June 9

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SERVING DELMARVA FOR 60 YEARS

Commission Majority Holds Line On School System Funding

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – The Worcester County Commissioners reiterated their support of a maintenance of effort education budget with a second vote on the matter this week.

On Tuesday, in front of a crowd of citizens wearing “Support Our Schools” buttons, the commissioners voted 5-2 to approve a maintenance of effort budget of $100 million for Worcester County Public Schools. Commissioners Joe Mitrecic and Diana Purnell, both of whom have expressed concern with the reduced education funding, opposed the motion.

“It does not look at the future of our education system properly,” Mitrecic said.

The commissioners initially voted to fund the school system at the maintenance of effort (MOE) level—the level

needed to provide the same amount of funding on a per pupil basis year to year—on May 9. That decision came after commissioners said the school system had failed to provide requested budget details.

This week, when the overall $235 million county budget was presented for consideration, Commissioner Jim Bunting made a motion to approve the school board budget at the MOE level of $100,006,640. In his motion he also included funding retirement expenses of $758,679 and Buckingham Elementary School design fees of $815,000. He said the school system was also receiving state and other funding of $25.9 million which is a $2.9 million increase over the current year as well as restricted funding of $24.7 million (which is a $4.2 million increase), making the total school system budget $126,705,070.

While Commissioner Caryn Abbott seconded the motion, Mitrecic was quick to voice his objections. He said the Maryland Blueprint for Education would be imposing changes upon the local education system, changes that will be difficult to fund.

“It’s almost like we’re just hoping they’ll just go away,” he said.

He believes, however, that Gov. Wes Moore has made the Blueprint a priority. He added that the MOE budget wouldn’t provide funding for teacher salary increases.

“This doesn’t allow the school system to give raises unless they cut programs,” he said. “Cutting programs today affects our children in this county.”

He said after-school programs, sports programs and summer school programs could be in jeopardy. He added that the word transparency had been used

throughout the budget process.

“This is the same budget book we’ve gotten for nine years and all the sudden it’s not the right thing,” he said. “I have concerns with that. I have concerns with the future of our children in this county.”

Mitrecic said he felt this year’s budget process had done “irreparable damage” to the relationship between the commissioners and the school board.

Commissioner Chip Bertino disagreed.

“I think the relationship is a good relationship,” he said. “We just don’t see eye to eye. I do believe moving forward that the efforts that were made this year will put us as a county, and the taxpayers, in much better stead when it does come time to handle the mandates incorporated into the Blueprint for Maryland. We don’t know what we don’t know. As a county, and as stewards of the taxpayer money, we can’t manage what we can’t measure. This year we’ve asked to measure so that we can manage better in the future.”

Commissioner Eric Fiori said that as a businessman he knew how important the budget process was. He said lineby-line comparisons were essential to make wise financial decisions.

“I fully believe the children of the county are our future, and their education is a key component to their success, however this cannot come in the form of a blank check year over year,” Fiori said.

He said the elected school board members should be getting the detailed financial information they needed to make good decisions for the school system. Fiori said he was fighting for transparency.

“I am still trying to wrap my head around why clear financials are such a struggle to provide,” he said. “I ask myself why is the central office fighting against transparency? Why is only one elected board of education member speaking up about transparency? I hope in future budget discussions we bring back a team style atmosphere instead of an us versus them mentality.”

Bertino noted that following various requests for budget information from the school system, the county late Friday afternoon had received some financial information, but that staff hadn’t yet had the opportunity to review all of it.

“It’s very unfortunate the superintendent and the board of education president wasted all of this time trying to convince taxpayers, staff, the teachers union and bus drivers that the commissioners had no right to a line item budget and we were somehow wrong to want transparency in a $130 million-plus budget… ,” Abbott said. “May this year be the beginning of positive change.”

Purnell said Worcester County had always been known for its high quality schools.

“We’re not perfect but we have great schools,” she said. “We have kids coming out of these schools doing great things throughout this country.”

She said it was critical that elected officials worked together, particularly as

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Educators say they’re disappointed and discouraged following this week’s funding decision by county officials.

Following the Worcester County Commissioners’ 5-2 vote on Tuesday to provide Worcester County Public Schools with maintenance of effort (MOE) level

funding, the minimum required by the state, educators were quick to express their frustration. According to school system officials, the budget decision means teachers won’t receive the 4% raise negotiated earlier this year.

“We feel disrespected by the commissioners’ decision to underfund our schools,” said Everett Evansky, a science teacher at Stephen Decatur High School. “Our district is the largest em-

ployer in the county and this vote hurts all of our families.”

After weeks of requesting detailed financial information that wasn’t provided, the commissioners in May voted to provide the school system with MOE funding of $100,765,319, a decrease of $218,286 over the current year adopted budget. While the figure is less than what the school system requested, commissioners pointed out the county was covering a significant amount of school system retiree costs and construction debt. Debt service amounts to $10.8 million while retiree costs exceed $8 million. In all, the school system’s funding accounts

for 51% of Worcester County’s estimated revenue.

The school system submitted financial information to the commissioners last week in response to a Public Information Act request but the previous funding decision was upheld at this week’s meeting, when the board voted 5-2, with Commissioners Joe Mitrecic and Diana Purnell opposed, to approve MOE level funding.

“It is disappointing that the Worcester County Commissioners have made the decision to fund our schools nearly $280,000 below the level of funding we

Educators Share Frustration Following County Vote … Mitrecic Questions Colleagues

SEE PAGE 6

they faced new mandates made by the state. She said she didn’t want to see blame being thrown around and that maintaining good relationships was a key part of keeping the county running smoothly.

“We do not have the ability to change Annapolis, but we do have the ability to stay on one accord in this county…,” she said. “If we stay on one accord, if we work with one another, we can grow in this county, and we’ll be able to deal with the mandates that come from Annapolis.”

The commissioners went on to vote 5-2 to approve the MOE budget. At the close of the meeting, however, Mitrecic again voiced his frustration.

“Throughout this budget process I’ve heard the word transparency used as many times as I’ve heard in my entire life put together,” he said. “Transparency

works both ways. I have to ask how transparent was it for a majority of the commissioners to meet behind closed doors with admin to discuss MOE? There was no report of that beforehand and there was no report afterward.”

He asked how transparent it was for a commission to discuss grant funding with Atlantic General Hospital outside of a meeting, or how transparent it was for a commissioner to tell Superintendent Lou Taylor there were five votes in support of a maintenance of effort budget. He said there were also statements made to the Worcester County Teachers Association that regardless of what salaries had been negotiated, the school system was only getting a MOE budget.

“Transparency works both ways,” he said. “If we expect transparency we have to be transparent.”

Teachers Union Expects Decision Will Impact Families

FROM PAGE 5

received from them last year,” said Todd Ferrante, president of the school board, in a statement. “While we certainly hoped for a different outcome, especially after providing the majority of the detail they requested, we must now turn our focus to the difficult task of revising our FY24 budget to address the now $4.5 million shortfall our school system now faces.”

The shortfall means the 4% raise for teachers previously negotiated — as well as the increases for support staff and bus drivers — will have to be reevaluated.

“As our negotiating teams go back to the table, we will endeavor to mitigate the damage this maintenance of effort budget has caused while ensuring our teachers, staff, bus contractors, and above all, our students know that we support and

value them,” Ferrante said.

Beth Shockley-Lynch, president of the Worcester County Teachers Association, said she was really disappointed in the funding decision.

“Unfortunately, this is going to affect everybody, our students, our staff, our teachers,” she said. “We’re going to have to make cuts. We just don’t have the money to operate at maintenance of effort.”

When asked if Tuesday’s decision was the one expected, she said educators had been hopeful there would be last minute changes because the school system had been continually turning in financial documents.

“This is going to have a big impact on the school system,” she said. “Maintenance of effort is the minimum required. We’re used to being above the minimum. It’s really going to affect students and fam-

ilies.”

She said the school system was not a money-making entity and with the exception of a few grants relied on local government for funding.

“It’s going to be a bare bones year and we hate that for our kids,” she said.

Shockley-Lynch said the teachers association had negotiated a 4% cost-of-living adjustment early on in the budget process to help educators deal with rising inflation.

“We thought when we started negotiations we were in good shape,” she said. “I wish I knew what went wrong.”

She added that the cost of living was up about 8%.

“We agreed on half of that and now we’re not going to be able to get them that,” she said. “We’re not keeping up with the economy. In the middle of a teacher

shortage it’s scary. Families have to do what’s best for them.”

Evansky said that while the issue of transparency had been brought up countless times, the school system already shared years of budgets and audits on the school system’s website.

“A lot of people feel we are a pawn in someone else’s argument,” he said.

Shockley-Lynch confirmed that the teachers association would be renegotiating with the school system following the county budget decision.

“We’ll have to go back to the table and see what we can do,” she said, adding that there hadn’t been a need to renegotiate in many years. “This is new territory for us.”

Evansky agreed and pointed out that while steps and salaries were impacted following the 2008 economic crisis, current circumstances weren’t comparable.

“The economic situation we faced in 2010 when steps were frozen is not the same economic situation we’re facing now,” he said. “Something else is going on.”

Teachers are waiting to see just what the impact of the MOE budget will be. In a letter to the editor this week, Decatur teacher Megan Seyler questioned where the cuts would be, pointing out that afterschool programs and professional development were at risk.

“I could continue to bring up things that the BOE may consider cutting in order to balance their budget,” she wrote. “However, what’s the point when members of the BOE Executive Board and members of the BOE Elected Board have both insinuated their focus will be on rescinding the contract agreements made in March?”

According to Seylor, her paychecks next year will be smaller than they are now.

“How? In addition to only granting MOE, the County Commissioners approved a health insurance package at a 9.5% premium resulting in an increase in cost to all county employees,” she said.

In a statement following Tuesday’s meeting, Superintendent Lou Taylor said central office officials were working on identifying cuts.

“We are certainly saddened by the outcome of today’s budget vote…,” he said. “Our leadership team has already begun the process of identifying what cuts we will recommend to our Board of Education, but I can’t stress enough that any cut will be detrimental to the student experience here in Worcester. Additionally, we won’t be able to determine the full scope of any cuts that need to be made until renegotiations are completed with our associations."

While disappointed in the decision, teachers say they hope the school system will be able to maintain a good working relationship with the commissioners going forward. Shockley-Lynch said the school system would suffer if a MOE budget became a regular occurrence.

“If we have many years like this, we won’t be Worcester County anymore,” she said.

Route 611 Roadwork Timing Criticized

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

ASSATEAGUE – State Highway officials report a resurfacing project along Route 611 will soon be completed, but one business owner says he has lost thousands of dollars due to the project’s timing.

Two weeks ago, Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (SHA) began a paving project along Route 611 between the Verrazano Bridge and Assateague Road, resulting in lane closures and significant delays during work hours.

With paving work now completed, SHA reports the remaining line striping and marker and rumble strip installation will continue in the coming weeks.

“This portion of the project is a mobile operation and will require periodic moving lane closures,” said Shanteé Felix, SHA media relations manager. “We understand that this project presented an inconvenience to our roadway users, and we appreciate the public’s patience. The project is necessary to ensure years of safe and reliable use. The entire project is expected to be complete in the next two weeks, weather permitting.”

However, Assateague Island Surf Shop and Café owner Denny Riordon says the project has hindered business. He noted his shop lost tens of thousands of dollars in the days preceding Memorial Day.

“They basically shut me down,” he said. “I lost $30,000 or $40,000 in four days.”

Riordon shared his frustrations with the road crew’s use of his parking lot, as well as the project’s timing, noting travel delays during the busy summer season.

“It snowballed to the point where people didn’t want to go down to Assateague …,” he said. “People didn’t even want to take a chance.”

That, he said, has impacted his bottom line.

“It's almost done, but the damage has been done …,” he said. “We have three months to make it and they are down there at the beginning of the season.”

In a statement this week, SHA reported roadwork could not commence until temperatures were warm enough to conduct resurfacing work.

“This section of the roadway – from MD 376 (Assateague Road) to the Verrazano Bridge – was last resurfaced in 2016 and is in need of repair,” Felix said. “Our crews applied a new pavement section that will preserve the existing roadway. Resurfacing roadways comes with temperature limits so this work had to take place before the cooler temperatures of winter and fall.”

SHA officials also urged drivers to stay alert.

“We ask that drivers slow down and pay close attention while passing through work zones,” Felix added.

The resurfacing project is just one of many efforts taking place along Route 611. SHA also has plans to install a threeway traffic signal at the intersection of Route 611 and Assateague Road.

Va. Man Charged In Ocean City Stabbing

OCEAN CITY – A Virginia man turned himself in this week hours after allegedly stabbing another man during an altercation.

On Tuesday, June 7, the Ocean City Police Department responded to the area of 81st Street for a report of a stabbing at approximately 12:06 a.m.

Officers located a male victim suffering from stab wounds to the forearm and hip area. Ocean City EMS responded and rendered emergency medical care. The victim was transported to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional with non-lifethreatening injuries.

During the investigation, it was determined the suspect and victim engaged in a physical altercation on the sidewalk in the area of 80th Street. The suspect, who was later identified as Jackson Perry, 18, of Haymarket, Va., left the area

before police arrived.

Detectives conducted numerous interviews with witnesses of the incident along with viewing surveillance footage in the area. Social media posts were issued with photos asking for the public’s assistance in identifying Perry. Perry turned himself in to the Ocean City Police Department during the afternoon hours of June 7.

The charges filed against Perry include first-degree assault, second-degree assault, reckless endangerment, wear/carry a concealed dangerous weapon and wear/carry a dangerous weapon with intent to cause injury.

Perry was seen by a Maryland District Court Commissioner and held without

bond.

Detectives are asking any individuals with information regarding this incident, to please contact the Ocean City Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at 410-723-6604.

In a press release, Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller wrote, “The Ocean City Police Department is prepared and proactively handling criminal violations and citizen complaints of illegal activity to ensure the safety of our residents and visitors. We want to remind citizens that if they see something suspicious or have concerns about possible criminal activity occurring in Ocean City, reach out to us. We encourage you to call our Tip Line at 410-520-5136, email us at crimetips@oceancitymd.gov or contact the Police Department directly at 410-723-6610.”

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Citizens Contend Berlin Property Talks Violate Meetings Act

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – A state board is now considering two complaints related to closed meetings held by Berlin officials related to Heron Park.

Two residents have complaints filed with the Open Meetings Compliance Board (OMCB) regarding closed meetings town officials held regarding Heron Park. The latest, filed by resident Edward Hammond, alleges the town used the RFP (request for proposal) process to evade the Open Meetings Act.

“I filed the complaint because the Town needs to improve the quality of its governance and, to me, that means transparency and broader participation,” Hammond said. “We aren't a small and stagnant town of 2,000 people anymore, like it was when I was a kid, and that

means the town government can't keep working like a private clique of good old boys.”

The town has spent much of the past year negotiating with Palmer Gillis’ Coastal Ventures Properties, which submitted a proposal to buy about 20 acres of the 63-acre Heron Park property. That proposal offered the town $1.5 million for three parcels — parcel 410, 57 and 191 — and would involve partial demolition of the existing structures to create a commercial project. Since then, a subcommittee of elected officials has been meeting with the company to negotiate an agreement. The subcommittee includes Mayor Zack Tyndall, Councilmen Jay Knerr and Jack Orris, town attorney Dave Gaskill and town administrator Mary Bohlen.

In April, resident Jason Walter filed a complaint with the OMCB regarding

closed session council meetings that had been held regarding Heron Park on March 21, 2022, July 25, 2022, and March 23, 2023. He also said meetings by the Heron Park subcommittee should have been advertised and open to the public.

David Gaskill, the town attorney, did not respond to a request for comment but in his reply to the OMCB said the contract had not yet been awarded.

“If the Council was required to reveal its negotiating strategy and the content of its negotiations thus far at a public meeting, its ability to participate in the proposal process would be adversely impacted in a far reaching way,” he wrote. “If an agreement is not reached with Coastal Ventures Properties, LLC, the town would be immensely harmed if all the terms it was considering, including sale price, were publicly exposed.”

The board has not yet ruled on the complaint but earlier this week, Hammond submitted a complaint of his own related to the closed session Heron Park meetings. He objects to the fact that they were closed to discuss the RFP for the property.

“Most everyone, including me, agrees that the Town needs to bring closure to the chicken plant mess in a way that makes sense financially and that best satisfies community expectations about how the land should be used,” Hammond said. “To do that, we need a land use plan for the property that has community buy-in. This has been especially obvious since the bidders for the plant property submitted proposals that would have taken the land and still left us with a pile of debt.”

He said more needs to be considered.

“What sort of park do we want, do we want a skate park, an amphitheater?” he said. “Does the Town still need storage space? How much of the property and what parts of it should be for residences, commercial, industrial, or government?

The townspeople, us residents and taxpayers, never settled any of these questions together. Unfortunately instead of building a plan with community buy-in, what happened is that a few of our elected officials decided that they would take all those questions into a secret room with a big developer.”

Hammond doesn’t believe officials mean to violate open meetings procedures but that they have misjudged the situation.

“The secret process with the developer should be ended, and an open and accessible committee of local volunteers, who have credentials and experience in public planning and land development should instead consult with citizens and put together a clean sheet land use plan for the property,” he said. “Once we know what goes in and what goes where, then we can start selling parts of it off to get out from under the debt and other liabilities the town undertook when it bought the place.”

Walter, whose previous complaints to the OMCB regarding Berlin meeting practices have resulted in violations, has been frustrated regarding Heron Park meetings for some time. He says there is no reason the subcommittee 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 Gillis. He’s also worried that the lengthy negotiations will result in the town losing the ability to use the $500,000 demolition grant it received for Heron Park.

“In reality, the Town of Berlin has engaged in backroom horse trading with the developer in a sale of taxpayer owned property and has in my opinion clearly violated the act,” he said. “As a crucial grant deadline rapidly approaches, the taxpayer is being held in jeopardy by delay and a lack of sunshine.”

Parasail Conditional Use Request Advances To Council

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A conditional use request to permit a parasailing operation at Dead Freddie’s will advance to the Mayor and Council with a favorable recommendation from a resort commission.

On Tuesday, the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously to forward a conditional use request to the Mayor and Council with a favorable recommendation.

Joe Moore, attorney for Parasail Sarasota LLC, said the conditional use will allow his client to operate a water-related

recreational activity with one parasail boat and three reserved parking spaces at Dead Freddie’s.

“We are here for a conditional use,” he told the commission. “Our obligation is to show you that the conditional use we are requesting is not in any way detrimental to the public interest. We will show you we have no adverse effect at all upon the use and enjoyment of surrounding properties.”

In a public hearing held Tuesday, Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy said the applicant was seeking a conditional use permit for a parasailing operation to be located on the existing pier behind Dead

Freddie’s, located on 64th Street. She added the application also reserved three spaces in the restaurant’s parking lot, which is required by code.

“You do see under Article 4, districts, Division 10, local commercial, that the use is permitted by conditional use that allows them to come forward with this water-related recreational activity application,” she said. “Then we also had the Town of Ocean City guidelines for wateruse permits. It is up to the applicant to work with you to let you know which ones of those may be necessary and which ones may not.”

Following staff review, Gordy said her department had requested several conditional use conditions. Those conditions include that the required insurance be recognized by the state, that no stand-up watercraft be permitted, that the operation be limited to one parasail boat, and that the time period for the conditional use permit be determined, among other things.

“The comprehensive plan clearly does support water related recreational activities here in the Town of Ocean City,” she added.

Parasail Sarasota LLC principal Brad Donahue said his proposed operation would be the only parasail business from the Route 90 bridge to the Delaware line. He said the Dead Freddie’s location was ideal, as it was near several notable landmarks and access to the bay.

“It’s a prominent location, it’s close to

Route 90, the water tower and the public works facilities are good landmarks to explain, there’s ample parking, the waterway and boat ramp there allows access out to the bay,” he told the commission. “It’s a very good location, in my opinion.”

During the public hearing, however, Teal Drive resident Susan Wenzlaff shared her concerns that the water was not deep enough to operate a parasail at Dead Freddie’s. She said she was concerned that the business would have to use the public boat ramp at 64th Street.

“There is not enough water here …,” she said. “We want you to be successful, but it’s a difficult location to make work. You’ll have your parking, and you’ll end up using the boat ramp.”

When asked if the public boat ramp could be used by commercial operations, Wenzlaff said there was no guidance.

Mark Wenzlaff, operator of Advance Marina on 66th Street, also shared his concerns about the proposed location and the potential use of the public boat ramp.

“To stage passangers on and off at the boat ramp would interfere with other people using the boat ramp for normal practices,” he said.

At the close of the public hearing, the commission voted unanimously to forward a favorable recommendation on the conditional use request to the Mayor and Council. The commission agreed to set a time period of three years.

“I think it’s a great operation,” said Commissioner Palmer Gillis.

Commissioners Approve $235M Budget

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

SNOW HILL – Worcester County tax rates remain unchanged with approval of a $235 million operating budget this week.

On Tuesday, the Worcester County Commissioners voted 6-1, with Commissioner Joe Mitrecic opposed, to approve a $235,890,227 budget for fiscal year 2024.

“I do believe this budget is in the best interest of the county taxpayers who after all are the ones that provide the money so we can run this government,” Commissioner Chip Bertino said.

Following several budget work sessions this spring, Budget Officer Kim Reynolds presented the commissioners this week with the proposed budget, which included revenues of $235,890,227 and

expenditures of the same amount. The budget maintains the property tax rate of $0.845, the third lowest in the state, and the local income tax rate of 2.25%, the lowest in the state.

Revenues for the coming year are highlighted by an estimated increase of $6.9 million in property taxes. Income tax revenue is also expected to increase by about $2 million.

Expenses, however, are also projected to increase. The budget includes a 2% cost-of-living adjustment for county staff as well as a step increase for eligible employees.

The budget also includes higher expenditures than in the current year in most county departments, including the jail and the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office. At the jail, expenditures are up to allow for an increase in salaries as well

as the purchase of camera upgrades for the security system. At the sheriff’s office, the budget is increasing by $1.2 million to allow for an increase in salaries as well as the purchase of several new vehicles, including an armored rescue vehicle.

At Tuesday’s meeting, Commissioner Caryn Abbott made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Eric Fiori, to approve the budget. Mitrecic, however, said he was extremely disappointed in the budget. He said it didn’t do enough for county employees, who he believes with a 2% raise and an increase in insurance costs are going backwards. He said there were 590 general government employees and 1,130 school system employees. The average salary of a general government worker is $63,000 while the average sal-

SEE PAGE 77

Council OK’s Boardwalk Digital Signs

BY BETHANY HOOPER STAFF WRITER

OCEAN CITY – Resort officials this week agreed to install 28 new digital message signs on the Boardwalk, but not before a lengthy discussion on visual clutter.

On Monday, the Mayor and Council had before them a request from town’s tourism department to purchase and install 14 double-sided, or 28, variable message signs (VMS) along the Boardwalk. Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo said the total cost of $549,815 would be paid for with dedicated advertising funds.

“We already know 70% of the people that vacation here venture to the Boardwalk,” he said. “So it’s an excellent opportunity to take advantage of that.”

Currently, the Boardwalk features four VMS signs at Worcester, North Division, 9th and 15th streets. Instead of simply replacing the signs, the tourism department recommended new, high-resolution displays be installed at 14 locations along the Boardwalk at existing Crown Castle poles.

During Monday’s council meeting, Perlozzo said the purchase of new VMS signs would allow the tourism department to not only share emergency messaging but promote Ocean City events and businesses.

“It gives us the opportunity to get some eyeballs on the things we’re doing,” he said.

Perlozzo told officials the tourism department had explored different sign manufacturers. He said Peerless Outdoor Display was selected, and that the signs would be purchased through the Sourcewell Purchasing Co-Op, which gives the town the best pricing.

The total cost of the project, $549,815, would be paid from the town’s advertising funds and any revenue collected from the displays would be credited back to the advertising fund.

“We would recommend using the $549,000 to purchase the 28 screens and start that process as we move forward,” Perlozzo said.

Councilman Frank Knight questioned the size of the displays. Perlozzo said they were 75-inch TVs. He noted that the screens had also undergone testing to ensure durability along the Boardwalk.

“We actually built a dummy screen to make sure you could travel underneath them and it was visible enough to provide our messaging in a proper fashion,” he added.

While he said he supported advertising the town and its events, Knight questioned the need for placing the signs at 14 locations.

“There’s been complaints about signs on the Boardwalk,” he said. “We’ll have eight trams with message boards on them, plus 28 screens here. It just

seems like a lot of visual stuff on the Boardwalk. I’m all for advertising and putting these message boards out there, it just seems like 36 is a lot of screens.”

Perlozzo acknowledged Knight’s concerns, but noted there were opportunities to address signage on the Boardwalk.

“There’s all different sizes, no uniformity, you don’t know where to look, what to do,” he said. “This is possibly an opportunity to revisit what we have and clean it up.”

Knight said he would support the tourism department’s request, so long as staff committed to removing some signage.

“I’d at least like to see us move in that direction,” he said.

City Manager Terry McGean said he was hoping to address the issue in next year’s budget.

“I would like to get it in the budget for next year to bring a consultant in to look at the entire sign system on the Boardwalk and try to consolidate,” he replied. “We have a lot of different styles with a lot of different messages. I think going forward we need to really take a holistic look at all the regulatory signs and information signs out there and try and come up with a cleaner, more consistent way of doing it.”

McGean noted, however, that the new VMS displays would prioritize emergency messages.

“The number one priority will be, if we have a storm or emergency message, they’ll be used for that,” he said. “The number two priority would be these are the events that are coming … Also, it could be used for advertising.”

Council President Matt James said he was concerned with the light the signs would project onto the Boardwalk.

“I’d like to make sure the signs are angled away from the residential units,” he said.

Perlozzo said it was something the tourism department could explore.

“We would be able to program these,” he said. “The idea would be 7 o’clock in the morning to maybe 10 or 11 at night.”

Knight also suggested that fewer signs be placed along the northern sections of the Boardwalk.

“Perhaps on the north end, above 18th, maybe there would be fewer per block,” he said.

After further discussion, the council voted 6-1, with Councilman Peter Buas opposed, to authorize the installation of 14 double-sided, full-color Peerless displays on the Boardwalk at a total cost of $549,815 to be paid with dedicated advertising funds.

“I just think it’s too much visual stimulation out there,” Buas said. “I might be in the minority, and I’m okay with placing them, I just don’t want to clutter the Boardwalk with 14 more locations.”

“OCEAN CI TY CHRO NICLES ”

OCEAN CITY CHRONICLES

Reminiscing Maryland’s Beach Resort

BY HUNTER “BUNK” MANN

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!

Book Signing Tuesday, June 13 • 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Ocean City Chamber Commerce Building Route 50

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

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 AVAIL ABLE AT T HES E LOCATIONS :

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Pines Police Chief Retires As Burglary Probe Continues

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – The Ocean Pines Association announced the retirement of Police Chief Leo Ehrisman this week as an investigation of a burglary at the police department’s storage shed continues.

On Tuesday, General Manager Viola issued a statement announcing Ehrisman’s retirement. The announcement comes more than five months after the police chief was placed on administrative leave as local agencies began to investigate a reported burglary that occurred at a storage shed used by the Ocean Pines Police Department.

LEO EHRISMAN

“Chief Leo Ehrisman gave notice of his retirement today,” a statement reads. “We thank him for his years of service to Ocean Pines and wish him well. A search to find his replacement is commencing immediately.”

In early January, the Ocean Pines Association (OPA) announced that Ehrisman has been placed on paid administrative leave effective Jan. 1. The suspension came just one day after Viola learned of a reported burglary at the police department’s storage shed, according to the association.

“On Saturday, December 31, 2022, OPA’s General Manager became aware of a report of a burglary which occurred at a storage shed used by the Ocean Pines Police Department on December 17, 2022,” a statement issued by the Ocean Pines Association in January reads. “After consultation with partners at the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and the Office of the State’s Attorney, OPA has taken steps to ensure that a thorough and independent investigation is conducted, and that police services to residents of Ocean Pines remain uninterrupted.”

The statement continued, “Effective January 1, 2023, Ocean Pines Police Chief Ehrisman has been placed on paid administrative leave …”

Since that time, local officials have launched a criminal investigation and complete audit of the contents of the police department’s storage shed and property room.

When asked for an update this week, Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser confirmed that the investigation is ongoing.

“Same status on the OPPD investigation as before – investigation is still ongoing and I can’t comment further at this time,” she said.

Ehrisman began his lengthy career at the Ocean Pines Police Department in 1986. Starting as a patrol officer, he climbed the ranks to become the agency’s police chief in 2020.

Because of the ongoing nature of the criminal investigation, the association has not provided additional comments.

Viola did not return requests for comment this week.

Daly Resigns From Pines Board

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – There will be three seats up for grabs in this year’s board election following the announcement of Director Frank Daly’s resignation.

On Tuesday, Ocean Pines Association President Doug Parks announced Daly’s resignation from the board. Parks said Daly and his wife will be moving to Florida.

“The Board has acknowledged the resignation of Director Frank Daly, effective Tuesday, June 6,” he said in a statement. “Frank and his wife, Irene, have sold their house in Ocean Pines and are moving to Florida to be close to their family in that area. Given that Frank is no longer a homeowner in Ocean Pines, he, per our governing documents, is now ineligible to serve on the Board.”

He continued, “I can speak for the rest of the Directors in thanking Frank for the work he has done during his tenure on the Board and appreciating the years of service he has devoted to the Ocean Pines community. We extend best wishes to Frank and Irene in their new endeavors.”

Daly was first elected to the board in 2018 and re-elected to a second term in August 2021. In an interview this week, Daly said he and his wife sold their Ocean Pines home on Monday. He said he immediately notified Parks once the transaction was complete.

“Yesterday we closed on our house in Ocean Pines …,” he said. “So I am no longer eligible to be on the board.”

Daly’s resignation comes just days before the Ocean Pines Elections Committee is set to finalize ballots for the 2023 board election.

While it was initially announced that four candidates – Elaine Brady, Jeffrey Heavner, John Latham and Jerry Murphy – will vie for two board seats currently held by Parks and Director Colette Horn, a third seat will now be available.

“There are four candidates, and the top three vote-getters will be elected,” Daly explained. “The person that finishes third will serve out the balance of my term, which will end in August of 2024.”

In an interview this week, Daly shared his appreciation for Ocean Pines. While he and his wife did not initially plan to retire to the community, he said he has come to love the association and its members.

“We’ve really enjoyed the community,” he said. “It’s a great place to live, and there are great people here.”

Daly said he first got involved in the association after moving to Ocean Pines in 2013.

After volunteering at the committee level, Daly was elected to the board in 2018.

When asked about his years as a director, Daly said he has enjoyed it for the most part. He credits the association’s success in recent years to the work of the board and General Manager

John Viola.

“Quite frankly we were very fortunate,” he said. “Sometimes luck plays the biggest part in this. John Viola stepped forward, and he made it clear he wants an Ocean Pines board that works with him. Every board I’ve been on has worked with him. And it’s made Ocean Pines better because of it.”

When asked if he had any advice for his successor, Daly encouraged them to listen to their constituents.

“When you do that, you get a board that’s in sync with the community,” he said. “That’s the important thing.”

Daly said he and his wife will be moving this week to their new home in Florida, where they hope to spend more time with their grandchildren.

“I just want to see them grow up,” he said.

The Ocean Pines Association on Tuesday announced the resignation of Director Frank Daly, pictured above right next to President Doug Parks. Daly and his wife have sold their home and will be moving to Florida. Photo by Bethany Hooper

Church Window Restoration Begins Campain Raises Funds For Project

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Restoration of the stained glass windows at Stevenson United Methodist Church is now underway following a successful fundraising campaign.

Crews last week removed several of the church’s stained glass windows so they could be shipped to Minnesota to begin what will likely be a year-long restoration process. Through the church’s Restore the Light campaign, a total of 34 windows will be refurbished.

“The job will not be completed for a year but it’s a big step for us,” said Beth Sise, chair of the Restore the Light Committee.

Efforts to restore the building’s stained glass windows, which were installed in 1912 when the granite church was built, began in 2021 when an assessment determined that $211,000 of work was needed to address the glass panes and acrylic covers that had been damaged by the sun. While the church’s largest three windows were refurbished in the 1990s, the majority of them were in need of restoration. And so last year, the church started fundraising and quickly raised the entire amount needed. Sise said major donors included The Humphreys Foundation, the Thomas Hanley Trust and the E. Bowen and Francis Hyde Quillin Foundation Inc. Countless others, however, made donations and shared memories of the church. One donor, for example, enclosed a photo of their parents getting married at the church years ago.

“We got a lot of neat, heartwarming notes and cards,” Sise said. “I was blown away. It was very special.”

Church officials signed a contract last August and since then have been waiting for experts from Willet Hauser Architectural Glass to get to the Berlin project.

“We’ve been waiting our turn,” Sise said.

While some of the stained glass windows can be worked on in place, 14 of them that are not structurally sound will be sent to the Midwest for historic restoration. Sise, who once visited the company’s facility on a trip through Minnesota, said the restoration process was slow and tedious, as there were several steps involved. Crews photograph, measure and remove the windows from the church and then ship them to Minnesota, where rubbings are made of each panel before the windows are disassembled under water. Lead is removed and each individual piece of glass is cleaned before any breaks are repaired and the windows are reassembled. When the lengthy process is complete, the windows will be shipped back to Berlin and reinstalled at Stevenson.

For now, however, passersby might notice painted plywood in place of the usual stained glass on some of the church’s windows. Church members want the public to know that’s just temporary, as the stained glass will be returned as soon as it is restored. Sise added that the impacted windows were the smaller ones on the side.

“The big windows were already done and were in good shape,” she said.

Sise said church members appreciated the amount of interest and monetary donations the unique project had received.

“We’re very excited and grateful for the support,” she said.

For information on the project, visit the church’s website, stevensonchurch.org/windows.

Restoration of Stevenson United Methodist Church’s stained glass windows began last week. Above, a crewman is pictured removing one of the windows, which will be shipped to Minnesota for refurbishment. Submitted Photo

Torch Run: The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics kicked off its Worcester County leg Monday morning in Ocean City with some special help from local students. The leg's start along the Boardwalk in Ocean City is pictured before moving east ultimately to Berlin. Photos by Chris Parypa

Death Investigation

OCEAN CITY – The Ocean City Police Department is currently handling a death investigation, but foul play is not suspected.

Officers responded to a shopping center parking lot located at 116th Street for an unconscious male found in a vehicle at approximately 11:04 p.m. on June 4. Lifesaving efforts were initiated by officers until Ocean City Emergency Services personnel arrived. Emergency personnel pronounced the male deceased on the scene.

The victim has been transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for an autopsy. At this point in the investigation, there is no foul play suspected or threat to the community, according to police. The identity of the individual is

not being released at this time pending notification of next of kin.

Armed Robbery Probe

OCEAN CITY – The Ocean City Police Department is currently investigating an armed robbery that occurred on Constitutional Avenue around 3:24 p.m. last Saturday.

On June 3, the victim reported that three African American males approached him while he was outside and pointed a handgun at the victim. The victim gave the suspects several personal items. The three suspects were last seen leaving the area of 133rd Street in a vehic-

le.

The vehicle is described as a beige SUV, possibly a Nissan with a missing front passenger-side fender. The license plate was described as a white tag with red and blue writing, possibly North Carolina. The three suspects were described as wearing dark colored hoodies with ski masks, and one was possibly wearing a purple hoodie.

If anyone has any information regarding this case, contact the Ocean City Police Department’s tip line at 410-5205136, email crimetips@oceancitymd.gov or contact the police department directly at 410-723-6610, referencing case number 2023-00-1556.

First-Degree Assault

OCEAN CITY – A domestic argument turned violent enough last weekend for authorities to file a first-degree assault charge, among others.

On June 3 around 6:30 p.m., Ocean City police responded to an oceanfront motel for a domestic assault in progress. Upon arrival, police identified the male involved in the incident as Michael Gross, 45, of Manchester, Md. When Gross became upset enough to shatter a bottle of liquor inside the motel, the victim left the unit to sit outside on the curb. The victim told police Gross became irate, dragging her back into the room by her hair before putting his hand around her neck and throwing her to the bed. The victim reported Gross held her down by the throat and countered her resistance with knee strikes to the abdomen.

According to police reports, the victim was able to escape the room until Gross caught up to her and began holding her by the throat against the building. Citizens nearby broke up the dispute until police arrived on the scene. Police immediately noticed significant injuries to the woman consistent with strangulation. Gross denied assaulting the woman, but police concluded based on the evidence he should be charged with first- and second-degree assault.

Pellet Gun Fired In OC

OCEAN CITY – A drive-by shooting with a pellet gun resulted in a Pennsylvania teen facing assault and other

charges last Sunday.

On June 4, around 9:18 p.m. an Ocean City police officer responded to 17th Street and Baltimore Avenue for the report of people being shot with a pellet gun by a man riding in a sedan. A woman was interviewed and informed police she was on the sidewalk along Baltimore Avenue when she was struck three times in the abdomen by unknown objects after hearing what sounded to her like automatic fire, according to police documents. She reported also hearing males laughing in the vehicle as it sped off.

Further police investigation found the victim was shot with a “splat” gun, which shoots water filled gel capsules, or pellets. Nearby police observed a vehicle matching the description provided by the victim and witnesses enter a hotel parking lot on 11th Street. Police observed a male exit the vehicle with an orange “splat” gun with three other males, leaving the gun in the car. Police were able to see the gun in plain view walking past the vehicle. The four male suspects shortly after entering the hotel returned to the vehicle.

Police approached the vehicle and identified the four men. The passenger who shot the victim was identified as Anez Jordan, 18, of Monroeville, Pa., and another male, Malachi Moore, was seen with a replica pellet gun in his waistband. Jordan admitted to shooting at people walking on the sidewalk earlier in the evening.

Jordan was charged with disturbing the peace, second-degree assault and discharge of a firearm in corporate limits of the city. Moore was placed under arrest for possessing and transporting a replica handgun.

Weapon Charges

OCEAN CITY – A Maryland man faces seven weapon charges stemming from a traffic stop last week.

On June 2 at approximately 10:30 p.m., an Ocean City police officer on bike patrol around Worcester Street observed a Maryland registered vehicle traveling without a front license plate. Upon approach to the vehicle, the officer smelled marijuana, leading to all occupants being removed from the vehicle.

A search of the vehicle found a bag on the front seat passenger floor with a Polymer 80 9mm style loaded handgun SEE NEXT PAGE

without a serial number. The passenger was identified as Sam Ngobeh, 20, of Bowie, who admitted the bag belonged to him. Along with the handgun, inside the bag were two Ziploc bags of marijuana.

Ngobeh told police he found the gun in a gas station bathroom and took it to try and sell it. Ngobeh’s charges include transporting a handgun and loaded handgun in a vehicle upon public roads, transporting a handgun and a loaded handgun on his person and unlawfully possessing a firearm without a required serial number and possessing a gun under the age of 21.

Skateboarding, Resisting Arrest

OCEAN CITY – A repeat skateboarder offender was ultimately arrested last weekend for assaulting a police officer.

On June 3 around 8:45 p.m., Ocean City police responded to the Boardwalk for a city ordinance violation of skateboarding. The male, Hunter Diller, 19, of Williamsport, Md., was being given a civil citation for riding a skateboard where prohibited because he had been verbally warned earlier in the night. The second interaction was five minutes after the verbal warning, according to police reports.

While the civil citation was being written, Diller became agitated and tried to walk away from police multiple times.

When one police officer grabbed him to detain him, Diller allegedly, per police reports, tightened his grip on his skateboard and began to “roll his right shoulder forward, raise his arm up and pivot towards” another officer. It was believed Diller was going to strike the officer as a result of his aggression and stance. Diller’s arm was struck by an officer causing the skateboard to fall to the ground. Repeated attempts to handcuff Diller were met with resistance, resulting in the officer using a Taser to gain compliance.

Diller was charged with second-degree assault against the officer, obstructing and hindering a police officer and resisting arrest.

Taser, Sword Possession

OCEAN CITY – A Maryland man had weapons charges filed against him despite his statement he needed to have them for his protection due to his profession.

On June 4, Ocean City police were on marked patrol when it was noticed a vehicle had no front license plate and expired registration. The vehicle was pulled over and police immediately detected the smell of burning marijuana, prompting police to ask the motorist, Shamraiz Safdar, 23, of Clinton, to pull into a nearby parking spot.

A search of the vehicle found a stun gun in the center console and a sword in a sheath in the vehicle’s trunk. A small firearm, later revealed as a lighter with characteristics of a gun, was found also on the passenger side floor.

Safdar spoke to police after being read his Miranda Rights, informing of-

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS!

ficers he is a manager of a smoke shop and used the “Taser for protection,” according to reports, as he transports products. He informed police the sword was in his trunk because he drives around Baltimore for work.

Safdar was charged with carrying a deadly weapon on his person and possession of an electronic weapon within town limits. The police report indicated the incident was recorded on body worn camera.

Driving With Open Container

OCEAN CITY – A mid-day routine traffic stop resulted in open container and illegal weapons charges for an Eastern Shore man.

On May 30, at 12:11 p.m., Ocean City police noticed a vehicle in the area of

52nd Street violating the town’s noise ordinance with its car stereo as well as illegally tinted windows. A traffic stop was initiated, and the driver was identified as Desmond Gale, 36, of Salisbury, who informed police he was in possession of marijuana. This admission led to a search of the vehicle.

A search of the vehicle found an assisted opening knife, which is illegal in Ocean City, and an open can of Bud Ice beer that was nearly full and “cold to the touch,” according to the police report. Gale denied the beer was his, but there were no occupants in the vehicle and the odor of alcohol was detected.

Gale was charged with open container and weapons violations as well as traffic citations for violating the noise ordinance and driving and consuming alcohol.

ENTERTAINMENT

SATURDAY:

THURSDAY:

‘hero’ principal to Fly With thunderbirds

OCEAN

ence the ride of her life Friday morning in the backseat of an F-16 with Thunderbird #7 Lt. Col. Ryan Yingling as her pilot.

spins and turns of the best roller coaster ride imaginable.

Jenifer Rayne is scheduled experi-

On her 45-minute flight, Rayne will experience the thrill of hitting up to seven G’s, along with the accompanying twists,

“I am incredibly excited and honored to be given this opportunity,” said Rayne.

The Maryland State Education Association (MSEA) recently presented Rayne with the MSEA Human and Civil Rights Award at MSEA’s Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and Racial Social Justice Summit in Baltimore. The award is in recognition of Rayne’s support of Speak Up, a student club at Pocomoke High School. The MSEA Human and Civil Rights Award is given to educators who contribute significantly to the area of human and civil rights in the classroom or the overall school culture.

The Speak Up group was launched during her first year as principal at Pocomoke High School. She was looking for ways to make sure students’ voices were being heard when a senior expressed interest in leading a group to celebrate diversity. They decided the new group would focus on elevating student voices and would be open to anyone interested in making the school a better place for everyone.

In recent years, the club has grown from just five students to 25 students. It explores the history and culture of all marginalized populations, has done murals, helped with Black History Month activities, and even developed professional development opportunities for educators.

The Thunderbirds will headline the 16th annual OC Air Show which will also feature the F-35 Lightning II Demo Team, F-18 Rhino Demo Team, A-10 Thunderbolt II, and the Red Bull Air Force, among others.

The OC Air Show is the fourth stop on the 2023 Air Dot Show Tour (https://air.show/), which will include future shows in New York, Atlanta, and Orlando.

CITY – Pocomoke High School’s principal has been selected to fly with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds as part of their “Hometown Hero” program.

pollinator Garden Blessed: A blessing and ribbon cutting ceremony were held last Friday morning for the new pollinator garden created at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. National Pollinator Week is planned for June 19-25. Above, church officials and volunteers are pictured with town

PBR Tour Stops In Resort: The Professional Bull Rider (PBR) Challenger Series returned to the resort for the PBR Ocean City Seacrets Classic last weekend. Pictured are scenes from Sunday’s action.

Photos by Greg Poulos

Majestic Air Rights Ordinance Approved

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – An ordinance to convey air rights over a resort alley was approved on first reading this week.

In a Mayor and Council meeting Monday, officials voted 5-0, with Councilmen Peter Buas and Will Savage abstaining, to approve the first reading of an ordinance granting air rights over a portion of Washington Lane at 613 Atlantic Avenue. The approval will allow the developer of the Majestic Hotel property to redevelop the site.

“We’re mindful of the fact that we have an iconic property and therefore want to develop it in the best way possible for the benefit of the citizens of the town,” Joe Moore, the developer’s attorney, told officials earlier this year. “Therefore, we have provided a facility which enhances the property from the standpoint of the fact we are developing the entire property from the Boardwalk to Baltimore Avenue.”

In March, Moore came before the Mayor and Council with a request to grant air rights above Washington Lane in order to construct a single building connecting properties to the east and west of the 16foot-wide public alley. After considerable discussion, officials agreed to advance the request to a public hearing, which was held in April.

“Our obligation this evening is to show you that it’s in the public interest to determine the property and the rights involved are no longer needed for public use, and to permit the developer – my client, 11th Street MD LLC – the acquisition,” Moore said at the time. “So our responsibility is to show you the public benefit of granting the air rights outweighs any public benefit of maintaining the air rights.”

As proposed, the Majestic Hotel property will be redeveloped to include two buildings connected by a fitness center, arcade, hospitality rooms and the like. In exchange for air rights to make the project a reality, the developer has committed to widening the alleyway and constructing a five-foot bike lane.

Moore told the Mayor and Council in April the town had granted air rights ordinances over the years for various projects, including the most recent Margaritaville development. In recent meetings, however, residents have voiced their opposition to abandoning the city’s air rights.

“I’d like to say that I am opposed to abandoning any air rights, which to me is just euphemism for giving it away for free,” resident Robert Hemp said. “I think the air rights have a definite dollar value attached to it.”

With no discussion this week, Council Secretary Tony DeLuca made a motion to approve the conveyance of air rights above Washington Lane on first reading. The motion carried in a 5-0 vote, with Buas and Savage abstaining.

Mural Eyed For Resort Skate Park

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – The Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) will use grant funding to plan and design a mural for the Ocean Bowl Skate Park.

Last week, the OCDC announced it had received a $10,000 grant from the Maryland State Arts Council as part of the Public Arts Across Maryland Program. The funds will be used to plan and design a mural that will later be completed at the Downtown Recreation Complex, specifically a prominent wall at Ocean Bowl Skate Park.

“We’ve always had a goal of doing public artwork,” said OCDC Executive Director Zach Bankert. “We’ve been involved with a lot of sculpture work and other public art pieces. When we saw the grant was available, we decided to go for it.”

Bankert said the grant funding the OCDC received will be used for the planning stages of the mural project. Maryland-based artists will be asked to submit a portfolio of work that aligns with the scope of the project. Three artists will then be commissioned to design a mural concept for the skate park, with one of those designs selected for the final project.

“The majority of the grant is going to artists for design fees,” he explained. “When we have three designs, we are going to showcase them, get public feedback and select the design we want to go with. At that point, we will apply for the next round of the grant for implementation.”

Bankert said the mural will be placed on the wall near the corner of St. Louis Avenue and 3rd Street.

The selection committee charged with managing the project will consist of representatives from the OCDC, the DTA Public Art Committee, the Art League of Ocean City, Ocean City Recreation and Parks Department, and professional artists.

A Call to Artists will soon be released

with details on artist commission, project details, and a request for portfolios.

“We think the updated park is going to be a great resource for Downtown OC and we are excited to have an opportunity to further enhance the space,” Bankert said. “The goal for the mural is the celebrate Ocean City’s strong skate and surf culture, while providing a piece of modern art for the public to enjoy.”

The Ocean City Development Corporation plans to use grant funding for a new mural at the Ocean Bowl Skate Park, pictured above. Photo by Bethany Hooper

hospital begins certified nursing training program agh’s jag benefit funds new effort

BERLIN – Atlantic General Hospital and Health System is eliminating barriers to entry into the healthcare workforce with a new training program for certified nursing assistants (CNAs). The program is credentialed through the Maryland Board of Nursing and is seven weeks long, with the final three weeks devoted to hands-on clinical training. An additional week of training is provided for program participants who will become medical office assistants in the physician practice setting.

The first six students were welcomed to the course in April.

“They’re an enthusiastic group, and we’re so happy to have them here,” said Kelly Fox, RN, one of the Education Department’s clinical education specialists, who acted as the lead for the program.

The students are paid an hourly wage during training and receive their instruction and books at no cost, in exchange for a year of paid service as CNAs upon program completion. The goal, Fox said, is to offer the program twice a year, or as needed, to fill open positions within the hospital and the health system’s physician practices.

“The participants commit to working at Atlantic General for a year, but we hope they remain with us,” said registered nurse Bonnie Mannion, education manager for Atlantic General. “We want them to feel that they are an important part of the wonderful culture we have built here.

“A key aspect of that culture is the importance placed on growing talent from within and supporting any employee’s desire for learning and ongoing professional development. Many employees have found a pathway to advancement with the help of the organization’s James G. and Nancy W. Barrett Nursing Scholarship and tuition assistance programs.”

The first round of graduates from the CNA training program were honored on June 2. The graduates were Porter Bunting, Emergency Department; Sarah Coffin, Medical/Surgical Unit; Miracle Handy, Surgical Services; Emma Konopik, Intensive Care Unit; and Brianna McDermott, Medical/Surgical Unit.

The CNA training program is made possible by

raised

the Ta-

held by Atlantic General Hospital’s Junior Auxiliary Group.

funds

during

cos, Tiaras and Sombreros fundraiser

Pictured, kneeling from left, are Porter Bunting, CNA training program graduate; Laura Sturla, nurse manager, Emergency Department; Heather Snyder, director, Quality and Infection Prevention/Employee Health; and standing, from left, Karen Cooper, clinical education specialist; Bonnie Mannion, education manager; Sarah Coffin, CNA training program graduate; Brianna McDermott, CNA training program graduate; Kelly Fox, clinical education specialist; Emma Konopik, CNA training program graduate; Miracle Handy, CNA training program graduate; Erin Howard, Infection Prevention/Employee Health nurse; and Nikki Morris, Intensive Care Unit coordinator.

Women’s Club Donates Record Amount To Students, Groups

BERLIN – The Women’s Club of Ocean Pines recently presented more than $10,000 in annual scholarships and community donations.

The club, active since 1974 and boasting more than 100 members, offers local women an outlet both to socialize and give back to their community.

To raise money, the club each year hosts game parties, fashion shows, bake sales, restaurant of the month dinners, garage sales, and other social events. Students receiving scholarships this year were Julia Carlson, Stephen Decatur High School, $1,500; Cadence Hughes, Stephen Decatur High School, $1,500; Cayden Wallace, Worcester Preparatory School, $1,500; and Rina Dirickson, Stephen Decatur High School, $3,000.

Dirickson was the recipient of the Gloria Moyer Memorial Scholarship, which honored Moyer as a vital member of the organization as a former officer, editor, and leader.

“We were so pleased to award this scholarship in Gloria’s memory to Rina Dirickson as a talented young woman who demonstrates, like Gloria, leadership skills,” club member Diane McGraw said.

Additionally, community donations this year included the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department, $700; Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks, $700; 4 Steps Therapeutic Riding Program, $250; Coastal Hospice, $200: Worcester County Veterans Memorial Foundation, $200; Sarah’s Pantry, $200; Delmarva Chorus, $200; Stories Love Music, $150; Women Supporting Women, $150; U.S. Kennels, $150; and Town Cats, $100.

McGraw said the nonprofit organizations were awarded community donations to benefit Ocean Pines residents and upon the recommendations from members.

The Women’s Club is always looking for new members, as well as new donors. Members meet on the first Thursday of each month, except for July and August. Annual dues are $10.

During a recent meeting, the Women’s Club of Ocean Pines presented four student scholarships, including a $1,500 award to Julia Carlson, left, and a $3,000 award to Rina Dirickson. Both students attended Stephen Decatur High School. Submitted Photos

Nursing Pinning Ceremony:

Forty Wor-Wic Community College associate degree in nursing (ADN) graduates recently participated in an awards and recognition ceremony. The nurse pinning ceremony, modeled after a tradition started by Florence Nightingale in the 1860s, initiates nurse graduates into the profession. Wor-Wic’s most recent pinning for ADN students took place at Parkside High School in Salisbury. The event this year featured a keynote address by Dr. Lynn M. Derickson, professor emeritus of nursing, who retired from Wor-Wic after 20 years of service to the college and 53 years as a nurse. Special awards were presented by Dr. Brenda J. Mister, department head and professor of nursing, and Chelsea Milligan, instructor of nursing. Kaylee Dickson was the student speaker. Above, associate degree in nursing graduates are pictured. Below left, graduate Tashica Hilliard of Berlin has her nursing cap pinned on by Dr. Pamela G. Budd, associate professor of nursing. Below right, twins Maegan and Paige Webster of Salisbury prepare for their pinning ceremony. Submitted Photos

Mayor Addresses Cannabis Concerns

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – Mayor Rick Meehan said proposed code amendments prohibiting the issuance of on-site consumption licenses will not affect the town’s policies on smoking in public areas such as the beach and Boardwalk.

Last week, officials presented the Mayor and Council with two code amendments pertaining to on-site cannabis consumption. The changes would not only prohibit the issuance of cannabis on-site consumption business licenses, but would establish penalties for any violations.

In a Mayor and Council meeting Monday, Meehan said since the ordinances were introduced, he had received several emails on the subject. He said he wanted to make it clear the resort would not allow cannabis use in public areas.

“I think there might have been some confusion,” he said. “I got a number of emails – and I believe it might have been related to this – that we were prohibiting the issuance of the license for on-site consumption, and I think some mistook this as we would then be allowing it in other public areas such as the beach and the Boardwalk. I’ve answered those emails, but that is absolutely not true. None of our policies with regard to smoking on the beach and the Boardwalk have changed.”

Meehan noted the Town of Ocean City was permitted to prohibit the issuance of on-site consumption licenses outlined in Maryland’s new cannabis re-

form legislation.

“This is about consumption establishments that were outlined in the legislation that was passed,” he said. “We have the right, as a municipality, to prohibit them here in Ocean City. So that’s the action that we’re taking.”

On May 3, Gov. Wes Moore signed Maryland’s cannabis reform bill into law, paving the way for recreational sales beginning July 1. In the November election, two-thirds of voters supported a state referendum to legalize recreational marijuana. The legislation signed into law last month essentially establishes an adult-use cannabis industry through the creation of tax rates and licensing framework.

“This legislation, among other things, expanded cannabis licensing within the Maryland annotated code,” Deputy City Manager J.R. Harmon told the council last week. “Section 36-401 of the alcoholic beverage article specifically created an on-site consumption license, which authorizes the holder of the license to operate a facility on the premise in which individuals can smoke outdoors, vape or consume cannabis.”

Back on the agenda for discussion and first reading this week, the council voted 7-0 to approve code amendments that would essentially prohibit the operation of on-site consumption establishments within the town’s corporate limits. The amendments also included a fine of no less than $25 and no more than $1,000 for any violation.

OC Air Show Returns With Military Teams On Tap

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – The OC Air Show returns to the resort this weekend, with U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and a F-35 Lightning II demo team highlighting the performance lineup.

The OC Air Show will return to the skies above the Ocean City beach June 10-11. This year’s show will feature the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, a F-35 Lightning II demo team and a U.S. Air Force Heritage Flight, among other performers.

“This will be the 16th annual OC Air Show and each year it just gets better and better,” said Chris Dirato, director of public relations. “Air shows inherently are patriotic and family friendly, so that clearly brings folks back year after year. Like past years, we have another exciting lineup of performers scheduled so we encourage everyone to come out and watch these talented aviators, while enjoying the beautiful Ocean City beach and Boardwalk.”

This year’s OC Air Show marks the fourth destination of the Air Dot Show Tour, which will visit seven East Coast cities throughout the 2023 season.

Among the featured performers will be the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, which will fly the F-16 Fighting Falcon and perform a combination of formation and solo maneuvers at speeds of up to 1,000 mph.

The demonstration will feature inverted rolls, close-formation flights and more.

The OC Air Show will also feature the F-35 Lightning II demo team. Flying the advanced stealth fighter jet, the team will demonstrate 12 different maneuvers, some of which will be performed as low as 200 feet off the ground at speeds exceeding 700 mph.

“Both the Thunderbirds and F-35 demo team have performed at the OC Air Show before, but they are fan favorites, which

is why they are returning,” Dirato said earlier this year.

The two teams will also be joined by the U.S. Air Force Heritage Flight, showcasing the evolution of USAF air power. The program was created in 1997 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the U.S. Air Force.

“It incorporates fighters from World War II, the Vietnam War, the Korean War and other conflicts in which the USAF has been involved,” Dirato added.

The U.S. Navy F-18F Super Hornet will also take to the skies at this year’s air show. The jet can perform virtually every mission in the tactical spectrum, including air superiority, day/night strike with precision-guided weapons, fighter escort, close air support, suppression of enemy air defenses, maritime strike, reconnaissance, forward air control and tanker missions.

The OC Air Show will also feature the A-10 Thunderbolt IIS, the Navy Legacy Flight and the Red Bull Air Force. The team is assembled from the most accomplished and experienced aviation experts and specializes in highly coordinated aerial jump demonstrations.

Other featured aircraft include the C17 Globemaster III, the UH-72A Lakota, the E-2C Hawkeye and the L-39 Cold War Era Jet Demo. The West Point Parachute Team will also showcase its precision freefall demonstrations.

This year’s show will take place Saturday, June 10 and Sunday, June 11, with the program beginning at 11:30 a.m. and aerial demonstrations beginning at noon.

A good portion of the show is viewable from 6th Street to 26th Street, with the ticketed beach areas at show center ranging from 13th Street to 17th Street.

Tickets are available for the VIP and premium viewing. For additional information, or to purchase tickets, visit the OC Air Show website at ocairshow.com.

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds are pictured above performing at last year’s OC Air Show. The demonstration team will return this weekend, showcasing a combination of formation and solo maneuvers.

Photo by Chris Parypa

Residents Voice Concerns Over Social Media Post

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – A mailing list being circulated on social media continued to draw criticism from residents at a recent council meeting.

Last month, a Facebook account using the pseudonym Fenwick D Towne posted photos of a list featuring nearly 30 individual names with the heading, “Suggested Changes Or Deletions To The Snail Mail List.”

Next to each name is a number, as well as a reason for the suggested changes and deletions. Reasons include “pro commercial,” “strange person, does odd jobs for council members,” and “supporter of hotel.”

In response to the social media post, a handful of residents came before the town council on May 26 seeking answers. During public comments, resident Bill Mould said his name had appeared on the list alongside others.

“I have a document here that’s been circulated in the town, it’s got my name on it and a number, 386. I don’t know what the number is,” he said. “There’s about 20 or 25 people’s names on this list, and apparently it was generated by someone in town government. It’s not very flattering for those of you who want to take a look at it.”

Mould said the list featured names of residents affiliated with members of the previous town council. He urged officials to find out who was responsible for creating the mailing list.

“Somebody took the time to put people’s names on here that apparently was after, or shortly after, the latest election,” he said. “I know most of the people on this council. I hope they didn’t have anything to do with it, but I’ve got my suspicions. In our quiet town of Fenwick, we are certainly out there with the federal government in terms of our own little ‘Peyton Place’ here.”

Former councilman Bill Weistling said he was also named.

“My name is on the list. Bill Mould’s name is on the list. The reason Bill Mould’s name is on the list is because he is a friend of Bill Weistling,” he said. “We have another resident that lives down on Dagsboro Street whose name is on the list because he’s a ‘strange person.’ I don’t know what the hell is going on here.”

In a statement shortly after the list was posted on the Fenwick D Towne Facebook page, business owner Tim Collins shared his concerns regarding how his name on the list related to his dismissal as chairman of the Fenwick Island Board of Adjustment.

“If this posting can be determined as legitimate the obvious question is – what is the source that generated it,” he said. “The danger is in that answer.”

In an interview last week, Mayor Natalie Magdeburger denied claims that the mailing list posted on social media was generated by the town.

“It is not a town list,” she said. “The best I can make out is it appears to be

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Pines Committee Talks Election Dates, Deadlines

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN PINES – Discussions on dates and deadlines for the upcoming board election highlighted a committee meeting last Friday.

Following a candidate draw last Friday, the Ocean Pines Elections Committee convened to review dates and deadlines for the 2023 Board of Directors election. With a new voting contractor – Washington-based Election Trust – Chair Tom Piatti said ballots would be mailed the week of July 11 and due back by Tuesday, Aug. 8.

“We reviewed [Resolution] M-06 and it says ‘by Wednesday,’” he said. “We are doing it on Tuesday because we are going to give a day in order for us to see if any ballots have been dropped off locally.

They can be FedExed out to Washington state.”

Late last month, the Ocean Pines Board of Directors voted unanimously to approve Election Trust as the association’s new voting contractor. The Washingtonbased company will be tasked with printing and handling all election materials for the upcoming board election at a cost of $15,994.

Board members, however, have questioned the vendor’s capability to confirm received ballots. In last week’s committee meeting, Piatti said Election Trust would notify voters once their ballot has been received, so long as their membership information is up to date.

“Election Trust scans the envelopes each day. At the end of the week they summarize it in a report and it comes back to the elections committee,” he explained.

“Meanwhile, when they scan that envelope, they tie it to the Excel spreadsheet we provide them. And if your email is in that spreadsheet, you are going to get an email that they received your envelope. That’s never happened before.”

The Ocean Pines Elections Committee last week also held a candidate draw to determine ballot order for the 2023 Board of Directors election, as well as the order candidates are seated during the election forum.

This year, four candidates – Elaine Brady, Jeffrey Heavner, John Latham and Jerry Murphy – will vie for two board seats currently held by Association President Doug Parks and Director Colette Horn.

Both are currently serving the last year of two consecutive terms and cannot run again because of term limits.

It should be noted there could also be

a third open seat on the board, as Director Frank Daly has announced his intentions to sell his home in the Pines.

However, it remains to be seen if any potential vacancy will impact this year’s election process.

During last week’s candidate draw, Piatti announced there would be one candidate forum held this year, on Wednesday, June 21, at 6 p.m. in the Clubhouse meeting room. He said questions for the forum can be sent to elections@oceanpines.org.

“The forum will be taped and available for replay after the forum is finished,” he said.

The voter eligibility deadline this year is Wednesday, July 6. For membership questions, contact rmeyer@oceanpines.org.

The Ocean Pines Board of Directors is a seven-member volunteer board that governs the association. Ballots for the upcoming election will be counted and vote totals will be announced on Thursday, Aug. 10. The annual meeting is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 12.

For additional questions about the election, email elections@oceanpines.org.

“I want to thank the entire elections committee for all the hard work that they have spent over the past several months putting this all together to where we are at today,” Director Rick Farr, elections committee liaison, said during last week’s meeting. “I know there has been some adversity, some timelines. I do appreciate all the work the elections committee has done in answering the questions the board has asked. Your professionalism is well noted and appreciated.”

… Mayor: ‘It Is Not A Town List’

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notes from someone in town going through a mailing list of the campaign two years earlier and providing insight on who to send mailings to.”

She continued, “I think every campaign out there has similar lists. So it is not a town list, and in fact we have spent an lot of time expanding how we contact our residents, regardless of how they voted in the most recent election or the election two years ago.”

Magdeburger said the list first circulated on the Fenwick D Towne Facebook page. She claimed the same account had posted false statements regarding bike usage and dancing in Fenwick.

“I don’t know who Fenwick D Towne is, I don’t know where he came up with this list, and I don’t know how that came to be and why he would spread it around as what is conveyed as a hit list,” she said.

Magdeburger argued the list was taken out of context.

“Please look at totality of these Facebook postings,” she said. “Everything on there is basically a political satire on the current council and making statements that just aren’t true. Unfortunately, people look at it and think that it is.”

People in Society

by Charlene Sharpe

Featuring Those Helping Causes In The Resort Area

Morris Semiatin celebrated his birthday with a parade at Berlin Intermediate School. Semiatin, right, is pictured with his son Ben.

Terri Mahoney, Melanie Pursel, Nancy Schwendeman, Debbie Haas and Olive Mawyer attended a 60th anniversary celebration for Old Pro Golf.

Karl Kopplin and Randy Brown are pictured at the Berlin Farmers Market.

Jeff Smith and Mithila Jegathesan pause for a photo at the busy Berlin Farmers Market.

Debbi Dean is pictured at the Berlin Farmers Market.

Erich Pfeffer and Jeanne Vander Clute sell vegetables at the Berlin Farmers Market.

Ryan Nellans and Anthony Palmigiano shared information about the Berlin Bathtub Races at Ocean Downs on Sunday.

Jeremy and Michaela Eggers of Little Green Witch Apothecary paused for a photo at the farmers market in Berlin.

Old Pro Golf General Manager Larry Shockley and Maria Cerrato paused for a photo at Old Pro Golf’s 60th anniversary celebration.

Judy and Scott Schoellkopf are pictured with Pat Schrawder, who presented Old Pro Golf with a citation for its 60th anniversary.

Fenwick Island Budget Advances To Council Review

BY BETHANY HOOPER ASSOCIATE EDITOR

FENWICK ISLAND – The proposed fiscal year 2024 budget will advance to the Fenwick Island Town Council for review and approval with a favorable recommendation from a town committee.

On Monday, the Fenwick Island Budget and Finance Committee voted unanimously to accept the proposed fiscal year 2024 budget and to forward the spending plan to the town council with a favorable recommendation.

Councilman Bill Rymer, town treasurer, told committee members this week the document featured minimal changes since it was first presented last month.

“I sent out the updated budget information based on our first draft and discussions,” he said. “The discussions were minor so there was very little change between this draft and the last one.”

Last month, Rymer presented the 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 Monday, 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.

“All in, we are now projected at a loss of $496,000 as opposed to $540,000 …,” he said. “Roughly $40,000 or $50,000 has shifted from operating to capital expenditures.”

Rymer told committee members last month town expenses continue to exceed revenues. The typical practice, he said, was to cover the operating loss with realty transfer tax funds.

Rymer this week also highlighted changes to the proposed capital expenditure budget, which totals $1.3 million. He said the list now includes $55,000 for police retention and training equipment.

“That’s inclusive of roughly $5,000 for force-on-force training equipment,” he explained.

Rymer said the town’s projections for cash on hand at the end of fiscal year 2024 have also changed. He said that estimate had increased from $2.8 million to $2.9 million.

“May of 2023 is projected to come in stronger because we received more than $100,000 in building permit fees for the month of May …,” he said. “This has changed purely because this May was stronger.”

Rymer told committee members this week the budget did not propose any property tax increases for the coming fiscal year.

After further discussion, the committee voted unanimously to accept the fiscal year 2024 budget as proposed and to forward the spending plan to the town council for review and approval.

The proposed budget can be viewed on the town’s website.

OC Chamber Celebrates Old Pro Golf’s 60th Anniversary

The Ocean City Chamber of Commerce helped the Schoellkopf family and Old Pro Golf celebrate 60 years in business in Ocean City last week. Above left, from left, are Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development Director Melanie Pursel, Commissioner Joe Mitrecic, Chamber Membership Director Olive Mawyer, Senator representative Pat Schrawder, Nancy, Judy and Scott Schoellkopf and wife Maria Cerrato and General Manager Larry Shockley. Above right, with a special award are Nancy, Judy and Scott Schoellkopf and wife Maria Cerrato and Shockley.

Photos by Terri French

Garden Installation Underway

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – A new garden is expected to encourage Gull Creek residents to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.

Construction of a new garden along Meadow Street is currently underway at Gull Creek Senior Living. The area is expected to provide residents and their guests with a beautiful space to enjoy the outdoors.

“The idea is keep people moving, encourage them to get exercise and sun-

light,” said William Daugherty of WMD Capital Partners.

For about the last year, Daugherty and other Gull Creek officials have been working with landscape designer Maryann Alberts Malarkey to develop a plan for spacious, easily accessible walking paths through a green space featuring native plants. While permitting and stormwater management took some time, construction of the garden is now underway and should be complete next week. Scott Hill of Interior Design, Home Organization and Staging said the space, which has sidewalks large enough for wheelchair access, would feature dozensof rocking chairs as well as benches. Visitors to the space will be greeted by a variety of native plants and will also be able to admire raised bed containers residents have helped plant.

Terri Dukes, executive director of Gull Creek, said the space would give the facility’s 82 residents an outdoor area to enjoy. She said the facility already had a walking club that would be able to utilize the garden and that it would also provide a good place for staff to take breaks or eat their lunches.

“It’s also going to be a good place for families to meet with their residents,” Daugherty said.

Hill added that the Worcester County Garden Club already hosted programs at Gull Creek and would be able to use the space for future events. More than two dozen residents already showed their interest in the space by coming out to see progress as soon as sidewalks were installed.

“They were joyful,” he said.

Officials said the project was being completed with support from a variety of local partners, including the Town of Berlin, Harkins Contracting, Bluebird Farms, Advanced Irrigation, Absolute Security and Scotland Yards Landscaping. Dukes acknowledged that while plants would take some time to get established, but said residents and staff were already looking forward to using the outdoor space.

“Our overall goal is to improve the quality of life for the community,” she said.

Construction of a new garden at Gull Creek Senior Living is currently underway and should be complete next week. Submitted Photo

Alcohol, Ocean Swimming A Dangerous Combination

BY DAMIEN SANZOTTI SPECIAL TO THE DISPATCH

OCEAN CITY – It is against the law to have alcohol on the beach in Ocean City.

Our lifeguards are required to enforce the city ordinance that makes it unlawful to have an open container anywhere in Ocean City including the beach. If people do not comply with the law or present any objection, we immediately contact the Ocean City Police Department. It amazes me that drinking still occurs on the beaches of Ocean City.

I have to say though there is some irony to a 40-year-old beach patron hiding his beer from an 18-year-old lifeguard. The fact is that our guards do see you hiding it and are going to ask you to take it off the beach. Trying to cover it up with a coozy or pour it into a red solo cup is unacceptable. It’s the alcohol that

is illegal not the container it is in, (all glass is also prohibited). No alcohol means no

ful on the beach, but there are numerous safety issues that arise. We deal with a high number of heat related illnesses on the beach that are alcohol related. The fact is that alcohol dehydrates you, and having only a beer or two on a hot day increases the risk of heat related illness. Alcohol increases the loss of body fluids, accelerates dehydration, and leads to heat exhaustion. If untreated it may result in heat stroke which is almost always fatal.

Furthermore, swimming in the ocean after consuming alcohol is extremely dangerous. Salt water and alcohol make the worst cocktail, and we rescue numerous people every summer that probably would not have gotten into trouble if they were not drinking. It is a known fact that alcohol im- alcohol. Not only is consuming alcohol unlaw-

SEE NEXT PAGE

A lifeguard is pictured discussing the city ordinance prohibiting alcohol consumption on the beach with adults who were consuming.

DAMIEN SANZOTTI

shore luau Will Benefit Worcester Youth Programs

BERLIN – Tickets are now on sale for Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services’ (WYFCS) annual fundraiser to benefit children and families in Worcester County.

The event, the Shine on the Shore Luau, will be the first of its kind and will be taking the reins from its predecessor, the Pirate Party, which preceded the luau for 12 years. The event will be held

… safety concerns With Drinking

pairs your judgment. This can lead to serious incidents like near drownings or other serious injuries. Although over 98% of drowning deaths in Ocean City occur when lifeguards are not on duty, the great majority of those are alcohol related. We can usually tell when someone has been drinking when we rescue him or her. On the open water, alcohol is easy to smell on someone’s breath. I tell all my guards that if they rescue someone that has been drinking, they should ask the person to leave the beach.

Please help your guard by following all the local ordinances (rules) and laws, so they do not have to leave their stand as often, to ask you to stop a prohibited activity that in most cases you were

already aware of. In the event ocean conditions are rough and the SRTs are out of there stands often, please do your best to understand if they cannot respond immediately to your request to speak with someone drinking on the beach.

Remember our saying: “Keep Your Feet In The Sand Until The Lifeguard’s In The Stand.” This is a reminder to never go in the ocean when the beach patrol is not on duty. 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.)

on Thursday June 22, from 4-7 p.m. at Sunset Grille in West Ocean City, with a rain date of June 29. This event promises to provide the same attractions that made its predecessor the kick-off event of the summer season, with some fun surprises and a light new atmosphere thrown in. Admission tickets are priced at $35 and include a light fare buffet, a drink voucher for your Hawaiian-inspired rum drink, live entertainment, games, and more. Hawaiian or beach-themed dress encouraged but not required to enter. Tickets can be purchased online, by phone, or in person at 124 N. Main St., Suite C, in Berlin.

WYFCS continues to use this fundraiser as the keystone of their yearly fundraising, and all proceeds go to support programs that have a direct impact on the lives of Worcester County’s most vulnerable children and families. These programs include Clinical Mental Health therapy regardless of a person’s ability to pay; Worcester Connects youth mentoring; Worcester Navigation resource linkage; and youth enrichment groups including the Berlin Youth Club free summer camp. Any donations received will

support all these programs with operations, funding for participants, and monies for therapy services for those who are unable to make payments due to financial hardships.

As always, the events put on by WYFCS could not be possible without generous sponsorship from local businesses and individuals in the community. This year, supporters include the hosts of the event, Buddy Trala and the crew at the lovely Sunset Grille, as well as our sponsors: Robert W. Nock, Taylor Bank, 28th St. Pit and Pub, Bergey & Company, Broad Bookkeeping Co., Cards Technology-ICS, Delmarva Power, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines/Ocean City, Tyler & Company, P.A., the Berlin Police Department, Eastern Shore Hauling, LLC., the Ocean City Lions Club, and PKS & Company, P.A.

Individuals wishing to support the fundraiser as a late-term sponsor or donor are encouraged to contact the office directly at 410-641-4598. Those wishing to learn more and to purchase tickets are encouraged to visit the event website at bit.ly/shineluau.

COMMUNITY News In Photos

Erica Matlock (left), incoming principal for Snow Hill Elementary, and current Principal Matthew Record (right) accept $3,000 from the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club for their essential stores locker to meet kids’ needs.

On Saturday, May 20, the Ocean City Jeep Club was able to donate $2,000 and a large amount of supplies to the Town Cats organization during their 2nd Annual Town Cats supply run.

U.S. Marine Corps veteran Morris Semiatin was honored with a birthday celebration in Berlin Saturday. Semiatin is pictured with the 1st State Detachment of the Marine Corps. Submitted Photos

The Republican Women of Worcester County (RWWC) held a monthly general meeting and luncheon on May 25, 2023 at the Worcester Technical High School. The guest speaker was Nicole Bennett. Bennett is currently 1st vice president of the MDGOP. Pictured left to right are Liz Mumford, RWWC 1st vice president, Bennett and Sandy Zitzer, RWWC president.

The Berlin Lions Club presented scholarships to several Stephen Decatur High School seniors. Pictured from left to right are Cadence Hughes (High Point University), Kameron Harris (Penn State), Ava Hinkle (West Virginia University) and Mackenzie Cathell (Delaware University.)

The Ocean City Surf Club donated $2,000 to Ocean City Recreation & Parks for their 2023 children’s summer camp programs. Pictured, from left, are OC Surf Club President Tommy Vach, Town of Ocean City Recreation Manager Travis Davey and OC Surf Club Vice President Rusty Ruszin.

Arts Center Hosting Free Dance Festival

OCEAN CITY – Saltare in Elementis (SIE) Dance Collective will present a free “Dance on the Shore Festival” June 9-11 at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, 94th Street bayside. The festival will include arts and movement workshops for children, an original dance film showcase, adult workshops from worldclass dance instructors, and a new live performance.

Saltare in Elementis Dance Collective was founded during an undergraduate study abroad trip in 2018 by Zoe Couloumbis, Fiona O’Brien, and Sebrena Williamson. Aside from connecting with each other through dance, each founder possesses their own separate passions that contribute to the company’s success. O’Brien, director of music and an Eastern Shore native, is well-versed in music business and leads the company in music collaboration. Couloumbis, director of education, is an accredited and licensed teacher. Williamson, director of research, is an established researcher and writer, and leads the company in research-based choreographic theory and written collaboration.

Friday, June 9, 5-7 p.m., is dance movie night at the Arts Center, screening three original movies featuring SIE dancers. “Terra” and “Hurricane 6”, movies about dance in the environment that were original presented at the Ocean City Film Festival, will be shown as well as the world premiere “Intertidal”, an original piece by the dance collective with original music by Will Rothermel. The movies will be accompanied by a cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres, live musicians, and vendors.

Saturday, June 10, is the “Day of Dance” at the Arts Center with a daylong menu of activities. From 10 a.m.noon, SIE leads attendees through a beach-themed, environmentally-friendly Crafts & Composition class where students will find shapes within their craft and translate them into movement.

From 1-2:30 p.m., SIE will lead a Flow Cardio class, a follow-along Zumba-like cardio dance workshop that’s water inspired. No dance experience required, and all ages are welcome.

From 2:30-3:30 p.m., SIE will lead attendees in the worldwide Global Water Dances event including discussions about water issues and personal actions people can take to support clean water. The workshop will end by attendees learning the four movements of the Global Water Dance and performing in solidarity with Global Water Dance sites around the world fighting for clean water. Attendees may be filmed to capture the Ocean City site of this global event.

On Sunday, June 11, 10-11 a.m., the co-founders of SIE will hold a Coffee & Conversation with the Choreographers. All classes and events are walk-in only and registration is not required. More information is available at OCart.org.

An image from the movie “Hurricane 6” is pictured. The movie tells the story of the creation of the Ocean City Inlet through dance. Pictured, front to back, are Zoe Couloumbis, Mailey Paupore, Celinna Haber and Daris Gilbert. Photo by Reed Morgan

Broker Recognized

SALISBURY – Crexi, the commercial real estate industry's fastest-growing marketplace, data, and technology platform, announced Wesley Cox, CCIM, a senior advisory with SVN | Miller Commercial Real Estate, as a winner of its annual Platinum Broker Awards, an awards program recognizing the highest performing brokers on Crexi’s platform.

“It’s an honor to be recognized among the top commercial brokers in the country,” said Cox. “Adding Crexi to our arsenal of tools has helped my team put our clients in a better position by fully exposing our properties to the market.”

To be recognized as a Platinum Broker, Crexi users must land in the top percentage of brokers using the platform. Cox, among other winners, are being recognized for their exceptionally high engagement, high property search score, use and knowledge of Crexi’s marketing portal, deals closed on Crexi, as well as a healthy number of leads per listing, total listings, and total value. Brokers are recognized based on three focuses – sale, lease and auction. Winners from the sale and lease categories span hospitality, industrial, land, multifamily, office, retail, restaurant, and special purpose sectors, while the auction category spotlights top performers overall.

“This program is our way of acknowledging our broker partners who continue to make an impact and find success across sales, lease, and auction functions,” stated Mike DeGiorgio, founder and CEO of Crexi. “We celebrate our brokers– today and every day. Their wins are our wins, and we all succeed together.”

This award program goes beyond property volume and total value sold, taking into account platform activity, search scores, leads, and more. The Platinum Broker Awards’ model levels the playing field, allowing all brokers, regardless of business size, to be recognized as a top performer.

This year's list includes 1,000 Platinum Brokers who each received a glassical award and an exclusive badge on their Crexi profile recognizing them as a Platinum Broker identifying them as a Crexi expert to clients and colleagues.

Commercial Real Estate Exchange, Inc. (Crexi) is revolutionizing the way

commercial real estate professionals transact by accelerating deal velocity and democratizing access to both properties and industry data. In 2015, Crexi embarked on a journey to transform the CRE industry: to create a single-source hub for stakeholders to market, analyze, and trade commercial property.

Today, Crexi empowers nearly 2 million buyers, brokers, and tenants each month to explore over $5 trillion of property value nationwide and has helped to close upward of $440 billion in transactions.

Facility Renovation

SALISBURY – President Tyler Barnes of Gillis Gilkerson (GGI) is pleased to announce the firm’s completion of a largescale renovation and addition project for Somerset Animal Hospital, an established veterinary clinic actively serving the Somerset County region. Upon recent completion, Gillis Gilkerson’s diligence resulted in the creation of a state-of-the-art clinic designed to provide exceptional care for animals throughout its community.

In early 2023, Somerset Animal Hospital enlisted the expertise of GGI to undertake a comprehensive renovation and expansion project at their location on 11279 Stewart Neck Road in Princess Anne. The transformed facility now boasts a spacious waiting room, four private offices, an employee lounge, five exam rooms, a central treatment room, and advanced X-ray and operating rooms. The now 5,000-square-foot building is a testament to the vision and collaboration between the two organizations.

Providers Welcomed

SALISBURY

– Chesapeake Health

Care would like to announce the addition of three new providers to the staff.

Chesapeake Health Care is excited to welcome Dr. Kevin Rodriguez-Lichtenberg, DDS, MPH, CPH, as a pediatric dentist and the head of our dental department. He will be seeing patients in our Salisbury and Princess Anne offices.

Rodriquez-Lichtenberg received his Doctor of Dental Surgery, Summa Cum Laude, from Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Dentistry, in Richmond, Va.

Most recently, RodriguezLichtenberg did his pediatric dentistry residency at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, Doral Outpatient Center, in Miami, Fla.

Also welcomed was Kristy Peck Hill, CRNP-PMH, as a psychiatric nurse practitioner.

Hill received a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau, Mo. She received her Master of Science in nursing from Walden University in Minneapolis, Minn.

Most recently, Hill was a registered nurse at the University of Maryland Shore Regional Medical Center, SBH in Cambridge, Md., where she provided comprehensive behavioral healthcare treatments to a variety of patients. Hill will be seeing patients in our Berlin Behavioral Health Center.

Tyler Rodriguez-Lichtenberg, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, is our newest family nurse practitioner.

He received a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Nursing in Richmond, Va. He received a Master of Science in nursing, family nurse practitioner, from the University of Miami, Schwartz Center for Nursing and Health Studies, in Coral Gables, Fla.

Before joining Chesapeake Health Care, he was a family nurse practitioner at Eastern Shore Rural Health System, a federally qualified health center in New Church, Va. He will be seeing patients in the medical office in Princess Anne.

Financial Certification

MILLSBORO – CFS, Inc. (Comprehensive Financial Solutions) announces Investment Advisor Representative Liz Brittingham, obtained her CFP certification.

The CFP certification is awarded to individuals who meet the CFP Board’s stringent requirements. The CFP exam measures the candidate’s critical thinking and problem-solving ability and assesses the candidate’s ability to apply financial planning knowledge in an integrated approach to real-life financial planning situations.

Brittingham joined the firm six years ago and learned many facets of the business, including investment strategy and taxes. Working alongside President J.D. Schroen in the firm’s joint business, “CFS Tax Solutions,” her knowledge of navigating taxes in retirement proves invaluable to her clients.

Vice President and Partner Michael Sise expressed, “We are excited to see Liz achieve this major certification, which without a doubt shows GREAT commitment to her career and clients. Liz has grown leaps and bounds over the years and we can’t wait to watch her continue on an upward path in this industry.”

Brittingham enjoys being on the water and traveling. A former captain on a private charter boat, she switched career paths to follow in her father’s footsteps as a financial advisor. Her father is a founding partner at CFS, and the firm is delighted to have her commitment to the continued success of CFS.

WESLEY COX

KRISTY PECK HILL

Representatives and local elected officials gathered at Sun Outdoors Frontier Town last week to celebrate the campground’s 60th anniversary. The milestone was commemorated with a ribbon cutting ceremony, pictured above. Submitted Photo

KEVIN RODRIGUEZLICHTENBURG

TYLER RODRIGUEZLICHTENBURG

BRITTINGHAM

OC Ravens Roost Awards Scholarships

BERLIN – Ravens Roost #44 of Ocean City recently announced the presentation of annual scholarship awards. This year, scholarship awards totaling $15,000 went to six students at three area high schools.

The 2023 scholar/athlete awardees are Breanne Ferguson, Stephen Decatur High School/University of Maryland, Connor Herr, Stephen Decatur High School/Virginia Tech, Anne Carter, Worcester Preparatory School/Wake Forest University, Morgan Schoch, Worcester Preparatory School/University of South Carolina, Cole Donnelly, Indian River High School/University of Delaware and Scarlett Dunn, Indian River High School/Stevenson University.

Ravens Roost #44 has awarded $243,900 in scholarships to local students during the last two decades.

Don McMullen, Scholarship Committee co-chair, said the Ravens Roost Scholarship Committee awards individual scholarships based on SAT/ACT scores, grade-point averages, participation in athletics, community service, work history, letters of recommendations, and an essay on how athletics are important in today’s society.

Additionally, Ravens Roost #44 held its 26th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament at the Ocean Pines Golf Club on June 2. Almost 130 golfers participated.

The winning teams and players were first-place team Russ Bowen, Joe Ayre, Brian Henry and Kevin Stover; Ravens Roost first-place team Ravens Roost #44 Ocean City Paul Fohner, Dennis Fohner, Chuck Eder, Brian Stevens; closest to the pin (men’s) Mike DeGrandis; closest to the pin (women’s) Deb Williams; closest to the line (men’s) Charlie McMichael; closest to the line (women’s) Patty Lewis; and putting contest winner Mike Decker.

The Scholarship Committee wishes to thank signature sponsor American Legion Post 166 of Ocean City, and major sponsors District Cannabis, Atlantic General Hospital, Pit n Pub, Mike's Flooring & Design Center, and Matt Ortt Companies.

“We would also like to thank our tee sponsors, local golf courses who donated rounds of golf, and businesses who donated gift certificates and prizes,” McMullen said. “In addition, we would like to thank our 128 golfers who played on a beautiful sunny day at the Ocean Pines Golf Club, and all our Ravens Roost #44 volunteers who made this event another success. A special thank you to Ocean Pines Director of Golf Bob Beckelman and his staff and Director of Golf Maintenance Justin Hartshorne and his staff for the excellent course conditions, and Judie and her staff at the Clubhouse Grille restaurant for an outstanding luncheon.”

McMullen said the Scholarship Committee is currently seeking donations for 2024 scholarships. Donations may be mailed to Ravens Roost #44, Post Office Box 4161, Ocean City, Maryland 21843.

A group photo from last week’s Ravens Roost #44’s 26th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament. Submitted Photo

Branch:

OC Film Challenge Seeks Entries

OCEAN CITY – The Ocean City Film Festival presents the 6th Annual Ocean City Film Challenge to filmmakers and aspiring filmmakers across Delmarva and beyond. Registration is free and now o-

pen at www.OCMDFilmFestival.com.

The challenge is for filmmakers to produce an original short film about Ocean City that is no longer than 15 minutes and made between July 1 and July 31. Any artist who wishes to tell a story about the resort, preferably suitable for viewing by all ages, may enter. Films must be shot in Ocean City or be about Ocean City and follow a cinematic narrative. Films also must include a specific line of dialogue and prop, which will be emailed to registrants on July 1. The deadline to register for the challenge is July 22.

“A film can be produced in Ocean City, in a way that is visible within the film,” said B.L. Strang-Moya, creative director of the OC Film Festival. “Or the film can be shot outside of Ocean City, but Ocean City has to be central to the premise of the film. The film must tell an actual story in the form of a fiction narrative. We cannot accept any vacation footage, music videos, or any such media that would not be considered traditional cinema.”

Final cuts are due on Aug. 13 and submitted online along with other deliverables. The winning films will premiere on Saturday, Aug. 19 at 7 p.m. at the Ocean City Center for the Arts and will also be screened at the Ocean City Film Festival in March 2024.

Prizes include an Ocean City hotel stay, swag bag, and two all-access passes during the 2024 OC Film Festival.

“Ocean City is a beautiful landscape, and there’s so much that artists can take advantage of right here in town,” said Strang-Moya. “There are many ways to tell a story through motion picture, and the challenge pushes filmmakers to explore these boundaries.”

The Ocean City Film Festival is a part of the Art League of Ocean City.

New Bank

The Bank of Ocean City celebrated the official ribbon cutting of its newest branch in Selbyville, Del. on June 1. The latest opening means the bank now operates six branches with the other locations in Berlin, Ocean Pines, West Ocean City, Ocean City and Fenwick Island.

Submitted Photo

with Scott Lenox

Hello everybody and welcome back to Fish in OC. We had some great stories in the local fishing world this week, but the biggest was once again the northeast wind. We had less fishable days than fishable, but thankfully there were a couple of nice days mixed in there for folks to get out and do some catching.

The Blues for D.U. Bluefish Tournament at Bahia Marina happened this past weekend and nice fish were weighed in. Anglers caught and released a bunch of big rockfish at the south jetty while they were casting for bluefish, and there were some real “chopper” sized bluefish caught there as well. In the end, Shaun Flaherty’s 36”, 12.1 pounder was the biggest of the weekend, and he and Big Bird Cropper will now have to figure out how to split up the $2,700 in prize money.

Offshore fishing has been pretty good when the boats are able to get out to the Poorman’s and Baltimore Canyons. This past week there were just three fishable days and the fishing didn’t disappoint. The Reel Chaos fished mid-week and had 18 yellowfin tuna, and the Spring Mix II got out on Sunday for their first trip and put six in the box. Spreader bars and skirted ballyhoo are doing the trick for a few bigeyes and yellowfins in the 30- to 50-pound

range. Flounder fishing was decent this past week, but again thanks to the wind there just weren’t many folks going for them. There was clean water in the Thorofare where some keeper fish have been caught along with some throwbacks, and there were some keepers caught in the West Channel as well. Deadly Tackle Deadly Doubles with Gulp or Otter Tails, sometimes tipped with a minnow have been catching well. Sea bass fishing has been good for the ocean going party boat fleet, but they too have been cursed by the windy weather. Plenty of keeper sized fish over 13” have come over the rails with some fish as big as a whopping six pounds caught this season. Squid, clams, Gulp, Otter Tails or sea bass jigs have all been effective for hungry knot heads hanging on structure. We’ve got a break in the fishing tournament action this weekend so it should be a great time to get out and get in on some of the great fishing we’ve got going on and hopefully someone turns the fan off. 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.)

SEE PAGES 58-59

A 172.5-pound stringer on the Game Changer was good enough for first place in the stringer category in the first ever Battle for the Buckle Fishing Tournament. Submitted Photos

a swim shad to catch and then release this beauty of a 40” rockfish at the south jetty. Opposite page, middle right, Captain Victor Bunting of the Ocean Princess dialed in the right coordinates for some great sea bass fishing on this day. Opposite page, bottom left, Captain Kane Bounds of the Fish Bound has been seeing great sea bass fishing with limits on most trips with some big fish. Opposite page, bottom right, Captain Chris Watkowski of the Spring Mix II had a great first offshore trip putting this group on six yellowfin tuna.

Above top left, Kilo Charlie won the Battle for the Buckles heaviest fish with a beautiful 164-pound bigeye tuna. Above left, Reece Schindler caught and released this big 42” rockfish at the south jetty fishing with Rich Daiker. Above top right, Karen Biesecker and Josh Rosenberger had three keeper flounder up to 17.5” in the Thorofare. Above right, middle, Captain Willie Zimmerman on board RoShamBo caught this group six yellowfin tuna before the wind blew. Above right, bottom, these anglers caught some keeper flounder on the Tortuga out of Bahia Marina. Opposite page, top left, these shooters had a great time with the snakeheads with Captain Marc Spagnola of Dusk to Dawn Bowfishing. Opposite page, top right, Shaun Flaherty was fishing with Big Bird Cropper and his 12.1-pound bluefish was good for first place in the Blues for D.U. Tournament. Opposite page, middle left, Morgan Mericle used

Art League Of OC Awards Eight College Scholarships

OCEAN CITY – The Art League of Ocean City is celebrating 32 years of providing college scholarships, awarding 83 scholarships since 1991 to local students pursuing a college degree in the visual and performing arts. In 2023, eight Worcester County students received college scholarships from the Art League.

This year’s scholarships include the third annual $5,000 Sidney M. Beckstead Award, in honor of the entrepreneur, artist, and jeweler who passed away in 2020. The recipient is Bella Resto, a graduate of Stephen Decatur High School (SDHS) who plans on pursuing a career in fine arts and writing.

Hannah Dang, a graduate of SDHS, received the first $1,000 scholarship from Tuve and Tia Tuvesson in honor of their late wife and mother, Inga Tuvesson, who was also a past Art League board president. Dang plans on studying graphic design and sports management at Neumann University.

The third annual Eva Fox Award, in memory of the mother of the Art League Executive Director Rina Fox Thaler went to Cayden Wallace, who graduated from Worcester Preparatory School and is planning a dual major in musical theater and digital art/animation.

The Schwab family awarded a $1,000 scholarship to Jessica Beck, a graduate of SDHS, who will study architectural engineering.

Savannah Chisholm, a graduate of

Snow Hill High School, received a $1,000 scholarship from Wayne and Virginia Outten in honor of Virginia’s mother, Vera Cross. Chisholm will study graphic illustration.

The Art League also awarded three $1,000 scholarships, funded through the

Katherine Ellen Brown Fund at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore and through the Art League scholarship fund. This year, all three awards went to students for continuing their education in the arts.

The 2023 recipients are Kayla Halbig,

currently a student at Towson University studying graphic design; Alexis Kagan, currently attending Salisbury University in Art Education; and MacKenzie Williams, a student at the School of Visual Arts, New York studying cartooning and illustration.

Pictured, from left, are John Sisson, Art League of Ocean City board president; Rina Thaler, Art League executive director; Cayden Wallace; Alexis Kagan; Jessica Beck; Sherrie Beckstead; Savannah Chisholm; Virginian Outten; Bella Resto; Lyn Burr; Kayla Halbig; and Hannah Dang. Submitted Photo

Chris Parypa’s Photo Of The Week: Each week staff photographer Chris Parypa is tasked with submitting a photo from his vast library to be featured in this space. Above is a look at the end of last month’s Stephen Decatur High School seniors’ Boardwalk parade. To purchase any of Parypa’s photos, click over to www.chrisparypa.com.

THE DISPATCH Crossword Puzzle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 86

HOROSCOPES

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): You Ewes and Rams will find your ideas cheered by a mostly receptive flock. Those few dissenters could well be turned around by your charm and powers of persuasion.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): It's time for the bold and beautiful Bovine to shake off the dust of the past and shape up new ideas for the future. This could surprise some folks, but they'll soon adjust.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20):

Those nagging new doubts about an upcoming decision should alert you to step back (at least temporarily) so you can reassess its potential impact from a new perspective.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): That unpleasant situation you hoped would go away by itself needs immediate attention before it affects an upcoming decision. Expect your supporters to rally around your cause.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): You're moving up and away from that recent setback. But remain cautious about finances. An exercise in thrift today helps cushion a possible end-of-themonth money squeeze.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): You're still dealing with overtones of pessimism that cause you to doubt your ability to make some needed changes. But the negative pressures will ease up by week's end.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): There could be some fallout from the way you

handled a recent family problem. But those who know that you were in the right won't hesitate to step in on your behalf.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): Financial strains ease by week's end. Meanwhile, focus on cultivating that new relationship if you hope to have it blossom into something more meaningful.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): Health matters once again dominate the week. Be careful not to ignore recurrences of an old problem. An almost-forgotten commitment resurfaces.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): The emergence of an unusual selfish streak could dismay those close to you. Defy it -- don't justify it -- so you can become your gracious self again.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): Reassess your decision to stay with the status quo. It might seem like the sensible thing to do right now, but changes around you could make that choice a risky one.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): Move decisively, but cautiously, when dealing with a delicate personal matter. The fewer mistakes you make now, the less likely it is that the problem will recur later on.

BORN THIS WEEK: You can find beauty where many cannot, and you enjoy sharing your discoveries with others.

© 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

Things I Like...

By Steve Green

Half days to end the school year

The show, “The Stranger”

Watching my teen with little kids

Knowing it will eventually get hot here

The Special Olympics torch run event

Uneventful nights at home

Business anniversary celebrations

The way Jokic plays basketball

Farmers Market vibes

Strangers who say hello

Lawns with nice lines

vanishing vanishing OCEAN CITY WITH BUNK

The Jackspot Lounge was a favorite hangout for the over 30 aged crowd in Ocean City. Owned by popular locals Jack and June Fisher it opened in 1971 on the bayside of 73rd Street and Coastal Highway.

Famous for good food, the Jackspot’s over-stuffed sandwiches are remembered by former patrons as some of the best ever served in Ocean City. The nightly entertainment always drew a crowd and there was never a cover charge. Musicians such as George Roman on accordion and Danny Kovacic on a variety of instruments developed a strong following at the popular midtown tavern.

The Jackspot closed in 1984 but remains a fond memory for many. Today Big Peckers Bar and Grill is located on the site of the former Jackspot Lounge.

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

Photo courtesy Ocean City Life Saving Station Museum

MANN

$15/Week for Minimum of Five Lines • $2 Thereafter Per Line Display Classified Ads: $20/Week Per Column Inch (Contract Discounts Available) Deadline for Insertions, Cancellations & Payment is 3pm Tuesday Pre-Payment is Required. We Accept Visa & MasterCard CONTACT INFORMATION Phone: 410-641-4563 • Fax: 410-641-0966 Email: classifieds@mdcoastdispatch.com Mail: P.O. Box 467, Berlin MD 21811

HELP WANTED

CLEANERS/VACATION

HYGIENIST/ASSISTANT

Friendly boutique dental practice, with great patients, looking for a

MAINTENANCE: FT/YR Light maintenance. Family atmosphere. Seatime Condos 135th St., OC. Apply in person. 410-250-2262.

SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC: Small Engine mechanic, Year round, Competitive Wages. Call 443-754-1047.

POOL: General Maintenance, Outdoor work, lifting heavy objects. Mechanical, basic pool pump & motors, CPO a plus / not required. Able to pass CPO test. Summer includes weekends & long hours; working alone or with others. 410.289.4902 Ask for Suzanne.

Cleaners Wanted for OC

PART TIME HYGIENIST and a PART TIME ASSISTANT.

Please send resume to dentistryinthepines@gmail.com

Now Hiring

• CARPENTERS

• CARPENTER 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

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

Housekeeper Full Time

NOW HIRING!

HOLIDAY INN POOL BAR

•COOKS •SERVERS

•Work with a well-established OC Hotel/Restaurant Group

•Perform preventative, routine, & emergency maintenance

•Repairs on restaurant equipment with emphasis on refrigeration

•Provided a company vehicle – with valid driver’s license

•Prior experience with diagnostic abilities, electrical, major plumbing & troubleshooting

Health Insurance, 401K, sick leave, and vacations included. Forward resume to :

Restaurant Maintenance, PO Box 160, Ocean City, MD 21843 or email: jeb@harrisongp.com

Worcester County Health Department

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST TRAINEE

Full Time, State Benefits. Duties include performing inspections and investigations to ensure compliance with environmental health laws and regulations. Duties are performed in various programs, which include Public Swimming Pool/Spa Compliance, Food Service Facility

Compliance, Rabies Prevention & Vector Borne Disease and Nuisance Complaint Investigation and Abatement. At the time of hire, the selected applicant must possess a certificate of eligibility to be licensed as an Environmental Health Specialist from the Maryland Board of Environmental Health Specialists. Valid driver’s license and background check required. APPLY ONLINE at www.jobapscloud.com/md

by June 14, 2023.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or disability. Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request by calling 410-632-1100 ext. 1221.

Daytime hours, 10-4 Mon-Fri

Serious inquiries only

Please Apply in person, 6600 Coastal Highway, OC, MD

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

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

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

•MAINTENANCE

•GENERAL CLERICAL

Apply Online at delawarestatejobs.com

For additional information, please contact the Marina office at 302.227.3071

AA/EOE

SEEKING

CONDO CLEANING: Exp. cleaner looking to clean weekly rentals, in the 94th St area, 1-2BR Condos. May-end of Sept. $65. per hr. Call Kathy 814-241-2422. Small clientel.

RENTALS

SEASONAL BAYSIDE CONDO:

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

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

COMMERCIAL

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

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

Set in flowing peach, Smiling as she takes the stage Now brushed with speckles!

ROOMMATE FOR SALE

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

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

SEASONAL STAFF

Beautiful community in Ocean View is seeking parttime seasonal staff May through September to work in our clubhouse and pool areas.

Availability to include days, nights, weekends and holidays. Excellent people skills a must! Some computer skills preferred. Competitive salary and incentive bonus program offered.

Perfect position for individuals looking for extra income. Send resume to: susan.brewer@casinc.biz

EOE

Sales Associates

Carquest

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19731

To all persons interested in the estate of DAVID WAYNE PFEFFER, Estate No. 19731. Notice is given that ELIZABETH A. PFENSON, 2928 CHESTNUT ROAD, EDGEWATER, MD 21037, was on MAY 19, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DAVID WAYNE PFEFFER, who died on OC-

TOBER 22, 2022, 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 19TH day of NOVEMBER, 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.

INDIAN RIVER MARINA

NOW HIRING!

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.

ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102

COURT HOUSE

SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

3x 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19716

To all persons interested in the estate of EMILY GODWIN HART, Estate No. 19716. Notice is given that DAVID HART, 20482 SAXIS ROAD, PO BOX 51, SAXIS, VA 23427, was on MAY 18, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of EMILY GODWIN HART, who died on MARCH 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 18TH day of NOVEMBER, 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

MAY 26, 2023

DAVID HART

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 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

JOEL J. TODD, ESQ. PO BOX 188 BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19737

To all persons interested in the estate of SARAH SALLY

L. SPRINGER, Estate No. 19737. Notice is given that EUGENE HABINOWSKI ,153 HUNTER STREET, GLEN FALLS, NY 12801, was on MAY 23, 2023, appointed

Personal Representative of the estate of SARAH SALLY L. SPRINGER, who died on MAY 10, 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 23RD day of NOVEMBER, 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 MAY 26, 2023

EUGENE HABINOWSKI

Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102, COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

REENA J. PATEL, ESQ.

LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD SUITE B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19730

To all persons interested in the estate of ANITA L. HOFFMAN, Estate No. 19730. Notice is given that CHERYL FREED, 48 MOONRAKER ROAD, OCEAN PINES, MD 21811, was on MAY 19, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ANITA L. HOFFMAN, who died on JANUARY 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 (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 19TH day of NOVEMBER, 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 MAY 26, 2023

CHERYL FREED 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 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

REENA J. PATEL, ESQ. LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD SUITE B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19729

To all persons interested in the estate of ELIZABETH PICKARD Estate No. 19729. Notice is given that LINDA SOKERKA, 608 DAREN LANE, MINE HILL, NJ 07803, was on MAY 19, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ELIZABETH PICKARD, who died on NOVEMBER 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 19TH day of NOVEMBER, 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

MAY 26, 2023

LINDA SOKERKA

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 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

AYRIKA FLETCHER, ESQ.

IN-HOUSE COUNSEL

BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE ASSOCIATES, INC.

P.O. BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MD 21843-3307

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-21-000162

BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC.

P.O. BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21843-3307 Plaintiff vs. DAVID F. FERRERA, et al. Defendants

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 23rd day of MAY, 2023, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings,made and reported by Ayrika Fletcher, Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 26TH day of JUNE, 2023 provided a copy of this Order be inserted in some daily newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before the 19th day of JUNE, 2022.

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

TIMESHARES SOLD:

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication MAY 26, 2023

TRUE TEST COPY

SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19722

Notice is given that the ORPHANS COURT of PHILADELPHIA COUNTY, PA, appointed(state) YOLANDA J. W. CUSAAC, 7 WESTBURY DRIVE, LUMBERTON, NJ 08048 as the EXECUTRIX of the Estate of MILTON M. BRINKLEY, who died on NOVEMBER 23, 2020, domiciled in Pennsylvania, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is NATHANIEL DOVE, whose address is5202 DAVENPORT CT, GLENN DALE, MD 20769. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: WORCESTER.

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

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

(2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or 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

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.

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 MAY 26, 2023

YOLANDA J.W. CUSAAC 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 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

lished 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 MAY 26, 2023

TERESA A. HEWING Personal Representative True Test Copy

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

CONTACT INFORMATION

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

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

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.

leasehold property in the following MARYLAND counties: WORCESTER.

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

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

VEMBER, 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

MICHAEL B. MATHERS, ESQ. WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP PO BOX 910 115 BROAD ST SALISBURY, MD 218030910

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19726

To all persons interested in the estate of PATRICIA E. MEEHAN, Estate No. 19726. Notice is given that TERESA A. HEWING, 32467 FISH SOUND WAY, SELBYVILLE, DE 19975, was on MAY 17, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of PATRICIA E. MEEHAN, who died on APRIL 19, 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 17TH day of NOVEMBER, 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 pub-

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

3x 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

AYRIKA FLETCHER, ESQ. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE ASSOCIATES, INC.

P.O. BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MD 21843-3307

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, STATE OF MARYLAND CASE NO. C-23-CV-22-000065

BAY CLUB TIME-SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATES, INC.

P.O. BOX 3307 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND 21843-3307

Plaintiff vs. SANDRA J. SHINDEL, et al. Defendants

ORDERED, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland this 23rd day of MAY, 2023, that the foreclosure sale of the properties mentioned in these proceedings, made and reported by Ayrika Fletcher, Trustee, be RATIFIED AND CONFIRMED, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 26TH day of JUNE, 2023 provided a copy of this Order be inserted in some daily newspaper printed in Worcester County, Maryland once in each of three successive weeks, before the 19th day of JUNE, 2022.

The Amended Report of

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication MAY 26, 2023

TRUE TEST COPY SUSAN R. BRANIECKI Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD 3x 5-26, 6-02, 6-09

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch

Date of Publication JUNE 02, 2023

JOHN FERRY, 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 6-02, 6-09, 6-16

(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 02, 2023

MARY D. STANDRING Personal Representative True Test Copy

TERRI WESTOCTT

(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 02, 2023

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19736

To all persons interested in the estate of JOHN FRANCIS FERRY, SR., Estate No. 19736. Notice is given that JOHN FERRY, JR., 338 OCEAN PARKWAY, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on MAY 22, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN FRANCIS FERRY, SR., who died on FEBRUARY 10, 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 22ND day of NOVEMBER, 2023.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the

Second Insertion

LAW OFFICE OF MARIANNA BATIE REENA J. PATEL, ESQ. 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD, SUITE B SALISBURY, MD 21804

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19695

Notice is given that the ORPHANS COURT of DELAWARE COUNTY, PA, appointed MARY D. STANDRING, 4 LONGFELLOW PLACE, APT. 2610, BOSTON, MA 02114, as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of RICHARD L. KOZIOL, who died on JULY 27, 2022, domiciled in Pennsylvania, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is REENA J. PATEL, whose address is 1321 MT. HERMON ROAD, SUITE B, SALISBURY, MD 21804. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or

Register of Wills for Worcester County Room 102 - Court House One W. Market Street Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 3x 6-02, 6-09, 6-16

THOMAS WAYNE KIRWAN 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 6-02, 6-09, 6-16

Second Insertion Second Insertion

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO

UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19745

To all persons interested in THOMAS E. KIRWAN,Estate No. 19745. Notice is given that THOMAS WAYNE KIRWAN, 1432 OVERLOOK WAY, BEL AIR, MD 21014, was on MAY 26, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of THOMAS E. KIRWAN, who died on MAY 04, 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 NO-

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19744

To all persons interested in THELMA FRANCES HAYES, Estate No. 19744. Notice is given that ROBIN RUSS, 57 NOTTINGHAM LANE, BERLIN, MD 21811, was on MAY 26, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of THELMA FRANCES HAYES, who died on MAY 01, 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-

The Dispatch Legal Notices

LEGAL RATES

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

fore the 26TH day of NOVEMBER, 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 02, 2023

ROBIN RUSS

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 6-02, 6-09, 6-16

Second Insertion

JOHN K. PHOEBUS

517 WEST MAIN STREET PO BOX 70 CRISFIELD, MD 21817

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19676

To all persons interested in CAROL ANN DRYDEN ROSS, AKA: CAROL ANN LEEF,Estate No. 19676. Notice is given that ALAN EDWARD DRYDEN, JR, 5215 FRANCES ROAD, CRISFIELD, MD 21817, was on MAY 31, 2023, appointed

Personal Representative of the estate of CAROL ANN DRYDEN ROSS, who died on APRIL 02, 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 30TH day of NOVEMBER, 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 02, 2023

ALAN EDWARD DRYDEN, 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 6-02, 6-09, 6-16

First Insertion

HEATHER R. KONYAR, ESQ. COCKEY, BRENNAN & MALONEY, PC 313 LEMMON HILL LANE SALISBURY, MD 21801

A. BALASUS, 1010 TAMWORTH ROAD, BEL AIR, MD 21015, was on JUNE 02, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CHRISTINE GAIL REMMELL, who died on APRIL 24, 2023, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.

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

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

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

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

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JUNE 09, 2023

GREGORY A. BALASUS Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074

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

First Insertion

To all persons interested in CHRISTINE GAIL REMMELL,Estate No. 19754. Notice is given that GREGORY

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE 19757

To all persons interested in JOHN C. STALEY,Estate No. 19757. Notice is given that JOHN A. STALEY, 2725 CARSINS RUN ROAD, ABERDEEN, MD 21001, was on JUNE 02, 2023, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHN C. STALEY, who died on MAY 11, 2023, with a will.

Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the

CONTACT INFORMATION

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

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

decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 2ND day of DECEMBER, 2023.

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

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

(2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the

mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Name of Newspaper: Maryland Coast Dispatch Date of Publication JUNE 09, 2023

JOHN A. STALEY Personal Representative True Test Copy TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 3x 6-09, 6-16, 6-23

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

STUDENTS In The News

The Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club presented $30,000 in scholarships at the Snow Hill High School senior awards night. Pictured, from left, are Christina Dolomount Brown, president of the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club; Justin Hurney $10,000; Randy Schilb $7,000; T’Marah Cannon $7,000; Sierra Smullen $6,000; and Kathy Cater, Optimist member and scholarship committee member. Submitted Photos

Ocean City Elementary School third grade students went on a field trip to Assateague Island last month. Pictured are students from Mendy Fiori's class being young meteorologists and engineers.

The Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club presented $30,000 in scholarships to five students at the Pocomoke High School senior awards night. Pictured, from left, are Christina Dolomount-Brown, president, Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club; Alyna Jones, $4,000; Marli McDorman, $4,000; Reginald Smith Jr., $6,000; Kayla Boyles (not present), $6,000; McKenna Selby, $10,000; and Kathy Cater, club scholarship committee.

Taylor Bank has selected three high school seniors as recipients of the Calvin B. Taylor Memorial Scholarship, which is for $1,000 toward continuing education expenses and is based on student accomplishments in academics, leadership, community service, extracurricular activities and an essay. One student was selected from each county in the bank’s service area. Recognized from Accomack was Claire Holland, graduating from Holly Grove Christian School. Mallory Justice, graduating from Indian River High School, was named in Sussex, and Ethan Scott, graduating from Pocomoke High School, was named Worcester’s honoree. Above, Taylor Bank’s Cory Walsh, Doreen Angelo and Teri Smith present the scholarship certificate to Justice, along with her parents, Greg and JoAnn Justice, at the bank’s Ocean View branch. Below, the bank’s Ray Daisey presents the scholarship certificate to Scott at the Pocomoke City branch.

The annual Worcester Preparatory School Academic Convocation ceremony was held last month where awards were given for academic achievement in all subject areas and service to the school. Recognized with the most prestigious awards by Head of School Dr. John McDonald were, above from left, freshman Jude Damouni, best all-around students, grades 9-11; junior Isabella Huber, high academic award, grades 9-11; eighth grader Mia Jaoude, highest academic award, grades 6-8; and seventh grader Scarlett Shimko, best all-around students, grades 6-8.

Who’s Where When

BUXY’S/DRY DOCK 28

410-289-BUXY

28th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, June 9: Jack & T

Saturday, June 10: Uprizing

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 9: Darin Engh, No Clue Trio

Saturday, June 10: The Everafter, Full Disclosure

Sunday, June 11: Endless Ember, Rick & Regina

Monday, June 12: Sean Loomis, Fil Rhythm Duo

Tuesday, June 13: Chris Thomas, Bell Bottom Blues

Wednesday, June 14: Chris Diller, Whiskey Train

Thursday, June 15: Jack Bannon, One Night Stand

COINS PUB

410-289-3100

28th St. Plaza On Coastal Hwy.

Friday, June 9:

Marco Of The Surf Pistols

Saturday, June 10: Jim Long & Billy Z’s Dueling Pianos

Tuesdays: Karaoke w/DJ Jeremy

CORK BAR

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Saturday, June 10: Wes Davis

Sunday, June 11: Uncultured Swine

CRABCAKE FACTORY BAYSIDE

302-988-5000

37314 Lighthouse Rd., Rte. 54 Selbyville, DE

Friday, June 9: Chris Button

Sunday, June 11: Aaron Howell

Wednesday, June 14: Kevin Poole

CRAWL STREET TAVERN

443-373-2756

Wicomico St., Downtown O.C.

Friday, June 9: Royal Flush

Saturday, June 10: Secondhand

Sunday, June 11: DJ Wax

Thursdays: Dance Party w/ DJ Magellan & Tommy

FAGER’S ISLAND

410-524-5500

60th St. In The Bay

Friday, June 9: DJ RobCee, Foreplay, Bad W/Names

Saturday, June 10: DJ Hook, The 8-Trax, Jumper

Monday, June 12: DJ Hector, Great Train Robbery, The Rockets

Tuesday, June 13: Global Dance Party

w/DJ RobCee & Guest

Wednesday, June 14: Latin Night w/DJ Patana

Best Beats On The Beach

GREAT TRAIN ROBBERY Fager’s Island: Monday, June 12

MORE MORE MORE Purple Moose: Friday & Saturday, June 9 & 10

AMISH OUTLAWS Seacrets: Sunday, June 11

Who’s Where When

GREENE TURTLE WEST

410-213-1500

Rt. 611, West O.C.

Friday, June 9: TBA

HARBORSIDE

410-213-1846

South Harbor Rd., West O.C.

Thursdays & Fridays: DJ Billy T

Saturday, June 10:

Side Project, DJ Jeremy

Sunday, June 11:

Opposite Directions, DJ Billy T

PICKLES PUB

410-289-4891

8th St. & Philadelphia Ave.

Fridays: Beats By Deogee

Saturday, June 10:

Rogue Citizens

Sunday, June 11: 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 9: G-Men

Saturday, June 10: Keith White Duo

Sunday, June 11: Rymac & AJ

Wednesday, June 14:

Aaron Howell

Thursday, June 15: Shortcut Sunny

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

410-289-6953

Between Caroline & Talbot Sts. On The Boards

Friday & Saturday, June 9 & 10: More, More, More

Wednesdays: DJ Papi Roisterous

SEACRETS

410-524-4900

49th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Friday, June 9: DJ Tuff, DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz, Full Circle, STORM, Kono Nation

Saturday, June 10: DJ Bobby O, DJ Cruz, DJ Tuff, STORM, Kono Nation, Kristen & The Noise

Sunday, June 11: DJ Davie, DJ Connair, DJ Bobby O, DJ Tuff, Triple Rail Turn, Amish Outlaws

Monday, June 12: DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, DJ Tuff, Blake Haley, The Way Outs

Tuesday, June 13: DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, DJ Tuff, Opposite Directions, Artikal Sound System

Wednesday, June 14: DJ Davie, DJ Bobby O, DJ Connair, Full Circle Duo, Stealing Savannah

Thursday, June 15: DJ Davie, DJ Cruz, DJ Bobby O

John McNutt Band, Go Go Gadjet

THE ORIGINAL GREENE TURTLE

410-723-2120

116th St. & Coastal Hwy.

Fridays: DJ Magellan

Saturdays: DJ Cuban Fire

THE EVERAFTER Coconuts Beach Bar: Saturday, June 10

AARON HOWELL DUO Crabcake Factory Bayside: Sunday, June 11 Pier 23: Wednesday, June 14

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

Every Monday: TOPS Meeting

5-6:30 p.m. Atlantic General Hospital, Berlin. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a support group promoting weight loss and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Call Rose 443880-8444.

Every Monday: Acapella Chorus

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

Every Monday: Bridge Games

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

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

Every Tuesday: TOPS Meeting

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

Every Tuesday: Beach Cleanup

Beach Heroes, a volunteer Ocean City group, holds cleanups 9-10 a.m. yearround. Trash bags, grippers and gloves

Things To Do

provided. Check the Facebook page "Beach Heroes-OC" for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.

Every Wednesday: Bingo

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

Every Thursday: Beach Singles

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

2nd and 4th Thursdays: Caregiver Support Meeting

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

June 9: Featured Artists Reception

Worcester County Arts Council, 6 Jefferson Street in Berlin, will host from 5-7 p.m. Meet the featured artists, Joanne Guilfoil, Rudelle Hall, and Larry Wisniewski while enjoying complimentary refreshments. In addition to the featured artists' exhibit, artwork created by 30 artists and members of the Co-Op Gallery is on display and available for purchase. Visit Gallery TuesdaySunday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. to view the exhibits

and place your bid on the silent auction items.

June 9: Crab Cake Dinner

From 4-6 p.m., Stevenson United Methodist Church will host its monthly crab cake dinner for eat-in or carryout. Cost is $14, one crab cake sandwich with green beans, baked potato and cole slaw; $24 for two crab cake sandwiches with sides; and $10, one crab cake sandwich. Bake table will be available.

June 10: 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 10: 5-8 p.m., Vintage Blue Bluegrass Band

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

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

July 24: 5-8 p.m., The Folk Heroes & The Folk Villains

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

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

June 10: Just Walk Event

In celebration of Men’s Health Month, the Worcester County Health Department in collaboration with the City of Pocomoke will be hosting their first Just Walk for Men’s Health event at Cypress Park in Pocomoke City. It will include a walk, no-cost health screenings, health education, and more. This family and pet-friendly event is open to all county residents. Registration and check-in will start at 8:30 a.m. followed by opening remarks at 9:00 a.m. by special guests Pocomoke City Mayor Todd Nock and Al “Hondo” Handy. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a prewalk warm-up with Gary Press, owner of G Fit Boot Camp, followed by a walk through the park. After the walk, participants are encouraged to visit health vendors and participate in free health screenings, including blood pressure and a diabetes risk assessment. Pre-registration is encouraged and can be found at Eventbrite.com. The first 100 individuals to register will receive a commemorative T-shirt. For more information, please call 410-632-1100 extension 1108.

June 10: Anglers Club Meeting

The Ocean Pines Anglers Club will meet at 9:30 a.m. in the Ocean Pines Library. The speaker will be Tom Ottenwaelder, 29-year veteran in Coast Guard marine inspection who will give a presentation on marine surveys, giving advice on how to inspect and value a boat before purchase and when to call in a professional. Also fishing trip updates and more. All welcome.

June 13: Kids Carnival

Fish Tales, located on 22nd Street bayside in Ocean City, will be hosting from

noon-3 p.m. To celebrate the end of the school year, Fish Tales decided to have this fun family event for children. This day will be filled with carnival games, face painting, inflatables, children’s vendors, kid’s crafts, pony rides and food and drinks. A commemorative T-shirt will be available for purchase. All proceeds from the day will be donated to the Lower Shore Special Olympics. If anyone would like to be a vendor, contact India Bandorick at 410-289-0990 or email her at india@ocfishtales.com.

June 14: AARP Meeting

Ocean City AARP Chapter 1917 will meet at 10 a.m. in the Ocean City 50 Plus Center located on 41st St. and Coastal Highway. Please arrive early at 9:30 for a social half-hour and refreshments. Guest speaker will be from the Burbage Funeral Home. New members are welcome. 410250-0980.

July 15: Bus Trip To DC

Bus trip from Salisbury and Seaford being organized to Washington, D.C. Cost is $45. Call Crystal at 410-422-7707 for tickets.

June 17: Learn To Fish

Teach A Kid to Fish Day will be held from 9-11 a.m. at the South Gate Pond near the Sports Core Pool. The event includes a drawing for a free rod and reel. For more information, call John McFalls at 610-5051697.

June 17: Chicken Salad Carryout

The Bishopville Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary will be holding a chicken salad carryout from noon-2 p.m. at the main station. Cost is $8 per pint. Please call 619922-9950 for a guaranteed preorder.

June 17: Youth Fishing Derby

Assateague State Park will be holding its annual Youth Fishing Derby from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This event is free for all; participants must be children under 16. Participants will get the chance to learn fishing techniques and try their hand at surf fishing alongside Assateague State Park employees who will be on hand to instruct participants in proper fishing methods for the surf. Fishing equipment will be provided but is limited so participants should bring their own equipment if possible. Prizes will be rewarded in a fun day of fishing at the beach.

Registration is at the Nature Nook, next to the Day Use parking lot. Children 16 and under. Families are welcome.

June 17: Teach A Kid To Fish

The Ocean Pines Anglers Club will host the annual Teach A Kid To Fish Day from 9-11 a.m. at the South Gate Pond near the Sports Core Pool. Kids of all ages are invited to “test the waters” and learn fishing skills and techniques from the members of the Ocean Pines Anglers Club and DNR. A wonderful opportunity for parents and grandparents to introduce a new generation to the sport of fishing. The pond is stocked with several species of fish and participants will have the opportunity to try out their newly learned skills. Participants are encouraged to bring insect repellent and a bottle of water. Please bring your own rod. Bait will be provided. There will be a drawing for a free rod and reel. The event is free! No pre-registration is required. For more information please call John McFalls at 610-505-1697.

Vehicle Fire Under Investigation:

6-1 Vote Decides County’s Budget

FROM PAGE 12

ary of a school system worker is $74,000, according to Mitrecic.

He pointed out that the commissioners had received an 8.5% raise during the 2022-2026 term. That raise, which was equal to the cost-of-living increases given to employees during the prior four years, brought the commissioners’ salary from $26,000 to $28,277.

“Post pandemic hiring and retention is completely different,” he said. “In 2022 we lost 104 employees. In 2023 we’ve lost 82 so far. Like everyone else, we’re paying new hires with less knowledge and experience to do the same job as the ones we lost, more money.”

He stressed that the budget should have done more for employees. He also said it fell short on grants to towns and didn’t meet the needs of the Worcester County Board of Education.

“There’s a fund balance out there,” he said. “There’s money left over from last year’s budget. And of course we have the budget stabilization slush fund.”

Bertino thanked staff for their efforts

in developing the budget and said he felt it was responsible and in the best interests of the taxpayers.

“We don’t all have what we want in this budget,” he said.

He said this was the second time in 10 years the budget was being balanced without using surplus from the current fiscal year.

“The expectation is the surplus that may be realized at the end of this year will be applied to and allocated for other postemployment benefits (OPEB) for the board of education to ensure their retirement for current and past employees is secure,” he said, adding that there was a $150 million board of education OPEB liability. “This body is doing whatever it can to close that gap.”

Bertino added that he felt the county was taking care of its employees.

“Certainly there are individuals or groups of individuals who may be disappointed but when all is said and done, the money that we get that comes into this county, comes from the taxpayers,” he said.

The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office investigated a vehicle fire near Berlin last week. The Berlin Volunteer Fire Company was dispatched for a reported vehicle fire at 10:48 a.m. on May 31 at the intersection of Mary Road and Sinepuxent Road in Berlin. First arriving units observed significant fire conditions throughout a Ford Transit cargo van abandoned on the side of the roadway. Crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire with minor extension to a farm field nearby. Deputies from the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office investigated the cause of the fire and determined the fire was incendiary. Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at 410-632-5666 x2 or the Maryland Arson Hotline 800-492-7529.

Photo by Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office

Condo Worker Credits Job For Keeping Him Active

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

OCEAN CITY – A 90-year-old maintenance worker is a daily reminder to resort residents that age is just a number.

Elige W. Smith, Jr., 90, works six days a week at Summer Beach Condos on 35th Street. The Ocean Pines resident credits the job with keeping both his mind and body active and has no plans of stopping anytime soon.

“I’m just going to go til I can’t anymore,” he said.

Smith, originally from Alabama, graduated from Georgia Tech in 1960 with a degree in electrical engineering. He went on to hold positions with Hughes Aircraft Company, Ford Aerospace Company and the Indian Health Service, among others, before retiring about 25 years ago. He’s happy to share highlights of his fascinating career with anyone interested.

“I’ve had a lot of interesting jobs,” he said. “In the 1960s I worked for Hughes Aircraft. They had a contract with NASA to build 10 experimental spacecraft to land on the moon and dig into the soil. They wanted to find a soft landing spot for Apollo 11.”

Smith and his wife, who’d been visit-

ing Ocean City since 1980, bought a house in Ocean Pines when he retired and moved here full time 12 years ago. While he’s lived all over the country, Smith said he felt the Ocean City area was ideal.

“There are good restaurants, good entertainment and you’re close to everything,” he said, adding that Ocean Pines has been on lists as one of the best places to live and Berlin was named America’s Coolest Small Town. “I just love

everything about it.”

Though retirement was nice, Smith said when his wife started going to the pool every day, he needed something to do. Thinking of his engineering background, he applied for maintenance positions at several buildings in Ocean City. He was offered positions at all of them.

“I took this one because it sounded the best,” he said.

That was seven years ago. In the time

since, Smith has developed a rapport with Summer Beach residents and the respect of management.

“He’s my ace in the hole,” said Diana Whittington, the building manager.

She’s been there 25 years and remembers hiring Smith and another senior at the same time.

“With age comes loyalty and responsibility,” she said. “That’s a big thing.”

He says his engineering background also comes into play.

“It’s good for working around here and figuring problems out,” he said.

Smith’s wife passed away a few years ago but he continues to make the 15-minute drive into work six days a week.

“The work is good,” he said. “It keeps me going. It keeps the blood circulating.”

He added that because he only worked five hours a day, he had plenty of free time in the afternoons to relax and keep up with friends on social media. Smith said that when he went for his last physical, his doctor was amazed at his good health. While Smith attributes that primarily to exercise and good nutrition, he also credits a cold Corona after work and a shot of bourbon when he goes to bed.

“Stay away from stress,” he said. “I think that’s what’s helped me the most. Nothing worries me.”

ELIGE SMITH

Elige Smith, a 90-year-old maintenance worker at Summer Beach Condominiums, is pictured on the job this week. Smith credits hard work for keeping him going.

Photo by Charlene Sharpe

Bragging Rights Up For Grabs At Berlin Bathtub Races

BY CHARLENE SHARPE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BERLIN – Straw bales will line the sidewalks and bathtubs will careen down the street as local businesses show off their speed and ingenuity in what has become the town’s most popular summer sporting event.

On Friday, June 9, the Berlin Chamber of Commerce will host the 33rd Annual Berlin Bathtub Races. The event, which starts at 6 p.m., will feature more than a dozen competitors.

“The Bathtub Races are Berlin’s signature event,” said Ryan Nellans, executive director of the chamber. “We have all of these fun events like Jazz and Blues and the Fiddlers Convention, but as fun as they are you can find something similar in Ocean City, Baltimore, Philadelphia. You’re not going to find the Bathtub Races anywhere else.”

The races draw hundreds of onlookers to Main Street each year as fans line up to watch local organizations race their modified bathtubs. Nellans said he'd had plenty of interest in the races and expected at least a dozen teams to take part.

While some competitors will be racing first-time tubs, others are returning tried and true bathtubs. Not just any tub will do, as the bathtubs being raced have to be authentic and capable of holding at least two gallons of water. Wheels have to be less than 26 inches and the bathtub is required to have brakes and steering. For those seeking inspiration for building a racing tub, the champion tub used for years by Jesse Turner of the Berlin Shoe Box is on display in the town’s welcome center. Retired from its racing days, it is now used to collect donations of shoes for Diakonia, a local shelter.

The overall winner of the Berlin Bathtub Races will be determined through a series of heats, with the final two teams left competing for the trophy.

“There’s a lot of people that are out for the trophy this year,” Nellans said.

While winners have shared a rubber duck trophy for years, Nellans said Jeffrey Auxer Designs had created a new prize for winners going forward. The new award features a glass rubber duck atop a golden pedestal.

“I wanted something along the lines of a Stanley Cup, something we could put multiple winners on,” Nellans said. “I also wanted to recognize Jesse Turner.”

And so going forward, the winning team each year will have their name added to the Turner Cup, christened to pay homage to Turner, a longtime Berlin business owner who helped start the races and went on to win them several times. His racer is still on display in the welcome center.

For the second year in a row, WBOC’s Delmarva Sports Network will be

broadcasting live from the event for those who can’t attend in person.

Nellans said he is still looking for volunteers to help with the event. Those interested in helping out can sign up online by visiting berlinchamber.org.

Nellans said businesses and organizations entering teams were prepping eagerly for the event, which is a local favorite.

“This is a ‘you have to see it to believe it’ event,” he said. “The crowd is as intense as the race. It’s a riot. It’s so much fun.”

The June 9 event will also feature a hula hoop contest for children, a rubber duck raffle and shopping opportunities downtown. Main Street will be closed at 2 p.m. so crews can set up for the races.

The race course along Main Street is pictured during a previous year’s Bathtub Races. File Photo

Seahawks Named All Bayside South

Stephen Decatur’s boys varsity baseball team was well represented this week when the Bayside South All-Conference teams were announced for the spring season. Junior Lukas Loring, above pitching against Snow Hill High, was named Bayside South Co-Player of the Year and to the first team. Joining Loring on first team were seniors Gus Croll, bottom left; AJ Kolb, below left; Owen Knerr, bottom right; and Ryan McLaughlin, below right. Named to the second team Bayside South team were juniors Waylon Hobgood and Caden Shockley. Receiving honorable mention nods were senior Brooks Kendall, junior Ryder Swanson, senior Stephen Wade and junior Matt Wright. Photos by Delmarva Sports Network

Middle School Athletes Recognized:

At the conclusion of their respective spring seasons, Worcester Prep middle school students were recognized with top athletic awards. For the middle schools boys lacrosse team, MVP went to Karrigan Russell-Wood, Coach’s Award to John Parker, Most Improved Player to Ted Timmons and Most Outstanding Teammate to Caleb Walston. On the middle school girls side, MVP was awarded to McKenna DePalma, Coach’s Award was received by Scarlett Shimko, Most Improved Player went to Carolina Labin and the Most Outstanding Teammate went to Laney Hoch. Above, front from left, are Timmons and Parker, and, back are Walston and Russell-Wood. Below, front from left, are Shimko and Labin, and, back, are DePalma and Hock. Submitted Photos

Sharon M. Parsons

OCEAN CITY – Sharon M. Parsons, age, 81, of Ocean City, died Saturday, June 3, 2023 at PRMC Tidal Health in Salisbury. She was born in Salisbury and was the daughter of the late Howard Mitchell and Mary Lee (Griffin) Mitchell. Sharon was a retired customer service agent for over 30 years for Delmarva Power. She was a member of Vansant Club for Delmarva Power, retired member of IBEW Union and a member of Bethany United Methodist Church in Berlin. Sharon enjoyed many years of traveling and taking care of older people.

She is survived by two children, Patti L. Cropper and husband David and John M. Brittingham and wife Donna all of Ocean City; a step-son, Wayne Parsons and wife Christine of Virginia; two grandsons, Moe Cropper and wife Blake and Parker Brittingham; one step-granddaughter, Rebecca Parsons; two great grandchildren, Marlie and Brantley Cropper; three nieces, Lisa Garton, Lynne Garton and Susan Mitchell; three nephews, Jay Garton, Stuart Mitchell and Robert Jackson; an aunt, Ella Mae Perdue; great niece and nephew, Jake and Jayden Garton; and best friends, Joyce Shaffer and Linda Krumpholz.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Harvey Parsons; brother, Howard Lee Mitchell; and sister, Lou Ann Garton. Services were held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ocean City Vol. Fire Co., 1409 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, Md. 21842 or Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Hwy., Berlin, Md. 21811.

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

Allison Kathleen Thomas

OCEAN CITY – Allison Kathleen Thomas, 41, of Ocean City. (formerly Princess Anne, MD) departed this earth peacefully on May 23, 2023, surrounded by her loving family at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional.

Allison was born Nov. 21, 1981, in Salisbury and is survived by her husband, Kevin Ginnavan; her parents, Kathy Ennis and Barry Thomas of Princess Anne; her sister, Shelby Allen (William) of Charleston, S.C.; maternal grandmother, Kathleen Ennis of Princess Anne; and paternal grandmother, Francis Thomas, of Princess Anne. She is also survived by her parents-in-law, Carol and Calvin Ginnavan Jr. of Ocean City; brother-in-law Bryan Ginnavan (Amy) of Berlin; and nephews Chase and Logan Ginnavan. She leaves behind her beloved cat, Stormy, and is preceded in death by her grandfathers, Sydney “Carroll” Ennis and Daniel Thomas.

She was a 1999 graduate of Washington High School and studied Psychology at Wor-Wic Community College, as well as Salisbury University. Allison had a passion for helping others; kindness mattered greatly to her.

Allison will be remembered throughout the hospitality industry, as she spent many years working at Peaky’s Restaurant in Princess Anne. There, she made

OBITUARIES

lifelong friends. She made the leap to Ocean City when she joined BJ’s on the Water and later, Crabcake Factory Bayside in Selbyville, Del. Her co-workers quickly became family, along with her adoring customers. She loved to support her friends and community, in recent years, at The Original Crabcake Factory in Ocean City and held “the best job I’ve ever had” at Mancini’s Brick Oven Pizzeria and Restaurant in Fenwick Island, Del. before her illness. She enjoyed meeting and conversing with patrons daily. She truly touched the lives of so many.

Friends recall Allison as down-to-earth, friendly, non-judgmental, and a sweet soul. She loved her family & friends deeply and enjoyed the simple things in life; a good book was all she needed. She lived with no regrets and will be profoundly missed. May we all treat others with more kindness, love and understanding, in Allison’s

honor.

Cremation followed Allison’s passing, per her wishes. Her family welcomes you to a Celebration of Life on Saturday, June 24, 2023, from 1-3pm, at Our Harvest, 1106 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, Del. 19944.

Wanda Sue Marousek

POCOMOKE – Wanda Sue Marousek, 68, of Pocomoke City, passed from many health conditions Friday, June 2, 2023.

She was a beautiful woman who lived a quiet life at home, who loved to drink her coffee and listen to oldies on the radio.

She is survived by her husband John “Jack” B. Marousek; son Keith Marousek and wife Melissa Jackson; grandchil-

dren Karisa Aspdin, Karlisa Church, Karona Marousek, Keith Marousek II and Karizma Marousek; daughter Stacey Marousek; grandchildren Macey Marousek, Jacob Shaffer; daughter Mellisa Marousek and grandchildren, Oliva Marousek, Kaylee Marousek; step-son Randolf Mann Showell; step-daughter Jennifer Jacobs; granddaughter Leila Albright; three brothers Earl Chesnutt, Albert Chesnutt, and Neil Chesnutt; sister Delina West; and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her father Albert Chesnutt, mother Florence Paxton, sister Robin Chesnutt and former husband Denny Jacobs.

Although she is no longer physically with us, she remains in our hearts and minds in many ways. She will be missed dearly.

Arrangements are in the care of Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service, 504 Franklin Avenue, Berlin, Maryland 21811. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.easternshorecremation.com.

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The Dispatch

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The Maryland Coast Dispatch (USPS #015125) is an official and legal newspaper for Worcester County. Periodical postage paid at Berlin, Maryland, and additional mailing offices. The Maryland Coast Dispatch, 10012 Old Ocean City Blvd., Berlin, Md. 21811, is published weekly on Friday mornings, 52 weeks a year. Subscription rates are $260 per year.

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With the sounds, sights and smells, the Boardwalk is a blow to the senses typically but in a good way. Everything comes together to represent summer in a beach town.

Some of the sounds heard on the Boardwalk include the ringing of arcade games and shrieks from amusement rides. Some of the smells include salt air, caramel popcorn and French fries. Some of the sights include all things Ocean City in the summer season, from full trams heading north and south and fashion trends of the day to kids running along the sea wall and street performers doing their thing.

It's the visual aspect of the Boardwalk that was in the news this week, as the Ocean City Mayor and Council voted 6-1 to use $549,815 in assigned advertising money on the purchase of

More Electronic Signs Not Needed On Boardwalk

14 double-sided digital message signs to be added to the four already in place along the electronic promenade. The signs will be used to market events in Ocean City, publicize emergency messages and advertising.

The concept of 18 double-sided digital messages spread out along the 2.45-mile Boardwalk is overkill and takes away from the unique scenery being provided by the beach and ocean. Adding a few new signs would be fine, but this is too much. It’s not a smart move and a poor use of advertising dollars. It was surprising this week to see only one council member – Peter Buas – vote to oppose the move. Buas was right when he said, “I just think it’s too much visual stimulation out there. I might be in the minority, and I’m okay with placing them, I just

How We See It Letters To The Editor

Disappointed By County

Editor:

It would be accurate to say I am disheartened by the final decision of the Worcester County Commissioners to fund the Board of Education (BOE) at the Maintenance of Effort (MOE) level which is approximately $4.4 million short of the FY24 request. The request, if fully granted, would have guaranteed that I, and all other BOE teachers, support staff, and bus contractors would be earning what next year’s contracts were already negotiated for, and that students of the county would continue to have access to all programs and services meant to support their educational success.

Now we must wait with bated breath to see what the Board of Education does with a budget shortfall. Will they cut after school programs? I sincerely hope not. I work two afternoons of after-school to make extra money; not to mention my Homework Help program allows students focused time to work with tutors to catch up on class assignments. I suppose I can find another side hustle to make ends meet, but what will the kids do to raise their class grades? Will they cut professional development and training opportunities? I hope not. Along with my core subject of English, I teach reading intervention support to struggling readers. Through training, in and outside the county, I’m given the opportunity to build my skills to increase my kids’ reading levels which allows them to become productive individuals in and outside of school. I guess I can hope I'm trained enough, and that I don’t miss out on anything new that would benefit my students.

I could continue to bring up things that the BOE may consider cutting in order to balance their budget. However,

what’s the point when members of the BOE Executive Board and members of the BOE Elected Board have both insinuated their focus will be on rescinding the contract agreements made in March? If the 4% COLA and Step increase aren’t granted, my paychecks next year will be smaller than this year. How? In addition to only granting MOE, the County Commissioners approved a health insurance package at a 9.5% premium resulting in an increase in cost to all county employees.

It is now in the hands of the Board of Education. In reality - it always was. The Maryland Constitution has a firewall between the BOE and the County Commissioners to insulate education from partisan over-reach. In short, the County Commissioners have no say in how the BOE allocates funds granted by them. Instead, they’ve made this Worcester County teacher second guess the county I teach in, how I will make sure my students are getting the best education and support they can, and wonder how I will continue to provide for my own family. Because even if the BOE fully funds the negotiated contracts, my eyes have been opened to the precarious situation I am in as a public education teacher in Worcester County.

Megan Seyler Berlin

(The writer is an English teacher at Stephen Decatur High School.)

Baffled By Commissioners

Editor:

I owe an enormous part of my success to the Worcester County education system and the myriad of teachers who have played crucial roles in my upbringing. Without their unwavering guidance and support, I firmly believe that my life could have taken a drasti-

don’t want to clutter the Boardwalk with 14 more locations.”

Though he supported it in his vote with the understanding some signage would be removed in time, Councilman Frank Knight said,

“There’s been complaints about signs on the Boardwalk. We’ll have eight trams with message boards on them, plus 28 screens here. It just seems like a lot of visual stuff on the Boardwalk. I’m all for advertising and putting these message boards out there, it just seems like 36 is a lot of screens.”

Buas and Knight had the right thoughts, but in the end the council went for adding these signs to the Boardwalk. The good news is they are not expected to be added to the boards until next summer.

cally different, possibly grim, path. Today, however, my admiration for Worcester County was met with a profound disappointment. The blow came not just because the Worcester County Commissioners showed a baffling disregard for our dedicated teachers and students – merely a week after applauding our recent graduates at their commencement ceremonies – but also due to Caryn Abbot's disrespectful remarks about Lou Taylor and our esteemed Board of Education.

As a local business owner, I've experienced the struggle of attracting professionals to our area. Despite the allure of our pristine beaches, it's often our exemplary schools that serve as the decisive factor for those considering a move here. We grapple with enticing doctors to relocate to our region, a pressing need given our rapidly aging population on the shore. Again, our high-quality education system is often the crucial selling point that brings toptier medical practitioners to our community.

If we're prepared to witness a decline in property values and put an undue strain on our burgeoning population, then we should follow the precedent laid out by Caryn Abbot and Eric Fiori.

From my perspective, Lou Taylor, a paragon of professionalism and civility, has more than earned the right to be treated with a certain level of respect. He has devoted his entire life to Worcester County, making sacrifices for our community that are beyond my comprehension. If the County Commissioners have the audacity to treat such a man and our board with such flagrant disrespect, it begs the question: Why should I maintain my gentlemanly de-

Letters To The Editor

meanor?

The precedent has been set, the stones have been cast, and these actions will not be forgotten.

Dr. Bobby Hammond Ocean City

A Proud Democrat

Editor:

As the summer season switches into high gear, I cannot help reflecting on the debt limit crisis. Hurricanes regularly ravage major population centers across Republican strongholds, in the same manner Republicans regularly raise the debt limit for other Republicans. Republicans invented the utilization of FEMA, which was created to dig DC out of a snow blizzard, to rebuild spots in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Florida over and over again. As well, Republicans invented deficit spending and the constant need to raise the debt limit. Trump had to raise the debt limit three times and found Congress so cooperative that they did it without any conditions.

Both hurricane season and debt limit season make me proud to be a Democrat because for my entire lifetime the Democrats in the USA have proven to be fiscally conservative and socially liberal, a system that works.

Gregory Gunther Snow Hill and Ocean City

DEI, What Is It?

Editor: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (“DEI”) Is being broadly adopted in our community and nationally. Recently Mayor Rick Meehan hired a “DEI” Officer, why? What does she do? More concerning, Mr. Lou Taylor, our superintendent of schools, has described his educational approach as “diversity, equity, inclusion” (DEI), a position espoused by many of Lou’s minions in the County Education bureaucracy. How does his position change education for the county’s children in K-12? What does Mr. Taylor mean? Across the nation, public educational bureaucracies, politicians and large public companies are embracing DEI, why?

Although not exhaustive, we should take the effort to look at “DEI,” and answer some of these questions. A generation of children are being exposed to DEI in public education and we are paying for it.

Diversity on its face seems fair stating that all human differences should be represented in the workforce. This includes differences such as religion, ethnicity, creed, sex, gender, on and on. Should they be represented equally? Is that practical? Affirmative action was formed to increase Afro-American representation primarily in education, government and the workplace. Historically jobs and academic slots have been assigned on the basis of merit not race. How has that worked? Today the Federal Government employs 16.6% AfroAmericans, while only 12.6% are in the population. A 32% overrepresentation.

Affirmative action prejudices selection against merit. Diversity results in broadening discrimination against merit.

Equity means acknowledging “structural inequality” that advantages some and disadvantages others, and to compensate for this classroom equality of opportunity, equity requires ill-defined compensation allocated to those whose “circumstances are not equal.” Once again discriminating against merit. It results in inequality in school and the workplace, rather than offering merit based compensation on achievement.

Inclusion strives to develop an inclusive culture, so that all voices are heard. This is applied to the “LGBT” (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender) community which is less than a half percent of the population but growing. By latching on to “inclusion,” this group states they are underrepresented in the workplace particularly at more senior levels.

Merit based selection, in school or on the job should only discriminate on the basis of merit relating to school work or job work.

In America the pillars of our JudeoChristian Culture rest on self- responsibility and bearing the consequences of our own decisions. Discrimination based on merit in both jobs and schools, fosters an environment of hope and opportunity, resulting in wealth creation and independence.

Is DEI connected to Wokeness or Critical Race theory? If so, how? How does DEI relate to victimhood and privilege? Both are associated with Critical Theory (“CT”). Are these elements of a new and upcoming national philosophy? If so, will it change our culture, for better or worse? The Heart of our open free enterprise system is merit based on the freedom to choose. DEI at every step attacks this elemental principle and is consistent with both critical theory and wokeness. Both wokeness and critical theory use determinism, and do not believe in freedom of choice or that an individual should accept the consequences of their choices, both good and bad.

Adding DEI further extinguishes hope as well as opportunity by reducing merit-based decisions in school, government and work.

The County Commissioners have every reason to be disturbed with Lou Taylor and they should demand from him very specific accountability on how he is implementing DEI? In hiring? Grading? Down to the books in the library.

God can only imagine what the Mayor in Ocean City intends to do with the towns- new DEI Officer? We can only hope that it doesn’t result in the same consequence that both Bud Light and Target stores are experiencing! DEI should not be confused with the righteous civil rights movement quite the opposite. DEI is destructive to our basic culture and our institutions.

Tony Christ Falls Church, Va. and Ocean City

Between The Lines

by Publisher/Editor Steve Green

Throughout this spring’s budget process involving the Worcester County Commissioners and the Worcester County Board of Education, a takeaway for me has been how openly outspoken many educators have been. It’s a major change from previous years when teachers typically refrained from airing their views into the public arena. Safe to say those days are no more, as teachers have sent letters to the editor in recent weeks, openly weighed in on traditional media pages with scathing comments and even posted on their own personal Facebook pages. It’s a good thing they are willing to express their views with passion.

What’s clear throughout all this is the damaged relationship between the school system and the commissioners needs mediation. The state of the relationship between the commissioners and the school board was debated among Commissioners Joe Mitrecic and Chip Bertino this week. It was interesting considering Mitrecic was the former commission president, who was replaced by Bertino after the consequential election last November tipped the scales of power and ultimately led to this new scrutiny and calls for budget detail transparency.

Mitrecic said the budget process has caused “irreparable damage” to the relationship between the commissioners and the school board and school system employees, adding, “This is the same budget book we’ve gotten for nine years and all the sudden it’s not the right thing. I have concerns with that. I have concerns with the future of our children in this county.” On the flip side, Bertino said he disagreed with the characterization. “I think the relationship is a good relationship,” he said. “We just don’t see eye to eye. I do believe moving forward that the efforts that were made this year will put us as a county, and the taxpayers, in much better stead when it does come time to handle the mandates incorporated into the Blueprint for Maryland. We don’t know what we don’t know. As a county, and as stewards of the taxpayer money, we can’t manage what we can’t measure. This year we’ve asked to measure so that we can manage better in the future.”

As a result of Tuesday’s vote, the school board will be holding an emergency meeting today to adjust its budget to reflect the funding decision. In reality, Tuesday’s vote by the commissioners has been expected. There should have been little hope any major changes would take place at this week’s meeting. For at least a month, there have been numerous indications the school system would be getting the Maintenance of Effort level of funding. The school board should already have a plan in place to reconcile the differences between what was sought and provided. The challenge will be whether it can still commit to the already negotiated teacher raises.

It continues to be baffling why roadwork is taking place currently along Route 611 between the bridge to Assateague and Route 376 (Assateague Road). It’s understandable for residents and business owners to be upset over the project’s timing.

Assateague Island Surf Shop and Café owner Denny Riordon represented the views of many in an interview this week. He said, “They basically shut me down. I lost $30,000 or $40,000 in four days. It snowballed to the point where people didn’t want to go down to Assateague … People didn’t even want to take a chance. It's almost done, but the damage has been done … We have three months to make it and they are down there at the beginning of the season.”

The project began the week before Memorial Day weekend and is expected to be wrapped by the end of June. Though the concerns were understood, SHA said this week timing of the project involves contractor schedules as well ensuring temperatures are warm for resurfacing. Once complete, though it has come with major headaches, a nice new road surface will be in place as well as a needed three-way traffic signal at the corner of Route 611 and Assateague Road.

The Berlin Bathtub Races is a tremendous success story. What it is today is much different than it once was 20 years ago.

There has always been the unique nature of the event, but its popularity today is far greater than years ago. I can remember in the late1990s coming to Berlin on Saturday afternoons in June to cover the bathtub races, which was part of the Berlin Village Fair back then. I came across some photos this week from 1998. Dozens of people would watch the races, while taking part in other aspects of the event. The only question back then about the bathtub races was how easily Jesse Turner’s team from the Berlin Shoebox would win the top prize. In the early days, only a handful of teams would go to the trouble of building their bathtubs and then exerting the effort required to participate.

Today, the event involves closing Main Street for hours to set up the course. Strawbales are placed along the road and people begin reserving their spaces with chairs hours before the event. The Berlin Chamber of Commerce even sells advertising space along the racecourse to help raise money for its efforts. This year more than a dozen teams are expected to compete for a new trophy designed by Jeffrey Auxer. It’s an exciting event, one that personifies the changing times for Berlin.

Puzzle Answers

by Steve Green

There’s nothing quite like observing my wife watch my son at work in a restaurant.

I find her anxiety and observations funny, but I don’t think Beckett, 15, feels the same way.

PUZZLE ON PAGE 63

Beckett will be working as a bus boy at Sterling Tavern in Berlin this summer. He worked in a similar capacity last summer at the Surfside Rooster while also trying out the role of a kite flyer on the beach for The Kite Loft.

We decided to simplify this summer after running him back and forth to Ocean City way too much last season. Although I enjoyed spending a lot of time on the Boardwalk because people watching is always enjoyable, it will be much easier for us with our kid being able to walk and bike to work this summer. To me, it represents a quality-of-life improvement, which I am all about these days. I think he will find it easier as well.

After giving him time to get settled in for a couple weeks, Pam, Carson and I went to Sterling Tavern recently for dinner. It was a busy night over Memorial Day weekend. Because she is a mom, Pam found it impossible to relax. I was a bit anxious as well watching him at work, but Pam was clearly concerned. I was enjoying the opportunity to watch him be busy and working hard knowing there was nothing I could do even if I wanted to lend a hand. I really enjoyed – probably way too much – when he took all our plates after we were done eating.

At one point, a piece of silverware or two hit the floor from across the room, and Pam speculated whether it was Beckett. We were in a booth, and she could not see how it happened. In an attempt to settle her nerves, I told her he went upstairs. She seemed relieved until he walked by a few seconds later with a bin of dishes. She just gave me the look people who have been married for a while give each other every now and again. I honestly was hoping he was up-

stairs.

When a lot of time went by without seeing him, Pam wondered what our son was doing. Though she didn’t say it, I think she had visions of him slacking off dancing through her head. Meanwhile, I was looking for our server to get her another drink.

Though I didn’t want to micromanage him, too, it was time for us to go and we still hadn’t seen him for a bit. I went upstairs and found him clearing off a huge table. As we were leaving after paying our bill, we heard a loud sound from upstairs. She turned to me wondering, and I just quickly tried to change the subject, muttering something about how he’s in the kitchen.

Areader sent this to me this week thinking I would like it. Some of these I think I have covered with my kids, but certainly many I have not yet. It’s funny I printed this out for Beckett one day and sat it on top of his video game console to ensure he would see it. He said he read it.

I do not know who the author was, but it’s titled, “Rules To Teach Your Son.” Some good ones in here for me as a 47year-old man, too, especially No. 30.

1. Never shake a man’s hand sitting down.

2. Don’t enter a pool by the stairs.

3. The man at the BBQ grill is the closest thing to a king.

4. In a negotiation, never make the first offer.

5. Request the late check-out.

6. When entrusted with a secret, keep it.

7. Hold your heroes to a higher standard.

8. Return a borrowed car with a full tank of gas.

9. Play with passion or don’t play at all…

10. When shaking hands, grip firmly and look them in the eye.

11. Don’t let a wishbone grow where a backbone should be.

12. If you need music on the beach, you’re missing the point.

13. Carry two handkerchiefs. The one in your back pocket is for you. The one in your breast pocket is for her.

14. You marry the girl, you marry her family.

15. Be like a duck. Remain calm on the surface and paddle like crazy underneath.

16. Experience the serenity of traveling alone.

17. Never be afraid to ask out the best looking girl in the room.

18. Never turn down a breath mint.

19. A sport coat is worth 1,000 words.

20. Try writing your own eulogy. Never stop revising.

21. Thank a veteran. Then make it up to him.

22. Eat lunch with the new kid.

23. After writing an angry email, read it carefully. Then delete it.

24. Ask your mom to play. She won’t let you win.

25. Manners maketh the man.

26. Give credit. Take the blame.

27. Stand up to bullies. Protect those bullied.

28. Write down your dreams.

29. Take time to snuggle your pets, they love you so much and are always happy to see you.

30. Be confident and humble at the same time.

31. If ever in doubt, remember whose son you are and REFUSE to just be ordinary!

32. In all things lead by example not explanation.

33. Dress how you want to be addressed.

34. Be blessed by being a blessing.

(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.)