For special needs kids and other disadvantaged youth, it’s a critical service. As I took my kid each morning to summer academy at Stephen Decatur Middle School, I rued the thought of next summer without it. For some kids in our community, summer academy is the opportunity to stay fresh on their studies while also getting the meals they need to continue growing. It’s an unpleasant topic to discuss but it’s also the reality for some households. Additionally, and this hits home to me with my 13-year-old son who has non-verbal Autism, summer academy is critical for special needs learners. The classroom time provides a sense of continuity that’s needed to provide a foundation of success for the next school year. These learners need familiarity and routine for success. Allowing the students the opportunity to stay familiar with their surroundings – or in some cases being introduced to their new school buildings and teachers – is important for the next school year. For my son, 10 weeks without any school will have massive consequences next year, especially as it will be the summer before he enters high school. It’s a major disappointment this service was cut.

These questionable funding decisions made at the county level and then the equally problematic cuts that followed by the school system are going to impact families significantly. It may be the summer, but these issues continue to get attention.

Puzzle Answers

It’s been interesting in recent years to see how mental health has come to the forefront. It’s a great thing.

PUZZLE ON PAGE 59

I think about my kids’ psyche, confidence, happiness and wellness too much probably. With my boys 15 and 13 years old, respectively, I miss the days full of laughter and carefree thoughts and wants. There are glimpses of childhood glee these days, but the moments seem few and far between. Sometimes they are clearly stressed by life and social stuff.

Along these lines, I am impacted daily by stories I read. By nature of my job, I read dozens of news articles every day for my job as well as personal enjoyment. One I came across recently involved a featured obituary on former University of Maryland and Loyola University Maryland (where I went) basketball coach Billy Hahn. Former player Keith Booth recounted two pieces of advice from Hahn that impacted his life -- “every day is another day to get better” and “You’re either praying or you’re worrying, but you can’t do both.”

The last one hit me especially hard. I have recited it a few times in life, including on Beckett one day riding home from school last month. He was venting (more like raging really) about something that didn’t go well at lacrosse practice as well as a situation in school that upset him. The conversation spilled into the evening ahead, the homework he had and a couple tests looming. He was clearly in turmoil. It was an unload session. It was good for him to get things off his chest, but as I was rehashing the conversation with Pam we both wondered how we could ease the stress level in his life.

Later that night I came across an opinion piece by Cailin Bracken, a thensophomore on Vanderbilt women’s lacrosse team who took a break from sports. I played college lacrosse for two years. Therefore, I think my son thinks

he needs to play a sport in college. I have told him hundreds of times not to put that kind of pressure on himself and even have encouraged him not to have it as a goal. I have told him repeatedly club sports are the way to go because you get to experience all aspects of college. Unless you are the cream of the crop, high-level college sports are not worth the required commitment in an all-consuming culture.

Here are some excerpts that hit home for student-athletes but also all of us in mid-juggle all the time, especially on the mental health front.

“When “mental toughness” is the answer to student athletes who are dreading waking up and going to practice the next day, I need it to be you — the adult — who says that it’s OK to take a step back. ….

I don’t spend time wondering about what might’ve happened had I not trusted myself enough to take time away from lacrosse during my collegiate career. Every bone in my body told me that I was doing what was best for me, while other people looked at me like I was giving up. It didn’t feel like giving up. If anything, staying in the dark place that I was in would’ve been giving up. Letting it consume me. That would’ve been what I’d done had I chosen to give up.

But instead I chose to continue. I chose to take the space I needed. I took the next steps forward in my life, a few steps away from lacrosse, a few steps away from my pride, from the athlete identity I’d held close for so many years. I needed to figure out who I was without lacrosse, and develop a sense of self — a sense of worth — outside of the sport, so that I was no longer depending on my coaches or my parents or the stat sheets to tell me I mattered. If I hadn’t taken this time and held this space for myself to fumble with young adulthood and with my identity, I would’ve resented lacrosse forever. I wouldn’t

be where I am now, back on the field and playing Division I lacrosse alongside the women with whom I am writing this piece for. …

I say all of this because I want you to know that there is no shame in walking away. I say it because I want parents to let their children leave something that is no longer serving them, even if it breaks their hearts to see them part with their childhood sport. … It is unsustainable to expect both perfection and consistency out of any human being, but it is especially egregious to make student athletes question their worth because they have not lived up to unrealistic standards.

If you are a student athlete, … I need you to know that you can walk away. It is your decision, and it is a brave one. Because choosing yourself, and acknowledging that you are worthy simply because you are breathing — that is a brave thing. That is the most mentally tough thing you can do.

So it is on all of us — coaches, parents, teammates, administrators, professors — to hold one another accountable when we lose sight of what it means to be a teammate, a friend, a mentor, a leader. When we lose sight of the great responsibility that we have as influential figures in the lives of young adults, that is when we must reevaluate.

… I am issuing a demand to everyone involved in college sports. Players, coaches, parents, fans, professors, administrators, if you cannot do your job while simultaneously offering grace to the young adults with whom you work, you are unfit for your position.

It is of the utmost urgency that we have this conversation, albeit a difficult one ..”

(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.)